A World War II officer dies on the field of battle saving his troops and finds himself in the magical land of Equestria as a Thestral filly
Alexander Chernovtsy, a World War II officer, dies on the field of battle saving his troops and finds himself in the magical land of Equestria as a Thestral filly. A hopeful wish from a wanting mother is granted in the process. How will Alex deal with the changes of being a pony and the traumas of his past life?
“Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen of the Allied Expeditionary Force!
You are about to embark upon the Great Crusade, toward which we have striven these many months. The eyes of the world are upon you. The hope and prayers of liberty-loving people everywhere march with you. In company with our brave Allies and brothers-in-arms on other Fronts, you will bring about the destruction of the German war machine, the elimination of Nazi tyranny over the oppressed peoples of Europe, and security for ourselves in a free world.
Your task will not be an easy one. Your enemy is well trained, well equipped, and battle-hardened. He will fight savagely.
But this is the year 1944! Much has happened since the Nazi triumphs of 1940-41. The United Nations have inflicted upon the Germans great defeats, in open battle, man-to-man. Our air offensive has seriously reduced their strength in the air and their capacity to wage war on the ground. Our Home Fronts have given us an overwhelming superiority in weapons and munitions of war and placed at our disposal great reserves of trained fighting men. The tide has turned! The freemen of the world are marching together to Victory!
I have full confidence in your courage, devotion to duty, and skill in battle. We will accept nothing less than full Victory!
Good luck! And let us beseech the blessing of Almighty God upon this great and noble undertaking.”
I took a smoke as the radio played. The taste of nicotine calmed down my pounding heart and the nervous twitch in my right eye. The seas were rough as our landing boat pushed against them. The filtered sunlight from the cloudy sky did little to calm my nerves. I fiddled with my gun strap, flicking it up and letting gravity push it down.
General Eisenhower had a way with words. His speech, even on repeat, caused goosebumps to spread along across my body. It’s odd to think that such a speech could give a man hope that he may come out alive.
It’s been an hour since I embarked on this landing craft to fight on the beaches of Normandy against the Germans. The great crusade as Eisenhower called it. It feels less like a great crusade and more like a grave ship sending up to our deaths. Every minute we got closer to the beaches. Bullets were beginning to ricochet of our landing craft as the Germans began taking potshots.
Despite the munitions, it was silent on the boat beside a few words or the sound of those with a weaker stomach letting it out. Occasionally, there was a word or two from the one piloting this death trap letting us know that we were about to charge into enemy machine guns as the first wave of this invasion.
I took a long drawl of my cigarette, throwing it out the side of the craft. The hot smoking permeating inside my lungs, taking the stress of possible death down a tiny notch. I don’t know how long it’ll be before I can get another one. I hope it’s sooner rather than later. I rubbed my face and yawned. Didn’t get much sleep last night either.
The sound of gunfire and ricochets became more frequent as the pilot screamed, “Brace yourself, we are close!” We all stood up as I let out a nervous sigh. The knot in my stomach tightened as nervous energy was causing my body to twitch with anticipation.
I pulled out the last letter of my sweetheart, Astrid. A lock of her hair inside the envelope. I took a sniff, the smell of lavender filled me with the hope that maybe just maybe I’ll survive. I took the letter out and began reading for who knows how many times.
Dear Alexander,
I miss you so much. It’s been only a month since I last saw you but to me, it feels like an eternity. As to your last letter, I put some thought into it and asked my parents. My answer is yes, I will marry you. Dad was a little skeptical about you at first but you really left a great impression on him. Mom absolutely adores you. I absolutely adore you. I just want you to know that no matter what I will love you. I know that you may forget but I want you to remember forever.
Love your future wife,
Astrid
Her kiss firmly planted on the right-bottom side of the letter. A wet smile appeared on my face. I sniffled and rubbed it away, closing the letter and shoving it into a pocket.
To the melody and orchestra of gunfire added the screams and yells of those who already landed. Gritting my teeth, I held a death grip on my rifle. The landing craft came to a sudden stop. “READY MEN!?” Our lieutenant bellowed. “GO GO GO!” The door fell opened as many in the front charged out only to be gunned down by machine guns. Iron and gunpowder bursting through the air as splatters of my comrade’s blood smacked into those behind them.
Some began giving covering fire only to be picked off by snipers. Is it morbid and sinful to say that I’m glad that I’m in the back? The front two lines of our platoon were being bullet sponges, allowing those in the back enough time to charge forward and find decent cover. Only there was no decent cover.
It was only seconds before I found myself in front of the lander. I charged out, deciding rather than finding cover that I’ll make myself a very hard target to hit. There was a little nook that, if prone, should provide a decent bit of cover for me. I sprinted and jumped over obstacles, sliding to the nook. The problem was that the sand had too much fiction and my slide came to a stop then a weird-looking thing dropped right next to me.
The head was metal but the handle was wooden. It dawned on me that it was a grenade. Fuck, it’s a grenade! Around me were oblivious men. My men. While I’m certain a lot of them aren’t even from my squad and I don’t really know many of their names, they have people they need to go back to. I have someone to go back to. Yet, I’m the only one who saw the stick of death plant itself firmly in the sand. I covered the grenade with my body and let the whole world turn to darkness.
Meanwhile in the Magical Land of Equestria
Fruitfly was not a happy pony. She has been sitting in the doctor’s office for a good chunk of an hour with anticipation of results. Her fertility results. Her wife and she have been trying for a foal for a while now and while Fruitfly was certain her wife was fertile, the lack of necessary parts for pregnancy made it hard to just get a sperm donor. Besides, Fruitfly wanted a foal who was blood to both her and her wife. Not that adoption was wrong or anything and those who adopted were the noblest of ponies, but there is something wonderful and special about having a foal who was a combination of both you and the one you love.
The doctor rapt a little melody on the wooden door. Fruitfly thought a doctor knocking was a waste of time as this was his workplace. He didn’t need to knock. Nachtfyre rubbed the back of her wife’s withers and bat-like wings as Nacht answered for her little peach, “Come in.”
A unicorn doctor came in levitating a clipboard with a nurse following him, “So, your test results came back.”
“Obviously.” Fruitfly snarked, her heart beating fast. Nachtfyre glared at her wife with her yellow eyes for being rude but Fruit didn’t even notice. The light-peach-pink-coated thestral was too busy looking through the wall.
The doctor ignored the snark, “You’re a healthy thestral with very good muscle quantity and healthy diet. You’ve obviously been taking care of your health quite well and-”
“Doctor, please, just tell me what I want to know.”
The doctor sighed deeply and ran a hoof in his mane, setting down the clipboard, “You are infertile caused by…” Fruitfly tuned out, her blood running colder than a windigo’s winter. Her whole world was turned upside down at that moment. She didn’t care what the doctor said about why she’s infertile.
It didn’t matter. All that matters is that she’ll never have that paternal, blood connection with the one she so loves. It hurt, the pain was like somepony was branding her as broken and worthless. The mare didn’t even notice when they left the clinic. She didn’t care. She couldn’t hear her wife at all even as they began their flight back to their home.
She wanted a foal. She wanted one so terrible much. She wanted to see that foal grow up to becoming a beautiful and wonderful pony. She wanted to see that pony do wonderful things and be proud of them. She wanted to have grandfoals. She wanted it so much that the pain she felt in her chest numbed every part of her.
Fruitfly gazed with her blue eyes into the night sky with not a cloud in sight. Luna’s moon anew with her tapestry in vibrate view. A star streaked across the sky moving swiftly. The light peach-pink mare mumbled, her breath showing in the cold night air, “Oh Luna please give me a foal.”
Also Meanwhile in the Magical Land of Equestia
BOOM!
The vibrancy of color and very loud boom permeated the skies over the Everfree forest, waking up its neighbors in Ponyville. Many stumbled out of their beds while others somehow slept through the whole experience. Though no one wanted to check what caused the boom and aurora over the Everfree. Especially not this late at night.
Except for one certain pony. Twilight Sparkle was absolutely pissed that someone just ruined her concentration. Her mane a poofy mess as she accidentally put too much of Substance A into Substance B causing a chain reaction that exploded right in her face.
Indeed, Twilight Sparkle was NOT a happy pony. Though Pinkie Pie was as she somehow peeked over the window… on the fifth floor, looking at the pissed princess of friendship with her blue eyes and a very big smile on her face. “TWILIGHTDIDYOUSEETHATITWASSOAWESOMEITWENTLIKEBOOMTHENALLTHEPRETTYCOLORSAPPEAREDANDTHENYOUWENTBOOMANDNOWYOURMANELOOKSLIKEMINE!!!!!!!!”
The purple mare ignoring the pink one, “Ugh, Pinkie Pie, it’s… wait what time is it?” Twilight didn’t have a clock. Well, she did but it exploded too not that she ever used it.
“Nearly Tensy o’clock!”
Twilight ranted, “NEARLY TENSY O’CLOCK? Ugh, I knew I should’ve put that alarm on. But no, I had to believe I would be responsible with my time. Now my sleep schedule is RUINED!” Rubbing the exhaustion out of her eyes. Twilight has been working all night on a new agent that she was certain was a health potion. Of course, it all exploded in her face along with her notes and clock.
“Look outside!” Pinkie finally stepped inside, pulling Twilight to the window.
Twilight sighed and pushed her head out. The aurora of vibrate lights that danced in night skies over the Everfree forest mesmerized the princess. She nearly fell out of the window looking at the lights. “Pinkie, what happened?”
The incredibly pink pony pouted, “I just told you! There was a boom and now there are all kinds of super-duper pretty lights.” Pinkie took a thoughtful second as parts of her body began to twitch, “THIS CALLS FOR A PARTY!” And the pink pony was off somewhere. Twilight will never understand Pinkie’s abilities. Rather than understanding it, Twilight just rolled her eyes instead. It’s easier that way and she already has too much anxiety trying to figure out her role as the Princess of Friendship.
The purple pony princess galloped and swerved around her crystal castle. It took a little bit of getting used to the complicated halls and Twilight had to get a cartographer to make close to a whole twoty copies to laminate and post them all around the castle so no pony could get lost. She definitely didn’t want another bathroom finding incident to happen again. She shivers as she remembers how she peed herself like a foal.
Twilight charges into a room and nudges a little purple scaled dragon with green spines, “Spike! Spike, wake up, we have an emergency!”
“Five more minutes.”
“This is important, wake up!” The dragon just rolled over and slapped her with his tail. Twilight’s eye twitched a bit before getting a bucket of cold water and giving the poor dragon a little bath.
“GAAAAAAAH!” The dragon screamed in unwanted awakening.
Twilight levitated a scroll next to her assistant, “Spike, send this letter to Princess Celestia!”
“What? What’s happening?”
“No time to explain, quickly!”
Spike nodded, inhaled then exhaled a gout of fire, burning the paper, sending it to the princess of the sun. “Can I go back to bed-” Twilight was already gone, “Oh.” Spike shrugged and fell back to slumber. He had a lovely dream about Rarity again but don’t tell him that.
The sun was dawning over the horizon when Twilight began her gliding. The cool air ruffled her awake. Even though she hasn’t gotten quite used to flying, she has gotten used to gliding. The princess glided over Ponyville. She needed to gather her friends with haste. The purple mare’s lavender eyes were once again mesmerized by the aurora over the Everfree. “I hope it’s nothing.” She gulped down her anxiety about the coming day.
Back to Alex
You know, the good preacher talks about death being like a tunnel of light that leads to heaven. But for me, it wasn’t like that. Instead of a tunnel, it was just bright. Really bright. So bright and brilliant that I was blinded by it. I blinked several times and pushed my head into my uh wait something is weird.
My eyes were opened again as the world came to focus. Specifically, the weird-looking… wait are those hooves? I moved one, oh dear lord Jesus Christ, I moved a light-peach-pink-colored hoof. Then I moved the other hoof. I waved it around trying to figure out what in the world is going on. There was fluffy-looking fur that enveloped it. Everything about this was very peachy. I chuckled at my pun. The noise came out instead was a small little giggle. I blinked as I pushed myself up a little, “Hello?” I asked the gray rocks around me, my echoing voice was very adorable and raspy. I blinked again at that as I tried to pick myself up.
It was a very wobbly adventure as I quickly discovered that my body was NOT made for walking on two legs and it felt like rubber. What I’m trying to say is I crashed and burned right against a wall causing the stars to come out for a moment.
Then I moved my wing. Wait. I turned my head to my side. I had a wing. Next, I looked to the other side, there was also a wing. And not just any wings but bat-looking wings. Okay, this is starting to get really weird. I laid up against a wall for support as I took in the surroundings. I was in a decrypted castle’s throne room. Only, there were two thrones instead of one. Which was odd but having hooves and bat wings was also really odd. Also, my mouth felt larger, though I still had my canines so that part wasn’t weird.
Alright, let’s look at what I know so far about myself. I’m in a ruined castle, I have hooves, I have bat wings, I have a tail, I sound like a child, my hair… mane is long, my fur(?) is a peachy color, my mane and tail are a very pastel blue, my mouth is elongated but is about the same except much straighter teeth, my ears can move which is neat, and I’m pretty sure that my field of vision is wider. I can only guess that I’m some sort of horse or pony or something. I’m also hungry and that is causing me some problems. What’s also causing me problems is the fact that I move like a newborn horse.
“Okay, Alex. You can do this. Just put your right foot, wait for no hoof out, no wait, put your right hooves out then do the same for the other side.” I took my first real step without falling. Being four-legged is weird. Being this equine thing is weird. Why is everything so weird today? Is this really heaven? Is heaven really just a bunch of horses/pony/something? I wonder what the good preacher would do if he knew we’re all just a bunch of weird horses in heaven.
Anyway, I moved along the walls as I took a real look around. I have to get out of here and find food soon. Fortunately, there were no collapses and there was a massive opening on the opposite side of the thrones. I am sure that’s the exit!
I felt like a penguin as I waddled towards the opening, only losing my balance twice. I’m getting rather good at being a pony thing so far. Maybe even the best pony thing.
Only then, I heard several clopping sounds echoing from the exit. I just realized that I’m in an abandoned castle and probably nowhere, alone and without a weapon or the ability to fend for myself. So no shit, there I was probably about to get murdered by a serial killer or a pack of wild predators. I mean, who actually comes to an abandoned castle? Archeologists, historians, and tourists probably, most likely. Maybe whatever is moving towards me is friendly. Maybe they’re like me or something like that. Or maybe it’s a terrifying monster that loves eating whatever I am. Oh god, do I need a smoke right about now! Maybe a drink too while we’re at it.
There were several voices, “If my calculations are correct, the aurora should’ve been coming from inside the throne room.”
There was a loud yawn, “Come on, Twi, I’m sure it was just some Everfree weirdness and nothing to worry about.”
“Rainbow, when was the last time something weird happened in the Everfree forest and it was nothing?”
“Uh, good point.”
“Dun worry now, Dash, Ah’m sure you’ll get plenty of sleep soon.” A very southern voice chuckled.
I sneaked into the corridor and by sneak, I mean tripped over my own feet… I mean hooves and slammed my skull into the wall again. There was even a loud SLAP for comedic effect. Oh, how I hate my life. The same yawning thing exclaimed, “Don’t worry, I got’em!” I tried to scramble back to my hooves but fell instead again. Come on stupid body move.
There was a blue blur and all sudden I was flying. No seriously, I was flying. Then I realized that I was flying higher. I squirmed and shrieked, “Let me go, let me go! I’m not tasty at all!” The frustration of knowing I was about to die again burst the damn of frustrated tears. “I don’t wanna die again, I don’t wanna. Please let me go.”
“It’s just a squirt.” The voice set me down and I tried to run but fell instead. The voice cracked up in mirth.
I tried to stand up only to fall again, smacking my head against a wall again. “$#!%!” Did my swear word just got beeped out? You know what, I don’t need to know. But seriously, this is the third time now. I think I may have a problem and that could easily be solved with a cigarette. I really want a cigarette god damn it.
“Rainbow,” The southern twang began, “You’re scarin’ the poor filly.” I turned to see an orange pony thing with yellow hair and a cowboy hat. She lent a hoof.
I crawled away this time, my body shaking. I swallowed my spit and felt an anger bubble inside spot, “Who are you!?” I stood up, “If you come any close, I’ll rip out your throat with my teeth!” Baring my fangs at the pony things. A bluff but I can’t let them know I’m terrified.
Ignoring my threat, the blue pony thing with wings flew close, “Oh, a bat pony. Never seen one of those before.” Her magenta eyes inspecting me. She opened my bat wing with a hoof. I smacked her with her, knocking her back. “She’ll be a great flyer one day too.”
A rope popped out of nowhere, grabbing the blue pony thing and pulling her to the ground. “Now, dun go botherin’ her, Dash. Can’t you see she’s terrified?” I just realized that my back legs were shaking. “And it’s impolite to call dem bat ponies. They prefer Thestrals.”
Another pony thing came, she was purple. These pony things sure are colorful, “Girls, what’s going on here?”
“Nothing!” The blue pony thing claimed.
“Rainbow was givin’ this filly a scare.” The orange pony thing gestured to me. The purple one glared at the blue one while the blue one offered a sheepish and embarrassed grin. Also, there was some kind of squeaky toy sound but I’m not sure where that came from
The purple pony thing trotted tentatively towards me. She mumbled, “Hmm, a thestral.” At least I think she mumbled; I could hear her pretty clearly. It was a moment she waited until she greeted me with “Uh hello? My name is Twilight Sparkle.” Giving her best smile, “What’s your name?”
That has got to be one of the strangest names I’ve ever heard but considering she’s an alien, I guess it isn’t unheard of where she’s from. “None of your business, alien!” I growled, taking a few wobbly steps forward. Twilight winced and took a few steps back.
The orange pony thing took a step forward, “Ah’m sorry about Rainbow Dash here, sugarcube, she didn’t mean anything by it.” She took another step and I growled at her in response. She ignored it, “Ah’m Applejack, one of the apple buckers from Sweet Apple Acres. We dun mean any harm. We jus’ came to see what’s all the fuss ‘bout.”
I felt a ping of guilt. They probably don’t mean any harm. I mean, they speak the same language I do. So, they must be friendly. The orange one seems nice. I relaxed a bit. “I am Second Lieutenant Alexander Chernovtsy of the United States Army.” In my head, my voice sounded loud, proud, and intimidating. From the look on the pony things’ faces, I’m going to assume that it was more adorable than anything. My face flushed in embarrassment, “Most people call me Alex.” I shook off the embarrassment, “Anyway, where am I and what am I?”
Twilight chewed on her bottom lip in thought while Applejack was giving me a pitying look. Rainbow Dash was giggling well until Applejack gave her a kick. Rainbow laughed, “You’re a pony, squirt. What else would you be?”
“Don’t call me squirt or so help me I will choke you with your own intestines!” Okay so my swear words get beeps but the threat of death and dismemberment don’t? Of course, this caused the ponies to take a step back with looks of horror except for Rainbow Dash who was giggling up a storm. I felt a ping of guilt from that. Maybe I shouldn’t threaten the aliens who are so much bigger than me. I looked away, “Sorry, I’m just confused.” And currently trying to not piss myself but I won’t mention that part. Oh, how I could use a smoke about right now.
“How ‘bout we all relax and talk it out?”
I took a deep breath, fully relaxing, “Sounds like a good idea. I’m sorry for threatening y’all.” then taking a step and tripping over myself. I groaned heavily while Rainbow chortled at my dismay. Applejack lent me a hoof again. I took it, “I’m still getting used to this weird pony body.”
“That’s okay, sugarcube. How old are you?”
I raised an eyebrow, “Twenty-nine.”
The orange pony furrowed her brow, “Dun ya mean, Twensy, and what’s a nine?”
I raised an eyebrow, “You know, like one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine.” I pointed to several things around the throne room.
Twilight bounced up to me with an excited look on her face, “Are you using base-ten?”
I blinked “Uuuh, I’m not exactly sure what you mean, Miss Sparkle.”
“Do you count all the way up to ten?”
“Yeah, but I can go past it.”
“Oh, this is wonderful! I’ve never heard of anypony but Minotaurs use base ten!” I realized that the purple pony in front of me had both wings and a horn. She was also giving excited bounces.
“Uh, okay? What’s that got to do with why I’m here and what am I?” I felt a little bad for wanting her excited bouncing to stop but I really need information
Twilight gave a sheepish smile, “Oh nothing, I thought…” She trailed off; her hooves moved past me. I looked back and saw a somewhat large crater with broken pieces of rubble in and around it. How didn’t I see that before?
Applejack, “Ah think we should get out of ‘ere, sugarcube. The Everfree ain’t a place for young fillies.”
“Okay?” Twilight was doing all sorts of things and taking notes while she was at it, “Are we going to leave her?”
“Nah, Rainbow will be with her.” Rainbow was sleeping peacefully on the castle floor still tied up. Applejack began to walk, I would’ve followed her but fell instead, “Aren’t you a clumsy filly?” She chuckled, picking me up by my neck and setting me on her back. I decided it was for the best despite my pride being hurt.
“Well sorry that I’m used to walking on two legs and not four.” I retorted sardonically.
“What were ya, a minotaur?”
“Minotaur? Those exist?”
Applejack gave me an eye that I couldn’t quite read, “Eeyup.”
“Cool, where am I?”
“In the Everfree Forest, sugarcube.”
I groaned, “Where is the Everfree Forest?”
“Next to Ponyville.” Okay, now we’re getting somewhere. Though a dumb name for a town, we’re getting closer to want I really need.
“Where is Ponyville?”
“Next to Canterlot.” Is that a pun on Camelot?
I groaned, “Okay, but what’s this nation called?”
“Equestria.” Oh, thank you, Lord Jesus Christ. Equestria sounded like a nation even though I’m pretty sure it’s cities and towns are just a bunch of horse and pony puns. Who designed this world?
“Thank you.” I yawned, feeling a little more tired than I thought. My body ached with exertion and really, I just want a nap. I shook my head. No, I can’t sleep, I have to make sure that these ponies are truly trustworthy. My eyelids felt heavy as the whole world went back to darkness. I really really want a smoke.
