"You don't belong here." I heard a mysterious voice. "I am not in charge of souls of non ponies and you are not a griffon either." I saw a cloaked figure walk in front of me. It was about the same height as a pony. "Ezekiel the human hmm...? Interesting. I am the grim reaper pony and you are a curious case, those do not come by very often." He got closer. "You can speak and move human that is if you have anything to say?" I shook my head. "Ah well give it time. I can't do anything with you. I cannot take your soul because you are not a pony or a griffon. It seems I do not have power over human souls."
"Y....y...you don't have many humans around." I said nervously as I looked around trying to see where I was.
"No we do not. Usually I would be able to bypass such things but something is in the way..."
"And what is that?"
"That seems to be the problem I'm not sure."
"I....I see. Forgive me but I don't remember my death all that well and..."
"You wish to know how you died?"
"Yes."
"So do I. That might reveal to me why I cant take you to your rightful place."
"We can visit that event?"
"Why yes. And replay it until I find the answer I need."
"And I find out how I died?"
"Yes."
"Ok go for it."
"As you wish." Then there was this window looking thing that appeared in front of us but instead a portal it was a screen. "This is your death."
I watched as a pony levitated me over to another one. There were words but everything was silent and I could only see mouths moving. Then the pony the was next to me stopped breathing and the other ponies and I started to cry. There was this shadowy mass that formed beside me and spoke to me and the other ponies saw it to. I talked and cried with the other ponies and there was dark flash that was hardly noticeable and the shadowy thing came up to me again and spoke and I closed my eyes and then there was this light that was coming out of me and into the pony. the pony started breathing again but instead of cheering the other one were crying still and as soon as that pony realized what happened she started to cry to and the the screen went blank.
"Ah I see now, that was dark magic you used Ezekiel but you used it for good."
"What do you mean?"
"You used your remaining life force to save the yellow pony. It was a kind and noble death very rarely seen in today's time"
"So the reason I'm in limbo is because I sacrificed myself to save that pony?"
"Yes that seems to be the case and it also seems you lost some memory as well."
"It looks like it. She was obviously very important to me but I don't remember why."
"Well I was just ordered to keep you here until you remember at least 50% of events that has happened with you and the ponies." He held out a burnt scroll with red ink that looked like blood. "I will leave you here to go over you own memories."
I shook my head but didn't say anything and looked into the magical screen in front of me.
----------------
*Thump......Thump* *Thump....Thump*
"What have you learned human?"
It had been quite awhile now since he left me to watch the memories. "I learned their names and how I got to know them."
"Good what are they and tell them in order and start with who you met first."
"Fluttershy, Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rarity and Rainbow Dash."
"Good and everything else?"
"I think once I'm back it will come back to me."
"Good just remember one thing."
"Whats that?"
"You and Flutteryshy are together."
"Like in a relationship?"
"Yes."
"That's a bit odd right?"
"Not for this world." A portal opened up. "This portal will close as soon as you go through it nopony else can see it go through it so leave when you want."
"Ok." He left and I just sat there looking into it. "Am I really ready to go back? What would they say to someone rising from the dead?"
I decided to just go for it and I jumped through the portal and on the other side was the inside of a coffin.
"Should have figured. Great"
I must have been pounding on the inside of it for the better part of an hour before I punched a hole through it, which was a stupid idea but it was the only way out. I crawled out of the grave, poked my head out and looked around there weren't many ponies but there was one visiting my grave. She ran away before I could get a good look at her though. I crawled all of the way out of the grave, which attracted a lot of attention. There were panicking ponies which was making me remember everything about how they acted when I first arrived but I noticed a couple of things. 1. I was wearing a suit and 2. I wasn't in Ponyville.
"What is all the commotion about!!." Said a very loud regal voice.
"Now now Luna volume." said a much softer sweet voice. "I already know." And she looked over at and shortly after so did the other one.
"Ezekiel?! But how?" The blue one said.
"Do not want. Do not want." I tried to run away but my legs were still stiff
"Why do you flee from your princesses?"
"I don't really know to be honest." I stopped and turned around. "Where am I?"
The white one came up to me. "Your in Canterlot Ezekiel. there is much to talk about follow us."
"Ok but the blue scares me a bit."
She looked sad. "Do....do I really? I thought we were friends."
"I'm heads a little fuzzy I don't quite remember everything yet."
"Then its best we get inside." said the white princess.
"I agree." I said and we went towards a castle
-----------
I explained how I came back to life, the seemed to believe me which made everything easier.
"So you don't remember anything?" The blue princess asked.
"I remember the Elements Of Harmony and little bits and pieces of everything."
"I see. And are you aware of your relationship with Fluttershy?"
"Yes but I find it a little strange but I was told that it all would come back to me."
"I see. So you don't remember us then?"
"I remember you but I don't remember your names."
"I'm Princess Luna."
"And I'm Celestia."
"Doesn't Celestia usually do more talking."
"Yes I do but you remembered something." She chuckled.
"Well played. very clever."
"And you know her better then you know me."
"Oh right the castle ruins. I remember now."
"Yes."
"How long was I.....dead...for?"
"Its been a month since the fight with the hydra."
"Whoa so everyone must think I'm dead huh?"
"All but one but she ran away."
"Yeah who was that mare that ran away from my grave? she took off before I could get a good look at her."
"She is the reason we knew about raising from the grave." Luna replied.
"I like you Luna. I can see why I liked talking to you. But anyway who was she?"
"Fluttershy. shes in the other room if you want to see her."
"You mean.....Fluttershy is alive!!" They both nodded. "I would like to see her."
"Very well I'll go get her." Said Celestia.
"Hey Luna you sister is not acting like herself."
"She thinks you would respond better to a familiar face."
"Well so far its working."
She chuckled. "It would seem so."
"So Luna what do you think about this whole thing?"
"To be honest I find it quite interesting."
"You know Princess this doesn't happen in my world."
"I figured as much and that's not what I find interesting."
"Then whats so interesting."
"The grim reaper pony gave you another chance. Hes only done that for one other pony."
"do you know this pony?"
"Yes I do. she is I"
Before I could ask the doors opened again and I saw Celestia and......Fluttershy walking this way. Fluttershy ran passed the Celestia and towards me. When she was within five feet she jumped up into the air and flew into me. We crashed into the ground. In midair she hugged me and didn't break the embrace even when we hit the ground. she didn't say anything, she just hugged me tightly and cried.
I hugged her back. "I'm sorry if I don't act like myself. I don't remember everything but its slowly coming back."
"As long as you didn't forget about me and the girls or what you did for me I don't care. I'm happy your still here."
"You two can stay here until you go back to Ponyville."
"Thank you Celestia."
"Its no trouble Ezekiel have a good night."
"You to Princess."
Celestia was nice enough to give us a room for tonight so Fluttershy and I can catch up. I had some questions but mainly I just wanted to spend some time with her.
"So Fluttershy what have you been up to?" I asked not knowing what question to start with. She looked at me for a second.
"Taking care of my animals and missing you."
"And the others?"
"Same as always......" She started tearing up.
"Whats wrong?"
"We were all so sad that you were gone....They will be so happy to see your alive!"
"Somehow I'm not so sure. I mean considering how they all acted when I first came to Ponyville...."
"Even applejack or Twilight?"
"Ok maybe not all of them, but I have a bad feeling about going back."
"But why?"
"I don't know Fluttershy. I really don't."
Neither of us talked for awhile until I broke the silence.
"Uh....wanna do something?"
"Like what?"
"I don't go out somewhere."
"I don't have enough money for the restaurants around here."
"And I don't have any either.........nevermind."
"We could do something else?"
"Well I want to see my gravestone. I hope that's not creepy or anything."
"Um...well it is a little bit but why?"
"I want to see whats written one it."
"Oh."
I looked into a mirror and realized the last time I truly bathed was before I was teleported here. "Ew.....but first I think I'm going to take a shower or a bath or something."
"Oh ok."
"Care to join me?" Her face turned beet red, just like old times ha ha. "I'm only joking calm down." I laughed and she laid down on the bed and hid her face. "I just realized....I don't have any clothes here."
"That's right. everything is still at my house."
"I see. That reminds me do you still have my other stuff?"
"Of course! I would never get rid of any of it. Even if some of it is um....dangerous."
"Awesome. Well shall we go?"
"Yes." She said with a smile.
The castle was still as awesome as I remember. Canterlot was very different from Ponyville. Fancy restaurants, fancy buildings and fancy ponies. I really owe Rarity an apology. We arrived at the graveyard in no time at all, I read the graveyard's gate on the way in and it said "Graveyard of Equestria's heroes." I'll admit It felt like I didn't deserve to be buried there. We reached my gravestone and there was a message from everyone on it. It almost brought me to tears.
It read:
HERE LIES EZEKIEL HERO OF PONYVILLE He gave his life to save mine-Fluttershy He used a life force transfer spell to save somepony close to him-Twilight He was a hard worker and a good friend-Appljack He was the bravest non-pony that ever lived-Rainbow Dash Hes off to the big party in the sky-Pinkie Pie He seemed like a brute at first but turned out to be a generous person-Rarity
I tried to fight back the tears but it was no use I wasn't bawling but the tears were noticeable. Fluttershy hugged me and tried to pick me up so we could go back to our room. I padded her on the head and stood up on my own and we left to go back to the room. We reached our room, settled down for the night and went to sleep.
"Good night Fluttershy"
"Good night." She nuzzled.
---------------
Today we were going to go back to Ponyville. For some reason I was really nervous and apparently it showed.
"Whats wrong?"
"I don't think this a good idea."
"Oh don't be silly, they're your our friends. they will be happy to see you."
"Yeah I know but......Maybe I am just being silly."
"Yes I think you are." She nuzzled me. "Now come on I told everyone I had a surprise."
"Oh great."
"Don't let your nerves get to you."
"Ok lets get going."
We boarded the chariot and started for Ponyville. Most of the way there it was silent, mostly because Fluttershy took a nap and the pony pulling the cart were apparently mute. I was bored and it almost hurt so I decided to take a nap as well. I wondered if I'll still have the nightmares.
"How are you liking your second chance?" It was the grim reaper pony.
"Yes I really appreciate what you did."
"I only did this because your death was noble and personally I hate to see Fluttershy cry."
"As do I and since the reason she was crying was because I was gone?"
"Yes although it did take awhile to get to you so you could come back."
"Well I will try not to waste it."
"Just keep doing what you did before your untimely death and we will both be satisfied."
"I see. Thank you again."
I woke up and we just landing in front of Twilight's library. And I had idea for a prank. I looked over and saw Fluttershy awake and leaving the chariot.
"Hey I have idea." I got off the chariot as well.
"What is it?"
"Alright I'll lay down in front of the door and you knock on it."
"Ok?"
"Well she thinks I'm still dead right? So why not prank her."
"Oh I see! But don't you think that will be mean?"
"No. It will be fine."
"Ok...." she went over and knocked on the door.
"Hello Fluttershy how was your visit in Canterlot?"
"Well Twilight I have a big surprise for you!" She pointed over at me and I closed my eyes and laid still.
"Fluttershy!! What have done!!"
"Well I um.....brought him back home and..."
"You cant go around and dig up graves that's illegal!" She walked over to me. "We have to get him back before anypony here notices."
"But the princesses already know."
"What!?"
"BAH!!!" I sat up quickly and yelled.
"AH!!" She jumped ten feet up and away. I laughed a lot.
"Oh man that was funny, hahahaha! You should have seen your face haha!! Wow that was awesome."
"What?! But you! HUH!?!?!"
I laughed again "Lets go inside so I can explain everything."
"I told you it was mean you made her yell at me..."
"I'm sorry Flutters I should have seen it coming." I hugged her and we went inside. Twilight followed utterly dumbfounded.
------------
"That's not scientifically possible!"
"Well if you really think about it neither is magic. Right miss egghead?"
"I am not an egghead I am well read, how many times do I have to tell ponies that!"
"I'm not a pony. We don't have to go through that whole thing again do we?"
"No we don't. But how are you alive!?"
"I told you, I was stuck in pony limbo and the grim reaper pony gave me a second chance."
"But that doesn't make sense!"
"No it really doesn't but I'm not going to question it. Honestly Twilight I thought you would be happier to see me."
"Don't get me wrong Ezekiel I'm overjoyed to see you. I'm just confused."
"Some things you just don't question Twilight I think this is one of those. If I could logically explain it I would."
"I guess your right." She sat back defeated.
"So what have you been doing since the hydra fight?"
"Much of the same thing. Running the library, sending letters to Celestia and practicing magic."
"I see. learn any new spells?"
"Why yes I have! I learned a spell that will help with your headaches.....I learned it for nostalgia's sake."
"At least it wasn't a complete waste of time, well maybe I'm not sure I'll have them again."
"I also learned a few other spells but I know you don't understand magic."
"Alright then. If you don't want to tell that's fine." I shrugged. "I think I'll visit Rarity next and get some shampoo."
"Don't you think you should visit Applejack instead?"
"Well I guess Rarity would freak out hmm.....no I think I'll visit her anyway."
"Ok if your sure...."
"Hey do you have a spell that would temporarily turn me into a pony?"
"Hmm....let me see.." She looked through her books for 5 minutes until she found something. "I'm not sure if this will work but we could give it a shot."
"Alright. Hit me!"
"Ok here it goes."
Her horn glowed and enveloped in her....magical energy(?) and then there was a bright flash. The first thing I noticed was I was a little shorter and I had hooves.
"Twilight! It worked!"
she looked exhausted and wobbly. "Oh hey it did." And fell.
"Oh my Twilight are you ok?" Fluttershy asked.
"Yeah just used to much magic I'll be fine."
"Oh ok good." Fluttershy looked shocked.
"So what am I? Am I an earth pony, a pegasus or a unicorn?" Fluttershy gave me a mirror. "Oh um....that's interesting isn't it?"
"What is?" Twilight asked.
"I'm an alicorn....how did this happen?"
"That is interesting."
"I have no idea. Maybe it reflects your personality or you past actions?"
"Or it could be random. How long does the spell last?"
"The book says it vary's so i'm not sure."
"Ok better get moving then. Hey Fluttershy are you going to stay here?"
"I need to go take care of my animals. I'll see you back at my house?"
"Yes Flutters I will be back there later."
"Ok bye."
"Bye." Both me and Twilight said.
I turned to Twilight. "So Twilight I think I'll get going to but I need a new name for this.....form."
It has been an hour and we still couldn't think of any names for my alicorn form. A few did pop up but they weren't that great and I didn't like them. It was starting to get frustrating.
"Augh! I don't know then!"
"Well do I have a um...cutie mark?"
"Uh let me see." She circled me around. "Its a circle with lines through it."
"Hmm....." I grabbed a piece of paper and a pencil with my teeth(this was weird) and drew cross-hairs. "Kind of like this?"
"Yeah that's it! Now what does it mean?"
"If I had a scope I would show you."
"A what?"
"Its a smaller version of a telescope that's mounted onto a rifle and scopes have these in them."
"You don't have one?"
"Nope never had enough money to get a scope mounted on my rifle."
"I see."
"Yep but back to the names."
"Right. Hmm....."
"How about Deadshot?"
"Um....I don't think so but lets go with that in case we cant think of anything else."
"Ok lets see....True Shooter?"
"Better but I'm still not sure."
After about another 45 minutes of thinking we decided that "True Shooter" would be better than "Deadshot" and it also might be less scary to some ponies. I mentioned to Twilight that being an alicorn might be intimidating for most ponies anyway and she agreed. She tried transforming me into a pegasus and the other type of ponies and each time I transformed into an alicord with the same colors and cutie mark.
"Well looks like I'm staying an alicorn."
"Yes....you....are and if you want me to try again your out of luck."
"I'll get use to it."
"Ok I used to much energy I'm going to lay down."
"Alright I'll go to Rarity's shop then."
"Ok see you later Ezek....I mean True Shooter."
"Bye."
As I walked through Ponyville the ponies were looking at me but this time I didn't mind because I understood. They thought there were only two alicorns and out of nowhere there's another one. I made it to Rarity's shop and knocked on the door. Rarity opened the door and her eyes lit up.
"Hello I'm Rarity and this is the Carousel boutique. How may I help you?"
"Do you sell shampoo here? I want the finest shampoo in Ponyville."
"I'm sorry fine sir but this is the a dress shop."
"I see. I was hoping that the most cultured unicorn in Ponyville would have some shampoo for me. I've been wandering around Equestria for awhile and I thing I'm beginning to....well to put it boldly stink."
"I could give you my own shampoo. What do you think?"
"I just couldn't take your personal shampoo! Just point me in the direction of the Ponyville store and I'll be on my way."
"Well it just over there but might I ask? How did you know about me getting shipments of shampoo from Canterlot?
"Your friend Twilight told me and I was hoping you could give me some but I have no money."
"I see hmm.....well I could give you bottle for free."
"Thank you miss Rarity, next time I come here I will have money."
"Oh Its no trouble. I hope to see you soon!"
"You just might miss Rarity."
She levitated a bottle over to me and I grabbed it with my teeth (Because I didn't have any saddle bags) and left towards Fluttershy's. I'll be clean to night and Fluttershy might appreciate it.
--------------
I had just entered Fluttershy's house when the spell wore off. I was so happy I wasn't an alicorn anymore and that I was walking on two legs again. Fluttershy was making food while I was taking a bath(because I was too tall to take a shower). I told her to make a lot because I was HUNGRY. I got done with the my bath 25 minutes later and went down stairs.
"Oh man I feel so much better!"
"Was your bath relaxing?"
"Yes it was thank you honey." I looked at the table and it was covered with food! "Whoa that's a lot of food."
"Well you did say to make a lot."
"That I did." I chuckled. "Well lets dig in shall we?"
"Let's." She chuckled as well
Dinner was wonderful. There were dandelion sandwiches, home-made hay-fries, a wonderfully made dinner salad with various citrus fruit and topped with a cherry (I had to basically fight angel for) and for dessert she made apple and cherry pie and a cake. Almost all of it was gone.
"That was amazing Fluttershy!"
"Thank you. I'm so glad you liked it."
"I didn't just like it! I loved it!" She blushed. "I think we should just chill here for awhile what do you think?"
She nuzzled me. "That sounds nice."
We went into the living room, sat down and talked a little bit before the food coma kicked in and I fell asleep. I woke up 20 minutes later and Fluttershy was taking care of her animals.
"Hey."
"Oh hello sleepy head." She smiled.
"Oh man. Its still day out."
"Is that a problem?"
"Well I was kinda hoping it was darker so I could go back to sleep."
"I see. We could go out later?"
"Nopony else knows I'm alive remember I cant just go out."
"Oh thats right." She paused in thought. "You could use that transformation spell."
"I cant use magic."
"Little yellow one cant but Shadow can." I heard a familiar voice as a shadowy mass appeared next to me. "Shadow learned from Twilight."
"Shadow! Whats going on? where are you living?
"Shadow lives in master's cave now. Shadow likes it."
"That's good I'm glad."
"Shadow was concerned for master. I thought we were gone for good."
"So did I Shadow. Its nice to see you again."
"Its nice to see master again to. Shadow has been looking after Fluttershy like master said."
"Thank you shadow."
"Its no problem master."
"Well lets see how well you can use that spell."
"Shadow will do better. Shadow can make it so you can turn into pony anytime you want."
I thought for awhile. "No thanks, I don't plan on needing to be transformed for much longer."
"I see. Ok master here I will start spell now."
"Alright Shadow." there was a flash of light and a second later I was an alicorn again.
Why cant I have been a unicorn or at least a pegasus?
------------------
We decided to go out to eat at one of Ponyville's finest restaurants. All of the ponies stopped and bowed like I was royalty, I didn't like it. Not. At. All. We arrived at the restaurants and were seated. I was slightly surprised, it was like the fancy restaurants on earth. You know high price and small portions? Luckily they thought I was royalty and the gave us the finest food the had for free. I still didn't like being an alicorn, it just didn't feel right.
"Are you having a good time fluttershy?"
"Oh yes I've never had food like this before."
"I like your food better."
"Oh your just saying that."
"No I mean it. It may not be fancy but it sure is good."
"Why thank you." She smiled.
"No problem."
The waiter walked up to our table. "How do you like zah food?"
"Its perfect how much do I owe the restaurant?" I asked.
"Oh no sir, we couldn't ask you for money."
"Alright if your sure?"
"Yes sir we are."
"Would it be to much trouble to get another drink?"
"Not at all sir. We will have another drink ready for post-haste."
"Ok thank you."
"And for the lady?"
"I'm fine thanks." Fluttershy replied.
"Ok I will be back momentarily."
"Are you sure you don't want another drink?"
"Yes I'm fine." She smiled.
