> A team effort > by remsaman > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Chapter 1: Together, we stand. > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Before you ask, this fanfiction is written from my perspective, and Justin/jay(jay is his nickname) speaks first. “Mind reminding me why the hell we are here again?” Justin leaned back on a chair. “Reseach paper... Did you really forget already?” I sighed, he was always lazy when it came to these sort of things. “no, i just felt like being reminded.” the snarky tone was followed up by a similarly snarky grin “And you wonder why you are failing, Jay.” eyerolls ensued “Hah, im failing because i dont find myself able to care about this hellhole.” he gave a wide gesture to the surrounding books that filled up the school library “You should care about your education, would you rather be earning 60 grand a year or work at a mcdonalds for a living? Pfft, look i sound like your teacher” I said, trying to improve his work ethic “i dont know, free fast food sounds nice...” “you’ll get tired of it eventually” “you would be surprised.” I stopped and turned to the looming bookshelves, pulling out a few books and placing them on a trolly. Justin let out an audible groan in protest, drooping his shoulders to emphasize his disinterest “Ugh, do you really expect me to read these? i mean seriously. ‘The history of the greek civilization.’ What a snore.” He pretended to fall asleep. “Hey, sorry if i care about my mates future.” “That’s very noble of you, i thank you for that, but i honestly dont care about this project, nor will i ever.” He screws up a piece of paper and throws it into a nearby bin, pretending to play basketball I sighed heavily, wicked ideas circulating my mind. “Hey Justin, catch” I threw a 2 thousand page encyclopedia at him. he turned just in time to be catch the full weight of the blow directly in the face. the book pushed him back into the shelves where his head met the horizontal metal bars with a loud ‘thunk’ “Ow! you ass, that hurt!” he yelled out, rubbing the back of his head where it had made contact with the metal. i smiled sheepishly and took back the heavy book. he did not hide his anger as we continued our walk down the halls of the library. Moments later, an evil smile painted on his face, before i even had time to react, he snatched up a book off the cart and slams it against the back of my head, a few seconds later, we were both rolling on the floor laughing. A few moments of gathering our stuff together, Jay and I both head to a free table to start studying. But to no surprise, Jay fell asleep. “I’m not even going to bother waking him up.” After 20 minutes of mind numbing reading and writing, I got up to stretch my legs, after I walked around the shelves a bit, looking for interesting titles, i made my way back to the table. Justin was awake, and staring blankly at something. “Hey jay, what’re you lookin at?” I questioned, waving my hand infront of his face. I didn't get a reply, he just raised his hand and pointed forward. There, infront of us, was a large light bluey glowing vortex. I stood back, something like this wasn't an everyday occurance, that's for sure. The anomaly felt like it was pulling me towards it, resisting the urge, i tried to pull justin back, but to no avail. He was starting to walk towards it. I couldn't stop him, i tried as hard as i could, but we were already past the event horizon. Our feet lifted off the ground, I tried grabbing a pole, but it wasn't tied to anything, and lifted off the ground with me. “GOD DAMNIT JAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!” I screamed as we were both sucked into the vortex. The vortex was something you wouldn't believe, unless you had witnessed it first hand. But sadly, i wasn't one for movement, and passed out due to the inertia of the situation I awoke moments later, i never carry a watch with me, so i didn't know the time. I lifted myself to my feet, and walked over to Justin. “hey, jay, wake up you lazy shit.” I shoved him a little with my leg “heh, shut the hell up dude...” i extended a hand to help him up but he slapped it away. “does your head hurt too?” “Just a bit, ive never been one for bumpy rides.” I chuckled softly. Turning around, we both saw endless miles of forest.After a few minutes of walking, we saw what appeared to be a figure in the darkness. “Hey, who is that?” I squinted, i had to wear glasses, so my eyesight was pretty terrible. “how the hell would i know?” “Oi, you? Where are we?” i shouted out to the figure in the shadows The figure just darted away, leaving us both confused. Cautiously walking further, we both looked at our surroundings. Everything seemed too... perfect.. The skies were clear as day, and there was no noise or pollution at all. Suddenly, several more of the figures appeared around us. “Hey, who are you?” Justin span his upper body around, worried expression on his face. each figure stepped in turn, into the light. revealing seven horses, except each was a different colour. and not your average horse colour either “pfft, nothing to worry about Rem, just a few horses that's all.” “why do they have horns?” A bolt of electricity shot out from each of the horns, answering our question, but at the same time, striking us down. As we both passed out, i could have swore that one of them spoke the words “take them to the castle” _________________________________________________________________________________________ I woke up to the sound of arguing, unsure of what just happened or what was going on. “But they tried to-” A mysterious figure questioned “I KNOW what they tried, but we have to bring them before her before we do anything, it was her personal orders” “ugh, fine” I was picked up by my feet and hands, I couldn't look at either because i was hogtied and was too weak to lift my head up. I look to the side, and see two horses wearing armor carrying Jay, also hogtied. Something about him seemed different, but it was too dark to see. and i didn't want to waste any time questioning what was going on. We were brought to a throne room, untied, and thrown on the carpet. I stood up, weakly, and was forced to hunch over because of the pain in my backside. I looked forward to see a blood soaked horse, larger then the rest, with a horn and wings, wearing a crown. But also covered in blood. i assumed this was the main figure of authority. She cocked an eyebrow when i stood up, and after a few seconds passed, began to spoke. “Answer me this, do you know where you are?” Answering truthfully, i couldn't deny. “No your highness.” “Ah, and you knew i was princess because...?” Princess! that was it. “You are wearing a crown, miss, and on a throne in a castle” “I suppose so. Now, what is your name?” Her horn glowed dimly after she asked the question “Remy, miss. now may i ask why i am here? I haven't done anything wrong.” “Yes, of course, you tell no lies as far as i can tell. Guards, escort him to the courtyard, and bring his companion in.” The next few minutes were agonizing on the mind. Who is this princess, why can these ponies talk? where was he? It seemed centuries before the doors finally opened once more, as the guards escorted Justin out. Without looking at eachother, they just sat on a bench silent for a few minutes, before Justin finally broke the silence “she was covered in blood” “yeah, i don't know why,” “period?” “oh haha, very mature jay.” “Hey, just trying to lighten up the situation, no need to get so... hoarse about it!” we both laughed in unison. even if the joke was terrible. Hours passed, Jay and i both confused, eventually we decided to take a walk, but when we tried to walk off, a guard just gave us a weird look, before stopping us and saying we need to stay there. Eventually, the princess walked out of the room, and greeted us, saying we were free to go. She offered to transport us to a town called “ponyville” which she seemed to have some sort of attachment to. We had no choice but to accept, seeing as she was a princess, and we had no idea where we were. We waited for a few minutes, and 2 winged horses strapped to a chariot rolled around the corner. “Pimpin with style” Jay nudged me, chuckling. We climbed onto the chariot, and in a few short moments, it was in the air. Marvelling at the splendor of the area around us, we gasped in turn. Everything was perfect. There was nothing wrong, no cars, no powerlines streaming everywhere, it was the perfect world, a world without pollution. Once the chariot landed, we thanked the winged horses and went to find the nearest inn, The princess gave us both 100 bits each, the currency of the land. The inn keeper was kind, and gave us our own rooms, and said we could pay in the morning. but like everybody else, he gave us weird looks, as if we did something wrong. “I guess these horses haven't seen humans before” “No shit.” That night we both slept soundly. Especially without the noises of the big city. _________________________________________________________________________________________ I woke up in the morning and knocked on the wall to wake up Justin, i picked up my jacket with the edge of my fist and pulled it over, not even bothering with the sleeves. I picked up my bag with my arm and slung it over my shoulder. I put on my glasses and almost fell on the floor, still weak from the night before. pushing the door open with my foot i took a few steps outside, hearing my own footsteps quite loudly “strange, i don't remember putting my shoes on.” I walk over to Justin’s door, and give it a kick. The door opens, revealing a yellow horse with familiar looking hair. “oh sorry i think i have the wrong room” “You sure do you jackass” And then it hit me. “Jay?” “Wait, how the fuck did you know my-.... Remy? what the shit, you're a horse!” I looked down