//------------------------------// // Chapter 2: Threshold // Story: Lost and Fallen // by Superdale33 //------------------------------// Lost and Fallen Chapter 2: Threshold I couldn’t help but stare at the barn with frustration, my mind blank on how to approach the mission given to me. Applejack was still standing behind me expectantly, as I could tell after glancing behind myself multiple times. Where was I supposed to start? I didn't even know the lay of the land. Giving a low growl, I turned completely around, with my shoulders slumped. “I, uh,” I hesitantly muttered, scratching the back of my neck, “I’m going to need a little more information.” Applejack eyed me doubtfully, an eyebrow raised, probably suspecting I could never retrieve her belongings. Rolling her eyes, she jumped over the white rail fence sepearating us without a hitch, and stood beside me. “Ya see that barn?” she asked, pointing a hoof at the building. I looked over at the barn again, feeling childish as I did, and nodded. “That’s where Jordan lives, and that’s where my stuff is at.” It took all of my strength not to facepalm at her statement, but I still rubbed my head irritably. She had better be joking. “I mean,” I emphasized, clenching my left hand tightly while gritting my teeth, “I need information I don’t already know.” Applejack gave a coy smile, her eyes half closed in smugness. She was enjoying playing with me, and I wished I didn’t have to work with her. “Listen here, human,” she taunted while facing the barn seriously, “Jordan wears my hat all the time, and I reckon he only takes it off when he sleeps. My hairbands are in the town hall, where he works. That’s as much as I know.” Though I was glad she decided to give me some real facts, she was still kind of vague, and I don’t think it was on purpose. Deciding I would have to make do with what I was given, I walked forward, intending to spy on Jordan for a start. Applejack didn't wish me luck, or even say goodbye, but I didn’t expect one - she still didn’t trust humans. As I slunk towards the barn, being as discreet as possible, my mind was racing. Why would I steal from a man who had stolen Applejack’s things first? Two wrongs don't make a right, but I didn't have much of a choice. However, that thought just made me feel worse. I shook my head as I neared a window that was part of the barn, the possibilities running through my mind relentlessly. It had to be a bad idea; a cop stealing always was. It was the only thing going through my head as I peered through a four-pane window into the building. The interior was rather ordinary, with wooden walls and a few pieces of furniture, including a sofa and a rocking chair. It was plainly obvious Jordan was nowhere in sight, but it worried me more than if he was inside. That’s when I felt a hand tightly grip my shoulder, causing me to wince. I tentatively turned my head to see two muscular men wearing green T-shirts and snarling at me. They were definitely working for Jordan, and that meant I was caught. “Shit,” I muttered as they each grabbed an arm and dragged me to the front, my feet unable to keep up with their brisk pace. When we reached the corner, where the front door was, I could see Jordan there with his arms crossed. I barely had time to register he was there before I was shoved to the ground harshly. I braced my arms as I fell onto the ground, but didn’t bother to look Jordan in the face. “So,” he started in a superior manner, as I kept my eyes trained to the ground, “you thought you could just snoop around my abode without my consent? Is that it?” Choosing not to answer, I kept my position on the ground, ignoring anything he said afterward - my own thoughts were at the front of my find at that point. I could easily escape whatever he decided to do with me by simply telling him Applejack told me to do it. However, it wasn’t my place to tattle on others, nor was she really responsible for what I did. Besides, Jordan would probably just think I was making stuff up to get out of trouble. Suddenly, the two men beside me took each arm again, lifting me up to my feet without remorse or consideration. I faced Jordan, and he was obviously pissed I was flat out ignoring him. “Listen, you fucking piece of shit!” he seethed, grabbing a handful of my jacket collar. “If you want to live, you better leave in the next five minutes and never come back! Are we clear?” This guy was absolutely serious, as the look in his eyes said it all. I wasn’t afraid though, since I had dealt with much worse. “Crystal,” I replied quietly, and I shook off the men holding me. I sauntered toward the exit of Sweet Apple Acres, but not before I whipped around and flipped the bird. He wasn’t fazed, however, but I got my point across I was as bitter as him. Turning my attention back to the matter at hand, I was running out of options. Getting Applejack’s belongings would be a lot tougher when I was officially kicked out of Jordan’s property. And I was still uncertain if stealing from him would be the best choice. Then I remembered a piece of information Applejack had told me. Her hair bands were in the Town Hall. It was a start, especially since Jordan was busy at his home. I walked faster back to town, my mind still going back and forth between morals and personal business. When I crossed the bridge over the stream, I made my way through the streets to the largest opening of town. Basic logic dictated for a small town like this was that any area that was wide open or had a statue in front was where the Town Hall was. The place was bustling with people and ponies, the former pushing and shoving to get to where they were going. I stepped off to the side to avoid any offensive confrontation, and quickly studied the town square. Nothing truly major stuck out, besides the statue at the center of it all. It was faded pink, with a reared pony balancing on a ball, and a pool of water surrounded the statue. I had no idea how it depicted this town, but I put it in the back of my mind as I stared across to the Town Hall. It was brilliant, even if the paint was not luxurious. It was cylindrical in design, with a cone, brown roof at the top. I zig-zagged through the crowd of people and ponies, avoiding contact as much as possible as I kept