"Alright."
the waiter came back. "Here you go sir."
"Why thank you."
"Iz no trouble, enjoy." And he left again.
"Nice sweet cider. Applejack's is probably better though." I took a sip. "What do you think Fluttershy?"
"Um...well they're both...nice."
"Well I never had Applejack's cider so I was asking for your opinion. And be honest."
"Um...well honestly....there both fine."
"Alright if you say so."
After three more plates of food and five more cups of apple cider we were done. I left one hundred bits on the table for the waiter and left. When we got outside it was still light out.
I sighed. "Well suns still out what do you want to do know?"
"We could um....go to the park?"
"That's not a bad idea. Sure lets go."
We started in the direction of the park and I couldn't help but think that a certain sun controlling princess was screwing with the sun. But if it meant spending more time with Fluttershy its alright with me. It was a nice day regardless of the fact it should probably be night time by now. We sat down under a tree and just relaxed in the shade. The ponies looked on curiously because they didn't understand how Fluttershy could have an alicorn for a coltfriend they will soon find out that I am not really a pony.
Fluttershy ended up talking a nap next to me and I'll admit I almost dosed off a few times myself. She was cute when she was asleep, its not very often I'm awake when she isn't so I don't notice it all that much. The sun was ever so slowly going down but I didn't mind I would hate to wake her up and I was enjoying what peace I had now because who knows when something else would happen, hopefully nothing soon. It started to get dark out and as much as I hated to I woke her up. She slowly yet elegantly opened her eyes and smiled at me.
"How long was I asleep?" She rubbed her eyes.
"Long enough for it to get dark." I smiled at her. "You looked so peaceful when you were sleeping it was so cute."
She blushed. "I....um....feel comfortable around you and I feel like I can relax."
"I'm glad to hear that Flutters." I said with a smile and she smiled back. "I think we should head back home what do you think?"
She looked around noticing how dark it was getting "I think that's a lovely idea."
We stood up and started towards the house. I felt like we were being watched while walking through town, I had a feeling it was Rainbow Dash but I tried to ignore that feeling even though I was probably right. After many bowing ponies and minutes we arrived at the house when surely enough the rainbow maned mare came bursting from a cloud and stood between me and Fluttershy.
"I don't know who you are and I don't care! you should back off of Fluttershy right now!"
"And why is that?"
"Because preying on a emotionally vulnerable mare just isn't right!!"
"I see and why don't you inform me on the reason she is emotionally vulnerable?"
"Why you!"
"What? I honestly don't know please inform me."
"What? Fluttershy? You didn't tell him?"
"No she didn't, why don't we talk inside its bound to get chilly."
"Yeah what ever bub." she said as she walk in after Fluttershy.
"It has been a tiring day, wouldn't you agree girls?"
"Yes I agree."
Rainbow stayed silent, glaring at me much like the first time this happened.
"Rainbow Dash I hear you're part of the weather patrol in Ponyville. How was work today?"
"Why do you care!?"
"Just trying to be friendly."
"I know what your trying to and its not cool."
"I assure you that I'm not up to anything."
"Ponyfeathers! I know your type!"
"So you've spying on us all day haven't you?"
"Well...no..I mean..yes but I'm just looking out for Fluttershy!"
"I grow tired of this." I stood up. "You are either brave or foolish for standing up to and alicorn."
"I don't care what kind of pony you are!"
"That much is obvious and I do know what happened, Ezekiel died he was foolish taking on a hydra by himself."
"Th.....that's not how he died."
"I know she lives because of him."
"If she hasn't told you how do you know all of this!?"
"Because I was there. Who better knows the events than somepony that watched them?"
"Y....you were there!?!? Then why didn't you help?!?! I cant believe you!" She flew up to me and bucked me using the momentum to her advantage. I went down hard. "You have the nerve to watch somepo....I mean somebody die and you just watch!"
"Rain...bow hold ugh....hold on."
"Shut you trap I'm talking!" She hit me again. "You are the worst kind of coward there is! I cant believe you watched the bravest being in Equestria die and now you're trying to move in on his marefriend!!"
"....Rainbow......stop..."
"I said shut...UP!!" She reared up to stomp on me when Shadow interfered. "Shadow why are you helping him?!"
"Shadow doesn't think Rainbow pony should do that."
"And why not? Don't you see what hes trying to do?"
"Shadow sees a hurt pony."
She looked at me and was surprised she let her anger get that much hold on her. I motioned for shadow to come over.
"Yes master?"
"Master??" I heard the blue pegasus say quite confused.
--------------
I tried to explain everything to Rainbow but she wasn't believing me.
"Yeah right!"
"Its the truth."
"Prove it!"
"Ok I will. Shadow can you change me back now."
"Is master sure? Master looks good as a pony."
"Yes I'm sure, please turn me back."
He sighed. "Ok."
There was a bright flash and I was a human again. "See I told you."
".....I.....I cant believe it...it really is you!!"
"Yep told you."
"Oh my gosh! I kicked you! I'm so sorry I.....I..."
"Yes you did and It hurt a lot but its partly my fault."
"How is it your fault?!"
"Because I tried to play it out instead of just telling you."
"Well I guess when you put it that way it was."
"Yeah...that was clever though."
"What was?" She thought for a second. "Oh you mean using the forward force from flying when I bucked you?"
"Yep. Well anyway you didn't answer my question."
"What question?"
"How was work today?"
"Oh that question. Well you know same old same old. It was kinda boring, but this so makes up for it!"
"I'm glad that it does but I'm going to tell you something important, ok?
"Sure!"
"Don't tell anypony else I have a surprise planned, got it."
"Got it!"
"Cool well its getting late...."
"Oh right sorry." She started towards the door.
"Or you could...um stay here for the night...if you want."
"If either of you mind?" We both shook our heads. "Cool! We got some catching up to do."
"It seems like it."
We sat down in the living room and talked a little bit before we all went to sleep. Rainbow told me that everybody took my death hard particularly Fluttershy but I already knew that. My surprise should be awesome.
-----------
The next morning was nice. We had eggs and hay bacon, I only ate the eggs hay bacon didn't sound good. I told Rainbow and Fluttershy the plan and they both thought it was a good one. Rainbow left to do her part of the plan, she was to tell the others to meet under the big tree with the bench under it at the park in a couple of hours. In the mean time I was going to take inventory on all of my stuff, but first I need to know where it is.
"Hey Fluttershy?"
"Yes?"
"Where is my stuff?"
"Your stuff? Oh! After the funeral we sort of split everything between us."
"I see.....so who has what?"
"Well I have your rifle, Applejack has the smaller weapon and the thing you carried it in, Twilight has the belt and the rounds, Rarity has your jacket, Pinkie has the strap for your rifle and Rainbow has your vest."
"Has she worn my vest?"
"Well um....yes."
I chuckled. "Oh well." I felt something was missing. "Wait a second......what about my bass?"
"Oh, Vinyl has it."
"Vinyl? Who's Vinyl?"
"You don't remember her?"
"Uh......no I don't...."
She smiled. "That's ok. Shes having one of her parties later tonight. I'm sure she'll be happy if you went."
"Maybe but I don't want to make myself known quite yet." I thought for a little bit. "When is it?"
"She mostly has her parties at night so you'll have plenty of time."
"Cool. Everything should work out then."
"I'm glad." She smiled and hugged me and I hugged her back.
"What would you like to do before we meet with the others?"
"I'm not sure."
"Hmm.....how about we just take a walk around town or in the Everfree forest?"
"I...I think walking through town is a good idea."
"Ok shall we go?"
"Lets."
"Shadow if you please."
"Shadow doesn't like wasting magic energy on transformation spell."
"This is the last time I promise."
"Shadow will hold you to that." And like all the other times bright flash and I'm now an alicorn.
"Thank you Shadow."
"Remember master last time."
"I know Shadow, I would also like for you to follow us ok?"
"Yes master."
"Ok. Fluttershy, you ready?"
"Yes." And we left to walk aimlessly through town.
------------
It was a nice day, slightly cloudy but nice (It would be nicer if I wasn't an alicorn). We went various shops and visited the market place, we bought enough fruit for a small picnic. It was Fluttershy's idea but I liked the thought as well. A couple of hours has passed and in a few minutes we were going meet up with the girls. We made it to the meeting place with a few minutes to spare and set up the tiny picnic. I hid behind behind the tree when I saw the others coming.
Rarity was the first to speak. "Fluttershy is something wrong?"
"No nothings wrong why do you ask?"
"Well we don't usually meet in the park unless its the pet play date."
"No I assure you nothings wrong."
Applejack was next. "Then why did y'all get Rainbow to tell us to meet you here?"
"Because I have something to show you."
"And it is huge!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed.
"Then what is it darling?"
"Yeah what is Fluttershy?"
"You'll find out in a little while."
"I love surprises!!"
"Yes Pinkie we know." Pinkie laughed.
"He should be ready anytime now."
"He?!" they all said.
I step out from behind the tree. "Yep, he."
All of them except Rainbow, Fluttershy and Twilight looked at me curiously.
"Who in the hay is that guy?"
"I'm sure you'll find you know me pretty well."
"Horse apples how in the hay would I know somepony I never met before?"
"But Applejack you do know me. I know you and everpony else."
"But I don't know you. How can I know a pony I haven't seen before huh-huh-huh??
"Settle down Pinkie." I looked at Rarity. "Miss Rarity thank you once again for the shampoo I feel so much better. You certainly are the Element of Generosity."
"Did Fluttershy tell you that?"
"Nope. She didn't need to I already knew. I know all of your elements."
"I think it in yer best interest to tell us who you are right now."
"My name is True Shooter aka.......hmm.....I don't know.....Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash should I tell them?"
"I think you should."
"Yeah you remember what happened last night." The others looked at each other curiously.
I looked around. "Yeah but there are to many ponies around here." I thought for a minute. "Oh I know! How about the Everfree forest."
"I'm not sure I trust you True Shooter."
"Well Rainbow and Fluttershy do, so why shouldn't you?"
"Or we could just go back to my house."
"No now that I think about it, it doesn't make sense I'll just show you here I suppose."
"Oh please do."
"Fine. Shadow change me back please."
"Yes master." Magic stuff happened and I was a human again.
They all gasped, went wide eyed and tears formed. They all ran up, hugged me and were asking me questions. It looks like I will be telling my story once more.
I told them what happened and they seemed confused but didn't question it, which made everything easier. Surprisingly they didn't say anything about me being a zombie or anything.
"I'm so glad yer back! I sure missed y'all."
"I second that. Our friendship may have had a rough start, but as soon as I heard the news I stopped making dresses for a whole week!
"Its true. The only dresses she did make were the funeral dresses that we wore."
"Oh my gosh! I cant believe the best cookie baker in Equestria is back!
"I couldn't believe it either but its true."
"This is so rad! The coolest person is back in Equestria!"
"Alright everyone you're all going to make tear up if you keep going on."
"Well do you blame us??"
"Yeah come on man! This is the best thing that has ever happened to us!"
Pinkie gasped. "We need to throw a party!!"
"Now Pinkie I don't want any parties ok? At least not yet."
"Aw man! Why?"
"Because I hear Vinyls throwing a party later tonight and I want to go."
"Oh okie dokie lokie then."
"But that's not for another couple of hours so what everyone want to do till then?"
"Well we could go back to the farm if you want. I took darn good care of that weapon you liked to carry around ya."
"Yeah I was actually wondering if I could recollect it?"
"Well sure you can! It is your's after all."
"Ok thanks Applejack."
"Not a problem." She said with a smile.
We talked some more and Surprisingly parted ways I think Pinkie was going to find Vinyl but who knows what she was ever up to. I followed Applejack to her farm and all of the ponies we passed dropped everything they were doing and looked at me. A few came up to me and hugged me and told me they were happy I was back they asked me how I was alive, I just told them I was given a second chance.
-------------
We arrived at the farm.
"Here we are, Sweet Apple Acres. Everyone here will be so happy to see you."
"I hope so. How has Applebloom lately?"
"Shes been doin' fine. Trying to get her cutie mark like always." She chuckled. "She'll be really happy that you're here."
"That's good to here and I'll be happy to see her."
"There she is now." We stopped walking. "Hey Applebloom! c'mere I have something to show you!"
"Ok sis comin'!" The cute little yellowish pony came trotting over. "Yeah Applejack whatcha got....for....me...." She finally saw me. "Is that who I think it is?"
"Yep." I replied.
"And I'm not dreamin'?"
"Nope."
"Ok then.......ah'm so happy your back!" She ran up and hugged me.
I looked at Applejack. "That was a delayed reaction...."
"Yeah it happens sometimes." She chuckled.
"Hey Applebloom how have you been?
She was crying. "I...I..I've been good th....thanks."
"Hey now don't cry."
"I cant stop, I'm just so dern happy to see you I...." She continued crying.
"Come now Applebloom yer making our guest uncomfortable."
"I..I'm sorry Ezekiel."
"Its ok I completely understand."
Applebloom walked away. "I'm sorry about that, I told you she would be happy to see you even though she doesn't know you all that well."
"She went to the funeral?"
"Yep saddest day of her life and many other ponies as well." We continued to walk and entered the house. "Hold on let me get yer weapon."
"Ok."
It was a couple minutes until she returned. "Alright here you go. Wrapped up and Everything." She handed me a case. "We had somepony make a case to store it in that way it wouldn't get rusty."
"Thanks Applejack." I opened it and my revolver looked good as new. It was polished and cleaned and looked like its never been shot once. "This thing looks great! You did a good job taking care of it A.J.!"
"Aw its nothing. I wouldn't let a valued treasure from the Hero of Ponyville get all rusty though I will admit I've tried to shoot it a couple times myself but I couldn't properly get a hold of the thing."
"Probably for the better. I did say I didn't want anypony touching it did I not?"
"Yes you did and I know it was wrong of me. I haven't touched it since."
"Good. Hey where the holster?"
"Its right over there partner." She pointed to the highest shelf. "I didn't want Applebloom gettin' a hold of it so I threw it up there."
"I see, good idea." I went over, grabbed the belt and put it on. "Alright all set."
"Twilight has the ammunition."
"Thank you Applejack."
"No problem. I gotta get back to work I'll tell everypony here the good news and maybe we can meet up some time?"
"Sure A.J. I'll see you later."
"See ya partner."
We both exited the house, she went towards the orchard and I went towards Ponyville. "I think I'll go to Rarity's now."
-------------------
"You did what?!?!"
"I fixed your coat....."
"You don't just go and 'fix' peoples clothing when they're dead!"
"Well maybe not but I just couldn't have something the shade of green in my shop."
"That is why you put it someplace where it cant be seen!"
"I suppose your right but...."
"But what?"
"But...I don't know would you at least see it? Please?"
"Augh fine."
We went up to the work room and there it was on a specially made mannequin was my field jacket, except it was all these different colors like purple and pink.
"You like it?"
"Well that defeats the purpose of camouflage doesn't it?"
"Well maybe but I think it looks a lot better."
"Yeah you do, not me. Why did you have to go and screw with things that aren't your's?"
She started giggling "Oh I just simply cant go on with this." She giggled some more. "My apologizes Ezekiel, I just had to."
"What are you talking about?"
"This isn't your real coat. I made this to play a little trick on you, and it worked according plan."
"....."
"You used to always plan things and trick us so I just thought I would get back at you."
"....."
"Why aren't you saying anything? Its worrying me...."
"....."
"Ezekiel? Are you ok?"
"I just realized I'm still in a suit...."
"Wha.....huh???"
"Do you have anything I cant wear or is everything still at Fluttershy's house."
"Everything is still at her house......"
"Rarity......I hate you...."
"Y...y....you what??"
"Or rather the whole role reversal thing, it really doesn't appeal to me." I looked her and smiled. "You got me good Rarity you really did."
She wiped the sweat from her forehead. "Don't do that, You really had worried."
"Sorry it was a mean trick wasn't it? Well anyway where is my real jacket?"
"Oh right it right here." She levitated it over to me and it was just how I remembered it. "Here you go untouched and not tampered with."
"Thank you Rarity. I think I'll be going now."
"So soon?"
"Yep I'm going to Vinyl's party later so I need to change."
"Oh ok then, why anypony would go to one of her 'parties' is beyond me."
"Ok see you later."
"Oh sorry, bye."
I left the Carousel Boutique and tried to figure out where I was going to go to next. "I would go to Twilight's and get the ammo but I need my vest. Hmm.....And I don't know where Rainbow lives." I looked at the sky and it seemed the hours went by really quick. "Or I could just go and try to find Vinyl." and that's what I did.
-----------
"I have no idea where she lives...." I thought to myself. "And I don't know where the party is...."
"Hey you seem lost."
"Yeah, I'm looking for somepony."
"Would this pony be a white unicorn with a two-toned blue mane and eight note cutie mark?"
"I don't know really....."
"Oh really?"
"Yeah I don't remember what she looks like I just know her name."
"Vinyl Scratch?"
I looked at her and raise an eyebrow. "Yeah how do you know?"
"Dude your looking at her! But uh...whats with the suit?"
"Oh yeah. Its coming back to me and for the suit it what I was buried in."
"So it wasn't a prank? You really did die?"
"Yeah its a long story."
"That's cool. So your coming to the rave?"
"Yeah, I was told you have my musical stuff."
"Yeah I have your bass and MP3 player. Its cool if I've been using them right?"
"Yeah its cool."
"Sweet! The rave is going to be right over there in that building. I would change first before though."
"Yeah I was going to."
"good you have 45 minutes until it start but try to show up early, I have a few mixes I want to show you."
"Ok"
I went back to Rarity's to see if she could come up with something, she said it would be no problem. She was done with a brand new outfit with 25 minutes to spare I thanked her, put on the new outfit and left. I got to the building that the rave was in with 10 minutes before the it started.
"Well your not to late." Vinyl said as I walked in. "Come over here and listen."
I walked over to her. "Nothing surprises you, huh?"
"I'm very rarely surprised."
"I can tell. Alright lets hear those tracks."
"I am glad you're back though." She said as she started the first track. "For this one I used your bass, its a completely original track. I also had my pal Octavia help out."
"Sounds good."
She switched songs. "I think you'll like this one." It was a house remix of Waste by Seether.
"Awesome." she switched songs again
"And this is my personal favorite." It was a dubstep remix of Slipknot's Duality.
"Sounds awesome."
"And of course I'll be playing my own tracks."
"Of course." I chuckled.
"And I want you to guest DJ tonight."
"I was going to anyway."
"Sweet."
We finished setting everything up and by the time we were done it was time to start the rave. I hid behind one of the speakers and was referred to as her assistant until she was going to reveal who I actually was. Half an hour later she chose to reveal my identity.
"And now everypony I have a surprise for you! You ready!?" There were cheers and yelling all were positive. "But first! We all remember the human who saved Fluttershy right? I hope you all do, he was a friend of mine. He gave his life to save her's." there was a mournful silence. "And now I ask you, do you believe in ghosts?!" There were confused murmurs. "Nopony really? Well you better start believin' because we have one here! I am please to re-introduce (to all of you wonderful ponies), The ghost of the Hero of Ponyville non other than........Ezekiel!!" There was silence and a few ponies mention something about this being distasteful.
"Wow that's one heck of a welcome." I said sarcastically. "Did you miss me or not?" I walked out from the speaker and they all gasped "Well??"
"What kind of welcome is this?" DJ PoN3 asked. "This is the guy! Whats up with you ponies!?"
"This is just low..." One of the ponies in the crowd said. "How can you do something like this?" Another one said.
"What are you all talking about?"
"Making a copy of him using magic!"
"Oh I'm real."
"Then prove it!"
"Gladly. I'm in a relationship with Fluttershy, I own a cave in the Everfree forest, and I saved my marefriend."
"Everypony knows all of that. Well except the Everfree forest thing."
"Well then how can I prove it?"
"Tell us how you saved Fluttershy."
"I used a life force transfer spell and if that doesn't prove it, I don't what will" They didn't say anything. "Yeah I'm real. Now enough of this and let's get back to the party!!"
DJ PoN3 started the music back up and the party was going again but with less ponies. We didn't worry about it though, they'll figure it out eventually.
The party ended and it was pretty late. Vinyl said that my bass was at her place and that I could there and since it was late I accepted her offer. I was so tired from partying I nearly fell over while walking to Vinyl's. She laughed every time I tripp "Aaaand here we are, my pad. Just make yourself at home and be quiet, we don't want to wake up Octavia." Vinyl whispered.
"Ok." I whispered back.
She opened the door and much like my mother so long ago on earth she was waiting. Or so I thought.
"Hello Vinyl finally back for your 'rave' I see?"
"Oh your already awake."
"Yes I am. I couldn't go to sleep for some strange reason, so I thought I would wait for you to get home."
