38 - Den of Nightmares
As the last name on the list sunk in, I began to protest, “Miss Sweetheart, I can understand Mr. Cake, and I suppose I can understand Miss Heartstrings, but Coins? You said yourself he’s a disciple of Nightmare Moon. How could his-”
She pursed her lips in annoyance, “Mr Alex Roberts, are you questioning my decision?” She continued before I could answer, “Because you’re welcome to take this to the appeals court.”
I pinched the bridge of my nose, “No, sorry, that’s not what I mean. I guess I was just... surprised Coins was an option. We may have buried the hatchet, but he still... Anyway, if that’s your decision, I’ll respect it.”
She seemed to relax a tiny bit, then quietly sighed, “I know my choices seem arbitrary, but they are all for very good reasons.”
Dash glared daggers at Miss Sweetheart. Her voice was low and menacing, “I’ll just bet...”
I turned to Dash and placed my hand on her cheek. She turned to face me, her eyes glued to Sweetheart for a heartbeat longer before she fully turned to face me. “Dash, please. I know you’re as upset as I am, but she’s just doing what’s best for Scootaloo. Honestly, I’m thankful to even have this opportunity. I mean, I’m as alien as you can get, yet your society said it would give me the chance... no, the privilege, to try to prove my worthiness to be that little filly’s dad. I’m thankful, Dash. Truly grateful.”
Scootaloo’s caregiver cleared her throat. We both turned to her, myself expectant. Dash was annoyed, but she was hiding it like a champ. “Now, Alex, Rainbow, there is one more thing. At this point in the adoption process, you will not be allowed to have any contact until you are approved. This would normally be for the duration of the meeting, but, again, the law didn’t foresee this situation.”
It was my turn to lose my cool, “Well, what about Dash? I mean, she’s been approved, right? I don’t want my little girl to think we’ve abandoned her.”
There was a pause as Sweetheart looked at the door behind us, “I assure you, Scootaloo is well aware of the adoption process and of your current standing.” She raised her voice, “Aren't you, Scootaloo?”
I turned to the door and noticed the light giving away a shadow, followed by scampering noises. I couldn’t help but smile.
Miss Sweetheart smiled warmly, then glanced around the room and leaned forward. She whispered kindly, “She’s never done that before, you know. She loves you two so very much, and I hope and pray to Celestia I can approve you, Alex.”
Sweetheart suddenly got this strangely determined look in her eye. I had seen that look before in the eyes of Garat, son of Sinabi, the look of a principled person about to betray the system they believe in. “In fact, I think that your approval is a certainty no matter what. But the faster you get me those testimonials, the faster you can all be together as the loving, happy family you are.”
I glanced at Dash and felt the warm glow of her strength in my heart. “Miss Sweetheart, we’ll get you those testimonials as quickly as we can, and we appreciate everything you’ve done so far. I always knew Dash would be a great mom. I hope I can be just as good a dad.”
I held out my hand to Scootaloo’s guardian. Her gaze flicked between my eyes and my hand, seemingly not understanding.
Dash explained, “It’s like a hoof bump, but you hold on lightly and shake. It’s a human thing.”
Sweetheart cocked an eyebrow. “Rainbow, I know what a hoof shake is. You’ll have to forgive me, but ponies in Alex’s position are usually very upset and not friendly at all. I was just... surprised.” She seemed to come to some kind of decision. As her hoof pressed against my palm, she spoke in a low voice, “For the first time in a very long time,” I felt her telekinetic grip pull my palm more tightly, “I can see where the system might be failing.” Her expression was fierce, “It’s a good system, Alex. Even with its flaws. I will ensure that it works for you, no matter the cost.”
Dash and I were both taken aback. We made eye contact for a moment to confirm that we had understood the same thing. ‘Did she just say she would fudge the results if they didn’t come out our way? I’m glad Applejack’s not here. We would never hear the end of it.’
Dash and I walked slowly, quietly, in Ponyville Park. My hand was on her neck, and I could feel the athletic muscles flow easily under my fingers. Something had been weighing on my mind since we left Miss Sweetheart’s office. “So... Dash. Do you know if Sweetheart has any connections to Scootaloo? I mean, personal connections? I get it that she likes us, and anybody could tell she thinks the world of that little filly. Who wouldn’t, right? But I can’t understand why she would risk her job and Scootaloo’s adoption just to make sure we get to adopt her.”
We stopped, and she placed a hoof on my arm, “You know, Alex, you really shouldn’t look for the chaos in harmony.”
It took me a moment to understand, “You’re right. I shouldn’t look a gift horse in the mouth. Sometimes, it’s not worth it to dig too deeply into another person’s reasoning.”
It was her turn to look at me, both perplexed and slightly insulted, “I hate it when Twilight uses that expression. Don’t you start using it too.”
I half smiled sheepishly, “I wasn’t thinking. It’s a very old human expression. Anyway, I’ll be grateful to her for the rest of my life, and if I can help her in any way, I will.”
We found a bench by the playground and watched the children playing, squealing and laughing. A few of Dash’s young fans gawked, and one timidly approached us.
The light green unicorn with the blond mane spoke hesitantly, “Miss Rainbow Dash? What... what are you doing here in the park? N-Not that we mind.”
The rainbow speedster smiled kindly, “Actually, kid, me and my special friend here are a little bummed out because we’re trying to adopt a very special filly, and we ran into a snag. No biggie, but,” she shrugged and turned to me, “Mind if I give them a little show?”
I smiled at her, then looked at the unicorn pony colt. “What’s your name, son?”
“Clockwork, sir.”
“Well, Clockwork,” I turned my eyes again to Dash, and her eyes came to life, “you and your friends are about to help the one and only Rainbow Dash cheer up by watching her show off some of her best tricks. Does that sound good?”
“Keen gears, does it ever!” He turned back to the crowd of colts and fillies that had gathered, “Guys! She said yes! She’s gonna show us her best tricks!”
Dash’s young fans cheered excitedly. I knew she needed this, and I could see a faint blush across her face. She loved the adulation, and sometimes, even my dedicated attention was not enough. I felt joyful at seeing her bask in their cheers.
We must have spent an hour entertaining the kids, Dash flying and performing her daring tricks while I acted as a colour commentator. At the top of a loop, I could see her turn her head; then, she quickly came to a hover, just looking beyond the playground. I saw her smile so sadly, yet so lovingly, that I could feel it in my chest. She suddenly put on one of those bursts of speed I would never get used to. She flew around in a complex pattern and shaped a cloud into a heart.
