> Indecision
>  by Kitsune112
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> A whole new world
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	You know how friends are supposed to be there for you, whenever you need them, to defend you or to make you feel better? If you answered yes then...

“It's really annoying when you look up things on the internet. I mean, seriously, don't you have anything better to do?” 

...you're a lot more lucky then I am. My life has been full of disappointment and nothing magical like a lot of peoples' lives should be. My friends aren't people you normally would praise or even like. Every time I do something wrong, they point it out.

“Why don't you actually get a job?” 
“My mother is sick, I need to-”
“So? You can still get a job and watch over your mother, right? I mean, I know I could.”

This was a normal conversation taking place in gym at high school. I know that high school kids are immature and all, but no one else likes me. The person pointing out my flaws has been with me since kindergarten. She says we're best friends, but I feel like it's one-sided. Now, I'm not flaking on getting a job, I'd love to get a job. But my mother has been sick and getting sicker since last summer. I always do everything for her, I don't complain about it one bit. It's actually nice to take care of someone, especially your mother or sibling or father. But it's a full time job, especially when someone is as sick as she is. I could remember when she had a full head of hair, when she actually had meat on her bones...My eyes watered as I remembered all the fun we had and the wonderful times we spent together.

“What? You're crying now? Grow up.”
“I would get a job and take care of my mom, what's wrong with you?”

I bit my lip to keep me from lashing out at them. They didn't understand how draining it all was to take care of someone and also have to deal with their remarks. The other people around me were acquaintances if not total strangers. Friends of a 'friend' I guess you could call them. All their jobs are is to make me feel even more terrible about my existence. I know that friends are supposed to be there for you and make you feel better. What were these people exactly? 

The day ended without much else going on aside from more criticizing. Home was the only place I could go to to feel better. My brother understood what we were both going through and my mother was the sweetest person. Sure, getting up every 10 to 20 minutes was a little straining, but anything to make her feel better was the best feeling in the world. 

Now, you're all probably wondering 'Where's the ponies? I came here for ponies!' Well, a story needs some background and leading up time. They'll come soon, promise. The next few weeks were spent coping with mostly the negativity as well as dealing with my mother's condition. I wish things could get better...I really do. I was daydreaming when I walked into school. If I could just be accepted and actually loved by people I could really call my friends, it would be wonderful. Everything would be wonderful and nothing would be sad. I wished on a star one night that everything would get better. I know it's silly to wish upon them, but it's nice to have a little fun once in a while. Part of me really hoped that wish worked. But I also knew it probably wouldn't come true. 

The day was mostly silent, thankfully. I didn't hear criticizing or hateful comments from my 'friends' at all for the most part. Maybe that wish was coming true. I doubt it, but it was nice to believe. During my one computer class, I felt happy that there was no sign of the one girl that always talked about me like I was a pampered little miss-priss. The one that told me to grow up. I was free to look wherever I wanted on the internet and not get scolded for it. I'm not the type of person to actually go onto strange, 18+ sites. I just go onto a place called Equestria Daily for the most part. All the art, videos, and merchandise showcases were so cool to look at. It made me happy to see people letting their emotions through in fanart and fanfiction. I was never good with drawing ponies or any animal for that matter. But for some reason it made me happy to see other people's works of art. 

I don't know how long I've been a fan of My Little Pony, all I know is that the community makes me happy and makes me feel accepted. It was never a problem and never seemed like a problem for me to be apart of them. I may not have contributed anything or really voiced myself, but I still felt that level of acceptance. I was feeling so happy before I realized that the friend had come in late and was finally next to me. “My Little Pony? You seriously like that?” I flinched and glanced at her. She looked disgusted or maybe it was just misunderstanding. 

“I like it...It's really cool.” I nod as I tell her that before scrolling down a bit more to see more of the art. 

“That show is for little girls. You're 18!” 

That's the most common use of an insult among the people who don't really watch the show or just hate it and the community in general. I never understood how that's a bad thing. There are adults who watch Spongebob and other kids' shows. But My Little Pony was always the one to get bashed on the most. Now, this person has never watched the show fully or even wants to. So they're pretty much shooting blind. Instead of fighting back, I just kept doing my own thing, hearing her sigh heavily. One of the things I learned from the community is to always 'Love and Tolerate'. Even if the insults hurt, I don't want to fight back and make them realize just how much it hurts.

I continued the day normally, hoping to just get home without anything else happening. I knew she was going to just keep saying things about me and then my whole day would be ruined. So much for that wish. I sigh as I walk towards one of the stairwells, ready to get the last class out of the way for today. But as I reached the top, I noticed her with a few of her other friends. 

“There you are. I was just telling him about your hobby.” 

She put an arm around my shoulder. Never have I felt so strongly about pushing her away. 

“Hobby?” 
“You know. Watching the show that's for little girls.”
“You seriously watch My little pony?” They both laughed as I looked down.
“I like it, it's cool.” That's the only thing I could think of to say. They'd just laugh at me either way. 