"Ooooooookay. Hey Octavia, we have a guest."
"Vinyl honestly. I thought we talked about you bringing strange ponies home with you."
"Well hes not exactly a pony...." Octavia looked past Vinyl and saw me.
"Is that who I think it is?"
"Yeah unlike those stupid ponies at the rave thought, this is him. The real Ezekiel"
"I'm honored Ezekiel. I thought you were dead."
"I was." I replied. "But death didn't want me quite yet it would seem."
"I see, that's an interesting way to put it. Oh where are my manners, would you like a cup of tea?"
"No thank you Octavia, the only thing I want is sleep."
"So you don't want your bass? Cool!" said Vinyl.
"No Vinyl I want that too but right now I want sleep."
"Well there is the guest room. You could stay there for the night." Octavia Offered.
"Thank you Octavia just show me the way."
"Certainly. Follow me."
I followed her to my room and as soon as I laid down I immediately fell asleep. Apparently I slept in too late. That or the dubstep loving mare was a little bit inconsiderate because I woke up to the roughest sounding mix shes ever made. I got out of bed and entered the room that was the source of the noises.
"Vinyl!" She didn't hear me. "Vinyl!!" Still didn't hear me. "VINYL SCRATCH!!!"
She looked up and turned the music down. "Oh hey, whats up?"
"Me. I'm up thanks to you. what the he....hay are you doing?"
"Oh I'm just working on a new mix. I figured this might be the last time I use your MP3 player so I thought I would make one last remix before you left."
"Ok I'm cool with that and all but does it have to be so loud?"
She looked at with a raised eyebrow. "Seriously dude? It's like 1 O' clock in the afternoon. you should have alrighty been awake by now."
"Whoa its that late huh? Ok then. So what song are you remixing?"
"Well I'm trying to do dubstep remix of uh....what was the name of it again?" She looked at my MP3 player. "Oh yeah Coming Undone by.....KoRn? Really?"
"Oh nice choice and yes, KoRn. They're really popular in my world."
"Ok then. There's food in the fridge in case you hungry Tavi's not here right now she went to the marketplace."
"Alright, thanks."
"No prob bro." And she went back to work.
I went to get some food and found that they barely had anything left to eat. No wonder Octavia went to the marketplace. I went back into Vinyl's room to find a more refined remix that was not as rough but still had to be worked on.
"Find anything to eat?"
"You guys don't really have any food so I'll eat some where else."
"Ok then. Or you know you could just eat after Tavi gets back."
"I guess I could. Hey why do you keep calling her 'Tavi'?"
"It's kind of a pet name for her that I like to use."
"So you two are....."
"Dating? Yeah man."
"Oh...I....see"
"Wait. Don't tell me, you have a problem with it to?"
"What do you mean 'to'?"
"We used to get a lot of crap for it awhile back."
"Hmm....that's not cool. And to answer your question no I don't have an issue with it, It just caught me a little off guard."
"Ok good. Hey what do you think about this?" And she played what she had so far and I helped her tweak it a little. she was still having trouble so I helped her work on it. I love working with music.
----------
I forgot how long making music could take. We were in her room for 3 hours and Octavia had gotten home by the time we were done. We went into the kitchen to see if there was any food and Octavia was staring at me.
"Don't tell me. She dragged you into her music, didn't she?"
"Well yes and no. She woke me up while she was working on a remix and I went to her room and she wanted help so I help her."
"I see. Well she can be a bit rude."
"But you love her all the same right?"
"Ye.....what?!" She blushed. "So you know as well."
"Yep."
She sighed and looked at the floor. "Go on the. Ridicule me just like everypony else...."
"Why would I do that?"
"Octavia the classiest pony in Ponyville and....a filly fooler..."
"Ah and let me guess, those two don't normally go together?"
"No. They don't."
"Well in my world they do in some cases. I mean yes there are people the disagree with it but that doesn't matter."
"So....your ok with it??"
"Personally 'Tavi' I don't think its up to me or the other ponies. You are happy right?"
"Well for the most part.....I don't agree with Vinyl's music and she plays it too loud sometimes but I try to look past it."
"So mostly?"
"Yes more often then not."
"Then that's all that matters."
"I'm happy that you understand. Thank you Ezekiel."
"Which reminds me. Hey Vinyl? you know those ponies from the rave last night?"
Vinyl looked over at me with a raised eyebrow. "Yeah what about them?"
"I'm still kinda pissed off about them calling you a liar."
"Heh don't worry about it man they'll get eventually."
"No not soon enough. Now would be a good time. I'm going to something about it."
"Hey man don't do anything you'll regret. I want everything cleared up to but.......just don't do anything to crazy alright?"
"Don't worry yourself Vinyl. Everything will be fine. Hmm.....well I think I'll go to Twilight's" They both raised their eyebrows. "I'll be in front of the town center in case you two want to see what I'm going to do." I laughed and run out the door in the general direction of the library.
------------
I reached the library in what seemed like no time at all and pounded on the door. Where did this energy come from?
"I'm coming! I'm coming! Hold on sheesh!"
"Oh hi Spike wheres twilight?"
"Why don't you just yell for her like you normally do?"
"Good idea but I don't want to."
"Ok then. that's not like you." He called twilight and she came up from the....basement?"
"Yes Spike....oh hi Ezekiel!"
"When did the library have a basement?"
"It always did......was there something you needed I'm in the middle of some research."
"What are you researching?"
"The ammunition for your weapons. I'm curious to see what is used to make the propellant."
"Gun powder?"
"Well yes but the ingredients of gun powder."
"Your on your own there. Wait are you planning to reproduce the rounds?"
"Well.....yes?" She smiled sheepishly.
"Twilight I want to make it very clear ok? You DO NOT reproduce the ammo ok?"
"But what if you run out? You will need more right?"
"Well that all depends......how many have you used for your research?"
"Around ten but I don't see how that....."
"Ten as in five of each or ten as in only one type?"
"Five of each."
"Ok that's not so bad." I thought for a little bit. "Alright Twilight I'll allow you to make more ammo for me BUT only me, got it? Even if the princesses ask you must refuse You understand me?"
"But that could be considered treason!"
"Then I'll talk to them and explain it. Now onto why I'm here. I need one round for my revolver."
"Ok certainly but why only one?"
"It's need to know and your not on the list."
"Uh....Ok then?" She went down into the basement and came back up a minute later. "Here you go But I still..."
I cut her off "Thank you Twilight." I grabbed the round out of her levitation field(?), loaded it and left. This will make them listen.
------------
I was at the town center and I saw vinyl and Octavia waiting. They saw me and looked at me with a curious face, I just smiled. Which from the looks of it worried them. I got up on the little stage that was set up for whatever reason and started yelling.
"Attention ponies!!" None of them paid attention save for a few. "I said attention ponies!!" Still nothing. "LISTEN TO ME!!!" That did the trick.
"Oh look its DJ PoN3's magic replica."
"Oh so I see there are some ponies here that were at the rave last night."
"Yeah what about it?" Said another pony from the rave.
"Well I'm here to prove that I'm the real deal."
Some of them laughed. "Oh yeah? How exactly is are you going to do that?"
"Well you see this?"
"Yeah what about it?"
"This is MY weapon and from what I've heard magical copies can not actually pick up things."
"Its probably a copy as well."
I smiled evilly. "Who want to find out?"
The first one to say anything walked forward. "I do!"
"Perfect. Just hold still." I took aim and was about to fire when....
"STOP!!!" Twilight ran in front of the pony. "I cant believe you would do something like this!"
"Like what exactly?"
"You were going to shoot him!"
"Yeah and then they would know I was real."
"Huh?"
"they think I'm a magic copy of the real thing so I was going to show them otherwise but since your here care to explain it to them."
"Y....you had this planned?"
"Yep." I laughed. "If it wanted to shot him I would have by now." there was a look of unease on the volunteer's face. "Now Take it away Twilight Sparkle!"
She glared at me for putting her on the spot. She cleared her throat. "Well I can say that he is not a copy. Magical copies are transparent and they glow the same color as the user's aura. He however is not transparent and is obviously not glowing, there's no way he can be a copy."
"And how do you know all of this?" One of the other ponies asked.
"You must be new here." I said before Twilight had a chance to reply. "She is Celestia's personal student and writes to her highness often."
She looked at me weirdly. "Well yes I am and I do."
"So there you have it folk so now......APOLOGIZE TO DJ PoN3!!" They looked at me in disbelief so I ran up to one of them and rammed him. He just stood there with a smug look on his face so I made sure he went down hard. "There believe me now?" they all shook there heads and went over to apologize to Vinyl for not believing her. I over heard one of them.
"Yeah I..um....I'm sorry." He walked away and said "Damn Filly Fooler." under his breath. I ran up and stopped him. I'll admit I considered grabbing him by the throat but I don't want the ponies to be afraid of me again.
"That wasn't very nice now was it?"
"Wh....what? I....I apologized like you asked!"
"Yes and what else did you say?"
"I...I didn't say anything else! I swear!"
"Its not nice to lie. And its not nice to insult my friends! I'll let you off with a warning don't let there be a next time ok?"
"Uh...um...right! No worries there wont be!"
"Good I smiled. "See you later then."
"Bye....?"
He literally ran off and I waved. I turned to Vinyl and Octavia. "And that's what he gets for insulting my friends." I winked.
"Man Ezekiel you can be scary." Said Vinyl.
"Were you really going to harm that pony?" Asked Octavia.
"No Octavia I wasn't I had a plan and it worked and yes Vinyl I can be when I need to be."
"So you had it all planned out?"
"Yeah why do you ask?"
"You must be some kind of genius!"
"Not really I'm just your normal run-of-the-mill undead human." I chuckled. "So now that this is over and done with. Octavia, I understand you play the cello?"
"Why yes I do. Would you like to hear me play?"
"I certainly would." Vinyl looked at me funny. "I like all sorts of music. What else can I say."
She shook her head and we all walked back towards their house so I could get my bass and MP3 player back and listen to Octavia play. I'm glad everything worked out.
Its been a week since the "town center incident" as Twilight put it. Vinyl's reputation is back where it once was, now that they all know I'm the real thing and not some copy. Some of the ponies did however ask me how I'm alive when they saw me buried, I told them what I told all the other ponies. I went to Fluttershy's or I guess I could call it home or my house (since I primarily live there now) and she heard about the "town center incident" as well. she said she was disappointed in me but she was glad I didn't actually hurt anypony. She made some food and I propped my bass up against the wall. When she was done making the food we sat down at the table and talked like a couple normally would.
"So Fluttershy how was your day?"
"I was...nice."
"Nice? What happened?"
"Angel bunny is acting up again."
"I see what did he do?"
"Hes refusing to eat. He says that what I make isn't good enough for him."
"I see. Hmm.....I want to talk to him, where is he?"
"Hes playing outside with his friends."
"I'll wait then. I don't feel like looking for him."
"How was your day?"
"Uninteresting."
"Oh I see. What jobs did you do today?"
"I helped Applejack buck some trees, I helped Twilight with her research on my ammo and I baked at Sugar-Cube Corner."
"Sounds like you had a busy day."
"Yep I got my sling back from Pinkie Pie though and I also have a decent amount of money now."
"That's nice!" She looked at my bass. "Um...if you don't mind me asking....would you mind playing for me?"
"Hmm.....I guess I haven't played in awhile huh?"
"Um...no you haven't."
"Ok sure!" I grabbed my bass and sat down. "What do you want to hear?"
"Hmm.....how about that one song you always play?"
"Alright one amazing song coming up." She chuckled. I played Fluttershy's favorite which was one of my original songs and she loved it. I also played a few other songs before I stopped. When I finished Fluttershy gently stomped on the floor and softly cheered.
"You should play with Vinyl and Octavia!"
"We talked about it a little bit."
"And?"
"Its more of a maybe but nothing is going to happen any time soon."
"Oh....why not?"
"Well Octavia has a few concerts in Canterlot and Vinyl has a small DJ-ing tour."
"That's to bad."
"Its fine. I can focus on working and getting money." I laughed.
She chuckled. "I see."
"Yep. Well Fluttershy I'm tired and going to bed. Care to join me?"
"Yes after I clean up the table."
"Nope. you go, I'll clean. I'll be up there when I'm done."
"Its no trouble I can do it."
"I know you can but its the least I can do. You have been doing it every night so I'm going to do it"
"Ok then."
"Yeah see you in a little bit."
I cleaned the table and even did the dishes before I went to join Fluttershy. As soon as I hit the pillow I fell asleep. Has this pillow always been this soft?
------------
Fluttershy accidentally woke me up when she woke up. Which was fine because I needed to head over to Sweet Apple Acres to help Applejack and Big Mac with some hay. I went down stairs and Fluttershy was making food. She made me a peanut butter and banana sandwich, I didn't know this place had peanut butter. I thanked here and left, if I get hungry I'll just grab an apple or something when I'm at the farm.
I arrived at Sweet Apple Acres and immediately got to work. We worked until and were beat, we were also hungry. We went into the house and had lunch and also had a little conversation.
"Hoowee! that was mighty fine work there fellas." Said Applejack.
"Eeyup." Said Big Mac.
"Sheesh I haven't worked that hard in awhile." I said.
"Well we sure do appreciate your help Ezekiel."
"No problem Applejack. I'm happy to help."
"So what are y'all going to do now that yer done helping?"
"No idea. I might go to the park or get my vest back from Rainbow dash but I don't where she lives."
"I can take you to her house but shes probably working but at least y'all will know where her house is."
"Sounds good thanks."
"No problem."
We left and walked to the outskirts of town.
"Welp that's her house up there." She pointed up and called for Rainbow Dash. there was no answer so she called again. Rainbow popped her head out and saw us and then flew down.
"Oh hey guys whats up?"
"Hey Rainbow I was wondering if I could have my vest back?"
"Your vest?"
"Yeah the one that holds all the ammo for my weapons."
"Oh that one, hold on." After a few minutes she came back with the vest. "Here you go. I hope you don't mind but I wore it a few times."
"No I don't mind at all. Thanks."
"No problem."
She flew back up to her house and probably went back to sleep or back to whatever she was doing before we showed up and we left. Applejack went back home and I went to the park to relax some before going to Rarity's shop to see if she could use any help. A familiar little filly came up to me while I was walking to my favorite bench.
"Hi mister!"
"Hey kid, you know its ok to call me by my name."
"I know but I want to call you mister."
"Ok kid. Hey wheres your mother?"
"Shes still working but my babysitter is here, see!" She pointed behind her at her babysitter who waved.
I chuckled and waved back. "Yeah Dinky I see."
"So what are you doing mister?"
"Nothing just just going to sit under that tree like I always do."
"Aw that's no fun. Hey I have an idea! Why don't you come play with me?"
"No sorry kid I had a long day and its still not over for me yet."
"Aw you're no fun."
"Sometimes kid. Only sometimes."
We talked for a little bit longer, she went back to her babysitter and I went to the bench under the tree and ended up falling asleep. I woke up an hour later and headed over to Rarity's. I'm wonder what I could help her with?
"I'm flattered that you would think of me Ezekiel." Said Rarity
I tried to mimic Applejack's accent. " Ain't nothin' Miss Rarity. Just makin' mah rounds fer today, that's all."
"That's a very convincing accent but um....could you stop talking like that?"
"Fine.....so you sure you don't need any help today?" She tapped her chin in thought and then nodded her head. I sighed. "Alright then I'll be seeing you I guess."
"Is something wrong Ezekiel? You seem off."
"Well there's nothing else to do today. And when I leave here it will still be day time, so that sucks. I just don't want to be bored for the rest of the day."
"Well you could visit Shadow he moved into that cave you always stayed at."
"I suppose I could huh?" She nodded her head. "Well I guess I'll be going now."
"See you later dear."
I left Carousel Boutique and headed for the Everfree. "Hmm.....I haven't been there in awhile. I thought. "I wonder if I'll remember how to get there." As I was walking through Ponyville I noticed that something didn't seem right but I couldn't place what it was and kept walking. Some ponie waved as I walked by and some hung their heads in what seemed like shame. "They must have been some of the....dare I say?.....Neigh-Sayers from the rave. Hmm....they must still feel bad." I shrugged and continued.
I was almost at the house when I saw Pinkie in the middle of the path drinking what looked like chocolate milk. I waved at her but she was enjoying her drink to much to notice me, so I went up and nudged her. She opened her eyes and they went wide.
"Oh-my-gosh! Ezekiel have you seen them?!?"
"Uh.....seen what Pinkie?"
"Nope! Guess you haven't. Well I have to get back to work, I don't want the Cakes to get mad at me. See ya!" She reminded me of a race dog, man she can move. I shook my head and decided that it just Pinkie being Pinkie. I stopped by the house and told Fluttershy where I was going.
"Oh is something wrong?"
"No I'm just going to visit Shadow and I want to see what hes done with the place."
"Oh ok. As long as nothings wrong."
"Nope. Nothing at all."
I went upstairs and got my survival knife and put it on my belt. I looked at my revolver and thought. "Well I don't have the ammo for it so I might as well leave it here." I took the holster off of the belt and put the knife in its place. "Hopefully I wont need to use it." I thought as I made my way back downstairs. I hugged Fluttershy, told her I would be back and left.
-------------
"Well here's Zecora's place so I just need to go.......this way?......I hope I'm right." I walked in that direction and after 15 minutes of walking, turns out I was wrong. "Well shit....hmm.... did I come from this way or this way? Dammit!" I spent the next few minutes trying to figure out where Zecora's hut was, and like always that's a bad idea. I suddenly remembered that I passed the castle ruin on the way there. But what good is that to me now.
Remember at the very beginning when I said I didn't handle stress well? And I can hear your thoughts. your thinking "Well Ezekiel You've had plenty of stressful situations that you handle pretty well." And I'll tell you this: I was medicated. You should remember that.....shame on you. But anyway I was hoping that my "condition" died when I did but stayed dead, sadly that didn't seem to be the case.
After a few minutes of mumbling incoherently I snapped out of it and saw Shadow moving towards me.
"Master? You ok?"
"Yeah just a bit lost."
"I see. follow me I'll lead you to my cave." He started moving without waiting for me to get up. "Also master.....don't lie to me. I can sense that your stressed and I saw you saying nonsense to yourself."
"Yeah sorry Shadow."
"Its ok master. I think you should talk to Twilight and see if she remembers the recipe for your medicine."
"Hey Shadow no offence but have you been taking speech lessons?"
"Yes I have! I'm glad you noticed. Thanks to Twilight and Rarity."
"I see. I'm glad you found friends in them."
"So am I. But I cant go into ponyville.......the ponies don't like me very much."
"Sounds like me when I first got here."
"But the difference is you were about to....nevermind I think it better I not bring that up."
"Thank you Shadow. So how is the Everfree?"
"Its nice. Lots of energy that I can feed off of, plenty of food as well."
"I see......"
"Don't worry master I haven't eaten any of the more peaceful animals only things like manticores and mad bears."
"Ok good."
We finally arrived at the cave. "Well master we are here." He opened the door which looked newer. "Make yourself at home."
I looked around and whoa animal skins and pelts everywhere. "Uh-huh.....so had a few successful hunts, have we?
He laughed. "Yes I have. I just had to keep some trophy's and no Fluttershy hasn't seen. She doesn't visit me so I visit her."
"I'm glad shes not afraid of you."
"It took some time but we're friends now."
"Good." We talked for awhile until I had to leave. Shadow didn't want me to go because it was starting to get dark but I told him I promised Fluttershy I would be back and he seemed to understand. Hopefully I don't get lost again.
It was a miracle that I didn't get lost on the back. I made it to opening with little trouble and headed for home. I got into the house and Fluttershy was taking a nap on the couch. I went over and sat down next to her and accidentally woke her up.
"Oh hello Ezekiel. Welcome home."
"Thanks honey. wanna go upstairs and end the day."
"Yes I'm really tired."
"I can tell." I laughed. "Were you waiting for me?"
She blushed a little bit. "Well....yes I was."
"You didn't have to you know."
"I know. I just wanted to."
"Aw your so sweet." She blushed and we went upstairs, laid down and fell asleep.
------------
The next day started out as usual but there was something that was different. The same feeling from yesterday was stronger today. Instead of looking for work I wandered around town trying to figure out what was wrong, strangely none of the ponies noticed. I was looking at the sky and I thought I saw a pink cloud. I figured it was Rainbow playing a prank and thought nothing of it.
I stopped when I saw a puddle of chocolate milk or something that looked like it. Out of curiosity I stuck my finger in and tasted it. "Yep....chocolate milk.....what the hell....Pinkie must have something to do with this." I looked up and saw the pink pony inches away from my face. I fell back in surprise.