The kids were confused, but as I followed Dash’s gaze, I saw why she was behaving the way she was. Scootaloo and Miss Sweetheart, who I suspect were watching the show, stood a short distance away. Scootaloo and I locked eyes for a moment. She started to move towards me, but I shook my head, imploring her to stop. Not because I didn’t want to hold her and comfort her, but because I couldn’t be close to her. At that moment, had this been any other situation, I would have held her, consequences be damned. But not today. Today, I couldn’t comfort my daughter.
She stopped as if understanding. She yelled out, “Dad.” My little orange filly looked up and softly said, “Mom.” Again, my heart broke. For her sake, I kept a smile on my face, raised my hand, and waved to let her know she was not forgotten. I was thankful she was too far away to see my tears.
Miss Sweetheart smiled sadly at us and ushered Scootaloo toward Sugar Cube Corner. I made a mental note to set up an unlimited tab for her, then thought about the consequences. ‘Ok, so maybe not unlimited.’
I was taken away from my numb state by that brave Clockwork kid, “Mister? Is Scootaloo the pony you and Rainbow Dash are adopting?”
I wiped my eyes and smiled down at him, “Yes, she is.”
“No way! Scootaloo is way cooler than we thought! She said she was getting private lessons from Rainbow Dash, but we thought she was, you know, making it up.”
Dash landed with grace beside me, sniffed as she flicked a few errant hairs out of her eyes, and laughed a little. “No way, dude. She’s my awesome little filly, and she’s the coolest kid I know.”
As we left the park, I realized we were being followed. The little mob of kids was trying to be discreet, but it proved impossible with their constant whispering and giggling. We gave them a little wave and decided to ignore them.
Dash bumped her shoulder into my side. “That was fun, Alex. I... I needed that. It’s been a crazy few days, with the popping cat and the chaos magic and the adoption.” There were more whispers and giggles from the gaggle of fillies and colts trailing behind us, and I couldn’t help but snicker. Dash, however, was still serious. “I know you do your best, but...”
“Shush.” Dash gave me an incredulous half-smile. “You love being at the centre of attention, and I’m cool with that. It’s part of who you are, and like I said this morning, I love the whole package.” I leaned in for a kiss, but Dash stopped me with a hoof on my lips.
She motioned with her eyes and whispered, “Alex... kids.”
I matched her whisper, knowing she was the only one who would hear me. “Let’s give them something to talk about at school.”
Dash smirked. “Alex... no... let’s go grab some lunch. We can spend some quiet time tonight. Anyway, do you really want to embarrass your daughter before she even becomes your daughter?”
I batted my eyelashes in innocence. “Of course. Isn’t that what a dad is supposed to do?”
She smiled a little sadly at me. “Not today.”
I was struck by her reaction and decided to stop joking around. “You’re right, not today. I’ll even hold back for a full week when this is all over.” I moved my hand to the back of her head, my thumb lightly touching her ear. “I just wanted to distract you, take your mind off things. That’s all.”
She blinked slowly, that sad little smile still on her lips, “I know. And tonight, we’ll comfort each other because I need some time with you. Just you.”
She turned back to the kids and raised her voice so they could hear, “Alright, me and my special friend are heading off to lunch. If you’re good, I might give you another show tomorrow. Just... er... have a great afternoon.” Her eyes grew a little sadder, and I could see they were getting moist., “And tell Scootaloo—” Dash faltered. “Tell her—” She faltered again, “tell her— her mom says to hang in there.”
We always seemed to end up at Chez Bouffe. That is not too surprising, considering the size of Ponyville. Anyway, they practically had a custom menu for me. The waiter, Classy Server, knew us, and we were friends. I greeted him in what had become our usual routine. “Allo mon vieux! Comment ca va?”
'Pas pire, Alex. Toi et Rainbow Dash vous voulez vous asseoir dedans ou dehors?
It made me smile when he spoke French, especially now that he had a pronounced Quebecois accent. I suppose that would be considered quite exotic here.
“I think we’ll sit outside today, Classy. Watch the world go by.”
“Where’s the little filly that usually hangs out with you two? Scootaloo, right?”
“That’s right. We’re in the process of adopting her.”
“Hey, that’s great! So, where is she?”
“Well, we ran into a snag.” I rubbed the back of my neck. “My fault, really. Not local enough, I suppose. I just need a few written affidavits. They want to be sure I’m not some crazed predator that will eat you all in your beds, I guess. Dash got green stamped in about five minutes.”
“Well, I hope everything turns out okay. I hear you got your foreleg busted up taking care of that popping cat. I’m not much of one for violence, but this thing was dangerous. Tell you what, lunch is on me. Least I can do to thank you.”
I protested. “Hey, look. I was just saving my own skin.”
But he insisted. “Saving your own skin, nothing. I heard you saved your missus and little filly. You also did a great service to this town, and you should be proud of both. What you did changed some opinions about you, all for the better. Now, you’ll take a free lunch, and you’ll be grateful for it.”
I raised my hand in surrender, “Alright, you win.”
We placed our orders and sat, each in our own little worlds. Looking off into the distance, I admired the towering spires of the Coins mansion.
I spoke quietly, and Dash only smiled sadly at me, “You know, Dash, normally I would save Coins for last, but this is important, and I want to strike while the iron’s hot. I think he’s the kind of guy who would be impressed if I go to him first. The last time we talked, we left on, well, not exactly good terms, but better than they were. I hope I can use that to our advantage.” I reached over the table and gave her neck a loving squeeze. “No point in wasting this advantage on anything less important.”
I chuckled. “Who knows, maybe one day we’ll be having a barbeque with Coins and his family, laughing about the old days and celebrating the new.”
Dash chuckled. “You’re so cute when you try to redeem the unredeemable.”
“How does the song from that stupid show go?” I cleared my throat and started singing quietly. Badly.
”My Little Pony,
I used to wonder what friendship could be,
Da da da da, da da,
mummum..shared its magic with me”
Dash snickered at my impromptu lyrics.
“Big adventure”
She snorted, knowing it was her part in the song.
“Tons of fun,
A beautiful heart,
Faithful and strong,
Sharing kindness,
It's an easy feat,
And magic makes it all complete,
You have my- mmmph”
It’s hard to sing when receiving a kiss from Rainbow Dash. Still laughing, she pulled away. “Okay, okay! I get it, mister creepy town pony show fan. And that’s totally cool. You know I believe in you, you big lug. It’s that jerk I have doubts about. And...” she smiled sweetly, “thanks for making me laugh.”
I fell into her eyes and could only smile. “That means a lot to me.”
She flashed me that little mischievous smirk. “That I don’t trust Coins?”
