//------------------------------// // Chapter four: Encounter // Story: A Voice Among the Strangers // by Tystarr //------------------------------// Warm... Jessica felt her arms slide tighter around the warmth, moving to tug it closer. It was wonderfully soft too, soft and warm. Her waking mind only took a passing notice to the fact whatever she was hugging, was breathing. Don't want to get up... Trying to avoid the sun peeking through the curtains, she hugged the comfort closer to her body, only to have it speak to her. Confused as to why the snug, furry object would be attempting to initiate conversation, she felt awareness begin to return. Moving one arm she rubbed at her eyes, wincing at the ray of light responsible for bringing her back to the waking world. Resting the arm over her forehead she lay upon her side, remembering the events that led to her being in such a comfortable bed. Alerted to soft pressure against her back she tilted her head, finally having enough focus returned to take in the sight. Espa was still sleeping peacefully, resting against her bringing a smile to Jessica's face. It was truly an adorable sight to wake up to. Wait, then what am I holding? The realisation that the aforementioned warm, furry, and soft object in her arms was not Espa caused her to look forward once more. Two blue eyes regarded her with strained tolerance, the expression upon Ebony's muzzle also spoke volumes on how the pegasus felt about the situation. There was also the slight flustered look, which Jessica decided, was a little cute. Oh! Instantly releasing Ebony the mare squirmed to get back into a seated position, appearing unwilling for anyone to observe her previous predicament. Most likely after what Jessica had seen, Rainbow would be the primary culprit in her concern. Ebony's head was turned aside looking rather abashed, continuing to have a fluster cross her muzzle much to Jessica's growing amusement. She did feel sorry for what she had done while in the delirium of waking, but her friend's reaction was still charming in its own way. "Sorry." A sheepish smile came to her lips, making sure she sounded suitably apologetic in her tone. Ebony gave a small snort before raising one eyebrow to regard Jessica curiously, a long sigh following as the pegasus relaxed somewhat. Leaning down to rub her muzzle gently against Jessica's hand, possibly accepting her apology, Ebony then hopped off the bed and stretched. A small squirming to her back announced the waking of the other equine. Espa gave a quiet murmur before the small muzzle pushed to Jessica's spine, a giggle at the ticklish sensation unable to be repressed. At the sound of her amusement the filly woke, golden eyes blinking away the sleep. Jessica moved to sit up, gently stroking Espa's mane as the filly rubbed her eyes with a foreleg. "I guess we're all awake now." Espa flicked her ears, a look of contemplation upon her face as she obviously failed to understand Jessica's words. "Jess-e-ka?" Blinking at mention of her name, Jessica gazed down at Espa who was smiling. Sitting up Espa then raised forelegs upwards, a hopeful smile upon her face. It seemed the filly was trying to mimic what she had seen Red do, Espa tilting her head slightly as the smile ever so slightly waivered. I wish I could tell Bubbles what a wonderful daughter she has... Bending down, Jessica gently hugged Espa, allowing the filly to awkwardly hug her back about the neck. Ebony was scrunching her nose up in the corner of her vision, a returned juvenile gesture with Jessica's tongue the response given. Letting the hug go she moved to help Espa off the bed, carefully holding the blanket about herself to provide modesty. There was one thing Jessica wanted, something she had discovered last night while washing her face. Slipping from the bed with the blanket trailing behind, she made her way to the bathroom. Picking up her clothing on the way she closed the door once inside, her eyes lighting up at the source of her excitement. Shower... Oh how she had missed a shower, baths were fine but she had always loved the feeling of the water flowing down onto her skin. Jessica had never been one to understand how people could sit in their own filth. Granted, she did appreciate what a long soak in the tub could feel like, but it always bugged her and had always washed before bathing. Shooooower... She almost forgot to remove the blanket in her haste to enjoy the luxury, the steam and warm water washing her aches away. Today would be a good day. ~~~~~~ Ow... After showering and getting dressed she had remembered one crucial bit of information about bandages, they generally didn't tolerate getting wet. That led to her current predicament of sitting on the floor, back to the couch with a sour look on her face. Apple was positioned on the couch itself, biting down on a roll of bandage as she tugged it taut. With some help from Jessica, between the two of them they managed to reapply the wrapping. Tugging her sweater back on she noticed the absence of two equines within the main room. Given everyone was up she could only assume both had gone out, where they had gone was another mystery entirely. Stoic stood guard at the entrance, Jessica beginning to wonder if he had even slept at all. Espa was nearby, munching on some leftovers from the previous night which Jessica had already partook in. Apple seemed to notice Jessica's confused expression and took out the paper and quill once more. A quick dab in the ink well and she sketched an image, detailing the two missing pegasi heading towards a train. Jessica understood the picture easily and gave a nod, showing this was the case. I guess they've gone to check when the train leaves? Mulling the thought over she was interrupted by the sound of the main door opening, Stoic barely moving as Scar trotted in; a scroll held within his mouth with Rainbow flying behind. The look on Rainbow's face made Jessica somewhat concerned, the pegasus was not looking happy, not at all. Scar moved over to Apple and dropped the paper, a hoof unrolling it with practiced ease. Jessica moved to look as well, the picture appeared to be a notice with strange symbols on the top and bottom. Not comprehending the meaning behind what she had come to know were words, she instead looked at the main image. A train stopped before busted train tracks, rather self explanatory Jessica decided. She blinked as her brain slowly caught up. The tracks are out? We travelled fine on them yesterday. The image alarmed her, were they all stuck in this town until the tracks were repaired? Despite Stache and Non-Stache having been taken away by the authorities, she still very much loathed the idea of remaining. So many bad feelings originated from this place, yesterday only adding to the pile. Apple's expression showed her thoughts on the issue as well, staying here was unacceptable. Ebony however, watching from upon a chair where she lay, seemed... Jessica couldn't really tell. The dark furred pegasus had an inscrutable expression upon her face, finding interest in anywhere but the group. Espa spoke up, her voice soft as she scuffed a hoof gently upon the ground. The young filly looked sideways, but Jessica could clearly see the tears budding within her eyes. Reaching over she gently tugged the small unicorn close, Espa sniffling against her side. It was clear that Espa missed Bubbles, thinking back, other than their first brief meeting Jessica had not seen mother and daughter separated. Her attention was once more tugged away from her thoughts as Scar cleared his throat. Rainbow looked up from completely clear plates that seconds ago held food, a questioning tone from her voice. A questioning tone, followed by a spray of crumbs to be completely accurate. Scar trotted over to Stoic who gave a small nod, both stallions having a short conversation that Rainbow brought a stop to. Her tone was once more inquisitive, if a little impatient that her previous query wasn't seemingly answered. Scar flicked his head towards a cabinet, Apple trotting over to retrieve a map which she lay down upon the floor, stepping back as everyone gathered around. Everyone apart from Ebony, causing Jessica to cast a worried look at her friend. Stoic moved forward, tapping a town near the top left area of the map. His hoof moved from one mass of symbols slowly up to another, Apple and Rainbow giving nods in response. Espa peeked from beside Jessica's side asking a question, Rainbow bending down to ruffle a hoof into the filly's mane with a boastful tone in her reply. Whatever the cyan pegasus said seemed to calm Espa down significantly, a small nervous smile moving along her lips. Jessica was, as seemed to be a day to day occurrence for her now, confused. As they talked she tried to catch meaning within the conversation, only to fail miserably and exhale in annoyance. She caught sight of Ebony looking nervous at whatever the other equines were discussing, the pegasus's eyes in turn looking directly at her. It was then Jessica noticed the worried expression now plastered upon the mare's face. What are they talking about that has Ebony looking nervous? "Jess-a-ka." Apple's use of her name turned her head to regard the orange mare, a hoof was tapping a piece of paper, another drawing having been scribbled upon its surface. This one looked to be done in haste, highly likely done while she was lost in her own mind. Upon the paper were three pictures connected with an arrow pointing to the next in sequence. The first had them walking along a path, the second sleeping under the night sky, the third was them arriving at a train station. Putting the images together she deduced their meaning, a small nod given. So we're walking to another town, to get on another train if this one is not operational? Jessica realised with the second picture that the trek would take at least two days, camping overnight between. The mere idea of this made her feet ache almost in anticipation of the beating that would endure. At that moment Jessica would have paid her life savings, however meagre they may be, simply for a pair of shoes. Any shoes. Rainbow slammed both hooves down, a look of determination upon her face as she addressed Espa. The small filly jumping in shock before nodding vigorously, puffing her chest out before trotting to stand at attention in front of Jessica. The sight bemused her once more, although looking at her feet she knew she wouldn't be able to endure such a trek. Not without footwear. Maybe... All eyes were suddenly upon her as she stood, confident she had seen Apple