"Nope wasn't me! You know, you shouldn't assume things."
I sat up. "Sorry Pinkie."
"Its ok silly willy but if you didn't spill milk and I didn't spill milk. Then who did?"
"I was hoping you knew but I guess it was probably some foal that did it."
"Maybe!"
All of a sudden a ball of pink fluff ran into me. It smelled like cotton candy so I assumed it was Pinkie. "God dammit Pinkie Control yourself!" It was stuck in my hair and my beard. "Fuck This is going to take forever to....get...out....." I realized this isn't Pinkie Pie. "Gah what the hell is this stuff!"
Pinkie sniffed it. "Mmmmm.....This is cotton candy silly." It started to leak chocolate milk. "And its filled with Chocolate milk!!"
"What the hay???" I took a bite. "Well ok then." I continued to eat until I was free. "That was both strange and Delicious."
"Yeah! This hasn't happened since that one time where....." A looked of concern flashed crossed her face for a second. "Come on Ezekiel! we need to see Twilight!"
"That was my next stop anyway Pinkie"
And we went towards the library. Hopefully Twilight has some answers.
Pinkie and I arrived at Twilight's and from the looks of things she hasn't left the house in awhile. I walked over to her and she didn't notice because she was still buried in a book. I got close to her left ear and whispered.
"I'm the master of cahoogleshcmits. Blarb Cungsningerhaloo and Ollie Dafodill say hello star shine as the earth once said to itself." She slowly turned her head towards me. From her expression, it looked like I just sucked all of the intelligence out of her brain. She sat there for a few moments before snapping out of it.
"Ezekiel...I have no idea what you just said." She shook her head. "Just tell me why your here so I can get back to my studies." She said rubbing her temples
"Whoa did I really give you a head ache?" I asked.
"Yes....you did...now please if you will just tell me, I can get back to it!" She said annoyed.
"Ok ok sheesh Pinkie and I had a question...." Pinkie cut me off.
"Nope I already know the answer I just wanted to tell Twilight." She said cheerfully bouncing around the room seemingly making Twilight's head ache worst.
"Ok then" I continued. "Only I have a question apparently." Pinkie giggled a little still bouncing and Twilight motioned for me to get on with it. "Are uh...pink cotton candy clouds filled with chocolate milk a new thing around here or...." Twilight cut me off this time. She looked at me with a lot of concern and worry.
"WHAT!! When did you see them!?!?" She shouted.
I fell back in surprise for I was not expecting that reaction. "Sheesh settle down will ya?" I said as I sat up. "What the hell was that for?!"
She looked like she was panicking and tried to speak for a moment or two before finally blurting out some coherent. "We have to tell Celestia!!"
"Aww do we have to Twilight, do we have to?"
"Yes Pinkie! If this is anything like the last time there were chocolate milk filled cotton candy clouds, we could be in danger!" I looked around confused as to how cotton candy clouds with chocolate milk in them were somehow harmful. She noticed the puzzled look on my face. "I'll try to explain it to you later! Right now we need to get the others and go see the princess!" She turned to Pinkie. "Pinkie you go find Applejack and Rainbow Dash, Ezekiel get Fluttershy, I'll get Rarity."
"Okie dokie lokie." Pinkie said bouncing out of the door.
"Ok...sure?" I replied not knowing what was going on.
"Ok let's get moving! We haven't much time!"
-----------
I was about half way to mine and Fluttershy's house. Nothing really out of the ordinary but I did notice afew more of those clouds flying around and some pegasi trying to tame the clouds with no avail. The house was in view now and as I got closer I was greeted with the path I was walking on turning to liquid soap and I slipped, fell, and slid the rest of the way to the door and struggled to stand up. I finally managed to stand and opened the door.
"Hey Fluttershy!? You here?!"
"I'm upstairs."
I walked up the stairs and turned into our room and saw a sleepy looking Fluttershy. "Were you taking a nap?"
"Yes I just woke up when walk into the house."
"I see. Did you have a nice nap?" she smiled and shook her head. "I'll take that as a yes." We smiled at eachother before I remembered why I was back here earlier that planned. "Oh right! Fluttershy, Twilight sent me to find you. She wants us to meet back at the library as soon as possible."
"Oh my what's wrong?"
"I honestly have no idea. I don't know how cotton candy clouds filled with Chocolate milk is dangerous." I shrugged. She however looked very concerned. "What's wrong?"
"I will go say goodbye to my animal friends and then we can leave if....um....you want to."
"Sure take your time." I said as I sat down on the floor and waited. About 15 mins later she came back and walked over to me and nodded. I opened the door for her and she looked almost shocked at what she saw. I looked at what she was staring at.
"Oh yeah." I said scratching the back of my neck. "It's a tad slippery this afternoon. Be careful." She nodded and began walking with me following her close behind.
---------------
"This day just keeps getting weirder and weirder as it goes on." I said walking beside Fluttershy. " Do you have any idea what's going on around here?"
"I um...think I might know.....I really hope I'm wrong."
"Ok?.....care to clue me in dear?"
"Last time the roads were soapy and there were clouds like that....there was an evil monster that tried to take over Equestria." She looked at the ground at the memory.
"Hmm...I see. Welp that's just great."
"What's wrong?"
"Well let's see...I come to a new land, fight a monster, die, come back to life and now may have to fight another monster..."
"Oh I just couldn't ask you to help. I'm not even sure if it is him."
"Well I am helping. I don't know how but I'm helping no matter what you say."
Fluttershy stopped and looked at me like she was sad about something. "Why are you being mean?"
"Am I? I'm sorry, I guess the idea of fighting another monster so early is getting to me." I hugged her and apologized again. She smiled and we continued walking to Twilight's.
We were almost there and I've had it with all this weirdness. The sun and moon rapidly rising and falling, really strang behavior from animals, and these stupid clouds that keep flying into me. I avoided some of them but only to slip on the liquid soap road we were walking on.
------------
We arrived at Twilight's and both she and Rarity were waiting for us and the others.
"Where's Pinkie Pie, Applejack and Rainbow Dash at?" I asked.
"I don't know I was about to go look for them." Twilight answered.
Fluttershy looked out of the window and saw them coming this way. "There they are!" I went over and looked out of the window to. AJ was slipping as bad as I was trying to walk on the soapy road, Pinkie was skating basically and Rainbow was flying as always. I laughed for a few seconds but stopped before they came In.
"This better not be what I think it is Twi."
"I'm afraid that's what it looks like. I haven't got word back from Celestia so I can't completely be sure"
"Well I for one think this is dreadful even if it isn't him."
"I dunno.I kinda like it!"
"Yeah Pinkie we got it the first hundred times you told us!"
Fluttershy remained silent and I was getting more confused by the minute. "Would you guys just tell me what the hay is going on!!" I yelled and everypony went quiet for a couple minutes before Twilight said one word that seemed to cause her pain as she spoke it. "Discord."
The room was silent once more, it was almost like a movie and I still had no idea what was going on. I stared at her for a little bit before speaking. "Discord? As in chaos and disorder?"
"Yes." Twilight answered.
"Well then let's go find who ever is causing this and take care of them."
"I wish it were that simple."
"So what's stopping us?"
And the suddenly there was a voice that came from nowhere and said. "Nothing." and then faded away. Everyone else looked at eachother with shock and worry and I think I just messed myself alittle.
We decided that time was short and couldn't wait for a reply from the princess. Instead we would go to her, by train. Before we went to the train station I went back to the house and suited up. It was the first time I wore the military uniform replica that Rarity made me, it was more comfortable than the real ones I imagined. I didn't wear the field jacket though, it's a little to warm for that. We regrouped at Twilight's and headed for the train station and when we finally got there we ran into a little snag in the plan....the train was gone.
"Ah ah ah now what fun would it be it it was where it was supposed to be hmm?" The voice suddenly said. "No I want you, Twilight, to think of another way you can get to Canterlot." The voice went away again.
After a few minutes I think I knew the answer but when I looked at Twilight she had not come up with an answer yet. I wanted to ask the voice question well maybe two.
Hey! Discord!"
"Yes?" Well that answered one question. "Ah you must be Ezekiel. I've been watching you for awhile now. It was so heartwarming to see you sacrifice yourself for Fluttershy like that. I felt like I was going to cry....well if I could!"
"I see...can I just tell her the answer?"
"Hmm...no you cannot that would be cheating. You can however, give her three hints, no more than that. That would take the challenge away." Discord's voiced laughed before fading away again.
Well there's the second one out of the way. I waited a few more minutes to see if Twilight was going to get it, from the look of it...she hasn't yet. It was about 10 more minutes before she gave up, came up to me and asked to see if I really had the answer.
"Well of couse I do it's not very hard. It's actually kinda obvious."
"Oh really? Why don't you just tell me then?" She said in an aggravated tone.
"I can't....it's against the rules."
"Ugh fine. Then just give me some hints."
"Hmm....flying."
"How is flying going to help us!?"
I sighed "Just think about it and it will come to you."
For some reason it took a few seconds for her to get it when I thought I saw a light bulb appear above her head. She face hoofed. "Why didn't I think of it sooner?" She sighed. "Alright listen up everypony! We need to find a sky chariot!" I just shook my head and laughed.
------------
Things were getting weirder in Ponyville. There were floating buildings and upside-down tree and even this weird pony flying with one of those propeller hats. I've never seen her before. We split up in groups to make the search go faster. The groupings were like this: Me and Applejack were group one, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie were group two and the remaining ponies were group three. Twilight organized the groups and I'm surprised that she didn't pair me with Fluttershy but maybe I needed to spend time with someone else for a change. It was awfully quiet between me and Applejack and apparently it was getting to her.
"So uh...Ezekiel how are you and Fluttershy doing?"
"Well that depends. Do you mean as a couple or seperate?"
"Both ah suppose."
"Well as a couple I think it's going alright. I mean we haven't reached the point where we're saying 'I love you' to eachother yet but other then that it's all good I believe." I thought for a moment stopping causing her to stop and look at me. "Oh yeah there is one thing."
"Is that so? Care to share?" She said rather curiously.
"I don't know..." I leaned in close to her and whispered. "It's a bit private but um....we..." I paused like something was wrong.
"What? I might be able ta help you know?"
I was still "face to face" to her. "We....we've done it.....alot." her face lit up like a bonfire soaked in gas.
"We....well ah d..don't think y..you guys have an..any problems then...." As she talked she was fraticly looking around trying to find something to distract her from what I just told her. I was laughing my ass of. "Wait....so yer just fooling' then?"
"Yep," I said in between laughs. "You should have seen your face!" She shook her head as her face returned to it natural color and started to walk again. I regained myself and followed. "Hey Applejack you alright?"
"Ah'm fine....it's just that ponies don't particularly joke about that sort of thing. It's pretty serious around here..."
"Hmm.....ok then I guess." It was silent for a few more minutes while we looked for a cart. Not a single sky chariot to be seen. As we continued our search I decided to break the Silence. "So AJ hows that farm life been treating you lately?"
"Just fine ah guess." She paused in thought. "Though this applebuck season is going to be a pain in the hind end."
"That is if we can get all of this sorted before then, right?"
"Right. Which I intend to do before to much longer."
"Same with everyone else it seems."
"And what about you? You don't seem so sure."
"Well I just don't know what to think."
"What do ya mean?"
"I just don't see what's bad about this...seems harmless, well except for the soap roads."
"Harmless?! Discord wants to take over Equestria and throw the whole land back into chaos!! And that hurts ponies!"
"Well it seems to me that if Equestria was originally chaotic, then the ponies are the ones to be afraid of. She stopped and looked at me weird. "What? What's wrong with alittle ChAoS?! to make things more interesting?"
She didn't say anything but looked concerned and continued walking
----------
We arrived in the market place and there were ponies running in panic, for some reason I felt like laughing. As we walked through the market we still couldn't find any sky chariots so I had the idea to make one, but that meant destroying a pony's food stand I told Applejack this plan and she refused to go along with it and suggested the we try to find a light hay wagon instead, I agreed that it would probably work out better.
"So AJ where would this light wagon be exactly?"
"Well last ah seen it, it was not far from her."
"Alright shall well get looking then?"
"Yeah how about you go that way and ah look over here?"
"Sounds good to me, meet back here in a few minutes?"
"Eeyup."
We went in our directions and started to look. After about 15 minutes of looking in my designated search area, I found what looked to be what she was talking about. It was a smaller hay wagon that looked light enough for the two pegasi that would be pulling it, and I think it had enough room for all of us as well. Just when I was going to head back to the meeting spot I heard voices coming out of nowhere.
"Poor Ezekiel...."
"What do you mean?"
"Clearly Applejack is making you do all of the work while she's relaxing where you last saw her."
I shrugged "And? What if she is?" I laughed. "I'm not going to wheel this back by myself."
"But don't you feel alittle bit used that she would do that to you?"
"Been through worse. I can take it." I shrugged again.
"It has to atleast have some effect on you right?"
"Hmm....not really."
"What if I told you...." I cut the voices off
"Alright cut the shit! I know what your trying to do and its not going to work."
"Sheesh. Fine, I guess you don't want to know what I was going to say about Fluttershy."
"Enough!! I know it's you Discord! Stop talking about my friends or I will RiP OuT yOuR ThRoAt!!"
There was silence for a few seconds. "Hmm...it looks like you have enough internal chaos to deal with....and my little show is causing it to show through, ha! Looks like my job just got alittle easier." he laughed and his voice faded away.
I began to walk back to where Applejack should be and felt a headache come on. "Yay....just in time to." I said rubbing my temples. "Counldn't this have happened at a better time?"
"There you are!" Applejack said as I looked at her rubbing the sides of my head. "Ah've been waitin....don't tell me..."
"Yep....the headaches are back."
"Well that just great! And we don't have the time fer Twi to make ya more medicine!"
"I know. I am very aware of the situation. But on a happier note I found the wagon."
"Ya did?! Where is it?"
"Follow me."
And we walked to the wagon. Applejack gave it the one over and gave it a green light. She began trying to wheel it back but I stopped her and told her I had a better idea and to cover her ears. Once she did I pulled out my revolver and shot a round in the air. Now we wait for the others.
The others came running within around 15 minutes. I laughed when I saw their faces, they didn't find it funny. They saw the cart and agreed with us that it would work, Rainbow and Fluttershy got into the front to pull it and everyone else got into the back. We took off after everyone got settled and headed to Canterlot. The flight there was mostly silent save for the little bits of conversation that popped up every now and then. I remembered something that I thought I forgot, the reason why I chose the name "Ezekiel". My real name. Now remember back when I told Fluttershy and Twilight that was my codename name and I didn't remember my name? That's because I hated it and saw a chance to change it. I was also thinking about what happened to me when I was talking to Applejack, and also how long I'll be able to keep from losing it because of headaches. The damn headaches! Apparently I had a funny look on my face and Twilight took notice.
"What's wrong Ezekiel?" I slightly winced at the name and everyone took notice.
"Are you ok darling?" Rarity asked.
"I'm fine.....just alittle cold." They didn't buy it.
"You seemed fine the first time we went to Canterlot. You sure your fine?"
"I'm FiNe!!! Stop asking!"
"Ya see! That's what ah've talking about."
"Yeah your definitely not ok."
"You were talking about about me!?"
"Well we have been all sitting right next to each other. We didn't intentionally leave you out of anything."
"I suppose your right but still."
"You still haven't told us what's wrong Ezekiel."
I winced again and then sighed. "Alright....I've kinda been lying to you all, don't worry it's not that big."
Everyone gasped, Fluttershy looked back with a sad expression on her face but Rarity was the first to speak. "Lying about what?"
"My name...."
"You lied about you name!!"
"Yeah...it's....." I mumbled.
"Sorry?"
I sighed again. "It's....Seth...." They just looked at me weird. "Ezekiel is my codename though. I used it for airsoft and paintball...don't ask I don't want explain."
"I for one like Ezekiel better." Every else agreed but Rainbow chuckled a bit.
"But that doesn't tell us what's wrong with you voice."
"Hmm.....I really don't know."
"Perhaps we can ask the princess whats wrong with him?"
"There wont be much time but we could see if she knows anything."
"There's another thing I guess I should tell you...."
"What now?!"
"I don't really like Celestia...."
They all gasped again but this time Twilight was the first one to speak. "Why don't Celestia? You seemed to like her when you asked her to send you back to your world."
"Keyword: seemed. I was nice and respectful because I wanted that favor." Twilight looked a little angry at me. "Calm down it's not like I hate her or anything."
"And what about Luna?"
"I like her better. I get along with her better anyway and I think Celestia knows it too."
"That doesn't seem to be a good reason to me Se....I mean Ezekiel.
I glared at Rarity for a second before speaking again. "I will however like Celestia if she helps me out with this problem though."
"Oh goodie! Hey we should throw a party for when that happens!
"No party's yet Pinkie."
"But I also want to throw a party for finding out real name! It will be called: The Ezekiel's name is really Se..."
"Do NOT sAy ThAt NaMe!!!" Her hair deflated and the others glared at me. "Sorry Pinkie..." Her hair didn't re-inflate. I'm going to hear about for the rest of the ride. And I was right.
----------
We were almost there and everything calmed down a bit. I got Pinkie back to her usual happy self but the others were still a little mad at me, except Fluttershy.....she was just disappointed. They were giving me the silent treatment but It really didn't effect me much, it just gave me more time with my thoughts. I was meditating to try to found out whats up with me and that seemed to make the headaches less painful and after a few minutes Applejack broke my meditation trying to speak to me,
"So why do you hate yer name so much?"
I thought for awhile. "It's a boring name."
"Is that it? That's why you hate it so much....because its boring?"
"Well from what I can remember, yes."
"Ponyfeathers! there has to be a more deeper reason then that!"
"Well like I said. If there is I don't remember." I turned to Twilight. "I don't care if your still mad at me. I have to ask you something."
"Go ahead." She said not even looking at me.
"I'm having headaches again."
"Oh....well that could be part of the reason why your acting so strangely today.
"Ah don't know Twi. He was acting like that before he said he was having the headaches again."
"Hmm.....I will definitely ask the princess about this."
"Thanks Twilight."
"But don't think I'm not still mad at you!"
"Didn't even think you weren't"
The rest of the flight was quiet and Fluttershy occasionally glanced back to see how I was doing. No one else even looked at me except for Pinkie but I think she was just spacing out. we arrived at the castle and the were barely any guards but the ones that were there stopped us as soon as we landed. As soon as the recognized Twilight though they let us pass. Twilight asked where the princess was and obviously he said. "In her chambers." So we headed there with the guard escorting us. After what seemed like several minutes of walking we finally made it and Twilight opened the door which prompted the princess to turn around.
"Ah Twilight come in, I'm sure that you're aware of the recent events?"
"Yes Princess. That is why we came."
"Good. We must gather the elements and find Discord!"
"Agreed. Oh Princess Ezekiel is having his headaches again. Is there anything we can do to help him? Be it temporary anything will help."
"I think I might have a spell that could help but it could take awhile."
I walked up next to Twilight. "Speaking of spells. Can you send me back to my world again I just thought of something I could use."
"Hello Ezekiel. Yes I could sent you back but I wont have enough energy to cast the spell the might help with your headaches."
"Have Twilight learn it, shes a smart mare she'll get it down quick."
"Very well....I hope it's not for the same reason as last time?"
"Don't worry Celestia it's not.....Actually I might be able to use Twilight while I'm there."
"Oh is that so?"
"Yep. I have my reasons don't ask."
"Hmm....ok but be careful. I'll teleport you when its night in your world as an extra pre-caution."
"Works for me. probably for the better anyway."
"I shall return when the spell is ready." And she left. I assumed to go to the same chamber she went to first time she cast that spell. Twilight was still giving me the silent treatment. I even thanked her for asking the princess about my headaches but she just nodded. I also told her that she forgot to tell her about the weird behavior thing which brought her to facehoof. After Twilight told the others and convincing them she will be fine, the spell was ready and Celestia and I were waiting for her. When she got back to us we left for the chamber room.
"So you just step in?" Twilight asked.
"Yes. You well be fine another portal will open in an hour in the same spot the the entrance portal is." Celestia replied.
"Then we'll have to be quick come on Twilight lets go." She reluctantly stepped in and I wasn't far behind her. After a bright flash we were back on Earth and in the local park at night.
"Well we're not to far from where need to go come on it should be closed by now. Oh and welcome to Earth, now lets get going." she shook her head looking around and then started to follow me. "Uh oh."
"What?"
"I just realized I still have all of gear on.....We'll need to really the cops now as well as any and everyone else." She face hoofed again. Why did I have to forget something so important?