I chuckled. “Yes, my heart is all aflutter because you’re a little unsure about a sociopath. Unlike you, I want to invite him to the family barbeque and give him piggyback rides.”
Dash chortled. “You are a goof and a good person, and I,” her cheeky grin grew, “am a good influence on you.’
I walked up, alone, to the increasingly familiar front steps of the Coins estate, the gold leaf columns still as impressive as ever. Dash and I decided it would be best if I went alone. I tentatively knocked on the front door and waited.
I could hear a child’s voice calling out, “Door.” In a slightly higher, peevish tone, she repeated herself, “Door!” She finally called out shrilly, “DOOR!” still more peevishly, if that was possible. This was followed by a pained sigh and the clip-clop sounds of a filly walking on marble floors.
The door opened, and I was greeted by a little silver-grey filly with a braided silver mane, a pair of glasses, and a string of pearls. We both stood, blinking at each other. I smiled. She let loose with the most startling, blood-curdling scream I think I have ever heard in my life. We both stumbled away from each other, my hand raised in defence. Based on the volume and terror, you would think I was trying to serve her up as cold cuts. The poor little thing seemed absolutely terrified.
Before I could say anything, I heard a thunder of hooves on marble. Turning a corner and galloping down the hall came a very angry Ms Butterscotch, soaking wet, mane and tail dripping with suds and soap. As she charged, she yelled, “Silver, get away from that thing before it hurts you!”
She came skidding to a halt. I was stunned at this very sudden and unexpected turn of events. But I managed to regain my cool in time to calmly speak out, “I’m here to see Mr Coins.”
She stood quite close to me, dripping on the marble floors. I could smell the scented soaps she used, “You’re not welcome here, Alex Roberts.”
I repeated calmly, “I need to speak to Golden Coins. It’s a personal matter.”
I looked up at the sound of angry stomping and cursing from down the hall. A snarling Golden Coins bellowed, “What in the name of Night- oh,” his expression became neutral, “Alex, so good to see you again so soon. Miss Butterscotch, please dry yourself off, and Silver, dear, do refrain from screaming at daddy’s... friends.”
Miss Butterscotch mumbled, “I apologize for my rudeness, Mr Coins, but I heard Silver screaming. In the future, I will greet Mr Alex Roberts,” she seemed to choke on the last word, “warmly.” With that, she trotted quickly back to what I assumed was the bathroom.
Silver Spoon looked back and forth between myself and Coins for a few moments before speaking very timidly, “Y-Yes, Daddy. Welcome to our home, Mr Alex Roberts.” I was a little shocked; that kid looked just as afraid of her dad as she was of me.
“Come along, Mr Roberts, let us go to my new office and speak with some privacy.” He trotted quickly down the hall, turning into the room he had charged out of.
As I entered the familiar den, I observed the window had been partially boarded over and wallpapered. The desk was a chaotic mess of ledger sheets, various stamps, and coloured pencils. To his side, within easy reach, was an ornate golden cup, and it included the ubiquitous bendy straw used by every pony. To his left sat an overstuffed Victorian-style chair.
He gestured toward the chair, “Please, sit. Mr Davenport is truly gifted in the furniture-making arts. Do you know he built this based only on his own observations of you about town?”
“Thank you, sir.”
He waved a hoof dismissively, “You shall call me Golden, and I shall call you Alex. Now sit.” He added under his breath, “So we can get on with our lives.”
I sat, and it was like putting my backside in heaven. I have literally never sat in a more comfortable chair. He must have read my expression, “I can see you approve of Mr Davenport’s hoofwork.”
I wiggled my backside a little, revelling in the comfort. “Very much so. I’ll have to commission one just like it for my home.”
Coins gave me a bored look, then sipped from his cup and mused, “An excellent red wine with imported rose sea salt. A perfect blend. Would you care for some?”
“No thank you, s— Golden.”
“Are you sure you don’t want some? I always add the salt separately, and I can have an extra bottle brought up. Besides, I find it better to match the salt with the wine.” He took another sip and, with a very slight smile, “Yes, quite delightful. Now, I’m sure you’re not here for a friendly visit. Our business meeting is not for two days. What is it that I can do for you, Alex?”
I was surprised at his cool yet friendly behaviour. “It is a rather personal matter, Golden. I’m not sure if you’re aware, but Rainbow Dash and I are in the process of adopting a pegasus filly named Scootaloo. Since I am, as they say, not a local, I was asked to secure affidavits as to my fitness to be a father. Your name was on the list, and I wanted to seek your help first, seeing as you’re such a respected member of this community.” I did my best to keep my demeanour humble and subservient and my tone not sarcastic. It hurt, but what was a little self-respect for her?
His expression remained neutral, and I was sure he was evaluating my words, weighing them. His eyes flicked to some photos on the mantelpiece. One was a young mare with glasses and a string of pearls. I recognized her as Silver Spoon. The other, older one looked like a wedding photo, with Coins being the happy groom and the bride the spitting image of the other photo, right down to the glasses, pearls, and braided mane.
Coins looked back at me with a genuine, sad smile. “We both know that’s a lie. My reputation is for hating feath—” He frowned, catching himself, and I pretended not to notice. “...non-earth ponies is common knowledge.”
I shrugged. “I don’t know about that. I find rumours and ‘what everyone knows’ to be an inaccurate source of information.”
He considered me for a moment, then gave a short chuckle. “Well said. Now, back to the matter at hand. I suppose I owe you a great personal debt. Thanks to you, Princess Luna herself has seen fit to impart Her wisdom on my blessed home. She has not only acknowledged me personally, but She has also sent me several letters with guidance to make me a better pony. One of those letters,” He motions with his forehoof to the back wall displaying three scrolls, “asked that I tell you about a certain incident that may have led to my,” he pursed his lips for a moment, “reputation.”
He took a long sip from his wine, sighed, and spoke in an unemotional tone, “My wife’s name was Platinum Ladle. She was breathtakingly beautiful, a brilliant chef, kind, warm, and she had a wonderfully mischievous sense of humour. She was everything a stallion could want in a wife and a friend.”
Coins seemed lost in thought for a moment, so I took the opportunity to comment, “She sounds like a wonderful person. I’m sorry I never had a chance to meet her.”
He smiled sadly, “It had been a very good year, both personally and financially. It was our first wedding anniversary, and my dear Platinum was ten months pregnant. We decided to live like the nouveau rich that we were.”
He took another sip of wine before continuing, “The travel agent promised us, assured us, the cloud walking spell would last for two weeks, plenty of time to enjoy Cloudsdale, see the sights, wine and dine, no salt for Platinum of course.”
