> Careful What You Doodle > by Graphite Quill > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Prologue > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- My first memory of this place is me running for my life trying to escape a three-headed dragon, also known as a hydra. I didn’t wake up to find a hydra about to eat me, no I literally only remember me getting in my car (I’ll explain what that is later) to go to work then out of nowhere, while driving, in an actual blink of my eyes I’m running through a forest being chased by a creature of myth. I had no time to ask questions or even think about what was happening, I only knew that if I didn’t run I was dead. Though I do have very strong legs from moving hundreds of pounds of metal every day I am by no means fit to run. Within the first couple of minutes of running the world was starting to spin and I could barely breath so needless to say ‘Scaly’ back there was catching up quickly. I often find myself cursing my luck as it is usually bad. For instance, suddenly being chased by a myth, Check. Tripping over a root while being chased by said myth, double check. Immediately after tripping I faceplant into a tree which I hit hard enough to almost knock me out. I couldn’t even get back up. At this point all I can do is watch while it picks me up in one of its mouths with the intent of eating me, I feel the pain from its teeth stabbing into me like a dozen knives from all different angles. Then I felt something heavy tugging at my coat while I was hanging from the monster’s maw, with what energy I had left I reached into my coats inner pocket and grabbed something that to this day confuses me. Inside my coat pocket was my 9mm handgun that should have been locked up at home in a safe and not on me. Praising my sudden stroke of luck, I all but stabbed the hydra in the eye with the barrel of the gun and shot three defensive rounds into its head. I realize this is a hydra that has more than one head, I knew it wouldn’t kill it however it did do as I had intended. The hydra released me from its grasp flinging me through the forest where I landed and rolled limply across the ground and into a field. The last thing I saw was a house and yet another creature running towards me. My last thoughts were ‘I must be in hell, to escape a huge monster in a forest only to get eaten out in the open by something half my size..’ My last words were “I hope you get diarrhea from eating me.” Everything then faded out of existence. > Memories of a life Lost > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Somehow while floating in the void I knew I was dead, I also somehow knew I had some time before I was lost to the nothingness and I should spend it with my memories. My thoughts took me to my family as it was before we split apart, the days where not one week would go by that there wasn’t a party or cook out of some kind filled with laughter and karaoke. Family members got along with each other, exchanging work stories, playing games, and drinking which always led someone to do something hilariously stupid. Rather it was embarrassment or actual injury the rest of the family would always be there to pick them up dust them off and get them back on their feet. However, I was young at the time and never was fond of all the attention, and kind of wished they would stop. If only I realized how much id miss it. I was around the age of 9 when someone new married into the family, and they changed everything. What once was fun parties with family turned into ‘invite everyone you know because the more the merrier right?’ wrong. These new people started changing the ‘fun for all ages’ parties into a ‘get drunk and take pictures of other family members genitals while the kids get locked into a room’ kind of party. This corrupted my family; the good ones fought the corrupt ones over which party was better which ended in them all turning on each other. The parties and cook outs stopped after the physical fights started, and everyone went their separate ways hating each other for stupid reasons. At this point I was happy to have a simple life back, me my parents, grandpa, and aunt. My parents and I lived in a trailer that was surrounded by forest and ponds with a road that led to my grandpa’s house and the highway next to it. On school days I would stay at my parent’s place with my two older brothers, which I despised at the time because of their thievery and attitudes, then on weekends I would stay with my grandpa and aunt getting spoiled the whole time. Life continued like this for 6 years, my brothers were out on their own living life and my parents and I had moved into my grandpa’s because we couldn’t afford repairs on the trailer. My grandpa was getting up there in age at the time and had problems getting around by himself. On day while I was at school my dad was mowing the lawn while my grandpa was watching from a patio chair in the yard, he got bored and decided he wanted to look at the other tractor to see if it was still in working order. ‘I must hate myself for bringing up this memory again. I’m supposed to be remembering the good times.’ I tried to force the memory away, but it stayed firm playing back in the void like it was recorded and playing on a tv screen. ‘Ya a 3D tv screen that shows stuff I wasn’t even around for.’ I thought. Being 83 years old and barely able to stand up he ended up ‘falling’ on the way there which broke his hip. He ended up in the hospital for a week, caught pneumonia and couldn’t eat anything no matter what the doctors did. He was going to die. He had himself discharged from the hospital because he wanted to pass at home, in bed. “Why? WHY are you forcing me to relive this? This man.. my grandpa was like a second father to me, I don’t want to see this again…” my voice steadily got quieter as I spoke to the void and the memories I was being forced through. It didn’t take long after he was brought home for him to start sleeping longer and talking less, I stayed with him until I just couldn’t handle it anymore I was mentally and physically exhausted from days of grieving without sleep. ‘I’m starting to feel the same way watching this happen again..’ At this point floating there watching this happen I truly started believing that this was hell, I had been deemed unworthy and sent the deep dark of nothingness to relive the worst moments of my life. “Please, please stop this. What did I do to deser- “ Everything stopped. The memory on pause while I stood on an invisible surface unable to speak another word. ‘What’s happening?’ I thought when everything faded to blackness again. After what seemed to be hours I heard something familiar. A name. My name. “Terran, it’s time to wake up.” then silence. I lost all feeling and emotion, slowly fading into non-existence, becoming one with the void. > Heaven > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- I’ve heard how it happens from people who experienced death and were brought back, their stories are never the same. I personally believe that whatever you believe happens will happen because your mind is using it as a way to make dying easier, my belief was only strengthened by what was happening. I have always believed that after death there is nothing, you simply no longer exist. While I have no actual proof that that is what happened to me at the time I am almost sure that happened to me. I do not know how long I was ‘gone’ however I suddenly started feeling again, almost as if something was putting me back together from scratch. All my memories of who and what I am coming back while I’m being pulled out of the dark void and into the light. Once I was complete again the darkness was gone, and I was surrounded by a blinding light that was there no matter how I covered my eyes. Then I heard it again. “It’s time to wake up sleepy head. *giggle*” Once again the light was gone, and I opened my eyes to a soft glow no brighter than a candle. My vision was blurry almost as if I no longer had my glass- ‘wait my glasses.. there’s no way they survived the attack, on second thought how did I survive?’ As I sat up to figure out where I was I immediately felt pain all across my body and fell back flat against a soft surface. ‘well if the pain is anything to go by, I am definitely alive though I’m sure how. Wait.. I’m in a bed?’ Trying again, though slower, I sat up forcing through the pain to look at my surroundings. The first thing I noticed was that I was inside a small house, two stories, with a fireplace, and an open-air kind of vibe to it. I could see I was in a kind of sitting area like where you would find a TV above the fireplace, it even had a couch that looked hastily moved out of the way from where I was laying. I assume whoever saved me put the bed here, so I could stay warm while recovering, yet another reason to thank them for their kindness. Looking around more I could see the kitchen, it was blurry, but I could see what seemed to be a stove and the floor had the stereotypical black and white tile pattern. Looking out the window I see its night time, though I am unable to see much else without my glasses. Getting tired of sitting up, and the pain that comes with, it I lay back down and stare at the ceiling, which has bird houses hanging in random places. ‘This person has some odd tastes in decoration, but hey to each their own.’ I thought as I started falling asleep again. I wake up to the beginnings of the sunrise starting to illuminate the room in a beautiful shade of orange. While watching the sun rise I heard a noise from upstairs that sounded like a door closing. Deciding to get a look at who saved me before they knew I was awake, I lay down and close my eyes and focus on breathing deep and regularly. What I heard slightly confused me, it almost sounded like high heels on the wood floor. ‘Who wears something like that this early?’ As the steps came closer I could tell something was off, it almost sounded like two people walking in tandem. My thoughts were interrupted when I heard a knock at the door, the two people then walked past me and to the door opening it. “Oh, hello princess,” a small woman’s voice said, “I wasn’t expecting you this early.” This time for some reason the voice sounded lower to the ground. ‘She must be bowing. My suspicions confirmed by the “princess” when the other woman spoke, “Good morning, and Shy how many times do I have to say this, please stop bowing to me. We have been friends much longer than I’ve been a princess.” She almost sounded annoyed at first but softened her voice near the end. “I’m sorry.” Said a quiet voice that I could barely hear. “Shy, please don’t cry. You know I’m not mad, come here.” I opened my eyes to see two blurred figures hugging each other wearing some vibrantly colored clothing. One was in all purple, the other in all yellow. I couldn’t make out much more because I had to close my eyes again before I got caught. ‘I almost feel bad for watching this without their knowing.’ They moved past me towards the kitchen after ‘Shy’ invited the princess in for tea. They continued to converse about random stuff like what’s going on in their lives. Apparently Shy is having some trouble getting food for some of her carnivorous animals because her normal source stopped selling fish. The princess then offered to contact someone she knew named griffon, but the way she said it was odd. She said she knew ‘a griffon’ that might be willing to help out. ‘Weird. This all sounds familiar..’ Shy thanked her and asked, “Are you and Spike enjoying the princess life?” I almost blew my cover with a scoff but played it off as a snore. ‘Why wouldn’t she enjoy being pampered, and not having to lift a damn finger.’ Royalty has never sat right with me, they are always spoiled and controlling never wanting to do anything for themselves. Luckily they bought my farce and continued their conversation. “Actually, I kind of miss the simple life, my duties are boring and I cant even find the time to just sit and read. Spike is having a similar issue, he even told me yesterday he misses having to clean up after me when the books that would pile up after one of my study sessions. Any time he or I try to clean up after our meals the maids always send us away because and I quote ‘Your highness shouldn’t have to clean anything. That’s what we’re here for.’ It makes me feel bad that their cleaning my mess.” At the time all I could think was, ‘Wow, royalty that doesn’t like having everything done for them. That’s new to me.’ Their talk went on for a while longer, so I’ll skip the boring stuff. However, I think I’m going to like this Spike guy. He likes food just as much as me and sounds like a fun guy to be around. ‘I wonder if him and the princess are together. She seems to speak only good about him.’ I didn’t know it at the time, but I was WAY far off base on that assumption. Eventually their conversation moved to the couch, and I turned into the main subject. At first it was normal stuff, like how hard it was to stop the bleeding and rather or not I was going to make it. Soon though I started noticing that they were saying ‘it’ and ‘creature’ a lot I regards to me. Rather than delay the inevitable and become even more confused I decided to give up on playing dead. My first words were, “I’m right here and I have a name you know.” I still had my eyes closed so I couldn’t see the reaction, but there was silence. Curious as to what stuck them mute I opened my eyes to see two sets of abnormally large eyes, one set green the other purple, staring at me in shock. I could tell something was off about the people I was looking at but without my glasses I could not tell why they looked so odd. “What? I’m not that ugly am I?” no response. “Hellooo? Earth to the two ladies on the couch. Have you seen my glasses?” Not long after I said that my glasses landed on my lap without either of them moving. “Ok? Don’t know how you gave them to me but thanks anyways.” While I was cleaning them off I notice they were in perfect condition, so I began putting them on. “Wow, not a single scratch. You’d think a hydra attack would have destroy-“ I stopped mid-sentence at the sight laid before me. Two ponies were staring back at me, one was purple with a darker mane that had a pink strip going through it, had a horn, and even wings that were in full spread. The other had a yellow coat with a light pink mane, she only had wings. ‘Holy hell I’ve died and gone to heaven. The names Shy and Spike make so much since now!’ Even though my mind knew I was in no danger, my brain couldn’t handle what I was seeing for real right in front of me. My reaction? I screamed like a bitch and a fan-girl all at the same time. Their reaction was similar except it was all terror in their voices, and this went on for about a minute before I saw the alicorn’s horn glow while she screamed, “SLEEP!” > Anchored > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Bring her in over here.” I don’t know how long I was out before I started hearing someone talking again, after my mind fully caught up I realized it was princess Twilight Sparkle in the flesh. I almost couldn’t stay still because in my head all I could think was, ‘HOLY SHIT IT WORKED! IT FINALLY WORKED! HA FUCK YOU HUMANITY!’ I then remembered I’m supposed to be asleep and should probably calm down before they notice my squirming around in excitement. “Lay her down there please. Thanks Aj, Shy calm down she’s just asleep from the spell, give her time. Everyone be on your guard, when Pinkie wakes up so will he.” I didn’t dare open my eyes after she said that, even though I REALLY wanted to know what happened to the party pony, I didn’t want the wrath of the 5 other elements of harmony to come down on me. I guess I should explain how I know who they are, after all I’m basically an alien to this world. Back on earth there was a electronic device called a TV that basically showed a ‘play’ using thousands of pictures in a way that it looks like the picture is moving. Its something you ponies won’t have for a long, long time. Anyways there was this ‘play’ that was all about your princess Twilight Sparkle when she first came to Ponyville and met the rest of the ‘mane’ six element bearers. This play continued in several segments called episodes, with each focusing on a different major event like Nightmare Moon/Luna’s return, Candace and Shining Armor’s wedding when the changelings attacked, and even the “reformed” Discord who’s probably influencing what is happening now with me and the elements. If I had watched this play all the way through I’d be able to tell you the future of equestrian, however I didn’t so I can’t. Against my better judgement I opened my left eye just a crack, strangely enough to see Pinkie doing the same. She didn’t even slightly seem as scared of me as the rest of the group and even had a slight smirk on her face. She glanced around to see if anypony was around, satisfied that they were far enough away she edged closer to whisper in my ear. Upon hearing the party ponies plan I almost lost it and laughed out loud right there, thankfully I didn’t make a noise so they were none the wiser. She pulled a plate of spaghetti out of nowhere because you know, she’s Pinkie Pie and you don’t ask questions. Anyway, she then slurped up all the noodles, how they didn’t hear ill never know, leaving just the red sauce which she poured on her neck and the bed she was on. Until then I didn’t realize that we had been moved from Fluttershy’s cabin to the library/castle. Once Pinkie got rid of the plate (by eating it) she nodded to me to set the plan in action. With all the energy this injured man could muster I jumped up from bed and let out a surprisingly deep growl, I blame the pain I was in, and startled everypony in the room. Before they could move I pounce on Pinkie, which again hurt like hell, and proceeded to pretend I was eating Pinkie. I didn’t expect pinkie to play along so well which is why it scared the hell out of me when she let out an ear-splitting scream. That got them moving, but it was too late. The scream had scared me so much I actually jerked backwards and fell off the bed, even though I was absolutely sure I re-opened some wounds I couldn’t help but burst into laughter at the prank that backfired. I wasn’t the only one however, I could hear Pinkie laughing as well, which continued even when she fell off the bed and onto me. “Oh god it hurts, but it was so worth it!” I said while my laughter was slowly dying out due to the pain. Pinkie must have noticed my pain, or maybe she saw my blood seeping through the bandages covering my chest and stomach, I don’t know either way she stopped laughing immediately and her mane was flat. “I’m so sorry! I shouldn’t have dragged you into the prank,” her tears were falling freely by this time, “please don’t die!” Where is everyone else during this you might ask? Well from the point Pinkie started laughing and they realized it was a prank, they all just stood there facehoofing. Is that the right word? Facehoofing? Eh I don’t know, moving on. I quickly reached for Pinkie pulling her into a hug, “Pinks its alright Twi’s already healing me, just look.” I said pointing to my wounds that were slowly stitching themselves back up. “My prank still got you hurt! I never wanted to hurt you, please forgive me. Ill do anything!” ‘she’s basically hysterical at this point, I need to calm her down.’ I tightened our embrace while petting her mane, “Pinks it's fine, I did it to myself anyway. I knew this might happen. Like I said it was worth it. You are forgiven, so don’t worry about it, and please don’t cry anymore just laugh at this failure of a prank with me.” I say hoping for her to return to her normal self. It hurts me to see someone/somepony crying, especially one that’s normally SUPER happy all the time. I sat there holding her hoping for her to calm down, I glanced up to see the rest of the mane 6 watching this happen from a distance. They were close enough to take action if need be but keeping their distance from me and watching every move I made. While I was wondering what they were thinking about this whole situation Pinkie had calmed to a light sniffle every once in a while. Finally calm enough to talk she says, “Please let me make it up to you in some way, I still feel super bad.” Knowing she won’t take no for an answer I think up something that would hopefully turn her back to her normal bubbly self. “Alright Pinks. How about you bring me some of your best cupcakes while I’m recovering, and pinkie promise me that you’ll throw me the best welcome to Equestria party this town has ever seen, after I’m fully recovered of course. Wouldn’t want to miss out on anything at one of your legendary parties because I wasn’t feel good.” If only I knew what I was getting myself into. The results were instant her mane poofed out and she had a huge smile on her face. “Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a THOUSAND cupcakes in my eye! Thankyouthankyouthankyou!” She then gave me a literally bone breaking hug and ran off to start her preparations. “Oh god, twi my ribs please fix them.” I barely managed to spit out while trying to get some much-needed air. Twilight and the others just looked at each other then at me shaking their heads and smiling. A certain rainbow maned Pegasus walked over and put a hoof on my shoulder, “Pinkie did the same to me I know the feeling. Bad news is resetting the ribs hurts like Tartarus,” right as she said that Twilight started healing me. She was not kidding. “however, from that little display you two put on just now, I think can trust you enough not to beat you to a pulp for making me think you hurt Pinkie, just don’t do it again.” Her smile turned to a glare near the end, makes me shiver even now just thinking about that face. “Duly noted, Rainbow. Won’t happen again,” Turning to Twilight I say, “and thank you Princess Twilight Sparkle for healing me, you have my eternal gratitude for saving my life. You are a true prodigy in magic. I do hope I did not offend earlier when I called you Twi and am truly sorry if I did.” I could have sworn I saw a slight blush at my compliment, but I didn’t want to say anything. “Thank you and don’t worry about it, I don’t care much for titles. Speaking of names, how do you know some of our names?” The rest of the remaining girls all nodded wanting to know as well. “Well first of all I know all of you not just some of you, I even know the names of several other ponies in this town and in Canterlot.” Now that got some gasps and even a couple of skeptical stares, one from Rainbow and the other from Rarity. “Darling I don’t understand how you could, nopony has ever seen your kind before so how could you know so much about us? I believe a full explanation is in order.” I finally got up off the floor and sat one of the beds, so I could be comfortable for the upcoming conversation and the inevitable questions that would follow. ‘Man, this is going to take forever..’ “Get comfortable this is going to take a while. I kinda wish Pinkie was here so I don’t have to repeat this again later.” I really didn't want to explain all this again, it's already going to take a long time as is. Then out of nowhere, “HEYA EVERYPONY!” Pinkie screamed as she popped out from under the bed I was on. Needless to say we were not expecting it and all jumped in surprise. “PINKS YA GOTTA STOP DOING THAT,” I say while laughing, “at least wait until I’m better. Now where’s my cupcakes?” With an apologetic look on her face she hopped up on the bed by me pulling a box of cupcakes out of her mane. “Sorry, here. I just made them fresh, they’re still warm!” Oh man they smelled sooo good, I’m getting hungry again just writing about them. I’ll have to get some after I finish this. “Thanks Pinks,” I say pulling her into a hug. “Your actually just in time for my story on how I know all your names.” “Oh that? I already know how you know.” With that she confused even me. A southern voice asked what everyone was thinking. “Now Pinkie ah know enough about you to not question your randomness, but how in the hay do you know already? There’s no way he coulda told you.” I somehow knew she was going to give an extremely vague answer that wouldn’t help with the curiosity. “OOH, OOH I KNOW THIS ONE! I read Terran’s letter to the princesses before it was sent!” ‘umm, what?’ it was strange even coming from Pinkie Pie. I won’t lie, It only just now clicked in my head what she meant. I’m only just now writing this letter to you, Princess Celestia. I’m going to have to watch for a certain hyperactive ball of fun after I finish this. I don’t think anyone will ever understand that mare. That being said I know I shouldn’t, but I’m going to figure her out one day, and that’s a pinkie promise. After Pinkie’s random answer, which we all decided to ignore, I told them all about ‘My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic’ and gave them the same basic idea of what a TV is like I did in the beginning of this letter. I don’t want to bore you with the details again, so I’ll skip to the reaction. Which was nothing. Nopony moved other than Pinkie and me. I was eating in silence with my arm still around Pinkie while the rest just stared straight ahead with blank faces. “Um Pinks? Did I break them?” I looked down at Pinkie for help. She shrugged and leaned against me before saying, “I had the same reaction at first, but it only lasted for like 3 seconds because I realized I already knew that.” Again, what? “Honestly I don’t understand why they can’t see the cameras, I mean there’s one right there. See?” I looked where she was pointing and didn’t see anything but agreed anyways. “Ya.. I don’t understand either.” After about fifteen minutes of silence from the mares I laid down due to fatigue, I wasn't nearly healthy enough to be moving around like I had been. Once I was comfortable I noticed Pinkie was still sitting near the end of the bed, where I was once hugging her, with a sad look almost as if she wanted to stay near me. To be honest I was kinda missing her warmth, with a smile I said, “What are you doing all the way over there Pinks? Come here.” With that she practically dove onto me but managed to land next to me when she remembered I was still hurt. We hugged and stayed like that with her head on my chest, I was tired, so I decided to just let myself fall asleep like this. I woke up sometime later to see it was night, figuring the girls had gone home I was surprised to find Pinkie still holding onto me. I didn’t want to wake her up, so I just lay there with a happy smile on my face, I couldn’t figure out how we got so close in such a short amount of time. ‘eh who cares how, I’ve got a cute mare snuggling with me. I shouldn’t question it.’ As I lay there, I realized what I just thought. ‘Woah there hold your horses buddy, no pun intended. Ya you’ve read probably hundreds of fanfics about this same situation and the romance that happens, but this is REAL not some made up story.’ I’m still not sure what to think about all this.. Wait.. Oh crap. I forgot that Pinkie somehow reads this in the past after I finished. Wow I just confused the hell out of myself, anyways that means Pinkie knows about the cute thing.. Well its too late now, I wrote this with a pen on some parchment Twilight gave me. Aw hell now I’m paranoid about what I’m writing. All that aside, back to the story. I just lay there my thoughts stuck on a certain pink pony while I went back to sleep. I was dreaming about strawberry milk raining from the clouds when I was awoken by something latching onto my lips. My eyes shot open at the thought that it was Pinkie, however all I saw was scales and large purple eyes. “hewo ummy.” Was all I managed to say because he was keeping my mouth closed, I heard Pinkie laughing beside me so I turned to her. “an ou ease et im?” This only made her laugh more, so I decided to test something I read in a fanfic once. Reaching over I pulled Pinkie over and waved some of her mane in front of Gummy, he immediately let go and started hanging from her mane. “Huh it worked.” I yawned and started to stretch only to remember all my injuries after the pain flared up. Pinkie must have noticed the look on my face because she got down from the bed and sped off bringing a very confused and disheveled looking Twilight. “Bu- ho- why, Pinkie I was asleep.” Twilight said looking exasperated. “Terran is hurting again, please help him Twi.” She sighs, “Alright. But I’m going back to sleep after this,” her horn starts to glow, and I start to feel better. “and you keep calling him that. Is that even his actual name?” Pinkie nodded, and I just smiled. “She’s actually right Twilight, I should probably introduce myself.” Holding out my hand I say, “My name is Terran Tobias, but you can call me Terran or just T if you prefer.” Putting her hoof in my hand she says, “Nice to officially meet you Terran, my name is Twilight Sparkle. You can just call me Twi, and don’t worry about me being a princess just treat me as you would anypony else.” Looking directly at Pinkie Twilight asks, “Now can I go back to sleep?” --- It was early morning probably around 5am and I was still wide awake, so I decided to try to move around a bit while waiting for breakfast to be made, Twilight offered, and I couldn’t turn her down because I was starved. Pinks helped me stand, then we walked for a bit until I was tired and decided to just sit and talk in the dining room. Breakfast rolled around fairly quickly, time flies when you’re in good company. I still feel bad for eating Twi’s food and not being able to pay her back. No matter how much she told me it was ok and that I was a guest, it didn’t help. ‘I’ll pay her back eventually.’ After breakfast we moved back to the main area where the beds were to talk about what happened after I fell asleep. “After we got over the shock we talked and came up with a theory, both your world and mine are real and have some kind of magical link connecting us." She paused. "Then we noticed you two in the same bed,” there’s that blush again. “and decided we should let the other princesses know of our current situation. I will also be doing some research to try and figure this out over the next few days to see if there are any repercussions to your appearance.” ‘Just gonna breeze right past the elephant in the room are we?’ I figured there would be questions or at least objections about us being in the same bed, but then again this isn’t Earth. ‘Wait, knowing Twilight she will want to send Celestia a letter. I can’t pass up a chance like this!’ “Hey Twi, could I maybe give it a shot?” The confusion on her face was obvious. “Can I Write the letter to the princesses?” There’s the look I was expecting, a look that said, ‘why would you want to do that?’ I almost laughed out loud. “um, sure I guess I don’t see an issue with it.” I almost asked for something to write on right there, but she held up a hoof. “First you need to know the whole story of what happened after the hydra attack.” That got me to put my full attention on Twilight much to Pinkie’s dismay, probably because I stopped petting her. “From my point of view I was in my office dealing with some issues around Ponyville, Rainbow Dash came in through the window yelling something about a monster at Fluttershy’s house and needing help.” She sighs in annoyance, “What she failed to tell me however was that it was the ‘monster’ that needed help. So I thought one of my best friends was in trouble. I gathered the rest of my friends and stormed into Fluttershy’s home to find her cleaning your wounds of all the blood.” She shuddered at the memory. “Once I knew the real situation I started trying every healing spell I know. However-” I knew where this was going so I interrupted, “I was too far gone. I was dead.” All she did was nod her head. “But then how-“ “are you still alive?” she finished for me. “I knew the conventional methods weren’t going to work, at first I thought all was lost but then I remembered something I read a long time ago in a book in the Canterlot hidden archives. It is an extremely risky spell not only for the caster but also for the one its casted on, the spell allows for somepony’s soul, that isn’t the caster’s, to enter the void to find the soul so both can be brought back to their bodies. If the non-casting pony can’t find the lost soul or find their way back in time they too would succumb to the void and die.” Her voice was cracking up at the thought. “I offered up the idea hoping nopony would be willing to be the anchor for your soul. I do realize how that sounds but these are my friends, and I didn’t even know if you were sentient at the time.” She paused to look at the floor. “I’m sorry but even knowing that you were I still wouldn’t have wanted them to try.” It does sound a bit selfish, but I get it, I might have been the same way in the situation. “It’s ok Twi, I completely understand, but I have to ask. Who did it? I’m alive so obviously someone did. I need to know who. Who do I owe the rest of my life to?” Twilight looked to Pinkie who for some reason nodded. She looked me straight in the eyes and simply said, “Pinkamena Diane Pie.” I was Stunned, absolutely gob smacked. I have no better words to explain the feeling, I almost couldn’t believe what I had heard. I barely noticed Twilight hoofing me parchment, and a pen. She walked away saying, “I’ll leave you two to talk, when you finish the letter let me know and ill have Spike send it.” Side note, Equestria has pens? How? You only had quill and ink in the show, though I guess there probably will be some differences. At this point it was my turn to give Pinkie a bone crushing hug, though I thankfully am not strong enough to actually do damage, she returned the hug and started to explain. “At first it was Fluttershy who wanted to take part in the spell, being who she is she wanted to save you no matter the cost. I just kinda knew that she couldn’t handle it though, nothing against her she’s my friend, I love her and all the others. But that’s exactly why I couldn’t let her, or the others do it. I had to.” This was so strange to hear Pinkie talking this seriously. “I took some convincing, but Twi finally gave in. After she cast the spell I didn’t even know where to start looking because all there was, was nothing but darkness. It made me nervous and reminded me of the old rock farm back home. Then I was there suddenly, just the same as I remembered it. After I realized I had control and filling up on chocolate milk from the memory of when Discord came back,” I couldn’t help but smile, ‘that’s the Pinkie I know.’ She continued, “I thought about finding your soul, then bam I was there watching you watching your memories.” She looked a bit sad and wouldn’t look at me. “I was curious and watched them as well, I’m sorry I know I shouldn’t have invaded your privacy like that, but then you started to fade out and I knew we were losing you. No matter what I said you couldn’t see or hear me, so I grabbed onto you and started pulling you back with everything I had. It wasn’t enough, and I was getting dragged with you until Twilight notice my body shaking and started pulling me back still holding onto you.” Behind us I heard Twilight walk up. “I noticed another soul with Pinkie but was too late to tell her to let go before you got back to your bodies. Since you were connected at the time of entering your bodies, you are now and will forever be connected even when you are apart. This is why when I cast a sleep spelling you, she fell asleep as well. Please make sure to tell the princess this in as much detail as you can so she knows the whole situation.” That’s it, everything. Sorry about the length of this, Princess Celestia, I am sure that this will even rival some of the letters Princess Twilight has sent but you have to know almost every detail. I am sure there’s a few pieces of very important missing information that you would like to know, for instance how I got here and my reaction once I realized where I was. All will be answered in due time, I Pinkie Promise you that. Sincerely, Terran Tobias > Dear Terran > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Well I was right to keep watch for that pink menace. Not very long after I finished writing that letter Pinkie came out of nowhere and grabbed it from the table saying she would bring it to Twilight. How that pony defies the laws of time and physics, I’ll never know. ‘Well now that I have some time alone I should probably get a good look at what kind of shape I’m in.’ Starting from my head I began feeling around my body testing the damaged areas to see how bad the pain was after Twilights healing and pain relief spells. My head was bandaged from the impact of the tree when I tripped, while it still hurt it was only a minor throbbing like a bad headache. My entire torso was bandaged from the top of my left shoulder to my waist, only my right shoulder and arm uncovered. I could see spots of blood that seeped through the bandages where each tooth had stabbed into me, I could see that some of the teeth had hit vital areas. Thank god for magic. Moving lower I noticed, thankfully, that I still had my pants on and that they were surprisingly unscathed. Happy that I dodged that common fanfiction event (it has to do with human anatomy being different and the explanation of how “it” works), I decided to test my movement with some stretches. Nothing too strenuous but I was surprised at how much I could actually move, I hurt like hell but not as much as you’d think. I had that strange feeling that I was being watched but it was a bit more pronounced than normal, I figured I’d ignore it for now and explore a little to try and find Pinkie or Twilight. Wandering around a bit I found the kitchen with a few ponies running around cooking various foods. While I didn’t really want to bother them, I needed some better food than what I had at breakfast and what Pinkie brought me. ‘Pinks makes good cupcakes but I need some real food not sweets.’ I almost felt guilty just thinking that. Walking towards the chefs I waved over the one that looked the least busy. There was a mare with a brown mane, white coat, and a cutie mark that looked like a piping bag that you squeeze icing out of. “Hey, mare with the white coat. Could you come here for a sec?” What? I didn’t know her name at the time, how else could I get her attention? She looked over with a scowl at first. Then she saw the bipedal hairless monkey in the room and became a bit nervous when she walked over. “Y-yes? Mr.Tobias, I presume?” It was easy to see that she was trying to remain professional and hide the fact that I scared her. “Do you require assistance of some kind?” “I was actually just exploring a bit on my own if that’s ok, but I am actually kind of hungry. Think I could have something to snack on, please? Oh, and please call me Terran.” I tried to make my voice as calm and friendly as possible. Considering that I’m going to be here for a while I don’t want anypony to be afraid of me. “You are free to go wherever you please. Princess Twilight already alerted all the staff not to impede you in any way. We are also to look after you and to make you feel at home, however lunch will be served in about two hours. I have to ask that you wait until then, however I would be willing to make something specific for you.” Her professionalism won over the fear as she spoke, she even stopped shaking. ‘Here we go...’ Having a pretty good idea of how this was going to go down, I decided to get it out of the way. “Well, there is something I would like but I need to explain some things first. I am a human. An omnivore, that means I eat not only fruits and veggies but also meat.” Fully expecting her to run or scream, I was surprised to see that she nodded in response. “I see. I will let the others know right away.” “Hey wait!” “Yes, Mr.Tobias?” I’ll never get used to being called that. “What’s your name?” “My name is Cocoanut Frosting.” After that she rejoined the rest of the chefs and I figured I should leave them alone. Wandering around some more I got the same feeling of being watched again. I couldn’t ignore it this time and decided to go towards this ‘feeling’. I thought is was strange that I could follow this feeling and what was even more odd was that I could feel myself getting closer as I walked. Whatever was causing this feeling was right above me. ‘Stairs. I need to find the stairs.’ Finding a way up took longer than it probably should have, I’m pretty sure I was walking in circles. Once again, I followed this feeling and was eventually led to a large purple door. ‘Time to figure out what this is.’ I knocked on the door only to have it open right after the third knock, the door handle was glowing a familiar purple color. “Enter.” A voice said as the feeling I had been following faded away. “That you Twi? I hope you don’t mind me asking but what exactly were you doing in here before I came in?” I asked the alicorn princess who was seated at a desk. ‘This must be her study.’ “Well, I had hoped to have more time to get some results before I told you. I did a magical scan of your soul when you were returning to your body and was trying to locate where you originated from. I have had no luck so far but I assure you, I will find a way to get you back home as I know this place is far from what your used to.” She almost sounded like she was trying to reassure me, like she thought I was homesick or something. ‘I don’t want her to know that I wanted to come here, at least for right now. How can I get her to stop without giving anything away?’ We were both silent for a few minutes until I had an idea. “While it is true that this place is different from what I’m used to, it’s different in a good way. Anyway, what about my ‘connection’ with Pinkie? If I were to leave while being soul bound to her what would happen? I don’t want to inadvertently hurt her.” “Hmm, you’re right. This is something I should have thought about, and until we can be sure neither of you will be hurt I’m afraid you will have to stay. I’m sorry, its my fault that you are stuck here.” Either she found the floor to be very interesting or she was feeling guilty and couldn’t look at me. I however was happy to hear this. “Twi, you have nothing to be sorry for. I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for you and Pinks. You both saved my life and for that I will be eternally grateful.” I then pulled Twilight into a hug to help prove my point. She stiffened at first but then returned the hug full force with her arms and wings. There was a small hiss then popping noise behind me along with a small flash of light. “Looks like Celestia wrote back, and it’s addressed to you.” She floated the message into my hands then said, “I’ll go ahead and let you read it first since it was meant for you after all.” “I’ve heard nothing but good things about Princess Celestia, I’m hoping she’s understanding about the situation.” After reading the letter I let out a sigh of relief. “Well the basic outline is that she will be too busy to meet me in person so she wants me to keep a journal that has, ‘every single detail about what I do on a daily basis, any conversations, and what I do when I’m alone.’ I hope she doesn’t mean EVERY thing, I don’t know how I feel about writing the more personal stuff.” “I’m not sure either but I would write everything down, she’s most likely using it as a way to get to know you and see if you’re trustworthy.” “True. I’ll put everything down, I just hope she is the only one that reads them. Who knows what I’ll get myself into while I’m here- “ Just then the door opened again to reveal Pinkie with a strange look on her face. “What’s going on in here? Why are you two so close?” Pinkie said. The weird thing is, I heard a hint of jealousy in her voice. “What do you mean Pinks?” looking over at Twilight I realized she still had a wing around me from the hug earlier. “Oh, this?” gesturing towards the half hug. Twilight must have noticed as well because she pulled her wing back with a small blush flaring up on her cheeks. “I was just telling Twi that I appreciated her for saving my life, then I got this message from Princess Celestia.” Pinkie seemed happy with my response because she started talking about a mile a minute about random stuff. I was surprised by how easily I was able to keep up and make comments at the same speed. I blame the ‘connection’ we have. > Tests and Occupations > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- After listening to Pinkie's and my own fast speech for a moment i noticed Twilight writing notes, a few feet/hooves away with a slightly confused and fascinated look on her face. She noticed me looking at her and stopped writhing to explain. "As I said before your soul and Pinkie's are now connected but I'm not sure of how deep those connections are. If you two are up for it i would like to test some things, it will help us all to understand what exactly is going on between you two." 'Not sure what you mean by the way you said that last part but ok.' "I don't mind, I'm actually quite curious myself." I look over to Pinkie and she smiles and nods in agreement. As Twilight started to move closer she lowered her head pointing her horn at us and closing her eyes. "Don't worry, the first set of tests can be done quickly and painlessly thanks to a spell i created." As her horn started to glow i felt an odd tingling sensation starting from my head and slowly traveling down, as it got to my stomach it tickled a bit and made me laugh. Noticing another laugh at the same time i look over to Pinkie to see she is feeling the spell and looking at me as well. Everything was going fine until the magical scan reached the pelvic area, and a certain feeling I have spent years pushing away hit. Lust. For whatever reason when that scan passed my private bits, Instant boner. Having already been looking at Pinkie, I noticed she must have had the same issue because she immediately tucked her tail between her legs and sat down with wide eyes and an obvious blush. Kinda cute actually. However my thoughts flew right to the gutters like a poorly thrown ball. 