> A Strange But Familiar Place > by KP9457 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Chapter One > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- A dedication to my good friends Dan, Emmett, Schyanne, Ashley, Connor and Skyler. You guys are Awesome Friends. This is my first fic, granted right I know I’m not the best writer out there but I thought this may be a fun and enjoyable not just for but for anyone who read this. So if you could leave some support in the form of a like or a comment that would be greatly appreciated. Chapter 1 Old Ends To New Beginnings The mid morning sun peered through the hotel curtains waking me from my slumber “Oh last was unbelievable, I still can’t believe that happened.” as I rolled out of bed and headed into the bathroom. Once I got into the bathroom and did my business, I looked into the mirror and thought, six years of doing this professional and four years at TCU (Texas Christian University) all came to a head last night in late November. As I left the bathroom I looked at the bed “WOW! That’s the most beautiful thing I have ever seen.” I walked up to the bed and grabbed the Grey Cup (the Canadian Football League Championship Trophy), and I knew that my career was validated. As for me, I would classify myself as your typical everyday guy. As per my profession I have been the starting Quarterback for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats for the last five seasons getting my first start during my first season at week 18, from that point on I was the starting QB. As for my love life a few girls here and there but nothing to serious, mainly because during the season I was too busy, and after the season I usually headed out to Alberta and hung out with my old high school friends also worked out and got ready for the next season. Now my friends in high well… they are the people that got me into ponies, with each of having our own pony in relation to the show. As for my friend Skyler he was Rarity which fit him to a “T”, he was just one of those guys that would give you the shirt off his back and do whatever it takes to help you out. Then my friend Dan a kind hearted guy that wouldn’t hurt anyone unless you went against his friends and that’s what made him our Fluttershy. Then Schyanne our party girl when ever were around her she’s the party and quite frankly she our Pinkie Pie. As for my newest friend Ashley I’ve learned in the time that she’s loyal and as such became our groups Rainbow Dash. Then our collector Emmett who knows an unenviable amount of knowledge with all that knowledge he became Twilight Sparkle. Last but not least is our friend Connor who favorite was Princess Luna and him as Luna which everyone was alright and that was how we referred to him. Now mine was Applejack either do to the country music I listen to or my cowboy. After I got dressed and grabbed the Grey Cup I went down to the lobby and met up with a few of my teammates. We decided to the hotel’s restaurant and grab a bite to eat before heading out. All of the team except me decided to fly back from Toronto to Hamilton, as for myself though I decide to drive in my 2020 Chevy Silverado 2500 HD Denali White Diamond Tricot, completely done up a truck made for a champion. As for the route I’ve driven the route about four times a year so I knew the road like the back of my hand. I left the hotel around two the Grey Cup with the rest of my team. After about twenty minutes with the cruise control set and the radio blaring some good old 80’s hair metal. And then…BOOM! “AHA!! FUDGE! WHAT WAS THAT?!?!” My rear tire just blew up. With my truck sliding out of control, I was trying everything I could to keep the truck under control but unfortunately the truck lost control and slide off the road and flipped. And as for me that was it, it was now my turn to ride off into the sunset. The last thing I remember is think “WOW after 6 frigen years of doing this I finally win the big one then I die, just perfect way to go I guess.” Next thing I knew I began to awake with my eyes still shut I used what I thought was my hand rubbing the back of my head and went down across my eye. As what I thought was my hand kept going down to where my nose should be then “WHAT!!!!” my eyes flew open. Upon my opening I saw a hoof and a snout “What is going? Where am I?” I began to examine my body discovering I was a tanned colored earth pony. After a few moments I passed out due to shock. “Hey man, are you alright?” I woke stunned hearing another voice, but I was even more socked when I seen a cerulean colored Pegasus with a rainbow colored mane and tail; I knew instinctively that was Rainbow Dash. “Hi, I may be alright, can you answer me one question though?” I said with a confused and lost look on my face. “Sure. My name is Rainbow Dash by the way.” She replied with a smile on her face. What am I to do now? What’s my name supposed to be? After thinking for a few seconds I remembered announcers always referred to me as a Maverick quarterback so “Maverick, and where are we? With a curious look on my face. “Why were just outside Ponyville. It’s nice to meet you Maverick; you’re not from around are you? She replied curiously. “No I’m not. I’m from somewhere far away, with no idea where to go or really where I’ve been.” I said back with a chuckle under my breath. “Well I could tack you into Ponyville if you’d like?” She asked with a smile on her face. “That would be great.” I replied back to her with a smile on my face. As we began to head into town I thought Wow this is gonna be Awesome. > Chapter Two > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Authors Note: Thank you, for everyone who has read this story, made this story a favorite and who have liked this story. Thank you again, now Chapter 2. Chapter 2 A New Town With Familiar Faces As me and Rainbow Dash headed towards Ponyville we kept small talk going between the two of us. After what felt like a life time, we approached Ponyville “Well here it is, Ponyville.” Rainbow Dash said with excitement in her voice. Wow Ponyville! I can’t believe I’m here, I thought to myself. “So what is there to do in Ponyville?” I asked. “Well…first I think I’m going take you to the hospital, just to make sure everything is alright with you.” She said with concern in her voice. “Why?” I asked extremely puzzled. “Let see you don’t remember where you’re from or where you’re going. I thought it would be best if we let Nurse Redheart take a look at you and make sure that you’re alright.” Rainbow Dash replied hesitantly. “Oh. I guess that would be good, rather be safe than sorry” I said with a smile on my face. We continued on for a few minutes until we reached the hospital. Once there, Rainbow told me hang tight for few minutes while she went to set thing up, so I waited there and looked around just to see what I could see. I was shocked at the extravagance of this whole town and the accuracy of it towards the show. “Hey Maverick, come on in.” Rainbow Dash said. I headed into the hospital where I met up with Rainbow Dash, “Right this way. Maverick this is Nurse Redheart.” “Why hello there Maverick. What can I do for you today?” Nurse Redheart asked. As I gazed at the mare with a white coat, pink mane in a bun with a red medical cross cutie marked, I replied to her “I’m here for an examination. It appears I lost most of my memory.” “Oh, well please come with me then.” Nurse Redheart replied. “First there is one thing I need to do first.” I then turned to Rainbow Dash and said “Thank you for all of your help today, I wish we could have met under better circumstances but I hope I get to see you again” “Hey no problem Maverick, and I’m sure if you stay in Ponyville for a little while we will see each other again. Bye.” Rainbow said with a smile upon her face. “See you later Rainbow Dash. Shall we head back know Maverick?” Nurse Redheart asked. I waved goodbye to Rainbow Dash with my hove and nodded at Nurse Redheart as she began to tack me back for examination. Walking through the hospital I felt a sense of uneasiness, mainly due to the fact I hate being in hospitals as human and the feeling didn’t go away. As we continued towards the examination room nurse Redheart turned to me and asked “So Rainbow Dash told me that you’re not from Ponyville, is that correct?” “Yes that’s correct.” I answered. “Alright, then we will give you a full head examination.” Nurse Redheart said with kindness in her voice. After a few more seconds we reached a white door with a sign on it saying “Room 57 Examination Room”, she opened the door and instructed me to take a seat. I nodded and headed into the room closing the door behind me. Once in the room I found a mirror and decided to finally see what I looked like. As I gazed into the mirror I seen that I kept my baby blue eyes, and also kept my muzzle being black like my facial hair when I passed away. As I continued to look at the mirror I began to examine my mane and tail, my mane was spiked at the front and stayed short, while my tail was short as well, both of them were a light brown with blonde highlights the same way I’ve had my hair since high school. Then I gazed over at my flank, and noticed that my cutie mark was the Crest Of Courage, I have no idea why it’s that but I couldn’t help but think it’s kind of awesome. I heard the door opened and looked back as I did I seen Nurse Redheart enter the room, “Alright let’s begin Maverick.” She said with a smile on her face. I nodded back and we began. After an hour or so, Nurse Redheart said to me “You appear fine, just some amnesia though. I think it would we be best to keep you for a couple days just to make sure that you are all right?” “That’s probably for the best.” I replied “But what is there to do in this hospital?” I asked “Well we could go visit Twilight Sparkle at the Library and see if she has any books that interest you?” She said. “Alright” I said excitedly. I can’t believe I get to meet Twilight Sparkle. “Alright let me just grab my saddle bags and we will head off.” Nurse Redheart replied smiling. After a minute or two Nurse Redheart came back and grabbed me then we headed out. After walking through town for a few minutes we saw this purple unicorn with a green and purple dragon standing beside. “Oh there you are Twilight.” Nurse Redheart exclaimed as the purple unicorn and the dragon turned around. “Oh hello there Nurse Redheart, who’s your friend?” Twilight asked. “This is Maverick he’s going to be staying at the hospital for a few days for observation.” Nurse Redheart responded. “Hello there Maverick my name is Twilight Sparkle and this is my trusty assistant Spike. What’s wrong if you don’t mind me asking?” Twilight asked with a concerned look on her face. “Hi. Oh nothing to serious I just don’t remember a lot.” I replied with a lit laugh. Twilight and Spike both seemed a bit confused and after few seconds of awkward silence, Nurse Redheart spoke up and said “Twilight would you be able to take Maverick to the library and see if there are any books there he would be interested in reading?” “Sure thing, just follow me.” Twilight said snapping back into reality. “Alright Maverick you follow Twilight and I’ll meet you at the library in a little bit.” Nurse Redheart said smiling Twilight, myself and Spike began walking towards the library when Twilight turned to Spike and asked “Spike didn’t you promise Rarity you were going to give her hand today?” “Oh, jeez I just about forgot! Thanks Twilight for reminding me. It was nice meeting you Maverick.” Spike said hurrying off. Me and Twilight carried on, after a few moments Twilight spoke and asked me “So you don’t remember anything?” “Nope, I guess it wasn’t that imported if it was I would have remembered it. Well I guess I do remember something’s like music I listen to and type of books I read but other than that I don’t remember anything.” I replied. “Alright, well what type of books did you like?” Twilight asked as we arrived at the library. “Well I like the spooky ghost stories if you got any of those that would be great.” I said gleaming with curiosity. “Wait just one minute I think I’ve got the perfect series for you.” She said speeding in. “No, hmm not here. Ah here they are.” She said returning with three books. “These are the first three in the series. They’re Called Supernatural, they’re about these two brothers on this place called earth that travel around and hunt monster. I hope you will like them, I have got to say they are good books.” Twilight said smiling ear to ear. I thought to myself “No way, they have supernatural here!” Then I looked at Twilight and said “I love those books would I be able to borrow the first couple?” I asked excited. “Sure thing!” Twilight exclaimed. “Did you find any good books Maverick?” I turned around to see Nurse Redheart walking towards us, “Yes I sure did.” I replied gitty “Oh that’s good. Thank you Twilight but I think we should be getting back to the hospital though. Maverick you can put your books in my saddle bag if you’d like.” Nurse Redheart said. “Ok, and thank you so much Twilight. I look forward to seeing you again. Bye.” I said still smiling. “No problem, it was my pleasure. And I look forward to seeing you again Maverick.” Twilight responded “Bye.” Nurse