It was times like these that I wonder about...dark things. Just repeatedly stabbing them or myself. There was a draw back to my passive behavior. Instead of letting out all my anger, I kept it bottled. I didn't know how to get it out. I played video games, like Super Mario or other Nintendo classics, but they never really did the trick. I would always think of things I would do to them, but I would always cry myself to sleep in the end. I never acted on them. I know I could have looked at more of the Pony artwork or stories, but no matter what, things would always get to me. I'm not sure how to fix myself. 

“Cool? It's pastel colored ponies! What could be cool about that?” The boy asked, laughing.

I gulp and look down. “T-There's a few parts that actually-”
“Nothing is cool about that, they probably have tea parties and all.” The girl giggled as she cut me off. 

My hand gripped into a fist as I looked at the ground. 

“Who's your favorite Pony? Is her name Rainbow Sparkles?” They teased. 
“It's...Fluttershy...” I spoke more quietly now.

I could feel a lump in my throat and I could never talk through it until it went away. They continued to laugh at me before I finally decided to act. I pushed the girl off me and glared at her.

“What the hell was that for? I didn't say anything to deserve that!” 
“What's wrong with you?” I couldn't believe what they were saying! 
“You're making fun of me! You're making fun of something I like! What's wrong with you!?” 
“Geez, calm down.” They brushed it off like nothing. 
I gritted my teeth and attempted to push the other away. I never really liked to fight, throwing punches wasn't the most productive thing I could have done. “Hey, back off.” He pushed me back before I could get to him. He was a tall, strong dude, I probably wouldn't have been able to push him, anyway. 

But the two of them didn't think he'd actually push me this hard. I felt like I flew back a little and when I tried to get my footing, I lost it immediately when my foot hit the corner of the first step. My eyes went wide when I realized I was falling down. I knew they were looking and watching me. But they didn't move to help. I don't remember hitting my head, though. After my ascent and close crash with the ground, everything went white then faded to black.


“Hm? Who are you? Did you bump your head?” 

When I finally started to come to, I swear everything felt different. Who was that speaking to me? He didn't sound familiar. 	
“Oh! You're waking up! Funny, I still don't recognize you...” 

He sounded so happy. Just who was this? My vision was blurry when I finally saw a blob of pink. I blinked a few times and tried to sit up. But...something was off. My vision was blurry. My glasses must have flown off when I hit the ground. But I could clearly make out two light brown tinted hooves. I flinched before looking at my backside. Yellow fur...light brown tinted hooves...Hooves. The pink pony in front of me didn't seem to be fazed too much when I pretty much screamed. 

“What's going on!? Where am I?! Is this a dream!? What happened!?” 

I would be lying if I say I didn't panic. Boy did I panic. The pink pony seemed to laugh before bouncing up and down. 

“Wow, you're really silly! But so jumpy! I bet you're the life of the party wherever you're from.” He nodded and tried to help me onto my hooves.
I wasn't really ever one for parties, but hearing that phrase and seeing somewhat of the way this pony acted, I had no doubt of who it was. 
“Pinkie Pie?” 
I wobbled a bit as I tried to get my footing, but it wasn't as hard as it looked to actually balance myself. “Pinkie Pie? I never heard of that pony. But I would probably call myself that if I were a filly!” He chuckled and grinned. 

“I'm Bubble Berry! You can call me Berry.”

He introduced himself so happily. Bubble Berry? Well...as far as my memory serves...that was the name of the gender bend Pinkie Pie. So did that mean...this was an alternate Ponyville? Or maybe...Maybe I am just dreaming. I probably got knocked on the head way too hard when I fell. But this was very vivid...was this real or just a dream?

“What's your name? I never seen you around these parts.”

I blinked and tried to think of a normal name for this place. My human name would probably be very strange to him. I'm sure I was over thinking this, I mean, I didn't know if this was a dream or not! Well, as they say...when in Rome, do as the Romans do. 

“F...Fireswoon.” 

That was the name of my OC I created. She was an Earth Pony that created fireworks. But as I glanced at my flank, I noticed there was no cutie mark. How could there be? I don't even know what I really want to do in my life. 

“Fireswoon?”

He tilted his head and thought a little before chuckling. 

“Nope! I really don't know you.”
He seemed so happy about that. I couldn't help but smile at his cheerful behavior. Even if this was a dream, I couldn't help but feel so happy with this colt around. I knew Pinkie Pie was good with other ponies, but dang...I didn't think her behavior would get me to smile this quickly. Well, she was a he now...but either way, they got to smile so quickly. 

“Come on, you look like you can't even see a balloon right in front of your eyes.” He laughed.

I must have been squinting, I normally don't look like I have terrible eyes. “Oh...thank you, Berry.” I smiled at him and stuck close to his side so I didn't veer off somewhere else and get in trouble.