'Oh gods help me! Damn Twilight and her spell!' I really don't wanna write down my thoughts at the time, but Princess' orders say that i must. So pinkie, PLEASE save me the guilt and don't read the next line. Looking down at her right as the effects hit I had but one thought invade my mind that I'm glad i didn't go through with. 'She's so beautiful right now, I just want to pick her up, throw her into my bed and take her right now.' Not even a second after I had the thought the spell suddenly stopped, along with all the effects it had caused. Looking at Twilight i notice the she almost completely changed color from lavender to bright red from the massive blush on her face. She immediately started walking out the door saying over her shoulder, "OK, I'm done I'm going to analyze what i found and tell you what i found later!" As soon as she was out of sight I heard her galloping away quickly and a door somewhere else slam shut. "Gottagowatchthecaketwinsseeyoulaterbye!" By the time I turned around all that was left of Pinkie was a dust cloud in her shape that dissipated as it flew out the door. 'Well that happened..' Not knowing what else to do with both girls leaving so quickly, I felt the need to get some air. A half hour of somehow ending up back in the the throne room and asking for directions a few times I finally find my way outside of Twilight's castle. One of the guards stationed outside stopped me and said I had to stay near the castle and out of sight of common ponies, Princess Twilight Sparkles orders. I agreed and asked if there was somewhere I could go where i would be left alone for a while. He then escorted me to an area in the gardens surrounded by bushes with a fountain and 7 cushions in a circle nearby with a low table in the middle, at my request he stood at the entrance to make sure I stayed alone. 'This is a beautiful area, I'll have to remember this for when I need to think. Kinda surprised that guard listened to me without question, but then again Twi probably told them I was a guest and to honor my wishes.' Looking at the table I notice a bell in the center, I have an idea of what it might be for so i pick it up and give it a single shake. Behind me i hear what sounds like wings flapping and a thump on the ground. Turning around a grey coated Pegasus in a maid outfit with blonde hair standing with a smile and slight bow. I nearly fainted on the spot. "Hello Terran, is there anything i can get you? Tea, or a snack maybe?" Said the #1 best pony. (No worries Princess Celestia you're #2. Ok you're actually#3.... Princess Luna is #2. Don't smite me please.) "By the gods, Derpy? Is that you? What are you doing working for Twilight? What happened to being the mail pony? They didn't fire you did they?!" I admit I was probably acting pretty weird, I remember smiling and giggling allot while staring at her. Don't judge me i can't help it shes just soo cute and such an awesome character in my, and many others opinion. To be honest she took it like a trooper and wasn't even phased by my behavior or questions. "Yep that's me! No I wasn't fired, I was looking for an extra job and Princess Twilight offered me a position! I still deliver mail in the morning then come here after i finish my route." "Why the extra job? If you don't mind me asking that is." While she didn't react to my earlier behavior, I definitely saw her flinch at that question. Figuring I had hit a sensitive subject I cut her off right as she is about to speak, "You know what just ignore me I'm new around here and just a bit too curious. I think ill take you up on that offer for tea." With a thankful smile she bowed and flew back to the castle. 'I hope it's nothing bad that she needs the extra money for. Hopefully she just was bored of working the one job.' Derpy returned with the tea a few minutes later not even spilling a drop when placing the tray on the table. It's weird seeing her not being clumsy, but it didn't last long. Before i had even finished the thought of how her clumsiness was one of the cutest things about her, she flew right into one of the bushes and got stuck. She struggled a bit to try and get out but only managed to flail around comically before she just slumped down in defeat, 'I should probably help her.' After Derpy was freed from the 'evil bush,' which is an exact quote from her, she thanked me with a bow and flew back towards the castle. Returning to the table and my tea I'm surprised to find Twilight already sitting with a cup floating in her magic. She seems to have calmed down since the earlier incident and gestures to the other seat across from her. When i sit she quickly glances at me then away with a small blush, 'Huh, guess shes not over it after all.' I decide to ask the big question, "So, what did you find out with the scan? You left so quickly and didn't even finish the scan." "I didn't finish the magical scan because I saw enough," She says while still not looking in my direction, "Ill just give you the basics because you don't have any magic and most likely could not understand most of the explanation anyway. Ill send my own report to Princess Celestia when you send yours. I only meant to scan you, then Pinkie later but the spell affected both of you at the same time. You're both connected by the soul, if something were to happen to you the same would happen to her. It might be possible to create a spell to separate you two but it would be extremely dangerous to do so, and to be completely honest I doubt anypony alive, Princesses included could cast it." "OK, so I'm soulbound to Pinkie forever?" I ask a little too excitedly. Earning me a confused look, thankfully she doesn't ask and continues her explanation. "Yes, you will now and forever be connected to Pinkie Pie in ways even I will never understand. Its is because if this that, i regret to inform you, has made me stop looking for a way to get you home. I'm sorry but I cannot risk the safety of one of my best friends or you." After the explanation she closed her eyes with a frown to, I assume, await my reaction. "OK." No point in freaking out i kinda wanted this anyway, my life here will be better than anything I might have back on earth. "Guess Ill need a job then, know anyone that will hire a strange bipedal hairless monkey?" > Responsibilities > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Being the kind mare she is, Twilight offered me a job at the castle doing anything from cleaning to cooking which is completely fine by me. I have enough knowledge about cooking to handle just about everything ponies can eat, and I used to have to clean various areas at my old job when people would call in. When Twi mentioned my pay she gave me a quick run down of the general cost of some of the basic things like food and toiletries. Using the info given I estimated that a bit is worth nearly the same as $3 in earths US currency. However most larger objects, like furniture, here are cheaper than they would be back home which explains the 4 bits/hour she offered. She even offered me a full weeks pay in advance to help me get settled. "Twilight while I appreciate the gesture I'll have to decline." Then I remembered I am currently homeless. "However if I could continue to stay here in a guest room, I would be very grateful. It would only be until I could afford a place of my own." "Stay here as long as you need. Oh also feel free to join me and Spike for dinner as part of your payment." Her generosity could rival even Rarity's. "Thank you Princess. I will be sure to not let you down." I'm going to have to get used to calling her Princess while working regardless of how much she says otherwise, Its only professional to do so after all. She then tells me she has business to take care of and I can start whenever I feel I am able to work without hurting myself. 'Considering how dull the pain is now I'll be ready to go by tomorrow.' "Hey Terran!" I jump slightly at the sudden introduction behind me. Spinning around I see Derpy smiling at me with both eyes looking different directions. "I'll be training and watching over you until to get the hang of things around here." "Jeez Derps, give me a heart attack why don't you." I made sure to laugh so she would know I was joking. "I can't wait to get started tomorrow, I have a feeling that I'll enjoy working with you." She seemed to perk up a little more after hearing this. "Sorry to scare you, but I'm happy to hear that you think so. I think we'll be great friends in no time!" Damn ponies and their cuteness, melts my heart to hear her say that. "I know you're still recovering so I'm not rushing you, but when did you say you planned to start working?" "Tomorrow actually. I'm already feeling great thanks to Twilight's healing spells, just a little tired from her testing earlier.." Now I can't help but remember the earlier 'incident' with the scan. 