After mentally kicking myself for not remembering that I had my gear on we started to walk, avoiding street lamps and any other source of light as we made our way to the destination. We only crossed streets when there wasn't a car to be seen at least a mile down, headlights can be a pain. We stopped in a dark alley so we wouldn't be seen (not a good idea I know but what other choice did we have?) and so I could get my bearings.
"Where are we going?" asked Twilight.
"Gun shop. It should be closed so we shouldn't have any problems."
"Why do you want to go if it closed? unless that is.......you want to steal something from there?!?!"
"Shh! keep it down! If we get caught I'll go to prison and you'll go to some government facility and be experimented on!" I whisper-yelled at her and she calmed down.
"Stealing is wrong. Why don't we have the princess send you here in the day time so you can buy whatever you're going to buy?"
"Money. I don't have enough and bits aren't going to work here. So I'm going to take something that I might need."
"There must be some other way."
"Well unless you think of any thing better we're going with my plan." She groaned. "If you do happen to think of something tell me and I'll see how good it is. But for now we must keep moving. We don't want to be found."
"I agree."
While we were walking I looked around to find any landmarks. I saw the restaurant my friends and I went to that one night and a car dealership, the gun store should be about a mile to mile and a half down the street that the restaurant is on. And we only have 45 min. left. I have never stolen anything before but I have enough common sense to know that you need to:
1. Try to conceal your identity.
2. Try to avoid and/or disable the cameras.
And 3. Get out fast. Just because you don't hear an alarm doesn't mean there isn't one.
Gun stores usually have securely locked doors. Be it password coded locks to roll down bars or what ever they're called. So normally you wouldn't be able to even get in, but I have a pony that's capable of teleporting. That's anything but normal. One other thing I should have remembered is the further you get into areas the has a lot of shops, the more light there's going to be...whoops. We got to an area where we see the gun store. Its not one of those strip mall gun places. This place is half the size of a Guitar Center. They have basically anything that's legal to own even Class 3 weapons. It was about 50 feet away and I was growing impatient, Probably because we had only about 15 to 20/25 minutes left.
"Twilight we're running out of time. Can you teleport us in there?" I pointed to the gun store.
"Yes of course I can but...it might be a little difficult."
"Since we only have about 15 minutes left. I don't care." She charged up the spell and then a second later we were in the store.
"Ok we need to do this quick. Make yourself invisible so the cameras only see me." Once she made her self invisible I got looking at the guns and thought about how practical they were. "Hmm..... AR-15? no. I don't know what that is.......oh nice an MP5! Yep that's mine." I hopped over the counter, grabbed it and put it on the counter. "What else? Hmm....nope. Never seen that before. time to check the rifle section...." I went over to the rifles and there it was, a beautiful Dragunov sniper rifle. I always wanted one but never had the money, now I have my chance. I went over, grabbed it and looked it over, it shoots the same round as the Mosin does. "Yep mine as well." I put it over with the MP5. "Hmm...maybe a shotgun....I know! Saiga 12." I went over to the shotguns and they didn't have one. "Well that's....surprising actually....what other shotgun did I want?" I looked over and on the wall was an interesting looking shotgun. "Hmm that looks familiar, I wonder what it is?" I walked over. "Winchester Model 1897 "trench gun" huh? not exactly what I had in mind but I'm taking it too." All of this took five minutes but now I need to find the mag/ammo pouches, the ammo, the magazines and slings. Which is going to take longer and I'm not sure we have the time.
---------
We didn't. We had about five minutes left after I found everything I needed for the weapons I picked up and strapped the mag pouches on. We were high tailing it back to the park and apparently at some point one of triggered a silent alarm. since we so pressed for time I told twilight not to worry about avoiding lights, unfortunately that mean the the police could easily spot us and their cars are a lot faster than us. I knew we had to lose them and we were coming at about three minutes left. So I had an idea.
"Hey Twilight?! I need you to teleport us to the park! We're going to get caught at this rate."
"I don't think I have enough energy to teleport both of us!"
"How about all of my weapons."
"They're not exactly your's but yes but just about. Why?"
"I need you to take all of my stuff and take it back with you. Since you cant teleport us both I'll stay here on earth until you can get back here and get me."
"But Discord!"
"From what I understand you and the others defeated him once before. I know you can still do it." We had enough of a lead on the police so we stopped in an alley and I took off all of my gear save for my actual clothes. "Now take all of this and go! Got it?"
She turned visible again. "Yes but what will happen to you?"
I put the vest on her and tightened it as much as I could and then strapped her with all of the weapons and ammo. "When if or when they catch me I'll most likely go to prison....and that's about it I hope."
"You hope?! What do you mean by that?" She moved towards me slowly. "Ugh how do you walk with all of this stuff on."
"I know its a bit heavy Twi but you need to go! Don't worry about me I'll be fine, Now get out of here before they catch up!"
She nodded her head and looked at me with a sad look on her face. "We'll miss you."
"It's not like i'll be gone for good. Just be sure to get be here as quick as you can, ok? Now GO!" She took a few steps back and with a bright flash she was gone and I started running again but this time much like when we were going to the gun shop I was sticking to the shadows. I managed to get onto the roof of a building and looked over towards the park. I saw the portal open up and Twilight walk in and they both vanished. I smiled. "I'm glad she made it..." I heard a helicopter and started to run again. The next chance I had I got off of the roof and back to the ground. "I know how this goes." I thought and kept running. I was still headed towards the park and if I made it I possibly hide in the wooded area. I was almost there when of all things I tripped on the side walk and before I could get up the helicopter's spotlight was on me. I stayed on the ground and put my hands over my head because I knew that the rest of the cops weren't far behind and I wouldn't be able to lose them in the woods. Just a couple minutes later the sirens got louder and I felt someone grab my wrists and put me in handcuffs.
"You're under arrest anything you say can and will be used against....." I cut him off.
"Yeah yeah I know just put me in the car so we can get this over with."
"Since you asked so nicely." He lifted me up and walked me over to the car and then slammed my head into the trunk before throwing me in the backseat.
"Police brutality....I forgot about that."
"Shut up and enjoy the ride! You have a shit storm headed your way and this is the only chance you have to 'relax'.
----------
When I got to the station I was sent to the interrogation room. I was sitting there for what felt like forever and it was boring.
"Bored......bored.....bored....bored....I'm so bored.....this is boring." I looked at the mirrored glass. "Hello! I know you're in there come on I've waiting here for like." I looked at my watch. "Oh only about 15 minutes.....still though I'm bored."
Two policemen walked into the room. "Well if your so bored, why don't you tell us what we want to know?" Said one of them.
"Gladly if you would just tell me then we could get this ball rolling."
"You do realize the amount of trouble you're in right?"
"Well I was arrested. I think that tells me." I said in an know-it-all tone. "Why don't you tell me who you are so I can properly address you?"
"I'm Officer Pinbrook and this is Officer Rowling."
"Ok now we can began."
"Well lets start off with: Who are you?"
"I think the more valid question would be: who were you? But I suppose I'll go with it. My name is Ezekiel AKA Seth Miller.
"Seth Miller huh? We've been looking for you." Officer Rowling said. "You are wanted for arson, destruction of property, murder, torturing your parents and now theft."
"Speaking of my parents how are they?"
"They had it rough for a few weeks but they're fine now. do you feel any regret?" Officer Pinbrook answered.
I laughed. "Why would I?! If you knew the things they did to me you would agree with what I did!"
"Nothing they could have done to you deserved that kind of punishment!" Officer Pinbrook left for some reason. Now it was just me and Rowling.
"Oh don't make me laugh. They DeSeRvEd every bit of it! Ugh my fucking head...sorry about that officer."
"If your getting stressed with a few questions you wont last long in prison."
"Stress is part of it but I've had this headache for a while now."
"I see you should've seen a doctor about it but now its a bit to late."
Officer Pinbrook came back. "I got his file and it doesn't look good..."
Officer Rowling looked at him. "Lots of criminal activity?"
"No, but there is a list of psychological problems and it also says hes been to court before for attacking a classmate in high school."
"That bully deserved it."
"But it says here you claimed you 'blacked out', are you saying you lied?"
"No I did black out but that started in middle school it just got more violent as it progressed. I just remember what I saw when I came to"
"Parents?"
"Told 'em. They called me a liar, grounded me for two months and from food for three days. they also forced me to give up my paycheck from my second job."
"I see. Well since we already have you on file we don't need anything else from you."
"Actually," Officer Rowling interrupted. "I was wondering where the guns you stole are. When you were arrested you had nothing on you."
"I ran into an alley and then someone took everything from me. They came from behind and hit me over the head with something and dazed me and I couldn't snap out of it of it to fight back."
"Did you see this person?"
"No sorry."
"Ok that will be all. you will be taken to a holding cell and will stay there until court.
"Which is when?
"A few days from now." He said as he and Pinbrook "escorted" me to the holding cell. They opened the cell and threw me in. "Enjoy your stay."
The days past by fairly quickly and the food was sub-par but its prison food or something close to it. I was fortunate to not have any company as far as any other "criminals" but I did get a visit from my parents and that went well.
My dad was the first to speak. "Well I cant say I'm surprised. I always knew you were going to end up here agian sooner or later. What did you do now?"
"Stole from that gun store I bought the Mosin-Nagant from."
"Impressive. How did you get in? They have pretty secure doors."
"I was told not to tell any one else." I lied.
"I see. Well son I didn't expect you to do something like this. I thought you killed someone else or maybe tortured someone else but not steal from a gun store."
My mom was next. "Well I don't care how or why you did it. When your father and found out about it we decided we would have our attorney represent you."
"Why are you two being so nice to me?"
My dad spoke again "When your in intensive care for a week and spent the rest of the month recovering you have a lot to think about."
"I suppose so. Thanks guys."
"Don't thank us yet you still have court to go through. Oh and one more thing.....what was that thing that helped you?"
"He is a species of demon that lives in the shadows mostly and when 'enslaved' does what ever his master wants."
"That's disturbing..."
"That same night I released him and gave him his free will back but he chose to stay with me. Don't worry hes not here now."
We talked for a little bit longer and when they left I was glad that I wouldn't have to represent myself during court. I was alone with my thoughts for the rest of the time I was there, and I couldn't help but think of the reaction of the others when Twilight didn't come back with me. And that's when my thoughts turned to Fluttershy and how sad she must be. I think a part of me died when the thought of me making her cry came up.
The court date came up fast and it could have gone better. I ended up blacking out and went after the judge. Unfortunately I did get a hold of the poor guy and just barely avoided a life sentence. It was the same judge from my previous trial and the same one that had me sent to the asylum. But this time (since he remembered me) sentenced me to six months in prison and regular visits from a psychiatrist. There was one advantage though. I had a cell all to myself because I was clinically insane.
-----------
I got a visit from the judge one day. Hes a nice guy if you don't get on his bad side but we were far from friend obviously.
"Still having those problems huh?" He asked obviously knowing the answer.
"Yeah sorry about that I've been meaning to see a doctor about it but you know....money problems."
"Yeah Mr. Miller I think we all know how it goes."
"Thanks for not sending me to that asylum again by the way."
"I couldn't have. It was shut down due to malpractice and inhumane acts towards its patients. I probably would have if it weren't closed."
"Even if you knew about all of that stuff?" I asked him pretty curiously.
"Well no I was the judge during that trial. I made sure they all lost their medical license and sent to life in prison."
"That's good to know but what about the good doctors?"
"They testified against the others and kept their license."
"Good to know."
"Well Mr. Miller I'll be going now. Just remember: Don't drop the soap." He laughed at his joke as he walked away. I didn't find it funny.
Dinner time rolled around and it was about the same as the food in the holding cell but a little bit worse. Also the orange prison clothes I didn't care for but it s not like I have a choice. I looked into the mirror at my newly shaven head and face and thought about how long it would take to grow it back. When lights out was called I was already laying in bed and half asleep the lights were the only thing keeping me up. My dreams were of the possible outcomes of the battle with Discord and my return to Ponyville. I really wish I could have went with her and helped take down discord.
It was day again and I wondered how long it would be until Twilight and the others got me. I spent most of my day in the exercise yard practically killing myself lifting weights and doing other exercises and stuff like that. that other inmates mostly stayed away from me because according to the rumors, I was a deranged psychopath that apparently killed 20 people with out thinking anything of it. Which was fine because I get to shower in peace while the other inmate did what ever they do.
---------
It was almost two weeks until someone had to think they were bad and go after me. It was during one of my bad days when my headaches were at their worst. I blacked out and almost killed the guy, turns out he was a gang leader now his gang is after me to. But because of this I got two days of solitary confinement, which was pretty much just like what I already had just darker so I didn't really care. Turns out when you're in almost complete darkness all by yourself you think about a lot of stuff like who you killed and the effect it had on their family, nothing much better then that though. Atleast that's my experience. I decided to try and sleep even though it wasn't night yet and i had nothing better to do. I laid down and after what felt like an hour I fell asleep.
My dream was an interesting one I was falling in an black empty void with my memories playing in little bubbles. You know like the kind of thing you see on a movie or a tv show? Yeah it was kinda like that, but there were memories I didn't remember. In one I was stabbing the vice principle with a knife and in another one I was beating some kid in middle school, and then there was the fight with the hydra. With that one it was all shadow but still....the gore and everything else was just.....sickening. I woke up to the sound of somebody opening my cell door.
"Wake up inmate you have visitors." I got up and let him handcuff me.
He took me to the visitation room where there were two girls sitting down talking and waiting for me. We walked in and he uncuffed me and told me we had half an hour. the two nodded but I just stared at them. When he left I sat down and continued to look at them. One had what looked like dark purple hair and one had pink hair.
"Who are you two?"
They just looked at me. One was surprised and the other one looked sad. "You don't recognize us?"
"You seem familiar but only vaguely."
"Really?"
"Yep."
"Ezekiel. We're Twilight and Fluttershy!"
"Oh that makes sense doesn't it?"
"Aren't you happy to see us?" Fluttershy asked, I answered by flying across the table and giving her a hug. The guard started to make his way over to us but when he saw I was hugging and not attacking he smiled and went back to where he was standing. "I'll take that as a yes" She said giggling. I also hugged Twilight and she wasn't expecting that because she tensed up a little.
I sat back down at me end of the table. "So did you guys get Discord sorted out?"
"Well not exactly..."
"What do you mean?"
"After he found out you were stuck here he showed himself and told us that it was all a big prank on you and gave up.
"And apparently Princess Luna was in on it."
"Huh well ain't that a surprising twist to it all?"
"It sure was, we couldn't believe it at first but then Princess Luna told us it was true."
"So wait I'm in here for nothing then?"
"Um....it would seem that way." She said sheepishly.
"Well of all the luck this has to be the worst thing that's happened to me so far except for you know....dying."
"I'm sorry it turned it this way."
""So am I...."
"Don't worry about it."
"Well we should be going. It was nice seeing you but before that I was told to show you this." She pulled out a piece of paper with a note on it. the note said:
Dear Ezekiel,
Try to survive two more weeks on earth, I will cast the spell somewhere in the realm of time. It is up to Twilight to inform me where I should put the portal on earth. I'm also very sorry about Luna's and Discord's prank
Signed, Princess Celestia.
"Well that was nice of her."
She looked at me funny and then caught on. "Yeah she a good friend. Well we got to go see we'll try to visit soon, ok?" She winked.
"And I hope to see you soon"
Fluttershy hugged and kissed me. "Bye Ezekiel." and they both walked out of the door.
I walked over to the guard. "Take me to my cell please."
"For a psycho killer you sure are nice."
"Done believe rumors buddy."
"Hmph. So who were they?"
"My friend and my girlfriend."
"I don't know why shes waiting for you to get out. If I were in jail and if I had a girlfriend she would dump me and find someone else."
"Its a little thing called loyalty my friend. I forgot the concept for most people is foreign at best. It really is a shame that you humans have barely have any loyalty left! Ugh....god damn headaches!"
I must have scared him because he handed me off to another guard.
It has been two week since Twilight And Fluttershy visited me and that gang hasn't come after me yet and I'm getting paranoid. I know they're going to come after me, I guess its a waiting game now. The whole past week I did nothing except work out and spend time in solitary confinement because different people wanted to try to "take on the psycho", if not for my little condition I would have been taken out by that gang leader. I was getting some muscle on me and working out was helping me not kill anyone in this place so that was good I guess, but due to the headaches I wasn't able to work out much so I was pretty much confined to my cell except showers and food. People still generally left me alone save for a few that actually tried to talk to me, inmate and guards alike. The thing that I didn't really care for was that people were showering at the same time I was and I'm pretty sure it not hard to understand why. Thankfully I looked like I did the last time I was without medication for this long so no one came anywhere near me. After my shower I went back to my cell and just sat there, no thoughts, no sleep, just sitting...and staring at the wall. The guards that past by looked at the wall as well to see if there was anything on it but nothing was. One time that new guys past by and looked at the wall but when he turned back to look at me I was staring at him, with a big smile on my face. He practically ran away and I think he might have shit himself, I feel like laughing just thinking about it.
Another couple of days past and I was feeling awful, I didn't want to move and in fact the moving I did was to go to the toilet the was in my cell ad that was about it for a few more days. The prison doctor came to my cell to see what was wrong with me, I only wondered why it took so long for someone to get a fucking doctor in the first place. He checked me for all sorts of things and apparently I showed symptoms for everyone of them and I think it freaked him out a bit. I think his words were: "This inmate has been this ill ever since he got here! Why the hell haven't I been Informed sooner!!" Or something like that and since I was a crazy psychotic killer he had guards with him. One just shrugged and the other one said. "We all thought he would get better over time. At first it just looked like he had a cold."
"And then what did you think when his appearance started to change!?"
"Well most of us thought since hes another inmate nobody would care if he died here."
"That's no fucking excuse we need to get this man to the infirmary. Now!"
And next thing I knew the doctor and one of the guards lifted me up and carried me to the infirmary. Once I was there something interesting happened.
"Hello Seth...or should I say Ezekiel?"
"How do you know that name?"
"Oh come on you've seen me around."
"Really? You don't look the least bit familiar."
"Well perhaps I should say you've seen me around 'town'."
".....nope still nothing."
He got really close to me and whispered. "Ponyville you twit. I'm Dr. Whooves Twilight Sparkle And Princess Celestia sent me."
"Oh I remember you. Your the brown pony with the hourglass cutie mark."
"Yep! In the transformed flesh!Now I was sent to both give you this and to tell you this: Around this time next week the portal will open in the exercise yard." He handed me a pill. "Its not as strong as what you had before but it should get you through the rest of the week."
"Thanks." He gave me a glass of water and I swallowed the pill. "Wait you're not a real doctor though are you?"
"No but I thought I could pass as one and well as you can see it worked. The medicine should come into effect in an hour or so."
"Alright."
"Be sure not to miss the portal, that means stay out of trouble. Oh and I almost forgot. I somehow managed to get your clothes back into Ponyville."
"Ok I will try. Thank you doctor."
"No problem. Now off you go."
I left and went back to my cell and waited for the medicine to kick in and ended up passing out somewhere along the line.
----------
A week had gone by and it was about the time for the portal to open. Now all I needed to do was to get through lunch, and hopefully that shouldn't be a problem. It was standard prison food but I was starting to get used to it. I heard from someone that the gang leader that attacked me got out of the infirmary earlier on in the week, so I'm hoping he and his gang would try anything today because the headaches are back full force so its more for their safety not mine. Sadly it seemed I shouldn't have gotten my hopes up...
The gang leader and his gang came to my table and the leader spoke. "Don't think I forgot about you because I haven't. Now its time for me to repay you for what you did to me..." I cut him off. (probably shouldn't have)
"You went after me and I defended myself. I don't see why you want to relive the experience." Shouldn't have said that.
"Oh look who thinks they're tough just because he got lucky last time. Just for that, I'm going to have my boys jump in."
"That....hardly...ugh....seems fair," I don't like where this is going. "One on one is more honorable."
"You don't get that luxury. Hell I would beat you down right here and now but I figured I'll let you eat your last meal."
"Atleast you gave me a warning. Wheres this going to happen?"
"Exercise yard after lunch. Bring your gang if you have one but it doesn't matter. You're still a dead man."
"We'll see."
"Yes we will." He glared at me and left and so did his gang. Apparently one of them hated me because he glared at me the whole time his "boss" and I were having our discussion. This should be interesting seeing how just the thought of going up against his whole gang make me feel like blacking out. Lunch was over and it we were being moved to the exercise yard and my head was killing me. When we finally got out there I found out that they recruited some help from the other gangs, which sucked even more for me. They let me workout some before they did anything, I guess because they'd let me wear myself out before.
One of the gang leaders came up to me. "You have a good work out homes?"
"Yeah I thinking about running and doing some push ups and maybe some sit ups.....not sure I'll be able to though."
