Chapter 14
As the afternoon waned, Amelia found herself lost in contemplation under an amber-tinted sky that painted the world in shades of autumn. Clouds, tinged with the glow of a setting sun, dappled the light, casting soft shadows that danced quietly around her. The final bell of the school day had barely finished its reverberation when the corridors erupted into a bustling stream of students, each one eager to escape the confines of their classrooms. The scene was a perfect mirror of the chaos that seemed to define the school—a place of vibrant energy and relentless motion.
Thankfully, Amelia was spared from the chaos by Applebloom, who appeared just in time to steer her away from the frenzied flood of students. With a gentle tug on her sleeve, Applebloom guided Amelia to a quieter side corridor, their steps syncing as they navigated the less traveled path. Amelia was silently grateful for her friend's intervention. She thought back to the many times her small wings had helped her maneuver through tight spots, but today, it was Applebloom who was her lifesaver.
Once outside, the pair found themselves walking along a secluded trail that bordered the school, where the sounds of nature replaced the cacophony of the hallways. They walked in silence, a comfortable hush that allowed Amelia’s thoughts to drift toward recent events and challenges. Beside her, Applebloom seemed equally pensive, her brow occasionally furrowing, likely mulling over the complexities of the day’s math lesson—a subject that had left her mind swirling.
Amelia, on the other hand, had a different experience during math class. She had managed to escape the mental strain by drifting off to sleep shortly after the lesson began, a habit born not only from her disinterest but also as a necessary recovery from the intense and exhausting football match she had played with Discord. This brief respite had saved her from the headache that now seemed to plague Applebloom.
Amidst their silent companionship, Amelia mused on the absurdities of the day’s curriculum. She found herself scoffing internally at the rigidity of mathematical concepts, her mind teasing apart the standard procedures that never seemed to resonate with her. Why must we always complicate things by adding one and one to make two? she thought with a hint of amusement. Wouldn't it be simpler to appreciate each number on its own, to let one simply be one, and two be two without forcing them together?
This internal monologue not only reflected Amelia's playful rebellion against conventional academic norms but also underscored her desire for simplicity and clarity—traits that served her well both in the classroom and on the magical football field. As they continued their walk, the fading light casting long shadows ahead of them, Amelia cherished the quiet moment of reflection and the presence of a friend who understood the value of silent solidarity.
Amelia and Applebloom's walk began to slow as they approached the edge of the wooded trail, the school and its noise now a distant memory behind them. The sky had deepened into a richer tapestry of dusk, painting their surroundings in shades of twilight. Amelia’s thoughts swirled, circling back to her conversation with Discord that now lay behind them—an exchange that had left her with more questions than answers, her heart heavy with uncertainty.
As they reached the clearing that marked the end of the trail, Amelia paused, taking a deep breath of the crisp autumn air. She glanced at Applebloom, managing a small, grateful smile for her friend's silent support throughout their quiet journey.
"Thanks for walking with me, Applebloom.” Amelia said, her voice tinged with the weariness of a mind burdened by impending decisions.
"Anytime, Amelia.” Applebloom replied, her voice warm and reassuring. "Also, whatever's bothering you, you don't have to face it alone."
Amelia watched Applebloom disappear into the gathering dusk, her steps brisk and sure. It was just like Applebloom to notice that something was off without Amelia saying a word. They had walked in companionable silence, a comfort in itself, but Amelia couldn’t help feeling a twinge of loneliness at the secrets she had to keep.
She couldn’t share the weight of the conversation she'd had with Discord, not yet, and perhaps not ever. It wasn’t something she could disclose to Applebloom, nor to Applejack or even Fluttershy, despite the deep bonds she shared with them.
Amelia sighed, a soft, almost inaudible sound that blended with the whispers of the evening breeze. It was typical for Applebloom to sense that something was troubling her. Their friendship was marked by an unspoken understanding, a gentle awareness of each other's struggles. Yet, even with this intuitive connection, Amelia found herself bound by necessity to withhold the truth.
As she continued her walk alone, the path under her feet felt more pronounced, each step echoing the gravity of her situation. She was a stranger here, not by choice but by chance, and now she carried knowledge that could alter her precarious standing if it ever came to light.
The secret of her true origin—her transformation from human to pegasus—was a heavy cloak she had to wear alone. The realisation deepened the solitude of her journey, the landscape around her a mere blur as she navigated her tangled thoughts.
How can I protect myself if the truth ever comes out? she pondered, her gaze lifting to the first stars appearing in the twilight sky. The question hung in the air, unanswered, as she made her way slowly back home. For now, she would guard this secret with all the strength she had, hoping the trust and affection she'd found in Equestria would withstand the storms that might come if her true nature was ever revealed.
After an intensely exhilarating football match that concluded with a dramatic draw, the stadium was alive with an electric atmosphere. Exhausted yet elated, players from both teams intermingled across the verdant pitch, sharing breathless conversations punctuated by enthusiastic high-fives and robust fist-bumps. In the midst of these vibrant celebrations, Discord made his entrance to the center circle, his eyes twinkling with characteristic mischief.
"Let's immortalize this unforgettable scene!" he proclaimed with a flourish. With a casual flick of his wrist, he conjured a swirl of smoke. When it cleared, it revealed a figure remarkably similar to the legendary photographer Ansel Adams, complete with a vintage large-format camera and a dramatically over-the-top photographer's attire, harking back to the early 20th century. The assembled players gazed in a mixture of amusement and awe as this cloned photographer meticulously adjusted his tripod and camera, infusing the action with an air of theatricality.
"Come together, everyone!" Discord directed with the energy of a whimsical yet determined ringmaster. He expertly corralled the players into position. Amelia, somewhat amused, found herself in a prominent spot at the front, with Discord nonchalantly reclining beside her, sporting an irrepressible grin reminiscent of the infamous Cheshire Cat.
As the teams lined up, an eclectic tableau unfolded; players from Earth mingled seamlessly with those from Equestria, crafting a vibrant collage of varying hues, statures, and expressions. Pinkie Pie, ever the enthusiast, hopped excitedly before securing the prime spot right at the forefront, her smile so wide it seemed to defy the limits of her face. The towering figures of Nightstalker, Iron Hoof, and Solar Blaze positioned themselves at the back, their expressions a mix of pride and slight confusion. Applejack, ever the charismatic showman, tipped her hat with a confident thumbs-up, while Twilight Sparkle meticulously adjusted her wings, striving for a pose of dignified regality.