at myself, and fell down in shock, The sound i heard was my own hooves hitting the floorboards, and it wasn't a fist that draped my jacket over my shoulders, it was another pair of hooves. “Alright, what did you put in our drinks jay.” “I’m not a druggie dude.” “Just makin sure...” After we got over the confusion, we walked downstairs and paid the Innkeeper, 5 bits for the first night. Walking outside, every horse in sight stopped and stared at us. “Did we do something wrong?” “What makes you think that?” “Do i need to point it out?” After walking around the town, everyone stopping what they’re doing and looking at us, except for one pony, a minty blue coloured one with a horn, and a lyre on its flank, who just smiled at us. Moments later, they were greeted by a white horned horse with purple curly hair. “Oh you poor dears. That clothing is absolutely horrid! You must come with me right away to fix it up!” “err, that's alright miss i think well just..” “NONSENSE! I cannot ignore a pony who is in such desperate need for fashion help!” “Miss, i assure you-” “i wont have any of that, now come with me” I had had it with this horse, she just wouldn't leave us alone. “MISS! please! I don't want a fashion makeover!” “well if you INSIST i mean i was just trying to be generous but nooooo...” She walks off, sulking. Justin just gave me a look and shook his head. I was never one to care about my looks. After wandering around a while longer, we came across a large tree that seemed to be converted into a building, with “Library” engraved on a stone outside. Justin gave me another look, this time, worry on his face. “I don't think we should be studying, what with whatever is going on.” “Relax, i think that the more we know about wherever we are, the better well become accustomed to it.” The only reply was a groan. Opening the door and walking in, a bell rang. I searched through the shelves and found a book labelled “Equestrian history” With find the book that i needed, i leaned against a bookshelf and begun reading. It all sounded like something from a little girls TV show. But i decided to accept it and move on. After i finished the most important parts, i put the book back and looked around the shelves a little more. A voice sounded from the other side of the room. “Can i... help you?” Said a purple-green dragon with yet ANOTHER weird look on his face. “Im fine, thanks.” “great, now there are talking dragons, what next.” i mumbled to myself. Looking across the room, i saw Justin transfixed on a comic book. Typical. After a little more research, another horse walked into the room “Hey, i haven't seen you before, whats your name.” “Im Remy, and my starwad companion is argy- i mean Justin.” I said, cracking a small joke related to one of the videogames he plays often. He returned with an angry stare “Nice to meet you, I’m Twilight Sparkle. Im the librarian.” The air produces a small green flame, and is soon replaced by a small scroll with a wax seal on it. Unfurling the scroll, Twilight’s eyes widen, and soon replaced by a semi-serious look. “Hm. I see. You two better come with me.” She motions towards the door she came out of. Not really having a choice, we walked into the room, Twilight’s serious look replaced with confusion, like everyone else.” On entering the room, Twilight shuts the door. “look, If what the princess tells me is correct, then you two aren’t from around here. And, if you really didn't try to kill her, i have reason to trust you. “Kill her? Is that why she was covered in blood?” “Yes, but currently i believe that you, Remy, have more sense then that to kill anypony. And justin is too stupid to pull something like that off.” “hey!” “Anyway, i guess i’m the only pony to ask, but why do you walk on two legs?” “What do you mean, we always walk like this” “and you didn't notice everypony else walks on four?” “nope.” “Well anyway, im guessing everypony has been giving you weird looks, if you want to stop that, just walk on all fours. okay?” “ugh, okay.” “and take off your pants” “WHAT?” “What is with you, seriously” Her horn glowed and removed our pants. we looked at eachother, blushing and after seeing nothing, removed the thought from our minds and turned our attention to our flanks Mine was imprinted with a scroll and a quill, while Justin had an apple. “Before you ask, those are your cutie marks, each appears when you discover your special talent. but seeing as you two probably weren’t ponies since you were born, it was probably immediate.” I gave justin a huge grin after punching his flank “i.. used to live on an apple orchard...” he blushed. “Look, you two will want to blend in as much as possible. so try to stay out of trouble, and walk on all fours. If you want to ask anything, feel free to ask me.” she opened the door and motioned her head outside. After thanking her, we walked back towards the Inn. This time, no pony at all gave us any weird looks, except that same white mare with the purple hair. “This will take some time getting used to jay.” “Jay?” I turned my head and saw jay walking towards a building with a huge muffin on the roof labelled “sugarcube corner” I groaned. “This will be a long day” > Chapter 2: Fitting in, together. > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- A bell rang loudly as Justin and I entered sugarcube corner. The smell of sugar and sweets wafted through the air. I sighed as Justin took his time browsing through the selection of varying cakes and baked goods. I looked over to him and he was almost drooling over the pastries. He rung a bell and a cheery “CoooMMMiiiinG” came from the rafters. Within moments, a pink horse with poofy pink hair hopped down the staircase. “Now how can i help you two fine gentlecolts?” The pink pony asked. “Yeah, ill have a dozen-” I jabbed him in the thigh “HALF a dozen cupcakes, with extra sprinkles” “Coming right up!” The pink horse disappeared into the kitchen for a few minutes, and came out later with 6 steaming hot cupcakes. “That’ll be 7 bits!” The horse tried to talk through gritted teeth, before turning the tray on its side to pour the cupcakes into a paper bag. Justin handed over the bits before grabbing the bag in his teeth, trying to thank the pink horse through a closed mouth. As we turned to leave, the pink horse chimed “HEY you’re new in town arn’t you! I KNOW! We should throw a PARTY!” Groaning, i replied “Of course, but maybe some other time, we have.... plans.” I tried to crack a smile, but all that came out was a small grin. The horse narrowed her eyes and stared at me. “okie. dokie. loki.” It seemed like she was staring at my very soul. After exiting the store(and enduring the creepiest thing in my life, except for being turned into a horse), we headed back to the inn. Upon entering, we found our belongings outside the door, with each door locked. It turns out that the Innkeeper had given our rooms away. Without even bothering to question why(we had enough on our minds), we walked towards the library. “She did say if we ever needed to know something, ask her” Jason pointed out. “Sure but i don't think she has 2 spare beds” I said, rolling my eyes. Once we reached the library, we found Twilight waiting by the door with a huge smile on her face. “Hello boys, i see the Innkeeper has already taken care of your things!” I was silent in shock, while i could see the rage being pent up inside Justin. “You didn't!?” Jay almost shouted “Yep! Oh, wait right here!” Twilight disappeared into the library “Hey rem, i seriously doubt that this “twilight” is one of the good guys, if you get what im saying” he whispered into my ear. “Calm down dude, im sure she had a reason.” Trying to remove his suggestion from my head. Moments later, she happily trotted outside, horn glowing. She gave us a wink and levitated a set of keys towards us. I shot Justin a “Told you so” look and thanked her very much. “It was a gift from princess Celestia!” she happily announced. Leading us to our newly owned house, Justin was sulking, he doesn't like being proven wrong. When we go to our house, Twilight stopped walking and let us open the door. As soon as we inched the door open just a little bit, streamers fell from the ceiling, and many horses were inside, shouting “surprise!” Needless to say, we were surprised. Until a certain pink horse bounced out of the crowd “Hey you two! I was thinking ‘hey, who doesn't like parties!’ so i threw you a party! look! even your friend lyra is here!” “Who?” we both asked at the same time “Duh, the bluey green pony that smiled at you today!” she pointed towards a horse that was sitting on a chair. like a human. I looked slightly to the left and see Justin pigging out on the snacks table, just like him. I mingled with the guests at the party, apparently they prefer being called “ponies” over “horses” Hours passed, and almost all the guests had gone home, except for twilight, the pink pony, and four others. Twilight whispered something to them and each came up to us, introducing themselves, starting with the pink one. “Heya! My names Pinkie pie, of course you should know that since i threw this party! but you’re new in town, so you probably don't! Did you enjoy the party? didya didya?” “yes. thank you” Pinkie pie bounded away, while an orange one trotted over with a basket of apples. After setting the apples onto the ground, she introduced herself “Howdy, Ah’m applejack. I run sweet apple acres alongside my big brother and granny smith. Ah don't know why, but ah like you two. Here’s a little housewarmin’ present” she pushed the basket over with her hoof. Not wanting to be rude(as Justin was still pigging out at the snack table, i don't even know how he managed it) I picked up the basket in my teeth and gave her a nod and a muffled “thanks”, before placing the basket on the kitchen table. I turn around and saw a light blue mare with wings looking me right in the face. Surprised, i gave a small yell and fell backwards “Hey, Im rainbow dash, im the fastest flier in all of Equestria!” She proved her point by flying around the house twice, not hitting a single thing, but messing up some of the party favors. while she was flying around, A purple-haired unicorn that I had met earlier in the day came up to me. “Oh, its you again, Im Rarity, and please, if you really need any... changes.. in your attire please call me as soon as you can! oh, and here.” She opened a box she had brought with her, producing a hoodie more fit for ponies. “Its not my BEST work, but I thought its better then nothing” “thank you very much miss Rarity, i appreciate it” “Oh it was nothing” Looking over at Justin again, i saw that he had moved from the snacks table to the couch, rubbing his stomach in pain. I chuckled. I look back and rainbow dash was arguing with twilight. something about ‘ruining peoples houses when showing off’. I almost didn't notice a small butter-yellow pegasus shying away from me. “Excuse me” i say, kneeling down on my front two legs “And what’s your name, beautiful” The pegasus blushes, before squeaking and darting out the door. “Thats fluttershy, shes well.... shy” Twilight interrupted. “I can tell.” i replied with a laugh “Well, you two seem fine for now, I guess we’ll be leaving. oh, and i left a small gift on each of your beds.” She winked, and left with the others. I jabbed Justin with my hoof, signalling him to go to sleep. He picked himself up at dragged his body up the staircase towards his bedroom. I went into mine, I heard a “HELL YES!” from the other room, and when i look on my bed, i found a “Ponies for dummies. written by Twilight Sparkle for Remy” “awesome” _____________________________________________________________________________ I wasn't tired at all, despite the party. I sat up all night reading Twilight’s explanation of Equestria and its inhabitants. It sure was nice of her to write this book for me. Turns out there’s three types of ponies. Unicorns, who can use magic, earth ponies, who are stronger, and pegasi, which can fly. Everything fascinated me. i couldn't contain my thirst for knowledge. I found the sun rising before i even felt the slightest bit tired. I was still transfixed on the book when i heard the “ting” of a rock hitting the window. I looked outside to find the butter-yellow pegasus “fluttershy” staring at the ground, scratching at the dirt with her hoof. I snuck past Justin’s door(which isn't easy when you have hooves) and exited the house. When i reached fluttershy, she was still shying away, but didn't run away this time. She looked at me, blushed and said “I.. think your cute too...” and with that, she sped away as fast as her wings could take her. I also found i was blushing myself. I turn around and heard snickering. Looking up, i saw that Justin was looking out the window with the widest grin you could imagine. “oooohhh i think your cute too remy mwah mwah mwah. oohhh lets be partners mwah mwah” he mocked. I picked up a rock and threw it at his face. He was still mocking me and didn't see it, so it landed square between the eyes. He yelled, and fell out of the window. landing on a bush below his window. I walked over and kicked him in the gut before walking back inside, laughing all the way, Not seeing a small butter-yellow figure, smiling from a tree. A while later Justin had recovered and had come inside, with a bandage on his face. “So Jay, what do you want for breakfast.” “i want bacon and eggs.” “All we have is apples and those cupcakes, and besides, they don't have bacon in Equestria” “WHAT” “Ponies are herbivores jay, they don't eat meat.” “Then lets go get our own bacon. I saw some pigs the other day” I pause, make sure i have his attention, and present that we infact were ponies. “ugh fine, just throw me one of those apples” He was still reading his comic book, the present left by twilight the night before, when i threw the apple at him, he caught it, but with his face, hitting in the exact location as the rock. “AH WHAT THE FUCK? what was that for?” “You said throw it at you” i smirked “I didn't mean- ugh!” He placed his hoof to the bandage on his face “Whatever, just eat your apple and be quiet” He quieted down, but continued to mumble to himself. I asked how many bits Justin had left, but he just gave me a stare, before telling me to go fuck myself. I had 95 bits, and needed to go grocery shopping, and thank twilight for the book. I strapped on my backpack(which still wasn't easy with hooves, and opening it was even harder) and headed out. The town wasn't as busy as it was the day before, but still had ponies here and there. As i headed towards the market area, i saw a familiar pony, Lyra, her name was, waving at me. I waved back. When i reached the market area, i was greeted by Applejack, running the stall for sweet apple acres. I thanked her properly for the apples, and agreed to buy some apple fritters, 4 bits for a dozen. After saying goodbye to applejack, i bought carrots, one bag for 6 bits, 2 bags of hay, 1 bit per bag, 2 loafs of bread, 3 bits for both, and some baking supplies for 10 bits. all adding up to 28 bits. Applejack offered to help carry the bags back to my house, leaving her sister Applebloom to run the stall(probably not the best idea, from what i saw). When we got back, i thanked her and went inside, Justin was pretending to be passed out from hunger on the couch. I plated up two apple fritters and a hay and carrot sandwich each, and he got up and began eating. “You know, this isn't too bad.” Justin said, gulping another mouthful of the sandwich. I was still thinking about what happened earlier, with fluttershy. It was the first time that I’d been called cute(by a girl anyway *shudder*). Normally I’d be ecstatic, but she was a pony, and i was just a human trapped in a ponies body. I nibbled on the food, Justin was right, it tasted good. But i couldn't get my mind off that one singular thing. After we both finished, i washed the plates and went back upstairs to read. When i opened the door however, it was a small shock to me. On top of the book twilight gave to me, was a picture of fluttershy, with a butter-yellow feather ontop. I smiled, placed them both in my backpack, and resumed reading. However, it was difficult with the thoughts that plagued my mind. One chapter, however, spoke out to me in my current mental state. It was titled “Feelings”. > Chapter 3: Surviving, Together. > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- I looked at the cover of the book. Even though it was blank, except for words, I was amazed at everything the book had taught me, and i had Twilight to thank for it. It was the afternoon, and I had just finished making Justin and I lunch. After washing the dishes, and cleaning up, i went outside to collect the mail from the local mailmare. Nothing much, just fliers for local business, yet another party invitation from Pinkie Pie, and a letter for Justin. I walked inside, spinning Justin’s letter through the air at him like a ninja star. He caught it in his mouth, and proceeded to tear it open. “Awesome, my subscription to DJ-Pon3 has been received!” He was pumping his hooves in the air mouthing a silent ‘YES!’ I laughed a little, and put the invitation on the pile. That was the eleventh invitation we had received in the past 2 days, apparently every pony in the town wanted us at their parties. I proceeded to sit down and doze off, only to be woken by a large knock on the door. I sluggishly dragged myself to the door and opened it up, Two royal guardponies and twilight sparkle were standing there, twilight with a stern look on her face. “I’m afraid you two will have to come with me” She said it as if we weren’t friends. “What is it this time, twilight?” I questioned, i didn't really want to be dragged out of the house for no reason. “There has been another assassination attempt against the princess, and you two are the main suspects.” She sounded serious. I was very shocked to hear this, as i had seen the princess days beforehand, covered in blood. “Hang on, ill go get Justin” I walked upstairs to go wake up Justin, they didn't follow me, i guess they didn't need to. I opened the door to his room, and saw him lying on the bed, facing away from me, listening to music with his MP3 player. I walk over to him and yank out the headphones with full force. He screamed a little and fell off the bed. Twilight suddenly appeared next to me “Hey whats taking so lo- PFFFFFFHAHAHAHAHHAHHA” She fell on the floor laughing. Justin quickly got up and walked over to the door. “So whats the problem?” he asks, trying to sound more manly then usual. “You two will need to come with us, don't worry your house will be left as it is. and if it isn't you, then you will be reimbursed.” She stated, sounding more official then usual “We will give you 2 minutes to pack your things, before we will need you to get on the chariot to canterlot. Justin didn't question her, and packed MP3, some food and his spare jacket. I grab my backpack, and place twilight’s book in it, along with the picture of fluttershy and her feather. When we reached the exit to the house, each guardpony searched our bags for any weapons at all, and when they found none, they returned them. Twilight however, spotted Fluttershy’s photo and feather and questioned it. “Where did you get these?” Twilight asked, sounding like she was accusing my of something. “Fluttershy gave them to me..” I blushed. Twilight narrowed her eyes and frowned “If i find out that you did anything to her-” She was interrupted by a yelling from the distance. “NOOOOOOOOO!” Fluttershy burst from the bushes, tackling Twilight with full force, pinning her to the ground. “I wont let