All Day, Everyday.

by Penanka72

Chapter 16 - The Pony I Have Known All My Life.

Chapter 16

The wind was brisk against Amelia’s fur, the warmth from the golden orb above gentle and soothing, and each crunch under her heel was a reminder that she was getting closer to her destination. Where was she going? The Whitetail Woods. That’s where she was told to go. The Whitetail Woods—a place to unwind and ease the mind from the week’s struggles and stress. You could take a walk with or without a pet, go for a jog, or ride a bike through the twists and turns of the gravelly route.

Amelia wore a comfy beige sweatshirt and matching shorts, both adorned with a cute black heart outline. The sweatshirt was slightly tucked in at the front, giving it a casual, easy-going vibe, and a black duffle bag was strapped around her shoulder. So there Amelia was, strolling lightly. Next to her was Fluttershy, dressed in a breezy white cropped tank top adorned with lovely lace details, perfect for a warm day in Ponyville. She paired it with comfortable olive green joggers that tied gently at the waist, suitable for her day of caring for her animal friends. On her head, she sported a playful straw hat and carried a unique round woven handbag, ideal for any little essentials or treats for her creatures, with Pooch on a leash ahead of her, his tail wagging happily. Her feet were adorned with cute sandals decorated with pearls, adding a bit of sparkle as she strolled through the woodlands.

"It's hard to believe it has been a month since I came to Ponyville. Time has just flown by for me.” Amelia said with a brisk sigh, inhaling nature’s air.

"I know, it feels like yesterday that I took you under my wing.” Fluttershy agreed, keeping pace with Amelia. "Although... I’m still worried about you. Are your memories still fuzzy?" Fluttershy asked with concern, looking down at Amelia. Amelia cringed. Faking memory loss when she was found at night in the soggy mud was something Amelia didn’t want to do, especially to someone she cared for, but Amelia had to protect her real identity from now on. So that’s the story she was going to stick with for now.

“Y-yeah, I can’t remember much. Sorry.”

“No, no, it’s okay, hun. I’ll keep an eye on you from now on, okay?” Fluttershy said with a heartwarming smile, making the anxious blue pegasus smile somewhat.

“Yeah, thanks, by the way. I don’t know where I’d be if you hadn’t been there.” Amelia replied, rubbing the back of her neck.

“Don’t worry, I just did what everypony else would have done. I couldn’t have left you there all alone.” Fluttershy responded reassuringly, ruffling Amelia’s mane a bit. That made Amelia think. If she were back on Earth, would anyone else do the same? Nope! Maybe one in a thousand would, but... really? Come on, humanity, you're making me look bad...

But seriously, Amelia always thought that in her hometown, people were inherently good-hearted, always ready to engage in friendly conversation, regardless of age or ethnicity. However, that was the extent of their kindness. In Liverpool, homelessness was as prevalent as crime, and the sight of so many indifferent passersby was disheartening. Yet, there was always a chance, however slim, that someone might have reached out to help if she were lost there. Perhaps that one in a thousand did come along. In Ponyville, homelessness wasn’t noticeable, at least not to Amelia. But if that rare act of kindness did occur, it might very well have been Fluttershy who stepped forward. For that, Amelia would be forever grateful, and with that gratefulness came a genuine curiosity about the shy pegasus.

“Hey... Fluttershy, could I ask you something?” Amelia said suddenly, her voice holding a tone of hopefulness.

“Sure, you can ask me anything.” Fluttershy responded, giving Amelia her full attention.

“Have you signed the contract yet? You know, the one for me to start playing for the Toffees?” Amelia looked up at Fluttershy, hoping for a positive response, but the look on Fluttershy’s face said it all. Fluttershy just looked away, a small frown on her face.

“I—I haven’t yet, no.” Fluttershy murmured, sounding anxious as she said it. That optimistic look was wiped from Amelia’s face.

Of course, Amelia thought bitterly, halting in her tracks. The kind side of Amelia wanted to give Fluttershy more time to sort out whatever was preventing her from signing her signature, but there was a restless side of Amelia, a side that knew Fluttershy was wasting her time with this delay, depriving Amelia of the opportunity to play for the Toffees Academy, to train with Ponyville’s best players, to start her career in the right direction. But Fluttershy had a problem with that, and Amelia wanted to know why.

“Why?” Amelia’s voice carried a sharp edge she hadn’t intended, her irritation momentarily overtaking her emotions. She observed as Fluttershy halted a few steps ahead, her head bowed, signaling reluctance to discuss the matter. At that moment, Amelia was too caught up in her own feelings to consider Fluttershy’s vulnerability.

“Aurora—can we just talk about this another time?” Fluttershy pleaded softly.

“No, Fluttershy!” Amelia responded firmly, her expression stern. “I don’t know why, but ever since I trained with the Toffees, you’ve become—difficult to talk to, avoiding the topic of hoofball. What is your problem?!” Amelia exclaimed, her words coming out more venomous, with her accent slipping out.

“Please, Aurora. Let’s just—”

“What do you have against me playing hoofball, eh? Do I embarrass you because I want to be a goalkeeper? Don’t you think I’m good enough? Just tell me why! Please?”

“It’s just too risky!” Fluttershy blurted out, spinning to face Amelia with eyes wide with concern. “You could really get hurt playing that sport. All it takes is one bad injury, and everything could change—just like that.” She gestured sharply, her hand trembling slightly as she spoke. “You’re still young. You see this as just a game, I get it, I was once like that too. But trust me, it’s not worth the pain that could follow.”

“Fluttershy... what are you talking about? Injuries happen, but you recover. It’s not the end of the world. I’ve broken my fingers before, bounced back, and got right back into the game. Injuries aren’t an excuse.” Amelia countered, finding Fluttershy’s concern a bit over the top. Every footballer, every hoofball player knows there’s a risk, but it seemed like Fluttershy was taking it too far, almost like a mom fussing over a helmet before a bike ride.

“You still don’t understand, Aurora! Ponies—”

“NO!” Amelia roared, interrupting Fluttershy. “You’re overreacting, Fluttershy! You need to stop thinking and sign that contract!” Amelia didn’t give Fluttershy a chance to respond as she darted off, with Pooch trying to follow her.

“Wait! Aur—ugh.” Fluttershy started to call out, taking a step forward to follow, but as she moved, her knee suddenly buckled under her. A sharp pain shot through her leg, making her knee stiffen and give way. She collapsed to the ground, gasping, “Oh, oh dear…”

---

Amelia knew she had a quick temper. She was prone to overreacting, overthinking, and making a mountain out of her emotional molehills—something that happened all too often. But this time, she truly believed her frustration was warranted. All Amelia wanted was to play football and get back to the form she once had. It felt unfair to be sidelined by the mere risk of injury—that seemed like hardly a reason at all, trivial even. But that was just Fluttershy being her usual self: a kind, overprotective guardian who always wanted the best for Amelia.

Amelia let out a long sigh as she slowed down to a casual walk along the path. The argument with Fluttershy was still fresh in her mind—it was the first time she had ever yelled at her. As she calmed down, Amelia realized she didn’t like shouting at Fluttershy; it just didn’t sit right with her, even if she felt justified at the time. She knew she needed to apologize, but that would have to wait because she had someone to meet first.