Adjacent to each other, Cafu and Rainbow Dash engaged in a lively discussion about their athletic feats. Nearby, Virgil Van Dijk and Iron Hoof shared knowing glances, each recognizing the formidable capabilities of the other. Sergio Ramos and Rarity found themselves side by side, with Rarity ensuring that every player's appearance was picture-perfect. The seasoned leaders, Maldini and Applejack, stood shoulder to shoulder, their smiles a reflection of deep mutual respect.
In a slightly forward position, Sergio Busquets, Iniesta, and Gerrard exchanged light-hearted nudges and winks with Equestrian newcomers Ottar and Whisper Wings, who joined in the fun with shy smiles. Front and center, Neymar, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Messi competed subtly with their smiles—Neymar's impish, Ronaldo's brimming with confidence, and Messi's modest yet inviting. Twilight Sparkle, positioned close by, spread her wings a bit more, embodying the essence of a team captain.
Pierluigi Collina, the revered referee, claimed his spot in the middle of the group, his normally stern features softening into a warm smile as he joined this exuberant gathering.
"On three, everyone say 'cheese'!" bellowed Discord, lifting his talon as if directing an orchestra. The response was a joyous cacophony of "Cheese!" accompanied by giggles, neighs, and the occasional quirky hoot from Pinkie Pie.
With a flourish worthy of a seasoned performer, the Ansel Adams look-alike snapped the photo. Just as the flash fired, Discord couldn't resist pulling a face—sticking out his tongue and crossing his eyes, sparking a burst of laughter from the crowd just as the camera captured the moment.
When the photo was developed, it emerged as a brilliant tapestry of joy and spontaneity. Pinkie Pie's grin stretched almost beyond the bounds of the frame. Nightstalker, Iron Hoof, and Solar Blaze were caught in mid-laughter, their ethereal auras adding a halo-like effect around them. Applejack's enthusiastic thumbs-up dominated the foreground, while Twilight Sparkle’s attempt at regality was comically juxtaposed with Discord’s playful antics.
Cafu and Rainbow Dash were captured in dynamic poses, while the stalwart presence of Van Dijk and Iron Hoof anchored the image’s backdrop. Ramos and Rarity’s blend of intense focus and elegant poise added a distinctive flair. The seasoned calm of Maldini and Applejack’s smiles conveyed their leadership, while the light-hearted exchanges between Busquets, Iniesta, Gerrard, Ottar, and Whisper Wings highlighted emerging friendships. Neymar, Ronaldo, and Messi’s competitive smiles were a showcase of their playful rivalry, beautifully complemented by Twilight Sparkassured demeanor.
At the photo’s heart, Pierluigi Collina, his iconic bald head shining, smiled broadly, a rare sight that lent a touch of revered authority to the image.
As the teams crowded around to view the developed photograph, their reactions were a mix of laughter and cheers, celebrating a perfect fusion of warmth and whimsy from two very different worlds.
As the laughter from the impromptu photo session began to settle, the energy on the field gradually shifted from vibrant chaos to a more subdued, contented calm. The players, still chuckling and exchanging playful jabs about their antics, started to make their way towards the stadium tunnel. Pierluigi Collina, the legendary referee, gave a nod of approval and led the procession, his rare smile still evident as he chatted with the players.
Cafu and Maldini walked alongside Nightstalker and Iron Hoof, continuing their discussion about defensive strategies, while Neymar and Solar Blaze exchanged tips on agility and speed. Pinkie Pie bounced alongside them, her energy undiminished, while Gerrard and Van Dijk gave final words of encouragement to Ottar and Whisper Wings, who now appeared more relaxed and confident.
Rainbow Dash hovered above Messi and Ronaldo, the trio still engaged in friendly banter about who would outdo whom in the next match. Iniesta, Ramos and Busquets, flanked by Rarity, Twilight, and Applejack, reflected on the game, their conversation a mix of tactical insights and lighthearted comments about Rarity's impromptu fashion advice.
As the group disappeared into the shadows of the tunnel, their laughter and voices fading into an echo, the stadium settled into a peaceful silence. The floodlights cast a soft glow over the now-empty pitch, highlighting the pristine grass that had been the stage for an unforgettable match.
In the middle of the pitch, Amelia stood with Discord. The contrast between the serene field and the earlier chaos was stark, but it brought a sense of closure to the day's events. Amelia took a deep breath, her thoughts briefly drifting back to the conversation with Discord that still weighed heavily on her mind.
Discord, sensing her pensive mood, floated closer, his usual mischievous grin replaced by a softer, more thoughtful expression. "Quite the day, wasn’t it?" he remarked, his tone gentle.
Amelia nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "It was amazing. More than I could have ever imagined."
They stood in comfortable silence for a moment, both reflecting on the day’s events. The pitch, which had been a battlefield of skill and strategy, now felt like a sanctuary of peace and possibility. As they finally turned to walk back to the tunnel, side by side, the bond between them felt stronger, forged not just through shared adventures but through mutual respect and understanding.
The stadium, now quiet and empty, seemed to hold its breath, preserving the memories of the day—a day when two worlds came together, not just in competition but in unity and joy.
As Amelia looked over to Discord, his usual mischievous grin slowly morphed into a frown. His eyes seemed distant, lost in his own thoughts. The playful spirit that defined him appeared to be momentarily subdued, replaced by an uncharacteristic seriousness.
Amelia, caught by the sudden change in his demeanor, found herself wondering what could be troubling him. The day had been a whirlwind of emotions and experiences, but seeing Discord, the embodiment of chaos and levity, deep in contemplation was unsettling.
Without asking, Amelia respected his silence, choosing instead to simply be present. She walked beside him, the soft glow of the stadium lights casting long shadows across the empty pitch. The silence between them was comfortable yet filled with unspoken questions and a shared understanding that not all moments needed to be filled with words.
As they continued their walk towards the tunnel, Amelia's mind raced with possibilities. What could be on Discord’s mind? Was it something about their earlier conversation? Or perhaps it was something else entirely, something he had not yet shared. The weight of his thoughts seemed to add a gravity to the air around them.
With each step, Amelia decided she would be there for Discord. Sometimes, the best support was simply walking beside someone in silence, offering a quiet companionship in moments of reflection.
The tunnel loomed ahead, its shadowy entrance a stark contrast to the illuminated pitch. As they approached, the sounds of their footsteps echoed softly, a rhythmic reminder of their shared journey. Amelia glanced at Discord one last time, hoping that whatever burden he carried, he would find a way to share it when he was ready.
