Ever Changeling World

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"Good morning Twilight!" Spike's unusually chipper voice calls out. Why can't he leave me to sleep!? Doesn't saving the world nearly once a week mean I get some sort of extra sleep privileges? I mean, come on. The sun isn't even up, is it? Oh wait, my eyes are closed. Never mind.

I crack open one eye only to shut it instantly due to the blinding sun light. When I open it again I see Spike's face up close. "AHHHHHHH!" Spike and I jump a mile, me because I didn't expect him to be so close and him because of my scream. "Spike! What in Equestria are you doing!? Are you trying to wake me up or give me a heart attack!?" That may have been a bit harsh, but I was startled. Luckily Spike doesn't seem to be hurt, in fact he is smiling that infuriating smile you get when you've had a good night sleep and your friend hasn't. I know I shouldn't have eaten all of those hay and cheese sandwiches before bed, but they were so good.

"Sorry Twilight, I just thought you'd like your mail". He held out his left claw that had my morning mail in. Once I woke up more fully I started to smile. Using my magic I took the post from him and looked through the letters.

"Looks mostly like a bunch of adverts to me. Oh, look at this one, 'Would you like immortality with your loved ones? Then come on down to the Church of Ares. Happiness is one prayer away'. Seriously, it is too early to be converted." Spike just shrugged. I let out a sigh and continue reading though them. "An invite to another one of Pinkie Pie's parties, a new restaurant has opened in Canterlot, what else is new?" Then I spotted a golden envelope at the bottom of the pile with a red seal on it. I open it and was shocked by what it said.

Dear Twilight,

Me and Luna believe there is an attack on Canterlot quickly approaching. We are not sure who it is or why they are attacking but from what we know it will be a disaster if we do not stop them. Please bring your friends and Spike to Canterlot as soon as possible. We will give you more information when you arrive.

From Princess Celestia.

WHAT! Why hasn't she told me sooner!? As quick as a flash I lifted up the covers and dash out of bed, sadly this caused Spike to fall off said bed and land on the floor. But that's not important now!

"Spike! We're going to Canterlot! I'll pack a bag, you go tell the others, tell them to pack a bag for a week and to get over here NOW!" Poor Spike looked confused and scared, but he did as he was told and ran out to find the girls. In the mean time I stuffed as many books and essentials as I could into two suitcases, one for me and one for Spike. I re-read the letter, placed it on top of everything and shut the bag.

What could it be? Why hadn't she said anything sooner? These were the questions running through my just woken mind as I paced outside the door of the Golden Oak Library. Why hadn't she sent it through Spike? Why had she sent it by post? Why are they taking so long? Why is Pinkie throwing another party? Why would someone set up a church for the God Ares? Why have I gotten so drastically off topic!?

Before I could ask myself anymore questions I spotted Spike followed by the girls. Each one was carrying a small saddle bag of stuff, except for Rarity who seemed to have three bags levitating in her magic, but that was to be expected. They all ran up to me, each looking equally confused and worried (Fluttershy even more so).

"Here they are Twilight, now can you please tell us what the problem is?" Spike panted out of breath, I feel sorry for making him round them up but it was necessary.

"Yes Twilight dear, whatever is the matter?" Rarity asked, her three bags now on the floor by her side. I then proceed to tell them what the letter had said, they gasped and looked quite pale. I wonder if that is how I must look, after all I have just woken up. My mane must be a mess... You're going off topic again Twilight!

"Well let's stop standing around and get over there now!" I nod to show my agreement with Rainbow. We then run to the train station which is unbelievably still open at this time of the morning. That's when I spotted the clock on the platform and see it was 11:30 am. Oops. The ponies don't ask for any money when we tell them were we are going. Free train tickets is a perk of saving the world once a week, even if a lie in is not.

As we rode to Canterlot we talked about what dangers we could face. A plethora of creatures came to mind, but it was probably something much worse. Every pony was worried, even Pinkie didn't seem to be taking this lightly. I'm scared, but I'd never tell them that. Me, the element of magic, isn't allowed to be scared. Crazy, but not scared.

After an hour long ride we finally stop at Canterlot station. We get off the train with our bags and stand on the platform.

"What now?" Applejack asked.

"We need to get to the castle, that's were the princesses will be". With that we run the the castle. I carry Spike on my back and three bags in my magic (I offered to carry Fluttershy's bag as well as our own). The streets are surprisingly quiet, not a pony in sight. Perhaps Princess Celestia has told them to stay inside. I think we're doing very well considering we only found out about this less than two hours ago, and my sleepy mind has most definitely woken up now. Who needs an alarm clock when you got possible world ending terror?

We finally get to the castle, and that's when I knew something was very wrong. The Royal Guard surrounded us, their eyes were glowing green and devoid of emotion. They pointed their spears at us, non of them said a word.

"What's going on?" Fluttershy asked timidly. Rainbow tried to fly up but some pegasus guards stopped her from going very high.

"I don't know". I really didn't, but I've got a feeling I'm about to find out.

They started herding us inside the castle, we walked inside with them, after all it's not like we had a choice. Then I saw what I had been dreading ever since we'd been surrounded. There in front of us were the two princesses, chained to the floor and not moving. It had been a trap. That's why the Princess didn't sent the letter through Spike! Why hadn't I seen it sooner?

Just then we all heard an evil laugh (of course it was evil, what else would it be?). I looked up to see Queen Chrysalis looking at us with unadulterated delight. I sighed and hung my head, a tear rolled down my cheek but I didn't care.

"Well well well, look what we have here. The Elements of Harmony, how lovely of you to drop in". I was so ashamed, I should have known. Why did I bring them here? Poor Spike, he doesn't deserve this. I looked up to see the villain we'd be facing, she looked down at me looking smug as ever. I just wanted to punch her, but I never would.

"Let us go you parasitic scum!" I hear Rainbow cry at our captor.

"Now why would I do that?" I hate it when they act smug. "I have simply asked you here for a, how shall I say? A trade".

"What kind of trade?" I spat out.

"Your surrender for their freedom". She gestured to the princesses with a tilt of her head. Why should we trust them!?

"No way!" Applejack shouted.

"What about it Twilight? Your life for theirs?" She looked deep into my eyes. That's when I snap out my self pity. Why would I ever trust her!? Once she looked away I gave a subtle looked I convoy my plan to the girls, they nod in understanding. Game on.

"Ok Chrysislis, we surrender. You are just too powerful". I let out a sob to act more convincing.

She smiled. "I knew you'd do the right thing". Oh, they really can be so stupid sometimes can't they? At that point we kick out at the guard surrounding us. They fall backwards like sacks of hay, I suppose that mind control spell doesn't make them any stronger, or smarter for that matter. I take advantage of her surprise and freeze her in a bubble of magic. It worked! We won! Wait, that was too easy.

That's when I hear a buzzing sound above us. Gulp!

When we look up we can see millions of changelings hovering above us. I see green flames out of the corner of my eye, I turn to see the princesses had changed into two more Changelings. It was a trap, another one! We were surrounded. And what do you do when you're surrounded? You lash out!

We kicked and punched every changeling we could. I told Spike to hide, he didn't need to be told twice. Applejack kicked, Rainbow Dash punched, Rarity held them back with her magic. Pinkie, well, she used her party cannon to defend herself. Even Fluttershy was fighting in her own way. I used my magic to seal them in bubbles. It seemed to be working, but it wouldn't work forever.

After a good ten minutes we were starting to lose. We were tired and aching. Even though I had sealed a good 45% of them in magic bubbles there were still hundreds left. I was tired and worried for Spike, I hope he's ok. I became weaker and weaker. Why am I so tired?

"TWILIGHT LOOK OUT!" I hear Rainbow cry out. I looked to my left to see a changeling about to kick me. I felt it make contact with my head. Then everything went black.

Traveller in Time

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Owww, my head. What happened? THE CHANGELINGS! One of them hit me and then... And then? What did happen then? Spike! Oh, I hope he's ok. Ow, my head is killing me. I open one eye and take a look around. I'm outside, how'd I get out here? Wasn't I in the castle? I seriously need to stop asking myself questions.

I open my other eye and see I'm lying on the ground. It's a dirt path, not like the streets you get in Cantelot. I can see the sky and dirt, ok I'm outside. But where? You're doing it again Twilight! I groan as try to stand up, I only manage to get into a sitting position. That changeling sure did pack a punch. I rub my head where it kicked me, it felt a little bruised but nothing is broken, thank Celestia.

I look up at were I am. Oh, my, gosh. Where in Equestria am I? It looks like a rubbish tip, with a wooden fence around it. There are no rubbish tips like this in Canterlot, the ponies wouldn't allow it. So, I'm not in Canterlot. Um, ok. What else is there to go on? There's, um, there's rubbish, and what looks like a brick building over there. That narrows it down a bit, not.

With a bit of effort I manage to stand up, my head is still killing me but it's getting better. I can feel something on me, I look down and see I'm wearing a black leather jacket. What in Equestria am I doing in a leather jacket? And are those trousers!? Ok, forget the whole stop asking yourself questions thing, this is important. The jacket feels odd but strangely comfortable, it is old and well worn. It also has pockets, which since I've got nothing else to do I decide to check. I find a stick of gum and a wallet. That's odd, no pony has used a wallet like this in years. We don't need to, saddle bags are much more convenient since we don't tend to wear clothes with pockets anymore. How strange.

Using my magic I open the wallet to see what was inside, not being used to them it took me a while to open it. Inside was about twenty bits in notes, we haven't used notes for years either. Why would I have this, I can't use it. Notes went out of circulation about thirty years ago. There was also a card in there, I decided to read it.

Name- Twilight Sparkle
Age- 25
Date of birth- 12/03/1948
Rank- Detective Inspector
Date enlisted- 27/06/1968

This can't be right, I wasn't born in 1948. The other details are true though. I am 25 years old, my birthday is the 12th of March, but the rest is all wrong. But there's even a picture of me on the card, where did they get that? I put the wallet back in my pocket followed by the strip of gum.

"Excuse me Miss" I jumped at the voice. Were did that come from? I looked around to see a yellow stallion dressed in a blue shirt with black trousers, he had a golden badge on his shirt but the print was too small to read from where I was standing. "Sorry to startle you Miss, but you were just staring into space. I've come to escort you to the station". Station?

He seemed like he knew me, or at least knew of me. Which isn't uncommon being an Element of Harmony, but it doesn't seem like he's in awe or even aware of that fact. Well, let's find out where I am. "Um, I'm sorry, um, Sir. This is going to sound ridiculous but, where am I exactly?" As I guessed he looked confused at my question, but thankfully he did answer it.

"You are in Manehatten Miss, more specifically the west of Manehatten. Are you alright Miss? That's one nasty looking bruise you got there". He points at the left side of my face. I suppose it is a nasty bruise, but even that wouldn't have caused this kind of a hallucination.

This is not Manehatten, it hasn't looked like this for about forty years. Trust me, I read a book all about the history when I was in school. This was before the fashion boom of 1995, when all the great designers traveled here to make their name. According to the card in my pocket I was born in 1948, 47 years before the fashion boom. But I am still 25 years old. This doesn't make any sense.

Then I remembered the stallion had asked me a question. "Oh, um no it's fine. But, if this is Manehatten, where are all the fashion boutiques?" He looked at me like I'd grown another head, which in the state of mind I'm in right now is entirely possible.

"Fashion boutiques? I don't know what you mean Miss. Why would there be any of those in a place like this?" He sounded as if I'd just asked 'were are the purple dancing goblins?'

I suppose that answers my question, I am in the past. But I don't remember casting any time traveling spells. "Come on now Miss, let's get you back to the station and get that bruise checked out". I nodded, what else could I do?

Still slightly dazed by what was going on I followed him out of the rubbish tip and out onto the streets. There was a billboard that read 'New road being built soon' with a picture of the main road in Manehatten. It was finished in 1982, ok so I can't be in 1982 or later. According to my ID card I was born in 1948, and I am 25 years old. That means it must be... 1973. The streets are filled with ponies, all dressed in simple clothes. That's right, this is before the liberation act in 1994. That's what sparked the fashion boom, there was a sudden demand for fancy clothes for rich ponies. It meant clothes became another thing to distinguish the rich from the poor. It's a shame really, the fashions back then (well, now I suppose) were very nice. This leather jacket looks pretty cool, even if it is a bit worn out.

We passed shops and street signs that I remember reading about in books. I spotted a mare smoking outside what I guess was a pub, don't they know how bad smoking is for you? She took it out of her mouth, threw it on the ground and stomped it out with her hoof. Then she took a lighter out of her shirt pocket and lit another one. The flame reminded me of the changeling attack, my friends! Spike! I needed to get back to them. I'd been too distracted by this strange world, and the pain in my head hadn't helped much either. I have to get home!

I continued to follow him just because I didn't know the first thing about getting back to the girls and Spike. I looked around for anything that might help me escape, but nothing looked like home. I miss them. I miss Spike. I put a hoof up to my head and winced. The last thing I remember was being kicked by that changeling. Then it dawned on me.

I'm in a coma.

I must be, how else can you explain the sudden time travel. The clothes, the people, the fake ID. That kick the the head must have knocked me out. But that means my magic bubbles aren't working, which means those changelings were released! Oh, I really hope the girls are ok.

I was so deep in thought that I was a bit startled when I heard the stallion speak again. "We're here Miss". I looked up to see a medium sized grey brick building with a corrugated iron roof. It had small windows with bars on them and two wooden doors that swing open when ponies left or entered. It was just like the pictures I saw in my books, everything was for that matter. "Is there anything else I can do for you Miss?" I shook my head. Now that I was closer I could read what it said on his badge. It said 'Police Constable Astro Star', nice name.

"Ok then, have a good day Miss" He started to walk away.

"Please, call me Twilight". He smiled at me and said...

"Ok, have a good day Twilight". He walked off, I had a feeling I wasn't going to see him again. Or maybe my mind will recycle him, after all if I am in a coma there are only so many ponies it can create. He seemed nice though.

I turned to look at the grey building. It seemed more intimidating now that Astro had left. Clearly my comatose brain wanted me to come here, so I took a deep breath and walked in. The doors swung open as I walked through with dramatic flair even though I didn't use much force. Maybe it was built that way on purpose.

The first thing I noticed was a desk at the end of the room. The room was small with three doors all leading to different rooms. There was somepony at the desk, they were bending down to get something underneath so I couldn't see their face. When they rose I was shocked by who it was.

"Spike!" I rushed to the desk and put my hooves on the surface. "Spike it's you! You're ok! You're ok!" I hugged him, when he didn't hug back I let go feeling worried. "Spike are you ok?" He looked startled, almost scared by my actions.

"Please don't take this the wrong way ma'am but, who are you?" I was heart broken. He didn't know me. Then I remembered, I'm in a coma. He doesn't know me, of course he wouldn't. I was just so happy to see him, I forgot he wasn't my Spike. Why would I create a Spike who didn't know me? It doesn't make any sense...

"I'm, sorry. You just reminded me of someone I knew. My name is Twilight Sparkle, I was told to come here by a Police Constable Astro Star". Spike still looked wary but relaxed a bit.

"Oh, you're Twilight. The Gov have been waiting all morning for you, go on through". He waved to the door on his right and carried on with his paper work. It hurt to know he didn't know me, but at least he is here. Sort of.

I walked up to the door, I took a deep breath and pushed it open. I wasn't prepared for what I saw.

The room had rows of desks, each with a quill and ink pot on top. Stacks of paper work littered the room, on chairs, on desks, even on the floor. It was dark and grey inside, flickering lights hung from the ceiling casting a faint glow over the desks. But what caught my eye the most were the ponies in the room. There, sat at their desks were Applejack and Pinkie Pie. They were dressed for the time period just like every pony else. Applejack was wearing a light blue shirt with a dark grey jacket, she even had a red tie loosely tied around her neck. Pinkie is wearing a black jacket similar to mine, but it didn't look like it was make of leather. She also wore beige trousers, I have no idea why Pinkie would wear this but it actually looks rather good on her.

They turn to face me, they don't look like they know me either. It hurts. They aren't my friends, they just look like them. Wait, does that mean the rest of the girls are here too? I don't know if I want to find out.

"Um, are you lost little filly?" Applejack asked in a mocking tone, Pinkie snickered.

"No, I was told to come here. I'm..." What did my card say my rank was? "Detective Inspector Twilight Sparkle". The title sounded wrong somehow, like I was a fraud. Pinkie perked up at this and walked (she WALKED! Not bounced but WALKED!) over to me. She looked me up and down and said...

"You're the newbie?" I nodded. She sounded so serious, it was unnerving. "I suppose you look like somepony the princess would hire". This was nothing like when I first met Pinkie. No surprised gasp, no party, not even a friendly welcome. For a moment I feel guilty for the way I treated her when we first met, I tried to get her to go away. I tried to make all of them go away actually.

"You're late. The Gov's been waiting all day for you". Applejack was looking at me, almost like she didn't like me. Why would she dislike me? We've just met. Sort of.

"Yea, the Gov's not going to be happy about that. Well, better late than never I suppose". Pinkie walked back to her desk looking at Applejack. "Maybe she's in a good mood today". Applejack snickered.

"Yea, and maybe she's decided to take up a career in armed robbery". They both laughed. Who's this 'Gov' they keep talking about? Should I be worried, after all judging by what I already know it has to be one of the girls right?

"Um, Applejack?" She stopped laughing and looked at me.

"How do you know my name Sparkles?" She definitely doesn't seem to like me.

"Um, I read about you?" I hazard a guess as to how I might know about them in this world. Worst case scenario, they find out I'm barking mad and lock me up. Not too bad for the first day on the job right? Speaking of which, what is my job? It says I'm a detective inspector on my card, but what does that actually mean?

"Ok, well then, it's time you met the Gov. I suppose you've read up on her too?" I nod to keep up my act. Applejack turns around in her chair and shouts behind her, "Hey Gov! Your new D.I's arrived". I'm scared to see who walks out of that little office at the back, but at the same time the knowledge could be invaluable to me finding a way home.

The door swings open, the silhouette of a pony can be seen through a cloud of smoke, I can only assume it came from a cigarette (or maybe ten). She stands there for a while, then they walk out into the light. I'm surprised, but come to think of it, who else could it have been? There, walking towards me, is Rainbow Dash. She's wearing a beige over coat, I can see a black shirt peeking out from underneath. I must admit, Rainbow never was a one for dressing up, but this looked quite good on her. In a 'don't mess with me' kind of way.

She keeps walking up to me, I'm beginning to see what Applejack and Pinkie were on about. She is threatening. She finally gets close to me, I can smell the cider on her breath but she doesn't seem to be intoxicated in any way. She looks into my eyes, I feel so small. "So, your the pony sent over from Ponyville. You were meant to be here this morning!" I try to look determined and not threatened, which is difficult because I am nervous as hell! She looks at the left side of my face. "You get in a fight on your way over here?" I suppose I did, but they wouldn't believe the truth so I simply nod. "You can talk right? They didn't send us another silent one did they?" She sounds exasperated like she was recalling a bad memory.

"Oh, I remember her. Silent Skies, she was nice". Pinkie chipped in.

"Too nice if you ask me, nice isn't good when you're in the force". Rainbow added. "Now, back to you. Why were you late?" How do you answer that? 'Sorry boss, I was in a coma, it won't happen again'. Also when did Rainbow become my boss? I'm the one in charge not her! Luckily Applejack answers for me.

"She was in a fight Gov". Rainbow turned around to face her.

