Chapters Maybe - The Story of Ozone
It all began once I moved to Ponyville from Baltimare. It wasn't a fancy voyage, but it got me there. I wasn't even used to the luxury of a first class train seat, so I settled for coach. Seeing everything pass by a train window calmed my nerves about moving to a new home, especially since I had no good memory of why in the hay I was moving anyway. Haha, I guess it was just time for me to find a new home again.
The train station in Ponyville was pretty crowded for a Sunday, not to mention chilly. I grabbed my saddle bags and a map so I would be able to find my new home, "1008 Alfalfa Avenue". It sounded nice, but I never like alfalfa, even as a colt.
"Hmm, it seems to only be a few blocks away from here. Good thing, too, otherwise I'd be lugging this thing around all day!" I looked over at the train engineers unloading my luggage into a wagon. My cousin was supposed to come with me so he could help pull the blooming thing, but he had to cancel due to some silly filly problems. I walked over to the large wagon and strapped in. "Alright, here we go!" I gave a shout of motivation as I pulled on the wagon as hard as I could, only to have it stay in place. With a few more full-strength pushes, I quickly learned that my wagon was going absolutely nowhere. That's when I noticed a figure move in front of me. I looked up at a much larger, obviously stronger red stallion looking down at me. "Do you think you can help me?" I asked
"Eeyup." was all he said, biting the strap off of me and we switched places. "Where to?" he asked.
"Uh, 1008 Alfalfa." I fiddled with the map to show him, but he already began the trip. Well, I guess he knows where it is. I trotted up to stay beside him. "My name is..." I stumbled over my name. I was trying to think about it when he interrupted.
"Big Macintosh. Big Mac fer short."
His friendliness eased my concerns a bit. "Ozone," I told him. My name is Ozone.
It wasn't long until we got to the house. It was a nice and it looked pretty roomy. I turned to Big Mac, who by now was out of the wagon's straps, "Thanks a lot for the help. I suppose I should pay you." I turned to grab some bits, but Big Mac put a hoof up to stop me.
"Big brother, there ya are!" a filly's voice called out, and out bounced a little filly with a red mane and yellow coat. "Me 'n' AJ have been lookin' all over fer ya!" She stopped before me and looked me over for a few seconds and a big grin almost covered her entire head, "Hi! I'm Apple Bloom! How do you know mah big brother?"
"Well hey there! Your brother helped me carry this wagon to my new house." I gave her a smile. She was like a little ball of energy, and being around her made me think of times when i was a little colt.
"Eeyup." Big Mac nodded.
"C'mon, Big Bro, we better go find Applejack. She's been throwin' a fit tryn'a find you! We gotta bring in all the apples before night time!" and with that, the two of them left me and my heavy wagon of annoyance. I laughed a bit to myself at how friendly the two ponies I just met were, and I barely even knew them!
I turned to the door of my new home and walked in. Just as the advertisement said, it was already furnished with couches, a couple of tables, and beds in the bedrooms, but that was basically it. "Time to start unpacking, Ozo. Welcome home!"
I was lying on the couch after all the unpacking was done. I would have stayed there for the rest of the evening, but I wanted to explore the village. It was a whole new place to me, and I didn't want to be a shut in like I was growing up in Manehattan. So I grabbed my coin purse full of bits and headed out the door. The sunset was making the sky a bright orange like the city lamps in Baltimare. I passed a few ponies on my way through town and they gave a friendly wave of their hoof or a smile. This place was already feeling like the best choice I've ever made.
Soon, I found myself passing a building made out of... Gingerbread? Which was pretty weird. I looked at the sign, which read "Sugar Cube Corner". I pondered for a few moments and decided to see what the building was all about before they decided to close. I trotted up to the pink stable-style door, opening it with my hoof. Inside were a few mares around my age, and one instantly greeted me, "YIPPEE!! First party guest!" A blur of pink flew towards me, but instantly stopped in front of me, "Wait a minute! I've never seen you before. Are you new? What's your name? Do you like candy?I love candy!AndcupcakesAndcakeAndparties!! You still haven't told me your name!! I'm Pinkie Pie and I threwthispartybecauseit'sSundayandyoushouldalwayspartyonSundaysandyoushouldpartyeveryday!!"
This pink mare was crazy! She was speaking faster than my brain could think, so when I tried to answer, all I could say was "Uhhhhh." That's when a cyan hoof covered her mouth.
"Woah there, Pink. You're gonna freak him out!" A mare with rainbow mane spoke, "But if Pinkie Pie doesn't know you, that means you must be a new pony in town. Who are you anyway?"
"Uh, um, uh," I choked at first, but managed to answer eventually, "My name is Ozone. Yeah, I'm new. I was just seeing what this building was about."
"Oh! It's a bakery!" The pink pony spoke again, "We sell tasty pastries!"
"Riiiiiight, so, I better get going-" I tried to turn for the door, but was instantly grabbed by a set of hooves and pulled further into the room.
"You can't leave! We have to throw you a 'NewPonyInTown Party'! My friend Twilight moved to Ponyville once, so I threw her a party, and because I know EVERYPONY in Ponyville, they all got to meet Twilight and now everypony knows her! Now, everypony can know you, too!"
I had a feeling she was about to start singing at any moment. "It's best not to try and fight Pinkie when she wants to throw you a party." The rainbow pony spoke again, "Besides, it won't be that bad!" I thought about her words and decided to give it a try. How bad could it be?
Every. Pony. In. Ponyville. Was. In. The. Building.
The music was good, the dancing was good (even if I didn't do any of it) but I will admit I liked watching some of the mares dance. Could you really blame me? The rainbow pony, who I later learned was Rainbow Dash, was over at the punch bowl with Pinkie Pie and a few other ponies, one lavender pony with a purple mane looked head-over-hoof drunk off the punch. And then I heard a voice behind me.
"Ah, you must be the new pony Pinkie Pie is throwing this wonderful party for!" I turned to find the source of the voice; such elegance I've never known. "I'm Rarity, and you must be Ozone."