“In retrospect, the unicorn who cast the spell seemed to be out of sorts. I had met so very few unicorns at the time. I thought it was normal for them to look so bedraggled, having to wield all that mighty magical power. He did me first, then... Platinum.”
“The first day, we arrived by chariot at the Grand Hotel in Cloudsdale. It was wondrous, and my sweet Platinum was awestruck, as was I. We had a tour of the weather factory, the Colosseum, and even the ancient temples. Oh, I know how touristy it is, but we were inexperienced and both from humble backgrounds. We thought that’s what rich ponies did, so,” he takes a long sip, “we did as the rich did.”
I was curious, “But if your wife was that far along in her pregnancy, why would you take a risky vacation like that?”
He took a sip, “We were young, in love, and my precious Silver Spoon was soon arriving. We knew we would not be able to take such a trip again for years, so we wanted a last fling, a last hurrah.”
This time Coins picked up the goblet and drained it, spilling some on his coat, but he didn’t seem to notice. He then carried the empty goblet to a small table with various bottles of wine and several shallow bowls with salt.
I had seen it done before, ponies walking on three legs and carrying something in the fourth. Dash told me the trick was to grip the ground with their rear hooves and not take the third leg off the ground for too long. It would seem earth ponies have more opportunity to practise than others.
Coins put two spoonfuls of salt in his goblet, quite a bit as I understand it, then topped it off with red wine. Before returning he took another spoonful of salt and poured it in his mouth. Even Dash, when she’s partying, wouldn’t do that.
I was a little worried and spoke gently, “Hey, Golden. Are you sure that much salt is a good idea? Based on what I’ve seen, that’s a lot of it. Are you okay?”
Wavering slightly, he just looked at me as if he had never seen me before. “That is very kind, Alex. Few show me kindness. Not to ‘Stinky Old Coins’, as the children say.” He turned his head away sadly, then looked back at me with a curious smile, “I have done nothing but be cruel and mean-spirited to you, yet you show me compassion. Even when you attacked me, you made sure not to harm me. For this, I thank you, Alex.”
Coins returned to his seat, put the straw back in, and took a sip. “Now, where was I? Ah, yes. The last day of my dearest Platinum.”
“It was our second night, and we had gone to bed early. Well, you know how a pregnant,” he seemed to be racking his memories for a moment, then brightened, “woman?” I nodded, “likes to have her hooves rubbed. We were in bed, she was resting her head on a cloud pillow, and I was there, at her hooves, easing the pain and discomfort our little Silver Spoon inadvertently brought with her. She started complaining that the pillow was getting soft. I... I laughed. I thought she was joking. She was always making silly little jokes like that. Then she started screaming and...” Coins drank deeply, ignoring the straw. He dropped the goblet, spilling wine and salt on the floor.
Coins then did something I didn’t expect: he wept. Not just a few controlled tears, but an anguished wail, an expression of profound grief. After a moment, he spoke with obvious difficulty, gasping as he continued his story, “...her hoof slipped out from mine. I was a bank clerk, not some muscle-bound field hand. I didn’t have the strength to hold her. I simply didn’t have the strength. In a panic, I called the front desk, and they called the City Guard.”
He composed himself, that calm facade back in place, “Did you know it takes approximately sixty seconds to fall from Cloudsdale to the ground? An average pegasus can make that distance at full flight in about twenty seconds. The City Guard left after exactly forty-two seconds. By the time they reached her, she had already hit the lake's edge.”
Coins stared into space briefly, and I didn’t dare interrupt him. He continued without looking at me. “Do you know who was the first to get to her? Miss Butterscotch. At the time, she was a nursing student. She had been enjoying an evening walk by the lake. She saw Platinum hit the shallow water. She was able to keep Platnum alive long enough for the paramedics to cut my little one from her mother’s womb. By the time I got there, Miss Butterscotch was holding my perfect, healthy daughter. My perfect little filly, who looked exactly like her mother. Her perfect, beautiful mother. And now, my trusted employee, then my best friend in this world, Miss Butterscotch, takes care of my perfect little filly.”
There was a long silence while Coins quietly looked at the photos on the mantelpiece. I was at a loss as to what to say, so I said the only thing I could think of, “I’m so sorry, Golden.”
“Well, I suppose the best thing I could do in the way of thanks would be to provide you with an honest assessment of your parenting skills.” He went to the door and yelled out, “Pencil Pusher! I need to dictate a letter.”
I returned to the restaurant where Dash was nervously waiting. The moment she spotted me, she leapt into the air and flew at me in a blur, “So, how did it go? Did he go for it?”
I smirked, “Does this answer your question?” With a confident smirk and a flourish only agile hands could provide, I produced a scroll sealed with the Coins family crest. “I was escorted to the garden to wait.” I chuckled, “I’m sure Coins whispered the whole thing to Pencil Pusher so I couldn’t hear it. Anyway, it must be impressive. It took an hour to write it. Lucky for me, Miss Butterscotch brought out snacks and a drink. I think she only spit in my cup once.” Dash snickered, and I continued with a shrug. “I didn’t mind. Ponies have good oral hygiene.” Dash laughed and eww’ed, all while nuzzling my cheek. “I was really nice to her no matter what she did. Drove her nuts.” Dash snickered in earnest.
After a full minute, Dash’s snickering trailed off, and her expression became sober. She held the scroll in her hoof, balancing it on its end. “I wonder what he said. I mean, it could say anything. Isn’t it driving you crazy?”
“Nope. I did everything I could to get him on my side, and now there’s nothing to do but wait.” I held her in my arms, “I saw a side of him that I never expected. It was... sad.” I gave her a peck on the nose, “I think I can help him heal, stop the hate.”
“Don’t put your hopes up, Alex. He’s been that way for as long as I can remember.” She pushed me back a little and flashed her trademark confident smirk at me, “But if anyone can do it, you can, you big lug.”
I smiled, then remembered my promise and facepalmed. “Shoot, I was so excited about getting the letter from Coins, I almost forgot going to see Fluttershy. Come on, let's go before it’s dark. The last thing I want is to be walking near the woods at night.” I chuckled, “Again.”
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Sweet. Things seem to be looking up...
No matter how much time has actually passed, it always seems like its been far too long since stories of this quality have been updated. Another brilliant chapter, may you create many more, and continue to enthrall us.
Another satisfying chapter.
Best damn birthday present so far!
Thanks for the update.I've been waiting awhile for it and am glad to see that it was worth the wait.I hope to see the next one soon. :)
I approves of this chapter and nice touch with the sad tragic story of Golden Coins wife.