"I can see that!" She looks back at me. "But that's not a good enough reason to be late, is it?" What kind of job is this were being in a fight is not a good enough reason to be late? I'm starting to feel like I don't belong here, in more ways that one.

"Celestia herself set up this team to protect Equestria from evil and disharmony. Evil doesn't wait, so we mustn't be late". So Celestia set up this team, well that explains why I'm here. But I don't remember reading about them, even if I am in a coma there must be some truth to all this. "You got that Sparkle?" I was about to nod but I remembered our earlier conversation so I speak instead.

"Yes Rainbow". She looked angry.

"That's D.C.I Dash to you!" Then she walked back into her office. She poked her head out of the door and called "You coming Sparkle or do I have to drag you in here?" Oh, she wanted me to follow her? I hurry in quickly to avoid further arguments. Once I was inside she turned back and yelled "And somepony get me some coffee!" Then she slammed the door.

It's a God Awful Small Affair

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I've been woken up, called to Cantelot, knocked out by a changeling, put in a coma, recruited for some 'team' and now I find myself alone in a small room with Rainbow Dash claiming to be my D.C.I all in under 24 hours. I react as any sane pony would in this situation... with anger!

Rainbow walks over to her desk and sits down. She's looking at me, at first it made me feel nervous but now it was just making me annoyed. I'm the leader of The Elements of Harmony! Why is she the one sitting in the chair? She has no right to treat me like I'm inferior to her, after all it's my coma that's keeping her alive!

"Rainb..." I let out a frustrated sigh at using her first name. "D.C.I Dash. I would appreciate it if you stopped trying to intimidate me. I'm just as important as you and maybe even twice as smart! So please stop it!" I must have sounded a little childish, but at least I said it. Besides she doesn't have feelings, she's just a figment of my imagination.

Her eyes narrowed, she looked angry. Which was just fine by me, at least we're on the same page. Rainbow stood up, walked around to me and stopped inches from my face. "Take that back". She said slowly and calmly.

"No". I stood my ground. I'm scared, I'm in a coma, I'm alone and I will not be treated like dirt! There was a blur of blue and the sound of crashing metal. Before I knew it Rainbow had me pinned up against a filling cabinet with only my back hooves on the ground. She had her face right in mine bearing her teeth and snarling.

"Listen here Sparkles! I'm in charge here! That means you do what I say and treat me with respect. Understand!?" I nod and she lets me go. I crumble to the floor frightened. My Rainbow would never do that. My Rainbow, I miss her. I miss them all.

I look up at the poor excuse for my friend my mind has created for me and find her looking down in disgust. "Good. Now that we understand each other lets get down to business". She walks back to her desk and sits down just like before, like she hadn't just pinned me up against a filing cabinet.

I stand, a bit shaken but fine. The only injury I have is the ever fading bruise on my face reminding me that I'm in a coma. Either that or I'm mad. I straighten my jacket and try to look presentable. Right, time to learn about this awful place.

"Celestia sent you here to become part this team. We stop enemy threats before they have a chance to hurt the public". Ok, so it's like back home then? Actually, it seems more like the police than what I do.

"So it's like the police?" I feel brave enough to speak again now. She shook her head.

"No. The police deal with the wussy crimes like robbery and drugs. We deal with much bigger threats". If robbery and drugs are wussy then what in Equestria are they dealing with!? "Ever since the princess had to send her sister to the moon many evil scumbags have tried to take over Equestria. So she set up a team of ponies to help to protect her subjects". I don't remember reading about this, surely Celestia would have told me about it. Right? "Generation after generation of ponies kicking the crap out of scumbags who think they can beat us and her majesty". I was shocked to hear Rainbow say something like that, she may be tough but she never uses bad language. "She called us the Elements of Justice". Well, that makes sense. "Any questions sunshine?" Where do I start?

"Why has Celestia sent me here?" It might be a stupid question, but I can pretend I lost my memory in the 'fight'.

"Wow, that blow to the head must had knocked some of your brains out. I'll get the nurse to come look you over". That's the first nice thing she's said since I arrived. "The princess believed you would be useful. You have studied magic your whole life and seem to be pretty good at it according to her". I remind myself to thank Celestia the next time I see her. "Anything else?"

"Yes, how did you become the D.C.I?" I say with contempt, she doesn't seem to notice.

"With hard work, determination and good friends. I trained with D.C.I Spitfire, now Superintendent Spitfire, for several years as her D.I. Now look at me". She spread her front hooves wide in some kind of exaggerated gesture. "If you behave Sparkles and prove that the Princess was right, you might be in my position one day". I hope not, I want to go home.

We sit/stand in silence for a minute before she breaks it with "I'll have D.C Pie take you to the nurse, see if that blow to the head is anything to be worried about". She stood from her desk and walked to the door, I followed her. She ushered me out and stuck her head out of the door. "Pinkie! Take D.I Sparkle to the nurse, get her head checked over". Pinkie saluted. "Make sure none of her brains were knocked out will ya?" Rainbow muttered as she walked back into her office.

I walked up to Pinkie's desk. I wonder who the nurse is? It must be one of the girls, but who? Pinkie stood up and made a gesture that meant 'follow me'. I did. "So, Sparkles. What do you think of the Gov?" Where to begin. She's rude, obnoxious, violent and rude! I know I said rude twice, she is rude x2!

"She was, not what I was expecting".

"Oh, what were you expecting?" She sounds confused and genuinely curious.

"I don't know, maybe somepony striving to be the best flyer in Equestria. Maybe a bit kinder?" I expected her to be like my Rainbow Dash, but I can't say that to Pinkie.

"Wow, you really don't know the Gov do you?" No, I suppose I don't. "She's fast don't get me wrong, but best flyer? That's never gonna happen". That's odd, why would my mind remove one of Rainbow's key characteristics? "As for kindness. She is fun once you get to know her, but she's not what most ponies would call kind. That title belongs to our nurse/communications officer". Let me guess, it's Fluttershy isn't it? Who else could it be?

"You mean she's not just the nurse?" I remember reading about ponies in the police force having to train as nurses in case of an emergency, but those were D.C.Is and constables not the communications officer. Why would she be both?

"No, she is too afraid to go out and kick criminals' heads in so she stays here". Definitely Fluttershy. I suppose the role as nurse makes sense, but wouldn't Spike make a better communications officer? You know, because he can send and receive letters.

"Why isn't Spike head of communications?" Pinkie let out a laugh.

"What? That puny little reptile! Ha! He probably wouldn't know how to write a letter if he tried!" She was breathless with laughter, and I know it shouldn't since this isn't real, but I got annoyed at her for the way she talked about Spike. How dare she be so mean about him! "Your funny Sparkles".

Through gritted teeth I reply "Yea, hilarious". This Pinkie is different to mine, but in a way they are very much alike. They both like to laugh and joke, only this one does it at other's expense.

I zone out and look around the station. It was dark and littered with papers, even the walls were plastered in posters and adverts. Pinkie was still chuckling but had stopped talking, thank goodness. I skim read the papers on the wall.

'Wanted! The Hay Cart Kid. Reward- 200 bits'
'Pub Quiz- Friday 8 o'clock'
'Last seen alive Tuesday 15th of February'
'TWILIGHT!'

I do a double take on the last one. It said my name! I read it closely.

'TWILIGHT!? Twilight! Are you ok? Please wake up Twilight, please wake up'.

What was that? 'Please wake up?', the poster says my name! Three times! That can't be a coincidence. Can it?

I suddenly see a pink hoof in my face. "Yoo hoo? Sparkles? Any pony home?" I snap back to reality and see Pinkie waving a hoof in my face. I must have zoned out for a moment. I blink twice and look at her.

"Oh, sorry. I got a bit distracted". She rolled her eyes and smiled, for a moment she reminds me of my Pinkie.

"I can see that, that knock to the head must have caused you some damage. Don't worry, we're here now". She looks over at the door in front of us, I assume this is the nurses office. Or perhaps the communications office. Who knows?

Pinkie knocks three times and walks in, I follow. The room was just as boring as the rest of the station, grey and littered with papers. This room had a desk with something on top, I don't know what it is but it is box-like with a thing on top. There was a chair at the desk like in D.C.I Dash's office, only this one looked clean and well organized (even the numerous papers looked somewhat organized). There was a window high up on the wall behind the desk letting in a lot of light, probably so whoever it is who works here can see what they're doing.

"Hey Flutter Butter! Get out here, we have a mare with a kicked in head!" Pinkie shouted out. If Flutter Butter is a nick name, then that means...

"Ok! Coming!" A door on the right side of the room opened and in walked, Fluttershy!? I mean, I guessed right, but the real surprise is Fluttershy herself. She was wearing a pale green shirt and a long denim skirt with three pink butterflies embroidered on. Her mane was not like it's usual neat swirl, instead it was pulled back into a ponytail with a long fringe covering one eye. She looked like her, and yet she didn't.

"What's wrong Party Pie?" She sounded almost like she was, confident?

"New D.I Sparkles here got in a fight on her way over. The Gov wants her looked over to make sure her brains are still in tact".

"I'm standing right here you know!" I wish they'd stop talking about me like that. Fluttershy looked at me with sympathy. Finally, you can always count on her for a little kindness, in any universe.

"You poor dear, come on let's take a look at you". She gestured to the desk with her head. She pulled a first aid box out from underneath with her mouth and placed it on top. She opened it up and looked back to me. "Come and sit in front of me". I did as I was told. She picked up a torch in her mouth and shone the bright light in my eye. It was a bit of a shock so I recoiled a little, she didn't seem to notice. She shone it in my other eye for about ten seconds and then put it back on the desk.

"Well, you don't seem to have a concussion. That's a relief". Your telling me. "Now I want you to roll your head slowly from left to right". She puts her two front hooves on my cheeks and looks me in the eyes while I roll my head. "What's your name D.I Sparkles?"

"Twilight. My name is Twilight Sparkle". I did not want to be called Sparkles for the rest of my coma. Thank Celestia Fluttershy is here, I think I'd go mad otherwise.

"Oh, sorry. I thought your name was Sparkles".

"It's ok, I just prefer Twilight". Even in my coma Fluttershy is sorry for the smallest things. It's reassuring in some sweet kind of way.

"Pinkie, when did she arrive?" I'd forgotten Pinkie was even here, she'd been so quiet. That in its self was unusual.

"About twenty minuets ago. Why?"

"She has some very serious bruising down the left side of her face. I'm surprised it didn't knock her out". You don't know the half of it. "She needs some painkillers and a day off to rest".

"Day off!? But she's only just got here". Pinkie whined, just for a second, she sounded like my Pinkie too.

"I know Pinkie, but she needs rest. Look at her" she does. "She's dazed and confused. She's probably got short term amnesia". At least Fluttershy knows what she's doing, unlike the rest of these clowns here. Fluttershy looks back into my eyes. "Do you remember anything before the fight Twilight?" Depends. Do you mean my fight with a changeling or the 'fight' I made up.

I hesitate. "Twilight? Do you remember anything?" Should I tell her? Should I tell them I'm in a coma and non of this is real? If anypony would understand it would be Fluttershy. In the end I decided to say nothing and just shake my head.

"Oh dear. Pinkie you'd better go back to work, I'll look after Twilight here". Pinkie nodded and walked out.

"Good luck Sparkles". She said sympathetically, then she shut the door.

I feel scared, disorientated and confused. I look at the floor and try to think. Think about home, think about how I got here, think about my friends. Fluttershy noticed.

"Twilight, it's ok. You're going to be fine". I nod even though I don't believe her. She goes into the other room and comes back with a plastic cup full of water and two pills. "Here, take these. They should help with the pain". I look up and nod. Using my magic I take the water off her and the pills, place them on my tongue and take a gulp of water to wash them down. I never liked taking medicine as a foal, but I got better as I grew up. "Better?" I give a single nod. "Good".

I set the cup down on the desk and stared at it for a moment, then I look back at Fluttershy. "Fluttershy, can I tell you something?" She nodded.

"Of course".

"And you promise you won't tell the others?" I really didn't need the others knowing about this, especially Rainbow Dash.

"I promise, as long as it doesn't effect your health that is". I take a deep breath and let out a sigh. This is going to be difficult.

"I am in a coma". She seemed taken back by this, of course she would.

"What?"

"Just hear me out". She nods. "I was in Canterlot in 2012. Me and my friends were fighting a changeling invasion and I got kicked in the head by one of them. It knocked me out and I woke up in 1973, in a rubbish tip". Well she hasn't run off and called the guys in the white coats yet, that's a good sign. "Now that either means I've travelled in time" she giggled a bit, I don't blame her, I must sound crazy. "Or I'm mad, or I'm lying in a hospital bed in a coma. Or I'm dead, oh please tell me I'm not dead".

"I can assure you Twilight, you are not dead. As for time travel, I think we can rule that out too". We both give a small smile.

"So I'm either mad or in a coma". Seems logical, once you've eliminated the impossible whatever's left, however unlikely, must be the truth. And let's face it, being mad, very likely. Being in a coma, almost definitely true.

"You've had a serious trauma to the head Twilight, you are not mad. You're just scared and confused. And I am pretty confident I exist so you are not in a coma".

"Fluttershy. You and I are friends in the future. We all are. You, me, Rainbow, Pinkie, Spike.
Every pony". She seemed confused.

"That's not possible. You say your from 2012, and I'm 27 now. That means I'd be 66 years old. And either you are in brilliant shape or your not anywhere near 66 years old. Why would you be friends with a mare over 40 years your elder?"

"I'm not, your 27 in the future and I'm 25. You exist in the future as you! Not this version of you my comatose mind has created". This is not going as I expected. What did I expect? Possibility 1) she calls a doctor and they put me away, or possibility 2) she believes me and helps me get home. The latter is very unlikely.

"Prove it". What did she say?

"Excuse me?"

"If you're from the future and we are indeed friends then you should know a lot about me. So, prove it". Wow, she is much more confident in this world than in mine. Ok, let's give this a go.

"Ok, well. You love animals, your cutie mark is three pink butterflies. You have a rabbit called Angel Bunny and you love him more than anything. You have a brother called Zephyr Breeze and he drives you mad. You are a fantastic singer but you are too scared to sing in front of any pony. You are the kindest pony I know, and I always go to you when I need help or comfort". She looked shocked. Wide eyes, mouth hanging open, the whole shocked package. I'm not sure if this is a good thing or a bad thing, hopefully the former.

"Um Twilight, why do you know all that?" Her voice is a high pitched whisper.

"I told you, I'm in a coma and we're friends in real life".

"No, that's not what I meant. I did have a bunny called Angel, but he died three years ago. As for my cutie mark, it's alway covered. The only photo of it is in my file just like every ponies is. Yes I do have a brother called Zephyr and yes he does drive me mad, but every pony knows about him, for all the wrong reasons. I do love singing but I'm not afraid to sing in front of others, in fact I sing all the time down at the pub on karaoke night". Now it's my turn to look shocked.

"I'm sorry Twilight, but not only were your facts distorted but they are also nothing no pony couldn't just have read in my file. I wish I could believe you, but you are showing all the symptoms of short term amnesia. I'll get Rainbow Dash to give you a few days rest". It's pointless trying to argue, and a few days off to find out more about this place does sound like a good idea.

"Ok, and thanks for not calling the local asylum". She chuckled and gave me a friendly smile.

"Don't worry, I hear they don't have a time traveling department anyway". We both laugh. It's so nice to see Fluttershy like this, making jokes and being confident. "Um listen. I don't know about the future, but if you'd like, I could be your friend".

"I'd like that". She smiled brightly, she looked so happy.

"Oh!" She went back to the desk and grabbed a packet of what I can only assume is more medicine. She put them in a bag, scribbled down a note and put it inside. "Here, these are more painkillers for when the ones you've taken wear off. Take two every four hours, if it doesn't hurt don't take any". She gives me the bag which I levitate onto my back with my magic.

"Thank you".

"And if Rainbow gives you a hard time show her the note I put inside. You need rest Miss Sparkle, nurse's orders". I smile at her and leave the office. Once outside I take out the note and read it.

'To D.C.I Dash

D.I Sparkle need time off work. She has suffered a terrible blow to the head which has left her with short term amnesia. She will recover, but only with rest and medication. I recommend at least two days off. If you disagree then you are not only putting a member of your team at risk but also the safety of the city. I have given Twilight some painkiller and have recommended rest, I am quite sure she will take my advise. I hope you do the same.

From P.C Fluttershy'

It is sweet to see Fluttershy intimidate Rainbow into doing the right thing. I'm surprised by how little fear she has of her, she even called her by her first name earlier. Maybe D.C.I Dash isn't that bad, or maybe she is and they've just learned to live with it. Either way I'm not going to be here long enough to find out, I'm going home.

I walk back into the dark, paper filled room to see Pinkie and Applejack working at their desks. Pinkie looks up when she hears the door open and smiles at me. "How are you boss?" It's funny to be called boss, but I suppose I am.

"I'm fine, thanks Pinkie". I don't think they mind if I use their first names.

"What did Fluttershy say?" I decide to miss out the part were I say I'm in a coma in case they're not so reluctant to call the asylum.

"She gave me some pain killers and told me to take two days off"

"The Gov's not going to be happy about that". Applejack said, still looking at the papers on her desk.

"I know, I'm just about to go in and tell her. Don't worry, Fluttershy wrote me a note". Pinkie smiled with understanding, I'm starting to think she and Fluttershy are quite close in this world.

"Oh, she has a note. For a moment there I thought there was going to be trouble". Applejack said, her tone dripping with sarcasm.

"Don't mind her Twilight, she's just being a grumpy guts because her sister's got a boyfriend". Pinkie smirked and Applejack looked up at her sharply.

"She does NOT have a boyfriend! She just has a friend who happens to be male"

"Yea, and I'm the Queen of Canterlot" Pinkie laughed hard and with the look on Applejack's face I chuckled too. Applejack has alway been protective of Applebloom, I guess somethings never change. Applejack pouted and busied herself with her work. "Oh come on AJ, you've got to stop babying her".

"I am not babying her". She mumbled, she didn't look up.

"Whatever. Anyway, good luck in there Twilight. Let's hope good old Fluttershy can persuade the Gov to give you a day off or two".

"We'll see". With one last smile at Pinkie I walk up to Rainbow's office, open the door and poke my head inside. I am greeted by the sight of Rainbow reading a newspaper with her back hooves crossed over on the desk. She looks up when she hears me.

"You just gonna stand there or are you going to come in?" I roll my eyes and walk in leaving the door to swing shut behind me. "What did P.C Shy say?" She folds her newspaper in half and throws it on the desk.

"She said I am suffering from short term amnesia, and that I need time off to rest". As expected Rainbow didn't look too pleased about that. She crossed her hooves over her chest and turned more to face me.

"I need all the ponies I can get, I can't let them have time off just because they got kicked in the head". I thought she wouldn't let me off so easily, thank goodness for Fluttershy and her persuasive note writing abilities.

"Fluttershy thought you'd say that". Rainbow raised one eyebrow.

"Did she now?"

"Yes, and she also told me to give you this if you do not comply". I use my magic to take the note out of my bag and levitate it over to her. She snatched it out of the air and read it. She calmly placed the note on her desk and turned back to me.

"Ok, but only two days. Not a second more!" I can't help the grin that spreads across my face. Good old Fluttershy. "Is that all?"

"Yes, thank you".