After the awkward incident at the movies, Redsica was unusually friendly with Amelia, sticking close as they entered the theater. Instead of focusing on the action-packed movie, Redsica spent most of the time chatting with Amelia, asking personal questions that made her uncomfortable. It was also irritating that Redsica kept calling her “Amelia” instead of “Aurora.” despite being corrected multiple times. Redsica’s constant talking wasn’t just bothering Amelia; it was annoying other moviegoers, including Bon Bon. The fact that Redsica, known as being a rival against Amelia’s team, the Toffees, didn’t make things easier. Eventually, Redsica got the message and quieted down, but not before sneakily grabbing a handful of Amelia’s popcorn, prompting Amelia to guard her snacks for the rest of the movie.

The movie wrapped up late, and everyone started heading home—except for Redsica. She offered to walk Amelia home, noticing it was really dark outside the cinema. Initially, Amelia didn’t want to trouble Redsica, but the pitch black made her think twice. Those night streets reminded her too much of Earth, so she quickly agreed. During the walk, Redsica kept asking Amelia about her personal life, which made Amelia a bit uncomfortable and suspicious, as if Redsica was trying to confirm something she already suspected. Still, Amelia only answered the questions she felt were reasonable. After dropping her off, Redsica threw out a surprising offer: a one-on-one training session at 7:30 AM in Whitetail Woods. Caught off guard but seeing the potential to learn from one of the top scorers in the league, Amelia accepted the invite.

That brings us to where Amelia found herself now, taking a turn into the heart of Whitetail Woods. Here, a lush green grass field stretched out far and wide, encircled by trees and a walking path that skirted around a football pitch. The pitch itself was marked by white-painted, short grass and featured two goalposts. This field was primarily used for Monday League teams—friendly matches for amateurs or just for fun—as well as high school games and pre-season matches for the Toffees. Outside of these events, the pitch was available for anyone to use.

At the far end of the pitch, Amelia caught sight of a scene that filled her with nostalgia. A group of young kids, both fillies and colts, were playing soccer. They were using a goal at the distant end of the field, passing a ball around and wearing various jerseys from different league teams. Their laughter echoed across the field as they scored goals into a netless frame. This sight took Amelia back to her own childhood, to days spent playing soccer with her brother Jason and his school friends. She remembered defending goal after goal, gradually becoming more covered in dirt as the games went on. The memory made her wonder about Jason—where he was now and what he was doing. She hoped he was doing well.

“Oi! Amelia!” A buoyant voice rang out, catching Amelia’s attention. She turned and blinked, seeing two figures at the other end of the pitch, both walking over side by side at a casual pace. Amelia tilted her head in confusion; she thought it was just her and Redsica, so who was this newcomer? Shaking it off, Amelia walked over.

“My name isn’t Amelia! It’s Aurora! Get it right!” Amelia replied, frowning at the grin Redsica wore. She knew how to push Amelia’s buttons.

“Ahhh, that’s right. I knew your name started with an ‘A’ but I couldn’t remember which name it was.”

I’m sure you did...

Redsica was dressed in a sporty and stylish outfit, ideal for a casual day. She wore a vibrant orange hoodie with a large white Spike swoosh logo across the front. Underneath, there appeared to be a simple white t-shirt. A black cap and shades rested on her head and snout, giving her a chilled vibe, her red and white mane tied up into a ponytail. Her pants were black, fitting snugly and featuring a modern, slightly distressed style. On her feet, she sported a pair of black and orange Spike footy boots that matched her hoodie. Amelia hated to admit it, but as much as Redsica was the most irritating pony so far, she had a good sense of style.

With each step closer, Amelia could now identify the second figure with her—the figure being Mudd Bludd, the bat pony that was also involved in the—cough, cough—incident...

Oh crap! She must be here to get what she’s owed...

In more active attire, Mudd Bludd was styled in a crisp, urban look. She donned a white, hooded windbreaker, accented with bold black and grey panels, zipped snugly up the front. This jacket's sleek lines were mirrored in her skin-tight black leggings, which clung to her legs all the way to the ankles. On her feet, black sneakers blended effortlessly into the ensemble, punctuated by white soles. A pair of dark sunglasses shielded her eyes, enhancing the air of metropolitan cool.

“You’re late, y’know. Me and Mudd were starting to think you bailed on us.” Redsica called out, wrapping an arm around Amelia’s shoulder, wearing a grin.

“Yeah, sorry, I had a few things to do.” Amelia responded, trying to escape the prismatic earth pony’s grasp. For someone who was 19 to 22 years old and didn’t know a thing about Amelia, she was awfully touchy—a trait that Amelia didn’t care for. So when Amelia finally escaped Redsica’s grasp, she gave her a stern glare.

“Yeah, let’s not do that again.” Amelia said, fixing her mane with a few brushes of her hand.

“All right, all right... fair enough.” Redsica said in surrender, raising her hands and wearing a small grin. Under her breath, Amelia just about heard what Redsica murmured: “Doesn’t like touching—check.”

Check? What the hell was that meant to mean?

Amelia didn’t have much time to ponder as Mudd Bludd suddenly got up in Amelia’s face, her dagger-like eyes narrowing as they locked onto Amelia’s blue eyes, making Amelia take a step back suddenly in surprise.

“Uh... hi.”

“Yeah, hi, just stand still for a second.” Mudd said quickly, her eyes focused as if searching for something in Amelia’s wide eyes. Rude. Mudd hummed a tune under her breath as she circled Amelia, her eyes scrutinizing every detail. She gently prodded Amelia’s shoulders and then her wings, making Amelia tense up under her touch. Each poke and adjustment left Amelia feeling more exposed and increasingly irritated. Not another Apple Bloom... Amelia thought, trying to mask her discomfort.

“Okay! I think that’s enough!” Amelia blurted out as she quickly stepped back from the two. She raised her finger for emphasis, her voice firm. “Let me get one thing straight! No touching! No staring! No getting in my personal space! I don’t like it, and I’m pretty sure you two wouldn’t either.” Redsica responded with a casual shrug, unaffected, while Mudd seemed taken aback, her cheeks coloring with a visible blush.

“Oh my gosh, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to make you feel uncomfortable.” Mudd Bludd quickly apologized, her tone sincere and a bit flustered.

“It’s fine, it’s fine. What are you even doing here anyway?” Amelia’s tone softened slightly, her curiosity piqued despite the lingering irritation.

Redsica didn’t miss a beat, quickly jumping in with an explanation as she rummaged through her bag and produced two crisp green bills. “I invited Mudd here for a kickabout since she was in the area. Plus, I still owe her for last night.” she said, handing the money over to Mudd with a casual flick of her wrist.

Mudd Bludd accepted the notes, turning them over in her hands with a look of bemusement. “You’ve given me 200 bits... are you paying for Amelia?” she questioned, her brow arching as she glanced between the bills and Redsica.

“I’m Aurora!” Amelia corrected with a flare of frustration, emphasizing her preferred name sharply. Mudd, taken aback, quickly rubbed the back of her head, an apologetic wince forming on her face.

“Oh, sorry about that.” Mudd mumbled, her tone sincere yet flustered by the mix-up.

Redsica shrugged, a dismissive wave accompanying her nonchalant response. “But yeah, she’s only a filly, so I paid for her. No biggie.” she explained, gesturing toward Amelia with a carefree nod. Amelia, however, was not pleased by this dismissive characterization.

