Chapter 1 - Chance Encounter

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“Finally done.” A tired smile gracing your face as you gaze over your work. After a gruelling morning working in the rare British summer sun, the garden was cleared and tidy. The lawn had been mowed, the flowers clipped and the bushes trimmed. It looked wonderful. A testament to your hard work, or perhaps your boredom. Either way, it looks good now that it’s not all over the place like a forgotten jungle. As you admire your work, your hands come together and your fingers absentmindedly play with your wedding band on your left hand.

“Still plenty of day left,” you quip, looking into the sky. Not a cloud in sight. You head inside and get a blanket to place on the patio. There’s nothing like a nice nap in the afternoon sun. Who knows when it’ll come out again? Your tattered shorts and plain shirt cling slightly to you as you unfold the blanket and lay it down. Deciding to remove your shirt, you set it up as a makeshift pillow. Removing your work sandals, you lay down on the blanket. Your eyes briefly watch to the sky, making sure no clouds are in the air, before your eyes finally start to set and you drift off in the warm embrace of the light.

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A shadow passes over your face, causing a groan to escape your lips as you are brought back to the waking world. Your eyes flutter open, adjusting to your surroundings as you slowly sit up.

You rub your face and free your eyes from the last remnants of sleep. “Ugh, stupid trees. Getting in the way of my sun… Wait.” You pause your movements as your eyes dart open.

Trees? Trees? There are no trees around the house.

Your hand drops and you finally get a good look around. You weren’t imagining it. You are surrounded on all sides by lush, vibrant trees. Your head turns in all directions, scanning the strange clearing you have found yourself in. The fresh forest smell is clean and gentle as it assaults your nose. Your hands grasp the soft, warm grass that you are sitting on and you look down, noticing the second difference in as many minutes. Your clothes have changed. You jump to your feet to get a better look at yourself. No longer sporting the tattered work shorts, your legs are clad in long material trousers. Black and loose fitting, they allow for better movement than more common clothing. Your feet embraced by what appear to be sturdy work boots, though as you flex and bend your feet, you notice their flexibility and comfort. Passing further up, your bare torso has been draped in a plain black shirt. But what catches your eye is the coat on top. A long emerald green trench coat covers your shoulders and arms, stretching down to your shins.

“These aren’t mine,” you mutter to yourself. “I must be dreaming.” You tap your face lightly, somehow hoping it would wake you up. A gentle breeze informs you that you’re still in the clearing. Lifting your arm, you grab the skin on your hand and close your eyes, pinching yourself hard. That should work.

A few seconds pass before you let go of your skin. You’re still in the clearing, now with a pain on your hand.

“I’m not dreaming.” You rub the back of your hand as your fingers join together, a familiar cold sensation as your fingers glide over your ring. Your chest starts to tighten as you try to draw in breath. Blood pounds in your ears. You keep looking left and right, forward and back. Hoping, praying for some sort of –

“Ahhhhhh!!”

You freeze. Your ears twitch at the shattering cry and your snaps to the direction it came from. It sounded like –

“HEEEELP!!”

Without thought, your body darts into the trees, heading towards the cries. Using your arms to brush any low hanging branches aside, your legs carry you forward. You feel your heart start to race as you speed through the trees until the ground beneath your feat turns to rock. You slow at the top of a small rocky overhang, the ground below catching your eye as the sounds of growling, as well as faint whimpering from below.

Without pausing, you step off the overhang and fall the short way to the ground below, landing with a strong thud as your knees bend to lessen the impact, one resting on the ground along with your hand in order to stabilize yourself so you don’t tumble over.

Silence greets you. It’s too quiet. As though the entire forest and all its denizens are holding their breath, just to see what will happen next. You look up from your position, only to be greeted with a… wolf? No time to think, you stand, reaching your full height and towering over the strange creature. A quick darting glance shows two more of these creatures behind the first. If they are wolves, then there will be more around.

The creatures appear to be eyeing you up, unsure what to make of the strange thing that just fell from the sky into their path. An option forms swiftly in your mind. One chance before things go wrong. You release a low growl from your throat, baring your teeth at the creatures like a wild animal. With a sudden jolt, your leg slams forward into the ground, your arms rapidly raising up to increase your size and your throat releases the growl it was building up. “Rrrrrargh!”

The creatures turn on the spot and dart into the cover of the forest.

“Huh,” you breathe in surprise, lowering your arms. “It worked.” A smile passes over your face as you straighten yourself up. You turn around to face the one you saved. And stare straight back at the boulder. Confusion spreads over you as you look left and right. You’re sure there was someone here.

Your thoughts take a nervous turn. Oh no, I wasn’t too late was I? A slight whimper from beneath you seemingly gives you an answer. You look down, only to be met by six big eyes atop the surprisingly large heads of three tiny horses. Or ponies, maybe? Despite their cartoonish nature, they look very young. They could possibly be children, so maybe foals is a better way to describe them. You take a moment to breathe and evaluate the scene before you.

Huddled together, ears bent down their heads and trembling out of what you presume is fear. On one side, a white pony with a purple and pink mane and tail. Its large green eyes look up at you with a mixture of terror and panic. A small horn poking through the ponies’ hair. On the other side is an orange pony sporting a fuchsia mane and tail, its small wings clutching close to its chest. Staring up at you with grey eyes hiding a dash of purple, showcasing the same fear.

And positioned in the middle, clutching the other two, is a pale yellow pony, graced with a red mane and tail, sporting a large pink bow. Orange eyes displaying a sense of dread as it tries to bring the other two closer into the huddle.

Wait a minute, you ponder as you re-examine the three foals. Horn? Wings? Is that a Unicorn and Pegasus then? But, they are myths. And a bow? What is this?

Your mind starts racing again. Confused thoughts crossing every which way of your mind as your breathing starts to slow. You try to form a sentence as your mind tries to fit the information into this strange puzzle with no picture. “Err-“

That was it. That’s all you got out before two of the foals pass out. The eyes of the white and orange foals close as a gasp escapes their lips, and they collapse into the huddle. The yellow foal struggling to hold them together.

“P… p… please don’t eat us.” The foal whimpered, in a distinctly female voice heavy with a southern accent.

Your mouth sits slightly agape as your brain tries to processes the new information. She talked… in a… southern accent? And she has a bow? This is get – Your ears twitch. Something is watching you. The foals’ ears start to swivel around her head, as though searching for an unknown presence. The snapping of a twig all but confirms what yours, and the fillies, instincts were telling you. Talking will have to wait.

You quickly squat down and grasp the still awake filly around her midsection, causing her to emit a cute ‘eep’ of surprise before placing her on your shoulder. She grips you as tight as she can with her hooves, which is surprising considering they don’t have any digits on them, as you reach under her fainted friends and bring them to your chest. Standing up, you secure the fainted foals to your chest and holding them tightly around their barrels. Their heads and front legs flop down over your arms. Turning away from the rocky overhang, you look onto your new path. With nothing in your way, you will your legs to move and make a hasty retreat from the area.

Chapter 2 - Zebra of the Forest

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Sunlight dances through the treetops softly illuminating the path before you. You continue your stride, gaining as much distance from those creatures as you can, fighting hard against your instincts to break into a run. Such an action could cause provocation and display fear which would make you look weak. If such logic even applies to those… Things.

Your ears slowly fill with the rustling of leaves as a cool wind blows down the path and the sound of birds echo above you in the canopies. These sounds give you pause as your stride slows to a halt. The filly draped over your shoulder turns her head slightly to look at you, as you close your eyes and let out a deep sigh of relief. You can’t feel any hostile eyes on you anymore, which means those creatures chose not to pursue. With that thought bringing a small smile to your lips, you open your eyes again and look at the path in front of you.

The forest remains as dense as your initial run though. It feels as though the forest is alive, and it has no intention of letting you or anyone else leave. But a slither of hope appears, as despite the claustrophobic atmosphere under the canopy, the path you are on appears to have been used before. The bushes are pushed aside and some of the trees have had their lower branches broken. The grass and dirt on the ground is a different shade to the areas on the edge, faded and disturbed, obvious marks of being trodden and trampled relatively frequently.

After your moments break you push forward again.

You glance down at the foals in your arms. They appear to be breathing, but are still unconscious. If the circumstances we different, you would think that they were just asleep. Glancing down every so often to make sure they aren’t slipping out of your arms, you smile softly. You feel the pale yellow filly on your shoulder make some strange movements with her mouth every so often. It seems to you like she wants to say something but can’t find the words, so she just ends up looking like a fish out of water. Whenever her mouth closes, she turns her head away from you. It’s a strange feeling, having a pony too embarrassed to talk. As you reposition the passengers in your arms, you start to properly feel their weight for the first time. Though they aren’t too heavy, with your body relaxing you can feel your arms ache and strain keeping them up.

Thank you digital age, you think to yourself. I am so out of shape. Your mind travels back with thoughts home. With the advent of technology, mechanical processes and computers, manual labour was not as common as it once was. Even on farms you have tractors and machines to help you out. This made a healthy lifestyle more of a choice than a way of life. One you had been mostly neglecting. When I get back, I am so gonna get into shape, this is ridiculous.

“Oh. That way.” Your chance to reminisce gets interrupted by the filly on your shoulder, who had found her voice at last. Turning your head towards her, she points her hoof towards another path just up ahead. You stop to look at it. The path she’s pointing at looks like it had been cleared, but since became overgrown again as though its use was rare. You turn your head and look at her, meeting her large gaze. “Um. Please?” she adds meekly, shaking a little as though afraid you get angry. You just smile at her and nod, proceeding down the new path.

The branches hang lower on this path as you duck and weave slightly to avoid them hitting you or your new charges, your feet kicking up some small loose rocks. This time it’s your turn to play the fish as you open your mouth to say something to your passenger. Something comforting. Anything.

It should not be this hard to say hello. “I’m not going to eat you.” Or “ I don’t know where I am.” Or just introduce yourself! Ask for her name! Why is it so hard?! Your thoughts travel a million miles a minute as your mouth opens and closes repeatedly. A drop of sweat travels down your back, sending a shiver up your spine as your breathing increases. You consider stopping for a quick rest but the filly suddenly perks up and points straight ahead.

“There it is! That’s Zecora’s place! She can help.” You look ahead, unsure what she’s pointing at, but as you pass under one last low hanging branch, you notice the small clearing that she has lead you into. Or perhaps calling it a larger path would be more accurate. The ground beneath your feet has been well travelled and worn away, one end heading into the forest and the other leading straight to a large tree, complete with door and open windows.

Is that a house? You turn to the filly, a confused look on your face. She just looks back at you, smiles and nods. Guess this creepy forest house is your destination. As you walk towards it, your attention gets drawn to the different bottles that hang from the branches, in a variety of different shapes and sizes. Some long, some round. Larger ones hang from the thicker branches above and smaller ones closer to the ground. The bottles each coloured in different shades of reds and yellows, greens and purples. As you observe them, your eyes following the bottles, your attention moves to several strange masks that decorate the outside. One above the door, green and yellow in colour and sporting several leaves around its top. Several others on the ground, watching the path as though keeping an eye out for intruders. Or hostiles. Varying colours and patterns adorn the masks, reminding you of the tribal masks back home.

The filly suddenly leaps from your shoulder and onto the ground. “Zecora! Zecora!” She yells, running straight through the door. “We need your help!” The door swings shut behind her.

As you approach it, you hear a voice from inside. “Oh Apple Bloom, my little filly. Always a pleasure for you to visit me.” The voice was deep but feminine, with an African accent.

She sounds friendly, you ponder to yourself. And Apple Bloom? That must be the fillies name. Bit of a strange name though.

“Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo are unconscious! Can you help them? Please say you can!” Apple Blooms voice rings out through the open windows.

The tone of this Zecora shifts to worry “I hope you bought them with you here, else no longer will they appear.” The sound of hooves on wood echo inside as someone starts to approach the door.

“Oh well, we had some help,” Apple Blooms voice becomes sheepish. “But don’t worry, it’s actually nice.”

It? Really? You roll your eyes. Guess that makes sense if they’ve never seen a human before.

“A new friend you have made? Then there is no reason to be afraid.” The door swings open to reveal what could only be described as a small zebra. She stops mid walk as her gaze meets your waist. The first thing you notice about her is the dashing mohawk that her mane is styled into. Slowly, her head tilts up, meeting your gaze. Large eyes similar to the three fillies, with a brilliant cyan colour stare into your own. You see clearly several neck rings and large hoop ear rings, as well as several bracelets on the front left leg.

“What is this that I see, but a giant standing before me?” She turns to Apple Bloom. “I understand now your warning my dear, and a story there is that I would like to hear.” She smiles before turning back into the tree. Your eyes catch a glimpse of a tribal sun tattoo on her flank as she heads inside.

“Bring those two and lay them on the bed, then rest your weary arms and head.” Taking it as an invitation, you bend down a bit and head in. It’s much bigger on the inside than you had initially expected, with there being plenty of head room to stand comfortably. The entrance has a few small steps which go down into a large round room. Most of the wall space is taken up shelving, which houses many different bottles full of strange substances, as well as what appear to be small baskets of flowers and roots. A single bed rests on one wall with more masks hang from any empty spaces not taken up by shelves.

Are those eyeballs? You shudder slightly. A small alcove hides another bed and a cauldron sits on a small fire in the centre, full of green bubbling goop.

“Lay them here and we shall set to ask, the best way to accomplish the task.” You gently lay the ponies down on the bed in the main room and Zecora starts to look over them. “A doctor I may not be, but no injuries do my eyes see.”

You open your mouth to –

“They fainted when they saw it.” Apple Bloom let out a cry, rocking back and forth on her legs, clearly worried about her friends.

“A spout of fainting is easy to clear. Apple Bloom you need not fear.” Zecora moves to one of the shelves and grasps a bottle between her teeth. She places it on the ground in front of her. “These salts are all we will need, to awaken your friends and complete the deed.”

As Zecora moves to open the bottle, you let out a small cough, grabbing their attention. “Before you do that, I’m going to head outside.” You jab your thumb over shoulder, motioning to the door. “Since I am the reason they fainted it will probably be best if I’m not the first person they see when they wake up.”

“A wise call for you to make. Perhaps it is best for their sake.” Zecora smiles at you.

Apple Bloom on the other hand just stares in shock, mouth hanging open. “You can TALK?!”

You just chuckle at her as you head out the door. “Oh, and it’s he.” You say over your shoulder with a smile, before closing the door behind you. You can hear some of the conversation from inside as you look around for somewhere to sit.

“I didn’t know he could talk.”

“Then an apology you will have to make, else your friendship could be at stake.”

Friendship, huh? You mutter under your breathe as you move to the side. Leaning against one of the larger roots, you sit yourself on the ground. Finally having a chance to rest, you feel the ache in your arms. Taking in deep breaths, you flex them a little and start to rub your biceps in order to try and soothe the dull throbbing. Your hands travel up and down your arms, eventually clasping together. Looking down at your hands, your fingers run over your wedding band, its dull cold presence comforting you, but also flooding your mind with thoughts and memories.

“Let the smell of these salts grow thick. In a few moments they will do the trick.” You barely manage to register the zebras voice as it flows in the back ground.

As you caress the ring, you start to wonder if anyone’s missing you. Is anyone worried about where I disappeared to? I didn’t have anything on me when I fell asleep, so surely all my stuff is still back home. That means I didn’t run away, right? They’ll know that. Maybe they are searching already. Or maybe this is some sort of heat coma.

“It’s barely been an hour, no one will be home yet anyway,” you say to yourself, staring at your hands. “But I miss you so much already.” Pain fills your chest as you feel your eyes start to water. Pulling your legs up to, you wrap your arms around your knees and hide your face. The sound of the forest disappearing into the distance as blood rushes to your ears. Tears start to flow freely from your eyes, soaking your cheeks and leaving large patches of moisture on your shirt.

Your mind keeps reeling and trying to understand what’s happening while fighting against the memories that keep coming up. Even the happy ones cause a deep sadness in your heart.

“Sweetie Belle! Scootaloo!”

“Apple Bloom! You’re ok!”

“What happened? How did you get away?!”

Faint voices ring around you, but you don’t register them when they enter your ears.

“I understand this must be hard for you. In a strange land without a clue.” You look up, meeting the cyan gaze of Zecora. You turn your head away from her, trying to hide in your arms again. “Take your time and let it out. Whether they are tears or the need to shout.” You feel something touch your arm. “But do not think that you are alone. You rescued three fillies close to home. And such an act requires a kind soul. One that will only flourish and grow.” You sniff as your eyes gingerly peek out. Zecora’s hoof rests on your forearm and a smile graces her face.

“Apple Bloom told me of your actions just, and such deeds create bonds of trust. So do not fear for help is at hoof. But first you must eat, so come in under my roof.”

Zecora removes her hoof from you and you watch her as she stands up. Raising your head from its hiding place, you wipe your face clean on your sleeves. With your face dry, though you still feel that your eyes are red, you smile at Zecora and move to stand up. Your ears slowly perk up at the sounds of the forest again, and the feeling in your chest lessens, turning into a dull throb instead of the painful ache you had. You follow the zebra as she heads back into her home.

Entering behind Zecora, you hear several gasps from the bed. It looks like the other two foals are awake, hooves over their mouths as they stare wide eyed at you. The yellow filly sitting next to, looking at her friends before turning to face you as well.

“Are you ok?” Apple Bloom says with worry in her voice. “You look like you’ve been crying.”

“Yeah. It’s just,” You hesitate briefly. “It's been a long day. Are you feeling better?” You ask, giving a tired smile in their direction.

“Um, yes. Thank you.” The unicorn spoke softly.

“Yeah... thanks.” The pegasus followed up.

All three of the fillies start to fidget slightly under your gaze. “That’s good.” You say with a smile. Walking around the cauldron, you start to position yourself to sit down against the wall.

“Why don’t you sit here?” Apple Bloom suddenly pipes up. You look up, midway through sitting down. Apple Bloom taps the bed next to her. “It’s more comfortable than the floor.”

“Oh. Sure.” You didn’t want to scare them, but surprised by her offer, you get back up and walk over to the bed. Apple Bloom smiles at you as you sit down, though her eyes still show a hint of nervousness. But at least she’s not afraid.

“Ahem.” She coughs into her hoof. “These are my friends. This is Sweetie Belle“ – She points at the unicorn next to her, who gives you a smile and waves her hoof – “and this is –”

“Scootaloo.” The pegasus spoke up. Unlike their friend, these two don’t have any strong accents.

You turn to look at the yellow filly. “And your name is Apple Bloom.”

“How did you know that?”

“I heard Zecora call you that earlier,” you answer her, feeling some cheer emerge in your voice. “Oh, but where are my manners.” You introduce yourself to the girls.

“That’s an, err, unusual name,” Sweetie Belle says, a hoof on her chin.

“Depends on your point of view.” You respond.

Scootaloo seems to be lost in thought, her eyes moving all over you, taking in your figure. Before anything else is said, Zecora emerges from the back room carrying some bowls on her back. Placing them on the ground, she fills them up with the liquid in the cauldron. It was an interesting sight, to watch a zebra use her hooves to hold a ladle and fill up the bowls. Something else for your mind to try and understand later.

“Here you go my weary friend. Something to bring your hunger to an end.” She passes the bowl to you. As you reach out for it, the girls all stare at your hands, like they’d never seen something like them before. You look at the contents, unsure of what to make of it. The green goop looks interesting though not exactly appetising. Zecora pours out more into the other bowls and passes them to the girls, before finally sitting down with her own. Looking to the three fillies in some effort of knowing what it is, your hopes are dashed as they aren’t sure what to make of it either.

“It may look like green goop, but I assure it is just thick soup.” Zecora lifts the bowl and takes a mouthful.

Oh well, bottoms up. You take a swig of the liquid. The first thing to hit you is the texture. It’s thick and creamy but slides easily in your mouth. Next thing you notice is the taste. A strong mouthful of peas and broccoli assault your tongue. And your nose catches a hint of seasoning within as well. It’s surprisingly good. You swallow your soup gladly. “This is good. I wasn’t sure what to expect to be honest, but this is good.” You remark. Zecora smiles at you as she continues eating her own. Your admission of its taste was also enough to spur the fillies into eating it too.

“Hey, you’re right. I mean, it’s not apple soup but still it is pretty good.”

Apple soup? You shudder, unsure of how that would work. But soup is very versatile.

The five of you finish your meals with renewed vigour. You can feel the warmth spread through you, easing your muscles and restoring your energy. You smile to yourself, a good meal can fix almost anything.

“Thank you Zecora.”

“When pushed to your utmost limit, a good meal can soothe your spirit.”

You and Zecora finish your soups first. Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom continue to eat theirs but Scootaloo seems to just be nursing it, still staring at you.

“What are you?” She finally asks. Caught off guard by her question you stare blankly at her. “Are you a monkey? Or ape? You don’t have enough hair for either though. And you got those, um, dull claws too. Oh! Are you a freaky dragon?”

“Scootaloo that’s-“Apple Bloom starts but is interrupted by a snort and chuckle from you.

“I wish I was a dragon! Dragons are cool.” You reply as you catch your breath. “But no. I suppose ape is pretty close, but I’m actually a Human. From Earth. And these –“ You raise your hands to the girls “- are hands. I guess they are similar to claws, but these are generally better suited for more delicate tasks.”

“A human? But everypony knows humans are a myth.” Scootaloo says. “I mean you get griffins and dragons around every so often. But humans? They don’t exist.”

“Well, in all fairness, unicorns and pegasi don’t exist back home either. Those are myths too. And not to mention griffins and dra“- You catch your breath, realising what you were about to gloss over. “Did… did you say dragons?”

“Uh huh.” Scootaloo nods.

“There’s one that recently moved to Ponyville. He’s just a baby but he’s alright.” Apple Bloom adds.

This was getting weirder and weirder. You’re brain felt like it was going to overload. If mythological creatures exist here, then this can’t be my home. My Earth. What else am I going to learn about this place. The thoughts start to give you a headache. Best not to think about it and cross those bridges as they come. You rub your head and let out a sigh.

“Are you ok?” Sweetie Bell looks at you with some concern.

“I get the feeling I’m going to be sporting a headache for a while.”

Zecora catches your attention with a chuckle. “Many new things there are to learn. Who knows what you will discover before your return.”

“Return?! Wait are you going home?!” Apple Bloom jumps up with a start.

“I don’t even know how I got here, so I don’t know how I would be able to get home.” You face falls as you answer the fillies question.

“Until such a time you are welcome to stay with me. But now there is a problem that I can see. The sun will soon pass to reveal the night. And this forest can be quite dangerous without the suns light.” Zecora starts to collect the bowls up. “These there will surely get lost when night does come, and I fear that to the forest they might succumb.”

Your eyes narrow slightly. Was she hiding a smirk?

Apple Blooms eyes widen and a smile grows on her face. “Hey! I got an idea. Why don’t you stay at the farm? Not the actual farm, but my house. I’m sure Granny Smith and Big Mac won’t mind. After all you did –” She gasps in horror like she just remembered something important “-Oh No! We didn’t.”

Apple Bloom quickly rushes behind her friends and starts to – “Hey.” – turn them to face you. Placing herself in the middle she looks up at you. Her friends look at each other briefly before their eyes widen and they follow suit.

Apple Bloom coughs. The three of them breathe in in unison and together they call out “Thank you for saving us!”

The sudden gesture catches you off guard as you stare at the three fillies. But a distant light chuckle brings you back and you smile. “You are most welcome.”

The girls let out their own laughs, which wash over you with a calming sensation. A feeling emerges in your chest telling you that things are going to be alright, regardless of what your brain is processing.

“It is good to see you get along. A trusted friend can make you strong. But soon the sun will be set, so you best make haste and jet.”

You look out the window and catch a glimpse of the sky. It still appears to be a bright blue, but the sun’s rays catch your eyes and you note that they have become a deep orange colour. It seems the sun will set soon, another thing that’s different compared to home. The sun wouldn’t set till 10pm in the summer. Assuming it is summer here. You definitely feel like you will need a crash course on this world soon.

Scootaloo jumps off the bed first. “We should get going then. Don’t want to get an earful when we get back.” She starts to head to the door. The others follow her.

“Thanks Zecora.” They each cry out, thanking the zebra for the meal and hospitality.

“It is always a pleasure to see you here. Now hurry home so nopony will fear.”

You get up and head to the door as well, with Zecora following behind. As step down after the fillies, Zecora speaks up again. “Just follow the path you see before you, and soon the exit will be in your view.”

You turn to face her and extend your hand to her. “Thank you for everything Zecora.” She looks at it hesitatingly, almost as if she is unsure of what to do. “Oh, right sorry.” You start to pull away, but Zecora places her hoof in your hand. Your fingers grip it, her short coat soft in your hand. You give her hoof a light shake before releasing your grip. You both smile at each other before you turn to catch up to the waiting trio of ponies.

With a final wave, the four of you start down the worn path and head for the forests edge.

Chapter 3 - Sweet Apple Acres

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The forest walk was mostly uneventful save for some low flying red bird that had some issue with you, though it quickly flew off again. This gave you plenty of chances to talk with your companions. In the short time it took to reach the edge and get onto the main road, you had learned much about this world.

This was the Everfree Forest just outside of Ponyville, the town where they live. Located in Equestria, one of the larger kingdoms on the Greater Equestria continent. Though from what the girls have told you, it also appears to be a name for the realm and kingdoms within it. This was the first info dump you had about this world and it’s already making your head spin. But then, geographical locations and allegiances of kingdoms, and the realms they fall under, seems like such a niche bit of knowledge that it’s unlikely to ever come up.

To add to this minor brain melt, they informed you of the different tribes of ponies. The Earth Ponies, who have a strong connection to the land. The Pegasi, who look after Equestrias weather. And the Unicorns, who have an active ability to call upon magic. Though beyond simple telekinesis, a unicorn’s magical power seems to vary greatly.

Of course, the brain melting works the other way too. When you started to tell them about your home and the wonderful things that humans can do when they try. They were amazed to learn that magic wasn’t a thing. It’s so common here that they couldn’t seem to grasp it. But when you started talking about technology, oh did their eyes light up. Cars, planes, computers, mobile phones, rockets. Scootaloo especially was hanging onto your every word. Their mouths lay open when you told them that humans had been to the moon and were planning on going even further.

“That’s so cool!” Scootaloo cried when you finished talking about how humans are mapping the universe. Under the circumstances, you decided that it’s best not to include the amount of weapons and destruction caused by humans. As interesting of a subject as it can be, you don’t want to give the wrong impression.

Reaching the main junction just outside the forest, you read the signpost pointing you in varies directions.

“Left, Ponyville, Sweet Apple Acres. Right, Ghastly Gorge? And back the way we came, The Everfree Forest.” You glance over your shoulder and shudder slightly.

“Oh! Look, look!” Apple Bloom squeaks. “Princess Celestia is lowering the sun.” She points her hoof towards the town. Turning your head, you see a town that you can only assume is Ponyville.

“If you look to the mountains past Ponyville, you can see Canterlot. The castle there is where the Princesses live.” Sweetie Belle added. And sure enough, in the distance you can see a large white and gold castle seemingly built into the cliff. “It’s not just the castle, there’s a whole city behind those walls.”

You whistle, impressed by the building capabilities of the ponies. It’s like something out of Lord of the Rings. Your eyes glance upwards towards the sun. Watching it set, you can’t help but feel a sense of calm wash over you. It’s still a setting sun but this feels, different.

As soon as it drops below the horizon, the night sky comes to life. Stars sing and dance up above. The moon rises from over the horizon to illuminate the quiet scenery.

“We better hurry back before we get told off.” Apple Bloom states and starts trotting off towards Ponyville.

“It’s so cool that Princess Celestia can raise and lower the sun and moon.” Sweetie Belle remarks as she and Scootaloo follow.

“Hold up.” Your mind suddenly registers what Sweetie Belle had just said. “You’re telling me that some royal ponce in a castle raises and lowers the sun and the moon?”

The three fillies share a confused look but keep on trotting.

“She’s not a ponce! She’s a wonderful princess.” Sweetie retorts. “And yeah. That is what we’re saying. Isn’t that how it works where you’re from?” She looks over her shoulder.

“No!” You let out a slightly frustrated cry as you catch up to the girls.

