In a future where humans and ponies are forced to live together in 'peace' after a devastating war. A human Ex-soldier turned cop and a young unicorn refugee struggle to survive the instability of the Earth/Equestrian Peace.
Society attempts to rebuild itself after a devastating war between Earth and Equestria, but much resentment and hatred remains between it's equestrian and human citizens. Will the hope and dream that is Unity City survive? Or will it die like everything else did during the war?
So... you wish to know how we ended up here? Dwelling among the ruins of great cities attempting fruitlessly to regain what we once had? Huh? Well, I guess everyone knows how to start a good story.
Once upon a time, there were two completely independent worlds. Worlds known as Earth and Equestria.
Earth was the home of the humans, the sole sentience of the world. Masters of invention, industry, and war. They were the very pinnacle of great civilization. Capable of achieving anything should they set their minds to it. From sticks and stone, they could make and break anything they desired, even gods themselves.
Then there was Equestria, home of the ponies, griffons, dragons and many others. As Masters of magic, peace, and harmony, they were the very pinnacle of harmonious civilization. Capable of cooperating within their society to achieve almost anything. Just as capable of settling disputes without the need of violence. With their magic and friendship, they could accomplish anything of almost any feat.
With no enemy to threaten them, these two worlds with their civilizations lived in relative peace. Everything wasn't great, mind you, but it was perfect when compared to well... You know.
However, of course, things never stay perfect forever. On one fateful day, something extraordinary and devastating happened. Seven massive portals opened. Connecting seven different parts of the two worlds to one another permanently. No one knows where the portals came from, what made them, or why they appeared. Maybe it was the will of some god bored of his creations, maybe some natural phenomenon that would take centuries to explain, maybe it was just fate... No one would ever have the time or the chance to find out, as it was these seven portals that were going to bring about the end; the end to the peace and prosperity of the two civilizations.
Now, there are many stories of what happened, many variations from both worlds. Some say it was Humanity's fault, that they pushed their interest too far and forced Equestria to protect themselves. Some say that it was the Equestrians fault, as they forced Humanity into a compromised position where they had no other choice but to eliminate the threat encroaching upon their territory. Some say both sides were wrong, that mistakes were made on behalf of everyone involved that only lead to the destruction of everything they knew.
Of course, no one actually knows or remembers what happened. As a matter of fact, no one actually cares what happened anymore; but that's beside the point. All anyone knows was that forty years ago a war was started between Earth and Equestria. By the time it ended thirty years later, no one had won that war.
It was a total disaster, as anyone could tell. The cost of the war included two thirds of the human population, one half of the pony population, and the near extinction of all other sentient races in Equestria. There was hardly a human or pony left that was civilian. Nearly all were recruited for the war effort. The other sentient races of Equestria had fought themselves to near extinction. Once great cities were burned and nuked into oblivion. The two once great civilizations fought each other until there was almost nothing but ashes left.
The war only finally came to an end as both sides realized that no one was going to win. Both were of equal power, and this was only to end with assured destruction on both sides. At that point, the last surviving members of earth government and the Princesses of Equestria brought an end to the conflict. Unfortunately, it was a peace that was made far too late.
The two worlds, as they knew them, were destroyed. Covered with nothing but ash, flame, toxins, and radiation brought upon by both human and equestrian weapons of mass destruction. So much knowledge and technology lost and forgotten forever, too many lives sacrificed over a pointless war, hardly anything left to rebuild...
However, in true fairy tale fashion, out of this darkness, there was still one thing left to be destroyed.
Hope.
With nowhere else to go, the few that survived the war decided to band together and built a city near one of the seven portals. A city they build in hope that they, ponies, humans, and whoever was left, could live together in peace and grow back into a great civilization like they once were. This city was to become forever known as Unity City, a place where all can live together in peace.
It was a romantic and inspiring notion indeed, but it was not entirely to be so. There is still much prejudice and hatred between its human and equestrian citizens, even ten years after the war.
Crime and violence of all kinds are a common occurrence in our inspiring city throughout its years. The newly placed government, consisting of the princesses and earth government officials, try its best to maintain order and control, but the city is getting worse and worse by the day. It is a possibility that the grudge between humans and equestrians will eventually tear the hope and dream that was Unity apart, and there is not much anyone could do to stop it.
That is, unless, there were some ponies and some humans who were willing and determined to make the dream, that was Unity, real again. Human and ponies that could prove to all that not all was lost and peace could still be made. Prove that Humanity and Equestrians could live together in peace and harmony, unlike the example set by their ancestors before...
... Of course truth be told, that will never happen. The very idea is ridiculous. The perfect ending you'd expect to find in fairy tales and various works of fiction of the old worlds. Problem is, that's a reality that does not apply here; not in these burnt worlds. In these burnt worlds, you die a martyr for a dying city, or you live long enough to become like the rest of us. A nobody with nothing to lose. A nobody who no longer cares for fairy tales or happy endings. A nobody who will just watch as this whole "Unity" bullshit burns to the ground and allow us to stop pretending for the first time in our lives; and be able to finish the war that shouldn't have ended ten years ago.
Feel free to join us, I'm sure there is an extra spot around here somewhere. Otherwise, go out and die for your- oh, excuse me- their beliefs. Lose everything you hold dear, including your life, to simply delay the inevitable demise of life as we know it. We'll still be here, waiting just a bit longer.
Best of luck to you either way, whatever gods forsaken us knows you'll need it.
I was finally here. After many days of wandering and listening to the directions given to me by the broadcast, I have finally made it! Unity City, a city of light and hope in this dark age, one where "All may live together in Peace!" Just the thought that a place like this would even exist is just beyond me, I couldn't believe that such a place was possible. A place we, equestrians and humans can live together I peace! Words cannot describe how excited I am to finally be here and be apart of this!
Just a mile away, there it is, Unity City. The place I have been hearing over the airwaves this entire week, inviting humans and ponies alike to come, forget their differences, and build a new society together. It looked to me like it has been working out rather well too. The place is far larger than I originally thought it would be, like REALLY big! The whole place seems to just go on for miles and miles, I can't imagine what it is like on the inside! There would have to be hundreds of thousands, if not millions of humans and equestrians living in there!
Gosh, I won't have to be alone again! I can have friends, ponies and humans alike! I can have a home! I don't have to sleep with one eye open anymore! I can have real food that doesn't come from a rusty old can! Maybe I can be clean for once in my life, Celestia knows when the last time I bathed! Maybe I could even... have a family again!? These thoughts, hopes, and dreams are exactly what Unity claims to provide, and it excited me more than anything, to the point of squeeing out loud. I can possibly have a simple life once again.
Done watching and imagining how my life will be in Unity, I quickly saddled up and began to make my way over to that beacon of hope. My life, now, was going to change for the better. No more hiding in the ruins of old civilization, no more scavenging for the few scraps of food and water I needed to survive, no more running for my life from other ponies and humans. I will have a home, fresh food and water, protection, friends, and maybe even a family.
Life was going to change for the better, for sure.
Meanwhile...
"FUCK!!! SONOFABITCHGETAWAY- *OOF*"
I Jumped from my bed hit the floor, hard, as I woke up from a very shitty night's sleep. I began to shiver on the cold hard floor as the lower temperature of both the air and the floor bit my sweat soaked skin. I shivered mostly due to the cold, a small part of me also shivered due to my restless sleep's grim reminder... It was the same damn dream, again...
I am really getting tired of this shit. It is the same thing over and over again, those same damn faces, that same damn house, the same damn image of them all burning. All of it is the same, and, to this day, it still scares the hell out of me.
With a groan I picked myself off the floor, shaking away my fear and shock while balancing myself off the nightstand next to my bed. Looking at my clock, I read that is 5:59 AM, just a minute before-
"...Annnnd such is life, in our unity..."
-that alarm clock goes off, playing that same old song by that same fucking emo pony. I swear, they really need to find something else to play at 6:00 AM every god damned morning. One that doesn't make people, like myself, feel in the mood to blow their brains out.
I reached over and calmly turned the alarm off, silencing the ever increasing urge to take a hammer to the thing. Quickly, I collect myself, get up and head straight for the bathroom. It was time to take care of some morning business, because now was the time to do it, there was no other time to do it... I cannot delay, as much as I would love to.
It wasn't like I set the alarm without reason. Unlike most people and ponies alike in this city, I had an actual job. The most important job in this whole damned city in fact; and probably the best paying job for my class. A job to serve and protect the good citizens of this renowned city from the evil and treachery that beholds and terrorizes... and whatnot...
Oh for fuck sake, I'm just a standard fucking cop. Nothing special here, not a superhero. Though, I wasn't really lying about the pay part, it does pay very well. Of course the pay comes with the fact that I essentially have a target painted on my back every waking moment, but I find the few comforts I enjoy with decent paycheck to be worth the risk. Plus, it keeps me active.
More the reason to be on time and keep my job.
I quickly approached my bathroom door and reached out with my right arm in attempt to open it. My attempt failed, however, as my arm let out a hydraulic hiss and ceased to function.
"Oh god dammit... It never fucking fails..." I mumble to myself. I had forgotten to turn off my arm last night and the battery had finally died on me... God dammit... Those batteries are worth a whole day's pay... Plus tax...
Fucking taxes...
With a sigh, I decided not to worry about it for the time being, it wasn't like I actually needed it for my job anyhow... Okay, I was being sarcastic, it helps a lot for my job. Being a one armed cop isn't as fun as it sounds. If I played my cards right, I wouldn't have to defend myself. Hopefully...
I open the bathroom door with my left hand instead, turned on the light, and stepped inside. The bathroom was set up in a pretty basic bare bones fashion. It had all the essentials, no more, no less. A toilet, a sink, a tub, a shower head, and a window just large enough for someone in the opposite apartment building to have full view of the tub. There were no curtains or any sort of cover surrounding the windows or tub to keep the eyes of pervs in the building next door with spy glasses astray from the more intimate parts of my human anatomy as I bathe. Not even a mirror to admire my shitty appearance from. It certainly wasn't the best, clean, or most secure bathroom one could ask for, but it was definitely better than shitting in a bucket and washing off in radioactive water.
As I walk in, I grab a towel from the rack to my left and began the tedious process of blocking out the offending window as best I as could with one arm; I didn't particularly feel like having any pervs from across the street admire my junk this morning as I showered. I am pretty sure there were a few, but perhaps I'm just paranoid with a slight mix of narcissism.
Hey, I'd fuck me.
After I was sure that the towel wasn't about to fall off anytime soon, I removed my boxers and began the process of removing my right arm; I didn't particularly want to fuck up my arm more than I had already have by running it under water.
With the deactivation of three vital couplings and a strong twist, the arm came off with an audible *click*. I quickly striped it of its synthetic flesh, revealing the inner workings of the robotic arm. Some of the joints and hydraulics were showing signs of minor deterioration, so I was going to need to buy some maintenance supplies on top of a new battery for the arm whenever I am free today. Well, that is just fucking brilliant, I guess I will just have to add that to my mental "shit to get" list.
Now completely unclothed and unarmed, I turned on the water and slipped into the shower. The water, predictably, was freezing this morning; more than usual at least. Though I have a rather well paying job, I really have never been able to afford a water heater. Funds that could have gone towards a water heater were usually spend on more essential needs. Needs like maintenance supplies for my apartment and my arm, ammo, food, and even water itself. So I have to make due, despite how uncomfortable it is.
At the very least, it is a motivator to get done quickly, and it definitely saves me money wise from the water bill and job wise from getting fired due to absence. (I just imagine it would be hard to walk away from a hot shower.) So I really don't have that much to complain about.
As the cold from the water continued to send chills through my body, I rubbed myself down head to toe with soap as quickly as humanly possible with my one arm and rinsed off. It wasn't even a few minutes before I found myself shutting down the water and stepping out of the tub, soaking wet and freezing to death. I quickly reached for the second towel I had on the nearby rack and began to rid myself of any moisture rolling down my heat sapped body, being extra careful with one particular spot located across my chest. That scar was still a bit sensitive...
Wrapping the towel around my waist, I pulled off the towel covering my window and put it back in its place on the rack. Before leaving the bathroom, I briefly flip the bird in plane view of my window for any and all those who might have been trying to watch. I do that about every time I take a shower, mostly because I like to entertain the fact that I am probably making someone else's day just about as worse as mine.
I stepped back out to my bathroom into... well... really just the main room of my apartment. Before the war, this place actually wasn't exactly an apartment complex, this place was actually an office building. After the war, this office building was converted into an apartment complex in order to house the growing population of our grand city, renting out office space as apartments. I currently own a meeting room and a small office; my bedroom and my bathroom in that exact order.
My bedroom/living room is pretty decent sized, enough to hold all my belongings. My bed in the far corner, the night stand right next to it, the makeshift closet in the opposing corner to the bed, my dusty old sofa against the wall to the left of me in the middle of the room, and a small ancient TV on its make shift stand sitting right next to the opposing wall. It most certainly wasn't much, but it was definitely better than what most people and ponies had.
I walked across the room and stood directly in front of my closet. Discarding my towel, I searched through the closet for the appropriate clothes to wear.
Appearances were important for my line of work, despite what many may think is appropriate post apocalyptic wear. If you wore the right attire, you could be intimidating enough that no one would dare fuck with you; your chances of being stabbed or shot to death were significantly lower. If you wore the wrong attire, like for example a gang getup, raider gear, or something a innocent bystander would wear, you were definitely going to be a target for every low life on the street.
I, being the peace officer that deal with such individuals on a daily basis, must keep up appearances in order to not look weak. If I showed any weakness, even in my clothing, the assholes I deal with would decide I'm not so tough after all. In other words: They try to beat the shit out of me and leave me barely alive in a dark damp alleyway in the best case scenario, or they attempt to cut my balls off and dump in a garbage incinerator in the worst case scenario. I personally didn't like either of these ideas, so I always dressed to impress.
My attire for today was my old, prewar, military outfit. It was not exactly in the best condition, but it was certainly good enough to suit my purposes. The outfit itself consisted of a wrinkled and torn camouflaged coat with part of its right sleeve missing, a plain green shirt, camouflaged pants whose condition nearly matched the coat's, and a pair of standard issue boots that were in slight better condition than the rest of the outfit. There used to be a cap that went with it, but that was lost sometime during war.