The next few minutes were spent at an eye doctor. I forgot the colts name, but it was easy to get a pair of glasses. It seemed in this world, my vision wasn't so bad! My left eye is usually so much more worse than my right, but in this world, they were on equal terms. The glasses weren't thick, either...not that my human ones were in the first place. I tried to not let Berry pay, but I had absolutely no Bits on me, so he ended up paying. The glasses fit like a glove, though! I could finally see clearly now! I looked around Ponyville once we went back outside. It was so pleasant and quiet, just like the show portrayed! Oh, my brother would have loved to see this place. Oh gosh...my brother! I know it's horrible, but for the first hour, I completely forgot about my family. How was I supposed to get back? I had to take care of my mother, oh gosh this was all so troublesome. 

“I gotta show you to my friend, Dusk Shine! Seeing as your a unicorn, I bet you two would get along swell!” Berry smiled at me, not noticing how much I was panicking. 

Which was good, I felt more than afraid to tell him about how I got here. Wait...did he say Unicorn? 

“Unicorn?” I asked. 
“Yeah. You never noticed your horn before?”

In the eye doctor's office, I never noticed it, even when I look in the mirror! I was so concentrated on the glasses I probably didn't even notice! “Haha, Fireswoon, you are silly!” He laughed and lead me to Dusk Shine's library tree house. It was just as cool as it looked in the show.

“Dusk Shine~ I found someone new!” Berry chimed as he knocked on the door.

I looked around, wondering if they were all turned to colts...well, now that I thought of it, they probably were with the fewer being fillies and mares. It would only be logical if that were the case. 

“Berry, you know I'm-” 

The colt version of Twilight opened the door and seemed to have been interrupted from something. But when he looked at me, seeming a little confused and surprised, I couldn't help but smile a little nervously. 

“Who's this?” He asked as he fully walked out of the door and stepped in front of me.

“That's Fireswoon! I found her unconscious a little ways away from Everfree Forest.” He explained, seeming excited still.

He really was a ball of energy, huh? Dusk Shine looked around me, seeming a little confused. I knew I wasn't a regular here...heck, technically I was an intruder...maybe. I still haven't met the Princesses...or Princes as they should be here.

“It's nice to meet you, Fireswoon. I'm Dusk Shine.” He introduced himself with a smile. 

I glanced at his back, not seeing any wings. So this is before he gets his wings...or maybe stallions really don't become Alicorns. I'm still very confused about that concept!

“It's...a pleasure to meet you.” I nearly lifted my hoof for a handshake. 

Now that I thought of it, walking was easy to get used to. It's literally just putting one hoof in front of the other in a pattern. I'm sure I'll trip up when it comes to running. Hopefully that never comes.

“So where do you come from?” He asked me again, this time, really stumping me. 

What would be the horse form of my home?

“Uh...New Jockey...” I winced a little, giving it a shot. 

The two blinked, making me think I screwed up horribly.

“New Jockey? I heard that place has great corn! Is it true?” Berry asked me curiously. 

Neither of them knows how relieved I am that there's a place named that.

“Oh yeah. It's really delicious. I think I had some but I lost my bags.” 

I hate lying. But I had to so they didn't get suspicious. Berry seemed disappointed, but he soon smiled again.

“We'll just have to take a trip there and get some!” He nodded.

I wasn't so sure about going to a place like that...but this was Equestria. That place could be really nice. 

“That sounds great.” I smiled at him before looking at Dusk Shine.

“A pony from New Jockey? I thought they were all Earth Ponies.” He chuckled.

He must have been confused. We are the Garden State...and we grow a lot of produce. Maybe that's why he thought differently on the type of pony I am. Then again, I was just as confused as he was. I swear I was going to be an Earth Pony, what magical attributes could I possibly have? Then again, that was just my low self-esteem talking. 

“Oh oh! Dusk, can we throw a welcoming party for Fireswoon in your house? It's big enough for one! And she really needs to get welcomed to Ponyville!” Berry seemed so excited.

Now, I wouldn't mind a party. But I didn't know how long I would be here. I didn't want them to waste all that time on me. “It's okay, you don't-” 

“A party would be great! I bet even Prince Solaris would like to meet you, too.” He nodded, but I just kept freaking out.

Prince Solaris was the gender bend of Princess Celestia! Oh gosh, what if he found out I'm not a normal pony and just a human? Would he banish me? Would he kill me? But thinking about it more made me realize that it couldn't be that bad. Princess Celestia was a kind and understanding ruler. Maybe things would be good? I really hoped so.

“A party...sounds great.” I nodded, trying to put on my best smile.

I wasn't sure how good this would go. Just thinking about it got my social anxiety to go crazy. Thanks high school, you made my social skills terrible. 

“Great! I'll go get the party cannon!” Berry chimed and zipped off to get the cannon. 

Dusk, meanwhile, let me inside his home. 

“You're new, right? I'll let you stay here for a while.” He nodded as I followed him inside.

It smelled like old books and just a hint of dust. 

“Barb, we have a guest!” He called out, making me wonder who 'Barb' was.

I then realize that Barb is the girl version of Spike! Oh gosh...I wonder how he looked. 

“What...? Who?” 

I heard a sleepy voice and a yawn after. 