Thank you for your last message. I appreciate your reassurance and you are absolutely right, I was freaking out unnecessarily like I do. But you’re not right for what you think. We found a filly, a thestral filly in the Castle of the Two Sisters. She’s an odd filly that uses base ten rather than base six. She believes she’s a twenty-nine-year-old soldier named Alexander Chernovtsy. She also didn’t know that she was a pony let alone a thestral pony. I’d like to believe that she’s just a coincidence that she happened to be next to the crater site of the meteor. But as I’ve learned, there are no such things as coincidences. Especially not when I detected extreme amounts of love magic and another magic, one I’m not quite familiar with, throughout the castle and emanating around the filly. She must’ve been part of the crash in some way. Oh, I forgot, the aurora over the Everfree was caused by a meteor.
Alex, the filly, is currently sleeping in my room. We aren’t quite sure what to do with her yet but I’m certain we’ll have an answer soon. Rainbow Dash has taken to Alex quite a bit. Calling her spunky and feisty in a fond sort of way. Besides what I’ve told you so far, we don’t know anything more yet until Alex wakes up.
Your faithful student,
Princess Twilight Sparkle
P.S. Am I supposed to put Princess in front of my name now when I write these letters?
You would think that sleep would rest you, instead, I felt groggy and a little sick. My whole body ached and was stiffer than a board. I rubbed my shoulders and back the best I could with no effect. My jaw and teeth felt tight and sore. The stress must be getting to me. I yawned and flopped back in bed. I need a smoke. The bed was so nice, soft, and cozy that I didn’t ever want to wake up. Of course, my body had other plans as I needed to pee.
I finally wobbled up from the bed and noticed that I was in some kind of weird crystal room. When I peeked out the door, I also noticed that I had no idea where the bathroom was and I desperately needed to go now right now. I also was a lot better at walking with four legs. I guess I was just exhausted and needed some sleep. Which is good because I like not falling over every five seconds.
Okay, soldier, remember what they said about urban combat and clearing rooms. Check corners and check every room. Not just some of the rooms. EVERY room to keep the enemy from taking you by surprise. Of course, this isn’t a battlefield but I didn’t care I checked all the rooms and all the corners. My patience for holding pee was gonna run out soon. I clenched my butt cheeks harder to keep even a drop from falling out. It seemed to work for the most part. Though, I still couldn’t find the bathroom.
I smashed my hoof against a wall at finding another closet. How many closets are there? Oh fiddlesticks, this isn’t good. This isn’t good at all. Okay, if I can’t find a bathroom, I can at least pee outside. This place is way too luxurious for me, I feel so underdressed and underprepared if I’m going to be staying here for a while. If I didn’t know any better, I’d think that I was in a castle of some kind. Scratch that, I’m pretty sure I’m in a castle or palace of some kind.
Another problem was that I couldn’t find a damn exit or stairs or anything. I feel like I’m in a labyrinth with the way this place is set up. My patience in holding my bladder was running out and I needed to do something anything. Then I saw a window, I unfurled my wings and looked at them. They were bat wings already. Very pastel bat wings with the membrane between the bones being the same color as my mane. I gave them a good flap and looked back to the window.
Alright, Alex, you’ve been around airplanes enough, you can do this. All you need to do is glide down, no need for flapping or anything, just glide down and let the air do the rest.
I took the deepest breath possible as I opened the windows. The sudden wind nearly caused me to release my bladder. I held the line though and kept check on my bladder. I gaped down. I was quite high up which caused me to gulp. My hooves were feeling weird at the possibility of dying again this time out of my own stupidity. I stretched my wings out, nearly touching the sides of the windows, closed my eyes, and jumped.
Everything felt nice and still up in the air with only a breeze that I could barely feel. I opened my eyes to see the world from high above. The sky was a great azure blue that I could see forever. I’ve only been on an airplane once and I still marvel at the experience. Now I flew like a bird, high in the sky, near the clouds. The village below me seemed small and colorful with the colorful ponies all out and about, doing their business. The world was a little bright admittedly. Nothing too bad but I felt like I needed sunglasses with how bright it was.
I flew to a cloud. I always wanted to know what a cloud feels like. Of course, it probably feels like nothing but water vapor. Instead of flying into the cloud, I landed on top of the cloud instead. I blinked and poked at the cloud. Am I standing on a cloud? I can’t believe it; I’m standing on a cloud! A giddy sort of fascination completed my soul as I could feel the softness of the cloud. It’s so soft and springy, “Like a cloud.” I giggled. I NEED to sleep on a cloud one of these days. Hell, how about we just sleep on this cloud right now!
I laid down and remembered my bladder. Shit, there goes my plan for cloud sleeping. I take a reluctant jump-off, “Goodbye, cloud, I hope I sleep on your soon.” I giggled even more. If I get to sleep on clouds and fly then being in some kind of weird pony word with horse puns and bright colors was worth it.
A neon Pegasus passed by me nearly blinding me. On second thought, we need dimmer colors. I’m glad I’m not as vibrant as the other ponies. It’s weird to think that I’m one of them. And considering my size, I’m a child. That’s weird to think about it.
My memory turned back to what feels like just an hour ago. The grenade and the need to protect my men. Tears flowed down my cheeks. I’m not going to be able to go back to Astrid, will I? I felt as though a hole opened wide in my heart. “Astrid, I miss you already.” Losing the one I love for the third time isn’t fun. Moping didn’t do much for me especially when I didn’t notice the tree that I crashed into. Again, seeing stars. I swear I’m going to start forgetting things with how much head trauma I’m receiving. Fortunately, I don’t have to go pee anymore. Unfortunately, the pee ricocheted and splattered all over me. “&#$@!!”
“Were you the one making that beeping noise?”
“I’ve never seen a thestral before! Can you fly, can you?”
“Uh girls, I think she needs a bit of help.”
I turned around to see three ponies. One yellow, one orange, and one white. I won’t be lying when I say that I was mortified for three young-looking ponies to find me with my own piss all over me. I also won’t be lying saying that I got up to run away only to smack into an incredibly low hanging branch. “Ow.” I moaned, my head seeping into a puddle. I think you already know the contents.
“Are you okay?”
“Oh look, she doesn’t have her cutie mark!”
“I know a lake where you can clean yourself off.”
I pulled myself off with piss sopping hair. The smell of ammonia. I really want to scream and cry. Hell, the tears were already seeping up. All I could do is nod, deciding it was better to let whatever these girls going to do with me.
“Hey girls, maybe we can get our cutie marks in Salon care?”
“Yeah, that’s a great idea, Applebloom!”
“I guess.”
I blinked, “What’s a cutie-”
“CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS: SALONIST! YAY!!” They all announced together. My ears rang from their thunderous voices.
“Wait, are they called Salonist?”
“I don’t know.”
“I think Rarity called them Beauticians.”
I really wanted to run away from these three. I don’t know who they are, but I get a feeling they mean trouble.
“Let’s try this again, from the top.”
“Okay!”
“Sure.”
I folded my ears and squish them with my hooves. Why me? Why is it always me?
“CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS: BEAUTICIANS! YAY!!” They announced desyncedly. Why can’t I take a break?
Meanwhile, Back at the Crystal Castle
Twilight Sparkle was a happy pony. She practically bounced across the corridors towards the room Alex is in. There is something about a scientific mystery that just gives her a giddy sort of childish fascination. She did briefly notice a window open but quickly closed it.
She realized the door to Alex’s room was partially open. Good that she’s awake, we can do some science before the party. She rapt three times against the door, “Alex? Are you awake?” There was nothing. Did you fall back to sleep? Twilight entered the room to notice the bed was empty. “Alex! Where are you?” She called out as silence was her only reply. Her eye twitched a bit as she went around the sixth floor of the castle trying to find the little thestral filly. She wasn’t anywhere.
Twilight Sparkle was not a happy pony at the realization that Alex ditched her. Pinkie Pie is always a happy pony though, “Twilight! Guess what I saw?!”
“Not now, Pinkie.”
“Pleeeease?”
“No, Pinkie. I’m trying to find Alex before Princess Celestia comes and banishes me then imprison me where I am banished then banishes the prison where I am imprisoned.”
“Oh come on, Twilight, I saw something super duper uber funny and you have to know!”
“Ugh fine, what is it?”
“Well… I saw a bat pony glide down, smash into a tree, and peed on herself!”
Twilight’s left eye twitched now, “WHAT!?”
“Is something the matter, Twilight?” A very regal voice cut in and came into view. Princess Celestia, the Princess of the Sun and Equestria, had an amused expression on her ethereally beautiful face.
“PRINCESS CELESTIA!” Twilight squeaked, “No, nothing at all!”
Celestia wanted to chuckle but thought it wouldn’t be nice of here. Instead, she wrapped a wing around her faithful student, “My faithful student, there is no reason for this anxiety. I would never banish you then imprison you then banish the prison which you were banished.” That was a tongue twister even for Celestia. The sun princess was certain she messed up somewhere but that did not matter. “Now tell me, what is wrong, Twilight?”
“Well, Alex disappeared and I’m pretty sure she jumped out of a window to disappear.”
“I see, I am certain she’s okay. Actually, I saw a certain thestral being dragged away by the CMC.”
Twilight’s eyes widen, “You… did?”
“That I did. Though, fret not, faithful student. I am also certain she’s doing just fine.”
“AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!” Alex’s scream came from somewhere.
“Just fine.”
Back to Alex
“Do you like your new look?” The white one queried. I still didn’t know any of their names and I may not ever know their names.
It was odd-looking in the mirror for the first time. I had such a sweet little face with round lime-green eyes. When I looked closer, I noticed the pupils were cat-like is how it’s best described. My little fangs when I pulled on a smile were adorable. My little ear tuffs were also adorable. Everything about the pastel pony in the mirror was adorable. Is it weird to think that I could die of a heart attack from just looking in a mirror?
What wasn’t cute was my pastel blue hair, which is best described as an explosion that tried to fix itself with an implosion. My coat looked fluffed to the point I looked like a little fluffy ball pony with bat wings. Thestrals I think they called them. A fluffy thestral pony thing. Even though all of that and the fact that my wings had little splotched of chemical burns from when the yellow one tried to make my wings ‘shine’ I still looked really cute. My whole body ached and I need another nap, but I looked like a really adorable little fluffy bat ball. “It looks uh okay. I think it could use some work.” I spoke hesitantly. The look the three little ponies were giving me was strong enough to kill an adult man with a heart attack.
All three of them started looking on their flanks trying to find something that wasn’t there. “Ah darn, Ah thought we’d get our cutie marks this time.”
“Meh, I don’t think I want a cutie mark in being a beautician. It’s not cool enough.”
“It’s okay, I’m sure we’ll get it next time.”
I raised an eyebrow, “What’s a cutie mark?”
The three looked at me like I just popped off my head, “You DON’T know what a cutie mark is?”
“She doesn’t know what a cutie mark is?”
“How doesn’t she know what a cutie mark is?”
Okay, I’m getting tired of people perceiving me as a girl. I get it, I’m adorable, but I’m certain that “I’m a boy.”
“A cutie mark is your special talent.”
“Wait, you’re a colt?”
“She’s a he?”
I could feel the headache coming in, “Yes, I’m a boy. Everyone just thinks I’m a girl for god knows why, and what do you mean by special talent?”
“Wait, you’re a colt?”
“You’re too pretty to be a colt.”
“A special talent is something that you’re really good at and makes you happy doing it.”
“So a cutie mark kinda shows your place in life. How do you get one of these, cutie marks?” Ignoring the other two.
“Sorry for calling you she and her… uh, you know I never learned your name.”
“How are you a colt? There’s no way! I saw your uh parts.”
“I’m not sure, to be honest, we just keep doing things until we find something that makes us happy. Every pony has a different cutie mark story.”
“It’s okay, now that I have a mirror, I don’t blame anyone for thinking I’m a girl. Well, I’m sure if you do the things you enjoy doing, you’ll find your cutie mark.” I thought about the second question and decided I REALLY didn’t need to know whether or not this body is actually a boy or girl. I have way too much on my plate already.
“You don’t even have your cutie mark yet, what do you know about cutie marks?”
“Sorry for looking, I didn’t mean to.”
“Thank you, but I don’t really know what I enjoy.”
I rubbed the back of my neck, “Girls, this has been fun and all, but I should get back to uh where ever I was before I crashed into a tree. You all kinda dragged me away. Hell, I don’t even know any of your names.”
“Oh, I’m Applebloom.”
“Scootaloo!”
“Sweetiebell!”
I chuckled, they’re definitely amusing even if exhausting, “Hi Applebloom, Scootaloo, Sweetiebell. I’m Alexander. Though most people call me Alex.” I yawned. Boy, am I tired, “I need to sleep so bye.” I began my walk back to the village. The girls didn’t get the memo.
Scootaloo fluttered right next to me, “So is it true that bat ponies are nocturnal?”
Sweetiebell, “They’re called Thestrals. It’s insensitive to call them bat ponies.”
Scootaloo, “Oh sorry.”
“I’m not entirely sure. I’ve only been a pony for one day let alone a thestral.” I answered truthfully.
Applebloom, “How can you only be a pony for one day? Weren’t you born a pony?”
“No, I was born a human.” I sighed, rubbing the side of my head. This is going to be a long day.
“Is it true that ba- I mean thestrals can shoot laser beams from their eyes?”
I halted and swiveled, “ladies, serious, I’m not feeling well and I need to get back to where ever I was.”
“Where were you before?”
“Uh, some kind of crystal castle I think.”
“Oh, you were at Twilight’s and Spike’s house. We know where it is.” The other girls nodded. I groaned as they practically dragged me through town. All the ponies were staring at me save a few. I suddenly got the feeling that I’m a rare sight. A few even scowled at me like I did something wrong. I just smiled and waved. The town was quite colorful and while hurt my eyes, I could see why so many had a smile on their face.
Eventually, we reached the crystal castle. Yes, it was actually a crystal castle. What’s odd is that it was in a somewhat large town rather than a city. An odd place to put a castle, especially one so grand and expensive. I wonder how the castle would hold up to canon fire? Probably not well but who knows, maybe it’s magic crystal or some bullshit like that.
A blue blur came down from the heavens, landing hard. “It’s Rainbow Dash!” Scootaloo cheered.
“What you girls up to?” The blue-winged pony asked with a cool town.
“We’re helping Alex here find her- er I mean his way back to the castle.”
Rainbow’s eyes inspected me. She burst into wide mirth that caused a scowl to appear upon my face. Had I been in my old body, I’m very sure that the blue pony would wince. Instead, she just laughed harder. “Sorry *chuckle* I’m so sorry *more chuckles. You just look like a- a *bursting back into wide mirth*.”
I sighed extremely and I cantered forward to the crystal castle’s door, “I’m going to take a nap, bye girls.”
“Bye!” They all harmonized. They didn’t leave.
There was another blue blur and suddenly Rainbow Dash was blocking the door, “Wait, don’t go in yet uh I need to show you around Ponyville, yup!”
I sighed heavily, “I’m exhausted and have a massive headache that I’m almost certain is turning into a migraine. Please let me through.”
“Oh come on, squ- I mean ki- I mean Alex. You need to see Ponyville. Every new pony needs a tour around Ponyville!”
I stood up straight and barked, “No, I’m going in there and going back to bed.” I commanded with much zeal. The winged pony actually winced. “Please, I’m tired.” I whined, “I just wanna sleep.”
Rainbow’s eyes went past me for a moment. I swiveled my head, thinking I saw movement. The three little ponies just smiled at me. “Oh, of course, squi- er kid- er Alex.” Her smile was suspicious as was her behavior.
I pushed pass her. “Whatever,” I grumbled.
BANG! “Surprise!”
I ducked down, taking cover in a foxhole I just made. The enemy was pushing with every artillery strike. Shouts came from around me. I heard the commanded to hold the line. I gulped as I shook inside my hole. I didn’t want to move, I really didn’t want to move. I don’t wanna die. I don’t wanna die. Not again. Gunfire rang across the distance. I peaked up from my foxhole to find a bunch of worried faces staring at me.
I wasn’t in a foxhole, instead, I was prone on the cold crystal carpet. Instead of artillery, there was a colorful cannon. Instead of gunfire, there were kazoos and party poppers. Instead of Germans and Italians, there were colorful ponies who were all giving me very concerned expressions.
I took a deep breath, taking a wobbly stand back up, and wiping the tears that had rolled down my cheeks without me knowing. The world felt a little out of view and disconnected for a moment before I shook it off. “Um, are you okay?” It was an adorable butter-yellow wing pony with a pink mane.
I gave her a smile, “Yeah, just tired I guess.” I remembered something one of the little ponies said a bit ago. “I’m nocturnal so I’m kinda past my bedtime.” Letting out a yawn.
Another new pony, this one pink, puffy, and bouncy hopped over, “You CAN’T go to sleep yet, we have to party!”
“A party for what?”
“A party to welcome you to Ponyville duh, Silly Filly! I had a few twitches and I just KNEW you’d be coming to Ponyville soon.”
Everything looked out of focus. I really am tired. “I’ll try to party but I’m exhausted.”
Twilight cantered up to me, “Of course you are, you jumped out a window and flew-”
“Glided.” I corrected.
“I mean glide down. I’m a little confused why you did that?”
I rubbed my hoof on the back of my neck looking away with a flush of color on my face, “I needed to go to the restroom.”
“You know we have maps.”
I blinked, “You do? Why didn’t I see them?”
“Probably cuz your so tiny, kid.” Rainbow Dash interrupted, ruffling my hair.
I scowled at her. “I’m older than you… probably.”
“Sure, sure.” She laughed. My eyes rolled.
“Anyway,” I looked around the room, it was quite a setup. “I appreciate the party but I really didn’t need a party.” I yawned, “Especially when I’m this exhausted.”
“You don’t want a party?!?!” The pink puffy pony pouted. “That’s terrible! Who doesn’t want a party?!”
“People who have want to sleep.” I yawned louder for emphasis.
“Here!” She handed out… hoofed out a cup of something. Smelled like coffee, “This is my ultra multra super duper coffee with double extra punch! This’ll keep you partying all night long!”
“Pinkie, Darling, can’t you see she’s overwhelmed?” Another voice came, a pure white pony with a purple mane that curled. She wore a lot of makeup. A little bit too much for my taste.
“Sorry! I get so excited and happy when I meet new ponies!” Pinkie bounced around, “It’s time to PAARRRRTYYY!!” That’s when the music started and the games began.
“Sorry about that, Darling. Pinkie Pie means well but she is a little overwhelming at times.”
“Hehe, yeah, you don’t say. Anyway, it’s been fun.” I took a few tentative steps. “But I really must go.” Slamming myself right into something else. I saw a white leg with a golden shoe thing on her hoof, my eyes climbed slowly up to see a magical-looking horse smiling down at me with a gentle smile.
“You must be Alex.” Her voice was soft and kind.
I stammered up, “Yeah, that’s me? Who are you?”
“I’m Tia, nice to meet you.” She held out her hoof and I took it.
On the corner of my eye, I saw ponies bowing, “Uh why are they doing that?”
Tia giggled, “Oh they believe I am some sort of princess. Don’t let them bother you, Alex. Come. there is much to discuss.” Thank god, I really didn’t want to party today.
I nodded as the Amazon version of a pony trotted away. I had to gallop just to keep up with her and I was panting by the time we got into a room together. “So *pant* what do you *pant* need me for *pant*.” I’m shocked I didn’t trip on my hooves and hit my head against the door or a wall or another pony.
“Oh, nothing serious, my little pony. I am wondering how you are adapting to being a pony. You seem to be doing quite well.”
“What how-”
“Unlike dear Twilight, I know when I see someone from another world.”
“Oh, you’re sharp, did you know that, lady?”
Tia chuckled, “So I’ve been told.” She stood up and began making some tea, “Would you like some tea?”
“Sure!”
“How has being a pony been for you?”
“Weird. I don’t think I’ll ever get fully used to it.” She floated me the cup of tea, “Was that magic?”
“Yes,” She sat down and took a sip of tea, “Ponies with horns: Unicorns and Alicorns have the ability to actively use magic.”
“So, the horn ones are Unicorns, right?”
“Yes, and what are you?”
“Twilight and I are alicorns.” I looked at her features, she has both wings and a horn.
“So what are the wing ones?”
“Pegasi.”
“What about the ones without horns or wings.”
“Earth ponies.”
“I heard from someone else that I’m a thestral, am I right?”
“You are correct.”
“Thanks for telling me. I kinda knew but didn’t want to assume anything.”
Tia smiled, “Very wise of you, Mr.Chernovtsy.”
“Oh thank the Lord Jesus Christ, finally someone knows right off I’m a boy.”
Tia chuckled, “I see you aren’t used to your new gender yet.”
“Lady, it hasn’t even been a day since I’ve been here. I’m tired, sore, aching, and just want to lay down and try to see if this isn’t some weird dream. I’ve been holding in all my shock and panic because they won’t help me on the battlefield.”
“This isn’t a battlefield.”
“It might as well be with the amount of chaos and confusion I’m feeling.”
“What’s the last thing you remember?”
“What are you a shrink?”
“Please, Alex, I only want to help.”
“Sorry, I’m just not used to talking about my feelings.”
“I understand, take your time. Tell me what you want.”
I have no idea how or why we got into this conversation but considering how many of these ponies I feel will believe me is probably about the amount that I can count on one hand or four hooves. Might as well, this day is already crazy, might as well talk about it. “I died… I died sacrificing myself to save others.”
“What a noble way to die.” Tia's voice kind and genuine. You know, now that I look at her, she does have a very princessy-look. She even has a little golden tiara. Must be a fashion thing or something. Not that I’m familiar with pony fashion.
“It doesn’t feel very noble.”
“Did you leave someone behind?”
I winced and felt a few tears smacking into the preverbal dam, “Do you know what ‘Filly’ means? I’ve been hearing it all day and I’ve been wondering what it means.”
“It’s another way of saying girl.”
I facehoofed myself. Of course, it does. “So if Filly means girl then that means that Colt means boy, right?”
Tia nodded, “Yes.”
“Okay, can you teach me all the gender words you ponies use?”
“There’s stallion which means man.”
I nodded, “Already knew that.”
“And then there’s mare which means woman.”
“Is that it?”
“Yes, Alex, that is all.”
“So, I can go now?”