To an outsider of Unity City, the significance of a military uniform is likely unfounded. However, to a citizen of our fine city, this was a uniform to fear regardless of race. The uniform, to put quite simply, symbolized me as a "Old Dog of War" as most here call it. We "Old War Dogs" are a feared group of ex-soldiers who somehow survived, physically and mentally, the war between human and pony kind from the very beginning of it. We were better trained and much better equipped than the cannon fodder our government pulled in later into the war; we even were allowed our own uniforms and armor. However, despite our advantages, not many of us survived. In fact, most of us died during the first part of the war; mostly due to the fact that we were the first responders to a war that was to go on for years on end. By the end of the war, we were a rare and dangerous breed; the kind that no one wants to fuck with. As a result of that fear, we are usually left alone; especially when we make ourselves apparent with our uniforms.
That being said, it helps me keep up appearances.
I quickly slipped on my clothing, as it would be best that I got out as soon as possible. The police station was a couple of miles from me and my patrol route was a few miles after that. I was going to have to walk the entire way. So, unless I want to be late, I am going to have to skip the rest of my morning routine; breakfast included. I'll have to pick up something at the cafe along the way to sustain myself; it is what I usually do every day anyways.
Not wanting to delay myself any longer than, I walked over to my nightstand and opened the first drawer to reveal a badge, a wallet, a glock 18, properly secured within its holster, and a few spare clips for said weapon.
This particular pistol was standard issue to all security personnel, and is extremely outdated compared to the type of weaponry that is still around nowadays. I'm talking about the really advanced and nasty ones, plasma casters, hand-held coil guns, pressure rifles, etc, and I do mean etc; humans and ponies really did get creative in ways to kill one another during the war.
The only people who have access to those shinier weapons are the military police, royal guard, and high ranking security forces. However, I really don't complain. I am happy enough that the bureaucrats of the city didn't decide to keep the glocks and give us sticks instead; I'd rather not have to beat people or ponies into submission.
'Halt, or I'll say halt again!' as someone once said.
Besides that, those weapons are pretty overkill for the type of situations me and the rest of the police force has to deal with either way. So, there is really nothing to complain about. I am happy enough with my glock 18.
Grabbing all weapon, ammo, badge, and wallet, I secured the weapon and badge to my belt, then my wallet and clips within my pants pockets, before I began walking to my front door. However, as I reached the front door, I quickly remembered I was missing a limb. I cursed to myself as I quickly ran into the bathroom and grabbed my detached arm off the sink, where I had left it. With this, it was time to go. Limb in hand I finally exited my home completely and into the office hallway.
The hallway was about what anyone would imagine it to be. Plain. Simply plain. And dirty! Did I mention dirty? What I stood in now is the equivalent of what one would consider a place that was in desperate need of renovation and a cleaning maid. The walls of the hallway was a murky white and the filthy rug below me was a ugly brown. I believe it might have been a dull grey at one time, but years of dust, lack of maintenance, and perhaps more than a few bloodstains had reduced it to the disgusting color it was now. The city will sometimes send a cleaning crew over to make the building at least livable, but it was never high on their priority list.
I turned around and closed my door, only to notice a bright orange letter stuck on there with a piece of scotch tape. I internally cursed as I snatched the big orange envelope off the door and began opening it, in order to see what bullshit the landowner was trying to pull over me this time.
Residents of this particular apartment complex usually receive these kinds of letters all the time, and they usually come in either a red, orange, white, or black envelope; depending on the situation. A white envelope usually indicated "outside mail," meaning that it has nothing to do with the apartment. (They also are usually slid under the door, not taped to it. People are more prone to steal those kinds of envelopes.) A red envelope indicated rent, taunting the term "red letter day" in the best way the landlord knows how. A black envelope indicated a either a warning or an eviction notice. An orange letter indicates a priority message, this message could be good or bad depending on your personality and/or the mood you were in. In other words, it is always bad.
I read over the letter quickly, and I didn't like what I saw. Ripping the notice in half, envelope and all, and leaving it in pieces in front of my door, I went down the hall and into the nearest elevator. Setting the destination to floor one, I went down to see my landlord so we could have a little chat before I went to work...
The city gates were now just ahead of me. A spur of excitement coursed through me, and I couldn't help but want to run straight up to the gates. I had to resist the temptation, however, as I really didn't want to look like a threat.
I know it sounds crazy, considering I'm just one small, relatively unarmed, unicorn with a small arch gun; how could anyone think I'm a threat to this massive city? Then again, survival out here has taught me to be paranoid, and to assume other were as well. I'd imagine it'd be pretty easy for jumpy guard to mistake me as a suicidal raider charging the gate.
Wouldn't want to get shot at the gates of hope, now would we?
So, I continued my cautious approach, despite my desire to be inside.
At a distance, the gate looked pretty damn secure. The entire thing was made of scraps and metal, towered nearly twelve feet over an average human, and was reinforced with barbed wire over the top. The door itself looked far too heavy to be moved by itself, there must be a machine or something that helps open the gate. There's also a smaller door built into the gate; likely for letting people through... They may not open the actual gate unless they're letting something big through.
All and all, it seemed there is no way anyone was getting in easily this way without some assistance.
There seemed to be two guard posts on either side of the gate as well, both with excellent vantage points over the surrounding area. I haven't see anyone yet, but given the very little cover on the approach, I'm sure I've been seen by now. The fact that I haven't been shot at yet bodes well for me, they might just see I'm not a threat.
Eventually, I made it to a reasonable distance from the gate; surely close enough to be heard. However, I found the gate to be oddly quiet... I expected to have been contacted by now. To be told to stop moving and explain my business and such. However, there was nothing. It was just... Quiet. Nothing could be heard nearby, only the distance sound of the city's activity.
In my nervousness, I decided it best to call out and see if anyone was there.
"Hello!?" I shouted at the gate, hoping for some sort of response.
However, everything remained silent. No one nor pony responded.
I begin to grow even more nervous. Maybe I approached the wrong gate? Is there a different gate I'm supposed to enter? Did I really approach the wrong one? Even so... Where are the guards? Why isn't this gate guarded? Something doesn't feel right about this...
I began to turn around, to go back and try to find a different way in. I must have just got the wrong gate after all. It bugged me that this gate seem so abandoned, but I really know nothing about this city yet; I'm sure I'll figure it out later.
However, as I am about to walk away, I finally hear something. A voice right behind me...
"Hey, Miss!?" The voice exclaimed, obviously trying to get my attention.
I spun my head around to the direction of the voice. At first I didn't see anything, but then I saw something standing right outside the gate; near the sub door. It wasn't clear at first, in fact, it just looked like a figure; and outline of sorts. Then, suddenly, it became clear. There, in place of the figure, stood what was clearly a human.
It took me a few seconds to figure out what just happened, after all, he (assuming that is his gender.) appeared out of seemingly nowhere. However, after a few seconds, I came to realize he was using a shadow device. A cloaking device that leaves nothing but a figure or shadow in the user's place. Suddenly, it became clear why I had seen no guards. They all must be invisible! Which would make sense considering they likely wouldn't want to be picked off from a distance... Smart.
I got a better look at the human, and I was relieved that I've finally met someone. However, my relief was short lived as found something about this human to be off... The human was young, not teenage, but clearly in his twenties; and probably younger than me. He had dark brown hair, Hazel eyes and pale white skin. This wasn't abnormal to me, I have seen humans like this before. However, what struck me was the fact that he didn't have any visible weapons of any sort, and was clearly not wearing any sort of armor. The most he could be wearing in that regard would need to be a light armored vest under the black hoodie he was wearing; which was not likely. All this combined was a dead giveaway that he wasn't a guard of this gate.
Speaking of guards, I have still yet to see or hear from them...
I looked at him skeptically, not quite sure what to think of him. He obviously wasn't a guard, but I wasn't sure if he was some random human either. I had no knowledge of rules or laws in this city, but I know they probably wouldn't allow average citizens access to technology like that. That being said, he had to be someone important or someone carrying around contraband. On the other hoof, what was someone like him doing here? At a gate? The situation was so strange, I wasn't exactly sure how to react. However, something inside told me I shouldn't trust this human.
After staring awkwardly at the human for another moment, he waved and spoke up again.
"Yeah, you, blue mare, unicorn, lady, pony, I'm talking to you! I need to you to come forward and stop when I tell you." The human ordered.
I glared skeptically at him again. I'm still not sure about what was happening, but I complied anyways. I've never been to this city before, Maybe this was normal? Dear Celestia, this is making me nervous... Well, nothing ventured, nothing gained? I might as well see what he wants. Maybe this is how I get in?
...or how I die...
I approached the human. As I got within ten feet from him, He spoke up again.
"That's far enough." He ordered.
With that, I stopped in my tracks. At that point, I was about to speak up, asking him what this was about. However, he was quick to cut me off as he grabbed something from something from the backpack he was apparently wearing. I had a near panic attack as I thought about what he could be pulling out. It took me quite a bit of restraint not to draw on him immediately. Something told me that would have been a horrible idea. Especially considering I still haven't spotted the guards...
To my relief, it wasn't a gun. It looked like some pieces of paper on a clipboard. Out of a pocket of his hoodie, he pulled out a pen.
"Alright, well, I'm going to outright assume you are new here. Am I correct?" The human asked, sounding like he already knew the answer. It was looking like he was about to start taking down information.
Alright... I guess this is my registration? This is so strange... I expected to have to do this in an office or something. But it seems that is not the case. But... this guy is all sorts of shady; he doesn't look like a city official at all. Something is wrong with this picture...
Despite the strangeness of the situation, I complied. Responding with a "Yes."
"Alright..." The human replied, writing down something on the pad.
"So, what's your name, young lady?" The human then asked.
Despite my annoyance of being called a 'young lady' by someone I was clearly older than, I Figured there was nothing wrong with giving a name. Plus, I am still under the assumption and hope that this really was a registration process of some sort. So, I responded with "My name's Aqua Blu."
"Alright, how do you spell that?" The human asked.
"A-Q-U-A_B-L-U" I clarified.
The human nodded, seemingly writing down the information I gave him. It wasn't long before he finished and moved on to his next question.
"So, where do you come from Aqua?" He asked.
I found the question to be a bit odd. I mean... Where do any of us come from? I briefly thought about the question, but it really didn't take me too long to answer.
"Back there." I replied, pointing a hoof behind me from the wastes I've traveled in from. I emphasized the obviousness of the answer with a dull tone. Where else would I have come from?
"Interesting..." The human remarked as he wrote something down.
"What's interesting?" I asked.
"Oh, your answer. Usually folks refer to their old home when asked that question. Not you I guess... I guess you're the kind not dwelling on what once was."
I decided not to respond to that statement. There was nothing to say, he was right. Home died a long time ago, there was no point in bringing it back up. No amount of talk was going to bring it back to life. All we can do is move on...
"Alright, well, I guess I am here to welcome you to our city. So, yeah. Welcome to Unity. I will be your official, unofficial, guide in getting you settled in. If you will follow me, We'll head inside and get you set up. Before we head in though, keep in mind that no weapons are permitted inside the city. Please disarm yourself and give me any weapons you might have before coming in. Trust me when I say neither of us will like what happens if you come in packing heat." The human started, walking back towards the sub door, gesturing for me to approach.
I wanted to, I really did, but something still didn't sit right with me. Not to mention his odd little title he just gave himself. Official, unofficial, guide? What the buck did that mean? I'm not sure whether or not he was trying to be funny or not, but the shadiness factor just went from eight to ten with this guy. The fact that he just asked me to give up my weapons to him didn't help with my distrust. I was now more nervous than I was before.
"Like Tartarus I'm giving YOU my weapons! You've been nothing but shady this entire time. You don't even look like any city official I've ever seen. Where are the guards? Shouldn't they be the ones escorting me in?" I asked, or more like demanded. At this point, I would give anything to see a guard or something along those lines make an appearance. Something to assure me that this guy was supposed to be here...
The human looked back at me, looking a bit confused. He looked down at himself, seemingly trying to identify the problem, but it didn't look like he found anything wrong with his appearance. With that, he looked back at me.
"There are no guards, they're off duty for the time being. We can wait for them if you want, but trust me when I tell you... you don't want them." The human stated with a serious tone.
So, there were no guards... Something told me I should walk away and find another way in at this point, but my curiosity was peeked at the mention of me 'not wanting to deal with the guards.' Whether the information be valid or not, I felt that I needed to know.
"Um... Why? What makes them the worse choice?" I asked, a bit confused.
It looked like he thought about his answer for a moment. In that moment, I managed to catch an odd expression. A very distinct frown of disgust at whatever he was thinking about... But it was gone in an instant, returning to his neutral look as he gave his answer.
"With the guards, there's this pointless hour long process of vetting you for any and all information. Which will more than likely end with you either getting shot or turned away. It's nothing personal, it's just security being a bit tight around here. Now, assuming you actually want in the city, I'm currently your best bet of getting in without complications; trust me on this one. Now, if it is any reassurance, I am a city official. I'm just 'unofficially' here at the moment." The human replied, explaining himself.
I still didn't trust him, it was obvious that he was holding back on something; especially given his previous reaction. It'd probably be in my best interest for me to walk away and find another way in. However, a small part of me told me that I should heed the warning... I know nothing about this city, and for all I knew, he was correct. There was probably a chance that I would be turned away or shot. With that, my hopes and dream of a better life would be shattered. Could I possibly risk that?
No, I can't... but can I risk trusting this guy either?
"If you are that worried about me turning the gun against you, unload the damn thing. Seriously, if we are going to get you in without complications, we got to do it now. Otherwise, you will face the guards, and you will definitely not like it. You really need to trust me on this one." The human said impatiently, sounding a bit worried.
Why was he so worried about me having to face the guards. More importantly, who was the worry really for? Me or himself? There was a part of me telling to walk away now, find another way in. It was the safest option... I think. However, another part of me told me not to be so paranoid. What if his warnings ring true?