“Her name's Fireswoon. She's staying with us for a while.” Dusk explained as the female dragon walked downstairs to meet me. 

I smiled at her, hoping she would like me. 

“Fireswoon, huh?” She looked me up and down before smiling. 

“Nice to meet you, I'm Barb!”
“Hoo.” I heard the familiar call from Owlowiscious.
I looked over and smiled at him. 
“Me! I'm Barb!”
“Hoo.” 
“Me!” The dragoness growled, but all I could do was giggle at it. 

It was so cute to watch on tv, but watching it right before my eyes made me laugh. Dusk laughed, too, but soon went to work on setting the home up for the party. After so long, I never thought I would actually get to meet such nice people. Er...Ponies. Either way, I felt happy. I just wonder how the party will go.

> Meeting new Friends
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fireswoon stared at the stairs and tilted her head a bit. Just how was she supposed to walk up them with four legs? Dusk Shine said she could rest in his room for a while, even if she wanted to help out. But the stairs were just a little confusing with these hooves. She didn't have hands or feet to really keep the right balance. Even as a kid when she went up the stairs on all fours-seriously who hasn't-she could at least get a feel of what it was like. She hummed a bit to herself and started with one hoof on the first step, then the other. But now that she had her front hooves on the step, what was she supposed to do with her hind legs? She hummed again before hopping her two legs onto the step. She lost her balance and fell back on her rump. 

“Ow...” She winced as she tried to get back on her hooves. 
“Are you alright?” Dusk shine asked as he watched her try to get up onto the steps. He's never seen a pony try to get up the stairs that way. Berry was a different case, he could pretty much do anything. But this new filly didn't seem as random or crazy as he was. 

“Yeah, I'm fine!” She stated as she wobbled a bit when she tried getting her footing again. 

It was a lot easier when Berry helped out. At least when she was stable on her feet, she could walk around seemingly fine. What else couldn't she do? She didn't know how magic worked, so that was one thing. She was sure that they'd all get a laugh when she tried to run. How did they even make or write things? She knew they used their mouths but it seemed so gosh darned hard! How was she supposed to learn all of this normally without them finding out what she really was? She sighed a little bit before trying the stairs again. She put her front hooves on the step again and tried lifting her front up after she put her hind legs onto the first step. She wobbled a bit as she stood on her hind legs, and although it felt familiar, the new weight of her body made it feel unstable. She fell forward and ended up laying on the stairs instead before sliding back down.

“I've never seen a pony act like you do.” Barb spoke up as she watched the entire thing. 

She could even tell that Fireswoon was a little stubborn with letting them help out. What a strange pony. 

“I think...I hit my head a little hard, hehe.” She tried to play it off like she was just confused and knocked her head a bit hard. Then again, that probably wouldn't work. She never told them how she got here or why she was near Everfree. She had a feeling that there was something in that forest that had to do with her getting here. Dusk Shine seemed to get confused about that before Bard did.

“You never told us how you got here, Fireswoon. Did you take a hot air balloon?” He asked her curiously as he made a list of what to get for the party. Even if Berry was going to get most of the favors, he still thought it'd be nice to get a few things, too. She blinked and tried to think of something to say. Hot Air Balloon actually sounded like a good excuse. But that wouldn't explain how she was unconscious on the ground. She thought a little as she tried to get on her hooves again. This was turning into more of a problem than a great discovery. 

“I...actually can't really remember. I think I traveled by hot air balloon, but I don't remember it being close when I came to.” She told him, thanking Barb for helping her up finally. She really had to wonder how horses got so used to their legs right at birth. It wasn't as easy using these as it looked. She sighed a little and ended up just standing still. She wasn't going to slide down the stairs again or fall down anymore. She was just going to stay downstairs and stay put. Dusk chuckled, seeing how much she seemed to hate walking up stairs. Did they not have any stairs at New Jockey? Well, that couldn't be the case...every city or town had stairs in a home or even outside. Something was just very peculiar about this filly. 

“So you must have some sort of amnesia then?” He pondered as he rolled up the list once completing it. She blinked and nodded slightly, wondering if that was the correct thing to call it. She really did hate lying, but she just wasn't sure how they'd react if she told him what she really was. Sure, she's read a few fictions in her time as a human, but aside from a few Positive fictions, there was always that one where everypony would freak out about a human and show fear or even hatred. She never really liked reading them, considering the fact that these kind and accepting ponies would actually try killing an outsider. They were barbarians. Far from it. 

“Alright, Barb and I will be back in a while. We're going to pick up a few things.” Dusk told her as he put his bags on his back. 

“Don't get into any trouble!” Barb joked as they walked out. But Fireswoon followed after them, not wanting to be left alone in the large library. She let them go pick up the things they needed, though, so she could just wander around by herself. She didn't want to bother them, anyway. She avoided any stairs, though...or anything that required stepping up onto. She walked around, trying to figure out the colts' names as she walked around. She saw Lyra and Bon Bon, but she wasn't sure what their names would be now that they were colts. She again hummed to herself as she walked around the small town. It definitely was a lot bigger than what they showed on tv. Being there to actually see everything at scale was really cool. But, it just didn't feel right. It was just something about her old home that she really did miss. Sure, the humans there were snobs that criticized everything she done, but when she was by herself, it felt really nice. It was just as quiet and calming as Ponyville was.