He laughed. "No. No you wont be." He whistled and his gang came up behind him.
"Hey why don't you just leave me alone before something bad happens."
"Ha! I'm getting payed three squares for this. We're not going anywhere."
"Please??"
"No. Get 'em"
"I said leave.....me...AlOnE!!!" I lost all control of my body and went berserk but I didn't black out. I grabbed a ten pound weight and hit the first person to reach me and then threw it at another hitting them in the head. I then grabbed a 45 pound weight and used it as my main weapon until someone tried to shank me. I blocked his attack and used the weight to crush his hand and grabbed the shank and used that as my main after I went over to the bench press and emptied the weights of of the bar throwing them and hitting people and then threw the bar like a spear impaling two of them. the rest of the gang ran off including the leader, and the other gang didn't look like they wanted to do anything. I just stood there and waited for something to happen until someone threw a rock and hit me. Next thing I knew I was running towards the group that the rock came from grabbing a handful of rocks and whatever amount of dirt that came with it. "YoU WaNt To PlAy WiTh RoCkS?!?!! FINE!!!!" I stopped a few feet from them and started pelting them with rocks, apparently aiming for their heads. I was throwing them hard enough to knock them out when I did manage to hit their heads. It just hurt them when I didn't but they were still out and didn't want anything to do with this but I did make sure I threw dust in one of their eyes after I ran out of rocks.
-----------
The other gangs ran and now it was just me and his gang. I noticed that I was running out of energy but despite that I still didn't have control of my body yet. It was kinda scary to say the least. I also noticed a few bruises and cuts, I didn't expect to get through this unscathed anyway.
"You think you can scare us that easily?! Don't make me laugh!"
"Not trying to. Last chance leave me be!"
"Like hell! Get him boys!!" They all started to run at me and it seemed that it only served to piss me off more.
I took the shank and threw at one of them hitting him on the forehead he fell causing to get shoved further into his head. I picked another one off of the ground and gutting the first one to get to close and then stabbed another in the back. They held off for awhile and I wasn't sure why and then the biggest guy I've ever seen comes walking up and hits me, throwing me back a couple feet. I get up only to be hit again and tried to get up again and he kicked me sending me back down. He then got on his knees and began to punch me. I manage to flip over on my back and he aimed for my face, I grabbed his arm pulled him down, headbutted and bit his neck where the jugular is clenching my teeth as much I could and then tore his neck opened causing him to bleed out. Now I was covered in blood and still extremely pissed and strangely kinda hungry. I got up and looked around and no one was running at me. Then suddenly someone got me into a headlock, I struggled against him before running backwards and impaling him on the bar that I used before.
"WhOs NeXt??!!!!"
The gang leader stepped forward. "That would be me."
I growled like an angry animal "TiMe To DiE!!"
I ran towards him and he side stepped dodging my attack but what he wasn't expecting was me shooting up my arm last second and clothes lining him. He was quick to get to his feet but when he did I was already on him and I grabbed his shoulders pulled my head back and full force headbutted him. He went down and the other ran at me some managed to get a couple hits in before a shot rang out and everyone but me hit the ground, I was kicking the person who was closest's head in. The shot came from one of the towers that over looked the yard, since everyone else was down I assumed the next shot was for me. Then the intercom came on and the warden spoke.
"Alright alright that's enough mayhem for one day. I want everyone except for Mr. Miller here to go back to their cells." Everyone got up and ran to the door that lead back in. "Good. Now Miller, how is it that you are able to survive through all of that?" I didn't respond instead I walked over to the unconscious gang leader. "I know what your thinking and I will not do that. You hear me!!" I looked at all of the towers with a big blood covered smile. "I wouldn't do it son." I patted his head. "Maybe I did..." And then I bit down on his jugular and ripped it out like the big guy. "Holy Mary Mother of God he did not just do that?!?!?! Why isn't he in a maximum security prison?!?! Take him down NOW!! Before he kills anyone else!!" I grabbed the body and used it as a shield, a shot rang out and I felt the body jerk. Another shot but this one missed and another, the body jerked again. Then the portal opened on the other side of the yard, I finally got control of my body again and ran still using the body as cover. they were just taking potshots now a few lucky ones hit the body but none of them hit me. I was almost at the portal and I dropped the body and high tailed it when I was close enough I jumped and right I was going through.
"I'm going to make it. How in the did I...GAH!!!!" I was hit. they got lucky and finally shot me. I couldn't tell where though I was hit and I was losing consciousnesses. The last thing I heard was the group of ponies gasping, Fluttershy crying and Celestia Yelling. "Somepony get a doctor! Now before is to late!!"
I reached out towards Fluttershy to pet her but I passed out before I got anywhere close. Now its just me and my dreams again.
I was dreaming of a memory that I had long ago forgotten. It's been forever since I thought about this moment....I think I'm crying in my sleep.......
"Hey Seth how's it been going?"
"Oh you know, same shit different day."
"Yeah I hear ya. How are mom and dad doing?"
"....I fucking hate 'em"
"Yeah....you remember what I told you about them, right?"
"Yeah....they're not the same as the were..."
"And now you have proof I was right.......but enough about that, you have a girlfriend yet?"
"Oh come on Eli! You ask that every time you call."
"Ha ha ha I'll take that as a no then. Hows Elaine doing?"
"Shes fine. Shes been doing alright in school."
"I've been gone that long huh? Sheesh Already old enough for school..."
"Well it's been what? Three/four years since you've shipped out for basic and then you weren't stationed here like you'd hoped....but yeah it's been awhile."
"How about you? As far as school going?"
"C's and B's like always.....mom and dad don't care though."
"Well like I said before.....they're the reason I got the fuck outta there and joined."
"Yeah hopefully I'll be able to do the same."
"Hopefully. Well I gotta go Seth, it as good talking to you."
"You to Eli. Talk to you later.....Oh hey wait!"
"What is it?"
"Whens your next leave?"
"Hmm...I think its in a few months.....yeah four months from now."
"Damn....I was hoping it was sooner.....Well be seeing you then...."
"Yeah see ya later bro."
Now it was two months later. Why am I dreaming of this?
"Hey Eli hows it going?
"Not to bad on this end. How about on yours?"
"Eh, just gonna hang with friends later. What time is it there?"
"Too damn early....I dunno my watch broke. How about the time there?"
"To damn late."
"Ha ha quit mocking me. Man I am sure looking forward to coming home."
"Yeah the time is flying out the window."
"Not fast enough for me but oh well. Alright bro sorry to cut this short but I gotta go."
"Don't worry about, I know how it is."
"Alright cool Talk to you when I'm able."
"Ok Eli. bye."
now it was just a week until his leave just before.....oh....no now I remember why I forgot about this.
"Hey Seth what's up?"
"Nothing really just got back from the doctor...."
"You don't sound happy. Bad news?"
"Well It turns out that I have a mental illness or two I forgot what they're called but oh well."
"I see....I have to make this quick I have to prepare for a mission."
"What kind of mission?"
"Oh just a routine convoy. Nothing huge."
"Eli....Don't go on that convoy I have a bad feeling about it..."
"Bah don't worry about it. I've been on tons and nothing ever happens."
"Just try to oped out ok? I really think you shouldn't go!"
"Alright I'll try to think of something....you really should stop watching the news. Oh shit I'm late I gotta go *click*"
"Eli...?"
"*Boop Boop Boop Boop*"
"FUCK! Hes not going to try to get out of it!......please God....let him be safe."
I woke up shooting straight up with tears in my eyes. I blinked away the tears and looked around. I was in a hospital, with Fluttertshy and the rest of the gang. They all looked concerned for me but couldn't say anything. A familiar voice broke the silence.
"Ezekiel? Are you okay?"
"I think so......I'm not sure.....Luna......why am I crying?"
"No idea.....I think it has to do with whoever Eli is. May I ask who is he?"
"He was my brother.....that fucker was just a fucking week from coming home!....and....he...he." I couldn't finish I burst out crying prompting Fluttershy to run over to me and try to comfort me.
"May I ask what happened to him?"
I couldn't answer because I was still crying so instead I shook my head "no".
"Very well. perhaps some other time?"
"Ye....yes Luna. Jus....just not right now."
"I understand. I will gave you all the time you need."
"Thank you."
----------
I had fallen asleep again and the same dream played and like the last time I woke up bawling my eyes out. I was alone now, I guessed visiting hours were over but I found a note from Fluttershy. It said that Luna Pretty much ordered her to go home and get some rest. I chuckled a little bit which hurt. But Why? I looked down. "Oh....right. How did I live through all that?" I looked over my body trying to see where I had been shot. Turns out they just shot my leg but I noticed that the bullet just barely missed a major artery. "Well would you look at that! I got really lucky there! Woo man." I heard the door open and looked over.
"Oh hello Celestia."
"Hello Ezekiel, Or should I say Seth?"
"Ezekiel works fine.....why do I get the feeling I did something wrong?"
"You killed all of those people!"
"Oh for the love of....look its not like they were innocent! They went after me first!"
"But You didn't have to kill them."
"Celest....." She cut me...off...?
"They could have atleast served their sentences!"
"Celestia I...." Again? Really?
"You had no right to do th..." My turn bitch!
"LiStEn To Me!!" yep did the trick but how was I able to do that? "*ahem* Sorry about that. Now just listen ok?"
"Yes very well."
"I may have had no right to kill them but I warned them to leave me alone but they thought I was asking because I was weak. And its not like I wanted to do it I just lost control."
"You blacked out?"
"Well no. But I lost control of my actions. It was like I was trapped inside my own head."
"I see. We gave you medicine that will help with your headaches. It is just a little stronger then the previous medication you took when we first found out about you condition."
"Good, thank you."
"It is no trouble. Now Twilight told me that you don't like me, is there any particular reason."
"Why talk about this now?"
"To try to keep your mind off of the pain."
"Well its worth a shot. Well you are the ruler of this land correct?"
"Yes?"
"And I am from I country that was founded on getting away from monarchy which means us Americans don't like it to much."
"But you like my sister better?"
"Hmm....good point. I don't know then. There's just something about her I like....not sure what though."
"I see..."
"Oh cheer up it's not like I hate you or anything sheesh. Everything's so black and white with you ponies."
"Well I suppose that's something."
"Hug?"
"Excuse me?"
"I asked if you wanted a hug. We are still friends right?"
"But you said you didn't like me."
".....friendship where i'm from is complicated. So you want a hug or not?"
she shook her head "yes" and we hugged. "Thank you Ezekiel. Now get some rest. Luna told me you had a brother. I am interested to hear about him."
I sighed. "Ok i'll tell you after I wake up."
"Ok. Sleep well."
---------
My phone rang and I didn't know the number. I wasn't going to answer it but something told me it was important.
"Hello?"
"Uh yeah is this Seth Miller?"
"Yeah who are you?"
"I'm Eli's battle buddy.....you might want to sit down."
"......"
"Are you there?"
"God dammit......he went on the mission didn't he?"
".....yes he did."
"FUCK! why are you calling me.....no don't answer that....."
"He told me to tell you hes still alive....but it's...not looking good but there is a chance he can pull through."
"Good that son of a bitch is strong he'll make it...."
I woke up yelling his name in that voice and when I finally realized what was going on every one was at my bed side. they were concerned and wanted to know what was wrong with me. I finally decided it was time to tell them.
"Ok gather around mein children itz story time" They all sat down even the two princesses. "Alright so you want to know about my brother right?" They nodded their heads. "Ok then: My brother, Eli Miller was a good, decent person. He didn't like my parent, same as me but the difference is that he left and I didn't. He was 4 years older then me but he treated me as if I were the same age. He joined the U.S. Army when he was 18 but maintained contact with the family, me more then anyone else though.
"How old were you?"
"What's 18 minus 4?"
"That's easy 14....oh right sorry."
"Anyway: He hoped to be stationed in the same state we lived in but the army is the army and they will send you where they need you. After almost what felt like a year after all of he training they send him to his permanent duty station in a state called Texas. Poor guy it was summer, I still feel a bit sorry for him."
"Was he able to visit you?" Luna asked.
"Yes. He was occasionally able to go on 'leave' which allowed him to pretty much do what he wanted as long as it was legal. Continuing: He was unfortunately send over seas to help with the war effort. His orders told him he had to stay a year but his job was safe.....sometimes. He came home safe but wanted to go on a second tour of duty. And he was 21 when he went."
"Why would any want to go back to war?"
"Loyalty to the country."
"Why is your country at war?"
"Have I ever told you why I hate the concept of religion?" They nodded their heads well the princesses didn't. "Yeah that's why. All it ever does is cause fights and wars against countries. Its an excuse to justify acts of evil! But anyway, He was to spend another year over there and he still kept contact when he could. He turned 22 over there and wasn't allowed to come home to celebrate but that's common. He requested to take leave and the request was accepted but he had to wait for a few months before he could come home. All was well until a week before his leave. He was on a convoy headed to somewhere.....well...less than safe when.....his....vehicle was hit with an I.E.D." I tried to hold back tears but a few escaped.
"What's an I.E.D.?"
"Improvised Explosive Device. Its a weapon that the people we're fighting against use to ambush our troops. they are extremely dangerous and cost the lives of many soldiers.....my brother being one of them." They all looked at me with sympathy. "But those.....THOSE InFeRnAl DeViCeS DiDn'T aLwAyS kIlL WiTh tHe ExPlOsIoN!!! Sometimes they put nails in them to rip flesh apart and....." I sat down and rubbed my eyes. "Sorry......the blast didn't kill my brother it was the blood loss.....one day his battle buddy called me with the news that he was hit and not looking that great and when I hung up the phone I.....I...." I bawled my eyes out again and continued talking when I calmed down. "Did that. He had a wound that would not stop bleeding, they did everything they could but one can only lose so much blood before their body gives up and.......dies.......I was 18 when he died and I'm 23 now. I guess because of all the 'medication' the damn doctors made me take I forgot about it."
"Oh Ezekiel I'm so sor..."
"You know how I said My kill count was up to seven people?"
"Seven? I thought it was five!?"
"I did technically kill my parents......but anyway I guess I lied or just didn't remember. At my brothers funeral there was this Anti-military group that protested and some got through the police line."
"They protested? What's that mean?"
"tHeY WeRe sAyInG hOw HaPpY tHeY wErE ThAt hE wAs dEaD!!!"
"And the ones that got through the line payed for it. It didn't help that Eli's battle buddy was there as well as some of his friends."
"How many of 'em got through?"
"Ten or 15 I think. And yes they all died and to my surprise the police looked the other way and didn't do anything to stop us. Those fuckers deserved it though. They had no right to do that."
"And you had the right to take their lives?!" Celestia asked.
"Well 'God' wasn't going to do it so I had to. They were demons in human flesh! Scum of people that have no right to live and I took the opportunity to rid the earth of them."
"Are you okay sugar-cube?"
"Not really."
"Oh my stars darling what happened to your eye?"
"I...is that B...b..blood?"
"His left eye is red!"
"Get me a mirror!" Twilight flew a mini mirror over and I looked into it. My left eye's iris turned red and was crying blood whereas my right eye stayed completely they same. "That's unusual." I looked around the room and everyone was sad and I think Celestia was disappointed to hear that I killed more people then she had thought. I looked at Pinkie and she was walking out of the room, deflated hair and all the signs of her being depressed, the others followed her.
"Maybe you should get some rest you had a rough day."
I woke up and the first thing I saw was Celestia looking over me. I shook my head and tried to focus, when I did I saw that she was trying to heal my leg. She noticed I was awake.
"Yeah I know. I must say though, I wasn't expecting to wake up to you healing me Celestia."
"It's the least I can after hearing about all the suffering you've been through."
"Well It does not go un-appreciated."
"I'm glad to hear that." She smiled.
"Only speaking the truth."
"All done. The spell sped up the healing process but you still need to stay off of it for a few more days."
"Ok no problem."
"Ok see you soon."
"Yep"
I fell asleep again but this time it was a pleasant dream. It was of the time I saw Fluttershy again...well the proper reunion anyway. The way she looked at me after she flew into me was a lot better then dreaming about the last conversation my brother and I had before he died. I woke up again and noticed that I had an eye patch on my left eye.
"Hey! what is this?! Why is this thing on my face!!" I said but no one was here so I didn't get a reply. "Hello? Wait.....is this a prison cell? And why am I tied down!?!"
A pony that looked like a doctor walked up to the cell door. "Oh you're awake now. I'm sorry Ezekiel but we had to put you here, for your and others safety."
"What happened?"
"Not quite sure, you just got up and starting walking around with your left eye opened and anypony you looked at went crazy...my friend included."
"What do you mean they went 'crazy'?"
"Just that. Some curled up into the fetal position, crying and rocking back and forth while others just started mumbling nonsense."
"What of your friend?"
"Hes fine now thank Celestia but he was one of them that were mumbling."
"I'm sorry.....I didn't mean to do anything."
"You don't remember anything? nothing at all?"
"No I'm sorry but I don't."
"What were you dreaming about?"
"My reunion with my marefriend."
"Nothing bad?"
"No."
"Hmm...that's strange."
"When I was back in my world my parents told me I used to sleepwalk sometimes but I haven't for years now..."
"I see. I shall tell Celestia about this, I'm sure she'll be glad to know." He started to walk away but I stopped him
"Before you go tell me this: Did I stare at any of the Elements?"
He turned around. "Yes....you did."
"Which one?"
"Pinkie Pie. And in her case her hair deflated and she just stared at the ground crying and she stayed like that for half an hour."
"The rest of them?"
"No don't worry you didn't look at them, only Pinkie Pie. And before you ask, Applejack is the reason you're here."
"She kicked me didn't she?"
"Yes and here you are."
"I see so the eye patch is so nothing like that happens again, right?"
"Exactly unless of course you wanted it to happen but I don't see why you would."
"Me neither but you never know." He tensed up enough he was shaking. I smiled and laughed. "Don't worry yourself I was only joking but tying me down does seem a bit over board..."
"Better safe then sorry." He said and he left as another pony walked in. I couldn't tell who it was but then I saw the hat and it was kind of obvious from there.
"Howdy, sorry fer kicking you and all but I felt it was necessary. No hard feelings?"
"Nope. From what the doctor told me it needed to happen.....how's Pinkie doing?"
"Shes fine now. Any idea what was up with that stare of yer's?"
"No idea, has anyone talk to the 'victims'?"
"Not yet they passed out after the snapped out of it well except for Pinkie that is."
"I never think I'll understand her."
"Ah don't think anypony ever will." She chuckled and so did I. "Well Ah better tell the other yer awake, Futtershy's been worried sick about you."
"She shouldn't be."
"Stop with the negative attitude and cheer up. You could have died when you were in yer world but ya didn't."
"I suppose your right."
She sighed and shook her head. "I'll be back in a few minutes with the others."
"Ok."
----------
A few minutes turned into fifteen minutes and I was bored. the only thing to look at were the walls and ceiling. I still wanted to know why they tied me down, I think the doctor was hiding something. I ask Twilight when she gets here. I heard the door open again and the girls walked up to the cell.
"Before anyone says anything: Why am I tied up?"
Twilight was the first to speak. "We didn't want to risk you turning violent with anypony."
"Why would I?"
"Well we thought you blacked out again and that was why you were hurting those ponies."
"I see but I'm in a cell and I don't think I can break these bars..."
"We didn't want to risk that either. You did take down a hydra by yourself you know."
"But that was with Shadow's help. I don't think I can do it normally and besides I took the medicine so I couldn't have blacked out."
"Then what yer you doing?"
"Sleeping."
"About what exactly?"
"My reunion with Fluttershy....Speaking of which where is she?"
"Um...r...right here"
"You sound scared."
"Well yeah you scared all of us with that freaky stare, even me! And I don't scare easily."
"Well my eye is covered so no need to fear but since I'm awake now don't you think you can untie me?"
"Not without Celestia's or Luna's permission."
"I see. When are they going to visit?"
"No idea."
"I would like it if you could answer a few more questions though."
"Like I have anything else to do. Fire away."
"Ok 1. How many people have you actually killed? 2. Whats up with your voice sometimes? 3. Are safe to be around? And 4. Did you provoke the other people at the prison in your world?"
"1. Hmm....three at my brother's funeral, four before I came here, and lets see....fifteen at the prison so.....whoa....22 people....2. No Idea I was hoping you knew. 3. I think so since i now have control over myself and 4. nope they provoked me and they payed for it."
"A....are you happy that you did....you know....that?"
"No I really wish they listened to me...."
"So you regret it?"
"Yes..."
"Ah think hes fine."
"As do I"
"I agree as well. I need to see Celestia and tell her you don't know why your voice changes like that."
"Please do and get her or Luna to freaking untie me please?" She nodded as she walked out and the others except for Fluttershy followed.