==================================================================================

“Come on. We gotta hurry.” Apple Blooms speed increases, with her two friends increasing their pace to catch up. With your much larger stride however you only need to burst into a light jog to stay with them. Even though such an act puts some strain on your body, it’s not enough to stop you. They turn left at another sign away from the town, catching a glimpse you read ‘Sweet Apple Acres.’

After a brief jog you reach the entrance to what appears to be a large farm, but you are unable to make much of it in the night time light. The three fillies run through the gate and up to the farm house. You slow your pace to a walk and follow them up, catching your breath.

Over the still night air, you can hear some faint voices coming from within the house.

“Oh quit your belly achin’ Big Mac, I’m sure the girls are fine.” The voice sounded much older, but still with the same strong southern accent that is shared with Apple Bloom.

It was followed by a strong deep “Nnope.”

Apple Bloom charges into the house while Sweetie Bella and Scootaloo wait outside for you. “Come on slow poke.” Scootaloo jokes.

You mockingly smile at her as you finally approach the front door, making you realise just how big the house is. Despite the ponies being much shorter than you, the entrance is large enough that you would be able to enter without issue. Your admiration for the building is short lived as the voices inside interrupt you.

“Apple Bloom!” The deep voice rings out.

“See? I told ye there was nothin’ to worry about.” The older voice responded.

“Granny Smith! Big Mac!” Apple Bloom started up. “Can our friend stay over? He’s lost and can’t get home and it’s dark and dangerous and…”

“Slow down there sugar.” The older voice, which you can assume belongs to Granny Smith, interrupted. “If it’s alright with his parents there’s no problem, is there Big Mac?”

“He can’t ask his parents. He can’t get home. Didn’t you hear what I said?” Apple Bloom clearly sounds annoyed. You could almost hear her eyes roll. You lean against the wall to the side of the door.

“I take it this is a regular thing?” You ask, looking down at Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo.

“Eh, pretty much. Granny Smith is almost completely deaf.” Scootaloo replies.

“I’m not deaf young’un!” Granny cries from the house. “I’m just hard of hearing!”

You chuckle, causing Sweetie Belle to follow with her own giggle. Scootaloo didn’t look amused though.

“Well if he’s lost then he better come in. Go on Big Mac. Say Hi. Food’s almost ready anyway.” A happy gasp escapes the house before Granny Smith continues. “He likes apples right?”

Apple Bloom appears in the door way again, followed by some heavier hoofsteps, a happy smile appears briefly on her face before it suddenly falls. She whips around back into the house.

“There’s something I should say,” she starts, trying to find the words. “He’s not exactly, well, a pony.”

The hoofsteps stop, as silence fills the air.

“So what is he?” Granny Smiths voice calls out.

“Well…” Apple bloom sounds hesitant to reveal that you’re a human.

“Buffalo?”

“Uh-uh,” Apple Bloom shakes her head.

“Griffon? Dragon? Is it that cute purple one from the library?” Granny Smith asks.

“Spike knows where he lives, he’d hardly get lost here.” Apple Bloom replies.

Hoofsteps resume inside as more movement commences as Apple Bloom tries to say what you are. Your attention however turns to the moon. It’s larger than the moon back home, but its beauty is obvious. Full and round, the light radiates from it, complimenting the dancing stars in the sky.

“Err, Apple Bloom?” you hear Scootaloo say below you.

You turn back to face the girls, only to be greeted by large green eyes. You lose your balance as the sudden appearance of the large red pony causes you to falter slightly. Catching your step, you stand up straight before the pony. The pony stands taller than Zecora, easily reaching your lower chest. A short orange mane styled on the head as it looks up at you, ears standing tall. Three freckles lay beneath the eyes.

“Ah when did you!?” Apple Bloom suddenly bursts out, running between you and the pony. “Well, erm. This is my big brother. Big Macintosh. Or Big Mac for short.” Apple Bloom stands proudly as you look at her then back to Big Macintosh.

“Pleasure to meet you,” you smile, introducing yourself. “And I’m a human. From Earth.”

The stallion looks at you, his face unchanging. He’s not afraid of you; rather his calm expression shows curiosity more than anything. You guess that being called a friend straight away removed any fear from him.

“Big Mac.” He finally says, before making his way back inside. You notice the heavy muscles on the stallion as he walks back in, along with a green apple tattoo on his flank.

If he wanted to, he could probably destroy me. You shudder at the thought of being crushed by such a creature. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo follow him in grinning.

“He likes you.” Apple Bloom beamed up at you. “Come on in then!” She turns to follow her friends. You smile and walk in after her. The door opens into a large living room. the first thing to hit you is the smell. Like a range of sweet apples hitting your nose, it smells divine. The living room is filled with a sofa and rocking chair, as well as a small table. Decorated much like the rustic farm houses back home, wooden panels adorn the lower half of the walls with a coat of paint on the upper half. The wooden beams that hold the house up remain visible, with a darker coat on them. Different pictures hang on the walls of the living room, including one of two farmers in front of a gothic looking barn that looks really familiar. Following Apple Bloom, you walk through the room to an open plan kitchen complete with oven, cooker and a large table in the middle. You spot a set of stairs leading up on one of the walls, with a cupboard underneath.

“Wowee! You’re a tall one ain’tch ya!” You stop looking around as Granny Smith comments on your appearance. “And what in tarnation are you wearin’?” You look down at yourself, confused by the odd question. Then it hits you.

Ponies don’t wear clothes. You smile and look at Granny Smith.

“Clothing.” You reply casually. “It’s what I was wearing when I appeared here. I don’t have anything else to wear.”

“But why are you wearin’ that in the first place?” She continues. It’s an interesting feeling. The most questionable thing for her to comment is not how you look, but rather on the fact that you’re wearing clothes. “Ponies don’t normally wear them fancy things. And don’t just stand there. Sit down.”

Granny Smith motions you to the table. You take your coat off for the first time today, which causes a small gasp from the younger ponies as your arms get revealed to them for the first time.

“Leave it on the stairs, sonny.” Granny Smith says, after watching you aimlessly look where you can place it. You smile gingerly; draping the long coat over the railing and proceed to take a seat at the table. The rest of the ponies start laying out bowls and plates.

“Thank you.” Granny Smith chuckles before you answer her. “As for clothes, they protect us and help weather the environment. I guess they work in the same way your coat and mane does for you. See?” You raise your arm, showing your skin to the ponies.

That made sense, right? You think to yourself, lowering your arm again.

“Ah yeah that makes sense. We use scarves and things for winter but don’t usually need full clothing.” Granny Smith smiles at you. “Those are usually saved for fancy stuff like parties and watch-a-ma-call-its.” She waves her hoof about as she talks, punctuating her words with thrusts here and there. “Not always, but usually.”

Big Mac and Apple Bloom start to fill the bowls up with soup. Even though you already had some today, you are feeling hungry again and it does smell divine. You had never really considered apple soup but the creamy broth in your bowl was just begging to be devoured.

Sweetie Belle suddenly speaks up from your side, causing you to jump. “You should see the stuff my sister makes. She’s amazing at making clothes!” Sweetie gasps. “When she gets back from Appleoosa with the others, we should ask her to make you something!”

“Oh I wouldn’t want to be a bother,” you say to the unicorn as Apple Bloom and Big Mac join you all at the table.

“Don’t be silly. You can’t wear the same stuff all the time. Especially if it’s THAT important for humans.”

You smile at Sweetie Belle before looking around the table. All these ponies welcomed you so quickly it’s surprising that they trust you so much, given so many obvious differences.

But despite those differences, there are even more similarities. Your thought makes you smile as you all start to eat the soup. It tastes very sweet. And warms your stomach up in a way only home cooked food could do.

“How’s the soup?” Granny Smith asks over her bowl.

“It’s very good,” you reply. “Surprisingly sweet, but not over powering. A good balance of flavours. I could get used to this sort of food.” You chuckle.

“Big Mac made it tonight.” She beams at the stallion. “You should try Applejacks cooking though; she’s a wiz with apples.”

“Applejack?” You ask. The pictures dotted around the kitchen do show an extra pony in some of them. An orange mare with a yellow mane and tail, sporting a dashing light brown Stetson.

“Yep, that’s my sister.” Apple Bloom says as you look at the pictures on the wall. “You’ll meet her soon but she’s off with Rarity, that’s Sweeties sister, in Appleoosa at the moment. Something ‘bout a rodeo. Bet their having fun.” Apple Blooms voice ends with a hint of disappointment.

“Aww, come on.” You lighten up, trying to sound cheerful for her. “If you girls went with them, you wouldn’t have been able to rescue me.” You smile at her before finishing off the soup.

Apple Bloom perks up and giggles. “Pretty sure you saved us.” The girls laugh.

“Saved you from what now?” Granny Smiths voice brings the four of you back into the room, her eyes staring at you. You can feel Big Mac looking in your direction as well.

“Ah, erm, well…” The girls start to mumble and shoot looks at each other. Clearly being in that forest wasn’t something they were allowed to do. And your comment landed them in it.

Apple Bloom sighs in defeat. “We went into the Everfree forest to see Zecora.” Granny smith and Big Mac gasp at the news, their focus turning to the girl instead.

Yep, I was right. Shoot.

“And well… we got chased by Timber wolves.”

“What?!” You jump in your seat as Big Mac’s voice echoes around the kitchen. His presence increasing so much that even you begin to cower under his gaze.

The girls shiver before the scolding, their ears lowered against their heads. Unanimously they start apologising.

“But we’re ok, see? We were saved.” Apple Bloom squeeks.

All eyes fall on you, and suddenly you feel very small.

“Well that explains why they seem so fond of ya.” Granny Smith sighs. “Thank you. I don’t think my heart could…” She trails off.

“Eeyup.” Big Mac says as he looks to you.

“Oh, it. It was nothing, really.” You tell them as the pressure in the room eases up.

“Well, I hope you still have room for Apple Pie.” The room lightens up again as soon as Granny Smith mentions the pie. Big Mac shifts from the table and heads to the oven, opening it.

“I made this one.” She chuckles.

“Smells good,” you ponder as the scent hits your nose. Big Mac separates the pie into six slices and shares them out equally while Sweetie Belle gets some cups for water. Your mouth starts to water at the sight and you all dig in earnestly, yourself being a bit more enthusiastic than the rest.

“So…” Scootaloo starts as you all eat the pie. “Silly question, considering we’re already eating, but what DO humans eat, exactly?”

“Oh my gosh! I never even asked!” Apple Bloom gasps as they look at you, your cheeks puffed up with pie. You look at them before swallowing your mouthful.

“Humans can eat pretty much anything.” You say nonchalantly, taking a sip of water. “We’re omnivores. Some foods require cooking, we can’t eat some stuff raw. Most meats have to be cooked for example. But yeah, pretty much anything except grass, hay and flowers. Can’t digest them.”

Silence falls on the room as you explain. Uh-oh, did I say something wrong?

“You eat meat?” Scootaloo breaks the silence.

“Can do. It’s not required for a humans diet though. As long as we get the necessary nutrients, where it comes from isn’t as important. Saying that, some meats do have a higher concentration of nutrients than fruits and veg. Fish for example.”

Apple Bloom lets out a laugh. “So I was right when I asked you not to eat us.” She giggled.

“I wasn’t going to eat you anyway silly.” You reply, ruffling her hair.

Granny Smith smiles at the interactions. “Well it’s all good and dandy then. You don’t plan on eating ponies do you?” she jokes.

The evening passes with stories and laughter. You learn more of Ponyville, even learning of its origins almost a hundred years ago, mainly because you were too polite to interrupt Granny Smiths ramblings. Granny Smith and Big Mac seem just as fascinated by your hands as Zecora and the fillies were. You found out that the days are the same here, and tomorrow was Saturday. There was a market in the morning that ponies can sell their produce at.

“Why doesn’t Big Mac take you to Ponyville tomorrow for the market? Considering your circumstance it’ll be easier to approach with him by your side. The girls can then show you around town.” Granny Smith suggests. It’s a sound idea, and Big Mac certainly doesn’t seem to mind, agreeing with an ‘Eeyup’.

“All right! Maybe we can get our Cutie Marks in tour guiding!” Apple Bloom suddenly jumps.

“Hey that’s a great idea!” Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle seem to be in agreement.

“Erm,” you interject. “Cutie Marks?”

“Wait. You don’t know what a Cutie Mark is?” Scootaloo says. You just stare at her with a blank expression. “Cutie Marks are basically a coming of age symbol. Ponies get them when they discover their special talent.”

“Yeah, Granny and Big Mac have one, see?” Apple Bloom points at her brother and grandmother, who turn to show you their flanks. Granny Smith’s flank holds a pie while Big Mac had one in the shape of a large green half apple. “The Apple family cutie marks often show something to do with apples, as that’s our family business. But it can really be anything. I might not even get an apple! I could get anything.” The last comment got a sharp look from Granny Smith, clearly not liking the idea of her granddaughter having something unrelated to apples as her mark.

“And to help us find our marks, we formed the Cutie Mark Crusaders!” Sweetie Bell cheered.

“That explains the marks then.” You smile. It sounded like there was more to these Cutie Marks than they said, but as far as explanations go, it made sense. In a weird, magic way.

“What about you?” Scootaloo asks. “What’s your Cutie Mark look like?”

“Humans don’t have Cutie Marks.” You reply, stunning the ponies. “Guess we’re always full of potential.” You shrug. It’s a nice thought and certainly has some truth to it, given what the human race has accomplished.

“But how do you know what you are good at? What you’re supposed to do?” Apple Bloom asks with a hint of worry.

“I don’t know. Trial and error? Humans tend to find something they like doing, and just work on it to get better. Sure, some humans are naturally talented, but natural talent only gets you so far. Gotta keep practising to make it work. Sucks even more when you are naturally talented at something you hate doing.” You finish.

“That’s just weird.” Apple Bloom says, stifling a yawn.

Big Mac lets out a chuckle. “Off to bed.”

The girls grumble about wanting to stay up more as they slide off their seats, but their tiredness stops them from protesting too much. They bid you all goodnight as they slowly head up the stairs. You can’t help but smile as they disappear to the second floor.

“Thank you again.” Granny Smith says, in a calmer tone this time. “I’m glad they found a friend like you.”

“Eeyup.”

You want to tell them that it was no trouble. That you did what any normal person would in those circumstances. But instead you just smile at your hosts. “You’re welcome.”

Granny Smith gets off her seat. “Come on, I’ll show you to the guest room. It’s getting late as is and I’m all tuckered out.” She chuckles.

You get up and follow her up the stairs. Big Mac continues to sit at the table as he watches you. “Night.”

“Good night Big Mac.” You reply to him as you follow Granny Smith up the stairs and out of sight.

The main landing upstairs has the same panel and wall design as the living room. The landing twists around the stairs and down a corridor with a window at the end. Three doors line one side and two on the other, as well as a door at the top of the stairs.

Granny Smith points at the door “This is the bathroom. Be sure to wash up before you go to sleep. The spare room is down the end on the left.” She points down the hall. “Big Mac is next door, Apple Blooms room is opposite. Then you got Applejacks room, best stay out of there. And mine is here.”

“Thank you Mrs Smith.”

“Oh no, Granny is fine dearie. I insist.” Granny Smith puts her hoof down.

Guess I don’t have a choice. You chuckle. “Thank you… Granny.”

That wasn’t weird. Ok, maybe a little.

“Good. Now go wash up, towels are next to the sink. And then get some shut eye. It certainly sounded like you had a busy day.” With that she heads to her room.

You look at the unoccupied bathroom door then head in. “Oh.” You mutter. You weren’t sure what to expect, but the bathroom was almost human in design. It wasn’t very large but it had all the necessities. A sink with a cabinet, mirror, bath and shower combo. Only difference was the toilet. Unlike a traditional human toilet, this one was situated in the floor itself. It looked perfect for squatting though.

“This will be interesting, but it makes sense.” You mutter to yourself as you close and lock the door. You give yourself a quick sniff and decide it might best for a shower. After struggling to squat on the toilet, you flush it and turn the shower on, remove your clothing. Being the only clothes you have, you decide to at least rinse them with you in the shower. Making sure the water is the right temperature you get under it and find a bar of soap to wash with. Quickly scrubbing and rinsing yourself off, you quickly grab your clothes, soaking them in the water and giving them a quick scrub. Rinsing them out under the water, you turn the tap off and wring them out thoroughly in the tub so that they do not drip anywhere.

Getting out, you dry yourself off and then dry out your pants further using the towel before wringing that out too. Once you are satisfied, you put them back on. As a temporary measure it’ll be fine.

“I really need to do something about this though.” You exhale, your exhaustion catching up to you fast. Checking over your clothes to make sure there are no loose drips, you gingerly leave the bathroom, taking the towel with you just in case, and sneak to the guest bedroom.

Inside the room is a ready-made single bed, as well as a chest of drawers. A window overlooks the farm and frames the moon in the sky. A moon that hasn’t moved yet.

“Guess they weren’t kidding about moving it with magic.” You sigh as you place the towel on the wooden floor and fold your clothes on top of it. The room is surprisingly warm, even for summer, so hopefully by the morning the clothes will at least be less wet. With your clothes drying on the floor, you climb into the bed. It’s soft and bouncy but surprisingly cool under the covers. Even more surprising that you fit in the bed.

You lay on your back, arms on the covers as your mind recalls the events of the day. Memories flash across your mind. Gardening in the sun, laying down to rest. The clearing. Saving the girls from those timber wolves. Meeting Zecora.

Your eyes start to water as the memories dance about. It’s easier to keep them at bay when you’re distracted, but alone in bed, they start to haunt you. Your chest tightens as your fingers caress your wedding band. Recalling your past week, all the stuff you did at work and at home. Planning dinner.

“I wonder what she’s thinking. What their all thinking. Are they looking for me?” You lips move to the words but your mind is travelling back and forth between every thought as it crashes down on you. The water in your eyes flows freely down your cheeks.

Your thoughts drift to Granny Smith and Big Mac. How welcoming they were. How friendly they acted towards you. You think about how often you caught yourself forgetting that they were ponies with how easy it was to talk to them. It was like any other family conversation.

Your eyes grow heavy as your tears continue to flow. A large yawn escapes you and soon, in the pale light of the moon, you feel yourself drift.

Your last moments of consciousness register a distant howl as you hold your hands and drift into a deep slumber.

Chapter 4 - Welcome to Ponyville

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Your eyes flutter as sunlight assaults your senses. With a shrug and moan, your hand rubs your face.

“What a weird dream.” You mutter, sitting up in the bed. The blankets fall off you as your eyes bring the world to focus again. “Oh.”

Yesterday’s events flood your mind as you look around the room.

“Well, there goes that theory.” You slowly shift yourself out of the bed. You let out a deep breath; your clothes lay where you left them, all dry and mostly clean. Sounds start registering from beyond the door, hoofsteps and muffled talking. As your body wakes, you move to get your clothes and the towel, and head swiftly to the bathroom. Luckily you meet no one on the short way there and quickly dive in. Placing your clothes down, you stare at yourself in the mirror. No bags under your eyes, though they do feel a little sore. Over all, you feel it was a good night’s sleep. You rinse your face under the tap. Once you finish up you decide to get dressed. With only one pair of underpants however, it’s a bit of a dilemma.

“Stuff it, I’ll go commando. Not like anyone will notice anyway.” You finish getting dressed, stuffing your pants in one of the trouser pockets. “Really need to look into some more clothes if I’m stuck here.”

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“Good Morning!” the voices ring out as you descend the stairs.

“Good morning.” Your reply comes, not as cheery as the greeting from your hosts, but you put on a smile nonetheless.

“We got you some breakfast!” Apple Bloom speaks up, pushing a bowl and spoon in front of you. You look at its content quizzically. “It’s apple oatmeal.” She beams at you.

“Huh, that’s neat. Thanks.” Your thoughts drift to the foods you’ve seen so far. Soups. Pies. Oatmeal. Seems like the food round here isn’t all that different. At least that makes it easier.

“I thought you would like a spoon too.” Apple Bloom continues. “It might be easier with your… hands.”

“Thanks Apple Bloom.” You look around at the others eating as you prepare to dig in yourself. The fillies quickly devour their own oat meal, picking up the bowls in their hooves. It’s a weird sight to behold, as they have no visible way of gripping the objects, but after the events you’ve witnessed so far, it doesn’t really faze you. Granny Smith and Big Mac smile as they tuck into their own breakfast. You start to dig in yourself, and it tastes good. Somehow all the food you’ve had here just lights up your taste buds. You enjoy every bite of it. Big Mac finishes before you and with a nod, heads out the door with the three girls chasing after him.

As you finish off your breakfast a few minutes later, Granny Smith speaks up. “You better get yourself ready. Big Mac will have got the cart full by now. Just leave the bowl dearie, I’ll deal with it.”

You thank her for the breakfast and head out after Big Mac and the girls.

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“I was meaning to ask.” You turn to the three fillies. “What exactly are the ‘Cutie Mark Crusaders’?”

“It’s our club! We work together to find out who we are, and what we're supposed to be.” Sweetie Belle answers you in a cheery tone.

“And you hope to get them for showing me around?”

“Gotta try everything! You never know what you might be good at!” Scootaloo boasts energetically.

The road to Ponyville is short as you walk with your companions. Big Mac is straddled with a large cart and several baskets of apples. You assume these are for the market in town. As you watch him, you can’t help but be in awe of his strength as he pulls the cart effortlessly.

The town comes into view, and you cast your eyes around. Much like the medieval villages depicted back home; cobblestone roads, flanked by cream coloured houses with large painted support beams and thatched roofs. Some of the buildings stand out some more though. You notice a pink building that looks like it was made out of gingerbread. A large cylindrical building catches your eye off one of the main roads, surrounded by pillars and several pony statues decorating it.

“Sofas and Quills?” A strange shop sign catches your eye. “That is an… odd choice of stock.”

“Yeah, and they are always out of quills.” Sweetie Belle rolls her eyes.

One thing that did not escape your attention however, was the ponies. Even though you were expecting to see more, the sight still surprised you. The different colours and mane styles were a wonder to behold, but the way they just stopped dead and stared at you did become quite unnerving. A beige pony with blue and pink mane gasped and ran back into their house. Something nagged at your mind and you get the feeling that they would all have ran away and hid if not for the company you were keeping. As you wave to some of the ponies, you realise just how lucky you were to have them with you.

Big Mac finally stops. You glance around and spot several other carts with signs and produce standing about. The signs not only show fruit and veg, but other food products like pies and soup. There are even some that have books and cooking utensils.

“OK!” Apple Bloom cries. “We reached the market place. This is usually where you can get your fresh goods and other stuff. There is also a new convenience store on the other side of town that deals with other products. We’ll get there later though.”

“It certainly is impressive.” You can’t help but admire the town, and their hard workers. Big Mac sets himself down in position and starts to undo the strap around his midsection. “Oh here, let me help.” You offer and bend down and quickly undo the strap.

“Thank you.” He remarks. A pony of few words, but the sense you get from them tells you everything anyway. You smile at him as you stand up. It’s then that you notice the gathering of ponies behind you. Even though there aren’t that many of them, it’s a bit of a daunting sight, like something out of a horror film, only with vibrant pastel colours. They eye you cautiously, a few mumble between themselves but none speak up to you, as though they can’t find the words.

Time to introduce yourself. You brain tells you. Don’t mess this up.

“H-Hello there.” You wave at the ponies. Some move back slightly at your movements, staring at your hand.

“What… are you?” One of the ponies speaks up, a pink mare with a slightly off-purple mane.

“He’s a human. And a good friend of ours.” Scootaloo speaks up proudly, stomping her hoof adorably. “So be nice to him, ok?”

“Eeyup.” Big Mac says, agreeing with the filly. Their words, his words, seemed to carry a lot of weight as the ponies start to chatter amongst themselves, some even smiling at you.

“I see.” The fuchsia mare says, scrunching her snout in thought before stretching it into a big smile. She beams at you “Well then. Welcome to Ponyville!” The rest of the ponies echo their greetings to you, welcoming you as well before dispersing back to whatever they were doing before your arrival. They all seemed quite friendly towards you, you couldn’t help but feel it was more of a relief that you weren’t in fact a scary monster.

“Thank you.” You tell the pink mare.

“Name’s Berry Punch. If you ever need a good drink, come find me ok? I got a stall set up ready for business.” she says before turning around and trotting away. You watch as the rest of the gathered ponies go to their stalls or move towards some of the shops. As you watch them all go to their business, you notice that all of the ponies also had cutie marks on their flanks.

“Well, that went better than expected.” Sweetie Belle says with relief in her voice. “Considering how Zecora was treated, I thought it would have been tougher to accept you.”

You rub your chin. “I think it was thanks to you four being here. Something tells me that if I was alone, the story would have gone very differently.”

Seriously, they are quite quick to accept. Maybe they are trying to compensate for Zecora’s treatment? Or is there something else going on? Your thoughts start to wonder but are denied too much distance as a happy cry comes from by your knees.

“OK! Now that that’s settled! Let’s show you around town!” Apple Bloom hops up and down in excitement. “Where to first though?” The Crusaders ponder on the first course of action.

“Mayor.” Big Macs voice answers.

“Hmm, yeah that might be a good place to start. We should introduce you to Mayor Mare.” Sweetie Belle says. “Otherwise it might cause problems later.” The others nod in agreement. “To the Mayor’s Office!”

“Catch you later Big Mac.” You follow the Crusaders, leaving Big Mac to mind the stall.

==================================

The journey through the morning town is lively as you greet several more ponies along the way, eventually reaching a fountain of a pony standing on top of a ball. Behind it stood a large building, surrounded by wooden decking and poles that sat on either side of several sets of stairs.

“That’s the Town Hall. It’s where a lot of the gatherings take place.” Apple Bloom informs you. “The mayor’s office is just behind it. Hopefully she’ll be there.”

You follow the girls around, waving and the occasional pony you pass, until you stop in front of a smaller brick building. The construct seems sturdier compared to some on the other town houses, and it stands out with its brick work and tiled roof.

“Let’s get this over with quickly. This stuff is boooring.” Scootaloo complains, clearly wanting to do something more interesting. The girls open the door and you follow them in.

The sounds of clicking and clacking welcome you as you enter. The front room is mostly empty. A set of double doors are shut at the far end, a few benches sit against the wall, some plants dotted around and a desk with a typewriter on it, bathed in a crimson glow. Sitting behind the desk is a red unicorn with a short black mane and gold eyes, peering diligently at the papers. Her horn bathed in the same crimson as the typewriter.

Sweetie Bell trots up to the desk and tries to get the unicorns attention.

“Ahem. We’re here to see the mayor.” She says confidently.

“Do you have an appointment?” The unicorn replies without looking up from her papers.

“Well, no but-“

<Ding. Thhhwap.> The type writer finishes its line before getting reset.

“Then you can’t see the mayor. She’s very busy right now.” The red unicorn starts shuffling papers around. Scootaloo and Apple Bloom walk up to Sweetie Belle as you move up behind them.

“But it’s important!” Sweetie Belle cries in protest.

The unicorn sighs. “It doesn’t matter how important it is,” she states matter-of-factly, peering at Sweetie Belle over her papers. “You can’t see the mayor withooaaa…” Her voice fades away as her jaw drops, gaze suddenly turns to you.

“Hey there.” You wave.

“AAAHHHH!” The typewriter shudders on the desk violently as the unicorn’s chair slips and she falls over backwards with a hard thud, papers flying everywhere.

You move swiftly behind the desk and gently lift the unicorn to her hoofs. “Are you ok?!”

She shakes her head, rubbing it with her hoof. “Ow, yeah. I’m fi…” It suddenly dawns on her that you are holding her up and she starts to shudder. Her head slowly turns, her features showing terror as she looks at you.

“Told you it was important.” Sweetie Belle sniggers from behind the desk. Scootaloo and Apple Bloom laugh at the events.

You smile and help the unicorn to stand introducing yourself to her in the process. “I didn’t mean to scare you.” You tell her, standing up and moving back a bit to give her some space. She looks up at you, trying to grasp the situation. Her mouth opens to speak but is interrupted by the double doors bursting open.

“What are you screaming about Miss Memo.” A voice calls from the door. A pale brown mare stands in the doorway, grey streaked mane atop her head. With large blue eyes and half-moon glasses on her nose. “You’re the one who wanted to…” She stops and stares at you. “I guess that would be a reason to scream.”

