Salem had been defeated, Ruby Rose had fulfilled her destiny. Ozpin finally won, his duty is finished. Only one thing left to do.
Ozpin had finally won, with Salem vanquished by Ruby Rose and her friends, his work was finally done. The brothers no longer needed him, his wisdom shall be passed on to Oscar and Ozpin will finally rest.
But just as he was about to crossover the light, a greater being had given him an offer. A chance to live one last time, reborn as something new.
In a brand new world, Ozpin is given a chance to live a lifetime free of his guilt. But everything isn't as perfect as he thought.
A howling scream filled the air, Ozpin's eyes snapped open and a vast empty space greeted him. Nothing but the color white as far as the eye can see. He wandered forward unconsciously, his mind as blank as his surroundings. There was no sound, his footsteps were silent. Try as he might, he could not produce any noise with the surface of the empty world.
Ozpin opened his mouth to speak, but no words had come out of it. His lungs felt empty, yet he could breathe normally. Ozpin tried to raise the volume, but still nothing. With nothing else to do, he continued his silent walk to nowhere.
That's when he heard it, a loud thud from behind. His body whipped around, his eyes widened, his mouth agape. There was a desk with a man behind it, Ozpin swore that it wasn't there when he walked around the vast empty world. Or perhaps he did not even move at all and he was walking on the spot endlessly. But that was the least of his concern. What was more important was who was behind the desk with a rubber stamp in hand.
"Qrow?" Finally, his voice was heard.
Qrow shook his head as he raised the rubber stamp above a sheet of paper, he slammed it down with a loud thud and placed the sheet on a stack. Then Qrow took from another and did the same thing with the new piece of paper.
Before Ozpin could question his trusted friend, Qrow had suddenly shifted into a different form. Ozpin's eyes widened as the man behind the desk changed into Glynda Goodwitch. Then Cinder, then into a man Ozpin had not ever met. This continues over and over with no sign of stopping. That is what Ozpin believed until whoever was behind the desk had stopped shifting.
Ozpin's eyes were as wide as ever, the one sitting at that desk was a face that he knew all too well. "Well, Ozpin... or should I say Ozma?" Funny, Ozpin was actually looking at Ozma himself. "Take a seat." A white chair rose out of the ground.
Ozpin sighed, he did not question why this being had taken his own face, Ozpin simply sat on the offered chair. He looked back at himself behind the desk, it was like looking at a window of a memory that leads to the past. The armor he wore was the same one on that fateful day, the day where it all started.
The being who wore his old face straightened himself. He placed the rubber stamp on a pad and smiled towards Ozpin.
"Who are you?" Ozpin finally spoke after the long silence.
"I have no name." They answered. "I am only a god who wishes to speak to you. I am not like the ones you've met before."
Ozpin eyed them carefully. "What would a god need of me?" In truth, he expected something that would benefit the god more than him, so Ozpin had prepared himself to say no to whatever offer they would make.
"I just wanted to congratulate you, Ozma." Ozpin became confused, but he didn't let his guard down. "I am not here with any ill will, so could you please allow me to speak with you not as a god, but as someone who wishes to give you a present."
"I will not hear any of it." Ozpin declared as he stood up from his seat. "If you have nothing important to say, I must return to my world to finish my job."
"But Ozma, it's over..." Ozpin's body became rigid.
"What... do you mean?"
The being smiled, Ozpin felt a shiver run down his spine as he watched the face of his old self smile. "You've done it Ozma, you've united the people of Remnant!"
"But I don't-"
Just then, countless memories flashed in his mind. He clutched his head as he stumbled back. It all just flooded into him, how he- no, how Oscar had stood in front of an army. How the boy faced against the horde of Grimm, with Ruby and her team by his side as well as Arc's, together they stormed towards the dark wave.
They all charged through the wall of Grimm with the army of every country behind them. Ozpin saw many familiar faces among them, he knew them so well. A tear ran down his cheek as the army clashed with the Grimm. He could see that many had died, yet the number of Grimm that fell was greater. Ruby's power aided their advance to Salem's castle, and soon enough, Oscar and his allies had entered her throne room.
Then it went blank. Tears streamed down as Ozpin collapsed back into the chair. "Do you remember now?" He looked up to face the being behind the desk.
"But... what happened to Salem?"
The being sighed. "Do you not recall what fate Salem was given?"
Another memory had come into play, in a large room stood Salem, across her was Ruby Rose and Oscar. Both were the only ones present, whatever happened to the rest is a mystery to Ozpin. And just as it started, the memory ended with a picture of him holding the withering body of Salem. His own heart stopped as he saw a small smile on her face as Ozpin in Oscar's body held her close.
"She had finally done what the God of Light had asked her to. Salem had finally learned the importance of both life... and death."
Ozpin placed his palm on his head as he remembered the event. Then he faced the god in front of him. "I wish to see her."
"Of course, Salem is waiting for you in the afterlife!" The god leaned back against his chair. "You are free to see her." Ozpin rose to his feet. "But... let me ask you something Ozpin."
Ozpin cocked a brow, he didn't like it already. He had noticed the way the god mentioned his name, there was something behind that smile that irked Ozpin. "Very well."
"Have you ever enjoyed life?"
"I do not understand."
"You died young, you've returned to the living and lived a happy life with Salem and had four beautiful daughters up until you were utterly destroyed. Then you spent many cycles trying to fight back and save the world from Salem. All of it because the gods made you do it. So tell me Ozpin, did you enjoy your life?"
Ozpin did not answer, he turned to leave but found himself facing the being again.
"Ozpin, let me offer you one last chance."
"If I decline?"
"Then you crossover to the afterlife, and reunite with Salem and live happily ever after."
"Then you know my answer." Ozpin attempted to leave again, this time he was successful. That's what he thought as he heard footsteps that were not his own, it was obvious since he didn't have any.
"Call it pity if you will, but I have seen you suffer Ozpin and I wish better for you." The god added. "What would you say if I offered this chance to someone else?"
"Just take the offer!" A man in a white beanie shouted as he lugged a bottle around, he struggled to stay upright, it was obvious that this man had drank too much. "Nothing is stopping you, and we deserved better!"
"No, we don't." An old man with a long beard spoke, his hat covered half of his face which hid his contempt toward the god. "We've done what we needed to do on Remnant. We freed Salem of her curse, hers and ours."
A dark-skinned man with glasses entered the scene. "He's right, no one needs us anymore, it is time to hang up our coat and finally get the rest we truly deserve."
"Are you kidding me!?" The Drunkard scowled at his other selves. "For years we have been breaking our backs to save Remnant, all because of the Brothers who had cursed her in the first place!"
"Enough! I will not hear this from you of all people!" The Hermit glared at the Drunkard.
"I think we should consider it." Ozpin glanced over to a man in a grey suit, purple vest, and a yellow tie. "I mean, we had been through so much that... I'm sure one more cycle would not hurt..."
"And I too believe that we should take this offer." A frail-looking old man spoke as he leaned on a very familiar cane. "Don't you think we suffered enough? This could be our only chance to live happily!"
"You buffoon." The Hermit scoffed. "We had already lived, it is time for us to rest."
Then the number of people grew, his previous lives had gathered around him and Ozma. They spoke and argued with each other whether or not they should choose to accept their death or live once more. This went on while Ozpin tried his best to understand everything, try as he might, the decision was no longer his to make.
A man with white hair has caught everyone's attention, his blue robe shifted as he walked up to Ozpin's side. His eyes filled with sorrow and satisfaction. "Ozpin, we have done it, Salem is fine now... our daughters are fine... they are waiting for us." Ozpin's first reincarnation placed his hands on Ozpin's shoulders. "It's time to rest..."
That's when the Drunkard's face became dejected. Upon the mentioning of Ozma's daughters, Ozpin's face hardened, the rest of his reincarnations did so as well. "My answer is final." Ozpin declared loudly. The others nodded, accepting his decision.