She was so beautiful, I couldn't control myself. My words came out as a slur trying to introduce myself.
"I see you've been hitting the punch." she giggled.
"What? I- No! No no no, I don't drink. I mean, I can, but I don't get drunk." The warmth of embarrassment was creeping up on my back, "I- I mean I can get drunk, but I don't like to." Me making a complete foal of myself made her giggle.
"Well, It's nice to meet you. Welcome to Ponyville!" she smiled and trotted off to her friends at the punch table. Oh Celestia, she was beautiful. Thank you, Pinkie Pie.
The party was over around midnight. I had a few glasses of punch, but not enough to get me completely hammered, so I could still walk straight without falling over more than twice. "Thanks Pinkie Pie!" I called out as I left the gingerbread house- store- thing.
I walked through the streets with Luna's moon as my light to see where I was going. Eventually, I found Alfalfa Avenue and my new home. I stepped inside and trotted up to the bedroom, fell onto the bed and said to myself
"Maybe I'll like it here."
Author's Note
OzoPoni here: Yeah, I know my profile picture is Ozone with a horn and hat and vest which he OBVIOUSLY doesn't have. I just wanted him to enjoy himself with clothes for once so yeah. Ozone is a pure earth pony stallion. I hope I did a good job and I could use feedback for either suggestions or corrections.
This is my first official fanfic, I tried others before and they didn't quite work out. They didn't even get typed. Anyway, chapter one may seem a bit rushed, but I did that so more stuff could be filled in. Besides, he ran into Pinkie Pie, he was bound to meet everyone that day. Anyway, more of "Maybe - The story of Ozone" to come!
Maybe - The Story of Ozone
Every hammer in Equestria was banging on my head, and I barely drank last night.
"Guhhhhh" I gurgled out, slowly moving out of bed. My clock said it was 7:10 in the morning, which was perfect. I needed to find a job in Ponyville soon if I'm going to keep my bits coming in. My old job was dealing with, well, Ozone particles. I was the only Earth Pony in the entire lab, so I had to be extra careful. It wasn't much of an entertaining job, just kept some money coming in while we all sat on our flanks and threw paper everywhere.
I trotted over to the kitchen when I realized I hadn't bought any groceries. I had enough bits in one of my luggage cases that I could buy about a week's worth of groceries and have quite a lot left over, seeing as how the prices should be much lower here since everything is locally grown: just like it said in the advertisement for the house. I went back to my room, grabbed a few bits, and left out of the house, hoping to find a market or other store. A few carrots here, some oranges and pineapples there, and definitely some hay and lettuce, I had food for about a week. Great! Now all I have to do is get back to the house, drop it all off, and... Hay, I don't even know what to do next. I thought to myself. My ears drooped, thinking of how I might end up going back to my old habits of staying indoors all the time. I sighed and kept walking, when up ahead, I saw a familiar alabaster pony.
It's her.
Oh no, what should I say? Did I comb my mane? Did I turn the stove off? I didn't even turn it on. Good. OH NO She's coming this way! Rarity was walking alongside a yellow pegasus with a long pink mane. Alright Ozo, you can do this. "Hi Rarity!" I called out
"Oh, Hello Ozone." She warmly smiled, "Fancy running into you out here."
"Yeah, I'm buying groceries." If I ever had to chose when the perfect moment to facehoof was, It would be then. It was obvious I was buying groceries!
"I see that," she giggled, "Fluttershy and I were on our way to the spa, the twins have a new Aroma therapy technique I've been dying to try!" At the mention of her name, the yellow mare squeaked.
"Have fun!" the two walked by and I fell on my flank, my heart pounding so hard it began to really hurt. I sighed and looked around, hoping not too many ponies could see me. And of course, I was getting a bunch of funny looks. I tried closing my eyes as if that would fix everything, but instead, a familiar voice spoke.
"Need help carryin' those, too?" It was Big Macintosh. He waved a hoof to my saddle bags, which I guessed he assumed were weighing me down.
"Oh! No, but thank you." I got back on my hooves and dusted myself off as well as I could.
"C'mon." He motioned me to follow him, which I did. We walked to a stall in the market that sold apples, apples, oh and you won't believe it: apples! The stall read "Sweet Apple Acres" across the top.
"Well, Howdy there, Big Mac. Who's that you got with ya?" an orange mare behind the stall spoke in the same country accent Big Mac had.
"Ozone", I said, "Hi, I'm Ozone." I spoke, my mind still thinking about Rarity, and then Rarity at the spa.
"Uhh, yeah, I heard ya the first time." The mare chuckled. I think I'll just write a book about when to face hoof based on my life. "What can I do for ya?"
"Uh, I don't know really, Big Mac told me to follow him."
"Well, since he brought you here, can I interest you in some apples?" Her face lit up like a display of fireworks.
"Sure!" I placed a few bits on the counter of the stall and got about ten apples. "Thank you!"
"Sure thing! Now, how do you know my brother?" She asked.
Brother, huh? I wonder how many sisters he has. Oh, right, she asked a question "Oh, he helped me get my stuff to my new home yesterday when I couldn't pull the wagon."
"So you're the pony that Pinkie threw the party for! Sorry I couldn't make it, we had too many apples to bring in before today's sale! And that was mighty nice of him to help ya." Big mac chimed in with his "eeyup" and I let out a nervous laugh.
"Well, thank you for the apples! See ya around!" I put the apples in my saddle bags and began my trot away.
After I had put my groceries up in the house, I decided to "settle in" by pulling out my old radio and clicking it on. Some electro music came through and it livened up the living room a little bit. I also pulled out some photos, one of me as a colt at the Summer Sun Celebration with my grandpa, One of me and my grandpa that we took as a family photo. "I miss you grandpa." I said as I hugged the photo. He wasn't with me anymore, but I didn't let it bring me down all the time. The only times it made me horribly upset is when I'd think about times together a lot, and when somepony would invite me to a party. (I'm really not a party pony)
A few more decorations and my house was now a home. I sat on the couch and smiled. "And now, to get out." I trotted over to the door and then added, "Again." and walked out. I think I can get used to getting out more.