"Good. Now, do you remember where you live or am I going to have to get one of my team to take you there?" My smile faded quickly. Live? I live here? I suppose I must do, but where? My hesitation and expression must have given me away. With a heavy sigh and a roll of her eyes she said "Fine, I suppose I'll get one of the girls to take you home". Then I notice a similar box like thing on her desk that I saw in Fluttershy's office. Rainbow picked up the top part and it started to glow a pale yellow. She lifted it up to her mouth and began talking into it.

"Hey Fluttershy, you busy?" I could hear a muffled sound coming from the thing. "Good, I need you to take D.I Sparkle home. She's apparently forgotten where she lives". More muffled sounds. "Ok, her address should be with Spike, just ask him on the way out. She'll be waiting in reception, come up when you're ready". More muffled sounds and then she put the thing back on the box, it stopped glowing when the two pieces were connected. What in Equestria is that thing? Did she just talk to Fluttershy!? Without leaving the room!?

Rainbow noticed my look of shock and awe. "What's the matter Sparkles? You've never seen a phone before?" So that's what it's called, a phone. I simply shake my head. "Well you better get used to them, we'll add you on the system when you get back. Fluttershy will be waiting for you in reception, she'll take you home". I nod and leave, she goes back to her newspaper as if I'd never been there.

Worn Out Places

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Sure enough Fluttershy was waiting for me when I arrived. She had piece of paper under one wing and a folder under the other. When she spotted me she smiled and waved me over.

"Hey there Twilight, glad to see Rainbow took my advice. Feel any better?" The painkillers had began to work and my head did feel a lot better. I didn't know you could feel pain in a dream, I suppose you can.

"Yes thank you, the pain seems to be going away". She smiles at me again.

"Oh, I'm glad to hear it. Come on, I'm going to take you home". I'm still confused as hell about the whole thing, but I've got a feeling things won't be so bad with Fluttershy around. But that still doesn't mean I want to stay here any longer than necessary. Speaking of staying...

"Um, Fluttershy? Where do I live?" She seemed to be expecting that, she pulled out the piece of paper out from under her wing and gave it to me.

"Spike had your address. I'll take you there, see if you remember anything". Not very likely considering this is a dream. Fluttershy turned to face the desk and called "Thanks Spike!" I look around quickly to see Spike sat at the desk giving Fluttershy a salute and a smile. I smile in spite of myself, he looks just like my Spike. I promise you Spike, I will come home.

We left the building and walked out into the bright light of day. It was so dark inside the building that the light made my eyes hurt, I used my front leg to shield my eyes from the sun. Fluttershy didn't see to mind very much, she must be used to it. After a few seconds my eyes adjusted to the change in brightness, I lowered my hoof and had a look around. It was just like in my books, every detail. Ponies riding crudely built wooden carts, which would one day go on to become the Great Manehatten Taxi Service. Ponies smoking, completely unaware of the health risks. Shops, post offices, banks and many houses lined the streets.

That's when it hit me. I'm in 1973.

Fluttershy must have noticed me staring. "Yes, this is the great city of Manehatten. Full of wonderful ponies, and sadly some not so wonderful ones". She frowned as if remembering something unpleasant. I was about to ask what was wrong when she perked up and smiled again. "Come on, let's get you home". We turn right, the opposite direction I took to get here. At least I don't live in a rubbish tip.

We walk in silence, which under normal circumstances would be fine. But I'm in a coma, which I think we can safely say if far from normal. I decide to find out as much as I can, who knows, maybe I'll find a way home. "So, how long have you lived in Manehatten?"

"I've lived in Manehatted for about 9 years. I moved from Cloudsdale when I was 18, my parents weren't too happy about my choice of city but they supported me the whole way". That's sounds about right, maybe a few differences but not too many.

"How did you end up working for Rainbow, oh I'm sorry, D.C.I Dash". I say her title with a less than cheerful voice, she notices.

Fluttershy chuckles. "Oh Twilight, I know she can be a bit..." She pauses as if looking for the right word. "Harsh. But it's only because she love this city and wants to protect every pony in it. She is quite fun when you get to know her". Pinkie said the same thing, all I can say is I'll believe it when I see it. "I was recruited by the Princess because of my ability to talk to animals. Though I think it was to calm Rainbow down a bit myself". We both laugh at that. I've seen countless times were Fluttershy had to calm down Rainbow because she's worked herself up into a frenzy.

"I was assigned to Rainbow's team after 1 year of training. They knew I was too shy to go out and fight with them so they gave me the role of nurse and communications officer, they invite me along if it's an animal related case or if they need me to go undercover".

"It sounds like they really care about you". More then we do back home. We drag her along even when she tells us in no uncertain terms she does not want to go. The dragon, being a model for Photo Finish, even making the tornado to get the water to Cloudsdale. At least her team don't make her do things she doesn't want to do.

"They do, and I really care about them too. We work as a team here, we all look out for each other". I find that hard to believe considering what I already know about them. "I know you might not believe me now Twilight, but trust me. In a few weeks time you'll see just how lovely they really are". Hopefully I won't be here in a few weeks time, I'll be back home with my girls and Spike.

"That reminds me, have you met Rarity yet?" So Rarity does work on the team! I knew it!

"No".

"Oh you'll love her, she's very friendly. She's in charge of forensics". Rarity? Dealing with dead things? No, forensics must mean something else here. Rarity would never touch something dead with a ten meter pole. She probably just deals with the clothes and objects found on the victims. Right?

We'd been walking for about five minutes when Fluttershy announced we had arrived. So I live near the station, thank you subconscious! It was a block of flats, not surprising since I'm in 1970s Manehatten. Fluttershy opened the door and walked inside, she held it open for me. Once inside I noticed how dull the building really was. Great, I work in a dull place and now I live in a dull place. What could be better?

"Up hereTwilight". I looked up to see Fluttershy already climbing up the stairs. I let out a sigh and follow her up. Luckily I only live on the first floor, not too high up at least. "Here we are, room 2". She pulled out a key she'd been wearing around her neck which I had only just noticed and used it to open the door. "After you". Well, let's see what my mind has created for me to call home for Celestia knows how long. I walked inside and Fluttershy followed. Well, it's not what I'd call homely but it will do. Maybe.

There's a bed with a metal frame with white sheets and pillows, the carpet was a muddy brown. There's a window on the wall furthest from me with large green curtains, at least it will be brighter in here than the 'station'. There are small wooden book shelves around the room, each with a pathetic number of books on. In total there are about five books in my room, I'll need to change that. There was a door on the other side on my bed (we'd just walked through the door on the other side) which I can only assume leads to the bathroom. All in all this room was minimalistic at best.

It's nothing like the Golden Oak Library, I miss it. I let out a sigh. "Oh come on, it's not that bad is it?" Fluttershy, you have no idea. Five books!? Who has only five books? Obviously I do. I walk around and run a hoof along the bed and the shelves, they were dusty. Very dusty. Using my magic I picked up one of the books, the title was 'The Rules and Law of Manehatten'. This could be helpful I guess. I picked up another, 'The History of the Princesses'. I don't think there's anything in that one I don't already know, but I might skim read it later just in case.

"It may not be a castle, but with some new sheets and a good dusting this could be a really nice place to live". I turn back to Fluttershy and smile.

"You really think so?"

"I know so. I used to live in a flat like this for a few years. It may not have been perfect but I made it my home". That could not have been more appropriate. This place may not be perfect, but as long as I'm in a coma I might as well make it my home. Just until I get back.

"Oh, I almost forgot". She pulled the folder she'd been carrying out from under her wing. "I brought this for you to read. It's a short overview of the history of the team. There's nothing about us in there but it does tell you about why the Princess set up the Elements of Justice and some of the great ponies who served her". I take it in my magic and look at it, I'll read it when she's gone. "I thought it might help you to remember". I look up at her and smile. She really has no idea does she? But it's sweet that she cares, even if it's a lost cause.

"Thanks Fluttershy, I'll read it later". I put it down on the bed.

"You're welcome, I hope it helps". I nod, I hope it does too.

With one final look around the room I turn to face Fluttershy. "How long did you say I had to rest for?"

"Ideally a week, but there is no way Rainbow would let you have that long off. So I'd say about two days". That doesn't seem to bad, it gives me enough time to learn about this place and to find a way home. "I'd better get back to the station, they'll give me hell if I get time off work and they don't". Her tone was light hearted and fun, I think she's just joking.

"Ok, I'll see you in two days then?"

"Actually, me and the girls are going to the pub tomorrow night after work. Would you like to join us?" She sounds like her shy self again, it's nice to have that familiarity.

"I'd love to". She beamed at me again, she's is so easily pleased.

"Great! I'll come over around 7 o'clock and take you there". I've never seen Fluttershy so genuinely excited over something non animal related.

"Ok, I'll see you then".

"Great. Well, I'd best get going. It was nice meeting you Twilight". She was just walking out of the door when I had an idea.

"Hey Fluttershy?" She poked her head back in through the door. "Do you know where the nearest book store is?"

Going Back To My Roots

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According to Fluttershy there's a book shop two minutes away from the flat. She was right. There in front of me was a small brown shop with a large sign reading 'Book Barn' hanging over the front door. It looked a bit run down, like no pony goes in very often.

Well that's about to change.

Before I left the flat I had a look in my wardrobe to see what my mind has given me to wear in pre-liberation Manehatten. Inside was a pair of dark grey trousers and a pale grey T-shirt. I decided to wear the trousers and my jacket, I left the shirt behind. The trousers had pockets like my jacket, but unlike the jacket these pockets were empty. I had a look at myself in the mirror in my bathroom. It was high up so I could only see my head, but I looked rather good for a pony in a coma if I do say so myself.

A bell rang as I pushed open the door to the book shop which alerted the pony at the counter of my presents. He had a chestnut brown coat, blue eyes and a dark grey mane. The brown earth pony looked up and smiled when he spotted me. He put down the newspaper he'd been reading and waved me into the shop.

"Come in! Come in! Oh, welcome young lady". He seemed really happy to see me.

"Hello there, Mr...?"

"Dusty, Dusty Pages. And you ma'am?"

"Twilight Sparkle".

He moved around from his desk and walked out into the centre of the shop, which wasn't that far since the shop was so small. He was wearing grey trousers like me, a white long sleeved shirt and a blue waist coat over the top. He looked like he was in his mid thirties, about ten years older than me. His cutie mark was covered, but yet again nearly every pony's cutie mark is covered around here.

"Hello Miss Sparkle. What brings you here?" I thought the answer to that would have been obvious since I am in a book shop.

"I was hoping to buy some books?" It comes out more like a question than an answer. Dusty Pages beams at me, I'm starting to think ponies don't come in here very often.

"Oh wonderful! Might I ask what kind of books you were looking for?"

"I don't know. You see I've just moved here and I only have five books with me, and I don't think that's going to be enough. So I thought I'd go out and buy some more".

He looked happy but slightly puzzled. "A good idea ma'am, but if you don't mind me asking, why would a lovely young lady like yourself be interested in buying books? It's just, not many ponies come in here anymore". I know he wasn't trying to be rude or anything like that, he was just interested to know why I was here. According to the books I read in school ponies didn't tend to read a lot at this time, in fact most ponies just read newspapers and nothing else.

"I used to live in a library before I moved here, I suppose I just miss it. The books I mean". And the library. Dusty had the same look on his face that Rarity had when I told her I used to live in Canterlot, I've learnt from experience to be wary of that face.

"You lived in a library!? Oh, I've always dreamed of living in a library". He sounded wistful. "To be surrounded by books, all that knowledge, all those stories". I know how he feels, I miss all of that so much. "Oh you must tell me what it was like". Is he really asking me about the Golden Oak Library? No pony ever asks me about it, not even Spike, and he lives there!

"I'd love to, but first may I have a look around?" He looked sheepish and smiled.

"Oh, of course. I'm so sorry, I just ramble on all the time".

"Don't be sorry, it's nice to have some pony to talk to". I looked from left to right and back to Dusty. "Um, do you have anything on comas?"

He looked puzzled. "Comas?"

"Yes, or anything on mental illness or brain trauma?" He still looked confused. "How about medical practice? First aid?" He perked up a bit at that.

"Yes of course! Follow me, I'll show you". He walked me over to a tall wooden book shelf at the back, past the desk. I scanned the titles. 'First Aid 101', 'How to Deal With The Loss of a Loved One', 'What to Expect When You're Expecting'. They were so unorganized, I felt an overwhelming urge to sort them into some sort of logical order. I'll talk to Dusty about it later. Wait, why? Non of this is real, I'm not going to be here long enough to care. So why do I care?

"Is there anything there you were after?" Dusty asked over my shoulder.

"Um, not so far. I'll keep looking". I heard Dusty walking back to his desk while I continued to scan the books.

'Coughs and Sneezes Spread Diseases'
'First Time Dad For Dummies'
'Twilight!'

I looked back at the last book.

'Twilight! Can you hear me!?'

I pulled the thick red book off the shelf and stared at the front cover.

'Stand back y'all... she's breathing! Quick call a doctor!'

I hugged the book to my chest, a tear rolled down my cheek. I really miss them. I looked back down at the cover which now read 'The ins and outs of the Pony Mind'. It was red with a golden border around the edge. It was as thick as a dictionary and slightly bigger. The only thing on the cover was the title, no pictures, not even the name of the author. I ran a hoof over the cover in disbelief of what I'd seen.

I looked up at Dusty who was seated at his desk reading his newspaper. He must have sensed I was looking at him because he turned to face me. I smiled a small smiled. "This one please". He smiled back at me and tapped the desk with his hoof signaling me to come over.

I trotted over and gave him the book, he looked at the price on the inside front cover. "That will be six bits please". I pulled the wallet out from my pocket with my magic and got out a ten bit note. I'd never used notes before, but luckily they were worth ten bits each so it wasn't to difficult to work out. He took the note off me and gave me four bit coins in return which I put back into my wallet. "Would you like a bag?" I shook my head with a smile. "Ok, have a nice day Miss Sparkle".

"Please, call me Twilight".

"Ok then, Twilight. Please do come again soon, I can't wait to hear about your library".

"And I can't wait to tell you about it. I'll come by later in the week". After all, six books isn't much better then five.

"That's fine, I look forward to it". I turn and walk to the door, I wave good bye and leave.

A book, the first thing I buy in my coma is a book. Well it is my coma. Let's see, my flat is practically empty. I need to go shopping, but for now I'm going to go 'home' and rest. Nurses orders after all.

After a two minute walk back to my flat I locked the door and flopped onto my bed. I opened my newly purchased book to the first page to see what it said. It just dawned on me that I actually have no idea what this book is about, I only bought it because I swear it spoke to me. It did! I'm not crazy! Anyway, the first page was the contents page.

'1- Introduction
2- Phycology
3- Headaches
4- Comas and brain activity
5- Brain Dead
6- Index'

I turned to chapter four in hopes it could shed some light on the world I'm stuck in. The page had a picture of a pony in a coma and a diagram of a pony's brain. The pony in the photo had tubes sticking out of them and were hooked up to a machine that I assume was keeping them alive. I wonder if I look like that? That's if I'm not still in the castle, or if the Changelings haven't killed me yet. The pony in the photo looks so sad and ill, I know just how they feel.

Underneath the photo the caption read 'A young mare in a coma'. That may not be the most useful information ever, but it's something. Underneath it said...

'A coma can be caused by many things, the main one being a traumatic injury such as being hit in the head or being crashed into by another pony in a cart. If you see a pony who has been in one of these accidents call for medical help as fast as you can. Until then check to see if they are still breathing and measure their pulse.'

Well this isn't helpful either since I'm the one in a coma not helping some pony in a coma. Further down it said...

'It is believed ponies in comas can hear things going on in the outside world, this is why doctors encourage friends and family to keep talking to their loved ones. We are unsure how they can hear us and how they interpret that sound but evidence does suggest that talking to the patient can help to calm them and aid recovery.'

That's it! The poster, the book! They're talking to me and I can hear them! That means they're ok, and I'm not alone. That also means that they're alright! Oh what a relief, they're ok. I lean down and kiss the page in joy. So, I'm in a coma and my girls are trying to wake me up. I have full confidence that they will succeed, meaning I can just sit back and relax.

I continue reading the book for a couple of minutes before I decide to call it a night. I got up from my bed and using my magic shelved my new book next to 'The Rules and Law of Manehatten'. I took off my jacket and trousers and put them back into my wardrobe. I may be in a coma but that does not mean I should be unorganized and messy.

It feels better not to be wearing anything. I was born long after the Liberation act, so I've never known any different. I've seen photos of my parents and grandparents dressed in clothes similar to this time, I wonder how they did it? After brushing my teeth and having a shower I got into bed and turned off the light.

I fell asleep smiling, knowing that the girls and Spike will keep me safe and wake me up. Eventually.

Don't You Say to me Your Sun Don't Shine

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I had no idea what time it was. Spike usually wakes me up, unless I'm excited and can't sleep. Since Spike isn't here (sort of) I'll have to get up of my own accord, so I decide it's time for that much deserved lie in. I have saved the world countless times, and I am in a coma. If you can't have a lie in under those circumstances then when can you?

The sheets weren't the most comfortable in the world and the bed may squeak when I move, but there's no dragon waking me up at the crack of dawn and no life threatening thing that needs sorting out. For that I can forgive the less than comfy bed. Even the green curtains were on my side, blocking out the light leaving me in total darkness.

It was late morning when I woke up, too late for breakfast but too early for lunch. I wasn't hungry so I decided to wait for lunch instead of trying to eat the monstrosity known as brunch. It is just wrong to eat one meal instead of two, I could never see what Rarity liked about it.

Speaking of Rarity, Fluttershy had told me she worked at the 'station'. I didn't quite believe it when I heard she worked in forensics, either she works with the victim's clothes or this Rarity doesn't mind prodding dead things. I highly doubt the latter. I'll just have to wait and see.

I got up out of my bed and walked to the sink in the corner. The main room is my living area, bedroom, library and kitchen all in one. In fact the only room that is separate is the bathroom, probably because of health and safety, otherwise I truly believe they would have just shoved it this room next to the kitchen. I open one of my cupboards and levitate out a glass, fill it with water and take a sip. Then I walk over to the table next to the window and take a seat.

It is so boring here, you'd think being in a coma would be exciting wouldn't you? Anything can happen, life, death, pink fluffy pandas! Anything my mind could create. But no! MY mind decided to make me a D.I for some made up work force! I'm not even in charge! Oh but it doesn't stop there, now I have 'short term amnesia' so I have to take two days off 'work' and sit around in this poor excuse for a home!

I slammed a hoof down on the table in frustration causing the near empty glass of water to shake. "Some pony! Wake me up! I'M BORED!" No pony can hear me but I still shout, more out of annoyance that to actually contact the real world. "If you can hear me then I'd really like to wake up now!" I was looking up at the ceiling, as if they were up there and if I concentrated really hard I would see them. After few minutes I realized that they weren't there so I looked back down at the table and let out a sigh.

Then I heard a growl, I was hungry. I let out a little chuckle and got down from my chair. There was no food in the flat, I checked when Fluttershy left yesterday. There was only one other option then, I will have to go out and find something to eat. I went over to my wardrobe to get dressed, if any pony saw me like this they'd call the police on me. It was only now in the light of day and with a good nights rest I realized just how sparse my wardrobe was. Making a mental note to buy more clothes later I shrugged on the leather jacket and pulled on the black trousers. I entered the bathroom, splashed some water on my face and went to grab a brush for my mane. That's odd, I can't find one. I checked the cupboards and the draws, nothing. Oh great, I need to buy one of those too.