Till next time, good sir.
You almost made me tear, good job
Nice, now I want to know what Alex has to do to get the other two approvals.
You forgot to edit out one of the comments from google docs.
Also, a few changes from the last time I read through(what I get for missing chat sessions I guess XD), and a little disappointed that part of the bit with Coins was cut, but still an excellent chapter overall.
Hes stuck there for 2919999.9927 Equestrian years
1930066 Happy late birthday
The 'accident' at Cloudsdale really hit hard, despite the short recollection by Coins. I'm still not quite convinced this was somehow translated into a deep loathing of all pegasi since it was a unicorn that ultimately failed him. I could see how he would hate unicorns, just not the same for pegasi. In any case, it gives reason for our intrepid two-legger to continue seeing Coins and try to help him face those self-imposed demons.
And with the ease he got the testimonial out of Coins, it makes he hesitant in wondering how the two will go. If it's too easy, something nasty is going to blindside you soon. It's a rule of adventuring. (That and everything's a trap. And don't split the party. Never split the party)
Well with that turn of events and a heartfelt story from Coins. I highly doubt he'd pull a boner on Alex now. Coins will learn to move forward, and I think he knows that Alex will help him. Fantastic chapter as is all the others
. Just wish you had a little more time to write the chapters out a little faster
. But don't worry, your story is well worth the wait!
Just what exactly would you serve at a barbecue with ponies? (meaning they're attending, that is.)
that park scene... right in the feels
Coins down, now for the a certain green mint colored unicorn.
Once again, glad I helped you with this chapter. But as usual, you did the most and the best work. Well done Tech!
media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lvdbm1c5ga1qagdmj.png
He seems to be a little TOO nice
You left author notes and killed my suspicion that he denied it since Alex caused terror to his filly. It would have been a horrible turn.
Glad to be of service!
Following this story is both a blessing and a curse. I get super exited when you update it
but then the chapter ends
Btw, you forgot the "i" in "Platinum" the first time you wrote the name.
1932050
Please, you, and an army of others, turn my half assed prose into full assed prose.
1931681
I have actually spent an unhealthy amount of skull sweat on the subject. He would need two barbecues, one for meat and one for everything else. Or, he would be cooking up tofu, shaped like steaks.
1930664
Darn you otherwise perfect Google Docs! Darn you all to heck!
1930039
Seriously, if I could quit my job and do this for a living, I would. However, since I have gotten used to the little luxuries in life (like heat, electricity, internet, and the occasional steak - sorry Mabel), it will only come true if I win the lottery. Seriously, if I suddenly start putting out a chapter every week, you'll know what happened.
1930066
Happy Birthday!
I like it. Coins isn't just a 2D asshole, he's got baggage.
I now understand Coins reasoning for being so racist to the other ponies. I feel like I'm glad that Alex and Luna manage to help him see the error of his ways, but more so from Luna since it was her that convinced him ultimately. I also feel like that the reason she combine Alex and Coins together in the same dream because Alex somewhat KNOWS that this is how racists normally start their hatred and distrust. Something like that will probably make sure anybody and anypony turn evil and hate an entire race if they suffer a tragedy like that. I feel kind of sad that Rainbow Dash won't be learn about this from Alex until he feels ready to tell her.
Heh, Silver Tiara made me laugh
It's odd that I can't remember, and I'll have to go back from the beginning at some point anyway, but I don't remember why Mrs. Butterscotch hates Alex.
i honestly love this story. you know how people who read these sorts of things a lot have a list of stories they read when they have nothing to read, then an ENTIRELY different list that they wait on the edge of their seat awaiting a new chapter in? yeah, this falls into that second category
1941091
Pretty much described my reading lists in a nutshell friend.
Left fimfiction for a bit because no one was updating fast enough for my rabid need for MOAR STORY. A month or two later and LO AND BEHOLD, THINE SAVIOR COMETH. In the form of new chapters from your story. :3 yes. I like this. I might do it more often.
1941091
Basically, when I have nothing to read, I read random stories. Usually clop tho.
1995978 ummm the Author is not gone, he just posted a new chapter! So what the heck are you talking about?
To the Author: It is to my understanding that you were revisioning this story. I would be delighted if you continued to do so.
2005713
I'm going to feed the troll and actually respond to some of this.
Sir, you don't have much to say, but you sure did manage to draw it out.
Wait, what? Your last two sentences there directly conflict with each other. And if you're saying you'd like to learn the exact metaphysics behind jumping between fictional realities, well I'm sorry but they don't offer that course yet at any college that I'm aware of.
I thought it was made pretty clear that there is some exact time, as measured in Alex's original universe, between jumps. The time-flux difference between the original universe and the current one is what determines the next jump according to Alex's perspective. He's had decades to figure the rules out. I'm sorry if this was implied instead of painstakingly filled out over the course of 10,000 words, but it's really not important in the context of the greater story.
What? There is no other explanation for why ponies are whatever they are: it's a different universe. And it was clearly laid out that each universe he's jumped to is actually the realm of a story from Earth, thus MLP, thus talking ponies.
One criterion for a Stu is that they are 'perfect' or only have meaningless flaws. Throughout this story, Alex has been shown to have PTSD as well as violent tendencies and trust issues, and an occasional guilt-ridden suicidal bent. In the context of the story these have certainly not been meaningless.
He's not a misanthrope, he hates himself. This is characteriztion.
He's spent decades jumping through horrors. Maybe you want him to come into the first peaceful universe he's met in decades, and be a miserable asshole? Sorry, but he's on vacation now, thanks, and trying not to f' things up with the people he'll be spending the next 60 years with..
----
Yes there is a certain degree of wish fulfillment in most/all HiE fics, just like there's wish fulfillment in nearly every other sort of fiction. All fiction can be is a combination of wish fulfillment, speculation, escapism, and self-assessment (either personal or societal). This story has all of the above, actually, including the latter, which is one of my more-important general measures of a good, interesting story. The general premise may not be original, but the characters have been made unique.
From your examples, it would seem to me that you have only read the very beginning, which does have its rough patches. The author's quality of writing and characterization have improved immensely. That said, even in the beginning I would never have called the characterizations shallow or one-dimensional, and the show characters have been satisfyingly extrapolated from their origins.
Anyway, really, I'm not writing this response for you--I'm writing it for Techogre: please don't let Negative Nancy McWordy here get you down.
1931681
Vegetable shish kebabs.
2006429
I'll address the issues in your rebuttal, both successful, and fail counterpoints.