“Nope!” Amelia’s voice rose as she snatched one of the 100-bit bills from Redsica’s hand and thrust it back at her. Her eyes flashed with determination. “I don’t need you to pay anything for me. I’ll pay her myself... eventually.” Her words cut through the air, marking a clear assertion of independence.

Redsica didn’t seem fazed as she slipped her hands into her hoodie pocket, her grin unfaltering as she looked between the bill and Amelia. “Keep hold of it for me.” she winked, turning away casually from the stunned pegasus. “Prideful—check.”

“I’m not keeping this, you know!” Amelia shouted, waving the note in the air.

“Then throw it away.” Redsica called back over her shoulder, her tone dripping with nonchalance that only further irked Amelia. With a snarl and a frustrated harrumph, Amelia flung the bill into the air, watching it as she followed Redsica toward the goal. The bill twirled and danced on the breeze, drifting past a watching Mudd Bludd.

“Hmm, it looks like it’s going to be somepony’s lucky day...” Mudd mused, her eyes tracking the bill as it embarked on its whimsical journey, carried away by the wind.

---

It was the perfect sunny day for a training session. The warmth of the sun felt just right against Amelia’s fur as she stretched, getting into her zone with her striking red cleats and matching red and blue goalie gloves, prepping for a full session on the field. Before the serious training began, Amelia, Redsica, and Mudd Bludd decided to loosen up with a playful round of one-touch football, which quickly turned competitive as each vied to outdo the others.

Mudd Bludd dominated the game with her exceptional ball control, her skills almost matching the prowess of Octavia, known for her finesse. However, it wasn’t all about skillful touches; the trio also tested their speed. In a simple sprint across the pitch, Redsica, the earth pony, surprisingly outpaced both Amelia and Mudd Bludd, flaunting her speed with a cheeky grin that she didn’t let anyone forget throughout the day.

After the races, they shifted to a more intense one-on-one drill. Amelia took her place in goal, her focus sharp as Mudd Bludd and Redsica took turns attacking and defending. This was Amelia’s chance to truly gauge their abilities up close. Redsica was a force to be reckoned with, her style aggressive and direct, her shots both powerful and pinpoint—reminiscent of Erling Haaland, the Norwegian powerhouse at Manchester City and unironically, the same style as Jason but more physical and rapid. On the other hand, Mudd Bludd showcased a more rounded skill set, adept at just about everything—speed, shooting, defending, dribbling, and physical play, much like Georginio Wijnaldum during his prime at Liverpool.

Each attempt to breach Amelia’s guard was a new lesson in their playing styles and capabilities, a thrilling challenge that kept Amelia on her toes, literally and figuratively, as she dived and leapt to keep the ball out of her net. It was a day where the sun wasn’t the only thing blazing; so was the competition on the pitch.

As the training intensified, it wasn’t just the skill on display that captured attention. Curious fillies and colts from nearby fields gradually drifted over, their eyes wide as they watched the seasoned players and the pegasus prodigy in action. Passersby, out for a stroll or their own sports activities, also took notice. Recognizing the famous hoofball players, they couldn’t help but stop and observe the spectacle unfolding.

The presence of these hoofball luminaries in a casual setting, mingling with a local young star, sparked excitement. Smartphones and cameras appeared almost instantly, as spectators began documenting the unexpected event. The buzz grew as more people gathered, some whispering about the pegasus filly’s recent rise to local fame in Ponyville. The atmosphere turned festive, with every dribble, pass, and goal drawing cheers and flashes from the growing crowd.

The next drill focused on free kicks from outside the box, an area of the game that always tested Amelia’s mettle as a goalkeeper. Standing at 5’10”, she found reaching for those high, arcing shots challenging—those pesky balls that seemed destined for the top corners of the goal, just eluding her fingertips. However, her pegasus heritage granted her an edge in reaction times, an advantage she was keen to exploit.

Redsica’s approach to free kicks was straightforward but brutal: a powerful knuckleball shot that danced unpredictably through the air, making it a nightmare to judge. On the other hand, Mudd Bludd opted for a more tactical method, using the outside of her boot to impart a wicked curve on the ball, aiming for the corners rather than sheer power. Both styles presented unique challenges, but Amelia noticed that neither of her opponents was a natural free-kick specialist. Though some of their shots did find the back of the net, Amelia saved the majority, her dives and leaps a testament to her skill and anticipation.

The session progressed to one-on-one drills—Amelia’s favorite. This was where the essence of her role came into sharp focus. A striker versus the goalkeeper, no distractions, just a pure test of skill and nerve. For Amelia, it wasn’t just about stopping shots; it was about reading the player, understanding their tells and tendencies, and using that knowledge to her advantage.

Mudd Bludd, for all her versatility, seemed less accustomed to this high-pressure scenario. She lacked the deceptive guile of a seasoned forward, her movements slightly telegraphed and her decisions predictable. Amelia capitalized on this, often guessing correctly when Mudd would shoot, allowing her to make spectacular saves that seemed to rattle Mudd Bludd even further.

Redsica, however, was a different beast altogether. Her confidence was palpable, her movements fluid and deceptive. Unlike Mudd, Redsica never repeated the same move, always keeping Amelia guessing. The mutual familiarity between the goalkeeper and the striker added an extra layer of intensity to their duels. Redsica would score a brilliant goal, and Amelia would respond by thwarting her next attempt with an equally impressive save. It was a chess match played at breakneck speed, each trying to outsmart and outmaneuver the other in a thrilling display of tactical prowess.

As each ball was played and each shot taken, the respect between Amelia and Redsica grew. They were learning each other’s styles, strengths, and weaknesses in real-time, each save and each goal adding to a growing repertoire of moves and counter-moves. The session was not just a physical workout but a mental one as well, the three sharpening the other, steel honing steel. The field wasn’t just a pitch; it was a classroom, and they were both students and teachers in the art of football.

As they all took a breather by the goalpost, Amelia slouched against the wood, her gear smeared with dirt, watching the scene unfold. Redsica was swarmed by fans—signing autographs, flashing smiles for selfies, the whole nine yards. Fans were throwing around playful pleas for her to join the Toffees, and she handled it all with grace and a few laughs.

A bit off to the side, Mudd Bludd hung back, quietly taking a drink. There was a hint of disappointment in her posture as she watched Redsica soak up all the attention. Despite being just as talented, she didn’t get a single fan coming up for an autograph. Amelia caught the look of confusion and a bit of sadness on Mudd’s face. It seemed unfair, maybe even a bit odd. Mudd was a hoofball star too, after all. Amelia couldn’t help but wonder if Mudd’s distinct appearance as a bat pony had something to do with it, though she really hoped that wasn’t the case.

On Earth, football was tarnished by discrimination and, as much as Amelia hated to admit it, racism. It clung to the beautiful game like a stubborn virus, seemingly impossible to eradicate. If there was one aspect of football Amelia truly despised, it was that. She hoped the scene unfolding before her—Mudd Bludd being overlooked—was just a matter of recognition or popularity, not the darker undercurrents of prejudice that too often shadowed the sport in darkness.