Redheart said as we began making our way back to the hospital. Side Note Crest Of Courage: http://camelopardalis1989.deviantart.com/art/Courage-Crest-Valor-143432026 > Chapter Three > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter Three A Fire For New Friends A few days have passed since I arrived at the hospital; since Nurse Redheart and I returned from the library all that I have been up to is reading the Supernatural books. Today was so far just like every other, Nurse Redheart walked by making sure I was all right, and then brought me some food and after I was done she would take the tray away. But on this day when she came by to take the supper tray, she told me that I had a guest waiting. I was confused wondering who would be here to see me, it’s not like I know a lot of pony’s here Ponyville. So I told Nurse Redheart to let them in. Nurse Redheart left the room and let Rainbow Dash in. “Hey Maverick, how are you holding up?” Asked smiling as she walked in. I was excited to see her again “I’m doing great, feeling fine. Don’t even know why I’m in here anymore.” I replied smiling back at her. “That’s good, I’m glad to hear it. I was just wondering if you would be able to bust out of here for the night?” Rainbow asked. “I don’t know you will have to ask Nurse Redheart if I can leave.” I replied. “Well let me just go find her and ask her then.” Rainbow Dash said before walking out of the room. After a few minutes Rainbow Dash along with Nurse Redheart returned to my room. Rainbow Dash looked at me and started smiling, Nurse Redheart broke the silence by saying “You can go with Rainbow Dash if you’d like. I don’t see any reason for you to stay. You’re doing great so I see no reason why you couldn’t leave.” I shot up out of bed “Really! But what am I going to do with Twilight's books?” I asked with worry in my voice. “Oh no problem I’ll take them back for you in the morning, but go and enjoy yourself and have fun.” Nurse Redheart said grinning at me. Nurse Redheart, Rainbow Dash and I began to walk down the hall towards the entrance and exit. When we reached the doors I looked at Nurse Redheart and said “Thank you for everything.” “It was my pleasure. Just don’t be a stranger, alright.” The Nurse replied “I won’t.” I replied. Then we shook hooves, and Rainbow Dash and I walked out the door. After few minutes of walking I turned to Rainbow and asked her “Where are we going?” “Well I thought since you only know a few ponies here in Ponyville, I would take you to Sweet Apple Acres where some of my friends and I were going to have a fire and just hang out.” Rainbow replied with a smile on her face. Whoa Sweet Apple Acres, OMG! “That sounds Awesome!” I said with a large smile on my face. We continued on our way toward Sweet Apple Acres, after a few minutes I began to see these large apple trees popping out of the horizon. The closer we got the bigger the trees got, beautiful trees with tons of foliage and numerous red apples hanging on each tree. The closer we got the more we saw of Sweet Apple Acres, first the barn rose up from the horizon then house and finally we had reached the arch way into Sweet Apple Acres. “Hurry up Maverick, everypony is waiting for us! They are all excited to meet you!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. I stopped and stared at Rainbow Dash in shock, “What do you mean they are all excited to meet me?” I asked begging to feel more nervous. “Well… I told them that I met you just outside Ponyville, and then took you to the hospital. And after I told them about you they all wanted to meet you, and Twilight wanted to see you again, so we decided to invite to this fire.” Rainbow replied chuckling at the end. “Alright then we best not keep them waiting then!” I said with smile on my face nodding back at Rainbow Dash. As we got closer to where they were having the fire, we began to hear voices and laughter getting loader. With the glow of the fire getting brighter and brighter with each step we took. Until suddenly this pink blur just began jumping around, knocking Rainbow Dash down in the process. “OHMYGOSH, youmustbethenewponyRainbowDashandTwilightSparkleweretalkingabout! It’s so cool to finally meet you my name is PINKIE PIE AND I LOVE TO PARRRRRRRRTTTTTYYYYY!!!!!! Do you like cupcakes? I love cupcakes they are just SOOOOOOO YUMMY! What’s your favorite color? Mines Pink but I also like yellow and orange and purple” Pinkie was saying while she began to ramble on. “PINKIE PIE!” I shouted to get her attention, “It’s nice to meet. And yes I do like cupcakes, my favorite color is Blue, but I also really like this color called White Diamond, it just” I began saying until I was cut off. “Did you say White Diamond? I just love that color it’s just so marvelous. And you must let me know who did your mane it just magnificent.” This pony said with a white body and long purple mane. “Oh my name is Rarity.” She added “It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance. And I wish I could tell you who did my mane but the truth is I have no idea, but thank you for the compliment.” I replied trying to sound as regal as possible. “Why your quite welcome, and it’s nice to meet a stallion that has such great manners.” Rarity replied smiling at me. Before I could reply, I heard a voice from behind me say “Well howdy partner. You must be that Maverick fellow Rainbow Dash and Twilight told us about?” When I turned around I was shocked at what I saw, I knew talking like that it had to be Applejack, but when a saw her with my own two eyes I was stunned by her beauty. As a I human I never even thought about Applejack like that but now that I’m a pony well I guess I couldn’t help it. “Hey, and that would be me.” I said smiling back at her. “It’s nice to finally meet you I’m Applejack. So tell me Maverick what is that you enjoy doing?” She asked. “Hmm, well I enjoy sports, relaxing with friends, making some money. I also enjoy taking walks through the park and listing to the wildlife and” I stopped suddenly when I began to hear a very light and quite voice begin to speak up. “U-u-um ex-excuse me, but did I hear you correctly when you said you liked walking through parks listening to the wildlife?” Said this scared and timid pale-ish yellow colored pony with a light pink mane. “Yes I did.” Saying that in a quite lighter tone not to scare her. “Oh well we should go for a walk then and I could show all of my bird friends and the squirrels and all of my other woodland friends. My name is Fluttershy by the way.” She said smiling back at me “That sounds fantastic Fluttershy, and it’s very nice to meet you. Shall we all go sit by the fire everypony?” I said smiling ear to ear. Everypony nodded and we headed towards the fire. After a few minutes Twilight asked me “Maverick, how long are you planning on staying in Ponyville?” “Well if I can find a job and a place to stay then…probably for a while then.” I replied smiling back. “Hmm, hey Rarity aren’t you still looking for an extra pair of hooves around the boutique?” Twilight asked. “Why yes I am. Oh I see what you are getting at, and the job would be organizing materials, doing some deliveries and picking up new materials and also cleaning up the boutique. The job is yours if you want it Maverick?” Rarity said looking at me. “That would be great, now all I need is place to stay.” I replied “You could stay at the Ponyville hotel silly!” Pinkie said giggling “Alright I’ll go check in tonight then.” I replied “No you ain’t, I recken tonight you will be stayin’ at Sweet Apple Acres.” Applejack said smiling at me. “Why thank you Applejack it would be my pleasure.” I replied grinning back at her. After a short time of sitting by the fire, small talk and laughter going around all of us, there came a moment of silence and I just couldn’t help myself from singing Just Like Paradise by David Lee Roth. After a few seconds all of the ponies began singing it along with me. After we got through the course, I looked at them and I knew this was going to be awesome, and then we continued signing. When we finished singing Pinkie spoke up and said “OH MY GOSH! We need to throw you a welcome to Ponyville PARRRRTTTTYY! How about tomorrow!?” “Pinkie I thinks it’s best if we wait a few weeks for me to get settled in.” I replied “And on that note I say we call it a night y’all” Applejack said. And with that we all began to leave the fire pit and everypony else besides Applejack and I left. Then Applejack and I headed into the house where she directed me towards the couch, as she went and grabbed a blanket for me. “Here you go Mave. Have a goodnight.” Applejack said softly being sure not to wake anypony up. “Thank You so much Applejack for letting me stay the night, and goodnight.” I replied back just as softly. “No problem sugar cube, now you just get some rest and I’ll see you in the morning.” She replied as she was heading up the stairs. Lying there I began to think of my Grannies farm and all the times we stayed out there, and for some reason this place had the same homey feeling about it. Then I began to think how lucky I was for meeting the mane six and now I get to live in Ponyville with them this really is just like living in paradise. > Chapter Four > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter Four A New Day A New Job The sun began to peer through the curtains hitting me in the eyes waking me from my sleep. As I woke up I started to smell waffles, fresh cooked homemade waffles. My eyes opened and I was greeted by a young filly. This young filly was had bright red mane, with a light yellow body color and with big bright orange eyes staring at me. “Hi there, why are you on our couch?” She said staring at me. Before I could answer Applejack shouted from the kitchen shouted “Apple Bloom get in here and leave our guest alone!” “But Applejack!?” the young filly uttered in a whining voice. “NOW!” Applejack said peering her head out of the kitchen. Apple Bloom began to head into the kitchen, “Breakfast will be ready in a few minutes Maverick. You can freshen up in bathroom down the hall.” Applejack said smiling back at me. I rolled off the couch and made my way down the hall to the bathroom. Once I finished my business, I washed my hooves and splashed water on my face then left the bathroom and headed towards the kitchen. Once I reached the kitchen I was shocked at what I saw, a large stack of waffles in the middle of the table with maple syrup and a jug of apple juice. Sitting around the table was Applejack, her little sister Apple Bloom and a larger stallion with a red coat and blonde mane, I knew him to be Big Macintosh. “Maverick, just in time for breakfast, please come join us.” Applejack noted nodding at me. “Alright.” I replied making my way towards the empty chair, to take a seat. As I took a seat everypony began to dish up. After a few minutes Apple Bloom spoke up and said “Your Maverick, huh? Well, it sure is nice to meet ya. My name is Apple Bloom, this is my brother Big Macintosh, now the only pony you don’t know is Granny Smith, but she’s out of town at Appleloosa visiting relatives.” She told me grinning. “Well first off hi, it’s nice to meet the both of you and secondly that must be very exciting for her getting to visit relatives.” I replied smiling back. We finished off breakfast and then Applejack and I began to clean, Applejack first refused my help but after I insisted she let me give her a hoof. When we finished cleaning up I folded up the blanket and left it on the couch and headed out of the house. After my goodbyes I made my way out of Sweet Apple Acres towards Carousel Boutique and then I heard Applejack’s voice call out to me “Hold up Mave, I would like to give you something.” Applejack began heading towards me holding an older beat up saddle bag. “I can’t accept this; you’ve already done so much for me.” I replied looking at the old bag. “Well than I won’t give it to you but instead I will loan it to you at least until you get your own, Sugar Cube.” Applejack answered back grinning. I took the saddle bag and put it on, said “Thank you again, for everything.” I gave Applejack a hug and continued on my way towards the Boutique. After a short walk I arrived at Carousel Boutique and knocked on the door and heard a voice from inside telling me to come on in. After entering I looked around at all of the designs of the outfits on the walls and asked “Rarity are you in?" I began to see her turn around the corner and began to answer me, “Oh Maverick it’s you and just in the nick of time I have just so much for you to…WHAT IS THAT REPULISIVE THING!?!?!?!” exclaimed Rarity. “Oh this it’s a saddle bag that Applejack lent me.” I replied. “If you have no other choice than I suppose that will have to do, but still….” Rarity replied feeling sickened by the bag. I went over to the corner and placed the bag down, “Now first thing I need you to do is go into the back storage and organize it.” Rarity told me. So Rarity and I walked outside towards the storage shed, where Rarity unlocked it and said "Here you go dear.” Then began to walk inside, “Oh and if you need anything I will be just inside working.” Rarity was saying before she went inside. I was looking at all the materials, not knowing where to start. The longer I looked the more I began to figure out how I was going to organize all of these. I started by placing all of the materials outside the shed and then began to place them back inside starting with the darkest base colors (red, blue, green, orange, black, etc) laying them sideways to be sure all of the colors were see able. Then I placed the shades going up to the brightest on top. After a few hours Rarity came outside right as I was finishing up “Oh this is just marvelous, just simply marvelous! I couldn’t have done a better job myself!” Rarity announced with a big smile on her face. “Why thank you, this was actually quite enjoyable.” I replied with a smile on my face. “Now could you do one other thing for me today?” Rarity asked. “Sure thing boss, just name it.” I answered “Could you take this chiefs hat to Pinkie over at Sugar Cube Corner?” Rarity asked. “Sure thing I will be there and back before you know it.” I said with a smile upon my face. I put the hat into a hat box and then began to carry it over to Sugar Cube Corner. While walking through Ponyville I felt a sense of belonging as if from now on this is where I’m meant to be. After a few minutes I arrived at Sugar Cube Corner, so I entered and walked up to the counter and placed the box on the floor so I could say “Hi how are you doing today miss?” “I’m doing well and you can call me Mrs. Cake. Is there something I can help you with today Mr.