having three rolls of bandages earlier. One had been used on her shoulder, but the others would suffice for her requirements. Procuring the other two from the table she sat on the couch, Rainbow raising an eyebrow while Apple looked equally baffled. A look of concentration upon her face she gently wrapped the bandage around her foot, trying to make a small barrier between the ground and tender, oh so tender flesh. "Done!" Jessica was quite proud of her handiwork, a look of understanding dawning on Apple's face. Rainbow's response was to push her hoof to her muzzle, her eyes rolling back as she spoke with a voice full of exasperation. The meaning lost on her as the two conversed, gesturing towards her feet with a hoof occasionally. Did... they just figure out my feet aren't like their hooves? It was the best interpretation Jessica could come up with, Espa now also looking at her feet before gently poking one with a hoof. Jessica moved said foot, she was deplorably ticklish and for some reason the idea of Rainbow knowing this fact - it simply did not seem like a good idea for the pegasus to be aware of such knowledge. Espa spoke to the others with some concern in her voice, Scar sighing before giving a small nod. Stoic gave a barely noticeable shrug to whatever was said while Apple trotted forward to look up at Jessica. Returning the gaze back down she saw Apple give a curious, yet concerned look up at her, one hoof pointed towards her feet. Thinking about what this could mean she noticed everyone was looking at her now, including Ebony, which gave her a clue to the meaning. Do they think I can't make the walk? The temptation to shake her head was undeniable, there would be other ways to get to the castle, surely. That stray thought was quickly extinguished at remembrance of Espa's expression just previously seen. The little filly needed to get back to her mother, that was without question. Jessica also needed to get to the king and queen, they hopefully had an answer for how she could get home. She found herself drifting back into her unorganized thoughts, wondering what her friends back home thought of her disappearance; it had been two weeks since arriving here after all. "Uh... what?" The fact Rainbow was now in front of her face brought Jessica's attention back to the present. As tempting as it was to save the burden on her feet, she couldn't do that to Espa, she couldn't do it to herself. Looking down at the makeshift foot protection, knowing it probably wouldn't do terribly much, she nodded anyhow. The equines in the room acknowledged her consent and started to head for the exit, Jessica once more finding herself with a new personal enemy. Stairs... we meet again. The fact she was now making personal enemies out of stairs, let alone the other inanimate objects which had made the list, it was... mildly disconcerting. What next, I pledge a personal vendetta against a toaster? Dragging her mind out of the lapse of sanity that had occurred, she followed the ponies down the stairs, Ebony lending herself as a support to which Jessica offered a smile for the assistance. When they reached the lobby the group... herd? Jessica found her thoughts continuing to wander, now she was debating on the correct term to use. Dismissing the concern of what noun would be correct, she watched Apple start to talk to a familiar pony. The blue stallion from the day before looked pleased at what Apple had to say to him, Scar giving a small nod as way of agreement with the sentiment. Jessica noticed his quick glance in her direction, still unable to make direct eye contact it seemed. This wasn't isolated to him alone she quickly realised. Surveying the area she noticed not one single pony from the town would meet her gaze. It was un-nerving and considering it, she would probably have preferred open hostility than being snubbed. Snubbed or the source of shame? A glance down at Ebony saw the pegasus silently bristling, ears lowered in a clear display of agitation. Rainbow didn't look overly optimistic either, both female pegasi sharing a few words between them. Any other time Jessica would have been happy to see them agreeing on something. That agreement being their annoyance with the townsfolk on how they treated her, that was not such an occasion. Turning her attention from the pegasi, both now glaring back at random ponies, she instead turned her gaze to the other equines. Scar was conversing with the owner of the inn, the blue stallion looking thoughtful before gesturing in a random direction with a hoof. Jessica assumed it might have been north, but that all depended if the sun travelled the same path she was familiar with. A nod was given by both guards as they made their exit from the inn. A little bump to her legs reminded Jessica of Espa once more acting as a bodyguard, smiling she bent down and picked up the filly. A few subdued gasps came from the watching ponies before Apple, clearly fed up, gave an exasperated comment towards them. Espa gave a small squeaking noise prior to relaxing, Jessica holding the small unicorn gently in her arms. A smile given downwards put the filly at ease, the expression returned earnestly from the young equine. Apple just gave a small chuckle at the scene, adjusting her hat to block the glare of the sun while they moved down the road. Jessica watched as Stoic dropped his pace, slipping behind her in a fluid movement taking up the rear guard, reassured to have him behind her. Scar moved in front, leading them towards a large concrete building near the edge of town, vaguely in the direction the owner of the inn had directed. Going by the large sign with a set of scales upon it, Jessica would have put money on this being a store of some sort. That or he really wants to weigh something, would there even be a business for that? With a raised hoof Scar signalled for them to wait, or Jessica assumed that was the meaning of the gesture; the fact everyone stopped did seem to be a helpful clue. With everyone now stationary, Scar spoke towards Stoic and then Apple before entering inside. Ebony refused to leave Jessica's side, although the pegasus did seem to open up a little more towards Espa as the two talked. The dismissive tone used last time was now a little more jovial, if only slightly. Apple and Rainbow stood waiting, the latter a little bit more impatient of the two as she kept fidgeting, their eyes roaming over the townsfolk. Stoic simply lived up to his nick-name, dutifully standing near Jessica as he always seemed to do. Just as Jessica was starting to join Rainbow in impatience, the town making her more than a little fidgety, Scar made his return. Trotting out from the door he now sported saddlebags, large enough they pinned his wings to the sides of his body. Jessica also noticed a large rolled up item strapped between each bag down his back, the purpose unknown to her. Nevertheless, with a few words from the guard they were walking once more, slowly making their way down the trodden road. Leaving the town filled Jessica with relief, Rainbow who had taken flight picked up on this, speaking reassuringly down towards her. Offering a small smile in reply the group continued onwards heading towards the forest in the distance, the sun lazily crawling along the sky warming the way. Through it all however she couldn't shake the feeling she was being watched, even after the town was left far behind. ~~~~~~~ Ow... ow, ow, ow. Don't forget also, ow. Jessica's foot bandages had worked to a certain degree, thankfully the road was heavily trodden due to the normal travellers having hooves. Yet, just like on the way to the train station - every now and then a small stone would have escaped trampling and was laying in wait, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. Ow! I swear... She had only yelped twice thus far, her feet were starting to get a little battered but she didn't wish to worry the others. Espa was now trotting, having been put down when she had begun to get a little heavy. Apple trotted in front of Jessica, conversing with the currently flying Rainbow, and occasionally offering a verbal exchange with Espa or Ebony. With a peek behind her she noticed Stoic still remaining steadfast in the rear guard, Scar continuing to lead. Both guards were more protective of her after the incident with the brothers, almost as if determined to make up for what happened. The fact both were clearly guarding her, and not acting as wardens made Jessica feel the sensation of guilt once more. So far she had misjudged both them and Rainbow, all three of the equines proven themselves to have her best interests in mind. Taking her mind off such thoughts, she instead looked around the forest they were currently travelling through. Unlike the one where she had escaped with Ebony, this one looked as structured as the rest of the world. She didn't know quite how to put her finger on it, but it felt wrong on a fundamental level. It was if everything had a place, a purpose, nothing grew haphazardly. Gazing upwards with an arm shielding her eyes, she watched the clouds sit stagnant, un-moving and at a rather low level. That fact was still a foreign concept to her, she had seen pegasi move the clouds while in the hospital much to her amazement. When looking out the window, at first she had thought it just a one off event. After a couple of days however she saw it was almost... a routine of sorts. Most surprisingly was when she saw a pegasus jump upon a cloud to make it rain, why the flying equine had done so on a random pony she never did figure out. Actually, if I recall that pegasus did look familiar. Rainbow looked back at Jessica, a raised eyebrow at her quizzical gaze. After a few seconds Jessica offered a bashful smile, Rainbow still looking confused before returning to her conversation. No, it couldn't have been her. Resting a hand gently upon Ebony's mane, the familiar warm feeling resumed. The mare leaned her head a little closer to Jessica's hand as they walked, obviously enjoying the sensation. Jessica noticed the pegasus had been rather quiet ever since the notice this morning, almost as if worried over the train tracks being out. Jessica noticed that Ebony had been by her side the whole way, whether that was due to the brothers, or whatever had her nervous, she couldn't say. They had stopped earlier after what seemed like a few hours into their trek, having lunch while getting some much needed rest. Scar had turned out to have procured provisions when at the store, mainly fruit and some nuts but they sated her hunger. Once they