As the last spectators slowly dispersed, some sauntered away with content smiles, clutching freshly signed autographs or beaming over the selfies captured on their phones. Others lingered on the periphery, content to sit on the pathway benches that dotted the edge of the pitch, their eyes glued to their screens or still recording the tail end of the training session.

“All right, I think I’m done here…” Mudd declared, wiping the perspiration from her brow with the back of her hand as she bent to gather her belongings into her worn sports bag. “Bye, guys. It was a good training session.”

“Yeah, have a good one, Mudd. I’ll see ya when I see ya.” Redsica responded with a relaxed air, offering Mudd a casual fist bump. The ball lay idle at her feet, momentarily forgotten.

“Wait!” Amelia suddenly shouted, causing Mudd to halt and turn around. Amelia was rummaging through her bag, her movements hurried. She pulled out a slightly worn notebook and a pen, flipping it open to a blank page. “You’re a good player, you know. Can I get your autograph?” she asked, the sincerity in her voice catching Mudd off guard.

“S-sure.” Mudd stammered, a mix of surprise and humility flashing across her face. She took the pen with a slightly trembling hand and etched her name in practiced cursive—a signature move she’d honed for just such occasions. Amelia’s face lit up with a delighted grin as she admired the signature, now a treasured addition to her collection.

But Amelia wasn’t finished yet. She also handed her phone to Redsica. “Take a picture of us, would you?” she asked, positioning herself next to Mudd, ready for a photo.

“What do I look like? A cameraman?” Redsica quipped, her arms crossed in mock annoyance.

“Just take the picture!” Amelia retorted, rolling her eyes in exasperation. With a dramatic sigh, Redsica acquiesced, snapping a series of pictures. Amelia and Mudd checked the results only to discover that Redsica had sneaked in a bunch of playful selfies—making faces, biting her lip, even kissing the camera. Amidst these antics, they found a perfect shot of Amelia standing proudly next to Mudd, pointing at her new friend.

“Well, it looks like you got yourself a fan, eh?” Redsica teased, watching as a subtle blush crept over Mudd’s cheeks.

“Yeah, I guess I do now.” Mudd replied, her voice tinged with a mix of surprise and pleasure.

“No, not just a fan; we can be friends if you want?” Amelia offered warmly, extending her fist for a bump. Mudd hesitated, her gaze flitting between Amelia’s earnest expression and the extended fist. After a moment, she bumped her fist against Amelia’s, a rare, gentle smile breaking through her usual reserve.

“Yeah, let’s be friends.”

With that, Amelia and Mudd exchanged contact numbers and bid each other farewell, with Redsica and Amelia watching Mudd as she walked away, her steps lighter than when she’d arrived.

“I’m made up you did that, Amelia. It’s about time she made pony friend.” Redsica remarked, a note of approval in her voice.

“It’s Aurora! And what do you mean by ‘it’s about time she made a pony friend? She must have tons of friends.” Amelia responded, her voice laced with a mix of curiosity and mild irritation.

Redsica’s expression shifted, her brows knitting together as a sigh escaped her lips. “Unfortunately... ponies and bat ponies don’t get along very well, something about past events.” she began, her voice tinged with regret. “Mudd used to be in the Reds academy with me, an up-and-coming wonderfilly in the making. Her awareness was incredible, her through balls were a striker’s dream, and her eyes would light up whenever she saw someone making a run.” Redsica’s face momentarily brightened with a fond, knowing grin, recalling the moments of promise.

Her smile, however, quickly faltered as she continued. “However, Mudd Bludd was bullied relentlessly for being a bat pony. Players, fans, and even the staff called her a freak, hurling racial slurs at her. She lost confidence, became scared to make a mistake or give the ball away, so she started playing it safe, which made her just... another failed project.”

Redsica’s eyes clouded over with sadness as she reflected on the harsh realities that had marred Mudd’s promising career—a stark reminder of the discrimination that still lingered within their sport.

“The last time I saw her in the Reds kit, I watched as the whole team surrounded her, kicking and tripping her up, kicking the ball at her with force. They laughed and taunted her, going as far as tying her hands and feet, wrapping her in the goal’s net like an animal, taking pictures of her and sending them all over the media. I never saw Mudd show her face again.”

Amelia’s voice was barely above a whisper, thick with venom as she spat out the words, “Fucking bastards.” Her head bowed, her gloved fists clenched so tightly that her knuckles whitened, and a tremor of rage ran through her body. The realization hit her hard; hoofball wasn’t just sunshine and rainbows. It harbored darkness as deep, if not deeper, than the football world she knew back on Earth.

She had faced her own share of discrimination, with the media stirring up a frenzy over a pegasus playing goalkeeper. News articles sensationalized the story, debates erupted on radio shows and podcasts, turning her career into a public controversy. But that was all based on opinions. What Mudd Bludd had endured was far more personal and destructive.

No one, especially not a young player full of potential, deserved to endure such blatant cruelty and bigotry. It was a stark reminder of the harsh realities hidden beneath the surface of the sport she loved.

“Yeah...” Redsica somberly agreed, sighing softly. “It's good to see that she has found her feet somewhat, though. The Hammers have really gotten the best out of her. She has 12 assists and 4 goals in 20 games—not bad for a midfielder, eh?”

“No, not bad at all.” Amelia murmured, watching as Mudd started to fade away into the woods. “So she’s found her form again at the Hammers... does that mean she’s not getting bullied? Does she have friends?” Amelia asked, unstrapping her gloves and taking them off, her hands sweaty. That put a smile on Redsica’s face—an odd smile.

“From what I’ve heard, she’s the best player the Hammers have. The fans love her, she gets along well with the team, and it helps that she captains the team too. So yeah, I bet she has a ton of friends. And on the pitch, she’s the one doing the bullying.” Redsica sighed, shaking her head. “Trust me, she’s a pain in the ass to deal with. Thanks to her confidence coming back, her coordination skills are next to none, teamwork being her ultimate strength. But... what makes her a deadly player is her awareness to find a through-ball in the defense, finding the run from the attackers, anticipating it, and choosing the right player at the right time to pass the ball.” Redsica chuckled for a second, as if trying to hold it back.

As Amelia turned to fully face Redsica, a shiver crawled up her spine. Redsica stood there, one hand covering her eyes as if shielding herself from an unbearable truth, the other planted firmly on her hip. But it was the grin that truly unsettled Amelia—a wide, unnatural stretch of lips that seemed to teeter on the edge of madness. It was a grin that didn’t match the situation, a grin that seemed to belong more to someone who had lost their grip on reality than to a top-tier athlete.

For the fourth time since arriving in Equestria, Amelia felt that familiar, suffocating pressure emanating from Redsica. The air around her crackled with a red, scorching heat, an aura that encased the striker like a blazing inferno. Amelia could almost taste the raw, sporadic energy, could feel the unfiltered emotions pouring out of Redsica like a dam about to burst. It was a terrifyingly potent mix of power and instability, a sensation that made Amelia instinctively take a step back.

This was the same kind of aura she had sensed in Applejack and Grind Duster before, but this… this was different. Redsica’s energy was more volatile, more unhinged, as if it had been barely contained for far too long. It was like standing next to a volcano, knowing it could erupt at any moment.

A thought wormed its way into Amelia’s mind, unbidden and chilling: Did she come straight out of an asylum?