you take him away” her eyes were almost tearing up. “Fluttershy, please.” Her horn glows as she levitates Fluttershy off. “I don't want to do this as much as you, but if its to help save princess Celestia’s life, i haven't got a choice.” “Twilight.. I know he didn't do it, i just know!” Fluttershy was shouting, one thing that twilight didn't even think was possible. “He.... He wouldn't.... COULDN'T!” She was in tears now, I didn't know that she cared that much for me. I was almost in tears myself. After a few seconds of silence, save for the sound of tears hitting the ground, Twilight finally motioned for the guards to take us onto the chariot, while she stayed behind to comfort Fluttershy. I picked up my bag and threw twilight an earth encyclopedia, which i had previously signed as a thank you for the equestrian version twilight wrote. She caught it using her magic and gave me a nod. I dropped a tear as the pegasus ponies fly us towards canterlot. _____________________________________________________________________________ Once the chariot landed in canterlot, Justin was left outside while i was forcefully taken to the princesses court, for the second time. There, the princess was sitting once more on her throne, She was not covered in blood, but had a large gash on the side of her face. Her look wasn't of malice, anger, hate nor concern. It was a look of confusion. She spoke. “Why must you two mock me, in these times of fear and concern?” Her voice was not as caring as it was last time. “E-excuse me princess, but whatever do you mean? And, may i ask, why is there a huge gash mark on the side of your face?” I questioned, hoping it would not lead to either of our punishments. “The last time we spoke, you both said you had no idea of any assassination ploys. But as you can see from my face, I’m questioning the validity of that statement.” Her voice becoming stern. “Princess, I assure you we both have had nothing to do with any assassination attempts.” “Oh really, then how is it that you so quickly found about our ways?” “That would be thanks to the effort of a miss ‘Twilight Sparkle’” I reached into my backpack and brought out the book she had so carefully written. The princess took the book and sent out a letter, within moments another letter appeared with a puff of green flames. Once she read the letter, her stern face was replaced with one of a caring, benevolent ruler. “I am truly sorry for this, and for any pain it has caused you. I will ask my guards to-” She was interrupted as Justin burst into the room “HE’S DEAD!” He shouted while mumbling inane words to himself. Me and princess celestia were both stunned in shock, before she broke the silence between us “Who’s dead?” her voice was very worried. “I don't know, but i think the guards said that his name was “Silver Shield” His voice became more worrying by the second. “What... happened...?” Celestia was unusually worried. Justin didn't reply, but instead rose his hoof to a stained glass window close to celestia’s throne. We both turned our heads to see a spear, twice the size of a pony, piercing the window and a guard’s head, I was trying as hard as i can not to throw up. Princess Celestia had soundproofed the room so nopony could listen in, which is why we didn't notice straight away. Justin broke the scary silence. “Red.. Unicorn.. like in the forest when we arrived Rem...” he was shuddering enough to shake even the sturdiest table. “Red unicorn?” Celestia had a surprised look on her face “This is worse then i thought. Did you get a look at his flank?” “Yes... It was a black hood with a knife in the background” “Oh no.. Stone wall?” Celestia called one of her guards “Yes princess?” A grey pony wearing golden armor revealed himself “Call the royal glass-blowers, i need shatter proof glass installed.” Stone wall took one look at the scene and nodded. Princess Celestia once again apologized to us and her horn glowed. A flash of light, and we were back at our house, with a basket of muffins with an apology letter ribboned to the top. We looked at each other and with a solemn nod, i grabbed the basket and we went inside. ______________________________________________________________________________ I couldn't sleep that night, the images of both fluttershy crying, and a guards bleeding head haunted me. If that guard wasn't standing there at that exact moment, Celestia would be dead. My mind went back to fluttershy, she was so worried... about me... Did she even know my name? I didn't even care anymore, all that mattered to me right now was that she was safe. As the thoughts of the guard left my mind, and fluttershy replaced them, i fell asleep just as the sun was coming up. I awoke around midday, after getting no nights rest whatsoever. I opened my eyes and looked at the ceiling for a while. I got up, put on my hoodie, and went downstairs, Justin was still asleep. I ate one of the apples in the fridge and went to go sit on the couch. But to my surprise, the couch was already taken. Fluttershy was sleeping on the couch hugging the encyclopedia i gave twilight when we left. I couldn't wake her up, it didn't feel right. I lay next to her and gave her a little nuzzle. Then i fell asleep next to my very first love. I woke up again, this time it was only around an hour later, with fluttershy still by my side. I pulled an extra blanket from the cupboards and draped it over her. I made two sandwiches, and put one on a plate next to Fluttershy’s head. After i finished mine, i headed out. I had to talk to Twilight. When i reached the library, it was empty(like usual, for a library anyway.). Twilight was busy reading more books. I knocked on the door frame to let her know that i was here. She jumped and almost screamed. I laughed. “Oh, its you. I take it that the meeting went better then expected?” “Actually no, she almost got assassinated. again.” I was confused, as i thought the princess told her everything. “WHAT? You didn't?” “No. A red unicorn with a black hood+knife cutie mark tried to launch a spear at her head, they didn't succeed, but they killed a guard by the name of “Silver shield” in the process.” Twilight was horrified, but eventually pulled herself together, eager to change the subject. “So what can i do for you?” “Im here to give you this” i retrieved the encyclopedia from my backpack, and hand it over. She took it and read the title. Her eyes immediately widened as she used her magic to re-shelf all the books thrown around the library. She placed the encyclopedia on a small pedestal and opened it up. “Oh boy you would have no idea how long i was waiting for fluttershy to hand it over, you know... She seems to like you.” She winked, I just blushed. “She really cares for you, more then any of her animals..” her eyes painted with sadness as she starts to read, starting from the anatomy of a human. I couldn't think of a reply, i just sat there in silence before turning for the door. “Oh, and Remy?”she asks. I turn my head “Don’t worry about Celestia, shes the princess. I’m sure she can handle herself.” She smiled. I left, but princess Celestia was the last thing on my mind. _____________________________________________________________________________ I got home, Justin was still asleep, Fluttershy was gone, the blanket returned to the cupboard, the sandwich eaten. There was a thank you note on the desk with 3 hearts drawn on it. She really was a kind mare. I smiled to myself, it was very nice of her to wait there until i woke up. I found myself blushing. After a few minutes, Justin came downstairs, finally. I fixed him up some food and after, we went around town for a while. I got a job at Sofas and Quills, hired by a pony by the name of Davenport. We needed the bits, as the amount the princess gave to us was not enough to sustain us for an extended period of time. Afterwards, we went to sugarcube corner, so Justin could stock up on more baked goods. I bought Justin another comic book and told him to go home, because i had to do something. He was more then happy to, rather then be dragged around town all day. I arrived at Fluttershy’s hut around half an hour later. The sun was setting and the animals were going into their coops. I knocked on the door, only to be greeted by a hulk-grade hug, and a crying pony. She wouldn't tell me what was wrong, but i guessed that it was what happened the night before. I hugged her back and held her for a while, embracing the moment. When she finally calmed down, she let me inside and we both sat down on her couch. All her animals were outside(even her pet rabbit, angel) because she didn't want them to hear her cry. She explained to me, with tears in her eyes, that seeing me being taken away was one of the worst things that has ever happened to her. even worse then when she was bullied in cloudsdale. Feelings i didn't even know existed in me unlocked. I felt pity, and sadness. I hugged her harder then she had hugged me. The sun set as we held each other in our arms. > Chapter 4: Learning, together > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- I was laying next to fluttershy as she slept, there was a pool of our collected tears on the floor. The sun had set and all the animals slept, except the nocturnal ones. Listening to her reminded me of the time i was bullied back in primary school. I didn't know it back then, but i was being taken advantage of by the people who i thought were my friends. And seeing fluttershy made those horrible memories seem like a bad dream. Once i was able to pull myself together, i got up and left her house. Of course i didn't want to leave but Justin was still waiting at our house, no doubt waiting for dinner. On my way home i could swear i saw something watching me. Like a pair of scarlet eyes, constantly in contact with my body. I was cautious, after what happened