most of my focus on my objective. I eventually stepped onto the porch of the town hall and reached out for the door knob, hoping it wasn’t locked. It wasn’t, and after thanking my luck, I rushed inside, closing the door behind me. The room was open, like a theater without a stage, but it hardly mattered as I searched for a door to an office. A doorway showed a closed-off set of stairs that curved with the building, and I climbed up them two at a time. When I reached the top, a receptionist’s room was what greeted me. No one was there, and I had no problem walking by the desk to the door behind it. I opened the door slowly, peeking through to make sure it was empty. Jordan may be at the apple orchard, but it didn’t stop my training from forcing me to check to make sure. When I assured myself that it was all clear, I fully entered the room. A lone brown desk sat in the middle of the room, a fancy window behind it allowed strands of light to radiate onto the wooden floor. An assortment of potted plants hugged the walls, their leaves looking droopy and unhealthy. My eyes scanned over the desk as I approached, looking for the hair bands that belonged to Applejack. All there was was a single document. I figured reading it would help me in my situation in some way, and my curiosity didn't help either. I shuffled around the desk to face the piece of paper the right way, and began to swiftly read through it. My most faithful student, No doubt you have read the news lately of the attack, and let me assure you that Cadence and your brother are safe. However, we now have a crisis on our hooves. I request you and your friends come to Canterlot as soon as possible to discuss the topic. I await your arrival. -Princess Celestia A note at the bottom, in different handwriting, was scribbled across: Find this 'faithful student'. Wait a goddamn minute. I thought this land was being ruled by a Baron, when did a Princess come into the picture!? And who the hell was this ‘faithful student’? The document did not help in any way, shape, or form. Just the opposite in fact, and I was growing really frustrated at not getting anything accomplished. The sound of footsteps beyond the door shook me from my thoughts, and a knot in my chest formed. Someone was coming. My first thought was to escape, but I caught myself before I attempted to do so, reminding myself why I was here in the first place. With great haste, I practically threw open the drawers that were part of the desk, and found two red hair bands on the bottom drawer. I extracted them and put them in my pants pocket, and I glanced at the parchment that still rested on top of the desk. The footsteps had halted from the other side of the door - I had three seconds at best before the person entered. Acting on impulse, I grabbed the document, scrunching it up as I did, and shoved it into my pocket with the hair bands just as the door swung open. It was Jordan, and he was aiming his revolver at me. I didn’t think breaking and entering would warrant such an act. “I should have known you wouldn’t leave well enough alone,” he growled, his trigger finger twitching. I kept my gaze towards him, spreading my feet to take action at a moment’s notice. My mind was searching rapidly for an escape route, and I had to keep him talking until I could come up with something. “Who’s Princess Celestia?” I asked, deflecting the subject. “You know damn well who it is,” he said, furrowing his brow deeper. “And what is with you and these stupid questions!? Did you just sleep through the last three months or something?!” I got him to ramble about how forgetful I was. It wasn't what I was shooting for, but it would do. As for my escape plan, I could only think of one way to get away from Jordan without getting killed, and it was pretty risky in itself. I really didn't want to do it, and I would need a distraction to boot. “Of all the people to come into my office, it had to be you!” Jordan exclaimed, adjusting his grip on his gun. “It was a good thing I decided to check up here. The moment I met you I knew you would be trouble, and now I caught you red handed, you masked man. It doesn’t matter why you’re here, not as long as I’m Mayor. Everything I say goes, and I can shoot without worry, even if it’s another human. Well, what have you got to say for yourself, stranger?” He was monologuing like any villain would, and I found it very cheesy. I had to say something before we ended up staying there for hours. “I said my name was Nolan Anderson,” I put in, then acting on instinct, I shouted, “Applejack, run!” And Jordan took the bait like a fish in a river. With wide and confused eyes, Jordan gave a glance over his shoulder, and with the time given to me, I took out my revolver as I dashed for the window. With a single shot, I shattered the window, glass falling to the ground outside. Bracing myself, and ignoring the small voice telling me to stop, and jumped out the window. It probably was the worst decision I've done in a long time, and it the feeling of dread was amplified when gravity took hold of me. I plummeted to the street below, leaning a bit to my right before I hit the ground on my right shoulder. I cried out in pain, but stopped myself short, trying to act tough for all it was worth. I gripped my shoulder with my left hand, the pain numbing the rest of my arm, as I rolled over to my feet to stand. The town square was at a stand still, everyone had suddenly froze at my sudden stunt. It was very unnerving to sweep over the crowd with eyes all on myself. “Stop that man!” I heard a shout above me, and when I faced back to the Town Hall, I could see Jordan just outside the window pointing a finger at me. “A hundred bits to the one who takes him down, two hundred if he’s alive!” I was already charging down the street before he had finished, barreling past people before they realized I was a wanted man. It was difficult with my heavy combat vest, but I didn’t have much choice. I knew I wouldn't stand a chance if everyone decided to turn on me. I broke away from the crowd, and into the nearly empty roads. I had no idea where I was going, weaving between back alleys while clutching my shoulder. At some point, the people from the square had begun to chase me, their thundering footsteps