"Hey, Ozpin..." All eyes turned towards a boy that stood in front of Ozpin, who then sheepishly smiled towards the professor.
"Oscar..." Ozpin muttered.
"Y-yeah... it's me." Oscar sighed. "I know you've decided to say no, and I'm not here to change your mind or anything, I'm just here to say goodbye." He gave the professor a bright and honest smile, the best he could. "We won't really see each other anymore, and this might be the only moment where we can speak for one last time. So... Thank you, Professor Ozpin."
Ozpin was taken aback, he nearly went stumbling back in surprise.
"Thank you for showing me so many things, teaching me to fight! Because of you, I met Ruby and everyone! You taught me more than I ever dream of Ozpin! You've made my life an amazing story, something more than back at the farm. And I promise to you that the wisdom you have given to me shall be passed onto future generations, and I'll take back Beacon in your honor! Mark my words!"
Ozpin stared at the boy, his heartbeats were slower than usual, his mind started to calm. Ozpin had begun recalling his very short moments and adventures with the boy. How he had convinced him to travel over to Haven. How he had thrown the boy into the dangerous waters for his own goals to achieve victory. Ozpin had made Oscar cast away his home and family for a mission that was not his. He settled a hand on Oscar's shoulder and smiled.
"And I will miss you as well, Oscar." Ozpin then raised his head to meet everyone's eyes, he scanned through the crowd as one thought ran in his mind. The others knew what he was thinking, but it seems that Oscar did not.
"Ozpin?"
"I have decided Oscar, that I'll take the offer." With that, the reincarnations vanished, leaving Oscar and Ozma with Ozpin. "I am ready... God." The god nodded and smiled.
"Wait!" Ozpin looked over to Oscar, only to be shocked as the boy wrapped his arms around the professor. "Goodbye, Ozpin, I hope to see you again!"
Ozpin returned the gesture and held him closer. "I know you've been through so much Oscar... Before I leave, I must tell you this... I am sorry for ever bringing you into my own problem, and I wish you could forgive me."
Oscar shook his head as he took a step back. "You don't have to apologize, Ozpin, I'm happy that you did."
Ozpin smiled warmly, he patted Oscar's head before facing the strange being that wore Ozma's face. The world became black with just a snap, the two became completely alone in the abyss. Ozpin nodded towards him. "Very well, Ozpin. But be warned, the world I will send you to for your final cycle of life is not one you will be familiar with. It is peaceful, but do not lower your guard! Do not be deceived by the calm, I cannot control the reality where you will be thrown in. I can't even tell where you'll end up, this place is unpredictable, all I can assure you is that you will be safe. And I wish you the best of luck, Ozpin."
"I understand, my only request is that you keep an eye over the boy."
The god cupped his chin with his hand. "That would be a bit problematic since it isn't my domain, but I will promise you that this boy and his descendants shall live to lead the united world of Remnant. As long as you fulfill a request as well..."
Ozpin stood waiting patiently for the god to finish.
"Ozpin, my request to you is that you enjoy your next cycle, not as Ozma, or any of your reincarnations, but someone else. Someone new, live your life however you pleased, and let us meet again in the future, both with smiling faces."
Then everything was gone.
"How could this happen to me of all ponies!?" An earth pony stallion exclaimed as he dashed through the streets of Canterlot. Dodging any pony that stood in his way. He made sure to apologize as he did so.
In the distance, he could hear a train blowing its horn, signaling that it was about to depart from the station. The stallion picked up his pace and beat the cobblestone quicker, time was running out and he needed to hurry. He passed more ponies on the way to the station, a few gave their complaints but he only gave them a sincere and quick apology. A few guards tried to stop and tell him to slow down, but the stallion was too quick for them to catch.
"I'm sorry, but I am in a great hurry! So please forgive me if I am causing some disturbance!"
He ran down a street and jumped over a few obstacles, he glanced over to a pony who had a pocket watch out and mentally screamed as he caught a good look at the time. I'm not gonna catch it in time!
The stallion took a sharp turn into an alleyway and ran past a shady-looking dumpster, and once he exited, the stallion was met with a railing. And over it and down below was the train station. He looked over and sighed. "As much as I'd rather take the normal route, this would be a lot quicker to reach the train."
"Hey, you!" He turned around to find a guard standing at the mouth of the alleyway, golden armor and all. "Stop right there!"
"Yes, I know I have been causing some trouble by randomly running through the streets like a mad pony, but I am just in a hurry and I have no time to speak with you!" With that, the stallion leaped over the railings and plummeted down, the guard's eyes widened and rushed over to check on him.
Much to the guard's surprise, the stallion was already on the ground with no injuries, he smiled and waved at the guard before continuing his objective. The guard could only question how the stallion landed without so much of a scratch.
The stallion rushed through the wave of ponies that had the same problem as him, but the stallion was quicker and far more nimble than anyone in the station. He slid through the small gaps between ponies in a blink of an eye and hopped over a few just to get to the train that was about to leave. Before anyone even knew it, the stallion had achieved his objective. He sighed with relief as he entered the car, his heart was racing and his lungs were working overtime.
The stallion quickly takes a seat, but not before giving his ticket to the collector. He huffed one last time before his heartbeats became slower. Thankfully he was calming down, but then he realized that he was not alone. Sitting on the seat across him was a grey pegasus mare and a small unicorn filly sitting next to her. He smiled sheepishly and waved at the two.
The filly returned the wave and smiled brightly. "Hello!" She greeted.
"Hello, what a fine day we are having."
"Oh, it is!" The pegasus smiled. There was something about her that the stallion couldn't help but notice. It was her eyes, the imperfect golden orbs that were not aligned. As she smiled, one eye met his two ones, while her other eye stared out the window. "You seem exhausted, did you run all the way here?"
The train whistled loudly, then it began moving.
"Yes, I had been so focused on something that I did not see what time it was. A few more seconds then this train would've been gone!" He explained. "I don't think I can wait for the next train to Ponyville."
"Well, I'm glad that you've made it!" The mare rifled through her saddlebag and pulled out a bottle of water. "You must be thirsty!"
"Oh, such a kind gesture from someone like you when I haven't even introduced myself yet." He accepted her offer and smiled. "I am Time Turner, at your service!"
"Oh, I'm Derpy!" She smiled back at him. "And this is my daughter Dinky!"
"Nice to meet you!"
Turner chuckled softly. "What a lovely daughter you have, Derpy. Would you like to see a magic trick, little girl?"
"Would I!" The young filly stood on her seat and eagerly waited for whatever trick the stallion would show her.
"Ooh!" Derpy was also interested in what Time Turner would do.
Time Turner smiled and brought up his hoof. The two watched intently and carefully. And before they even knew, colorful orbs rose out of his hoof and floated above them. Dinky's eyes sparkled with delight, she watched the orbs dance around the air with a smile. Derpy shared the feeling, and she was in awe, her eyes followed the orbs as they rose towards the ceiling. And just as it made contact, the orbs popped into a rain of sparkles.
"Wow!" Dinky giggled happily.
Turner sighed with a small smile on his face. "Nothing warms my heart more than the sweet laughter of a child. You really are lucky to have her, Derpy."
"Oh, thank you!" Derpy shyly grinned at him. "That was an amazing trick, Time Turner! How did you do it?"
"Oh it was nothing, and I can't really tell you."
Derpy stuck out her tongue. "Aw phooey!" She chuckled for a short second before smiling towards Time Turner. "So what do you need in Ponyville anyway?"
"Oh, nothing really amazing, just moving into town and live my life peacefully."
"Oh, Ponyville isn't one for the peaceful. Every day there's always something going on." She raised her wing and started counting on each feather. "There's always a party planned by the resident party planner. The rainbow-headed pegasus is always out to prank random ponies. Sometimes a timberwolf comes by."
"Don't forget the random lightning clouds coming from the Everfree Forest!" Dinky added.