at the castle i shuddered to think of the same thing happening to me. Something was wrong, and i could sense it. I got to the house and Justin was literally slumped in front of the door, pretending to have died of hunger. He jumped up once he heard me coming, and immediately went inside, before i could even say hi. When i got inside he didn't even question where i was, all that came from his mouth was “Im hungry” “Fine, ill cook something up, luckily ONE of us bothered to go get cooking supplies.” I shot him a look before grabbing some ingredients from the cupboard. “Fine, but you could have come home sooner, its already night!” He was complaining now, i was trying my best not to slap him. “How many times do i have to explain this Jay, The sun and the moon periodically move according to the princess sisters. its only 6 pm.” I pointed to a clock mounted to a wall, indicating it was in fact 6 pm. It was only met with a groan as i continued to prepare. I decided on a carrot and apple stew, using hay for the broth. Once it was done i dished up two bowls, i was about to pour a third, but remembered that fluttershy wasn't here anymore. I placed the third bowl back, and sat down to eat. As i bent down to sip, i noticed Justin with a huge grin. “So, you find ya’self a girlfriend eh?” He said in a mocking tone. “As a matter of fact, yes. better then you’ve ever done” I smirked, turning his mockery around was one of my favourite things. He shut up and turned a nice shade of red. I finished my stew and placed the bowl in the sink, as i bent down to turn the taps, i heard the sounds of a window breaking, and something pass just over my neck. I quickly turned around to see Justin with his mouth gaping wide open, and a small dart with a glass casing lodged in the table. A purple liquid was seeping out of the end of the needle. I quickly tackled Justin and dragged him upstairs, as several more identical needles pierced the windows, aiming for us. We got upstairs and closed our bedroom windows, trying to keep us out of any line of fire. Neither of us knew what was going on, but i had a hunch it was something to do with those scarlet eyes i saw earlier. I poked my head slightly above the windowsill, looking for those scarlet eyes i saw earlier in the night. I found them, just under a tree, Our eyes met, and as soon as they did, the scarlet eyes opened wider before running away. “I think were safe for now.” I whispered quietly to Justin “Woah im feelin’ kinda woozy” He fell to the floor, i inspected him and found one of the darts had been lodged in his neck. Shitscared, i check his pulse, it was regular, and so was his breathing. He had just fallen asleep. I sigh and drag him to his bed, placing the covers over him before returning to my own bed. Hoping that we would be safe. And i was right. I woke up in the morning, earlier then usual. The windows had been repaired (courtesy of the mailmare who ordered replacements while delivering the morning mail), The house wasn't even locked. and nothing was moved or touched. Even the dishes were done(I still haven't figured out who by). Everything was peaceful and calm. Justin literally rolled down the stairs, still under the effect of the serum that was in the needle. He opened his mouth to talk but all that came out was “oapjoeejwfagnakmfkmmmm” as he slobbered over the floor. I grabbed his tail and dragged him to the clinic to find some form of antidote. I don't think he appreciated being dragged along the stone and dirt, as he was screaming half the time. Once we got to the clinic, i dumped him infront of the counter and told the deskpony what was wrong, she said she’d call a toxin specialist. When he arrived, he pulled a needle and a jar out of his bag, and injected Justin with the antidote. After a few minutes of stumbling about, he was finally able to stand on all fours again. “Ugh. finally, now Rem, WHY THE FUCK DID YOU DO THAT!?” she shouted “Hush!” the deskpony shushed, “There are foals in the room!” “sorry.” He jabbed my side and told me to come outside. I obliged. Once we got outside he continued. “Seriously, that was completely unnecessary, i was scared shitless” “whatever do you mean?” I replied innocently “Don’t be a smart ass. You dragged me along the ground by my tail. through ROCKS and dirt!” “youll live.” “UGH!” he threw up his hooves in frustration and ran back to the house. I eventually caught up, but infront of our house. He had stopped and i thought it was to wait for me, but instead i saw why he was so silent. The house was trashed. The window panes broken, the drawers pulled out, the fridge raided, the only thing that remained was my backpack, which still had everything inside. I didn't bother to question why they left it alone, because i knew Justin didn't know. The only thing that remained was a large knife in the table that was piercing a note. I picked up the note and read it aloud “We have kidnapped your girlfriend, if you ever wish to see her again, bring princess Celestia ALONE to the castle of the old pony sisters at midnight.” I was shaking like an earthquake. They had fluttershy, what could i do? I cant just BRING the princess somewhere, and that would be getting her assassinated, which would be worse then... i didn't want to think about it. The first thing i thought of was going to Twilight, who else could know what to do in a situation like this? she does read a lot of books. I sped to Twilight’s as fast as i could, ignoring whatever Justin was yelling behind me. When i got there, i didn't bother to knock, i bucked open the door and ran inside. Twilight, still halfway through the earth encyclopedia(it was a big book.), yelped and threw a book at me with her magic in surprise. I didn't bother to waste time with talking, i just ran up and threw the kidnappers note onto the pedestal she was reading off. She read the note and her eyes widened “We have to contact princess celestia right away! SPIKE!” she shouted. “what is it twilight?” a familiar baby dragon walked out of his room “Prepare to send a message to the princess, i need this to be sent as soon as possible!” She started speaking aloud the contents of the letter as spike wrote them down. “Dear princess celestia, It has come to my attention that a group of ponies, most likely your assailants, have kidnapped one of my dearest friends Fluttershy, who is also the bearer of the Element of Kindness, I have enclosed the letter received by Remy, which seems to request your alone presence at the castle of the two pony sisters. It is no doubt a trap. Please be careful and reply as soon as possible. Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle” Spike tied the note and letter with the royal seal and with a breath of fire, it disappeared. Moments later, there was a puff of smoke, and a message fell through the air, Twilight quickly unravelled it and read aloud “Dear Twilight sparkle, this is bad news indeed. If what the message reads is correct, then i am afraid there is little i can do, seeing as i am the main target, and barely being safe in my own castle, it would be unwise to venture into the everfree. However, i can offer you some assistance. I shall send four guards to assist you, Please bring the other elements of harmony to the castle of the pony sisters, If they really do have fluttershy, then the elements of harmony would be your best choice of defence. I am sincerely sorry for not being able to assist you personally, but due to my own safety and the safety of the kingdom i cannot. Your mentor, Princess Celestia” I sighed “Great, now what” “Well, we need to check to see if they actually have fluttershy, there would be no sense in endangering ourselves if there wasn't a reason for it.” She closes the encyclopedia(with a bookmark in it), and we go to Fluttershy’s house. Upon arrival, the scene seems normal, nothing out of place, broken, or anything. But when we open the door, it was almost as bad as my house. There were scratches everywhere from fluttershy trying to hold onto the floor and other objects when being dragged, there were those strange darts in various places, her fridge was also raided. A rage built up inside me, i could not control my anger. I was so angry with how they treated her, a lady, just mercilessly dragged around and drugged. I screamed ferociously in anger and kicked a chair nearby as hard as i could, it went flying through the air and smashed through a window. I turned to see the window that i smashed, only to see a red pony with crimson eyes staring at me through the window. Our eyes locked, and i sprinted through the door, chasing this red pony. Twilight saw what was happening and also helped, trying to trip the pony up with her magic, it helped, but only a bit. Eventually the red pony tripped on a large stone and skidded across the ground, possibly taking off a bit of skin in the process. I leaped on top of her and pinned her to the ground, knowing where all the joints are in a pony, it wasn't that hard. “Please!” she pleaded “Let me go... I was just curious, is all..” “Then why did you try to put me and my friend to sleep last night?” I was furious.. “I.. didn't have a choice.. they made me do it..” I normally wouldn't have believed her, but since she did leave us alone after i saw her, it did make her story more believable. I eased up on her arms, but still didn't let her go. I needed to find out what happened to fluttershy and why they were trying to ‘off’ Celestia. I stared at her longer, and noticed her cutie mark. It was a black hood with a knife in the background. But she wasn't a unicorn, and she didn't seem like the kind of pony to kill anyone. I rubbed the cutie mark with my elbow, and it came off. It must have been some sort of cult symbol. “Why are you doing this?” I questioned, seeing the fear in the mares eyes. “The