Using a damp hoof I smoothed down my mane and tail, when it looked presentable I shook myself to dry off a bit. I had a look at myself in the mirror, I looked alright but Rarity would have a fit if she saw me. I laugh at that, jump down from the tiny step I was on and walked out into the main room. Alright, let's go out and face the world my mind has lovingly created for me while my friends find a way to wake me up. Clothes, check. Wallet, check. Right, lets go.

It was sunny outside, birds chirping and children playing. At least my mind likes me enough to make it a lovely day even if it doesn't like me enough to wake up. It was nothing like Ponyville, just a concrete street flanked by two rows of buildings. Trees growing out of specially placed gaps in to ground and bushes along the edges of buildings were the only plant life I could see. It was a concrete jungle, but it looked nice. In the future they realize plants are good for you and start planting more of them around, but it's not much better than it is now.

"Good morning Miss". Who said that? I looked down to see a young filly looking up at me. She had a pale cream coat and a bright red mane. She had a green sun hat on that shaded her brighter green eyes from the sun, she was wearing a green dress with yellow flowers printed all over it. I was taken back a bit by her greeting, why would she be talking to me? I decide to be polite and talk to her, after all everything is significant in this world.

"Good morning to you too, um, I'm sorry but I don't know your name". Foals should never talk to strangers let alone tell them their name, but this is 1970s Manehatten and this is my coma.

"My name is Candy Cream, what's yours?" I wonder if I should be doing this, after all what is somepony sees us and gets the wrong idea? I look up behind her, no pony is there, maybe she's alone. I look back at her.

"Twilight, my name is Twilight Sparkle". She beamed at me and I suddenly feel less wary of talking to her. "Um, Candy Cream? Where are your parents?" She is still smiling so she can't be lost or anything.

"My daddy is at work and my mummy is over there talking to auntie Tea Leaf". She points to her left, I look to see who's there. Candy is pointing to a mare with a pale green coat and a striking red mane like hers, the mare had blue eyes and is wearing a similar dress to Candy's but in red. Yea, she looks like she could be Candy's mother. She is talking to an equally green mare with a yellow mane and wearing an apron over her clothes, that must be Tea Leaf.

Smiling I turn back to Candy Cream who looks back at me seconds later. She's quite sweet, but that still begs the question, why is she talking to me? "If your mummy is over there, then why are you talking to me? Not that I don't like your company". I add that bit at the end in case I hurt her feelings.

"You seemed lonely".

"I did?"

"Yea, like you didn't belong. So I thought I'd come and cheer you up!" She so full of fun and happiness, Pinkie would have loved her. "Did it work?" She seemed so desperate to know the answer.

"You know what? I think it did". I smile widely at her. I'm not very good with children since I'm the youngest in my family, the only foals I see regularly is Applebloom and her friends and even then I don't spend much time with them. Luckily for me Candy seems to like me despite my lack of parental instincts.

"Great! I'm glad you're happy now". The innocent way she talks is such a nice change from the rest of this world. In fact between being kicked in the head, pushed up against a filing cabinet and my little room Candy is the only truly nice thing that's happened since I arrived. So yes, she has cheered me up.

"Candy! Candy it's time to go". I looked back over to where Candy Cream had told me her mother was, sure enough the green mare was calling over to her daughter. I looked back to Candy.

"I'd better go. It was nice talking to you Twilight".

"It was nice talking to you too Candy. Go on, better not leave your mother waiting". She nodded and ran off to her mother. She gave her a hug and walked off in the opposite direction I was going. Nice girl, I wonder if I'll see her again? Maybe she's like Police Constable Astro Star, a kind face to come into my life and leave without trace. After all, they're not real.

A few minutes late I spotted a cafe, the sign outside read 'The Coffee Cove'. Like everything around here it was small and fairly dark inside, but I was too hungry to care. There were tables and chairs everywhere, about half of which were taken by ponies sipping cups of coffee and tea. The wallpaper was a deep red and the carpet was dark brown all adding to the darkness of the room. There was a counter with a glass display case with cakes and other treats inside and a black board with different types of drinks written on it in chalk.

I ordered a slice of carrot cake and a cup of mint tea. As I walked to a table and sat down I had a thought. I wonder if these calories count? It's silly to think they do, after all this is just my subconscious creating the illusion of food. Still...

In the end I decide to throw all caution to the wind and eat my cake. It was rather good, for a construct of my imagination. It was then I realized just how real everything seemed. The touch, the taste, the sights, the sounds. Everything was so real. I rubbed a hoof along my table, it was so realistic. There were even little doodles scratched into the wood, the letters 'L.H + B.B' were scratched onto the table with a heart around them. I wonder briefly if ponies can fall in love here, or whether it is all just an illusion of life and free will.

I heard a bell chime as somepony walked through the door. I looked up and was surprised by who I saw. It was Spike dressed in a little denim jacket and black trousers, he looked so cute and grown up. He might not be my Spike but I still feel happy to see him. He seemed a little bit taller than my Spike, not much taller but if he was standing next to a pony he would be at eye level with them. I hadn't noticed when I first saw him because he was behind a desk, speaking of which why is he here?

He walked up to the counter and ordered something. I decided to say hello. "Hey, Spike!" He turned to face me and smiled. Not the reaction I thought I'd get since the last time we met I freaked him out with a hug, maybe he's forgiven me.

"Oh, hello there". He paused trying to remember something. "Twilight?" I nod. "What are you doing here?"

"I was hungry, there's nothing in my flat so I thought I'd explore. Why are you here?" He gave the pony on the till some money and turned to face me.

"The girls up at the station wanted some lunch so they sent me out to get some. How's your head?"

"Oh, it's fine thank you. How did you know about that?" Sure, I looked hideous when I arrived, but I never told Spike about what supposedly happened.

"Fluttershy told me about it. Look, I'm sorry if I acted a bit odd when we first met. I didn't know what had happened to you. Can we, you know, be friends?" How could I say no to my favorite dragon?

"Of course! And I'm sorry too, I shouldn't have acted that way, even if I had been kicked in the head". We both let out a chuckle. "Friends?" I stuck out a hoof.

"Friends". He shook it. Just then the pony serving came back with six cups and lots of wrapped up pieces of cake and food. Spike tried to pick up the mountain of lunch, he didn't stand a chance. Toppling over slightly from the weight Spike staggered away from the counter, he only made it five steps before he fell. With a sigh I used my magic to catch everything before it hit the floor.

"Perhaps I can help you with that?" He looked both surprised and grateful at the offer. With a nod he stood up and walked over to me, I gave him a cup and a bag that I think had a sandwich in it. I stood up, pushed my chair back under the table and followed Spike out of the cafe.

"Thanks Twilight, the girls never offer to help". That surprised me.

"Not even Fluttershy?" He seemed to think about that for a moment.

"Well ok, she does, but she doesn't come with me. The team need her there in case they get a call". That makes sense I suppose, even if I don't know how those things (what did Rainbow call them? Phones) work. Still, Spike shouldn't be sent out on his own to get lunch for every pony.

"I'm sorry about that".

"Oh, don't be. I don't mind, really. It's my job, sort of, and I'm lucky I'm in the force at all. I wouldn't trade this job for the world". He seemed serious about that, he was even smiling. That's when I realized something, Spike is the only dragon I saw in the 'station'. Come to think about it, I don't remember reading about any pony and dragon relationships in the 1970s. There were some back when Starswirl the Bearded was around, but they became increasingly rare over the years.

"What made you decide to be in the force?"

"You really want to know?" I nod. "Wow, no pony has ever asked me before".

"Really? I'd thought that would be the first thing ponies would ask you". He shook his head.

"No, no pony really talks to me very much. That's fine though, I don't mind really".

"Well I'm asking now, and I'd love to know the answer". He smiled at me, he almost seemed confused but happy at my question.

"Well, ok. As you know the Princess set up the Elements of Justice after she had to banish her sister to the moon". I nod, I remember Rainbow telling me this yesterday. "These ponies were selected for their ability to keep Equestria safe from magical threats. For centuries the force was just made up of ponies, with one or two zebras. One day the Princess decided to add more creatures to the force, but she didn't know which creatures to add".

"One day she was given a gift from Saddle Arabia, a dragons egg. She nurtured it and cared for it knowing that when it hatched the dragon would become part of her team. And she was right! When it hatched she looked after the rather handsome purple dragon that came out and when he was old enough he joined the Elements of Justice. I've been working for them for about two years now".

I couldn't quite believe the story Spike had told me. It was similar to the story of how me and Spike met, but only this time it was Celestia and Spike.

"Wow". It was all I could say.

"I know right, the Princess herself picked me to defend Equestria". He was acting like his old cocky self again, it brought a smile to my face and a chuckle from my lips. Then I realized what Spike had just said...

"Wait! If you were raised by the Princess why are you just on the desk? And why does no pony offer to help you? It's clear they respect the Princess so why don't they treat you..." I pause looking for the right word. "Better?"

I didn't expect the response I got, Spike started laughing. "Oh Twilight! You really know nothing about us do you? Of course they they treat me with respect. It's just they've never had a dragon on the team before, they don't really know what to do with me. Like I said before, I don't mind that at all. Also, I don't want special treatment just because I'm the Princess's pet". Wow, he's really mature about this, but that doesn't mean it's right.

That's when we arrive at the 'station'. "Thanks for your help Twilight".

"It's fine, really. Do you want me to bring it in with you?"

"If it's not too much trouble".

"Not at all". We walked in through the double doors, they swung open dramatically (I think it was designed that way). Fluttershy was sat at Spike's desk reading a file similar to the one she gave me yesterday, when she heard the door open she looked up and smiled when she saw it was us.

"Oh, hello there Twilight. What are you doing here?"

I motioned to Spike with my head. "I was just helping Spike carry every pony's lunch. I just happen to be in the same cafe and offered to help. How are you?" She got down from the chair she was sat on and walked out from behind the desk towards us.

"I'm fine, thank you. Do you feel any better?" You know what? I do, I do feel better. Ever since I've accepted I'm in a coma and I know my friends are going to wake me up I have felt a lot better. Obviously I can't tell her that so I simply say...

"Yes, I do. Thanks to you that is". Fluttershy blushed a bit at my thanks, good to know somethings stay the same when ever you are. "Hey Spike, where do these go?" I moved the food and drinks in my magic to show him what I'm talking about.

"Right through here, but it's ok I'll take them from here".

"Are you sure? I didn't mind talking them through".

"It's ok, really".

"I'll help". Fluttershy offered. Element of kindness through and through.

"Thanks Fluttershy". Accepting defeat I hand over the food and smile at Spike who is still struggling with half of the lunch order. I turn to leave when I hear Fluttershy call out...

"Twilight, are you still on for the pub tonight?" I had almost forgotten about it, good thing she reminded me.

"Sure, I can't wait"

"Ok, I'll come over and get you at seven ok?" I nod and leave the 'station'. As much as I'd like to stay and chat with them I have something very important to do.

I need to go shopping.

Cider in The Jar

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Since when were doors so small!? Come on!

After I left the 'station' I went shopping. However I only had 24 bits, so I had to be very careful with my money. I went to some charity shops to buy some clothes. I ended up with a yellow shirt, a pale blue shirt which was too big so it hung off of one shoulder and a pair of jeans with a hole in the knee. I went to the cheapest shop I could find and bought some cereal, bread, some fruit and a packet of biscuits. I also got a hair brush, a tooth brush, tooth paste and a bar of soap.

Turns out that fills a lot of bags, which I am now struggling to squeeze through this tiny door! With a grunt and a lot of effort I mange to pull them through, however this causes me to fall backwards and my shopping to fall on my face. Great.

Standing up and removing the yellow shirt from my face I sigh and start putting everything in its proper place. This all came to 18 bits, leaving me with 6 bits to live on. Why does my brain hate me so much? I could have been anything, I could have been the student to Starswirl the Bearded, I could have been a great and powerful wizard. I could have been anything at all! But no, I am a D.I for a cruel mare, and now I'm broke too!

I let out another sigh, relax Twilight. You're friends will wake you up and then this will all just be a bad dream. With a smile I look up at the clock on the wall (one of the only things that came with the flat), 6:12 pm. Ok that gives me just under an hour till Fluttershy gets here, I might as well get into the 1973 spirt.

I brushed my mane into its usual style and wore my new yellow shirt under my jacket. Believe it or not this jacket is growing on me, that doesn't mean I can't wait to get rid of it though. After brushing my teeth, having a glass of water and an apple the time was 6:57 pm. One final look in the mirror and I give myself the 1970s mare stamp of approval.

Knock, knock, knock

Right on cue. Sure enough when I open the door Fluttershy is standing on the other side. She was wearing the same clothes she had on yesterday, the green shirt and denim skirt with her mane scooped back into a pony tail. She was smiling like every time I've seen her, it was becoming comforting and sweet.

"Hello Twilight. Are you ready to go?" I nod and start walking out of the door. I had my key in my jacket pocket with my wallet and that stick of gum I arrived with. I took it out, locked the door and put it back in my pocket.

"So, where are we going?" Even though I had a look around today and a bit yesterday I still don't know a lot about this place. Fluttershy said we were going to a pub, but I didn't see any pubs around here today.

"The Griffon's Claw, it's the local bar. Me and the girls go there all the time after work". I'm not used to pubs and bars, mostly because I don't drink. I know the girls like to drink from time to time (except Fluttershy), in fact I think Rainbow might have a bit of a problem. Every cider season we have to keep her indoors to stop her from hurting herself by drunk flying. Even so, I've never joined them for a drink. I was too busy studying when I was younger to go out clubbing or anything like that and I suppose I never wanted to when I grew up.

"What's it like?"

"Oh it's lovely! They do the best dandelion and burdock, and the mare who runs it is so nice. You'll love her".

We walk in silence until we reached the pub, which turns out to be a two minute walk from behind the 'station'. It was fairly large in comparison to the other buildings around here with lots of windows, from the light streaming out of them I can only guess it's brighter inside there than the other buildings too. It looked like a pub, I guess. Like I said I'm not used to pubs so I don't know if this is normal or not. Fluttershy walked in through the door and I followed.

Well, it certainly looks cozy in here. It's not small, but with the lighting and the many tables and booths crammed everywhere they could, it had a cozy feeling. There was some music playing in the background from a record player from behind the bar, I knew the tune but I couldn't remember what it was called. A few of the tables were occupied but most were empty, I can only assume more ponies will arrive later on once they've left work.

There was a bar on the right side of the room with several stools for ponies to sit on. The wall behind the bar was covered in bottles of liquor, I had no idea there were so many types! The carpet was dark green with red diamonds, the wallpaper was beige with darker stripes. Lights with dark green and red glass shades hung from the ceiling illuminating the room. All in all the pub was... cozy.

I looked back to Fluttershy who seemed to be smiling at me, she's probably wondering what I think of the place. She looked over to the bar and her smile widened by what she saw.

"Oh! There they are, hello girls!" She waved over to a group of ponies who were sat at the bar. On closer inspection I saw it was the girls from the 'station', Pinkie, Applejack, and sadly Rainbow Dash. Then I saw somepony else, she was holding a glass of deep brown liquid in her hoof. When she heard Fluttershy she looked around. I was surprised to say the least.

"Hello Fluttershy dear"

"Hello Rarity". Rarity! She looks nothing like my Rarity, and yet it is her. Her mane was not its usual well kept curls, it was slightly tousled and messy but still looked nice. Her eyes were highlighted with black mascara and dark eyeshadow. She was wearing incredibly tight jeans and a light purple sleeveless top. I could never imagine my Rarity dressed so, um what's the word? Sexy? Provocative? Unladylike? And yet, like every pony else in this world, it looked rather good on her.

"Twilight, this is Rarity. She works in forensics at the station". Rarity got down from her stool and walked up to me.

"It's nice to finally meet you dear". She still talks like my Rarity, maybe they aren't that different after all.

"It's nice to meet you too".

"Fluttershy told me about your accident, I do hope you are feeling better".

"Oh, I feel much better thank you. Just a knock to the head". She squinted and looked at the left side of my face, the bruise had faded and with my purple coat it was becoming harder and harder to see. And yet she looked, and she saw it.

"It looks like you were kicked rather hard sweetie. Good thing you weren't put into a coma". I let out a nervous chuckle, if she only knew. "You know what you need? A good drink, what will it be?"

"Just water please, thank you". She looked surprised by my order but smiled and got it anyway, she probably expected me to have something alcoholic.

"Yea Sparkles!" I looked over to see who had spoken. "Glad to hear you're feeling better, I knew old Flutter Butter here could heal you up". It was Pinkie, it was kind of nice to see her again even if she isn't my Pinkie. Neither Applejack or Rainbow Dash had spoken to me since I arrived, I wonder why? It's not like it bothers me or anything, I'm just curious.

Rarity returned with one glass of water and a smile. I took it from her with my magic and took a sip. "Thanks".

"You're most welcome dear". I looked around to see where Fluttershy was and spotted her sat on one of the bar stools next to where Rarity was now sitting.

"Come and take a seat Twilight". Fluttershy called from her stool waving to the one next to her. I did as she said and sat on the stool on her right and placed my drink down on the bar. When I looked up I saw a mare with a rich brown coat pouring a glass of something behind the bar. She gave it to another pony sat at the other end of the bar and took the bits they gave her in return. Her mane and tail were black and golden, softly curled and flowy.

That's when I heard Rainbow talk for the first time since I'd walked in. "Hey Brandy! Another cider! Stat!" The mare smiled and set to work making Rainbow's drink.

"Oh, you haven't met Brandy yet have you?" Fluttershy asked next to me. Before I could reply Fluttershy was talking again. The mare I now believe is called Brandy was handing Rainbow's cider to her when Fluttershy said "Um, Brandy?" The mare looked over to us smiling. "This is Twilight, she's new on the team". The brown mare smiled at me and walked up to face me (with the bar between us).

"Nice to meet you Twilight, my name is Brandy Snaps, but every pony round here calls me Brandy". She had a country accent similar to Applejack's, it made her sound kind and friendly.

"It's nice to meet you too Brandy". It was, I don't know why since she's not real, but it was nice to meet her. I wonder what part of my subconscious she represents? Probably the same part that made that sunny day or Candy Cream. The nice part, however small it is.

"You here with them?" She motioned to the girls with her head. I nodded.

"Yes, Fluttershy invited me". I jumped a bit when I heard Rainbow slam her mug that had once contained her cider on the counter.

"Brandy! Another one, on the double!" Brandy rolled her eyes and went to get Rainbow another drink. I looked over the the mare in question, she didn't look drunk. How can that be with the amount of cider she's drunk? Maybe alcohol doesn't have the same effects here as it does in the real world.

"How is she not drunk?" I whisper to Fluttershy. She giggles and whispers in my ear...

"Brandy waters it down with apple juice a little bit each time she asks for one, by the end of the night she's too tipsy to realize". I looked back to the brown mare in shock. She seemed so nice, I'd never have guessed she'd do something like that. And luckily neither did Rainbow. Brandy gave me a wink as she slid the mug of cider to Rainbow Dash. When what Brandy was really doing sank in I started to giggle too, I tried to hide it behind my hoof but Fluttershy still noticed.

"One night the Gov got so drunk she cause a bit of, how can I put this nicely? Trouble. Ever since Brandy has made sure she never gets that drunk again". I wonder what she did? Maybe I'll ask somepony one day.

"Do the others know?" She shook her head.