She sighed a little as she walked around before flinching as she bumped into someone. 

“I'm so sorry! I wasn't paying attention!” Fireswoon immediately apologized as she looked down at the colt. But as she noticed the pink, neatly brushed hair of the pony, her eyes went a little wide. 

“I'm sorry.” She heard the quiet voice and saw how the colt nearly stepped away since he was scared of getting yelled at. It was Butterscotch. Even as a colt, the Fluttershy twin really was so adorable. She just wanted to hug him! But she kept that little urge to herself and behaved. 

“No no, it's okay, don't apologize. I really wasn't paying attention. I'm Fireswoon, by the way.” She smiled, really trying to make the colt feel better. She didn't want to scare her favorite pony away. Not like she could, she was more of a nervous wreck when it came to strangers, too. But watching the show and seeing how every pony reacted to situations, she didn't feel like these ponies were total strangers. Besides, who could be nervous around Fluttershy or Butterscotch? The pink and yellow pony blinked, seeming to be just a little surprised that the filly didn't yell at him for bumping into her. 

“I'm...Butterscotch.” He whispered, a little scared to talk any louder.
“I'm sorry, what was that?” She never realized how quiet he really was.
“B-Butterscotch...”
“Once more.” She cupped her ear with her hoof so she could attempt to hear better.
“...Butterscotch.” He squeaked.

She couldn't help but nearly squee when he squeaked like that. He was adorable! 

“Butterscotch...right.” She nodded and again, nearly held her hoof out for a handshake. She had to get that habit under control. She would have to get used to not doing that while she was here...for however long she would be here. Either way, she gave him a friendly smile. He looked her up and down as he stood up again. She didn't seem to be mad at him. She was just smiling and seemed excited for some reason. He glanced around as he traced his hoof in the ground. She had to remember that he was still shy and not too outgoing like the others were. But what was she supposed to say? This was the first time she actually got to be in front of someone that was like her. Someone so nervous and shy around new people. 

“I'm not from here. Is it...a little okay if I get a tour?” She asked, leaning forward a little in case he whispered again. But she nearly fell down, so she straightened herself back up. She really did wonder how they got so used to their weight so quickly. The colt blinked, wondering why she wanted him to give her a tour. She could have found somepony so much more better to do it than him. But it was also nice to actually feel needed.

“S-Sure...Come on.” He cracked a small smile as he walked next to her. She smiled happily and walked with him. It felt really calming to walk with him. She wondered what it would be like to meet someone like Fluttershy in her world. It'd be a real relief for her, that's what it would be like. They found Sugar Cube Corner were Berry was most likely making everything and preparing all the party favors and decorations. She smiled, offering to give him a visit. 

“You know Bubble Berry?” Butterscotch asked, seeming surprised that she knew him. Fireswoon nodded, telling him about how they met and how much fun it was to be around him. The pink haired colt agreed, although Berry could definitely be a little pushy sometimes. But it was usually all in good fun. The two walked inside, looking around for the party pony. It smelled like sugar and pastries as soon as they walked in, the brunette pony couldn't help her stomach from growling. She blushed and tried to play it off like it was nothing.

“Are...you hungry, Fireswoon?” He asked, noticing the growling noise right away. 

“What? No, it's fine~ I'm not hungry.” She nodded and tried to wave it off. She didn't want to make him pay for a snack. She already let Berry pay for her glasses, she wasn't going to let them pay for anything else just for her. She wasn't a mooch and she already felt guilty for the glasses. They both looked up when they heard hooves trotting out to the front of the store.

“Fireswoon! I didn't think you'd visit so soon.” Berry grinned happily as he saw the two. “You already met Butterscotch? You didn't scare him away, either?” He tilted his head.

“I'm not that scared of other ponies. She didn't yell at me, either...” Butterscotch explain, although was still very quiet. Berry could hear him, though, and just laughed. So far, the new filly was doing well with getting even the shyest pony to be comfortable. Then again, if you just be nice to Butterscotch and not act so mean, you'll be friends with him in no time. 

“So what brings you here? Miss me already?” The pink colt smiled at her as he folded his front hooves on the show case and laid his head on them. Fireswoon smiled and nodded.

“I wanted to see how everything's coming along...if that's okay. I just get curious.” She admitted as she looked at all the sweets in the case. They all looked so delicious. Her stomach growled again and she immediately held it the best she could without unbalancing herself. 

“I got all the streamers ready and the decorations, too! I just need to-” Berry blinked as he heard her stomach growl before laughing again. Butterscotch also looked at her, really worried she might get stomach pains from not eating. “Haha, gimme a sec.” Berry got his front legs off the counter so he could dig through the case for a cupcake. “These are the best! I know you'll like 'em.” He nodded and balanced the cupcake on his nose for her to take. 