Derpy patted Dinky's head. "Of course dear. Oh! We also have a severe Shadow Beast problem since the town is so close to the Everfree!"
"Can't say that anywhere else is better," Turner smirked. "But I'll take what I can."
Derpy snickered silently. "Okay, but you'll probably start tearing your hair out in the first couple of days."
"We'll see, Derpy, we'll see."
Time Turner looked out the window, the land moved as the train ran on its tracks. He sighed as his reflection mimicked his dejected frown. With a blink of an eye, it was replaced with a face he was all too familiar with. It wasn't a pony that stared back at him, but Ozpin himself.
"What are you doing Turner?" Ozpin questioned the stallion.
"I don't know." He answered quietly as the train entered a tunnel, and everything went black.
A symbol of leadership that represented the people of this lovely town, this is where all would gather for important businesses concerning Ponyville, and there was only one pony you needed to talk to. And she is Mayor Mare, a respectable pony beloved by all. She delivered what she promised before being elected, opinions of her grew for the best.
Or perhaps it is simply her political appearance, none could truly tell what happens behind closed doors. Ozpin had many experiences of such people, politicians who wore a mask when facing those they claim to fight for, tongue smoother than the most polished orb.
But Time Turner needed to ignore the thought, he had an appointment with the Mayor and it would be best if he did not think negatively about her occupation.
He waited patiently in the office, it was a mess, stacks of papers were everywhere, and garbage all around. It would seem the Mayor was too busy with her job to even care for her office. Though, this does remind Turner of something, a memory, one that he would rather forget in the abyss, like the rest of his past.
"Does this place not have a janitor? It's like a pigsty in here!"
"Maybe she doesn't want one to be snooping around in her office?" The Doctor suggested to the unwanted voice. Then he went back to his book just to kill time.
"Honestly," Another voice scoffed. "our views on politicians have been ruined by our immortality. Wish we could just forget everything completely."
"And yet you all decided to stay." Turner glared over his shoulder. "Now be quiet, I am trying to read."
A familiar face kneeled next to his, it was Ozpin, the old man eyed the book in Turner's hooves with a curious glint in his eyes. "Equestrian Myths and Legends?"
Turner sighed. "Just a habit, one that I can't seem to get rid of."
Ozpin arched his brow. "Is that so...?"
"I'm sorry that I'm late!" The door swung open to reveal a tired Mayor Mare. "There has been a lot on my plate lately..."
"It is fine, I am in no hurry."
The Mayor took her seat behind the desk, she made some room so both could properly look at each other, also to be professional. As Mayor Mare moved a few stacks of paper aside, Turner couldn't help but notice something about her. A single pink strand of hair, such an out of place thing in a mane so gray.
Once the desk was cleared, Time Turner placed his résumé on it so the Mayor could get an insight. Imagine her shock when she received two pages that detailed his accomplishments throughout his life and his past and current occupations. A freelancing inventor who invented the hay-powered engine, of which the Iron Legion had bought the patent. Not only that, but he had earned a few PhDs.
This was no ordinary pony in front of Mayor Mare. From what she could tell about him just from his résumé was that he was living his life fast. She asked him a few questions for confirmation, he answered accurately, which only surprised her more. This was an interview that she would have never expected.
"I can't hire you, you're overqualified for the job." She informed him. "I may recommend another, something far more suitable for your skills."
"No, it is alright," He said. "I am not looking for anything fancy, just a simple job for me, please. Also, I'm sure my experience with time pieces will be of great help to this beautiful town."
"Are you sure?" She was baffled. "I cannot just simply accept someone so talented!"
He shook his head. "If I may, Mayor, no job in town interests me, and I only wish to enjoy my life while I am still young. As you have already read, I've accomplished many things already, that is because I am not ready to die just yet. And the fear of it drives me to chase my goals until the day I can no longer walk. It may be a little odd, but I wish to work under an amazing mare such as you. Perhaps I can even learn a few things from a beloved leader like yourself."
Mayor Mare had never met someone so honest, well not as much as a certain farmer. But it would seem that he was determined to be her assistant, not only that, but he applied to be the town's timekeeper, he was certainly ambitious.
"Tell me, do you have any experience in politics?"
"A mock election during my last few years in the Canterlot Academy, but to be completely honest, I used some of your speeches as a reference when I made mine, of which won me the election."
This piqued her curiosity greatly. "Did you now..."
"One of the reasons why I wish to work for you is to learn, your words are just too inspiring, and it pushes me to do more!" He rose up from his seat, book in hoof and a smile on his face. "I'll start today, the clock tower needs a tune-up since it's thirty minutes early, definitely got some dust in the gears. Your secretary has the keys I presume, so I better get going then, wouldn't want to be late on my schedules."
The Mayor couldn't get a word in as he left her office, the stallion just hired himself and she was unsure if she should humor him and just accept him for the job, or simply decline him as politely as she could. But something about him made her lean on the former more, it was the aura of experience he radiated. She smiled and chuckled to herself, this pony was certainly a go-getter. That's when she was convinced that there was no other choice, she felt the weight on her shoulders lighten knowing that she had someone to trust, someone who is talented.
The future of this town is bright now that she has the aid of Time Turner.
"She wanted you to be something more, her reasons are admirable." Ozpin commented.
"Perhaps not all politicians are snakes, but let's keep our opinions open for now." The Hermit said.
"Silence, both of you." The Doctor scolded. "I need to focus, where did I place my tools?"
"Is your memory failing you this early?"
"I spent more time trying to forget, that may be the reason, and none of you are helping." He sighed. "No more distractions, we are in a new chapter in my life. I wish to make the most of it while I still stand!"
"I still can't believe the Mayor dyes her hair..." A voice muttered.
Ozpin stopped for a moment, he was reminded of the book the Doctor had with him. Though they were in that office for an hour, Time Turner had spent all his time on a single page. He may not know what the pony was thinking, but he had his suspicions.
The gears moved and clicked, a rhythmic tick echoed in the room loudly, his mind was at ease as he continued his work. Something about this place brought harmony to his soul, though as much he rather forget, he couldn't simply ignore his memories back in Beacon.
Quickly, he pushed the thought away.
Just as he was about to finish dusting the gears, a strange noise caught his attention. He turned around to discover a strange unicorn by the exit, head bobbed to the beat of the drum that came from her headphones. He listened carefully and recognized the song quickly, it was one of that young folk music that's taking Equestria by storm.
Her purpose to be in this room was obvious, in her magic was a microphone hooked up to a small recorder strapped on her waist. Turner kept silent and allowed her to take what she came for, which was the working gears of this clock tower, and as if she did not notice him, the mare walked about the room and collected the sounds.
Lighty, he tapped her shoulder, to which she turned and nearly gasped, but Turner placed a hoof over her mouth just so she would not ruin her recording. Once she was acquainted with him, he tapped his wrist before pointing up. There was silence, she stared at him with an odd interest. Then the world shook, the bell above rang, if it were not for the loud music and the fact that she might as well be, the mare would've become deaf just from the bell.
She looked up with a smile, her microphone pointed at above so she could record the noise. Once she got what she was after, she gave him her thanks with a small nod.
"You're welcome," He finally spoke. "I wouldn't have thought that ponies would be interested in such things."
She gave him a shrug.
"I see, so this is a hobby, or is it related to your work?" She tapped her cutie mark. "Ah, you are in the music business, a DJ. I would love to hear some of your work if you have the time."
She gave him a silent nod.
"This Will Be The Day, quite an interesting song you're listening to."
The mare was surprised that he could hear the song that was playing. Not only that, but it would seem that he was familiar with it as well.
"Yes, I'm just happy to meet a like-minded pony. Though I would enjoy 'talking' about music, but I have to return to my work, these gears won't oil themselves."