Together, they were about to step into the tunnel, leaving behind the empty stadium that had witnessed an extraordinary day—a day of magic, camaraderie, and the beginning of deeper, more complex understandings.
Discord suddenly stepped in front of her, blocking her path. His expression was grave, a stark contrast to the mischievous demeanour she was accustomed to. The air around him felt heavier, charged with an urgency that immediately set Amelia on edge.
"What’s wrong, Discord?" Amelia asked, her voice tinged with concern as she observed the unusual seriousness etched across his features.
Discord scanned the empty stadium with wary eyes, his voice barely above a whisper when he finally spoke. "Amelia, do you remember our discussions about the complexities of your existence here in Equestria?" His words were deliberate, each one laden with a gravity that pulled at the pit of her stomach.
Where did this come from suddenly?
Amelia nodded, a sense of foreboding tightening around her. "Yes, I remember.” she replied, her mind flashing back to the cryptic warnings that had seemed less ominous at the time.
Discord took a deep breath, his gaze locking with hers, intense and unyielding. "It's far more dangerous than I let on. Your presence here, as a human transformed into a pegasus, places you in grave peril."
Amelia’s breath caught in her throat, her confusion giving way to a growing sense of dread. "Dangerous? But why?" Her voice cracked slightly under the strain of her burgeoning fear.
Discord’s eyes darkened as he recounted the hidden, darker chapters of Equestria's history. "After the war between myself, Celestia, and Luna, certain factions within Equestria—nobles, military leaders, even some in the Ministry of Defense—sought to harness human technology. They tried to replicate the firearms and ammunition from the war, believing it would cement their dominance."
He paused, the weight of his next words seeming to physically burden him. "This led to profound opposition from humans-turned-ponies, who foresaw the devastating consequences of such power. Their resistance sparked a brutal civil war."
Amelia felt a chill run through her as Discord continued, his voice lowering further. "The aftermath was catastrophic. Within a year, every known human-turned-pony was either executed, imprisoned, or vanished without a trace. History was rewritten by those in power, portraying themselves as heroes and demonising the transformed humans."
"Why would they see transformed humans as such a threat?" Amelia managed to ask, her voice a whisper of fear and confusion.
"They feared the potential for upheaval that humans brought with them—knowledge of technologies and strategies that could undermine their control.” Discord explained, his tone grave. "Your existence, if discovered, could reignite old fears, provoke hostilities."
Amelia’s mind reeled with the implications. "So, if they find out about me…" She didn’t finish her sentence, the reality too terrifying to articulate.
"Exactly.” Discord confirmed grimly. "That’s why you must be exceedingly careful. Your true origins could trigger a resurgence of conflicts long thought settled."
As the weight of his words settled in, Amelia realized the full extent of her predicament. Her dream of playing hoofball, her very life in Equestria, now hung precariously in the balance.
"What can I do?" Amelia asked, desperation seeping into her tone.
"You need to assimilate completely.” Discord advised urgently. "Change your name, adopt Equestrian mannerisms. Most importantly, modify your speech—use 'everypony' instead of 'everyone,' 'somepony' instead of 'someone,' and importantly, ‘hoofball’ instead of ‘football.’ These changes, while small, are crucial for your safety."
Amelia took a deep, steadying breath, a mix of resolve and fear solidifying within her. “What if I get caught… what will happen?”
Discord nodded, his expression softening slightly. "Don’t worry, I’ll help you through this. You’re not alone."
Thanking him, Amelia turned towards the changing room, her steps heavy with the newfound weight of her secret. Each movement felt like a step in a dance of danger and deception. As she changed out of her kit, her mind wasn't just on the game she'd played, but on the much larger game she was now forced to play—a game of survival within the hidden depths of Equestria.
The flashback faded, leaving Amelia back on the woodland path, the dappled sunlight casting long shadows as she walked toward Fluttershy’s cottage. Her steps were slow, measured, each one echoing the heaviness of the conversation she'd just recalled. The rustling leaves and chirping birds seemed distant, muted by the turmoil swirling in her mind.
As she walked, Amelia's thoughts churned with the necessity of choosing a new name, a new identity that could conceal her true origins. Each name she considered felt alien, not quite fitting the identity she had grown into since arriving in Equestria. She needed a name that would blend seamlessly into her new life, something distinctly Equestrian but still a reflection of her essence.
Her mind cycled through various combinations, each one echoing softly in the quiet of the forest. Starshine, Celestia Dawn, Skydancer—names that evoked the beauty and magic of her adopted world but none that felt right. She paused by a babbling brook, the sound of the water providing a soothing backdrop to her fraught thoughts.
"Maybe something with 'sky' or 'flight' in it, to symbolize my new life as a pegasus.” Amelia mused aloud, watching the water ripple over smooth stones. Skylark, Bluewing, Aerovane—the names floated through her mind like the leaves fluttering down from the treetops.
She sighed, feeling the weight of the decision. It wasn't just a name; it was a shield, a cloak that would protect her from potential discovery and persecution. The reality of her situation was daunting; her name needed to be perfect, a seamless integration into Equestrian society that would arouse no suspicions.
As she continued her walk, the path winding beneath ancient trees, a flash of inspiration struck her. "Aurora Breeze.” she whispered to herself, tasting the name. It had a poetic ring, evoking images of the colourful auroras she had admired in the Equestrian night sky, combined with the gentle breezes that swept across the meadows she now called home.
"Aurora Breeze.” she repeated, a smile beginning to form as the name settled around her like a comfortable cloak. It felt right—elegant, relevant to her new form, and sufficiently distanced from her human past.
Feeling slightly more hopeful, Amelia quickened her pace, the name giving her a renewed sense of purpose. As she neared Fluttershy’s cottage, the familiar sight of the quaint home nestled among the flowers and trees brought a sense of comfort. Here, she would begin anew as Aurora Breeze, embracing fully the life of a pegasus in Equestria, armed with a name that was her own, crafted to protect and define her in this magical world.
The path ahead would be fraught with challenges, but with her new identity, Amelia—now Aurora—felt ready to face whatever came her way with a resilience born of necessity and a determination to thrive in her chosen home.
Ameliaapproached the bridge leading to Fluttershy's cottage, her new name settling into her thoughts like a comforting embrace. The quaint structure, with its charming thatched roof and flower-covered walls, stood invitingly ahead, a beacon of safety and home. Her heart, still heavy with the weight of her recent revelations and decisions, lifted slightly at the sight.