What if this is really my only chance?
A few seconds later, I made up my mind. Unholstering my weapon, I was quick to unload the arch cell and de-charge the weapon. Making sure it couldn't be used, I began to make my way over to the human.
I was taking a huge leap of faith here. There was no telling what the human's intention were. However, being paranoid wasn't going to get me anywhere. This was a chance for me to start over with a new life, and I sure as hell was going to take that chance. All I could hope was that I wasn't about to regret this...
Hoofing over the arch gun, the human gave me a reassuring smile before pocketing the weapon and moving to open the sub door. Within a few seconds, it was open. With a gesture, he offered me to be the first to enter.
"You made the right choice." The human reassured me.
So, here I was. About the to enter the City of Unity. A place where I was about to start over and make a new life for myself. My hopes and dreams were soon to be realized, and everything was going to be okay...
In the background, I could hear the distant sound of a radio playing...
"...Such is life, in our unity.
Such lack of compassion and purity.
Such worthless promises of security.
Such absence of Harmony...
Such monsters growing into maturity.
Who can be trusted?
In our unity..."
All I can hope is that I didn't make a mistake trusting this man.
"Alba, you pony fucking, cock sucking dickwad!!! What the fuck are you playing at!!!???" I immediately yelled as I approached the front desk from the elevator.
The man sitting at the desk, Alba the pony fucking, dickwad, fuck up landlord, jumped a little in his desk at the sudden verbal assault before he straightened up, looking with a little distaste at me. He was very old Hispanic guy, with all the features you would come to expect from one. Black hair, tired and squinted eyes, a Mexican mustache, and wrinkles you could not believe were possible. You would almost assume he was a mob boss of some Mexican cartel, but that's just my inner racist speaking.
Anyways, to his credit, he wasn't a pony fucker, or a cock sucker, or really even a fuck up. I was just really pissed at him right now.
"Ah, Marco, I thought I would be seeing you this morning, though I would had hoped we would have only started this conversation without screaming lies about my sexual orientation and species preferences." Alba replied smartly as he went back to reading whatever document was in front of him.
Yep, this was my landlord. Wicked smart, cunning, and someone you could not possible ever insult. No matter how hard you try, you will always come out of the conversation smelling like ass while he smelled of roses. Alba was simply not a person you could argue with. Despite this, I continued. I wanted to get to the bottom of the ass fuckage, that was this orange letter, he planted at my door.
"Shut the fuck up and tell me what the fuck is up with the orange letter on my door!?" I yelled at him, slamming my hands on his desk upon reaching it; knocking a jar of pencils over and scattering it across his desk.
As he calmly picked up the pencils and put them back in their proper place, he replied. "If you read it, the answer to that question is pretty obvious. Now is that all you need?"
"No, I want to know why you are fucking me in the ass here! I pay rent on time! Every time! In full! So why am I getting this ass fucking!!!???"
Alba simply rolled his eyes at this before refocusing on me. At this point, you would expect the man to start yelling, and perhaps even pull a gun on you. However, that was not Alba. Alba folded his hands together, and in the most calm and reserved voice ever, he said.
"You are getting this "ass fucking" because it is the law. They sent me the notice today. I have to provide one month of free housing to a new batch of citizens of our fine city. I was required to fill five spaces, I only had four available. I told them this, and they gave me your number. There is nothing I can do. Trust me when I say if I could I would, I know you have always been good with the rent and keeping the peace. However, at this point, I don't have a choice. Whether you like it or not, you are going to have a roommate."
I felt like yelling more, perhaps even grabbing him by the collar and screaming in his face. I felt cheated and screwed over by this. All this hard work so I could get my own apartment, so I could live alone in peace. All for nothing, as I was soon to be forced to take in a squatter by law. Oh the fucking irony.
However, I relented. Alba was right, he didn't have a choice. I knew this better than most. They would take away his business and throw him to the streets if he didn't comply; possibly replacing him with someone thousands of times worse than he is. I was going to have to take in this squatter regardless if I liked it or not. I could only hope that he doesn't move a pony in.
After a few tense moments, I sighed and finally replied back, in a much calmer tone. "Fine... I'm sorry for the bullshit, alright? You know how I feel about this crap. Could you at least guarantee me that this squatter I am going to be living with for the next month will be human?"
"I'm sorry man, I really can't. Four out of the five must be ponies, as we apparently have a lack of them. Something about my business being a racist apartment complex or something. I don't understand the politicians of this city sometimes... Sometimes humans and ponies can't live together. I'll see about getting you the human roommate, I do know how you feel about ponies, but I won't make any promises."
I sighed once again, I suppose that was about as good of a deal as I was going to get; especially after putting him through that horseshit.
"Thank, man. I appreciate it. I got to get to work now before I end up being late. Just do what you can do, and I will understand if you are unable." I replied as I began to leave.
"I'll try, but again, I cannot make promises. Have a good day Marco!" Alba said as I exited the front door.
As I left the building, one single thought came to mind. I smiled as I verbalized it.
"Like a fucking rose."
I sort of closed my eyes heading through the gate, hoping for the best. Hoping that there wasn't some sort of ambush waiting on the other side for me. Hoping that I wasn't going to be clubbed over the head and dragged off to Celestia knows where. Hoping that I was not wrong to trust this 'Official, Unofficial Guide.'
Then I opened my eyes. To my relief, there was nothing. No ambush, no sudden blackout, no waking up in a cell or alleyway with no clue how I got there, no sudden betrayal by my newfound acquaintance. What I did see though took my breath away.
Unity City was... a dump.
I know, I know. What was I expecting for a post apocalyptic city? For it to be shining and glimmering? No, I really wasn't. However, I would have thought that they'd keep better maintenance of the place. Buildings were visibly decaying, there was trash everywhere, and ultimately the place looked a huge mess. Definitely not an entirely uplifting sight to behold.
Of course, that wasn't exactly the worst of it... There was plenty of graffiti over the nearby walls. Most of them were a combination of Anti-human and Anti-pony artwork portraying one race or the other as evil monsters in need to be destroyed, along with varying insults about one side or the other... There was some graffiti that was in support of unification of all species, but they were far outnumbered by messages of hatred.
It looks like a lot of people haven't forgotten the war...
I wasn't surprised by this either. In fact, I kind of expected it coming here. Unity was a perfect idea, problem is that we are not perfect beings. We are flawed in many ways, and sometimes we just can't let go of things. It's always been like this, even in the old world. Aside from a change of scenery, not much has changed in regards of our thinking.
Still, I don't lose hope. It's going to take a lot more than a few hate messages and a bunch of trash to take my spirit down. I believe in Unity, and surely there are many others who do as well. Otherwise, how would this great city exist? It wasn't like everyone hated each other...
Right?
"Shit." I heard from behind me, quickly reminding me that I was not alone.
Looking behind me, I noticed the human was glaring at something in front of us. Turning my head around and looking in the direction he was, I noticed two more humans rounding the corner. Both were armed and in full tactical gear. My mind immediately jumped to the guards that my guide had mentioned earlier. The ones I supposedly didn't want to meet.
Just like that, my nervousness came crashing back. I began to feel naked without my gun...
"Alright, I need you to listen to me, carefully. I need you to get behind me and don't say a word. If they ask you something, don't answer them. If they tell you to do something, don't do it. Whatever you do, Do not agree to anything. Leave the talking to me and keep your mouth shut." The human ordered in a very serious tone.
Questions began to run through my head, and few very familiar questions reemerged. What was this about? Why was my guide so nervous about these two guards? Was he actually a criminal and was about to get caught before he could do something to me? Was there something he wasn't telling me about the guards in the first place? I didn't know what the think at this point. All I did know was that I already put my trust in this human, so I might as well see how this plays out on his side.
I quickly followed his instructions and got behind him. As the guards finally noticed us, they immediately drew their weapons, some sort of automatic rifles I didn't recognize, and approached us.
"YOU TWO, GET DOWN ON THE GROUND!!! RIGHT NOW!!!" One of the guards shouted.
My nervousness was coming back with a vengeance. Only a few seconds in Unity, and I was already about to die. This wasn't fair... Please don't let me get shot! I was about to follow the guards orders, but quickly remembered that my guide instructed not to follow the guard's orders. Plus, it didn't seem like he was going to either. However, he did raise his hands in the air in a nonchalant manner. For some reason, despite the guards pointing guards at us, he didn't show any signs of fear at all.
"There's no need for that, we are both unarmed and citizens who have broken no rules." My guide replied calmly.
A couple parts of that was a complete lie, but I guess they didn't need to know that....
"MOTHER FUCKER, I AM NOT PLAYING WITH YOU!!! GET DOWN ON THE GROUND NOW OR WE WILL SHOOT!!!" The guard yelled back in response.
I was almost ready to comply, damn what my guide said, the guard sounded dead serious and I was not going to get shot for this! However, my guide seemed to stay determined despite the yelling. Something told me he knew something I didn't, so I continued to follow his lead.
"That would be a mistake, sir. Trust me on this one. You don't want to do that." My guide replied in a serious tone.
The guards didn't yell again, but they kept their weapons trained on us as they cautiously approached our position. I stood, frozen as a statue, hoping to Celestia that they didn't open fire. Thankfully, it seemed that they weren't going to.
Yet...
Soon, the guards were about twenty feet away, and still approaching. At this point, I could tell both of them were older males, somewhere in their forties; and the years were definitely not treating them well. Both of them were pretty hideous, and I could imagine they were not a very big hit with the ladies. Especially if they were as loudmouth as I heard them earlier. That being said, something about them unsettled me...
I only became more unsettled as one of the guards glanced at me, smiled, and said something to the other male; making him grin as well.
Suddenly, I became thankful that I encountered my shady, official, unofficial, guide and not these two...
Soon, the two guards were upon us. They were no longer passing glances my way, making me feel at least a little better, but I was still freaked out by their behavior. What the hell were they doing!? Pointing their guns at us like that!? They acted like they were about to arrest us, but they're not? What was going on here?
"Well, now. Look at what we have here. Two little lovebirds out for a stroll?" One of the guards asked.
"Guess you folks are taking that Unity bullshit a bit too seriously; if you know what I mean. Heheh" The other chuckled.
I suppress a blush, I wasn't exactly expecting him to say that, but I managed. It was obvious that these two creeps were trying to get under our skin. In a way, it was working. I've never felt so repulsed by anyone before. I think I'm starting to get why my guide was trying to avoid these people...
Anyways, I was quick to realize what was going on. I recognized the way these guards to speaking to us. The ego they carried, acting as if they caught us doing something we weren't, trying to make us believe we were, acting like they knew something we didn't. It became apparent that these guards were holding us up. We were about to be robbed.
This wasn't a first time for me, I've come to recognize how douche bag highwaymen speak... The question was now why my guide planned to do about it.
"Not entirely, but what business is that of yours." My guide replied, glaring at the guard.
Not surprisingly, the guards were not intimidated by my guide. If anything, it seems that they found it a bit amusing. I have a feeling we are not going to get out of here with our belongings intact...
"It isn't my business he says? The nerve! It's our duty to guard the gate, and here this fucker says that his business around the gate is none of ours!? My god, What do you think of this Jerry?" The guard asked his partner, apparently named Jerry.
"I think someone has something to hide, Martin." Jerry replied back to his partner, apparently named Martin.
"My god! Jerry! You're right, why else would these two be sneaking around our gate during curfew. I might just have to report this..." Martin responded.
My guide continued to glare at the smug, smiling guard; looking like he wanted to beat his face in. I'm sure the only thing stopping him at this point was the fact they had guns and we didn't. Relatively speaking at least...
"What curfew?" My guide asked skeptically.
I was a bit curious about that myself, kind of curfew occurs this late in the morning? Obviously, it wasn't legitimate. Something my guide seems to have caught onto as well.
"Oh? You didn't hear? There was a riot in town square, there is a curfew until further notice. To bad you didn't hear... You'll probably get into a lot of trouble for this." Martin replied smugly, pretending to reach for his radio to call us in. Of course, at this point, we both knew better.
As predicted, the guard did not call it in. Instead, he looked like he came to some sort of realization.
"You know what, maybe we shouldn't put ourselves through that headache. There will be a ton of paperwork to fill out and all that kind of stuff. Nobody wants that-" The guard started to say before he was cut off.
"Enough with the game, how much do you want?" My guide said, getting straight to the point.
The guard was a bit put off by the sudden interruption of his clearly thought out line. In a way, so was I. It was like he was expecting to have to pay up. Was this my guide's master plan for getting past the guards? Bribe them? Why would he try to do that? Aren't they just going to take all we have anyways? What was going on? Yet another instance where everyone seems to know something I don't...
The guard was quick to recover, and give his amount.
"5000 units." Martin stated.
Really!? This is working!? It can't be this easy... they have guns, we don't; as far as they know. We have no negotiating position. Why are they not trying to take everything we have? This would imply we are paying them to look the other way... are we? Why would we be doing that?
"Alright, would you like that in cash or bits?" My guide replied smartly.
"Fuck you asshole, you know what we want, and we know you have it. The sort like you are always loaded." Jerry replied. Jerry didn't seem like like this remark, apparently they don't like Equestrian currency...
'The sort like you?' What did they mean by that? Maybe they know he's a city official? Killing him would certainly raise questions in a city like this... But how would they know that? I couldn't even tell... Do they know him? What am I missing!?
"Right, cash, coming right up." My guide replied, removing his wallet and quickly removing a wad of cash.
Counting out the requested amount, he handed off the money to the corrupt guard; who quickly pocketed the money.
"Alright, you got your money, now you get to pretend you never saw us. Might as well I guess, that is your only talent." My guide responded, being quick to try to direct me around the two guards.
However, our path was quickly blocked by the two guards again. Both were smiling, and, once again, they were taking quick glances my direction. I'm starting to have a really bad feeling about this...
"Sorry buddy, but 5000 isn't enough. I wipe my ass with 5000 units. Which would be fine, except I don't recognize you. I'd definitely recognize one of Macer's men, you are definitely not one of Macer's crew. Meaning you are new at this. Afraid we are going to have to charge you another 5000. Don't worry, it's only a one time fee, for repeat business and all." Jerry demanded.