"Vinyl, you're awfully quiet up there!" Another voice spoke from the door, where a graceful mare emerged. Beauty couldn't begin to describe her, and any stallion would fall head over heels for this mare, not the Doctor though. "Oh, excuse me! I did not know that somepony was up here, and I hope that my friend was not a bother."
"Oh, no problem at all, but I was glad that I had somepony to talk to, these gears are starting to echo in my head."
She laughed at his silliness. "Well, thank the heavens that company came before you lost yourself to this place. I am Octavia, this is my friend Vinyl if she has not introduced herself yet."
"I'm the Doctor."
"Doctor who?"
"That is indeed the question." He chuckled. "Sorry, just an inside joke, I am Time Turner. It is truly a pleasure."
"Well, now I wonder why a gentlecolt such as yourself is here in this dusty clock tower."
"Oh nothing interesting, just doing my job as Ponyville's official timekeeper."
"I see, good timing as well, this clock was in need of a cleaning, and we better get out of your mane."
"Guess this is farewell for now." He smiled.
"Indeed, and Doctor? Welcome to Ponyville."
Once he was alone, Turner returned to his work and dusted more gears. The deafening whispers of the machine brought themselves back, no voice could be heard as time went by. Though he wanted to focus, Turner could not forget the mares that he had met, something about them bothered him, how randomly they had appeared.
Was it fate? Destiny?
Only the gods would know, and he would rather fall into a dreamless sleep than ask any gods, even if they aren't listening. Ozpin would never...
No, he's Doctor Time Turner, gods are just things that are beyond science, beyond his concern. He could care less about who created the sun, or what gave them all life. The only thing important to him was how to figure out the fundamentals of science.
Work was done before he knew, it was lunch the time told him, and thanks to Turner, this clock tower shall once again tell nothing but the truth. Until it needs another maintenance. Though he wished that he could be as honest...
"Let's see," The Doctor started as he walked towards the town hall. "I have to return the key to the tower for now until the Mayor can give me a duplicate. Then I have lunch with Derpy. After that, my new home requires cleaning as well. Perhaps moving to this town was a brilliant idea after all."
"Watch it!" Turner was thrown out of his thoughts as he crashed into someone. A Legionnaire it would seem, his iron armor was far more iconic than those who serve the crown directly.
Before the guard could even snap at him, someone else had stepped between Turner and the guard. This stallion was dressed in a white uniform, a familiar face, one that Turner wished he did not meet.
"Doctor!" The stallion greeted cheerfully.
He smirked. "General Ironwood, pleasant day innit?"
The General quickly pulled Turner back on his hooves. "Indeed it is, and it has been a while, Doctor. I'm curious why you're in town."
Turner chuckled. "Just wanted a fresh start, that's all. Got myself a job as the timekeeper for the town, also as an assistant to the Mayor."
"Why didn't you talk to me? We got plenty of openings in the Legion."
"Sorry old pal, but desk work is not for me. Gotta keep my joints loose and limber."
"Doctor," He became stoic. "a stallion such as yourself is full of potential, and with that intelligent mind, no Shadow Beast would stand a chance against ponykind. I offer you a chance to help us in this war, please accept."
The gathered ponies were silent, Turner stared blankly at the General. He sighed as he walked past Ironwood, the Doctor's answer was clearer than a sparkling pond. "Goodbye, Jimmy, hope we can enjoy some coffee together at a later date."
This caught Ironwood's Legionnaires off guard, shocked with how casually the Doctor turned down Ironwood's offer.
"Think about it, Doctor. And I'm sorry for Lieutenant Storm's first impression..."
Turner chose to keep his silence, as the distance between them grew, a nagging feeling crept up his chest. This won't be the last time he'd see the offer, they have known each other for so long, and he was so determined to get Turner into the Legion. His first mistake was overstepping with his inventions, which caught the attention of Ironwood.
A mistake he will not repeat.
For now, Time Turner shall enjoy his first-ever lunch with his new friend in this lovely town called Ponyville.
"Would you like a hint?" An old Hermit asked as he walked by Turner's side.
"It better be about how I can keep all of you silent."
"Second to worse, an annoying pest she is." Was all he said before Turner was once again alone.
The Doctor sighed deeply, he glared over his shoulder as he realized that starting a life in this town would not be so simple.
Time Turner, also known as the Doctor, was in a dilemma. His years of academic experience, achievements, and intellectual mind had not prepared him for this. By far, it was his greatest battle on this planet.
Red or blue tie?
Turner was conflicted, he loved both of them to even choose. He had been at this for a whole hour, time wasted on this silly problem when he could have used some of that time to clean a few messes in his new house.
"Red! It is the color of passion!" The Drunkard suggested. "I even bet the wall-eyed horse will love it!"
"This isn't about her opinion of me, I just want to pick a tie... And are you hinting at something?"
"Listen, she has a kid but no wedding ring tied on her neck. All I'm saying is maybe we should put something back on the bucket list."
"One more word out of you and I'll avoid alcohol for a year, be quiet"
"What about the blue one?" The Inventor thought. "It also translates to intelligence and trust."
"When I said be quiet, that goes to all of you." He hissed at them.
Even with the suggestions, Turner could not decide. He went back and forth between the two pieces and feared he may be late for his lunch with Derpy. It was important for him to join her so their friendship could bloom, no other reason, he just needed someone that he could hang out with in his free time.
And he'll have a lot of it.
There was no issue with that, he just didn't like being idle, he had so much to do and yet he could barely do most of it. It was a problem for him, and the voices didn't help.
"Forget it!" He shouted in this empty room. He snatched something from his closet and bolted out the door.
Turner hurried through the streets, carefully avoiding a few ponies as he made his way to Derpy. He made sure to also avoid the strange pink pony that tried to catch him on a few occasions. She was a weird one that mare was, something inside Turner told him to avoid her at all cost.
He had started his life in this town just recently, but already he knew the streets as if he was born there. Every turn and twist, he would never be led astray, Turner already made a mental map of the whole town. So it would be impossible if he were to get lost.
Just as he expected, the pink demon attempted to catch him in ridiculous and cartoonish traps. It was truly a change of pace compared to his life back in Canterlot. He dodged her like a plague, Turner knew not of her intentions, but she was something he must avoid at all cost.
Soon enough, he reached his destination. There it was, a cozy-looking restaurant with outdoor dining. Derpy already had a table for them both, but he noticed that Dinky was not around, so it would seem that it will be just the two of them.
"Sorry I'm late by a few seconds! I had to pick up a change of attire, and then there was this odd mare."
"Don't worry Doc, I understand!" Derpy smiled. "I'm just happy you got here before the waiter! What's that about an odd mare?"
Turner took a seat across from her. "The pink one, I'm sure you know about her?"
"Oh, that's Pinkie Pie! She's the resident party pony who likes to throw parties for birthdays, weddings, and acquaintance parties to welcome newcomers!"
"And acquaintance parties?" He cocked a brow. "That explains why she's trying to kidnap me then, but I had my fair share of odd ponies."
"Oh, this party is gonna be so much fun!" Derpy squealed. "And I do love that scarf, it looks great on you."
"Scarf?" He was befuddled by the question until he looked down on his neck. It was a green scarf with a cross at the center... Turner scoffed, he had somehow forgotten that this article of clothing existed, and to add insult to injury, he had accidentally worn it also. He knew not how that could ever happen, but there was no point anymore. "I should've gone with the red tie.."
"May I take your orders?"
"Oh, a muffin and milk tea, please!" Derpy was quick to make a decision, it would seem she knew what she wanted and had no problem with choices. Time Turner on the other hand was going to have a hard time deciding what to eat.
He would have, but something else troubled him, and it was the fact that a familiar mare stood in front of him. Earth Pony by race, creamy colored fur with a two-toned mane. He felt a headache coming as he stared blankly at the mare who is their waiter for the day.
"Sir?"
"Bon Bon," He hissed. "What the bloody hell are you doing here?"