all the indication I needed to maintain my bolt. I flew around a corner and slammed myself against the wall, hoping nobody saw me slip away. The pain of my arm was still present, but it wasn’t as bad as before, as I tried move it around to get the feeling back. I didn't even realize I was still clutching my revolver, and I holstered it when I did. My heart was beating fast, both from being chased and the thought of what these people would do to me if I were captured. Little noise was being produced, so I knew I had a minute or two to think things over. Being an outlaw - I had to admit - was my fault. If I hadn’t broken into Jordan’s office, I wouldn’t have gotten into this mess. I found it somewhat ironic I was a cop an hour ago, and now I’m on the opposite end of the law, but that was beside the point. Maybe turning myself in would be for the best... or maybe it would get me a bullet in my head. I decided just to wait it out; let them cool off before I showed myself. I turned to the rest of the alley, and spotted a building across the stream. It was kind of like the Town Hall, but smaller and brighter, or at least as bright as it could be in this dreary town. It also reminded me of a carousel at a carnival, with horse models near the top. I concluded to myself it was a good place to hole up. As I edged toward the alley’s exit, I gave a brief look of the area, making sure no one would see me. When the coast was clear, I sprinted with everything I had for the building, crossing the bridge with ferocity. My nerves were tensed as I quickly made my way to the door of the building. When I made it, I gave a sigh of relief, reading the sign that hung by the door. ‘Carousel Boutique’. “There he is!” I heard a shout behind me. After my heart nearly stopped, I hastily glanced behind me to see Jordan and a few other people had found me, speeding from behind a corner of a building. With great urgency, I tried to jerk open the door, but it wouldn’t budge as it was locked. Of all the times a door had to be locked, it had to be while I was under pressure. Thinking fast, I jumped back, and unholstered my revolver. With both of my shaky hands wielding the gun I took aim, hearing the shouts and jeers of the approaching group. I pulled the trigger and the familiar blast of my weapon rung in my ears. My injured shoulder spiked in pain again, and I gripped it with my left hand, clenching my jaw shut. Nonetheless, my plan had worked, and the lock was in shambles. I charged through the door with my good shoulder, and slammed it shut again. Someone from the opposite side rammed into the door, almost knocking me back. A wooden chair sat next to the door, and I swiftly grabbed it and placed it under the doorknob, creating a makeshift lock. Another pound reverberated on the door, but it was suppressed by the chair. I backed away from the door, and holstered my revolver, knowing I had to think of something before they breached. A low whimper echoed in the room, and I instinctively froze. Despite being short on time, I couldn’t help but stand there, hoping what I heard was just a trick of the wind. Another whimper, this one being louder, came out and I whipped around, worried my life would end at that moment. A pony was cowering on the floor, shivering with eyes shut tight. The pony was positively familiar. It was the one being abused in the street; the carrot mare. By the looks of the pony, she had been heavily beaten since I last saw her, apparent from the many bruises that littered her side. I felt incredibly bad for the mare, especially after finding out that these ponies were intelligent. There wasn’t anything I could do for her at that moment, considering the circumstances, but it didn’t help my compassionate heart. “Look,” I sighed, tensing up as another slam came from the barred up door, “I can’t do anything to help you. You have a... master, and I can’t change that.” The mare finally looked up towards me, clearly fearful I would strike her if she said something bad. “W-Why do you a-act like you don’t k-know about... about....” she stuttered, but went back to cowering, shaking harder than before. “About what?” I coaxed, tilting my head slightly. Her eyes widened, her jaw opening in utter shock. “You... y-you don’t know?” she asked desperately. “We p-ponies were e-enslaved after you humans i-invaded Equestria.” My breathing ceased, time seemed to slow, and yet it didn’t matter to me. If I thought my mind was blown before with everything that had happened, it didn’t compare to that sudden revelation. It didn’t make sense to me that I would react so abruptly to that piece of knowledge, especially when compared to the talking ponies. Maybe it was I was so oblivious to it, or perhaps the idea was always possible in my head and I neglected to keep my suspicions. Either way, I was completely stunned. Another bang from the door brought me back to reality, and I shook my head to clear my thoughts. I would have time later to sort my contemplations. “Sorry about this,” I apologized to the mare, before taking my revolver out and knocking her head with the handle. She dropped unconscious like a sack of bricks. I didn’t want to do that to her, but I didn’t want her to disclose my whereabouts to Jordan and the others trying to bust in. With the mare out cold, I darted over to another room opposite of the entrance. It didn’t have a door, or even an alternative exit if things got hairy, but I was running out of time. I entered hurriedly and pressed myself beside the door frame, hidden from view. As soon as I did, the door burst open, the chair smashed from the last impact, from what I could hear. Footsteps echoed in the room as many people rushed inside until everyone suddenly stopped. My shoulder was still throbbing, but it was tolerable. I controlled my breathing, taking deep breaths to keep myself quiet. “Where the hell did he go!?” the undeniable voice of Jordan screamed suddenly as grunts of vexation followed by the other men. An assortment of movement was made, indicating they were quickly surveying the room. “Maybe this damn pony can tell us,” one of the men sneered, earning a few dark chuckles from the others. I risked a look out of the door frame, glad my clothing was all black to camouflage myself, if