Macer? Who was Macer?! Repeat business?! What were they talking about!? Who am I with?!
My guide looked really tired of their scam at this point, and looked like he was about to do something rash. However, he seemed to restrain himself for a moment longer as he replied to the greedy guard.
"I'm afraid you won't get anything else off me. You took about everything I had. Now, if you could please move." My guide replied as he tried once again to move us around the two guards.
However, once again, they were in our way. They were more directly staring at me now. A shiver rolled down my spine as I began to realize what they were likely intending. I wasn't entirely sure what they were thinking, but it most certainly had something to do with me. I can't help but feel extremely crept out at this point. Suddenly, it started to feel like I was putting the pieces together.
"Oh, well, that's alright! As it turns out, we have to thoroughly search your mare friend here. We would have been able to skip this step if you had the money, but since you don't, we will have to go through with our procedure. Thankfully, you won't have to pay a dime for this, and we'll be done in a half an hour. After that both of you can be on your way." Martin offered all too happily.
Suddenly, it all started to fit. My guide was a smuggler, and I was the unaware product. How could I have been so stupid... I saw this coming a mile away, yet I blindly trusted this shady, sick man, into this god awful trap. I didn't have to imagine what they were thinking by this point, they wanted to test the product it seems... In return, they'll let us through and allow the smuggler to trade me off Celestia knows where.
However, that was not going to happen. Over my dead body.
I was getting ready to charge them, ready to bucking kill them both or die trying. Both the guards had made the mistake of letting their guard down, and I was ready to take full advantage of that. If I can't get one of their weapons, I'll kill my supposed guide, take my gun back and try to use it to my advantage.
This was not how I wanted my new life to start out, where my first life ended, but Celestia know I will die before I let these creeps touch m-
"Marcus Greenlife, John Genword. You have really fucked up." My guide suddenly states with a dark tone, breaking my train of thought.
The two would be rapists looked at my guide, shock clear in their faces. Apparently he just said something they didn't expect him to say. Their real names...
Just like that, I held my assault. What just happened? Just like that, the confidence the guards once held disappeared; with just a few words... What was going on?! I kept my ground for the time being, listening for more information.
"How did you-" John spoke up before immediately being cut off.
"You know very well how. The Informant sends his regards." My guide replied.
The two guards looked like they were about ready to shoot us, and I was ready to attempt to disarm them both with my magic. However, my guide was much quicker to react. Not with actions, but words.
"You and I both know that's a bad idea. I've told you the same thing from the beginning. Need me to explain why? Probably, knowing how stupid you both are holding up people and ponies attempting to enter the city. So, here's the short version: The Informant hates dead birds. He will come looking for their killers. When he finds them, he will make sure they wished they were never born. Trust me on this one." My guide Stated.
With that, The guards hesitated. They looked at each other, questioning what to do. They didn't have long to debate however, as my guide spoke up again.
"Here is what you are about to do. You are about to return to your posts. You will forget that we were ever here. However, in addition to that, you will follow your own procedures to the letter. You will not shake down those who wish entry. You will not discriminate against Equestrians and treat them as equals. You will not ever try to pull the shit you just tried to pull today." The guide started off, glaring at them.
The two men frozen in fear stared at him silently as they waited for him to continue, with this he did.
"You do this, and I will forget to mention your names, and you will be able to live your pathetic lives and keep your shitty job making 7.55 units an hour without hearing from us. As a bonus, I will even let you keep the money you just scammed out of me. However, you better pray that you follow the rules I just laid down, or I will come for your asses myself. Now, if you'll excuse us." The guide finished, Moving us around the two guards one last time.
The guards did not stand in our way this time. In fact they were very quick to get around us and back to their posts. I couldn't help but feel more concerned than I was before. It was bad enough when I thought he was a sex trafficker, but now, I don't know where to even begin. Who was the Informant? Why did simply dropping his name make those two guards crap their pants? Most of all, what is my newfound acquaintance's connection to this supposedly terrifying individual?
I don't know, but I sure as Tartarus wasn't going to stick around to find out!
I was going to continue to follow my supposed guide for a bit, pretend to still not know what was going on. Least until we got out of sight of the guards... then I'll make my move. Duck into an alleyway or something. I don't know, I just need to get out of here. I'll figure out where to go from there.
Moments later, we were about to round the corner, out of sight of the guards. I was immediately attempting to find some sort of escape route. Some place where I could disappear out of sight. However, as we rounded the corner, he stopped in his tracks and turned around to face me.
I stopped with him, trying to keep up the act. However, as I saw the expression on his face, I could immediately tell he saw right through facade of ignorance. It was only confirmed by what he said next.
"Before you run off into a city you don't know a thing about, would you like me to at least try to explain myself?" He asked.
I was ready to bolt then and there, I probably would have. However, I actually thought about it for a second. He was right, I had no clue about anything this city. Running now would be the equivalent of running through a minefield. Celestia knows who or what I might run into next... Something told me that these guards were probably not the worse thing to run into in this city. I decided that staying a few extra seconds would be less of a risk than running the gauntlet.
"Fine, you have ten seconds." I stated with a firm aggressive tone, no longer pretending.
"Probably going to need more than ten seconds." He replied.
"8, 7..." I deadpanned.
"Alright, fine! Have it your way! I really am a city official, and I really am unofficially here. Being caught out here as a person of my position would have been bad for me. Long story short, I was hoping to get us past the guards before they showed up. When they did show up, I thought I could get us past by acting like the usual people who bribe them to traffic certain goods through. I'm sorry I gave you the impression that I was that kind of person, I had to sell the act. I am really not that kind of person, I swear." The guide explained as quickly as he could.
I glared at him skeptically. It seemed like he was telling the truth, but then again, they always seem like they are telling the truth. Lying would have to be second nature to people like them. Plus, his explanation still didn't explain everything. If being a man if his position would get him in trouble being out here, then what was he doing out here? Also, who was the informant? He mentioned being a 'bird,' did he work for this supposedly terrifying individual? I wasn't sure if this man being associated with shady business like that was not sounding much better than a sex trafficker.
"If you are not suppose to be out here, then what are you doing out here?! And why should I trust you when you are throwing names around like 'The Informant' and scaring the crap out of people with it!?" I nearly yelled at him.
I expected him to respond to me immediately, however, he went wide eyed muttering something under his breath as he looked seemingly at random, he was quick to refocus his attention on me; glaring at me. Apparently he didn't like me speaking so loud about this particular subject.
"Do not say that out loud! You are going to get us killed! I am not associated with that criminal in anyway! I just dropped his name to scare the guards, it got us out of there! I didn't know what else to do! Alright!? As for why I'm out here, it's personal; therefore it is none of your fucking business. You should just be thankful that I even bothered to stop and get your ass through the gates before someone else did!" He practically hissed at me.
I recoiled in shock at the man's sudden outburst. It seems that I had hit a nerve. At that moment, I was ready to just walk away. In my mind, there was no good reason to trust this guy. He might be telling the truth, but there was no real way I could know that. However, I began to turn and walk away, he suddenly spoke up again.
"Sorry..." He half muttered.
I stopped. I don't know why I stopped, but I felt that I need to. I felt that I needed to keep hearing him out. If I walked away now, there was a chance I might regret it. So far, this man has yet to actually try anything, other than yell at me a bit; which was pretty harmless. All and all He was the one factor in this city that wasn't a complete unknown. I felt that I needed to at least give him a chance. So, I turned back around and let him finish.
"Yeah, sorry about that. That wasn't very polite of me. You have every right to be suspicious, especially after all of that. You have every right to walk away at this point. However, I cannot, in good conscience allow you to do that without at least trying. It would defeat the purpose of getting you out of there, to just set you loose into something else. So, I beg that you believe me. I really am an official, I am not a criminal, and all I want to do is help you. If you can't accept that, then well... good luck I guess. You are going to need it." He finally said before he turned around and started walking.
Watching him walk away, I questioned whether or not I'd be better off without his help. Sure, I am probably right not trusting him, and sure, I'll probably will be just fine without him. However, that was the thing... Probably. Was probably good enough? He could have very useful information, about what to do, what to avoid, where to go, all relevant information that would be useful for me starting out in this city. Without him, I was traveling blind, having no idea where to even start. Very dangerous, and I was tired of danger.
Is this worth the risk?
Yes, yes it is.
With this decision, I begin to quickly trot after my guide, catching up with him and staying by his side. I've made it this far with this human, and he has yet to betray me as far as I know. Given what just happened, he defending me against those two crooks, I can only assume that his intentions are pure. I will continue to trust him until he's given me a reason not to. Hopefully, before long, I will become a citizen of Unity. From there, the only way to go is up.
"You alright, by the way?" My guide asked suddenly as we continued to walk.
The question caught me a bit off guard. I honestly wasn't expecting him to say anything after that. I figured we would have been walking in silence to our destination. Wherever that was...
"Uh... Yeah. I'm alright." I respond uneasily, still getting used to trusting this man.
"That good to hear. Again, I apologize about earlier, and your less than acceptable first impression of our city. Not everyone are like those people, to reassure you. I'm sure you'll meet people far better than them once we get you set up here. Again, I apologize. I was hoping that your first few steps in our city wouldn't have been so... awkward." He replied.
I agree. This was definitely not the most warm welcome ever improvised... It was probably by far the worst.
With that, he turned back to silence, and we continued to walk towards our destination. Briefly I wanted to make small talk, break the awkward ice that seemed to linger around us. I thought about asking him who he was, who the informant was, and other such topics. However, given the apparent fear of the name, I'm certain now that I really don't want to know. As for my guide's name... If I need to know, he'll probably tell me. So, I decided to ask something else instead. The most prudent question on my mind.
"Where are we going?" I asked.
The man was quick to give a reassuring smile before replying.
"My office of course. We need someplace less... trashy to fill out your citizenship paperwork. Plus we got to get you an ID and temporary housing. There a bit more to it than that, but it is best that we get to my office before explaining in better detail." He explained.
I nod, slightly satisfied with the answer, and we continue to walk in silence. Leaving me to my own thoughts.
I only hope that this place is all that I've heard it to be... given what I've seen so far, I can only pray that this last incident was only a one time occurrence in what is otherwise a great city.
Johnny's Cafe was as busy as ever. More or less saying that it wasn't busy at all. When the only people who can afford a nice cup of coffee and an egg burrito were the people who had jobs, (said people being always busy and having to skip breakfast entirely almost every day,) it was safe to assume that cafes like these didn't get much business in the morning; quite ironically. However, this is always good for a customer like myself, so I can't complain.
Now, Johnny's Cafe could be busier. Hell, it could even be making a reasonable profit. But...
"GET THE FUCK OUTTA HERE!!! WE DON'T SERVE YOUR FUCKING KIND HERE!!!" I heard someone shout from indoors.
At that moment, a pony burst through the doors, the poor guy landed on his face before cartwheeling over onto his back.
As he recovered and got up as quickly as he could, however, he was quickly met by a bag of gold coins in his face; causing him fall back to the ground. Looking back at the source, there stood a very angry, bald, and very white burly man wearing a grease stained apron and 'All Ponies Must Die!' tattoo on his left arm.
"TAKE YOUR FUCKING BITS AND SHOVE THEM UP YOUR FUCKING ASS!!! IF YOU SHOW YOUR FACE AROUND HERE AGAIN, YOU WILL BE SHITTING GOLD!!!"
...Johnny was a full blown skinhead who had a severe hatred for anything non human.
Now, it isn't entirely his fault. He was a soldier in the war, like I was. He wasn't there from the beginning, but he came in with some of the first cannon fodder troops, so he wasn't that far behind me. He managed to survive by some sort of luck, and came out of it really fucked up. I mean REALLY fucked up. He's never been able to see anypony as anything but an enemy since.
At the moment, he's in recovery. Seeing a therapist twice a week and running this joint is one of the things that keeps him sane. He's actually a really nice guy when you get to know him, unless you are a pony... If you're a pony, then... well...
Let's just say he's come a long way, and at least restrains himself from trying to kill every pony in sight of his shop. Sometimes anyways...
The stallion was very quick to get back up, grab his bits, and quickly walk away. He glanced back for a moment to give a nasty glare and mutter. "What a bucking jerk..."
...and ran face first right into my thigh.
"You should watch where you're going." I said plainly.
He was quick to utter an apology, and looked up at me for whatever reason. He was quick to go wide eyed in realization for something, likely because of my clothing. However, I then saw him smile wickedly, and gave a sinister glare back at Johnny. At that moment, I realized that my clothes were not the only thing he was gawking at.
I was also wearing my badge...
Goddammit, please don't do this right now. I really need my coffee...
"Officer! Thank Celestia your here! This man just assaulted me! I demand he be arrested!" The stallion demanded, pointing a hoof at the accused.
"OH YOU ROTTEN SON OF A BITCH!!!" Johnny bellowed, approaching the two of us, looking ready to pound the stallion to a pulp. The stallion was quick to dodge behind me for cover.
Now, I was standing between a crazy ex-soldier with a thirst for pony blood and a pathetic, whimpering stallion attempting to hide behind my non existent skirts.
Oh fuck me. Sometimes being a cop really fucking sucks.
I was quick to draw my gun and point it at Johnny, Thankfully, I kept in mind that my robotic arm was not working and drew with the functioning hand.
"Sir, I need you to get down on the ground now!" I ordered, stopping Johnny in his tracks.
"Oh, COME ON!!! Don't stop me now!!! Let me pound this little shit into the ground!" Johnny complained, doing his best impersonation of a rabid monkey on steroids.
"SIR, ON THE FUCKING GROUND! I'm NOT going to tell you again!" I ordered once again, putting my finger on the trigger.
Johnny looked like he was really struggling to make a decision. At this point, this shivering, pathetic excuse of a stallion hiding behind me looked really juicy to him. On the other hand, it was likely he REALLY didn't want to get shot. Can't blame him for either choice. The stallion behind me was practically begging to get knocked the fuck out, but on the other hand getting shot really did fucking suck. Who could possibly tell, with his mind, which was the better choice?