"Just me and Brandy, and now you". I feel slightly honored for a second that she trusts me with this secret. Then I remember it's my coma and it would be pointless keeping secrets from myself. But still, it feels nice to be trusted like that. "Don't tell anypony, Rainbow would have me on cell cleaning duty for a month". Just for a bit of fun I use the pinkie promise.

"Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye". Fluttershy giggles.

"What was that?" She didn't know? That's odd.

"It's a pinkie promise, have you never seen one before?" She shook her head.

"No, but I like it. I'll have to show that to Pinkie sometime". If only she knew.

I let out a sigh. "Yea, you will".

At that point Brandy came over to us. "What can I get for you girls?"

"The usual please Brandy". She gave a single nod.

"One dandelion and burdock, and for you Twilight?" I think for a moment, I scan the bottles of the wall behind her.

"Do you have anything non alcoholic?" Fluttershy smiled at me while Brandy smirked.

"Don't tell me you don't drink?" I nod, causing her to roll her eyes. "Looks like you finally found a drinking partner Flutters. Alright, let me think..." At that moment I saw Rainbow out of the corner of my eye smirking at me, her mane flopped down covering one eye and she was practically lying on the counter. Brandy noticed too. "Do you and old Dashie not get along or something?"

"You could say that". Brandy smirked, she looked like she'd just had an idea which may or may not be 100% legal.

"I've got an idea". She went to the stash of drinks and poured me a glass of something golden and clear. She handed me the glass and whispered in my ear "It's apple juice. Just tell them it's hard cider, pretend you can hold your liquor". She winked at me and walked over to another customer at the end of the bar. I stared down into the glass, wondering if I should go along with it. After all it would make me look better in the girls eyes, even if it is a lie. With one final look over at Rainbow I decide what the hell! Let's do it.

I take a large gulp and make a loud sound of appreciation. "Mmmmmm, you're right Brandy! This cider is delicious!" Brandy smirked at me and I smirked back. Fluttershy looked to me, the drink, to Brandy and back to me. Realization dawned on her face and she smiled along too.

"I'm glad you like it Twilight. Don't drink too much though, we don't want you getting drunk".

"Oh don't worry about me, I know how to hold my liquor". To emphasize my point I took another large gulp of the apple juice. It tasted really good, better than the water I've been drinking for the past two days. I look over at Rainbow who suddenly seems to be very interested in the bottom of her cider cup. I smirk in triumph and take a sip of my 'cider' to celebrate my small victory.

Brandy gave Fluttershy her dandelion and burdock after she finished serving the other pony. She turns to me and raises her glass. "Cheers". I raise my drink in my magic and tap it with hers.

"Cheers". We both take a sip or our respective drinks and place them down on the bar. You know, I think I'm starting to like it here. In the pub I mean, not in the coma.

"So darling, you really must tell us about yourself". I turned to look at Rarity. I could hear Fluttershy cough nervously behind me.

"Um, Rarity. Twilight has short term amnesia, it was caused by the blow to the head. She can't remember much about before the fight". I decide to play along, if I told them the truth I'd be hauled off to the nearest asylum. It's better if they think I can't remember anything.

"Yes I know that dear, but she must remember what she's done since then. Like what her new house looks like?" Besides the make up and the tight clothes Rarity still looks like the polite, inquisitive mare I met back on that day I first moved to Ponyville. At least I know not to bring up the fact I used to live in Canterlot this time.

"It's more of a flat than a house, and it's not the most homely of places. But I'm sure I'll learn to like it". She seemed happy with that answer, for now.

The group seemed to have split with me, Fluttershy and Rarity talking on one side and Pinkie, Rainbow and Applejack talking on the other. I listened in on the other conversation briefly.

"So AJ? How's your sister's new boyfriend? She snogged him yet?" I almost cringe at Rainbow's insensitive comment.

"He is NOT her boyfriend! And no! They ain't kissed!" Applejack downed the last of her drink and called Brandy over to order another. Pinkie rolled her eyes while Rainbow smirked and leaned forward on the table.

"Yea, whatever you say AJ". She leaned towards Pinkie and whispered something in her ear I couldn't quite catch, but judging by the way Pinkie snorted with laughter it was probably something rude.

"Honestly, why can't they leave that poor mare alone". Rarity muttered to herself. "Isn't it obvious she doesn't want to talk about it?"

Fluttershy nodded. "I agree. Applejack is so protective of her little sister, she needs to work through this on her own".

Rarity turned toward Rainbow and Pinkie at the end of the bar and said loudly "Or at least with her friends support". They stopped laughing and looked directly at us. Pinkie looked a little bit guilty while Rainbow just smirked.

"Lighten up Rarity, we're just messing with her". Rarity and Rainbow talked for a while about Applebloom, I stopped listening after 'messing with her'. I looked at the clock on the wall behind the bar, 7:45 pm. This is going to be a long night...

I Can't Change it but I'm Waiting Patiently

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By the time we left the pub it was nearly midnight. How can anypony drink for that long? By the end of the night most of the girls were a little bit tipsy, only me and Fluttershy were completely sober. I learnt a little about them but nothing that could get me home. Like in my world Rarity has a little sister called Sweetie Belle, however this Sweetie Belle is a little bit older that the one I know. Both Sweetie Belle and Applebloom are in their late teens, Sweetie is seventeen and Applebloom is sixteen next week. I didn't hear anything about Scootaloo, I didn't ask about her in case they started asking me questions that were best left unanswered.

Rainbow was brash and overly confident, Pinkie was full of laughs, Rarity was quite crude at times and Fluttershy was the same as usual. Applejack didn't say much to me at all, the only time we talked was when I was dragged into the conversation about Applebloom...

"Oh relax AJ, it's not like she's running off to marry the guy right?" Rainbow was still on the subject of Applebloom's love life and it was starting to get annoying.

"Yea, the Gov's right. Hey Sparkles, you got any siblings?" I was surprised by Pinkie's question, especially since I had been left out of the conversation for most of the night. I didn't really want to answer it either, partly because I want no part in teasing Applejack and partly because I don't know if my BBBFF exists in this world. Sure, the girls and Spike are here, but does that mean every pony else is too? I mean these aren't even my friends, they just look like them. In the end I decide to answer honestly and hope they don't know Shining in 'real life'.

"An older brother". No need to mention names. Sadly my short answer wasn't enough for Pinkie.

"And how did he feel when you started dating?" I coughed into the drink I'd been sipping sending 'cider' everywhere. Dating!? I've...that is to say I've... Oh how do I answer this?

"Well, um, I've, um. You see he, um, he would have been supportive?" It comes out more like a question rather than a statement. I can only hope they didn't pick up on my choice of words. To my surprise it was Rainbow who spoke first.

She put up a hoof as if to stop me talking or interrupting her. "Hold on a minute Sparkles. Have you ever had a date?" I could feel myself blushing. My face must have gave the answer way because Rainbow started laughing. "Oh, oh my! You've never had a date!?" I shook my head, I was getting annoyed now. "I wonder why". The way she said it made me think she wasn't trying to be supportive but rather pointing out an obvious point.

Applejack was smirking into her glass, obviously glad they were no longer talking about her. I was starting to wish I'd lied and told them he was overly protective too. I looked over to Fluttershy who was cringing, she looked at me sympathetically as if apologizing for Rainbow's behavior. Pinkie was chuckling, at least she was trying to hide it behind her hoof. Rarity looked angry, but at the same time confused. She probably doesn't understand how somepony could never have had a date.

"Rainbow please! It isn't nice to laugh. I'm sure Twilight has a very good reason why she's never had a date, haven't you dear?" She looked over to me, they all did. I gulped and started to tell them what I hope was a good enough answer.

"I was always so busy studying. Also there weren't many boys at my school and I had no desire to go out and look for any". Rainbow rolled her eyes, the others just seemed to let it go. Except Applejack who muttered something under her breath.

"Poof". Rainbow snickered and Pinkie smirked. I don't know what 'poof' meant, but it couldn't have been nice. Thankfully they left it at that, both Applebloom's new boyfriend and my lack of them.

Fluttershy offered to take me home but I declined. I knew my way home and I was completely sober so I felt like there was no need. I opened the door to my sad looking flat and walked inside. I'm so tired, please tell me I don't have to do that every night? If I do I might not make out of this coma alive.

Before I'd left the pub Rainbow said something to me.

"Hey Sparkles! You'd better be in work tomorrow, you sick days are up". I felt a bit scared at the idea of having to spend the whole day with them, especially Rainbow. I guess I have no say in what my subconscious has in store for me, so I'd better just get on with it.

"I'll see you tomorrow, D.C.I Dash". I can't help but say her name with venom, she doesn't deserve the title.

Now as I lie in bed I realize what I'm actually going to have to do. I'm going to be a D.I for Rainbow Dash. I have no idea what to do, I really don't think this is going to wake me up and the longer I'm here the longer Equstria is in danger. Oh, what I wouldn't give for the Princess' advice right now.

Wait! The Princess, of course! She set up this 'team' didn't she!? Without getting out of bed I grab the folder Fluttershy gave me on my first day with my magic and open it. Inside were a bunch of photos of ponies in uniform and magical creatures in a multitude of restraining devices. There was a page of writing in Celestia's hoof writing.

'The Elements of Justice are the protectors of Equestria. Since the dreadful day I had to banish my dear sister to the moon Equestria has been under threat. Magical creatures big and small have had a go at taking over my Kingdom, and I am sad to say I can no longer protect my subjects like I used to. This is why I set up this team, so that my subjects can rest easy and be safe. These ponies are here to fight off threats to Equestria and make it a peaceful place. It is now your duty to make this place safe, and maybe one day a place we are all proud to call home'.

Home? Is that a clue? If I protect these ponies, will I wake up? Arrrggg! Why is this all so cryptic!? Despite my anger I still can't help but feel sad for Celestia, she had to send her only sister away. It must have hurt, especially if it meant her kingdom was under more threat because of it. When I wake up I promise I will talk to her about all of this. But first I'm going to give the girls the biggest hug of their life.

Then I see a line of writing at the bottom of the page that I swear wasn't there before. I read it in hopes of finding another clue.

'Twilight? I don't know if you can hear me, but you're going to be alright. I won't let anything happen to you, I promise'.

A tear rolled down my cheek and splashed on the page. Using a hoof I rubbed my eyes, when I looked back the words were gone. I don't know who said them, perhaps one of the girls? Spike? Maybe even a doctor. Either way, I trust them. I know they'll wake me up, and when they do I'm going to need some serious therapy.

With a sad smile I returned the file to its spot on top of a bookshelf. I know they'll wake me up, I know they will... I know they will...

Ironically, that was my last thought before I fell asleep.

Hello Teacher Tell Me What's My Lesson

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Seriously! Why do these doors swing like that? Someday it will cause an accident!

Well, I'm here at the 'station' ready for my first day as Rainbow's D.I. Am I nervous? absolutely! What if Rainbow looses her temper and pins me to a filing cabinet again!? Or worse!? What if the girls tease me for never having a date, or they find out I think I'm in a coma and call the men in the white coats!? What if...

"Good morning Twilight". Spike's cheerful greeting snaps me out of my thoughts. He's sat at his desk dressed in his denim jacket and white shirt. The sight calms me down, at least Spike won't be mean to me.

I smile back at him. "Good morning Spike". I walked over to his desk.

"Glad to see you back and ready for work. How are you feeling?" I didn't know if he mean my injury or my nerves. My head felt fine so I decide to ask for some reassurance.

"To be honest, I'm a little nervous". Spike nodded his head in understanding and gave me a reassuring smile.

"I understand, but trust me. The girls aren't that bad once you get to know them, and from what I heard you got on rather well with them at the pub last night". I cringe internally at the memory. Truth be told it wasn't that bad, but it only reinforced my belief that Rainbow is a self obsessed bully. And now I've got to work for her, oh this is not going to go well.

"Yea, you could say that". I looked around the empty room. "Hey Spike, do you know if Rainb... sorry, I mean D.C.I Dash, is here yet?"

"She is, and has been for the past hour and a half. She always gets here long before the others". That didn't calm my nerves at all.

"Are any of the others here yet?" Spike thought for a moment.

"Yes, Rarity and Fluttershy are. Applejack and Pinkie aren't here yet, but they should be soon". It made me feel better knowing Fluttershy was here, however I'm not sure I like the idea of being alone with Rainbow Dash on my first day. Hopefully Pinkie and Applejack will be here soon.

"Thanks Spike. Um, which way was the office again?" He tilted to the door on the right and smiled at me.

"That one just there, you should know where you are after that". This is so different to the last time we had this conversation. Last time Spike was reading a newspaper and just waved me through, now he is talking to me and being supportive. It makes me happy that I've got a friend, but it also makes me miss my Spike even more.

"Thanks, I'll see you later". I walked towards the door.

"Good luck". I let out a chuckle. I'm going to need it.

I open the door and walk into the dark, paper filled room I'd walked into all those days ago. Only this time I was prepared for it, I know my way around (sort of) and I know this is all just a coma induced dream. The lack of ponies is almost comforting, like I can explore without having to hide it. I kept walking until I reached a desk, on top of it was a file surrounded by wrappers and notes on Celestia knows what. Using my magic I picked up the folder and read the title, 'Dr Caballeron'. I have to laugh, it's a file all about a character from a Daring Do book. My mind works in mysterious ways. I put the file back and keep looking around.

It wasn't the cleanest of places. There were food wrappers on desks and on the floor, screwed up notes lay littered around the bins like they had been thrown and missed. It wasn't bad, it was just not as organized as I would like. Then again I would like to be anywhere else other than here right now, so I guess we don't always get what we want now do we?

After a look around I looked over to Rainbow's office. There was a light on and I could make out the shape of a pony inside. I'd been dreading this part, but if this is what my mind has created for me to do I might as well get on with it. I trotted up to the door, took a deep breath and knocked.

"Come in Twilight". The gruff voice said from inside. I opened it and walked in, I kept the door open in case I needed to run or scream for help. You know me, err on the side of caution.

"How did you know it was me?"

"I saw you walking around out there for the past few minutes Sparkles, also Spike phoned me". Oh, she could see me? Oh great. Also, what is a phone?

"Oh, sorry about that". Rainbow put down the paper she'd been reading and looked at me. She had her back hooves crossed on the desk and her front hooves in her lap. She was wearing a grey shirt with buttons down the front and long sleeves, black trousers and a dark grey tie tied loosely under her collar. She looked so serious compared to my Rainbow, it was almost easy to say she was a different pony all together.

"Now that you've stopped gawking at everything we can get down to business". She removed her hooves from the desk and sat staring at me. I felt a bit cocky and decided to say something.

"Well come on then teacher, what's my lesson for today then?" I thought she'd be angry, maybe even just a little annoyed. No, instead she just smirked.

"You really are a book worm aren't you? Ok Sparkles, you want a lesson? I'll give you the hardest lesson of your life". I gulped, that didn't sound good. She stood up from her chair and grabbed a file off the top of a filing cabinet. Even though it was high up she didn't fly to get it, I wonder why? Come to think of it, I've never seen this Rainbow fly.

She tossed the file onto the desk and opened it to a photo of a changeling. The image brought with it a flash back of the fight, me being kicked, Rainbow shouting a warning before I was knocked out. I feel a bit dizzy. That's when I heard Rainbow speak again.

"What do you know about these things then D.I Sparkle?" This had to be a clue, didn't it? Of all the creatures she could have picked she chose a changeling. It must be a clue.

"It's a changeling. They have the ability to change their appearance to blend in. A changeling hive has one Queen and usually thousands of changeling soldiers. They feed on love and it is their Queen's duty to find it". Rainbow looked satisfied with the answer and closed up the folder. She put it back on the filing cabinet and pulled down another.

"What do you know about this species?" She opened the folder to a photo of a parasprite. I couldn't help but smile at the memory of Pinkie rounding them up with music.

I got a bit cocky again, in hindsight that might not have been a good idea. "That, D.C.I Dash, is a parasprite. They eat anything they can find and reproduce at an average rate of five parasprites an hour. The only way to stop them is by playing music". Rainbow looked less then impressed.

"Music?"

I nodded. "Yes, they prefer polka but anything will do". Rainbow had a look that said 'really? You expect me to believe that?' Suddenly I regret being so confident.

"Is this a joke to you Sparkles?"

"What!? No! I'm serious, I've seen it with my own eyes". She didn't look convinced. This must be before they discovered that parasprites like music. No wonder she doesn't believe me, I didn't believe Pinkie.

"Ok, the next time we get a parasprite swarm I'll lend you my tuba". She said deadpan. Rainbow swept up the folder and put it way where it came from, I briefly wonder if she has them organized or if they're like the rest of the station. "And for Pete's sake shut the bloody door! I'm not going to kill you you know".

Embarrassed not only by the fact she'd noticed but also her use of language I hastily shut the door. "Now, according to the Princess you know a lot about Equestrian history". I smiled in-spite of myself, I know more that just 'a lot' about Equestrian history. This should be a snap.

"Yes I do, I've studied it for years". Rainbow rolled her eyes.

"Yea yea, I get it, you're an egg head". She says it like it's a fact and not a mean nickname. "Anyway, what do you know about Discord?" That took me by surprise.

"Um, you mean the statue in the Royal Garden?" She nodded. "I know he is the embodiment of chaos and disharmony". I took a deep, calming breath. "He is a draconiquis, they are so rare that Discord is the only one to have ever come into contact with ponies. He was cruel to the ponies of Equestria so the Princesses used the Elements of Harmony to turn him to stone. He is now held prisoner in the Royal Garden in Canterlot, that is until he finds a way to break free".

Rainbow snorted. "Yea, like that's ever gonna happen". I suppress a smirk, if only she knew. "Well you seem to know your stuff Sparkles". I smiled widely at the praise, which was caught by Rainbow. "But don't think I won't be testing you later".

"I wouldn't expect anything else, ma'am". I say the last word with as much sarcasm as I can.

"That's Gov to you". She sat back in her chair, put her front hooves on the desks do leaned forward. Her mane hung slightly over one eye like it had in the pub. "For the past few days while you've been out enjoying yourself we've been trying to track down a changeling spy". A changeling!? "One of our scouts spotted two identical ponies in the same area, they believe there could be an invasion coming". Gulp...

"How do you know they weren't just twins?"

"We looked the pony up, they have no siblings and non of their family look similar enough to be mistaken for a twin". She opened a draw in her desk and pulled out yet another file and threw it on the desk so I could see. There was a photo paper clipped to the front of a grey pegasus with unfocused yellow eyes. "Name's Ditzy Do, we interviewed her about the case. She was so clumsy her parents should have called her Derpy instead of Ditzy". I know her, she lives in Ponyville. She's the pony who dropped a piano on me! Rainbow's right, they should have called her Derpy.

"She confirmed it was her at the market that day, she had been waiting for a friend called Time Turner. We asked him about the case too, he told us it was true. Besides, I doubt for one minute the Ditzy is capable of doing anything illegal". Rainbow gave a wiry smile and a low chuckle.

"What makes you say that?" She looked up at me, the smile gone but there was a look in her eyes that said she was still smiling inside.

"I knew her in Flight Camp. She was hopeless, sweet but hopeless". The fact that Rainbow has memories and emotions attached to them was a surprise. I didn't know these ponies my mind had constructed could have such detailed backgrounds. "Anyway, we've got all our scouts out looking for ponies with doppelgängers hanging about". It surprised me even more to hear Rainbow use words like 'doppelgängers'.