“Hello.” You say, introducing yourself. I should get a card or something, repeating myself is getting old fast.

“He’s staying at with us for now.” Apple Bloom spoke up. “Big Mac thought it would be best to introduce you early.”

The mare looks from Apple Bloom to you. “I see. That would make sense. Why don’t you come in and we can have a quick talk. I could use a break anyway. “She motions through the door behind her. Several small piles of papers are strewn across a large desk. A large picture of the mare hangs behind the chair. “Why don’t you three help Miss Memo pick up the papers off the floor?” She turns back into the office.

“Yes Mayor.” They groan as you walk past them.

“Sorry.” You say sheepishly to the girls.

“It’s ok, just don’t take too long.” Sweetie Belle says, gathering the papers up.

You enter the office and the doors close behind you. The mare sits back in her seat and points at one of the chairs. “Have a seat.” You look more to one of the chairs and slide yourself in. A little smaller than you would like, but you snuggly nestle yourself into one. “Would you like a drink?”

The mayor gets out a teapot with two cups and starts pouring some tea.

“Yes please.” You reply. The mayor pours you a cup and passes it to you. “Thank you. You seem quite busy, sorry to intrude like this.” You say, taking a sip of the tea.

“Oh not at all, I needed a tea break anyway. Budget dealings are so tedious, and there is always something draining the resources,” she sighs. “Like now I have to… Ah never mind that. Let’s start at the beginning. I’m Mayor Mare. Mayor of Ponyville.”

“That’s. Quite the mouthful.” You comment, taking another sip of the tea.

“Yes well, titles and all that. So, Mr. Human. Why don’t you tell me your story?”

You spend the time explaining, as best you can, how you got here and what happened since. Even as you recall the events, it still feels like a dream to you. The Mayor listens closely and nods, never interrupting you.

After a few minutes, you finish your tale. Your hands rub together, your fingers going over your wedding ring. You don’t remember finishing it, but the teacup rests empty on the desk.

“Well that is a story. And just the beginning too I imagine.” She nods. “Well, let me follow up by saying Welcome to Ponyville. I’m sure it won’t be easy, but do keep a chin up, ok?”

You smile at her words. “Thanks.”

If only the politicians back home were this friendly.

“Now, before you tour the town proper, I suggest you go to the library to see the dragon. Erm, Spike was it? Anyway, he came here not too long ago with one of Princess Celestias students. I’d would suggest seeing if you can contact her. While I don’t believe you are a danger, falling through, ‘realities’ as you say is over my head and should be reported to her ASAP.”

You nod in agreement. “That would be a good idea. But to contact a Princess so easily? Sounds weird to me. Back home we almost never even see royals, let alone speak to them.” Sighing, you pull yourself out of the chair.

Mayor Mare gets off her seat and walks around to the door. “I’m sure it will be fine.” Conversation reaches your ears as the door opens. The three fillies look at you expectantly as the mayor glances around. “I see you tidied up the papers. Good job.” She beamed at the fillies.

You motion to the Crusaders. “You three ready?”

“Yeah!” they cry in unison.

“I’ll meet you later. I’m going to need to stretch anyway so maybe I’ll join you on your tour.” Mayor Mare says happily.

“But what about the paper work?” the red unicorn suddenly blurts out. “If we don’t fix the budget soon it’ll be -”

“I know, that’s why I agreed to your head start idea. But we still need a break now and then.” The mayor turns and heads back into her office. “I’ll catch up with you later.” She calls before the door closes.

The red unicorn sighs and then looks up at you. “Sorry. About earlier.”

“Oh it’s alright. Was kind of a refreshing reaction if I’m honest.” You assure her.

A sheepish smile graces her mouth, the shade in her cheeks darken slightly. “I’m Scarlet Memo by the way. I didn’t get to tell you earlier.”

“Pleasure Miss Memo.” You give a small bow of your head before turning and following the girls outside.

“Scarlet is fine!” You hear as the main door closes.

==================================

A large tree looms over you casting a shadow on your form. Similar to Zecoras home, the tree appears to be hollowed out with a door and windows around the outside. A balcony overhangs the right side of the tree.

“This is the library?” You ask the girls.

“Yep. Golden Oak Library.” Apple Bloom answers, heading into the building. “Twilight Sparkle is the current librarian, but she’s away at the moment.”

“Rodeo?”

“Yep.” Scootaloo answers leading up the rear of the Crusaders.

You follow the girls into the library. The entrance is a bit smaller than other buildings, causing you to duck under the doorway and into the library. Shelves line the walls, holding many books. A table sits in the middle with a pony-esque bust. Stairs move up towards an alcove with a bed while a passage way beneath them lead further down. You start to walk around the edge, reading off the titles of the books.

History of Equestria… Herbal Remedies and Homebrew Potions… Magical Elements and their Significance in the World? Huh. This is in the wrong place.

Apple Bloom calls into the seemingly empty room. “Hello? Anypony home?”

Gems and their Abilities. General Mathematics. Ha! You chuckle to yourself. “When in doubt, math it out.”

A voice echoes from under the stairs. “Hello!” Your gaze turns to the voices origins as a small purple and green lizard walks out from under the stairs wearing a pink and white apron. “Oh. Hi girls. Twilight isn’t here at the moment.” He states, rubbing his claws on the apron, walking right past you.

“We know Spike, we need your help.” Sweetie Belle adds. “Can you send a letter to Princess Celestia for us?”

Spikes eyes light up. “Of course! If it’s important I mean. She is usually pretty busy, so I don’t think the princess would want to be disturbed.” Despite trying to sound nonchalant, he seems excited to be of help.

“It is important. Look.” Sweetie Belle points in your direction. Spike turns around, noticing you for the first time. His jaw falls open as his claws dangle to his side.

“Wh-wh-wh-what i-i-is th-that?” he stutters, fear appearing behind his eyes.

You squat down to be closer to his level. “Hey Spike,” you smile, introducing yourself. You offer a hand to the lizard. Gingerly he approaches you and takes your hand. His claws grip your hand as you shake; his scales have a soft leathery texture under your skin. “Are you really a dragon?” You can’t help but ask.

“Of course I am!” He lets go and stands up to his full height, puffing out his chest in pride.

“That’s so cool.” Dragons were always depicted as powerful mythical creatures, so to meet one in person, even a young one, defiantly set your stomach a flutter.

No one will believe me back home. You grin.

“Oh.” He turns back to the girls. “You wanted a letter sent to Princess Celestia, right? I can’t argue that it’s important. Let me just get some paper and a quill.” He runs to the side and pulls open a draw, getting out some parchment and quill. “Ok, what should it say?”

The four of you look at each other. You hadn’t really considered what to write to the princess. Where would you even start? Spike watches you patiently.

“Well.” You stand, breaking the silence. “Since the Mayor suggested I meet with her sooner rather than later, just in case, how about…” You bring your hand to your chin, rubbing it.

Dear Princess Celestia.

Help.

Lost Alien In Library. Wants To Go Home. Please Advise!

Spike.

“That sound ok? It should at least get her attention, and we can cross the next bridge when we get there.” You finish matter-of-factly.

“That could work.” Apple Bloom agrees. “Quick and straight to the point.”

Spike finishes writing the letter, rolls it up and takes a deep breath. You watch in fascination as the little dragon suddenly shoots out green fire onto the letter causing it to disappear into the air.

“Whoa.” You gasp in amazement, causing the dragon to chuckle slightly, his cheeks gaining a faint shade of crimson.

Taking a moment to stretch, you are interrupted mid reach by a brief flash and a loud *pop* causing you and the Crusaders spin round away from Spike. A new pony has appeared in the library. If pony is even the right term. She stood as tall as you. Her multi-coloured mane flowing freely in a non-existent breeze. Her pure white body adorned with a gold necklace and shoes, wings tucked on her back and a large golden crown rest behind the equally large horn atop her head. She looks at you with a surprised expression.

“Oh my. The letter mentioned an alien, but you are…” Her soft voice stops as she eyes you up and down. “Different.”

Her gaze then falls to the three fillies beside you. “Hello my little ponies. I trust you are well.” She greets them with a smile as they bow their heads. She then turns her attention to the dragon.

“Hello Princess Celestia.” Spike bows his head in greeting as well.

“Hello Spike.” She answers in kind. “This certainly explains your nonsensical writing in the letter.” She turns back to you, stepping forward to meet your presence, her eyes watching you curiously as though trying to read your mind.

“Nons… nosen… nonson…” Spike starts muttering to himself with a confused expression crossing his face. If he keeps trying to work it out his head will go for a spin.

“Silly.” You help the poor dragon out, before introducing yourself to the white pony, bowing in your greeting.

She smiles and back at you. “I am Princess Celestia. Head ruler of Equestria.”

“Head ruler? So you’re not ruling alone.” You ask, before chastising yourself. Idiot! You’re talking to a Princess and the Ruler. Don’t act so casually!

But to your surprise, she just chuckles at your comment. “No, my sister has recently returned and has taken her place as the Princess of the Night.” She answers with a pleasing smile as though the thought brings her some joy. “So, a human. There are myths of your kind from long ago, but they would be mere fairy tales even to me. From what Spikes letter said, you wish to find a way home, correct?”

You blink at the princess, slightly taken by her forward nature and quick acceptance of your presence. “That’s correct. But I’m not even sure how I got here in the first place; I just woke up in a clearing within the Everfree Forest. I don’t know how I would start about trying to get home.”

“That is a pickle, isn’t it?” The princess rubs her chin with a hoof. “There might be some hints in the castle library. I shall have to get somepony to look into it. I should also send some scouts to the clearing, just in case.”

“Wait, you’re willing to help? That easily?” Her willingness catches you completely off guard. “No small talk or testing first? What if I was lying?”

“Are you lying?” she peers at you with her magenta eyes, a small mischievous grin flashing across her muzzle.

You stumble over your words. “Well no, but…”

“Then there is no problem, is there. Besides, it will give me something to ponder. Day court can be quite boring you know.” She sighs, before quickly covering her mouth with her hoof. “You didn’t hear that from me, ok?” She eyes the other occupants of the room. They all shake their head.

“Good,” she continues. “Now, if I am to help you, I do want something in return.”

“Of course. If it’s in my power I will gladly do anything.”

“Well put,” she chuckles. “I want to get to know you better. Perhaps over some tea in the castle gardens? I will send you a formal invitation once I have made some time in my schedule.”

Despite the content, you feel that it wasn’t a question. You gulp, “I’d be honoured.”

“Great! Now unfortunately, I only called a short recess for court in response to Spikes letter and I have to be getting back.” She looks to the side and continues almost to herself, licking her lips. “There is also some cake in the kitchens I simply must try before the recess is over. Take care, my little ponies. And you, my little human.”

Her horn glows yellow and with another ‘pop’ she vanishes.

“Well…” You start. “That was, interesting.”

“Yes, the princess is usually much more composed then that. Maybe you caught her highness of guard?” Spike questions.

A brief silence fills the room before Scootaloo pipes up. “You’re that desperate to leave? Don’t you like it here?” Her voice filled with worry and sadness.

“Oh Scootaloo. That’s not it at all. From what little I’ve seen, I do like it here.” You sigh, looking into her sad eyes as you try to find the right words. “Under different circumstances, I probably wouldn’t be in a hurry to get home. But I didn’t exactly come here of my own free will, and I left a lot behind.”

The three fillies’ ears droop as they look to the floor.

Seriously, it’s like getting attacked by a trio of puppy dog eyes. You scratch your head. Why do they sucker punch me like this? It’s cheating.

“Look,” you smile. “There’s no guarantee I’ll be able to go home, and even if I can it might not be for a while. So chins up, there’s plenty of time to hang out.”

The three of them gasp happily and beam up at you in response to your word.

“You’re right! There’s plenty of time left. Besides we still have to show you around Ponyville!” Sweetie Belle exclaims as the three of them turn around and race out the door. “Come on!”

You’re glad they turned around because your own words suddenly register and your smile disappears leaving only sadness painted on your face. It feels as though a new possibility has been acknowledged. One you were hoping to deny.

“Are you ok?” A voice calls to you from your knees. You look down at the dragon, concern in his eyes.

“Yeah. Yeah, I’m ok Spike.” You bring your smile back, showing him there is nothing to worry about. “Thank you though. Hey, I’ll be back later ok? I’m gonna need to brush up on Equestria if I’m staying here for a bit right?” You motion to the books before making your way to the door.

“No problem. See you soon!” Spike waves you off, as you head outside to meet the Crusaders.

Chapter 5 - It's Free Real Estate

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“Come on slowpoke!” Apple Bloom calls as you leave the library.

“Sorry, sorry.” You smile, moving up to the girls. The mayor has joined them too, just in time to start the tour.

“Ah, there you are.” Mayor Mare turns to face you with a smile. “The girls tell me you met with the Princess. Fortune must be smiling on you. I trust it went well?”

“I think so. She was in a bit of a hurry though. Said something about tea in the royal garden later, so at least I have that to look forward too.”

The five of you head off into the town as the sun blazes away in the cloudless sky. The crusaders leading the way, pointing out various stores and locations to you as the mayor tells you more about them.

Your first stop is the pink gingerbread house you passed earlier this morning. Going by Sugar Cube Corner, you discover that it is a bakery and confectionary shop owned by Mr and Mrs Cake. They also house and employ a ‘Pinkie Pie’. As this was the main source of bread in the town, your tour guides decided it would be best to head in and meet to owners.

The scent of freshly baked bread hits you as the door opens. Inside you find a glass counter with freshly baked goods inside, not dissimilar to the bakery stores back home. Fresh cupcakes, cookies and even deserts were hidden from reach with, along with numbers and strange signs on cards. Behind the counter was a metal rack of freshly baked bread and to the side there was even a milk shake machine. It comes as no surprise then that such sweet products, along with the small dining area opposite, was quite popular among the fillies and colts of Ponyville, all of who stared unwaveringly at you when you entered.

“… Goodness! That is quite the tale.” The blue mare exclaimed from behind the counter as you finish telling your story.

After the initial shock of your appearance, Mr and Mrs Cake quickly welcomed you, even offering a cup cake to sample. As you take a bite, the texture of the cupcake melts in your mouth. Soft and crumbly, the taste is of freshly baked goodness. Pink icing sweetens the taste as you take a second bite. Compared to this treat, the memory of the cakes back home became bland and colourless.

“This is really good. I’m surprised, as cake was never my thing.” You tell Mrs Cake who becomes delighted that you liked it. “Everything tastes so good, even though it’s the same as food back home. There must be a secret ingredient you all use.”

“The secret ingredient is love, my dear.” Mrs Cake states with a smile. As cliché as an answer it is, you feel that there might be more truth to it than it seems.

Mayor Mare pulls out a purse from her mane and removes several coins from it, placing them on the counter.

Huh, so the manes are more than just for show. That’s neat.

Mrs Cake passes over four more cupcakes, one for each of your tour guides. As you leave the bakery, a realisation dawns upon you. Since it seems you will be stuck here a while, you’re going to need money to survive. Not wanting to be a free loader.

“I need a job.” You sigh. “Don’t really want to be a freeloader.”

“Yes I suppose you will need to find some way to repay your gracious hosts.” The mayor replies as the three girls happily eat their cupcakes. “What can you do?”

“Hmm,” you scratch your arm. “Most things I guess. I made it a point to learn basic DIY and household maintenance so that I didn’t have to pay for someone else to do it. Saves a lot of money in the long run. Also picked up plenty of other skills too, though how useful they will be here is yet to be seen.”

YouTube don’t fail me now!

“So you can do things like fixing benches and plumbing and such?” The mayors’ interest seemed to be piqued.

“At a basic level yeah. Don’t ask me to install pipes in a whole building though, don’t know how to ‘yet’.”

“I see.” The mayor seemed to be gathering her thoughts; you could almost see the cogs turning in her mind.

Reaching your next point of interest, you stand before the white building you passed earlier, revealed to be the Carousel Boutique, home of the local fashion designer and dress maker.

“It’s my sister Rarity who runs the place. But as she is out of town right now it is closed. She’s very good at what she does, even creating fashion pieces for ponies in Canterlot!” Sweetie Belle says with pride. It’s clear she looks up to her sister a lot.

“She’s at the rodeo too?” You already know the answer.

“Yep. When she gets back, we should see if she can make you some different clothing. You can’t keep wearing that lot every day.”

“That would be helpful. Clothing is one thing I can’t make.” You nod in agreement, your underpants burning a hole in your pocket. “I guess the rodeo group are close friends huh.”

“Well, ever since they defeated Nightmare Moon, they have been pretty inseparable,” Scootaloo added. “I wish I could have seen it. I bet Rainbow Dash was A-W-E-S-O-M-E!”

“Rainbow Dash? Sounds like a fizzy drink flavour.”

“No Way! She’s the greatest ever! Best flier in Equestria!” Scootaloo puffs her chest out, admiration glowing in her eyes. “She’s so cool!”

“Yes well,” The mayor spoke up. “Regardless of how ‘cool’ she might be, she still has a job to do. No doubt you will meet her soon. When she returns from-”

“-the rodeo?” You interrupt.

“Mhmm. Shall we move on?”

Further into town, you pass the new convenience store that had opened recently.

“A lot of the produce in town is sold fresh during market days,’ Mayor Mare explains. “However the store has many chilled and frozen goods, as well as cleaning products. Some things just aren’t really feasible to sell at markets, so I ended up commissioning a store for the products that get imported.”

You end up discussing different aspects of life here in Equestria and back home. How so many similarities exist between the worlds despite the major differences in species.

But your conversations are cut short as the crusaders turn a corner only to come to a halt, as a high and mighty voice calls out round the corner.

“Well, well, well. If it isn’t the blank flanks.” You hear small giggles from round the side as your friends roll their eyes. “Can you even afford to be here?”

Mayor Mare starts to leave your side but you stretch your leg out and stop her. She looks up at you confused.

“If you MUST know, Diamond Tiara. We’re showing our new friend around Ponyville.” Apple Bloom retorts. The others nod in agreement.

“New friend? Found another blank flank to join your little games have you?” The little voice snorts in laughter. “How delightfully droll.”

From behind the wall, two more fillies approach the crusaders. A pink pony with a purple and white mane, wearing a tiara that resembles her own cutie mark. Closely followed by a dark grey pony with a mane of two different shades of grey. Wearing a pearl necklace and sporting glasses that look far too big for her. Her flank emblazoned with a silver spoon cutie mark.

“Yeah, let us see this new friend of yours.” The grey filly spoke in a voice of equal snobbishness to the earlier call out.

“Ahem.” You let out a cough, catching their attention.

The two fillies turn your way with an unimpressed look on their faces. A look that quickly melts as their little heads start to turn upwards, their eyes growing larger and mouths loosening as they crane their necks higher, ears turning slowly to point towards you.

“Boo.”

“AAHHHHHH!”

The fillies vanish in a streak of pink and grey, leaving behind a cloud of disturbed dust. The crusaders double over in laughter as the two fled. You join in, chuckling away but quickly stop when you see Mayor Mares face.

“That wasn’t very nice.” She scowls you with a serious tone in her voice.

“I’m sorry, couldn’t help it.”

“I expect you to apologise to them later.” The mayor sighs, turning facing the three crusaders. “Come on girls, that’s enough.”

The four start to move away, the fillies still giggling like, well, school girls. But you don’t move. Something caught your attention.

“Are you coming?” The mayors voice reaches you. She turns in the direction you’re facing “What are you looking at?”

“That.” You point between two buildings. Just past the homes rests a hill, atop it stood a worn out building. Not much larger than the other town houses but this one had an addition. Just like the other houses, it appeared to be mostly wood and straw building, but built onto the side, stood a stone extension. Even at this distance, you could tell the construction material used was vastly different from the other stone materials used in the town. Grey slabs built up the walls which held a tiled roof. Partially covered from the front, it also carried a rather large chimney.

“What is that place? It seems rather out the way.”

“That… That was a failed endeavour. And the cause of many of my problems.” Mayor Mare informed you, her ears dropping slightly. “Simply put. It’s a forge. It was to be the local blacksmiths.”

“A blacksmiths? That’s pretty cool.” Although you had never tried it yourself, you held a rudimentary knowledge of how it works.

“It would have been, if it ever worked.” The mayor seemed to rather hate that building. “A couple of ponies arrived a few months back saying they found a book about how to smith. After some convincing, I ended up agreeing to the construction of the forge and even got the things they needed to get them started. Turns out, they couldn’t do it.”

You ponder for a moment. “Any reason why? I mean, you got so much other cool stuff, and surely some unicorns would be able to work it out. Smithing isn’t that hard surely.”

“Ponies can’t do it.” Scootaloo suddenly spoke up. “That’s why almost nothing is made from metal.”

The puzzlement on your face must have been clear as the mayor begins to explain.

“For whatever reason, we cannot, as a species utilise metal work. I don’t know why, it just always has been that way. It’s just sort of accepted now. Any time we need something made with metal, we order it from abroad. The Minotaurs are the usual suppliers for any smithing work that needs done in Equestria. And using it as a building material is not cheap either. So the building was abandoned.”

“Woah, woah, woah. Back up.” You raise your hands. “Firstly. Minotaurs? Really?”

The girls nod in confirmation. “Ok. Cool, cool. Secondly, why is it abandoned? Couldn’t you just tear it down?”

“Unfortunately, no. Because it is the only working forge in Equestria, as far as we know, it has become classified as a preservation site. It’s taken months to get through the red tape just to move it. And it’s going to cost so many bits too. ”

“That explains the budget problems.” You nod slowly, closing your eyes in thought.

This is too much for a mere accident, it can’t be a coincidence. Logically sure, there’s a chance. But this? And it’s not the first ‘happy accident’ either. You frown, lost in thought.

“Is everything ok?” Apple Bloom voices here concern.

Your eyes flitter open. “Yeah, just. Just had a strange feeling. It’s all good.” You smile down at the filly. “Mayor, what would happen if someone were to be living there? Would anything change?”

The mayor looks up at you, confused. “Well, if the building was in use, then it would mean that the budget can instead be used on other places where it’s needed. It would be a load off my mind and now that I know how much it’ll cost I can plan accordingly. It will at least buy me some time. Why do you ask?”

“Well, what if I moved in there?”

It’s a sound idea right? Nothing wrong with living in an abandoned house. I won’t be freeloading off the Apples, won’t get too close to any pony. It’ll allow me to keep my distance. That makes sense. You turn the logic over in your mind as the four ponies look at you in surprise.

“Well. I mean. That would be helpful. But-”

“Great! So it’s settled yeah?”

“-But, I’m pretty sure you can’t afford it. You don’t have a bit to your name after all.” The mayor has a point, you don’t have any money. Yet.

“That’s an easy fix.” You brush the air with your hand, putting on your most confident persona. “You already had an idea form in your mind earlier about that, right? I’ll assume it has something to do with repairs and maintenance around town. I can also see about putting the forge to use. Humans don’t have trouble with smithing after all. It’ll be fun.”

You stand proudly, hoping that it convinces the mayor enough to let you stay there. She eyes you cautiously, like she too is trying to read your mind and discover some ulterior motive.

“I like your enthusiasm, but I can’t just go giving buildings away.”

“Ok, how about you loan it to me then. As soon as the bits start rolling in, I’ll begin paying you back for it. That way you won’t need to waste money on relocation. And if I can get the smith up and running, you can boast about how Ponyville has the only working smithy in Equestria. I’m sure the tourists would love that. Besides,” you continue, your smile fading slightly. “It’ll be a good distraction for me.” Your hands rub together, gliding over the familiar metal band.

“Very well.” She finally smiles. “I will go and make the arrangements then. You’ll be informed you as soon as they are done and you can get yourself settled in.”

With that, the mayor turns and heads back towards to town hall. Even with her professional stance, you can see a slight skip in her step.

“I thought you’d stay over longer.” Apple Bloom mutters dejectedly, drawing your attention to her.

“I can’t stay with you forever Apple Bloom. Besides, with my own place, you guys can come visit whenever. Doors always open to friends.” You smile, hoping it cheers them up a bit.

“Ah! So we are friends!” Sweetie Belle suddenly exclaims. The others seem to cheer up at the news too.

==============================

The tour concludes in the early afternoon and the four of you decide to head for a late lunch. Taking a detour through the market, Apple Bloom snagging some bits from Big Mac as he finished packing up the cart and you head to the Hay Burger, a local food joint similar to fast food places back home.

The four of you sit down to look at the menu. While the fillies seemed to have no problem deciding what to have, you were struggling. As the name suggested, much of the menu had hay in it. Eventually you settle on a feta cheese salad, making sure to “hold the flowers”.

It came out looking as you expected, but was still nice and fresh with a good crunch. The three crusaders were laughing about how you scared Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, their happy faces bringing a smile to yours. But your mind kept wondering back to home, and the times you went out to eat with your partner.

“Are you sure you’re ok?” Apple Bloom inquires again, having caught you lost in thought. The three fillies were concerned with their new friend, you. But you smile at them in reply.

“Course. Never better.” You cheerily tell them.

“That’s a lie.” Scootaloo shot you down. “Even I know that. You’ve been staring at your food for like five minutes now. Your hand keeps closing around that ring of yours. And you’re crying.”

“I’m not-” You feel the wetness on your face, catching yourself as tears stain your hand. Quickly you wipe the tears away. “-I’m fine… I’ll be fine.”

“We’re here for you, you know.” Sweetie belle places a hoof on your hand reassuringly.

“Thanks… I just miss home.” You admit to the girls. And to yourself. Memories strike at your heart. Once happy thoughts turn into deadly missiles that threaten to tear you down.

Now isn’t the time. You take deep breaths, calming yourself.

The girls mumble apologetically. You dry your eyes and smile at them.

“Hey, at least the food is good.” You chatter, searching for a distraction. “Tell me about your school.”

The crusaders light up. They start telling you about how they are doing, their teacher Miss Cheerilee, about the show and tell they have next week.

“Oh no!” Sweetie Belle cries. “We don’t have anything for Show and Tell!”

The faces of her two friends turn to worry, their ears flopping down the side of their heads.

“We can’t just do the same as last time. Miss Cheerilee said it has to be something different! I don’t have anything other than my scooter.” Scootaloo face plants the table and starts mumbling. “This is going to be horrible.”

“You three are smart, I’m sure you will come up with something.” You say, finishing off your drink. “When is it?”

“Thursday.”

“Ah, a while yet then. Looks like you’ll have some Show and Tell treasure hunting to do then.” You beam, planting an idea in their brains.

Scootaloo perks up. “Treasure hunting? That sounds like fun! Maybe we can get our cutie marks doing that! Tour guiding didn’t exactly work.” She turns to her flank, mimicked by her friends.

“Well there you go then.” You laugh as the four of you finish up. “Thank you for the meal.”

Chattering and gossiping away, the four of you head back to Sweet Apple Acres, the girls planning their treasure hunting activities, and you thinking about what lies in store now, emotions flooding your heart, and new memories forming in your mind.

Chapter 6 - Moving In

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“I have a special delivery for a mister ‘hooman’. Hehe silly sound. Hooooooman.”

The local mail pegasus hums to herself in glee, letter in mouth.

“It’s human, actually.” You correct her from the door of the Apples home.

“Oh. Right. forry.” The grey pegasus looks up at you, one eye on your face while the other gazing into the sky. “Fere you go!”

You take the letter from her mouth. The penmanship is soft yet professional. A twist of joined up letters showing great skill and care in the presentation. And it’s addressed to you.

“Thank you.”

“Always a pleasure.” The mare gives you a salute, before flying, somewhat lopsidedly, back towards the town.

You close the door and gaze at the letter:

I trust you had a pleasant evening.

The house will be ready around midday. The initial paperwork has been completed and will require signing. Once complete, the house will be yours.

We shall meet with you later to finalise the contracts.

-Scarlet Memo

-From the office of the Mayor.

“Hmm, Midday.” You move back to the table. “That was fast… At least I got my clothes washed.”

You had enquired the previous evening about somewhere that you could wash your clothes properly and Big Mac was kind enough to offer use of a large metal tub inside the barn. You were lucky that none of the residents decided to check in while you washed your clothes, and the heat quickly dried them off. The evening held light conversation, with Granny Smith happy you got your own roof so quickly. You weren’t too sure, but it felt like Big Mac was sad at the news.