had recovered enough, walking resumed much to her chagrin. Looking through the gaps in the canopy she spied the sun slowly lowering, realising they must have been walking for over half the day so far. That realisation made her feet ache almost out of spite. Hopes of getting there by evening were soon dashed as Scar stopped, his head jerking to a small clearing on the side of the road as the light started to wane. The remains of a large campfire implied this was a rest stop for travellers, proven true when Scar tugged a folded up rug from one of the bags. Moving it onto the grass he moved it out, getting some help from Apple and Rainbow to spread the rug. Next was the mysterious item upon Scar's back, which turned out to quite sensibly be a tent. Jessica watched as they set up camp, seeing Espa try to help she felt she should at least assist with the tent. The equines seemed surprised when she walked over, Scar having just unbuckled the bindings with his teeth. Laying it on the grass, Scar gave her a look as if to ask if she was sure. She wasn't, but having the ponies do everything for her was starting to feed her guilt. So she nodded. With some directions from Apple, and help from Rainbow they eventually got the tent standing. A few hard hoof stomps on the pegs held them in, a small hammer from one of Scar's bags finishing the job. Stepping back she was pleased with how the tent had come out, easily able to house all of them if they didn't mind being a little close. Rainbow gave the tent a little flick of her front hoof, a smug look upon her face. I guess i'm not the only one pleased with our efforts. Jessica sat down upon the rug, grateful to ease the burden from her feet while checking the tattered bandages. Dirty, and looking decidedly worse for wear she unravelled and put them aside for now, wriggling her toes as she exhaled in relief. A warm feeling tugging within as Ebony returned to her side, laying against while gently pushing to her hand. A raised eyebrow from Rainbow at the other female pegasus was met with a determined tone of voice in reply. A small grin came to the cyan mare's face with a nod following close behind, her tone of voice seemed almost respectful towards Ebony at the show of loyalty she exhibited. Jessica blinked in surprise, whatever her friend had said seemed to impress Rainbow somehow. Simply glad to see everyone starting to get along, she turned her attention to Scar and Stoic, both appearing to collect dry leaves. The two guards were standing near the campfire site while Apple returned, a collection of twigs and sticks held within her mouth. Placement of the leaves, then a little maneuvering, followed with strategic placement of the wood eventually led to them creating a campfire; sans the actual fire. Rainbow asked a question with a hoof gesture upwards to which Stoic shook his head, a comment given that made the pegasus roll her eyes in response. Spreading wings she flew off into the forest instead, confusing Jessica as to what the exchange of words had been. Stoic meanwhile raised one foreleg to position the metallic hoof cover, swiftly grinding it along a small stone procured from Scar's bags. A spark was created, the leaves smouldered, and fire was eventually born. Jessica was noticeably impressed to see fire being created from a species with no hands, of course the awe was somewhat diminished at this stage. They did have working hospitals, which she had to admit, was somewhat more impressive on the scale of wonderment. This is nice... I haven't been camping since I was a little girl. Despite it all, this was rather pleasant. Watching Espa bounce upon her hooves as Scar chuckled softly, Jessica became inquisitive as his muzzle disappeared into one of the saddlebags. Head raised he revealed a clear plastic bag gripped with his teeth, holding a large amount of edible items. Ooooo... Jessica could almost feel her own eyes light up, finding herself fixated upon the new discovery. As both she and Espa eyed the bag held tantalisingly within Scar's mouth, Rainbow landed with six straight sticks held within her own, having returned from the impromptu flight. Placing them on the rug, she also gave a grin, magenta eyes watching the bag very carefully. Aware he was now the center of attention, Scar moved to the rug, placing the highly desired item beside the sticks. Marshmallows... Jessica felt her inner girl squeal with glee as the next two items were removed from the side bag, Apple now trotting over with an awed whistle. Stoic meanwhile throughout it all, continued to stand guard nearby with not even a flicker of expression. Jessica decided that Stoic didn't seem to get excited about anything, but then again the fact he was so disciplined was also reassuring in and of itself. Her attention turned to the now growing pile of food items, aware her expression probably mirrored that of both Rainbow and Espa. Apple caught sight of this, giving a little pleasant chuckle before speaking towards Scar. Rainbow's voice almost personified impatience as she spoke up, inching closer towards the gathering of foods until Apple gave a firm rebuke. S'mores... Want... Apple turned her head to regard Espa, speaking kindly as the filly looked excited. Rainbow gave a grin, giving a mock salute to the little unicorn who in turn puffed up her chest like earlier. Jessica watched as Apple tugged open the bags, putting a marshmallow upon a stick before offering it to Espa. The stick was taken and held close to the fire, the unicorn's eyes wide in excitement. Soon the others had also acquired sugary treats which were promptly impaled, each holding the skewered foodstuff out near the fire. Jessica followed suit as Apple nodded to her, nosing the bag her way. Ebony was the exception, content to remain by Jessica's side as she watched with a bored expression. A quick glance from Jessica saw that despite Ebony's dissent, she did seem intrigued at what was going on. Smiling easily, Jessica rested a hand upon Ebony's mane as she held the stick with her other. Stroking softly as the warm feeling passed between the two, Ebony emitting a small sigh before smiling upwards. Rainbow peeked over at both of them, eyebrow raised before a tiny grin crept along her muzzle. She nudged Apple with a wing, the orange mare looking over while a knowing smile came to her face. The two exchanged some words, Jessica blinking before Ebony seemed to overhear, one ear flicking absently. A soft annoyed grunt escaping her friend's throat as she turned her head away, even in the flickering of the campfire Jessica could once more see a blush working along the fur of her muzzle. The conundrum presented itself again on how that even worked with fur, Jessica was simply going to stop asking or dwelling on it. Holding things with hooves - which thankfully wasn't happening at the moment, blushing through fur, tattoo like markings on fur, how their limbs bent which included wings. All these things simply didn't make sense, yet the evidence was right in front of her. She found herself briefly wondering if anything she did or had, was as alien to them as those listed were to her. Beware my evil bosom, oh... now that's just wrong on so many levels Jess. A little whimper caught her attention as she looked down to see Apple trying to comfort Espa. The reason clear due to the burning remains of what could have been a marshmallow, Jessica making a guess at the molten mess, dribbling into the fire. Without even considering another option she scooted forward slightly on the rug, offering her own stick to the upset unicorn. Espa's sniffling visage looked up towards her before eyes lit up, hesitantly taking the stick in mouth. Removing two crackers and a piece of chocolate from the bags, Jessica gently removed the marshmallow from Espa's stick and created a S'more. Offering it down she felt a gentle golden glow surround her fingers and the treat; noticing that the aura, it felt... nice, much akin to Sparkle's. The filly's magic levitated the food near her mouth, looking up at Jessica to make sure it was okay. A giggle and nod of her head led to Espa taking a tentative bite, Apple's concerned voice seeming to hint at the possibility of a burnt tongue. Making one more for herself she enjoyed the simple camping pleasure of sitting around a campfire, enjoying disgustingly bad for you treats. Apple and Rainbow seemed to be competing on who could eat the most, Scar and Stoic having returned to guarding the group, or perhaps more specifically, her. Espa was soon resting once more to Jessica's side, listening to the older equines converse while occasionally contributing. Jessica was trying to discern what was being said, attempting to narrow meaning down to certain words. Some had come about constantly, she thought she heard the equine's word for 'Apple' mentioned sometimes when around the orange mare. Filing that away for later she continued to listen, beginning to get some understanding, or at least assumptions about what other words meant. Her name was easy, she could hear them refer to it now given it was in a tongue she understood. They also constantly used another term it seemed, the only clue being the occasional looks in her direction when it was spoken. She had noticed it from the hospital, whatever it meant referred to her. Jessica begun to speculate what it could possibly be, alien, monster, creature? Shut... up... brain. She was starting to really dislike how her thoughts would wander dark paths. Part of her was curious if she was suffering from depression, or starting to develop some form of mental trauma or psychosis. Hoping it was just stress and over-active imagination she stopped listening for now, actively listening that is. Her name being spoken in her language did still garner a reaction. "Jess-e-ka?" She was getting amused at the different pronunciations, looking now at Apple who had spoken upon noticing her zoning out. Ebony's blue eyes were gazing up curiously as well, the orange mare talking briefly towards the former who replied in a casual tone. Apple seemed satisfied by this answer, offering a smile towards Jessica which was returned. Knowing they're talking about me, it really doesn't help with my paranoia. Sighing she yet again bit back those thoughts, stroking over Espa's blonde mane to distract herself. Apple thankfully broke her out of the sullen thoughts with a loud yawn and stood up, coat of fur being brushed off with a fore hoof. A head gesture to the tent got the meaning across, time to hit the hay. Rainbow finished off another few marshmallows with a flick of her