"So your scared of me now huh?"
"Alittle bit yes."
"Great....so that means your breaking up with me now am I right?"
"N...no! What makes you think that?"
"Oh I don't know...usually when one is afraid of the other in a relationship it doesn't work so I kinda figured it was over."
"Well you were wrong."
"Glad to hear."
--------
After about an hour Luna and Celestia came walking in. I asked if I could be untied and Celestia used her magic to undo the bindings. I glared at her for keeping me tied up for a little bit but I understood why she did.
Celestia spoke first. "We have some me questions for you Ezekiel."
Oh great more questions. Luna spoke next. "Indeed we do. Starting with: Why do you dislike your worlds religions?"
"I thought I answered this already? They cause nothing but conflict. You remember what I told about the So-Called-Christians at my brothers funeral! Nothing. But. Conflict!"
"Yes I remember. Is like that everywhere on earth?"
"Countless wars have been started because of it. Even in modern times like the one my country is fighting now."
"I see."
"Twilight tells me that you are not controlling your voice when it changes."
"She speaks the truth."
"Interesting. We should definitely look into that."
"What do you think about humans?"
"Luna! Sorry Ezekiel you don't have to answer that." I could feel my face turn red. "Ezekiel?" It's like rage I've felt only once the same rage I felt at the funeral. "Ezekiel? Are you okay??" Like a burning sun. Burning inside my head. "Ezeki.....oh no Luna! What have you done!!"
"What do I think of humans? Why ask such a question? A species and/or a race who take from and destroys anything and everything.WhAt dO YoU tHiNk!!A young species in a sense but so stupid, there is a reason why I didn't want Twilight to be found. They would have taken her to a research facility and dissected her to 'study' her for 'science' and in the process killing a member of a new race they haven't seen before.WaNt To rE-aSk ThE QuEsTiOn?!?!?!Or perhaps rephrase it?"
"Who are you! Why are you inside of Ezekiel!?!?"
"Oh Celestia, you wound me. Why do you think I'm not Ezekiel hmm? There has to be a reason. Tell me."
"Your voice is different and you act like a psychopath ready to take its next victim. I will ask again. Who. Are. You!?!?
"Quite simple really. I. Am. The. Real. Ezekiel! Young Seth Miller here made me, not quite sure myself but he did. I am the embodiment of his hate and anguish. He just happened to give me a name and apparently he liked it enough to keep using it. "
"How long have you been with him?!"
"Ever since middle-school, when the bullies really started to get to him. I am the product of his pain, hate and loneliness he endured in his school years and at home. His doctors called me a split personality and the maybe right."
"You don't know what you are?"
"No I don't but there's fun in that, Alittle chaos thrown in to keep everybody confused, Even me."
"And when he blacks out?"
"I take control, except for the time in the prison yard but I wanted him to watch and we would have died."
"I see. This is concerning yet interesting. To think you have been here all this time even after his death."
"Yeah he never leaves me alone...."
"Ezekiel! Is that really you?"
"Yep its me. Sorry about that maybe he'll leave us alone now."
"Celestia, we should get our top doctors working on a cure for him"
"Agreed."
"Don't bother there's no getting rid of him. You'd have to kill me to get rid of him..."
"I see. Then we must continue making the medicine for you."
"I wouldn't waste the time and resources. I should still be under the effects of the medication but yet he got out so theres not point. Cease production but keep the remaining so I can take them, you made them so might as well."
"Do you remember his answers?"
"Yes and I will say I have to agree, though I would have worded it differently.......he says thanks by the way."
"For what?"
"For talking. All of his life hes had only me to talk to and I guess he took this opportunity to talk to someone else. You have to remember Luna, Celestia, that he still feels the loneliness the I had felt."
"Maybe we could give him a body?"
"No you cant. If you did he might be worse then Discord was. Remember he is my hate incarnate and there's little that actually stops him.....as you saw."
"I see. How do you control him? If hes so powerful how can he be contained?"
"Medication."
"And you want us to stop making it?!"
"Just prolong the effects so they will last a month maybe even two, then depending on how many are made it will last me awhile."
"Very well. We shall keep you contained and under observation just in case, but we will move you to somewhere nicer then this. "
Great....and here I thought I escaped prison....silly me.
"Ok I'll give you this: For a holding cell this is amazing. Definitely better than the last holding cell I was in." I've been moved into what looked like a five-star hotel room that the princesses called a holding cell. It had a white marble floor, white marble walls and even a nice bed with a velvet sheet and satin covers, both were very soft. "But I must admit.....it is a bit to fancy for my taste."
"If you like, we can take you back to the dungeon."
"So I was right! That was a dungeon. Hmm.....why would the nice princess need a dungeon hmm?"
"They have not been used for a thousand years."
"I see, so Equestria had a dark ages of its own huh?"
"Back during those times I became very....well.....jealous of my sister here and transformed into a creature called 'Nightmare Moon'."
"Hmm....Nightmare Moon..."
"Yes. Those were dark times and I was punished...."
"How, if you don't mind telling me that is."
"I sent her to the moon for a thousand years."
"So your not as nice as your subjects think! You sent your own sister to the moon for that long!? Nice princess indeed!!"
"If it wasn't absolutely necessary I wouldn't have done it!"
"I agree, she tried to reason with me but I was to angry and corrupted I didn't listen! Like....you..."
"I knew there was a reason why I liked Luna better, she was a victim of our dear Celestia's fury. Your just like the doctors of my world! What if was a mental disorder?! What if it was a virus or a disease!?"
"But it wasn't!!"
"You. Got. LuCkY!! What if was hmm? What. If. It. Was!? You just threw her away, to the moon of all places! She could have DiEd!!! And you just stayed down here, sipping your cups of tea and going on like nothing happened!!"
"BUT SOMETHING DID!!! I lost my sister to...." She opened up a can of worms with that.
"NO YOU DIDN'T!! SHES RIGHT THERE!!!" I pointed at Luna, my hand shaking with rage making them both step back. "NOTHING COMES BACK DEATH AND A DOUBT SHES AN EXCEPTION JUST BECAUSE SHES ROYALTY!!! She threw you away because she was scared Luna, just like what my parents did to me! And when I was around the treated me like I was the worst mistake they made..."
"You will address her as..."
"I. AM. TALKING!!!" She shrank and sat down Luna did the same. "And as punishment for interrupting me," They both looked at me with fear in their eyes. "Look into my eye!" I flipped up the eye patch and forced my right eye closed leaving only my left eye open. I told you she opened up a can of worms and what better time to test out what my eye does.
-------
We were now in what looked like a medieval dungeon, the bars of the cells were the darkest black and the bricks looked like they were made of dried, hardened blood. It was a place I never been to but felt familiar and it started to come to me when I started looking around. It was Ezekiel's home (Not me of course um....lets see how to make this less confusing? Oh I know the old video game trick! Lets call him Dark Ezekiel). I made it for him when he first came around or when I made him (one could say). The more I looked the more it looked like a torture chamber and it probably was judging by the torture devices lying around. All medieval era as well. There were bodies piled up in a corner and a few still bleeding corpses hanging from the ceiling, some in those body shaped cages and some from nooses. What? It seemed to be an excellent place for him!
"Where are we!" She demanded.
"Simple dear tyrant. Its very simple"
"She is not a tyrant!! Tell us where we are now!"
"So defending of your sister after what she did to you. Heh maybe she isn't anymore but she was at one point right?"
"I never was!!"
"Oh? Don't make me laugh!! A being that can control the sun and (apparently) the moon gaining control of the biggest country on the planet? Ha! Bullshit you weren't a tyrant at one point!! Oh and as for where we are......we're in the worst part of my mind. Isn't that right?" Just then a door flew opened. It wasn't a door you would normally find in a medieval torture chamber, it was a wooden bed room door and who stepped out? Well who's territory is this?
"What!?!?"
"But how!!
"ladies, Seth or should I say 'Ezekiel'. Welcome to my house, located in well he already told you. Here as you can see is were the bad people go." He laughed like a mad man. "Ha ha, sorry couldn't keep a straight face. No, instead these are actually victims of Seth over here, the people from the funeral, his neighbors and the inmates from the prison. They're all here...do you like the decorations?" He laughed again.
"So my friend, what do you have planned?"
"Hmm...well nothing for Luna. I like her. The way he said that was creepy and made Luna cringe. "As for the Sun Goddess I think I'll make her remember her past, just to show her we're right!"
"Ezekiel don't! If you do this you will be Imprisoned again for torturing us!!"
"But your not going to be tortured. She is."
"But you will still be imprisoned! Think of the friends you made!! Think about Fluttershy!"
Dark Ezekiel and I both looked at each other and nodded. "If I let you go you will not speak of this. Agreed?"
"Agreed."
"Yes! Just please let us go!
"Very well but know this! If you send anyone after me, your armies wont be able to stop me." He said in a very calm but threatening voice that even scared me a bit.
"And in exchange for your freedom, do not bother Ezekiel again! Agreed?" She said in an almost mocking tone.
"Fine. I suppose that should work. I must tell you this though...you will feel the after effects of being in here and that only about 3 seconds have passed in the real world."
"And its been about 30 minutes here. Its kinda confusing but I'm the on that set it up like that."
"I shall release you now." He clapped his hands and we were back in the "holding cell" 3 seconds later. I felt dizzy and fell. Since the princesses were sitting they didn't. I looked at them and they just stayed still, it took them a few minutes to snap out of it. I was a little dazed when they came to, I was laying there unable to move. I heard the door close and Luna came up to me.
"Ezekiel? Whats happened to you? You used to be kind, respectful and frankly a little odd but that.....that was......monstrous.
"It must be the reason I was sent to the asylum...except for the eye thing. I'm pretty sure that's never happened before."
"You must get help! I will tell the head medical scientist to start working on something."
"Do what ever you want. Nothing will work. I'm tired and I want to sleep, If you will excuse me Luna I need my rest."
She was about to say something but stopped and nodded her head and exited the room.
--------
It was a restless sleep or maybe it wasn't. I don't know but my head hurts so I'll try not to think about it. It was also a dreamless sleep but that happens often so I probably slept wrong or something, it felt like a hang over. "Oh right....I lost it and trapped the princesses in my head. I'll have to apologize for that, even if they hate me now...." I got out of bed, walked over to the door and opened it. There were guards outside. "Uh....Hey fellas what going on?"
"Oh you're awake, your presences is requested." The one on the left said.
"By Celestia?"
"Actually no. Princess Luna wants to see you as soon as possible." The one on the right said.
"I'll go get ready then."
"We will escort you when you are ready." They both said.
There wasn't much to do because the one thing this "cell" didn't have was a proper bathroom so there wasn't a shower, but there was a mirror so I could at least fix up my hair a little bit. I opened the door again and told them I was ready and they took me to Luna's quarters. One of the guards knocked on the door and a very tired Luna opened the door and told me to come in. The guards tried to come in to but Luna stopped them and told them that she will be fine, they looked at me and then each other with unsure faces but left anyway since Luna's door already had guards. Luna walked over to her desk, sat down and looked at me.
"Don't just stand there. Please have a seat."
"Yes Princess." I sat down. I was nervous and she could tell.
"My my Ezekiel, being formal isn't like you. Something wrong?"
"I'm sorry...."
"Ah I see, don't worry about last night. I talked to Celestia already and I think she understands what happened."
"What do you mean?"
"Well what I think is that the fact of my banishment when I transformed into Nightmare Moon triggered some kind of flashback for you. This is why I think so and I quote: 'You just threw her away, to the moon of all places! She could have died! And you just stayed down here, sipping your cups of tea and going on like nothing happened!' As for further explanation as to why I think that, is your reference to mental disorder and 'sipping tea like nothing happened.' From what I've gathered you have had traumatic experiences in that place and hearing of unjust punishment and/or over-excessive use of discipline made you think back to what happened to you."
"Are you a psychology Major?"
"No but I have studied a bit on the subject. Continuing: One more reason I think that is because of the slight tone of caring and your concern for me. I made Celestia think back to those specific phrases to find what I was talking about and she agrees."
I let out a sigh of great relief. "Thank you Luna."
"Your welcome Ezekiel but I would apologize to her if I were you, you're not off-the-hook yet."
"I was planning on it. You look tired by the way."
"Ah yes well.....I've up for awhile and I'm usually a sleep by now."
"Alright I wont keep you, get some rest dear friend and Princess Of The Night. I will go make right with Celestia."
"Oh look at you giving commands to one of the Princesses. How brave." She giggled. "Yes I will get some rest and then we can talk later if you would like."
"Sounds good to me Luna." I smiled and so did she as she was getting in bed. I told her to have a good sleep and walked out. I asked Luna's guards if they could escort me to where Celestia is. The said that their post is at Luna's door but I could ask a servant to show me the way. "Servant" well atleast they didn't say slave but then again why would they? After a couple of minutes I found a pony that was able to take me to Celestia. It turned out she was in the throne room, I thanked the pony and gave her a few bits and then went to Celestia. A guard stopped me when was making my way to the throne.
"Stop right there! What is your purpose?"
"Hmm....I never really thought of that. What is the purpose of all living things on....oh you meant why am I in the throne room right?" He nodded. "Oh in that case. I am hear to speak to the Princess."
He nodded and walked back to the princess, who smiled and he came back. "She will see you."
"Thank you." I walked past the line of guards and up to the throne. "Hello Celestia. Oh sorry I mean Princess."
"Hello Ezekiel. Back to your old self?"
"Well I'm an undead human that lives with and is dating a pony. Hmm.....not quite but close." I chuckled.
"I will say that is a yes." She giggled. "So why are you here?"
"To apologize for last night. No idea what that was about."
"Ah yes last night. You have nothing to worry about Ezekiel, Luna already talked to me."
"Yes I've spoken to her."
"I see. Has she shared with you her thoughts?"
"Yes."
"Very well. You are forgiven Ezekiel. No hard feelings. but," Her expression turned serious. "You are on thin ice. You will be watched much like when we were informed of your presence in Equestria."
"If that needs to be done then so be it but just so you know....Fluttershy and I were planning a little 'alone time' if you catch my drift."
"O...oh I see well um.....you wont be monitored at night just in case."
"I'm just kidding with you." I laughed. "But yeah anyway I'll be going now. Thank you Princess."
"Its no trouble Ezekiel. See you later."
I think I just barely avoided something really really bad. Just barely as in "holy shit that was a close one".
Chapter 18: A Date, My New Job, And A.....Changeling?
It's been a month since the incident with the Princesses and I must say a lot has happened. Well maybe not a lot but somethings have happened, for instance I'm pretty much a mercenary and I'm also The Elements "bodyguard" but I didn't need Celestia's enlistment for that job but oh well at least I'm getting paid for every crisis The Elements have to help out with. Which hasn't been many but the Princesses pay good money and as for the mercenary job I have to travel to the seedier side Manehattan and Trottinham to get any work which, again, isn't often. Partly because I spend most of my time in Ponyville, and I charge 150 Bits for any job unless it's a big job then depending on how big it is I charge a lot more. Like this one time, a pony in Manehattan wanted me to go all the way to the Griffin Kingdom to hit this griffin that apparently cheated him out of some money or something. Sense that job was so big and because of my dislike for travel I charged him 1550 Bits and he didn't have the money so I give him my Information and went back home.
That was about three weeks ago, last week Fluttershy said something about a wedding and asked if I wanted to go but I refused and went to the park instead. Ponyville was surprisingly empty that day save for the few ponies that stay to watch over their businesses and such, at least the rest of the Apple family was still in town and after I was done lazing around the park I went to Sweet Apple Acres to see if they needed help Big Mac and Granny Smith with the chores around the farm. Apple bucking proved to much for me so I was assigned to stacking the hay bales and feeding the animals. When I was done I was payed in a fresh apple pie, like a whole apple pie for me to take home. The rest of the week was uneventful but I could help but notice a purple-ish bubble around Canterlot which I thought was strange and watched it pretty much every day, and one day I noticed a dark cloud looking thing cover the top bit of the bubble. At the point that the the cloud was smashing into the bubble I was concerned to say the least, but there wasn't anything I could do from this far away and the train station in Canterlot was closed according to the pony at the station so I'll just hope for the best and keep looking around for work until I get more business.
Now back to current time. I have just gotten back from a job and it was night time by the time I got home, Fluttershy was sitting on the couch reading and it looked like she had a bad day.
"What's wrong, honey?"
"I just don't like your new job...."
"I thought you liked me coming with you during a crisis?"
"No your other job....."
"Oh that..... We've been over this already." A couple of days ago Fluttershy found out why I was going out of town sometimes.
"I know but....I still don't understand why your doing it."
"For extra money."
"But you don't need money that badly!"
"I know but a little extra Bits laying around isn't a bad thing..."
"But is it worth it?"
".....I don't kill ponies on all of my jobs, you know."
"Y....you don't?"
"No, I deliver messages, I scare ponies that owe money and very rarely I go after a griffin."
"How often do you k....kill?"
"Every five or six jobs so once a month depending on if the money owing ponies come with money or not."
"So what did you do today?"
"I delivered a message to somepony in Las Pegasus. He owes money to some company, and a representative payed me to go."
"I see..."
"Yeah so it's not all that bad and I don't enjoy it when I have to kill a pony but if they pay me then I do it."
"What if they don't?"
"Well sense I ask to get paid in advance that's not a problem," I chuckled to myself. "And the jobs that I have to kill are often follow ups to the 'Tell that no good mule to get me my money' jobs."
"That's not as bad as I thought it was."
"Honestly I'm surprised you didn't ask me about it sooner."
"I was afraid to...."
"I see. Well It's late and I'm tired. Am I sleeping on the couch again?"
"No....sorry about that..."
"It's fine. Come on the quicker we go to sleep the earlier we wake up and I don't have any jobs tomorrow."
We went up stairs and into our room and fell asleep almost as soon as we hit the pillows.
---------
The next morning was alright. I had the pony equivalent of coffee, which wasn't bad for coffee. We had toast with grape jelly for the food part of breakfast. Afterwards we just chilled in the living room talking a bit before we decided to walk around town and go to the park. When we arrived at the park we set down on our favorite bench and just enjoyed the peacefulness until I broke the silence.
"Hey what happened in Canterlot last week?"
"I don't want to talk about it..."
"You sure? I was very worried about you and everyone else. Please?"
"There was an invasion."
"A what?! By who"
"The changelings. The queen of the changelings wanted to take over Equestria to get food for her subjects and she was starting with Canterlot."
"Hmm....so that was the cloud looking thing. What do these changelings eat?"
"Love, that's why they chose the day of the wedding."
"That doesn't seem to bad. But the hostile take over thing was a bit much."
"It was...scary."
"Sounds like it. I should have gone maybe it would have gone differently. I'm glad you guys are safe though."
She smiled. "Thank you."
"But I do have one question."
"What would that be?"
"What defeated them I was doing a job in Manehattan and I wasn't able to watch it." "The same thing they ate."
"Oh I see, to much of a good thing is a bad thing."
"Exactly."
After a couple of minutes I spoke again. "So what do you want to do now."
"Staying here for now is fine."
"Ok then just say something when you want to do something else."
"Ok."
I was beginning to wonder why she hasn't said anything for the last fifteen minutes but then I looked at her and she was asleep next to me. Shes really cute when she does this and I hate waking her up every time but this time I decided to take a bit of a nap as well. I woke up to Fluttershy gently nudging me.
"How long was I out?"
"About half an hour sleepy head." She giggled.
"Whoa didn't sleep that long." My stomach rumbled. "Oh look I'm hungry, how about you my dear?"
Her stomach rumbled as well, causing her to blush slightly "Yes."
"Shall we go then?"
"Let's."
And we left to go and find something to eat.
--------
Dinner was good, we decided to go to the same restaurant we went to when I was an alicorn. It was alright, just not great. Fluttershy needed some things so we went to the market. She handed me the list of groceries.
"I'll get the celery and carrots and if you could get the cherries, pears and apples, we will have everything we need for now."
"Ok Fluttershy. Meet back here?"
"Yes, if you want."
"Works fine for me. See you in a bit." She nodded and we went to pick up our parts of the lists. Since the pear stand was closer, I decided to go there first and then afterwards went to the cherry stand. Next was the apples and none other then Applejack. She saw me and waved and I walked over.
"Howdy Applejack."
"Howdy! Whatcha need?"
"Uh...lets see here...five apples."
"Alright." She grabbed a sack and put five in. Why do they have to use their mouths?
"Thank ya kindly A.J. Hey mind if I stay and chat a bit?"
"Not at all. It's kinda boring just standing here all by myself."
"Alright," I walked behind the stand. "I'll even help out a bit while i'm here."
"That's awful nice of ya. How are things with Fluttershy?"