The night was easier on you as well, quickly falling into a dreamless slumber without having your mind wander too far.

====================

Shortly before midday, you hug Big Mac and Granny Smith, giving your thanks for being so welcoming and looking after you the last few days, with the promise that you’ll visit and if any work needs to be done to give you a shout. The girls had disappeared in the early morning, you presume to do some treasure hunting. With a final hug and wave, you head to the smithy.

The short trip across town was uneventful, greeting the citizens when you saw them. Despite the welcoming reception you got yesterday, you could tell they were more cautious this time round. Most likely because you were on your own this time. It also left you alone with your thoughts, wondering if your partner would like it here, if the Princess has made any headway already. Not having a distraction is dangerous as your emotions bubble and fight inside your chest.

Enough of that. You draw in a deep breath, trying to cheer yourself up. If I can’t change what’s happened, no point worrying. Isn’t that right.

“Why worry, just move forward one step at a time. Things are working out well already… Maybe too well.” You voice your concerns out loud. It troubles you how easily the last few days have lined up for you, like some other force was pushing things along.

Eventually reaching the building, you spy a pale yellow pony with a raspberry mane tending to the front yard. A lovely rose embezzled on her flank. Her ears twitch as you approach, causing her to look in your direction.

“Ah there you are.” She smiles in your direction.

“Hey there.” You wave at the pony. “What are you up to?”

“The mayor asked me to tidy the grass and weeds here yesterday. I wasn’t sure why, seeing as its abandoned for a while now and quite out of the way, but turns out somepony decided to move in. I guess that’s you huh. I’m just finishing up here before I head back. But to spend so much on getting this place ready, you must have really impressed the Mayor.” She seems pleased with her job, and you have to admit, it looks good. The path is clear of weeds, the grass is freshly cut. Some flowerbeds rested under the windows, but nothing grew from them.

“I wasn’t sure what sort of flowers you like, so I left the flowerbeds empty. You should come by the shop some time and pick some up, I got quite the selection. It’ll give the building a more homely feel. And they taste great for a quick snack, especially during the summer heat. I’m Roseluck by the way.”

“Humans don’t eat flowers.” Her features displaying slight disappointment. “But we do like to use flowers for decoration. I’ll be sure to come by when things get settled.”

“Great! I’ll see you then!” She turns towards the town getting ready to leave.

“Wait.” You stop her, realising what she had said. “What do you mean ‘spend so much’?”

“Oh, well the mayor hired several of us to tidy the place up. It wasn’t in bad condition thankfully, just needed some spring cleaning. Fresh sheets, new bed. That sort of thing.”

You just look at her, a state of shock covering your face. “She did that? But, why? I had every intention of doing it myself-“

“I’m sure you did.” A voice speaks out behind you, causing you both to jump. “But if you spend all your time tidying up, you won’t have any time to work.”

Mayor Mare approaches you, followed by Scarlet Memo, levitating several pieces of paper with an ignited horn.

“Good afternoon, I hope you weren’t waiting long.” The mayor greets you. Scarlet simply nodding her head in greeting.

“Not at all, I just got here.” You inform the mayor.

“And I was just leaving. Take care.” Roseluck smiles as she trots past you, her tail flicking against your leg.

“Well then, shall we head inside? Get this paperwork out the way and then you can get started.”

The three of you head into the building. Roseluck wasn’t kidding, the place looked great. The front door opens up into a large open area. The kitchen opened up into the living room with a small table bridging the gap. Surrounded by four chairs and crowned with a fresh bowl of fruit and veg. A small couch and chair sat on the edges of a small rug, surrounding a fireplace. To the far right, a set of stairs headed up to the second floor.

“If you want to have a quick look upstairs, go ahead, we’ll set the paper work up and get it ready.” The mares each took a seat at the table as you head upstairs to have a look. A simple bathroom, much like at the farm, graced the top of the stairs. Further along the corridor sat a bedroom and two empty rooms. The bedroom was completely bare except for a bedside table, single bed and a chest of drawers with several candles placed upon it. As you turn to leave however, something else catches your eye. Upon the chest of drawers top rest a book.

The leather bound book was certainly an eye catcher. The covers bore a distinct red metallic sheen despite the leathery texture in your fingers. Flicking through, you can see it contains many different texts and drawings. Temperatures, melting points, different alloys and mixtures. Information on the best ores and crafting procedures. Checking the cover you read the title:

“A Comprehensive Guide to Blacksmithing.”

A small piece of paper slips out and falls to the floor. Upon it read only two words written in a magnificent script.

Good Luck

You head downstairs, book in hand, and sit at the table.

“What have you got there?” Scarlet enquires, your gaze never leaving the book.

“I’m not sure. I guess it’s the book that the previous ponies had. ‘A Comprehensive Guide to Blacksmithing’. There was a note too. They must have forgotten it when they left.” You place the book on the table, turning your attention to the rest of the paper work. “No matter, I’m sure it’ll be useful.”

“Some light reading for you later then.” The mayor moves some of the paper work towards you. “Here... These just state that you are loaning the building with intent to pay back once you start earning bits. I need you to sign here, here and here. You’re welcome to read them of course.”

“Why are you helping me so much?” You can’t help but ask. This is all too much for a complete stranger to do for you.

“Call it an investment. I just hope you won’t disappoint me like the last one.”

A quick skim and light conversation later, you became the proud tenant of the black smiths.

“All done. We’ll get these filed away. And I expect you to be at the office nine o’clock sharp. Lots of work to do.” The mayor smiles as Scarlet gathers up the paperwork. “The kitchen is stocked, so don’t worry about food for now. Hope it’s to your tastes.”

The duo head out the door, leaving you alone in your new home.

Something is definitely not right. Everything is happening too fast. And too easily.

Scarlet looks back at you. “See you tomorrow.” You can’t be certain, but you’re sure her face was a little darker today. Waving at the mares as they trot off towards the town, you close the door leaning back against it.

“I’m gonna get worked to death, aren’t I.” You say to no one in particular. Heading to the kitchen, you decide to make yourself a sandwich. Mayor mare wasn’t kidding about it being stocked. Bread, milk, fruit and veg, even some oatmeal. The fresh flowers and hay in the cupboard were a bit of a surprise, but if someone visits, they can have those.

Sandwich in hand, you grab the book off the table and sit on the couch.

“Well, I got no plans for now. A comprehensive guide huh. No author.” You flip open the book. The words seem to dance across the page as you begin to read through the pages.

====================

“Hey, wake up.”

Your eyes flutter open as you get shaken awake. Blinking and taking a deep breathe you look around, your hand rubbing your eyes.

“Wha…?”

“You fell asleep.” A voice drifts to your ears from beside you. “We came to check the place out and found you on the couch.”

You look at the filly next to you. Sweetie Belle looks back at you, her hoofs still resting on your arm.

“I don’t even remember falling asleep.” You tell her, trying to get your bearings. You catch some movement from the corner of your eye as Scootaloo prods the book you were reading.

“Must have been a really boring book if you don’t even remember falling asleep.” She spouts, flicking through the pages. “Yeah, I don’t understand a word of this.”

You smile before yawning and stretching out. The sound of closing cupboards makes the three of you turn towards the kitchen where Apple Bloom is rummaging for food.

“I take it you’re hungry.” You say, getting off the couch and heading to the kitchen. “Want me to make you girls something? What would you like?”

“Oh, yes please. Daisy sandwiches will be fine. You don’t eat flowers after all, so they’d only go to waste.” Sweetie Belle says, sitting at the table. Scootaloo throws the book on the couch and follows Sweetie Belle.

“No problem.”

Apple Bloom joins her friends at the table. You quickly whip up some sandwiches for the girls and join them at the table. The girls seem to enjoy their sandwiches as you try to remember when you fell asleep. But try as you might, your mind is blank. Sighing, you turn your attention to the girls.

“So how was treasure hunting? Find anything good?”

“Total bust!” Scootaloo exclaims. “We went all over Ponyville and found nothing! Seriously, Miss Cheerilee won’t be happy if we can’t find something. I can’t afford to get a low grade again.”

Apple Bloom swallows her mouthful. “I’m sure there is something we can find. Maybe I can borrow Applejacks hat? It’s been in the family for a while… Ah she won’t let me. She loves that hat too much.” Dejected, Apple Bloom continues to nibble on her sandwich.

You start to think what you could do to help. I could offer to be their show and tell… Or make them something perhaps. I mean... The girls have been a lot of help; it’s the least I could do for them.

“Hey,” you grab their attention. “Want to check out the workshop? Maybe there’s something in there?”

Their eyes light up. In a split second the plates lay empty as they devour their sandwiches whole.

“Yeah, that’s not creepy at all.” You mutter, getting up from the table and heading for the door.

With the girls in tow, you head round the corner to the workshop.

“Whoa.” The four of you gasp at the secrets within. Whoever built and stocked the place held nothing back. A sturdy forge rests in the back, complete with bellows to add oxygen to the flame and the chimney to let out the smoke. An anvil rests nearby ready for the soft metal to be worked on with a large empty tub next to it. A large work bench stands against the near wall, surrounded by many different tools. Different sized pliers, multiple hammers from small handhelds to a large sledge. There were even tools that weren’t involved in the forging process like wrenches, saws and chisels. Several buckets stacked neatly by the entrance along with a grind stone standing alone away from the rest of the equipment. You notice that there is no odour, or any soot or coal. The place hasn’t been used yet.

The girls move in and start to explore the area, taking it all in. Scootaloo starts poking the forge, Apple Bloom moved to the grindstone and is pressing the peddles. Sweetie Belle looks like she’s trying to lift a hammer up but her horn just flickers away.

“This place is loaded. If nothing else, I can always use the tools to be a handyman. Though there is something missing.”

“What’s missing? This place is awesome!” Scootaloo calls out while prodding the forge.

You move around the workshop. “Well for one, there’s no blast furnace. I’m not sure if that forge can smelt ore. It also seems like this place wasn’t built for ponies. Maybe the plans were for a different creature? Minotaurs perhaps? Does raise a few issues, like where to get the materials.” You sigh. This is going to be more hassle than you first anticipated. “Still, something to do. Maybe there’s some other way to smelt the stuff? Like with magic? I’ll have to look into it later.”

The girls listen as you examine the different areas.

“You seem to know a lot.” Apple Bloom says with admiration.

“Not really. It’s just what I picked up here and there. Hopefully that book will fill in any major gaps in my knowledge. But it will have to wait.” You face the girls who have lined up to listen to you. “I’m starting work for the mayor tomorrow and something tells me it’ll be mostly maintenance. At least I’m not short of tools.”

“That’s great! The mayor must really like you.” Sweetie Belle chimes as they all beam with pride.

You chuckle. “Maybe. If nothing else, it’ll keep me busy at least. Less time to dwell.”

Your face falls a little, the mention of not dwelling enough to cause memories to stir.

The four of you head out as the sky starts to darken. Parting ways for now, the crusaders head off home and you head inside. As the door closes, you are overcome with a sudden drowsiness.

“I didn’t think I was this tired.” You rub your head, feeling a headache coming on. “It’s probably the summer heat.”

Drinking a quick glass of water from the kitchen, you grab the book off the couch and head upstairs to wash up and get ready for bed. Placing the book on the bedside table, you climb into the sheets and get comfortable. You had considered reading a little but your eyes refuse to stay open, and you drift off into the night.

Chapter 7 - ...

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The main street is packed, just like every weekend. People are moving back and forth across the street, going in and out of the shops, all the while avoiding collisions with each other as they go about their busy lives.

You take a deep breath and give yourself a moment. Gazing up at the cloudy sky, you let a smile cross your face as the cool breeze caresses your features. The clouds twist and collide in the air as if to warn of an oncoming storm. The sound of movement coalesces around as the people go about their business. The jostling of their clothes, the rustling of shopping bags. None of them bother to even acknowledge at you as they move around your presence to their next destination.

“Come on, hurry up.” Your wife yells over the stream of people. “We still need to get dinner for tonight.”

“Yeah, I’m coming.” You call back.

You gaze up the street of your home. Buildings on either side of the road, ones you thought you’d never see again, stand tall and imposing, casting a shadow over the people. You glance around at the crowds, their faces hidden under hats and open umbrellas in anticipation of the oncoming downpour.

You start to move up towards your wife, brushing past the people as you try to avoid them. They stubbornly refuse to avoid you, knocking your shoulder and threatening to tip you off balance. Their footprints getting louder with each step you take. The hustle and bustle of the street increasing in volume as more and more people get in your way. You keep pushing forward. Past the black suits, past the hats and umbrellas. Getting closer and closer, you reach your hand out to your wife, trying desperately to grab hers as you push through the increasing torrent of people threatening to drag you away. The noise around you gets louder and louder, until it becomes a deafening blast ringing in your ears.

The noise is overpowering…

The noise is ear-shattering…

… Silence.

You stop. A shiver running up your spine, the hairs on the back of your neck stand to attention. Something is wrong, you know it. You feel it.

The people are gone. The street is all but deserted. Only you and your wife remain. She stands just out of reach of you. A roar echoes above you as the clouds slam and crash into each other like an ocean amidst a violent storm. A brilliant and terrifying display of power and ferocity, threatening to swallow the town whole.

“Help!”

You blink.

The town is bathed in flames, a smouldering heat assaulting your senses. Buildings start to collapse around you, firing debris in all directions.

“Help me!”

You panic, glancing around for your wife. You spot her trapped on the other side of the road, flames approaching her like a beast from the deep, slithering towards her body. You try to move but your body refuses.

“Where did you go?!” She cries out in panic. “Why did you leave me alone?!”

“It wasn’t my choice!” You answer, desperately trying to reach her before the flames.

“Help!”

Another cry grabs your attention. You whip your head round to the voice behind you. The structures continue to shift and burn, no longer resembling those of your home. The hardened dirt road splits open, foundations crumble and wooden supports snap. The buildings shatter, expelling debris all over the street.

“Help! Please!” The voice calls again.

You gaze into the ruins that scatter across the road, the inferno twisting and dancing upon them, creeping towards three shadows on the other side. As your eyes adjust to the shimmering heat and blazing fire, the shapes begin to solidify.

“Please help us!” Apple Bloom cries as the flames encircle the fillies, creeping ever closer.

“I thought you were our friend!” Sweetie Belle gasps as her hoof slips, trying to push herself away from the encroaching flare.

“I thought you cared!” Scootaloo yells, backing into her two friends as they try to get away from the blaze.

“I do care!” You try to reach for the girls. “I am your friend!”

Try as you might, your legs refuse to move. Flames start to lick at your feet as the heat begins to burn and sear your clothing. You frantically look around. Your wife has her back up against a wall, the fire leaping at her clothes as she tries to shield herself from it. The ponies drastically keep kicking at the flames in a vain attempt to keep it at bay. No matter how hard you try, you cannot move.

All around you, the buildings start to collapse, getting absorbed by the firestorm that grows ever larger with each landmass that it feeds upon. The world collapses inward on itself, the brink of destruction getting closer and closer as the blazing inferno approaches you from all sides, leaving nought but void in its wake.

In the blink of your eyes, all the buildings are devoured. Only your wife and the three fillies are left, looking for you, calling to you, pleading with you. Terror encapsulated in their eyes as the flames inch closer.

“Aaaahhhhhhh!” Their final cries fade as the flames erupt, consuming them and reducing the area to nothingness.

You yell in anguish, grabbing your head in a distraught frenzy. The image of their disappearance engraved in your mind as the inferno blazes skywards around you. The flames sear your head, heat razing your body as the void takes you.

Your eyes shoot open. Your body shakes as you gasp for air. Your heart pounds in your chest, blood throbbing in your ears. Cold sweat drips down your face, soaking into the pillow. After what feels like an eternity, you manage to muster the will power to slowly you pull yourself up.

“Was it... Did I...” Your words are disjointed as your thoughts struggle to manifest. You ease yourself onto the edge of the bed, your head resting in your hands as you try to calm your rapid breathing. A gentle orange light slowly enters the room through the window.

“No.” You panic, jumping to your feet before collapsing to the floor. Struggling, you gather what strength you can and, upon trembling legs, you dash for the window.

Gazing out, your body tense in anticipation as your eyes take in the sight. A feeling of relief washes over you and your body starts to loosen. The town lies sleeping, bathed in the orange glow of a new dawn. You rub your face with your hand, drenching it in sweat before glancing up once more, just to make sure it’s still there. Certain that it was only a nightmare; you look back towards the bed.

“No point trying to go back to sleep, the sun is coming up. I might as well get ready.” You shake your head, clearing the cobwebs from your eyes before slowly getting ready to face the new day.

Chapter 8 - Town Upkeep

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You stagger slowly into the council building; the previous night’s dream still burns in your mind as clear as day. Scarlet Memo is already behind her desk sorting through a large pile of documents.

“Morning Scarlet.” You wearily call to her.

The mare looks up from the papers when you greet her.

“Ah, good morning,” she smiles before a look of concern crosses her face. “Oh my, you look like you didn’t sleep a wink.”

“Oh, I did. It was just a bit restless. Nothing to worry about.” You reassure her with a wave of your hand. “So where do we start?”

“If you say so,” a roll of parchment floats over to you, bathed in her signature crimson glow. “This is the current list of all the maintenance jobs that need to be done around town. To be honest, most of it is just upkeep. But there are a few broken pieces that we would like you to try to fix if you can. If you need any materials, write them on the list and we’ll see what we can get.”

You unfurl the parchment and begin to read it off.

“Mend park benches, refit fence panels… Empty fountain?” You gaze over the list at the unicorn. “Wouldn’t one of you be better at that? Like, magic the rubbish out or something?”

“Well, technically. But there aren’t many unicorns in Ponyville.”

Scarlet shifts slightly as you continue to glare at her. You feel like there is more to this than simply ‘not many unicorns’.

“I need a net then,” you finally say, sighing and turning your eyes back to the parchment. “School roof needs fixing huh.”

“Yes. And we already got the roof tiles ready.”

“Great. Do you have a ladder? Also, what is the weather forecast for this week? Any idea?”

Scarlet thinks for a moment. “It is meant to stay sunny till Thursday afternoon. A shower is forecast then. After that, sunny days with few clouds Sunday. So, the roof does need to get done up soon. We do also have a ladder for you to use. I will get it delivered to the schoolhouse this afternoon-”

“Wednesday.” You interrupt her. “I’ll do the roof Wednesday afternoon. I’m planning to be there anyway. So, you know, two birds and all that.”

“Erm… Okay? Wednesday then. I’ll see if I can find you a net.” She eyes you up and down. “You’re still wearing that?”

You glance down at your trousers and shirt. It’s true that you don’t have any other clothes right now, but you have been sure to keep these clean.

“Well, I don’t have any other clothes. Sweetie Belles sister, oh, what’s-her-name-”

“Rarity.”

“-Right. Rarity should be returning today so I thought I’d drop by that boutique later and see if she could make anything for me.”

“Ok, that might be a good idea.” She smiles at you. This time it’s your turn to shift slightly as her eyes dwell on yours a little longer than what would be considered comfortable. The glow around her paper’s flickers and, as if on cue, she jumps slightly and gets back to rummaging through her papers.

“Thanks Scarlet,” you wave the roll of paper, before turning towards the door. “Oh, does that store have any tool belts or boxes? I didn’t find one in the workshop.”

“I hung one on the coat rack, didn’t you see it?”

“Huh, no. I must have missed that. I will check now. Must get the tools anyway.”

With a final wave over your shoulder, you leave the building and head back to the workshop.

====================

You look at the coat rack and only see your long emerald jacket hanging there.

“Huh…” You ponder, rubbing your neck. With a single motion, you lift your coat. Lo and behold, the belt is hanging underneath. You pick it up with a smile and fasten it around your waste. It is well worn and tattered in some places, but overall, it appears to have been looked after.

After gathering any tools that you might need, including the larger sledgehammer for the fence, you head out into the town. Ponyville has come alive in the short time it took you to get your things. You move through the town, avoiding the ponies as you travel without a plan. Several of the denizens bid you a good morning in their cheery voices and you return their greeting in kind. Despite the welcoming nature, you still move with some distance from the ponies in case they start wanting to chat. While you hold nothing against conversation, not knowing how long you’ll be here does make things harder.

It’s easier this way. If I end up leaving or just disappearing, I won’t have made a large enough impact for anyone to miss me. Your mind offers its sound, if flawed, reasoning. Well… Almost no one will miss me. You sigh, looking to the ground, losing yourself in thought. You can’t shake this strange feeling that dream gave you. And it just raises more questions about this place.

Some of the ponies start to stare at you standing in the middle of the street. Their attention shifting between your face and the large hammer in your hand, but at least none of them run away. You left out a deep breath and shake your head before glancing over your list, once again.

“Hmm, it seems that a lot of work is in the park.” You look up and begin your walk to the destination.

====================

The park is completely deserted this morning. With the foals in school and the townsfolk working, the park rests in peaceful tranquillity.

<Thud>

A tranquillity ruptured by the dull thud of a large hammer on top of a wooden post.

<Thud>

You hammer away that the post, reinserting it into the ground where it had come loose. With a final smack, the post rests snug in its hole. Dropping the sledge, you get out your smaller tools and start to wedge the post in place with a few stones, hammering them in. A flicker of movement catches your eye as you reach down for the dislodged fence panels.

Despite the openness of the park, the gazebo has been fenced off to create an almost secluded area. Perfect for those special moments and it prevents ponies from falling into the river. You hum to yourself as you connect the loose panels back into position.

With the final panel secured, you give the fence one last jog. Happy with it, you smile to yourself, humming whatever tune comes to mind. Anything to keep hold of your home. Picking up your tools, you start making your rounds on the benches dotted around the park.

The benches seem sturdy enough, weathered but secure. You jiggle the planks making up the length of the furniture, checking for any loose or broken sections. Once the issues are located, you get down on the ground and, laying on your back, shimmy under the bench to get access to the bolts holding the planks in place.

With each bench you check, your thoughts drift to home. The dream still hauntingly clear in your mind, you can’t help but wonder and worry. Are they all ok? What could they be thinking? Your thoughts travel to home, the places you visited, the people you met. With everything that’s happened in such a short time, you find yourself recalling old memories, just to keep them alive.

“This is terrible. I need to stay positive.” You tell yourself. “I’m sure I’ll go home soon, and all this will fade like a dream.” Even as the words leave your lips, you know they aren’t very convincing. They echo with a conflicting sadness. Steeling yourself, you carry on with your work, quietly singing to yourself, doing what you can to lift your spirits.

====================

“Last bench then.” You say, rubbing your neck. “Let’s get this done.”

You shimmy yourself once again under the bench to tighten the bolts. These are far looser than the previous benches, indicating a possible favourite spot amongst the ponies.

You start to tighten the bolts. “If someone sat on these, they could really hurt themselves.”

“Good thing you’re here then.”

You jump in surprise, hitting your head on the underside of the bench. A giggle travels to your ears as you look past your legs to see the lower half of a red mare sitting next to them.

“You shouldn’t sneak around like that Scarlet.” You grunt, finishing off the bolts.

“I wasn’t exactly sneaking. You just weren’t paying attention.”

“All the more reason to not sneak.” You pull yourself out from under the bench and look at her. “What brings you out here anyway?”

“I bought you a net.” She hovers a small fishing net in front of you. Hoping onto the newly tightened bench, she also places two brown bags next to her. “And some lunch. I figured you might be hungry.”

You hadn’t thought about lunch, but now that she’s mentioned it, your stomach growls in anticipation.

“Guess I was right.” She taps the bench a few times. “You’ve done a good job. Thank you.”

“No problem.” You sit next to her. She places the second brown bag on your lap before diving into her own. You glance inside and pull out a sandwich.

“No flowers don’t worry. If you said earlier, we wouldn’t have put any in the cupboards either.” She hovers her own sandwich in front of her face and happily takes a bite.

You can’t help but watch as magic and pony work flawlessly together. Taking a bite out of your own sandwich. You gaze out over the park. The sun sits high in the air as you take in the sights. Several ponies have gathered in the park for lunch as well, some sitting on the grass while others inspect the benches you worked on earlier, before jumping up. Seems they approve of your work. You can’t help but feel a little pride, even if it was an easy task.

You thank the mare. She smiles at you, cheeks bulging with food. As the two of you eat the sandwiches, you catch her glancing at your hands every so often, just as curious about them as you are about the magic. You notice that it’s the first time your mind has been still since your arrival. The first time you are just in the moment. You smile, taking in a deep breath and stare off into space.

“Question.” You suddenly speak up. “Where would I get metal ingots? I assume they would have to be ordered from somewhere that smelts ore. Any ideas?”

“Possibly from the minotaur’s like with the metalwork. Maybe the dragons or Griffons have smelting capabilities, though relations aren’t super these days.” She looks out over the park.

“Bummer. That forge isn’t going to be much use without materials. Oh well, something might come up. I can always use the tools to do some woodwork I guess.” You shudder at the idea. Splinters are bad enough, but wood working is quite fiddly too without proper equipment. “Thank you for the lunch.”

You get up, placing the brown paper bag in your pocket. You turn to Scarlet.

“I’m going to head off to the fountain, get that done before the days out.” You subconsciously ruffle her mane and give her a scratch behind the ears. She melts to your touch, her ears flopping lazily and her eye lids close as she pushes against your hand. You catch what your doing and quickly withdraw your hand. Scarlet whines slightly as she looks up at you.

“Err, sorry. Force of habit.” You stutter.

Idiot, these are sentient creatures, you can’t just-

“I don’t mind, that felt really good.” Scarlet purrs. “Maybe I should hire you as a masseuse instead. You could do wonders with those hands.” Her eyes half closed as she looks at them.

Taken aback by her comment, you steady yourself. “Ahem. Yes, well. I can’t do massages, so that’s out the question.” You quickly gather the net and hammer. “I’m off, take care.”

“See you later!” Scarlet calls out as you hurry back into the town.

====================

“Seriously, what were you thinking? They aren’t pets. You can’t just randomly start stroking and scratching them.” You angrily chastise yourself, replaying the dumb scene in your head, as you walk with determination towards the next job.

The fountain is in generally good condition, with the only real issue with it is the number of leaves and broken branches resting on the surface. Fortunately, the net does a good job of scooping them all out, and before long, the water is clear of floating debris.

You glance skywards. By the position of the sun, you would wager it was around three pm.

“Huh. Either the mayor underestimated me, or I overestimated them.” You sit down on the edge of the fountain. Wiping your hands on your shirt, you look back at the list. “Benches, check. Fence, check. Schoolhouse, Wednesday. Pool, check. It sounded like a lot more work than it really was. Maybe it was just more work for them.”

You look past the list, down at your belly, giving it a light pat. In a way, I’m glad. Not sure I’d survive heavy manual labour. I should do something about this. You close your eyes and rest for a moment.

You feel a strong breeze against your face as a shadow blocks out the sun. Opening your eyes, you are greeted with a pair of large magenta eyes. You cry out in surprise, falling back into the water. Splashing about trying to get your balance, you manage to get on your hands and knees. Coughing and spluttering up water, you flip over and sit in the fountain to a chorus of laughter.

“Bwhahaha!”

Soaking wet, you slowly turn your glare upwards. The owner of those magenta eyes, a blue pegasus with a rainbow mane, is rolling above you in hysterics as though it was the funniest thing they’d ever seen.

“Oh man. That was hilarious! I was just curious what you were but now I know. Clumsy! Bwahahaha!”

You just stare at her. The exuberant laughter slowly causing the pegasus to drift down.

Little closer… Little closer… There!

In a swift movement, your hand shoots up out of the water and grasps the mares’ tail, causing a yelp of surprise to escape her lips before you drag her down into the water. The mare starts splashing and panicking in the water. Her flailing creates waves that bob her back and forth. Rolling your eyes, you sigh in defeat. Moving a hand under her belly, you lift the pony up.

“Stand, it’s not that deep.”

The pegasus stops flailing, her legs dropping down. As you move your hand away, her hoofs find the bottom and she manages to stand, the water reaching just above her legs. With a powerful jump, she leaps onto the edge of the fountain, splashing you in her wake. Her slick mane covering her face as she turns towards you. The sight causes you to laugh, evaporating any anger you might have had.