Tia blinked then giggle that turned into a roar of laughter coming from the tall, elegant, ethereal alicorn. “Never ever in the last five niffy have I ever had someone manipulate the conversation such as that.” She nearly slammed a hoof down in laughter. Tears of joy were rolling down her cheeks as she tried to wipe them away with a handkerchief. Or is that hoofkerchief? She finally composed herself. “Thank you, Alexander, I haven’t had a good laugh such as that in a long time.”
“I’m glad something good happened today, Tia.”
Tia stood up, “I should let you sleep, Lieutenant, I feel that you need it more than I, but let us please have a cup of tea together sometime.” An aftershock of small giggles quaked from her mouth.
“Of course, despite the topic, you’re an interesting mare to chat with.” A smirk appeared on my face, “You have an adorable laugh too.”
Tia giggled a bit more at that “For someone of your current appearance you know how to make a mare blush.”
I gave her a big bright smile, “Oh, I know what the ladies like, princess.”
She gave me a little smirk of her own, “That you do, girls, you can come out now.” What? The door of this room opened as six mares and three fillies fell out. I think you already know who they are.
Twilight was the first to compose herself, “Sorry, Princess Celestia, we just got curious about what was being said and…” Twilight stared at me and I gave her a little wink. She blushed a little. Despite my appearance, I still got it. I wish Astrid was here to see these shenanigans. “And um uuuh…” The mare was turning as pink as Pinkie Pie. Who bounced off probably back to the party.
“Twilight, deep breaths for me, please.” The purple alicorn did as Tia commanded. “I understand that you’re curious. Mr. Chernovtsy was here to touch base with me on how he’s developing since coming to this world.” She flashed me a wide grin, “I say he is handling himself quite well so far, but that does not mean there will not be challenges.” She’s talking to me not Twilight. “Please, Twilight, will you help accustom him to this world?”
Ms. Sparkle stood straight and bowed, “It will be done, princess.”
Tia rolled her eyes at Twilight’s display. “I must get to bed, night is close and I grow weary.” The white alicorn looked at me with her magenta eyes. Her mane moving to an invisible breeze. “See you soon, Lieutenant.” I saluted her with a little wink as she exited. A smile grew on my face. That was fun. I didn’t actually expect Tia to be a princess. Pretty neat for a member of a Royal family to chat with you privately.
“Woah, I didn’t know you were close with Princess Celestia!”
“You looked so cool like one of those super-secret agent ponies at the movies!!”
“You’re actually an adult?!”
Oh, not this again. I yawned and cantered pass them, “Sorry, ladies, I really need to get to bed. Any questions will have to be put off for tomorrow.”
“But-”
“Now, Applebloom, somepony else also has to get to bed.” Applejack stated, staring at Applebloom.
“As do you, Sweetiebelle.”
“Squirt, you know wassup.”
All three of the fillies groaned as they walked out of the room. I walked out with them at least tried until Applejack put her foot in the way, “Now, look here, we’re goin’ to have a talk.”
“Talk about what?” I stared right back into her emerald eyes.
“’bout who ya really are.”
“Wasn’t my conversation with her majesty enough?
“She flirted with Princess Celestia!” Twilight ranted.
“He.”
“Sorry, HE flirted with the princess. Who does that?”
“Me apparently. She’s a kind, sweet, and beautiful wo- er mare. I’m shocked more don’t flirt with her.”
“She’s a Princess who has lived for niffies of years! She can lift the sun and the moon!”
Okay, now that’s just bullshit or is it? Hard to tell at this point. “I have no clue what ‘niffies’ are but it sounds like a long long time. That just means I’m even more impressive. Also, none of this matters, I’m going to sleep. See y’all in the morning.” Applejack still wouldn’t let me exit the door.
The purple mane pony clopped up to me, “Don’t mind her, Darling, I think you’re quite a dashing gentlestallion. I’m Rarity by the way in case you didn’t know already.”
I smirked, “I’m pleased to meet be your acquaintance Ms. Rarity, I hope I see you more often.” Kissed her hoof and winked at her. Astrid would be giggling her little tush off if she could see me right now. I miss her so much.
Rarity giggled, “My, if your appearance wasn’t so young and female, maybe I’d consider a date with you.” Rainbow Dash was laughing up a storm in the background.
“Oh my.” The butter-yellow Pegasus from earlier spoke up, her face a color of pink with blush.
“You’re flirting with Rarity too? GAAAH!
I raised an eyebrow and canter up to Twilight, “Flirting with beautiful wo- mares is second nature. I am a ma- er stallion after all despite my appearance. Or maybe,” I pulled the purple mare’s hoof to my lips and gave a gentle kiss then gazed into her eyes. “You want me to flirt with you too.” Rainbow doubled over with laughter as I trotted back to Applejack. She’s still unmoving. I sighed, bounced up, taking a quick flap of my wings, and kissed her right on the cheek. The orange mare stumbled back and I trotted out the exit and toward the nearest bedroom that I saw on the map. “Have a nice night, ladies.” I still got it. Astrid, I really wish you were here to see all of this. I’d think you’d be just as amused as I am.
I am a very happy pony. When I woke up to go to the bathroom, I could find the bathroom. I was not bothered by any colorful ponies, and best of all I laid in my cozy bed all bundle up and warm. It was bliss. Now, to make my day even better someone will hand me a cigarette and I’ll be an even happier pony.
Of course, all good things must come to an end when I realize I haven’t eaten anything since well never and the starvation was recoiling back against me. I sighed heavily, wishing that I was born with the ability to photosynthesize or something, then got up and went to find breakfast.
Luck has it that I smell something absolutely delicious that was giving me the shakes. I practically skipped down the stairs and followed the smell into a kitchen to find a chubby little lizard person with purple scales and a green spine. “Mmm, that smells delicious,” I whispered with cheer.
“You must be Alex. I’m Spike, good morning.” The purple scaled lizards greeted.
“Nice to meet you, Spike. Wha cha cookin’?”
“Oh nothing special really, just some hay omelets.”
My nose bunched up, “Hay omelets? Oh right, ponies are herbivores.” Spike’s teeth were definitely not of the herbivore quality, “And what are you?”
“I’m a dragon.”
I blinked at that, “Like the kind of dragon that breaths fire?”
“One in the same.”
“Sweet!” I looked around, “Do you have any bacon? I’d like to cook some.”
“Bacon?”
“You know the part that comes from a pig? It’s delicious if cooked right.”
“Meat? Ew no, we don’t have any of that here.”
“But you’re a dragon, dragons eat meat.”
“Not this dragon, I eat gems.”
I sulked on the kitchen table. A real breakfast has at least a little bit of bacon in it. I guess life can’t be perfect after all. “Okay.” There was a little fruit basket in the middle of the table. “Are the fruits real?”
Spiked flipped an omelet then looked back. “Why would they be fake?”
“Cuz some people like them as decorative… you know what, never mind.” Spike shrugged and I took a bite of the apple. I’m not much of an apple person- er pony but man this is a very juicy and delicious apple.
There was a loud yawn of “Good morning.” That came from the entrance of the Kitchen. A VERY worn-out Twilight Sparkle dragged herself to the seat right next to me and plopped down. Spike poured a cup of coffee from a very weird-looking machine and puts it in front of Twilight.
“Morning.” I greeted back. Twilight ignored me as she took a deep sip of her coffee. Watching her levitating the cup to her mouth was fascinating. The aura that glowed around the cup was a magenta. A difference to Tia’s gold aura.
Twilight finally noticed me, knocking over her cup of joe, and falling out of her seat. “Wha- wha- wha.”
“Uh you okay?”
Twilight composed herself and began cleaning up the mess she made. “What are you doing here?”
“I’m hungry?” I took another bite of my apple. “I haven’t eaten since I came to Equestria.”
“Of course, I know that.”
I raised a brow, “You okay?” I felt a bit guilty about teasing her and Applejack even if they were annoying. “I’m sorry if I made you comfortable last night. Don’t take it personally, okay?”
“I’m not taking it personally. Who said I was taking it personally?”
“Uh, I did cuz you seem like you are?”
“I am NOT taking it personally. Now if you excuse me, I am hungry.”
“Okay.” I shrugged.
“Twilight, I think you’re taking it personally.” Spike agreed, placing the omelets right in front of us. I’ve never had a Hay omelet and the idea sounds disgusting the smell was wonderful. “I don’t know what you’re taking personally. Was it how last night’s Pinkie party trashed the place?”
“No Spike, it’s due to one certain pony in the room did something just wrong last night.”
“I don’t think flirting with Tia was wrong. I don’t really know pony beauty standards but she was a gorgeous woman and I’d happily tell her so any day of the week.” I uh tried to use a fork and spoon but that didn’t really work out, so I just held the omelet by the hooves and took a bite. Mmmm, sooo good.
“Her name is Princess Celestia! Please call her by her title.”
“You flirted with the princess?” Spiked seemed intrigued.
I swallowed another bite. “It wasn’t a big deal; I was just having a nice conversation with her.” A conversation I really didn’t want or need right then. “Spike, this is so good!” Taking a big bite out of it.
“Oh thanks, it’s nothing special.”
I swallowed my bite, “Spike, you got yourself a talent. I may not know what food is like over here but this is absolutely delicious. I have never had anything like it at all!” I gave the chef’s kiss to my hoof. “Magnifico.”
Spike blushed, “It really is nothing special.” Rubbing the back of his neck.
“Now you’re flirting with Spike!”
“What no? We’re both boys, it’d be weird if two boys were flirting with each other.”
“You’re a colt?”
I put a hoof on my chin in thought, “Then again I did see those two French guys get very touchy with each other and that wasn’t too weird.” I gave Spike a smile, “Yes I am a boy.”
“You don’t look like a boy.”
“I don’t like to think about it.”
“Oh, okay, sorry.”
I sighed, taking the last swallow of my omelet and a swig of my orange juice. “I’m really am sorry if I made you uncomfortable last night, Ms. Sparkle.”
“You FLIRTED with Princess Celestia.”
I rubbed a hoof through my hair. I seriously need a shower. “Are you jealous?”
The purple pony looked like she just got smacked in the face, “WHAT? NO! Why would I be jealous?”
“Because you seem to be focusing on the fact that I flirted with your princess.”
Twilight’s coat turned beet-colored. She tried to say something but only caveman noises came out. Or is that cave pony noises? Either way, the pony went catatonic. Spiked waved his hand in front of her to get her attention, it didn’t work. “I think you broke Twilight”
“I guess this is my cue to take a shower.” I rolled off the seat. “Thanks for breakfast, Spike.”
“No problem um do you seriously think my cooking is that good?”
“If you were a pony, it’d be your cutie mark.”
Ponyville is a colorful and bright town. Each building looked like those little cottage homes in England with hay roofs. All looked extremely well built even though they all looked like they could burn to the ground by accident. The best way to describe the style the town is going for is English Cottage chic. Many of the buildings had several floors and most of them were painted a different, bright color that stung my eyes a little.
This whole town is too bright. Then again everything is too bright. That Scootaloo girl did ask if I was nocturnal and it seems that when I gave the answer to that butter-yellow pegasus, she took it as a proper answer. I still don’t know her name and she’s part of Twilight’s friends. At least I can guess that she’s part of Twilight’s friends. So maybe that’s the reason why everything is so bright and a bit painful to look at. I wonder if they have sunglasses here.
The ponies were giving me a somewhat wide berth with a few of them openly glaring at me. Though most waved at me and some even came up to welcome me to Ponyville. It made me feel warm and welcome. How many places have I been where I was openly welcomed? Not many, most just thought I was some drifter hobo at least until I joined the military. I wish I had some bits, so many of the food stands look so delicious. Especially the little sweets place, Sugar Cube Corner, I really really want something sweet. I sighed, it’s not like money falls out of the sky or anything.
BAM!
I found my snout in the dirt with a massive headache coming on. The stars were coming back and this time they were shooting fast. “Ow.” I moaned.
“Sorry.” A voice apologized.
I rolled myself on my back to see a gray Pegasus with yellow hair giving me an apologetic and guilty expression. Her eyes didn’t exactly match up and they seem to roll whichever way. She must have a case of the lazy eye. Had a friend back in my hometown like that, used to get picked up for it. “It’s fine.” I stood up, wobbling a bit. I felt a hoof stabilize me.
“I’m so sorry, sweetheart. I didn’t mean to hurt you.”
I shook my head. It hurt but I’ve been through worse, “Don’t worry, ma’am I’ve had worse than this hit me.” The mare hugged me and gave me a little kiss on the noggin. My little giggles were not my own. “What hit me?”
“I don’t know, I just deliver. I’m trying to find an Alexander Chernovtsy. It’s a weird name for a pony.”
I pulled out of her embrace and smiled, “That would be me, ma’am.” Giving my bat-like wings a flap.
The mare blinked, “Huh, I thought you’d be older.” Pulling out a clipboard. “Please sign here.”
“Uuuh, I don’t know how to write yet, ma’am.”
“Oh, that’s fine, sweetheart.” She pulled out an ink pad. “Put your hoof here and sign that instead.” I nodded and did just that. She handed me the package. “Here you go, sweetie. Please have a nice day and sorry about hurting you.”
“Bye.” The mare flew off. I looked down at the box and opened it. In it was some kind of coin, wasn’t sure what they were. I guess it’s Equestria’s currency. There was a note.
Friends in high places send their regards. Have fun, Lieutenant. I hope to have tea with you again soon -Tia
I’d like to say that fuck me and my stupid thoughts. And also thank you, Tia, you beautiful mare. Now if I only understood the currency. I noticed that the note opened up to a guide on how Equestria currency worked. Well shit… Hmmm… I wonder. I want something to carry all of this coin.
“Hey, kid.” Rainbow Dash was flying upside down. “Woah, that’s a ton of bits. How’d you get your hands on this amount?”
“Tia sent them.”
“Princess Celestia sent them?” The blue pegasus spoke in almost disbelief.
“Yeah, it was awfully generous of her. I have to get her a thank you for giving me all this cash.”
“You really know what the ladies like huh kid?” Rainbow chortled.
I gave her a wide grin. “&$#@ right.” Oh, come on, that’s censored too?
“Did you just make a beeping noise?”
“Hey, do you know a place where I can buy a bag or something to carry of all this?”
“Yup. Follow me.” I couldn’t figure out how to carry this box. I tried to carry it on my back that didn’t work. Tried to carry it on my head and while that somewhat worked, I fell and smacked my head into gravel. “Uh, you want help with that?”
“Yes, please, thank you.”
We entered a little round shop that looked like a carousel with mannequins… ponnequins wearing beautiful and dashing pieces of clothing. The place was aptly named ‘Carousel Boutique’.
“Welcome to the Carousel Boutique.” An elegant voice came to us, it was um what’s her name is Rarity, right? “Oh, it’s you Rainbow.” Her eyes met mine, she smiled. “My, it’s the newcomer to Ponyville. How are you settling in, Darling?”
“I imagine so. What brings you to my elegant shop.”
“Well,” I gestured to Rainbow, “Friends in high places sent me a starter pack and I need a place to put it. And maybe a little help trying to figure out how much it’s worth.”
Rainbow Dash easily held the box with one hand… hoof as Rarity took a look, “Oh my sweet Celestia, it’s so much!” The white unicorn’s dark blues practically popped out of her face. “What kind of friends… It was Princess Celestia, wasn’t it?”
I shrugged with a big ole smile on my face, “I guess I charmed the pants off of her.”
“Ponies don’t wear pants.” Rainbow interrupted.
“I wasn’t gonna question it, but why don’t you all wear pants?”
Rainbow shrugged at the question. I let out a sigh in response.
“Anywho, Darling, do you need a bag to put in all your coin?”
“Yes ma’am.”
“So polite. I wish more stallions were as polite as you are.” Rainbow burst into mirth at the comment.
I flushed in embarrassment, “Thank you, ma’am. I try.”
Rarity smacked the laughing pegasus, glaring at her. “So, dear, would you like a cup of tea while you wait?”
“Yes, ma’am that would be delightful!” Giving her a winning smile. “Uh, where can I keep all these what are they called again?”
“Bits.” Rainbow Dash inserted herself. “I’ll keep them safe for you, kid.”
“I’m not a kid and I don’t know. I’d rather have them in a place I can reach them.”
The rainbow-maned pegasus shrugged. “Whatever you say.” She put down the box. “I’m gonna go work on my routine. I’ll see you all later.” She zoomed out the door leaving both Rarity and me behind.
Rarity smiled, “Come, Darling. I have much to do.”
The tea was delicious and Rarity worked quickly. I had asked her what she wanted and she told me she makes something free for every new customer. I couldn’t let her do that since the ‘saddlebags’, as they called them, she made me were such quality. Something even the army logistical teams would be envious of. She denied them though making me feel like I cheated her in some way. She even gave me a lockbox and a coin bag to put all my new wealth in. What a generous soul she is.
I made a quick trip back to the castle to unload all my wealth keeping a few bits in my bag. So uh, I learned that ponies count differently from humans. They count one, two, three, four, five, then rather than six, it turns into a number called Tensy. The guide helped me immensely and it was a very intuitive system since I could count to tensy with all four hooves and my wings. I decided to keep the guide in my saddlebags. The guide also came with a conversation chart to help me along. Tia really likes me a lot huh.
Another thing when I came back to the crystal castle, Twilight wouldn’t even look at me. Spike was also giving me a cold shoulder. I wonder why. Meh, probably something to do with last night.
After a quick cupcake break from Sugar Cube Corner (Oh Lord Jesus Christ were they so good), I decided to do one thing I’ve been itching to try. Flying. Ever since I got a taste of soaring through the sky, I wanted to go back and maybe sleep on a cloud-like I promised.
So, no shit, there I was in a clearing, flapping my wings as hard as I could to get off the ground. It worked for a bit but I got tired far too easily. I decided to jump and flap my wings at the same time. I got a bit of airtime before I crashed into the soft grass. This happened more times than I can count on all limbs of my body.
I was getting the hang of it though, but by the I felt like I was getting some sort of air, I was panting and sweating up a storm. I smashed a hoof against the ground. “%$#@ing $#!^!” I didn’t know flying was this hard. I picked myself up, let out a sigh, and began my walk back to the castle. Maybe it’s better if I just give up.
A blue blur landed in front of me, “Woah there, kid. What are you doing?”
I bared my teeth, “I’M NOT A KID! I’m a grown-ass adult who has fought WARS! I have KILLED people for &%#$ sakes.” Rainbow winced, her ears folded back. I ignored her as I made my way back to the crystal castle.
Rainbow didn’t get the hint as she flew in front of my face. “Wait, I’m sorry. I know you’re not a kid and I’m sorry that I teased you. I didn’t know I was hurting you.”
“Whatever.” I kept trotting leaving Rainbow Dash in the dust.
“You want to learn how to fly, don’t you?”
I halted my canter and swiveled my head. “Were you watching me?”
The blue mare gave me a sheepish smile. “You were doing pretty good, I didn’t want to interrupt.”
I sighed heavily, “Yes, I want to learn how to fly.”
“Well good cuz I’m the best flier of all of Equestria!” She boasted.
“Uh-huh?” I sighed again. I really wanna learn how to fly and Ms. Dash here looks pretty decent. “Fine, Ms. Dash. Teach me to fly.”
Her smile was radiant, “I’ll have you flying lickity split!” She landed in front of me.
“Okay? So how where do I start?”
“Well, you have pretty strong wings but your form is very messy. Can I have a look at your wings?”
“Uh sure?”
She pulled my wing out to its maximum wingspan. She inspected them, giving them little flaps. “Hmmm.”
“Hmmm?”
“Your wings are very balanced. Good in mobility, speed, and endurance but specializing in none. I don’t know much about ba- er thestral wings but from the bone structure, you should be a better flier than the average pegasus.”
“Okay? But how does that help me learn to fly?”
“It doesn’t but when you start flying, you’ll know what you’ll be able to do. My wings were designed for speed. But what separates a Wonderbolt from your common pegasus is technique, training, motivation, and talent.”
“What’s a Wonderbolt?”
“YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT A WONDERBOLT IS?!”
“Well, I’ve only been in Equestria for a day.”
“Oh, uh right, sorry.” She cleared her throat. “We’ll start with technique. That’s the easiest to get down and will allow you take off faster.”
“Alright.”
She got in front of me. “So copy me.” She got into a stance, I followed. “So, what you wanna do is make a backward D with your wings like this.” Her wing movement slow and meticulous. “Not too wide. Keep them short and quick.” We did this several times. “Now, relax your wings and allow them to bend.” I did, when I moved my wings up, they bent down. When I moved them down, they bent up. “Good, nooooow GO GO GO, FASTER FASTER FASTER!!!”
I pushed hard and fast as I slowly took off vertically. The ground below me was moving farther and farther away. My wings burned, I was panting, but the massive shit-eating grin on my face was loud and proud of my achievement. “I’m *pant* flying!”
“Darn right you are!” She was flying vertically too. “Now I want you to stiff your wings and glide down.” I nodded and glide gracefully to the ground. By gracefully I mean I tripped on my own hooves and slid my face through the dirt. I spat out the blades of grass in my mouth and Rainbow doubled over with cackles.
“Oh ha ha.”
“Don’t *ha* worry *haha* Alex *hehehe* You did great.” I found myself laughing with her. If you can’t beat‘em, join’em. It was a bit before Rainbow calmed down enough. She wiped tears from her eyes. “So, ready to do some real flying?”
“Uh, sure? What do I need to do?”
Rainbow smirked, “It’s easy. Just take a running start, jump, and remember what I taught you.”
I exhaled, “Okay. I think I can do this.”
“I know you can do this.”
“I’m glad you have confidence in me.”
“No problem, Alex. And I really am sorry about earlier.”
I shook my head. “I should apologize to you. You didn’t deserve me snapping at you. I was just frustrated.”
“Don’t worry, every pegasus has it rough the first time.”
“I wasn’t frustrated at flying. Just how quickly my life changed in front of me and I didn’t even have a say in it.”
We stayed silent for a long time. The birds were tweeting, the gentle autumn breeze pushed the clouds across the sky, and I felt kind of comfortable talking about what happened. My sacrifice, my loss, and my fears. I could really open up to Ms. Dash right here and now.