"Pretty good. We hit a rough patch last night though but we got through it."
"Ah see, What about?"
"I don't really want to talk about it. Relationship confidentiality and all, you know?"
"Well ah wont pry, but if y'all want to talk about anything ah'm here to help."
"I know, thank you and I'm sure Fluttershy knows."
"Yep she does." A costumer walked up and ask Applejack for a dozen apples for a discounted price. She shook her head and put her business face on. "Ah'm mighty sorry ma'am but 12 apples is 14 Bits."
The costumer had a dismayed look on her face. "But I only have 6 Bits left!"
"Hmm.....what do you think Ezekiel?"
"Give her the apples, I'll make up for the money she doesn't have."
The costumer looked very surprised. "You would really do that??"
"Sure but don't get used to it because I'm not always going to be here, okay?"
"Thanks a lot Sir." Applejack nodded her head and put the twelve apples in her saddlebags.
"There ya go ma'am, yer all set!"
"Thank you both so much!" She trotted away happily.
"That was mighty nice of you Ezekiel."
"I just happened to have a few extra Bits on me."
"Oh would ya stop being so modest! If Rarity wasn't the Element of Generosity you certainly would be."
"Don't over do it A.J. I was just being nice."
She blushed a little bit and shook her head. "Yeah uh....sorry about that." There was a sudden commotion coming from over by the flower shop. "What's going on over there?"
"Hmm...let's go see."
She put up a "Back in 5 minutes" sign and came with me.
---------
There was yelling and all sorts of hollering. We walked up to a pony in the back of the crowd and asked him what was going on and he said he didn't know so we pushed forward. I got close enough to the front to see that there was a small pony shaped, insect-like creature being yelled at by the ponies in the front. I was a little unsure but I got a bit mad all the same. Applejack saw this and told everybody to back off and as soon as they saw why she said that they did, except the ponies in the front because they were to busy yelling to hear her. I guess the reason I was so mad is because I remembered myself being in the same place. I calmed down a bit and walked over to one of the ponies and tapped her on the shoulder. She turned around and I asked her what's going on.
"Don't you see it!?"
"Yeah but what is it?"
Applejack walked up next to me and gasped. "What's a changeling doing in Ponyville!?"
"It looks hurt." I looked over at the mare I tapped on the shoulder with fury in my eyes. "Did you hurt it?"
"N....no none of us did, i....it....we f...f..found it like this!"
"And is yelling at it going to help?"
"No....but it doesn't belong here."
"You ponies thought the same thing about about me, so why don't you leave it alone?"
"O...ok...." She left and I looked at the still yelling ponies. Some of them where kicking dirt and dust in its face. I looked at Applejack and she wasn't making an effort to do anything. I sighed and walked over to it causing the ponies to quiet down except for the few the thought I was going to kill it, they cheered until I glared at them.
"You should all be ashamed!! Can't you see that it's hurt!?!?"
"But it...."
"Don't even speak to me!! You don't have the right!" I looked the changeling over and saw that it had a broken leg and a few cuts. I gently picked it up and looked at Applejack. "I am disappointed in you A.J."
"What did ah do?"
"Figure it out! I'm going back to Fluttershy to see what she can do. Next time you talk to me, you better have out what you did or rather what you didn't do."
"B...but those things are trouble!"
"And so was I. Go back to work and think on this, I'm leaving." She said nothing and lowered her head and walked back to her stand and I walked over to the meeting spot. Fluttershy was waiting for me when I arrived. She saw what I was carrying and jumped about 5 feet back. I told her that it needed help and I continued walking towards the house. She was about to say something but I didn't stop so she followed me. I really want to help this thing.
"....And I bet you one those ponies did something! I mean just looked at it's leg!" We were back at our house and Fluttershy was gathering her medical supplies to treat the changeling. I was getting a second look at it but I couldn't see anything else wrong but that doesn't mean there isn't something going on internally. Fluttershy got everything together and came over to the table where we set the insectoid pony creature down. She had a different energy about her as she was preparing to fix it up. "You look like you know what you're doing I'll just get out of the way." She nodded her head without losing the look of determination she had on her face. I grabbed a chair and watched, assisting her when she needed it.
After about 15 minutes she was done tending to the broken leg, now she was cleaning and bandaging the cuts. As she was it made some of the cuts bleed alittle bit, it was interesting because it had green blood. After about 5 minutes tending to the cuts she was done and the changeling looked exhausted, well from what I could tell anyway. It was about to fall asleep but jolted itself awake after it closed it's eyes for a few seconds, well since it's awake again might as well ask it some questions.
"Ok I'm want to ask you somethings, nod if you can understand me." It nodded. "Oh good! Alright first off: Can you speak?"
She started to shake a bit. ".....Y....yes....I.....I...."
"Don't strain yourself I got my answer. Ok two and three: What is your gender and your name?"
"Y...y...you cant t...t...tell?"
"Honestly? No I cant well I guess alittle bit by your voice but I just want to make sure."
"Oh.....f....f...female and....." I stopped her.
"You don't have to be nervous, alright? Would like something to drink?"
"Water w...would be nice." I looked at Fluttershy but she was already in the kitchen getting a glass of water. I grabbed the glass and thanked her when she got back. I handed the glass to the changeling, which she began to drink it like she was a fish or something. When she finished the glass she smiled which showed that she had fangs. "Thank you. You two really are different from the ponies in town..."
"Well I'm not a pony but we'll get into that later. Now then. Your name?"
"Match."
"Interesting....I'm Ezekiel and this is Fluttershy."
"Nice to meet you."
"Hey Fluttershy, how long does she have to stay off her hooves?"
"About a week."
"Ok, thanks for helping me."
"Oh its no trouble." Fluttershy and Match smiled at each other. Fluttershy tried not to pay attention to the fangs.
"So Match, what were you doing in Ponyville? You had to know it had to be dangerous."
"I did but I didn't have any other option. After I was repelled from Canterlot I lost contact with the rest of the hive and landed in a field next to the town."
"So when you landed you broke your leg?"
"Yeah..."
"Looks like I owe an apology. And what about the cuts?"
"Those are from trying to fly.....in one of the attempts I crashed into a thorn bush."
"I see. Fluttershy do you have any questions?"
"No well not for her. Ezekiel do you think she can have the bed until she gets better?"
"Of course. It might even help with the healing process."
"My thoughts exactly." She smiled and I smiled back.
"Hey Ezekiel....what are you?" Match asked sheepishly.
"A human and I come from a different planet."
"Hoo....Hue...Human?"
"Yep you got it."
"Hmm...maybe when I'm better I can try to turn into you."
"Body structures to different, I wouldn't advise it."
"I guess you're right......um i...if you don't mind me asking..uh....why did you....save me?"
Ok I'll be honest the question hurt me slightly but I guess I understand the confusion. "Well I just don't think it was right. You were hurt and they weren't doing anything to help. I understand they were afraid but if they actually looked at you they would have known you were no threat to them. And also it reminded me of myself." And then I went on telling her about my past. Yay...
---------
It took me about an hour to finished telling "my story". Fluttershy didn't like hearing it and reacted almost the same is she did when she first heard it but Match was less sympathetic.
"That sounds like life in the hive...."
"So to you its no big deal?"
"Sorry but no."
I laughed and slapped me knee. "Wow that's.....kinda refreshing actually."
"What do you mean?"
"Well every time I tell my story its always 'Aw poor thing' or I get hugged and padded on the shoulder. Don't get me wrong Fluttershy I like the hugs and all but I guess its just human nature, I don't know."
"Oh...ok"
"Don't worry honey I still love you."
She smiled but didn't say anything. Match just looked at us with a weird look on her face. "Are you two....."
"Dating? Yep, have been for awhile now."
"Oh I see..."
"Do you find it strange?"
"A....little...bit." She backed up a little smiling nervously.
I laughed. "So did the ponies in town but they got used to it."
"Don't worry we're not mad. Fluttershy smiled at her and she relaxed a bit. "But right now we need to get you to bed." Match nodded and followed Fluttershy to the bedroom while I went over to the couch and sat down. She sat beside me when she came back.
"You get her settled in?"
"Yes. She's not as dangerous as the other changelings."
"Maybe that's because she's weak. I wonder if she'll try to take over Ponyville once she recovers her strength?"
"I...I hope she doesn't, that would be awful."
"Yeah it would be, I'll be watching her."
"I will be too. It's not fair for you to do all of the watching."
"I guess your right. Well what is there to do? It's not late enough to go to sleep yet and I'm not tired."
"I'm not either. Um....I don't know."
"I don't want to leave Match here alone. Hmm....how about we set up our bed for how ever long?"
"Ok."
-----------
She happened to have a guest mattress that was just big enough for the both of us. I asked her why she didn't say anything about it...well at all really, and she said she forgot about it. Go figure huh. After we got done preparing our bed a letter slipped through the crack in the door, I grabbed it and opened it and it read:
Dear Ezekiel,
I have been regretfully informed of your...other job and I must say, I am disappointed and will have you come to the castle as soon as possible. That, however, would seem to have to wait a few days due to royal business. Thanks to you. In this time I want you to think about what you have done and reflect on it and since it is official business I fully expect you to treat it as such. lest you want a larger punishment. I will send you another letter two days prior to when Celestia and I are available.
Sincerely Princess Luna.
"Great."
"What's it say?"
"Luna knows about my other job and I have been summoned..."
"Oh no!"
"Well I should known this was going to happen sooner or later....oh yeah.....I guess I was being watched huh?"
"You forgot?"
"Yeah..."
"When are you supposed to go?"
"Don't know yet but she said she will send another letter. Until then I guess I'll just help you with Match and your animals"
I wonder what will happen to me. Hopefully I wont be banished to the moon.
The days went fast. It felt like only yesterday when I got the first letter. Today I got the second one and now I have to get ready for what ever punishment may come. Match? Shes fine. She recovered a couple of days ago, and Fluttershy taking care of her now. Match seems to be a lot different from what changelings are supposed to be like, even she said she was and that she didn't like life in the hive. I guess it doesn't matter now....Luna sounded furious in the last letter.... I have no idea what to expect. The thing is I knew the mercenary thing was a bad idea but I went and did it anyway, and on top of that I forgot that I was being watched. I'm such a fucking idiot! Well like it or not I guess I got to face whatever's coming my way.
"Here comes the chariot."
"Good luck Ezekiel." I didn't respond, I just watched the chariot get closer. "Hey don't look so worried! I'm sure everything's going to be fine."
I smiled but it quickly fell into a frown. "Nice try match..."
"Darn maybe next time."
"If there is one." She gave up on trying to cheer me up and went inside to help Fluttershy with the animals.
I watched as the little speck grew into an actual chariot with winged guards pulling it. Fluttershy came out to see me off and so did Match. My other friends didn't know about this, which I wasn't sure was a good or bad thing. When the chariot landed one of the guards looked at me and simply said. "It is time." Which sent shivers up my spine. It reminded me of when the sheriff in an old western movie would tell a prisoner pretty much the same thing. I feel sorry for them now. I nodded to the guard and said my goodbyes to both Match and Fluttershy and climbed into the chariot. I waved at them and they took off. I looked down at the trail and noticed that Twilight was making her way toward the house but she stopped and looked up and then continued walking. It was a boring flight but then again it always was. The only difference with this one was the "pilots" were hauling ass, and if that told me anything, it told me I was screwed. Instead of the half an hour to an hour it usually was, this time it was fifteen minutes to half an hour. I saw Celestia as we were landing, she was waiting by those big doors and I was hardly expecting a warm welcome.
"Hello Princess."
We can skip the pleasantries. Please follow me."
Wow. "Yes Princess."
She said nothing as she lead me to where she was taking me. We were walking down a long hallway that I didn't recognize. After about five minutes of walking we finally reached our destination, it was a dimly lit room that had a strange energy to it. I noticed Luna was standing on the far side of the room waiting for us. The door closed and Luna looked up.
"Ah I see you are finally here. "
"Yes I am Princess."
"And taking this seriously too. Good. Now onto discuss why your here. You may or may not have known that being apart of that kind of business is illegal in Equestria. And I will also have you know that murder is strictly forbidden and that the punishment is quite severe. Do you understand?"
"Yes Princess Luna I do."
"Good. Sister I think our other guests are here. could you go wait for them please?" Celestia said nothing and left. it was just me and Luna now. "Since you understand, I will proceed. Do know the punishment for murder?"
"Execution?"
"Well not anymore, no. Stone. You will be turned into stone and forced to watch your friends and loved ones age while you yourself do not. You will be conscious but unable to interact with anything. You will be a living/non-living statue. Do you understand?"
"Yes."
"There is but one problem. My sister and I can not do it."
"Why not?"
"Because we do not have control of the Element anymore and only they can do it."
I thought I felt a hole tear into my heart "And if they refuse? I highly doubt Fluttershy is going to do it!"
"She doesn't need to do anything. As soon as Twilight Sparkle activates the Elements they will do as they're told. I am sorry Ezekiel but we no other choice."
".....I really liked you Luna. I really did."
"I understand if you don't anymore but regardless you broke one of Equestria's biggest laws and you must be punished."
"I know. I said I understood right?"
"Yes you did. If it makes you feel any better they're not going to know it you they're turning into stone."
"What about afterwards? And Fluttershy is already going to know."
"They will all be counseled if they need to be. Don't worry about it." There were three knocks on the door. "It's time Ezekiel."
"Can I have something to write a message on?"
"It would show up blank. I am sorry but I must go now. Stand on this pedestal."
"Yes Princess."
"You can pose if you want to. Discord did." And she left
I heard some muffled talking and then saw a light after it stopped. I figured this was it. I decided to do the pose that the Weeping Angels did, partly because I didn't want to see the world change before me and partly because I always wanted to. I had actually started tearing up a bit. That will add to the pose nicely. There was a slight sound and then everything went silent and when the sound came back it sounded like I was in a garden and all of a sudden I heard Celestia speak.
"You should be able to heard by know. Ezekiel I am so sorry we had to do this but we feared if you hadn't then you would just continue that line of work and we couldn't have that. I hope you understand and I hope you can forgive us. I'm sorry..."
"How's Fluttershy?" I thought hoping to somehow communicate.
"She's....not taking it so great and neither are the others. Poor Twilight was crying when she saw whom she turned to stone." Hiding my surprise she can hear my thoughts I asked how the others were doing. "Pinkie is depressed, Rarity is avoiding it by making dresses, Applejack got angry and went back to her farm, Twilight is conflicted on what to feel and Rainbow Dash left as soon as she saw what she had helped do, she flew out so fast that she made a sonic rainboom just outside of the door." She gave a small chuckle.
"I see....how long will I be like this?"
She looked as depressed as Pinkie must be. "It's a life sentence I'm afraid. Only Discord had the power to escape. I'm sorry."
"How was he able to make the clouds?"
"Luna cast a spell on him to temporarily release him from his imprisonment."
"I see.....Leave me so I can get on with my punishment."
I saw a tear fall from her face. "Very well Ezekiel. I am so so sorry."
And with that she walked away trying to keep the tears in but it was no use. She was crying.
---------
Its been about two months now. Since then I have been visited and every time it was Fluttershy or any of the other Elements Celestia cast that spell that allowed me to move. It was also amusing to hear the school field trips, well until the Ponyville school came around Applebloom and the other crusaders along with Dinky started crying when they saw me. Sadly that day Celestia and Luna were busy with royal business to cast that spell so I was force to hear them cry. Other then all of that though it was boring and all i have to do know is hope that someday they'll free me.
"It's been awhile since anyone has visited me.......at least the gardeners actually do their job. Ugh why did I choose this pose! I cant see anything!" There were suddenly hoof steps. "Who's there?! Oh right you probably cant hear me...."
"Oh I can hear you Ezekiel."
"Ah Celestia, long time no 'see'. Tell me have you and Luna been busy?"
"Very busy actually. It appears there is some trouble in Ponyville."
"What kind of trouble?"
"The changelings are back and are attempting to invade Ponyville. Don't worry Match is on the ponies side and they are winning."
"And you just watching?"
"Yes I am. Luna however is on her way to the town."
"Ha ha ha I feel sorry for the changelings then. I just hope she will be able to tell which one Match is."
"Don't worry she painted a cutie mark on her flanks. Luna will be able to tell the difference."
"I hope so. Thank you for the news Princess you may leave."
"No. There is one more thing. Come on out little one."
There was then a second pair of hoof steps. "Oh who is this?........No seriously who is it.....I cant see..."
"This is Dinky Doo she came to visit."
"I see that was nice of her. Celestia If you please?"
"Certainly."
There was a magic-y noise and then I was free. "Aw yeah *pop* ow! Probably should loosen up first..." They didn't seem to catch the joke. "Ok never mind then. Hello Dinky, how are you?"
She started to tear up a little "I'm fine, thank you."
"No problem. To what do I owe this pleasant surprise?"
"I....I mean we miss you Ezekiel. I wanted to visit you to tell you that."
"And that's all?"
"Well...no, I also wondered if you could come back to Ponyville and help. But when I asked the Princess she said you cant leave the garden..."
I sighed. "She speaks the truth, I'm sorry Dinky this is a life sentence not even the Elements Of Harmony can break the spell. I am stuck in the garden forever I'm afraid."
"Oh...."
"Yeah I hate it and I hate the Princesses for doing this." Celestia looked surprised but hung her head a bit, which told me she understood. "But I know why they did this. Do I think It was a little over board? Yeah, but I understand albeit only slightly."
"I see...." A tear fell from her face.
"Well Dinky If I remember correctly, I owe you a play date. Would that cheer you up a bit?"
"Y..you remembered?!"
"Eeyup. I did, shall we?"
"Yes!"
I laughed and asked her what game she want to play first and she picked hide and seek. I let her go first.
"....8......9.....10.....ready or not Dinky here I come!" I looked all over the place. I looked in the hedge maze, I looked near the flower beds and I even double checked the statue area. Then it hit me "She might be playing statue!" I looked at all of the statues really closely but didn't see anything out of the ordinary. "Hmm...I wonder." I checked in one of the bushes by the statues. "Nope." I checked another one and nothing, same with the third try. "Alright one more try and then I give." I checked the last bush. And "Aha! Found you!"
"Aw man!"
"Ha ha you almost had me though. My turn?"
"Sure! And then we can play tag!"
"Ok sounds good."
"Ok! I'm going to start counting. 1...." I tried to think of a good place. "...2..." I ran into the maze "...3..." I spent a few seconds trying to find a good spot, which cost me some time. "...7..." I found a statue that had some space on it pedestal and stood on it. "...8......9......10...ready or not here I come!" It took her some time before she thought to check the maze. She even past me a couple times. "Hmm...." She tapped her chin in thought. "Who knew it would be so hard to find a statue. Wait. That's it!" Looks like she had the same Idea I had. She turned to the statue I was hiding behind. "Hmm..." She starting walking towards me and circled around. "There you are!"
"Aw looks you found me." I laughed.
"Your good at this game."
"So are you kid. So...Tag?"
"You betcha!"
We went back to the statues and I declared the maze off limits because I didn't want Dinky to get lost. We played tag until one of us gave up, which was me. "That was fun Ezekiel!"
"I'm glad you enjoyed yourself Dinky, I had fun to. Oh by the way I forgot to as. How is your mom?"
"She fine. Actually she brought me here because I told her about wanting to visit you, but she saw what was happening in Ponyville and went to help. She asked the Princess if she could look after me though and I asked her if I could visit you. So she showed me the way and then turned you back and......sorry I do that sometimes." She smiled sheepishly and I laughed.
"It's ok kid. I'm glad she doing good." I looked at the sky. "Welp, looks like the sun's going down. The spare wears off soon so I need to get to my pedestal."
"Oh....ok."
"Yeah sorry Dinky I don't like it either but at least we had fun today right? And you can tell your mom how much fun you had! So think of this day fondly kid." I said while walking to my pedestal, Dinky following me.
"I guess your right...."
"Hey don't be so down. You can always visit me again you know."
She perked up and smiled. "Yeah I could huh."
"Oh hi Celestia."
Dinky turned around and saw the princess and nearly jumped up five feet up in the air. "H...h...hello Princess!"
She giggled at the filly's reaction. "Hello Dinky, did you have a fun day?"
"Yes! I had an awesome day!"
"And how about you Ezekiel?"
"It was good day to be free!"
"That's good to hear. Come on Dinky we must leave. Goodbye Ezekiel."
"Hey at least try to visit sometime alright Princess?"
"Ok Ezekiel."
"Bye Celestia, Bye Dinky." They said bye and left leaving me standing on the pedestal. "I really don't want to do this again." I sighed. "Oh well I guess...." I got back into the pose as the sun went down and I turned to solid stone once more.