"You know her, Doctor?" This turn of events piqued Derpy's interest.
"Know her? She's my stalker."
"I am not a stalker!" Bon Bon shouted as her hoof nearly split the table. She quickly composed herself once all attention landed on her. "Ahem, I am not a stalker. Don't believe anything he says, Miss, he was always a weird one."
"You always followed me around, I think I have the right to say that you are indeed my stalker," The Doctor said with a calm and peaceful tone. "Perhaps I should call the authorities on you?"
"Listen," She raised her hooves defensively. "I didn't even want to come to this town to begin with, but... Can we talk in private?"
"Nope," He popped. "Anything you have to say to me you can say to Derpy."
"Ugh, fine!" She gave in quicker than he believed. "My 'boss' was concerned about the strange rise of Shadow Beast attacks and wanted an 'employee' close to the Everfree. This has nothing to do with you."
"Really?" His brow went higher than it should, it showed how doubtful he was with her story.
She sighed in defeat. "And to keep an eye on you... So they sent me because it was cheaper than sending another pony to Ponyville, two birds one stone kind of deal."
"Alright, I will refrain from blabbering about you being my stalker as long as you distance yourself from me."
"Fine."
"Oh, how is Lyra?"
"She's over there," Bon Bon pointed a hoof to another table, Lyra gave Turner a wave. "She didn't like the idea at first, but when she found out that you were moving into town as well, she packed her stuff quicker than she cleans the dishes."
"Well at least she's much more tolerable than you." He snickered with delight as he witnessed Bon Bon's scowl. "As for my order, coffee and cookies, thank you."
"I'll try not to spit in your drink, sir." She said as she left to retrieve the desired beverage and snacks.
"You Canterlot ponies sure are interesting," Derpy commented. "Oh, you should invite your friend over, I would really like to meet her!"
"No need!" Lyra slid into the conversation, a smile wider than a barn was on her face. "It really is good to see you, Doc!"
"Ah, Lyra," He chuckled softly. "the better half of Bon Bon. This is Derpy we met on a train to Ponyville."
"Nice to meet you!"
"Well, a friend of Doc's is a friend of mine!" Lyra said. "Just a wonder, is she interested in our club?"
"No Lyra, I assure you she isn't." He laughed. "Now, when did you and Bon Bon move into town?"
"Yesterday," Lyra answered.
Time Turner had a scowl, somehow Bon Bon knew of his plans a day before and had already joined the community of this little town. This meant she was in his room again. This was a common occurrence between him and Bon Bon
He made a plan and she rummaged through his room for information. It was the same as always, no matter how many times he changed the lock, or how many locks he bought. She was a thorn in his side ever since childhood...
"Hello, my name is Bon Bon!"
A young colt looked away from his work to meet the gaze of a filly, Time Turner stared for a minute before he returned to his own business.
"Um..." She persisted in speaking with him. "What's your name?"
"Time Turner."
"Nice to meet you! Wanna play!?"
He paused, he looked away from his little device, but not at Bon Bon, but the tall figure behind her. He waited for a response, the man nodded as if he encouraged the thought.
"Well, I have no idea of what games we could play..." He admitted to the filly.
"That's alright, I have loads of games! But can I ask you something?" She waited for a nod from him, when she received it, Bon Bon leaned over to him just to whisper. "Aren't you the wonder child?"
That was it, his first encounter with an agent of SMILE, so young yet talented. He would've frowned upon the idea of using children for personal interests, but... he was in no place to judge.
Out of all the ponies he dislikes... Well honestly, Bon Bon was the only pony he disliked. She was too nosy and determined to learn the truth from him. At least Lyra wasn't one to pry into his life, he liked her the most out of all the ponies he met in Canterlot.
"Right Doc?"
Turner was snapped out of his memories as he was pulled back into the conversation. It appeared she was speaking about a subject where she and he were an expert in... Wait...
"Lyra, please don't tell me you're teaching her about the club?"
"But Doc, this could be our chance to recruit for the Human Appreciation Club!"
He sighed. "Dear girl, I really hope that you haven't said anything to scare Derpy..."
"No, it's alright." The pegasus was chipper as usual. "I'm actually interested, who knew humans would be so fascinating!"
"Yup, I agree!" Lyra said. "Not only are humans interesting, but we have an expert!" She said as she presented the Doctor.
"An expert?" He laughed. "Lyra, I only did my research, any pony would know what I knew if they did the same. If anything, even a colt would have discovered my findings as well."
"That's because he was nine years old when he discovered so much about humans!" Lyra whispered to Derpy.
"Lyra, please..."
"Aw come on Doc! Everypony should hear what you have to say!"
"Attention is the last thing I want, that's why I moved into town." He said.
"Lyra, listen to the Doctor." Bon Bon arrived with their order, she placed them accordingly on the table so they could enjoy their lunch. "If anything, we should respect his decision and move on. I rather not find out that you two are conducting experiments behind my back... again..."
Turner smiled. "Well I can't say I was in the wrong, the prosthetic I invented would surely help our country grow. We just need a few tweaks, and I can sell the patent once it is complete. Speaking of which, Lyra, I need you to drop by my house later so we can continue where we left off."
"You are not doing weird science experiments on my marefriend."
"But Bon Bon!" Lyra whined like a child.
"You do realize she still needs to see me, correct?" Turner pointed out. "It has been a week since we last met, a check-up is in order, also... that letter I sent this morning is practically useless with you two here."
"Ugh, fine!" She turned to leave but sent one last glare at Turner. "Don't try anything funny, buster, or else I'll call my boss."
He only smiled. "Try as they might, no pony on this planet could ever catch me, because I'm the Doctor."
"Doctor, what a pleasant surprise!"
All heads turned to see who had spoken only to be blinded by something so amazing, that it prettified the mares, only Turner was unaffected by this strange anomaly. It was Octavia, her presence was so awe-inspiring that Lyra even believed the mare before them was an angel in disguise.
Of course Vinyl was by Octavia's side, she gave Turner a nod before she returned to her music.
Time Turner stared, he felt something in the air, as if the wheels of fate were turning for whatever reason. "Octavia, Vinyl!" He greeted them with a false smile. "Here for lunch? We got plenty of space."
"Why thank you! So, who are your friends?"
Lyra was the first to regain herself. "Are you an angel?" To which she received a quick bop on the back of her head, courtesy of Bon Bon.
Octavia giggled playfully. "My, such a humorous friend you have, Doctor."
"Indeed she is, her name is Lyra, that's Bon Bon and-"
"Derpy," She finished for him. "This is a small town, Doctor, names aren't easy to forget, especially for our resident mailmare. I am Octavia, and this is Vinyl."
The mute waved hello.
The two then occupied the remaining free seats, well there was one more, but it would seem Bon Bon was busy at the moment.
"Well Doctor, how are you today? Nothing out of the ordinary I hope."
"Octavia, ordinary is the only thing I want," He said as the smile faltered a bit. He could feel it, the emotions he bottled up inside.
Throughout the day he tried to live his life as normally as a pony would, but every step he took only led him to all kinds of unwanted attention. Sometimes he doubted that he made the right decision, but that was pointless to think about.
He was late for the train and nearly ruined his morning, the pink menace wouldn't leave him alone. Bon Bon was there to spy on him like a damn fly on the wall. One other mistake was the fact he had forgotten about the Iron Legion headquarters that was built near the town. Which meant Ironwood being a nuisance for the rest of his days, not to sound bitter, but still.
Honestly, as he sat there, as these mares talked amongst each other and occasionally spoke with him, Turner wanted to scream. His frustrations built up in his chest. It was painful just keeping it all in. Turner wanted to speak, to be truthful, no lies, unlike his previous life.
"Doctor?"
Derpy snapped him out of his thoughts, his smile brightened as he faced her. "Yes?" He asked. But that was when he noticed the concern on every one of them.