…what’s your name?” She asked me. “Maverick and yes there is something you can help me with. Is Pinkie Pie around?” I asked “Oh it’s nice to meet you and she’s just in the back please go ahead.” Mrs. Cake replied to me. I grabbed the box and head back. Once I entered the kitchen I placed the box down, “Hi Pinkie I have something for you.” “Oh goodie a present just for me, what is it?” Pinkie replied as I pushed the box over to her. Pinkie tore into the box and when she got to the hat her mouth hit the floor “OH MY GOSH, IT’S MY CHIEFS HAT!!! YAH!!!” “I’ll take that your excited then. Well I probably should head back to the Boutique bye Pinkie.” I told her as I began to walk out. “WWWWAAAAIIITT!!!” Pinkie said screaming. “Here take this cupcake with you!” Pinkie yelled out with a huge smile on her face. I took the cupcake and enjoyed it. When I took the first bit I noticed the cupcake was chocolate, with the frosting being strawberry my two favorite flavours in one cupcake. When I was done I thanked Pinkie for it by saying “Thank you Pinkie it was very delicious.” “No problem, bye now.” Pinkie said before going back into the kitchen. I walked out of Sugar Cube Corner nodding at Mrs. Cake as I walked by. After a few minutes of walking through town I noticed it was just about sun down, as I arrived back at the Carousel Boutique. When I entered Rarity was waiting for me. “Oh Maverick there you are. I have a couple of routine questions I ask all of my friends. Ok here we go, if you were going to design your own saddle bag what would it look like?” “Well…hmm I would go with white diamond as the base color with black stitching. For the metal I would use chrome and on one side the number thirteen in black and gold.” (The number thirteen in black and gold was my number for the Tiger Cats in the Tiger Cats colors) I told Rarity smiling. “Hmm very well. Oh and here is your pay for the week. I decided to pay you in advance to make it easier to get a room at the hotel. it comes to four hundred bits.” Rarity said to me as I began to pick up Applejacks bag and leave the Boutique. “Thank you so much Rarity, I will you see tomorrow then.” I replied. “Yes bye for now Maverick.” Rarity said to me smiling as I left. As I began walking towards the hotel I saw Twilight, “Hello Twilight how are you tonight?” I asked. “Oh hello Maverick I’m doing well, you’re heading to the hotel aren’t you? Twilight asked. “Yup.” I replied “I could walk with you to the library then you would be on your own. How far did you get into the Supernatural books?” Twilight asked. “That would be great I have read up to the third book.” I answered “I could lend you the rest of the first set if you’d like?” Twilight asked. “That would be awesome.” I replied. As we reached the library Twilight went inside and levitated the rest of the set into the saddle bag, “There you go Maverick. Have a good night.” “Thank you Twilight, you too.” I answered as I began to walk away. I continued walking until I saw this old building with a sign on it saying “Ponyville Hotel Vacancy” well here’s where I go, I guess. When I entered I was greeted by an older pony that was dark green in color with a white mane, whose cutie mark was a candle in a window. “Hi there sir, my name is Mr. Keeper what can I do for you tonight?” “Hi Mr. Keeper, I’m Maverick. I was wondering if you had any rooms available?” I questioned “Well what type of room do want? We have luxury suites for 200 bits a night, our premium suites go for 100 bits a night. Our economy suites go for 40 bits a night.” Mr. Keeper said. “I’ll take the economy room if you have one available.” I replied. “Yes we do. It has a small window with a regular sized bed, an alarm clock and a small kitchen with a dining table as well.” Mr. Keeper told me. “That sounds great can I rent it for the entire week?” I asked him. “Yup, it’s up the stairs second door on your right.” He said as he handed me the key. I paid Mr. Keeper the 280 bits for the week and headed up to the room. When I entered I saw that the room was a good size and nicely finished. I thought I got a great deal here. As it started getting later into the night I finished reading a few chapters and then turned in for the night making sure to set my alarm first. Authors Note: First Thank you everyone for reading and leaving support it means a lot to me. Second I would like to give a special thanks to my friend Emmett for all of his help editing. > Chapter Five > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter Five A Walk In The Park After what felt like a short work week, Rarity gave herself and I the day off just to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of Ponyville. That day started off by waking up at my normal time of eight thirty, except instead of me getting ready and leaving my room today when I woke up I laid in bed and kept reading the Supernatural books. After a few of hours of reading I decided to go over to Sugar Cube Corner and treat myself to breakfast. Before I left however I went to the bathroom and I had myself a nice warm shower thinking, “A day just to myself. I wonder what all of the other ponies in this town are up to today?” When I finished my shower, I walked over to the mirror and got my mane perfectly gelled and spiked; I then headed out the door heading towards Sugar Cube Corner. A few minutes later I entered Sugar Cube Corner and walked right up to the counter, “Hello Mrs. Cake how are you on this beautiful day?” “I’m good, Maverick. What can I get for you today?” Mrs. Cake inquired. “Hmmm, they all look so good.” I responded with a confused look on my face. “How about that strawberry danish you have there?” I asked with a slight smile on my face. “Oh excellent choice, Mr. Cake made them fresh this morning.” Mrs. Cake replied as she got danish and passed it to me. “That comes to one bit.” Mrs. Cake stated. I paid and grabbed the Danish from her then walked over and took a seat at a table and enjoyed my meal. Once I finished I waved to Mrs. Cake and walked out the door. Outside I looked around and saw that I was only a short distance away from the park so I began to head that way. Walking through the park I began to smell the flowers and hear the birds cheeping and the squirrels playing. The farther I got into the park I began to hear more birds singing but these birds were singing in perfect harmony. The closer I got the better of a view I got, and when I saw them in full I also saw their conductor. I stopped and just watched for a bit; I approached the conductor and began to speak in a soft voice, “Good afternoon Fluttershy.” Fluttershy jumped and turned around quickly, “Oh it’s you Maverick, you scared me.” She sighed in relief “What brings you to the park today?” Fluttershy asked catching her breath. “I thought I would take you up on your offer to introduce me to your woodland friends?” I asked as I smiled back at you Fluttershy. “Oh yes, I would enjoy that very much.” Fluttershy responded grinning back at me. As we began walking through the park, Fluttershy began to introduce me to all the animals; she started at the birds that sung beautifully. Then we continued on until we found all the squirrels as they were running around collecting and storing food. As we carried on Fluttershy spotted her rabbit friends, “Oh my look at all of you it seems like we need to bring Applejack over to help round all of you up so I can do a bunny census for all of you.” Fluttershy told all the rabbits. Fluttershy then turned to me and noticed that when she said Applejack I had begun to sheepishly smile. “Why are you smiling like that Maverick? Do you like, like Applejack?” Fluttershy questioned me. “WHAT!?! Me like like her no!” I exclaimed nervously begging to sweat. “Oh… Okay then there is no reason to tell you what she told me?” Fluttershy told me calmly “WHAT DID SHE SAY?!?!?!?” I screamed back. “Eehhp.” Fluttershy then jumped in a shrub and began to shake in fear. “I’m sorry Fluttershy; I didn’t mean to scare you.” I said in a much calmer voice. As Fluttershy stopped shaking she walked out of the shrub, “Applejack told me she thought you are cute.” To myself I was jumping for joy and grinning ear to ear, but on the outside I didn’t show that at all I looked normally at Fluttershy and said “Oh that’s nice.” Chuckling slightly. Fluttershy giggled and then we headed for the parks bench and took a sit. “So how do you enjoy staying at the Ponyville Hotel?” She asked. “It’s not bad but I would rather have a place of my own though, but I just don’t have the income for that.” I answered. “I know a way you could make some extra bits around town, everypony in this town at one time or another could use a pony to lend a hoof. Even me I need some help planting trees tomorrow.” Fluttershy told me. “I would love to help you plant trees tomorrow after I’m done at the Carousel Boutique.” I replied smiling back at her. “Oh thank you Maverick, I think the mayor even has a house in Ponyville up for rent.” Fluttershy told me. “Well then let’s go ask her how much the rent is then.” I suggested Fluttershy nodded and we headed to town hall and went to go talk to the mayor of Ponyville. On our way to the town hall Fluttershy and I were talking about where this house was and she told me it was right by the library going towards the hotel, I instantly thought of this older looking home with brick all along the outside and a brown shingled roof. I never looked in the window because I thought it had residents but looking back I have never seen any lights on. We arrived at town hall where we were greeted by a mare with a grey mane and tail with pale, light grayish fur, “Hello Fluttershy, who is your friend?” She asked “Oh why this is my friend Maverick.” Fluttershy responded in a timid voice. “Why it’s nice to meet you Maverick, my name is Mayor Mare.”She said extending her hoof. I grabbed her hoof and we shook “Like wise. I hear you have a house open for rent down there by the library.” I responded bring my hoof back to the ground. “Why yes. Are you interested in it?” She asked in a hopeful tone. “It depends, how much you’re asking for it?” I replied back. “1200 bits a month.” She told. “Hmm not bad.” After thinking for second I gave Mayor Mare a response “I’m not interested in it.” Fluttershy’s and Mayor Mare’s faces were both in shock, “I’m not interested in it; however I would like to be invested in it!” I exclaimed. “Very well then, you can move in three days from now on the first.” The Mayor told us. “Perfect I’ve paid up to the end of the month at the hotel so timing couldn’t be better, and rent is due at the end of the month, right?” I questioned the Mayor. “Yup, and then just come see me when you can on the first and we will get you settled into your new house.” The Mayor said. I nodded in agreement we shook hooves then said our goodbyes. After Fluttershy and I walked for about a minute or two before Fluttershy turned to me and said “Oh my look at the time I have to go home and my feed the animals. I will see you later Maverick.” “Alright I will see you tomorrow and plant some trees Fluttershy.” I told her as she walked away. I decided it was time to walk back to the hotel but this time I stopped and looked inside the house noticing it was fully furnished ready to roll. I couldn’t tell what colors the walls were but I did see some bright green which got me thinking I will probably have to paint. I’m thinking something more neutral with one of those walls becoming an accent wall. Some time had passed and I made my way to the hotel where I told Mr. Keeper what I transpired that day then he gave me his best wishes and I went up to my room. In my room I set the alarm for the next morning, read a few chapters and then went to sleep. Before I fell asleep though I was thinking about the day and how I’m going to have a house here in