“Aqua, I never wanted you involved…” A unicorn sighed from behind his mask. “You can’t be here!” he snapped quickly.
“Stone, is that you?” the pale blue mare questioned. “I saw you get out of bed, and I was worriedー“
“You followed me?” the masked pony barked. “My client will be here in a matter of seconds, so you need to get out of here.” The anger in his voice was shifting to panic.
“No, Stone! Why are you here? What is that bag?” the blue mare was almost screaming. “You leave every night around this time, and I don’t even know where you work. What is going on heー“
BANG!!!
The masked pony’s coat was splattered in blood and viscera. He stood there, the situation sinking in. A thump could be heard as a body hit the ground.
“I told you no guests, Stone. Well, down to business.” A large grey stallion stepped into the light. “The cleanup will be coming out of your pay.” His voice was cold and calculating. He spoke in a business-like manner.
No thought came to Stone. She was dead; he was responsible. His next action was a mistake. Stone raised up on his hind legs. “You bastard!” He was screaming. He brought his hooves down.
CRUNCH!!!
His forelegs shattered. “Big mistake, Stone,” the grey stallion stated calmly. Stone found himself being lifted by an unknown force. “Who will pay to have you scraped off the pavement?” The pony was pleased at the simply irony of his question.
Stone was dragged up 20 flights of stairs, head bouncing off each step. The beating on the roof was quick and brutal. A group of 5 ponies were with the stallion. Each seemed to know a different way to cause pain in an individual. Bones were broken, scars were made, insults thrown. At the end of it all, a large brown earth pony whom Stone had known as “Brick,” lifted him. He was held over the street.
“You are a valuable asset, boy. Apologize for the attack and I may forgive you,” the large grey stallion bargained, flashing a grin that almost seemed friendly.
Stone spit blood from broken teeth right between his eyes.
“I thought so,” he said, wiping his face with a handkerchief. “You know what to do, Brick.”
Stone was released and a rush of air flooded his head. Everything faded to white.
Whump!
“Ow, what?” Stone was on the floor. It took a moment for everything to register. He was at a pony’s house. He was in Ponyville.
“What time is it?” Stone thought to himself. The sun had not yet risen. At best guess, it was a little after 4 AM. “Well, I guess I can get up now,” he said to himself with a tired sigh.
Stone wandered down through the small cottage. Slowly, he made his way to the kitchen. “Food sounds good,” He said, grabbing a small apple and and eating it quickly. He had to admit, that was probably the best apple he had ever eaten. “Fluttershy said her friend grew them; I better get a bushel to bring home.”
Stone went back to his room to grab his pipe. “After last night, and the dream I had, a wake and bake is the perfect idea.” Stone pulled out a small grinder and a jar of herb. He quickly had a bowl he was proud of and packed his tools away.
Making his way back through the house, Stone noted just how many animals Fluttershy had. Several small birds rested in their cages. A kitten and a puppy were still sleeping on the couch in the living room. There was a small fish bowl in the kitchen and a larger aquarium in the entryway to the cottage. In the backyard, Stone saw a petting zoo full of various animals. Such a calm place to live, and Stone envied the timid Pegasus.
Finding a good place to sit on the porch, Stone took his time and smoked his bowl, enjoying the flavor and the time alone. He reveled in the high as it came on quick. Soon his eyes adjusted for the light and he was able to see the meadow they were in. Fluttershy must have owned 20 acres. The cottage itself sat atop a hill towards the back. The euphoria Stone was feeling added to the natural beauty of the place.
Soon enough, Stone could see the sun's presence dawning at the horizon. Equestria would be waking up soon. Today was going to be a day of relaxation for Stone, and maybe he could help Fluttershy with her various chores.
“Oh, um, you’re awake early,” a small squeak came from behind Stone.
He grinned. ”Fell out of bed. Bit of a bad dream, I guess.” He turned to look at the mare. She looked a bit worse for wear. Her mane was a bit tangled and her eyes were puffy.
“What are you doing up so early?” Stone was deliberately avoiding the topic of her appearance.