assassins.. they... They have my family..." > Chapter 5: Working together > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Your family? But why would assassins want your family?” I released my grip on her, she didn't run, but was prepared to. “My family has housed the plans for Canterlot for generations. I didn't know why anypony would want them until the syndicate took my family..” Twilight caught up to us, surprised to see that the pony had stopped running. “Hey, what gives? why aren’t you stopping her from running away?” she asked, as if she WANTED to throw this pony in jail, or worse. “The assassins have more then fluttershy, twilight.” I gave her a worrying look. She understood. “They said that if i ever wanted to see them again, i had to help with what they were doing” “Well if we are going to save them both, we are going to need a few things..” I explain the plan to them both, and once again to the other four bearers of the elements of harmony. After collecting the supplies, i followed twilight towards the old castle of the pony sisters. “So, i never found out. What was your name again?” I asked the red mare, trying to be friendly and lighten the dark mood. The mare stopped. And with hesitation, turned her head and forced out the words. “My.. my name is Crimson..” She turned her head back towards the trail ahead. And continued her walk. “Alright. were here.” twilight said “Everypony get into position.” Crimson and the other 5 ponies hid behind rubble and trees. Twilights horn glowed and levitated a lifelike lookalike Celestia doll from the bushes. Rarity did a great job putting it together and making it look realistic. Twilight made the doll walk just as if it was the real celestia, looking regal. I walked into the castle remenants, with the celestia doll trailing behind. As if on cue, four ponies wearing hoods leaped down from above. One of them carrying a large Hessian sack. One of them removed his hood. It was a red pony with a unicorn horn. His voice broke the darkness. “Wise choice, sir. Now if you’ll leave us alone, you can have your girlfriend back.” He lifts up a hoof, and the assassin carrying the sack empties it, a crying fluttershy covered in bruises tumbles out. I did my best to contain my anger for them hurting fluttershy, i picked her up, as she was too weak to walk, and made my way out of the ruins. When i reached where twilight was hiding, i placed fluttershy on the ground while twilight did the best to use her healing magic. When that didn't work, i placed ointment on her bruises and did my best to comfort her. “Fluttershy, are you alright?” I hugged her, she stopped crying and opened her eyes. her face immediately was painted with a relieved smile and tackled me to the ground in a monster hug. “Dont ever leave again” was the only words she could manage. i smiled and hugged her back. After explaining the plan to her, i looked out and saw the doll celestia surrounded by assassins. each holding a weapon. The red unicorn walked out amongst the group, and spoke. “Princess celestia, you are hereby tried by the dark syndicate for banishing our bloodline over three hundred years ago. How do you plea?” Silence was met by the question, as it was only a doll. “Fine, then the jury hereby finds you..” he stopped as the rest of the assassins shouted “GUILTY” and each weapon pierced the dolls throat. Fluff spills out, and a chorus of gasps rises from the circle. The head of the doll falls off, and the entire thing slumps to the ground. “ITSA FAKE!” the red unicorn shouted “that’s our cue girls!” twilight motioned each of the ponies as they put on their necklaces, and twilight put on her crown. she turned to fluttershy. “are you going to be alright to do this? it can always wait until another time.” “N.... No.... Im.. fine..” She puts the necklace on and struggles to lift herself to her feet. “Fluttershy..” i interrupted “you don't have to do this..” i placed my hoof on her shoulder “I.. have to..” “If you say so..” I stood back, not wanting to cause any disturbance. Each of the six ponies walked out of their hiding places, in full sight of the assassins. One of them threw a spear at twilight, but it snapped in midair. A spark connected each of the six, as they rose from the ground. Their jewellery lit up, as light filled the area, as it had once before. A rainbow shot out from twilight, connecting her, rainbow dash, rarity, applejack, and fluttershy in turn. The rainbow closed in on the circle of assassins, then finally shot out and encased each one in a bright glow of the color spectrum. Yells and screams were heard as the hot rainbow lifted each of the ponies off the ground, and shot them into the vacuum of space, never to be seen again. The elements of harmony did what i read in the book, Purified. And these ponies were nothing but corrupt thoughts and ideas. The six lowered to the ground, their jewellery dimmed. A chorus of cheers rose up from them, as they gave each other a hug. I saw Crimson starting to walk away. “Hey Crimson, where are you going?” i asked, she stopped. “Im going home, now that the assassins are gone, i don't have a chance to find my parents. I was never shown their hideout, so i don't know where they are.” She starts to walk away again, but is interrupted by a familiar voice. “Crimson?” The red mare turned around, her eyes widening and a smile slapped on her face. There, in front of her, was two ponies, one red, the other a greeny brown. Crimson ran towards the two and gave them a large hug. I could only assume they were her parents. Tears were streaming down her smiling face. “I missed you so much... where did they take you?” she asked her parents “Im not sure, the last thing i remember was a unicorns magic surrounding me, now im here” her mother answered. Her father just nodded in agreement. Twilight walked up to the trio and answered “Brainwashing, i haven't seen it myself, but it could be the reason their bloodline was banished. it is a very evil magic to practice.” I left them alone to their reunion, and walked over to fluttershy. “You alright?” “I’m feeling much better. Thank you” she smiled. I wrapped my arms around her, i was so worried before, but now that the threat was gone, i hadn’t any more reason to worry. the love of my life was back, and no longer harmed. Her bruises were gone, a work done by the purifying magic of the elements of harmony. Fluttershy kissed me on the neck, i blushed. even if it wasn't on the lips i hadn’t been kissed before, save for my mother. I kissed her back. embracing the moment. I heard giggling and saw rainbow dash on the ground, laughing her flank off. Fluttershy shot her a glare and she immediately shut up. I looked over and see a few guardponies that twilight called for cleaning up the robes and weapons of the assassins. Good riddance i say. Twilight and the gang were waiting for rarity to stop crying over the celestia doll being destroyed(it took her a while to make it). I let go of fluttershy and gave her a nuzzle. she blushed. After a few moments of staring into eachothers eyes, we finally got a hold of ourselves and joined the others. After small conversations about what just happened, We start walking back to ponyville, i turn around to see Crimson walk away with her family. Her fake cutie mark now replaced with blueprints and a compass. I smile and walk away with the others. When we got back to ponyville, my houses door was open, everything had been repaired, and some ponies wearing hard hats walked out carrying boxes of tools and materials. Princess luna was acting as the foreman. I walked up to her and asked what was going on, “We are rebuilding your house, after some nutcase burnt it down.” “oh ok.. wait WHAT?” Me and the other ponies gasped, until Luna explained further “Some moron left the stove running with what seemed to be hay, apples, and carrots in a pot.” i facehoofed. “Justin” A yellow colt poked his head around the corner of the house “YES?” I pointed a hoof at the house with an angry glare “Ohhhh yeaaaah, you werent around and i got hungry, so i thought i would try cooking!” “you fell asleep didn't you” “yes.” I sighed and walked in. Luckily i always carry my backpack around, that was something i didn't want to lose. The house looked pretty much the same, except it wasn't destroyed. I asked Twilight to send a message to Celestia to tell her that the assassins were taken care of. She nodded and went back to the library, with the other ponies following behind. Fluttershy stayed with me and Justin, as her house was still a wreck, and she was slightly traumatised by what happened earlier. I cooked us all up a meal, including Luna(who left shortly after, thanking us and returning to canterlot). I told Justin what happened, he had no initial reaction, but offered to wash up(i was actually surprised by this). I went to my room, only to find that fluttershy had taken residence in my bed, and she was fast asleep. She looked cute when she was sleeping. I got under the covers and fell asleep. ______________________________________________________________________________ I woke up the next morning holding fluttershy with her head on my shoulder. Nothing happened, but i was sure glad to wake up next to her then by myself. I lay there for who knows how long before finally being woken up by Justin opening the door. He poked his head in “Psst, hey Rem, Breakfast maybe?” After what had apparently been his fault last time, i didn't want to take any chances(he could probably ruin cereal). I carefully left the room, so i didn't wake fluttershy. I got downstairs and pulled out a box of “Apple-Os”. Justin had gone shopping and already refilled the cupboards with food(if it was a good idea or not, ill have no idea.) I poured two bowls of cereal for both of us, and set them on the table. Midway through eating my cereal, Justin