Ponyville and that Applejack thinks I’m cute. I couldn’t have asked for a better day in the park. > Chapter Six > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter Six A Party For Me The next day I began my day as usual, got up, got ready and then went to work. Today after work however instead of grabbing a bite to eat and heading back to the hotel, I went over to the park to help Fluttershy plant some trees and do some other landscaping. Once I found Fluttershy she directed me and told me what she needed done. Fluttershy told me to move some rocks and place them along the path, plant five birch trees and help her tack out some grass for a new flower bed. I finished with the rocks and moved on to the trees, when I got to the fourth tree I heard Fluttershy talking to another pony but I couldn’t make out the other pony voice. I heard Fluttershy say “Oh my yes. Maverick is a big help to have around. He is quite strong to.” After a few moments I heard hooves behind before I could turn around to see who it was, the pony had already began talking to me, “Howdy Maverick, I hear you’re helpin Fluttershy do some gardening?” I turned around and saw Applejack standing there glowing in the sun, I paused for a second and then responded “Yup, Fluttershy asked for some help and I’m always willing to give a hoof for a friend.” “That’s very nice of you; I was actually wondering if you could do something for me?” She asked smiling back at me. “Sure thing, what is it?” I asked her “Big Mac can’t haul apples tomorrow night; I was hoping maybe you could?” Applejack said to me. “For sure right after I’m done at the Carousel Boutique tomorrow.” I replied smiling back. “Thank you so much Maverick. Oh my I better get going. Bye guys.” Applejack said before running off. Fluttershy and I waved at Applejack as she left. After some time had passed, the sun began to go down the trees were planted and most of the flower bed was cut out Fluttershy told me as she looked at me “I think we should maybe call it a day Maverick.” “Alright Fluttershy I will see you later then.” I told her as I began to make my way to the Ponyville Pizzeria. I arrived at the Pizzeria and picked up a cheese pizza, paid then left. Out of the Pizzeria I thought to myself “Frig! I miss having meat!” After a few minutes I arrived at the hotel nodded at Mr. Keeper, headed up to my room, cleaned up, ate then went to bed. Walking up the next morning I was a bit late, so I hurried out of the hotel and ran to the boutique. When I got there Rarity told me it was fine and I began to work as usual. The day passed normally until about half an hour before we closed Rarity turns to me and tells me “I have to make this urgent delivery. Here take the spare key to the boutique and when you leave just lock p and bring the key with you tomorrow.” I nodded in agreement and I continued to work for the reminder of the day. When quitting time came around I turned the lights off turned the sign to close and locked the door behind me as I left. Once I left I headed towards Sweet Apple Acres to help Applejack out. When I got to Sweet Apple Acres I looked around for a bit and didn’t see anypony, I yelled out “Hey Applejack you here!” “Yeah just come into the barn!” Applejack yelled back from inside the barn I walked up to the barn inside, it was pitch black until “SURPRISE!!” was shouted and the lights went on and the music started. I was shocked, and as I began to look around and saw a banner saying “WELCOME TO PONYVILLE MAVERICK” and all of these ponies here to welcome me into the town. As I looked around I began to see everypony there from Applejack to Derpy Hooves. Pinkie quickly ran over to me and exclaimed “ARE YOU SURPRISED? HEY ARE YOU, ARE YOU?” With a stunned look on my face the only words I could say was “WOW!” grinning from ear to ear. ‘Is this just for me?” I asked everypony. “It sure is sugar cube.” Applejack told me Then all of the ponies in the room walked up to me and wished me a welcome to Ponyville. As I thanked each one of them, Rarity, Applejack, Twilight Sparkle, Flutteshy, Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash walked up with two packages in hand, “Here you go Maverick a little present from your friends here in Ponyville.” Twilight said. The first one was smaller than the other, so I decided to open it first. As I began to unwrap it I saw that it was one of the few things I missed from earth, a pair of black sunglasses, I almost began to cry when I pulled them out. “This is totally awesome you guys, Thank you so much.” I told them. “You are welcome Maverick. But you still have this one.” Rarity said pushing the other package towards me. I grabbed it and began opening it, once I could see the color I knew exactly what it was. The saddle bag I designed with Rarity was now in my hooves, I couldn’t help but start smiling from ear to ear. I looked over at Rarity noticing that she had begun to smile because of me. “It’s unbelievable thank you so much!” I announced. Rarity and all others began to chuckle a bit then we did a group hug. Pinkie quickly shouted “HEY VINYL SCRATCH LETS GET THIS PARTY STARTED!” Just like that the music began pumping through the speakers, Applejack turned to me and asked “Hey Mave you wanna grab a drink?” I nodded in agreement as we began to walk towards a table setup with drinks on it and kegs behind, there was a grey stallion with a light red mane and tail. “Hi there you two what can I get you?” He asked. As I looked at his selection I locked on to what was written on one of the kegs “Corona Extra”. As I was about to speak up Applejack cut me off saying “One Corona Brew Master.” “Make that two.” I told him. “Coming right up.” Brew Master said, and after a few seconds he grabbed two Coronas, which we graciously accepted. We finished our drinks and then a pink blur grabbed me and brought me on to the dance floor, when I saw who it was Pinkie had already began dancing so I figured whatever I’ll dance. We danced for a few hours with all of the ponies, then took a break and went over to the drink table and asked for another Corona. “Alright, and by the way my name is Brew Master and I run the Pub here in Ponyville.” He said nodding back at me. “Maverick and I may need to come by and check your place out.” We shared a quick laugh and some small talk while I finished my drink. Once I finished my drink I looked at the crowed and saw Applejack standing by herself. That’s when I got the idea to ask her for a dance, I walked up to Vinyl Scratch first asking for what she had for country love songs. She showed me what she had, I was shocked at the amount of country Vinyl Scratch had, as I was searching I came across Luke Bryan’s Drunk On You, so I asked Vinyl Scratch to play it after the next song. Vinyl Scratch agreed and I asked Applejack to dance, she agreed. We enjoyed the first song which was a song native to Equestria that I was not familiar with. Then Vinyl Scratch came across the speakers “Hey everypony we are going to slow things down for the last song of the night.” Applejack and I began to dance slowly in each other’s arms. The song ended with us gazing into each other’s eyes and I got caught up in the heat of the moment and asked her “Would you like to go out on a date Friday night?” After what felt like a life time, she responded with “I would love that.” We talked for a bit longer then the rest of the ponies and myself began to make our ways home. Walking back to the hotel I was giddy thinking to myself “I’ve got a date with AJ, holy mother of Celestia!” > Chapter Seven > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter Seven A Royal Encounter After last night I slept like a colt, as I rolled over in bed I opened my eyes and took a look at the clock that sat on the night table, the time on the clock read eleven in the morning. Realizing I have over slept for work, I shot out of bed rushing to grab my new saddlebag along with Applejack’s old saddlebag which I planned to return after work today before I went over to meet up with Mayor Mare at my new place. As I left the room with all of my possessions and said goodbye to Mr. Keeper, before rushing out the door towards Carousel Boutique. While rushing to make it to the boutique, my only thoughts were “Dang it I’m late, I’m late, and I’m really really late. Fudge this can’t be good.” When I arrived at Carousel Boutique I rushed inside with a frightened look on my face. I found Rarity standing their shocked to see me today, “Maverick!? You showed up today? Why thank you so much dear for showing up, but I thought you would have taken the day off to recover.” The expression on my face quickly changed to a sheepish smirk and when I opened my mouth to speak the only thing that came out was laughter. Rarity was shocked at this but shortly after she began laughing as well. I broke the laughter by saying “Since I’m here is there anything I could do?” “Well, I guess you could give me a hoof around the boutique today.” Rarity replied. I nodded in agreement and placed my bags in the back room and began to help Rarity. After a couple hours Twilight came bursting in exclaiming “Rarity, Maverick! Celestia is coming to Ponyville today! She will be here in half an hour at Sugar Cube Corner!” Just as quickly as Twilight burst in she was gone again, leaving Rarity and myself with a stunned look on our faces. “I guess we should get ready then?” I asked Rarity. “That’s a splendid idea, Maverick. Let’s get ready.” Rarity responded I asked Rarity if I could borrow her shower since I didn’t have time to go to the town office, and then go to the house. Rarity agreed and let me use her shower. I just finished a quick shower and got my hair ready then went downstairs to find Rarity just about ready to leave. “Are you ready darling?” She asked me. “Yes I am, shall we get going Rarity?” Rarity nodded her head, I grabbed my bags and she and I began to walk towards Sugar Cube Corner. As we approached Sugar Cube Corner I noticed Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash and Applejack approaching as well, I assumed that Twilight Sparkle and Pinkie Pie are inside waiting for the Princess. We said our hellos to each other, both Applejack and I gave each other goofy smiles when we said hello. Before we headed into Sugar Cube Corner however I gave Applejack back the old saddlebag while telling her “I appreciate this so much. Thank you Applejack.” “It aint nothing sugar cube. I’m looking forward to our date on Friday.” Applejack responded to me. Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash and Rarity all had the same expression on their face, each having their mouths wide open and eyes as big as coo coo clocks. “WHAT!” all three of them screamed at once. “You two dating?” Rainbow Dash questioned us. “Well yeah, we are going on a date on Friday.” I replied calmly. “Why that’s just marvelous you two!” Rarity exclaimed. “Oh yes, I’m just so happy for both of you!” Fluttershy told us. “Yeah guys that great!” Rainbow yelled out Both Applejack and I began laughing, and all five of us went in to Sugar Cube Corner, where Twilight greeted us and told each of us where to sit with Twilight on one side of the Princess with me on the other, which made me fairly nervous being that close to the Princess. While we were sitting around waiting for Princess Celestia we told Twilight and Pinkie about me and Applejack, both having similar reactions as the rest, first being shocked then being excited for us. As we continued talking we heard hooves on the floor heading towards the table we all turned and as we turned each of us saw a white alicorn with a pink, blue, purple and green mane and tail, and a cutie mark of the sun. Twilight rushed over and greeted the Princess “Princess Celestia we are so glad you’re here!” “I’m glad to be here Twilight. It’s nice to see you again Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Applejack and Rainbow Dash. Oh and you must be Maverick it’s nice finally meet you Twilight Sparkle has told me about you.” Princess Celestia exclaimed to the room. “It’s an honor to meet you Princess Celestia. I hope she has only said good things about me.” I replied giving her a small laugh. “Don’t worry it was all good.” The Princess told laughing back. We all sat down and enjoyed time together, each treating Celestia as a friend and not an authority figure. There was a lot of laughing and joking around, until Celestia turned and noticed that she had to take off, so she made her way to the door, but before leaving Princess Celestia told us “Good bye all of you, it was very nice getting to see you, and very nice meeting you Maverick. But before I go I would like to invite all of you to Canterlot for the Winter Spectacular Ball.” “Why we would be delighted to go.” Rarity expressed to the Princess The rest of us nodded and said our goodbyes and Princess Celestia left. I turned to Applejack and asked her if I could talk to her in private for a minute, she agreed and we headed out after saying our goodbyes. Before leaving however Rainbow Dash spoke up and said “Ohhh look at the lover bird’s sneaking out.” “Woo Woo Woo, you know it, RD.” I replied back. Myself, Rainbow Dash, Applejack and the rest burst out laughing as Applejack and I left Sugar Cube Corner. As