He looked down at the table where his hoof rested and found a furious fire that consumed his drink which was nothing more than charred and cracked empty mug. None of them even attempted to extinguish the flames as they were caught in a net of confusion and fear.
Bon Bon on the other hand was a mare of action, she came out of the restaurant with a bucket of water and splashed it all into the table.
"Oh, dear, fire spirits are quite active this time around." He commented as if this was a normal occurrence to him. "I think I should head home for today, tons of cleaning to do and what not."
He said his goodbyes to all, he even gave Bon Bon a sly smirk as he passed by only to receive a frown from the candy mare.
The five watched as the Doctor left casually, unbothered by the fire that came out of nowhere. But Bon Bon knew that he was the culprit behind the destruction. None of the four other mares were sure how it happened, it just did.
Bon Bon excused herself as she went after the Doctor.
The house Turner had bought was not exactly one for gatherings, heck, he wouldn't even invite his own mother to such a place.
Boxes littered everywhere, the stench of old ruined his senses, a layer of dust so thick that you would confuse it as part of the house. There was also the odd painting left by the previous owner, it was too disturbing to look at so it was best left unsaid. Definitely his highest priority. As for the rest of the house, it needed a few tweaks and sweeps for it to finally feel like a real home.
Sadly, all he had was a dustpan and a couple of rags; he had forgotten to buy everything he needed for the house.
Turner would of course go and purchase his desired tool, but as if fate was against him, the gods saw fit to place the pink menace right outside his doorstep. He gave her another glance through the window, she just sat there with a grin so big, he swore her head could split apart.
It would seem that his day would end with a sour note.
He returned to his biggest problem yet, his house needed attention and it would be best to focus on it. But the problem was, he had no way to sweep the dirt without a proper broom. He may be an inventor, but under these conditions, he couldn't just invent a vacuum cleaner just like that. He had no proper materials as well, so that was completely out of the question.
Then an idea practically shone upon him like a heavenly ray of sunshine, or perhaps it was because the pink pony had a flashlight pointed directly at Turner. He glared at her before the curtains fell. Now plunged in darkness, Turner executed his grand plan. One of the few things in this world he'd rather not use due to reasons he'd rather not explain, something he first found out the moment he first saw this odd world.
One moment the house was still, the pink demon awaited for his exit by the door, then suddenly a great gust of wind nearly tore the house apart. Dust flew out of every window along with unwanted pests. Overflowing with pride, the Doctor smiled upon his victory over the common dirt.
During his younger days as a pony, he discovered how rich of magic this world is, and with it, his magic was restored to its fullest potential. And yet, he perished every thought of using any of it. Only on some occasions did he resort to using his spells and other conjurations. Most of it was to protect others, though he had drowned in sin, Ozpin had not forgotten his humanity... No... Ozpin is no more, he is Doctor Time Turner...
"Let me guess, wind fairies?"
"Bon Bon, what are you doing in my house?"
The mare shrugged. "Figured you'd need help cleaning and unpacking, but it seems you got the former covered."
"We had a deal, Bon Bon."
"I know, but we're still friends."
Brows knitted, Turner glared at the mare. "Don't flatter yourself... We're just two ponies who tolerate each other."
"I can agree with that." She snickered. "So, what was that about? Back at the cafe, I mean..."
"Whatever do you mean?" He feigned ignorance as he continued his chores.
"Not a lot of ponies know you as much as I do, Doc, something was eating you. If you want to talk, I'm here."
He scoffed. "You're the last person I'd talk to if I'm being honest."
"While you were acting like a statue earlier, Derpy told me about your little trick on the train here."
He remained silent, Bon Bon's glare burned deep into the back of his head.
"I thought you said you weren't going to use your magic."
"I said I wouldn't use my magic for others," Turner corrected her. "It is mine, and I can do with it as I please."
"There it is again, the 'I can do whatever I want' excuse." There was a hint of spite in her voice, their relationship is quite rocky from the view of others. "And I said it a few times before and I'll say it again: You're just selfish."
"Is it wrong to look out for yourself?" He questioned. "I am merely looking out for myself, you know how it is in this world of Grimm."
"Grimm?" A single brow arched. "Oh right, the Shadow Beasts. I just don't understand why you'd keep all the things you know to yourself."
"That is indeed a wonder, sometimes I even ask myself why."
"You do realize that you could help so many ponies if you share the information?"
If Bon Bon wasn't a hardened agent of SMILE, she would've cower beneath the Doctor's furious gaze. It was filled with so much malice, enough to suffocate anyone faint of heart.
"Right," She scoffed. "You just don't care."
"Glad we are on the same frequency, now if you wish to be useful, then help me set up my desk. Lyra will be here soon and I would rather have somewhere to work."
"Doctor!" A series of taps were heard from the door.
Turner sighed in defeat, it would seem that he had predicted Lyra's arrival wrong, she was much earlier than expected. With a quick flick of a hoof, several pieces of furniture flew out of a box. His telekinesis was remarkable, and though he would not admit how easy it was for him, the desk assembled itself in just under a minute.
He did not like using magic, it made things too easy. Which meant that there was less work or zero effort.
"Invite her in, I'll go unpack my tools."
Despite being reluctant, Bon Bon did as she was told.
But when she opened the door, she had not expected the number of ponies to greet her. It was the three mares she met back in the cafe, who accompanied Lyra over to Turner's house. Pinkie was there as well, but she wasn't that important to Bon Bon.
"Oh, you brought Derpy and the others?"
Derpy smiled sheepishly. "Well, when I heard that Lyra was going over to the Doctor's house, I realized that he had just moved in so that meant he had a lot of unpacking to do!"
"Vinyl and I thought it would be great to help the Doctor feel right at home! So we brought a housewarming gift!"
Vinyl made an upset gesture at Octavia.
"Fine, it was Vinyl's idea," Octavia admitted as she raised a record disc. It was the gift the DJ had in mind for Turner, she had hoped it was perfect for the mysterious stallion. "Well, I guess we better head right in and see what we can do to help!"
"Aren't you guys moving a little too quickly?" Bon Bon believed. "Not even a tad bit curious about what happened back at the cafe?"
"Fire spirits," Lyra said with unwavering belief. "Doc always knows everything! Who knew that those also exist?"
"Right," Bon Bon sighs, she saw no point in explaining or arguing. She best just move this thing along.
One by one the mares entered, but just as Pinkie was about to follow the door was closed right in her face by an invisible force.
What the three mares expected was a room littered with cardboard boxes, instead they came to witness a cozy-looking room filled with furniture to make a picture-perfect home. Even Bon Bon was taken aback, she knew that magic was to be the cause, but this was beyond what she had thought of before.
Unicorns are adept at using telekinesis, so much that it was used for everyday life. Only one who was a master could ever complete countless tasks with so little time.
"My," Octavia was completely speechless, she of course expected that some work would be done, not like this. There was even a couch big enough to fit four ponies, and a couple of chairs that looked so comfy just from the sight of them.
Derpy had also expected to shed some sweat but was somewhat glad that she did not need to work, only to enjoy herself in this house with her new friends.
"Well ladies, I was expecting Lyra but I have enough for everypony!"
Every mare in the room looked over to the kitchen entrance, there they found the host of this small unexpected gathering with a small trolley of sweets and tea.
"But your company is not unwanted, though I must do something before any of us could enjoy ourselves with some cookies. But I have to warn you, these cookies are the best in the world, my mother baked them."
"Aw, how nice of her!" Derpy cooed.
"Now, I suppose you wish to get this over with, am I correct, Lyra?"
"Yup! I got some rehearsals all week and I won't have enough time for our little thing," She answered with a cheerful tone. "I mean, there's so much to do."
"I understand," A warm smile shined brightly. "Lucky for us, Bon Bon and I have not yet carried my desk into my office, so we can work here for now! Though... I have to ask you three to leave the room, this might not be something you want to be a part of."