only slightly. I counted five men, revolvers drawn, all surrounding the innocent mare, who still looked unconscious. I knew I could probably take them, what with the element of surprise and the shotgun still on my back. But I was hesitant. I didn't know why, but I couldn't find myself taking out my shotgun. They had the intent of killing me, yet I couldn't bring myself to kill them. The best explanation I could come up with was more men could be out the door, but it felt like a lie. I couldn't figure it out, and I was growing frustrated with myself. A man nudged her with a foot until she awoke groggily, blinking repeatedly as she glanced around the room. Once she understood what she was in, she froze, her head lowering as she tried not to look any of them in the eye. “Where did the man go, Carrot Top?” asked another man, crouching down as he stared at her. I recognized him as the one who was abusing the mare in the street earlier “I... I don’t k-know, sir,” the mare known as Carrot Top responded apprehensively. “Bullshit!” shouted Jordan, and he kicked Carrot Top in the stomach, who whined in pain. “Are you blind or something!? He ran right in here!” “I-I know, sir,” Carrot Top confirmed anxiously, “B-But he knocked me out before-” “I don’t want your excuses!” Jordan yelled out, kicking the pony with each word causing more whines. My hands began to clench into fists as I watched. They had more than enough reason to die, but I still refused to open fire right away. I didn't know what I was waiting for. “Grayson, what do you want to do with your pony? She’s not going to tell us anything.” Grayson, Carrot Top’s owner, gave a low hum, scratching his chin thoughtfully. I knew whatever he would do to her would not be merciful. He shrugged after a period of time, “Just kill her, she’s been rather useless lately. I’ll just purchase another one from Somersett Mines.” I couldn’t believe my ears. He was just going to get rid of her like a fly on a wall. What made it worse was how casual he acted, like he’d done it before! Jordan gave a small smirk, and pointed the revolver at Carrot Top. The mare gasped, and tried to back away from him. “I-I’m sorry!” she attempted to plead as a man from behind her grabbed her mane to keep her still, tears were slowly falling from her eyes. “I don’t want to die! I don’t want to die!” Jordan gave a small amused chuckle, “Like I give a fuck!” At that point, I had snapped. What was holding me back before was long gone. Carrot Top had been beaten and harassed for who knows how long and these men just took all she had gone through for granted. I couldn’t control myself as I reached behind me and grabbed my riot shotgun, bringing it to my front. At the same time, I was standing and presenting myself in the doorway. “Hey, is that-?” the man holding Carrot Top asked, but I interrupted him by shooting his head off. The adrenaline pumping through my veins canceled the pain in my shoulder. I pumped my shotgun again, and shot at another man, catching him in the chest. Jordan, Grayson, and another man had the insight to run for cover, and did so feverishly. I slid back into cover as well, hearing revolvers discharge and bullets impact around my position. I took a quick glance to see where they hid and jumped back just when a bullet whizzed by my head. One of them was behind a stage, another took cover at a wooden crate by the door, and the last one was hiding behind a mannequin in the shape of a pony. The mannequin confused me greatly, but I shook it off. I had to take into account that Carrot Top was still in the crossfire, so my aim had to be critical. I pumped my shotgun again, waiting for a gap in the gunfire, and when it came, I jumped out of cover and blasted right through the mannequin. The man behind it fell to the floor, but I couldn’t tell if he was dead or not as I hid behind cover again. A hail of gunfire came at me, although there was less of it. I counted the number of shots I’d taken while I waited for an opportunity. I shot three rounds, which meant I had five left before I had to reload. With only two hostiles left to take care of, I knew I could release a few pot shots to keep them away from my cover. I stuck my shotgun out of cover, and shot two shells. The gun nearly flew out of my hands, but I kept a firm grip on it. Three left in the chamber. I couldn’t stay in hiding forever, and it would be far easier to take them out if I had the element of surprise. But it wasn't an option. Suddenly, the gunfire ceased - just stopped altogether. I would’ve popped out and took fire, but something felt off about this break. “Just give up now, you bastard,” Jordan called from his cover, which I believe was behind the stage. “We have you outnumbered.” “Maybe,” I agreed with humor in my tone, “but I have you outgunned.” “Surrender,” Jordan continued, ignoring my statement, “That gun of yours can only last so long.” I gave a small chuckle, “You underestimate me, Jordan.” I jumped out of cover, my gun pointed at the stage where he was poking his head out. “I never surrender,” I whispered with no remorse, and discharged my shotgun, which smashed through his skull, knocking him back. After which, I cringed, hoping I didn’t ruin Applejack’s hat. The other person looked over the crate, and shot at me. The bullet only grazed my right elbow, but it still stung like hell. Hissing in pain, I went back to cover, checking my wound. The clothing and skin were torn open, and blood freely oozed out of it. I hastily placed my shotgun down, putting pressure on the injury with my left hand, cursing under my breath. I felt alone as my breathing became amplified, droning out any other noise. There was one man left, and two rounds left in my shotgun. The adrenaline must have been getting to me, because a life-threatening idea was the only plan I had. I sighed, loosening slightly as I picked up my shotgun. "Fuck it," I grumbled, pumping another shell into the chamber. When the the man ran out of bullets, I surged out of cover, heading straight for him. The man panicked, backing up as he fumbled his reloading. I didn't give him the chance as I unloaded both shells into his chest; he was dead before he hit the floor. With the threat detained, I fell into a seating position on the