we went outside I asked Applejack where she would like to go on Friday. After thinking for a few moments “Hmm, I know we could go to the restaurant Big Times over by the pub.” “That’s a great idea, should we meet there at seven thirty?” I asked. “That sounds fantastic Mave, oh shoot it’s getting late I should get going.” Applejack responded “Alright Applejack.” We hugged and then I went over to Ponyville town office. I entered the town office and walked up to the front desk and asked to speak with the mayor, she told me to wait here while she went to get the mayor. As I was waiting for the mayor I began to look around at the town office, when all of the sudden I heard “Oh Maverick it’s you.” I turned around and saw Mayor Mare walking towards me I’m so glad you’re here, are you ready to go to the house?” she asked. “Yes I am, that is if you are free?” I responded. “Well let’s get going then.” Mayor Mare told me. I nodded in agreement and then we were off. After a short walk and some small talk between us we arrived at the vacant house, Mayor Mare unlocked the door and allowed me to enter first. When I got in the first thing I did was turned on the lights so I could get a good look at the place. The first thing that caught my eyes were several lime green walls, but also some lighter brown walls. The floors were a medium wood floor stain, with white trim. The living room furniture was white and brush nickel table with glass tops. There was also a brick fireplace on the wall. Beside the fireplace was a stereo system set up and ready to go. “Well what do you think of the place Maverick?” the mayor asked me. “It’s very nice except for the green walls; don’t get me wrong I like the color just not on the wall, but that should be easy enough to change that.” I responded “Oh yeah you can change that with a coat of paint.” Mayor Mare replied back. We then made our way to the kitchen and dining room, the wood floor continued, the cabinets were dark wood while the counter tops were a light wood, and the dining set was the same color as the cabinets. We continued on to bedrooms, the first was a smaller room with all four walls being the light brown and a small closet and a double bed. Next we found the bathroom which was pretty basic same light brown walls dark tiles and a shower, toilet and a sink. The last room there was the master bedroom three walls were light brown with the forth being green, with a king sized bed a night stand and clock on it. The Mayor asked me what I thought of the place, after thinking for a moment I told her “It’s awesome! I love it.” “Great well I will let you get set up. Bye-bye Maverick.” “Bye Mayor Mare and thanks again for letting me rent here.” I replied. “You’re welcome Maverick.” She said before walking out of the house. I waved goodbye to her as she left, I decided to go over and look at the stereo system and underneath there is a cabinet. I opened it and found records there were about thirty of them, twenty four were records I never heard of but the other six were a combination of 80’s rock and modern country, the albums were by David Lee Roth, Van Halen, Def Leppard, Kenny Chesney and Keith Urban. I was extremely happy with these having music that I listened to since I was about five. I decided to listen to couple albums and before I knew it, it had gotten late and I decided it was time to go to bed. So I set my alarm and crawled into bed. Lying in bed I began to think of the day and how I got to meet Princess Celestia, get invited to a party in Canterlot and how I got my own place, this is unreal > Chapter Eight > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter Eight The First Date The next day passed by normally with out too much excitement; got up, went to work, finished up work for the day, bought a salad for supper, listened to some records then went to bed. Friday I woke up and went to work, once I was at work Rarity began to work on every pony’s outfits for the Winter Spectacular Ball, at this point she had began to design hers and Pinkie Pies dresses. The time had passed to become about three thirty in the afternoon and the main door to the boutique flew open as three young fillies barged in. All three said hello to Rarity and me, before they all left the room except Apple Bloom who stopped abruptly and stared at my flank and asked “Hey Maverick how did you get your cutie mark?” As Sweetie Bell and Scootaloo came back into the room I replied “Hmmm, I really don’t know Apple Bloom, I don’t remember that. Why do ask?” “We are trying to find our special talents but we can’t seem to find them.” Apple Bloom exclaimed in an extremely whiny voice. I began to think of a completely random idea in which they could go do. After pondering for a few seconds I told them they should try geology. The three of them stopped and thought for a second and then jumped up exclaiming “WE’RE GOING TO BE GEOLOGISTS!” and just as quickly as they came in they shot out of the room. Rarity and I broke out laughing on how energetic they were to go look at rocks. In the midst of the laughter Rarity began to say “My, that’s very good dear, they shouldn’t be able to hurt themselves.” “And who knows they might find Tom.” I replied laughing. “When did I tell you about Tom?” Rarity asked. “Oh you told me when we were at the fire over at Sweet Apple Acers.” I told her. After a second or two Rarity spoke up again “Oh yes that’s it.” I nodded in agreement and we went back to work having small talk between us throughout the rest of the day. Another hour and a half went by, Rarity walked up to me and gave me my weeks pay and told me to enjoy my date with Applejack, and I said I would and took the money and went home. When I got home I went to the bathroom immediately to have a hot shower and prepar for my date with AJ. I left the house and made my way over to Big Times, when I arrived I asked the hostess if she had seen Applejack, she told me no and then I asked for a table for two she nodded and proceeded to seat me. After waiting for a bit the hostess approached again but this time was leading Applejack. When I saw her I couldn’t believe my eyes, Applejack looked so beautiful I quickly became speechless, her long blonde hair shimmering in the light. Her gorgeous green eyes shining like two beautiful emeralds sparkling in the sunlight. “Howdy Maverick.” After a second to catch my breath I responded to Applejack by saying “Hello Applejack, may I just say you are looking absolutely stunning.” “Why thank you Mave, you’re looking handsome tonight” Applejack told me. “Thank you.” I responded. Applejack and I both began to look at the menus left on the table, as I began to scanned the different rows with all of the kinds of food most ponies eat. The more I looked I found something that didn’t make sense, it was meat more specifically pork back ribs served with perogies. The waitress came by to take our orders, I looked at the unicorn that was our waitress and ordered us a bottle of wine, and she nodded and asked if we need another minute. Applejack spoke up saying “I’m ready if you are Maverick.” I nodded back at her. “Alright then I will have the pork chops with mashed potatoes.” Applejack told the waitress. I was shocked by Applejacks decision “And I will have the ribs and perogies.” The waitress agreed and levitated the menus and took them away. Once the waitress left I couldn’t help but ask Applejack “You eat meat?” “Well yeah, not daily but every now and then I do enjoy having some.” She replied back to me. “That is friggin Awesome! And that makes you just as awesome!” I exclaimed back Applejack broke out laughing and I joined in. We kept talking and Applejack told me something I was extremely glad to hear, “Maverick I have something important to tell you. Since I first met you I thought you were handsome and seemed like a very fun stallion, and I hoped you would ask me out.” All I could reply to her was “Since I first met you I was struck by your beauty and every time since then I was even more shocked by it; time after time. Also I couldn’t help but be attracted to you because of your remarkable personality.” Applejack began to blush a bright red “Why thank ya Maverick, your awful sweet.” I said my thanks back and we continued to talk finding out more that we had in common everything in our taste in music to our ideal perfect date which is a sunset picnic with a walk in the moonlight. I found out that her favorite reading material is not Supernatural but instead a set of books that are about a caped stallion who fights crime called Batstallion or known on earth Batman. We talked for few more minutes until our food arrived; we each thanked the waitress and began to eat. All I can say about the meal is that it was incredible, I couldn’t believe it after about two weeks I was getting real food and it tasted great. The ribs were perfectly done and tender with Jack Daniels BBQ sauce, and the perogies beautifully done pan fried cheese perogies. I asked Applejack how she was enjoying the meal, “I couldn’t have asked for a better meal with a better stallion.” Applejack replied smiling back. We finished up our meal and the waitress came by to grab our plates and asked us if we would like any desert, in which we both replied no were good. So the waitress gave us the bill and left us and Applejack and I kept talking and enjoying each other’s company. During us talking Applejack told me “This has got to be one of the best night I have had in a long time Maverick.” I smiled at her saying “This is the best night I can remember.” Laughter broke out between us knowing that my memory was gone, or at least as she knew my memory was gone. Time kept passing for a bit when the waitress came over and asked “Um are you two going to be much longer? Because we are about to close.” “Well what time is it? I asked the waitress. “Twelve thirty.” The waitress told me. Applejack began laughing and said “Alright well get going then.” I paid the bill and Applejack and I headed out the door. When we got outside we saw that it was night and a full moon in the sky lighting up Ponyville. We kept walking and talking on our are way toward Sweet Apple Acres. We were walking and enjoying our time laughing and dancing in the streets, just having a great time with each other’s company. As we began to approach Sweet Apple Acres Applejack turned to me and said “Well this is it Maverick.” I began to frown a bit “I don’t want this night to end.” I told her. “I think Granny Smith would kill both of us if you came in.” She told me laughing. I laughed as well then asked her “Do you want to go out again?” “That would great Maverick how about next Friday?” She replied “Alright. I can’t wait.” I smiled back to her We hugged and I gave her a kiss on the cheek, as I did that she began to blush and kissed me back. We finished saying our goodbyes and I began to head home, I turned back towards Sweet Apple Acres, to make sure Applejack wasn’t there, I saw that she wasn’t. So I stood on my back hooves and started to do my happy dance, while thinking to myself “This is unreal!” > Chapter Nine > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter Nine A Weekend Of Fun The next morning came around and I rolled out of bed to get ready for work, as I left the house I headed toward Carousel Boutique. I entered the boutique and was greeted by Rarity “Why good morning Maverick, how are you doing today?” “I’m great Rarity how about yourself?” I inquired her. “I’m fine, how did your date go last night?” Rarity asked with wide eyes. I laughed for a second before saying “It went well, we both had a good time. We laughed, talked about just random stuff and had a lot of fun.” “That’s fabulous! I’m glad you both had fun.” Smiling at me “But now we must hurry to get the rest of these dresses complete as well with something for yourself and Spike to wear.” I nodded in agreement as she told me to go grab a few fabrics. A few hours passed before Rarity spoke up again “A little bit more here and done. Oh why Maverick what do you think?” She asked as I entered the room. I noticed the two dresses both looking perfect. The first was a light pink with bright colors on it which made it stand out from any other in a crowd. The second was a dark red with a lighter red as a trim around the edges. The dress looked extremely elegant. I told Rarity that both the dresses looked beautiful and she should be very proud of the dresses, Rarity began to blush before telling me “Alright two done, and I already have the rest of the design work done for Fluttershy’s, Twilight’s, Applejack’s and Rainbow Dash’s. What I need to do now is create yours and Spikes designs. I’m thinking for Spike a classic black over coat and pants with white shirt and black tie. What would you like Maverick?” After thinking for a moment or two I answered with “How about a white jacket and coat, ivory vest and tie with a white shirt.” “Marvelous! That will look simply marvelous!” Rarity exclaimed to me. Rarity quickly began doing the design work for Spike and myself, an hour passed and Rarity asked me to take a gander at the designs. I looked at both and told that they looked great. “Perfect. Now Maverick I need you to go grab me all these materials.” She insisted as she began to levitate a list of