'I'm still not sure about what I felt and thought then. I know I'm never going back to earth and will eventually want a family but I can't let those thoughts take root.' I've kept those thoughts under wraps for years now, I just have to stick to my guns and hold out until I feel more comfortable with the idea. I'll be honest and say, yes. I have indeed fantasized about falling in love with a pony, but imagination can only go so far. Being here now seeing the same ponies I've fantasized about walking around, eating, breathing, and REALLY alive. It makes me realize how similar they are to the animals back home and how strange it is to be having such thoughts about them. Anyways, enough of my rambling and back to the events of the day, I remind myself that I was talking to somepony and that she had likely noticed my unsure expression. "Are you ok Terran?" Yep, definitely noticed. "Oh, ya I'm fine. Just spaced out a bit I guess." I shook my head in an attempt to forget 'those' feelings. "Hey Derpy? You busy right now?" "Well I'm still on the clock but my work is mostly finished for the day. Why? Is there something you needed?" "Do you think you could show me around Ponyville so I have a basic idea of where everything is? I'm going to need to know where places are in case I need something or am running errands for Twilight. I also want to see if there are any homes for sale or rent so that I have an idea of how much I need to save up." Plus there's more that I'd rather not mention out loud. 'I also want to find Pinkie to see if shes ok, she left in such a hurry. Maybe the scan had the same affect on her as it did me? That would explain the way she acted, but if that's the case should I say anything about it?' "Well Princess Twilight did say to help you with anything you might need, so yes I'd be happy to show you around town. Oh by the way, the Mayor announced that you were here and safe to be around but please don't be offended if some still stare or shy away from you." I had already been prepared for the possibility of terrified ponies by reading ungodly amounts of human in Equestria fan fictions. "No worries, everypony will get used to me eventually." I say as we walk through the gardens and around the side of the castle. "I just hope I don't scare anypony too badly, after all I despise violence and would never hurt somepony on purpose." "I'm sure everything will be fi--" "AAAHHHHHHH" As soon as we get to the front of the castle, in plain sight of the main road, a neon green stallion looks directly at me and lets out a loud scream then turned and walked away like nothing happened. Absolutely confused I look to Derpy for answers only to see her facehoofing. "Ignore him, that ponies got issues. He never talks other than to say his name and scream like that. I think he's foreign, his name is something weird like cla-- Klazo Maneia or something like that. Anyways like I was saying, everything wi--" "AAHHH" We both nearly jumped out of our skin, somehow the stallion ended up behind us when he screamed this time. "I SWEAR TO CELESTIA KLAZOWHATEVER YOUR NAME IS, DO THAT ONE MORE TIME I'LL KICK YOU STRAIGHT BACK TO TARTARUS WHERE YOU CAME FROM!" I was honestly surprised and dare I say slightly aroused by this mares angry side. Why do I feel guilty thinking that? Even Klazowhatever seemed surprised by the outburst, looking at Derpy with confusion and hurt in his eyes. "Meany.." Huh, so he actually talks. Even Derpy looked confused by his quiet words, but just as she was about to say something the stallion ran off looking as though he was about to cry. Now it was Derpy's turn to look like she was about to cry. "I didn't mean to make him cry, hes just always running around doing that to everypony and when he scared me I couldn't help but be mad. I'm a horrible pony.." I was having none of that. I quickly bent down and wrapped my arms around Derpy in a hug saying, "Hey hey its alright. It was just a spur of the moment reaction, I'm sure if you went and apologized he would understand. If you want we can postpone this little tour so you can go talk to him." "Thank you Terran." Said Derpy before hugging me back then pulling away to find the unstable stallion. I decided to take a short walk around town on my own to clear my head and think about what I would say to Pinkie the next time I saw her. 'If Pinks left because she felt the same thing I did, was it because of embarrassment or disgust? OK, had to be embarrassment, I doubt these ponies would have an issue with interspecies relationships. Now the question is should I talk to her about it or leave it alone. If I leave it alone I can avoid the issue and move on, however if I talk to her about it.. I don't know.' The whole soul bound thing scares me because I feel extremely close to Pinkie Pie even though I have only just met her in reality. Could our situation be affecting my emotions? Forcing me to feel things I haven't felt in a long time? I have always liked Pinkie, she's energetic, happy, funny, not too bad on the eyes. Damn it that's what I mean! I was planning on writing 'a great friend' for the last one! One of my biggest fears is being influenced by outside means into doing or saying stuff I would never do or say. That's my biggest reason for never touching alcohol even when offered it by my parents. I had been sitting on a bench I found when Derpy found me. She explained how she apologized to Klazo and how he told her that he had some type of rare mental disease that causes his random screams. After assuring her that I was fine we returned to the castle and I went to my room to turn in early as the sun had only just started lowering. Princess any advice you might have would be super helpful, I'm just so confused. I hope our situation isn't instigating these feelings I'm having towards Pinkie Pie, but then again I might just be overreacting. I mean it's not like I'm falling in love with her or anything right? Sincerely, Terran Tobias > New Routine > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- How many letters does this make now? I think this is maybe number 15, so that means I've been here a month now. It really does not feel like it in all honesty, though it might be because I am actually enjoying myself for the first time in years. With ever day that passes I'm getting closer with everypony in the castle and even the ponies in town have started treating me like I'm just another pony. Though one pony in particular is keeping his distance and seems to be watching me while I'm in town, but maybe I'm overreacting I only saw him for the first time two days ago. I'll keep you up to date on what happens with him so don't worry about it he just seems to be curious, and a little grumpy. Today started like every other so far, I wake up early and meet with Derpy for breakfast at a local cafe before she starts her delivery route. We talked about stuff that happened the day before and our usual friendly chatter, the mare is really starting to grow on me. I could without a doubt say she is one of my best friend here, besides Pinkie, and odd feelings of guilt aside I wouldn't mind getting to know her on a more 'personal' level. As per usual once we are finished she flies off, after a quick hug, to go to work for the post office and I start heading towards Sugarcube Corner for some after breakfast sweets. I have always been skinny no matter how much I eat so I always indulge my newly acquired sweet tooth that most likely came from the link to Pinkie. I get there at the usual time, then buy a muffin for later and a couple of cupcakes for me and Pinks to enjoy now. She isn't waiting for me in our usual spot but the sound of Mr.Cake's voice gets my attention. "Pinkie wanted me to let you know she's upstairs taking a shower and that you could wait in her room. At least I think that's what she said," with a roll of his eyes and a smirk he continues "that mare get so excited when she's talking about you that she makes even less sense than usual." "Thanks Mr.Cake, say hi to the wife and kids for me!" Their twins are soo adorable I nearly had a heart attack when I first met them, they weren't even slightly scared of me and even started playing around with my hands and giggled when I would pet them. Anyway, with a nod Mr.Cake went back to work in the kitchen and I made my way upstairs. At the top of the stairs was a fairly big open room where my welcoming party was held, I still wonder how Pinks managed to get everypony in the town in here. When questioned she only says she was 'fulfilling her promise to me with the biggest bestest party the town has ever seen' in her words not mine. Knowing the Cakes live somewhere else and which of the two side rooms was the bathroom, I headed towards the doorway I suspect to be her bedroom. Figuring she was still in the shower I opened the door to a dimly lit, but still colorful, room with a bed In the center of the opposite