smiled. “So, i see you two.. you know.. had a little fun.” he gave me a nudge I turned bright red “No, Justin, we didn't.. ugh..” I just stopped bothering and started eating my cereal again. A few minutes after we both finish, i was reading a book i borrowed from the library, it was more about the elements of harmony. I was curious to know more about these symbols of magnificent power. I got about halfway through the book when fluttershy walked down the stairs. “Hey. You want something to eat?” i ask, glad that she was finally awake. “Im... fine thanks...” she was still tired, and i wasn't surprised. she spent the entire night tossing and turning and talking in her sleep. she lay down on the couch and started to snooze. Justin was out of the house, something about being bored and looking for something to do. I heard a knock on the door, expecting Justin, it was someone completely different. It was Princess Celestia! She thanked me for helping with the effort to stop the assassins. and asked to come inside. Not wanting to be rude, i let her in and made some tea. “So, you came up with the plan to stop the assassins, correct?” she levitated the cup to her mouth, taking a sip. “Yes, your highness.” “well it was a good idea. and i thank you very much for taking care of the problem. It was a pain not even being able to even eat without worrying about poison.” she laughed. “Of course princess, that would have been very inconvenient.” “Ah yes.. now what was i here for? AH yes!” she gave a little whistle, and a familiar red mare walked through the door. “Crimson!” i said “How good to see you!” I greeted her, closing the door when she was inside. “Now is there something i can do for you two?” “Yes. actually. there is something you might want to know” Princess celestia placed her tea on the table Crimson took that as her cue and spoke up “I have a way to return you back to your planet!” she cheerily said. I look behind them and see Fluttershy, awake on the couch, her eyes tearing up. The first tear hit the floor as she ran out of the house. > Chapter 6: Together Forever. > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- I looked out of the window. Fluttershy was running back to her house, a trail of tears left in her wake. As much as I’d like to go after her, i had to find out what Crimson had found. “So, about that way to get back to earth..” “Ah, right.” Crimson pulled out a blueprint from her saddlebag, and unfurled it on the table. “You see, when the assassins brought you here, they needed a scapegoat, they left behind their ritual site. Which has all the necessary symbols and items and whatnot. If we can replicate the levels of magic, we SHOULD be able to reproduce the same type of portal to get you back to your planet.”She passes her hoof over the blueprints, pointing out each sequence needed. Princess celestia arose from her chair. “And if we use the purifying magic of the elements of harmony, we should be able to return you both to your normal forms” She gets up, and heads for the door. “Thank you for the tea. Ill be sure to show up when you are departing.” The princess walks out, and flies back to canterlot. I turn to Crimson “Now if youll excuse me, i think i should go. Could you wait for Justin and tell him when he gets back?” She nods, and i sprint out the door after Fluttershy. I ignored the ponies looking at me, i had to catch up to Fluttershy. I couldn't stand seeing her in tears, and i couldn't let her bawl her eyes out knowing i was part of the cause. I get to her house, following the evaporating trail of teardrops. The door was shut, and the entire place was still a wreck. I peered in the window and saw fluttershy bunched up on the floor, in a pool of tears. I knocked on the door, she only told me to go away. Like hell i was going to. I bucked open the door, and walked inside. Fluttershy didn't even look up. I lay down to comfort her, she cried even harder. I grabbed her head in my hooves and lifted her face to mine. staring her straight in the eyes. “Fluttershy. you know i wouldn't do anything to hurt you.” trying to calm her down. “But i already have a home. and i cant stay. Would your animals like it if you took them from their nests one day, and never let them go back?” She shook her head slightly. “I love you fluttershy, but this cant work if we live on different planets.” I let her head down, and walked out. trying not to look back. The walk back home was the hardest I’ve ever had to endure. When i got home, Justin was waiting eagerly in the living room, for both going back to earth, and lunch. I swear if something ever happened to me, this guy would starve. After lunch, I went to the library to check on twilight and explain what was going on. When i got there, she was just finishing up on the encyclopedia. She closed the book and began asking me as many questions i answered as many as i could before i could finally get a proper word in. “Twilight!” she stopped as she was about to ask another question. “I need to know if you and the other elements of harmony could accompany me and Justin tonight, in the everfree forest.” “Well i guess we could, but why do you need us to go in there? Rarity is still pretty torn up about the celestia doll.” I explain the plan, she agrees but a tone of reluctance in her voice. After thanking her for agreeing, i walk around town, saying goodbye to lyra, and any other of the ponies i recognized from the party a few days beforehand. I decided to have one last party before we left, so i dropped by sugarcube corner. and asked pinkie pie. She said she could set up a party faster then you could say “rainbow dash in a cup cake”. I got home, Justin was listening to his Ipod while lying on the couch. “Sup nigz.” he greeted me. “Nothing, mind helping me pack?” “pack what? we don't own anything.” “Oh yeah.” I didn't really know how to occupy my time, i didn't have an ipod and there wasn't really much to do in ponyville when you spent your life growing up surrounded by technology. So i spent countless hours, staring at the sky. I watched the pegasus ponies, arranging the clouds. It was something a human could marvel at. the way that the winged horses flew around with grace, and placing each cloud as the town needed. Sure would be something to miss. I gave up looking at the sky. It did get boring after the first few hours. I left the house again, and made my way to the markets. I guessed i should spend the bits before they became useless. I bought 4 dozen fritters, a basket of apples, a few cakes, a bag of cup cakes from pinkie, and some misc vegetables. If i was going to have a going away party, i wanted to get good foods to enjoy the moment. When i got home to drop off the food, Justin shoved a poster in my face. It was a flier for a pony named “bon-bon” singing at the local concert hall. “I heard her voice was like silk bro! we can’t pass this up.” “Hey i didn't know you were one for classical music Jay.” I pointed to a part of the poster pointing out that Lyra was performing the background tune “I don’t know who you are anymore... Of course i like classical music! i love it! just because Dj Pon-3 doesn’t mean i don’t like the older stuff too!” “Alright then. When is it?” “I... uh...” he began frantically searching through the writing until he spotted it. he turned it around and pointed out 5:00 p.m. “it should be long enough to span the time between now and our ‘trip’ later.” “Alrighty then. its about..” i look at the wall clock “4:30 now, anything you need to do before we get there?” he looked around the room, everything was cleaned and ready for us to leave. he simply shrugged in reply. “alright then. Lets go.” We left the house, on our way to the concert hall we saw a few ponies we recognized. Lyra was one of them, along with twilight and rarity. When we got to the hall, we waited for the show to begin. When the show began, i saw many of the ponies enjoying the sounds. but i only had fluttershy on my mind. I wasn't sure if i did the right thing, or traumatised her by leading her on, only to tell her i had to leave. I just wanted to say that i was sorry. I caught a few notes, but fluttershy quickly found her way back into my mind. Before i even knew it, the show was over. I spent the entire time thinking about what i did to fluttershy and what could happen. The thought of her killing herself somehow crawled its way into my mind, i quickly dispersed these thoughts. If i thought about that any longer i would probably go down that road myself. The walk home was silent. We had to get ready to leave. I stopped by the library on the way and let twilight know to send a letter to Celestia that we were ready. Once we were home, i packed any extra clothes i had, and kept a few things as mementos. Justin just packed his DJ-Pon3 albums and ipod. Once everything was packed, i followed Crimson’s instructions to get to the ritual site. It was a long path, and we almost got attacked by a manticore. But we got there safely, as princess Celestia and the other six arrived shortly after(including fluttershy) Celestias horn glowed, and the symbols on the ground started to spin faster and faster, until eventually it became nothing but a red pulsating circle on the ground. The symbols rose into the air, then a spark caused each of the symbols to link together, spinning fast enough to create a portal like effect. Celestia’s voice rose from the whir of the portal. “Alright, is everypony ready?” The six each nodded their heads “Alright then, could you all please put your respective necklace or tiara on?” They all did as asked. She motioned for one of us to come forward, Jay walked towards the princess first. ‘Please step in the middle.” she pointed towards a circle the six elements had made. He stepped into the middle, before stopping, and pulling a pair of jeans from his bag, and puts them on. He motioned for twilight to start.