"Look out!!" by the time I heard the words, I was buried under a swarm of muffins with wings. "I'm sorry, are you okay?!" A mare's voice was calling out and I heard the hooves running up to me. No wonder I never went out. Section by section, the muffins were removed, and the others flew off; being chased by a grey pegasus with a blonde yellow mane.
"I think I'm okay." I got back to my hooves and was face to face with a lavender unicorn with a purple mane.
"Sorry about that. I've never met you before, are you new? I'd keep low if you don't like parties. My friend Pinkie Pie is crazy about throwing parties for new people." Boy, how late can one pony be?
"Trust me, I learned last night." I chuckled defensively.
"Sorry about the muffins, a spell went a little haywire."
"Twilight, what happened? I thought I heard yelling." Her voice again. My heart began racing as I saw Rarity- again- approach us.
"Just a little muffin madness." the lavender unicorn, Twilight, joked.
"Hello again, Ozone." She smiled at me.
She smiled at me.
My heart was running a marathon against the Wonder Bolts and winning. The lump in my throat made it difficult to talk. "H-h-hi Rarity! I was just salad. Muffins."
"Are you alright?"
"Yeah! Yeah, I'm fine." i smiled, trying to convince her. A loud crash was heard behind us and Twilight ran off, screaming something about muffins, leaving me and her.
"Well, I hope you are okay. What happened anyway?" she asked.
"Oh, nothing really." Because how awesome does 'I got attacked by a horde of flying muffins' sound?
"Well, I must be off. I have an order to get back to. Take care of yourself."
Why do all of our conversations last, like, five seconds? Oh no, she's leaving. Now's your chance! Take it! "Rarity!" I called out a little too loudly, causing her to jump.
"What is it? Is everything alright?" she asked in concern.
"Yes, um, well I was wondering-" the lump in my throat was building up again. "If you're free, do you maybe, wanna do something?"
Rarity gasped in surprise, "Are you asking me out and we only met yesterday!?"
"What?! No! I-"
"So, you aren't asking me out? Am I not good enough for you?!" Rarity was taking a step closer.
"What?! Of course you're good enough-" I tried to recover.
"So, somepony has to be good enough for you?! Do you think I'm some typical, easy stable pony?!"
"No!" If I had any magical powers, it would be to melt into a puddle and then drip away, but then she giggled.
"Darling, you should see the look on your face! I'd be happy to get to know you. How about some tea at Sugar Cube Corner tomorrow at 3?"
What?
"Yes! I mean, yeah, that sounds great." I chuckled.
Rarity giggled and turned away, "See you tomorrow, Ozone."
If there's one thing my dad taught me before he left to get lottery tickets (which he obviously won, because I haven't seen him since I was a teenage colt) was that women can be evil.
Hmm, Maybe I have a chance. And I went home smilin'.
Author's Note
Ok, so, Chapter two was fun for me to write since I actually had that awkward experience he shared with Rarity with a girl I had a thing for in real life. It was really awkward and I kept saying things that made me look like an idiot and, well, yeah. Some personal experience there.
Anyway, chapter three won't be started until later on, so yeah, I should also include some of Ozone's nicknames that he refers to himself by:
Maybe - The Story of Ozone
Bit Hunting and Afternoon Tea... Probably
I wasn't even asleep, and It was already 3 in the morning. In twelve hours, I'll be on a date: well, not really a date, just tea, but maybe a date? I hope a date I don't remember much after that, except for waking up on the floor. I must have passed out.
"What time is it?" I mumbled to myself. The clock read 12:03. Great, I have two hours to get ready, and then get to Sugar Cube Corner for tea with a beautiful mare. After a quick shower, I combed my mane for the first time in years. It's surprisingly straight, so I decided to keep it over to one side. I never understood the whole green and black thing, but it brought me comfort. I got it dyed once a month, and I was due another appointment next week. I figured I'd go ahead and get that set up.
12:30
"So, getting my hair colored would cost fifty bits?" I asked the twins, who nodded in unison with delightful smiles. "But I could also go and buy the coloring myself for three bits, right?" The twins looked at each other and gave a nervous nod. "But even then, I won't do very good with the black streaks," the twins nodded again, then something hit me: "Wait a minute, why am I asking you two? You guys don't dye hair, you run the spa. What am I doing?" I turned and left the spa.
1:00
I had scheduled my mane appointment with a pony this Friday named Scissor Clip, who was great at cutting and dying manes. Hehe, we'll see soon enough . I went by the market a few times and bought a few, more expensive than normal groceries, such as beets, cherries, and strawberries. I thought that if things went smoothly with Rarity, she might want to come over for lunch one day. Plus, maybe I wanted to indulge myself.
2:00
"I'm soooooooooooo boooooorrrreeeedd." I groaned, sitting on my couch. "How much longer do I have to wait?" I looked at the clock. Thirty minutes, and I can head to Sugar Cube Corner. It's times like these I'd normally take a nap, but I didn't want to risk sleeping too long. I wonder if I have any coffee I slid off the couch and made my way to the kitchen. Sure enough, I had no coffee, and I needed a job to get more bits. Once again, I was getting off my flank and was walking out my door. By the end of the week, that door will hate me.
2:25
I knocked on the Ponyville Library's door. I was told I could find Twilight Sparkle here, and from the few moments we met yesterday, she seemed like the smart type. So I figured that she might have a job for me. She answered the door and I told her that I needed a job. She let me in and began a small interview.
"So, you dealt with ozone particles in Baltimare?" Twilight asked.
"Yes." I answered, sitting in the middle of the Ponyville Library.
"And before then, you worked as a store clerk?" Twilight was sounding a bit skeptical.
"Well, it was more of a floor management position." I coughed out nervously. I could tell this wasn't going well.
"Hmm, I'm afraid I won't have any use for your skill set. But I wish you luck! If you want, you can go by Mayor Mare's office to see if you can find a job."