hoof before stretching, trotting inside the tent before laying claim to one corner in the front. Following Apple inside, Jessica saw the mare occupy the corner behind Rainbow, lying down to give a mighty yawn. This had the unfortunate results of causing a chain of yawns from all around, Jessica included. A bashful grin came to Apple's face before Jessica rested down on her side, claiming a fair portion of the opposite half. Despite the size of the tent it was still a little cramped, Ebony and Espa instantly competing to claim each side of Jessica. "Eep... " The sound making Rainbow give a hearty laugh at the sight of Jessica, now flanked by an almost jealous looking Ebony, not to mention a small unicorn nuzzling to her front. It seemed Espa had been the faster of the two. Moving one arm gently around Espa she looked over at Ebony, offering the mare a soft smile. Just before she could get comfy she felt a gurgling in her belly, embarrassment clear on her face. Rainbow stifled a snigger at the sound, Apple giving a quick hissed tone towards the pegasus. Jessica gently moved from the warm bodies beside her, the two equines raising their heads while Espa quietly voiced a question. Jessica just smiled and made what she hoped was a gesture of being right back, slipping out of the tent to almost bump into the muzzle of Scar. The guard stallion raised an eyebrow as she remained upon hands and knees, finding her face a mere inch from his own. His warm breath washed over her face as she paused, blinking twice. The silence lasting for several long seconds before one thought entered her mind. He's not going to follow me when I go to the loo is he? His eyebrow raised slightly higher as Jessica gave a frustrated look, pushing herself up into a standing position. Yes... yes he is. Looking down at Scar, she was wondering just how to convey her need without having to mime it out, like at the hospital. Thankfully, Ebony's sardonic toned voice called out from inside having realised what the problem was. The guard blinked twice before taking a few steps back, Jessica looking bashful as she started to walk off in the direction of the trees. A tug on her skirt stopped her, turning her head to see Scar now with a roll of paper in his muzzle. "Thank you." Hesitantly taking the paper, part of her a little conscious it had been in his mouth, she walked slowly through the trees to get some privacy. Heavy hoof falls behind her making her wince at the idea he would be watching. Once far enough away that she could barely see the fire past tree trunks, she turned and motioned for him to turn around. Scar looked confused before shaking his head at her action. Jessica placed hands to her hips, huffing and making the gesture again. Scar frowned before exhaling loudly, mumbling something under his breath as he turned. A quick peek over his shoulder awarded him with a stick or two impacting onto his muzzle. Getting the message quickly he firmly looked ahead back in the direction they came, Jessica sighing in relief. Finishing her business she was about to head back when she caught sight of a familiar orange mare nearby, Jessica noticing Apple had left her hat behind as she spoke softly. Securing her skirt she felt confused, why had Apple followed her, was something wrong? The other question was why did she feel a faint tugging sensation towards the mare? Scar flicked an ear and turned, his expression turned to surprise before eyebrows lowered instantly. Looking back at the campsite his head turned back to glower at the mare, his visage turning hostile. Jessica watched as Scar's posture got defensive, lowering his head as he spoke in a low challenging tone. Apple looked to the side quickly, her voice partially mumbled and sounding nervous, a foreleg partially raised reflecting her mood. Jessica was becoming confused, why was Scar acting like this towards Apple all of a sudden? She was definitely caught off guard when Scar spread his wings and launched himself at Apple, the mare's eyes going wide before a feral grin slowly spread along her muzzle. Scar seemed to realise something, yet whatever the realisation was it didn't allow him to react fast enough, Rainbow and an armorless Stoic tackled him as they pounced from the trees. Jessica was about to give a cry of alarm before she felt something prickling about her mouth. Unable to part her lips, she caught sight of a green glow when looking past her nose, fear beginning to build once again. Reaching to try and remove whatever was impeding her speech she found her wrists had become pinned against each other as well, bracelets being tugged together with more of the magic aura. Struggling with her binds, eyes widened when she saw emerald flames surround Apple, dissipating quickly to reveal Ebony much to Jessica's disbelieving horror. Ebony gave a low chuckle as the two other assailants copied this action, their now revealed horns all glowing while Scar was pulled down into the forest floor with more force, a similar green glow around his muzzle. No, that's not Ebony! With wide eyes she noticed a few subtle differences, despite the fact there were now three of the familiar looking equine. All looked malnourished, breathing heavily just as Ebony had been before she and Jessica had escaped. There was also the expressions they all held, they looked... desperate, if such a thing could be conveyed expression wise. Jessica in her growing panic was slowly trying to move away, to try and help Scar for all the good she thought she could do. Before she could close the distance, the bug-like equine that used to be Apple seemed to snare her with its magical grip. Unable to resist she felt herself being tugged away, Scar looking at her with an expression of panic, struggling under the two as they tried to keep him pinned. Staggering on her bare feet she managed to stay upright as the equine creature dragged her deeper into the woods, barely able to keep pace as she was forced along. Jessica's mind churned with the knowledge she was once more captured, she had lost count how often this was now occurring, was it three, four? She tried to stay upright, unable to resist or she risked introducing her face to the ground with the tugging to her wrists. Deeper into the forest they went, unable to move her lips she found her thoughts turning in on themselves. Was that really Apple and Rainbow? Have they been this all along? She thought on that, her sanity throwing questions at her mind to distract it. She felt her feet ache, without the minimal protection of the bandages, already abused feet were now being tortured. Missing a step Jessica felt herself fall, but the impact never came. Looking up she found the Apple-equine-thing had moved, helping her stay upright before once more running. Confused by this concern for her well-being, Jessica had little choice but to follow as her wrists were tugged forcefully. Her brain by this point was trying to play damage control while figuring out the facts, they captured her but did not wish to see harm befall her. Did that mean this really was Apple? Then why... what, how? It was an intriguing sensation when she could feel her brain almost running in loops, moving through the forest without really taking anything in. Had her sanity finally snapped, was this what finally broke her mind? Distantly she could hear the sound of angry yelling, the equine leading her from the campsite looking visibly distressed by this. Their pace increased as Jessica pondered the meaning of the voices, she thought she heard something that registered to her ears. Focusing over the ragged breathing from her lungs and the movement of plants to her legs, she heard it again. "Jessss-a-kaaaaaa!" My name? Her eyes went wide as the pieces fell into place within her mind, the voice, it was that of Apple. Another voice called out her name, then another. Hope flared in her chest, this creature wasn't the orange mare after all, or it knew how to throw its voice extremely well. They're looking for me! She desperately wanted to call back out, yet the aura around her mouth prohibited such an action. Frustration filled within, the disturbing feeling of something negative stirring as she was led through thick bushes to find her feet now pushing against softer dirt. Now inside a cave, only the magic's illumination provided any visibility. Soon however she found a blue glow lighting the cave, originating from sacs on the walls that looked biological in nature. Looking rather gross as well, Jessica decided. The glow about the Ebony-like creature's horn was beginning to fade, their pace slowing as Jessica found herself being led into a large chamber. Dozens of luminous blue eyes stared back at her, studying the new arrival while the one who led her in staggered and fell to its side, clearly exhausted. Her mind raced as she took in what she saw, all of the insectile-equines looked... weak. Her fear started to fade, eyes slowly adjusting to the bioluminescence allowing her to take in more details. Jessica first noticed every pair of eyes in the room were on her. The next thing she noticed was the hunger shown upon the faces of those watching, almost a desperate need to eat; Starvation. Taking a cautious step back provoked a loud hiss from behind, turning to see the way out was now blocked by three more of the creatures. As they slowly advanced on her she was confused and more than a little fearful, why had they brought her here, were they going to eat her? As another hiss forced her to take a step forward she felt something burn within, an unpleasant emotion. Jessica was well aware now her flight or fight response was severely biased towards the first option, here that was denied to her. Thoughts she didn't wish to foster, to nurture started to creep within, the feeling from earlier being built upon. Anger. Her hands slowly clenched into fists feeling nails press into palms. Every time something was going well, something starting to go right, without fail inevitably it would come crashing down. She had been beginning to enjoy the camping trip despite the sore feet, they were making progress towards the castle to hopefully find answers. Now... now she was in a cave, captured once more by equines that looked exactly like Ebony, more of her kind it seemed. Captured, again. Jessica was becoming sick of it, the brothers, the mob, unicorns and their damnable magic. Barely aware as her anger fed upon itself, the glowing eyes starting to widen in alarm. Creatures began cringing against the sides of the wall away from her, she hardly acknowledged this information as the