Instead, I stood up stretched my wings, and gave them a little flap. “I’m going to try again.”
The blue pegasus smugly smirked, “Knock’em dead.”
Knock who dead? I nodded, took a running start, flapping my wings hard, and jumped.
Flying is incredible. The rushing wind softened my giggles as I soared across the azure blue sky. I climbed above the clouds, the need for speed was pushing my soul to dive down. I banked right then left then attempted a barrel roll and completed it on the first try. I was so in control, so powerful as I zoomed across the sky. I noticed a cloud lazily floating through the sky. With my mouth and cheeks tired from grinning, my throat sore from all the giggling and shrieks of joy, my wings ached and burn from the training, and my body was exhausted, I laid down on that fluffy, soft cloud and passed out into a coma.
Meanwhile
Rainbow Dash was amazed and proud of the little thestral filly who isn’t really a little thestral filly. He zoomed across the sky full of giggles and happiness. If she didn’t know any better, the filly not a filly was actually a filly all along. Of course, it was stupid to have such thoughts. Rainbow had seen yesterday what kind of pony Alex was. He was bold, feisty, and full of spunk. She wouldn’t be lying when she says that the kid not a kid inspired her. Not that she’d tell him that. She almost couldn’t believe that a tiny little filly, who she could only guess was at most five years old, flirted with Princess Celestia, ruler of Equestria, Princess of the Sun, an immortal who could wipe out whole cities if she wanted to, and actually charmed the pants off of her to the point that the princess gave him a massive number of bits. The metaphorical pants of course.
Yet, even though the giggly filly who is not a filly zipped around doing barrel rolls, Dash couldn’t help but feel a ping of pity and guilt for him. As the element of loyalty, she will never repeat the things he spoke of today. He deserved privacy of his past. While she didn’t know what it’s like to fight in a war. Dash could tell that Alex was hurting something fierce, and if flying could give him the ability to cope with it, then she’ll teach him how to be a better flier than even her: the best flier of all Equestria.
Also Meanwhile
“And thou said that this Alex is a thestral filly?” Princess Luna, princess of the night, Diarch of Equestria, couldn’t believe what she was hearing. Well, she could but it was hard to believe. She gave Tiberius a stroke while he nommed on a piece of cake. Since her big sister came back from investigating the aurora over the Everfree, Tia’s royal mask had gained a few extra cracks. Luna hasn’t seen her sister this happy since well before her fall to darkness. Now the Sun Diarch was giddy like a little school girl.
“Indeed.” Tia took a sip of her tea.
“It is hard to believe that such a young pony could crack thy mask this much. We are happy that our big sister found someone she can be open with besides us.” Ever since Luna came back from nightmare, she had noticed that her sister seemed less like her mischievous self and more like an ethereal sun goddess who ruled benevolently and with no cracks in her mask. Besides cake, cake is always on the table for Tia no matter the circumstances.
“It’s quite refreshing to have somepony to be so bold and daring as he. I am not entirely sure where he came from, but it seems where he did come from there wasn’t royalty or the need to bow to your ruler.”
“We must meet him some time. We think that he will be quite a hoot!”
“Lulu, he just came into this world. Give him some time to become accustomed to it.”
“We will obey.” Luna crossed who hooves with a lie.
“Moving on, we have something serious to discuss.” The sun princess glared at her sister.
“What is wrong, sis?”
“Tiberius ate FOUR of my cakes.” The puggy opossum hissed at the wraith of the sun princess then he scurried away. “Come back, Tibbles, I only want to vaporize you with the power of the sun.”
The melody of the battlefield and whipping rains of the Tunisian wet season made for a terrible combo. I pushed my way through the mud, soaked to the bone, and freezing. It had been raining for what felt like weeks, the brass decided that they couldn’t wait to start the siege.
It’s been months since Operation Torch began with our landing in Vichy French Africa. Apparently, the damn turncoats didn’t realize we were coming and we met resistance. Our objective was to give the Germans and Italians hell and take back occupied territory. The allied forces in East Africa have already pushed them west, now it’s our job to finish them off for good.
The battle was a crawl with artillery firing at a mild pace. Our platoon had one job and that was to protect the tanks from enemy infantry. Their panzergrewhers and anti-tank guns were powerful against our Shermans. Though, the tanks were moving at a snail’s pace and it seems like we’ll be lucky for at least another day.
Suddenly, the rain let up, the sun came out, and the land was dried instantly. The battle began with tanks rolling across the ground. We double-timed it. We needed to get far in front of the tanks and begin our assault on enemy entrenchments.
That’s when I saw them. “A FUCKING PANZER DIVISION INCOMING!”
It wasn’t too late; we were on a hill and there was plenty of rocks between us and them. “Ready the Bazookas!” The rockets wouldn’t push them back but it’ll slow them for our Shermans to whip on in and save the day. I, unfortunately, wasn’t part of a bazooka team and watched the Panzers with my binoculars.
BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM!
The bazookas launched a volley of rockets, smacking into the panzer line. Not many rockets met their mark but enough to push them to maneuver to cover and try to spot us.
BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM!
Another volley of rockets barely even clipped a panzer let alone directly hit it. I noticed one of the tank’s guns pointing at us. “TAKE COVER!” I dived.
BAM!
The whole hill shook with the shock of the blast. I felt my sweat roll down my back and my blood run cold. There were screams and calls for medics and I found myself looking at a tall, dark blue alicorn whose mane looked like the night sky floated there eating popcorn. I don’t remember alicorns being in Africa. Maybe I’m miss remembering. I shook my head, I don’t have time. I peeked out of cover. All tank guns were pointed right at us. “INCOMING BOMBARDMENT!”
BAM BAM BAM BAM BAM BAM BAM BAM BAM BAM!
My ears were winging and my body felt numb. There were more screams and wails with calls for a medic. I watched my whole platoon dying in front of me yet I felt so lost. I shook my head, “RETREAT!” We gathered up the injured best we could, piled in the jeeps, and head down the hills best we could. We could hear the cavalry arriving with the sound of big guns smashing and exploding through metal. I breathed a sigh of relief.
I found myself in the barracks, alone. My body small and adorable with my little bat wings twitching. It was cold in the barracks, so cold. “Greetings, Alexander.” I turned to find the same dark blue alicorn. “I am Princess Luna, Celestia’s sister.”
I shivered. “What’s going on? Where are my men?” My voice cracked and cried.
“Thou art dreaming, young one.”
I glared at the princess, “WHERE ARE MY MEN?!” I aimed my grand at her even though I’m pretty sure my hooves couldn’t operate it.
The alicorn ignored my threat, pushed pass me, and pulled me into an embrace. “This is a nightmare, Alex. Thou are safe.” She rubbed my withers with her wings. “Thou are safe.”
My grip on the rifled loosened and I allowed myself the coziness of the royal’s embrace. I blinked to find myself in a little home, by the fire. My childhood home just as I remembered it except with none of my family and a dark blue alicorn in it. I was wrapped in a blanket by the fire. The alicorn laying close to me. “Uh Luna, right? sorry about threatening to shoot you.”
“We are fine, Mr. Alex. Thou need not worry.” She spoke with warmth. The diction choice was a little odd but I can respect it.
“What brings you into my dreams then?”
“We come to meet you and learn about you.”
I scowled at her. “Wait a second, you jumped into my dreams without my consent. Why couldn’t you just meet with me in real life?”
Luna looked very guilty. “Oh uh sorry. We were going to do that originally when we had time but then we saw you having a nightmare and decided to help.”
“I REALLY don’t like people getting in my business. You saw things that I didn’t want anyone else to see.” I pushed away from the coziness. “I won’t lie when I say that my privacy feels violated.”
Okay, now the princess was giving me a look that nearly broke my heart. “We didn’t mean to. We were only trying to help. We’re sorry.” Her eyes were filled with tears.
I gulped. “I forgive you this time, but please don’t ever do it again.”
Luna perked up and nodded, “I’ll leave now.”
A ping of guilt bounced around my chest. I think I wish too far. “WAIT!” The very depressed looking alicorn stared at me with her big sad eyes. I hugged her, “I’m sorry, sweetie, you were just doing what you thought was right and I’m being a big grump because I didn’t want anyone to truly know about what I’ve been through.” I giggled, “Especially since this world is such a happy, peaceful place.” At least I think it’s a happy, peaceful place. So far everyone is really pleasant to be around besides a few sour grumps. I gave her the biggest smile I could manage which wasn’t that big. “Please don’t repeat what you’ve seen here today. The experience and suffering I went through shouldn’t be remembered for anything other than in a textbook.”
Luna shook her head, “No, thou art right. We often forget that some dreams are better left alone. Especially the nightmare we saw today. We should have known better but for too long have we taken to the role as Protector of Dreams that we thought we were doing good by violating other’s privacy and boundaries.” She wiped her eyes and gave me a small smile. “Thank thee for teaching us a valuable lesson. We will try to be careful from now on.”
“I think we both learned a valuable lesson today.” I chuckled, “I feel like we’re in one of those old folk tales that my parents used to read to me.”
“Indeed, we were not expecting to be scolding by someone tensies of niffies younger than us. We can see why our sister has quite the little crush on thee.”
I blinked, “What?”
“Indeed, Tia has a little crush on thou and we thought that we must meet thee to understand why.”
I smiled, “A princess and from what I understand, an immortal princess has a crush on me?”
“Hmm, crush is not quite the word. Admiration is a better one. She has admiration for thee.”
“Oh thank goodness, because I thought I would be murdered by Twilight.”
“Why would thou be murdered by dear Twilight?”
“Well, I think she’s in love with Tia.”
Luna leaped up, “DOST THOU HAVE ANY EVIDENCE OF THIS CRUSH?!” She spoke in an unnaturally loud voice. She winced, laid back down, “Sorry.”
I am so incredibly glad that is the dream world or else I may have gone deaf, “She seemed very jealous when I flirted with Tia. She’s still angry at me for that. Sorry, besides that, it’s the only piece of evidence I have.”
“Quite a good piece too. To fill in the blank for thou, before Twilight became a Princess, she was Tia’s most faithful student since she was five.”
“Interesting. Personally, I’m rooting for her to ask the princess out. She seems like the kind of person who needs a special someone to help them out.”
“Ooo! How about we make a pact?”
“What kind?”
“Thou push dear Twilight to realize her feelings while we push Tia to realize her feelings.”
“So, we’re playing matchmaker now?”
“Mhmm.”
“I like this plan, Luna my girl! I’m a little bit bored with nothing to do so this’ll be something fun!”
She held out her hoof, “So it’s a deal?”
I held out a hand, “So it is.”
We shook hand and hoof as the dream collapsed in on itself.
I awoke in sweat and stress. My whole body felt sore with aches. It’s been three days since I flew for the first time. It’s been my favorite activity so far since the others who live in the house are still being cold to me. Plenty of roommates I’ve had before were much more hostile but it does sting a little. Twilight seemed to open up a bit when I tried to learn about the ponies’ number system and helped me find books to get caught up in Equestrian history and culture. I’ve also been practicing writing. It’s going to take some time to fully get it down. I learned that they had wars just the wars they had were fought many of niffies ago.
I sighed and got up, stretching out each piece of my body. Rainbow Dash has been my only true friend since coming here. Despite her brash and prideful attitude, she seems more than willing to teach me everything there is to know about flying.
Wait… now that I think about it how in the world did Luna and I get on the topic of playing matchmaker? And how did we both decide to play matchmaker? You know what, it doesn’t matter.
I’ve gotten pretty good at navigating the crystal castle. It’s been pretty nice now that I can find anything in this damn place. The smell of cooking pulled me towards the downstairs and into the kitchen where Spike was cooking a delicious meal. “Morning, Spike.”
The dragon too one glare at me and ignored my presence. Okay, I’m tired of this bullshit. I don’t particularly like being ignored especially since I don’t know what in the world I did.
It wasn’t long before Twilight dragged herself in looking like shit with the big dark bags under her eyes. If I didn’t know any better, I’d say she got into a fight with someone. “Good… Morning.” She pulled herself up in the seat next to me.
“Morning, Twilight.” I chirped.
Spike handed the purple pony princess her coffee that waked her up a little bit. She finally noticed me, “Oh… it’s you.”
I smiled, “Yes, it’s me.”
“What do you want?”
“I wanna cut the bull crap and have a serious talk on why you’re both being jerks.”
“I’m not being a jerk?”
I gave her a ‘really now’ look.
“Okay, maybe I’ve been a bit of a jerk with ignoring you but you started it.”
“What are you a child?” Princess Twilight winced, “You are a princess, royalty, and from what I understand it. You’re the Princess of Friendship. You’re sullying your title, princess.”
“I uh that isn’t uh…” She looked over to Spike who finished the food.
He turned around, “What?”
“You’re part of this conversation too, buddy. I don’t know what I did to you but I want you to stop being a jerk.”
He set the food down and crossed his arms, “You want to know what you did? You flirted with Rarity!”
“Okay, I’m betting many peo- er ponies flirt with Rarity, she’s a very beautiful and elegant mare. Why are you mad that I did it?”
“Cuz uh…”
“Cuz uh NOTHING! Do I look like the kind of pony who can sweep off mares’ feet? I mean, come on, my body is that of a little pony girl.” I smiled, “And yes, I checked, it wasn’t a good time.” I still shiver when I clean myself.
“No, I guess you don’t.” The dragon admitted sheepishly. “I’m sorry.”
My eyes traveled to Twilight’s eyes, she winced when they locked, “You are in love with Celestia!” I exclaimed.
“WHAT? No I’m not!” Her lie was terrible.
I narrowed my eyes and got close to her face. She was sweating with a very nervous look. “You are in love with Tia. I’m betting the reason why you look like crap is that you’ve been thinking about her all-night last night.”
She winced, right on the money. She sighed and nodded, “You’re… right. I’m sorry.”
I sat back in my chair, “Both of your apologies are taken and you are both forgiven.” I smiled, “I know what love feels like and it can drive you to crazy places.” My eyes down casted to my food, “Love hurts a lot, I know what it feels like to lose your love to another.” I’m sorry, Daisy, that I wasn’t enough. I shook my head and grinned, “Now that we all got that out of the way, let us restart.” I held out my hoof, “Hi I’m Alexander Chernovtsy.”
Twilight was the first to take it, “Nice to meet you, Alexander. I uh am very sorry that I acted like a foal these pass three days. I utterly failed at being the Princess of Friendship.”
“No hard feelings, just don’t do it again and all will be forgiven.”
Spike was a little more reluctant, “I’m sorry too.” Is all he said. He’s a kid and kids have a very hard time apologizing even if they’re mature for their age.
My stomach growled for food, “There, now we let's be friends and eat!” Seriously, I feel like some kind of shrink.
I soared across the sky doing barrel rolls and loop de loops. The speed of flight and the rushing wind inspired me to go faster, fly higher, and be more daring. I climbed the azure blue, finding myself above the clouds, I dropped, diving down at a speed that put a shit-eating grin on my face. I wasn’t completely sure how fast I could go but I pushed everything I had into it. The ground was coming at me fast. I should pull up to keep from being a splatter on the grassy floor. The high of speed dared me to go faster. Right when I was about to hit the ground, I pulled up, flapping my wings wildly to move my momentum elsewhere. Of course, that didn’t work and I found myself with many bruises and grass stains in my coat and mane. “Ow.”
There was a draft of wind and Rainbow Dash was there, “Hey, Ali! I saw your slick moves and I have to say I’m impressed but I can do better.” Her smile was annoying but I still chucked. She’s been nicknamed me Ali which I guess fits considering my newest form
I pulled myself back up and shook off the dirt and grass, “Of course, you are because you’re the best flier of all of Equestria.” I retorted sardonically with an eye roll. “Not that you didn’t tell me at least a few twensy times now.” I smirked. I know no one will say it but I’m very proud of myself at how quickly I’ve learned the number system, and math was my shit subject.
The blue pegasus’s chest puffed out, “Darn right I am!” Completely ignoring the sarcasm. “Anyway, you wanna get some hayburgers?”
“Sure.”
“Alexander?” A familiar voice spoke. A gray mare with lazy eyes landed before me.
“Hey Derpy.” She handed me a letter and a box of muffins. “Muffins?” I signed with my hoof print.
“An apology for hurting you. I need to go, see you!” She waved and flew off.
“Wha cha got there?” Dash took a muffin and nommed on it.
“I’m not sure.”
Dear Alexander Chernovtsy,
You are officially a citizen of Equestria or will be when you decide on a pony name. While I know that you may want to keep your current name, it’ll help you fit in better if you pick a pony name. I also recommend you go to school. Though you don’t have to do any of this, they are mere suggestions that’ll help you fit in better and become more accustomed to Equestrian society.
Please send a letter back when you’ve made your decision. I shall be expecting it before our meeting.
Sincerely,
Tia
P.S. Would you mind coming to the Castle in two weeks for tea and cake? Does the third day of the twensith week in Autumn work for you?
P.P.S What kind of cake do you like? I know that you’re not familiar with cakes here so I suggest going to Sugar Cube Corner for some help. Pinkie Pie knows her cakes.
P.P.P.S This is Luna; We have intercepted the message to thank thou and apologize again for violating thy privacy. Thou hath given us a lot to think about and we would like to lend a hoof in friendship with thou. If thee doesn’t mind.
P.P.P.P.S Operation Sunstar is at a go.
P.P.P.P.P.S. Tiberius, our pet opossum, says hi :3
Huh, Luna has a pet opossum, that’s pretty adorable. Also, what’s Operation Sunstar… oh right the match-making thing we’re doing. “What’s it about?” Rainbow asked. I shrugged and gave it to her. She read it and burst out laughing, “Celestia wants you to go to school? I could totally see you having sitting in class, admiring all the cute colts in school.”
“Oh ha ha, I’m into mares, thank you very much. Particularly mares who are old enough to drink or older.”
“Pffft sure. I totally can see you string some cute colts and fillies around.”
I rolled my eyes, “Whatever.”
She continued reading the letter, “Ooo, you have a little date with Celestia.” She made weird growling noises, “Taking it to the next level, I see.”
I rolled my eyes again, “It’s like not that.”
“Sure, it isn’t.” She read further and snorted, “You wooed another princess? My boy is on fire!” I just laugh, she’s just teasing me at this point. “So what’s this about Operation Sunstar and also I didn’t know Luna has a pet opossum.”
“She’s adorable, isn’t she?”
“It’s hard to call your ruler adorable.”
“I guess.”
“What’s Operation Sunstar?”
“I don’t know if I should say, it’s kinda private.”
“Oh come on, I promise I’ll never tell anyone.”
“I don’t know.”
The rainbow-maned blue pegasus became serious with her magenta eyes staring at me. “I promise, as the element of loyalty, I won’t tell anyone.”
I blinked, stunned by her sudden change in mood, “Uh so Twilight has a crush on Celestia.”
“SHE DOES?!”
“Ow!”
“Heh, sorry.”
“Anyway, so last night when Luna popped into my dreams, I accidentally mentioned that Twilight had a crush on Celestia and we both decided to play matchmaker.”
“Sounds like fun, can I join in?”
“Uh, I don’t know what you can do. I already made her realize her feelings for Tia, now we just have to wait for Luna.”
“I still wanna be a part of it! I can at least do a sonic rainboom at their wedding.”
“Sonic rainboom?”
“Only the coolest most awesomest stunt I’ve ever pulled off! I got my cutie mark doing a sonic rainboom.”
“Uh-huh. Don’t you mean a sonic boom?” I didn’t know pegasi can fly fast enough to create a sonic boom. I had read about a theory on how a plane can break the sound barrier but it was just a theory then.
“Pish, that’s what Spitfire called it but it doesn’t sound cool enough.” She gave me a wild grin, “You’ll be able to do a sonic boom soon with some practice and training. I’m shocked you don’t have a cutie mark in flying yet.”
I shrugged; I don’t really care much for having a special talent. I can be good at anything I want as long as I put effort and time into it. That’s how I learned most of my instruments back when I pursued music. “So how about that hayburger? Whoever gets there first, pays.”
The speedster grinned madly, “You’re on!”
I lay in my bed, the last light of the sun gleamed in the distance. I still can’t believe that Tia moves that thing and that Luna moves the moon and stars. The question is do they move the sun and moon itself or do they rotate the planet? Am I even on a planet? It’s obvious that there are stars so I must be on a planet. I still can’t believe that there’s even magic. I have to get Twilight to teach me a bit about it sometime.
I looked back at the letter again. School huh? My lips tugged in a smile. I had to quit school when I was thirteen to help out with the farm. I wanted to go to the city high school but my family didn’t have enough to send me. Now have the option to go to school for free and get a proper education, not like quitting school ever stopped me from learning. I can’t tell you how many hours I spent making a little bit of coin to get the new issue of Science Today! every month. I wonder if science here is the same as science on Earth?
My eyes went to the words ‘pony name’, I’ve heard a bunch of names since I got here, and I have no clue how or why names are picked. I’m betting every pony has a unique name just as special as the mark on their flank. The question is: do I want to give up my name so that I may blend in with my new world? Am I willing to give up a name that I’ve had since birth and even after death? I don’t know to be completely honest. Maybe there is some kind of baby name book I can skim through. Twilight has that whole library of books so there has to be something.
On Earth were there same-gender couples? I remember a few French soldiers being touchy with each other but I don’t remember any women showing that level of affection. Maybe they were all hiding? Too scared of what the world would think of them. It’s odd and sorta neat that there are people- er ponies feel comfortable enough to openly be affectionate with each other regardless of who they’re dating. Romance is just so wonderful. I can’t wait until Luna and I get Twilight and Tia together. They’re going to be so adorable together.
If there’s a same-gender marriage who wears the dress and the tux? Do they both wear dresses because that would be adorable! Thinking about this romance is making me so giddy! I remember when Astrid and I helped out our shy friend get with his crush. They were the cutest little couple ever! So shy and sweet on each other. I miss Astrid and our matchmaking schemes.
I groaned, “I’m not going to get any sleep, am I?” Why can’t I just sleep? Is it because I’m nocturnal or something? I don’t care, I’m going night flying. I learned that I have excellent night vision and tonight is a full moon with a clear sky. So out the window I went.