"Mhm, thanks." I said getting out of my seat and making my way out of the Library. How in Equestria am I going to find a job? I sighed at today's disappointment, but I will try again! Later. It's time to head to Sugar Cube Corner.
3:00
"Hello, Ozone, I'm glad you could make it." Rarity's elegant voice almost put me to shame.
"Of course I made it, I'm the one who asked in the first place." I laughed nervously. Rarity gave me a warm smile and we entered the pastry house made of, well, pastries. Lucky for us, they did actually have tea, and one of the owners brought each of us a cup. We both sat there in a moment of silence before either one of us actually spoke.
"So Ozone, how did you get such a unique name?" Rarity emphasized "unique", kinda making it obvious she thought it was a weird name.
"Actually, It's kind of a nickname more than my actual name. But I dunno, I guess my parents kinda guessed my future," I laughed, "I don't even know why I have the name anymore. My mom used to tell me a lot before I moved in with my grandpa. And my dad would tell me, but he still isn't back from buying Lottery tickets." I smiled and laughed at the thought of my parents. I wondered what they were up to. "He said he wouldn't come back without them, so I guess he's been looking pretty hard."
"Oh really? How long ago did he leave?" Rarity asked before sipping her tea.
"A little more than ten years ago." I smiled. I knew he walked out on us, but sometimes it was fun to play innocent.
Rarity's expression seemed to drop, "Oh, I'm so sorry Ozone." She extended her hoof and placed it on mine. I was starting to sweat from nervousness.
"D-don't worry about it, Rarity! And you don't have to call me Ozone, Ozo is fine." I did my best to give her a warm smile, but I think I only made a foal of myself.
"That simply won't do. Ozo sounds so brutish and barbaric! I think I'll call you... Ozi!" she lit up like a beacon.
"Ozi?" I asked, but then shook my head, "Sure, whichever you think is best!"
Rarity smiled, "Well, what shall we do next, Ozi ? Sit here and have more tea or go for a walk?"
Hay, I could sit there with her for hours, but I decided for the walk. Maybe she could show me more places in town. I payed the bill for the tea and we began our trot through Ponyville. We passed by stores, houses, more stores, and more houses.
"How long will you be staying in Ponyville?" Rarity asked
"I might stay for a while, the ponies here are nice and neighborly." I gave off a smile. Yeah, I liked it in Ponyville. It was much better than my two weeks in Trottingham. Once you get covered in two barrels of tomato sauce, it's time to relocate. Ehehehe.
"Where are you from? If you don't mind my asking." She asked.
"I don't mind," I laughed, "I grew up in Manehattan, but moved to Baltimare about four years ago, and now here." I laughed, knowing I had really been all over Equestria. We continued walking for a few blocks when a suddenly familiar scent hit my nose. Coffee. "Is there a coffee shop around here?" I asked.
"Why yes! Pony Bucks is just up ahead. Would you like to stop and get some?" She asked.
Oh boy, would I! Wait, I gotta play it cool. "Yeah, sure." We quickened our pace to Pony Bucks Coffee House and my mouth began to water. Sweet, tasty coffee would be perfect right now, seeing as how I hadn't had any since I moved and could really use some.
Five bits later, we had two cups of coffee, but the coffee only seemed like sugar after what happened next. I saw something so beautiful, I wanted to fall to the floor and cheer, but I couldn't do that without making a complete foal of myself in front of Rarity. It was right there in the window: A "help wanted" sign. "Hey Rarity, I'll catch up in just a second. I'm gonna ask about getting a job here."
"I'll do no such thing! I'm not going to be tossed aside for some job application." She exasperated, but laughed, "Before you get all defensive, I was joking. But I am however staying here. A proper gentleman doesn't let his date simply run along."
Did she say date?
I'm pretty sure she did.
She said date.
"Oh, um, yeah." I swallowed hard, trying to clear the lump in my throat, and turned to the barista pony. "I saw the help wanted sign and was wondering if I could-"
"You're hired!" she said, "Come by tomorrow so I can show you the ropes! I'm Bean Brewer." And just like that, I had a job. Huh.
Rarity and I left with our coffee's and sat out on the patio. "That was certainly a quick interview." Rarity joked. We spent the rest of the afternoon there, talking and just spending time together. It was great! We watched the daily commute pass by, saw a unicorn who could play music from the horn on his head and sing with the voice of an angel, and a flying muffin. Today was awesome.
"Thank you for walking me home, Ozi." Rarity gave me a quick nuzzle, and it sent a blush across my face. I couldn't see myself, but I could definitely feel it.
"N-n-no problem, R-Rarity! Uh, we could do it again sometime? Maybe?" I suggested nervously.
"Absolutely." She smiled, sending warmth in my heart.
Score!
"I do enjoy hanging out with my friends." And with that she went into this "Carousel Boutique".
I was on top of the world! I was higher than Celestia's castle. If I were a pegasus, I'd fly all the way back to Manehattan, find my old bully who said I'd never find love and tell him to chew on that. By Luna's moon, everything was aboslutely perf-
Wait a minute.
Friend?
Maybe - The Story of Ozone
Ok, so we were friends. I guess the whole "date" thing was just a joke.
Oh well, "Welcome to Pony Bucks!" I greeted two ponies walking into the store. I had just finished wiping off the counter from spilling coffee and cream from the last customers. They ordered their drinks, I spilled stuff left and right, and ended up having to clean the counter all over again. At least I got a free cup of coffee very now and again, otherwise this job would be upsetting. I had to thank Bean Brewer. She was a good boss: She knew what she was doing, and she was in good ties with the owner Bon Bon, who started the place as a second store to make more money than the Candy Store brought in alone. Pale green coat with a forest green mane. Not only was she a good boss, she was an awesome friend: We spend half of our time working and the other half laughing and telling each other stories and other things about us. Still, the thoughts about Rarity crept back in my head. I slumped on the counter, resting my head in my hooves, and let out a sigh.