Redsica’s voice broke through the haze, low and almost hypnotic, drawing Amelia’s gaze back to that unsettling grin. “Do you know what I could do if I had someone like that on my team? Someone who could see me and only me. Someone who just… gets it. I’d be the best striker in the league.” Redsica’s words were laced with a dangerous intensity, her eyes fixed on the spot where Mudd Bludd had disappeared.

The grin twisted further, becoming something grotesque, something that sent a cold sweat trickling down Amelia’s back. This wasn’t just ambition; this was obsession. Redsica’s fixation on being the best, on having someone who could match her stride for stride, was palpable, almost predatory.

“Yeeeeeaaaahhhh... you keep thinking about that while I go over there and get my stuff, then we can go our separate ways. Sound good? Sound. Let’s just do that then.” Amelia said carefully, taking a step back from the mumbling, clearly unstable pony who may or may not be insane for ponies who can... pass.

That seemed to snap Redsica out of her hysteric state as she turned to Amelia, her aura seeming to fade. “Oh, sorry about that. I can get carried away thinking about some of the best playmakers in the world, and to have Mudd Bludd be that player—it would be a dream come true.” Redsica explained, rubbing the back of her head with a more normal smile now.

“Yeah, don’t worry about it. It happens to the best of us.”

Yeah, that was a lie. No one is that obsessed. It was kinda scary.

“So... I was thinking, Amelia—”

“Aurora.”

“—Yeah, whatever. Anyway, I wanna see something. Come.” Redsica said, gesturing for Amelia to follow with a finger, bringing the ball with her. Amelia narrowed her eyes cautiously, watching Redsica move to the edge of the box, wondering what she was up to. Amelia followed nonetheless.

Amelia and Redsica stood at the edge of the 18-yard box, both gazing intently at the goal stretched out before them. The field was quiet, the previous drills and excitement having settled into a more contemplative moment between the two athletes.

“So, what are we doing now then?” Amelia asked, folding her arms across her chest, her gaze still fixed on the goalposts.

“You know... when I started hearing all the rumors up in Canterlot about a young pegasus being a goalkeeper, I thought journalists were just looking for attention.” Redsica began thoughtfully, her eyes on Amelia with a mix of curiosity and respect. “But when more reliable sources started saying the same thing, showing pictures of you in goal, training with the Toffees, calling yourself ‘Amelia,’ I was immediately interested.”

“Well, my name is Aurora, not Amelia. Everything else is true.” Amelia corrected her, a hint of irritation threading through her voice at the misuse of her name.

“Okay, Aurora.” Redsica responded with a teasing smirk. “The news article must have mispronounced your name—somehow, eh?” She chuckled lightly, but Amelia didn’t respond, her mind churning over Redsica’s fixation on her alias.

“Say, for a goalkeeper, you know an awful lot about free kicks. You gave me a few pointers, tweaking a few things in my technique.” Redsica continued, nudging the ball towards Amelia’s feet with a thoughtful expression. “So I’m curious...” she paused, her eyes locking with Amelia's, “Can a goalkeeper take a free kick?”

Amelia’s response was a cheeky grin as she positioned her boot over the ball confidently. “Well, let’s find out then.” she said, backing up a few paces. The ball was ideally placed on the edge of the box, on the left side—a prime spot for a powerful, bending shot.

Visualizing the trajectory, Amelia started her approach: a steady run-up, maintaining her pace, and striking the ball at precisely the right moment. She used the inside of her boot, angling it slightly, and digging under the ball just enough to emphasize the curve over raw power. The ball initially seemed to veer wide of the goal but dramatically curled back, kissing the post with a satisfying ‘dink’ before nestling into the top corner of the net.

Turning to Redsica, Amelia’s expression was one of unmistakable pride. “Does that answer your question?” she asked, her smile broadening as she awaited Redsica’s reaction to the perfectly executed free kick.

As the ball settled into the net, Redsica’s eyes widened in awe, fixated on the top right corner where Amelia’s shot had perfectly curled in. Her head lowered, a small, knowing smile playing on her lips—a look of calm acceptance that puzzled Amelia. Under her breath, Redsica murmured something Amelia managed to catch.

“Free kicks: check... there’s no denying it now.”

Amelia, confusion etched across her face, stepped closer. “You know, I can hear you when you say ‘check’ throughout this training session. Why do you keep saying that? Are you testing me? Seeing if I’m good enough to be a goalkeeper?” she asked, her tone laced with suspicion, her brow raised in query. “Now that I think about it, why of all ponies did you ask me to train with you, a 15-year-old goalkeeper, somepony you know nothing about, a complete stranger? Redsica... are you trying to scout me? Who sent you? Was it your manager!? Well, tell her to do one! I’m gonna be a Toffee player!” Amelia exclaimed, her arms crossing defiantly as she turned away.

Redsica’s response was a soft snigger, which only deepened Amelia’s frown. “What’s so funny!?”

“It’s funny because you don’t have a clue, do you?” Redsica said, her tone half-amused, half-exasperated by Amelia’s lack of understanding.

“What are you talking about?” Amelia demanded, her confusion turning into frustration.

“Haven’t you put the pieces together yet? Haven’t you noticed?” Redsica prodded, her voice encouraging yet teasing, as if challenging Amelia to solve a puzzle.

“Notice what? You’re not making a bit of sense. Just tell me what the hell is going on!” Amelia’s voice rose, her impatience growing.

“Okay, let me spoon-feed you then. What team do I support?” Redsica asked, arms crossed, a smirk tugging at the corner of her mouth.

“Eh, The Reds, I guess... why? What do they have to do with—”

“What position do I play?” Redsica interjected.

“Striker... but, what—”

“How tall am I?” she cut off Amelia again, her grin widening.

“Around 6’0.”

“It’s actually 6’1 but, close enough. And lastly, what is my play style?” Redsica continued, her excitement apparent as she led Amelia through her line of questioning.

“You are direct in your dribbling, you use your body to shrug off players, you use your blistering speed to your advantage, and you shoot with power over technique from what I’ve seen. You’re basically a rampaging bull on and off the ball, physically bullying everypony that gets in your way.” Amelia described, her tone a mix of admiration and annoyance, making Redsica nod in agreement.

“Exactly!” Redsica exclaimed, her eyes gleaming with an unspoken challenge. She stared at Amelia, waiting for the realization to dawn. But Amelia remained clueless, her expression clouded with more confusion than ever, mumbling to herself.

Redsica’s expectant look slowly morphed into a deadpan expression, her patience waning. “Oh, of course... should have known you’re still thick in the head.”

“HEY! I am not dumb! You’re just being too cryptic! Who says: ‘NeH! HoW tAlL aM I?’ and expects me to understand what you are talking about. You’re bigger than me, I get it, whoopty do!” Amelia retorted, her scowl deepening at Redsica’s taunts.

Redsica rolled her eyes, exasperation mingling with a touch of amusement on her face. "Honestly..." she muttered, the weight of the moment pressing down on her. With deliberate slowness, she began to peel off her hoodie, revealing a plain white tank top emblazoned with the Spike merchandise logo. The real surprise, however, lay hidden beneath the fabric wrapped tightly around her bicep—a bandage concealing something significant. “Normally, I wouldn’t show this to anypony because no one would understand its meaning.” Redsica said, her voice lowering as she carefully began to unwind the bandage. “But since it’s you... I’ll show you.”