First things first. For saying you'd feed the troll; alamais, you're rude, moronic, and brain-dead. I'd not give you a polite response, since you obviously lack manners. Though I do not mind being called sir, implying I'm a troll negates any possible civility we can share in the near future. Well...unless you mean you feed yourself. Stoking your ego, wishing to incite problems and whatnot, so the only troll here, is you.
Now that the pleasantries are done with, let's get on to the meat and potatoes. First point:
They do not directly conflict with each other. I've said:
My sentences above are not mutually exclusive. Sure, they don't look good back to back, but that does not mean one negates the other. If I had said "it's nice, and it's not nice to know the science behind things are" then we would have a direct conflict. When read together, in full context, they mean that too little info does no good/A proper amount will provide a nice framework for the reader's imagination. Quality information, is thus "nice", when not overdone. A good deal of my last post, was going on about how such information was not provided.
You choose to infer that I wished to get into "exact metaphysics." As if stating I had this ridiculous notion would prove you right? Hah! You're a snob, who gets his kicks talking down to supposed "trolls", using misinformation to back your cardboard arguments. That, and you're probably a terrible reader. Pay attention to the important details. Silly, and ironic of you to imply that I focus on extraneous details, since it's actually just you. Have a gander at this quote of mine:
All things leading to this quote, show that I do not hold the author to the ridiculously high standard of explaining every technical detail in the manner you believe I wish to hear. I've yet to see any argument from you in which I've failed to scrutinize anything but important aspects, of writing most fictions.
That quoted sentence from my last comment, does however, call for some standards. It was to point out that that the author should take more care to not contradict himself so often. Because he has done so. Reality jumps do not need to get into technical detail. The problem is that details revealed by the author, clash with what the author writes further into the fic. So it was perfectly reasonable for me to bring it up.
Second point you make: I concede to this point. I am someone who will admit to my own wrongs, and still point out yours for the sake of fairness. I won't be butthurt about it, or hypocritical. But I will return the douchery you've shown me. Don't you claim to have the high ground, I've still got points you can only dream to logically refute. Because my reasoning for the others is sound. There should be no confusion about this now. Let's get into details.
If you actually read my prior argument above, rather than skim it; I was not an assuming, arrogant d***wad (unlike you). I have an excuse at least, for my own assumption, which is civil. Chapter 10, is far from chapter 2. Before I had read s00perguy refute midnightblue's plot hole case in chapter 10 comments, I had assumed that the author had made yet another plot hole (about the time difference). So you had my comment right in front of you, which you somewhat rightfully argued. Somewhat. The double irony is not lost on me. I neglected to read the important bit of information s00perguy provided in the comment where he objected like an attorney.
The more important point you haven't quashed; the root of my point you haven't argued successfully. The first part of my point still stands.
Because even if the author did not give an exact number of years (which I could not care less about), but said something more vague like "decades", the point is that the contradictions are plentiful, from the author.
While I had neglected reading one comment that would have prevented that one point. (Woo...Good job pointing it out!) I still can't get on my high-horse like you do, all the time in your post. You stick true to your nature. You were a total a**hat in that response as well. Your incessant desire for drama is lacking, like your non-existent wit. Refer to my burn argument #1 for why your nonsense comment here, of me possibly wanting an essay of 10,000 words, rather than being satisfied with inferring, is invalid.
An example of why what I've said is a huge plot hole in the story, and why you don't need a degree in quantum physics to know that it exists: time is a concept that humans created. The dumbest idiots know that time itself won't move that one rock sitting on the plains. But over time, shifting of land, wind, and animals can move the rock to a different location relative to the physical plane it's on. Nature will move that rock. Time is just a variable that factors into developing nature. TIME and SPACE are compartmentalized separately. When you've got creatures with godlike powers, living not too far from your current location (Celestia and Luna), it seems stupid that you'd wait 60 years without asking the princesses if they'd speed things up. And the knowledge of Alex's background, and that the royals could help was in the grasp of several ponies, and if Alex believed Fluttershy in the 1st chapter, him too.
Thirdly, I stated the relative location of what I quote from chapter 4, to give context to my bolded words. You get the wrong idea. I do not care that they are ponies. That was just to give the quote's location, and to sequence events. The bolded part of my statement (you bold the wrong words) is counter evidence to the constancy that Alex perceives.
Chapter 1:
I bolded MY own words, in my last post (not the words you bolded in yours) to show that Alex may not be the sharpest tool in the shed. He's in a different reality. Much is different in that reality. He claims that the stars are a constant. He claims that each reality has different rules, but keeps making weird mistakes. Luna shifts constellations around, with artistic license, and godlike power over the cosmos.
What I've said may have confused you. It is not what you've made it out to be.
Fourth: Nah. Alex is a Gary Stu. There is a difference between what you say Alex does and is, and what he really is (which is a Gary Stu). You've got the definition for Gary Stu down though. And Alex fits it. Alex chooses to make do, and forgive those who hurt him, in his past, despite being tortured/enslaved all day, every day, for a long time. Does that mean that his past is now meaningless? No it doesn't. It's a part of him he's come to accept. Even though he explicitly stated that he would have no need for his survivalist behaviors, he does not really know that. Danger comes to Equestria on occasion, and sometimes it is necessary to venture out beyond safe zones.
As I've clearly stated quite often in my last post, Alex deals with all his problems (including his PTSD) in a heartbeat. Just have a pony talk to him, and judge him. He drops the problem, and compliments ponies, tugging on their heartstrings, and charming them. Every time.
Violent tendencies? Hah! He's dealt with everything he came across so far with fairness, and a lack of violence. Angel Bunny snuck up on him early in the story, causing him to pull out a knife: he put it away apologetically, and has not done it since, except to defend himself against Rainbow when she first attacked him. Self defense, as well as protecting Fluttershy, is a legitimate reason to brandish a blade, and elbow Dash in the ribs. That was about day 2 in Equestria, soon after jumping from the reality he was being hunted in.
Suicidal Bent? Solved with a few choice words from two ponies he found important. Celestia since she has authority, and Dash, his friend. Somehow, Celestia already knows about his past. Someone was spying on him. Luna in dreams? Loose lipped RD? Whatever, he's happy with the words of just these two, and he never told Ann, his wife. Deus ex machina.
Logic for Standing up to Golden Coins: Dash often threatens others with violence. She grew up with Gilda. Gilda had violent thoughts about Pinkie. We all have at various points in our lives, stood up for something, or someone. Punching another's face in, or wishing to, does not automatically make him not a Gary Stu. Double negative you see? He's a Gary Stu is what I'm saying. Miracle worker Alex. Sunshine boy.