“It's okay, really! You don't have to.” She didn't even know how to pick it up...but it really smelled so good.

“Don't worry, it's on me. Besides, your tummy will hurt if you don't eat something, right?” He kept balancing the delicious sweet on his nose. She gulped before sighing and tried to figure out how to take it. As far as she was concerned, she couldn't really use her magic too well. She couldn't use her hooves either...she'd probably squish it. She leaned forward, ending up taking the cupcake carefully in her mouth by it's other side. Now what was she supposed to do? Berry watched her, expecting her to know how to eat. Her ears folded as she thought of a way to eat it. She remembered them just tossing it in the air then catching it in their mouths. It couldn't be that hard, could it? She tossed her head back like she saw them do before trying to judge where the cupcake was going to land. She caught it in her mouth, but most of the green icing got on her nose. Now everything really did smell like sugar...and a hint of apples? 

“Mmm~ They're really good.” She nodded, though tried to get the icing off her nose. Berry laughed, happy about her liking it and laughing at the fact she had a green nose now. 

“Why didn't you use your magic, though?” Butterscotch asked, not trying to be mean or point out anything, he was just curious since unicorns typically used their magic to pick up things and make it easier to eat. She blinked as she tried to lick the icing off. She smiled a bit and tried to think.

“I...Never really used my magic before. I'm clumsy.” She looked down to try to show that she was depressed about it. She looked up at them to see if they were buying it. They seemed a little confused at first before the pink colt smiled at Butterscotch. 

“That's okay! We can always have Dusk or our friend Elusive teach you. They're really good at it.” He nodded, trying to get the pegasus to agree. She already met Dusk, it would be the perfect opportunity for them to introduce her to Elusive. Butterscotch tilted his head before blinking and nodded when he realized his plan.

“Oh yeah! Elusive would probably be kind enough to teach you. He makes all sorts of clothes like tuxedos and dresses. I'm sure he can teach you some levitation.” The pink haired pony nodded with a small smile. Fireswoon blinked at their suggestion. She did enjoy watching how Rarity would work with the fabrics and all, but she was curious how she made them into clothes. Maybe she could get some answers from the source...? She smiled a bit and nodded. 

“It sounds fun. Thank you for suggesting him.” She smiled at them happily, though knew Berry had things to do, so he probably wouldn't be joining them to the Carousel Boutique. 

“Great! I'll finish up with the party favors and I'll meet you guys there. Have fun!” He waved them goodbye as they left for the shop. She just had to hope that they wouldn't be interrupting in anything once they got there. But she was also curious to see what the colt would be working on, too. 
> The Gentlecolt
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Butterscotch led her to the Carousel Boutique, just a short walk from Sugar Cube Corner. She was a little confused about seeing it. She wasn't one for dresses or even going to formal places. So going into a place full of high end dresses and tuxedos was definitely a little weird. Butterscotch knocked on the door gently, if not quietly, before the two entered. “Elusive? I have someone Berry and Dusk want you to meet.” He spoke so quietly, she was so tempted to actually just hug him and tell him it was okay to speak normally. But again, she kept herself in check and didn't do anything that might upset the colt. She looked around as they walked inside, seeing all the mannequins with certain types of clothes on them. They all looked so pretty and just really well made. Just something about hand...er hoof stitched clothes made it so much better than machine made clothing. She smiled at the styles before they both heard a bit of arguing. They both looked at each other before walking into the dressing space...or maybe it was just Elusive's thinking place...they never really give you a clear definition of which was the 'Trying on' room in the show. It was either where all the mannequins were or it was...this room of 'organized' chaos.

“Stand still, I need to just get one more stitch.” 
“Well hurry up! I don't like being grounded for this long!” 

The two heard some huffs and uncomfortable hoof steps. They both looked in and saw that Elusive was trying to fit Rainbow Dash's male counterpart with what seemed to be a suit. Why was he getting fitted for a suit? Unless this was before the Grand Galloping Gala...or maybe just for the heck of it? So confusing. The two looked up when they saw the other two. 

“Ah, Butterscotch! Just in time, I need to get your size for your tuxedo and...” The white colt seemed excited to see his friend but when he saw the newest addition to their quaint little town, he couldn't help but get a little curious. “And who's this?” He walked over and gave a bow to her. 

“That's my new friend, Fireswoon. She's staying for a while and Berry and Dusk wanted you to meet her.” Well, it wasn't mostly Dusk. Berry was the one to suggest it first. Fireswoon smiled a bit at his politeness before bowing back the best she could. The balancing was still a little awkward, but she was slowly getting the hang of it. The colt fixed himself and smiled at her.

“Fireswoon? Peculiar name...but you seem to be an oddity for this place, anyway.” She nearly froze up when he said that. Did he get what she was just by staring at her?! “Your mane is so messy...tight curls to the bottom, even your tail. Speaking of your hind, you don't even have a cutie mark.” He seemed more surprised by that since she was pretty much looking to be their age. So it was strange to see a blank flank this old. The girl blinked before smiling a bit nervously.