"Everything okay, Ozo?" Brewer asked, the concern obvious in her voice.
"Sorta," I snorted.
"Wanna talk about it?" She asked, placing a hoof on my shoulder. It probably wouldn't hurt if I talked to someone about what was going on. I nodded and we went to the back room where there was a bed, a couch, and a dining table. "Sit with me on the couch and talk to me." She lead me over to the small piece of furniture that squeaked as we sat down.
"Mostly mare problems." I suggested as if she would figure it out.
"Did you get her pregnant?" She asked bluntly, causing a burning in my ears.
"Of course not!" I shouted, but stopped myself just in case anypony had come in. "We aren't even dating, apparently." I put a little more emphasis on "apparently" than I should have.
"Ah, I know how that goes," she threw her hoof over my shoulders. "C'mon champ, talk. Don't keep anything about it in."
I took a deep breath and decided to spill it, "I moved to Ponyville a few days ago and Pinkie Pie threw this party for me, even though she was already throwing a party, so I guess it just became a party for me. Anyway, I met this one mare named Rarity- the pony I was with yesterday when I asked for the job- and goodness she is so pretty. I mean, yeah we had only just met and all, but I was thinking I might have a chance if I just asked her to hang out. So I did, and we spend most of the afternoon yesterday, I payed for tea and coffee and it felt like a real date!" I caught myself in a smile, but threw it away, "And then she says I was just a friend."
"Well, I don't really know her, but maybe you should talk to her. Who knows, she might secretly like you." She nudged before adding, "But not now, do it after you get off work. Just go straight to her and talk to her. And don't flat out tell her you like her, because you've only known each other for a couple days, so build up on it. Take her somewhere nice, her favorite restaurant or to a movie."
"Well, I do know where she works, so it won't be too hard to find her. I think I'll go for it!" I sat up a bit straighter, with determination washing over me. "I'm not giving up just yet!"
"Good to hear! Now get back to work." She playfully punched my shoulder and pushed me out of her room back to the lobby.
I think they should call this place the "Coffee Lobby" instead of Pony Bucks. It rhymes! I chuckled at my mental reasoning. Still no customers, but I still couldn't leave. "Might as well feed my addiction." I mumbled to myself and poured myself a cup of coffee: black, but with two sugars equals perfection. I sipped the coffee and retook my place behind the counter. Once the taste of coffee was on my tongue, my thoughts about Rarity eased up. Ya know, maybe Brewer is right. Things will be fine.
And now, the smell of coffee was stuck in my coat. I'd better hurry up and get to Carousel Boutique before Rarity closed.
I lifted my hoof and knocked a couple times and waited for the alabaster beauty to answer the door...
"Ponyfeathers." I mumbled, she wasn't home. I sighed and turned away from the door and decided it would be best if I went home, when I noticed a note on the mail box: "Gone to Canterlot with friends. Will be back Friday." A little less than 48 hours until she got back. Welp, might as well fine something else to do. After a long thought about how little i still knew of Ponyville, I decided to just go home. The walk back wasn't as entertaining as previous walks: no musical unicorn, no hordes of flying muffins, no Rarity to run into.
It might be best that I give it a couple days to talk to her. I got to Alfalfa and pretty soon my house. Once inside, I trotted up to to my bed. I got under the covers and closed my eyes for a moment, but I couldn't sleep. Something wasn't setting right in stomach, I couldn't quite figure out what it was until it let out a long growl. I chuckled, "I guess all I had today was coffee." I got out of bed and decided I'd make some hay fries; the snack I always enjoyed when I was thinking.
Hay, oil, stove, and about ten minutes later, I had a wonderful plate of burnt-black hay fries. I guess I'll have to get used to the new stove. I still ate them, though; they were hay fries after all. And then there was a knock on the door.
Who could that possibly be? I left my plate to get to the door. I pulled it open and came face to face with a unicorn stallion with an orange coat and black mane that was just stomping out a cigarette. "Heya, buddy! How's Ponyville!?" He shouted.
Oh, it's Jack-O-Lantern. I forgot I had friends, "Hey, it's good! How's Baltimare?" I asked, letting him in the house.
"It's the same," he waved a hoof. Lantern and I went way back, ever since we were colts in "Sunshine Elementary School" in Manehattan. We grew up together, got in trouble together, pranked ponies together, we even moved to Baltimare together, and he was the closest thing I had to a brother. Some ponies even thought we were brothers! I snapped back to reality when he spoke again, "Nice house!"
"Thanks. What are you up to?" I asked. The visit was a complete surprise, but I couldn't just ask what he was doing here without sounding rude.
"I'm here to visit! My best bud moved away from me, so I'm here to hunt him down." He jokingly nudged me with his foreleg. "Plus, my cousin, Golden Harvest, lives here. She runs the carrot farm. Mind if I stay here for a bit? Baltimare is kinda far away to go back to tonight."
Having him here would make things a bit more at home, "Sure. It'll get boring here without a roommate." Watching Lantern's face light up was priceless, but suddenly his eyes went wide.
"Oh! I brought you something!" He reached into his saddle bag and pulled out two bottles of Red Line Apple Cider: Equestria's Hardest Cider.
"Sweet! I completely forgot to get some yesterday. Thanks buddy!" I pulled him into a hug and took the bottles in my mouth to the kitchen with Lantern behind me. They were popped open and soon the alcohol was entering our systems.
"So, tell me more about this Ponyville. What are the ponies like?" He levitated his bottle down onto the table. "Did you make coffee or something?"
"Oh! No, I got a job at the Coffee Lobby." I told him, causing a look of confusion on his face, "I mean Pony Bucks. The smell of coffee is stuck in my coat."
"Ah, Harvest told me about that place. She says it has pretty good coffee. What else is there?" He took a drink from his cider, and I did the same.
"Well, I know about the library, bakery, and dress shop. Other than that, I don't know what else is there is in Ponyville."
Lantern laughed, "Well, maybe I'll hit up a tavern: first night in town and all. Wanna join?"