Next point: So is Alex pulling a Luna now? With a hint of Trixie? We're? He gives quite a bit of detail into why humans are bad, with a direct statement that it's humans that possess such negative traits. You're wrong. It's misanthropy, AND characterization. He's characterizing humans generally that way, because he's a moron, a misanthrope, or both. I did not post that he was a misanthrope in my last comment, I just stated that I don't like misanthropes. Alex's comment might be made from a moment his brain shut down. But you don't know that. It's possible that he is a misanthrope, given what he's said.
Next point: No, being a miserable asshole is not what I expect of him. I only stated that the story would be more entertaining if the author made more use of drawn out suspense, and intrigue, Being miserable can be separate from being an asshole. He clings onto the opinions of the pony group like they are his lifeline. His redemption. He deeply felt that he was at fault for killing a father, and he gave up the worry in a heartbeat, because a magical pony princess who said she knew everything (vague).
He's a wuss, whose convictions are lacking. He can stand up to others, claiming a moral high ground as a defender of justice. But when it's his turn to be judged, he lays himself bare, with over the top drama. It's jarring how he goes from torn up, to "everything is good cause one or two ponies say so." Alex said multiple times that the ponies had an innocent world, and that violence had no place in it. So they are not the most qualified judges of his character. He can live among them, but none of them can truly understand what he went through. Dash even thought that she did not know most of what Alex told her about.
A one dimensional way of coping, that happens far too often. His personality is grating. He is Rarity 10 fold. Some don't mind his antics. I do. And whether this a fictional character is miserable or not, adds no weight to your argument. He can be miserable, and still not f*** up relations with the ones he might spend the next 60 years with. People in general don't like Debbie Downers, but some really don't mind, and get used to the openly miserable, not that Alex has to openly show misery. An a hole? Depends how he directs his own behavior. Remember Flutterb****? Assertive, new Fluttershy? Nobody liked her cause she took frustrations out on her friends and neighbors. But when it works for them, they don't mind, cause they get what they want.
Really. The main cast, and many more ponies all have their moments. If Alex were a rude, cynical, violent guy, he could still connect with someone. It does not have to be people you'd predict. Whatever an author writes, I can only hope that contradictions are made with good reason, and point them out, just in case.
About wish fulfillment, you know what you're talking about. It's the way this particular fic is narrated that gets irksome to me. I can disagree with your tastes, but you're entitled to enjoy this as you please. I've read 1/3 of the fic so far. That's plenty for a judgement. And for Technogre; don't let rude widdle aladisgrace here keep you from improving. Nothing wrong with a bit of honest criticism here and there.
2007383
Sorry if my 'horrible attitude' (mostly joking around, dude) rustled your jimmies, but I am serious when I say that your writing makes it basically impossible to take you seriously as a critic and commentator. You seemingly couldn't get to a point quickly if you were already there. I'm not going to bother responding to this new round, since we've already murdered this comment board with enough walls of text that accomplish nothing.
You are of course entitled to your opinions.
Just try stating them less definitively; e.g., the ideals of characterization are entirely subjective, and whether or not a character is a Gary Stu is really up to each reader. "I think Alex is too Stu, because <blah blah, one sentence, sans-glossolalia>." That's all you need, bro. Anything else just makes you seem rambly, overbearing, and condescending, which is why I--facetiously--labeled you a troll.
Ciao bella.
2007621
Now I'm on my 3rd post, a response to your 2nd post.
My 1st post contained 1558 words. Including quotes.
Your response to that 1st post, contains 1516, including quotes.
My second post contains 2345 words. Excluding the quote at the very top, which was a copy-paste of your entire 1st response.
I did the math. About 30% of my last post is quoted. When that long top quote is cut out, it goes down to about 1/4. I've been a slow reader all my life. Almost always was one of the last people in test sessions for school, but I'm thorough, and get good marks. I timed myself to see how long it would take to read my 2nd post. I went extra slow, and for to emulate a reader scenario, I asked questions in my mind, as I read through it. This is to create an appropriate timing margin. Took about 5 minutes, if you don't read the top quote, which is just a re-posting of your other comment. That's long, but it's not extreme as you make it out to be. You came pretty close for your 1st post, if you don't recall, and the second for mine is not that far off the mark. So that "unsure sweetie belle emote" is quite fitting.
Next point:
I accomplished shooting down fallacious arguments from your post, and affirmed the ones that made sense to me.
I've quoted (both direct and indirect quotes) detail, to express my own opinion, and provide factual evidence of contradictions within the Jumper story, for what I've read up to this point.
My second post, is completely in layman's terms. Let it not be said that it's not simple to comprehend in word choice.It's always a possibility in any sort of writing, that the foreign ideas of someone else, may be off-putting.
Which is why I made sure to give detailed evidence, in order to explain my deviation from the common "oh this story is so good!" sort of response. Because even if you won't (it should not be can't) agree, you'd hopefully at least relate; to see where I'm coming from. The direction of my arguments, as well as their origins.
The written structure of my second post is easier to understand, though I'm still sure that my 1st post is also not jumbled, and not full of nonsense.
Peering at the length of my last post, and giving up, without an attempt make judgement, with detailed reference of the conveyed info, can be a response, just not a proper one. If you tire of this conversation, I'm sure you'd agree that nobody would really care if you did not respond back. I'm posting this, because you may not be aware of your own condescension even now. (the less blatant, but still clearly evident smug snobbery, in your latest post, as your defense mechanism) Examples are posted, because as some people say "seeing is believing."
Each section of my second post, contains an argument, a tidbit of evidence, that addresses the mostly separate ideas, of each argument you've made, in your response to me. So, there is no struggle to really memorize everything, no truly important order necessary to comprehend a non-existent "main idea", unlike an essay. If you can't get all, or most of the ideas, not my problem. They're all about as simple as anyone can make it. As concise as it can be, without sacrificing comprehensiveness, and ease of understanding.
There are no indents, but I hit the keyboard's return key to organize each section, using an empty space. It's common practice for most people, because it works well.
You don't have some of your facts straight, again, It's one thing to have an opinion, another to overlook what has been said, and something else to tell a falsehood. Giving into the temptation of making a blanket statement, as you do to dismiss everything I've provided, only shows your ignorance, and inability to admit that some of your viewpoints have been ill-conceived. I admit that a few have merit, but others, no.
I don't negate viewpoints, without giving detailed explanation, as to the whys. You're right, we don't need to be huge boxes of text that make some people discouraged, but it is certainly better than nothing at all, or just replying to the other person with "your ideas conflict with mine, so I will just insult you in a roundabout manner."