Amelia’s curiosity piqued, but she was utterly unprepared for what was to be revealed. As the bandages fell away, her eyes widened in disbelief. Inked vividly on Redsica’s skin was a tattoo—a stark, black depiction of a bird, wings outstretched, a sprig held in its beak, regal and commanding. Beneath the majestic bird were the letters ‘Y.N.W.A.’

Amelia’s breath hitched, her hands flying to cover her mouth in shock. It was a Liverbird, the emblem of Liverpool FC, an insignia not of this world but from Earth. The letters stood for ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone,’ an anthem from her home, a chant that resonated with deep, personal meaning. This tattoo, this symbol, belonged to a football club far away on Earth, a poignant piece of her past suddenly right in front of her.

The questions Redsica had been asking all day snapped into sharp, clear focus, each one echoing with newfound significance:

‘What team do I support?’

The Reds, just like him...

‘What position do I play?’

Striker, just like him...

‘How tall am I?’

6’1, just like him...

‘What is my play style?’

Direct, forceful, using speed and power to dominate—just… like… him…

The realization crashed over Amelia in waves, staggering in its implications. Redsica, this earth pony, this world-class striker—was none other than Jason, Amelia’s own big brother.

Tears threatened to spill from Amelia’s eyes as the shock mingled with an absurd sense of joy. Seeing her emotional turmoil, Redsica, now understood to be Jason, stepped forward, his expression softening into one of brotherly concern. “Alright, alright, no need to cry over—”

“BAHAHAHAHAHAHA!” Amelia’s abrupt burst of laughter shattered the somber mood, her head thrown back in hysterics as tears streamed down her face—not from sadness, but from overwhelming hilarity. Redsica, caught off guard by her reaction, halted, his face a mask of confusion.

“You’re a girl!” Amelia managed to articulate through her raucous laughter, pointing at Redsica, who now sported a deep blush, his eyebrows knitted in a mixture of embarrassment and irritation.

“Really… you see your older sibling transformed, and this is how you react? Real mature, Amelia. Very classy.” Redsica retorted, crossing his arms over his chest, his stance defensive yet tinged with a hint of resigned humour.

“Y-you have boobs!” Amelia continued, her laughter unabated, pointing unabashedly as Redsica’s blush deepened to a fiery shade.

“I didn’t choose this, you know! I just woke up like this! It was completely out of my control!” Redsica tried to explain, his voice a mix of annoyance and exasperation, but Amelia was too caught up in her laughter, now kneeling on the grass, pounding the turf with her fist.

“Yo-you’re not straight anymore… you’re a lesbian!” Amelia choked out, the laughter rendering her breathless, her statement punctuated by more uncontrollable giggles.

“Oh, fuck off, blueshite! I should have kept my identity hidden after all!” Redsica snapped, a mix of jest and genuine frustration in his tone.

“No, I’m happy you did.” Amelia finally managed to say, her laughter subsiding as she stood up, feeling a weight lift from her chest. Impulsively, she stepped forward and wrapped Redsica in a warm, affectionate hug. “I’m happy that I’m not the only one in this world.”

Redsica hummed, placing a hand gently on Amelia’s head, her expression softening. “Aye… me too.”

---

Amelia and Jason spent the day indulging in the lighter side of life in Ponyville, their antics as wild and varied as their personalities. Their first escapade involved a raid on the local costume shop, where Amelia insisted they try on the most ludicrous outfits they could find. Jason, ever the good sport despite his new form, ended up in a sparkly tutu and a pair of oversized, neon sunglasses that Amelia swore were “absolutely fabulous.” The pair laughed themselves silly, posing for mock-serious selfies that Amelia promised would never see the light of day, but which she secretly planned to treasure as a reminder of this bizarre, beautiful day with her brother.

Later, the siblings found themselves in the midst of an impromptu game of hide and seek with a group of overly enthusiastic fans. It started when one fan spotted them from across the square, shouting excitedly and pointing. Within seconds, a swarm of ponies thundered toward them. Quick-thinking Jason grabbed Amelia’s hand, pulling her into a narrow alley as they ducked behind bins and dashed around corners. They zigzagged through backstreets, barely suppressing their laughter until they finally ducked into a quaint café, their sides aching from both the sprint and their stifled chuckles.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, Amelia dared Jason to an eating contest at a local diner famous for its outrageously large portions. Plates piled high with hay fries and veggie burgers arrived, and they set to work, shoveling food with a competitive fervor that had the other diners watching in amused disbelief. Amelia, struggling to keep up, finally threw in the napkin, laughing as Jason victoriously slammed down her final burger. “Guess you still can’t beat me at everything.” he teased, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

After a day filled with laughter and light-hearted chaos, Amelia and Jason found a quiet spot by the town fountain to wind down. They slumped onto the edge, their chuckles subsiding into comfortable silence as the evening air cooled around them. The siblings traded old stories, each one highlighting how much had changed and yet how some feelings stayed the same. These memories wove a deeper connection between them, each anecdote a reminder of their shared past, full of silly moments and heartfelt connections. Side by side, they watched as the first stars flickered into view above, a serene end to a day that proved that no matter what changed around or within them, their ability to find joy together remained wonderfully constant.

Jason shared his tale of arrival in Equestria with Amelia, revealing a stark contrast to her own experience. He had transitioned to this new world four years prior, making him now 22 years old, while Amelia was still 15. It seemed as though Amelia’s soul had drifted through time and space for those four years.

Jason described waking up enveloped in darkness and cold, his only sources of light a ray of sunshine from above and the glow from his phone. He found himself in a vast cave, navigating through streets lined with cracked, stone-bricked buildings, all while avoiding a central river that split the thoroughfare.

He soon discovered he was in Havencroft, a bustling underground city primarily inhabited by bat ponies. Upon explaining his situation, the bat ponies were quick to assist, introducing him to Mayor Sinith. Jason learned of the deep mutual respect between humans and bat ponies, a relationship forged during the Great War when humans shared their culture and technologies to aid the bat ponies. In return, the bat ponies had offered refuge to humans at the close of the Equestrian Civil War.

As word spread of a genuine human in their midst, Jason was treated like a celebrity or even royalty, celebrated for the historical human contributions to bat pony society. His initial year in Havencroft was marked by significant integration into the community; he worked alongside a blacksmith, enjoyed the comforts of life under Sinith’s roof, and quickly formed friendships by sharing stories about his technologically advanced former world.

One of his notable contributions was introducing the concept of the iPhone to the bat ponies. Captivated by the technology, and with Jason’s guidance, they replicated the devices using crystal magic. This innovation kickstarted a technological revolution in Havencroft, boosting the city’s economy through trade and unexpectedly catapulting Jason to significant wealth.

So yeah, Amelia’s big brother/sister is Steve Jobs-type rich, making him one of the richest ponies alive… my brother... is rich… for showing off his… iPhone... lucky bastard!

A few months into his newfound wealth, Jason discovered football when Havencroft HC hosted a pre-season friendly against The Toffees HC. The game featured notable players like Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, and the bat pony fan favorite, Nightstalker, from The Toffees. Despite Havencroft’s clear disadvantage, Jason was inspired and decided to join their ranks, reigniting his football career.