“W-Well, I've never really known what I wanted to do...or am good at. A-And I had a long trip here, I wasn't able to get a good shower...” Truth be told, she never really did anything with her hair when she was human. She just let it air dry and it just turned out messy even after brushing it. Hopefully it wouldn't get humid here any time soon, either...it just poofs out. The rainbow pony seemed to be getting impatient. 

“Can I Please get out of this now?! Come on, it itches and I can't even move my wings that good.” He grumbled as he moved around. Elusive rolled his eyes. He just wanted to talk with the new filly, but he had to get him out of that suit. 

“I'll finish it up. I have your sizes, so it's not like I'll need you that much more until it's done.” He took the suit off with his magic, making Fireswoon tilt her head and try to look up at her horn. She really had to wonder how this was all done. Magic was just so strange...but maybe it was just like having another appendage? Just using your imagination to make things...but it seemed so much more difficult than that. Or maybe it was just that simple? Once Elusive removed the suit, he nodded for Butterscotch to get up on the pedestal to get sized and suited. The rainbow pony walked over to her and tilted his head.

“Fireswoon, huh? My name's Rainbow Blitz, best flier in Ponyville.” He stated proudly as he puffed his chest out. She blinked and couldn't help but laugh. It was so nice to see someone so proud and so confident in their abilities. She's never really seen one in her town, so it was nice to meet Blitz.

“No kidding? You're the best?”
“Yup! Can clear the skies in 10 seconds flat.” He stated with a proud smile on his face. She knew that he could definitely clear the skies in that amount of time, she's seen it! Well...not in real life or face to face. Just through a tv screen. 

“Rainbow, don't try picking up fillies with your acrobatics.” Elusive warned him as he fitted Butterscotch. 

“I'm not trying to 'pick her up'! I'm just telling her how good I am.” He nodded, not even noticing the fact that the filly was faintly blushing at the two pony's remarks. She didn't think they talked so casually. But aside from what the show showed them, there was no say as to what they did and didn't do. That's why there are so many headcanons. She hummed a bit to herself about that. 

As Butterscotch was being fitted, he looked between the two, surprised that they were getting along...in a strange way. Rainbow and Elusive never really seemed to get along...then again, Rarity had a hard time with getting along with both the tomboys in the series. So it was relaxing to see that they really weren't arguing all the time. He smiled just a bit, happy that Fireswoon seemed to be doing well around the two and not getting shy...like he was. For however long she stayed, he was sure she was going to do fine making friends with them. 

“Hey, if you don't mind me asking, why are you making tuxedos?” Fireswoon asked as she looked over at the fashion suave pony. 
“Have you ever heard of a masquerade party? Well, one of my clients has invited me and I want to take everypony along. So they have to look the absolute best for it.” He nodded as he stuck a few pins in the sleeves to keep them together. Butterscotch's suit looked to be very light and pastel heavy. What else would you expect for the shyest pony in Equestria? She looked over at Blitz's suit and saw that it was rainbow colored, but the tones were darker to give it more of a masculine feel to it. She could only assume that Dusk, Berry, and Applejack hadn't come by for their fittings yet. Now that she thought of it, she hadn't seen Applejack at all. He was probably bucking the trees...selling apples...or just doing other chores around town. Applejack, no matter what gender, was always so hardworking and kind, so she had no doubt that the pony would be doing one of those things. 

“So...like masks and all? That sounds really fun.” She smiled at that. She always wondered what it would be like to attend something like the Carnaval or just a Masquerade in general. It always looked so fun. 

“You've never been to one? Not even a normal party?” He asked, making them all look at her. She blinked and blushed a little in a bit of embarrassment. She shook her head and drew circles on the ground with her hoof.

“No...I was never really invited to anything. I was always so different so no one really became my friend.” She smiled a bit at them, trying to give them a reason as to why she never really went to a party. She was always the odd one out. She knew about rumors that spread about her and the fact that she just had so many different likes than the rest of her classmates, so it wasn't odd to her that she never got invited. She still drew circles on the ground with her hoof, knowing they were staring at her. She hated that, but she didn't want to yell at them. 

“Well that's stupid. Just because you're different doesn't mean they have to be so mean and not give you a chance.” She looked up at Blitz as he said that. She blinked before smiling at him. If only everyone was like him. Heck, if everyone was like the mane 6, things would be a lot better. She wouldn't be in this position right now. She wasn't sure if that was good or bad.

“Thank you, Blitz, for saying that.” She smiled gratefully at him before nearly stumbling as he ruffled her hair.

“Don't mention it! I'm gonna head out. If you guys need me, I'll be practicing my stunts!” He grinned before leaving the shop. Fireswoon tried to fix her mane but it was very hard to just fix with only hooves. Elusive sighed at his gesture but smiled at her, trying to tell her that she was lucky he didn't completely ruin her already messy hair. Butterscotch also sent her a smile, just happy she was getting along with them so far. She smiled back at them and waited for the fitting to be done. Once it was all finished, she was expected to go out and continue the tour, but the fashion pony stopped her. 