She stepped lightly over the bridge, her shoes clacking softly against the worn wood, the gentle sound of the stream below blending with the rustle of the leaves. As she reached the front door, her sense of relief was palpable. Here, in this simple, serene place, she could start anew, embrace her new identity, and maybe find some peace.
Amelia raised her fist to knock, eager to see Fluttershy's welcoming smile and feel the warmth of the cottage envelop her. But just as her fist was about to tap against the door, a sharp crash from inside made her freeze mid-motion. The sound of breaking glass was followed by angry, heated voices—one unmistakably Fluttershy's, but it bore a tone Amelia had never heard before. Fluttershy's usually gentle, melodious voice was sharp and tinged with an uncharacteristic fury.
Aurora's brow furrowed in confusion and concern. Why would Fluttershy be so upset? What could have provoked such a response from the usually calm and kind pegasus?
Then came the second voice—scratchy, unfamiliar, and laced with fear. It quivered, the sound of someone clearly scared, perhaps even desperate. The stark contrast between the two tones heightened Aurora's alarm. She hadn't expected to return to such turmoil, not here, not in the safe haven of Fluttershy's home.
Her fist hovered in the air, uncertainty rooting her to the spot. What the hell is going on in there? Aurora's mind raced with possibilities, each more worrying than the last. Her initial impulse to knock wavered as she considered the potential danger inside. Should she intervene, or would her presence complicate matters further?
For a moment, she stood there, torn, the sounds of the argument inside echoing in her ears, mingling with her own rapid heartbeat. The peaceful exterior of the cottage belied the chaos within, leaving Amelia on the threshold, unsure and unprepared for what lay beyond the door.
Amelia cautiously opened the door, half-expecting to encounter a dangerous confrontation. Instead, she was met with a scene straight out of a slapstick comedy. The cottage, typically a serene sanctuary overseen by the gentle Fluttershy, had been transformed into a chaotic animal discotheque.
In the eye of this storm was Fluttershy, her cheeks an alarming shade of rosy pink, not from blush but from the effects of a rather bold red wine. She held the bottle with a sailor’s grip, waving it around as if it were a conductor's baton. Her normally sweet voice was thick with slurs as she declared a one-pony prohibition, "Stay away from my wine!" Each word was punctuated by the launch of a couch pillow, a stuffed toy, or on one memorable occasion, a bewildered-looking rubber duckie.
Rainbow Dash, the real, legendary Gunner’s Striker, darted around the room with the agility of a seasoned outfield player, ducking and weaving as various objects flew through the air. "Fluttershy, c'mon! You gotta pace yourself!" she pleaded, narrowly dodging a particularly fast-moving sofa cushion that whizzed past her head like a misguided missile.
Although Amelia knew Rainbow was not a Toffee player anymore, she knew her ongoing legendary career. Rainbow Dash, a pivotal striker for the Gunners, has emerged as the league's most formidable scorer this season. Previously, she dazzled fans as a player for the Toffees, where she set a record as the fastest player in the history of Equestria. During the peak of the Toffees' success, she scored more goals than any other player in the club's history. Her outstanding performances helped the club secure every possible trophy, and she swept all the individual awards, culminating in her being honoured as the best player of the year at just 18 years old. Recognised as one of the six prodigies of hoofball, Rainbow Dash continues to leave an indelible mark on the sport with her exceptional skill and athleticism. You know, one of the best players of all time… yeah, that same player Amelia played against is getting attacked by the supposedly innocent Fluttershy.
Amelia stood frozen at the threshold, her initial alarm now replaced by bewildered amusement. Here was Fluttershy, Equestria’s emblem of kindness and tranquility, inebriated and launching a full-scale pillow assault. Beside her, Rainbow Dash, sporting a bemused grin, acted less like the star athlete she was and more like a nimble goalie at the wrong end of a very soft barrage.
"Why is Rainbow Dash here? And why is Fluttershy… drunk?" Amelia muttered to herself, the absurdity of the situation unfolding before her turning the concern into a barely stifled chuckle.
The chaotic ballet continued, with Fluttershy now occasionally stopping to hiccup adorably before resuming her spirited defense of her beloved wine bottle. Rainbow Dash, ever the competitor, had turned the evasion into a game, her laughter mingling with Fluttershy's indignant declarations.
Amelia's entrance into the cottage was immediately met with a whirlwind of chaos. Just as she stepped over the threshold, her reflexes kicked in, allowing her to duck just in time as a disoriented hamster, looking as confused as she felt, flew overhead. It was a clear indication that she had entered a zone of unbridled pandemonium, and like Rainbow Dash, she was not exempt from becoming a target in Fluttershy's spirited defense of her wine.
With quick thinking, Amelia darted behind the plush safety of the couch, barely a moment before a heavy book titled "Herbs and Spices of Equestria" zoomed past where her head had just been. The situation had escalated to the point of feeling like a playful but intense battlefield, with household items becoming airborne projectiles in a display of Fluttershy's surprising arm strength.
Peeking cautiously over the top of the couch, Amelia tried to gauge the right moment to make her next move. However, her survey was abruptly cut short as Pooch, Fluttershy's beloved wooden wolf pup, was unexpectedly launched into the air, his trajectory aimed towards the bookshelf. There was a loud crash as Pooch collided with the shelves, sending books tumbling down around him and breaking through the wooden slats with a splintering noise.
Despite the dramatic entrance, Pooch seemed remarkably unfazed by the ordeal. The wooden puppet shook off the debris, his carved features showing no signs of damage from the impact. Spotting Amelia hiding behind the couch, Pooch’s wooden tail began to wag enthusiastically. He scampered over to her, his movements awkward but eager, and he began to "greet" her with his wooden tongue, leaving behind a slightly sticky trail of sappy residue.
Amelia couldn't help but laugh, even as she tried to push the enthusiastic pup away gently. "Okay, Pooch, okay! That's enough.” she chuckled, managing to dodge most of the slobbery affection with a playful shove. The wooden pup’s tail continued to wag happily, oblivious to the chaos he had just caused.
Suddenly, amid the chaos, Rainbow Dash yelped dramatically and tumbled over the couch, landing awkwardly in front of Amelia. She clutched her shoulder, where a splotch of tomato sauce vividly marked her as a "casualty" of the culinary kind. In an overly theatrical tone, she groaned, "I've been hit! Pony down!" mimicking a soldier's last stand.