floor, breathing hard. I clipped my shotgun on my back once again, and leaned forward on my knees. A wave of heat washed over me, sweat soaking my mask. I slowly took off my head gear, holding it in my hand loosely when I was finished. I gazed at it as if it was the one to blame for my situation, and I could see my reflection in the goggles. I tossed it to the ground, and rubbed my face. A sharp intake of air could be heard in the room, followed by forced coughing. I pushed myself to my feet to see what it was, but instantly regretted it as I felt light headed. I stumbled around slightly, but then pressure was applied to my side, stabilizing my wild movements. I looked down, and was somewhat bewildered to see Carrot Top placing a hoof on my hip, staring back at me. “Are you... are you alright, mister?” she asked with a depressed expression. Realizing my jaw was hanging open, I quickly closed it, and nodded. “I’d be more worried about yourself,” I said with a small smile, trying to lighten up the mood. She returned the smile, but did not hold it as she eyed my various injures, backing away to give me room. I checked myself over for anything major, and wasn’t too disappointed. My shoulder still ached from my rough landing, with small bits of glass sunk into it, and my elbow was bleeding pretty badly. Not only that, but I also felt like a wreck. More coughing traveled through the room, and it came from the mannequin I had shredded with my shotgun. I walked over and saw Grayson, laying on the floor with his chest covered with blood. He gave one glance at me, and gave a short chuckle. “Well, looks like you win this one, huh?” he wheezed out, a stupid grin on his face. I remained silent, furrowing my brow, as I drew my revolver. He saw this, and chuckled again, but went into a fit of coughing as a result. When he regained his breath he spoke with a hoarse voice, “What are going to do? Execute me? Shoot me like a dog?” “Who said I was going to shoot you?” I retorted, before pistol whipping his head, knocking him unconscious. I didn’t kill if I could show mercy, and Grayson would most likely bleed out anyway. “God, what an arrogant prick,” I said, turning around while holstering my weapon. I stepped past Carrot Top, who hadn’t taken her eyes off of me, and over to Jordan behind the stage. His upper chest and neck were a mess, but I was more focused on the Stetson hat that laid a few feet away. I picked it up, twisting it around in my hold to see if there was any damage. By some miracle, the hat was unscathed, and I knew I had gotten what I came for. “Uh, excuse me?” Carrot Top inquired quietly, and I faced her with an eyebrow raised. She took that as a hint to continue and did so carefully. “Why did you... well, save me? Don’t all humans hate ponies?” “I couldn’t just let them kill you,” I said incredulously. Could she really not believe I wouldn’t help someone like her? “Well, thank you,” she said, smiling with a faint blush, while facing away. Why was she blushing? I didn’t really say anything that would cause it. I shook my head and was about to head for the exit, but stopped myself. Looking down at Carrot Top, I could see her fidgeting with her hooves, making sure she didn't look at me. I knelt down to her level, giving a worried expression. “I have some business I have to finish,” I explained to her, but she still didn’t face me. “If you want, I can take you along and-” She finally looked at me, and placed a hoof on my chest, shaking her head. “It’s alright, I’ll find a way. You're a criminal now, anyway." I nodded in understanding, “I guess I am.” I stood up, grabbing my head gear as I did, and put it on. When that was finished, I glanced at Carrot Top one last time. “You take care, okay?” I requested. She opened her mouth to respond, but stopped, closed it again and nodded. I nodded back, and strolled outside, closing the door behind me. I began my long trek back to Sweet Apple Acres, the sun hovering over the horizon. I reviewed the events of the day in my head, with my job with my S.W.A.T. team, appearing here, finding out about the talking ponies, and being attacked by my fellow humans. And it all ended up with the news that humans had invaded this country, Equestria. To say the day was overwhelming would not be accurate enough. I kept to the outskirts of town, avoiding the people that were still hunting for me. I took out my shotgun, along with exactly eight shells to reload. I didn’t know if the people here had ammunition for my shotgun, and decided to refrain from using it until I knew for sure. After which I checked my wounds; my bullet wound on my elbow was not as bad as I had thought, as it had stopped bleeding. My shoulder, of course, was still sore and throbbing. It would probably be like that for awhile. All in all, my long walk back to Applejack was fairly boring. {~+~} By the time I made it back to Sweet Apple Acres, the sun had passed below the visual spectrum, and though there was the orange tinge in the sky, darkness was fast approaching. The cold was slowly gnawing on my body, causing me to shiver. My limbs felt like lead from everything I had done, and I was looking forward to some sleep. My growling stomach was only a reminder I hadn’t eaten since breakfast. The enticing apples still hung in the trees, practically begging me to eat one. Shaking my head, I faced anywhere but the apples; I had to stay focused. I heard the crack of hooves against wood somewhere in the orchard, and changed course towards it, vaulting the fence yet again. Weaving through the trees was simple, and I found Applejack in little time, kicking the trees. She also looked tired, and for the first time, I actually pitied her. Not just for her being fatigued, but also for what the people here did to her kind. I may not have had all the details, but it seems to me these ponies had it rough. Applejack turned her gaze over to me, her eyes narrowed in hatred. Her eyes moved down to my hands, and she gasped, turning her whole body towards me. “You... you got my hat,” she noticed sheepishly. “That’s not all,” I said, reaching into my pocket. My hands touched the paper document I had slipped in before the whole fiasco earlier, and I was a bit surprised; I had forgotten I had taken it. I took it out as well