“Silver Spirit. No. Soaring Surfer. No. Arctic Breeze. No. Onyx. Eh maybe.” I wrote that down on the growing list of possible names. “Solar Force. Nope. Sweet Victory. I like it kinda. Berry Chaser. Net. Astral Night. I like it somewhat.” I added them to the list. “Rocky Spark. No. Shining Star. Somewhat. Sky Scraper. Sounds cool but no. Yellow Rock. Definitely no. Flawless Victory. Nyope. Berry Metal. No. Twilight Colt. Yeah no. Sapphire Bolt. No. Nimble Sorbet. No. Platinium Colt. Negative.”
I sighed heavily and rubbed my face, taking a peek at the chicken scratch which was my list. I’m getting better at hand- er mouth writing but it’ll be a while before I become legible. It’s just so damn hard to use your tongue to write. At least I know what I’m reading.
“Have you thought about going through filly names?” It was Twilight, reorganizing the books. I glowered at her. “I mean you know you became a filly when you were a stallion and well I don’t know much about it or anything but I know there’s plenty of stallions and mares who want to be the opposite sex and yeah maybe that’s the case?” She squeaked.
I sighed heavily again, “I am a boy. A colt. I am not a girl in any shape or form. I am only in this gender for now until I change it. I’m not a girl, I’m never going to be a girl, and I’m very uncomfortable in this body no matter how cute it is.”
The purple pony gulped, “Sorry.”
I exhaled, “It’s fine. You didn’t mean anything by it.”
“You know I can use a spell to turn you into a colt.”
I blinked and shouted, “YOU CAN?!”
Twilight winced but continued on, “I don’t know how long it’ll last but I’ve only used it once on Applejack. I kind of like to see how long the spell will last since it’s kind of new.”
“Hit me.”
“What?”
“Cast the spell. NOW!” I commanded.
“Fine, stay still.” Princess Twilight Sparkle’s horn lit up at first dim then it slowly became brighter and brighter until a warm tingle filled my body. Parts grew while others recede. When the light around me halted, I felt good. Very good. Twilight, however, looked confused. “I don’t think the spell worked. Which is odd because all my spells work and-”
“Hold that thought.” I rushed to the bathroom door, sliding into the bathroom itself, and looked at myself through the full body mirror. I looked mostly the same albeit with much shorter eyelashes and mane. I did some inspecting of my parts and I shrieked with joy. “I’M A BOY AGAIN WAAAAHOOOOOOOO!!!!” I didn’t really know how ponies danced but I danced the best I could on the bathroom floor.
“What are you-”
I leaped and landed on Twilight, kissing her right on the cheek, “Oh thank you, thank you, thank you!” Pelting her face with kisses. The poor alicorn heated up to a cozy temperature. “Oh thank you! You have no idea what this means to me, Ms. Sparkle. I love you so much, just thank you!” I flew off, “I need to go tell Rainbow.” And out the window.
I zoomed across the cloudy sky with the rush of wind egging me on to fly faster. I looked all over the place for the rainbow-maned pegasus and she was nowhere in sight. She has her job, today right? I mean it’s the afternoon and we’re supposed to have a shower, tonight right? I saw pegasi pushing cloud together. After all the crazy and chaos that happened since I came here, I didn’t exactly question how they can control the weather. Especially since I’ve slept on more than a few clouds since I’ve learned to fly.
I hovered near a pegasus, “Uh, ma’am? Do you know where Rainbow Dash is?”
“Dash? Hmmm, I think she went to Fluttershy’s.”
“Do you know where Fluttershy’s is?”
The mare pointed in a direction, “It’s a little cottage that way. A little hidden in the foliage but you should find it.”
“Thank you, ma’am.”
I sped off in my search for Rainbow. It’s kinda funny how she usually finds me. Usually coming out of nowhere when I least expect it. I glided down below the tree just coasting through the path. I guess I could walk but that wouldn’t be any fun now would it.
There I saw it, a little cottage a little hidden by foliage. I also saw a certain rainbow-maned pony. I sped forward and was about to yell “Rainbow!” But I held myself as I watch a butter-yellow pegasus and her kiss. I also didn’t notice that the ground was far too close for flight and slid right into it. “Ow.”
“Alex? What are you doing here?”
I pulled myself up and gave her the biggest damn grin I could muster, “I’m a boy now! Twilight turned me back into a boy and I wanted to show you.”
“You don’t look that much different.”
“Well yeah, there’s not much difference between boys and girls when they’re young.” I shook off the dirt, “But I’m fully boy and nothing is going to stop me! Muhahahahaaaa!”
And then there was a light as I felt my body slowly recede things and grow other things. The warm tingles shivered through my tiny body. I felt wrong, so very very wrong. Every little piece of it felt wrong, like something terrible was done to my body. I stood there frozen in so many emotions. I didn’t know if I should laugh, scream, or cry.
“Uh, Alex?”
I felt loss, everything felt dark and the whole world seemed to stop.
“Flutter-”
I found myself feeling warm and cozy in a blanket. I don’t really remember when I got under this blanket. I thought I heard a voice of some kind but I can’t really remember. “Rainbow what happened?” A familiar voice spoke.
“I don’t know. He looked so happy then there was a light and he went catatonic.”
“I think I know the problem.” There was a brilliant light and life and color were brought back to the world.
I was in a nice little cottage that smelled of animal fur. I was wrapped in a blanket with two concerned faces staring at me. “Are you um okay?” A soft, sweet voice spoke to me. It was the butter-yellow pegasus with the pink mane. She was snuggling me while we laid next to the fire.
I dug myself out of the snuggle pile and shook off the blanket, “What happened?” I eyed both Twilight and Rainbow who were giving me very worried expressions.
“Well, it seems that when you turned back into a filly you went catatonic.”
I raised an eyebrow. “That’s so silly. Why would I go catatonic just because I turn back into a filly? What is this one of those cheap pulp fictions?” Rainbow and Twilight gave each other a look.
Rainbow, “Alex, I think you should stay here for a while.”
I blinked, “Uh where is here? Oh, right this is Fluttershy’s cottage right.” My head swiveled to the butter-yellow pegasus. “I finally know your name!” I chuckled, “My name is Alex, nice to meet you Fluttershy!”
“Uh um nice to meet you too.”
Is she okay? I gave Fluttershy a smile and she gave one back. I swiveled back to the two standing mares, “Why do you want me to stay in Fluttershy’s cottage? It’s a nice cottage but I just met Fluttershy. It would be rude of me to sleepover. Besides, I’m fine. I’m sure I just got surprised by the sudden change back that’s all.” I turned back to Fluttershy, “Do you have a mirror?”
“Yeah in the bathroom.” She gestured.
“Hold on one second.” I flew into the bathroom and checked myself. “I’m a boy again!” I flew back out and hugged the purple pony princess of friendship, “Thank you, thank you, thank you, Ms. Sparkle.”
“Please don’t start kissing me again.” Rainbow burst into mirth.
I let go, “Sorry,” I apologized sheepishly, “I was just very happy.”
“You’re deflecting again.” The Princess of Friendship accused.
“What? I’m not deflecting.”
“Yes, you are. You do it anytime something isn’t going your way.”
“O…kay?” I shrugged, a glance outside told me it was going to rain soon. “Anyway, I should get home. I don’t wanna fly in the soaking rain.”
I tried to fly out but I grabbed by the tail, “Oh no you don’t, you’re not going to get out of this one, buster.”
I glared at her, “You’re not my mom and I’m not a child!” I growled, “Let go of me, or you’re going to find out if I can suck blood with my fangs.” Twilight flinched and let go, “Thank you, I’ll be going now.”
“Wait, just hear me out.”
“Fine, you have one minute.”
Twilight exhaled, “Alex, you’re in a foal’s body right?”
“Yeah?”
“That must also mean you have a foal’s mind, right?”
Oh, I see where she’s going with this, “Are you trying to tell me that my memories, personalities, etcetera are all overwhelming for this body’s mind due to it being a child?”
“I didn’t know you were an egg head, Ali.” Rainbow Dash interrupted.
I shrugged, “I’ve been thinking about this for a while too. I noticed how different I am from when I used to be. I also noticed that I’m more amiable towards certain things in this world that would’ve been considered sin in my world.”
“Sin?” Twilight asked.
“Think of it like breaking a rule. Mostly a moral rule. It’s a religious thing. Where I come from same-gender couples were… well in that same religious they teach that if a man- er stallion lays with another stallion that they must be stoned.” Rainbow and Twilight paled while Fluttershy squeaked. I tried my best to give a disarming smile, “I can’t say what I thought about it before coming here but I think it’s adorable now. Then again I’m a hopeless romantic.” My eyes went back and forth between Rainbow and Fluttershy, a smirk appeared on my face. “So, when are you two getting married?” The two gazed at each other and blushed furiously.
Twilight, “Alex, you’re deflecting again.”
“Okay, mom. This is an uncomfortable conversation; I’d rather be back in my bed sleeping right now but you’re too worried about something small.”
“It’s not small, Alex. It’s not small at all. Because your experiences and memories are much larger and more overwhelming than your brain can process and your body can take. A sudden powerful emotional shock could kill you!”
I gave her a flat stare and a brow raise, “Really? Die from emotional shock? Is my body that weak? Because I’m pretty sure there were many times that I should’ve had a few broken bones from my stunt crashes, yet all I’ve gotten were bruises. I’m pretty sure my body is stronger than it looks.” My eyes went to Rainbow, “Remember when I went full tilt towards the ground then tried to make a sharp turn only to crash?”
“Yeah, it was awesome! I nearly thought you were gonna make it too.”
My lime-green eyes went to the purple pony’s lavender eyes, “See my point. You’re overreacting. I had a little shock but nothing deadly or serious. I’ll just have to be ready when I randomly change back.” There was a light and the warm tingles came back. I was a filly again. I hate it when that happens. “Like right now.” A few tears rolled down my cheek. I felt two warm wings embrace me. Rainbow and Fluttershy were hugging me. A small smile pulled at my lips. “Thank girls.”
“No problem, Ali.” Dash chirped while Fluttershy rubbed my withers with her wing.
“See, Twilight. It was just a fluke.” My voice sounding small and gloomy. “Now can you please turn me back before I start crying?” I choked; a tear escaped the dam.
The most pitying expression came from Twilight. It hurt to even look at it. Why am I so bothered by being a girl? It’s not like it’s that big of a deal. Most of all my favorite people and ponies are girls. I shouldn’t be bothered by it. Yet here I am, a hot fucking mess trying to keep himself from breaking down all because my body doesn’t feel right.
“I don’t know. The spell doesn’t last more than thirsy minutes.”
“Oh come on, Twi. Can’t you see how much he’s suffering?” Rainbow coming to my defense.
I sighed, I’m going to hate myself for doing this. “She’s right, Rainbow.” I sniffled and wiped the tears away, summoning the strength to push myself out of the blues. “I don’t want to trouble Twilight anymore than I already have.”
“You’re not troubling me, Alex.”
I shook my head, “No, I am, I can keep flying back to you each time I want my fix.” My eyes stared a hole into the floor, “I need to learn how to live with my body as it is now.”
“You sure?” Fluttershy asked.
I gave her a wide false grin, “I’ll be fine. I’m tougher than I look.” I pulled myself out of the wing hug and stretched my wings. “I’ll be leaving now, it was nice meeting you, Fluttershy. Bye.”
Twilight Time
Twilight Sparkle watched the little thestral colt go. She was very certain now that Alex was a colt and not a filly despite his body. The princess has been wondering if him changing isn’t a little filly was a sign that who Alex truly was on the inside. Not like she’s met many ponies in similar situations to Alex. After watching the colt deflect, flirt, and threaten out of uncomfortable situations and tough conversations, (Which she was stupid for not noticing earlier with his flirting) the princess of friendship knew for certain Alex was a colt. Because only colts will try to wiggle out of talking about their feelings despite knowing they probably need to open themselves up.
“I’m going after him!” Dash sped off only to be teleported back into Fluttershy’s cottage. “What gives, Twi?!” She growled.
“I’ll do it. I’m the one who told him I could change him into a colt biologically-wise. I should be the one who helps him through this time of trouble.” Twilight stated resolutely.
“Hmph, fine.” The blue pegasus pouted and harumphed over into Fluttershy’s room, dragging the butter-yellow pegasus with her. Enough to be said about those two.
Twilight felt a pang of loneliness. She wished she could snuggle with Celestia by the fire as they slowly sink into a… Twilight shook her head. No, this is not the time for that. Twilight took off, the storm brewing as rain pelted against her face.
Her untrained wings were powerful but her raw strength couldn’t prepare her for the crosswinds, knocking her out of the sky. She flapped and fluttered to try to keep from becoming a red paste in the dirt.
She crashed into the dirt, picking herself back up, and galloped to her castle. She had to dodge everything from flying rocks, flying branches, leave smacking her, and the mud under her feet. But she made it to her palace. She would’ve like to fly up but she didn’t trust her lack of ability.
She tried to fly up the flight of stairs but kept smacking into the walls face first. “Wait, where even is Alex?” Twilight realized that she had no idea where Alex is in the whole castle. Tartarus, she didn’t even know where his room was. “I HATE THIS STUPID PALACE!” She screamed.
“Ugh, Twilight. Why are you screaming?” A half-asleep dragon whined.
“Spike! Great, you’re here, did you see Alex?”
“Yeah, he went up into his room. Seems pretty blue about something.”
“Where is his room?”
Spike pointed on the map, “There.” He walked back into his room, “Night.”
“Night.” Twilight felt determined. She flew, taking the map with her. He was on the tippy-top floor. That’s if he was there at all.
When Princess Twilight Sparkle, princess of friendship, goddess of friendship and magic, stood outside of Alex’s supposed she couldn’t help be nervous. She has defeated Nightmare Moon, Discord, Sombra, and Tyrek. Yet anytime she was about to do her job as both goddess and friendship she wanted to run away. It’s her job yet here she was scared out of her mind that she’ll mess up. What if she made it worse? What if he really does die? When the purple pony explained to the thestral colt that he could die she wasn’t talking about overwhelming emotions stopping his heart. She was talking about him committing suicide. She wished she worded it better.
The princess took the deepest breath imaginable, filling her lungs to the brim and exhaling the anxiety away. A friend was in need and she’s up for the task. Twilight knocked, “Go away.” A small voice rasped. The tone barely a command.
“Alex, can I come in?”
“No, go away.”
“I’m coming in.”
“Whatever.”
Twilight entered his room, shutting his door on the way through. The foal was wrapped in his blankets, shivering with sobs. His face was rubbed raw by tears and he was cool to the touch. The poor thing must’ve gotten caught in the rain. Twilight cast a heating spell on the colt. His shivering stopped, “Better?”
“No.” Twilight wrapped a wing around Alex. The thestral colt pushed out of it. “You’re not my mom.” He accused weakly.
“No, I’m not, but I am your friend and a friend in need is a friend indeed.”
“What?” His hoarse voice laughed, “Are you going to sing now?”
“Maybe not, but I am going to hug you. Can I hug you?”
Alex was quiet for a while. His breathing was soft and if Twilight didn’t know any better, she’d think that the colt was asleep. “Do whatever.” Twilight unwrapped the foal burrito, “Hey what are you-” and wrapped Alex and her in a comfortable double-sized pony burrito.
“Better?”
Quivers of sobs and wails were his only replies. The little thestral colt clung into Twilight for dear life as she softly rubbed his withers and back. Twilight wished she knew what he was thinking or empathize with what he was going through. All she could do was be there. Twilight knew better than to believe that Alex was onety perchit an adult. He may have the memories and experience to be mature but his body and mind structure was that of a foal. And like all foals, they needed a paternal figure. Especially when they are as heartbroken as this one.
There was a lull. The little colt had stopped clinging onto Twilight for dear life and now just snuggling into her. His stomach rose and fell with each soft breath. “Twilight?”
“Hmm?”
“I’m a boy, right?”
Twilight smiled, giving brushing his back, “With no doubt.”
“My body isn’t going to turn me into a girl isn’t it?”
“Well, it already has.”
The colt pouted, “You know what I mean.”
The princess frowned, “I don’t know.” She breathed. A bright smile pulled on Twilight’s lips, “I’ll make sure it doesn’t.”
Silence hung there for many moments. Twilight didn’t know Alex that well but could tell he was just a hurt pony who needed friendship and love. She couldn’t imagine what it would be like to die, leaving everything and everyone she knew and love. When the princess first met Alex almost a week ago, he was so terrified and confused.
Then when he flirted with the princess, she was so jealous and envious of him. She wished that she had the guts to flirt with her crush. Though, now in hindsight, he wasn’t flirting because he was interested or attracted to any of them, he was flirting to deflect his way out of an uncomfortable situation.
Next, he confronted Spike and her to talk about why they’ve been giving him the cold shoulder. Something she’s embarrassed about now and wishes she hadn't been such a jealous jerk.
Finally, she had to tell him about how she can cast that gender turning spell, the happiness and pure joy that radiated off of him was incredible. When Rainbow practically dragged her to him when he went catatonic it frightened her that her new friend was busted.
It’s almost funny how mature he was when he confronted Spike and Twilight, and now he’s curled up in Twilight’s arms like a foal to a mother. Not like Twilight will ever take that kind of responsibility. One baby was enough for her. But when he whispered, “Thank you.” She couldn’t help but give him a little kiss on the noggin as he fell into a deep slumber.
There was a tremor in my peaceful sleep, stirring me awake. Twilight was up and trying to sneak out the door. I pulled myself up and stretched. “Sorry, did I wake you?”
“No. You didn’t.” I lied.
“So um-”
“Breakfast?”
“Yeah, breakfast.”
We trotted down to the kitchen where Spike had placed two plates with a note, ‘At Rarity’s if needed.’ I chuckled, “Do you think Rarity knows?”
“It’s an ongoing joke in our friend group.” Twilight admitted, “Don’t tell Spike that, though. He’s sensitive to this stuff.”
“Ah, puberty.” I poured a glass of apple juice, taking a sip. “I’m gonna have to go through that again aren’t I?”
Twilight giggled, pouring herself a cup of joe. “It’s not too bad, the only bad part is heat season.”
I gulped, “Um heat?”
The purple alicorn grinned mischievously, “Nothing.” If it’s anything like cats, I’m definitely fucked in more ways than one. “Pffft, I’m just kidding. We have medicine to block the heat season.”
“That doesn’t make me feel any better.”
“So about last night-”
I took a bite of my sandwich, “Mmm, Spike, you’ve outdone yourself, my boy.” I took a sip of my OJ, “You gotta try it, it’s fantastic. You really need to send Spike to culinary school. He’d make for an awesome chef.”
“And I starve to death? No way- Wait, you’re deflecting.”
“No I’m not.”
“Yes, you are.”
“I just want to praise Spike’s food, is that so wrong? I mean have you EATEN his spaghetti. I don’t know where you found that dragon but he’s a keeper.”
“I actually hatched him from an egg and- UGH! ALEX! Please, let’s talk about this.”
I crossed my forelegs, “There’s nothing to talk about.”
“Yes, there’s plenty like how much you’re suffering.”
“It’s none of your business.” I waved a hoof.
“I’m your friend. It’s plenty of my business. Alex, please, let’s talk about it. Maybe we can get a professional or someone for you to talk to. Just please work with me.” Twilight begged.
I hopped up on my feet and barked, “A shrink? SERIOUSLY?! I’m not like one of those wackos in the asylum. I don’t NEED to talk to anyone. I’m fine just how I am.”
“You spent at least an HOUR crying your eyes out! How are you fine?” Twilight exhaled tersely, “Look if you don’t want to see a professional, how about doing something to relieve your suffering if even a bit.”
I sat back down, “What do you suppose we do?”
“Let me think.” Twilight laid her head in her hoof, then stood up and paced around, mumbling something or another. Even with my great hearing, it was all jibberish. The metaphorical lightbulb lit up above her head and galloped out of the kitchen. I ate the rest of my sandwich and drank the rest of my orange juice before I followed her into the library.
Princess bookworm was shoving out every one of her books mumbling what I can only guess was the title of each book. All of it was still in jibberish. It was entertaining watching her go through each and every one of her books. At least, until she found the one she wanted, “Ah hah! Found it!”
“What did you find?”
“Modern Versus Ancient Gender Role and Stereotypes.” She opened the book. I tried to follow along but she was a very quick reader. She kept reading and reading and reading and reading and the next thing I knew she had finished the book. I was nearly about to take an afternoon nap from boredom and that was after practicing my mouth writing and trying to find a pony name. I think Sweet Victory is a cool enough name. I’d rather keep Alexander as my name though.
“Did you find anything useful?”
“Uh no.” She smiled sheepishly.
“Ugh.” I groaned. “Do you have any ideas?”
“Yes I do, thank you very much.”
“Care to elaborate?”
“Well, we can always try asking all the stallions in Ponyville what they think makes a stallion.”
I looked at the clock, it was Twensy-two o’clock. “Let’s make this quick, we don’t have much daylight.”
“I think I know who we can talk to first. Follow me!”
We sallied forth onto Ponyville. Many of the stands were beginning to close up for the evening but there was an apple stand opened with a big red stallion guarding it. We took a stand behind a green mare, “Are you selling any cider?”
“Eeenope.” The big red stallion replied.
“Hmm, any more apple fritters?”
“Eeenope.”
“Hmm what about apple pie?”
“Eeenope.”
“Hmmmmmm, what do you have?”
“We have apple sauce and apples left, ma’am.”
“Oh, ponyfeathers.” The green mare cursed. “Give me an apple then.”
The red stallion placed an apple in front of him, “That’ll be fifsy-four Chits.” The green mare placed down a bit and the stallion exchanged it. “Enjoy.” We took a step forward, “Oh hey Twilight. Who is this with ya?”
“Hi, I’m Alex.” I held out my hoof only to realize I’m far too small to shake it. I went vertical and shook his hoof.
“Big Mac.” He shook it back.
“Well you see, little Alex here is writing a paper on what makes a stallion a stallion.” I gave her a look and a smile. She rolled her eyes.
“Hold on a second. Ah’ll close up for the day.” All he did was placed a closed sign on the table. We came around. “So, what do ya want to know specifically, sweetheart?”