Thankfully for everyone here, he made the choice with a lot less pain involved. Least in my opinion.
"FUCK!!!" Johnny yelled before he finally relented. Laying face first on the ground and putting his hands behind his back.
He knew the procedure at this point. Sadly, this isn't the first time I've had to do this...
With that, I was quick to approach, put a knee on his back, holster my weapons and take out pair of a handcuffs. After handcuffing him, I bought him up to his feet, and started to move him back into the shop. However, thanks to chickenshit hardly a few feet behind me, things could not be made that easy.
"Serves you right, you bucking tail hole! Hope you like rotting in jail you-"
"HOPE YOU LIKE A BROKEN NOSE FAG BOY!!!" Johnny yelled, nearly breaking free from my hold and charging at the fucktard pony.
Said pony let out a rather unmanly squeal as he fell to his back once again. I couldn't help but roll my eyes. Come on now! You're just making this fun for him...
"THAT'S WHAT I THOUGHT YOU FUCKING FAGGOT! YOU SCREAM LIKE A FUCKING PUSSY!!! GO HOME AND SING FOR YOUR BOYFRIEND, PRINCESS!!!" Johnny bellowed, still trying to get to the squeamish stallion.
The stallion looked like he was going to say something in his defense, but I was the one to cut him off this time.
"Sir, you really need to go. It's hard enough to hold him as it is. I'll take care of him, just go."
The stallion didn't dare disagree with me, with a "Y-yeah, I think I'll do that." He was quickly off.
With that, I was finally able to get Johnny inside, where I quite roughly threw him down on one of the booths and gave him a rather nasty glare. I may have had a word or two to say to him...
"John, you can't keep fucking doing this to me. I'm already having a shitty morning, and now it is only being made shittier because of you! All I wanted was a FUCKING cup of MOTHERFUCKING coffee, and I am suddenly dragged into a FUCKED up situation because you can't control your own PSYCHO FUCKING ASS!!! Do you have anything to say for yourself!? Do you have ANY fucking reason I shouldn't ACTUALLY arrest your ass right now." I practically scolded him like a child.
John looked back at me with wide eyes, apparently quite shocked from my out burst. He was wordless for a moment, but soon words found him.
"'Cause you really need a coffee?" He replied, hoping that was the right answer.
I sighed. He was right, I really needed a fucking coffee. Given the fact that he was the only cafe conveniently nearby, I didn't have much of a choice but to let him go. I might just die of a chronic headache at this rate, so he has me by the balls on this one. Plus, it wasn't like anyone saw the scene that unfolded, aside from the stallion that is... I'll have to deal with him later when he inevitably comes into the station to press charges, but I feel it will be worth it.
"You're lucky I'm your friend, you know that right?" I said, retrieving my handcuff keys.
"Don't I?!" John replied with a nervous chuckle and a slight sigh of relief.
Soon, he was uncuffed and behind the counter, preparing my order. As I waited, I observed the familiar surroundings. Unlike most things in this city, this place was well maintained. However, that is mostly thanks to the efforts of John's daughter, Jennet. You could actually lose yourself in here, just picture that this was a normal cafe before the war, and pretend the war never happened to begin with. After awhile, you would actually get yourself to believe it. Believe that nothing ever happened, and that everything was alright.
Of course, the illusion was shattered the moment you looked out the window or walked out the door. Then it will all come crashing back to you, and make you realize that you are still living in a shit hole from hell. Oh well, I guess. Pretending is for losers anyhow.
Huh, Jennet. Where is that girl anyways?
"Jennet not in today?" I asked John.
With a sigh, John shook his head.
"No, she has the day off. My god, I don't know what I'm going to do with that girl... Sometimes, she becomes a bit much to deal with." John replied.
Really? Huh... Jennet is usually a well behaved girl. I wonder what she did to piss her father off. I mean... aside from the obvious. That being that fact she wasn't like her father at all in the racist bigot sense. Meaning that she probably served a pony in her father's cafe. Ten units if you can guess who that was...
"Huh, What did she do this time?" I asked, despite likely already knowing the answer.
"She served a stallion yesterday, when I was off for the day, and invited him to come back today apparently. Unfortunately for him, I heard about it and gave her the day off so I could deal with the problem. You already know how that ended." John explained as he came up to me with my coffee in hand.
Yep, I guessed it, ten units for me. John is really getting defensive of his daughter, I can understand that I suppose; even if I'm not entirely certain that said stallion was hitting on her. Still, I can't imagine how Jennet is going to react to this... The girl has a soft heart for ponies and other equestrians, and she hates the prejudices of her father. I can't imagine she's going to take it well. She never does.
"Yeah, unfortunately I do. What do you plan on telling her when she finds out." I asked offhandedly.
He chuckles slightly at this, as if I made a joke, as he handed me my coffee and got started on my breakfast wrap.
"As if she's going to. I mean, unless you tell her; which I know you won't." He replied with a chuckle.
No, that wasn't a threat. The guy has gotten so used to threatening ponies, he's forgotten how to actually threaten another human being. The truth of the matter was that I actually wouldn't tell her, even if she got really upset about it. I suppose it is apart of our "guy code" to not muddle in each other's lives. I was still a little concerned, however. It looks like John didn't believe she could possibly find out, I personally knew for a fact that she would. She's a driven little girl, and see will find out if she had to interrogate her own dad; teeth pullers and all.
I sincerely hope he's not that delusional.
"Really? You don't think she's going to find out? I hate to hit you with this, but she's a smart girl, she's going to find out." I told him, taking a sip of my coffee.
This little flash of reality seemed to piss him off a little, almost to the point of fucking up my wrap. I guess he didn't like what I said...
"And so what if she does? I'll handle it, end of story. It's really none of your business." John replied rather irritably, finishing up my breakfast wrap.
I held my hand up in a exaggerated defensive posture, gesturing for him to calm down. I'd rather not have to hold him at gunpoint again.
"Hey man, I'm just saying. Friend to friend." I told him, attempting to deescalate the situation.
With this, he calm down rather quickly, seemingly remembering that I was letting him off with a warning as it was. As such, he began to tread a lot lighter.
"Right... Sorry about your shitty morning. I'm really not trying to make it any worse... Though, I have to say, I'm mighty curious of what happened. I've never seen you so pissed off before. It's kinda terrifying to be honest." He said with a laugh.
Really? I was terrifying to this guy? Huh... I guess I really am in a bad mood. I suppose being forced to live with a squatter and having to arrest your own friend without having coffee first will do that to you. I wonder what else the day has to bring!?
Well, I guess I might as well lay it on him. Out of anyone I know, John will definitely sympathize with me on this one. Perhaps it will make me feel better.
"Honestly, I would say that you really don't want to know, but fuck it. You definitely owe me one at this point. Now, do you know the chances of getting randomly selected for the roommate program?"
A look of sudden realization dawned on John's face, as he began to put together what I was implying.
"Nooo.... You got selected!? You of all people?!" John exclaimed.
"Yeah, I know, bullshit isn't it? But that isn't even the worse part... My landlord needs to fill five spaces, there are four rooms free, plus my room up for grabs. Now, can you guess how many of the five are ponies?" I explained dramatically.
This put John in a eerie silence as he thought very deeply about what I was implying now. This continued for a few seconds before he finally responded.
"Dude..." Was all John could utter.
"Yeah, but it isn't nearly as horrible as you think. Four out of five is the correct answer, meaning that I have a chance that the squatter will be human. That I can deal with easily enough. However, if it does turn out to be a pony... I don't know what I'm going to do. Unlike you, I can actually stand being in their presence, but living with one? I'm not sure I can do it... The nightmares are bad enough as they are, I don't need the reason for them living with me."
John apparently had nothing to say about this. He just stood there in silence. I'm not sure if he was thinking of something to say, or something along those lines, but I found the conversation becoming too sappy for my tastes. So, I thought of something to lighten up the mood.
"One thing is for sure, either way, I'm going to have to borrow your therapist."
Both of us burst out laughing at that. It wasn't really that funny of a joke, but I guess we needed to laugh about something. The silence was getting a bit awkward.
Recovering from the laugh, I looked up at the cafe clock. At that moment, I realized that I needed to get going. I've already spent a bit too much time here as it was. As much as I would love to stay here and blow off my job for the day, I really needed a paycheck; and the job.
"Welp, that's enough of that, I've got to go to work. So, if you don't mind?" I asked John, pointing out that he still had my breakfast wrap.
His eyes widened at the realization that he did indeed still have my wrap, and quickly handed it over to me. With that, I began to make my way out of the cafe.
"Oh, my bad! Sorry to hear about the roommate situation! Hope it works out for the better! Maybe one of the fucktard ponies will have a heart attack or something! Maybe all of them! You never know!!! Have a great day!" John yelled after me.
Well... That would certainly be something. Unfortunately, my luck isn't that great. It's fun to think about though...
"Yeah, you too! Try not to kill anypony when I'm gone! I really don't want to have to come back here and actually arrest you!" I yelled back.
"Cross my heart, see you later Marco!" John replied back as I finally exit the shop.
An empty promise, but I guess it was as good as it was going to get...
Anyways, coffee and breakfast wrap in my single functioning hand, I began to make my way to work. At this point, I couldn't help but be a little optimistic. I wasn't sure if it was the conversation I had or what, but I felt that everything was going to be okay.
Least I hope so...
We were in a much more populated area of the city now. Unfortunately, the sights haven't gotten any better. Trash still littered the streets, and the people and ponies I've come across hardly looked happy. Most humans and ponies avoided each other, walking on other sides of the streets when possible and glaring at each other when they did cross paths. It certainly wasn't a very harmonious atmosphere...
However, that wasn't the only thing I've noticed... I wasn't sure if I was imagining things, but a majority of the people and ponies we've passed looked homeless.
Yes, we did pass more than the occasional human or pony who didn't look like they were living off the streets, but it seemed that there were far more hobos than there were normal citizens. Why was this? Why were there all these people on the streets. Why didn't they have a home? Why wasn't anyone helping them? Most of all, why did everyone look like they hated each other? Surely that can't be the case for everyone, right?
The graffiti can't be what everyone truly believes, right?
All these people living on the streets. All this hatred between humans and ponies. Was this my future I was seeing? Was I going to end up like them? Being thrown to the streets and growing a hatred for humans? Was this what my life was about to become?
"You look worried." My guide pointed out, breaking my train of thought.
The question took me a little off guard. I guess I'm terrible at hiding my nervousness, anyone could probably see it from a mile away. There's no sense in lying about it.
"Oh... Yeah, I guess I'm kind of nervous." I replied quietly.
My guide nodded and we continued on our way. However, as I was about to assume he had nothing else to say, he suddenly spoke up again.
"It's a ghastly sight, isn't it?" My guide asked.
"What?" I asked, being caught off guard by the question.
"It's ghastly, all the homeless, all the hatred. It's quite the sight to take in. It's enough to make anyone nervous I'm sure. Are you afraid that this is what will happen to you?" My guide asked.
I was put into stunned silence. I wasn't sure if he was reading my mind, or was really good at reading ponies, but it sort of shocked me that he came to that conclusion about me. I honestly wasn't sure what to say... So I didn't say anything.
"I wouldn't blame you if you are. Hell, when I first got here, I felt the exact same way. I was afraid that I was going to end up on the streets as some pony hating Nazi looking forward to the next genocide. Looking around me, I felt that was the only direction my life was heading. However, before I was about to accept my fate, I realized something..." He continued.
My attention peaked, I look at him, and focused my attention, patiently waiting for him to continue.
"I realized that there was a reason that these ponies and humans were here. Why they were homeless, why they have so much hatred inside them. Can you guess what that singular reason is?"
I looked away temporarily as I thought about the question. I thought about it, very carefully. However, I didn't think I could get it. What possible reason was there to justify their situation. For what reason would they deserve to become as they are? Living in the cold, on the hard street, with no hope and filled with such hatred. Unwilling to forgive an-
Wait... That's it... That's just it, isn't it? That's the answer. Could it really be that simple?
Yes, it can.
"They couldn't let go." I responded, certain of my answer.
I looked back to my guide, he wasn't looking back at me, but he seemed to be smiling. He was happy, for some odd reason... was it my answer? Or was it deeper than that? It was hard to tell with this person... He's quite odd. I'm going to assume that it was my answer.
Suddenly though, I noticed a tear run down his face. Was he crying? What in Tartarus was he doing?
"You alright?" I asked, a bit concerned.
The human quickly recomposed himself, and looked like he was trying to pretend that nothing happened.
"Oh, No- I mean yes- Yes, I'm fine... Just... Happy for once." He replied, trailing off a bit.
Confused as ever, I shrugged it off and continued to walk with the strange man. However, like last time, when I was certain he was done talking, he suddenly spoke up again.
"I think you will be fine Aqua. You have nothing to worry about. I think you will have a great life here. Trust me on this one." My guide said with utmost certainty.
Once again, I was caught off guard with this. It seems that I'm getting caught off guard with everything he says...
It's funny, He really likes saying that for some reason. 'Trust me on this one.' He's quite odd indeed.
"I... I certainly hope so." I responded, a bit unsure of what else to say.
He didn't respond back this time, and this time it was for good.
I'm finding that the longer I'm around this human, the more odd he seems to become. Though he's still a bit shady, with "The Informant" business and all, but I'm no longer as untrusting of him as I used to be. If anything, He just comes off a little strange to me. The unsettling vibe I used to get from him was nearly gone now, and I'm almost certain I misjudged him at this point. What his hidden plans for me are, if there are any, have yet to be seen, but at this point I trust that we are really just going to fill out paperwork; and nothing else.
Soon, after about five minutes more of walking, It looks like we've finally arrive in the nicer part of town. There are less homeless around, the mood has drastically improved, and the place was a lot cleaner. There were still ponies and humans avoiding each other, but at the same time, there were also ponies and humans greeting each other as they passed; even if it was a simple nod. Though not everybody was smiling, there was a noticeable lack of hatred in the air. The place seems to have received better maintenance, but there was still much to be improved.