Havencroft HC was modest at best initially. However, in his debut season, Jason dramatically turned their fortunes around, scoring 20 goals and assisting 5 times, catapulting Havencroft from Division 1 straight into the Lunar League. His outstanding performance didn’t go unnoticed as he scooped up both the Golden Boot and Player of the Season awards, drawing attention from top Lunar League clubs.

Yet, the 19-year-old chose to stick with Havencroft for another season. During this time, he not only broke the goal record by scoring 33 goals but also contributed 9 assists, securing the Golden Boot and Player of the Season titles once again, and leading Havencroft to their first-ever Lunar League championship. This monumental success caught the eye of major leagues, including the Equestrian League, Diamond League, and Talon League. Initially resistant to leaving, Jason’s resolve wavered when The Reds—an alternative version of his beloved childhood club Liverpool—expressed their interest. The emotional pull of playing for a team reminiscent of Liverpool was too strong to resist, compelling him to consider a significant move in his soaring football career.

Jason’s transfer to The Reds was finalized with a record-breaking fee of 750 thousand bits, the highest in Lunar League history. Far from viewing his departure as a betrayal, the bat ponies celebrated his move. At just 20 years old, they wished him well, expressing gratitude for the immense contributions he had made to their club and community. But with the celebration, Jason was warned to keep his human identity a secret due to past conflicts with ponies. So, the creation of Redsica was born—a mix of ‘Red’ (Jason’s favorite color) and ‘sica,’ which is part of the name ‘Jessica,’ the name he would have been given if he was a girl from birth. Amelia had a good chuckle at the creative name. Aurora Breeze is a way better name.

Over the past two years, Jason diligently trained and played in The Reds Academy, honing his skills and biding his time. His patience and hard work finally paid off recently when he broke into the starting 11, seizing the opportunity presented by a spate of injuries within the team, giving him a chance in the spotlight.

Amelia always recognized Jason’s potential to excel in football, but seeing him play for such a prestigious team at a young age was beyond her expectations. With Jason already scoring two goals in his first three appearances for The Reds, Amelia couldn’t help but wonder just how many more he would tally as his career with the team progressed.

Amelia recounted her first bewildering moments waking up alone in an open field, feeling lost and a bit scared as darkness fell. She stumbled into Ponyville and was taken under Fluttershy’s wing—a kind pegasus who became a steadfast guardian. Amelia shared with Jason the highlights of her new life, including watching him thrash the Toffees 3-0. She’d even gotten the chance to train with the Toffees, showing her potential as a goalkeeper.

She spoke fondly of the friends she had made along the way, painting vivid pictures of each: Vinyl, with her laid-back vibe; Apple Bloom, full of energy and affection; Octavia, the epitome of posh and elegance; Lyra, unpredictably hyperactive; Bon Bon, always reasonable and level-headed; and Derpy, endearingly clumsy and shy. She regaled Jason with tales of their adventures and mishaps in Ponyville, her words brimming with affection and nostalgia for the bonds she had formed.

She laughed as she told him about school in Ponyville, where every class was an adventure, thanks to the lively bunch of students. But nothing topped her tale of a fantasy football match orchestrated by Discord, where legends like Ronaldo, Messi, and Maldini played with and against Equestria’s best. Jason was incredulous until Amelia showed him a photo of Earth’s and Equestria’s all-stars together. His disbelief turned into horror when he spotted Van Dijk and Gerrard in Everton kits, prompting a laugh from Amelia at his stunned reaction.

Jason’s laughter was gentle, a soft echo in the quiet evening as he continued to stare at the legendary photo on Amelia’s phone, his expression a mix of awe and amusement. “Well, it’s good to see you are doing well for yourself. I’m quite jealous actually. Being stuck in the toilet with you and Mudd Bludd was the most fun I had in a while.”

Amelia smiled, her eyes reflecting a quiet nostalgia as she considered her own whirlwind of adventures in Ponyville. “Yeah, I had quite the adventure so far. Weeks seem to fly by.”

Jason nodded, a wistful tone coloring his voice. “I know how you feel. It’s a bizarre world we live in, isn’t it? Feels like yesterday you and I were training together in the park, minding our own business when the clouds started rolling in and a bright light took me to this world. It still feels surreal to me, y’know.” He handed back Amelia’s phone, but his gaze lingered on her, noticing the subtle downturn of her smile.

“Hey, are you alright?” he asked, his voice tinged with concern as he observed Amelia’s lowered head and the small, somewhat forced smile she wore.

“Oh, nothing... it’s nothing.” Amelia’s voice was a low murmur, hardly convincing.

“You sure?” Jason pressed, sensing the hesitance in her tone.

“Ye—no actually...” Amelia let out a deep sigh, her frown deepening. “Something has been on my mind, and I don’t know what to do about it.”

Jason responded with immediate reassurance, wrapping an arm around Amelia’s neck and pulling her close. “Don’t keep it bottled up, tell me what’s bothering you.”

“Well... this morning, I had a go at Fluttershy for not signing that document I told you about, the one about joining The Toffees Hoofball Club. I can understand why she would be concerned about me joining, but her over-protectiveness is getting on my nerves. Fluttershy is the nicest pony I know, and I want to be nice to her, but...” Amelia sighed heavily, her eyes suddenly feeling heavy, perhaps from the fatigue or the dread of returning to Fluttershy’s cottage under a cloud of awkwardness.

Jason teased her gently, tightening his embrace. “Sounds like you’re getting soft, sis. The old Amelia would be relentless. But, it sounds like you care for her very much if you don’t want to hurt her feelings. Normally you wouldn’t care.”

“Of course I care, she found me when I needed somepony the most. That’s something you won’t forget easily. I worry if I say something to her again, I’ll say something that I might regret, and I don’t want that.” Amelia broke away from his grasp, pacing back and forth as she vented her frustrations.

“Look, Amelia, I think you two just need to talk things out properly.” Jason suggested.

“I’ve tried!” Amelia exclaimed, throwing her hands up in exasperation. “Every time I bring up the subject of the contract or footy, she just changes the subject or ends the conversation. It’s frustrating because she’s been more distant than usual.”

“Then it’s obvious something has happened to make her feel so strongly about footy.” Jason reasoned. “Did she even tell you why she doesn’t want you to play? You’ve got to know that much.”

“Yeah, she told me it was because she’s worried I’d get majorly injured. Dumb excuse, right?”

“No, not exactly.” Jason interjected quickly, causing Amelia to halt her pacing.

“I mean... yeah, it sucks and it sets you back a lot, but—”

“I don’t think you understand, Amelia.” Jason said, his tone shifting to a more serious one, catching Amelia’s attention with the gravity of his voice.

How strange... That’s what Fluttershy said too...

“What do you mean?” Amelia now challenged, skepticism lacing her words as she crossed her arms. Jason sighed, looking at Amelia with remorse.

“I guess no one has told you then.”

“Told me what!” Amelia said with exasperation, frustrated by the sudden seriousness of football. What the hell is going on!? What the hell is the fuss? An injury is an injury, it’ll heal, it’s not that serious... right? A frown appeared on Jason’s face suddenly, and he looked away for a second, rubbing his knee instinctively.