wall. I was honestly expecting cluttered party supplies to be everywhere but it was a surprisingly tidy and clean room. As I walked in and looked around I got that pulling feeling in my head that made me turn to see Pinkie standing in the closet doorway seemingly digging around looking for something. However, because she was digging around in the lower part of the closet her upper half was laying on the floor with her rear and tail held high in no attempt of hiding her.. Private bits... I admittedly stared a bit longer than I should have and it caused certain thoughts to arise again. Though thanks to the link I'm pretty sure she felt something as well. She stood up, turned around, and with a noticeable blush said "Oh hi, T! I was looking for a hair brush." She had a look that almost seemed like satisfaction on her face, along with the blush. "Um.. You mean this one?" I picked up the hair brush that was on the table next to the closet door right beside a slightly damp towel. I remember thinking 'Ok, I'm not dense. This seems way too much like a setup, and I'm not sure how to feel about that.' After that incident we hung out for a while like we usually do with Pinkie never leaving my side until the time we both had to go to our respective jobs. I know as well as you do from my previous interactions with Pinkie Pie in past letters that she has been really clingy and at times can act a little jealous. I can't deny that I've been having the same urges to be close to her all the time but I can't let myself give in. We are JUST best friends. That's it. I still feel that being soul bound to each other is forcing us to feel this way, that's why I have to keep this from progressing any further. Not only does the thought of not being able to control my feelings scare me, What about her? What if she doesn't really want this either? I'm also starting to feel rather close to Derpy but I can't shake that feeling of guilt. While your advice is always welcome Princess Celestia I need direct help. Twilight is unable to tell for sure if the link is affecting my feelings without the proper spells from the book. I hate to bother you with my troubles but I don't know who else to turn to. I like to think that we've become friends through these letters even though we've only met the one time at the party, but I have a favor to ask in regards to the restricted book that Twilight mentioned in the first letter. If you have the time please have it researched or send it to the castle for Twilight to research the effects of the spell. I know this is a big favor considering what other dangerous spells the book could have. Why else would it be locked away in the restricted section? You are a kind and considerate mare and I know you will be fair in your decision, no matter what it is I will respect your choice. Sincerely, Terran Tobias > Meanwhile in Canterlot > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Is everything okay Princess? Twilight is in a huge spaz fit right now thinking that she has either done something wrong to anger you or that something has happened to you all because you haven't responded. She keeps saying something about not knowing if the sun will rise again. I'll admit that I'm a bit on edge as well considering the lack of the sun at 10 AM. I hope you're okay, I've done everything I can to keep Twilight from trying to teleport all the way up there to 'save' you so please return a scroll when you can. Best Wishes, Terran Tobias -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=Canterlot (3rd person)=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- As Luna walked through the halls of the castle every guard, maid, and noble parted way to let her through. They all knew the look she had on her face, anger. Everypony feared Luna when she was mad and kept their distance but not because of the Nightmare Moon incident as they have all forgiven her, some even became her friends. They were afraid of her because when Luna was mad, no creature was safe from her wrath. She would never hurt another creature no matter how angry she was, but she will prank or make a fool of them in very embarrassing ways. She vowed to never again hurt another, so she used pranks to get back at those who have wronged her. "SISTER! I SWEAR IF YOU ARE ASLEEP AGAIN I WILL BREAK MY VOW!" Luna roared in her agitation though it was an empty threat. She had skipped 'breakfast' and lowered the moon this morning as she was falling asleep after a particularly tiring night, however she was awoken after only a few hours. It would have happened sooner but it took the castle staff hours to decide who would be sent to do the deed and likely end up on Luna's hit list. They decided it was best if they woke Luna so she could then attempt to rouse Celestia from her sleep. While they fear Luna's pranks, they feared disappointing the Princess of the sun more. They knew she needed to raise the sun but they didn't want to bother her if she was taking the day off, after all she is a Princess. As Luna approached her sisters room the guards unlocked the door then bolted, afraid of the outcome of this meeting between the two sisters. They were smart to run as the last time when the roles were reversed the proceeding event resulted in the need for many repairs around the castle. Luna threw the doors open with magic and stomped into the room to find her sister, 'The Solar Goddess' as some called her, lying in bed tangled in the sheets with her hair going in every direction and a strand of drool connecting the corner of her mouth to her pillow. Sealed scrolls littered the floor, most with Twilight's wax seal and one simply tied with a string that rolled off the bed just as she had entered. With a roll of her eyes Luna grabbed a corner of the sheet that was tangled in her sisters legs and pulled with a quick jerk sending Celestia off the other side of the bed and onto the floor with a yelp. Luna with a smirk climbed onto the newly abandoned and warm bed. As she moved to the center of the bed to lay down and wait, a groan could be heard from the floor. Soon after the owner of the bed rose up to look at the intruder that awoke her. "Hello sister, what brings you to my room so early?" Seemingly unfazed by the rude awakening Celestia tried to return to the bed only to be blocked by her sister standing on the edge with an exasperated expression on her face. "Must you really ask!? Why have you not raised the sun? it's past 10 AM! Ponies are practically beating down the castle doors seeking answers!" Luna says while trying to keep a level voice to hide the irritation in her voice. "Equestria should sleep in today, its been over a thousand years since i've had a break. It's better this way, we can all just take a nap together." With a glint of mischief in Celestia's eyes she continued, "Maybe the night will even last forever." With a hint of playful annoyance in her voice and a blush on her face Luna says, "That's not funny!" Celestia could only giggle at her sisters expression and took the moment of distraction to hop up onto her bed next to Luna. "I know! I could just have you take over for a while!" "WHAT! What Meanest thou! It is thy calling." "Luna you're slipping into the old speech again. *Sigh* I suppose you are correct. They can't let a princess sleep in just once it seems. I guess i'll bring it up now, but hey at least its still morning!" "Thou art far too old for this." Luna realized too late what she said and looked up to see Celestia with a crazed look on her face and a maniacal grin on her face. As soon as Luna moved to run out into the hall Celestia pounced. The sounds of laughter and the clopping of fast moving hooves could be heard throughout the halls along with the occasional crashing sound or explosion. -=-=-=- "I'm glad my daughters weren't that rough with each other when they play fought." Said one of the guards that were previously stationed outside of Celestia's room. "I wonder how much of the castle will be standing after this one." Said Lieutenant Stone Heart. "If its anything like last time, we should-" Out of nowhere Luna zoomed past the group of chatting guards followed by their 'Goddess of the Sun' with major bed head and a spell charged at the ready in her horn. "YOU DARE CALL ME OLD?" Celestia yelled sending the spell past Luna causing the hall she was about to enter to collapse forcing her to go another way. "-evacuate everypony." The third guard continued as they ignored how close they had gotten to being trampled. Most were used to this phenomenon but it still made them nervous. Since Luna returned Celestia had become much happier and more playful than anypony had ever seen. Like now for instance, she is not really mad at Luna she is just using this as an excuse to get out of her duties for a bit longer. Everypony knew this and let her have her fun, she has more than earned a break every now and again. -=-=-=-=-=-=- Miles away down the mountain in the small town of Ponyville a certain white stallion could only smile at the antics of the royal sisters as his horns magic faded. > Temporary Hiatus > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Meep.