"Have they found any?" She nodded her head.

"We've had two sightings. One was a mare called Bon Bon and the other was a stallion called Coco Crusoe. Both have been visited and both have confirmed that they were there when the changeling was spotted. Bon Bon had been out having lunch with her best friend Lyra and Coco was out buying a smoothie with his mare friend".

"Have you found any links between the ponies?" She looked up at me and shook her head.

"Apart from them all being boring as hell we haven't spotted any links". The lack of adventure was clearly bothering her, she looked bored and tired.

Before I could ask anything else I heard the door to the office open and somepony walking in. I looked over my shoulder and looked through the window of the office, it was Pinkie. She walked up to her desk and sat down, her desk was out of my line of vision so I turned back to Rainbow.

She let out a sigh. "Go talk to D.C Pie, she has more information on the case". She waved her hoof in the the direction of the door clearly indicating for me to leave. I opened the door and was just about to walk out of her office when I heard her say "Oh, and go see Fluttershy when you've got a minute. She'll put you on the phone system". I still didn't really know what a phone was but I nodded to show I would go see her. I had a quick look back only to find she was already reading another file. I shut the door behind me, the noise caught Pinkie's attention.

"Oh, good morning Twilight".

"Good morning Pinkie, um, D.C.I Dash said you had some information on a possible changeling spy that I should know about?" She smiled and pulled out another file from the stack on her desk.

"Here you go". I expected more than just a file, but I suppose it is probably easier just to read about it than get Pinkie to explain it to me.

I took it with my magic. "Thanks".

"You're welcome boss". That was unexpected. Did she just call me boss? "How's the Gov?" It took me a second to realize she mean Rainbow Dash.

"She seems restless, like she's bored or something". Pinkie let out a short laugh.

"Yea, that sounds about right. This case hasn't got nearly enough action to keep her entertained". Pinkie shoved a hoof into the top pocket of her jacket and pulled out a stick of gum similar to the one in my pocket, she unwrapped it and put it in her mouth. She chewed it for a few seconds, then she blew a large bubble. It popped, she dragged it back into her mouth and continued to chew.

Getting the sense that our conversation was finished I walked away from her desk. I scanned the room, there are at least fifteen desks if not more, which one is mine? I looked over my shoulder at Pinkie. "Um, Pinkie? Which desk is mine?"

Her reply was slightly muffled since she still had the gum in her mouth. "That one over there". She pointed behind her to a desk that was a bit to close too Rainbow's office for my liking. It was clear, no files, no wrappers, not even an empty mug. There was only a box which I heard Rainbow once call a phone. I smile sheepishly, I suppose it was kinda obvious wasn't it?

"Thanks". I trotted over and placed the file on the desk. I sat down on the sad looking wooden chair, it wasn't very comfortable but at least it wasn't one of those stools we had in magic kindergarten (they were awful!). I opened the file to the first page, it was just information on changelings, nothing I didn't already know. The next page caught my attention. It was a sheet of blank card with notes and photos paper clipped to it. There was a photo of Ditzy, a photo of a cream mare which I recognized as Bon Bon and a polaroid of a brown stallion with the name Coco Crusoe written in black pen at the bottom. There was a note with times and locations written on it.

'Ditzy Do- market place/ 12:58 pm

Bon Bon- The Coffee Cove/ 1:23 pm

Coco Crusoe- The Groovy Smoothie/ 5:47 pm'

The was another list that had their reason for being there and who they were with.

'Ditzy Do- Meeting a friend, a stallion named Time Turner. They were going to look around and get some muffins afterwards.

Bon Bon- Having lunch with a friend, a mare named Lyra Heartstrings. They went to the Coffee Cove cafe. They were going to go for a walk in the park afterwards.

Coco Crusoe- Buying a smoothie for his mare friend, a mare named Shoe Shine. They were going to the cinema afterwards.

All stories have been confirmed and we have evidence to support each one.'

The notes were hastily scribbled down and torn off a note pad. I read each one again, and again, and again until I knew them inside and out. It helped that I knew these ponies in the real world, like I know Ditzy and Time Turner really are close friends. I also know that Lyra and Bon Bon are a bit closer that 'just friends', in fact I've seen them cuddling and cooing over each other in Ponyville all the time. I don't know Coco as much as the others but I see him at Hayburger sometimes, and he does occasionally bring Shoe Shine with him. Each are plausible stories that mind has created for each of them.

With a sigh I closed the folder. I might as well see Fluttershy, perhaps I'll have better luck figuring this case out later. I got up from my chair and left in pursuit of the communications office. Spike had said Fluttershy was already in, I can only assume she's in her office.

The corridor was still plastered in posters like it was when I first arrived, only there were some different ones. More missing pony posters, a few posters for upcoming events and some rather disgusting pin ups of mares in bikinis. One poster caught my eye, it was a wanted poster with a black and white photo of a mare. That wasn't why it caught my eye, the reason I noticed it was because it had a large line through it in red pen and the word 'murder' scribbled across the bottom. It made me somewhat nervous to see it. I knew ponies were murdered, of course I did! But seeing it like this made it all seem so real, kind of ironic don't you think?

I finally made it to Fluttershy's office and knocked on the door. "Come in". I opened the door to find her sitting at her desk, she looked up and smiled. "Oh, good morning Twilight. I didn't know you'd arrived yet".

"I've only been here for about twenty minutes. D.C.I Dash was just telling me about the case with the changeling spy". She nodded.

"I know, it's just awful isn't it? So, why did you come to see me? Not that I'm not glad to see you or anything". She had got up from her desk and was walking towards me.

"D.C.I Dash said I had to come down here so you could put me on some sort of phone system?" It came out more like a question than an answer. Fluttershy smiled.

"Ok, follow me. I'll get you set up"

"Thanks". Then she let out a chuckle.

"And Twilight, you don't have to keep calling her D.C.I Dash. In fact she prefers it if you call her Gov". I still don't like to think of her as my boss at all, I just call her D.C.I Dash because she is nothing like my Rainbow Dash, and it helps me to keep the two separate. Besides, I'm not going to be here long enough to worry about what to call my 'boss'.

"Whatever". I mumble under my breath, she still hears it. She lets out another chuckle but doesn't say anything else. She led me into another room, the one she had been in when I first met her. It was sort of small, but big enough to easily hold two ponies. One of the walls was covered in blinking lights and dials, I'd never seen anything like it. Was this what controlled the phones?

"Um, Fluttershy?". She looked over her shoulder at me. "What is a phone?" She gave me a sympathetic smile and turned to face me.

"Oh Twilight, your memory hasn't fully come back yet has it?" For the sake of simplicity I just shake my head, no point trying to explain the truth again. "A phone is a device that uses our individual magical signature to contact other members of the force. Each pony has a unique magic, we use that to contact each other when they aren't nearby". She turned to the wall of flashing lights.

"We use this to register every pony's magical signature into the system". Then she walked over to a box, which I now know is called a 'phone', on the desk. "Then we use these to call them. The phone knows who you are and all you have to do is think about the pony you want to call. Any questions?" I have hundreds, but they can wait.

"How do I register?"

"It's simple, come over here and I'll show you". We walked over to the wall, Fluttershy pointed to a pad that was sticking out of the wall slightly. "Just put your hoof on there". With some minor hesitation I did as I was told. I didn't feel anything, no shock or pain, that was a relief.

"Now what?" Fluttershy pushed a button on the wall and the pad vibrated slightly under my hoof.

"Now you just talk".

"About what?"

"Anything, just so the machine can identify your voice". Unsure what to say I decide to go with the obvious.

"My name is Twilight Sparkle, I am 25 years old and have a star for a cutie mark". What else can I say? Anything else might make me look like a nutcase. "I, um, I have an older brother who is captain of the Royal Guard, um, I am a D.I?" Luckily for me the machine beeped and the pad stopped vibrating. Fluttershy switched it off.

"Ok you can take your hoof off now". I did as she said and shook it a bit for no real reason. "That's it, you are now on the system". Well that was easy. "Would you like to try phoning some pony?" I nodded, might as well see how this phone-thing works. "Ok, let's try ringing Spike. I highly doubt the other girls would want to be disturbed for a test run".

We walked over to the phone on her desk, I looked at with apprehension. "Go on, pick it up. It won't bite". I picked up the top bit like I'd seen Rainbow do on my first day and held it to my ear. "Now just think about Spike". I tried thinking about Spike, but all I could see was my Spike. My library, my friends. I noticed the phone wasn't working. "Don't worry, it may take some practice but you'll get the hang of it".

I tried again, I thought about when I met Spike in the cafe. Helping him carry every pony's lunch, hugging him on my first day. Suddenly the phone started glowing purple and I could hear Spike's voice coming from the thing next to my ear. "Yes, who is this?" I turned to Fluttershy who motioned for me to speak and gave me an encouraging smile.

"Um, hey Spike, it's Twilight".

"Twilight? Since when were you on the system?"

"Actually Fluttershy just set me up, your sort of my test call".

"Oh, well I'm honored. So how's your first day going?"

"Quite well, D.C.I Dash gave me a brief lesson on mythical creatures. Nothing too bad I suppose".

"That's good, glad to hear your doing alright. Well I'd better go, tell Fluttershy I said hi".

"Ok, see you later Spike". I put the thing back on top of the box and it stopped glowing. That was surprisingly easy, and efficient. When I wake up I'm going to have to tell the girls about these.

"See, I told you it would be easy". I turned to face Fluttershy.

"Yea, you were right". I looked back at the phone over my shoulder. "And that's it? I can contact any pony at any time?" She nodded.

"As long as you know of them and you don't call them at unforgivable times. I remember some pony once phoned the Gov in the middle of the night, I heard they got cell cleaning duty for a month". She cringed at the memory. I could only imagine Rainbow's distain at being woken up at such an ungodly hour.

"Um, Twilight? If you don't have anywhere else you have to be would you mind I gave you a check up. You know, just to make sure you're recovering well".

"That would be great". She smiled and started walking out of the room, I followed her out.

"Ok, I mean I'm sure you're fine, but it doesn't hurt to be sure does it?" I shook my head.

"No it doesn't". We reached her desk and she proceeded to look me over. She shone the light in my eye, made me roll my head and recited to alphabet to see if my memory had been badly effected in the 'fight'.

When it was done she smiled at me. "You seem to be fine, nothing but minor memory loss. The bruise is fading quickly and you seem to be fit for work". Just then the phone in the other room rang. She waved over to a chair by the wall. "Sorry Twilight, I need to get that. If you could sit there I'll go see who it is". I did as I was told and sat in down in the uncomfortable chair. Fluttershy walked into the room and shut the door.

While I waited I flicked through the folder Pinkie had given me about the case. I knew these ponies in the real world, that must be come kind of clue right? Let's see we've got a pair of friends at the market, two more than friends at a cafe, and a stallion and his mare friend going out for a smoothie.

Oh this is hopeless. They're all just ponies spending time with the ones they love!

Wait! Love! That's it! They're all spending time with the ones they love! And changelings feed on love! It makes perfect sense! I made the connection!

And if I can do that maybe I can find a way home!

Confident and determined I got up from my seat and ran out of the office just as Fluttershy was coming back in. "Twilight! Where are you going?"

"I found the answer! I've got to go tell Rainbow Dash!" I didn't hear what she said next, I was already in the main room. Applejack had arrived and she and Pinkie were chatting.

I burst into Rainbow's office, in my excitement I forgot to knock but I don't care right now. She looked up from the file she'd been reading and glared at me.

"Don't you know it's rude to barge in on a pony like that?"

"I found it!" She looked annoyed and puzzled.

"Found what Sparkles?"

"The connection, I found what all three ponies have in common". She looked interested in what I had to say.

"Well spit it out then".

I took a deep breath. "Each of the ponies that were spotted with a copy nearby was spending time with a loved one. Ditzy was waiting for her friend, Bon Bon was having lunch with her closest friend ever and Coco was with his mare friend". Rainbow nodded along. "And what do all changelings feed on?" Rainbow's eyes widened in realization.

"They feed on love!"

"Exactly! The changeling, or maybe changelings, are looking for pairs or groups of ponies with a strong emotional connection. Don't you see, it's not an invasion they're just feeding". Rainbow stood on her hind legs and propped herself up with her front hooves on the desk.

"Even if that's true Sparkles, I still want those pests out of my city". As much as I would like to disagree and say they're not hurting anypony Rainbow is right. The longer they are in the city the more likely they'll be an invasion, and if I can get rid of them then maybe I can get home.

"How do you intend to find them?" She sighed and sat back in her chair, her hooves still on the desk.

"Well you're the egg head around here, you tell me". I thought for a moment. What is the best way to find a changeling? Last time I just knew because Cadence wasn't acting like herself, but this time I won't have that luxury. I could tell Rainbow was getting impatient.

"Come on Sparkles! You found the pattern was love, now find us a way to catch them". Love! That's it.

I looked her in the eye with determination. "Ok, this is what we're going to do".

It's a Clue To The Answer We All Chase

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"Right you lot, listen up! D.I Sparkle Butt over here has come up with a plan to find that changeling spy". Rainbow announced to the group of ponies gathered around her, me and a black board. There were some I didn't recognize and some who I knew of but couldn't place, the girls were here too sat at the front. I decided to let the name 'Sparkle Butt' go for the time being, I had more important things to worry about. Like getting home.

After I told Rainbow my plan she rounded up the others in the 'station' to tell them too. It took about five minutes and before I knew it I was surrounded by a group of ponies I hardly knew all looking to me for answers.

"D.I Sparkle will now tell you the plan". She moved out of the way leaving me to explain. I gulped, I wasn't used to talking in front of ponies, especially ones I didn't know.

Determined to not show my stage fright I nodded at Rainbow and began explaining the plan. "As you all know changelings feed on love. Now I've noticed that all three ponies who were spotted with a double nearby were with their loved ones. Now, since all three times were around couples it's safe to assume that they are feeding". Applejack raised a hoof. "Yes Applejack?"

"How does telling us stuff we already know help us catch the spy, boss?" I pretended not to hear how she said my title with as much sarcasm as possible.

"Well..." I though for a moment. "D.C Jack, this is how we're going to catch our spy. Two of you will go undercover as a couple, pretend you're so madly in love that nothing could keep you apart. Play it up so a changeling could smell it a mile away. Then we wait and see if we spot any doubles, unusual behavior, anything that might indicate a changeling is present. When we find them and we are sure they are a changeling D.C.I Dash and her team will run in and catch them. Any questions?" There were a few.

"D.C Pie?"

"Who will be going under cover?" Every pony lowered their hooves, turns out they were all going to ask the same thing.

Luckily for me Rainbow stepped in at that moment. "We are looking for volunteers, however if no pony steps up I will be forced to pull two names from a hat, regardless of their gender". The threat made several ponies gulp in fear, I got the feeling Rainbow did this a lot. "Any of you wanna volunteer?" The way she said it made it sound like they didn't have much choice.

Eventually a dark blue stallion at the back raised his hoof. "I'll do it, as long as the mare I'm paired with is hot". A few of the other stallions snorted. Personally I fail to see what was funny, the idea of a stallion being that shallow was unheard of were I'm from. Or should I say when I'm from. Rainbow must have agreed because she rolled her eyes and smacked a hoof to her face.

"Right, Night Sky is going to be the part of the pair. Any pony else wanna volunteer?" The male pegasus who had offered to go undercover was smiling confidently and showing off to the mares in a very sexist manner. It was embarrassing. "I know the idea of being in the same room as Night Sky, let alone on a date with him, is enough to make a mare sick but we still need another pony for the mission". A howl of laughter came from the crowd, even I chuckled. Night Sky was sat at the back pouting and looking very indigent, serves him right.

I decided to try talking some pony into it. "I know this may not be your idea of a great day at work, but if it helps to stop an invasion then isn't it all worth it?". That's when I spotted a green mare with a pink and orange mane. She was dressed in an old police uniform, white shirt, black jacket and trousers and a badge. In fact she was dressed the same way Astro Star had been when we met. "Um, how about you, Miss...?"

She looked startled, like it was odd that I'd even spoken to her. "Um, P.C Sunny Days, Ma'am". Night Sky, Sunny Days? Wow, my mind is just great at original names isn't it?

"How about you P.C Days? Do you know about the case?" She nodded. "Would you be willing to do this, I know Night Sky isn't the most gentlemanly of ponies..."

"I'M RIGHT HERE YOU KNOW!?" He yelled from the back, I ignored him.

"Would you do it?" She thought for a moment, meanwhile another stallion at the back called out...

"You're trusting a plod?" Rainbow walked over to him and looked him right in the face.

"Would you rather it was you D.C Tree Tracker?" The look of panic in his eyes as he hastily apologized almost made it worth it.

While I was watching the D.C stumble over his words I heard Sunny Skies mumble something.

"Sorry, what was that?"

"I said I'll do it". I gave her a huge smile which she returned.

"Right, now we've got our pair let's get this undercover underway!" Rainbow shouted as she was walking back to the front. "Night Sky and Sunny Days you'll go with D.I Sparkle, she'll tell you your cover stories and fish out some civilian clothes from lost and found. As for the rest of you, I want all P.Cs to go home and change into something casual. Your going to stay in the background and look for the spy. The rest of you go back to your jobs, be prepared for a call out if things get messy. As for you girls..." She looked at Pinkie, Applejack, Fluttershy and Rarity. "You're with me". When no pony moved she shouted "MOVE! MOVE! MOVE!"

The crowd rushed to their designated places. I was left with P.C Days and P.C Sky. I can't quite figure out why they had no problem with a male P.C but didn't like it when I chose a female one. Oh well, I won't be here long enough to care if this undercover goes as planned. Just then Night Sky started talking to Sunny.

"Hey hot stuff". He winked at her causing her to look away. She was clearly uncomfortable with his flirting, and quite frankly so was I.

"P.C Sky, please stop flirting with your colleague".

"I'm just trying to get into character, after all we are meant to be in love". I got a little bit angry at that.

"Yes! Love, not lust". The look of surprise on both of their faces was enough to calm me down. "Now, if I have your full attention, let's begin. You both met at the local park, she was feeding ducks and you were walking your dog". They looked like they were following the story so far. "Suddenly your dog accidentally got loose and knocked Sunny into the pond. You dived and rescued her and it was love at first sight. Can you remember that?" They both nodded.

"Yes Ma'am". They said in unison.

"Good, now follow me. I've got to make you look like two normal ponies just out on a date and not two police ponies out on patrol". I managed three steps before I realized that I had no idea where lost and found was. Slightly embarrassed I turned back to the two P.Cs behind me. With a nervous chuckle I asked "Um, do either of you know where lost and found is?" Sunny smiled at me while Night Sky rolled his eyes and muttered something about 'mares being in charge'.

"Yes ma'am, follow me". Sunny walked in front and me and P.C Sky followed. She lead us behind Rainbow's office and out of a door into a corridor. The corridor was just a section of the office separated by a wooden wall that didn't quite touch the ceiling, there were windows in the wall so you could still see into the office. "Here we are". P.C Days was standing outside a door, I smiled at her and pushed it open.

It was dark inside, I stumbled around a bit looking for something I could use as undercover clothes for the two P.Cs. I heard Night Sky sigh and a click, suddenly the lights in the room came on. In embarrassment and frustration I smacked a hoof to my face.

"And this is why mares shouldn't be in charge". Honestly, I would really like to punch P.C Sky for his sexist behavior, but I figured that when I wake up he will disappear, that seems like a suitable punishment. I looked back to see Sunny Days scowling at him, at least she's on my side.