I mentally cringed and had to keep myself from physically cringing. “I never had a dad so I’m wondering what makes a stallion, a stallion.”
Big Mac took a bite of an apple a chewed on it for a second, “That’s a tough question. Ah’ve never thought about it before until now. Can ya ask me somethin’ specific?”
“Uh sure. Would you say short hair- er manestyles or long manestyles are considered stallionly.” I asked as though I had written it down on a piece of paper.
“Short manestyles to be sure. There are plenty of mares who are feminine with the short manestyles. Ah guess it depends on what it looks like.”
“In what way?”
The red stallion mulled over it for a moment, “It jus’ is. Can’t really it better than that.”
“Are there any sports considered stallionly?”
Big Mac smiled, “Eeyup, hoofball.”
“What’s hoofball?”
“Ya see the…” The red earth pony went into a big long-winded explanation about a sport in which was way too complicated for its own good. And I thought American football was bad. “…and that’s really all there is to say about hoofball. I know it don’t sound the like the most excitin’ game in the world but Ah’m bettin’ if ya give it a try ya’ll love it.”
Twilight was sitting there reading a book, saving herself from the explanation completely, “Uh maybe I’ll try to watch a game or two. Do you have TV?”
“TV?” Big Mac asked, “What’s TV?”
“Um uh you know it’s a thing you watch stuff with.”
“Oh, ya mean a CV.”
“Uh CV?”
“Crystal Vision. Yeah, we have one back at the farm. We’re havin' a get together to watch the Championships at the beginnin’ of next month, ya wanna join?”
I smiled, just men hanging out with men, “Sure! What day it is.”
“Fourth of the First week.”
“I’ll need to put that on my calendar but I’ll make it if I can.” I smiled brightly, “Thanks for helping!”
“No problem, sweetheart.” Big Mac packed all his stuff on a wagon and cantered off.
I nudged Twilight, “Uh, Ms. Sparkle, we’re done.”
“Huh? You are?”
“Yup, where to next.”
“Well, I was thinking we could interview one of the colts. They should be getting out of school now.”
I felt something smash into my head, my snout dragging itself through the ground with momentum. I can’t remember how many times my face had been dragged through the dirt but I wish it would stop. That would be great, thank you please god. If god even exists in this world.
I pulled myself back together and brushed the dirt off the best I could. “Sorry.” A young voice spoke, his accent sounding slightly British. Which was odd because every pony I’ve met so far has sounded American. He was white with patches of brown, and about the same size as me. Which was knew since even other kids were bigger than me. His expression was one of worry and guilt.
“I’m fine. Don’t worry, kid.”
“You’re a kid too.”
I sighed, “So I am. Anyway, you’re just who I was looking for.”
“I am?”
“Yessir indeed.”
“What do you need me for.”
“Well, I’m doing an essay on what makes colts, colts.”
“We have penises.”
I blinked and Twilight looked like a beat. “Yes, yes you do. But I was thinking besides that what makes a colt different from a filly.”
“Oh, well I love the color blue. All colts love the color blue. It’s a colt’s color.”
I narrowed my eyes, “I’ll have you know that pink is a VERY dashing color. Very man- er stalliony!
“No it’s not. It’s a filly’s color.”
My eye twitched, “Look here you little $#!^, pink is a very masculine color.”
“No it’s not.”
“Yes it is!”
“No it’s not!”
“Yes it is!” I was snout to snout with this little shit. This fuck thinks pink isn’t a manly color. Well, I’m about to show him how manly it is. At least until I got pulled into the sky.
“We must be going, bye, Pipsqueak, thanks for your help.” She eventually dropped me.
“Why did you- er”
Twilight’s glare was terrifying. I felt like the small child I am under it. “What was that?!”
“He um called pink girly.”
“HE’S A LITTLE BOY OF COURSE HE THINKS THAT PINK IS GIRLY!!!!”
“Ow!”
She winced, “Sorry… No, I’m not sorry. That was unacceptable and foalish of you. I expected more out of you since you’re mentally an adult but it seems like you’re just a foal instead.”
I rubbed a hoof at the dirt. “Sorry.” My voice sounded like Fluttershy’s. She’s right, what was I thinking? What’s wrong with me? One second, I’m just asking questions and the next I’m picking a fight with a small child. “I’m so stupid.”
Twilight’s expression softened, “You’re not stupid, Alex. You’re just going through a rough time.” She pulled me into an embrace. It was warm and nice. She pulled back, “But you shouldn’t take out your emotions on other ponies.”
“I’m sorry.”
“Hmm, punishment is in order.”
I could feel my eyes bulge out of their sockets, “Wha- what are you going to do.” When I was a kid, my dad would give me a spanking anytime I did something wrong. I learned how terrible that is and how you should never do it, but I don’t think I can forget how many bruises I had from his paddle.
“You’ll know.” Her smile was so malicious that it sent a shudder through my very soul. Her smile turned warm, “Don’t worry, it won’t be anything big.”
I exhale a breath I didn’t know I was holding. “Okay. Now what.”
Twilight shrugged. “Anything you want, kiddo.”
I cringed at that but decided I deserve it. “I guess I could get a haircut. Any barber shops you would recommend?”
“Hmm, I know one place.”
“Welcome to the shop. How may we help you?” A synchronized quartet of stallions all dressed in the same way harmonized as we entered the shop. I was a little put off by it. We had barbershops where I’m from but I don’t think none of them did this.
“Oh uh I’d like a haircut, please. Make it short.”
A blue stallion came close, “Oh why would you ever want to do that. Your hair is simply marvelous.”
“Well, it’s because I’m a colt and too many peo- ponies think I’m a filly.” See I am getting used to pony diction.
“Still your hair is simply fabulous. But a paying customer is a paying customer.” He swiveled his head over to a not so sharp-looking barber, “Handlebar Cuts, get over here, big boy, we have a customer for you.”
I looked back to Twilight. She had a smug grin on her face, “I’ll be outside, sweetie. Take your time.” I glared at her, she just smiled.
“Yes, sweetheart, go with the big barber stallion. Mommy will be outside.” The blue stallion pushed me along.
I mouthed, “I hate you.” To Twilight and she giggled back. The bitch. I took a seat in the chair.
I took my seat in the spinning chair. I never went to a barbershop; my mom or sisters would cut the hair for me. They were pretty good at it too. “What do you want, kid?” Handlebar Cuts asked me.
“Uh, short and masculine.”
“Whatever you want, son.”
No clue why but being called ‘son’ got a huge smile out of me. The earth pony stallion began cutting my hair methodically and precisely. “So, I’m writing this paper and it’s about what makes a stallion, a stallion. I don’t really have much, so maybe you can help.” It couldn’t hurt to ask someone else.
He snipped and sat back for a moment, “What makes a stallion, a stallion hmmm?”
“Yup.”
He went back to cutting, “I think you’re askin’ the wrong question.” His deep gravelly voice soft near my ear.
“I am?”
“You are, you should be askin’ what makes a good pony.”
“I guess but I don’t really know any stallions and I’m trying to learn how to be one.” I admitted I felt a huge weight taken off my shoulder for some reason.
“Think ‘bout it like this, son. You say that you’re a stallion then you are already a stallion. You just have to learn to be a good stallion.”
You know, I don’t know the Equestian values now that I think about it, “So how do I be a good stallion?”
He snipped some more hair away, “It’s simple: find your virtue.”
“Virtue?”
“You’re a thestral so I don’t exactly know what they teach way north but I’ll teach you what we Equestrians believe.” He combined a specific lock of mane and snipped pieces away, “We believe in six virtues: Honesty, Loyalty, Generosity, Kindness, Laughter, and Friendship. The magic of friendship is powerful and has been harnessed several times by the bearers of the elements of harmony to defeat the evils that try to destroy Equestria.”
“Woah, wait, virtues were used as weapons?”
“In a way, yes. It was more of their friendship that was used as a weapon. Just last month, we almost were destroyed by a criminal named Tyrek who absorbed all our magic. Many died from his greed.” He took a moment of silence and so did I. I still remember the day Pearl Harbor happened. I guess ponies and humans aren’t much different. Handlebar went back to cutting, “The elements defeated him and brought magic back to Equestria.”
“Friendship is so strong.”
“That it is. It’s why it’s an important value we all share. It’s hard to be friends with everyone but we can at least be friendly. Talking about elements, you came in with the element of Magic.”
I blinked, “She’s an element?” I’m not really surprised to be honest considering this is a town, she lives in a crystal castle, and she’s a princess. It’s only fair that she’s also one of the elements of harmony. “But what does all of this have to do with being a good stallion?”
“As I said, simply find your own virtue. Our virtues aren’t the only virtues but find a virtue that you believe in and follow it. You may not be the best stallion but you’ll be a good stallion.” I watched Handlebar stand back and smile, “How do you like your new manecut, son?”
It was short and made me look a little bit more like myself. I smiled, “I like it! But I still don’t look like a stallion.”
“Hmm.” He took out some tweezers and stood in front of me, “Hold still for a moment, I think this will help.” He began ripping out all of my eyelashes, one by one. It was painful but when I looked in the mirror again, I saw a boy- er colt in the mirror. “Colts and stallions tend to not have eyelashes, so maybe that’s the problem.”
I watched as the boy in the mirror's mouth slowly pulled tight a grin so bright that it was beginning to hurt his face, “I think that was the problem.” I hopped off the chair, “Thank you, Mr. Cuts! I’ll have plenty to write about for my paper.”
“My pleasure, son. Come back here if you ever need a trim.”
“Will do, Mr. Cuts! Bye.”
When I paid and exited the barbershop, I found Twilight and Rarity chatting with each other. The world looked a little more colorful for some reason and I couldn’t stop grinning. “I’m back!”
“My,” Rarity began, “Aren’t you looking dashing, darling.”
“Wow, Alex, you look like your colt- er yourself.”
I bounced with vibrations of joy coming from my wings, “I know right, I look like me!” I chuckled, “I can’t stop smiling.”
Rarity’s eyes sparkled brilliantly, “IN SPIR RA TION!!!” She announced and galloped off.
“What was that about?”
Twilight chuckled, “I think I know. You want ice cream?”
I flew circles around Twilight in joy, “I’d love some ice cream!”
Dear Tia,
While I will take your suggestion to go to school. I will not be changing my name to a pony name. Instead, I want the name to be Alexander without my last name. I know that you want me to fit in more but my name is my name and I don’t feel comfortable with taking another. Besides if someone wants to know what it means I’ll just make up something on the fly.
On the note of cake, I love strawberry and I would be happy to come to have tea with you on the third day of the twensith week.
Love,
your faithful Lieutenant,
Alexander
P.S. The picture is my new look, do you like it? Rarity made me a collection of bowties I’ve been wearing everywhere. I think they make me look handsome and dashing.
P.P.S. Please save me! Twilight keeps using me as a hug pillow.
P.P.P.S. Tell Luna I said hi and that her opossum is adorable. Also tell her that the Operation is at a go.
Celestia admired the picture of Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Twilight standing behind a little thestral colt with a very happy grin on his face. His light metallic-ish blue mane was short and messy now. His lime-green eyes had no eyelashes. His light-peach-pink coat looked a lot brighter than before. He wore a cute little red bowtie with white polka dots. “He is very handsome, indeed.” Luna mirrored her thoughts.
“Lulu?” Celestia asked.
“Yes, sister.”
“Why does Alex know you?”
“What do you mean, sister?”
Celestia pulled out the letter and gave it to her. As Luna read it a smile appeared slightly on the dark blue alicorn’s face. “Did you go into his dream, Lulu?”
Luna had a guilty look on her face, “Yes but he was having a nightmare.”
“Lulu, I told you to leave him alone for now.”
“But but, we became friends and he thinks Tiberius is adorable.”
How Alex thinks that little cake stealing rodent is adorable, Tia will never know. “What’s this operation you two have going on.”
“It’s nothing really.”
Princess Celestia, goddess of the sun and ponies, gave an inquisitive eyebrow out of disbelief. “Are you plotting something?”
“No!”
Celestia gave a flat look.
“Okay yes but it’s nothing bad and it’ll be good for you.”
“Good for me?”
Luna smacked a hoof to her lips and mumbled, “Oops.” Then flew away as fast as the princess of the night could.
Celestia decided to not give chase. She looked back at the note, “What are you planning, Alex?”
Applejack is a very conflicted pony. There have been far too many times where there have ponies who have lied to her, try to cheat her out of something, or try to manipulate her in some way, shape, or form. Applejack wasn’t sure about things this time.
She had pinkie promised her friends that she’d come to Alex’s ‘Congratulations on becoming an Equestrian Citizen’ party. To give the little thestral filly a chance, but something about the filly bothered her. No, it wasn’t the past life. She was telling maybe not the whole truth but she was being honest about it. It wasn’t because she acted differently or flirted with Celestia or any of her other friends. Actually, she found that part funny as hay.
What bothered her about the young filly was that she claimed to be a colt. What confused her, even more, was the fact that the filly was telling onety-tensy perchit the truth. It bothered her that while it’s an obvious lie that the filly claimed to be a colt, it was still the truth. Applejack’s lie detector was never wrong and was famous for it never being wrong. Heck, there had been many times where the townsfolk would put it through the test and it never came out wrong.
So why was it wrong now? Why was her lie detector failing her now? Applejack scrutinized the cute little filly from a distance as she was dragged into a game of pin the tail on the pony. Everyone around Alex, Pinkie Pie, Twilight, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and the crusaders were ordering the thestral filly every which way.
The filly looked a whole lot different than she last saw her. A lot more colt-like is the best way she’d put it. Her hair was cut short, eyelashes plucked, and she even wore a cute little bowtie. If she didn’t know any better, she’d think that the filly was a colt. Albeit very pretty and adorable colt but still a colt. Only Alex isn’t a colt. She just isn’t. Even though she says she is the truth is the filly has parts that make her a filly and there is no denying that.
Alex insists and even belly aches that she’s a boy. Twilight had admitted to AJ about what happened with Alex and how much pain and suffering she supposedly went through why would she be so hung up on something like what’s between her hind legs? Maybe it’s like Rarity’s problems why she can’t rightly understand the mare she can at least respect her, and AJ is trying her best to respect Alex.
Just she’s the element of honesty as much as she hated the title. Her gut has never failed her before when it comes to detecting lies. Yet, when Alex announced that she is a he, the little thestral pony was telling the truth when it wasn’t the truth at all.
Stallions have penises and mares have vaginas after all and that’s always how it’s been. Sure, there were very feminine and downright girly stallions just as much as there are very masculine and downright boyish mares, but that doesn’t make them any less stallion or mare, just makes them different.
When Alex first announced that she is a he, AJ was so overwhelmed and confused at the truth of the statement and the fact that Alex’s body did not agree with it. So much so that she got angry and stubborn and stood in front of the door to not let her pass. AJ regretted doing that. It was stupid, unnecessary, and foalish of her. She should’ve just talked to Alex. That’s what she needed to do. Yet, the thestral filly found a way out by jumping and kissing her on the cheek. At the time, it made her confused and angry that someone would just blatantly do that without her consent. Now, since talking to Twilight, she sees it as Alex trying to get out of an uncomfortable situation. Twilight has never led her astray about stuff like that before.
All her friends seem to agree that Alex is a colt. And it’s not like AJ needs to get heavily involved with Alex like Rainbow and Twi, but it bothers her, so much so that she hasn’t slept too well since. She keeps thinking about it until she passes out on her bed. Sometimes having theoretical arguments with Alex. It’s stupid, she knows, but she can’t help it.
What is even worse is if she so much mentions her thoughts, her friends will turn on her in a second. They absolutely love that little filly even if they don’t want to say so. Twilight has been motherly with her as Rainbow has been sisterly. Pinkie Pie is Pinkie Pie. Fluttershy thinks she’s just the most adorable little pony. Rarity adores Alex’s charm, wit, and daringness. AJ kind of feels left out in all of this. Why the conflicted mare agreed to this party, she’ll never know.
And it’s not like Alex is bad. If anything, Alex is sweet, daring, and brave, witty, and charming. In a lot of ways, he reminds her of Rainbow but with a lot less arrogance and bragging.
AJ sighed and took another sip of her drink. It was close to empty and if she wants another, she’ll have to maneuver herself to the food table. Something that would cause others to talk to her, and she didn’t want to talk to any pony.
That’s when AJ felt something being tacked on her flank. She didn’t want to look. She knew who it was and she didn’t want to know. She didn’t want to talk to her. AJ grew rigid as her emerald eyes met lime-green ones. The cat-like pupil soft and wide in the lesser light. The light-peach-pink lips pulled into a warm, genuine smile. Applejack felt herself being disarmed by it and braced herself. “Hi Applejack.” The filly chirped. The orange mare hadn’t seen Alex in a little more than a week and the filly’s attitude had completely flipped from moody and threatening to cheerful and happy.
“Hi uh Alex.” She stuttered in reply.
“Sorry about pinning the tail on you.” She scowled at Rainbow who was having a giggle fit.
“Dun worry ‘bout it, Sugar Cube.” She found herself saying, her thoughts going back to when Twilight told her how much of a foal Alex was really. How, even though she has all those memories of another life, she acted like any other foal and even picked another fight with one when he said that pink was a girly color. Alex is a foal no matter how much she denied it. She was as much of a foal as she was a filly in Applejack’s opinion at least.
“So how have things been?” The thestral filly asked innocently.
“Oh uh good. Just been busy. You?”
“Great! I got a cool manecut that makes me look dashing, Rarity made bowties to makes me even look more dashing, and I’m an Equestrian citizen now.” She admitted excitedly but her excited expression turned into a cute little muzzle scrunch, “Even though I don’t know how to feel about it.”
“Ah’m sure ya’ll figure it out soon enough.”
“I guess.” Alex rubbed the back of her head. Applejack felt the need to say something. She tried her best to buck that feeling down but it was hard too. She’s been stuck thinking about this for too long and she needs to say something anything about it. Keeping it pent up wasn’t good for her one bit, but she risked losing her friends and is prodding at this issue when Alex went catatonic over is not the good idea.
“Are you a colt or a filly?” Applejack cursed internally when that came out of her stupid, big mouth.
The thestral filly was taken back by the question and took a step back, “I am a colt, yes.”
That was the truth, and Applejack was now absolutely stumped so she continued, “But colts and fillies have different bits between their hind legs.”
“Yeah but doesn’t make me any less colt.” Alex had a frown that marred her pretty face now.
“Then what makes ya a colt?”
“What makes you a farmer?”
“Well, Ah reckon it’s jus’ who Ah am and what Ah do.”
“You answered your own question.”
The orange mare narrowed her emerald eyes, “But being a colt or a filly isn’t the same as being a farmer.”
The pink filly narrowed her lime-green eyes and took a step towards the orange mare, “Who are you to decide what is and what isn’t?”
“Ah don’t decide, it jus’ is.”
“Nothing ‘just is’ there’s a reason behind everything. Just like there’s a reason behind you being a farmer. ‘Just is’ is a pathetic argument.”
Applejack the metaphorical slap as she dug in her hooves and step forward, “Ya’re either a colt or filly, ya can’t jus’ switch cuz ya wanna. That ain’t how it works.”
“Well I didn’t switch anything. I’ve always been a boy and I always will be a boy. Nothing you or anyone else can say or do anything to convince me otherwise. And you don’t know how it works. You’re just an apple farmer, Applejack. You don’t have the right or knowledge to state what ‘works’. Not to mention you’re not me and you can’t decide what I am or what I’m not.”
Applejack was at a lost for words. She didn’t know what to say that wouldn’t just be a repeat from before. Her eyes drifted over to Twilight her looked like she was about to go into mother-bear mode and send her to the mood. Her eyes then drifted to Rainbow who looked like her heart was being broken. Was she wrong after all? No, she wasn’t, but has her gut ever lied to her before this ‘Alex Conflict’?
Alex was in a fighting stance, “Applejack, I think it would be a great time to leave before I shove you in a bucking party cannon and send you to the bucking sun!”
Applejack gritted her teeth; she was being threatened in front of every pony? She wasn’t going to back down from a threat, “Alex, ya’re lyin’ to everypony ‘ere. Ya lie is so good that mah own gut is tricked by it. Ah dun know what ya did to it but Ah know that ya’re a filly. Everypony ‘ere can see it. If ya jus’ check between ya hindlegs every pony will know the truth. Ya always been a filly and ya always will be a filly and there is nothin’ ya can do about it!”
Alex’s whole body softened and relax. her lime eyes looked at AJ with pity. Her head swiveled to Twilight. “Twilight, Gender spell, please.”
It took a second for Twilight to snap out of her seething, “What?”
“Gender spell, please.”
“But-” Alex gave her a look, “Okay.” Twilight nodded, suddenly the purple alicorn’s horn lit up brilliantly while the little filly was enveloped in its light. The light dimmed and stood an Alex looking just about the same with only a little bit more muscle.
Alex had a defiant look in their eyes. “Am I a filly now?” Her- er his- er her question and actions had taken Applejack back. The orange earth pony watched all her nightly arguments with the phantom Alex shatter into ash by one simple spell. “AM I A FILLY NOW?!” The now thestral colt flapped his wings to be above Applejack. His eyes had a fire in them. “I’m asking a question!”
AJ snapped out of her stupor, “Uh no Ah guess ya not.”
“Do you think that if Twilight used the same spell on you that you would consider yourself a stallion?”
“No.” Applejack’s voice was quiet as a mouse.
Alex landed and turned away, “Get out.” The thestral pony’s voice was quiet but had so much power that Applejack galloped out with tears rolling down her cheeks. She realized right then and there she may have just lost her friends forever.
Rainbow Dash, the element of loyalty, and best flier of all Equestria felt like her whole heart was being torn into pieces. Bit by bit as Applejack’s and Alex’s arguments raged on, she felt like both her friends were tearing her apart. It’s Applejack’s fault for certain but she was still conflicted on who to be loyal to. She shouldn’t be conflicted on who to be loyal to. Applejack was a big bucking mule to Alex for no other reason than his gender.
After the argument, Alex collapsed with Twilight and Fluttershy flocking to him to give him as much love and comfort as possible. The poor colt was sobbing into Fluttershy’s wings while Twilight rubbed a wing along the thestral colt’s back. Rainbow just stood there watching it all, her body feeling stiff and rigid as a statue. She couldn’t move, she couldn’t think, she couldn’t do anything but stand there and stare.