I thought the idea over, maybe more alcohol could help me come up with more ideas about Rarity. Then again, it might end up making things worse. But hey, free cider. "Sure. What time?" I asked.
"Why not now?" He suggested with a shrug.
I looked up at the clock, remembering the taverns won't open until evening, and it was already 6:40. "I guess by the time we get there, they'll be open. Alright, let's get!" We rose from our chairs in the kitchen and left to find the nearest tavern.
The trip through Ponyville didn't take long. We found what we were looking for after a quick walk. The sign of the Bold Colt swung above the door as we trotted in. "Welcome to Bold Colt's! Have a seat or sit at the bar!" the bartender shouted to his new customers. Lantern chose the bar since almost nopony was sitting there. "What can I get you two?" The bartender asked.
"Two mugs of cider, please." Lantern spoke. Whenever we went to taverns, he'd always order the drinks and I'd order food if we got any. The bartender filled two mugs from the tap and placed them in front of us. Lantern set up a tab so we didn't pay every single time we were handed a mug. I gripped the drink with my hoof and held it up towards Lantern, who clanked his mug against mine. "To your new home and a fun night of drinks!" And with that, we began our night of drinks.
Five mugs later, I was definitely feeling the effects of my drinks: I wasn't drunk yet, but my head was light and I felt like I was spinning. Well, I was spinning on the bar stool, but that didn't count. Lantern was full out drunk after having seven mugs of cider. Our bill was going to bankrupt the two of us. I finally stopped spinning on the bar stool and faced the tavern's open area to look at all the other ponies. Lantern turned with me and leaned back against the bar's counter. After a minute, he finally looked at me.
"See any cute mares?" He slurred as he nudged me with his hoof, almost making me fall off of my seat.
"Nah, I'm not lookin'." I stated, fiddling with the mug in my hoof which was still mostly full.
"Oh? That means you already found somepony." He teased, fluffing up my mane, "Who is she?"
"Nopony. Just thought I went on a date." I drank a bit more from my mug.
"So she friendzoned ya? She- She don't know what she's missin'! Bro, I mean, Bro, you suck, and you can do better." He downed the rest of his mug. "I- I think I'll get some sssssa-sasa-sarsaparilla now."
"Good for you." I joked. Maybe Lantern was right, I could see if any other pony was available before settling for one of the first mares I met in this town. Another sip from my mug and It made more sense that she'd me as a friend since we'd only just met. Maybe Lantern is right. Screw talking, I'm not gonna settle for the first pretty face in this town! My name being called from across the tavern snapped me from my train of thought. Lantern was sitting at a table with three other ponies.
Wait, how in the hay did he get over there?! He was just beside me and he's knock-over drunk!
I slid off the stool and trotted over to him as I tried hard not to fall over. "Yes?" I spoke as I got to him.
"Thi-this pretty little pony says she- she says she- she knows you!" Celestia help him. I looked over to the pony his hoof was pointed at. Sure enough, Brewer was sitting there with two other mares, one's coat was a cream color and the other was more mint colored. "I tolllllllld her there was no way- No way she could know you!" I shook my head and tried getting him to get up.
"Sorry Brewer. He's kinda drunk a little bit." I almost slurred. "Lant, she's my boss so yeah, she knows me. Let's get before she regrets hiring me."
"Oh it's fine, and I don't regret hiring you! It's cool having somepony to work with!" She waved her hoof dismissively, and offered a seat. Since the four there were taken, I took a chair from the neighboring empty table. "Ozo, this is Bon Bon and her fillyfriend Lyra. Bon Bon owns Pony Bucks." She introduced her companions, and I waved at them.
"It's nice to meet my newest employee." Bon Bon laughed, "Especially after how Brewer always brings you up in our conversations." She shot Brewer a wicked smirk.
"I do not!" She shot back, obviously embarrassed. "I just feel obligated to tell you about the new employee!" Even Lantern laughed at that. She gave him an annoyed look that he didn't notice then turned to me. "I'm guessing things didn't work out between you and that mare."
"No, but she's not even in Ponyville right now. I guess she left this morning." I took a drink from the mug I had almost forgotten about, even when I was holding it. "But thanks to my bro here, I'm not gonna deal with it. Besides, we only just met and she was the first mare I met here. Why not go for somepony I might actually like?" Hay, I barely knew Rarity, really. I just knew she was pretty.
"Well, best of luck to you." Bon Bon smiled.
"Thank you."
We spent the next hour or so talking in the tavern. I decided it was time to get my drunk brother home, so he and I split our bill and left. Ponyville had gotten pretty dark by then, and the wind was starting to get chilly. We were about to make our way back to Alfalfa before Brewer called out to us.
"Hey, what is it?" I asked.
"I just wanted to give you this." She answered, but before I could ask, she wrapped her hooves around me in a hug. "Welcome to Ponyville." I don't know what it was about that hug, but it felt nicer than most hugs I've been given in my life. I lifted my hoof to return it. But I had to pull away once I heard a loud thump behind me. Lantern had finally passed out.
"Well, I better get him home." I laughed
"Yeah. I'll see you tomorrow." Brewer smiled, and left with Lyra and Bon Bon.
I got Lantern on my back and started off to Alfalfa. Yep, Ponyville is going to be great.
Maybe - The Story of Ozone
"Ozone? Are you in there?" Rarity's voice came from beyond my door. I jumped from the couch and opened the slab of wood. There stood Rarity, for Celestia knows what reason, and was looking... For me.
"Uh, hey Rarity." I played it cool, "What's up?"
"May I come in?" she asked nervously. I nodded and let her pass. "I have to confess something to you, Ozi." She took a deep breath and closed her eyes.
"What is it, Rari-" and her lips were pressed against mine.
"Ozi, I have to tell you I like you. And I want to be your fillyfriend." Honestly, that was completely unexpected. I stuttered a bit before she kissed me again. "How about we go to your room and-" her words were magically transformed into a loud ringing and I sat up in my bed.