“That wasn’t funny.” She blurts out, shaking herself dry, causing her mane to puff out uncontrollably.

“Don’t dish out medicine you can’t take.” You chuckle, getting to your feet. Your clothes drip with water as you shake yourself off as well.

“Yeah, yeah.” She dismisses your remark. “So, what are you anyway? Some hairless monkey?”

“You’re quite cheeky, aren’t you Rainbow Dash.” You shoot back, climbing out of the fountain. You start to stretch and rub your neck, causing it to click.

“And no, I’m a human.” You answer her, introducing yourself.

“A human huh? Weird.” The pegasus flaps her wings, spraying stray droplets everywhere before floating up to your level. She raises a hoof to you. “Sorry about making you jump.”

You glance at her gesture. Is that a fistbump? Hoofbump?

You gingerly bump it with your fist. “It’s all good. Nothings broken, so no harm done.”

Her smile broadens exponentially.

“Cool! Anyway, I’m Rai...” She stops mid introduction, poking your chest with her front hoof. “Wait, how do you know who I am? We’ve never met… have we?”

“No, we haven’t. Scootaloo talks about you though.”

“Oh, you know Scoots? That makes sense. Great kid.”

“Yeah, she’s pretty cool.” You pause for a moment. “Since you’re here, I take it Rarity is back too?”

“Huh? Oh yeah, she should be home by now. Wait, you know-”

“Sweetie Belle.” You interrupt her grabbing the net off the ground. You start making your way back to the office.

“Right. Right. Oh! Then you must know Apple Bloom too!” Rainbow dashes up to your side.

“Yep. Know her too. I’ve been here since Friday afternoon, so I’ve met a few ponies.”

“Aww man, we must have just missed you then. We went to Appleoosa for the weekend. Anyway, where you off to?”

The blue pegasus seems to move from topic to topic quite quickly, keeping up is a bit of a chore on your weary mind.

“I’m heading back to the mayor’s office to give my report and then to the boutique. I wanted to ask Rarity to make me some clothes.”

“Alright hotshot. Good luck with that. I’ll see you around.” She smacks you on your back, causing you to lurch forward before igniting with a burst of acceleration and speeding off into the sky, leaving a cloud of dust and a rainbow streak in her wake.

Chapter 9 - First Impressions

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The mayor seemed pleased when you entered her office, already having heard from Scarlet. You were right when you thought there wasn’t much on the list. As it turns out, ponies take a little longer to get things done. But this suited you fine. Other than the school roof, there isn’t anything else currently in need.

“Here you go. Your payment.” Mayor Mare passes you a decently sized bag of coins. “I wasn’t expecting you to have done so much already, but it’s good that you’re a hard worker.”

“Well, it keeps me distracted.” You admit. Having something to do is better than sitting around. “If anyone comes to you needing something fixed, you can always send them my way.”

“That’s not a bad idea actually. I’m sure there are others around town who could use a… hand.” Scarlet giggles into her hoof.

You roll your eyes, shifting slightly in place.

“Anyway,” you continue. “I need to go see Miss Rarity. I’ll see you later, ok?”

Bidding your friends farewell, you head out onto the street. Time to visit that boutique.

====================

“There you are!” a small voice calls out to you. Turning, you see Sweetie Belle galloping at full speed in your direction, stopping just shy of your shins. “I’ve been looking everywhere for you!”

“What’s the emergency Sweetie Belle?” You kneel as she catches her breathe.

“No emergency,” She pants. “I told my sister about you. She said she would make you some clothes but needs measurements first.”

“You ran at full speed just to tell me that?” You question her.

“Yep!” she beams at you.

This kid. You smile at her. I don’t remember the last time a friend went so far out of….

“Wait a minute.” Your smile drops as you stare at her, your eyes narrowing. “What did you tell her exactly?”

“Nothing really.” Sweetie circles her hoof on the ground, kicking at the dirt. “Just that you’re my friend and that you were stuck with only one pair of clothes. She agreed to help out.”

“Just like that?” You stand up, eyeing the little filly. “Did you mention I wasn’t a pony?”

Sweetie Belle opens her mouth to answer but then closes it again.

“That’s a no. This will be fun.” You rub your face in exhaustion. “Alright kiddo, lead the way.”

You follow Sweetie Belle the short distance to the Carousel Boutique, reaching it in no time at all. A bell chimes from above the frame as Sweetie Belle pushes open the door, inviting you in.

“Rarity! We’re back!” She calls into the hall.

Your eyes wonder around the room. The counter and till sit on the left with a curtain hiding a passage to the back. A confined catwalk situated at the far end of the room, complete with lights. The floor is tilled white with many pony-shaped mannequins upon it. Several have wonderous outfits hanging off them. Even though you were never one for fashion, you can tell these are amazing. Crafted with love and dedication, perfection incarnate. And yet, you shudder. These outfits aren’t practical for everyday wear.

You let out a whistle of amazement.

“Thank you, Darling.” A rather posh voice reaches your ears. You turn your head as a white unicorn elegantly moves towards you, a gorgeous sweeping purple mane gracing her head along with a flowing tail set to a wonderful curl. Sure, the ponies are cute, kind of like cats, but this one goes the extra mile. You can’t help but stare and admire her. Sweetie Belle follows in tow. “I must say though, my sister never mention that her friend was so…”

“Alien? Beastly?”

“Exotic.” She finishes. Her eyes narrow as she observes you. “Though I’m not sure I approve of you dragging that muck everywhere.”

You glance downwards. True enough, your clothes were still dripping after your encounter with Rainbow Dash, in addition to the large, smudged handprint embezzled on your shirt.

“Shoot, sorry. That’s on me.” You apologise to the mare. “I had a run in with Rainbow Dash before I came here. Stuff happened and I forgot I wasn’t exactly dressed to impress.”

“If you met Raindow, then I suppose it would explain the state you are in. But think nothing of it.” Although Rarity tries to sound like she doesn’t mind, her voice quivers slightly and her body language tells you that she really wants to scream. “Just. Don’t move.”

Her horn ignites as she gingerly steps over the pool of muck and water seeping around your feet. From nowhere a tape measure appears as she starts to take your measurements.

“Arms up please.”

Standing just inside the doorway, you raise them uncomfortably. As your shirt sticks to you, you notice just how much of your work has gotten onto your clothes.

“I’m surprised how quickly you’re willing to do this Miss Rarity.”

You try to follow Rarity with your head as she moves around you, expertly dancing over the dirt around your feet.

“Such strange movements. Practical for your figure, nothing I can’t adapt, but it’s still strange.” She mutters to herself, ignoring your comments as your measurements get taken.

“Err Sis?” Sweetie Belle calls out to her sister.

“Hmm? Oh yes right,” She seems to come out of her daze. “Well, I couldn’t just say no to my sister’s friend. Not after what she told me you have been through. I was so moved. Legs apart, darling.”

Your stance widens enough for Rarity to measure your inside leg as you cast a glance at Sweetie Belle, who avoids eye contact with you, suddenly taking serious interest in the tiling of the floor.

What exactly has she been saying?

“Besides,” Rarity continued. “I do like a challenge. And creating clothes for a… erm.. sorry, what are you?”

“Human.” You state, introducing yourself.

“Human hmm, interesting. Well, it’ll be a nice change of pace if I do say so myself. You can relax now.” Rarity trots towards the counter and starts writing stuff down. You lower your arms and relax your stance into a more comfortable position.

“Now, I can’t say it would be my best, I’m low on stock right now since my material order hasn’t come in yet. But I still think you will look dashing.” She beams.

“Dashing is nice, but to be honest, I’d rather have something simple and practical. I don’t really plan on mingling about.”

“Oh.” Rarity’s ears deflate in disappointment. She continues with a heavy sigh. “Well, that’s simple enough I guess.”

“Maybe some other time? If I need a dashing outfit, you’ll be the first to know.”

Rarity’s ears inflate again at the news. She looks over at you and smiles.

“I will hold you to that my dear. But if you don’t mind me asking. Why do you wear clothes so casually anyway? Surely you would be better off without them, no? Then you can save them for an important occasion.”

“I guess you all do generally walk around without clothing. But for humans, it’s different. Clothing for us is like your coat and mane. Walking around without them would be like,” you pause a moment, trying to remember what you had told Granny Smith. “Like if your coat, mane and tail were completely shaved off.”

“Oh my!” Rarity’s rear legs cross over as her face turns beet red.

“Exactly. Not a good idea.” You nod at her.

Sweetie Belle looks between you and her sister, a bewildered look on her face. “I don’t get it.”

“You will when you’re older Sweetie.” Rarity assured her.

“You always say that.” Sweetie Belle pouts.

“Oh, speaking of. Could I get some socks and underpants too?” The two sisters look at you, sharing the same confused expression. “They are like, tiny shorts that go around here.” You gesture around your waist. Stopping mid show, you suddenly feel a bit creepy, trying to explain underpants to a pair of ponies.

“And what are they for?” Rarity asks, her voice mostly calm but lined with a hint of enthusiasm.

“Erm… well. Same thing your tail is for, I guess? I’d explain in more detail, but I’m not sure Sweetie is old enough for such… descriptions.” You try weasel your way out of the conversation.

“Not you too!” Sweetie protests.

“I’m sure I can come up with something. Of course, there is one final thing before you stop dripping on my floor.” She glances back down at the puddle around your feet. “That would be payment.”

“Come on sis! We’re not asking for some prized fancy party outfit here.” Sweetie leaps to your defence. It warms your heart that she would do so without hesitation, even if it is unnecessary.

“How much?”

“Oh, I don’t need your bits dear. This one will be on the house. Sort of. I want you to come back later and tell me about your worlds fashion. I could use some new ideas. Perhaps over tea someday soon?”

“That’s it?” Your puzzlement appearing clear as day on your face. “That’s not enough, surely.”

“It’s plenty, Darling. I dare say I would be a lousy Element of Generosity otherwise. But if it makes you feel better. If something else comes up, I’ll ask. Okay?” a light blue aura surrounds you, lifting you off your feet. An invisible force gives you a push, gliding you out of the building before being lowered on the ground outside.

“Wow, that felt weird. Ok Rarity, thank you. I’ll be sure to stop by soon.” You give her a smile.

“Take care now.” Rarity smiles back. “Oh, one last thing. It would suit you better to… Make yourself a bit more presentable before you make any more social calls.”

You let out a nervous giggle as your face turns a slight shade of red, aware of exactly what she was referring too.

Sweetie Belle rushes past her, heading towards you, only to be stopped in her tracks by the same light blue glow wrapping around her back legs. “Where do you think you’re going young lady. You are going to help clean up.”

Sweetie Belle looks up at you in panic as she gets dragged back into the shop, leaving a trail of hoof marks on the ground. All you can do is mouth ‘sorry’ to her as the door closes.

Standing outside the boutique you gaze down at yourself. Sure enough, you are a mess. Sighing, you take Rarity’s advice and head back to the workshop to clean yourself up.

“I’ll head to the library in the evening,” you say to yourself. “It should be cooler then.”

====================

You take the time to freshen yourself up and clean your clothes under the water. Although not perfect, they are better than before your dive into the fountain. The summer sun makes short work of the drying them, allowing you enough time to make a quick meal. You settle for a salad of sorts, it’s cooling temperature a pleasant contrast to the summer heat. You start to wonder about the nutrients you need. You haven’t felt weak since your arrival, so you are getting what your body needs. You do miss the taste of meat though. A bit of fish would be nice. Or chicken.

You shake your head. There are still a few hours before the evening descends upon the town, so you busy yourself with the smithing guide.

“Smelting: Most forges are unable to smelt raw ores due to their lower heat output. However, it is possible to utilise Equestrian gems to increase the heat dramatically, allowing even small workshops to smelt their own metals…”

====================

The orange glow creeping into the living room indicates the start of the evening. You finish reading and look out the window. Regardless of the hot season, the days don’t last long at all. Not like back home. Day and night exist in a careful balance in this world.

With the air cooling down, you don your clothes once more, not a hundred percent clean but at least they are completely dry, and make your way towards the library.

After a brisk walk in the cooling evening air, you stand before the large oak tree.

You open the small door and bend down into the library. The lamps inside have been lit to keep the coming night at bay. The little dragon is standing on a ladder at one of the bookcases, arms full of books and looking incredibly wobbly.

“Woah-oh-OH!” The ladder rocks back and forth, threatening to throw the dragon off it. In a flash, your hand moves to the Spikes back, steadying the dragon and the ladder he’s perched upon. He turns his head to see his would-be hero.

“Hey Spike.”

“Hey! You’re back!” Spike cries out, regaining his balance.

“How’s it going, working hard?”

“Yeah. Twilight had some books that needing reorganising so I’m on it.”

“Spike?!”

“Ha, you must be her top assistant then.” You say enthusiastically.

“Of course!” Spike puffs his chest out in pride. You chuckle lightly. He may be young, but he’s definitely spirit. “Speaking of Twilight, you haven’t met her yet, right?”

You shake your head.

“I’ll introduce you, she’s just dow-”

“Spike?! Are you ok?!” You hear a mare’s voice from below, followed by the sound of hoofs.

Both you and Spike turn towards the entrance way leading down as a purple unicorn appears.

“I heard a yell, are you-” The mare gasps as her eyes dart between you, Spike and your hand on his back.

“Hey Twi, this is-”

In a flash, Spike disappears from the ladder, books clattering to the ground. In the same instant, the unicorn vanishes, only to reappear on the other side of the room with Spike sitting on ground behind her, holding his head as he rocks from side to side. A purple bubble envelops the two of them and the unicorn enters what could only be described as a battle pose. Her hoofs planted firmly on the floor, her head lowered, her ears laying flat against her head. The horn atop her head pointing directly at you.

“I don’t know what you are. But you’ll pay for hurting Spike.” She growls at you, fire in her eyes.

“I didn’t hurt him.” You raise your hands up with open palms.

“I saw you! You were grabbing him with those… Things.” Her horn start to glow brighter, small sparks emanating from the tip.

“Ok, firstly they’re called-”

“Silence!” She doubles down, the tip of her horn drawing in light from its surrounding. Whatever is coming, it’s going to hurt. You stare her down, planting your feet firmly on the ground and bracing yourself.

“TWILIGHT!” A loud cry snaps both of you back to reality. The shining light around Twilight’s horn fades, replaced by a gentle purple glow as her attention gets diverted to the dragon standing before her. “He’s my friend!”

*Pop*

The bubble surrounding the two disperses. Twilights eyes grow wider as she shifts in place, her ears unfurl from her head, standing upright as she focuses on her assistant.

“Friend? But he was assaulting you! You yelled!” Twilight relaxes her stance but worry and fear still echo in her voice.

“Geez Twi, I lost my balance and was about to fall, that’s why I yelled. But he caught me. That’s what you saw.” Spike huffs at her.

“Oh.” Twilight relaxes at the revelation. She looks up at you, her fiery gaze replaced with a calm stare. “Sorry. I erm, maybe I jumped to the wrong conclusion.” She rubs her leg sheepishly.

You breathe a sigh of relief, lowering your hands. “It’s all good. You were only looking out for your friend, right?”

“Right!” Twilight gazes up at you with a broad smile. “Umm, maybe we should start again.”

Twilight slowly walks over to you. Squatting down in front of her, you reach out your hand, introducing yourself. Twilight glances at your hand before placing her hoof in it.

“Twilight Sparkle.”

You give it a firm shake and let go.

“You certainly lived up to your name Sparkle.” You chuckle, the visage of her horn preparing to fire at you still clear in your mind.

“Twilight, please. Or Twi is fine too.” She smiles at you. “Well, bumpy starts aside, you must have an interesting story to tell. I’d love to hear it.”

“You flipped quick. You’re not gonna start shooting me when my guards down, are you?”

“Don’t be silly. If your Spikes friend, then I don’t have to worry. It’s perfectly natural to want to hear your story now that I know you’re not a threat or anything.” Twilight trots to one of the desks and summons a quill and parchment to her. “A real life human. This is so cool!”

“Uh-huh.” You watch as she sits at the desk, quill in glow, ready to listen.

Spike rubs his head as he starts to pick up the books that were dropped.

“Here, let me help.” You start to pick up the books with him, holding them while he climbs up the ladder.

“Thanks.” He smiles, taking a book from you and placing it on the shelf.

“My story huh. It’s a short one you know. I doubt you’ll find it exciting.”

“I’m all ears!” Twilight cheers enthusiastically, ears twitching.

You regale Twilight with your story. Your appearance in the Everfree forest, meeting the Crusaders, your first night with the Apple Family. With every moment retold, she rapidly writes down everything she can on the parchments, recording your story.

“Then the mayor allowed me to rent the old smith out. Ok, it was more of a loan agreement, but still.”

“Wait. The old smith? You know how to work metal?!” Twilight jumps up in excitement, planting her forehoof’s on the desk and starts giggling, her eyes staring into space.

“Well, not exactly.” You try to calm her down. “I am aware of the basic process, but I’m still learning the techniques.”

Twilight stops giggling and turns back at you. “Learning? But there are no books, as far as I’m aware, that have such information in Equestria.”

You ponder for a moment, handing the last of the fallen books to Spike. “Well, whoever built the smithy had a book that explains it. I’d wager that’s why they thought they could make a name for themselves.”

“That’s amazing! Could I see it? When you finish with it of course? If I could make a copy, it would be a great addition to the library.” Twilights eyes grow wide with excitement.

“Sure.” You shrug in response.

“Yes! Oh, sorry. I interrupted you. Please carry on.”

You continue your story, finishing off with Rarity’s generosity and finally meeting up in the library. Under the circumstances, you decided to not tell her about the nightmare. It was only a one-time thing after all, they happen from time to time.

“I. Have. So. Many. Questions!” Twilight breathed out in amazement. “Oh, and tests! You have to let me do some tests on you!”

The sudden exclamation takes you by surprise. You eye her with concern.

Tests? What tests? I’m not going to get strapped to anything am I?

“I don’t mind answering questions, but what sort of tests were you thinking exactly?” Your voice shaking slightly.

“Oh nothing harmful I promise. Just usual brain waves, magic compatibility, essence observation. Just samples really, to record with your story. After all, you are the first human to ever grace Equestria. We need to document it!”

You shift where you stand, unsure of her enthusiasm and its placement.

“I suppose I don’t mind. But only if you return the favour.” You counter. At least this way there can be an exchange of knowledge.

“Great! Sharing knowledge is the best way to gain understanding. Shall we st-”

Spike releases a loud belch, interrupting Twilight. A scroll materialises in the escaping flames and lands in his claws.

“Oh, a letter from the Princess?” Twilight’s attention switched to the scroll in her assistants grasp. “Let’s see it. Oh, we should definitely tell the princess about you too. I bet she will be excited.”

Spike looks over the scroll before holding it up.

“It’s for you.” He says, raising it to your hand. Twilight’s jaw drops open as she stares at the exchange, unable to fathom what’s happening.

“Oh, thanks.” You take the letter from Spike. “Must be about the tea party. Let’s see…”

To my little human,

I hope this letter finds you well.
I am writing to formally invite you to the palace gardens for tea Friday afternoon at 2pm. I believe the train enters Canterlot at 1.30. I shall send my captain to escort you from the train station.

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask myself or the captain upon your arrival.

Sincerely Yours,

Celestia, Princess of the Sun

“Neat.” You pocket the letter. “Tea with the princess on Friday.” A smug grin crosses your face.

“How? Why? When?” Twilight stutters, trying to process what happened.

“We met a few days ago. Did you miss that part of the story?” You question the unicorn.

“I guess I must have.” She starts fiddling with the parchments she was writing on. “Wait, here it is. I must have been going automatic there. I was so excited about finding out more I missed that whole part. Still, it’s recorded so that’s good.”

Seriously, she doesn’t even remember writing it down. That’s nuts.

“Anyway,” Twilight continues, sporting a dopey grin. “I can’t wait to learn more. Shall we start?”

Her enthusiasm is almost contagious. You smile at the unicorn, rubbing the back of your head sheepishly.

“Sorry Twilight, perhaps another day. I’m a bit worn out today.”

“Oh.” Twilight’s disappointment as plain as the horn on her forehead. “Yeah, ok. I guess it is getting on a bit.”

Twilight neatly stacks the paper with your story on it, though the action has much less enthusiasm compared to her earlier outbursts. You feel it pull at your insides, like you committed a heinous crime, and it’s not the first time you felt like you were sucker punched.

“Hey, don’t be so sad Sparky.” You try to lighten the mood. “Tell you what. Why don’t you come up with some questions and stuff for Wednesday evening? I’ll drop by after I finish work and we can exchange knowledge, as you say.”

At the offer, the unicorns ears stand to attention, her eyes wide with excitement. She takes in a deep breath through a large smile.

“Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes!” Her sudden excitement catches you off guard as she starts to hope around on alternate legs, slowly rotating in place, not unlike a drunk bee.

“Wow. I haven’t seen her this excited since Princess Celestia gave her a copy of Starswirl the Bearded’s Autobiography.”

You look down at the dragon. “You know, everything you just said went way over my head.”

“It’s ok. Twilight will gladly talk your ear off about him. And anything else for that matter.” Spike chuckles. “Oh, here. I thought you might want to start with this, if you wanted to learn more about Equestria.”

Spike hands you a book. Light and picturesque, it appears to be more for a child than adult.

“A Hearths Warming Tale?” You read off the cover.

“Yeah, its about the origin of Equestria. It’s generally considered a fairy tale for kids, but a good starting point I think.”

“Thanks Spike.”

You look at the cover. Outlines of three ponies emblazed on a light blue background surrounded by snow.

He’s right. As a book, it’s not much more than a children’s fairy tale. But even fairy tales often have an origin in truth.

Spike hums to himself, before picking up another book.

“You will get through that pretty quickly, so take this one too.” Spike hands you another book, this time depicting a white and navy unicorn circling an emblem of the sun and moon.

“The Tale of the Two Sisters? Wait, is that-”

“Yep. That’s Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. It might help you understand her highness a little more before your get together.”

Now this is interesting. Just how old is she to be a fairy tale herself?

“Well, you piqued my interest, that’s for sure.” You tell Spike, holding onto the books. He seems quite pleased with his choices.

“Ooo, good start there.” Twilight suddenly speaks up from under the books, startling you. “If you have any questions later, I’ll be happy to help.” She beams up at you. Her smile is infectious, and you can’t help but return it.

“Thanks Twilight.”-

“Twi~ili~ight!”

- You glance out the window. “I best head off. The sun’s gone down and I’m not sure I want to be out after dark that much.” You shudder at the thought of the creatures lurking in the nearby forest.

“Oh yeah, but you’ll visit again soon, right?” Twilight asks eagerly, her voice full of hope.

You approach the door, reaching out your hand to open it. “Wednesday for sure. I pro-”

*THUD* “TWILIGHT!”

A great force hits you full in the chest, causing you to tumble onto your back, hitting your head on the floorboards. Your eyes blur over as your mind tries to process what just happened.

“Twilight! It’s an emergency!” A high-pitched cry echoes somewhere above you. “I just heard from Mr. Cake that there’s a new pony in town! Why wasn’t I told earlier! I need to find them fast! If I don’t throw them a super duper extravaganza ‘Welcome to Ponyville’ party soon, then they won’t feel welcome and will end up leaving! Argh! No-pony will ever want another fantastical Pinkie Pie Party every again! Oh no! You have to help me look! Where shall we start? Do you have any ideas?!”

You feel some pressure on your shoulder as your eyes slowly come back into focus. You gaze up at the purple and green blur as it slowly morphs into Spike’s head, looking back down at you with concern.

“Are you ok?” He asks worryingly.

“What-am-I-gonna-do? What-am-I-gonna-do? Twilight, the welcome party is the most important part of coming to Ponyville! It’s how you get to meet everypony! Remember yours? Hahaha. You were so worried about Nightmare Moon you didn’t get a chance to relax at all. You were so grumpy you ended up drinking hot sauce. Hahaha, that was funny. Ah! But you can’t reminisce now, we need to find that pony fast!”

A sharp pain filters through your skull as you slowly sit yourself up. You grasp the back of your head where it impacted the floor. Glancing at your hand, you’re relieved that there’s no blood, but the pain is as sharp and unyielding as the winters chill.

“Yeah, I’m fine.” You mumble to the dragon, taking in sharp breathes as you rub your head, trying to relieve the aching affliction. “I just need to sit here for a bit.”

“Pinkie Pie! Slow down!” You hear Twilight cry out behind you.

“Hey Spike, was I just attacked by cotton candy?” You ask your would-be nurse.

“I can’t slow down! It’s an emergency!” The piercing voice replies.

“I’d say no. But I’m not entirely sure that’s true.” He glances to the left, past where you’re sitting.

You gently shift in place to look at what has his attention. Your mouth hangs open in disbelief as you watch a pile of pink fluff bouncing around Twilight. As you stare through the pain, your eyes slowly catch up to the fluffy panicked movement. Your mouth closes as you slowly start to make out what seems to be the body of a mare beneath the large amount of cotton candy bouncing around. A mare whose voice cuts through the air much like she does. This pony seems to defy all the laws of the land as she appears to hover in place, then disappear beneath the desk, only to reappear from Twilight’s tail.

“I must have hit my head harder than I thought.” You mutter dejectedly.

“No. That’s just Pinkie Pie.” Spike says, returning the sentiment.

“PINKIE!” Twilight finally snaps, grabbing the mare in a purple glow. With the fluffy blur finally stationary, albeit upside down, your eyes can finally focus on her. The fluffy, cotton candy like mane and tail bouncing around her body. Large blue eyes stare intently at Twilight, a muzzle plastered with a frown. Or a smile, it’s hard to tell. Three balloons gracing her flank. The image in front of you is finalised with a strong scent of sweets and cupcakes that seems to emanate freely from her. She is a party incarnate.

“What is it Twi?” The voice no longer cuts the air like glass. Even though it is still high-pitched, there is a softness to it, like it has become an indoor variant of her wailings.

“Firstly, he’s not a pony. He’s a human.” She states matter-of-factly.

“Human?” Pinkie giggles. “That’s silly. They aren’t real Twilight. Did you hit your head or something?”

“Secondly, Pinkie Pie. You just knocked him over.” Twilight lets Pinkie go before moving over to you. “Are you ok?”

Before you can answer, you hear a deep gasping intake of breath from the cotton candy pony as she stares at you, briefly hovering in place, before disappearing in a blur of pink out the door, causing it to slam shut in a sudden gust of wind. You close your eyes to shield them from the gale, only opening them once the breeze disappears. All that’s left of the pink hurricane is the now shut door and a few stray pieces of confetti.

“Well… That was… Something.” You finally say to the room.

“Yeah, that’s Pinkie Pie. She’s actually very nice. Just a little, um, excitable.” Twilight explains. “You should probably expect a welcome party soon.”

“Oh… I don’t suppose you can stop her. Or at least get her to postpone it?” You ask, pleadingly. “I just met Pinkie and I already need a break.”

Twilight giggles. “Yeah, she can be a bit much sometimes, especially with such a first impression like that. But there’s no better pony to make you smile, I guarantee it.” She stomps her hoof, obviously proud of her friend.

“I’ll take your word for it.” With the pain slowly subsiding, you shakingly get to your feet. “Let’s try this again, shall we?”

Spike hands you the two books and you gingerly approach the door again. Taking a deep breath, you open it and gaze out into the night. With tender steps, you move forward and peer out, scanning the dark streets of Ponyville. No sign of anything pink. Feeling comfortable that there is no imminent ambush, you release the breath you were holding. Turning back to Twilight and Spike, you give them a quick wave.

“Well, I best be off. Again. I’ll catch you two later alright?” You replace your free hand onto your head where the pain has reduced to a dull but noticeable throb. You are sure there will be a bump tomorrow.

“Take care!” The purple figures call out as you slowly head into the night, books in hand.

Chapter 10 - Show and Tell

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“Oooo, are those new clothes?” The scarlet unicorn chimes as you enter the office, admiring your new attire.

You glance down at the clothing Rarity crafted for you. A simple navy t-shirt and straight black trousers which fit snuggly around your waist.

“Ah, yeah. Rarity bought them over yesterday morning. It was a nice surprise actually.” You answer, your mind drifting back to the previous morning.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

As the morning light gently shines through the windows, you sit at the table berating yourself.