"Right, let's find you two some civilian clothes". I started rifling through boxes, I found watched, wallets, jewelry and even some books. I pulled out a golden necklace with a little golden bird charm on the end, there was a gemstone were the bird's eye should be. I handed it to Sunny with my magic. "Here, it's a start". She looked at it and beamed.

"Oh, it's beautiful". P.C Sky gave a mock gag and groaned.

"What is it with mares and jewelry? Show them something sparkly and they go all gooey!" I glared at him as I rifled through the box. Suddenly I saw something that made me smirk. I pulled out a similar necklace with a heart on it and chucked it at him.

"And this is for you P.C Sky".

"WHAT!"

"Pretend it's a gift from P.C Days".

"You can't be serious! Jewelry is for mares!" He pointed to Sunny Days.

"I'll have you know P.C Sky that I know many stallions who wear jewelry. Also, I am your superior officer, and if you don't do as I say I will have you suspended". He looked at me, shocked and his mouth hanging open. I just smiled sweetly. "Go on, try it on. I'll try not to go all gooey on you". I turned back to the boxes to try and hide my smirk, now that felt good.

A few minutes later I found a pale blue shirt and jeans for Night Sky and a beautiful red summer dress for Sunny Days. I left them to get changed while I went to check on the others. I walked over to my desk and picked up the phone, what better time to practice than now right? I held the bit to my ear and thought about Rainbow Dash. No! I thought about D.C.I Dash, not my Rainbow. A few seconds later the phone started glowing light blue like her coat colour.

"Yes?" She sounded busy.

"It's Twilight".

"Well I know that! What do you want?" I cleared my throat.

"I've just found P.C Sky and P.C Days some clothes, they're changing right now. I was wondering how things were going on your team?"

"Things are going fine Sparkles. The girls are ready and prepared to catch that spy, the P.Cs are returning from home dressed for the undercover and Spike just got me a sandwich. We're all ready and waiting on you". I briefly wondered why Spike got her a sandwich but decided not to ask.

"Alright, where should I take P.C Sky and P.C days?"

"Bring them around the back to where the carts are parked, we'll be waiting there".

"Ok, we will be there in about ten minutes".

"Make that five Sparkles". Suddenly the phone stopped glowing and I could no longer hear Rainbow's voice. She ended the call, with out saying goodbye. That's it, she is rude x2! I let out a sigh and retuned to the lost and found room. I waited about thirty seconds when P.C Days poked her head around the door.

"Ma'am?"

"Yes Sunny?"

"We're ready now".

"Ok, come on out and let me see then". She smiled and turned over her shoulder to talk to P.C Sky.

"Come on out P.C Sky".

"No".

This was getting ridiculous, I've only got five minutes to get them 'around back' and I don't even know how to get there! "P.C Sky, come out here now or I'll get D.C.I Dash to come and drag you out". There was some grumbling but eventually he and Sunny left the room.

P.C Days looked lovely in her red cotton dress, the necklace I found was resting around her neck and her mane hung loosely around her face. P.C Sky looked good too, the blue shirt and jeans definitely made him look like a normal civilian. The necklace I'd forced him to wear was around his neck but he had tried to hide it with the collar of the shirt, it didn't work. He had brushed his white mane and tail and looked somewhat respectable, if I didn't know how much of a pig he really was that is.

"You two look great, now I've had orders from D.C.I Dash to take you around the back to where they keep the carts. Since this is my first day I still don't know how to get there, P.C Sky can you take us there?" He looked a bit surprised that I'd asked for his help but I gave him a look that said 'if you make one more remark about mares in work I will kick your flank'.

"Yes ma'am". We walked in silence until we went though a door that led us outside. The bright light hurt but not as much as the first time I left the station. I could see Rainbow barking orders at other ponies and most of them running around trying to organize themselves. I turned to my two P.Cs. "Thank you P.C Sky. Now follow me". We trotted over to Rainbow, she had her back to us so she didn't see us approaching.

I caught the end of an order. "Pinkie! Go check on the C team". I say Pinkie run over to a group of ponies to the right. I was about to speak when Rainbow said "Nice of you to finally show up Sparkles". She turned around to face us.

"How did you know we were here?"

"I could hear you coming over. Now, you two ready to go undercover?" The two P.Cs nodded. "Good! D.I Sparkle here will be keeping an eye on you at all times to help if there are any problems. You got that Sparkle Butt?" She jabbed a hoof at my chest, I really wish she wouldn't do that.

"Yes".

"Yes what?" I let out a long sigh.

"Yes D.C.I Dash". She rolled her eyes and went back to barking orders.

"Every pony gather round, we're almost ready to start". Me and the two P.Cs stood next to Rainbow on one of the large steps from the door to the ground. The ponies in front of me separated into two groups with ponies in civilian clothes on one side and the girls on the other (minus Fluttershy).

"P.Cs you're the C team. You will be dotted around the area, look of any suspicious activity". They nodded. Rainbow turned to me. "D.I Sparkle, P.C Sky and P.C Days, you are the B team. You two will act like a couple to draw the changeling out, Sparkles, you will make sure they're ok".

I nodded. "And what does that make you?" Rainbow pulled out a pair of sunglasses from a pocket on her coat and put them on.

"I'm the A team". I rolled my eyes.

This was going to be a long day.

Coz I Love You

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This is so boring! I thought trying to get home would involve more action, not just sitting on a bench with an ice cream.

After me and the P.Cs arrived Rainbow herded the teams into the back of the wooden carts, once she was finished she turned to me and the two P.Cs. "Sparkles, you will be in the background too. Just act natural and make sure these two don't get hurt". I was a bit confused.

"Isn't that what the P.Cs are doing?"

"Yes, but you're obviously well educated on changelings. You might notice something the plonks don't". I suppose she's right.

"How will I contact you if I see something?"

"On this". She chucked a small object at me, I managed to catch it in my magic. I really wish she would give me some warning before she did things like that! I looked at it, it was a small grey box-like thing with what looked like a speaker in it.

"What is it?" I heard P.C Sky snicker and saw Rainbow roll her eyes.

"For goodness sakes Sparkles! It's a radio, a walkie talkie. You know, you use them to communicate". I just looked confused, Rainbow let out a frustrated sigh. "Fine! You know how a phone works right?" I nodded. "Well it's pretty much the same only smaller. Got it!?"

"Y-y-yes Rainbow".

"That's Gov to you! Now get moving!" Me and the P.Cs ran into the back to the cart with the C team, there was barely enough room for me let alone them. One of the ponies that was staying at the station closed the doors sealing us in, it became rather dark since the only light was coming from gaps in the side of the cart. I looked around and saw that every pony was dressed in normal civilian clothing, I looked down at myself, I'm still in my leather jacket and blue shirt. Darn it. If I'd known I was going undercover I'd have changed.

In the end I removed my jacket and hoped for the best. A few minutes later the doors were opened and we all poured out into the streets. Me, P.C Sky and P.C Days were led to the park and were told to just act normal. Well, as normal as two ponies undercover as lovers and a pony in a coma can act. I saw some of the ponies from the station wondering around looking normal, for just a short moment I feel like I'm a spy in one of those spy novels I loved so much as a filly. Sadly the moment passes as fast as it came and I'm brought back to the sad reality that I'm in a coma, not some remarkable spy.

And that is how I ended up two and a half hours later, sat alone, on a bench, with an ice cream. I wish I was with the others, and that's saying something. I wonder what they're doing right now? Probably wondering why I hadn't found the changeling yet.

I wonder what my girls are doing right now? Probably wondering how to wake me up. Just then a blue bird landed on the bench next to me. It made me smile, at least I'm awake here, and I know I'll be going home soon. The bird tweeted and hopped around, I wonder what he's thinking? Fluttershy would know what he was saying, sadly I wasn't blessed with the ability to talk to animals like her.

"Twilight?" Or maybe I was wrong! I stared at the bird, I swear it just spoke! "Twilight, I don't know if you can hear me, but if you can please try to wake up". I know that voice, that's Spike! "I miss you".

"I miss you too Spike". God I miss you.

"I don't know what the girls have told you,but either way you look like you need some cheering up. We managed to get you to hospital Twilight, the doctor says you'll be ok as long as you keep fighting. Please come back to us Twilight, we need you. I need you". A tear rolled down my cheek. I promise you Spike, I will come home.

The bird flew away, I know it was only my subconscious interpreting Spike's words as a talking bird, but I really didn't want it to go. I wiped the tear away with my hoof and looked back to the under cover P.Cs. They were doing quite well, Sunny looked a little bit uncomfortable but other than that they were doing fine. I was tempted to try out my 'radio', but if some pony saw then I'd blow our cover so better not. I stuffed the last bite of ice cream cone into my mouth, swallowed and let out a sigh. Now I can't even entertain myself with ice cream.

I'm so bored!

I saw P.C Sky kiss Sunny on the cheek causing her to blush, probably out of embarrassment. I feel sorry for her, I know I'd hate to be in her position right now. However, at least I wouldn't be bored. I mean look, even that mare over there is doing something! And that blue stallion over there! And that red mare over there! And that foal and here friends over there! And that blue stallion over there! And that mare over.... Wait a minute.

I looked closely at the ponies in the park. There's a blue stallion making ballon animals for foals. I recognized him from Ponyville, his name is Royal Pin. Pinkie used to plan parties with him sometimes, that was until she realized he was popping all of the balloons by accident. It seems kind of ironic that I've create a version of him making balloon animals.

I looked around and sure enough I saw a pony exactly the same walking around, he was dressed in a white shirt and dark grey trousers. He was rather close to the undercover P.Cs and looked like he was trying to blend in. I looked between the two Royal Pins a few times, it was definitely the same pony. I need to tell the others, now!

I got down from my bench and walked towards the public toilets. Luckily there was no pony there so I went in and locked the door. When I was sure it was locked I put the seat of the toilet down and sat on it, I pulled out the radio Rainbow Dash gave me and tried to use it. I thought about my first day in the station, when Rainbow got angry and pushed me up against the filing cabinet, when she talked to me on my first day of work. Suddenly the thing glowed blue and I heard Rainbow's voice crackle out of the speaker.

"What is it Sparkles?" I spoke quietly in case some pony could hear me.

"I've spotted a double".

"What!? Who is it".

"A stallion named Royal Pin. There are two identical ponies in the park, one making balloon animals and one near the two P.Cs".

"Good job Sparkles, where are you now?"

"I'm in the public toilet".

"Why the hay are you in there!?"

"I didn't want the changeling to see or hear me, what if he cottoned on to what we're doing?" I heard her let out a sigh.

"Ok, fine. Just get out there and tell P.C Sky and P.C Days, me and the A team will be right there".

"Got it". I was about to end the call when I hear Rainbow say...

"Oh and Sparkles?"

"Yes?"

"Do you alway talk to birds when you're undercover?" I am so glad she can't see my face right now because I'm pretty sure I'm blushing! "See you there". The radio stopped glowing, after a few seconds I put it back in my trouser pocket and left the cubical. When I got back I saw that Royal Pin (both of them) hadn't moved. I walked over the the P.Cs, just under half way and I realized I had no idea what my undercover relationship with them was. Well, I guess I'll just have to wing it.

"Hey there Sunny, Night Sky. How are you doing?" They looked a bit confused. "It's been a while since I've seen you, it's always nice to see friends". Realization dawned on Sunny's face, sadly P.C Sky was still confused.

"It's great to see you again Twilight, we didn't know you'd be here". P.C Sky looked at Sunny, still confused. "Isn't it nice to see Twilight, Nighty?" When he didn't respond Sunny jabbed him in the side causing him to wince.

"Yes, it's lovely to see you". He sounded slightly out of breath, who knew Sunny was so strong?

She smiled at me. "So, what are you doing here Twilight?"

"Oh, nothing much. I'm just waiting for some friends that's all. You know Rainbow Dash right?" At that point P.C Sky seemed to realize what was going on and decided to join in.

"Oh yes, we know her. When is she meant to get here?"

"That would be now". I looked up to when the voice had come from and saw Rainbow standing behind me. She had removed her coat and was dressed in her grey shirt and black trousers, I guess she had to make do like I did. "Hey Sparkles, how's it going?" How long had she been standing there?

"I'm fine, you?"

"I'm good". She gave a pointed look at the two P.Cs. "Oh don't mind us, just go back to your lovey dovey spiel. I just need to talk to old Sparkle Butt over here". They did as they were told. Meanwhile Rainbow dragged me underneath a nearby tree and whispered in my ear. "Ok, what does he look like?" It took me a second to realize she meant Royal Pin.

"Dark blue coat, white and very pale blue mane. Oh and he's a unicorn".

"Ok, I've got the A team ready to grab him. Which one is the spy?"

"I think it's the one near P.C Days and P.C sky, however I'm not 100% sure". She gave a single nod.

"Ok, if your instincts tell you it's that one then we'll go after that one. I'll get some of the P.Cs to stay around the other in case you're wrong". She had a knack for phrasing things like insults doesn't she? She made a call on her radio to tell the P.Cs to keep an eye on the other Royal Pin, once she was finished she turned to me. "Go up and talk to him".

"What!?"

"Go up and talk to him, while you two are chatting we'll charge in and tackle him".

"What if he runs away?"

"Then run after him!" She sounds exasperated. Well sorry for not being trained in the art of coma construct communication! I let out a frustrated growl.

"Fine!" I started walking in Royal Pin's direction. On my way there I tried to calm down a bit so I wouldn't scared him, or accidentally bite his head off. He was still over by the P.Cs only now he was by the pond looking at the ducks. Time to make my move.

I walked over to his side and watched the ducks. There were only three in the pond, I suppose my brain is too busy trying to keep me alive to make more ducks. To be honest I'd much prefer life than a pretty pond.

"Sure is a lovely day isn't it?" Royal Pin looked at me, if I'm correct he looks almost, startled?

"Pardon?"

"The day, it's lovely isn't it?" He looked nervous, like he wants to run away. I think we found our changeling.

"Yes, it is". He turned back to the pond avoiding eye contact. All signs of a nervous changeling.

"My name is Twilight, what's yours?" He still refused to look at me.

"Um, please don't take this the wrong way Miss, but I was told never to talk to strangers. I'm sorry, please have a nice day". He started walking away when I called out...

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to make you feel uncomfortable. Please don't go". He didn't stop walking.

"No, I must. My friend is waiting for me". I looked over to the tree were Rainbow and I had been talking, she wasn't there. When I looked back I saw her standing in front of Royal Pin.

"I'm afraid they're going to have to wait a little longer". She got out her badge and showed it to him. "You're nicked". Royal Pin bolted away, faster than I'd ever seen a pony run in my life. "Get him!" Before I knew it me and the other girls were chasing the stallion through the streets of Manehatten. Rainbow was running along side me. "Call the P.Cs! Tell them to block him off!"

"Why don't you!?"

"You're the unicorn! I need my hooves to run! Call them, that's an order!" I rolled my eyes and did as she said. Using my magic I held the radio to my mouth, I don't know how to contact more than one pony so I tried something else. I called Fluttershy.

"Hello, Twilight?"

"Fluttershy! I need you to call the P.Cs, tell them we found the changeling and he's heading into the centre of the city!"

"I'm on it. What does he look like?"

"Blue unicorn stallion with a white mane. His name is Royal Pin".

"Got it. Good luck Twilight".

"Thanks Fluttershy!" The radio stopped glowing, and for the first time it was me who ended the call. If I wasn't so busy trying to catch a changeling I would probably feel proud about that. I pocketed the radio and continued on with the chase.

We maneuvered around ponies, buildings, stalls and even one very startled cat. Pinkie, Applejack and Rarity had split up in an attempt to surround him. I looked over at Rainbow, she looked a little bit tired. I also noticed that she wasn't flying, I wonder why?

"Why don't you fly after him?" I called over to her.

"Shut your muzzle Sparkles and keep running!" I was a bit taken back by that. Since when has Rainbow chosen running over flying?

I could see a cart being pulled up ahead, it's going to temporarily block Royal Pin's path. I've got an idea! I used all of my remaining energy and sprinted towards Royal Pin, he had slowed down a little bit to avoid crashing into the cart so I managed to catch up to him. Unable to think of another way to stop him I did the only thing I could think of. I tackled him.

We skidded across the ground, I'm pretty sure I'm going to be bruised in the morning. Hang on, I won't be here so it won't matter. I stood up quickly and held Royal Pin's hooves behind his back with my magic, I kept my front hooves on his back to stop him from standing up. Just for the fun of it (and maybe because I've secretly always wanted to say it). "Royal Pin, you are under arrest. Anything you may say may harm your defense, so you don't not have to say anything if you choose to do so...".

"That's not how it goes Sparkle Butt". A very out of breath Rainbow Dash has finally caught up with me. I smiled sheepishly.

"Sorry, must be the adrenaline".

"You'll get used to it". She pulled her radio out. "D.C.I Dash to all units, we've caught the possible changeling. He is being restrained at Saddle Row. All members of the C team except for the P.Cs watching the other Royal Pin should head back to the station. P.C Days and P.C Sky, you can head back too. All members of the A team come to Saddle Row to help get this spy back to the station and into a cell. Dash out". She returned the radio to her pocket and turned to me.

"Think you can hold him like that till the others get here?"

"I think so, but what if he changes?" Rainbow smirked and bent down to look Royal Pin right in the eyes.

"Oh, he wouldn't dare do that. As long as he remains like this we have no proof that he's a changeling. If he does change we have the evidence required to put him in cells for life!" Royal Pin gulped, even if he's not a changeling he probably would still be frightened by that threat. I feel sorry for him, but then I remember that it's because of a changeling I'm stuck here in the first place! Away from my friends, my home, Spike.

Subconsciously I pushed down on him harder that was strictly necessary. When I realized that he was in pain I eased up a bit. After all it wasn't his fault, he hasn't even been born yet when I was kicked. I looked closer, there were cuts and grazes along his face and hooves, a tear in his trousers which had darkened due to the blood from a cut sustained in the fall. He looked awful, and I did this to him.

What have I done?

A Little Bit Of Love

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If you'd asked me just hours ago what I thought of changelings, then I would have told you they are heartless monsters who take away all you love without a thought. They hurt my brother, they nearly killed the princess, and now they've separated me from every pony I love. Just hours before I would have happily said those things.

But now I'm not so sure.

A few minutes after Rainbow contacted every pony to say we caught the suspected spy the girls arrived to take him away. They used these metal things (which I later found out are called cuffs) to restrain Royal Pin and throw him in the back of a wooden cart. He looked so defeated and scared. It broke my heart.

They locked the doors and drove back to the station, me and Rainbow took another cart back. When we arrived Rainbow and I headed back to her office, neither of us sat down.

"Good job D.I Sparkle, if it weren't for your quick thinking we may never have caught him". It felt like a compliment but I couldn't feel good about it. All I could see was that poor stallion, covered in blood and cuts. I decided to ask the question that I had been asking myself the whole way here.

"What's going to happen to him?" She had no look of worry or regret, she looked so calm, like this was the norm.

"We'll hold him in the cells till tomorrow. Then we'll question him and figure out if he is our changeling spy".

"And what if he's not the changeling?"

"Then we release him". I was surprised by her stoic response.

"That's it? We just release him, forget we chased him half way across town? Forget I tackled him to the floor?" I was getting emotional over a changeling I've never met, it makes no sense.