Amelia stared at Rainbow Dash, her expression blank with disbelief. The sight of the usually cocky and confident athlete reduced to such comedic theatrics over a tomato splatter was disconcerting, yet amusing. Even Pooch paused in his enthusiastic licking, tilting his wooden head in confusion at the melodramatic display.
For a moment, Rainbow Dash and Amelia locked eyes, sharing an awkward silence. Neither knew quite what to say, their expressions blank as the absurdity of the situation hung heavily in the air. Despite the ongoing barrage from Fluttershy—who was still furiously lobbing cushions, books, and the occasional piece of fruit in their general direction—this brief pause felt almost surreal.
Amelia's attempt to suppress a laugh failed spectacularly as she watched Rainbow Dash's theatrical display of agony. The corners of her mouth twitched upwards uncontrollably, and a snigger escaped her before she could clamp it down. Seeing an opportunity to tease Rainbow Dash just a bit, Amelia mimicked her in an exaggerated, mocking tone, clutching her shoulder and groaning, "I've been hit. Pony down." She even managed a dramatic stagger to complete the performance.
Rainbow Dash's response was instant; her eyes narrowed, and her lips pursed into a thin line. The amusement faded from her face, replaced by a flash of annoyance. She straightened up, wiping the tomato sauce from her shoulder, and fixed Amelia with a stern look. "Who the hell are you, and what are you doing here?" Her voice was sharp, the irritation evident in her tone as she took in this stranger who dared mock her in such a familiar setting.
Taken aback by the sudden coldness, Amelia’s playful smile faltered. She straightened, meeting Rainbow Dash’s glare with a defensive edge to her own voice. "And what are you doing in Fluttershy’s cottage? Why is Fluttershy hammered and what the hell is going on?" she retorted, her words echoing Rainbow Dash’s with a challenging tilt of her head.
Rainbow Dash, momentarily caught off guard by Amelia’s pointed question, hesitated. Her expression shifted as she seemed to grapple with how much to disclose. For a brief moment, it looked like she was about to reveal a more personal connection, her mouth opening as if to declare her familial ties to Fluttershy. However, at the last second, she altered her course.
"We're friends.” she stated somewhat abruptly, her tone softening slightly. "I came over to check up on her. You know, just making sure she's okay." The explanation came out more defensive than intended, as if she were trying to justify her presence in what had turned into a rather unflattering scene.
Amelia blinked, taken aback not just by the intensity of Rainbow Dash’s initial reaction but also by the casual revelation. Her eyes widened as she processed the information. Rainbow Dash—a name synonymous with athletic prowess and competitive fire in the hoofball world—was just casually describing a friendship with Fluttershy. Amelia's mind reeled. Fluttershy, with her gentle demeanor and affinity for animals, seemed an unlikely companion for one of the sport's most celebrated figures.
"Wow.” Amelia muttered under her breath, a mix of admiration and surprise coloring her tone. She glanced around the chaotic room, reassessing the situation with new eyes. Fluttershy had cool friends indeed, famous ones at that. First, there was Applejack, another known name in the hoofball community, and now Rainbow Dash. It painted Fluttershy’s social circle in an entirely different light, adding an unexpected layer of intrigue and celebrity to what Amelia had assumed was a quiet, uneventful life.
The realization made Amelia feel a twinge of awe, and even a hint of envy. Here she was, standing amidst characters who belonged to storybooks and sports legends, all convened in the most bizarre of circumstances. She couldn't help but feel a little starstruck, even as the absurdity of the situation—the flying cushions, the scattered books, the tipsy pegasus—kept it all grounded in a strange reality.
Caught up in the surreal realization of Fluttershy's impressive circle of friends, Amelia nearly stumbled over her own introduction. "I'm Am—Aurora.” she corrected herself swiftly, a blush creeping up her cheeks as she narrowly avoided revealing her former human name. Her heart skipped a beat, realizing how close she had come to slipping up at such a critical moment.
"I'm also a friend of Fluttershy’s.” she added quickly, trying to regain her composure. Her voice carried a slight tremor, betraying her nervousness as she adjusted to her new alias in real-time. Amelia extended a tentative hand towards Rainbow Dash, hoping to smooth over any remaining tension with a friendly gesture.
Rainbow Dash eyed her curiously, her earlier annoyance seeming to fade as she took in Amelia's sincere, albeit slightly flustered demeanor. "Nice to meet you, Aurora.” she responded, her tone warming up a bit as she accepted the offered hand. The moment marked a tentative truce, their earlier standoff giving way to the beginnings of what could potentially be a new friendship.
As Amelia and Rainbow Dash were tentatively forging a new understanding, Fluttershy suddenly loomed over the back of the couch, disrupting the moment with comic abruptness. Clutching a large pillow in one hand and still gripping her bottle of wine in the other, her cheeks flushed with a mix of anger and alcohol-induced warmth, Fluttershy glared down at them. Her eyes were narrowed, and her speech was thick with slurs as she accused them in a wobbly voice, "You two think you're being sneaky, huh?"
Before either Amelia or Rainbow Dash could react to her sudden appearance or decipher her drunken babble, Fluttershy flung the pillow down at them with surprising force. Her aim was off, but the intent was clear, and the gesture sent both Amelia and Rainbow Dash springing into action.
With a quick leap, they simultaneously dodged to either side, narrowly escaping the flying cushion. The pillow landed with a soft thud where they had just been sitting, sending up a small puff of dust from the well-worn upholstery.
Breathing heavily from the sudden exertion, Amelia and Rainbow Dash exchanged a look of disbelief mixed with amusement. Fluttershy, meanwhile, seemed mildly perplexed by their swift evasion, her eyes trying to focus as she processed the miss. A slow, hiccuped giggle escaped her as she teetered slightly, still clutching the wine bottle as if it were a cherished companion.
As Fluttershy stood shakily on the couch, her buzz clearly waning yet her spirit undiminished, Rainbow Dash gestured to Amelia from a fair distance away. "Try to grab the bottle before she takes another sip.” she whispered, her eyes flicking towards Fluttershy, calculating if she could flank the intoxicated pegasus without her noticing.
The scene had all the markings of a bizarre Mexican standoff—Fluttershy, the inebriated and unpredictable pegasus; Rainbow Dash, the agile and strategic rainbow-maned athlete; and Amelia, the half-human caught in the middle of this unexpected escapade. While Rainbow and Amelia were focused intently on Fluttershy, the latter’s gaze was less reliable, darting erratically as her drunkenness skewed her perceptions.