(not actually knowing how it worked). Twilight’s horn lit up, and a spark connected the six once again. After a few moments, A rainbow shot from each of the ponies, and surrounded Justin, he stood up on his hind legs as energy left his body. After a few moments of blinding light, I opened my eyes and saw that Justin was once again, a human. “Awesome, Cmon Rem, your turn!” He beckoned me forward. I looked at the portal, it was swirling faster then before. I looked at the six ponies, each looking at me like they had something to do. Except Fluttershy. She wasn't looking at all, she didn't want to look at me anymore. it would only leave her more heartbroken. I sighed. “I cant.” “What? why not?” Justin questioned as if i was a madman. “I cant go back to earth, Justin.” “Why the hell not?” “I have a life here, and ive met the girl of my dreams.” Fluttershy opened her eyes and stopped crying. “All i have back on earth is you, Justin. Equestria has given me somebody to live for.” Justin sighs, nods, and turns to celestia. “Do you think you could keep the portal open for a few more minutes?” “I will try, but you must hurry, i cant keep it up for long.” Justin jumps through the portal, after a few minutes, a letter comes through the portal with the words “Close it.” written on it. Celestia cancels her magic, and the portal closes. I walk over and open the letter, Inside is a picture of me and Justin, both human, posing together for the photo. On the back is written “Dont ever forget the times we had. -Your best friend, Justin” A tear drops from my eye. This was probably the last time ill ever see Justin again. I turn around and Fluttershy is standing right behind me. Before i can say anything she wraps her arms around me and gives me a huge kiss on the lips. Celestia walks up to me, whispers something in my ear and hands me a box. I get down on three knees. “Fluttershy... Will you marry me?” > Epilogue > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The day of the wedding was bright and sunny, thanks to rainbow dash. Everypony was attending, even Luna and Celestia. I was dressed in a formal white suit, made by Rarity. Fluttershy was wearing her gala dress. She looked beautiful as she walked down the aisle. Even with a small veil covering her face. She reached the podium, and stood by my side. Then the ceremony began. I took a side glance at the audience, everypony was paying attention. Except for rainbow dash, who was sleeping. i chuckled inside and focused my attention back to the priest who was almost finishing up. “And now, if anypony has a reason why these two should not wed, speak now or forever hold your peace.” This was gladly met with silence. “I now pronounce you husband and wife.” I picked up a gemmed bracelet , which acted as the wedding ring, from Applebloom, who was acting as the ring-bearer. I fastened it onto Fluttershy’s hoof. “You may now kiss the bride.” Nine months later, we found ourselves in the emergency room. “Congradulations. Its a beautiful baby colt.” The doctor wrapped the foal in a towel and handed him to fluttershy. He was a light brown pegasus with dirty blonde hair that had pink tips. When we finally got home, i placed the child into a crib. “So. what should we name him” Fluttershy asked. I picked up a photo frame, a tear in my eye. Fluttershy nodded as i placed it next to his crib. “Welcome home. Justin.” ______________________________________________________________________________ “Dad, why is my name Justin, why cant it be cool like the other ponies? everyone makes fun of me for it at school.” “Well son,” i picked up the photo frame “Let me tell you a story.” > Lost chapters: Part 1 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- i have received comments over the time saying that the pacing between Fluttershy and my character was much too fast. As such, i have decided to make numerous chapters. Pretty much entirely shipping. This current chapter is based during chapter two. after the events of the house party. I walked around town after buying the groceries. Yesterday had been long and tiring, and I needed to relax. I came across a restaurant run by a 'hoity toidy', I asked for a glass of water and the menu. After a sip of water and a quick glance at the menu, I sat and waited at the table for the waiter, it was a busy day and there were many other customers to be served. "Oh.. Umm... Is it alright if I sit here? I mean, if somepony else is, I'll just go..." I looked up and saw Fluttershy blushing, and scratching the ground with her hoof. "Of course. Here's the menu if you're hungry." I passed her the menu, she shied away. "I.. Uhh.. Don't have any money right now.." "It's fine, ill pay. I insist" I lifted my bag of bits onto the table "Oh, you don't have to.. If you don't want to..." She sat down and read through the menu. After she was done I waved the waiter over. "Could I get a daisy and carrot sandwich? extra daisy's please." "And for you, madam? The waiter asked "Oh..... Umm... I'll just have what he's having..." "Of course. I'll be back in a moment." and with that, the waiter walked inside. The next few moments were kind of awkward. It was a battle of our own minds, Fluttershy looked at me, while I looked at her, after a few tense seconds, she forced her eyes shut, leaned over and gave me a peck on the cheek. Needless to say, I was surprised. My eyes widened, she turned a bright red and looked at the ground. I blushed as well, but soon started grinning "You could have said something, you silly filly." I chuckled, Fluttershy blushed even more. After a few minutes of awkward silence, the waiter came over and gave us our food. I gave him the bits to pay for it, and a little extra as a tip. I dug into it, absolutely starving, it was delicious. After I finished eating, I noticed Fluttershy hadn't eaten any of her sandwich. "What's wrong?" I asked, a bit worried that I might have upset her. "Oh.. I... I'm not really hungry..." "Then why did you..." Then it hit me. She didn't come over because she was hungry... I was still thinking about this, but didn't notice her starting to tear up, after the brief realisation, I looked over to her, noticing a small tear come from her face, she was trying not to cry. "Are you alright?" I asked. I shouldn't have said that, because as soon as I did she ran off. I facehoofed. "stupid. stupid. stupid. stupid..." After what happened before, I tried to find Fluttershy, afraid that I had upset her. I wasn't able to locate her, but I was given a few dirty looks by some ponies nearby the restaurant. I hung my head in shame, hoping it wasn't my fault she was crying. I started walking back to my house, on the way passing a few locations I hoped she'd be, she wasn't at any of them. As I passed Carousel boutique, I heard a voice "Hey, you." I turned my head to look at the voice "Yeah, you. Are you Remy?" I nodded my head in response. "You might want to come over here..." A orange filly pegasus poked her head out of the bushes. "come on!" I walked over to the bushes, and saw three fillies surrounding Fluttershy, who was crying softly. The orange filly spoke up again "we found her like this while trying to get our cutie marks for exploring! Something seems to have upset her, but she doesn't want to talk about it..." "I see. Could you girls leave us alone for a while?" "Of course mister!" the three chimed, then bounded off. I knelt down next to Fluttershy. "Is it my fault you are crying?" I asked in a soft voice. She nodded. "Do you want me to leave?" she shook her head. Well I was stumped, it was my fault but she didn't want me gone? I was confused to say the least. She had stopped crying, but now was just looking at the ground with sore red eyes. Trying to make her feel better, I nuzzled her neck, something I probably wouldn't have thought of doing if I was still on Earth. This made her smile just a little, but she still remained silent. "Look I'm sorry if I offended you or anything, I didn't mean to..." "N-No..." Fluttershy finally spoke "I'm.. Just a bit...." "Shy?" "Y-Yes... I've never really... Had a.. umm..." "Crush?" "um.. yes.. before.." "Listen, I'm sorry for making you cry, but that was just bit sudden." I lay down next to her. 'I've also never had a crush before... But I think i can start here." We both smiled at each-other and enjoyed a few quiet minutes to ourselves. After I coaxed Fluttershy to go home and rest, I headed towards the market to continue with my day. It wasn't easy to get that yellow pegasus out of my head, It was the first time I was kissed by a girl, and she wasn't even human. I thought about her for the rest of the day, and those thoughts showed no signs of slowing. Just being near her felt... Right... Like it was meant to happen. I'd only been in Equestria for one day, and I'd already been to a party, had somepony kiss me, made the same pony cry, and fallen in love, all in one day. It was a bit much for me to handle. So after I got the groceries, I went home, and made some food for Justin, then went back upstairs to read. Inside, on top of the book Twilight had wrote for me, was a yellow feather and a picture of Fluttershy, the window was open. I closed the window, took the feather and photo in hooves and smiled, then placed them both in my backpack. I opened the book to a chapter titled 'Feelings' and began reading. Twilight must not have been too sure about humans, as I was already aware of much that was in this chapter. It described some things I was not aware of, such as 'wing-boners'. Pegasi wings unfurl themselves and stiffen in moments of excitement or fear. I didn't know that, but I'm glad I found that out. After i finished the chapter, I pulled the picture of Fluttershy out from my bag, looked at it for a while and went to sleep.