materials towards me. I nodded and headed off to grab all of them; I returned and handed all of them over to Rarity, she thanked me and began working on all of the Winter Ball Spectacular outfits. A few hours passed and Rarity told me to head home for the day and that she would see me on Monday. I told her to have a nice weekend as I headed out the door. Once I left I headed back for my house, but as I was passing by the library Twilight Sparkle burst out nearly knocking me over, “Sorry Maverick I just got some big news from Canterlot.” “What is it, Twilight?” I asked her. “The princess sent me a letter saying that she would like all eight of us in Canterlot a week before the Winter Ball Spectacular.” Twilight told me. “Oh wow this is great I can’t.” I smiled at her with excitement on my face. “Sorry to run but I have got to go tell everypony else.” Twilight said before running off. Spike slowly began to follow with a kind of a sad look on his face; I turned to him and asked “Hey what’s up Spike? Why are you looking so sad?” “Don’t get me wrong I’m excited to go see the Princesses and be with all of my friends but all everypony will want to do is talk to Celestia and Luna. I just would like to go out on Canterlot with somepony.” Spike told me sighing. “Well your right I do want to hang out with Luna and Celestia but I would like to go see what Canterlot is all about. I have never been, would you want to go out and hit the town one once with me?” I replied to him. “Well yeah that would be great! I can’t wait.” The dragon exclaimed smiling ear to ear. “Spike are you coming?” Twilight said from a far. “I better get going Maverick see you later.” Spike told me before running to catch up to Twilight. “Later Spike.” I yelled at him. I finished my walk home, and had a nice salad and read the Supernatural books for bit, before going to bed. The next morning I slept in for a bit before getting up, grabbing my saddle bag and going to Sugar Cube Corner to treat myself on my day off. When I got to Sugar Cube Corner I saw Pinkie Pie and before I could say hello she ran over and said “Hello Maverick, how are you? I’m fantastic. Would you like something to eat? Did Twilight tell you the big news? Huh? Huh?” “First hello Pinkie, I’m good and something to eat would be great what do you recommend? Yes Twilight did tell the big news.” I told her “Hmm well there is the bear claws, the chocolate cupcakes with strawberry frosting and there is Applejack’s pie she gave us to sell.” Pinkie replied to me. “I think I’ll go with the cupcake that sounds delicious, did make them yourself?” I asked “I sure did! I will go get you one just go take a seat!” She told me with a big Pinkie Pie smile on her face. I nodded and found myself a table and took a seat. A couple seconds later Pinkie appeared with two cupcakes one for me and one for herself. Pinkie sat herself down across from me and we had breakfast together. Once we finished our cupcakes Pinkie asked me a question “How did your date with Applejack go?” “It went great we both had a good time.” I replied calmly. “O-M-G! I’m just so happy for both of you! This just so great two of my best friends are going out! YAH!” Pinkie exclaimed. I laughed because of Pinkie’s enthusiasm. I took a quick look at the clock on the wall noticing that it was I better get going I told Pinkie “I better get going, thanks for breakfast though.” “Okie dokie lokie, have a great day Maverick, bye.” She told me I said my goodbye to her and walked out the door heading towards the Ponyville hardware store, to pick up some new paint for the walls of my house. When I arrived at the hardware I was greeted by a handypony, he was a dark brown unicorn with a hammer and nail for a cutie mark and his mane was a lighter brown. “Welcome to Ponyville Hardware, my name is Mr. Fixit. How can I help you today?” “Hi Mr. Fixit my name is Maverick, and I was wondering what you have for paint?” I replied to him. After thinking for a second he responded by saying “Well we have just about every color except orange, we sold out yesterday. Three young fillies came in and bought all of our orange.” “That’s ok; I was thinking something more in a neutral brown.” I told him. “Well let me show you what we have.” He enthused as he began to lead the way over to the shelve. As we began looking I saw a color that looked perfect so I grabbed a can of it, “This will be perfect, and do you have any primer, rollers and paint trays?” I asked him. “Yes we do let me go grab you a couple rollers and a couple trays and the primer and I will meet you up at the counter.” I thanked him and headed up to the counter. After a few minutes Mr. Fixit returned and had with him all of the supplies I had asked for, “Alright is that everything for you today?” “Yes it is, how much do I owe you?” I asked “Your total comes to 50 bits.” Mr. Fixit told me. I thought to myself “That’s extremely cheap, there’s no way you could get all that on earth for that much.” I paid him in full, loaded up my saddle bag and I made my way back to my house. Once I arrived home, I unloaded my bags and put on some Van Halen and began to prime the green walls. After a few hours and a few records I had all the walls primed, and the first one I did was ready to paint so I started painting. I got a few of the walls done before looking at the clock realizing it was two in the morning. I decided I should get to bed, because I had to work in the morning. While lying in bed I began thinking to myself how my life changed I missed my friends on earth but I was glad with the friends I had here, it couldn’t help but be bitter sweet. > Chapter Ten > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter Ten The Second Date The remainder of this week past pretty quick with each day following a similar pattern going to work and helping Rarity create the outfits for the Winter Ball Spectacular, and after work going home and continuing to painting the walls. The outfits were all looking fabulous each expressing everyponys individuality, Applejack’s used more earth tones, while Rainbow Dash’s had dark bold colors, Fluttershy’s used light colors to show her kindness and Twilight Sparkle’s used a combination of dark main colors with light accents showing that she had a bit of mysteriousness about her dress. The two suits were both great as well, Spike’s had a high level of class about it, while mine had an eye catching look to it. On Friday Rarity brought everypony over to give the last fitting before we would leave for Canterlot, all of the outfits fit perfectly. Spike and I were the first two to try on the suits with each fitting perfectly, then Applejack tried hers on and she looked so fabulous and left me speechless. After Applejack was done she had return to Sweet Apple Acres but before leaving she wanted to speak with me outside, I nodded and followed her outside. Once outside Applejack asked me “Hey Maverick what are you thinking for our date tonight?” After pondering for a second I retorted “Well we could go for a picnic and walk around for a bit and talk.” “That sounds very nice Maverick; I’m looking forward to it.” She responded. We agreed that I would meet her at Sweet Apple Acres tonight at seven, and then went our separate ways. I went back inside and admired Rarity’s work. Once everypony left I began talking to Rarity about everything we were going to do tomorrow to get ready to leave for Canterlot. She decided that were going to pack the dresses and suits up and spare fabric just in case there were any issues. After a few hours Rarity paid me for the week and Saturday as well just to make life a little easier for her. I went to the market and picked up a garden salad and daffodil sandwiches. Before heading back to my house I went over to Sugar Cube Corner where I found Mrs. Cake, she looked over and rejoiced “Maverick it’s so good to see you again. What can I do for you today?” “It’s good to see you again too; I was hoping that I would be able to buy a desert for two.” I replied to her. “I got just the thing for you give me one minute.” A little bit of time passed and then she returned “Here you go Maverick, this is a small chocolate cake with vanilla icing. It comes to two bits Maverick.” Mrs. Cake responded to me. “Thank you Mrs. Cake this is perfect.” I lilted and paid her then left the shop. I headed back to my house washed up and listened to a record before heading out. Once I left my house I went directly over to Sweet Apple Acres to pick up Applejack. I reached the arch outside the farm I thought to myself “Another great night in paradise.” I began walking up to the farm I saw Big Mac hauling apples to the barn, “Good day for apple picking, Big Mac?” I asked him. “Eeyup.” He replied to me. I nodded and kept making my way to the house where I saw Apple Bloom running around “Well howdy Maverick, you here for your date with Applejack?” She asked me eagerly. “Yes I am, is she ready to go?” I questioned Apple Bloom. “I think so just go up to the house.” She told me. I thanked her and continued up to the house and knocked on the door and heard from inside “Hold on their sonny I’ll be there soon.” I waited and as the door began to open I saw an old mare with green fur and grey mane, whose cutie mark was a pie. “Well what do you want?” She demanded. I leaned in to the door way a bit to look and see if Applejack was around, “I was wondering if Applejack was ready?” I asked her. “No now go away!” she seethed before slamming the door in my face, catching my snout on the hardwood door. “OUCH!” I screamed out I tried to knock on the door and explain myself, hoping that the mare would talk to me. This time however she yelled out to me “Go away we don’t want your kind here!” I decided to sit down on the step and think about how I could get the mare to let me in. When all of the sudden I heard Applejack’s voice say “Granny Smith, who was at the door? Was it a stallion with brown fur and light brown mane with blonde high lights?” Applejack questioned the older mare. “Why yes Applejack, how did you know that?” she asked. “That’s my date Maverick.” Applejack told the older mare. “Well he’s gone now.” The older mare said. I walked up to the door again and knocked on the door, this time though Applejack answered the door, “Maverick it’s you I thought you would have left!” She exclaimed. “You didn’t leave; you must be very persistent sonny.” The older mare told me. “I didn’t think it was time to leave yet.” I responded to them. Applejack butted in saying “Maverick I’m glad you didn’t leave, and Granny Smith this is my date Maverick, Maverick this is Granny Smith.” “It’s nice to meet you.” I told her “I don’t know about you, I will have to see about you. It's time for me to go to bed anyways.” She said before slowly walking out of the room. “Are you ready to go Applejack?” I asked her. She nodded and we headed out the door and in to the apple trees, to a certain point near a small pond where the Apple family goes swimming in the summer. As we got there I laid a blanket and placed the food down. We sat down and enjoyed the meal, once finished eating we began talking about her family and I discovered that Granny Smith has an issue with others getting involved with the Apple family in fear that the family will become separated. We also began talking about random ideas such as Canterlot and what we are each looking forward to with the princesses. We kept talking for a few more hours; we decided we better get going back. So I packed up the picnic blanket and took her back to her house. Once there we said our goodnights but before leaving Applejack began to lean in close and gave me a soft gentile kiss on the lips. “Bye Maverick, I’ll see you in a couple days.” I finished saying goodbye and I headed home, on my way back I began thinking to myself “This is great, like WOW! Applejack just…WOW!” The more I kept walking I began to think deeply about Applejack and came to the conclusion that she gave me butterflies in my stomach. When I got home I went to bed. The next morning I got up and went over to Carousel Boutique and began helping Rarity pack up for the trip to Canterlot. “Alright Maverick each one of these dresses and suits need to go into theses bags and then we will take them over to Twilights where we all will meet up and head to the train station.” Rarity told me I agreed and we began to take all of the outfits to the library along with some spare fabrics. Rarity took her four suitcases to the library as well. Once we got there Twilight greeted us “Oh hello Rarity and Maverick are these all that you’re taking Rarity?” “Oh my yes dear.” Rarity responded. We continued talking as Twilight told us where to put everything and we followed her instructions. When we finished Rarity told me to go home and start packing. I agreed and went and grabbed my toiletries and a couple books and that’s all I took. The next morning I got up and met up with everypony and headed over to the train station. Once at the train station Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Twilight, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Spike and I packed up the train while Rarity supervised. With everything packed we left for Canterlot. > Chapter Eleven > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 