“I always get up this early. I like the alone time on the porch,” Fluttershy looked away and her cheeks began to pinken.
“Well, I would hate to ruin your morning routines.” Stone smiled and stood up. “Why don’t I make us some breakfast?”
Before Fluttershy could answer, Stone was already inside. She stepped outside and sat alone. She noted that the skunky smell of Stone's pipe was still in the air. She found it pleasant. “Who was this Stonewall Squares?”
Fluttershy looked to the horizon. The sun had fully breached the surface. In the last 24 hours, Fluttershy had opened her home to a complete stranger. He seemed nice enough and he was, only for a little while. She looked over her shoulder. She could see Stone though the window. He seemed to be making something on the stove, moving slowly and carefully. He wore a frown and his face seemed to be hurting. Suddenly, he noticed Fluttershy looking. Stone waved and his entire demeanor changed. He grinned and his movements became bouncier. This had been enough time alone.
Fluttershy opened the door and entered. Awaiting her in the kitchen was a lovely banquet. Stone had prepared some hay bacon, soy eggs, and toast with jam.
“I figured you looked hungry so I made a bit much,” Stone joked as he finished setting the table. “About last night…” He sighed. “I’m sorry.”
“N-no, it was my fault,” Fluttershy corrected. “I assumed you wanted me and I wanted you…”
“Don’t think I don’t,” Stoned frowned with that. “But let’s not dwell; I'm sure you’re hungry.” Stone gestured to the plates.
The grumble in Fluttershy’s stomach answered for her and she blushed. The meal was exceptional. All food was cooked to perfection. The company was what Fluttershy focused on. “Where are you from, Stone?” Fluttershy asked as he took a gulp of orange juice.
“Well, originally, I came from Ponyville, but I spent most of my life in Manehattan.” Stone responded. “How about you? Have you always lived in Ponyville?” He asked, popping a bite of toast in his mouth.
“Actually, no; I moved here shortly after I got my cutie mark.” She then turned to show herself to Stone. “I discovered I was good with animals at a young age.” She sat back down. “Before that, I lived in Cloudsdale.”
“I have had a few clients in Cloudsdale,” Stone stated. “Always loved speaking to the factory workers up there.”
Fluttershy, confused, asked, “Clients?”
“Ah, I'm an engineer by trade. They pay me to save them money,” answered Stone. The two sat silently and continued eating. Normally, Fluttershy ate alone with her animals, but it was nice to have a pony to eat with. Her cottage was always crawling with animals so she was never alone, but on occasion she would feel lonely. Fluttershy spoke, “Thank you, Stone.”
Stone grinned and reached across the table to place his hoof on Fluttershy’s, “No; thank you.”
Fluttershy blushed. “Stone, can I ask you something?”
“Shoot.”
“Why do you always look so sad?”
The question came as a surprise to Stone. He had never been asked that. He had thought he was hiding it well and yet this mare saw right though him. He began, “Well, the simplest answer is that I am sad.” Stone put on a weak smile.
“Oh…” Was Fluttershy's only response.
“Don’t you worry yourself over that, Fluttershy,” Stone said, realizing her worry.
“No, if you ever need to talk, I will be here,” Fluttershy said.
Stone nodded, “Maybe I will tell you my story, but for now let’s take care of this.”
The two looked at the table full of empty plates. They had finished eating and could begin cleaning the area, which took no time at all. They spent the rest of the morning feeding Fluttershy’s animals. One of the rabbits seemed particularly picky, but Fluttershy knew how to make him behave. Stone learned that that one was called “Angel.”
Fluttershy’s morning chores were finished in record time with the aid of a second pony. The two made quick work of the feeding; cleaning the cages and pens went smoothly; the animals that needed baths were easier to handle; finally, the yard work was handled by Stone. With all the work finished the two retired to the couch in the cottage.
“You deserve a reward for all the help you gave me today,” Fluttershy said, looking over to the slightly exhausted looking pony sharing the couch with her.
“No, you are letting me stay here, and that is all the thanks I need,” responded Stone.
“Wait right here.” And with that she fluttered into the kitchen. Fluttershy returned with a small package.