anger built. "Every... damn... time." The fear within was being consumed as fuel for the growing rage, her arms starting to quiver. "Every time something nice happens, something like this has to come and ruin it!" Jessica didn't care if they couldn't understand her, the words, heard by her own ears was more than enough. The sensation within beginning to feel similar to what, for a scant few seconds she had felt when before the bothers, that same sensation now lashing out at the equines around her. Dimly she acknowledged one question she had not been aware of gaining an answer, it must be only equines like Ebony that this sensation, this... sharing of emotions occurred with. "First I get locked in a cage, then I get chased through a town, then I almost get locked up again." Her hand swept around the cave, a look of pain starting to cross the features of those watching her. "Now? Now you come and kidnap me, and for what? Why?!" The last part screamed out, sounds of pained hissing escaping from several of the bug-like ponies in response. The anger was burning within now, she didn't care what was occurring, what could happen. A small part of her, a part she never knew existed was glad that they were feeling pain from her anger. "You know what? No! Just no! Why can't you all just leave me the hell alone?!" Jessica was almost choking on rage now, tears of frustration creeping into her vision. Several of her kidnappers were now cringing, looks of pure agony upon their faces. Turning her head she saw the three who had blocked her path, now lying on the ground wincing. Serves them right, i'm sick of them! I'm sick of this place! I'm sick of being toyed with, hurt, scared! They can suffer, they... they... oh god. A wailing sound cut through her rage, tearing through effortlessly as reason returned to her mind. Turning to look in the direction of the source she saw one of the chitin-covered ponies trying to curl protectively around two small shapes. A sharp distressed and pained wailing emitting from under the equine's hole covered hooves. Oh god... w-what am... what have I... Her hand came quickly to her mouth, a wave of bile rising up her throat before she staggered back a step. Doubling over she lost her last meal onto the cave floor, gagging as tears rolled down cheeks unbidden. Jessica realising just what she had been doing, what she had been thinking. As if a switch was flicked, the anger simply ceased from within. Eyes quivered as she looked down at her hands, seeing them trembling at the emptiness now within with her rage spent, at remembering how she had felt. That wasn't her, she never got angry, never took delight in the suffering of others. But it was me, I felt those things. Raising her head she heard the wailing continue, Jessica moving forward to approach the two young ones. The insectile-equine protecting them let out a soft hiss, trying to dissuade Jessica until its eyes went wide in shock. Jessica could feel within her emotions that coincided with when she had first touched Ebony. The mournful sound started to quieten as Jessica hesitantly held out a hand. "I-I'm sorry..." She didn't care that they had kidnapped her, she didn't care right now for the fear she had felt, the anger. She never wished to harm a child, no matter the reason, no matter the race. Dimly aware now of the tugging within her being pulled in numerous directions, like a body of water being fed into multiple streams. Regret, concern, both emotions built within, now realising where those emotions were being directed. Towards those she had hurt, despite what they had done. They didn't hurt me on the way, in fact the one who took me stopped me from being injured... This fact fueled her regret, she wasn't happy with them, that was a absolute truth. But, she didn't wish to hurt them as they had clearly been, despite what her rage filled thoughts had suggested. But she couldn't have them suffer, they hadn't hurt her physically and yet she had them writhing in agony with her anger. Even the children... That knowledge was what had brought her out of its grasp, looking down now at the two pairs of small eyes glowing from within the larger one's hold. The wailing had stopped now, watching her now with cautiousness, along with more than a little fear. The one holding them never said anything, but its eyes half closed as the two small ones looked at it, starting to calm. Whatever Jessica was feeling right now it was bringing strength back to the inhabitants of the cave. Looking around while most got back to their hooves, Jessica noticed several changing expressions despite not a single word passing their mouths. The most common theme was one of lowered tattered ears and tails, looking down into the dirt before flinching occasionally as if struck. Did... I hurt them that badly? "Jess-a-ka." Blinking at the sound of her name she turned to see a chocolate furred pegasus walking down the passage, her blue eyes narrowed with contempt as she observed the other equines. "Ebony!" Jessica got to her feet and despite their continued protesting, she ran. Ebony blinked twice, the look of anger quickly replaced by one of shock with Jessica's arms sliding tightly around the mare's neck. The feelings within Jessica quickly returned to warmth, nosing into her friend's mane as she gave a quiet sniffle. All her emotions roiling in turmoil as she gave a small hiccup, burying her nose deeper into the soft hair. More hoof steps approached, Scar moving down the cave with a look of grim resolve upon his face, although thankfully she noticed he was unharmed. Apple and Rainbow stood further back, eyes wide as they took in the sight. Espa was not to be seen which worried Jessica slightly, her arms still clinging to Ebony's neck. They found me! Scar gave a small nod towards Ebony, his eyes also narrowing as he regarded the ones who had captured her with distaste. One armored hoof came crashing down, voice bellowing with authority which in turn caused a small wail to escape from the young in response. Ebony seemed to stiffen within Jessica's arms, muscles tensing under the fur almost as if the mare was considering some course of action. All looked surprised, those before Jessica and with a quick glance, also those from behind when she released Ebony and moved. Her arms were spread in an attempt to stop Scar, knowing full well if he wished so he could get past her. Primarily because she would not be able to physically inhibit his progress, also due to the simple logical fact she couldn't block all of the passage. Jessica wasn't sure why she was doing it, why she was attempting to protect those who had stolen her in the night. Was it guilt for hurting them so badly, hurting the children, or was it simply because she could? Slowly taking a deep breath she knew why. No... they remind me of Ebony on that night, the starvation, the desperation. Ebony looked up towards her with wide eyes, looking shocked at what Jessica had done, what she was doing. Scar looked taken aback himself, one hoof raised while Rainbow and Apple spoke up, both holding confusion in their voices. Swallowing the nervousness building within, she shook her head fiercely making hair flick about. She didn't like those behind her in the slightest, but at the same time she didn't want to see them hurt, however justified it might be. The stalemate was held, Scar looking frustrated at his inability to reason with her due to the language barrier. Apple taking the initiative, slowly trotted forward looking at Scar then Jessica before giving a soft sigh, one hoof adjusting her hat back up. The mare spoke gently towards Jessica in a kind and patient voice, gesturing for her to move aside with a foreleg. "Please?" Jessica's plead softly spoken, looking directly at the guard, Scar frowned in response before exhaling loudly, Rainbow raising an eyebrow at what was occurring. The cyan pegasus gestured with both hooves while taking to the air, forelegs directed at the chitin covered equines, her voice one of disbelief. Apple however gave a small shrug and lopsided smile towards Rainbow, calming her down with some words and a gesture towards Jessica. Rainbow folded arms over her chest before giving a small grimace, it was clear whatever was going on she didn't like it. Scar frowned and then exhaled, addressing the equines behind Jessica who looked in his direction. They seemed, confused and clearly surprised by his words along with Jessica's actions. One after another they seemed to nod as if accepting what had been said, Jessica by now completely lost to the context of the conversation. Another voice spoke from the direction of the entrance, one undoubtedly female and one she was unfamiliar with. Ebony spoke reassuringly up towards Jessica in regards to whatever had been said, helping her make a decision. Jessica finally relented and lowered her arms, seeing nothing was going to happen, at least for now. The owner of the voice slowly approached into view, cat like eyes gleaming as the pony walked with a swagger. She was a pegasus, in so much that she had wings and was an equine. The more noticeable difference however, was that her wings were shaped like one would find on a bat. She wore armor much like Scar and Stoic but with a very different theme to it, the blue gem shaped like her eye was... different. Jessica found herself, strangely conflicted by how she felt to this new arrival. Everything about the new mare seemed to contrast Scar, dark grey fur, darker armor. Even the lack of a helmet seemed to contribute to this idea, her short dark mane styled in a lopsided bob to fall partially over one eye. Yet, Jessica couldn't find it in herself to be afraid of her. The pegasus... bat-asus? Jessica couldn't quite put a term to the new mare, watching as the bat-winged equine spoke with with a hint of admiration towards Rainbow over something. The response of a slightly puffed up chest and bashful rub to the back of her head, meant it must have been a compliment of sorts. I've... seen something like this before, in my... Jessica blinked twice, the events of the dream catching up with her. She had seen a guard pegasus like this, two in fact as they flew in one of the images shown by Night. The sense of protectiveness she had felt within the dream returning as, Dusk; Jessica deciding on the nickname, conversed with Scar, a slightly mischievous tone escaping her mouth. With a gesture of her head she turned and made her way out, shooting Jessica a knowing gaze. Confused further by this she followed, Ebony looking into the back of the cave with a hesitant expression