Pinkie’s hair deflated stated while Rarity looked like she was about to murder a pony. Rainbow felt like she was about to murder a pony. The bubbly anger and rage inside the blue pegasus twisted and gurgled as she watched Twilight teleport Alex and Fluttershy somewhere. Rainbow couldn’t help for a moment but to admire Alex. He stood against such toxic ideas. The element of loyalty couldn’t even believe that it was Applejack, her best friend, who said all those terrible things.
Sure, Rainbow was a little doubtful about Alex at the beginning but when Alex went through all hell to be who he felt he was, the doubt had shattered into love and support. Rainbow didn’t really understand it. Why would anyone want to be a stallion? She could understand wanting to be a mare because mares are pretty and awesome like she is. Especially a certain butter-yellow mare who she wished she could hold right now. Rainbow shook her head. No, there will be time for that later.
Rainbow took the deepest breath she could possibly inhale and “BUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” The whole world shook with the power of her lungs. Windows broke and Celestia’s teacups too. The powerful roar threw away Rainbow Dash’s indecisiveness. She jetted off, breaking the sound barrier, breaking even more windows. She was going to buck the fuck out of that stupid little apple farmer until the apple bucker realizes that Alex is a colt. He’s always been a colt and he always will be a colt. And if that doesn’t work, she’ll keep bucking Applejack in the head until some form of sense is smashed into that thick skull.
Rainbow Dash, like a guided missile, locked onto the galloping Applejack and boomed into her at full speed, sliding her across the ground. All Rainbow could see was red. “Rainbow Dash?” AJ’s voice was barely a whisper. Rainbow responded with a right hook which the orange mare dodged barely. The blue pegasus grabbed and suplexed AJ into the ground. Another punch came and smashed into AJ’s gut. The orange mare vomited her lunch and whatever she ate at the party. Another punch hit AJ in the face sending her seeing stars. She whispered, “stop please.” The blue pegasus wasn’t listening. Applejack raged, bucking the damn blue pest off. “STOP ALREADY!”
“BUCK THAT!”
RD charged at high speed into her. Applejack could only withstand it as her hooves are pushed into the ground. The apple farm grabbed the speedster by the foreleg and pinned her.
“Let go!”
“No!”
“Let go, I need to buck some sense into you.”
“Ah’ve already had some sense bucked into me.”
“Then why are you running away?”
“Because Ah did sumthin’ terrible, that’s why!”
“Then why did you do it?”
“Cuz Ah dun know. Ah was confused.”
“Why didn’t you talk to any of us about it?”
“Cuz I was scared of losin’ ya’ll that’s why!”
“Then why did you get into that bucking argument with Alex?”
“AH DUN KNOW!”
Rainbow knocked the orange mare away and the fight continued.
Lieutenant Alexander Reporting for Duty
I found myself nice and cozy wrapped under purple and yellow wings. The two mares were looking at me with motherly expressions. Are they like my parents or something? Yeah, sure I may had been crying earlier but that was mostly from the adrenaline dump than from being sad. I was a bit disappointed by Applejack, I thought she was a pretty nice pony until now.
I tried to wiggle myself out but the mares had me pinned. “Can you let me go, please?” The two mares gave each other looks. “My wings are being crushed.”
“Oh sorry.”
“Sorry.”
“Thank you.” I wiped away my tears. “You didn’t need to smush me in snuggles.” I stretched my wings and gave them a little flap.
Fluttershy had a bit of color on her cheeks, “I uh don’t know what came over me, when I saw you crying, I just couldn’t help myself.”
“Me too haha.” Twilight smiled sheepishly.
“I think we need to have a conversation about maternal instincts and how I’m not a child.”
“Well um you look like one.” Fluttershy offered.
I rolled my eyes, “Whatever.” I opened the window.
“Where are you going?” Twilight spoke in a concerned voice.
“Stopping two peo- er ponies from killing each other. I’ll be right back.” And I jumped out the window and zoomed off.
When I say that I zoomed off I mean I was going faster than I ever had before. The need for speed crept up on me and I was pushing myself at the limit. The speed was such a rush that I squealed in delight. The whole world around me was speeding away from me.
That’s when I saw them, two mares fighting a cruel and brutal battle against each other. One was using her sonic speed to hit hard while the other who could lift the sun with just a hindleg bucked around like a wild bull. They were even and panting from exertion.
That’s when I felt it, a wall, a barrier of some sort in my way. Nothing will get in my way from stopping friends from killing each other. I broke the barrier, a BOOM crackled across the azure sky, vaporizing any clouds in the vicinity and more windows were shattered along with one of Luna’s glass shoes.
The ground came briskly as I air broke and slammed into the ground. Shockingly, I only gain sore hooves with that stunt.
“STOOOOP!!!” I screamed.
The blue pegasus didn’t listen and boomed right at Applejack. I was ready for her as I bucked her right in the chest. Applejack tried to push the advantage but punted her into the sky. How the hell am I doing this? How did I survive crash landing at near sonic speeds and only gained sore hooves? No time for that, Rainbow and Applejack picked themselves back up.
“Will you two please stop before I punt you both to the sun?”
“Why are you helping her?” Rainbow accused
“Why are ya helpin’ me?” Applejack also accused.
“Because, you idiots, trying to kill each other isn’t how we work out friendship problems!”
“But she hurt you and accused you of lying about your gender!”
“Ah did that awful thing to ya.”
I looked at Applejack then to Rainbow Dash and chuckled which turned into a giggle which turned into a laugh which turned into a roar. I couldn’t stop laughing, it’s just too damn funny.
“Uh Alex, why are you laughing?” A voice from the sky asked, it was Twilight.
“Cuz *giggle* these two *giggle* are idiots.” I burst into mirth, having to get low on the ground and smacking my hooves on it just to keep myself losing myself to them. I took a deep breath letting out a burst of chuckles here or there until I finally composed myself. Everyone was looking at me with confused faces. “So Applejack obviously knows what she did wrong and Rainbow Dash is still fighting her for no other reason because I was a little hurt and disappointed.
“But I saw you crying.” Rainbow Dash stated.
“You did, I went through an adrenaline rush. Remember, this body is young and stressful situations are rough on it.” I explained then I scowled at Applejack. “I’m still angry about your behavior, but I could tell that you were confused about something.”
Applejack had a very guilty expression on her face, “Yeah Ah have this gut feeling that let me know when ponies are lyin’. An’ you confused me.”
I raised a brow, “In what way.”
“Well, when you said that you were a colt even though that you have a filly’s body. Ah felt like you were lyin’ to me but mah gut kept telling me you were tellin’ the truth.” She scraped a hoof in the dirt, “Ah guess Ah should’ve trust mah gut even if mah eyes ain’t telling the truth.”
“It seems like thou hath learned a wonderful lessoned today, dear Applejack.” A voice came from nowhere, a hovering Luna was watching patiently with an opossum on her noggin.
“Pri-Princess?!” Applejack squealed, nearly jumping out of her fur.
“Oh hi, Luna, I didn’t see you there.” Now everyone was staring at me. “What? We’re friends. It’s nice to see you again, in real life this time.”
“As do we, dear friend, but we feel you have some business to take care of.”
I chuckled, “That you’re right.” I landed right in front of Applejack. She looked scared but held herself firm. “I can’t forgive you,” I stated simply. Applejack took it like a buck in the gut. “Forgiveness is something that is earned not freely given. Especially forgiveness where the offending pony really did hurt the other.” A soft smile appeared on my face. “All I need you to do is respect me for the stallion I am.”
Tears began rolling down Applejack’s face, but she held firm, pushing her cowpony hat to hide her tear. “Yeah.” She choked, sniffled, and nodded. “Ah think ah can do that.” I pulled her into a hug and she fell into sobs. Fluttershy decided to join and eventually, Rainbow Dash joined in grumbling something about forgiveness.
Twilight decided to hang back seeing the friendship problem was taken care of and chat to Luna. “So why are you here?”
Luna blushed and looked away, “Tibbles ate Celestia’s cakes again.”
“How many this time?”
“Tensy-five.”
Meanwhile in Canterlot
Princess Celestia was a furious pony. She stomped everywhere searching for that rodent and her rodent-loving sister. “LUUUUUUUUNNNNNNNAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!”
Back in Ponyville
Luna shuddered and hung to Twilight like a foal to her mother, “Mind if thou let us stay here for a little while?”
“Uh sure?”
In the group hug of ponies, there was a flash of light on the flanks of a certain thestral colt. A heart-shaped golden shield with two indistinct ponies hoof bumping in the center shined brilliantly.
Bonus Chapter: A Prince needs his Cuddles, Snuggles, and Nuzzles
It was morning in the crystal castle. The birds were singing and preparing their long journey south, the cold crisp air of fall tingled on everypony’s coat, and Alexander was a very happy pony.
Alex had been busy trying to get used to his new world and new body and while there were downsides, Alex couldn’t help but squeal as he did a loop de loop around the cloud. Flying was even better than he could’ve ever imagined. The rush of cool air tickling his fur, the rush of speed as he dived down, and the euphoria of the stunts he pulled.
“Alex!” A familiar and irritating voice called out.
Alex sighed realizing his flight filled morning had just been interrupted. He banked and saw the purple pony princess flapping her wings as she floated slowly towards him, “What do you want, Twi?”
“I need some help with an experiment and Spike is had a sleepover with Big Mac so I thought I would get your help.”
Alex sighed heavily. It had been close to a week in both pony time and human time since he began living with the purple pony princess of anxiety, OCD, and books. “Fine, I’ll help you with your experiment. But I want something in return.”
The mare hugged the little thestral colt, “Great! Thank you! What do you want?”
Twilight yawed in the castle’s direction and slowly moved like a floating cloud. Alex was annoyed with Twilight’s speed. Too slow for him, then again, every pony but Rainbow was too slow for him.
I want cuddles please with lots of snuggles!
Alex bucked away the thought, “I want um, I don’t know, but I’ll tell you when I think about it.” It’s been a couple of days since Twilight stopped Alex’s punishment. The punishment of snuggles with nuzzles each time they went to sleep was wonderful and Alex will never admit that to anyone. He felt like an alcoholic who went cold turkey. Even his sleep was paying a toll from the withdrawal.
“Okay.” Twilight chirped.
The two flew inside and began their trek to the lab. The maze of corridors baffled him how anyone could possibly live here along without any more than a neurotic pony princess and a love-struck dragon. Then again both beings were love-struck. He once caught Twilight clopping the bean to a Celestia poster. He wished he could shred the memory up and light it on fire
When they reached the lab, Alex noticed the weird glasses and other pieces of chemistry equipment. “So, what do you want me to do?”
“Simple.” Twilight levitated a glass, “Drink this.”
“Uh, what is it?”
“A truth potion, it should only last an hour or so.”
Alex shrugged and took the bottle in his hooves carefully. The colt still had a problem with using his hooves but he was getting better. “Down the hatchet, it goes.” Alex gulped down the potion that tasted like apple juice. The colt burped and wiped his mouth.
The purple scientist already had her clipboard and pen floating, “So how do you feel?”
The pink colt shrugged, “I feel-” His eyes went wide, a grin split his lips apart.
“Uh, Alex?”
“MOMMY!!!” The thestral colt charged into her, knocking her down. The colt rubbed his nuzzle vigorously into Twilight's purple fur, “Mommy mommy mommy. I love you. love love you. I love you so much!!”
The princess of friendship levitated the pinky pony in the air, “Alex what’s wrong with you?” Twilight has never ever seen Alex like this before. Did the potion work? It was a truth potion but it shouldn’t work like this.
“I’m happy mommy cuz you’re here and I get to snuggle with you. I really want to snuggle with you. I wanna I wanna I wanna!”
Twilight sighed, letting go of her telekinesis, “Fine.”
“YAY!” The pink foal clung onto Twilight as the purple mare furiously wrote down notes. The foal sniffled; Twilight felt wetness on her fur. She looked down and saw the foal crying.
Twilight began rubbing the foal’s back with her wing, “What’s wrong, baby?” Twilight couldn’t contain her maternal affection any longer. Twilight tried her hardest not to mother the colt but seeing him like this smashed any control she had.
“I’m not a filly am I?” The pink foal looked at Twilight with the big lime-green eyes. Twilight lost control of her maternal instinct as the purple mare gave a little kiss on the foal’s forehead.
“Nope, you’re a dashing little prince.” The foal’s smile was so big and bright that it nearly melted Twilight. Her motherly instincts were very satisfied.
“Love you, mommy. Can I go see Mommy Flutter and Mommy Dashie?”
Twilight couldn’t really believe that Alex had just given both Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash nicknames and cute ones too. “Only if I come with you.”
“YAY!” Alex kissed his mommy on the cheek. He couldn’t stop, he couldn’t stop at all. Instead, Alex was watching as whatever possessed him was doing all those embarrassing things. Twilight said that it was a truth potion so could this small child be him? His inner desires taking form and his body. All Alexander could do was watch as Twilight and he began flying across the sky. The foal who controlled him zipping around and doing all kinds of stunts. At least they have that in common.
When they reached Fluttershy’s cottage. The little colt shot like a lightning bolt and tackled the poor butter-yellow Pegasus with the mare squeaking, “EEEP!”
“Mommy Flutters, mommy Flutters. I love you so much!!” The pink foal snuggled and nuzzled the distraught and confused yellow Pegasus.
Alex was levitated away, “Sorry Fluttershy. Alex was used as a test subject for my newest potion and well. As you can see, he’s way different.”
Fluttershy picked herself up, “Oh uh that’s fine. I was just surprised.”
“Let me go, I wanna snuggle with Mommy Flutters!” The colt cried and squirmed. Twilight sighed and let go, the colt flew right into Fluttershy who took his embrace in full.
“Oh, aren’t you a sweet little boy.” Fluttershy cooed and Alex giggled. Flutter’s eyes went to Twilight’s, “Uh how long until the potion wears off?”
“An hour I think.”
The yellow mare’s smile was soft and motherly, “Well I’ll just have to make every second count with the sweetest little boy in the whole world.” Kissing the colt right on the noggin, he giggled and nuzzled closer.
“I demand snuggles!”
“Twilight um if you don’t mind, if I snuggle Alex for a while?”
“Sure, I’ll be watching.”
“No!” The thestral colt pushed from Fluttershy “I want Mommy Twily to snuggle me too and Mommy Dashie when she gets here to snuggle me. I WANT ALL THE SNUGGLES!”
Twilight couldn’t resistant anymore as she took the foal to her chest with levitation, “All the snuggles?” She cooed.
“Yup all the snuggles! I demand it!!”
The purple mare looked to the yellow mare, “Then we shouldn’t leave our sweet little prince waiting, right Mommy Flutters?”
“Yup.” Fluttershy chirped and all three ponies strolled into the Cottage to snuggle.
Alex was a very very happy pony, but inside he was bubbling with anger with just how childish his ‘desire self’ was. He’s a soldier who has fought in war. He has killed people, watched his comrades be annihilated in front of him, and he had died himself sacrificing himself so that his men could live on. How dare this part of himself to treat him like a child!
Alex felt so wonderful and cozy as he snuggled deeper into his mommies’ embraced. He felt his eyelid become heavy as he mumbled, “I love you mommies.” And fell deep into a nap.
Fluttershy and Twilight Sparkled looked at each other. The sleeping colt was snoozing with a sweet little smile on his face. “Oh gosh, he’s too cute.” Fluttershy whispered.
“I know right, I can’t believe the potion is doing this.”
“The way he calls me Mommy Flutter melts me.”
“He cried about being a filly and was so happy when I told him that he’s a sweet little colt.”
“He’s just too adorable.”
“I’m not sure what’s that potion did to him. Did… Did the truth potion pulled out his inner desire?” Twilight and Fluttershy looked expectantly.
“Fluttershy!” A very family voice called out.
Fluttershy hates having to get up, “Ssshhhh, Rainbow, the foal is sleeping.”
“Foal?”
A pink burst of speed zoomed from the bed and glopped the Columbian blue speedster. “MOMMY DASHIE!!!! I love you I love you I love you!!!!!!” The pink foal nuzzled, snuggled, and cuddled her third mommy. “I –kiss on right cheek—love –kiss on left cheek—you –kiss on forehead—.” Then a flurry of kisses pelted the poor mare all over her face. The colt found himself floating again.
“Sorry, Rainbow, Alex took a potion, and now he’s like this.” Twilight elaborated
Rainbow Dash just laid there frozen. She had only known Alex for a week or so and while she did find him adorable, never thought of herself as a mother or even a sister. She was just a friend to Alex. Now, something inside had awoken. “Uh Dashie?” Fluttershy’s voice was a whisper.
Rainbow blinked, stood up, and shook herself off. “I’m fine… just surprised.”
The colt was still levitating put his forelegs on his hips, “Now that Mommy Dashie is here, we can have a cuddle party!” He exclaimed.
“Cuddle… party?” Dash asked still in shock.
“Yup! I get to cuddle all my mommies. Mommy Twily, Mommy Flutters, and Mommy Dashie! It’ll be so awesome!!”
Somehow, the pink foal had broken out of Twilight telekinesis and had practically dragged all his mommies to the bedroom. “I demand-” The thestral colt stopped, his eyes as big as saucers.
“Um, Alex? You okay baby?” Fluttershy wrapped a wing around him.
“Yeah,” Twilight wrapped a wing another around him, “We can snuggle as much as you want.”
Rainbow hesitant but her motherly instincts were kicking in, “Um, we can snuggle as much as you want, squirt.”
Alex’s coat turned from light peach pink to peach pink then to red. His voice was quiet as a whisper, “Yes please.” The potion was wearing off but deep inside him he still desired one thing. To be cuddled by his mommies.
It was said later that day, that the sonic boom and screaming broke all the windows in Ponyville and Canterlot combine, and even broke many of the Princesses’ expensive Neighpon ware along with Luna’s glass shoes. Poor Luna keeps having her glass shoes broken.
“He moved at sonic speeds as the whole air around him turned to lightning. His blue contrail looked like a lightning bolt shattering through the sky. He didn’t stop, he barely tried to slow down as he pulled up for a quick airbrake and smashed into the earth, lightning crackling around him, a good size crater left in his wake. I may be the best flier of all of Equestria but I’ve never seen such power or daringness to do such a dangerous landing!” Rainbow Dash retold for the fifsy-fifth time. “After all the mushy gushy stuff, that’s when I saw it, his cutie mark.” She gestured to my flank which now bared a heart-shaped golden shield that had the silhouettes of two ponies hoof bumping as I felt an embarrassed heat fill my face. I scowled at Rainbow and the rainbow-maned speedster smiled innocently.
“Wow, that’s awesome!!” Scootaloo buzzed.
“It wasn’t awesome, I had to keep two of my friends from killing each other. Nothing cool about it.” I dismissed.
“I don’t know, Alex. You were like one of those heroines in those old ponytales, coming to rescue her friends even though they got into a fight.” Sweetiebell said thoughtfully.
“Yeah, you're kinda like a superhero in those comics Spike reads.” Applebloom agreed.
It’s been more than a week since the incident with Applejack. Things have mostly gotten back to normal. Twilight and Fluttershy still give AJ some scowls here and there but they’re just being overprotective for no reason. They’re starting to feel like my mothers with how they treat me. I sighed, “Thanks girls but at the moment, it wasn’t as fun as it sounds.” I looked to Rainbow, “Was I really crackling with lightning.”
“Yup! Ask Twilight and Applejack, they saw the same thing I did. Did you think I’d lied to you?”
“No, but I do think you’re really good at embellishing a story.”
“Alex?” Applebloom called.
“Yes, sweetheart?” The two other crusaders snickered.
“I’m older than you!”
I’m tensy-three years old legally speaking. Nine years old in human numbers. Celestia had apologized for this wishing she could make me older but my appearance was still way too young, at best she could pass me off as a late bloomer. “Only if you count in pony years. Now, what is it?” A snort came out of every pony in the vicinity.
“Do you think you’ll be going to school soon?”
“I should be in next semester. Not sure what class I’ll be in, but they have a test set up for me tomorrow to test me on my knowledge.” I smirked. “The princess of overthinking has been trying to get me ready for the test. Actually, I’m here because Twilight is trying to make me study.”
The crusader treehouse door was bucked opened, “ALEXANDER!!!!”
I was already by the window, “Welp, that’s my cue, been fun, gotta go. Bye Twi.” And I zipped off, leaving a contrail in my wake.
“When I get my hands on that colt, I am going to teach him EVERY. SINGLE. THING!!!” Twilight roared at the azure sky.
“Luv ya too, Twi!”
“AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!”
Today was a pretty good day so far all considering. Sure, Twilight will probably kill me tonight when I get home and maybe I do have some big important test that will either place me with either intolerable children or somewhat tolerable children. The alphabet is the same thing as mine back home, and while the number system is a little odd to get used to it’s not that hard to figure out. My biggest problem is general knowledge and mouth writing. My mouth writing is more legible chicken scratch but still chicken scratch and my knowledge of Equestria history is a little shaky. And normally that wouldn’t be a big deal, I’m used to studying to learn new things but Twilight has been an obstacle. She um well she’s trying to teach me EVERYTHING, and well I don’t need to know everything just history. The mouth writing is gonna take some time to learn.
If all else fails on those fronts I’ll just claim that how thestrals teach history and how Equestrian ponies teach history are two different beasts. Not like anyone is out there to challenge my claim, and my claims will be somewhat truthful.
Everything looked a little too bright today. Actually, so bright that I didn’t see the tree as I smacked face-first into it. I’ll never know how I can survive unscathed the most dangerous stunts. It’s odd. I stood up and shook myself off the grass. I found myself staring at a dark blue thestral with light blue hair and a full moon cutie mark with a little fishing rod in the middle. “Hi Luna.” I dusted myself off.
“Hello, dear Alex! Thou look well today!”
“Well considering that Twilight was forcing me to study non-stop for the last few days, I can’t help but feel a little better with getting away from all of that.
“We see, dear Twilight means well but she has clear anxiety problems.”