as Applejack’s hairbands, and handed her items to her, who took them in her hooves with a sad smile. I brought the terribly wrinkled document to my face, reading the letter again. I still had no idea who Princess Celestia was or who the the recipient was supposed to be. But I had completed my objective, which meant I can finally receive my reward. I lowered the letter, and saw Applejack with her clothing on. She had one hairband in her mane, her hat was placed on her head, and the other hairband was on her tail. It was odd to see a ponytail as a pony’s mane, but it was only a minor observation. “Can you answer my questions now?” I asked in annoyance. She scoffed, “I still don’t see a reason, but yes.” Sighing in relief, I relaxed my frame, sliding to a sitting position. “Finally,” I mumbled to myself, then I said, “First things first, where am I?” “Sweet Apple Acres, Ponyville, Equestria,” she answered rolling her eyes as if I was an idiot. She was being broad, probably so I wouldn't have to ask follow-up questions. I would’ve found it nice, if she didn’t speak so scornfully. I had only repeated my question I had asked Jordan for verification; I had to be absolutely sure he wasn’t pulling my leg. “Next question,” I continued, rubbing my chin, “How come you ponies can talk? Some mutation or technological breakthrough?” “We could always talk,” she snapped, waving her hoof at me, “For as long as we could form words.” That confirmed these ponies were natural, and probably unaffected by humans, that is, until the invasion. I held up the letter in my hand so Applejack can see it, and asked, “Who’s Princess Celestia?” “She was the ruler of Equestria,” she said rather quickly, then glared at me, “before you humans came here.” I rolled my eyes, and was glad she couldn’t see it behind my mask. “Anyway, who’s this ‘Faithful Student’?” I followed up, placing the document on the ground so she could see my meaning. She took one glance at the letter, and took it in her hooves, gawking at it. I was surprised she could pick it up with hooves, as it seemed impossible to do it. She eventually brought the letter down, showing she held sorrow in her eyes. “She was a friend of mine,” she said slowly, taking a shaky breath, “Twilight.” “Where is she now?” I inquired, more out of curiosity than actually caring about her friend's well being. Applejack shook out of her sad demeanour, and fixed a piercing stare at me. “Now why in the hay should I tell ya?” she retorted, taking a few steps towards me, “That’s why you’re helpin’ me out, ain’t it!? Ta find Twilight!” I groaned; how long would she think I was tricking her? I didn’t want to start a huge argument, so I opted to change the subject. “Moving on. So, uh...” I fumbled with my words not sure how to word my next question, which irritated Applejack considerably. “Just spit it out already!” she snapped, stomping one of her hooves. “What happened here!?” I blurted, my patience growing thin with her. My question must had hit home because Applejack became unusually quiet, looking away with a distant expression. She gazed at me without remorse, but I didn’t back down. I wanted, no, needed the full story. She gave a heavy sigh, and sat on her haunches, telling her tale. “It all started a few months ago. Back then, we didn’t even know humans existed. Ya supposedly lived northeast of Equestria, next to the Griffin nation. At one point in time, y’all invaded the Griffins, killin’ most of ‘em. That’s what Princess Celestia told me and my friends.” Carrot Top’s story was legit then; humans did throw the first punch. And not just at Equestria, but with mythical creatures as well. However, at that point, I’d believe there were magical unicorns. “You humans first attacked the Crystal Empire, the northernmost place in Equestria, and Princess Celestia sent some royal guards to hold off the attack. A little afterwards, she sent me and my friends to see what the damage was. And... and...” Applejack trailed off, shaking her head with eyes closed as if to hold off tears. I sighed, knowing she wouldn’t like it if I pressed her on it anymore than I already did. Not only that, but I was still worn down from the day. It looked like I would have to hear the rest later. Placing my hands on my knees, I stood up, eyeing many trees that surrounded us. My brain went to autopilot as I walked over to a tree, hand outstretched for one of the red fruits. “Just what do you think you’re doin’?” Applejack asked sternly, trotting to my side. “Getting an apple,” I replied simply, my hand still reaching for it. “You can’t just take one!” she scolded, “Jordan will bake ya alive!” “I don’t think we have to worry about him,” I said nonchalantly, picking the apple out of the tree, and examining it. Applejack was puzzled, raising a brow while shifting between her hooves nervously. “What do you mean by that?” she inquired, shifting her head back like she was afraid of the answer. “He’s dead; I killed him,” I answered bluntly, taking off my headgear in one quick swoop, holding it in my other hand, while bringing the apple to my face. It looked delicious, and the moonlight reflected it perfectly. Wait, moonlight? I looked up, noticing the sun had completely set, allowing the moon to fulfill the task of lighting the night. Strangely, the moon was huge, much bigger compared to the one back home. I looked back at Applejack, planning on asking her about it, but she was too stunned to answer, her eyes wide while her mouth was agape. “Y-You killed him?” she breathed. Looking away from her, I bit into the juicy apple, not sure what to say. I was too tired to really think about the consequences, and my body was thankful for the nutritious food. “You just killed him!?” Applejack screamed, backing away from me. I took a deep breath through my nose, noticing the fresh air, and looked over to her. “Yeah,” I answered, and before Applejack could make another retort, “after he tried to kill a pony.” That shut Applejack up, and she seemed to be debating whether what I was saying was true or not. Seeing that this could go on for a while, I brought up a relevant question, “Do you have someplace I could sleep?” “You don’t have your own home?” she asked sarcastically. I just stared at her, waiting for her to take this