Derpy looked over to the other musicians, all three were confused about what he meant. "It's alright, we won't bother... whatever it is you two are planning to do. We will be fine." Octavia said.
"Are you sure?" He waited for an answer, but it would seem that nothing had changed. "Very well, let us proceed Lyra."
"Ready when you are Doc!" The mare said excitedly as she rested her right foreleg on the Desk.
Bon Bon decided to just indulge herself in some savory tea; there were still some personal problems she needed to take care of, especially when she had just run away from work unintentionally. The rest of the mares watched with great curiosity as Turner dug through his desk before producing several tools.
They all blanched when Turner pressed a flat-tipped screwdriver against Lyra's leg, their reactions grew intensely when that same tool sank into Lyra's skin.
Screams nearly shattered the windows when a portion of Lyra's leg popped open... to reveal metal beneath the surface. No, it was a series of pistons and wires.
The three felt as if one big secret had spilled into the room, and the source was a small opening in Lyra's limb.
"As I said, it is something you three would find disturbing." The Doctor commented.
"Lyra, what happened to your leg?" Octavia was a bit too brash at the moment, the sight of the machinery was too much for her to think properly. Though she was just curious, perhaps there was no ill intent in her question.
Some would think it was a touchy subject, Lyra did not show any sign of discomfort, as if this scene was a casual tea party. "Oh nothing serious, I kinda lost it when I was still in Princess Celestia's School For Gifted Unicorns, there was a spell I wanted to do but it ended poorly for me."
"Oh good heavens!" Octavia gasped when she realized her error. "I am deeply sorry if I was a bit too blunt."
Lyra waved a dismissive hoof. "That's okay! This story is my favorite one anyway! So as I said, a magic mishap took my leg away. And I was honestly bummed out about it, but my friends in class had my back all the way, thanks to them, I wasn't so down about it. And let me tell you the best part of this story: So there I was sitting on a bench waiting for my parents, they were taking so long that I decided to doodle on my notebook just to pass the time.
I drew myself on it, but I had this awesome robot arm to replace my leg! I was still a silly filly back then, so I had a wild imagination. There I was, minding my own business, until this weird colt- ouch!"
"Weird?" Turner repeated as his tool gently pressed against one of the pistons.
"You were always a weird one, Doctor!" Bon Bon claimed from her comfy seat.
"Weird is not the best word to describe my amazing intellect, I am what many will agree is mysterious. It has more charm if you ask me."
"As I was saying, this mysterious-" Lyra made sure to flutter her lashes at the Doctor just to get a reaction, to which he only ignored, the others on the other hand could not restrain themselves as a series snickers and chuckles were shared. "-colt approached, he took one look at the drawing and sat down next to me. None of us said a single word, he just sat there with his hooves in his bags. Then he brought out some toys and I thought he was gonna ask me to play with him, but the colt just ripped the toys apart!"
If they were confused before, it could not be compared to their current confusion, Derpy was eager to learn what madness brought this colt to his decision to just break his toys.
"And before I knew it, this colt started to assemble them again, but differently! It didn't take him long, but once he was done, I was in awe! This colt from nowhere had built a prosthetic leg from a bunch of toys!"
"I told her all she needed to do was focus a small portion of magic into the leg and she would be able to walk on all four again." Turner decided to take over the story and explained it much clearer to the three curious mares. "As for my reason to do such a thing? I had none, it was simply a moment of desire, a desire to create the perfect prosthetic limb. A small investment that will pay off in the future."
"See what I have to put up with?" Bon Bon made a rhetorical question.
"That is truly amazing, Doctor!" Octavia voiced her opinion.
"And this will help ponies with missing legs?" Derpy inquired.
"The patent shall be sold for a reasonable price, but it will be available to any business that is interested."
"Like the hay-powered engine?"
"Yes, that is also one of my designs, but how did you know?"
Derpy hummed a cheery tune. "Well, I kinda took a peek at that sketchbook over there, you certainly have buckets of talents!"
"As much as I am flattered to hear that, I do advise that you refrain from interacting with my sketchbooks. They are private, you see."
"Oh, o-okay... so-"
"No need to apologize, my new friend, you were simply curious." He smiled warmly. "I'm just happy that you all could be here to see my home."
Derpy smiled back. "Aw shucks, Doctor! I'm also happy, happy that I made a lot of friends today!"
"And what friends they are," Octavia said. "honestly, you three are the most interesting ones in the room."
Turner knew that she was talking about him, Derpy, and Lyra. The three somehow reached a different level on the normality scale. Of course, Lyra would've been with Octavia and Bon Bon, but thanks to her strange fascination with the human myth she was ranked the same as Turner.
Though Bon Bon was not what she seemed to be on the outside, she still shared the same level of ordinary with Octavia, an actual wolf in sheep's clothing. For Vinyl, she was balanced on the center of it all, though she was mute, her communication was not zero.
"There, all done!" Turner said as he closed the panel of Lyra's leg. "Everything is in order, and I see you've taken great care of your leg, I am honestly proud of you, Lyra!"
"Aw, thanks Doc!"
"Well, all this excitement has me parched!" Octavia informed. "But I am afraid that the tea you prepared must've gone cold by now."
Luckily, Bon Bon was there to save the day. "It's alright, while you guys were having a little science talk, I kept the tea warm for everyone!"
"Wonderful, and I do love that aroma!"
Vinyl simply nodded as she took in the scent of relaxing tea.
"Aren't you going to have some, Doctor?" Derpy asked as she realized that the host himself sat down empty-handed.
"No, I much prefer coffee over tea." He said as he held a fresh brew of his preferred beverage. From out of nowhere to be in fact, which only left Derpy in a confused state.
Somehow, Turner felt as if fate was writing his story just so he would meet these mares. But he will worry about that next time, for once after a whole day of stress, he could finally relax. Though there were some complications throughout his day, Turner was satisfied. His house was clean and ready for guests, even if he had forgotten to move his desk. Somehow, Turner managed to make three new friends even if it was his first day in Ponyville.
But his new life was not without issues; The pink demon was still at his door, and the General was a persistent pony.
The former problem could be easily solved, but the latter was what Turner was concerned about the most. And yet, he thought nothing about it. It was time to relax and not freak out his guests. He'll leave that problem to his future self...
He should really stop using his magic, it felt like he was taking this power of his for granted.
"What exactly are you doing?" Mayor Mare questioned her new assistant.
The two stood right outside the town hall, a strange contraption of sorts was displayed in front of Mayor Mare, its purpose is a mystery to her. It was oddly designed, shaped like the sun with its golden rays of sunshine. Built upon a base made from wooden materials and held together by several nails.
It looked like it was from an art museum.
Though the inside of this contraption confused the Mayor greatly. Turner was ducked in the wooden base, he had tools scattered about, the strangest part was that it sounded like a construction site in there. To really make it feel like one, a contractor was even present, the mare just sat there and did nothing- oh wait, it was just Derpy pretending to be one.
"Uh, Turner?"
"Sorry," Turner pulled his head out of the machine, a strange tool in his hoof. The handle was too large and long, there was a pommel and a handguard. It looked more like a weapon instead of a tool if it had a sword attached to it. "Right, well with the Summer Sun Celebration is nearing, I figured we should have something for when the day arrives."
"And what may this... thing you are building do?"
"It's a surprise, but I'll be happy to explain." Turner cleared out his throat, as if it was her cue, Derpy brought out a sketchbook that clearly belonged to Turner. Derpy opened the book to a page where the sketch of the contraption was on. The tool in Turner's hoof retracted into the device before a long rod extended out of it.
"W-what is that?" The Mayor pointed at the tool.