“What is it?” Stone inquired.
Fluttershy took her time to open the wrapping. Delicately peeling the tape and unfolding the edges, she opened the box to reveal a small disk and a package of crackers.
“This is Crystal Brie. This is the best cheese I have ever had and I want to share some with you.” She held the package forward and beamed with excitement.
Fluttershy picked up a small cheese knife and sliced the wax cover of the cheese. Peeling back the wax, Stone discovered why they called it “Crystal” Brie. The cheese was slightly translucent and seemed to have a glow. Fluttershy expertly cut and spread the treat over the crackers. She raised one to Stone. "Ahhh."
Stone opened his mouth to receive the cracker. The cracker was nothing special, but as soon as his pallet met with the cheese, Stone was in awe. It was the strongest (tasting), sweetest cheese he had ever tasted. It was well aged and had a beautifully complex taste. The experience was true bliss. Stone’s only reaction to the food was to vocalize, “Mmmmm.”
“See, I told you,” she said, popping a cracker in to her own mouth with a hearty, “Mmmmm.” She closed her eyes and enjoyed the flavor. “I normally only eat this cheese for special occasions.”
They ate a few more crackers before Fluttershy put her special cheese away. Sated and happy with each other, the couple just enjoyed some quiet time on the couch. Stone read a book he had brought and Fluttershy listened to a record. Fluttershy closed her eyes and just enjoyed the ambiance.
It was noon when the two heard a knock at the door. “Who, could that be?” Fluttershy wondered aloud.
She got up to answer the door. Stone remained seated. He heard a young voice inquire about a couple borrowed library books. The voice said that some pony named Twilight was looking for them. Fluttershy told the voice that she would have them back at the library soon. With that the knocker left and Fluttershy returned.
“I have to go into town to take some books to a friend at the library; do you want to come with me?” Fluttershy asked.
“Why not, maybe I can find something for myself,” responded Stone closing his book and standing.
Fluttershy went to gather the books, mentioning that she needed to write something down from one. Stone made his way to his room: he wanted to grab his day bag and put his book away. Packing only his pipe, jar, grinder, and some rolling papers, Stone was ready for the rest of the day. He grabbed his coin pouch just to be sure.
The two set off from the cottage and were soon in Ponyville proper. This was the first good look of the town Stone had gotten. They passed a few stores and homes along the way. There was a place called Sugar Cube Corner, which carried the smell of pastries. They had passed the entrance to a farm known as Sweet Apple Acres as Fluttershy informed Stone that her friend Applejack and her family ran the farm. The boutique in town seemed classy. The couple finally ended their trip at the library. It was an old building built inside a tree.
Before Fluttershy opened the door Stone leaned over and whispered, “Are your friends cool?”
“Well, I do have one friend who always calls herself cool. Why?” Fluttershy was confused by the question.
Stone made the motions of smoking from his pipe. “You know.”
“Oh, I don’t think anyone would have a problem with you smoking.” She grinned to reassure Stone.
Stone calmed, and the two entered the library. The whole place was beautiful: It was a large circular room with book cases lining the walls. There was a large table in the center of the room and a few desks around the walls, at the center of the back of the room as a large staircase leading up.
A lavender unicorn was making her way down the steps, her face was buried in a book. Wait, why does that Unicorn have wings? Suddenly the pony realized she wasn’t alone.
She began, “Fluttershy, I see you brought a new friend,” she grinned and closed her book. “Spike, we have guests; bring out some lemonade.”
A voice that Stone recognized as the young pony that had knocked at the door responded, “Be right there, Twilight.”
Fluttershy spoke up, “This is Stone. He is staying at my house for a few days while his house is being prepared. Also, I brought those books I borrowed.” She held them up and they were levitated back to their places.
“Well, Stone, my name is Twilight Sparkle,” the lavender pony responded.
“Wait, Twilight Sparkle.” Stone couldn’t believe his luck. “As in, Princess Twilight Sparkle?” Stone gasped and then bowed.
“What is with this guy?” questioned the young voice. He had brought out the drinks and was standing at attention next to Twilight.