seriously. “Why should I find you a place ta sleep?” “Will you just shut up and just trust me for once!?” I snapped back, slamming my mask-filled hand into a nearby tree. This made her jump back, a hint of fright was on her face for the second time I had met her. I sighed a little at seeing her like that. It didn't feel good to be feared. “Please?” I added weakly. Sighing, she dropped her scared expression and trotted past me, keeping her gaze forward. “Follow me,” she mumbled, and I did so silently, snatching the letter from the ground and shoving it into my pocket. We weaved through the orchard in complete silence besides me munching on my apple. We broke away from apple trees, moving over the white fence and into the main part of the farm. I finished my apple about that time - I was really hungry - and tossed the core back into the trees. It was biodegradable after all. Applejack carried on toward the barn, and I followed along like an obedient dog. She turned her gaze over to the barn, a questioning expression on her face before turning forward. She was probably wondering why it was dark inside, since the interior had no lights on whatsoever. We walked around the barn, and a single story house came into view. It was made of dark wood, a simple gable roof was on top of it. The house also sat on a foundation, keeping it from touching the ground. A single lantern next to the door gave a small amount of light in the evening, contrasting its orange glow with the whiteness given by the moon. Applejack walked up the small set of stairs that lead to a patched up door while I remained at the bottom. When I was close enough, I noticed the whole structure was very worn down and patched up; wooden boards nailed in certain places, and pieces of cloth that covered whatever was behind it. Applejack knocked a few times on the door, and stepped back. I turned my attention back to the door in time to see it open a crack. “Oh, Applejack,” a feminine voice said with relief evident in her tone, “I was afraid it was Jordan.” The pony behind the door opened it completely and saw me standing there. Her body recoiled in shock, but I didn’t care as I studied her for a moment. She had a very pale yellow coat and chartreuse green eyes. Her mane and tail were raspberry color, with light raspberry streaks, while her tattoo on her flank was a single rose. “Simmer down, Rose,” Applejack addressed the panicking mare, “I brought him here.” Rose did calm down a bit, but her quivering eyes wouldn’t leave my intimidating figure. I gave an awkward wave at her, hoping it would make it seem like I wasn’t trying to do anything aggressive. “W-Why did you bring him here?!” Rose nearly shouted at Applejack, “Does he work for Jordan o-or does he want to take us away!?” “Rose!” Applejack exclaimed sincerely, stopping the mare from going full rave, “You always panic when these type of things happen.” Rose nodded rapidly, taking deep breaths afterwards. Deciding to speak up, I asked, "What exactly did we humans do to make everybody fear us?" Rose looked at me like I had gone crazy, as Applejack shook her head in annoyance. "Did you get amnesia, sir?" Rose inquired shakily, evidently still cautious around me. "You can call me Nolan," I corrected, waving my hands in front of me gently, "and no, I'm pretty sure I don't have amnesia." Rose looked back at Applejack, then back to me. She gestured with a hoof for us to enter and I followed Applejack into the small abode as Rose shut the door behind us. The ceiling was low - my head almost touching it - and very drafty, which was strange considering there were no windows, though it was fresh. Six shabby beds in total occupied the single room house, three on each side. Three dim lanterns hung on the ceiling in a line, poorly illuminating the room, and I mentally noted to watch my head. Two other ponies were laying on the beds closest to the door, looking bewildered at my appearance. Both of them were male, or stallions, if the different snouts was any indication. That’s where the similarities ended, however. The one on the left had a bluish gray coat and a dark gray mane. He had light cobalt blue eyes and three four-leaf clovers on his flank, contrasting with the other colors. The one on the right had a matching color of light cobalt blue for his mane and eyes. His coat was a pale, light grayish gold, and the tattoo on his flank depicted two bunches of green grapes. “Uh, hello,” the gray coated stallion welcomed awkwardly, waving a hoof slightly. “Hey,” I replied back just as sheepishly, averting my eyes; I didn’t want to seem like I wanted to hurt them. Applejack made her way to a bed behind the gold-colored stallion. Rose swept by me carefully, her head ducked low, as she went to the bed behind the gray colored stallion. I remained where I stood, scratching my cheek, thinking of something to break the ice. “So...” I started, and all eyes fell on me, “What’s your names?” The two stallions glanced at each other with mild confusion, and faced me again. “Well,” the gray-colored stallion answered, “I’m Lucky Clover.” “And I’m Goldengrape,” the gold-colored stallion finished. Now I was puzzled, but not on appearances, as I’d grown used to it, but their names. “I'm Nolan, and are all pony names based off their appearance?” I asked the group, but more specifically Applejack, as I was gazing at her. “Eeyep,” she responded, laying her head on the bed without taking her eyes off of me, “Been like that long before you humans came in.” She was never going to believe I wasn’t with them, even after all the things I’d done for her. Accepting that fact, I grudgingly walked to the furthest end of the building, avoiding banging my head against the lamps, to a bed to the right. I sat on it, facing away from the ponies, and placed my head gear beside me. Sleep was fast approaching for me, and I rubbed my eyes tiredly. But I had to stay up just a bit longer to finish the conversation with these ponies. “What happened to you?” Lucky Clover inquired with a raised eyebrow at my various injuries. “Got into a... disagreement,” I said vaguely. I would have been more specific, but I wanted to have some leverage over these ponies. And if it meant keeping my own secrets, then so be it. "Say Applejack," Rose