“You are such an idiot. You were meant to keep your distance. Not make more friends and definitely not agree to some stupid information exchange session.”

Twilight especially seemed overjoyed at becoming your friend, after the minor misunderstanding was sorted out. And thanks to the ensuing cotton candy attack, you also felt a little closer to Spike. You let out a long sigh and face plant the table in disbelief.

“Oh my. Have I come at a bad time?”

The voice catches you off guard. Looking up, you meet Miss Rarity’s gaze from across the table. Her eyes showing a mixture curiosity and concern. Her pale blue aura carrying a box above her head.

“Oh. Miss Rarity. I didn’t hear you.” You utter, catching yourself in the moment.

“No ‘Miss’, darling, I did tell you.” Rarity jumps up into the seat next to you and hovers the box down on the table. “I knocked, but it seems like you were, ‘busy’. Anything you want to talk about?”

She places a hoof on your arm and stares at you with her large eyes.

Everything’s fine. Just tell her everything’s fine.

“Everything’s-”

“Not fine.” She interrupts. “I may not be the most observant pony when it comes to others’ feelings. But even I can see something is troubling you. And talking about it might help, you know?”

You stare intensely at hands as the suddenly become very interesting. Fiddling about with the ring on your finger, you try to come up with some way to avoid answering her. Rarity inches closer to you as her hoof rubs your arm trying to coax out your feelings, much like a parent or significant other might do. These ponies have a way of manipulating your emotions.

“I’m just feeling low today, that’s all.” You give your vague answer, hoping it will satisfy her. You take a deep breath, changing the subject. “What brings you here this early?”

“I finished your clothes. As you requested, practical and not too dashing.” The unicorn is clearly not convinced, but luckily does not to press the matter.

Removing her hoof from your arm, Rarity brings the box closer and expertly begins to pull out several pieces of clothing, presenting them for you to see before neatly folding and stacking them on the table. Her effortless control over the fabric speaks volumes of her expertise as a seamstress. She explains, in no small detail, the methods that she used in crafting as well as the complications she faced for designing non-pony clothing. Watching the scene, you can’t help but feel some tears of happiness form in your eyes

Soon the stack stops growing, and you admire the clothing for yourself. Several black trousers and a few plain t-shirts of varying colours, atop which were multiple approximations of underwear and socks as well as a green and black scarf. You gingerly reach out and grab hold of the long material, it’s soft texture gliding through your fingertips. Along the end of the scarf, you spot three diamonds inscribed into the material. The same shape and design as those of Rarity’s cutie mark.

“Ah that. Well, I thought just in case you are here for winter, a scarf will do you good. It gets quite cold.”

“Thank you, Rarity.” You face softens into a smile. Clothing was always a default present back home, especially socks and underwear, but these feel like a real treasure in your grasp.

“I’m glad you like them. Truth be told, they were quite fun to make. And they certainly gave me more than a few ideas. Speaking of which...” Rarity pauses, casting a knowing gaze at you.

“Alright, if you got the time, I could regale you with what little fashion knowledge I have from home.” Rarity’s eyes light up, her ears twitching in excitement. You get up of your chair. “But first, some tea.”

As you proceed to make the tea, you start to talk about the different clothes and styles. Rarity got out a pad and started taking notes as you talked. You explained, in a simple, hap hazardous way, different outfits you had seen on tv or in magazines. How extravagant they looked, the different materials they used. From fancy suits to gowns depicting nature, the usage of feathers or other shining decorations that made the clothing stand out. The recent use of translucent fabrics seemed to catch her interest, but the most surprising was how much was similar between Earth and Equestria. Just like back home, Rarity’s fashion designs followed whatever was considered in season at the time, but she also considers the looks of individual ponies. It also shed some light as to why she was disappointed when you requested something that wasn’t ‘fashionable’.

You move on to other, more casual pieces of clothing, many of which also exist here in one form or another. You start to talk about swimsuits and undergarments, describing different types for men and women, from the basic to the exotic. Explaining women’s exotic undergarments to a pony made for a strange conversation, but Rarity takes it all in stride. Her eyes focused, tongue sticking out of her mouth, writing furiously on her pad as you talk. She occasionally lets out a creepy cackle as you watch the gears spin in her mind.

Rarity finishes her notes and hopes down from the table. Thanking you for the information and bidding you a fond farewell she lets herself out. You watch her skip merrily towards the town, a cloud of excitement circling around her. You can’t help but smile, staring out as she returns to her boutique…

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“That was nice of her.” Scarlet’s response brings you out of your daydream. “Is everything alright?”

“Hmm? Oh, yeah. Everything’s fine.” You quickly shift your gaze away from Scarlet. You let out a weak chuckle. “I just got lost in thought.”

“I see.” Scarlet raises an eyebrow questioningly before continuing. “Well, anyway. All the materials, and the ladder, have been delivered to the school and are ready when you are.”

“Thanks Scarlet, I’ll report back when it’s done.”

“See you later!” she says with excitement.

You head out of the building and make your way towards the school.

====================

The sun has started its slow afternoon descent as you reach the schoolhouse. It stands alone, painted red and white with hearts over the windows. A bell tower sits upon the roof with a weathervane perched on the tip. As you cast your eyes along it, you notice several loose and splintered boards.

Approaching the main door, you notice just how small the building is compared to others, having to bend slightly to get under the porch roof. Your ears pick up talking from inside.

“Only three of you left and we’ll be done for today. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, you’re up next.” A cheery voice calls out over hushed whispers. It gains a slight knowing undertone as it continues. “I’m rather excited to see this surprise you three have been talking about, as is the rest of the class, I’m sure.”

“Um, yes. Well...” You hear Apple Bloom stammer inside. “The thing is…”

“Oh look, they don’t have anything. Their assignment is all blank! Just like their flanks!” a familiar snarky voice cries out, enticing laughs from inside.

The cheery voice gains a disciplinary tone. “Now, now Diamond Tiara. Don’t be rude. I’m sure they have worked just as hard on their project as the rest of you.”

The laughter dies down enough for you to hear Sweetie Belle start talk with a discerning sadness in her voice. “Miss Cheerilee, we-“

You quickly knock on the door, interrupting her.

“Oh my, I wonder who that could be. Come in!” The voice calls out to you.

A collection of gasps greets you as the door gently opens. The inside consists of only one large room. At one end of the classroom was a black board with a desk in front of it, next to which stood a purple mare with a pink mane and green eyes, whom you conclude is the teacher. Along with her, there are several rows of desk, all of which are occupied by foals that are now staring wide eyed at you. It starts to creep you out a little. Kids staring is weird no matter the species. Though you do notice two of the filly’s ducking down, trying to appear as small as possible.

“Ah, you must be here about the roof.” The mare says. “You are a bit early though. We still have a lesson to get through.”

“Sorry about that, Miss?”

“Cheerilee.” She answers with a smile.

“Miss Cheerilee. I do suppose I am a bit early, but there is a good reason for that.” You point out, casting a glance around the classroom. You spot your targets in the front row, just as surprised to see you as the rest of the class.

“A good reason?” Miss Cheerilee tilts her head.

“Show and Tell, of course.” You say with a smile as you duck through the door and enter the classroom. Moving past the rest of the class, you reach the crusaders in a just a few paces and kneel in front of their desks.

“Sorry I’m late girls. I trust you didn’t get into any trouble on my account.” You wink, hoping they get the hint.

“Erm. I. Ah.” The girls mumble under their breath.

“Don’t worry! We were just stalli-I mean, waiting till you got here!” Scootaloo suddenly announces. “Didn’t want to ruin the surprise, you know?”

“I know.” You smile at her. “So, where do you want me?”

“In front of the board is fine, sorry we didn’t get you a seat.” Sweetie Belle quickly adds as she and Scootaloo get off their seats.

“I… see. So, YOU’RE their ‘super-duper-awesome-special-surprise’ they mentioned this morning.”

You raise one eyebrow at the girls as they giggle nervously.

“Well, I wouldn’t say I’m all that. Certainly nothing special.” You laugh the description off. “But they asked, so here I am.” You lie. They were obviously stalling for time, probably so they could figure something out. No doubt your arrival has bailed them out of a tight spot.

“Now hold on!” The little tiara calls from her desk. “You can’t just group up and have that… thing for your show and tell!”

“Firstly, he’s not a thing! He’s a human!” Apple Bloom angrily defends you. “And secondly, why not!? You grouped up with Silver Spoon AND brought your butler to show off!” She points out the window where an old pony is balancing on a ball while juggling. Pretty impressive considering his apparent age.

“Apple Bloom.” Miss Cheerilee’s voice turns stern, her gaze focused on the filly next to you.

“What? She started it.” Apple Bloom replies angrily.

“That doesn’t mean you have to finish it.” You add.

“Ugh, fine.” She huffs, crossing her forelegs.

“Thank you.” Cheerilee’s voice regains its happy tone. “Now, why don’t you girls start with an introduction.”

“Right!” Scootaloo jumps to attention. “This is our friend, and as Apple Bloom said, he’s a human. The only one in Equestria. That makes him pretty cool!”

You feel your face redden slightly at Scootaloo’s admission of you being ‘pretty cool’. Though the reasoning behind it causes your heart to ache a bit, you push the feeling aside.

“He comes from a place called Earth.” Sweetie Belle tugs at your trousers lightly, showing them to an echo of ohs and ahs. “As you can see, humans wear clothing. This is because humans don’t have a coat or tail to protect their bodies from the environment like we do.”

Sweetie Belle holds her head high as she demonstrates her knowledge to the class. In a sudden burst of chaos and excitement, the class start yelling out questions.

“How did you get here?”
“What’s Earth like?”
“How did you meet?”
“Can you fly?”
“Can humans use magic?”

The barrage of endless questions along with the loud shuffling of desks causes you to step back. Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo share a look of panic as they brace themselves for the oncoming stampede.

“That’s enough children!” Miss Cheerilee cries out with a tone of authority. The class falls silent immediately. “I’m sure our friend will not mind answering some questions, but only if you behave yourselves.”

Miss Cheerilee looks up at you expectantly. You relax, nodding at the teacher and agreeing to answer any questions the children might have.

“Now, if you have a question, raise your hoof.”

The air was filled instantly. Every small pony seemed to have a question. It almost worried you that your answers won’t be nearly as interesting as they hope.

====================

You spent the rest of the lesson answering every question you could, making sure to omit some of the more delicate pieces of information. You told the children how you woke up in the Everfree forest and of your meeting with the crusaders at Zecora’s hut. Explaining that humans don’t have cutie marks which show their special talent, instead having to study and learn everything.

Describing Earth was a bit of a challenge. With all the similarities, the one major difference that sticks out is the absence of magic back home. This threw some of the ponies for a loop, but as soon as you started getting into inventions and technology, how much humanity has progressed, their little eyes lit up in awe. Aeroplanes were met with excitement as you talked about how you could travel all over the globe. Scootaloo in particular was fascinated by the technology. You were met with a scoff when you told them that humans had even been to the moon. Diamond Tiara cried out that it was impossible to go to the moon and, while clearly flustered, claimed you were making the whole thing up. You quickly put her in her place when you mention that Princess Celestia had banished a pony to the moon before. Without a retort, she folded her forelegs and pouted for the rest of the lesson.

“Ok children. I’m afraid that’s the end of the lesson.” Cheerilee’s news is met with disappointing ‘awws’ from the class as they collect their things. Each of the foals thank you for the stories as they slowly head out the door. Soon enough only you, Miss Cheerilee and the crusaders are left.

“That went well.” You rub your neck, soothing out the tension. “I was really nervous for a while there.”

“I thought you did wonderfully.” Miss Cheerilee beams up at you.

“Yeah!” The girls cry out at your feet.

“Thanks for coming! You really saved our flanks!” Apple Bloom adds happily.

“Oh really?” Cheerilee smirks. “And here I thought this was planned.”

“Ah, well, I mean…” The girls fidget slightly. “Gotta go! See Ya!”

The three of them dash for the door and out of sight.

“It’s cute how they think I don’t know.” Miss Cheerilee smiles while shaking her head. Her eyes gleam as she turns her head towards you. “Still, the children did very much enjoy your stories, as did I. Perhaps you would be willing to come back some time and tell us more? I’m sure there’s plenty that you could talk about.”

No. Just say no. That’s all you need to say.

“I don’t know. Maybe?” you answer half-heartedly. Idiot. You motion towards the door. “I best get started on that roof.”

“It would be nice if you could.” She smiles. “But I won’t force you.”

Miss Cheerilee starts to hum happily as she starts to pack up her saddle bags with papers. You take your leave and head outside. Locating the ladder and the replacement boards resting against one of the walls you slowly begin your job, lifting the ladder up and propping it against the roof. You should really have someone holding it stead at the bottom, but with no one around, you resort to digging the ladder into the ground. Ensuring your tools are secure, you carry the wooden roof boards up.

You feel some eyes on you and glance down over the side of the building.

“Are you ok up there?” Miss Cheerilee calls from below.

“All good!” Miss Cheerilee continues to stand there looking up at you. “You don’t have to wait around Miss Cheerilee. This won’t take too long.”

“If you’re sure.” Her voice trails off slightly. She glances around, perhaps unsure of whether she should leave or not. Eventually she does decide to leave you to it. “See you later then!”

You give her a quick wave before getting to work. You carefully straddle the roof and one by one, replace the damaged boards with new ones. From the looks of it, something crashed into the roof, cracking it in several places. Because of their size, you end up travelling on the ladder several times. Whoever ordered the boards did very well as they fit perfectly and only require securing, speeding up the job a fair bit.

As you finish securing the last board, you get distracted by a loud clatter of wood on the ground, followed by a burst of laughter. Turning your head, you see the ladder has disappeared. With a sigh, you shift your way across the roof and slowly lean over the edge to see what happened.

“Let’s see it get out of this!” The familiar voice of Diamond Tiara tells Silver Spoon as they continue to laugh.

“That’s not very nice you know.” You call out, causing the girls to look up.

“And what are you going to do about it? You’re stuck up there!” You roll your eyes. Unfortunately for them, the roof is not as high as those back on home. Sighing, you position yourself feet first, preparing to slide off.

“This is going to sting.” You mutter, before letting go and sliding off the roof. You fall through the air feet first, hurtling towards the ground. Loosening your knees, you prepare for landing, hitting the ground with a hard *Thud*. The soles of your feet sting like mad as you stabilise yourself with your hands. Giving yourself a moment to recover, you slowly stand up. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon stare in horror as you block the sun, your shadow swallowing them up.

“What did you think was going to happen?” You fold your arms and stare the fillies down.

“We-well… um…” They stutter, frozen in place.

“Did you think that I was stuck? That I’d be unable to get down and start to cry?” You chastise the girls. “Go home. Both of you.”

The fillies quickly turn and run off towards the town. As soon as they are out of sight, you collapse on the ground. Removing your shoes, you rub the soles of your feet, clearing off the remaining stinging sensation.

“Seriously, what is their problem.” You muse as the pain slowly subsides. Putting your shoes back on, you arrange the ladder and the old boards by the wall before heading back to give your report to Scarlet Memo.

Chapter 11 - Surprise!

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As the evening sun begins its descent, you find yourself on the way to Twilight’s information exchange at the library.

“Why did I agree to this?” You scratch your head. “Hopefully it won’t take all night.”

Reaching the large tree, you duck through the small entrance, entering the dark interior.

“Spike! Sparky! You around?” You call into the room. The lights suddenly burst to life.

“SURPRISE!”

*Toooooot!*

Before the door even closes, you get startled by a collection of colours jumping out and yelling in joy. A blast of confetti showers you in multicoloured pieces of paper to the tone of a party blower as a banner unfurls from the ceiling with the words ‘Welcome to Ponyville!’ sprawled across it.

Before you can wrap your head around the scene, a pointy hat is jammed on your head by a pink blur, followed by a party blower shoved unceremoniously into your mouth.

*Toooooblblblbleee*

You release the air in your lungs, causing the blower to flop weakly before slowly rolling back up.

“No silly! Like this!” *Toooot!* “See?” The pink cloud of cotton candy blows her party blower loudly in your face before she falls to the ground giggling.

“Dear me, you might give the poor man a heart attack Pinkie.” Rarity’s voice flows over the laughter.

“Well duh! That’s how a surprise party work!” The pink mare jumps up off the floor and grabs your arm with her hoof, dragging you to the table. Pinkie Pie pulls you down as she talks, wrapping a foreleg around your neck.

"You gotta try the cupcakes, some of my best work yet! Oh, and the punch! There are two flavours, cause Applejack insisted you liked apples, so you got apple punch here and this one is wild berry and peach. Weird combination I know but it works! Trust me!”

“Looks like somepony is a little too excited.” Chuckles the familiar voice of a blue pegasus.

“Eeyup!” Agrees an unfamiliar southern accent.

“Obviously I’m excited!” Pinkie Pie cries out, releasing you from her grip. “He’s been here for almost a week and hasn’t even had a Welcome Party! Do you know how horrible that is! That means we’re not best friends yet!”

“You need to calm down, Pinkie. Or you’ll scare him off.” Rainbow Dash smirks.

“After the first meeting, this is surprisingly light.” You straighten up, rubbing your neck.

My neck has been getting quite the beating lately.

You take a moment to gather yourself, looking around the room. Along with the interesting spread of cupcakes, fruit, and punch bowls on the table, you see the pink blur known as Pinkie Pie, Twilight Sparkle, Spike, Rarity and hovering beside you is Rainbow Dash. Among the familiar faces, you also spot an orange mare with a yellow mane, wearing a cowboy hat and standing behind Rarity, a yellow pegasus with a long flowing pink mane and tail gazes at you in what could only be described as awe.

“Apple Bloom said you were a tall fella, but I wasn’t expecting this.” The orange mare approaches you without hesitation and lifts her hoof to you. “Names Applejack.”

“A pleasure.” You smile, taking her hoof in your hand and shaking it.

“And this shy pegasus is Fluttershy.” Rainbow swoops down and presents the yellow pegasus. “Say hello, Flutter… Wait, where’d she…?”

“OhMyGosh! OhMyGosh! OhMyGosh!” A flurry of yellow feathers obscures your sight as Fluttershy suddenly appears inches from your face. “I’ve never even heard of a creature like you before!”

The room stares silently as the yellow pegasus zooms around you with surprising agility, inspecting every part of your form. Her hoofs flow through your hair, she lifts your arms up, presses into your back even flies between your legs. You try follow her movements as she starts bombarding you with questions.

“Where did you come from?”
“What do you eat?”-

“Err… Fluttershy?” Twilight tries to get her attention, a hint of concern in her voice.

-“Why are you wearing clothes?”
“Do you have any special talents? What about a cutie mark?”
“What are these? Claws? But they are so soft and flexi-”

“Fluttershy!”

“-Eep! I’m sorry!” Fluttershy suddenly stops moving and falls to the ground. Her hoofs start to play with her long mane, a light blush appearing on her face. “I don’t know what came over me. I just got so excited.”

“It’s ok.” You reassure her, waving your hand. Her face disappears behind several strands of her pink mane.

You sit yourself down at the table, grabbing one of the cupcakes. Pinkie Pie rushes to the side and starts up a gramophone, causing some music to fill the air as everyone talks and chatters amongst themselves. She then appears behind you and starts rambling in your ear.

“Hey! Sorry your party took so long. I was going to do it way earlier, like a few days ago earlier when I first saw you and went ‘Ahh’”- Pinkie breathes in deep before releasing it in a mock scream – “’hhhh’. And you were like ‘ow’. You remember right?”

“How could I forget.” You mutter, the back of your head throbbing at the memory.

“Exactly! So, I was going to do it then, but Twilight stopped me and said I should wait! Do you know how hard it is to wait for a surprise party? Especially when you know it’s a surprise party! Anyway, she made some sense and at least it gave me time to get some stuff ready. How’s the cupcakes? You like them? I was going to invite more of the town to attend but you had already met them all anyway and something about what Twilight said struck with me. Do you not like parties?”

Pinkie Pie stares at you with her large blue eyes, her lips quivering as she feigns sadness.

“Oh… Pinkie.” You avert your gaze, clutching the cupcake in your hand. “It’s not that I don’t like parties… exactly… I just don’t want to be a bother.”

“Oh, you are silly. Friends are never a bother!” Pinkie cheers excitedly before she turns away in thought. “I mean unless they are. But that doesn’t mean you’re not friends anymore!”

“Thanks, Pinkie.” You utter quietly.

“You enjoy yourself now, Ok?” Pinkie Pie grins, diving in for a hug. She squeezes you tightly before diving for the buffet. You take a bite out of the cupcake that you had been massaging in your hands. It falls apart in your mouth, unleashing a torrent of hidden raspberry jam and vanilla essence. You reach for one of the punch bowls when Applejack approaches you.

“Hey, sugar cube? I just wanted to say thank you. For saving my sister and her friends.”

“What do you mean?” You put on your best confused expression.

“In the forest. Apple Bloom told me all about it. About the Timber Wolves, how you carried them to Zecora’s. She can’t hide anything from me, I can tell when she’s lying, you know.”

“And here I’ve been avoiding that small detail. If I knew they couldn’t keep quiet I probably.” You pause for a moment. “Actually, I still wouldn’t have said anything. It’s all still a bit hazy.”

“Well, I owe you big time. And an Apple always pays her debts.” Applejack says proudly, puffing out her chest. “So, if you ever need anything, just ask, alright?”

“Oh, sure.” You smile.

“Good! After all, you’re practically family.” Applejack happily states before turning her head to look around the room. “Now, where is that blue menace. I got a score to settle with her.”

You freeze as Applejack walk towards Rainbow. A sudden feeling of warmth passes over you, followed by a gut-wrenching sting in the pit of your stomach.

Family…

You feel a wellspring of emotions bubbling inside you. Your heart aches as memories begin to rise. Memories of home, parties that you had been to, events that you might be missing. As tears begin to form in the corner of your eyes, the memories fade and in their place new ones take root. A warmth washes over you as thoughts of your first encounter with the Equestrians comes to mind, carrying the three fillies, meeting new ponies, lunch in the park.

Your thoughts get interrupted as quickly as they came when you feel something caress your leg. You look down to see a yellow hoof stroking your thigh. The movement of the hoof reveals that there is more interest in the clothes themselves than what’s beneath, but it still makes you uncomfortable.

“Fluttershy?” You question the yellow pegasus.

“Oh! I’m sorry.” Her hoof darts away. “I was just curious about the clothes. Um... Why do you wear them?”

“Because I don’t have a coat like you guys.”

“I see. You would get cold without a coat. These are very nice though.” She starts stroking the fabric again. “Did you bring them with you?”

“No, these were a gift from Rarity actually.” You answer, quite happy with the look.

“I never realised she made stuff like this.”

“Practical working attire was the order of the day, Fluttershy. And I dare say, you look wonderful in them nonetheless.” Rarity proudly speaks of her work.

“Oh, that makes perfect sense. After all, if you are working you need to be comfortable otherwise somepony could end up getting hurt.”

Fluttershy and Rarity slowly drift towards the food as they converse on the practical fashions for job specific attires. Rainbow and Applejack have somehow gotten into an arm, or rather, hoof-wrestling match, with Twilight and Pinkie watching from the side-lines.

“Here you go.” A glass of punch appears before you, held by a purple claw. “You look like you wanted a drink.”

You reach out for the glass of punch. “Thanks, Spi-”

*Bang*

“SURPRISE!” The door to the library bursts open, accompanied by the cry of three fillies. “There you are!”

Before you can accept the glass from Spike, you get tackled by a blur of white, yellow, and orange. Crashing into you full speed, the girls knock you out of the chair and onto the floor. Straddling your chest, each of the fillies give you a tight squeeze.

“Apple Bloom!”
“Sweetie Belle!”

Applejack and Rarity hastily approach you as Rainbow laughs in the background.

“Hello girls.” You manage to breath out. “To what do I owe this?”

“You really saved us earlier!” Sweetie Belle cries excitedly, lifting herself out of the hug. “We’d have been in serious trouble if you didn’t show up.”

“Definitely.” Apple Bloom confirms. “My mind was racing trying to figure out what to do.”

“Yeah. Your timing was impeccable!” Scootaloo adds. “Thanks!”

“Ok girls that’s enough. Let the poor man get up.” Applejack says in amusement.

“Sweetie Belle, you should know better than to be charging into others like that. You could seriously hurt somepony.” Rarity scolds her sister.

“Sorry sis.” Sweetie Belle sadly replies, sliding off your chest. Apple Bloom follows suit. Scootaloo gives you a final squeeze before mimicking her friends, jumping to the floor.

“Sorry about that sugar cube, they can get awfully excited.” Applejack helps you to your feet, brushing your back.

“That’s alright. I don’t mind.” Getting back into the chair, you watch the three crusaders dash off towards a laughing Rainbow and Pinkie. Spike again hands you the glass of punch, his claws shaking slightly.

“Thanks Spike.”

Drinking the juice, you look around the room. The crusaders are laughing and chatting about their next big adventure over cakes and punch. Applejack and Rainbow Dash have returned to their little competition with Pinkie being an ever-keen observer and Twilight, Rarity and Fluttershy seem to be having an intense discussion, but you can’t make out what they are saying. Spike found a stool and placed it next to your chair, happily nibbling at a bowl of blue gems while reading a comic book.

“You know, if you had that bowl of gems back home, you probably wouldn’t have to work a day in your life.”

“Woah, really?” He looks up at you. “How does that work?”

“Gems are pretty rare on earth and any that do get found tend to be controlled by one company. So, prices get inflated.” You pick one of the blue gems from the bowl. “Weird that there are so many here though. You eat them, Rarity uses them in her fashion. Are they really so common?”

“Well, we can grow them.” Spike answers.

“I’m sorry, what?” Surely you misheard.

“It’s true! We’re able to grow gems. Most types are common enough, so they aren’t worth a lot really. But you can use them instead of bits if you want to. I even have a special gem I’m incubating myself. I can’t wait for it to be ready.” He glances up at your confused face. “You don’t grow gems back home?”

“No. They just get dug up after millions of years beneath the planet’s crust.” You say, dropping the blue gem back into Spikes bowl.

“That’s horrible!” Spike cries out in shock. “What would I eat?”

“I have no idea.” You chuckle. Equestria is weird.

“What do you mean you don’t like the idea!?” Rarity’s sudden outburst draws the rooms attention.

“It’s just, stories like that can be scary.” Fluttershy’s voice gently echoes in response.

“I’m with Fluttershy on this one.” Twilight agrees. “It’s one thing to read about it in a book, but it’s something else entirely for it to happen to one of us.”

“Dear me, you have no idea what you’re talking about.” Rarity huffs.

“Everything alright?” You call out.

“Everything is fine, darling. We were just talking about you.”

“Talking… About me?” You feel your face redden as Rarity walks over to you. “Nothing bad I hope.” Fluttershy and Twilight follow up behind her.

“Oh, not at all. I was just expressing my opinion on how it could be exciting if you were here for a reason.”

“What Rarity was actually informing us about, is the plot of a book she had read recently. It involved a traveller from a distant land that fell i-mmhmhmhmm…” Twilight’s explanation gets cut short by a white hoof. Her stare piercing its owner.

“Ha, ha! He doesn’t need to hear all that boring stuff, Twilight dear.” Rarity laughs nervously.

“Well, stories like that usually involve a lot of danger. And umm, it’s not really something that would be good if it were to happen.” Fluttershy concludes.

A common trope, even for stories from home. When a traveller appears, they are usually there to stop some big bad world ending threat. You ponder their words.

“Well, I’m sorry to disappoint you Rarity, but I don’t believe I was summoned.”

“Are you sure?” She eyes you intently as her hoof falls from Twilight’s mouth.

“I’m sure. Which means no world ending threat, no getting caught up in dangerous missions.” You take a sip of your drink.

“But your situation is just like a classic novel!” Rarity dives at you, spilling your drink. She wraps a foreleg around your neck and waving her hoof around as she starts her story. “Think about it! A mysterious creature waking up in an unknown world where they end up befriending the locals. When suddenly, disaster strikes! They must then go on a journey to-”

“-Save the world and rescue a damsel in distress?” You lift Rarity’s leg off your neck and push her away slightly.

“And then they’d live happily ever after.” Rarity swoons.