“Considering the number of lists she makes, throw OCD into it.” I blocked the brightness of the day with a hoof. “Hey Luna, why is everything so darn bright?”
“Elementary, thestrals were designed to see in the dark.”
“Designed?”
“Yes, we designed them when we were but a youngling.”
I blinked, “I feel like I’m missing something here.”
“Oh, does thou not know that we alicorns are goddess?”
“You mean in the metaphorical sense, right?”
Luna chuckled and shook her head, “No, dear Alex, when we created the Nyxlio, we designed them to be mostly nocturnal with the exception of the Aldeer.”
“Uh, Nih-khee-lo?”
“Close, but to continue, we wanted something similar to our sister but something that was more unique and creative. This is why we created the Kirins, Thestrals, and Aldeer.”
“So you’re telling me that ponies and nyxlio were created by Celestia and you?”
Luna had a massive smile on her face, “Yes, dear Alex. Though Celestia didn’t create ponies, our mother did, Celestia only upgraded them. We also feel that we should find a spot. Maybe something to eat while we dive into this great lore.” The princess’s belly grumbled, “Thy princess desires food!”
“Fine, sheesh.”
It wasn’t long before we found ourselves in a restaurant, the princess gorging herself on a mini feast of food. I was already full after eating my hayburger. “So uh, Luna, what’s this about the nyxlio?”
“nishiwo?” Luna swallowed, “There is not much to the story really. Sister had taken the pony portfolio from mother and we wanted our own race portfolio so we created the nyxlio.”
“So you had a mother? What was she like?”
“Meh, we like to think our true mother is our big sister.” I guess even goddesses have family issues. “Don’t tell Tia we said that.”
I kept my hooves cross, “Of course.” I am so telling Tia that Luna said that.
“So, I already kinda get the thestrals but what about the other two.”
“Kirins are hard to describe. Kirins can be best described as a pony with a lion mane and tail with an odd sort of horn. We would turn into one if we could but we’re in public.”
The picture in my head looked more like a nightmare than anything, “Okay, what about Aldeer?”
“They are more deer but as strong and as stout as earth ponies.” Wow, very original, Luna. “Neither Kirin nor Aldeer have cutie marks we should mention.”
“And why do Thestrals have cutie marks?”
Luna had a guilty look on her face, “Well, we could not for the life of us figure out how cutie marks work until Kirins and Aldeer were already settled into this world. We feel somewhat bad but both races survived even after the War of the Long Night and my banishment, so we do not feel they need cutie marks to be any less special.” She ended on a strong note, looking very smug and adorable in her thestral disguise.
“So, what are the kirin and aldeer up to now? Do you know anything about their culture?”
“Well um we uh…” Luna lowered her head in shame, “No, we feel that they are better off without us being their goddess.”
“That isn’t true, maybe if you reconnect with them like you did with thestrals, they’ll accept you as their goddess again?”
“We do not know. We’re terrified that they will reject us, but thank you dear Alex. You are a true friend.”
“I try to be.”
“ALEXANDER!!!”
“Oh po-” Oh, ponyfeathers, I was paralyzed by magic.
Twilight came into view. Her eyes were twitching rapidly and her mane was an absolute mess. “I. FOUND. YOU! We’re going to have so much fun learning! EVERY. THING.” The pink pony princess of friendship cackled like a classic villain. “Now come, we have no time to waste.” She levitated me along, bringing me to my doom. I looked to Luna for help with my eyes but she was gorging herself on food. That bitch.
I wasn’t unparalyzed until we got back to the castle’s library where Twilight put up magical barriers all along anywhere, I can fly or trotter out of. There was the damn desk that I’ve had to sit in for days now. I sighed and took a seat.
The purple pony princess of friendship was looking like she was about to have to be tranquilized and thrown in the asylum. “Uh Twilight, I get that you want me to pass the test and everything but why are you stressing? It’s just a placement test.”
“JUST a placement test?” Twilight grimace insanely, grinding her teeth in the process, “JUST a placement test?”
“Uh yeah?”
“There’s no such thing as a placement test! Don’t you realize that if you fail this you won’t get in!!!”
“I don’t think this is an ivy league, Twi.”
“Ivy… league?” Her madness halted out of curiosity.
“Yeah, Ivy league schools are universities that are prestigious and the best of the best. I used to live in Boston as a bartender for a while near the schools. You wouldn’t believe what kind of stuck up; snooty rich kids come to get hammered.” There was a pin and paper floating in the air, scribbling everything I just mentioned down. “Wait, are you writing this?”
“Go on.”
“Uh, I don’t know. I prefer to continue our study session even though it’ll be the most useless session alive.”
“STUDYING ISN’T USELESS!!!”
“I didn’t say studying is useless, I’m meaning that the content we’re studying is useless. I mean why are we studying etymology? I don’t think knowing about bugs will help me pass the placement test.”
Twilight deflated, “Oh.” Whatever madness that had taken her today was gone.
I sighed heavily, leapt out of my chair, and hugged the purple mare. “It’s okay, I know you’re just trying to help.”
The lavender eyes were heavy up with tears, “I just wanted you to pass and- and impress Celestia on how well I’m taking care of you.”
I rubbed her back with my wings, “Oh sweetheart, you already impress Celestia enough. She very proud of her and Luna says that when you’re mention she lights up more brilliantly than the sun itself.”
Twilight wiped away her tears, “Really?” Her voice was soft and child-like. She starred at me with those big lavender eyes with hope. Twilight may be a neurotic clutz with too much magic for her own good but she is adorable when she wants to be.
“Yup, if you don’t believe me, ask Luna herself. Celestia adores you. Actually, I think she’d love it if you come with me to the tea, we’re having on the third of the twensith.” I noticed that the barriers were down. I began taking hesitant steps towards the nearest window.
“That would be great!” I was smothered in purpleness, receiving a bunch of kisses all along my cheeks and forehead.
“Twilight!” I growled.
The purple mare hopped back, “Sorry.”
“Remember what we talked about?”
“That I’m not your mother and even if I have maternal feelings for you, I shouldn’t act on it because you feel incredibly uncomfortable even though you really enjoy cuddles and snuggles and you still can’t sleep properly after I called your snuggle punishment off?”
I scowled at her, “Yeah, that one.”
“Sorry!”
I sighed, “You were just excited, it’s fine.” I smiled, “If I was told that I was seeing Astrid, I would be dancing with joy.”
“Astrid?”
“Er nothing important. How ‘bout we get some ice cream or something to celebrate our meeting with Tia?”
“Sure- er wait.” I gave her a big smile and she glared at me. “We still have studying to do.”
“We do? I thought we decided that the content for the study session was useless?”
“Yes, but I can always make changes.” Twilight smiled maliciously.
I gulped, “%$#@!”
It was the afternoon, Twilight finally let me out of her study prison to stretch my wings and take a walk around. I decided to fly to the school since I kind of want to tour around the place to see what’s up.
It was a short flight, well short for me as my flying speed had gotten a boost since getting my cutie mark. Much be more magic nonsense again. Twilight tried explaining it to me but the best I could come up with was magical shmagical ‘it just works’ nonsense. It seems cutie marks are more than just showing your special talent, you gain some kind of advantage over those who don’t have your cutie mark. I haven’t been able to repeat breaking the sound barrier yet or the ‘crackling lightning’ that followed me around since a week ago.
I landed softly in front of the entrance. The school was in construction it seemed. Twilight had mentioned a bit ago that when she first got here the school was just a single house but now it was bigger, better funded, and had more teachers than before to compensate for Ponyville’s growth and projected growth. Okay, maybe I listened in a little bit too long during one of Twi’s random lectures but it was interesting enough.
I entered and was greeted with the Ponyville flag and a picture of three familiar fillies at some kind of Olympics-like thing. At least I think it’s an Olympics-like thing. Anyway, the school was a little odd, some parts looked new while other parts looked older. This is so much better compared to the single schoolhouse I used to go to as a child. I mean it looks like it can actually hold up against the wind!
Voices echoed down the hall. Despite my awesome hearing, the echoes were too mixed together so I trotted down to get a better clue what I’m hearing.
“Paleo, I do appreciate you taking the time to meet me. I’ve been wondering what you’ve been doing since becoming the Royal Archeologist.” It was that uh purplish-red mare um what’s her name. She’s the school teacher that’s been here since the beginning, I think. Uuuh cherry? Sherry? No no, not right.
“I’m glad to be here, Cheerilee! It’s been a while since college. How have you been?” Mr. Paleo replied cheerfully. I guess I got here at the beginning of their conversation. How lucky am I.
“I’ve been fine, things between Zecora and me have been great! Since the school has been getting bigger, we’ve got all sorts of new fresh faces. What have you been up to lately?”
“Oh, just some assignment to investigate the Castle of the Two Sisters. You have no idea what kind of secrets the place has. Hidden rooms, disguised doors, the thing feels like they came out of those old horror flicks we used to watch when we were bored. Not to mention some of the oldest books still look like they had just been printed. Why we hadn’t taken a gander around that old castle, I’ll never know.”
“That’s amazing! I’m glad you’re having so much fun! I know that a while ago a massive aurora was over the Everfree and a few of the elements had done an investigation to find the source.”
“Did they ever? I know some of our mages have been really excited when they were searching the place for magic. Something about a new kind of magic that no one has ever seen before.”
“I can’t give you all the details but I do know on that day after the aurora happened Pinkie held a party for a thestral filly.”
“A thestral filly. What’s her name?”
I strolled in, “My name is Alexander and I’m a colt.”
The two jumped at my sudden entrance. “Oh hi, uh Alexander, I didn’t see you there.” Cheerilee sheepishly laughed. “What are you doing here?”
I gave her a big grin, “Decided to take a little scouting mission to get the idea of the place before I take that placement test.”
“So you’re the pony who we were just talking about?” A white stallion with a white mane and red-eye was eyeing me with curiosity.
“Yes, sir, I am. And as you can see, I am most definitely not a filly.” My voice coming off as syrupy sweet. “My name is Alexander by the way.” Putting a hoof out.
The albino stallion shook it, “Paleo. Pleased to meet you. Have you been in town long?”
“A week or so ago. I haven’t really been counting, been too busy doing other things.” I then deadpanned, “Like studying.”
“Ah, hitting those books, I’m sure you’ll be a fantastic scholar.”
“And I’m certain that I’m going to hit Twilight with a book if she so dares make me sit down for another one of her study sessions.” I grumbled.
“Now Alexander, that is not a nice thing to say. If someone said it to you what would you think?” Cheerilee scolded.
I snorted and gave a smug grin, “I’d say to bring it on and make sure you don’t miss your mark.” For some reason I was angry, I have no idea why I’m angry but I’m angry. Maybe it was stuck being in Twilight’s stupid study session or the fact someone called me a filly again or was it the blaring fucking sunlight that blinded me to the point that all I could do was use my ears. What the hell are all these rooms made of, mirrors? I’m sure the school teacher was glaring at me, “Hey, I’m not one to chicken out on a challenge. Friendship may be the Equestrian way and while I appreciate a good friend, but I don’t mind knocking some heads.” Shrugging. “Also, what in the world are these classrooms made of, I’m almost blind as a bat. Do any of you have sunglasses?”
Paleo, “Uh sorry, Alexander-”
“Alex is fine.”
Paleo, “Yes, sorry Alex, I don’t have any sunglasses.”
“Welp, I’m gonna go buy some, bye.” I flew off right into a wall. “I’m fine!” And picked myself up and flew off.
“Uh that was interesting. Is she- er he going to be at this school?”
“Yup.” Cheerilee realized two things about Alexander. First, he was not a filly and she felt guilty for calling him so. Second, the boy has a temper and a bit aggressive. She did hear about him being the one that caused the second sonic boom and the one who put that crater, and also picked and won a fight against both Rainbow Dash and Applejack, but he’s just a foal, there’s no way a foal can be that strong and the stories must be exaggerated. After all, it was Rainbow Dash who was telling them. Were they exaggerated? Cheerilee was about to find out next semester.
Touching down in the center of Ponyville, I flopped onto a bench. I’d lay on a cloud but it’s a clear day, curse Rainbow and the weather team. It’s been about an hour since my hunt for sunglasses and it seems like no store or anything has sunglasses, Filthy Rich’s general store has no sunglasses. Apparently, they’re out of stock. What’s worse is tomorrow I’m having that test. Why does everything so damn bright? It’s so frustrating that I wanna- I wanna “UUUURRRRGGG!” I smacked a hoof into the bench, fortunately, the bench was ston, unfortunately, I left a crack in it.
Ponies were beginning to stare and some even glared, “Hahaha, uh I’m gonna go now.” I took to the skies. Maybe Luna has some Sunglasses?
“Sorry, dear Alex, but we left all our sunglasses in Canterlot.” Luna spoke, lying lazily in the grass. She was out of her thestral form and back to the same old, childish alicorn I knew her as.
“Then why not we go back and get it?”
Luna’s eyes widen and shook her head vigorously. “Tia will have us killed!”
“Oh come on, Tia is one of the nicest ponies I know, I’m sure she’ll forgive you for Tibbles’s appetite.”
Luna had a look on her face that told me maybe Tia isn’t the nicest pony, “Thou remembers when we said that we are goddess?”
“Uh yeah?”
“Well, we cannot die or be killed in any usual fashion.”
“Okay.”
“But we can get hurt and even be decapitated. And last time we made Tia furious, she grabbed a spear and kept stabbing us with it. It hurt, a lot. Sometimes she cuts our head off as a joke and of course there are times where we have turned her into mincemeat.”
“Oh, I see, so she’ll torture you because of Tibbles.”
“Mhmm.”
“Being a goddess must be weird.”
“Tell us about it.”
I put a thinking hoof on my chin, “Maybe if we sneak in there, grab the sunglasses, and go without Tia ever noticing.”
“Hmmm, that might work, dear Alex! The Royal Guard is so much lazier now than before I was banished. Our best soldiers are the Wild Hunt but they are Navy, not Guard.” Luna flew up and hoof pumped, “Huzzah! Adventure awaits!”
Meanwhile in Location Location Location
The nice warm, cozy cottage sat covered in snow, puffs of smoke rose out of the chimney. Inside the cottage lays a light pink peach mare with chocolate hair. Her gold eyes twinkled a reflection of the fire and of her small filly who cuddled up cozily, snuggling into her mother for warmth and safety. Fruitfly stroked a gentle wing to the back of the filly. Her coat the same shade of pink but with her wife’s metallicish blue hair. The sweet little filly fluttered her lime-green eyes awake.
“Oh, did I wake ya, sweet gurl?” The chocolate-mane mare’s alpine accent was lighter than most.
The filly shook her head in her mother’s fur, “No, mummy.” She snuggled in closer, the filly eye’s danced with the fire.
The mare observed her beautiful little daughter. She was a perfect combination of both her mother and her in almost every way. Fruitfly wanted to stay like this forever. “Sweet Victory?” The mother’s voice soft and so full of love and endearment.
Sweet Victory looked up, “Yes, mummy?”
The mare smiled, “I love you.”
The filly’s smile was so dazzling that Fruitfly’s world lit brighter than the sun. “I luv you too, mummy.” She nuzzled against her mother, “I luv you sooo much, mummy!”
Fruitfly nuzzled back, “Oh you’re such a sweet lass.” The mare’s eyes glassed around, “Now where’s your mother, she’s supposed to be here with food.”
Right then the door opened, revealing Nachtfyre. Her beautiful long, metallicish blue mane shivered from the cold. She carried in a cart of ingredient for fish n’ chips. “Oi, Ah’m home!” She announced, “Cum take this bookin’ cart before Ah freeze to death.” She then whined.
Fruitfly rolled her eyes as her daughter giggled, “You ain’t gonna freeze to death, ya silly filly. Now cum ‘ere and gif me a smooch.” Fruitfly kissed her lover, the tingles and warmth that filled her to the brim nearly took her breath away. The earthy smell of a good day’s work nearly turned poor Fruitfly into puddy. Everything felt wonderful in her lover’s hooves.
“Ew!” Victory exclaimed, her tongue sticking out.
Nachtfyre took off her harness and picked the little filly up by one arm as Victory squealed, “Aye, it is ew but one day you’re gonna be doin’ the same with your lover and we’ll be yelling ew too.” Nacht kissed the filly on the forehead as she giggled, “Now, young lassy, have you been doin’ your winter schoolwork?” The filly’s face scrunched up, “Aye, that’s what Ah thought. Now, let’s go do sum homework while mummy cooks us a delicious dinner.”
Fruitfly and Nachtfyre’s relationship nearly fell apart when Nacht came out about her true self. It had been a tough road, but a road she’d gladly canter forth no matter how many times. Now she got to see her handsome wife and beautiful daughter together. It really is a dream come true.
In real life again
The sound of cowbells played too close for her sensitive ears. Fruitfly found herself with tear stains on her sheets and wet eyes that seemed to grow wetter as time passed. She’s been having this dream over and over. Albeit different in some ways. Mostly the setting. Sometimes it was taking Sweet Victory flying for the first time or taking her how to cook or her going off to college. Each time mare cried endlessly, having to keep her sobs quiet so that her bunkmates don’t notice.
Fruitfly was back in the night guard after taking a few sick days to do the fertility tests. A burst of tears was going to push their way through, but the mare choked them down and got up and ready for the night.
The pink mare had gotten back into her routine and every night was like this. She was woken up by cowbell which still let her ears ringing. The mare throws on her armor and makes a mess hall run. Then the changing of the night guard happened at thirsy o’clock sharp. They all normally stand with their platoon leader, a unicorn by the name of Dark Burst, roll calls making sure that everyone was awake and ready for guarding.
Fruitfly exhaled deeply, “Tanite is one of those nites, an’t it?”
Back to Luna and our boy
“How –pant— much longer –pant— is it –pant—?” I panted, my throat was dry and my wings were burning.
“We are almost there, dear friend, please hold on a little longer.”
“O —pant—k —pant—.” It had been a little more than three hours since we took flight. Despite being able to break through the sound barrier, distance flying was a totally different ballgame from stunt flying and racing. Twilight had mentioned in her happy rant about meeting Celestia that it only took an hour by train. I really wish we were on a train about right now. It would’ve been a lot easier to put on disguises, take a train, and sneak in that way but Luna insisted that flying our way would be better.
Fortunately, Canterlot was in view. Of course, we can see the castle in the mountain from Ponyville but seeing it in the gorgeous sunset was breathtaking.
It was just a glide down before we were over the city. The architecture was a lot more unique with a more renaissance kind of look. Ponies closed for the day while other ponies opened for the night. It wasn’t really anything more special than what I’ve already been to. Luna had changed to her thestral form and we decided to take a break at a café. I was a sponge to each they gave me.
“So, what’s the plan?”
Luna took a bite of her sundae, “We wait.”
I sighed, “Luna, I really need to get back home. I have a test tomorrow and Twilight is going to kill me if I’m not back before midnight.”
Luna smirked, “So Twilight is thy mother now?”
“What?! NO! She isn’t, she’s has big OCD brain that can’t take it when things don’t go according to plan. Which is why she makes fifsy-five other plans and contingencies.”
“We think that is more of severe anxiety than OCD.”
“Whatever the point is while she can be lenient, she still does the twitchy thing she does with her eye when I do something she doesn’t like.”
“She cares about you, dear Alex.”
“I know but I wish she saw me as an adult and not a child.”
“To be fair, unless they have seen thy dreams or know what thy past was, it will be hard for them to think of you anything but a foal. Thou make for one cute foal though.”
“Whatever, if we’re gonna be stuck here waiting can I ask more questions about the nyxlio. Specifically, about thestrals.”
“What about them?”
“I noticed that I’m stronger and more durable than I was before turning into a pony. I mean I should’ve been a pony splat on the ground several times over but all I have is sore limbs and big bruises. Why is that? Not to mention that Twilight, Rainbow, and Applejack all said that they saw lighting crackling around me. I am kind of lost on my abilities.”
Luna sighed and sat back in her seat, “We shall start at the beginning.” Luna took a deep breath letting out a long exhale. “We did not create thestrals technically.”
“You didn’t create them then how did they get here?”
“Thou see that during the War of the Long Night, we needed more fliers to fight against the Celestia’s pegasus army, but we had no more fliers than we already had. So, we decided to change our pegasi followers. We wanted to reward them with power and ability. So, we made them thestrals.”
“Okay, explains somethings but go on.”
“Most ponies do not know that thestrals were designed for war. We made them as tough and strong as earth ponies and better wings to out maneuver their former pegasi brethren.” Luna let out a breath, “We designed the thestrals to be as strong as all three pony races. To be just as strong as earth ponies, to be faster and more agile than the average pegasi, and to have a resistance against unicorn magic. However, there were downsides, in order to properly replenish their strong magical abilities, we had to turn them omnivores. Their fertility rate was much slower than ponies’. Most of them couldn’t touch the clouds or move the weather. Then there some of the more minor problems they had.”
“Like what?”
“Well, thou hath already experienced it. Sensitive to loud noises, sensitive to bright lights, their wings can easily be punctured through leaving them flightless until they heal. Then it’s their colors.” Luna sighed, “Their colors are so dark and dreary. Many of them couldn’t hope to pose as normal ponies.” Luna gazed into the distance, “We worry that they won’t ever be accepted by society.”
A ping of empathy bounced around my body. Thestrals are starting to remind me of black people, maybe not so overt and terrible, but still just as bad. “But I’m just as colorful as normal ponies and while most scowl at me like I’m some kind of thief most seem to like me well enough. Not to mention that I can touch the clouds, and accidentally put dents in both the ground and a crack in a bench. That’s all of them, right?”
Luna nodded and smiled.
“Then I have all the thestral abilities and more.” I took a thoughtful hoof to my child. “Wait, doesn’t this make me some kind of overpowered protagonist or something?”
Luna shrugged and smugly smirked, “If it pleases thou better, we can always spar again. We art certain thou will learn that there is always a bigger fish.”
“Thanks for your wonderful input, Luna, in reminding me that I’m just a bug in a world filled with bears.” Remind me to never pick a fight with a goddess again.
“Thou art welcome!” The dark blue goddess sung with a ‘cat caught the canary’ grin on her face.
If she wasn’t so adorable, why I oughta… I sighed and saw the moon lazily rising. “I think it’s time to get this party started.”