It was a dream. A very good dream. I switched off the alarm clock and tried sitting up when I realized a certain someone needed to be "taken care of". Ponyfeathers. I decided to go ahead and get rid of it: I used one hoof at first and that got me to work up a sweat, but that wasn't going to cut it. I needed more force and more power, so I used both of my forehooves. Harder... Harder! I thought to myself, I used my hooves as hard as I could but that still wasn't going to work. I got out from under the sheets onto the floor, standing on my hind legs, using my forehooves as hard as I can. I had to stop for a second to catch my breath and to make sure I didn't hurt my hooves. I couldn't rest for long because I was almost finished. I went at it one more time...
And I finally pushed Lantern out of my bed.
I got up and went to the shower, letting the lukewarm water soak into my mane and coat. It was Monday, the week after our night in the bar. Friday I worked at the Coffee Lobby and talked with Brewer a bit more, and both Saturday and Sunday were spent staying around the house. By now, my dyed green hair was very pale and almost yellow. I was looking forward to my hair appointment. I dried off and told Lantern where I was heading and left Alfalfa(I named the house after the street). I went through Ponyville, taking the same path I took the past few days. It was really becoming a routine path. I passed by the musical unicorn and tossed him a few bits into his jar. We chatted for a minute or two before I left on my way. I learned his name was "Quill, just Quill" and he learned I was "Ozone, but you can call me Ozo".
"Welcome! You must be Ozone!" A pony with scissors as her cutie mark, meaning she must be Scissor Clip. "Just sit in this chair and we'll have your hair colored in no time! I absolutely love the choice, by the way!" she guided me over to an empty chair. "Don't worry sweetie, we'll have you all set in no time!" she placed a tarp over me and pulled my hair out from under it, and began coating it in a dying treatment. The chemicals had a strong smell and were making me very- very sleepy...
"Um, Ozone? You might want to wake up." Scissor Clip's voice stirred me awake. Well, that, and her shaking me with her hooves. We must have been done, since the tarp wasn't on me anymore and my mane felt dry. I looked around for a mirror. "Now, sweetie doll, before I show you the mirror, I have to tell you I made a mistake when choosing the coloring."
"Oh no." I groaned, but she held up a hoof.
"Now now, before you say anything, let me explain. My assistant accidentally mislabeled the box, so instead of color 115, you ended up with 151: Bright Royal Blonde. And the strength of it got rid of the black streaks." She scratched the back of her head with her hoof.
"What?! I'm blonde?!" I tried sitting up, but Scissor Clip put her hooves up and pushed me back into the chair.
"It's really not that bad! It actually looks a lot better." She turned the chair around to a mirror and...
She was right.
It actually looked pretty good. "Huh." was all I managed to pop out. And pretty soon I was smiling. "I'm gonna miss those black streaks, though."
"Well, I know just the pony who can take care of that! Come with me, I'll have my assistants take the floor.
Alright, cool. "Lead away." I got out of the chair and followed, the smell from the chemicals made me a little light headed. It almost felt like I was drunk again. Needless to say, I didn't realize that Scissor Clip was taking me to a place I was beginning to get in the habit of avoiding: Carousel Boutique.
The place was so huge on the inside! There were pony figures everywhere wearing finished or unfinished dresses. Scissor Clip was calling out for someone, but I was having a staring contest with this dress mold, and I was gonna win! I don't know how long I had been staring, but a hoof on my shoulder caused me to look away. He won this round.
"Ozi, darling, are you alright?" a voice spoke gently, "You're drooling."
Oh gosh she was pretty, "Oh heyya Rarity, I need my mane and my streaks in my mane done in my mane." I think I gave about the dumbest, half-stoned smile right then. I couldn't really feel my face.
"I see the chemicals were a bit stronger than you are used to, but nevertheless, I'll have your mane done just the way you want." Rarity stood in pride.
"Yaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyyy!!" I fell on my flank clapping my hooves together like a little colt going to see The Great and Powerful Trixie's magic show. "I want- I want the black streaks again black streaks." Rarity marched me over to the nearest chair and sat me down, putting another tarp around me. "Is it nap time?" I asked.
"Yes, Ozi, close your eyes and lean back. When you wake up, your hair will look fantastic!" I did as she told and she began sectioning long strands of my mane to coat them in a coloring cream.
I don't know what my fried brain was thinking at this point, but something made it think "Talk to her." So I tried to get her attention. "Hey Rarity?"
"Yes, Ozi?" She asked as she worked on my hair.
"Do you have a special somepony?"
"Oh, not really. I hardly have any time to go searching for anypony." She answered solemnly.
I hadn't really thought of that. "So, when we hung out last Wednesday, why did you call it a date?"
"Oh, it was fun to tease! You got so nervous and kept stumbling on your words." She let out a laugh. It was all a joke? Rarity must have noticed my silence, "You thought it was date, didn't you?"
I nodded. "When I was asking you to hang out, I wasn't meaning a real date at first because I wanted to get to know you a little bit. Then when you referred to it as a date, I thought you were serious about it so I started thinking it was a real date."
"Is that why you haven't been around? I will admit I was half expecting to run into you at the market again." She started to rinse out my mane, leaving behind magnificent black streaks. "Ozi, I'm sorry."
For some reason, I started feeling a little annoyed, but I knew better than to snap. "Don't worry about it, Rarity. I was just being foalish about the whole thing."
"So, you want to date me?" Rarity asked: she had hints of teasing in her voice, but at the same time general curiosity.
"Well, I- um-" I stumbled, "Sure." My chest suddenly felt light, almost as if I could fly. Rarity let out a giggle.
"I believe your mane is finished." She took the tarp off and I got back to my hooves, "Come back here tonight at 7:30." She showed me to the door and once I was outside, I wanted to faint. I had a date- a real date- with Rarity! I don't really understand how, but the point was I had one!
"Lantern!" I shouted as I entered newly dubbed "House Alfalfa". I was answered with a groan from the couch. He'd been drinking again, which explained why he was in my room this morning. "Lantern, c'mon, I got a date tonight."