Suddenly, with the speed of a gunslinger in an old western, Fluttershy snatched up a small couch pillow and hurled it towards Rainbow Dash. At the same moment, she tilted the wine bottle towards her lips, intent on taking another victorious sip. However, Amelia, seizing the opportunity, dashed forward to intercept the bottle.
In a move as dramatic as it was unexpected, Fluttershy ingeniously flipped the couch by pressing down on its backrest with her foot, using her entire weight to send it crashing backward. She rode the couch down with a gleeful "Weeeee.” tumbling off onto the floor amidst a fit of giggles. "Oh, I'm so clumsy and silly.” she laughed, clearly amused by her own antics.
Amelia and Rainbow Dash, recognizing their chance, moved quickly to pin her down while she was still disoriented and giggling on the floor. However, Fluttershy had one more trick up her sleeve—or rather, attached to her back. Her wings, seemingly with minds of their own, began to flap vigorously, not so much lifting her into the air as dragging her across the floor. She slid haphazardly, bumping into furniture and scattered items, giggling all the while with occasional yelps of "Ouch!" whenever she collided with something a bit too solid.
The chaos was complete, with Fluttershy's wings causing her to careen around the room in a spectacle of feathers, giggles, and accidental furniture rearranging. Amelia and Rainbow Dash could only watch, momentarily helpless, as their attempts to contain the situation turned into a slapstick chase scene, underscored by the sounds of Fluttershy’s laughter and the whimsical chaos she left in her wake.
As the chaos of the room finally started to show signs of subsiding, Fluttershy's erratic wing movements suddenly propelled her upwards, creating a new flurry of action. With a surprised squeal that quickly morphed into a cocky smirk, Fluttershy found herself hovering in the air, clutching a pillow she had managed to snag during her impromptious escapade across the floor.
Disoriented yet visibly enjoying her aerial advantage, Fluttershy looked down at Amelia and Rainbow Dash, her eyes gleaming with mischief. "Ha! Look at you two down there!" she taunted gleefully, swaying a bit as she tried to stabilize her flight. "How are you going to get me now?" she challenged, waving the pillow with a playful flourish.
Amelia and Rainbow Dash exchanged a look of bemusement before simultaneously deadpanning back at Fluttershy. Each unfurled their wings with a synchronized flourish, the sound of rustling feathers filling the room. Fluttershy’s confident grin wavered as she remembered she wasn't the only pegasus present.
Rainbow Dash, the experienced flyer, stretched her wings with the ease of a seasoned athlete warming up for a routine practice. She seemed ready to leap into the air without a second thought, her body language exuding confidence and readiness.
Amelia, on the other hand, felt a surge of anxiety at the prospect of taking flight. Despite possessing the wings and form of a pegasus, her experience in the air was minimal at best. Football had always been her focus, leaving little time for flight training. More daunting yet was her fear of heights—a phobia that seemed cruelly ironic given her new form. Her wings, underused and undertrained, fluttered nervously by her sides.
Great, just great, Amelia thought, her inner rant tinged with panic. Here I am, supposedly a pegasus, and I might as well be a turkey for all the good these wings are doing me. The room seemed to stretch upwards, the distance between her and Fluttershy growing in her mind’s eye.
Taking a deep breath, Amelia tried to steady her nerves. She watched Rainbow Dash, hoping to mimic some of her effortless confidence. Just flap and lift, right? How hard can it be? she coached herself silently, flexing her wings tentatively.
With a determined nod to Rainbow Dash, Amelia prepared to confront her fear. Even if her flight skills were lacking, she couldn't just let Fluttershy think she had the upper wing in this situation. Gritting her teeth, Amelia gave her wings a tentative flap, feeling the air shift slightly beneath them. It wasn't much, but it was a start, and with Rainbow Dash by her side, she felt a flicker of hope that maybe, just maybe, she could pull this off.
As soon as Rainbow Dash launched herself toward Fluttershy, the scene quickly descended into comical chaos reminiscent of a classic Scooby-Doo chase. Fluttershy's wings, still energized and somewhat unruly from her inebriated state, flapped wildly, propelling her in a haphazard flurry around the cottage. She darted into the kitchen, her laughter pealing like bells as she narrowly escaped Rainbow Dash’s outstretched hands, only to reappear seconds later shooting out of the bedroom, a trail of giggles marking her path.
Rainbow Dash, growing increasingly exasperated with each failed attempt to catch the unpredictable Fluttershy, followed in hot pursuit. Her agile movements were precise and calculated, but Fluttershy's erratic flight pattern kept her just out of reach. The two pegasi dashed in and out of rooms, around corners, up the stairway, and then back down, creating a whirlwind of activity that blurred past paintings and rattled the china in the cupboard.
Meanwhile, in the midst of this merry chaos, Amelia was left in the spacious living room, struggling with the fundamentals of flight. She watched momentarily as her friends zoomed past doorways and around corners, then turned her attention back to her own flapping wings. Focused and determined, she practiced lifting off the ground, her wings beating awkwardly as she tried to find the right rhythm and strength. Each flutter was stronger and more confident than the last, her feet occasionally skimming off the ground, only to thump back down after a few suspenseful seconds.
Her concentration was deep; the sounds of the ongoing chase faded into the background as Amelia committed herself to mastering the art of flying. She didn’t notice the shadows flickering rapidly across the walls or the bursts of laughter and frustrated shouts from Rainbow Dash as she chased the gleefully elusive Fluttershy. Instead, Amelia’s world narrowed to the sensation of wind against her feathers, the muscle memory she was beginning to develop, and the thrilling, albeit brief, moments of weightlessness that promised she was close to achieving true flight.
In the background, the chase continued unabated, a lively spectacle of near-misses and comedic near-catches, perfectly underscoring the lighter, playful side of life in Equestria—even if it was a bit more chaotic at the moment.
Exhausted from her attempts at flight and recognising the need for a more grounded strategy, Amelia decided to give her wings a rest. She made a mental note to seek Fluttershy’s advice on flying later, but for the moment, her attention shifted back to the immediate challenge at hand—the bottle of wine that seemed to fuel the evening's antics.
Settling herself behind the couch for cover, Amelia crouched and watched the ongoing chase with the keen focus of a seasoned goalkeeper. Her eyes were not just on Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash, but specifically on the precarious bottle that Fluttershy occasionally swigged from between giggles and dashes.