inquired, changing the subject and gaining her attention, "when did you get your stuff back? I thought Jordan took them." I glanced over my shoulder to see Applejack roll her eyes, and I knew it was intended for me. "That Nolan feller got 'em for me," she answered reluctantly. I looked over my shoulder fully to see the four ponies were staring at me. It wasn’t very unnerving for me, seeing as I was the guest here. My questions were unrelentingly present, and I had to get them answered. Deciding to rest, I took off all of my equipment - Shotgun, combat vest, and revolver - and placed them against the wall beside the bed. I swung my legs onto the bed, not minding that I still had my dirty boots on, and lied my head against the pillow. It felt extremely good to just lay down and do nothing, and I sighed in content. Putting my hands behind my head, I enjoyed resting my weary body on it, even though it was lumpy. “You got her stuff back?” Goldengrape asked in a doubting tone. I found it irritating. Did anyone believe anything I say? “Yes,” I replied with annoyance laced in my words, “I took them after I killed him.” “You what!?” Rose shouted in panic, her features showing utter shock and fear as her pupils became pinpricks. “No, this isn’t good. Not good at all. What will the other humans think? Are you wanted now?” “Rose,” Lucky Clover said quietly, but somehow it was enough to stop her rant, though she was panting uncontrollably. “Why would a human kill another human? They’re the same species. It’s never happened before.” “First time for everything,” I added grinding my teeth. I would never believe the humans here had never killed each other. Perhaps they had fought with each other, but someone, probably the Baron, organized them and pointed at Equestria. It was only a theory, though, and I filed the idea to the back of my mind for the time being. “What’s with the tattoos on the flanks, eh?” I asked rather rudely, my sleepiness leaking into my mood. The ponies all gave each other odd looks, and Applejack, lifted her head, glaring at me again. “Will ya cut the act?” she retorted angrily, “You’re not fooling anypony!” “It’s not an act, I’m telling-” I said, but then registered the last word she said, “Wait, ‘anypony’?” Applejack groaned, putting a hoof over her snout in agitation. “You do seem to...” Lucky Clover noted while rubbing his chin, “behave differently from the others.” “Maybe it’s because I’m not like the others,” I snapped while rolling onto shoulder to face away from them. Unfortunately, it was my right shoulder. “If you’re not like the others,” Goldengrape put in, lifting a hoof for emphasis, “then what are you like?” “There’s a good question,” Applejack agreed, “Where are you from if you have no idea what’s goin’ on, huh?” Staying quiet, I turned my eyes to the floor, wondering how to answer that question. Would they believe me if I said I was from a different world? I surely wouldn’t, and it wasn’t like they took everything else I said for granted. But maybe I would get lucky. “I’m from...” I slowly said, and then sighed deeply, “a different world.” Silence filled the room, and it worried me more than the jeers the ponies could’ve been spouting. I risked a glance over, and all the ponies were looking away from me, probably contemplating if it could be true, let alone possible. Deciding to elaborate, I said, “The last thing I remember was this strange stone resembling a sun, and a bright light. Then I was here." “So what you're saying is,” Rose spoke up nervously, “that you’ve never seen this place before?” I gave a curt nod, and took a deep breath, hoping they would believe me, unlike Applejack. “I don’t know if I believe you,” Rose started quietly, canceling my luck in an instant, but a smile was forming, “but you must be different if you’re sleeping around us ponies.” Shaking my head, I turned towards them in disbelief. The stallions were nodding at Rose’s words, but Applejack huffed and laid back down, facing away from me. A small smile creeped onto my face, as I replied, “Not exactly normal for humans to sleep with ponies, hmm?” At these words, all the ponies fidgeted with their hooves, and Applejack became stock still, and I did’t think it was because she was asleep. I sat up in my bed, eyeing each pony in turn, “What’s wrong?” “Well, it is normal, but...” Rose responded hesitantly, a blush building up on her cheeks, “It's usually a lot more... intimate.” “What do you mean?” I asked carefully, leaning up while lifting up my right knee to rest my elbow. It could’t be what I thought it meant. There was no- “What do you think it means!?” Applejack suddenly yelled, jumping up from her bed, looking absolutely livid. “Ya humans have sex with us! Ya rape us! Are ya really this stupid!?" I was in utter shock, not really from her outburst, but the words behind it. “I... I had no idea,” I stammered with little volume. I couldn’t say another word, my throat suddenly caught on seemingly nothing. Applejack grunted disapprovingly, laying back down while facing away for me, “Right.” The other ponies laid down and faced away from me as well, although not as angrily. Seeing that the conversation was over, I rested my head against the pillow, my eyes staring at the ceiling as my mind thought a thousand miles a second. Did the humans really do that in this world? Is it from the lack of women, or is it just because they were able to? In my world, it would be interpreted as disgusting and downright wrong. But this wasn’t my world, and it could be perfectly normal here. But why did Applejack snap at mentioning it? Did she strongly disapprove of it, or was it something deeper? I couldn’t be sure of anything, but my mind never seemed to run out of questions. That wasn’t the only thing on my mind. Eventually, I wondered how some of my acquaintances back on my own planet were doing without me. I had no one special waiting for me back home, but then why did I want to return so badly? As I thought about it, I could only come to one conclusion: familiarity. This place had things I could only dream of, and its not like I’m wanted, by the humans or the ponies. All in all, it wasn't my world, and I didn't belong here. My mind was filled with this and more as I drifted off into an uneasy sleep.