What I was seeing certainly wasn't perfect, far from the old world I knew. However, it still gave me hope. Hope that my dream of a better life was still alive. Hope that we were really trying to make a better future for ourselves. Hope that there would be a better future for ourselves... The sight brought tears to my eyes.
"We're here." My guide announced, breaking me from my trance.
Snapping my attention back to my guide, I realized he was opening at door for me. I give a slight blush of embarrassment at the thought that he was probably holding the door for me this entire time while I sat there, looking like a complete moron. With a nod, I enter the doorway, and he promptly follows me in.
Inside, the first thing I notice is a bunch of ponies and humans running about to and fro different areas and office cubicles. My first assumption was that this was some official city office on a typical day. However, as I looked around more, I began to pick up on some things. First off, over at the far end of the office, there seemed to be a human and a couple of ponies sitting down and waiting on something. However, on closer inspection, I could clearly see that they were cuffed to the chairs they were sitting in. The next thing I noticed was the fact that the ponies and humans running around the place wore shiny badges on their chests. The last thing, if anymore evidence was needed, was the sign right above my head labeled:
Welcome to Unity City Police Department.
Okay, so my guide works for the police department? Huh, I thought we would have been going to some sort of city hall or som-
My train of thought was broken as I suddenly felt someone bump my rear. This was followed by a "Ah SHIT!!!" Yelled by someone behind me.
At that exact moment, I heard something hit the ground beside me; along with a splash of something hot against my coat. Startled, I attempted to quickly jump out of the way of whatever was falling near me. However, I ended up slipping on something on the floor and falling on my side instead.
I looked up from my position on the floor to see what the heck happened, only to see a human I didn't recognize staring down at me. This human was somewhere in his mid forties, but didn't look anywhere near as ugly as the two guards we encountered at the gate. He had black hair, dark green eyes, sported a short, stubbed beard, and wore an old, camouflaged uniform; an old soldier's uniform from the looks of it. Attached to his uniform was a badge, like all the other people in here. He must be an officer from this department.
I was currently trying to figure out why he looked so pissed at me, but then I looked down at the mess right next to me. There I saw a white, paper cup with brown liquid surrounding it. I wasn't sure what it was, but I was certain that this man had dropped it next to me, and it was somehow a part of the meal he was currently holding in his hand. Some sort of breakfast wrap...
I looked back up at the angry officer, giving him a sort of sheepish smile, getting ready to apologize. However, he was the first to respond.
"Fuck... My... Life." He stated calmly.
A bit confused, a little more than worried, I replied "Um, Excuse me?" in utter confusion.
My voice seemed to snap him out of whatever thought he was in, and he continued to glare at me for a moment. It looks like he blamed me for the loss of his brown drink, and was thinking of doing something rash. I was becoming even more worried as he continued to stare, but then he finally just gave a tired sigh.
"Sorry about that." He muttered before simply walking away further into the office, leaving me more confused than ever.
I lay there for awhile, trying to figure out what the heck that was. In the end though, my brain couldn't figure it out. I had to resort to asking someone else.
"What was that?" I asked no one in particular.
"Some douche bag just spilled his coffee, knocked you over, and walked away." My guide informed me, glaring at said individual as he quickly fled the scene.
"Right..." I replied, feeling a bit more informed, but still a bit confused. What the actual buck was his problem?
"You... want help up?" My guide offered.
Realizing I was still on the floor, gawking at the ceiling like an idiot, I nodded. With that, my guide extended a hand and pulled me to my hooves. After getting back on all fours, I had one question immediately in mind.
"Do you know him?" I asked, staring back in the direction the human fled. I only got a glimpse of him walking around a cubical before I lost sight of him.
My guide seemed to shrug at this, indicating that he, in fact, didn't know.
"Hell of I know, I don't work here." He replied.
My eyes widen a bit in surprise at this.
"You don't?" I asked, quite surprised by this fact. Why did we walk in here if he doesn't work here?
"Of course not. You take me for a cop? I don't even have a badge... Yeah, I work upstairs, in the information department. I'm the guy who the police get their information from." My guide explained.
With this, he pointed out that we were in fact standing next to an elevator, one that we were apparently waiting for to get to the upper floors. I apparently missed this fact when I was looking around the police station. Immediately, I felt stupid.
"Right..." I replied.
With that, the elevator finally opened. It was empty, and free for us to enter. So, we both did, and my guide pressed the button to the floor we were going to. Floor thirty-three apparently...
As we began to ride up, my mind drifted back to the man and the "coffee" as I suppose it's called... I don't know why, but something bothered me about the way he looked down at me. I could feel the hatred in his eyes, the malice intent he seemed to have when he was staring at me... I don't know if it was just me, but it looked like-
I was quickly walking to the far end of the office, trying to get as far away from that blue unicorn as possible. Fuck, I didn't even see her! She came out of fucking nowhere! What the fuck was she doing in the middle of the fucking hallway!? Was she trying to trip someone!? Why the fuck didn't I see her!? Goddamnit!!! I really needed the fucking coffee, and now it's gone! FUCK ME!!! Goddammit! I-
I...
I wanted to kill her.
Fuck... I thought I was over this. I've haven't flipped out this bad in while. I thought I had this shit under control... What the hell even brought this on? Was it my visit to Johnny's? Did I catch skinhead disease from him!? No... That's not even possible. Maybe I'm stressed? Yeah... That has to be it... Shit has been hectic all day... Guess that blue pony was just the straw the broke my back...
Still...
I wanted to kill her...
How the hell am I going to survive having a pony roommate? If that shit happens again... I'm not sure what I'm going to do. What if I just black out and suddenly they're dead?! How the fuck am I supposed to explain that?!
Fuck man... I had it under control... What the fuck went wrong? I was on a fucking role! I was able to deal with ponies everyday! They could piss me the fuck off all they want, and I could tolerate them all day long!!! What the hell changed?!
I...
I wanted to fucking kill her...
You know what, fuck this shit. This was a one time only thing. Yeah, that's right. Just a minor slip up due to a stressful day. It won't happen again... It's never going to happen again! Come on Marco, you can do this! Just man up, punch in, kick that patrol's ass, punch out! You will survive today, you will survive tomorrow! You survived the war after all... You will not let her control you! Not like before! That will never happen again! Cross my goddamn heart!!!
Reassembling my thoughts, I found myself at the far corner of the office, looking dead into it. At the point, I realized that I just walked past my own cubicle. Far pass it as matter of fact.
"Fuck my life, twice." I muttered to myself as I turned around to walk in the other direction...
...to almost trip over someone else...
"WHOA!" The brown pegasus stallion below me exclaimed quickly dodging out of the way; scaring the living shit out of me at the same time.
"GOD FUCKING DAMMIT!!! Where the FUCK do you things come from!? Out of the woodwork?!" I practically yell at the guy, quickly recovering my balance, and giving him a stern stare.
"Um... Excuse me?" The stallion asked, looking a bit unsure of whether or not to be offended, confused, worried, or all the above.
It seems that he universe is trying to test my patience today...
Taking in a deep breath, and breathing out slowly, I took a moment to recompose myself. Pinching the bridge of my nose, I got a better look at the second pony I've nearly tripped over today. He was a young one, likely born during the war. He had a brown mane and coat, his mane a darker shade than his coat, as it usually is with ponies. His eyes were a bright blue, quite oddly I might point out, I'd imagine they'd be green or brown with a coat color like his.
He was wearing the pony version of the standard issue officer's uniform. Basically a shirt, a badge, a cap, and not much else; ponies were never a fan of pants. I always thought it made them look like a bunch of fags and/or strippers, but I guess it's only me. Anyways, he seemed to work here, but I've never seen him before now... He must be new.
I guess I will go easy on him.
"Sorry, I've had a really shitty day that's only bound to get worse. Excuse me, I have to get to my cubicle and clock in." I replied calmly.
With that, I began to turn around. However, I wasn't about to get far, as the brown pegasus piped up again.
"OH! Hey! Uh... Are you Officer Manson by any chance?" The stallion asked.
Shit... God? Why can't you just let me clock in?
Turning back around to face the stallion, I gave him a plain stare. Trying to make it obvious as possible that I really didn't want to be bothered right now. However, it seemed to have no effect on the shiny blue eyed pegasus who, quite eagerly, awaited my answer. Seriously... This fucker obviously couldn't stay still. He seemed a bit anxious for some reason. I don't know, maybe this really is his first day on the job?
He started to give me a nervous smile when I finally decided that it'd be best to answer. Something told me he wasn't about to let up, and likely follow me around like a lost puppy if I didn't answer.
"Yeah, but most people call me Marco." I replied.
Immediately, recognition shined in the pony's eyes and he was quick to extend a hoof. I suppose he was expecting me to shake it in greeting.
"Oh, Yes, Offic- I mean, Marco. It's nice to finally meet you! The Sergeant told me all about you, he said I'd be able to recognize you by the military uniform you wore! My name's Sky Lionheart! It is really nice to finally meet you!" He replied, seeming a bit too excited to meet me, for whatever reason that was...
His hoof was still extended in greeting, a smile plastered on his stupid little face, looking really excited for me to shake his hoof. Yeah, that wasn't going to happen.
"Right..." I responded slowly. Right before I turned around, ignored his greeting all together, and went to find my cubical; taking a bite of my forgotten breakfast wrap along the way.
I couldn't help but imagine a crestfallen looking pegasus pony behind me, a fake smile now plastered on his face, still in the same position holding up the hoof that would never be shaken, slowly coming to the realization that I just completely ignored him; and being completely depressed by it. The thought delighted me for a moment, and I almost regretted not being able to look back to appreciate the scene. However, it wasn't long before I heard the sound of hoof steps following me; soon trotting along side me.
Looking down to my left, I confirmed my suspicion of being followed as I saw Lionheart looking up at me. He had a concerned look on his face. Like he didn't entirely understand why I just blew him off. It wasn't as good as the first scene I imagined, as the fucker is now following me, but I guess it would have to do.
Still, I would love for him to stop following now.
"I- um, okay... So, anyways, I didn't actually expect to see you so soon."
Still not caring for the young pegasus's company, I was willing to try anything to get him off my back. If that meant talking him to death, I guess I would have to do just that. So I decided to humor him for the time being.
"What makes you say that?" I asked, still not particularly caring.
"Well, the Sergeant said you weren't going to be in until one in the afternoon... It's eight."
At that moment, I suddenly started caring. Stopping in my tracks, I immediately turn my attention to the nearest clock in the room. The fucking rookie was right. It was eight-o-fucking-clock. Problem was, I was suppose to come in at eight... wasn't I? However, I quickly realized something...
This was Friday. I never come to work at eight on Friday... I alway worked a later shift on friday.
Fuck my life, three times.
"Well, son of a fucking bitch, you're right. Excuse me." I replied, heading straight pass my office again and around the corner.
My exact intentions were to exit the building, head straight back to Johnny's Cafe, get another coffee, hang out a bit, walk to the cybernetic store, get a battery, come back, and then clock into hell. Least, that was going to be my plan, unfortunately, Rookie Shiny Eyes still seemed to be at my heels.
Shiny eyes... Yep, that is his nickname for now on.
"Um- hey- uh- Where are you going?" Lionheart asked, seeming a bit concerned.
Rolling my eyes, I glared at him, trying to make it abundantly clear I didn't want him following me.
"Where do you think? Out. It's not time to clock in yet. You're not invited, go away." I stated, still making my way to the door.
The rookie seemed a bit hurt by my words, but still persisted in trying to annoy me to death. I would have been happy enough to ignore him all the way out of the station, but, once again, he made that extremely hard.
"B-but the Sergeant said if I saw you come in early to tell you to clock in early!" Lionheart finally blurted out.
This stopped me in my tracks. The Sergeant wanted me to clock in early? The fuck for?! I'm just a fucking patrol guy! Not a detective! Why the fuck would he need me to clock in early!? This rookie better not be pulling my fucking chain, or I swear to god, his cunt of a god better protect him today...
I turned around, and looked him, crossing my arms; waiting for him to explain. He seemed a bit confused, and even more worried by this, but he quickly realized I was waiting for him to start talking.
"I- I- I- Um- The Sergeant said if you came in early, you needed to clock in early, because- because- um- I'm new and you need to- to show me the ropes!" He practically yelled in a nervous response, attracting the eyes of a few other officers who were likely wondering who the spastic was. They were quick to start chuckling to themselves and go back to their own business as they realize who he was talking to.
With this, I face palmed and sighed. That's just fucking great. Sergeant asshole decided that this was a good day for me to become a rookie trainer. A rookie trainer of a pony no less. Fuck my life four times. Was this day going to get any worse?
Actually, don't fucking answer that. Of course it's going to get worse. We are talking about me after all.
I pinched the bridge of my nose once again, trying to suppress the inevitable headache I was going to get from this. I looked down at the rookie, who was looking quite nervous at this point, as I debated what to do.
I could blow off the Sergeant's orders, go get my coffee, and try my best to salvage this shitty day. However, for as long as I worked here, I've come to know the Sergeant's orders as being absolute. If I blew him off, I am dead certain he was going to make my day at least twenty times worse than it already was.
Goddammit...
Sergeant Keller and I were going to have words later, but not now apparently. I had a rookie to train after all.
One thing is for sure, if today's events are anything to go by, god is dead. He likely died in the war we had.
"Alright, fine, follow me." I said, walking straight pass Lionheart and back into the office.
Behind me, I heard a slight sigh of relief and mumble of something... something sounding like "Is he always this bucking intense?"
A slight smile crossed my face as I realized that something else for sure today. I was about to make his day as worse as mine. Prepare for hell, Sky Lionheart. This elevator only goes down from here.
"So... What are we doing first?" Lionheart asked from behind me, sounding a bit uncertain.
"Depends. What am I training you for?" I asked.
I'm pretty sure I already knew what I was training him for at this point, as you really don't ask a patrol guy to train an office monkey or dispatcher unless they have relevant experience in those positions; something I obviously don't have. So, the answer was pretty obvious. I just wanted to hear him say it, just so I could cut him off before he told me what the Sergeant suggested I do. After all, if I don't hear it, obviously the Sergeant never said it.