As Rainbow Dash started to close the distance to Fluttershy without going full speed—to avoid a potential crash—Amelia spotted her chance. Fluttershy, perhaps sensing her imminent capture, turned sharply with a triumphant grin and hurled the pillow she’d been clutching directly at Rainbow Dash.
Rainbow's eyes widened in surprise, but Amelia was already in motion. Channeling her inner goalkeeper, she leaped from behind the couch with agility honed on the soccer field. Time seemed to slow as she flew through the air, her arms outstretched. With a determined grunt, she intercepted the pillow mid-flight, catching it just inches before it could collide with Rainbow Dash.
Fluttershy's grin faltered, morphing into an expression of shock as she witnessed her projectile being expertly caught. Rainbow Dash, meanwhile, flashed a victorious 'gotcha' grin at Fluttershy, her earlier frustrations now replaced by amusement at the unexpected save.
With the precision of an athlete accustomed to quick manoeuvres, Rainbow Dash leapt towards Fluttershy, grasping her just as she tried to flap away. The momentum of Rainbow's dive combined with Fluttershy’s unsteady flight caused them both to crash to the ground in a flurry of feathers and limbs. The collision resulted in a comedic tangle of wings and hands, with Rainbow Dash managing to pin Fluttershy beneath her, effectively halting any further attempts at escape.
The impact jostled the wine bottle from Fluttershy's grip, sending it spinning wildly across the wooden floor. It skidded to a halt, and the remaining wine gurgled out, spreading in a dark crimson pool. Fluttershy, momentarily stunned by the sudden end to her airborne escapade, turned her head to watch the wine spill out. Her eyes widened dramatically, and a tragic expression crossed her face.
“Oh, my beautiful, beloved wine!” Fluttershy wailed, her voice laden with theatrical sorrow, as if she were lamenting the loss of a dear friend rather than a beverage. “Why must the good drinks spill young?”
Nearby, Pooch, intrigued by the new scent and the puddle forming on the floor, trotted over with an innocent curiosity. He sniffed at the wine, then began to lap it up with his wooden tongue, apparently finding the taste to his liking, his tail wagging in contentment at the unexpected treat.
On the sidelines, Amelia clutched the intercepted pillow, her eyes shifting between the pinned Fluttershy and the happily drinking Pooch. She let out a deep sigh and exchanged a look of weary resignation with Rainbow Dash. Both of them raised their hands to their faces in a synchronised facepalm, their frustration mingled with a reluctant amusement at the absurdity of the situation.
"Really, Fluttershy?" Rainbow Dash groaned, maintaining her grip on the squirming pegasus beneath her. "Was all this really necessary over a bottle of wine?"
Amelia, lowering her hand, managed a wry smile despite the exasperation. “No more drinking for you, Flutters!” she quipped, trying to lighten the mood as she stepped forward to help Rainbow Dash secure Fluttershy more comfortably.
Fluttershy, still in her role of the tragic heroine, sniffled. "It was very good wine." she protested weakly, earning a soft chuckle from both of her friends.
As the evening continued to transition into night, the once bright orange sky deepened into a rich, velvety indigo. The stars began to twinkle faintly outside the windows of the cottage, casting a serene backdrop to the now much calmer interior. Inside, the remnants of the day's chaotic events lingered, but a sense of quiet and peace had finally settled over the household.
Fluttershy, her energy significantly depleted and her antics mostly subdued by the lingering effects of the wine, leaned heavily against Rainbow Dash on the couch. The couch itself bore evidence of its earlier adventure, slightly askew from its normal position. Rainbow Dash sat with an arm draped protectively around Fluttershy's shoulders, her fingers gently rubbing small circles to keep her friend calm and grounded. Fluttershy's eyes were half-closed, her head resting against Rainbow’s shoulder, occasionally mumbling incoherent snippets of conversation or giggling softly at her own thoughts.
Across the room, Amelia had claimed the armchair, her body slouched in a mixture of exhaustion and relaxation. The day's events had taken their toll, and she was content to simply sit and breathe for a moment. Pooch lay sprawled at her lap, his wooden body rising and falling with each breath, a snot bubble inflating and deflating comically with every exhale. The scent of wine still clung faintly to his wooden snout, a testament to his earlier curious tasting.
Amelia’s hand moved gently over Pooch’s head, her fingers tracing the contours of his wooden features in a soothing rhythm. The gentle rise and fall of his snot bubble was strangely hypnotic, adding a touch of whimsy to the serene scene. The room was bathed in the soft, flickering light of the TV, the only illumination in the now dim cottage. The glow from the screen cast long, dancing shadows that moved across the walls and the scattered debris from the earlier commotion.
The TV played a film at a low volume, the dialogue and background music merging into a comforting hum. It was an older film, one of those classic feel-good movies that seemed to fit the mood perfectly, offering a nostalgic comfort to the weary occupants of the room. Amelia's eyes occasionally flicked to the screen, more out of habit than actual interest, her mind still processing the day’s events.
The cottage bore the scars of the earlier chaos—a couple of broken wine glasses, squished fruit oozing onto the floor, and a variety of cushions and throws that had been flung about during Fluttershy's tipsy rampage. Despite the mess, there was an undeniable warmth in the air, a sense of camaraderie that transcended the physical disorder.
Fluttershy, still nestled against Rainbow Dash, let out a soft, almost childlike giggle as she shifted slightly, her wings fluttering in a contented motion. "I’m so silly.” she mumbled, her voice barely audible but filled with a drunken kind of happiness.
Rainbow Dash chuckled softly in response, her voice a gentle whisper. "Yeah, you are. But that's why we love you, Flutters. Just try to get some rest now, okay?" Her tone was a mix of affection and gentle authority, ensuring Fluttershy remained calm and relaxed.
As the serene atmosphere enveloped the room, Amelia found her curiosity piqued by the deep bond between Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy. Despite the chaos of the day, their connection seemed unshakeable, and Amelia couldn't help but wonder about their history. She decided to ask, hoping to learn more about the friendship that clearly ran deep.
"How did you two meet?" Amelia asked softly, her eyes moving from Rainbow Dash to Fluttershy. "You seem to have a really strong connection."
Fluttershy opened her mouth to respond, but Rainbow Dash quickly placed a gentle hand on her shoulder, stopping her mid-sentence. Leaning in close, Rainbow whispered something in Fluttershy's ear, her voice too low for Amelia to catch the words. Fluttershy’s eyes widened momentarily before she nodded in understanding, her previous eagerness replaced with a calm acceptance.