“Do you remember when I had my surgery done on my knee? An ACL Reconstruction?” Jason murmured, lifting up his pant leg, showing Amelia his inch-long scar just below his knee, barely visible, but Amelia knew where to look.

“Yeah... what about it?” Amelia asked, seeing the faded scar building her anxiety.

“Well, surgery isn’t that simple here, unfortunately. If anything, it’s a risk.” Jason said, glancing back with an unusual seriousness. “I don’t know the specifics, something about failed surgeries because of the body’s immune system rejecting new tissue. I don’t understand it myself, but what I do understand is that when your ACL is torn in this world... your hoofball career is over...” Jason said in a soft tone, bringing his scarred knee to his chest, and placing his chin on top.

“What...” Amelia said with scrutiny, not believing what Jason had uttered. “B-but... they have magic... can’t they just—you know, heal it with magic?”

“Apparently not, Amelia.” Jason replied, a sigh escaping his lips. “You know what the funny thing is? The Medical Industry has gotten nowhere in their research, so everyone has given up on them, the promise of finding an answer becoming more and more unlikely. It has come to a point where every player has an injury termination clause in their contract with the club, meaning if you tear any sort of ligament, you are released from the club immediately with the full pay of the contract.”

Jason paused, his gaze distant as he absorbed the harsh realities of his new world. “It’s harsh, I know.” he finally said, his voice tinged with resignation. “No one really warned me until I saw it happen to a teammate. It’s a different game here, Amelia. The stakes are higher, not just in terms of competition but in terms of personal risk.”

Amelia’s expression grew somber, her previous irritation fading into concern. “I had no idea it was like this.” she murmured, her thoughts racing. “No wonder Fluttershy’s been so worried. I thought she was just being overprotective.”

Jason nodded, his face reflecting a mix of empathy and sadness. “Yeah, it’s a lot to take in. Here, an injury doesn’t just mean a time-out or a pause—it can mean the end. The magic here isn’t like the stories back home. It’s powerful, yes, but it has its limits, especially when it comes to healing serious injuries.”

Amelia ran her fingers through her mane, a gesture of frustration and confusion. “So, what you’re saying is... if I get seriously injured, that could be it for my hoofball career? Just like that?” Her voice cracked slightly with the weight of the revelation.

“Exactly.” Jason confirmed, his look grave. “That’s why they put those clauses in the contracts. It’s protection for the clubs, but it leaves players like you very vulnerable.”

The reality of her situation settled over Amelia like a heavy blanket, dampening her earlier excitement about her prospects in hoofball. “This... this changes everything.” she admitted, feeling a chill despite the warm evening air.

As Amelia stood there, the gravity of Jason’s words weighed heavily on her. Inside her mind, a storm brewed, her thoughts swirling with the fear of what a serious injury could mean for her. The risk of tearing an ACL—an injury that could abruptly end her dreams—cast a long shadow over her passion for the sport.

Hoofball had always been her escape, a place where she could push her limits and shine. The thrill of diving for a save, the adrenaline rush of defending her goal against a powerful striker, the joy of being part of a team—all these were parts of her life she cherished deeply. Yet now, each dive and each save felt like a gamble, each game a roll of the dice with her future on the line.

Could she really give up the sport she loved? The thought of walking away from the pitch, hanging up her gloves, was unimaginable. But the alternative—facing a potential injury that could not only sideline her but end her ability to play at all—was terrifying. Her dreams, once so vivid and within reach, now seemed fragile, like glass that could shatter with just one wrong move.

Fluttershy was right... I didn’t understand...

Jason noticed the turmoil etched on Amelia’s face, her eyes searching for answers he knew he couldn’t simply hand to her. He understood the depth of her conflict, the passion clashing with prudence, a battle that each athlete might face in their own way. He let out a slow breath, gathering his thoughts before speaking.

“Amelia.” he began, his voice calm and steady, aiming to ground her swirling thoughts. “This is something you need to figure out on your own. I know you love the sport—nobody doubts that—but you have to decide what’s more important: the game or your long-term health.”

He paused, letting his words sink in, then continued with a gentle firmness. “Talk to Fluttershy. Not just about the contract or about playing for The Toffees, but about how you feel, about your fears and your dreams. She cares about you, that much is obvious, and she’s worried for a reason. Maybe if you both lay it all out, you can find a middle ground.”

Jason’s suggestion seemed simple, yet Amelia knew it held layers of complexity. Communicating her feelings, her doubts, and her desires was essential, not just to potentially ease the tension with Fluttershy but to clarify her own thoughts. It wasn’t just about getting permission to play; it was about understanding and addressing the genuine concerns that came with the sport.

“Be honest with her, Amelia.” Jason added, seeing the resolve begin to form in her eyes. “And be honest with yourself too. Whatever decision you make, it has to be one you can live with, without regrets.”

Amelia nodded slowly, absorbing his advice. The path forward wasn’t clear-cut, but at least now she had a starting point: open, heartfelt conversation. With a slight but grateful smile, Amelia thanked her brother for his guidance, feeling a little steadier for it. The journey ahead would be challenging, but it was hers to shape, and she was ready to take the first step.

“Thanks, Jason...”

“No worries, kiddo.” Jason reassured. Jason glanced at the sky, the day slipping into twilight, the golden hues of sunset giving way to the deep blues of the evening. He could sense that Amelia was still processing everything they'd discussed, her mind likely racing with thoughts and emotions she hadn't yet fully sorted out.

“Come on.” Jason said softly, placing a comforting hand on Amelia’s shoulder. “Let’s get you home.”

Amelia nodded, her expression a mix of determination and fatigue. The weight of their conversation lingered, but she knew it was time to face Fluttershy, even if the real discussion would have to wait until tomorrow. They walked side by side, the quiet of the evening settling around them as they made their way through Ponyville. The once bustling streets had calmed, with only a few ponies here and there, winding down their day.

When they reached Fluttershy’s cottage, the lights were dim, and the gentle sounds of nature surrounded them, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Jason gave Amelia a reassuring nod as they reached the door.

“Thanks, Jason.” Amelia said, her voice soft but sincere. “For everything.”

“Anytime, sis.” Jason replied with a small smile. “Just remember, whatever happens, you’re not alone in this. I’m just a call away.”

With that, Amelia took a deep breath and opened the door quietly, stepping into the cozy warmth of the cottage. She moved through the familiar space, her eyes adjusting to the soft glow of the few lamps still lit. She noticed the slight creak of the floorboards as she tiptoed to Fluttershy’s room, hoping not to disturb her.

Peeking in, Amelia saw Fluttershy already in bed, her soft breaths steady and peaceful. A wave of guilt washed over Amelia as she realised how much worry she must have caused Fluttershy lately. She silently vowed to have that important conversation tomorrow, to clear the air and ensure they were on the same page.

For now, Amelia retreated to her own room, her mind still buzzing but her heart a little lighter. As she slipped under the covers, she whispered into the night, “Tomorrow… I’ll make it right.”

With that promise to herself, Amelia let her eyes close, the day’s emotions gradually ebbing away as she drifted into sleep, knowing that when tomorrow came, she’d be ready to face whatever it brought.

Comments

[DATONETWIxDASHFAN]

I'm guessing ch16 wasn't ready to come out? :/

[Norwegian boy]

Her brother has boobs, boobs.