before one of the insectile-equines gave a small nod. Closing her eyes for a second, Ebony seemed to be in a daze before trotting beside Jessica as they all filed out. Did I... foresee Dusk coming? Confused how she could possibly have dreamed of the bat-winged guards before ever seeing one, she almost missed Stoic and another guard like Dusk guarding the entrance to the cave near the bushes, this one however clearly male. Several more pegasus guards were arriving much to Jessica's astonishment, all landing to take position around the entrance. Apple seemed impressed, turning to question Dusk who gave a little shrug, gesturing back into the cave. Just why were the bug-horsie things in a cave anyhow, and why is Ebony never in her natural form? Confused by the complete lack of integration she had seen of the two 'species' thus far, she watched as the extra guards, six in total, gathered around the mouth of the cave. A mixture of both Stoic's type of armor and that of Dusk's, although it appeared only Dusk forwent the need for a helmet. Scar and Dusk spoke with authority as they looked over the assembled guards, all playfulness leaving the latter's voice as orders were given, the pegasi saluting with a hoof before moving into the cave. Worried of what might occur, Jessica moved to try and block the guards only to have Ebony gently tug at her skirt, a head shake and tiny smile staying her hand. Scar looked towards her, giving a small smile which reassured her. Well if Ebony seems okay with it... Completely confused now, not to mention drained from her wildly fluctuating emotions, Jessica was caught off guard when a small unicorn bumped its head to her leg. Looking down she spied the owner to be just who she suspected, smiling tiredly down at the worried look of Espa. "I'm fine, sorry." Espa seemed unconvinced, probably due to being unable to understand Jessica mused. Instead Rainbow flew over and landed beside, ruffling the filly's mane with a few reassuring words. Espa looked up with a small sniffle, her tone of voice and single word spoken something even Jessica could understand, or at least grasp the context of. The simple question; really? Rainbow gave a firm nod to this, Espa rubbing her eyes with a fore hoof before puffing her chest back out trying to look imposing. Jessica could only giggle softly, following the group as Espa walked before her, Dusk and Scar leading the way to where, Jessica assumed was the the campsite. She noticed a lack of Stoic now, looking back she saw him continuing to assist the other pegasi that had remained at the cave. I wonder what they're doing? The warm presence of Ebony was a welcome feeling to her side, although a feline eye gazing back from Dusk almost seemed to regard her friend warily. Noticing Jessica had caught the expression the bat winged pegasus gave an almost sadistic grin. Again, Jessica knew she should, and would normally be afraid but for some reason she felt the guard was simply playing with her. Suspicions confirmed when Dusk's grin turned more genuine as if Jessica had passed a test. Strange... is this because of the dream? "Jessica." Everyone blinked, Jessica the most surprised among them as Dusk spoke her name fluently. Scar's eyebrow raised as the dark pegasus gave a little bow, bending her front legs to lower her head before standing upright in a fluid motion. Rainbow seemed the most taken aback by the equines. One hoof rested to the side of her head as she waved another before her, stammering with a confused tone coating her words. Dusk just gave a knowing grin, the styled mane falling over one eye with a tilt of her head. Playfulness seemed to ooze from her mouth, a stark contrast once more to Scar. Her explanation made the other mares gasp, Espa looking excited at whatever was spoken. Ebony's reaction was to push harder to her side as they walked, nervousness returning to her friend. How did she know my name, did they tell her on the way... wait where did she come from? Dusk simply gave a nod after what Jessica presumed was an explanation. She also didn't miss the knowing gaze that was shot towards Ebony once more from the dark guard. Espa was currently bouncing, an inquisitive tone directed towards Dusk who gave a surprisingly pleasant laugh, humoring the filly as they continued through the woods. Apple and Rainbow both shot Jessica curious glances, her returned expression of confusion making both grin sheepishly at being caught. I wonder what has gotten into those two, what did Dusk say? Jessica was beyond tired now, of course she also reasoned that she had been about to go to bed before being kidnapped, so logically that might have something to do with it. Ebony continued to help support her, Jessica's feet now almost inciting open rebellion on the rest of her body. For the first time, she actually felt somewhat envious of the others and their hooves. Eventually they made it back to the campsite, not surprisingly almost a direct line from the cave where she had been taken. What impressed Jessica most, was how long it took them to walk back. It seemed infinitely longer than when she was dragged, but she put that down the the shock and adrenalin flooding into her at the time. As they approached the tent, Jessica had to admit she felt a little saddened with Stoic not being nearby. The replacement of Dusk was, well she didn't really know what to think of the female guard. At the moment the new pegasus had Espa upon her back, tucked between wings when the little filly had tired herself out after the trek. Spreading one wing she had looked up at Jessica, a head gesture back to the sleeping unicorn allowing her to understand the meaning. Gently lifting the sleeping Espa off Dusk's back she slipped into the tent, placing the filly down beside her. Apple and Rainbow both giving a yawn before reclaiming their corners, Rainbow much to everyone's amusement instantly falling asleep. Thankfully the snoring was more subdued than upon the train, a fact everyone seemed to appreciate more than the display of narcolepsy. Jessica waited for Ebony to enter, noticing the mare not doing so she looked outside to see the pegasus being stopped by Dusk. What's going on? Dusk noticed Jessica looking in, offering a reassuring smile before beckoning Ebony to follow. The two mares moved to the edge of the campsite, their tones hushed, although Scar's ear flicking seemed to suggest he was close enough to overhear. Whatever Dusk spoke of caused Ebony to look shocked, eyes darting about as wings spread like she was ready to fly away at a moments notice. Jessica was about to get out to help her friend before whatever Dusk followed up with next calmed Ebony down. A wary look was given before Dusk gestured her head back towards the tent, a half grin coming to her muzzle. Scar lowered an eyebrow at what he had overheard, the female guard speaking to him next with a flippant tone causing the stallion to snort. What are they talking about? Ebony took a deep breath and pawed at the ground with a front hoof, whatever she said was with a conviction filled voice, Dusk giving an understanding nod in response. Scar's reaction was to eye Ebony warily before exhaling and giving a firm nod of his own. Almost immediately Dusk's expression changed, a wide smile and playful tone returning to her now raised voice. Ebony looking unsure before making her way inside the tent, Jessica grateful to feel the warmth flow into her friend once more. The sensation unlike in the cave was, reassuring to her, comforting. Ebony raised her head to offer a small smile, it seemed her friend was also opening up, a far cry from the almost cynical acting equine she had come to know in the forest. Of course, Ebony then followed it with an eye roll and dismissive turn of her head so at least some things never changed. Smiling she stroked over Ebony's mane before falling asleep as soon as her head rested upon a forearm. ~~~~~~~ She was dreaming once again. The book was laid open on the table before her, paper strewn about and now starting to encroach upon the floor. "Well if you're attempting to lay new carpet you could do it a little more efficiently." Ebony's teasing voice was met with a ball of paper rebounding off her muzzle. "Oh leave her alone, it's not an easy problem." Apple was trying to clean up, organising the papers onto the table, Sparkle helping with her magic as Spike emptied the trash can for the fourth time. Jessica was at least getting more into the can, small accomplishments and all. Scar, Stoic and Dusk stood guard by the window behind her, Dusk seemingly going out of her way to annoy Stoic by constantly poking him with a wing, from the look on his face it was working. Scar seemed to find it amusing at least. There were so many of the ponies helping her now, whether guarding against the window breaking or assisting with the equation, it all helped her feel emboldened. Everyone was helping out, Bubbles and Espa were trying to organise notes. Red was offering reassurance and comfort. Rainbow was... Rainbow was sleeping on the bookcase... Well aside from one pegasus, the rest were assisting, helping and encouraging her. She knew this was a dream but it didn't matter, figments of her imagination or not she trusted these equines. Why she trusted Dusk, she didn't know but she felt that no matter what the pegasus had her best interests in mind. There was also the last inhabitant in her dream, the hybrid mare looking out one window, that fleeting glimpses of what occurred during her waking hours displayed upon its surface. Looking up from the equation she watched Night continue to gaze at the pane of glass, expression shifting between anger, relief, anger once more and finally settling on a wary smile. "So... are you like my subconscious or something?" The thought was strange to her but at the same time Night didn't act like the other ponies. Everything came to a literal standstill as Night turned her head to regard Jessica, a raised eyebrow going with the patient smile. Jessica noticed the black crown upon the ethereal mane, complimenting the tattoo and the thing about her neck... was it called a torc? She really didn't know what to term the item, a metallic bib? "Hmm, maybe my subconscious is royalty?" Jessica blinked, it seems her inner thoughts were being spoken, which made sense considering she was dreaming, or did it? The whole situation was beginning to make her horribly confused, her expression seemed to have been obvious enough for Night to pick up on it. The small giggle snapped her from the thoughts as the mare looked positively