You roll your eyes. A small sigh escapes Spike lips as her stares deeply at Rarity, enthralled by her story.

“Well, as much as I love a good adventure, that all sounds very cliché if you ask me.” Twilight nods.

“I would much prefer a nice quiet cup of afternoon tea.” Fluttershy adds.

“Afternoon tea. Now that is a plan I could get behind.” You chuckle.

“Ugh, you eggheads still going on about books. I thought this was a party, not a, a, boring-ty.” Rainbow calls to you over the crowd. “Hey hotshot! Wanna hoof-wrestle? Applejack needs a win!”

“Rainbow Dash.” Applejack’s tone expresses her annoyance at Rainbows comments.

“What’s wrong, AJ? Afraid you’ll lose to a human?” Rainbow laughs, taunting her friend.

“Thanks, but I’m going to pass. You ponies are freakishly strong, I wouldn’t stand a chance.” You brush her off, hoping that it will be the end of it.

“Come on, I bet your strong too! You fought off a pack of timber wolves, you got to have some strength in those limbs.” She gives your arm a prod, a smug grin appearing on her face. “Or are you two chickens?”

“Does… does that even work? Calling someone chicken?” You turn to face the crusaders. “And who’s been saying that I fought timber wolves?”

The three fillies nervously chuckle, avoiding eye contact.

“I ain’t no chicken! Bring it on!” Applejack hypes herself up for the battle.

Huh, I guess it does work.

You feel a nudge on your side. Pinkie Pie pushes against you, motioning towards the table where Applejack has positioned her foreleg ready for you.

“Go on! It’ll be fun! And I bet you can beat Applejack easily!” She cheers you on, her azure eyes smiling happily at you.

“Fine.” You move closer to the table, placing your elbow down and firmly gripping Applejack’s foreleg. You grin. “Ready?”

====================

Several rounds and some bruised knuckles later you finally call it quits. You managed to claim a win against Applejack, but the victory was short lived as your muscles quickly gave way to the repeated onslaughts. Surprisingly, Rainbow Dash was more punishing, with wicked strength in her forelegs that nearly twist your elbow out of its socket.

“Oh yeah! I’m the best! Go Rainbow! Go Rainbow! Go Rainbow!” The pegasus starts celebrating in mid-air.

“Settle down there, Rainbow. Nopony likes a sore winner.” Applejack lightly scolds her friend.

“See? I knew you guys are strong. I’m hardly a challenge.” You laugh, sitting back in your chair. Rubbing your knuckles to get rid of the aches, you catch a glimpse of Twilight furiously scribbling on some paper.

“Don’t be silly. You still won once.” Fluttershy happily chimes in, sipping at her own drink.

“Yeah, I guess.” You smile, finishing your drink. A glimmer of light catches your eye, flickering off your ring. Getting lost in your thoughts, you run your fingers over the band.

“That’s pretty.” The yellow pegasus comments. “From your special somepony?”

“Yeah. My wife.” You chuckle as you stare at the band. “Till death do us part. Nothing in the ceremony mentions getting transported to another world.”

“I’m sorry.” Fluttershy lowers her head apologetically.

“Hey, it’s not your fault.” You give Fluttershy a weak smile. Several pieces of confetti catch your eye and, without thinking, your hand travels onto her head and you start lazily stroking her mane trying to get the paper out. The pegasus lets out a small ‘eep’, causing you to pull your hand back sharply.

“Sorry. There was confetti. I”-

“It’s ok, I was just surprised.” Fluttershy interrupts you. An awkward moment of silence passes between you before Fluttershy finally breaks it with a whisper.

“Umm… Could, could you do it again?” She blushes into her hoof. “Stroke my head, I mean.”

After a moment, you move your hand back to her head and restart your motions, feeling her soft coat and silky mane slide between your fingers. Fluttershy’s eyes close peacefully under your movement.

“Many of my furry animal friends like it when I stroke them too. But I never knew it could feel so… safe.” Her ears flop freely as your hand travels behind them, giving her a light scratch. Fluttershy starts to rock slightly, each movement of your hand eliciting a soft hum or an audible smile from her.

“Wow, Fluttershy looks like she’s in a dream.” Twilight approaches, stopping inches away from Fluttershy as she carefully watches her sway, lost in her own world. “Is this a type of human magic?”

“No, humans don’t have magic.” You answer softly.

“Oh my. She really does look so peaceful.” Rarity adds, observing the pegasus.

“Big deal. Fluttershy is almost always quiet and peaceful. How this any different?” Rainbow complains. Despite her fuss, she can’t help but stare at Fluttershy’s calm face.

“Wow, it’s like she’s in a trance or something. Think she can hear us?” Pinkie appears from behind Twilight’s mane. She extends a hoof and boops Fluttershy on the nose, causing it to wiggle slightly.

“Do you like stroking ponies? Is it a thing humans do?” Twilight horn continues to pulse with light as she looks up at you, ignoring the sudden manifestation of pink from her mane.

“I guess so?” You shrug. Fluttershy squirms slightly, pushing against your hand as you scratch behind her ear. “Humans tend to bond quite easily with other creatures, with many of us having pets. Stroking them, or anything really, is rather therapeutic. Humans can even bond with inanimate objects. Toys, electronics. Even pet rocks are not uncommon.”

“Oh! My sister has a pet rock!” Pinkie cries happily. “She loves little Boulder. Goes everywhere with him.”

Fluttershy stops swaying as you withdraw your hand.

“Oh goodness. Now I know how all my little friends feel.” Fluttershy opens her eyes. A little squeak escapes her lips when she realises all her friends are staring at her. “Umm, did I miss something?”

“No Fluttershy, you didn’t miss anything.” Twilight chuckles with the others. “I wouldn’t mind trying that stroking thing sometime though. How did it feel?”

“It was very soothing.” Fluttershy smiles up at you, playing with her hair. “Your wife is very lucky.”

“Yeah. I guess she is.” Your face slowly falls as you release a deep breath. Tears once again threaten to expose your emotional state as they build in the corners of your eyes. Blinking them away, you stand up from your chair. “Sorry guys, I’ve gotten tired. I’m going to go turn in.”

On the way to the door, you pat Pinkie’s head. Her mane bouncing under your hand. “Thanks for the party Pinkie. I had fun.”

The ponies share a concerned look.

“Are you ok, sugar cube?” Applejack asks.

“Oh yeah, I’m good.” Wearing a false smile, you give the girls a wave. “I’ll catch you later. Alright?”

Ducking through the door, it closes behind you. A still darkness bathes the town, held at bay only by the few lights coming from the buildings. The vast sky illuminated by the moon and stars. Wiping your eyes on your sleeves, you take a few steps into the night.

“Wait!” A voice calls out before you can get away from the tree. “Um. I’m sorry.”

Turning, you make out the silhouette of Fluttershy in the libraries glow.

“What for?” You ask her, hiding your tears.

“I mentioned your wife.” She rubs her leg with her hoof. “I didn’t mean to upset you.”

“It’s ok, you didn’t upset me.” You reassure her. “I’ll see you around, ok?”

“If... If you ever want to talk, I’ll be happy to listen. Come by my cottage any time.”

“Thanks, Fluttershy.” You softly say.

You slowly make your way to the workshop, leaving the yellow pegasus alone in the shadow of the great tree.

Chapter 12 - Rainy Visitor

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The fires consumed the shadowy figures, fadeing away as you reach out for them. The growing blaze crackles all around you, buildings collapse in its fiery wrath. Each way you turn, the all-consuming flames devour silhouette of humans and ponies alike. The spitting embers obscure your vision, scorching heat licking at your face. An almighty crash alerts you to the collapse of a nearby building.

You jerk your head round as another loud crash shakes you to the core. The flames vanish and the heat subsides as you gaze into your dimly lit room, the usually morning sunlight replaced with a dull grey glow. The crackling shifts and transforms into a strong pattering against the window, where the heavy rain continues its assault. You groan, wiping your sleep away. Recalling today’s forecast, you get ready to face the day.

====================

With a cup of tea warming your hand, you stare out onto the wet world. You sigh, taking a sip and move to the couch, planting yourself on the cushions. The heavy patter of the rain induces a calming sensation as you settle into a comfortable position. You look around aimlessly, catching sight of the red book as it shimmers in the dull ambient light.

“Might as well finish this.” You mutter, grabbing the book.

Chapter 6 – Colour Acquisition

With standard projects, one can simply paint the metallic creations after they have been assembled. The initial application can look good, but will chip and fade fast with regular usage and weathering. A more practical alternative is to dye the metal itself during the smelting phase. This is possible by crushing gems from the Equestrian mainland and adding them to the smelting process after the flux has removed the ores impurities. It is important to note that-

“Whatcha reading?” You jump as a high-pitched voice shatters your concentration. The book falls out of your grasp and to the floor as you turn towards the source. Over the back of the couch hangs the bright pink form of Pinkie Pie, grinning ear to ear.

“Dammit Pinkie! You could have given me a heart attack!” You scold her, regaining your composure. “How did you get in anyway?”

“Door was open.” Pinkie Pie rolls over the back of the couch and flops onto the cushions.

“Door was…?! Pinkie! You’re soaking!” You give an annoyed cry as the pink mare bounces softly next to you, her mane and coat dripping with rainwater. Pinkie twists her head round and looks herself up and down.

“Woopsie!” she gives a surprised cry and starts to shake herself off.

“No wait!” But it’s too late. Like a wet dog, Pinkie Pie rapidly twits her body, spraying water everywhere. All you can do is close your eyes and wait for the onslaught to be over. Peeking out from between soaking eyelids, you glance annoyingly around the soaking room. “Gah! It’s everywhere! Pinkie!”

“Oops! Hang on a sec!” She disappears in a flash, leaving you to wipe the spray from your face. She appears once again, brandishing a towel in her mouth. “Ah’ll ha few dry in a jishffy.”

“Where did…?” Before you can even finish, Pinkie latched onto the towel with her hooves and very violently started scrubbing the room dry. Her speed increasing exponentially as she zooms across the wet area, picking up every drop. You watch her dart and weave around the place with cartoonish dexterity, until everything is completely dry. Everything, except you. You realise all to late as Pinkie Pie leaps at you with the towel, wiping you down with exaggerated vigour. You splutter and wave your arms as the towel fibres enter your mouth. The assault continues without remorse, enthusiastically rubbing dry your chest, your stomach, your-

“Woah! Ok that’s-” But Pinkie doesn’t stop. Her hooves continue to work as she dries your waist, then your legs and finally your feet.

“Aaaaaand done!” The towel vanishes into her mane as she hops back up onto the couch. She grins, releasing a *squeee*. “That was fun!”

“Ye-yeah, fun.” You shift uncomfortably. “What are you doing here anyway?”

“Well, we don’t get many customers when it’s raining. And todays gonna be a doozy of a shower. So, I have some free time today.” She plonks herself down, scootching up to you until her head presses into your shoulder, her bouncy mane tickling your face. “And since you were sad when you left last night, I thought you might want some company. Oh! We can bake some cookies! Or cake! That’ll be fun.”

You look down at Pinkie, meeting the gaze of her large blue eyes. “I know what you’re doing. And it would be better if you stopped.” You slide her away from you.

“Huh?” Pinkie tilts her head in confusion.

“I don’t need any friends.” You state flatly, picking the book up off the floor and placing it on the table.

“Everypony needs a friend!” Pinkie gasps as she leaps at you, her hoofs landing on your chest. “Otherwise, the world would be a sad and lonely place!”

“And when that friend ends up leaving, what then?” You strike back, avoiding her large blue eyes. “It’s just better if you’re not too friendly with them.”

“Well, that’s a dumb thing to say. Who thought of that?”

“I did. And it’s not dumb!” You retort, turning to face the mare holding onto your chest.

“Not if you’re some sort of unfeeling machine, sure. But you aren’t that!” She moves her face closer to yours and peers at you with one large eye. “Are you?”

“Course not.” You huff, dismissing her intrusive allegations.

“Exactly! So instead of listening to that noggin’, listen to ‘in hear’ instead.” She moves away from your face, resting her weight on one forehoof while taping the other on your chest. “What does this tell you?”

“In… here?” You question, mirroring her tapping motions on your chest.

“Your heart, silly. What’s it telling you to do?” Pinkies high pitched voice shifts to a more subtle level, a deep sadness resonating from within. “Because I think you’ve been ignoring it. I bet if you listen, you will hear how sad it is.”

Pinkie Pie suddenly drops down into your lap and smooshes her face into your chest, her ears aligning themselves to better hear inside. Her disregard for personal boundaries causing you to shift uncomfortably.

“Instead of laughing with your new friends, having fun, and making memories, you only let in the sad stuff. But I bet your heart wants some happy stuff too! And you can find that with your friends!” Pinkie Pie’s tail swishes about as she rests her head on your chest. “It's true that some days are dark and lonely. And maybe you do end up feeling sad. But that’s why friends are so important! They will be there to show you it isn’t all bad.”

A defeated sigh escapes your lips as you slowly raise your hand and place it on Pinkie’s head, stroking her bouncy mane. You roll your eyes as the pony shifts in your lap. Continuing to stroke her mane, you glimpse her tail playfully thrashing from side to side.

This wasn’t exactly part of my plan today. Can’t say I hate it though. A weary smile creeps across your face as you watch Pinkie Pie breath gently in your lap. Maybe…

After a few minutes of silently stroking the pink mane, her voice breaks the silence. “I can see why Fluttershy liked this. I could get used to it.” She giggles, adjusting her head slightly to press it further into your chest.

“Pinkie… Were you worried about me?” You ask, your hand passing over her head.

“Of course, you silly human!” Pinkie propels herself off your chest, offering you a large smile. “We’re friends! And friends help each other out when their sad!”

Pinkie…

“But I guess you wanted to be alone today. It’s ok, I understand. Sometimes we need to be alone with our thoughts.” She averts her gaze, staring at the floor for a moment. “I should get back to the shop anyway, lots to do even with no customers."

With that, she leaps over you and heads for the door, stopping just shy of it. Taking in a deep breath, her voice regains its cheery, high-pitched tone. She calls over her shoulder. “If you ever wanna bake something or just chat, drop by Sugar Cube Corner, ok?”

“Ok. Thanks Pinkie.” You say with a half-hearted smile.

“Okay Doki Loki!” She cries out in joy and darts out the door. “See ya later, Human-gator!”

“See ya Pi… The hell is a human-gator?!”

Chapter 13 - To Canterlot!

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You stare out over the burning buildings once again. The flames once more consuming your vision. Shadows flicker and fade all around you, but you no longer reach for them. You have no energy left to fight. Accepting the inevitable outcome of this nightmare world, you just watch it burn. Over and over, this reality crumbles before you, incoherent screams echo between the roaring infernos.

“I can’t do anything anyway. I can’t save them…” You mutter, closing your eyes and resigning the world to its eventual fate.

“Help! Anypony!” A high-pitched scream jogs you free of your thoughts. You spin round and face the collapsing ruins of Sugar Cube Corner. Windows exploding from the heat, flames devouring the exterior. And something else. Something darker.

A crash from above moves your gaze upwards. One of the buildings beams had smashed through the upper wall, hanging over the edge. And holding onto it is-

“Pinkie!” You cry out. She panics, struggling to hold on. Her body grazed by the fire and covered in ash. Her mane and tail singed by the onslaught. Your eyes never leave her as your legs move towards the building. “Pinkie!”

Her head continues to face the wall which she crashed through. The flames within growing larger as they creep across the beam towards the terrified pony.

“Pinkie Pie! Let go!” You cry out to her.

“But!” She turns to try and look at you, acknowledging your presence. Her face stained with tears.

“I’ll catch you! Trust me!” You yell.

Pinkie scrunches up her eyes, pressing herself against the beam. The fire creeps closer to her, twisting and morphing. Your eyes dart over to the flames, and you see it again. A shadow hidden within the coalescing flames. Formless, but present, inching ever closer to your friend.

“PINKIE!”

Her hooves release the beam just as the shadowy flame lunges for her. Narrowly escaping, Pinkie Pie falls, straight towards your open arms.

Almost there…

An angry roar emanates from above her.

Almost there…

The beam snaps and plumets towards you.

Almost…

The whole world slows to a crawl. Pinkie Pie falling towards you, inches away. The beam closing in on her. You swing your arms closed, grasping her soft form. You hold her tight as the dreamworld fades to red and black.

====================

Standing at the Ponyville train platform, you continue roll your thoughts over in your head.

Humans get nightmares all the time. And recurring dreams are common too. They can happen for any number of reasons. But this, this felt different.

“And that shadow. That was new…” You sigh, defeated. “Maybe I should lay off the apples.”

You decide to focus on the day’s events instead. Tea with the Princess herself. And at her castle in Canterlot. You get excited at the thought, looking down at your ticket. But the excitement quickly fades, and you begin to feel a little uneasy about the trip and the idea of going somewhere new.

You take out the letter from the princess. “I hope this captain will be easily recognisable.”

A loud whistle signals the arrival of a pink locomotive, pulling several carriages of varying colours. Just like the steam engines from home, these have a metal body as well as connecting parts like the wheels. This seems odd at first, but you take note of the single track, concluding that there probably aren’t that many trains on them.

As soon as it comes to a halt, several ponies disembark. They gasp when they notice you and hastily dart to the side. You watch as the startled ponies meet up with some of the townsfolk and begin to mutter amongst each other. Ignoring the mumbles, your eyes follow track towards your destination. The distant mountain, and the spires that decorate the sky.

“All aboard for Canterlot!”

Ducking through the door, you enter one of the empty carriages, deciding to place yourself in the corner, out of the way. The seating was clearly designed for smaller passengers as you shift into a comfortable position. You turn gaze out the window as the train slowly starts to leave the station. The constant rattle of the wheels on the track gives a sense of familiarity as you look out over the alien world. If it wasn’t for the events leading up to here, you could even forget that you were in Equestria. You watch the rolling hills move by the window, spreading into forests further away. Up ahead you can make out the mountain holding the capital. It finally dawns on you just where the journey is heading, causing your palms to sweat and shake nervously.

“I hope this goes well.” You sigh, rubbing your palms on your trousers.

====================

A dark shadow falls over you as the train begins its steep ascent towards Canterlot, traversing through a series of caves and mountainside railways. Between the tunnelled sections, you catch glimpses of expansive grassland and forested areas. A large cloud formation catches your eye every so often as it hangs in the air. You could swear the formation looks like a city, complete with rainbow waterfalls.

“Maybe I’ll ask Dash about it, she’ll probably know.” You continue to gaze over the horizon.

Eventually the railway levels out and you watch as the train passes under a large stone archway. Moments later, the station platform comes into view. It is slightly larger than the one in Ponyville, crafted from grey and purple stone with large glass windows. A large clock hangs on the wall, overlooking the platform. The small crowd of ponies on the platform back away sharply as you disembark from the train. Taking a deep breath, you stretch to your full height, towering over the residents. Moving away from the door, you catch a voice over the hushed whispers.

“How am I supposed to know who I’m meeting here?”

Look in the direction of the voice, you see a large white unicorn wearing purple armour. He stands with his back to you, observing the other passengers coming off the train. You walk up behind him as he continues to talk to himself.

“ ’You’ll know him when you see him, Captain.’ The princess does love her surprises.” The unicorn sighs. “A little more information would have been nice though. I don’t even know what this stallion looks like.”

“Well for starters, I’m not technically a stallion.”

The white unicorn spins round with surprising agility. Backing away slightly, his stance alters. You see the muscles tense through his back legs, giving him the purchase to react in a single moment. He studies you closely, unsure what to make of the creature before him.

“You… what are?-”

“Human. Earth. Tea with the princess.” You interrupt him, introducing yourself with a smug grin.

“I… See.” The ponies face softens, but his stance remains unchanged.

You brandish the letter from Princess Celestia in front of him. His eyes move over it, reading the contents. Slowly, he shifts to a more neutral stance, releasing the tension in his legs.

“I should have guessed that her special guest was not a pony.” He chuckles softly. Straightening himself up, Shining Armour gives you a salute. “Captain Shining Armour. I’ll be your escort through the city today.”

“Thank you, Captain.” You salute him back, though with far less discipline. “Lead on.”

The ponies within the building hastily move out of your way as you pass through, many of them continuing to stare once you walk past. Feeling a little self-conscious, you increase your stride to be alongside your escort. Soon enough, you emerge from the train station and are greeted with the bustling life of the capital.

The sound of hoofs meeting stone rumble around you, conversations travel through the air. The familiar smell of a coffee and baked bread assaults your nose. A small breeze blows through you, bringing with it a sweet floral scent with subtle hints of lemon and mint.

A set of stairs lead down to a grey cobbled street, flanked by large stone buildings. From your increased vantage point, you can make out several cafes and shops along the street, with a collection of ponies sitting at tables or walking between shops. Gazing skywards, you see numerous ivory towers with golden spires decorating the skyline.

You let loose an impressed whistle, taking in the city’s décor.

“Welcome to Canterlot, Capital of Equestria.” Shining Armour chuckles at your reaction. “Pretty impressive, right?”

“I’ll say.” You reply, still looking around the city. “A major change from Ponyville.”

Shining Armour makes his way down the stairs. “We should get moving. It’s still a little way to the castle.”

You quickly notice how the sounds of the city fade around you as you walk behind Shining Armour, your taller form getting attention from all the ponies you pass. Those on your path move quickly out of the way, while others just stare as you pass by, occasionally leaning into each other and whispering. Their eyes linger as you pass by, making you a little uncomfortable. You catch the occasional murmurs of the ponies, commenting about the ‘strange creature’ and how ‘it looks dangerous.’

“Lot of unicorns here.” You casually observe.

“Canterlot is the centre for magical studies.” Shining Armour informs you, adjusting his position to walk by your side. “With Princess Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns, as well as the biggest library in Equestria, it ended up becoming the location that unicorns flocked to. So, what do you do in Ponyville?”

“Right now, I work for the mayor, helping out with the towns maintenance. Fixing broken things and general upkeep.”

“Sounds like you got a lot of work then.” Shining Armour smiles.

“Not as much as I’d like. Always looking for the next distraction, you know?” You chuckle. “What about you? Being Captain of the Royal Guard must be exciting.”

“Not as exciting as it sounds.” Shining shakes his head. “Other than some petty crimes, we really don’t have much to do. Nightmare Moons return was the first real threat Equestria faced, and we were completely useless. Put our position into perspective though.”

Shining Armour frowns, clearly disappointed by what had happened.

“Hey, cheer up. I’m sure you guys did your best. You were facing what amounts to a goddess after all. How are you supposed to fight something like that?” You try your best to lighten the mood.

“Still, we should have been better prepared.” He mutters angrily to himself.

“Well, now you know. You can adjust accordingly, right?”

“Oh, I already have. Changed up the training routines completely. Does mean I’m away from my family a bit more though.” Shining sighs.

“I’m sure they understand.” You smile.

====================

As you continue to walk with Shining Armour, the sound of water gradually reaches your ears. Following the road round, the buildings eventually give way to reveal a magnificent castle situated above an open courtyard. Its dual towers, decorated with golden emblems of the sun and moon, pierce the sky. The white stone softly reflecting the light onto the surrounding area. The upper reaches are sheltered by golden tops, while the lower roofs are coloured purple and separated by a gold trim. Water flows from the mountain and under a small bridge ahead of you, acting like a moat and separating the grand building from the rest of the city.

“Wow.” You stare in awe of the structure. Shining Armour chuckles as he walks ahead, making you break into a jog to catch up.

The pathway splits ahead of you. The main path leads to a set of large stairs, climbing up to the grand entrance. The top and bottom of the stairs are flanked by several stern ponies in golden armour and helmets. The side paths turn from the cobbled stone into a light, well used dirt path that appears to lead around the castle. To your left you can see open gardens, several statues of different ponies and what looks to be an eastern style dragon, as well as a large hedge maze behind them. You also notice that several ponies are walking around, with some more of the guard ponies dotted about the area.

“The princess likes to have a more personal relationship with her citizens, so the maze gardens are open to all visitors. But we’re not going that way.” Shining Armour takes the right path, leading away from the public area. He leads you to a small tunnel in a hedge, its entrance flanked by two more guard ponies. They salute Shining Armour and give you a cautious glance as he leads you through.

The tunnel opens into a small, secluded garden surrounded by white walls. Colourful flowers decorate the edges, with a singular bird bath standing in the middle. Several tall trees cast their shadows onto the ground, offering protection from the sun’s rays. A small table stands in their shade, along with several chairs, and a tall, white pony, seated comfortably with her eyes closed. A warm smile gracing her face.

Chapter 14 - Royal Tea

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“I’m glad you could make it.” Princess Celestia ears twitch as you approach, her eyes slowly opening. She turns her head towards Shining Armour. “Thank you for your assistance, Captain.”

“Of course, Your Highness.” Shining Armour bows before the princess. “If you will excuse me, I have to get back to Cadance.” With that, the captain turns and leaves the enclosed garden.

“Cadance?” You ask, watching the unicorn disappear into the hedge.

“Princess Cadance is Shining Armour’s special somepony.” Princess Celestia answers with a smile.

“A Princess, huh? Lucky guy.” You chuckle absentmindedly. Turning back towards the table, you catch Princesses Celestia’s gaze.

“And my niece.” The princess adds, looking directly into your eyes.

A feeling of dread engulfs you. Panic grasps your mind but before you can figure out your next words, Princess Celestia’s face lights up. She brings a hoof to her mouth, releasing a soft laugh into it.

“Yes, he is very lucky.” She finally says, still chuckling. Princess Celestia motions with her wing to the empty chair.

“Very funny.” You try to sound unamused, but your smile betrays you. Sitting opposite Princess Celestia, you take in the spread laid out on the table. A selection of cakes and sandwiches presented neatly on a three-tiered silver platter, two teacups and a teapot stand before you.

“It was a little. Tea?” Princess Celestia smiles. Her horn lights up, engulfing the pot with her magic and pour out a cup for herself and for you.

“Oh, let me-”

“Now, now. You are my guest. Besides, the pot is still hot. You might burn yourself.” You watch her work her magic, gently pouring the tea before replacing the pot.

“Thank you.”

“I must apologise, my knowledge of human consumption is very limited. I do hope these will suffice.” She motions to the platter.

“As long as there are no flowers or grass, it will be fine.” You smile, reaching for one of the sandwiches.

Princess Celestia pauses, eyeing the food. Before you can grab one of the sandwiches, she ignites her horn again and spins the platter round, changing the ones in front of you.

“There.” She smiles at you.

You smile, taking one of the newly rotated sandwiches. Silence descends as you each take bites out of your chosen snack. You can’t help but stare as Princess Celestia closes her eyes, nibbling at the sandwich and taking the occasional sip of tea to wash it down.

She places the teacup back down and sighs peacefully. “So, what shall we talk about today?”

“Good sandwiches.” You comment, finishing yours off. “You wanted to know more about me, right? That is the reason you invited me here.”

“It is.” She replies softly. “How are things in Ponyville?”

“Pretty good. Everyone’s really friendly and I haven’t run into any issues.” You pause for a moment. “I seem to have a lot of time on my hands. Not much to do with it though.”

“And what would you like to do with your time here?” Princess Celestia takes another sip of her tea.

What would I like to do? You feel the princess’s eyes, as you ponder for a moment. “I don’t know. Anything to distract me, I guess.”

A weak smile appears across your face. Resting your hand on the table, you glance back at your host, your eyes lingering. Princess Celestia hovers one of the cake slices to her mouth, taking a bite and placing it on her plate. You follow her example and decide to try one. Soft and delicate, the flavour is more subtle than Pinkie’s cupcakes and not as sweet either.

“How many friends have you made?” The princess inquires, catching your gaze.

“Friends?” The question catches you off guard. It sounds like something a parent would ask a child after their first day of school, not a ruler asking her guest. You avert your eyes. “I, I don’t know.”

How many?... Can I even call them friends? As you contemplate her question, several ponies come to mind. The crusaders, Scarlet Memo, Spike. Making friends wasn’t something I was planning on doing. Quite the opposite.

“Well, I think you should try to make lots of friends.” Her smile shines across her face. “I’m sure they could offer plenty of distractions.”

You frown at the idea. “Friends aren’t something I’m looking for, Princess.”

“Why?” Princess Celestia tilts her towards you.