Amelia tilted her head slightly, puzzled by the exchange. "Is there something you're not telling me?" she asked, her curiosity now mixed with a hint of concern.
Rainbow Dash offered a reassuring smile. "Nah, nothing like that.” she said, her tone light but sincere. "We met when we were just fillies back in Cloudsdale, at a school for pegasi. We were inseparable from day one." Rainbow Dash’s eyes lit up with nostalgia. “It was wild. Fluttershy was always the gentle one, and I was the one dragging her into all sorts of trouble. But she always had my back, even when I did the dumbest things.” She laughed softly, shaking her head at the memories. “I remember this one time, we tried to help a bunch of baby birds back to their nest, and I ended up stuck in a tree for hours. Fluttershy stayed with me the whole time, making sure I was okay.”
Amelia nodded, absorbing the information. In that moment, she saw a reflection of her own life in their story. She saw herself in Fluttershy and her own older brother, Jason, in Rainbow Dash. The memories of her family surged to the forefront of her mind, making her chest tighten with longing.
She wondered how Jason was doing and if he was as confused as she was about her sudden disappearance. Was he training hard, missing their sibling rivalry on the pitch? Were her parents worried sick, frantically searching for any sign of her? It had been a few weeks since she had last seen them, and the ache of their absence was a constant undercurrent to her new life.
Amelia missed them deeply. As much as Fluttershy had been a guardian and friend to her, it wasn't the same as the comfort of her mother's hug, the reassuring presence of her father, or the camaraderie she shared with Jason on the football field. The realization of how much she longed to be with her family hit her hard, and her eyes grew misty with unshed tears.
She drew a shaky breath, trying to steady herself. The warmth of the room, the soft murmur of the TV, and the gentle companionship of her friends provided some solace, but it didn't completely fill the void left by her family’s absence. Amelia knew that while she had found new friends here, the bonds of her old life still pulled at her heart.
It hurt that she couldn't see them, and the uncertainty of when—or if—she would ever be reunited with them was a heavy weight on her soul.
Rainbow Dash’s phone vibrated abruptly, slicing through the stillness of the evening with its insistent buzz. It lay on the coffee table, casting a small glow that briefly illuminated the room’s lingering disarray. Amelia watched with a mix of curiosity and concern as Rainbow Dash picked up the phone, her expression transitioning from relaxed to visibly annoyed as she swiped to answer the call.
"Hello?" Rainbow Dash’s tone was tinged with irritation, clearly not expecting—or wanting—this interruption.
Almost immediately, Rainbow's face contorted with frustration as she pulled the phone away from her ear, the voice on the other end loud enough for Amelia to catch every word. "Rainbow Dash! Where the hell are you? You're half an hour late for training! Get your ass over here, now!" The voice was sharp and commanding, with a thick Baltimore accent that filled the room with a sense of urgency and authority.
"I had an emergency, okay?" Rainbow Dash shot back, her voice strained as she tried to convey the seriousness of her situation to her not-so-understanding captain.
"You should’ve called in! You know the rules, Dash. You can’t just miss training without letting anyone know. You’re not the only one on this team!" The captain’s voice crackled through the speaker, her tone a mix of frustration and disappointment, clearly not buying Rainbow's excuse as sufficient.
Before the captain could continue her lecture, Rainbow Dash, with a roll of her eyes and a deep sigh, ended the call abruptly. "Yeah, yeah.” she muttered under her breath as she hung up and placed the phone back down, shaking her head in annoyance. "Now I’m definitely getting fined.” she grumbled, more to herself than to Amelia.
Amelia leaned forward, her eyes filled with sympathy and a bit of amusement at the domestic drama unfolding before her. "Who was that?" she asked, her voice low and gentle, trying not to disturb Fluttershy, who had started to drift off next to Rainbow Dash.
Rainbow Dash rubbed her temples before answering, her frustration easing into a wry smile. "That was my captain from the hoofball team. She's not too happy about my tardiness. Can’t blame her, really, but she doesn’t handle unexpected changes well. She’s got this fiery temper, especially when it comes to discipline and training."
Rainbow chuckled softly, the sound tinged with both affection and resignation. "She's a great leader, don't get me wrong. Just... intense. I guess that's why she's the captain. Keeps us all in line, for better or worse."
Amelia nodded, understanding more about the dynamics of Rainbow Dash's sporting life. "Sounds like a tough situation. Do you need to head out then, handle things with your team?" she asked, genuinely concerned but also aware of the commitments that came with being part of a competitive sport.
Rainbow Dash shook her head, her gaze drifting back to the still-slumbering Fluttershy. "No, I’ll deal with it tomorrow. Right now, I’ve got more important things to handle here.” she said, gesturing slightly towards Fluttershy. "Besides, she’d kill me if I left her like this.” she added with a soft laugh, the warmth in her eyes reflecting her deep affection for her friend.
Amelia smiled, reassured by Rainbow Dash’s decision. "Well, if you’re sure. Just don’t get in too much trouble on my account.” she joked lightly, trying to keep the mood light.
Rainbow Dash’s response was a mix of gratitude and mischief. "Don’t worry about me. I've handled worse. Right now, let's just enjoy the peace while it lasts. Who knows when the next hurricane Fluttershy will hit?"
They both laughed softly, the tension fully dissipated, as they settled back into the comfort of the evening, the flickering light from the TV casting a soothing glow over the scene.
The night deepened around them, the room filled with the soft sounds of breathing, the occasional murmur from Fluttershy, and the low hum of the TV. Outside, the wind rustled through the trees, adding a soothing backdrop to the peaceful scene inside. Amelia, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy—each in their own way—found comfort in the quiet moments.
Nice update! One thing I would be interested in learning about is how the races of MLP went from quadrupeds to bipeds.
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There is not much to learn to be honest, the ponies were already Bipeds as it is an anthropomorphic story.
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Aw ok
hello! review of the first two chaps is up!
All Day, Everyday. - Penanka72 [First 2 chapters] (Recommendation-style short-review - for fics I would recommend, but for flaws with the format that can be sorted with editing)
It was a fun read, with some great writing, interest, fun characters and managed to freshen up HoE a bit
I couldn't quite recc, though, due to a couple of issues, and have given a few tips on those
"The aftermath was catastrophic. Within a year, every known human-turned-pony was either executed, imprisoned, or vanished without a trace. History was rewritten by those in power, portraying themselves as heroes and demonising the transformed humans."
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