bemused. "Ugh... okay, so now I'm talking with myself?" Night seemed to consider this as her horn glowed, or at least considering the questioning tone of her words. Why Jessica's supposedly subconscious mind couldn't understand her she didn't know. Although last time it seemed to be trying to interpret the language, it might not be too odd how it acted at the moment. Jessica dropped the issue, she got confused enough when awake let alone in her sleep. "Na-ooo." Once more Night stressed a new word, playing it around her mouth before repeating it once more. "Nooooo-ooo?" Night then stressed the vowel sound as Jessica blinked, throwing her arms into the air in surrender to the absurdity. "Okay, so I'm not talking to myself?" Night exhaled, clearly frustrated at the lack of language communication before taking a step forward. Jessica blinked as Night tapped the book upon the desk with a silver covered hoof, looking into teal eyes as a firm nod was given. "Solve it, right." Seating herself at the table she felt the presence of the tall hybrid behind her, Jessica's pen tapping the last remaining symbol. Looking around the room at all the frozen ponies along with Spike, something clicked. Scribbling upon a piece of paper she wrote the equation down, then under it the translation. It all came in a flood of knowledge as if the information had been there all along, just waiting for the right key to unlock it. She understood what the symbols meant, she understood everything about them. It wasn't an equation, it was it turned out, a sentence with some of the supposed math symbols having been words in of themselves. Jessica's eyes going wide as Night looked on curiously. Leaning back from the desk she looked down, mouthing the term in the equine's native tongue. Night blinked and stepped back, a look of shock upon her face as Jessica once more spoke it out, this time in her own language. "Let home be where your heart lies." Her mouth moved over each word, trying to make sense of it, the library shifting in a subtle fashion as she found herself watching... herself? She saw herself sitting at the desk, now with a lack of any equines aside from Night who continued to stand beside her. Night seemed to be watching earnestly, turning to look out the window and see the students and teachers making their way along the footpaths far below. Jessica knew where this was now, what was going on. She was home, just before she wrote the symbols properly for the first time. She watched as past-Jessica worked on the problem, a small part of her growing increasingly envious of her past self's ownership of shoes. Something was, wrong, Jessica noticed. Areas in the library were simply frozen in time, unmoving while others were in motion. Jessica found the answer in that the memory was made up of only places she could see, anything else outside her vision was stuck that way. It made sense, as much as her mind could interpret such a thing. Resuming her observation of events from a third person perspective, she found her chest tightening at what was about to come. Finally the fateful moment arrived, the 'equation' was written down, the symbols perfected and the book began to give off an incandescent glow, one she had to move an arm over her eyes to shield herself from. The glow diminished, then moved over her past self encompassing the arm before moving over the entire body. Turning her attention briefly to the side she saw Night's eyes go wide, as if recognising what was occurring. It was then a wind started to pick up in the library, picking up in speed and intensity as the pages of the book flicked rapidly over. Her past self started to lean back dangerously on the chair, the librarian she always thought had it out for her was running over, one hand outstretched. "She was trying to save me... " Another pang of guilt joined the rest she had accumulated thus far, watching the librarian grab her past self's shoulder, attempting to steady her. A large gust of wind however made the woman lose the grip, thrown away and outside the range of the memory. Jessica watched as the chair tipped back, throwing her past self out the window hearing screams coming from below. Then, then she simply vanished. Night stood there for a while as the library faded away, the mare's ethereal mane encompassing the dreamscape as Jessica looked at her hands. She thought knowing the equation, no... the sentence would do something profound, it had seemed... important, it was something she felt driven to accomplish. All it had done was give her a sentence, nothing more. There were no answers, other than the fact that the librarian was actually a pretty nice lady as opposed to what she used to suspect. Burying her face in hands she felt a heavy depression start to take hold, until Night softly spoke to her. Lowering her hands she blinked, the tone was one of concern but just as before she couldn't make out the words. Night moved her head, horn glowing as symbols formed within the stars surrounding them both. No, not symbols... letters. Her eyes went wide realising she could interpret some of the symbols now, grasp their meaning. It was small, it was something minor but it was something! Unsure on how large the equine alphabet was she had no idea how much she could now decipher, but looking at the symbols that Night created she could make out some. There were plenty she couldn't understand, but just enough if she thought about it and filled in the blanks. She could make out some words, but so many missed letters, she could take a guess... No... She still couldn't understand, there were still too many blanks for her to come to a conclusion, Night giving a small sigh. The hybrid equine offered a small smile though as another book formed, one she was unaccustomed to now levitating before her face. With a nod from Night, Jessica grasped the book to flick over the pages. Gazing up at the tall mare she was given a warm smile and nod of the head, the indication clear. "Translate this one next I guess?" She looked down at the book in her hands, realising exactly what it was. While she had not exactly perused through the pages, she had grasped the concept. It was a picture book, probably with the alphabet within. How her subconscious was doing this she had no idea, perhaps part of the spell from whatever the original book had done to her? A soft smile given as Night conjured another image, this one of Dusk. A raised eyebrow towards Jessica and tilt of her head gave her the realisation of what she was asking, it seemed Night wanted her opinion on the female guard. Moving to the image she let her mind wander, showing how she had seen the guard care for Espa and talk to Ebony. The last fact piqued Night's curiosity as she gave a small nod at that image. When Night saw Dusk fluently speak Jessica's name and give a bow, the regal looking equine gave a small laugh behind a hoof. Seemingly satisfied with whatever answer she had gotten, Night opened up one more image. Inside was a large majestic castle built onto the side of a cliff, awe inspiring to behold. With a soft glow of her horn, Night caused the picture to flow like a video travelling down through the main corridors at a speed that made Jessica almost feel motion sick. Eventually two large ornate doors opened displaying a red carpet leading to a singular large throne. Jessica blinked at what she saw, two hybrid mares sat before the throne. One, the tallest was as white as snow with a long mane and tail, both flowing like Night's did with a mixture of colour. She seemed, majestic and had a warm smile upon her face. The second one made Jessica blink twice. It was Night. "Eep..." She blinked twice, looking in the image and then at the tall equine beside her. Night for her part gave a bemused smile, eyes half lidding playfully as she gave a nod. Jessica did the only thing her tortured mind could do, she woke up. ~~~~~~~ The warm feeling of a muzzle pushing to her right shoulder got her attention, moving as she yawned and opened her eyes. Looking down at her was Dusk, a bemused expression on the pegasus's face. Okay, what a completely crazy dream... Rubbing the sleep from her eyes before she crawled out of the tent, the realisation hit her that she was the last one to wake. Everyone else was up and ready, two apples along with a metallic cup filled with water left on the folded rug, Scar giving a nod towards her as she caught his gaze. Understanding they were for her she gave a soft sip of the water and started to eat an apple, the others dismantling the tent as she felt Espa nuzzle her leg softly. "Good morning to you too." She offered a smile down, Espa giving a smile back and offering friendly sounding words. Ebony was nearby, and sometime in the night Stoic had seemingly returned, the two talking in hushed tones by the tree line. Upon seeing her awake Ebony excused herself with a short glare in Stoic's direction, before trotting over and nosing Jessica's hand. Smiling at her friend she stroked the mare's mane, the warm feeling passing between the two. She now understood what Ebony fed off, or at least had a good idea if not the exact specifics. She wasn't sure if it was how she felt at the time, or how she felt towards Ebony specifically, but it didn't matter. She's there for me, that's all that matters. Repeating the thought from the last time she had dwelt upon the issue, Jessica found the bandages she had put aside last night. Using the clean side on the bottom, she wrapped them back over her feet once again. Given how sore they were at the moment, she had doubt that it would make any discernable difference; although it never hurt to try. So, I guess if I find the book I can go home? Thoughts once more returned to the dream, Jessica found herself focused on the definite facts she had discovered. The book had sent her here, presumably, so it stood to reason there would be a similar way to send her back. Hopefully from the same book, but had it travelled with her? At least I have some form of progress now. Noticing the tent was wrapped and stored on Scar's back, Jessica found herself blinking as everyone was looking at her with a patient expression. Rainbow looked down at Jessica's feet, making a comment to Apple who looked a little unsure. This seemed to get the others talking until Espa spoke, everyone looking thoughtful at whatever she had suggested. Stoic gave a slight movement of his shoulders that just might have been a shrug, Jessica found it hard to tell with him. Looking at Dusk and Rainbow, she found them both grinning mischievously. Scar however looked thoughtful