“I am not letting you out with a mane like that. You need to get it re-styled.” He nodded and dragged her over to another station in the boutique. As well as making dresses and other clothes, it was clear that Rarity and her counterpart were also knowledgeable in hairstyling. 

“B-But! I like my hair!” She tried to protest as she tried to get back. 
“Don't be silly, it'll take a few minutes, promise.” He sat her down in front of a mirror and smiled before trying to style her hair into something she would like. Not too easy, though. She really wasn't one for girly things and rarely if ever wore anything girly in her world. The only thing she thought were cool were the karma bead bracelets. But she doubted that anything like them were here in this world. She sighed a little before wincing as she felt her hair being pulled, probably with a curling iron. Her hair was curly enough, why was he trying to curl it again?! Butterscotch watched curiously to see what Elusive was doing with her hair. It was rare that he got to do a mare's hair, so this was probably exciting for him.

“Voila!” Elusive smiled as he backed off and let the filly look in the mirror. She had her eyes closed, not sure if she should open them and see what had happened to her hair. She was expecting it to be poofy and over the top. As she peeked her eyes open, she tilted her head as she saw the work he did. It was laying flat in layers with a few lighter brown high lights. When in the world did he do those? She turned her head from side to side to check it out better. She smiled to herself as she looked at her new hairdo. 

“Well?” Butterscotch seemed excited to hear what she thought of it. She smiled happily and turned to them.

“It's great! I thought it would be over the top, but this is actually nice.” She nodded. She was more than tired of her curly hair and while this wasn't permanent, she was glad that Elusive flattened it out for her. “But did you have to add the highlights?” She asked as she looked at a light brown stripe in the mirror.

“I thought it would brighten your style up a bit. Having a dark brown color isn't too exciting, my dear.” He nodded before starting to straighten out her tail. She winced and whined a bit, finding the tail hair to be a lot more painful than her actual hair. Maybe because she wasn't used to having a tail. The added appendage really didn't feel like it was there just yet. It was like having ears. Until something touched or happened, you wouldn't realize they were there. Once he finished, he nodded and smiled at her. She looked at her tail and smiled happily.

“Thank you so much for this. Is there any way I can repay you? I don't have any bits on me.” She asked, looking around to see if she could use anything to make something. He shook his head, though, and continued to smile.

“It's quite alright. But if there was something, then I have to ask you to let me dress you up when I can. I don't make much clothes for fillies or mares. It'd be nice to have some practice.” He nodded, smiling at her hopefully. She blinked as her ears folded at the thought. She hated dresses and wearing makeup...but...

“Deal. But, just don't stick me with any needles, though, okay?” She smiled a bit at him as she agreed. She hated all the girly stuff, but he was so nice to not make her pay. She had to repay him somehow, even if she wasn't comfortable with it. He beamed and suddenly trotted happily. 

“Perfect! We'll start the modeling tomorrow and I'll have a new line of clothes out that will be spectacular for everypony! Thank you so much, Fireswoon.” He thanked her happily, making her smile back at him. It was so nice to help someone out. It just made her feel good. Butterscotch hummed a little, trying to get her to mention teaching her how to use her horn. She blinked and tilted her head. He hummed again and pointed to Elusive. She blinked before realizing what he was implying.

“O-Oh! Elusive, sir-”
“Elusive is just fine, dear.” He corrected her, but looked curious as to what she had to say.
“Right...Uh...I'm not so good with using my magic. Is it...okay if you...try and...teach me?” She asked, not sure if he would immediately go for it or if he would tell her no. He was the element of generosity, so hopefully he would agree. She saw him looking a little surprised and actually think about it. She was hopeful as she waited for him to answer.

“What happened to Dusk Shine?” He asked, thinking that Dusk would be a better teacher. Butterscotch explained that he was out doing shopping and even letting her sleep at his place. She just didn't want to burden him more than she needed to. The stallion hummed a bit before smiling.
“Well, if that's the case, then I suppose I can teach you. I do need a little help around here, too. Especially with Sweepybelle coming over more often.” He nodded before the two colts blinked as she bounced happily once he agreed. 
“Oh thank you thank you thank you! I promise I won't be a burden. At least...I won't try to be. But thank you so much!” She grinned happily at him, getting a chuckle in return.
“It's no problem at all. We'll start tomorrow along with the modeling. I have some things to do for now, so you're free to leave.” He smiled at them before turning to go work on something else. She nodded before walking over to Butterscotch. He smiled at how happy she was, finding it to be a little cute. He walked her outside and checked the time. 

“Oh no, I have to get home. Angel is probably worried. I'll see you at the party.” He smiled at her, getting a nod in return. She understood that he had his own things to do and she wouldn't force him to stay with her. But it was a little unnerving to be left alone in a place you barely knew. She looked around before trying to find her way back to the library. She could rest there and maybe get walking up the stairs down. Hopefully, anyway.