"Oh this? Just my magical screwdriver and cane, I mostly use it as a coat rack really." He chuckled. "Anyway, as you can see from my original design, the sun of my construct is equipped with a variety of colorful smoke bombs. It will ascend to the skies in the first light of dawn, triggering the smoke bombs as it gets higher and higher, but... I am trying to implement a music player inside though I have to consult you first because it might clash with the band you'll be hiring in the future unless we can make a compromise and prepare some music for both this design and the band but we must first decide on what that music should be because we need to have something harmonious together I can of course-"
"Turner!"
"Oh, sorry about that!" He knew not who called his name for he was too deep in his words, but it was best to apologize for his little mistake. "Sometimes I get lost when I explain things, but as I said, I wanted something to really inspire the crowd when we celebrate the event."
The Mayor hummed. "Very interesting, so this will benefit the town?"
"Well of course, I will set up five of these machines around Ponyville, and when the event is over, everyone will remember the spectacular show that we've put together. I bet others will be jealous of our machines."
"Our?" Mayor Mare was puzzled but then realized that he was willing to tell the world that it was a team effort of the Mayor and Turner. He was selfless when it came to his inventions, an odd sense of satisfying the needs of others before his, that was her perspective on the Doctor.
She smiled warmly as the Doctor continued with the machine, never had she thought that a stallion of such talents would be working under her. It honestly made her happy to have Turner around, even if she didn't deserve him. Heck, it would be better for Turner if he worked somewhere his skills would be of use, but no, he chose a simpler job.
"I do believe that you should take a break, Turner, you've been working hard for the town, and I can't just slave-"
Something snapped inside the machine, this scared the two mares as it came out of nowhere, Turner was frozen still with his upper body inside the construct.
"Are you okay, Turner?" The Mayor inquired.
"Right," He chuckled as he pulled himself out. "Sorry, I just don't like that word... So, now that I've broken something, maybe I should take a moment to rest. Thank you for suggesting, Mayor Mare. If something difficult comes up, just call me. Come along, Derpy."
"Oh, wait for me!" Derpy said as the Doctor ran off before she could even say a word.
The Mayor was left confused, she was unsure what set the Doctor off like that, and she feared that she might make the mistake again. She hoped she would find out soon, Mayor Mare would rather not lose someone as valuable as Turner. He had already been helpful the day he hired himself, and it would be dreadful if something happened.
Turner strode through the streets, days had passed since he had started living in Ponyville, on his first day there were countless headaches. But he managed to relax in the final hours with his new friends. Then yesterday, he woke up in a bakery and discovered the pink demon had kidnapped him for a party. Turner was forced to learn so many names.
The few times he had tried to escape, Pinkie Pie caught him every time.
He sighed, sometimes it was easy to antagonize him, his mind was not as clear as he believed. Constantly, he is plagued by his past, and he knew it was not a dream. "For these voices are real, and you are bound to them." Ozpin spoke as he walked along with Turner. "Though your resolve is strong, it is not without fault. Your heart, it aches my friend, and I understand."
"You understand nothing."
"Doctor?"
Turner realized that he spoke out loud, he was embarrassed that he allowed his emotions to fog his mind just like that. "Perhaps you could ease the burden in your heart, if you just talk..." Ozpin believed. "You have friends who are willing to listen, Bon Bon especially."
"Derpy, I am going somewhere private, I am sorry but this is where we split off for now. See you next time my friend."
He then ran faster than Derpy had ever seen, he was so quick and agile that she could not form a response to him. Before she knew it, he was gone just like that.
The Doctor continued his running, he cared not if he caught any curious glances from bystanders. He rushed towards the only place he could get the privacy he needed, and it wasn't his house, Bon Bon had obviously bugged it, so he cannot speak his mind freely. He passed by some Legionnaires, they tried to greet him but he was too quick for them.
Soon enough, the Doctor reached his destination, a secluded place right inside the Everfree Forest.
Then he let out a scream, he cursed and pounded his hoof against the dirt beneath him. The frustration that built up within his chest finally released, like a childish tantrum, but he was too angry to care. In his rage, he accidentally tore a tee in two, if he was not blinded, he would have noticed something strange.
"This is the worst!" He shouted to the darkness of this forest. "Day by day, I try to keep you all suppressed, but no, you keep coming back!"
"I am sorry," Ozpin said with an apologetic look on his face. "we didn't mean to bother you so much."
Turner sighed, he sat upon the stump and glared at the empty space in front of him. His body lit up and an aura of magic swirled around him. "Come out..." He whispered.
With a small incantation, the forest lit up with a warm light. He was alone at first, but now several people appeared from thin air, familiar faces, ones that Turner despised.
"What do you want?" The Hermit questioned as he glared back.
The Drunkard scowled. "Are you going to blame us again? You called us, it isn't our fault."
"Shut up." The Doctor hissed.
"This is always your issue! All you do with us is complain! Unless you're ready to talk to us like an adult, then I ain't listening to anything you will say." The Drunkard proceeded to the back where would be away from the Doctor's sight.
The Doctor closed his eyes shut, though he plunged himself in darkness he could still see them all, their eyes focused solely on him. They whispered, he could hear their words clearly, and he despised that. Many of their names he left forgotten, but only a few stuck to him.
Ozpin and Ozma.
Ozma... sometimes, the Doctor doesn't believe that they exist in the first place. He theorized that perhaps, they were a cause of some kind of trauma in his past. But then remembered everything, all the sins he committed. The ability he had since birth, this magic of his was unlike the ones unicorns used.
Unlike most of his peers, he was skillful with his magic powers, so much that he was able to conjure up his past selves. It was not easy, he was unsure of why he even created the spell in the first place.
"Must be a way for you to cope," The Inventor thought.
The Inquisitor nodded his head. "Well this could be healthy, I guess, we can perhaps create something that would help ease his mind."
Ozpin shook his head. "You do realize that this is what he dislikes, we need to respect his choice and remain silent, enough for him to clear out his head."
"If he wanted to calm down in some smelly forest, then maybe he should've done it alone!" The Drunkard said from the back.
"Uh, Turner..." Ozpin called out to the Doctor.
"Shut up, please." He said through his teeth.
"This is important, there's a Grimm gnashing its teeth at you."
With a disgruntled sigh, his eyes snapped open to meet the Grimm that dared to cross his path. A beowolf, a very dangerous beast that could pierce the strongest armor in Equestria with its claws. The only issue is that this monster chose the wrong prey. There was no point diplomatically settling this.
It pounced at him with teeth bared, but found itself frozen in the air covered in a dark aura. The Doctor... no, he wasn't just the Doctor, he was Time Turner. He was not like his past selves whose names he had forgotten. His title is not one filled with regret.
Time Turner slammed the beast into the ground and crushed it with an immense amount of power. So much that the earth caved in and created a hole shaped like the beowolf, though the body itself was rendered to dust that shall serve as the soil that buried this beowolf. No, this was not enough.
With a flick of his hoof, the hole was set ablaze with a fiery inferno from hell, this beast shall not have any remains. Frustrated, Turner continued his wrath upon the Grimm that no longer existed.
"Is this healthy?" The Old Man inquired to the others.
Ozpin smiled devilishly as he watched the pony let loose hell on the beast, if you could even call it that anymore. "Well, perhaps it could allow him to release all his stress on that Grimm until he cleared out his mind."
"By Celestia..."
Everybody froze.
A voice, one that no one was familiar with, had spoken from behind the Doctor. The source cried out as Turner ripped the stump he created out of the earth with his telekinesis but found no sign of them.
"That was not Bon Bon..." The Drunkard pointed out.
"A mare..." Turner muttered with a deep scowl, the fire he cast upon the Grimm had died as his focus shifted. "A mare has discovered my secret..."
"What do you plan to do?" The Hermit questioned with a curious look in his eye.
"We can't let her live knowing of my abilities, or else some unwanted attention will come for me."
The Inventor clicked his tongue. "Need I remind you that the pony population of mares is higher than stallions? This will be like searching for a needle in a haystack."
"Shut up, all of you." He snapped at himselves. "I have one thing to go by, my only clue, her voice."