"Well, I'm in training for patrol duty, but the Sergeant said that-" Lionheart started.
Right on queue.
"SPLENDID!!! That means we are going on patrol! Get out of the faggot suit and into some body armor, it might just be raining lead today! Trust me when I say, you are going to want something between you and it!" I might have said a little to cheerfully, approaching the entrance of my office.
Still the resulting reaction from Shiny eyes was as I expected. Fucking hilarious.
"I- uh- wha- Faggot suit? I- oka- But the Sergeant-" He tried again, only to be cut off again.
There he goes again, trying to pull the Sergeant card again! Time to put a knife through that bitch.
"The Sergeant has demanded that I come in early to train you for patrol duty, and that is exactly what I'm doing. If you want to become a patrol stallion, we got to make sure you can handle it. Don't we? So, I repeat, get out of the faggot outfit and into some big boy clothes. We leave in ten." I ordered.
The poor stallion was stunned into silence, a bit unsure what to do or say. He looked like he wanted to object and follow the instruction given to him by the Sergeant as to how he should proceed with his training. At the same time, it was obvious he didn't want to incur my wrath. He was stun locked for so long, I felt it necessary to push him over the edge and get him to react.
"Well, go on!" I ordered once more, snapping Shiny Eyes from his train of thought.
"OH! Yes! Sir! Yes, Sir! I'm going!" Lionheart said, snapping to a decision.
With that he took off in a random direction, approaching the nearest door, opening it and rushing inside. Looking at the sign above the door, I had to try very hard to choke back a laugh as I read "Janitor's closet."
At that moment, it became apparent that Shiny Eyes didn't know where the armory was. Oh my fucking god. This is too good. Popcorn is the only thing that would make this better.
Shiny Eyes was quick to leave the closet, his face as visibly beat red as he attempted to subtly close the door. Probably praying to his god that nobody saw that. Thankfully for him, I was the only one paying attention. Everyone else was far too busy to see that beautiful moment.
With he looked over back to me, and I must have had a huge smirk on my face as he seemed to turn even redder than I thought possible for a pony. He slowly approached me, head hung in apparent shame. He wouldn't even look me in the eye as he started to speak.
"Where's the armory?" He asked very quietly, trying to preserve whatever dignity he had left.
I'm usually against kicking someone when their down, but in this case, I really didn't have much of a choice.
"The door right next to the janitor's closet." I replied with a stone expression.
With that, he looked over at the janitor closet he just left, Sure enough right next it to was a door labeled "armory." At that point, he looked like he wanted to die.
"Thanks." He mutter quietly as he quickly made his way to the correct door. As he opened it, entered, and closed the door behind him, I couldn't help but let a dark chuckle out.
My god, he's too easy. This was going to be fun! I thought this entire day was going to be shit, but I guess things are turning around for me. Yeah, sure, training a rookie, or a pony rookie for that matter, was the last thing I wanted to do today. However, I'm at least allowed to make the best of it, right?
Of course, that isn't the only thing I'm happy about. I didn't want to kill him! Go figure, I might just be right about her being a one time slip up! she really can't control me anymore. I broke free from her a long time ago. She won't make me hurt anyone anymore...
...I have a feeling everything is going to be alright.
I just hope I don't end up breaking him too quickly, or pushing him to far for that matter. I would hate to add 'getting shot by my own guy' to my list of shit happenings of today.
With that, I entered my cubicle, clocked in and quickly exit. In Shiny Eye's hoof steps, I followed him into the armory. Given how green he is, he probably doesn't know that rookies can only check out equipment with his supervisor or trainer nearby. The poor guy was probably now getting an ear full for trying. I better get in there before he completely snaps.
This elevator only goes down from here, Lionheart, it only goes down...
Soon, we were off the elevator, and the incident from down stairs was now in the back of my mind. It bothered me for a bit, but in the end I chalked it up to the guy having a really bad day and the loss of his brown drink (coffee, I guess?) made him nearly lose it. Nothing really surprising, considering my day has hardly been a breeze; and I just got here. So, I let it go.
Stepping off the elevator, I found my guide and I were now standing in a dust filled hallway. The walls were a murky yellow and the rug was dark brown. All in all, considering the paint pealing off the walls and the ripped parts on the rug, it safe to assume that these were not their original colors. More and more, it is starting to look like Unity is not a huge fan of maintenance. Surely they could have someone walk around and clean up these places? There were enough unemployed from what I've seen.
Still, maybe I just don't understand the situation in this city quite yet. I'll reserve judgement for later.
My guide began to walk down the hallway to our left, and quickly gestured for me to follow. I did, and soon we were passing a multitude of doors labeled "Department of Information; Office of 'insert initials here.'" In fact, that was all there was on these doors. No names, just initials. I found this quite odd. Why wasn't there any names? Why only initials? Wouldn't it be hard to find a particular person's office, especially if there was two people with the same initials? What purpose did this serve? I couldn't wrap my head around it.
My curiosity got the best of me, and soon I found my self wanting to know.
"Why only initials?" I asked my guide.
It looked back at me, apparently confusion on his face. It looks like he didn't get what I was talking about.
"Initials?" He asked.
"Yes, initials, the ones on the doors." I clarified, wondering what else he could be thinking that I was referring to.
He looked at one of the doors for a moment, and it looked like he finally got it.
"Oh... Right. The initials. Sorry, gotten so used to them being that way... Anyways, why only initials you ask? Well, let's just say that information business is a dangerous one... Names are best kept confidential to at least this extent. If you are wondering, that's why I haven't told you my name yet; it's usually ill advised in my line of work. So, forgive me if I'm coming off as rude for not introducing myself." My guide explained.
I thought about what he said for a moment. Soon, I decided that it actually made sense. I'd imagine people working at a place like the "Department of information" would have extensive knowledge of everything that went on in this city, as well as how the city functioned. At the same time, I could imagine that there were some ponies and humans would do anything to get that sort of information. I felt the precautions were justified, so I didn't hold it against him.
"That's fine. It makes sense I suppose." I commented.
Soon, we finally stopped in front of one of the office doors. I assumed it was his office, so I took a quick look at the initials on this one. The initials were...
'T.I.'
So, those were my guide's initials? I never hear many last names start with an 'I,' I somewhat imagine it's likely something I can't pronounce. I started making stupid guesses as to what his real name might be, however, the 'I' got me really stumped. My best guesses for the 't' were 'Tim,' 'Tom,' 'Tinoe,' 'Thomas,' something along those lines; I could come up with those all day. The 'I' though, I really couldn't think of one. What could possibly be a last name starting with an I? Dear Celestia, Human names were really hard to figure out... We ponies were always more simplistic in that regard.
With that, 'TI', as I will now refer to him as, picked a key from his pocket, and inserted it into the lock on his door. With a twist, the door's lock clicked and he opened the Door.
Suddenly, a beeping sound started to originate from somewhere I couldn't pinpoint. I was about to ask what that was, but the mystery was quickly resolved when TI grabbed something else from his pocket. Some device that was evidently causing the racket. Pressing a single button on the device, the beeping ceased.
"Don't worry about that, it's just a security measure. It's good to know that someone is in your office when you're not there." TI informed me as he entered.
Taking his word for it, I shrugged it off and followed him in.
Inside, I was greeted with a pleasant surprise... A very clean, tidy, office. It wasn't pretty, mind you, but it show obvious sign of someone who actually cared about the conditions he worked in.
The rug was a dull grey, and the walls pure white. It was quite apparent that dust was practically non existent here, not on any of the walls, rug, or furniture in the room. It was by far the most pleasant breath of air I've taken since entering this building.
However, as I said, it wasn't exactly pretty. It was rather dull as a matter of fact, but I guess predicable for an office environment. There was only one desk, accompanied by a jar of pens, a wheeled chair, a guest chair, and single desk lamp. Surrounding the desk were file cabinets and boxes upon boxes of what I assumed was more important paper work. Above it all, there was a single light illuminating the entire room. There was nothing more to this room. Nothing less. No windows with a fancy view, just nothing. A place for work and not much else.
I have a feeling I'd go insane here.
"So, this is where you work?" I asked, my voice failing to hide my opinions of this place.
TI sat down on his wheeled chair, opened a drawer in his desk, and took out a set of keys. I assumed that they were to the various file cabinets surrounding up. Rolling over to a cabinet labeled 'C.R.' (seems that the cabinet labels are only initials too...) he confirmed my theory as he with one of the key, opened the cabinet, and took out a folder. Rolling back to his desk, he put the file down on the desk.
"Well, it certainly doesn't have the most eye candy, but it is a quiet place for me to focus on my work. That's all that matters to me." TI replied, seeming to pick up on my tone.
I was a little embarrassed that I was that obvious, but quickly got over it. Didn't think it was too big of a deal. Soon, I sat down in the guest chair across from TI.
Seeing as we were ready to go, TI opened the file and faced it towards me. Inside I could clearly see that it was the paperwork that I needed to fill out. I quickly flip through it. Thankfully, it didn't look like much. More or less it asked for my name, date of birth, previous occupation, previous residence, skills (or special talent if you're a pony), and a brief optional description of my history. Other than that, there was a page where they required fingerprints/hoofprints and a sketch or picture of any body markings (tattoos or cutie marks). I was also supposed to have my picture taken. All of this was just fine with me.
"So, you can go ahead and fill out the first page. Once you reach the second, we are going to have to take your hoofprints, a image of your cutie mark, and a picture of your face. You have the option to either draw your own cutie mark or have a picture taken of it. We understand that some ponies don't particularly like have a picture taken of their rear end for the record. However, the facial picture cannot be avoided. You understand?" TI informed me, sounding like he was droning out something he has said for the hundredth time to people and ponies before her.
I nodded, and he handed a me a pen. Before long, I filled out the entire first page... well, almost the entire first page. I skipped on the optional history section, the record didn't need to know that. However, I did end up answering the previous residence and occupation section, as it was required. I put down my real one, as I figured "the wasteland" wasn't going to cut it.
Previous residence: Ponyville. I hardly even remember it. I know I was born there, but only because my mom told me. The war was in it's starting stage, and everypony had to evacuate the small village when I turned three. Ever since then, there was really no other place I could call home. Me and my mom never stayed anywhere for any more than a month. Once we got settled into one place, we had to move because the front was getting closer. Eventually, when the front disappeared altogether and nowhere was safe, we just opted to keep moving. To never stop, no matter what. Ponyville was the only home I really had, even if I couldn't remember it.
Previous occupation: Engineer. It started off small, and it really wasn't what I would have considered my job at the time. If anything, I sort of did it out of boredom. Mom and I were always on the move, across war zones, abandoned cities, refugee camps, and there was never anything to do. So when I found something broken, like a toy, various equipment, or even weapons, I took them apart, figured out how they worked, and attempted to fix them. I did this to entertain myself, I never successfully fixed anything, but it still interested me. Eventually, we came across a refugee came who were in the process of trying to fix a generator. Interested, I offered to help. After taking the entire thing apart, I found the problem, reassembled it, and the generator worked. It was the first time I managed to get anything to work. Encouraged, I kept fixing things, and eventually started making new things out of scraps I found. It wasn't too long before I got my cutie mark for it.
My mom was so proud... if only she could see me now.
"Alright, onto the second page. Now, if you could please, stick your hoof into the ink pad and press your hoof into the indicated position on the paper. Repeat the process with your other hoof." TI said suddenly, breaking me from my train of thought.
Refocusing on the real world, I noticed the ink pad he was referring to and pressed my hoof into the pad. Ink oozed from the pad and onto my hoof. Certain that I had enough I pressed my hoof into the paper. Lifting it left a clear, black. hoofprint on the paper. I repeated the process with the second. After I was done, he handed me an wet, ink stained, towel for me to wipe my hooves off. I silently thanked him as I did just that.
"Alright, now for your mark. Are you okay with being photographed, or will you prefer to sketch it?" TI asked.
I thought about it for a moment, and I almost burst out laughing as I realized that TI had somehow managed to ask me if he could photograph my flank without sounding crude about. He raised an eyebrow as he observed my obvious poor attempt to suppress my laughter, but he never asked me about it. In the end, I decided to sketch it. As my mom always said, 'If somepony wants to take a picture of your flank, they had better have bought you dinner first.'
It took me a while to figure out what that meant...
I'm not the best at drawing, but my cutie mark was rather simple. A wrench, a hammer, and a screw. So I got it drawn rather quickly, even with the little details.
TI seemed satisfied, and we moved on to the final step. With that, he reached into his drawers again, this time he pulled out an old camera. A very old camera by the looks of it. I don't remember the last time I saw a camera that actually printed pictures. I think I tried to fix one once... that was a very long time ago.
I never figured out why that damned thing exploded.
"Alright, I need you to stand over there by that wall, if you would." TI instructed me.
Following his instructions, I got up and trotted over to the plain white wall. It looked like this particular area of the office was made specifically for taking photos. I only came to that conclusion because it is the only place where there were no cabinets and boxes stacked up against the wall.
Taking up position in front of the wall, I turned around to see TI out of his seat an in a kneeling position, ready to take the picture. For a moment, I was afraid that he was about to take it before I was ready and I'd end up with a goofy looking picture. However, he didn't, he just waited.
"Alright you ready?" He asked, camera in front of his face.
Composing myself, I nodded and faced towards the camera. I was going for a neutral look, I wasn't exactly planning to have shiny ID of me smiling. Unfortunately for me, TI had other plans.
"So, why did the chicken cross the road?" TI asked suddenly with a goofy smile.
I suppressed my laughter rather easily, and for a moment I thought I was cleaver, knowing that he was trying to get me to smile with a very lame joke. However, before I knew it, I heard the camera click and I realized I was already smirking like idiot; thinking I had foiled his plan.
"HEY!!!" I shouted in embarrassment.
He simply smiled, and removed the printed photo from his camera. He shook it a few times before before replying.