"He resisted arrest, that justifies our actions". If I didn't hate this mare enough already then that last comment just made me hate her ten times more! It is wrong to treat ponies like that, even if they are changelings!

I couldn't bare to be near her anymore. "Where did they take him?"

"The cells"

"Where are they?"

"Reception area, the door on the left". With out another word I left in search of our 'guest'.

When I arrived I saw a variety of cells, each one specifically designed for different creatures. There were classic cells with metal bars, but they had small ones, large ones, metal bars, wire mesh. A cage for any species. Then there were glass ones, electrically charged ones and many more.

They were all empty, all except the one with Royal Pin in it. I suppose since this is my coma then the cages would be empty, since I've only caught one 'criminal' so far. Hopefully this will be the only one I catch, I don't want to be here one second longer than I have to.

I finally found Royal Pin's cell. He'd been put in a glass cell with no obvious holes or gaps, probably so if he is a changeling he couldn't turn into something small and escape. He was lying on a small cot like bed, it looked sort of similar to the one in my flat, only smaller. I can't help but find that amusing, my brain has given me the same bed to sleep in as the prisoners in the cells. How luxurious.

He looked up at me. He didn't look like he was as scared anymore, but he didn't look like he was going to up a fight anytime soon. "I suppose you're here to see if I'm a changeling, correct?" I shook my head.

"Actually, I came to see if you were alright". He gave a single laugh of disbelief.

"Yes, I'm fine. You only just tackled me to the ground". I feel so guilty, I know I shouldn't have done it but I couldn't think of any other way to stop him running.

"I'm so sorry about that". Then, even though I hate her guts right now, I decided to quote D.C.I Dash. "But you did resist arrest". I cringed when I said it. "Why did you run?"

"No comment". I was about to say more when I heard somepony coming towards the cell. I looked up to see Fluttershy walking towards us, she had a white saddle bag on her back with a red cross on the side. She was dressed in her usual green top and denim skirt, her mane drawn back into a pony tail and her fringe covering one eye. She smiled when she saw me.

"Hello Twilight, what are you doing down here?" I couldn't bring myself to smile, I didn't feel like it.

"I came to see how Royal Pin was doing". She was still smiling.

"And how is he?" I looked back to him, he wasn't looking at us anymore.

"I don't know, he seems depressed".

"Ok, well I've come to look him over. Make sure he's ok and that". I looked back to her saddle bag, it must be a first aid kit. Fluttershy pulled out a key from her pocket and opened the cell door, once she was inside she locked it behind her.

"Who sent you down?" I wonder if she just does this without being asked, being the element of kindness and all that.

"Rainbow sent me".

I let out a disbelieving laugh similar to the one Royal Pin had let out earlier. "Guilty conscience I bet". Fluttershy looked at me through the glass, she looked confused.

"Guilty conscience? For what?" For what!? What does she mean for what!?

"For the way she treated him!" I pointed to Royal Pin. Fluttershy looked to him then back to me.

"Um, please forgive me Twilight, but wasn't it you who tackled him?" I opened my mouth to respond but nothing came out. I opened and closed it a few times before responding in a slightly squeaky voice.

"Well, yes. But Rainbow was the one who said if he isn't a changeling our actions are justified because he resisted arrest! That's not fair". Fluttershy let out a sigh and stood to face me through the glass.

"Listen, Twilight, I know you don't like the Gov. I understand that, but you have to at least give her a chance". I must have looked shocked because she carried on. "If you must know Twilight, Rainbow sends me down here to check every suspect, regardless of what happened to them. That's not a standard procedure, she makes me do it. As for resisting arrest, technically he did, you told me so when you radioed me during the chase". I looked down at the floor and my ears drooped. "Rainbow never meant that as a way of covering this up, she just doesn't like to be wrong. Face it Twilight, she's done nothing wrong".

I looked up into her eyes, I hope she can see how scared I am. How I long to be back with my friends, with Spike. I suppose I took that fear out on Rainbow, I may not like her but she doesn't deserve that. A tear rolled down my cheek and splashed onto the floor. "I want to go home". I whispered it so quietly that I didn't think she'd hear me, she did.

"I know". Then she went back to looking over Royal Pin, bandaging up his wounds and cleaning his cuts. "That must have been one hell of a fall, luckily you seem to have no broken bones just some minor cuts and bruises". She looked at me. "Perhaps I should check you over to Twilight, make sure you didn't sustain any major injuries in the fall". I felt fine, but perhaps I should let her look me over, just in case.

"Ok, thank you". She smiled at me then packed up her things and walked to the door.

"Royal Pin? That is your name right?" He was still lying on his bed, he didn't move but he did look up at us.

"No comment".

"That's fine, for now then we'll call you Mr Pin. I just want you to know that if you are proven guilty you won't be harmed in any way, I'll make sure that D.C.I Dash won't hurt you". Royal Pin gave a small smile, something I never thought I'd see.

"Thanks, Miss Shy was it?" Fluttershy nodded. She took out the key and unlocked the door just like before. When she was outside and the door was locked she turned to me.

"Twilight, could you come to my office please. I'll look over there". I nodded. Just before we left I looked over at Royal Pin, he must have sensed it because he turned to look at me.

"Are you sure you don't want to tell us your name?" Then he lifted his head and shook it.

With a smile he said "No comment". I knew he was being humorous, it was lovely to see him smile. Perhaps he's forgiven me? I really hope he has. I may not be able to forgive myself, but it's nice to think that he might.

Let's Work Together

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When we got to Fluttershy's office she cleaned my cuts and put a plaster over a particularly bad one on my front hoof. Turns out I didn't get badly hurt in the fall, just a few scraped and bruises (which you won't be able to see anyway because of my purple coat). I felt fine, although the adrenaline had long since worn off leaving me tired. Once Fluttershy was finished I stood up from my chair.

"Thanks Fluttershy. Now, I probably should go back to..." I didn't know where I was meant to go. I didn't want to see Rainbow and the changeling has been caught, so what's left to do?

"Actually Twilight, I was hoping I could talk to you about something". It wasn't a question.

"Um, ok. What did you want to talk about?" She let out a sigh then looked at me, she had that 'I'm going to tell you something and you're not going to like it' look.

"Twilight, I know you and the Gov don't get along". I rolled my eyes. "But, you should at least try to be civil. I know Rainbow can be harsh sometimes, but it's only because she's so passionate about her job and her team. I understand not every pony gets along, trust me, I know". She had that sad far off look again, but it vanished as quickly as it appeared. "But I don't think you're even giving her a chance".

"Fluttershy, I know that you want me and Rainbow to get along, but she's just to rude and mean".

"No Twilight, she's not". Her stern voice surprised me. "Rainbow is a wonderful and kind pony who only wants what's best for her team and this city. I don't know what things were like in Ponyville, but here enemy threats are a big deal, so we need to be tough. I know you two didn't get off on the right hoof, but don't let that tarnish your view of her". Once I was sure she had finished speaking I spoke up.

"But what about when she pinned me up against a filing cabinet?" She looked puzzled.

"What made her do that?"

"Well I, well that is to say I...." Now that I thought about it, I was asking for trouble. I blame the fact I'm in a coma, but still....

"Yes Twilight?" I let out a sigh.

"Ok, maybe I did provoke her. I was just so scared". Fluttershy nodded and gave a sympathetic smile.

"I know Twilight, it couldn't have been easy for you. Still, that doesn't justify your actions".

I looked down at the floor. "No, I guess you're right".

"But it's ok, you've recovered now. So Twilight? Could you and Rainbow put your differences aside for a while and try to get along?" I looked up into her eyes and nodded. She breathed a sigh of relief. "Good, now come on". She started walking towards the door.

"Where are we going?"

"To see the Gov".

"WHAT!" I stood up, panicked. She can't be serious can she!?

"You two need to apologize for what has happened so you can put it behind you". I must have looked as frightened as I feel because she continued. "It's ok, I'll be with you the whole time". I really didn't want to do this, but I agree that it's the best thing to do. Even if this is a coma, and even if I am going to wake up soon, it still would be wise to get along with somepony who I'm going to be stuck with until then. I nod and reluctantly follow her out of the room.

We walked in silence until we reached the office. Applejack and Pinkie were at their desks tossing a ball of paper to each other, Applejack caught it when she spotted us walk in. "Well, look who finally decided to show up. We're have you been then?". I didn't know what her problem with me was, I've done nothing to cause her to dislike me.

"Now Applejack, you know the first case can be difficult. Twilight and I were just checking up on Royal Pin". Applejack rolled her eyes and started to fiddle with the ball of paper in her hooves. "Do either of you know where the Gov is?"

"That would be here". I looked up to see Rainbow standing in the doorway of her office, I couldn't help but feel scared at what's about to happen. "What did you want P.C Shy?" I felt Fluttershy nudge me forward so me and Rainbow were facing each other with about a meter between us.

"Twilight had something she wanted to say". I had Fluttershy behind me, Applejack and Pinkie on either side of me and Rainbow in front of me, suddenly I felt caged in.

"Is that so?" I nodded. "Well go on then, spit it out". I gulped. I didn't want the others to know about our arguments, Applejack already didn't like me and I'd hate to see what she would be like if she found out I didn't get along with her 'Gov'.

"Um, could we possibly talk in your office?" They all looked surprised, all except Rainbow.

"Wouldn't you rather talk out here, where there are witnesses?" She sounded annoyed, I don't blame her.

I let out a sigh. "No, I trust you enough not to kill me". It was meant to be a joke, she wasn't laughing.

"Ok Sparkles". She sounded suspicious, again I don't blame her. She walked back into her office and I followed. Just before I entered I turned back to see Fluttershy giving me a reassuring smile, she gave a small nod signaling for me to go in. I turned back to the office and walked in.

To my surprise Rainbow hadn't sat down at her desk like I had expected her to, instead she was standing by the desk and looking at me. I closed the door in hopes that she would see it as a sign of peace, I have studied how to act in diplomatic meetings, maybe those skills will help here?

"Well D.I Sparkle, now that we're alone what was it you wanted to say?" I let out a long calming breath and looked into her eyes.

"I wanted to apologize for my behavior. I was rude and impolite". Her expression hadn't changed but her eyes widened a little bit. When she didn't say anything I continued. "The way I spoke to you on my first day was unacceptable, I was scared and confused, but that doesn't justify my actions". Rainbow looked to her desk for a few seconds before turning back to me.

"So, you aren't going to insult my intelligence, or run away when you don't agree with me, or leave my door open so you have an escape route?" When she said it like that it made me feel guilty.

"Only if you promise not to push me against filing cabinets, be more understanding and treat me with more respect". She thought about that for a moment.

"Ok Sparkles". She stuck a hoof out. "Truce?" I shook it.

"Truce". I lowered my hoof. Ok, now that that's over with what do I do now?

"And Sparkles?"

"Yes?"

"Fluttershy made you do this didn't she?" I could see a small smile tugging at the corner of her lips.

"Yes, yes she did". Rainbow let out a short laugh, it made me smile. I never thought I'd see her like this, smiling and laughing.

"Go figures. Forget Element of Kindness, she should be called the Element of Medaling". We both laughed. It's true, Fluttershy should be the Element of...

Wait! Did she just call her the Element of Kindness? Is that a thing here? Or is this another clue?

"Element of Kindness?" She stopped giggling and smiled at me.

"Yea, I gave her that nickname back in Flight School". So they did know each other before coming here, that explains why Fluttershy talks about Rainbow so fondly.

"Did you have a nickname?" I needed to know if the others had their assigned elements in this world too.

"No, just her. Even now I don't have one".

"Why's that?" She shrugged.

"Suppose they just didn't think of one I'd like". I can understand that, I can only imagine what she'd do to a pony who gave her a nickname she didn't like.

"How about the Element of Loyalty? You know, because you're so loyal to your team and the city?" Rainbow looked at me, she seemed surprised. Then she smiled a rather smug smile.

"Loyalty hu? I like it, it suites me". She looked at me and smiled, I couldn't help but smile too. "You know, you're not so bad Sparkles". Was that a compliment!? Well, that was unexpected.

"Neither are you. So, am I forgiven?" She pretended to think about it for a minute before smirking and saying "Yea, I suppose so". Then her smile disappeared but I could see in her eyes she was still smiling. "Don't think this means we're friends now".

I let out a small laugh. "Perish the thought". She started chuckling too.

"Good. Now Sparkles, do you know how to get this changeling to fess up?" I didn't, because of their ability to change shape ponies haven't been able to study very well.

"No". Then I had an idea. "But I think I know somepony who might".

Strange Fascination, Fascinating Me

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After our little talk Rainbow let me off early to see what I could find on changelings. Admittedly I was only thirty minutes earlier than everypony else, but I'm not going to complain. Now that me and Rainbow have agreed to be civil and try to get along I feel almost like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders, if I'm going to be stuck here for awhile I might as well make it as easy for myself as possible.

The little bell chimed as I walked through the door of the 'Book Barn'. Dusty looked up and beamed when he saw me. "Twilight! It's so nice to see you again". He didn't get up from his desk this time, I suppose the shock of having a customer has worn off slightly.

"It's nice to see you too Dusty". I walked up to the desk, I could see a book lying open in front of him with a red book mark resting on the page.

"What can I do for you today?"

The reason I came here after Rainbow asked me to find out about changelings was because last time I came here they had the exact book I needed, complete with messages from the real world. I've got a feeling this is more than just a book shop, it's a link to the real world. That means I'll probably find anything I need, just as long as I look.

"I was hoping to find something about changelings?" He had that slightly confused look again, I can understand why since not many ponies know about changelings back in the 1970s. "Mythical creatures, magic beings? Something like that?" Dusty smiled and nodded.

"Yes, I have something like that. Follow me". He led me to a shelf on the right side of the shop. "I hope you find what you're looking for". As I was reading through the titles I remembered my last conversation with Dusty...

"Hey Dusty, did you want to hear about my old library?" I thought it might help strengthen the link between here and home if I talk about something from the real world.

"Oh I'd love to!" He sounded so excited, I wish the girls back home were so interested.

"Well, where do I start? It's a tree". I chuckled. "I know, library made out of a tree, how silly".

"I don't think so, I think it's clever and ironic". I looked over to him.

"You do?" He nodded. "Well you're the first". I turned back to the books. "Anyway, me and my friend Spi...." I just remembered, I can't talk about Spike. "Spiral, lived there for a few years. We lent books to ponies, but for the most part they stayed in the library". I let out a wistful sigh. "I must have read every book in there at least twice. Spiral used to say I spent more time in the library than outside".

I remember how Spike used to be back when we lived in Canterlot, he always tried to make me go outside and make friends. I guess I should have listened to him. I remember the day we moved to Ponyville, Moondancer was having a party or something like that. I hope she wasn't too upset that I didn't come, I'm sure she's fine.

"I completely understand, I know if I lived in a library I would probably never leave". For a brief moment I really wished I could show Dusty the Golden Oak Library, but sadly that is impossible. It hadn't even been built (grown?) in 1973. In fact, Ponyville probably hasn't even been founded yet, when did Granny Smith and her family move there? If it has then it's still in its early days.

I continued looking though the books on the shelf until I found one that seemed to stand out from the rest. It was emerald green and the title written in gold along the side, it read 'Diversity in Equestria'. I picked it off the shelf and looked at the cover, there was a picture of a pony with a dragon on their left and a fox like creature on their right. I flicked through the pages, there was information on multiple creatures including parasprites, zebras, dragons and even three separate chapters for unicorns, earth ponies and pegisi.

This was exactly what I needed!

I walked up to the desk and put the book down. "This one please". He checked the price written on the inside front cover.

"That will be ten bits". I pulled out my wallet and pulled out all the money I had.

"I've only got six, could I possibly pay you back later?" He smiled at me.

"It's ok, honestly". He looked me over. "I never did ask what you do for a living did I?" I shook my head. "Well, it must be pretty good for you to have left your library behind". I gave a sad smile.

"It wasn't exactly my choice". I mumbled. He gave me a sympathetic look, then looked down at the book, then back to me.

"You know what, have it, for free". My eyes widened in shock.

"A-a-are you sure?" I get the feeling he doesn't get many customers except for me, I wouldn't want to deprive him of any money.

"I'm sure, you look like you need it. Think of it as my contribution to your new library". I was so touched, no pony done something like this for me before.

"Well if you're sure, thank you". I smiled so wide it nearly split my face in two. "Thank you so much".

"Think nothing of it, just promise you'll come back soon to tell me more about your library". I practically bounced out of the shop.

"I will, I promise. Have a good day Dusty".

I heard him call out "And you too Twilight" before I closed the door and was off down the street. I couldn't believe how nice he had been, especially since he clearly needs all the customers he can get. I know, I'll bring one of the girls down to see him. Fluttershy would probably love it there.

When I finally got to my flat I jumped onto my bed and opened my new book. It was a beautiful book, with coloured illustrations and carefully written paragraphs about each creature. I finally managed to find the page on changelings, it had a lovely drawing of a changeling standing on all four hooves with green smoke (probably made using chalk) around it. It has a block of text underneath the picture.

'Changelings are a race of beings that can morph into any creature they desire. They have evolved to have this talent to make it easier to hunt for their food. Most changeling feed on love, however some have been known to eat berries and other plants when love is scarce, these changeling were spotted in places like Griffon Stone'

Really? I didn't know that...

'Most ponies are under the impression that changelings are parasites and should not be allowed near other ponies. However research has shown that not all changeling feed to excess, in fact this only occurs when the hive is in danger and the Queen decides to invade a neighboring town or city as a last resort. The have been some reported cases of changeling hives trying to unnecessarily over take populated areas, but for the most part they are relatively peaceful creatures.'

PEACEFUL! That is not true! Look at me! I am living proof that changelings are not peaceful! One put me in a coma!

On the next page there was a drawing of a changeling rearing up into a fighting stance.

'If a changeling is provoked they will usually change into somepony nearby to either escape or confuse its enemy. They will usually kick at the attacker or use their teeth to fight them off. Some ponies were lucky enough to study of a hive close up, they noticed that changeling soldiers will fight as an army to protect their Queen, regardless of if they want to or not.'

If that is true, then what was Chrysalis doing in Canterlot? Is her hive in trouble, or did she just want to take over Equestria for her own selfish gain? And what about Royal Pin? What was he doing in Manehatten away from his hive?

'If a changeling disobeys their Queen then they are banished from the hive and left to fend for themselves. Sadly due to most ponies prejudice these changelings don't tend to survive.'

Was that what happened to Royal Pin? Oh, now I feel doubly guilty. No wonder he ran away, he was just trying to survive on his own.

'Little is known of changeling biology. We have many theories as to how they came to be, the most commonly accepted theory is that during the Great Blizzard of Hearths Warming a group of ponies became isolated from the rest of society. Over many years they have evolved and bred with other creature creating the changelings we know today. This would explain their dependence on emotions and why they live away from ponies.'

I never thought about that, what if that's true? After all, we don't really know what happened to the other ponies after the Windigos arrived.

Why have I never heard about all of this before?

Sleeping Sparkles

by playfulpippapony

Ever Changeling World

Traveller in Time

It's a God Awful Small Affair

Worn Out Places

Going Back To My Roots

Don't You Say to me Your Sun Don't Shine

Cider in The Jar

I Can't Change it but I'm Waiting Patiently

Hello Teacher Tell Me What's My Lesson

It's a Clue To The Answer We All Chase

Coz I Love You

A Little Bit Of Love

Let's Work Together

Strange Fascination, Fascinating Me