“Because… Because if I avoid making an impression. Making friends. No one will miss me and get hurt when I leave.” You mutter, avoiding her stare. That’s the reason, right? I’ll go home and no one will get hurt.

“Ah yes. Very logical.” The princess slowly nods knowingly. “Spoken like one without a heart.”

You glare at her; the words sting in your chest. You can be many things, but heartless?

“Have you considered that you may be here for a reason? That your arrival could be more than an accident?” Her question hangs in the air. Your eyes soften as you consider her words.

“You’re not the first to suggest that.” You slowly answer, looking back out into the secluded garden. “And there have been…”

“Have been…?”

“It’s just, there have been an awful lot of coincidences. More than you could consider to be normal.” You rub your chin, thinking for a moment. Your chin still in hand, you turn your head towards Princess Celestia. Her serene face doing little to hide the curiosity in her eyes.

“Let’s see.” Releasing your chin, you start counting down the coincidences you can recall. “I appeared just in time to save Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo from being devoured by Timber Wolves. Ponyville just happens to be super friendly and accepting towards an alien creature. You just happen to be willing to help me without hesitation. There just so happens to be an empty building that I can move into, which just so happens to help the mayor with her problems. On top of that, it just so happens to be a potentially working forge, something that doesn’t exist anywhere else in Equestria. And not just any forge, but one built by ponies for a creature of my size. And to top it off, a strange book that just happens to detail the methods needed to smelt ore and craft items from metal. That’s… eight different things in the span of four days.”

You release a heavy sigh, lowering your hand and catching your breath. Shaking a little from your rant, you finish your tea off before refilling it.

“That is quite the number, yes.” The princess takes another bite out of her cake. “As I understand, the workshop was built several months ago. I remember the Historical Preservation Society being in an uproar over it. As for my citizens in Ponyville, I like to think that they would be accepting of any creature. Were there no other factors involved?”

The crusaders and Big Macs voices echo in your memory. “Thinking about it, I wasn’t alone. Maybe it helped that Big Mac, and the crusaders were there.”

“So, it wasn’t just a coincidence. You had help. And more importantly, you weren’t alone.” The princess gives off a happy aura, beaming at you. “Regarding the size of the workshop, I can only make a guess. Our magic interferes with the forging process when using metals. Because of that, we outsource all our metallic requirements. That also means we have no plans for such buildings that would be scaled for a pony. I assume the plans used were for larger creatures, such as Minotaurs. They happen to be a little larger than you, maybe the builders failed to scale the workshop down adequately. I don’t know about this book though, perhaps it would be better to ask Twilight.”

“I did drop it off at her library before coming here. She wanted to make a copy for her collection.” You say absent-mindedly, taking in what the princess has told you.

“You know, I don’t like how much that all makes sense.” You conclude. “It also explains why there is only one set of train tracks in the station. Cities back home can have upwards of eight easily.”

“Wow, that does sound impressive. You are correct though, that is why there is only one set. There are very few trains travelling across Equestria.” Princess Celestia smiles at you. “As for your first encounter. Maybe it was a coincidence, but it also proves that you have a good heart. You heard a scream and ran towards it; in a world you knew nothing about. You made a choice. And whether by chance or fate, that choice has left a lasting impression on this world.”

You look at Princess Celestia, a confused expression crossing your face.

Ok, I may have saved them, but a lasting impression on this world? That’s a bit extreme.

“Consider this.” The princess straightens herself up and turns to you. Her casual aura replaced by one of authority and professionalism, drawing your attention much like a teacher and her students. And just like a teacher, she begins her lecture. “If you had not chosen to rush in and save the fillies, they would be lost. In turn, their families and friends would be distraught, potentially turning towards a darker path.”

You watch Princess Celestia silently, furrowing your brows and trying to comprehend her words.

“I can see you don’t fully understand. Why don’t we analyse the scenario and see how things could have changed?

“First, Applejack. She would have lost her sister. No doubt she had warned them about the dangers in the forest, but they ignored her and ventured in anyway. She would end up believing that the truth only brings pain, losing her desire for honesty and wander the world alone, never trusting another again if only to spare herself more heartache.”

Applejack…

“Rarity would close herself off after Sweetie Belles death, refusing to accept it. No longer a passionate seamstress, she would try to replace her own sister, seeing her presence in every little thing. A hoarder trapped in her own mind. She would lose her generous soul, becoming selfish and cruel, shunning the world.”

Rarity, huh…

“And Scootaloo. I understand that she and Rainbow Dash are not sisters, but the bond they share is just as powerful. Rainbow would end up turning her back on the world. She would see it as a brutal and unforgiving place where you can only rely upon yourself. Abandoning her sense of loyalty to never get hurt again.”

Dash… A sharp pain fills your chest, her words lingering in your mind.

The princess continues, her voice shaking slightly. “And those are just the immediate effects. From there, it would get worse. Unable to cheer her friends up, Pinkie Pie would lose her joy and laughter, falling into a deep depression. Fluttershy would discover how savage the world can truly be. Her kindness would turn to hate for the very creatures she loves. And Twilight.” Princess Celestia pauses, thinking for a moment. “Twilight would lose herself in her books, looking for a way to undo what’s happened. And who knows, she could succeed, but by then the damage would have been done and the magic would be lost.”

Would it get that bad? I know people face grief in different ways, but that all seems quite extreme. “And you know this would happen?” You ask quietly, the ‘what if?’ events sticking like a bad song.

“No. It is merely an educated guess. It might seem extreme, but it is also a likely scenario.” Princess Celestia sighs into her teacup before taking another sip. “Do you see? By choosing to help, you already made a lasting impression. And in the process, forged some very strong bonds too. So, how many friends have you made?”

You gaze up towards the sky, soft wispy clouds lazily float along, revealing distant outlines of birds. You catch sight of the occasional pegasus travelling across the sky and smile.

I made friends… I have friends here… A warming embrace surrounds you, your eyes closing to the sound of the garden, with the distant rumble of the city beyond the private walls. For the first time since you arrived, you feel strangely at peace with your situation.

The princess chuckling softly, lifting her teacup. “I knew I made the right choice.”

Your smile fades as you open your eyes and slowly turn to face her. “Right Choice?” You repeat. “What ‘right choice’?”

The conversation flashes in your mind. ‘How many friends have you made?’ ’Perhaps you were summoned for a reason?’ ’You already made a lasting impression.’

“... Did you summon me?”

Princess Celestia stops moving. Her teacup floating inches from her face. Her eyes focus on the liquid within. You remain unflinching, staring at her, waiting for her answer.

“No.” She finally answers, a discernible frown crossing appearing. “I did not summon you.”

Princess Celestia remains immobile, lost in thought. The cup still floating in her magic.

“But?” You press.

“But…” She sighs, exposing her concern with a slight hint of sadness. “I cannot deny the possibility that you were summoned.”

“Then what did you mean by ‘right choice?’” You push on.

“Leaving you in Ponyville.” The cup gently floats back down to the table. “I could have bought you here to Canterlot, but I decided against it. I thought it would be better for you to remain there, with those you already knew.”

You scan the princesses face, trying to get a read on her. “Why did you agree to help me so quickly?”

Princess Celestia lets out a weighted breath. “The last time a foreign creature came to Equestria, chaos followed. I did not want a repeat of that, so I decided to offer a friendly hoof.”

“So, you were testing me.”

“In a way, but I was sincere about helping you get home.”

You continue to stare, unwavering. Her thoughts appear to weigh heavily as you watch the sadness spread across her body. Her wings slump down, her body hunches over.

“I’m sorry.” She finally says, in barely a whisper. Her apology catches you off guard. She continues, her voice resonating with sorrow. “We can’t locate where you came from. I sent some of my researchers to the clearing you spoke of, and there’s nothing there. No magical residue, no trace of a summoning spell. Nothing. I don’t even know if you can go home.”

Her words crash through you, shattering your mind with a reminder of the harsh truth. “So, I could be stuck here?”

The princess slowly nods in response.

That can’t just be it can it? It’s only been a week after all. There’s still time. Maybe something will come up. I can’t be stuck here. There must be some way to get back to Earth.

“Just another failure to add to my résumé.”

“Eh, it’s only been a week. With how things are going, the answer will probably fall in our laps.” You chuckle softly, trying to lighten the mood while simultaneously disguising your worry.

Princess Celestia doesn’t react, her eyes unfocused and her breath shallow, lost in her own thoughts. She continues to sit still; her mane appears to fade. You watch the shadows slowly crawl across the ground while birds softly chirp away above.

“Canterlot is pretty amazing. I don’t think there are any cities on earth quite so unique.” You change the subject, hoping to distract the princess from her thoughts.

“Long before my sister and I were crowned as Equestrias rulers, it was actually a small mining town. This mountain used to hold vast untold riches. Using those riches, it grew into a beautiful city. Those caverns were exhausted and sealed up a very long time ago. Eventually, this castle was also built. I ended up moving here one thousand years ago after our previous home was…” Princess Celestia hesitates, it’s clear that the memory of those events still haunts her. Taking a deep breath, she continues. “After I banished my sister to the moon.”

“Wait, I read about that.” You gasp dramatically. “It really happened?”

“Yes. Although I think that tale has been greatly romanticised compared to the actual events.” The princess smiles sadly.

“Damn… You don’t look a day over two hundred and thirty-seven.” You joke.

Princess Celestia raises her head, looking straight at you. The world suddenly becomes very still and quiet. You stare back in anticipation. The short moment of tension feels like it lasts a lifetime. Just as you consider apologising, she bursts out in a fit of laughter, turning her cheeks rosy.

After a few moments, she finally catches her breath and calms down, wiping away the tears from her eyes.

“You are awful. But thank you.” She beams at you, her eyes sparkling once again.

You spend the rest of the engagement sharing memories and laughing at silly events. How you met your significant other, how Princess Celestia and Princess Luna used to be devoted pranksters. One time, Princess Luna found a huge bug that she claimed was a prince due to his size, but Princess Celestia doesn’t like bugs, so Luna decided to eat it instead.

====================

“Thank you for keeping me company today.” The princess chimes happily as the engagement draws to a close.

“My pleasure, Princess.”

The two of you raise from your seats and head to the exit of the small garden. Motioning for the Princess to enter first, you pass through the hedge tunnel, her flank swaying as she walks, causing her tail to swish softly from side to side, almost taunting you. You chastise your thoughts as she emerges first, greeted by the two guard ponies, as well as Shining Armour. The three ponies bow as her highness appears out of the tunnel. She gives a light nod in response as you appear behind her.

“There is one thing that I am wondering.” The princess suddenly asks, turning back towards you. “Your reaction to the news was, not what I was expecting. You ended up making me feel better instead. Are you going to be ok?”

“Oh, don’t worry. I’m definitely going to have a mental breakdown later.” You answer, hiding behind sarcasm. She tilts her head, looking worried. With a smile, you hastily add, “I’ll be fine, Your Highness.”

“I see. Well, should you need anything, don’t hesitate to contact me.” The princess reaches out to you, her wings twitching slightly.

You bow in response. “I won’t, Your High-”

“No.” She interrupts you. Her voice sounding sharp, almost harsh. You look up at the princess. In a split moment, she closes the distance between you and wraps a wing around your body, giving you a soft squeeze. Shakingly, you raise your arm and wrap it around her and squeeze, returning the hug.

As quickly as it happened, it was over. Princess Celestia pulls away, smiling at you.

“Captain Shining Armour, please make sure my friend makes it safely to the train station.” The Princess ignites her horn, bathing herself in golden light. “Take care of yourself, my little human.”

And in a flash, she disappears.

Chapter 15 - Ponyville at Dusk (Violence Warning)

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By the time you return to Ponyville, the sun has already gone to sleep, leaving a dim orange glow in the wake of the navy night sky. You begin make your way through the quiet town back to your accommodations, clutching a small bag of crystals. Hoping for something to do, you had asked Shining Armour about them, and he was kind enough to show you to a store that sold magic infused gems.

“I just hope I can get a decent nights sle... Oh shoot! I forgot to ask about-”

“AAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!”

A piercing cry shatters the peaceful town. You turn your head to the scream’s origin. On the other side of the road, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon stand frozen, ice cream melting beneath their hooves. Their mouths hang open, eyes wide in horror as they stare at -

“A Timberwolf? Here?” you mutter in confusion as the creature slowly approaches the fillies, releasing a soft growl.

The girls start to back away as the Timberwolf crouches, preparing to pounce. Before you can think things through, your legs burst into action, carrying you across the road. The Timberwolf opens its jaw and leaps at the fillies. The girls raise their forelegs to shield themselves from the incoming teeth.

*CRASH!*

You slam into the beast shoulder first, crushing its wooden frame against the building. Its body falls to pieces, wooden body parts littering the ground beneath the impact. You push yourself away from the wall, taking in a sharp breath as your shoulder stings in response.

You grab your shoulder, trying to ease the stinging sensation before turning to the fillies. “You girls alright?”

They look up at you in fear, eyes still wide. Before they can say anything to reassure them, a growl grabs your attention. You spin round and come face to face with four more Timberwolves. You stare them down, releasing your shoulder and giving your arm a little shake. Three of the Timberwolves carefully approach you while one hangs back. Slowly bending down, you keep your eyes on the creatures before you. Grabbing one of the wooden remains of the fallen wolf and raise yourself to your full height.

“Diamond Tiara. Silver Spoon… Run.”

The fillies don’t need to be told twice. They turn tail and dash away as fast as their little legs can carry them. You position yourself between the wolves and the direction the fillies fled, but fortunately they keep their focus on you.

“This will be fun.” You chuckle, gripping the piece of wood.

The first wolf charges forward, leaping at your head. You swing violently with your stick, knocking the wolf to the side. It recovers quickly from the blow, twisting round and lunging at you again. Its agility catches you off guard, but you manage to intercept its jaws with your improvised weapon. The wolf balances on its hind legs, biting and gnashing at your stick, overpowering you. As it starts pushing you back, its lashes out with its claws. A wayward strike hits the top of your face causing you to falter, but with a shift flourish, you twist your body and manage to connect your elbow with its jaw. Loosening its grip on your weapon, you fling the wooden creature to the side, smashing it against the building and causing it to yelp in pain.

Blood starts trickling into your eye. You stagger back, giving it a quick wipe but while doing so, a sharp pain rips through your left leg. You let loose a cry and drop you to your knee, your leg getting ripped and torn. With a powerful motion, you swing over with the stick. The wolf tearing at your leg jumps out the way just in time to avoid getting bludgeoned, causing you to miss and slam the ground instead. The pain through your leg is agonising, but you don’t have time to recover. Out of the corner of your eye, you see the injured wolf leap for you once more, trying to take advantage of your position. With all the might you can muster, you swing your arm back round, connecting hard with its body and causing it to shatter into a pile of wood before you.

Taking a few moments to catch your breath, you push yourself off the floor. The pain in your injured leg screams in protest and causes you to lean on your good leg. You raise your stick and hold it between you and the wolves. The blood leaking from your head wound begins to dry over your eye, sealing it shut. The Timberwolves begin to slowly pace back and forth, their glowing eyes staring back at you. You ready yourself for their attack, leaning into your good leg. Before they make their move, you hear another growl behind you.

Before you can react, you howl in pain as your shoulder gets torn into. The stick drops to the ground as you struggle with the creature on your back, glimpsing its wooden muzzle tearing into you. Reaching over, you desperately try to grab it, its claws ripping into the flesh on your back. In a surge of desperation, you leap up and smash into the ground, crushing the wolf beneath you. The pain surging through your body is excruciating as splinters of wood penetrate your back.

Three… Down… Your thoughts are weak as your body cries in pain. Almost…

The attacks are relentless. Before you can get your bearing, another wolf leaps onto you. Its all you can do to grab your piece of wood and shield yourself from the jaws. It gnashes at the stick, slobbering over you. Its claws striking blindly as you try to hold it off. With a surge of adrenaline, you kick upwards, throwing the beast over your head.

Summoning all your remaining strength, you roll over and start to get up, your body crying in agony. The wolf echoes your movements, twisting over and landing on its legs. Pushing yourself onto your right leg, pain surging through your shoulder. You will your injured arm to move, but it doesn’t respond. You can feel blood pouring out of your shoulder and flowing down your disabled arm, but you dare not take your eyes off your enemy as it prepares for another attack. Your vision starts to blur as dizziness sets in. It takes everything you have not to collapse as the wolf charges you.

It growls, pouncing at your head. With the last of your strength, you thrust your stick with your good arm straight at the wolf. It connects! You feel the recoil as your stick sinks into its throat, snapping in half and taking the top of the wolf’s head with it.

With sharp, shallow breaths, you twist round to face your last foe. Your limbs dangle uselessly by your side, blood spilling on the floor, the last of your strength fades away. You collapse to your knees, before slipping back onto your legs. Your focus is lost as blood drips down your face. Your arms and legs no longer functioning.

The last wolf approaches you confidently.

“Well…” You gasp. “Four out of five ain’t bad.” You try to laugh, but your body doesn’t allow it, shaking in pain and fear. With laboured breaths, you stare at the blurry shape of the Timberwolf as it begins its approach.

Closer and closer.

It takes off, leaping through the air.

As the world slows down, you grin, accepting your fate.

…

“GET AWAY FROM HIM YOU BASTARD!”

A blur of crimson light rushes past you, fracturing the Timberwolf. Small pieces of wood fly out in all directions. Your body slumps and you collapse onto the ground.

“No! No! No! No! No!”

The distant sound of screaming barely reaching your ears. Your sight turning fuzzy, an assortment of tiny spots dancing across your vision.

“Somepony get the doctor!”

Your breath slowly leaves your body as your world fades away.

“Hold on! You have to hold on! Please! Don’t go!”

Chapter 16 - Dreamwalker

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Darkness.

No, not even darkness. This was absence, an empty place.

There are many theories about what happens when you die. Bright lights, heaven, hell. But this is just a void.

Floating along, your body lighter than air, you gaze into the empty abyss. No up. No down. No Heaven or Hell. Nothing.

“Guess I didn’t make it.” You sigh, closing your eyes. A smile crosses your face as you recall your last moments. “At least I went down swinging. That was pretty cool.”

You settle in and start to relax as the void drifts you along.

====================

How long has it been? Hours? Days? You ponder as you float endlessly. It’s all so vague, in a place without anything.

A stiff breeze suddenly hits your face causing your eyes shoot open.

Canterlot Castle stands before you. Tall and majestic, it’s gold roof shimmering in the moonlight. Your legs twitch on the rocky floor, causing a falling sensation to course through your body. Catching your balance, you turn around, taking in your surroundings. The city of Canterlot fades into the night, your little tunnel where you met the princess, concealed in the hedge. The main stairs sit unguarded. And the maze, complete with its statues lays dormant under the moon. A sleeping world. If not for the gentle breeze, it could almost be mistaken for dead.

“Well... This is wei-”

*BOOM*

A loud explosion erupts overhead. You stumble back, covering your head as pieces of the castle fall, the ground around you illuminated by a bright orange glow. Cautiously, you remove your arm and look up, just in time for something large and white to crash into you, forcing you to the ground.

You shake your head, “Ow, what was that?”

The object shudders and groans. You lift your head off the ground and look over the object. The white body struggles to move, singed black in several places, feathers crumpled over.

“Celestia?!” You cry in surprise, moving your hands to her body, trying to help her as best you can.

“Wha...” Her head slowly turns towards you. Her face is burnt in several places, her horn stained black. “What are you doing here? You have to-”

Another blast comes from above. Your heads turn skywards towards the wrecked castle. From the gaping hole in the wall emerges a large, flamed monstrosity. The blazing heat reaching even you, far below. With four flaming legs, an inferno for a mane and a sharp, blazing horn protruding from its head, it gazes down at the two of you.

You gasp as the fiery beast leaps at you, the rush of air against its body revealing a shadowy core beneath the flames. Princess Celestia tries to ignite her magic, but there is no response. You close your eyes as, in a last-ditch effort, she covers you with her wings.

…

Nothing happens. You cautiously open your eyes and see the creature has stopped, frozen in the air. And not just the creature, but the Princess has stopped moving too.

“BEGONE!” A powerful voice echoes around the area.

Strong winds rush in, threatening to blow you away. Shielding your face, you look through squinting eyes, watching the flamed creature start to melt away into dust. Opening your eyes further, you realise it’s not just the creature, but the castle too starts to crumble under the wind’s wrath. Slowly, the whole landscape vanishes. Even Princess Celestia fades away into nothing.

The nightmare in Canterlot has shifted completely. You find yourself sitting quietly on top of a hill, overlooking a distant world below. You can just make out Canterlot mountain in the distance, illuminated by a large, sparkling moon. This place is peaceful, quiet. As though you had been transported to another world. You look down at your lap, still feeling the sun princess’s weight.

“You are a hard creature to reach, Human.”

You twist round. A large navy pony slow walks out from under a lone tree, wings folded with a horn matching her coat. Adorning her head is a small black crown and across her chest hangs a black plate decorated with a crescent moon.

Watching her closely, you gather yourself and cautiously get to your feet.

“Who are you?”

“We are Luna, Princess of the Night.” She addresses herself, staring off into the distance. “And it is our duty to traverse the realm of dreams and aid those in need.”

“Luna… Luna…” You mumble, “Wait! Celestias sister!?”

Your surprised cry draws her attention, her head turning away from the horizon and towards you.

“That is correct.” Her expression remains calm and distant. “We have been trying to reach you for a while now. It is good we managed to do so before your anxiety became something more serious.”

“Anxiety? ANXIETY!?” You shout, anger beginning to bubble to the surface. Point towards the castle, you continue, “THAT was not anxiety!”

The Princesses eyes widen as she is taken aback by your outburst. She quickly recovers her stance however and peers at you.

“If you are such an expert yourself, tell us what it was then.”

“I…I don’t know!” You stammer as the air around her changes, becoming slightly oppressive not dissimilar to her sisters. You rub the back of your head in thought, “Wait... Am I dreaming?”

“Correct. This is your dreamscape. And it would appear as though you are troubled.” Princess Luna reiterates. “Such nightmares are common with troubled souls.”

“But… This was so different. Unlike any dream or nightmare before. It’s like… Like the dreams changing. Evolving, you know? My other dreams were different...”

As you begin to explain your dreams, the air around her settles as she listens intently, focusing on you.

====================

“Interesting.” The princess mutters once you finish. “So, the previous dreams where we could not enter were set mainly in Ponyville.”

“Wait, could not enter?... You mean you were trying to reach me for a while? Before this?”

“That is correct.” She sighed. “It was quite strange. Whenever we tried to enter your dream, it phased away. Almost as though we were not, what is the right word. Compatible. We had never encountered such a phenomenon. Perhaps because you are not of Equestria? If so, then what changed?”

Luna voice trails away as she ponders for a moment.

“Still, while your description of this ‘evolving dream’ is interesting. We would have sensed if there was any interference from the outside.”

“So, it’s all in my head? This nightmare that keeps changing is just a figment of my imagination?”

“We hope so. The alternative is, dangerous. Your best course right now would be to face whatever is causing your anxiety and hopefully it will quell whatever nightmare has arisen. Failing to face it will only cause your nightmares to get worse.”

Your eyes narrow. “What’s the alternative?”

“That you are infected.”

You take a step back. Her stoic statement catching you off guard. “What do you mean ‘infected’?”

“Exactly as it sounds, Human. Something is affecting you and your dreams reflect that. However, we do not sense any interference to you, neither from outside nor within. That is why we do not believe it is anything more than anxiety.”

“And what if you’re wrong?” You burst out. “What happens to me if you’re wrong?”

Princess Luna observes you, her expression stern, but her eyes betray concern.

“We are not wrong, Human.” Her voice reverberates, power manifesting from it as though to remind you of your position. But as quickly as it came, it disappeared again. “If it worries you so, we can look into alternative sources for your nightmares.”

“That... would be appreciated.” You mumble, shaking slightly from her sudden power shift. Your gaze turns back to the view.

“Tell us, has anything been troubling you?” She asks, walking up to your side.

“Not really…” You sigh. “I guess, I sometimes wonder if I will ever go back to earth.”

“That could be a reason for this happening. If nothing else, it is a start.” The Princess infroms you in a calm tone. “When you wake up, we suggest pursuing that thought and see where it leads you.”

“Will it help?” You reply, not turning away from the scenery. “What if I can’t find the answers?”

“Acknowledging the problem will ease your dreams, even if the answer is not found right away.”

Finally turning away from the scene, you face Princess Luna, “I don’t suppose you can stop me dreaming, can you?”

Princess Luna shakes her head. “Your dreams come from your subconscious. We do not have the power to affect that.”

“Oh.” You reply, disheartened.

*Clang! Clang! Clang!*

“We believe it wise for you to procure some dreamless drought for future rests. Perhaps you can find somepony to create some for you.” The Princess smiles. “For now, while we cannot stop your dreams from arising, we can remove them so that the rest of your sleep is uneventful.”

Princess Luna’s horn begins to glow.

*Clang! Clang! Clang!*

“Hey, do you hear that?” You enquire.

Princess Luna’s ears twitch. “We do not hear-”

“-Shhhhh” Your finger shoots up to her muzzle as you try to hear. Her face unimpressed with the intrusion.

She backs away from your finger, “Really now. You would dare to-”

*Clang! Clang! Clang!*

You whirl around. Your mouth opens slightly as you gaze upon your Equestrian home. The Princess walks slowly up beside you, looking at the building as well. A warm light escapes the workshop.

“What’s happening?” You ask the princess.

“This is your dream; we are simply guests.”

*Clang! Clang! Clang!*

The loud banging continues from inside. You cautiously enter, followed by Princess Luna.

Inside, the forge is lit. Tools lay strewn across the benches. And behind the anvil stands a large human. Standing at least two heads above you, a grizzled face marked with several scars and sporting a large white beard. His thick arm holding in place a piece of metal, the other raising a hammer above his head.

*Clang!*

The hammer raises high again, but as you inch closer, he stops mid swing. His burly face turns towards you, small piercing eyes staring into your own.

“Is that another human?” Princess Luna asks, but you fail to give a response as you watch the large man.

After a few moments of staring at each other, his arm lowers, and he offers the hammer to you. The world starts to blur around you. You watch, as though through the eyes of another, as your legs begin move towards the large man. Your hand raises, gingerly taking the hammer. Slowly turning around, you face the metal on the anvil. With the large man guiding your movements, your arm raises up.

*Clang!*

The sound of the metal rings out. The whole workshop reverberates from the sound. Again, your hand raises.

*Clang!*

You can make out the blurry presence of Princess Luna as she watches on in silence. A grunt from above shakes you to your core as the hammer is raised once more.

*Clang!*

You blink, the dream returning to focus as you find yourself standing on the hill, under the moonlit sky once more.

“What just..?” you begin, before a large pain rocks through your skull. Your hand shoots up to your head to try and counter it. Princess Luna rushes to your side, comforting you with her wing.

“What happened?” you ask as the pain slowly subsides.

“We are not sure. This is your dream after all. Did you recognise the other human?”

“No.” You lift yourself up. The workshop has vanished.

Princess Luna steps back from you. “Perhaps we should put these events on hold until you wake up. If you are ready, we can cast our spell to ensure the rest of your time is dreamless.”.

You nod in agreement as the princess’s horn ignites once more. She surrounds you in a soft glow that quickly dissipates, and you immediately start to feel its effects as your eyelids grow heavy.

Gazing over the horizon once more, you smile. “The night truly is beautiful here.” You utter, as your consciousness drifts away.

“Till our paths cross again, Human.”

Logic vs Emotion - A HiE Tale

by MetalGenocide

Chapter 1 - Chance Encounter

Chapter 2 - Zebra of the Forest

Chapter 3 - Sweet Apple Acres

Chapter 4 - Welcome to Ponyville

Chapter 5 - It's Free Real Estate

Chapter 6 - Moving In

Chapter 7 - ...

Chapter 8 - Town Upkeep

Chapter 9 - First Impressions

Chapter 10 - Show and Tell

Chapter 11 - Surprise!

Chapter 12 - Rainy Visitor

Chapter 13 - To Canterlot!

Chapter 14 - Royal Tea

Chapter 15 - Ponyville at Dusk (Violence Warning)

Chapter 16 - Dreamwalker