as Apple tapped a hoof to her muzzle in contemplation. Wait... what are they talking about? She got her answer when Ebony gently nuzzled her in the back, the action guiding her towards Stoic who had firmly folded his wings to the side. Turning he offered his back to her, Jessica blinking in shock. "You... want me to ride?" It seemed logical on one hand, they were after all, equines, but they were also intelligent and it seemed... well it just seemed wrong on a fundamental level. Picking up on her unease Rainbow gave a roll of her eyes, making expressive hoof gestures as if verbalizing a well thought out point. A deadpan tone of voice from Apple caused the cyan pegasus to push both hooves to her hair, a sound of frustration escaping her muzzle. Flying down to the ground she pointed a hoof in Jessica's direction, before balancing on hind hooves. Using her wings for balance she somewhat walked awkwardly upright, but more importantly, very slowly. "Wait are you- " She was cut off as Rainbow cleared her throat, moving back to all fours and trotting at a much faster pace. Turning she looked at Jessica after taking to the air once more, holding her forelegs forward, hooves up as if begging for understanding. "Okay, okay... fine, I'm slow right now." She felt, well she felt annoyed for one, but at the same time it was nice to be treated so frankly. No fear, no anger, just straight forwardness. She made sure to sigh and drop her shoulders as if in defeat, Rainbow giving a sound of victory as she pumped a fore hoof into the air. Gingerly getting onto Stoic's back she heard him exhale at her weight, overall however he seemed almost unbothered by the additional mass on his back. Have I really lost that much weight, I wasn't big before but... Ebony took up position beside Stoic, Espa the other side as the group once more trotted down the path. When the sun had crawled partially across the sky, Jessica found herself debating what hurt more. Bareback on a metal armored equine, or walking on her abused feet. The jury was still out on that decision. Exhaling softly she was however grateful for what Stoic was doing, it would not have been easy to carry her, let alone while decked out in armor. An excited holler from Apple caught her attention, watching as Apple flicked her stetson about in a hoof. Looking ahead she saw the reason why, in the distance was the signs of civilisation, but that wasn't all. Are they... is that? There was also something else. A group of equines on the road ahead were running towards them, getting closer she could finally make them out. Rainbow suddenly burst ahead with a great deal of speed, circling around the group before being tackled by a blur of pink. Sparkle! Jessica's eyes lit up seeing the familiar lavender unicorn waiting ahead, Spike standing beside her along with the unicorn and pegasus she had last seen on the train platform. The pink normal pony was currently squeezing Rainbow who was struggling to get away, her forelegs flailing as the others laughed. Wait... where is- A shadow passed over head before the filly beside her was enveloped in a tangle of grey fur and blonde hair. Slipping off Stoic's back, wincing slightly as her feet pushed to the road she watched the scene with a smile. Espa was giggling as Bubbles lavished attention upon her, nuzzling her mane and talking in a hurried pace. The display made her remember something herself, turning she hugged Stoic in thanks about the neck, surprising the guard it seemed with his flinch. It was the least she could do after what he had done for her, although she now noticed the flustered look threatening to creep along his muzzle. Scar gave a bemused grin while Dusk took on a teasing tone; Jessica just smiling that mother and daughter were now together again. Ebony moved to her side, only then did Jessica become aware of a death glare directed at the brown pegasus's way by Bubbles. The cross-eyed mare speaking angrily before Espa spoke up, Bubbles blinking and looking down at her daughter. Ebony looked surprised, her eyes going wide as it appeared Espa was defending her. Bubbles reluctantly backed down, although still not looking happy before she turned her attention towards Jessica. Offering a shy smile down she was rewarded with a smile back from the blonde mare, Bubbles flicking an ear as her attention was tugged aside. Espa was apparently gushing about all that had happened with an excited tone only a child can keep up, a patient and interested look now on her mother's face. Jessica now found herself away from the majority of the group, now with only the two pegasi and Espa nearby. Sparkle waved a hoof in her direction, beckoning her to come over as everyone else had moved forward to join the others. "Jess-e-ka!" Rainbow called out, now free from the pink one's embrace who now had her attention diverted to Dusk, bouncing around the pegasus as her mouth constantly threw out noise. Dusk seemed, tolerant at least, a long sigh escaping her muzzle. The white unicorn looked curious at what Rainbow had spoken, Sparkle more so as the pegasus grinned and puffed up her chest. Apple however just gave a bemused grin, adjusting her hat at Rainbow's antics. Okay, is she showing off that she knows my name? It was kind of an amusing concept to be proud of knowing someone's name, then again it really did make sense in this situation. Jessica still didn't know their real names, just the nicknames she had bestowed upon them. Musing on this thought she approached with the sound of Bubbles and Ebony following behind, Espa now resting upon her mother's back. From the look of it, she doubted the filly would be allowed out of her mother's sight for quite some time, not that she seemed to mind. Well I'm just glad they're together again. Jessica arrived just in time to see Sparkle push a front hoof to her forehead, mindful of her horn. The reason eluded her as the unicorn seemed frustrated at herself for something, Rainbow laughing and Apple offering a sheepish smile, proving it can't have been overly important. Wait, is Sparkle upset she didn't think to get my name that way? Thinking on that, Jessica found it not unlikely, Rainbow's amused tone and Apple trying to placate her friend added credence to her suspicion. Falling into step with the others she walked beside Sparkle, Spike riding upon her back as he was once more dictating for the unicorn. The quill he held quickly scribbling down upon the paper before rolling it up, the paper fastened with a push of his claw. Expecting the fire didn't make it any easier, but like always no-one seemed concerned when the green flame consumed the scroll. I... still have no idea why he does that... The familiar mental image of her brain throwing its arms up in disgust came quickly to mind. Distracting her thoughts she looked at what the others were up to, Apple seeming to be conversing with the two others they had left behind on the train ride. The white unicorn, which after a quick glance at her tattoo gave Jessica the nickname, Jewel, was looking at her bandaged feet with utmost horror upon her face. Espa's small voice spoke up as Bubbles looked back at her daughter, then she also gazed down at Jessica's feet. Soon she was feeling more than self conscious as everyone seemed to be looking. Jewel looked thoughtful, a firm nod given as she spoke animately, lost in her own world it seemed. A mention of her name made Jessica look down seeing Sparkle looking somewhat concerned, her ear flicking to Dusk beside conversing. The cat eyed mare was trotting beside her speaking in a playful tone as Spike looked interested, Sparkle's reaction mixed between worry and intrigue if going off the expression on her face. "Eep?" Again, her well cultured grasp of language was proven as Sparkle sighed and then smiled, offering a concerned look up towards again. Giving a smile back down towards her and a nod this seemed to ease Sparkle's concerns, a smile coming to the mare's muzzle. Ebony refused to stray from Jessica's side, Sparkle looking over at her and speaking sternly, the chocolate furred pegasus in turn replying in a cynical tone and gesturing up towards Jessica, much to her confusion. Sparkle bit her lower lip at this while Dusk gave a broad grin, finally the unicorn gave a nod but sounded resolute in her tone. Rainbow who was flying beside the trotting yellow furred pegasus, spoke up to which Sparkle mulled over the words. Two big blue eyes appeared before Jessica's face, bouncing up and down before her as she gave a loud gasp and took a step back. What the...who...Ah! She exhaled noticing it was simply the pink mare, speaking quickly in her direction even as Apple trotted over, nudging her out of Jessica's way with a bemused tone of voice. The bouncing ceased for now, or at least became subdued with the group making their way through the town. Jessica was wary of the looks she got, but at least these seemed to be more of curiosity than fear or hostility. Barely taking in the architecture, her focus was solely on the immediate group around her, speed seeming to be a factor as they all moved briskly with Ebony supporting her, and soon Scar aiding as well. Making their way to the train station as the equines conversed she was surprised when Spike let out a loud belch, followed by a scroll forming from whatever he had... well, belched. ...You're on your own with this one brain. Sparkle seemed happy as the scroll was enveloped with a pink aura, then moved before the mare's face as she unrolled it. Reading it out loud, it seemed the others were surprised and a little happy by what was announced, Sparkle giving a warm smile up towards Jessica. "I guess... it's good news?" The mare flicked her ear with a tilt of her head, Jessica never expecting to be understood but she felt she had to talk occasionally; again, for her benefit if no-one else's. Ebony however moved closer against Jessica, this time Scar and Stoic keeping a very close eye upon her. As they approached the train, Dusk and Stoic led the way in, Scar following behind with Ebony and Jessica between the three. Once they entered the rest followed, each moving to find a seat to get ready for the train ride. Seating herself Jessica felt Ebony's warmth beside her as the pegasus claimed the spot to her left. In an almost childish gesture the pegasus gave a taunting look at Espa who stuck her tongue out in return, the exchange lost upon those who had not gone on the short journey. Jessica could only giggle, when the whistle blew and the doors shut she knew the next stop would be the castle. And hopefully to answers.