Unlike you so far, I have been open-minded, and accommodating. Which is one of a few reasons, why your behavior is certainly more "trollish" than mine, in my opinion (does that soften my wording? I don't think so). I can't see how your perception of me being condescending, would make you think that I'm worthy of being called a "troll". However, if someone posts something that is uncommon, it does automatically make them a troll.
I justify my choice in wording, with the fact that you've been rude toward me. I believe that if you read this blogpost made by DannyJ, you'd see what I'm getting at. I see you as one of those jackasses Danny talked about. Perhaps less of one, if your apology was sincere, but I'm still posting reasons for why I disagree with what you had to say.
http://www.fimfiction.net/blog/105965/important-things-for-people-to-learn
More examples:
You seem to know the definition of a Gary Stu. You defined it. Definitive is a key word. You said that my reasoning is wrong, about why Alex is a Gary Stu, leaving no excuse for your "it is interpretive, and you should not be definitive, otherwise you'd come across as a condescending troll argument." Because you've been doing what you tell me to not do, only with the rudeness of an actual troll. And that's just one example.
You state in your latest post that the ideals of characterization are entirely subjective. Now, you could mean that some people have not considered Alex to be a Gary Stu, because they may have different ideas of what a Gary Stu really is. I'm pretty certain you don't mean that anyone would think that a Gary Stu is an ideal (as in desired) character, unless that's what the author is shooting for.
If characterization ideals are entirely subjective, it invalidates by contradiction, what you've argued. We both know what constitutes a Gary-Stu based off of what we claimed in our respective arguments, but you say that since it is subjective, that would be like saying "a widely accepted definition does not matter, because facts don't mean shit." Perspective can only carry an argument so far, in a logic based argument. And both of us worked at pointing out each other's illogic, rather than claiming "perspective is what matters." You have, up until your last post. So you made one big hypocritical turnaround, and hole in your reasoning.You would be better off claiming that both matter, since it is wrong to completely invalidate my last post, or the one before that, just because you never will consider any facts, but your own, except the fact that we have different perspectives. Or is that just another perspective to you?
You have not followed your own recommendations. Not that it's necessary, if my assertions in this reply make any sense to you.
If it bugs you that my opinion differs from yours, you still shouldn't be a condescending ass about it.
So it rustles your jimmies, that you do not see me directly state that I know what I've typed, is clearly my own opinion? Even if it contains fact?
Have a quote. Lol, My 1st paragraph, of my 1st post. Hard to miss.
Facts by their very nature, are definitive. My facts are pointed out with civility.
My opinions, are what they are, and I do not shove those down others' throats.
Get schooled son. I take condescending liberty with the previous sentence, because you have been hypocritical. No hard feelings. Just had to say that. Was thinking of saying "served" but I've not heard that within the last decade, so I went with schooled.
There are plenty of people everywhere who leave out key information. "Why?" is the big question. Was info was tuned out on accident? What were the motivations? Forgetfulness? To intentionally misinform? Hard to be sure with people you've never heard of, when you only have had a brief encounter online.
If you are apologetic for a lack of manners, and it that last post you made was not an undeserved jab, or not just a way to save face, then all is well.
I dislike insincerity, and I dislike rudeness. Granted that it's situational, but I am speaking in general terms.
All things considered, I'm fine with spending time conversing with you. Argumentative sentences might be perceived to have rude undertones, but you should at least consider what you are saying, and what I'm saying, before arguing a point, with such disrespect. Don't expect someone to agree with you every time.
Disagreements are just a part of debate, but they should be civil. I point out uncouth behavior, and would appreciate when people let me know when I'm pushing boundaries, so that I may re-evaluate my own behavior.
2007260
Yo dawg, I heard y'all Ponies eat veggies. So for the kebabs, why not put pony-fed ponies on the skewers, so you have pony in your pony, while you're a pony?
2007621
http://imapimpnamedslickback.ytmnd.com/
Or in your case, blind. Hornyunicorn made valid points. Can't say the same for you though, bro. Your mental competence is dubious, considering the flaws pointed out.
2035117 Pony cannibalism? Ooo...kayyy? Can't believe I'm about to say this...You win the internet!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g1vu11BA7Bc
You know what I'm a pony fried
A bloody cider on a Friday night
Cutie mark coats that fit just right
And the loud screams uuuupppp
They'll never again see a sunrise
I tickle the holes of their gouged out eyes
Now cooked into my customers' pies
Made with a special loooovee
2035300
I didn't like his tone (and lack of brevity), he didn't like mine (because I was/am a sarcastic ass), etc etc, we all fall down.
I don't want anymore angst.
Peace, man.
I think at this point, given then end of his last post, we've agreed to disagree?
2035488
Is that so? It's evident you have not paid any attention to what he said. I'm sure you being a sarcastic ass, and you disliking his tone and answer length, etc,etc is not the gist of his problem, based on his words.
It seems to me that the purpose of his post is not agree to disagree. His last words are a ethics lecture, since you've not only failed miserably to provide any logical debate, but you were also were twisting his viewpoints.
Agree to disagree between you and him might be some unspoken agreement now, but I doubt that what you say had happened is the cut and dry case you show it as. If you derived that conclusion from his last words, you must have not paid attention to the rest of his post.
Essentially his last post seems to be: 'you are mistaken, what you said makes you an ass, and you used misinforming cop outs that do not address any issue brought up.'
You've said "etc etc we all fall down." That's the kind of behavior he points out in his comment. He does not believe he fell down, and even if you don't wish to believe it, you're still just excusing your asinine behavior, with a general cop-out, cover up answer. 'Let's agree to disagree', in this case, is your escape from being wrong. And you continuing to be an unrepentant douche under the belief that we ought to tolerate your viewpoint, is annoying, but ok. You still shouldn't bring other people down, without good reason, as you keep doing. If you try, people are allowed to point out flaws in your reasoning. Why don't you take those into consideration, and provide a response? Oh, cause you would feel more "angst" from being disproved. Grow up...or should I say "man up." Own up to being wrong, outright reject it, or provide a different viewpoint that does not evade, or fundamentally alter what both of you stirred up.
http://crystalstmarielewis.com/2013/01/17/lets-not-agree-to-disagree/
Well, seeing as this was the easily gained approval, things are probably going to turn around and the other two won't be as forgiving. For the most part.
2155055 no thanks needed. I'm just stating my oppinion. It really is good, barely any stories have me willing to wait for more, no matter how painful it is
I very rarely try to keep track of stories but this is one of them. Just keep up the good work man thats all I got to say
Well done.