11 Winter Ball Spectacular The train ride to Canterlot was a lot of fun with Pinkie bouncing off the walls being her regular Pinkie Pie self, while Rarity was rambling on about how sophisticated everypony is. Twilight Sparkle and Spike were talking about seeing the Princess again and discussing magic with her. Rainbow Dash was talking to Fluttershy and Applejack about how awesome it’s going to be seeing the Wonder Bolts, as for myself I was just happy being on the train enjoying the beautiful scenery of Equestria and having my hooves around Applejack just made the entire trip a lot better. As we began to approach Canterlot I could see the castle raise from the horizon, and with each minute more and more buildings rose up in front of the castle, everypony couldn’t believe that we were already so close. A few more minutes passed and we heard the conductor say over the loud speaker “Now approaching the Canterlot station, please sit back and relax.” As the train began to slow everypony looked outside and saw the entire city in front of us, I was in awe of the city’s beauty. Everypony in Canterlot walking with high class about them, I could tell Rarity felt at home with the entire city. The train came to stop and we all got off, each with what we packed and one of Rarity’s suit cases each, while she had only a small bag to carry. We began to make our way to the castle where we were going to be staying, as we were walking we passed by gorgeous building and sophisticated ponies. As we continued walking we passed a large record store with what looked like thousands of records, I turned to Spike and told him “We have to come here!” Laughing Spike responded “Alright Maverick we will come back here. Oh and if you like this store we should also check out Buck’s hobby shop. They have got everything from records to card games, it awesome!” I nodded back with a large smile on my face; the other ponies became confused wondering what we were talking about, so Spike and I explained our plan and how he and I were planning to hit the town. Everypony laughed and agreed that was a great idea for me to see Canterlot. We continued walking until we reached the castle walls; they were large stone walls with ramparts on top. All along the outside at the bottom of the walls were lush, green and red rose bushes with thick green grass leading up to the bushes. As we went over the draw bridge into the court yard, we were greeted by the royal guards, when all of the sudden a voice from behind a couple of the guards rejoiced “Twily you made it!” Twilight quickly turned around and sang out “Shining Armor it’s you!” as she began to run over and give him a huge hug. “It’s so great to see all of you again, wait I don’t think we have met yet.” He expressed to all of us. As the unicorn began to walk over to me and extend is hoof “My name is Shining Armor, I’m head of the royal guards and Twilights BBBFF.” “My name is Maverick friend of Twilight and her friends, by the way what is a BBBFF?” I asked the unicorn. Before Shining Armor could answer Twilight chimed in “It stands for Big Brother Best Friend Forever.” I began laughing and before I could reply to Applejack spoke up saying “And Maverick is more than just a friend to some of us.” As she leaned over and gave me a kiss on the cheek. “Does that mean we are now official?” I asked Applejack. “Why Maverick it sure does. You’re my coltfriend and I’m your marefriend.” She told me while she was blushing, and tilting her head downward. I used my hoof and raised her head back up and gave her a long gentle kiss, as most ponies around went “Aweeee” except for Rainbow Dash and Spike who both acted like they would barf. When we finished both Applejack and I looked at each other and said “WHOA!” “Well now that gushy love junk is done, can we please head into the castle?” Rainbow Dash asked everypony. “Oh Rainbow Dash, I just don’t understand why you have to be like, this is a beautiful heart filled moment and you got to go ruin it.” Rarity exclaimed. “She’s right we should start heading in.” I told everypony as I stated to make my way into the castle. Everypony soon followed suit and we entered into the castle where we were greeted by a pink alicorn who ran up to Twilight Sparkle as both her and stated singing “Sunshine, sunshine lady bugs awake clap your hooves and do a little shake.” When they finished both burst out laughing. When they finished laughing, the alicorn walked up to me and introduced herself as “Hello there, my name is Princess Cadence.” “It’s an honor to meet you Princess, I am Maverick.” “It’s nice to meet you Maverick.” she said as she nodded to me. She then turned to everypony and told us “Celestia and Luna are waiting for you in the throne room.” As we began to make our way to the throne room we saw the extravagance of the castle from every piece of design work. When we entered into the throne room I looked around and saw all of the glass murals of the history of Equestria, from the emergence of Nightmare Moon to the elements of harmony defeating Discord. We saw both Princess sitting there for us one being Celestia who I had already met. The other walked up to me and announced in the royal Canterlot voice “Who art thou? We must knoweth this?” After thinking about my answer for as second before I could answer however Celestia spoke up “This is Maverick, the stallion I told you about.” “Oh, my pardons Maverick, my sister hath told me about thee. I am Princess Luna, it is grand meeting thee.” “It’s an honor to meet you Princess.” I expressed to her. The Princesses, myself and the rest of the main six as well as Spike all hung out in the throne room and talked and got to know one and other, we all discussed what we each enjoyed and a weird thing I learned about Luna was that she was an art expert and enjoyed painting as well. The hours passed and before I knew it, it was time for all of us to head to bed and Luna to take her post for the night. The next few days passed quickly each filled with fun times between all of us, and now it was the day before the Winter Ball Spectacular and Spike and I had decided to go on an adventure in Canterlot. The first stop was the record store we passed when we first arrived in Canterlot. As we entered the store the first record I spotted was Aerosmith’s Music From Another Dimension, I ran over picked it up and continued looking. After a few more hours of fun in the store we decided to pay and head over to Buck’s Hobby Shop. At Buck’s Hobby Shop right as soon as we walked in we were greeted by a white stallion with a green mane whose cutie mark was an ace and king of spades with two poker chips in front of it. “Hello my name is Joe Buck, how can i help you guys today?” “Hello Joe, my name is Maverick and this is my friend Spike. We were wondering what you had for records?” I responded to him. “Not much, if you follow me I can show you.” Joe told. We nodded and followed him, he wasn’t lying by saying not much, but I did find a good record it was Pop Evil’s War of Angels, and for the day that made fifteen records I bought today. After we finished looking I went to pay and as I was paying I saw a poker set so I asked Joe “Well how much is that poker set over there?” “For twenty bits you can take it home today.” Joe replied to me. “Alright throw it in too.” I told him. After I was done paying Spike and I went over to his favorite donut shop and ordered a few donuts and a couple malts. Afterwards we went back to the castle and went to bed. The next day we began setting up for the Winter Ball Spectacular, a few hours passed and Celestia told us that it stared in an hour so we should go get ready. So that’s what we did went to our room and got ready. Once we were all ready we headed to the ball room. The room was perfect with what looked like snow everywhere and trees that looked like they just came in from the snow, once there we all went our separate ways Applejack and I hit the dance floor for a couple hours. As a song ended Pinkie Pie ran over and exclaimed “OH MY GOSH APPLEJACK, you have to come with me NOW!” Applejack agreed and as she went with Pinkie Pie I went over to grab myself some punch. As I approached the table I bumped into another pony “Sorry about that.” I told the pony. As they turned around “Oh no problem.” The pony stared at me for a minute before opening their mouth again saying “Wait…I know you.” I began to stare at them for a few seconds before realizing who it was, and once I figured out who it was the only word I could say was “Balls!” > Authors Note > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hello everyone I'm Kyle aka Maverick and this is my authors note to you. First I would like to say thank you to every one of you, who have read the story, liked the story, favorite the story and commented on the story. You guys are what help me write my next chapter each week. second I would like to give a special thanks to Skyler for helping with not only the title but also bouncing ideas off him for later chapters, Connor for helping me when I first started writing my own fict, Emmett I owe him allot of dues without him the fict would not be anywhere as good because of his editing skills. Now the real reason I'm doing this authors note, this will be my last update for a couple weeks, I'm currently in the stages of moving and due to that I will be unable to update in the next few weeks. The good news is however I do have an estimated time for chapter 12, looking as it sits now that will fall if I'm lucky the week of December 2nd, most likely however it will not be until week of December 9th. Sorry about this everyone but I hope you will all still continue to read I look forward to writing new chapter, take care ;) > Chapter Twelve > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 12 Old Friend New Mane The pony stared at me for a minute before opening her mouth again saying “Wait…I know you.” I began to stare at her for a few seconds before realizing who it was, and once I figured out who it was the only word I could say was “Balls!” “Does that mean you remember who I am?!” The Pony asked me. As I put my hoof to my head covering my eyes, the pony asked me again if I know them, with my eyes covered I responded by saying “Yeah, I remember you….” Before I could finish however a voice chimed in “You got your memory back Sugar Cube?” My hoof shot to the ground and my eyes opened wide reveling Applejack and Celestia standing there starring at me Applejack with awe on her face and Celestia with look of shocked on her face. We stood there in silence for a moment before Celestia spoke up saying “How do you know her if she was once human?” Applejack was stunned at this revelation, I looked around at the three of them before clearing my throat and telling them “I know her because she and I went to High School together when we were both humans.” I paused for a second before resuming “Well if she is who I think she is, right Schy?” As I turned to the light violet mare whose mane was white with teal streaks. The earth pony’s cutie mark was a hologram moon that changes colors. She nodded at me and before she could say anything Celestia ordered me to go with her to the throne room with her and Applejack to discuss this situation. I followed Celestia to the throne room for us to go in to details of what I remember about my life. When we got in to the throne room Celestia asked one simple question, “Maverick, what do you remember?” I took one deep breath and replied to her by saying “Everything, I remember being a human, going to high school and graduating with Schyanne the pony I was talking with. I remember going to University and then playing football up in Canada professionally. I also remember dying and my life up to now.” “Hmmmm, Applejack can you go get my sister?” Celestia instructed Applejack. Applejack walked over to me and gave me a kiss on the cheek and told me stay strong, then left the room. After a couple of minutes of sitting in silence Princess Luna entered the room stating “Why hath you summoned me here dear sister?” So Celestia filled Luna in on what is transpiring and then devised a plan of action. “Alright Maverick, or um what is your human name?” Celestia asked me. “Kyle.” I replied to her. “Alright Kyle, your circumstance is very irregular situation, it’s not the first time it’s happened but last time we had no choice except to force them to leave in order to protect Equestria. Now Kyle we will have to judge your heart to see whether or not you’re worth of living in Equestria, your friend Schyanne or as we know her Moonlight Shimmer has already passed. So are you ready?” Celestia asked me. I nodded, “We shall begin then Luna. Kyle this is going to hurt.” Celestia told me. I gulped and noticed that both of the alicorn’s horns began to glow Celestia’s a bright pink while Luna’s glowed a dark blue. Within a second or two these two lights shot out at me simultaneously, and once they hit me, it had felt as if three 300lbs linemen came and sacked (tackled) me. The next thing I knew everything went black and in what only felt like seconds I had both Princesses standing over me, before too long Luna began to speak “We have come to our decisions Kyle.” After a brief pause, Celestia began to speak “We have determined that your heart is pure and you seem to have no intention on causing harm to any pony or any other creature in Equestria. It also seems that you have devolved deep care for Twilight Sparkle, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie and Rarity, but an even deeper caring for Applejack. Due to all of that we have determined that you may stay in Equestria for as long as you like.” She said smiling back at me. I got up, ran over and gave both princesses a massive hug. “Thank you, thank you both so much this is awesome, I have to go tell the girls what has transpired today!” I exclaimed at the top of my lungs. “Are you sure you wish to tell them everything Maverick?” Celestia questioned me. “Yes, they are my friends and they have a right to know about everything, including things of my past life.” I replied to the princess. “Very well then young Maverick, go forth to your friends we support thy decision.” Luna told me. I thanked the princesses and went straight for the girls room, once I got to the room I knocked on the door and heard hooves rush over to the door, the door swung open and “Maverick, woo you made me worried there hun. Please come on in.” Applejack said as she wrapped me in a big hug. Once I entered the room all the girls circled me and simultaneously asked what happened to me and where I had gone off to, before telling them what had just transpired I instructed each of them to take a seat. “Alright well earlier tonight I ran in to someone I know from my past” before I could continue Rainbow Dash butted in saying “Wait! I thought you had lost your memory?” “Well I did but seeing her, brought my memory back. I would like to share with you what I remember. Before, Rainbow Dash, outside of Ponyville, I was human and in my former life I was a pro athlete who died and then woke up here.” I told all of them. Each of them had a shocked look on their faces; even Applejack who had already heard the news. Twilight Sparkle was the first to break the silence by saying “Maverick, this unbelievable! I have always wanted to learn about humans, you have to tell me everything!” “A pro athlete, that’s awesome Maverick! We need to totally train one day!” Rainbow exclaimed. Rarity quickly spoke up “Oh Rainbow Dash there are more important than training, like Fashion! Maverick, you simply just must let me know all about the fashions of humans.” Once rarity finished Fluttershy began to speak “Um.. If you don’t mind and if it’s not too much of a problem could you tell me about the animals where you come from?” Before I could respond Pinkie screamed out “WAIT YOU GUYS! WE NEED TO HAVE A PARTY TO CELEBRATE! “ With everypony now silent I responded to each of them “Twilight it would be a pleasure to tell all about humans, Rainbow that would be great it’s been way too long since I have done any training. Rarity it would be an honor to show you earths fashions, Fluttershy it’s no problem to tell you about our animals, and Pinkie well no duh we do need a party.” With everypony turning to each other and starting side conversations I turned to Applejack and asked her “Hey how are you doing with all of this?” She staredin to my eyes and gave me a loving smile “I’m alright Maverick, a little shocked but don’t worry I still do care about you.” Then she wrapped me in a hug and gave me a nice long kiss. We all stayed up for a few more hours and then went to bed for the night. When we got up in the morning we had our breakfast and after breakfast the girls went back to their room to begin packing for the trip back to Ponyville. I however went over and asked Celestia where I could find Moonlight Shimmer was, she told me I could find her in the kitchen baking, I thanked the princess and went towards the kitchen. Once in the kitchen I was greeted by Moonlight Shimmer “Hellrow Kyle.” “It’s Maverick now Schy.” I replied to her. “Lol, sorry Maverick. So what brings you to the kitchen?” Moonlight Shimmer asked me. “I have a couple questions for you. The first being, how did you come here?” I asked her. “I died.” She responded. “I know that much but how did you die?” I asked. “Oh well I was walking through some woods and found a cute little bunny rabbit, then when I went to pet it the bunny bit me. It turned out though it had rabies, next thing I know Luna is asking me where I was from then giving me a job here.” Moonlight answering me. I burst out laughing, when I was able to speak I said “Alright so you already answered my second question to.” I replied back We continued talking for a few hours before I looked up at the clock and noticed that I should go start packing I told her if she was ever in Ponyville I always had a second room for her. As I began to leave the room but I heard a royal yell “WAIT! We hath something we wish for thee to hear, dost Moonlight Shimmer wish for I to arrange a job for thee in Ponyville at Sugar Cube Corner? And if your offer is true and she can stay with you, then it’s her choice if she want to go to Ponyville, she can.” Luna told us. “YES! Of course I will go if Maverick will let me stay with him.” She replied. I looked at both of them and told them “You better go pack Moonlight.” “YAHHHH!!” she exclaimed, before rushing out the door. “I will meet everypony at the train station.” She yelled before leaving. I went back my room, told everypony what had taken place and packed, after we left and met at the train station. We got on the train and headed back to Ponyville, the entire trip I couldn’t help but think “I got my gal on one side of me and one my oldest friends on the other this is gonna be great.” > Chapter Thirteen > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter Thirteen A New Roommate For The Holidays After arriving back in Ponyville we all went our own way back to our houses except for Applejack, Moonlight Shimmer and I stayed back, Applejack and I wanted to talk for a bit and Moonlight Shimmer stayed back because she didn’t know how to get to our house. Moonlight Shimmer figured out that Applejack and I wanted a little privacy so she went and walked around near the train station for a few minutes. Once she was out of sight Applejack turned to me and began to speak “Well Hun that was some trip huh?” she said laughing “Hmm, now what to do tomorrow? Because I don’t have to be back picking apples till Tuesday.” I stared at her few a moments thinking about everything we could do, then it hit me and I told her “Well we could have a nice romantic dinner over at my place, and then spend the rest of the night enjoying each other’s company?” “Awww. That sounds just perfect Maverick, I better get going Apple Bloom wanted me to tell her everything, so I will see ya tomorrow night then. I will talk to you later.” She said to me as she leaned in and we had a long kiss before she headed away. As I watched her leave I heard her say to Moonlight Shimmer “It was great meeting you, I’ll see ya later Moonlight.” “Bye Applejack.” Moonlight said as she began to turn the corner towards me. “Are you ready to go home Maverick?” she asked I nodded to her and picked up my saddle bag and we headed back to my house talking and laughing the whole way. After a few minutes we arrived at my house, I turned to hear and laughed “Well here’s my little shanty, it’s not much but give it a little more TLC, maybe put on nice front porch early next year, and some other upgrades.” Moonlight Shimmer was quiet for a moment which in all the years I have known her didn’t happen often, but in loud explosion of sound she jumped and sang out “THIS IS PERFECT! THIS IS GONNA BE AWESOME LIVING TOGETHER!!!” I just broke out laughing at her, as I walked up to the door, unlocked the door and open it, before I could go inside however, Moonlight Shimmer rushed by and knocked me down. When I got up and headed in and tried I to find her, after looking in every room I found her in what would be her room, “Well what do think of this room?” I asked her “I love it, wait is this room for me?” she responded. “Yup.” I told her. We began to unpack her belongings but not before I unpacked my new Aerosmith record and had the music playing while unpacking. After a few hours I told Moonlight that Applejack was coming over tomorrow night for diner. “So what do you want me to do?” she asked “Well, I’m going to get you a hotel room at the Ponyville Inn, and you will be spending tomorrow night there.” I told her. She looked confused, “Really?” she pondered to me. “Yes, this way me and her can have some privacy.” I explained to Moonlight Shimmer. She decided to keep packed a small bag of toiletries, and finished unpacking the rest and went to bed, I followed suit, while lying in my bed, I began to laugh hysterically thinking about how I’m now living with one of my best friends in Ponyville, who would of thought? In the morning I grabbed some bits and we headed out the door, first to show her where she will stay for the night next, to take her to work. At the Ponyville Inn Mr. Keeper greeted us as we walked in and told him about our situation that we were in. When we finished he said that he had a room for her on the second floor with a great view. We accepted and continued toward Sugar Cube Corner for her first day of work with Pinkie Pie. We walked and laughed till we arrived, once there I opened the door and let Moonlight Shimmer go in first. She didn’t get far before Pinkie Pie came flying out, “OH! I’M SO GLAD YOU’RE HERE!!” Pinkie screamed out. “Me too! This is goanna be awesome! Yah!” Moonlight Shimmer exclaimed “Then let’s get to work, oh hello Maverick, don’t mean to be rude but lots of baking to do.” Pinkie replied. I said hello to Pinkie before Pinkie Pie and Moonlight Shimmer headed to the kitchen, once they left the room I went to leave. I began walking towards the grocery store, as I passed by the window I heard Pinkie’s voice “Alright now let me tell me my secret to making cupcakes, it’s singing! All you have to do is take a cup of flour, add it to the mix! Now just take a little something sweet, not sour, a bit of salt--just a pinch! Baking these treats is such a cinch, add a teaspoon of vanilla. Add a little more, and you count to four and you never get your fill-a cupcakes, so sweet and tasty cupcakes--don't be too hasty, cupcakes~ cupcakes, cupcakes, CUPCAKES!” I broke out laughing as I continued walking to the store to pick up something for Applejack and myself, I decided to make Lasagna. I grabbed the ingredients needed. I went back to the house and began cooking, with everything prepared and some time before Applejack would be here I went and had a shower and got ready. Almost with perfect timing I got out of the shower got ready, and on cue Applejack knocked on my door. I walked over and opened the door to reveal Applejack standing there her hair flowing in the night sky, eyes shimmering in the moonlight. I showed her in becoming speechless as she walked past. When I regained speech I told her she looked gorgeous tonight and asked if she would like to sit down for a meal. I grabbed her seat for her, lit a few candles, grabbed the food and took my seat. We ate supper and as she finished Applejack said to me “That was delicious Maverick, you out did yourself.” I cleaned off the table and took the dishes and placed them in the sink, returning I replied to AJ “Thank you, AJ. It was nothing. Do you want to go relax on the couch?” She nodded and we relaxed on the couch cuddling for a few hours, with Applejack falling asleep in my hooves I began to followed suit and started falling asleep. The next morning we woke up and Applejack shot up “Oh my, is that the time? I got to get going.” She blurted out before giving me a kiss and heading out the door. I looked at the clock and figured I better get going to work as well. The day passed fast with not a lot going on just organizing new materials. After work I went home and met Moonlight at the door, we had dinner for the night and hung out then went to bed. The next few weeks passed normally. For Moonlight Shimmer these weeks were exciting because she was getting ready for her welcome to Ponyville party that Pinkie decided to do after the holidays. We got ready for Hearth’s Warming Day by buying decorations putting up a tree and other festive items. Moonlight Shimmer was getting along with the mane six who were getting ready to put on the Ponyville Hearth’s Warming Day show. For me and Moonlight Shimmer this being our first Hearts Warming Day we were going to go and enjoy the show, we sat with the Apple Family and the Cutie Mark Crusaders. After the show we went backstage to see the girls and talking with them we all had a lot of laughs and jokes, Applejack walked up to me and asked “Maverick would you like to go hang out for a bit?” “Can’t.” I replied “Me and Moonlight Shimmer are going shopping.” “Are you ready to go Maverick?” Moonlight Shimmer asked. “Yeah, let’s get going.” I replied We said our goodbyes to everypony, and headed out when we were heading out the door I looked back and saw Applejack talking to Fluttershy, I couldn’t make out what they were saying but Applejack had a scowled look on her face and Fluttershy seemed to be trying to calm her down. I thought no big deal, Applejack will tell me later, so I left with Moonlight Shimmer.