“Spike!” Twilight snapped. “That won’t be necessary.” She said to set Stone at ease. “my title may be Princess, but I am still a normal pony.”
“Sorry, princess.” Stone apologized.
“Twilight is fine,” she said. “This is Spike: he is my assistant.”
“That is a dragon!” Stone jumped behind Fluttershy and covered his head.
Spike put on a smug grin. “It’s about time someone realize how fearsome I am.”
“Oh, don’t be afraid of little Spikey. He is one of our friends, and he wouldn’t harm a fly.” Fluttershy tried to comfort the pony behind her.
As if on cue, a fly landed on Spike's shoulder and was swatted away.
After a bit of coaxing, Stone brought up the courage to greet the baby dragon, but still wasn’t too comfortable around him. The three ponies agreed it would be best if he went and did his chores up in the bedroom. This was much to Spike’s chagrin, but he eventually agreed.
Introductions aside, Twilight enjoyed Stone's company. He was a smart pony and he was indeed an ace in mathematics. The two conversed over philosophy and logic for a good amount of time. Fluttershy enjoyed seeing her new friend and old friend getting along. The group chatted about many topics and enjoyed the lemonade Spike had provided. Soon, Pinkie bounded into the library.
Pinkie gasped. “What a coincidence seeing you all hereーnot Twilightーbut Fluttershy and the new guy. Wow, I guess I timed my delivery perfectly. Twilight had ordered a baker’s dozen cupcakes and I just finished the batch.” She set a box on the table.
“Oh, so you have met Pinkie then,” Twilight confirmed.
“Pinkie was helping me with my groceries yesterday,” Fluttershy peeped.
With the fourth member added to the group, Stone decided he would step outside. “I will be right back, I just want to take a hit of my pipe.”
“Oh, you smoke?” Twilight asked.
“Yeah, that’s not a problem, is it? Because I can wait,” Stone said, not wanting to offend the princess.
“No, sorry, I just don’t know many ponies that smoke,” Twilight reassured.
With that, Stone grabbed his pipe and stepped outside, opting to leave his bag behind.
Pinkie was the first to speak after Stone left. “Did you two do anything last night?” She winked at the word “anything.”
“Pinkie, I…” Fluttershy blushed. “N-n-no.”
Twilight just sipped her drink.
“So you did. Does he like you? Are you a couple now?” Pinkie continued her playful teasing.
Fluttershy turned away and covered her face, squeaking.
Twilight interrupted out of curiosity, “Do you like him, Fluttershy?”
“I don’t know. He seems great, but he is keeping himself distant.” Fluttershy was barely poking her face past her hooves.
“He likes you,” Pinkie sang.
The confused Fluttershy questioned, “What do you mean?”
Pinkie just winked and grinned. Fluttershy sighed and accepted the response. Pinkie noticed that Stone’s bag was still open.
“What is that?” Pinkie reached into the bag.
“Pinkie, don’t be nosey,” Twilight scolded, trying to correct the pink mare.
“He has a preserve jar. He should share,” Pinkie said as she lifted the jar from the bag.
The jar that Pinkie pulled wasn’t full of fruit preserves. It contained a green herb. Not even Twilight was familiar with the herb. Suddenly everyone was filled with curiosity about the jar. Twilight retrieved her plant identification book. After a moment the plant was identified.
Twilight began reading the entry on the plant, "'Cannabis has long been used for fiber (hemp), for seed and seed oils, for medicinal purposes, and as a recreational drug,'" Twilight didn’t like the sound of the word "drug" and what it implied.
According to the book, this plant was illegal in many parts of Equestria. How were they to handle this? Fluttershy was mortified: she let a drug addict into her house. Pinkie was angry at the pony taking advantage of Fluttershy. Twilight was worried about the laws that were being broken. Should they tell Celestia? There worries had to wait; Stone was coming back through the door. Pinkie panicked and placed the jar back.
Stone immediately noticed the worried expressions each pony wore and asked, “What’s wrong?”
Fluttershy responded out of anger, yanking the jar from the bag:
"What is this?"