"Yep, that usually works for ponies. They think I can't get them to smile with such a dumb outdated joke, but they fail to realize that they are making themselves smile believing they caught me in the act. You ponies are always so outwardly expressive. It's almost too easy to do. Surprisingly enough though, it hardly ever works on humans... I guess we as a species like to bottle up our emotions more than ponies do... The only way to get them to smile is by saying something completely outrageous that catches them off guard. That, or show them a cat video. We have this strange fascination for those animals..." He simply said as he watched the picture develop.
I was very flustered at that point, I could practically feel myself turn redder every second. I couldn't believe that I was just tricked by this guy into smiling for a photo. A part of me wanted to rip that photo from his hands and tear it to pieces. However, I knew that was an hardly appropriate thing for me to do; not to mention rude. So I tried asking politely.
"I want another take! Burn that photo!" I practically demanded.
Well, 'polite' is strong word for that I suppose.
TI simply shook his head as he observed the picture. "I don't see why. You have a beautiful smile, it's nothing to be ashamed of. Take a look." He replied, turning the photo around for me to see the mare in the picture.
For a moment, I looked away in defiance; unwilling to see how ridiculous I looked. However, I eventually looked over. I was shocked. I stared at the aqua blue, green eyed mare in the photo; and I hardly recognized her. It had been a long time since I've see myself. The last time I've see myself was well over a month ago, though the reflection of a broken mirror.
I wasn't looking very great then... I looked ravaged, hardly recognizable as a pony anymore. More like an animal struggling for survival. I was in a very dark place, one that I felt that I couldn't crawl out of. I had lost hope, and the will to live. The reason I was looking at the mirror shard was because... well... I didn't want to live anymore. I figured it was pointless, a fruitless struggle for survival. Being completely and utterly alone didn't help much either. I was sick of running, sick of hiding, sick of being alone. I just wanted it to end...
...but the I heard the broadcast. I heard about Unity, and what they were trying to do.
That gave me my hope back, my willingness to live. So I put down the shard, and went to seek Unity.
I look much different now than I did back then. This mare... no... I look happy. So happy to be alive and so full of hope for the future. Sure, I wasn't exactly looking my best and I wish I had the chance to clean up brush my mane... but I was still a far cry from the depths I used to lay.
"You alright? The picture isn't that bad, is it?" TI asked, sounding a bit concerned.
At that moment, I realized that I was tearing up. I was quick to wipe the tears away and give him a reassuring smile.
"No, no! I look great! I wish I could have done something with my mane though..." I replied, trailing off a bit.
TI laughed a bit at that, but mostly sounded relieved about something. Likely that fact that he didn't completely botch the photo.
"Well, there's that I suppose. You still want that retake?" He asked, though his tone sounded as though he already knew my answer.
"No, I think it's fine, we can go with that one." I replied, quite happily, my mood drastically improved.
"Great! Just let me put this away. Oh, by that way! Congratulations, you are now a citizen of Unity." TI informed me.
This caught me a bit by surprise. Really? Was that really it? I expected there to be more loops to jumps through and such. Didn't think it would really just be a couple of pages of paperwork and a photo... Didn't TI say that it was a bit more than that?
"Really? That's it? There isn't anything else I have to do?" I asked.
TI rolled over to a the "CR" cabinet and placed my folder within. From within the same cabinet, he pulled out another folder that seemed to contain more paperwork. However, this time, he only took out two pieces of paper from the folder and placed it back in; closing the cabinet. With this, he turned back around and placed the two papers in front of me. One was labeled 'Housing Forum', the other 'Temp ID.'
"Well, technically yes there is a lot more to do, but the rest is mostly handled by me. You don't have to do anything else other than fill out this housing forum and temporary ID sheet. After that, you are free to live your new life as you please." TI informed me.
I could help but smile and let out a small squee as I was told this. This was the moment I've been hoping for, dreaming of. This was the day where I regained control of my life and make it more than about surviving. I was so excited! I Immediately began wondering what I should do first. Should I look for a job?! Should I take the day first and figure everything out? Should I explore? Should I-
Wait... What should I be doing? And why is TI looking at me funny?
Oh. Yeah... I'm looking like I'm losing it. Maybe I'm getting a little too excited and ahead of myself.
"Aqua, you still with me?" Ti asked a bit concerned.
Finally snapping out of it, I refocused on the present. Fill out forums now, make plans for the future later. Got it.
"Yeah, I'm here, just a little excited." I replied, getting started on the forums.
"That's good to hear." TI responded with a kind smile.
I finished the forums rather quickly. The ID only asked for my name, age, species, and general description. Once I was finished TI signed it with a weird looking signature. Whatever it was, it wasn't his name. The letters 'T' or 'I' weren't even involved. Likely an mark of legitimacy of sorts.
The housing forum was more or less the same. Name, age, species, general description. The only difference was that it asked for a Roommate preference. Either human, pony, other, or all of the above. In a way, it kind of struck me that 'other' referred to other Equestrians. Those who have so few numbers left that they don't even get their own category on the forum, so they are all categorized as 'other'. I found it to be rather depressing. I ended up marking 'all of the above.' I figured I might as well not be discriminatory, especially if I was going to live in a city where unity is key. This forum received the same mark by TI.
"Alright, looks like you're done. All you need to do now is to turn this housing slip to whatever apartment complex suits you. If they have space available, they will assign you a room. Your ID should be kept on your own self at all times, if you are caught without one you'll be arrested until we can determine who you are and then you will be fined. If you are caught with someone else's ID for any reason, it will be assumed that you stole it and you will be in a lot of trouble. This particular ID is temporary, and will expire after 3 days. You should have your official ID by tonight, once you receive it you must destroy the temporary ID to prevent potential identity theft. Do you understand?" TI droned out, once again sounding like he was reciting something he's said a billions time before.
Taking the information in, I nodded. Turn in the housing forum for a room, don't steal IDs, don't leave home without ID. Got it.
Seeing my acknowledgement, he nodded as well and got up. "Alright, I guess that's it then. You're free to go. Thanks for baring with me, I understand that your entrance into our city wasn't the best, but I hope your life here won't be quite as filled with such conflicts. Enjoy your new life, and good day to you, Ms. Blu." TI said politely as he walked around the office and opened the door for me.
Seeing this as a sign that I could finally leave, I was quick to snatch up my forums and head towards the door. I had to keep myself from bouncing my way out, out of sheer excitement. This was it, I was finally here. I was ready to run out and take on the world.
Still, I stopped at the doorway. There was something I had to say first... In so little time, this man has given me so much. The ability to live up to my hopes and dreams. It's hard to believe that this was the same man that I believed was planning to do something malicious with me not even an hour ago. I felt like I owed him an apology, for doubting him like I had...
"And thank you so much TI! Sorry that I doubted you at first. I feel like that wasn't fair of m-" I started, however, I wasn't able to finish as I was suddenly cut off.
"Timothy Idol." TI said suddenly
I was hit with a bit of shock. Was that his...
"Um... what?" I asked dumbly, a bit surprised by the interruption.
"Timothy Idol. It's what TI stands for. It's my name. Also, you have nothing to apologize for." He confirmed.
...name? TI? Timothy Idol? Huh... I almost got it. But wait, didn't he say...
"I... Thought giving your name was ill advised in your line of business." I asked slowly, a bit confused.
Why would he give me his name out of the blue like that? I never really asked for it... he never mentioned it... and after the initials conversation, I just assumed he didn't want to give it. So why now?
"It is, but it's not against the rules. I already have enough people calling me "TI," I feel like one less would a benefit to my mental health. Plus, we might be seeing each other again, you might as well know my name." Timothy replied.
"What makes you say we'll meet again? Some sort of follow up?" I asked curiously, not quite sure of what other reason we might see each other again.
"Well, no, not exactly. Let's just say that some people need friends in a place like this if they want to succeed. I'm offering to be your friend, if you want. I'll help you out whenever I can, no strings attached."
This... This was quite an odd offer. He was going to help me out, and the only thing that I needed to do was be his friend? That was a bit strange to me, and a little off putting to be honest. Why would he want to be my friend? What was really in it for him. I had to ask.
"Um, no offence, but why? This doesn't seem like an offer with no strings attached. What do you intend to get out of helping me and being my friend?" I asked cautiously.
Timothy just sighed and shook his head, slightly chuckling, seemingly at my superstition. Guess he found my paranoia to be quite funny.
"I mean exactly what I say, Ms. Blu; whether you wish to believe me or not is up to you. All I want is to help you get started in a city where many have failed, and I've seen many fail in this city. I've grown quite tired of it. Though I have no doubt that you will succeed, there's always that chance... and it is that I cannot stand. Especially with the potential you've shown thus far. Of course this is only an offer, accept or refuse if you want, but I can guarantee any advice I have to give will make your transition much smoother than most."
Thought about it for a moment. I was very suspicious of the offer, as it really didn't make much sense from a mutual gain standpoint. Was the desire to see me succeed really the only reason he wants to help me, or was there some other motive behind it entirely? By the way he's talking, it sounds as if everyone he's dealt with didn't get the same offer. So why me? What does he want from me? Could it really be that he's doing it solely because he wants me to succeed?
Probably not.
"So does everyone coming through here get to be your friend, or is it just the pretty ones?" I asked half jokingly.
This made Timothy burst out laughing, apparently quite amused by that I was insinuating. Either he was actually serious, or trying to mask that I was probably right. I wasn't sure which it was. Maybe a little of both.
"Haha, no. Not in that way anyways. No offense, but you're not my type... Seriously though, no. Not everyone gets my advice, I reserve that privilege for those who I believe deserve it. I personally believe that you have what it takes to make it in this city, and I only wish to help. You can be suspicious all you want, but all I have is my word to assure you that is all my intentions are. So, really now, Ms. Blu, do you want a friend?" Timothy offered, extending a hand.
I thought about it for another moment. In the end though, I pretty much concluded that he was right. I did need help, and I should take any help that I can get. As for ulterior motives, it really didn't matter. If he did have any at all, I would never know, and even if he did, he couldn't legally make me do anything. As a cherry on top, he had yet to really do anything malicious against me or really give me any reason to not trust him. So, given all this, It was easy to decide what I should do.
"Timothy, I'd be delighted. Let's be friends. Also, you can just call me Blu." I accepted with a smile, shaking his hand with my hoof.
It was just like with the gate before, I was taking a risk putting my trust in this man. Maybe with a little less risk to life and limb, but this was pretty much the same as before. I was taking a risk, but in the end it was surely going to pay off; just like it had at the gate. I was going to get help setting up my life in this city. Helped to succeed and achieve any aspirations I may have now and in the future.
That being said, I feel that everything was going to be alright.
Timothy returned a pleased smiled after the shake, seemingly happy that I accepted his offer for help.
"That's great! Thank you, Blu. How about we start off by getting you a home. I know just the place." Timothy said excitedly as he walked back into his office, grabbed a piece of paper and started writing something down.
I patiently waited for Timothy to finish writing whatever he was writing, kinda amused and flattered about how much he apparently wanted to help me. I'm still awfully curious about what other motives he might have for doing this, but for the moment I'd put my suspicions aside.
He finished writing and handed the paper to me. Written on it seemed to be an address, to what I assumed was "just the place" he was referring to. There also seemed to be directions written down on the paper.
"Alright, this is an address to an apartment building I know pretty well. The owner owes me a favor, so he'll pretty much guarantee you a place to stay. Just say 'TI' sent you, he'll know who you're talking about. I can't guarantee you'll get your own room, he might put you with someone else, but you can rest assured that he has a good mind for these things. He won't put you with someone he thinks is a bad match, and if you do have problems he'll move you without question. So long as you pay your rent on time, you'll have no problems with him whatsoever. Trust me when I say you won't get that anywhere else. Oh, It's also in a decent neighborhood." Timothy explained.
I took all that information in, and picked up on a few things. It seemed that some people and ponies in this city were forced to live together without much choice. It made me wonder if overcrowding was a major issue in this city. If there was simply not enough space for everyone. Given all the homeless, it wouldn't surprise me. I know that Timothy told me that they were out there for a reason, but even so, if there was space somewhere surely there would be less homeless wandering the streets? It made me wonder, if the supposed overcrowding, causing the homelessness of these people and ponies, wasn't in itself the reason for the discontent. Maybe the reason why some ponies and humans hate each other so much was because they were not being treated fairly by the system that was supposed to bring them together.
Then again, I really don't know the situation in the city as well as I'd like to. I would have to find out more later. For now, I needed to get settled in. That will allow me time to figure out what I can do to help this city with its apparent problems.
Speaking of problems... He mentioned rent. I would need to find a job to earn my stay, and I don't even know where to start. Surely that would be a question for Timothy.
"Yeah, about rent, you wouldn't happen to know how to find a job in this city, would you?" I asked.
Timothy seemed to be amused by this, cracking a small smile and letting out a small chuckle. Apparently the answer was obvious... like it was right in front of me.
"Well, I'm glad you asked that. Not everyone is so eager to get to work so quickly... Anyways, it just so happens I'm the guy you go to for that sort of thing. It's one of the few other services we do when we aren't submitting new citizens. However, I'd like you to go get a room first, get some rest, and give me some time to do some research. If you can come back tomorrow any time after six in the morning, I'll have a few options for you. Sound good?" Timothy replied.
Very satisfied with the answer, I nodded. As much as I'd like to just get to work, I'm glad he was giving me time. It would give me the opportunity to get my barring and prepare for the new life ahead of me. So, for Now, it was time to get myself a room.
"It sounds great, thank you, Timothy! Thank you again! I appreciate the help." I said happily, starting to make my leave.
"No problem, that's what friends are for. Have a good day! See you tomorrow." Timothy said after me before returning to his office.
I made my way to the elevator, got in it, queued in the first floor, and proceeded to go down. In my mind, I wondered what happened next. Well, I knew what was supposed to happen next, but I knew that plans never survive contact with the enemy. I wondered where my new life would end up taking me, what obstacles I would have to overcome next, things such as that. Things could still go horribly from here... In the end though, I decided that I really shouldn't worry too much about it, just be ready for anything.
As someone once said, "Hope for the best, expect the worse." That's how I've lived my whole life anyways.