"Tha's my bro, always chasin' tail." He holds up a bottle of ale and pretends to cheer. "Is it that piece-o-flank from the bar?"
"No, you haven't met her." I took a look around the room and found a large number of empty bottles. "Been shopping?" I asked
"Sales everywhere, Ozo."
"You said your cousin lives here, right? Golden Harvest?" I tried getting him off the couch, "I need you to stay with her."
"Uh oh! Ozone's gettin' laid tonight!" My face started burning at the thought of... sex. Plus, if he had shouted that any louder, my neighbors would be knocking on my door to congratulate me.
"No I'm not! I'm- I don't know!" I shouted, but then remembered my thought about the neighbors. "I just need the place cleared out for the night. You can come back over tomorrow, but for now we need to get you to your cousin's place." Eventually, I got his drunk flank off the couch and after a five minute walk, we were at Golden Harvest's.
"Hey Jack-O-Lantern and friend!" She waved us in, "I'll get some coffee for when Jack comes down from his buzz." We followed her to the living room as she continued. "My neighbor is over right now, so come on and meet him!"
Once I saw her neighbor, my face kinda lit up. "Hey Big Mac!" It was good to see a friendly face that wasn't female, my boss, or Lantern.
"Hey." He greeted. I helped Lantern over to the couch, and before long, Golden Harvest came back with the coffee for him.
"So, what are you guys doing in Ponyville?" She asked Lantern, who still couldn't quite grasp the fact that he wasn't in Alfalfa anymore, meaning I had to talk.
"Well, I moved here last week and Lantern came to visit for a while."
"Well, make sure he doesn't hit the cider too hard. He's not very responsible when it comes to drinking." She chuckled, having a seat next to Big Mac, placing her hoof on his.
Hmm, Either they are seriously close friends, or they are dating. I wanted to think more, but Lantern's voice interrupted me. "I'm not a drunk."
"I didn't say you were, but you do drink a lot-" She tried explaining, but Lantern was getting into a drunken fit.
"I'm not irresponsible when I drink!" He slurred, "I only had seven or twelve bottles." He tried getting up, but fell back onto the couch.
"Hey, bro, you ok? Calm down." I put a hoof on his shoulder, but he brushed me away.
"No, Ozo, you're cool. But I ain't gunna be here if they think I'm a- a- a drunk. Because I'm NOT a drunk! I'm sick of everyone in this feathering family thinking I'm irresponsible." And out of nowhere, he bolted out of the living room and then out of the house. So much for him staying in one place. I sighed and got up from the couch to go after him. By the time I was outside, Lantern was no where to be seen.
"He's a big pony," I told myself, "He'll find his way home. Or, authorities will keep hold of him." I chuckled at the memories of having to pick him up the many nights he got too drunk and some guards got a hold of him.
"Eeyup." Big Mac was behind me.
"So, you and Lantern's cousin?" I looked up at him. He nodded and gave the same answer. "Good for you, Big Mac. I was going to just drop him off, but since he's not here anymore, I'll probably head my own way." I gave Big Mac a playful punch on the shoulder, but he didn't seem to respond to it. "I gotta get to a date, anyway. I'll see ya around, Big Mac."
"Eeyup." He said. I chuckled, and made my way back to Alfalfa... again.
Today seemed to go by a lot faster than most days, but I guess that can be a good thing. Dyed mane, became blonde, got a real date with Rarity, and my best friend went on a drunken rampage and I have no idea where he could be, but I know he'll be fine. I took in a deep breath and found a smile coming across my lips. Ponyville was starting to feel like home.
Author's Note
I usually write this around 11 at night (my only free time). Usually, I'm outside while enjoying a cigarette, which made me think "Do they have tobacco in Equestria? Obviously not in the show, but it's a plant, meaning they should have it. Meaning they should have a cigarettes." and BAM! I had Jack-O-Lantern, because those things have candles and ours caught on fire last year and let off a bunch of smoke. Anyway, I'm trying to get the main story down before I get to a point in my life when I can't work on the story a lot.
Anyway, My original intent with the story was to make it a seriously written story. We see how well that worked out!
Maybe - The Story of Ozone
"Your order will be out shortly." The waiter left our table with our menus. Two salads and an order of some more elegant foods would be on its way to our table.
"So, we are finally having that date." Rarity smiled.
I chuckled, "Yeah." A waiter brought us glasses of water, so I instinctively took a sip. When drinking with Lantern, you had to drink fast to keep up. My mind went back to the rather short visit with Golden Harvest.
"Once again, I'm so sorry about the mix up of the last time we were together, Ozi." She apologized, "I honestly didn't think you saw it as a real date."
"It's fine, don't worry about it." I tried giving her a reassuring smile, but I kept thinking about how I may have mentally overreacted. That, and I was still kinda worried about Lantern.
"Ozi, are you alright?" She must have sensed me current feeling. I went on to tell her how my best friend moved in for a while and then went on that drunken rampage. "Oh my! Sweetie, you must be worried sick! I'd hate to keep you here while he's out there."
I held up my hooves, "Don't worry, he's a big pony. He has been for a while. He'll make his way back to the house. He's done it before, so I'm not too worried." That last part was a lie. Sure we went through this about eight times a week, but he never went out angry.
Rarity seemed to think for a moment, then finally agreed to stay in the restaurant. "So, did you get that job at Pony Bucks?"
"Yeah! It's great. Free coffee," I laughed, "Plus, I can afford groceries without having to dig through my suitcase."
Rarity laughed at that, "That's good to hear."
"Yeah. What about Carousel Boutique? Anything new with the place?"
"Why, yes! I'm starting a new line of clothes for stallions, but I'm having trouble getting some of the shape down. You see, I'm used to making dresses and clothes for mares." She explained.
"If you need, I can help as a model. I'll even see if Lantern will help, too." I offered.
"That would be lovely!" Her face lit up in excitement, but then she recoiled, "But I couldn't ask you to do that. I don't want to-" I held up my hoof to interrupt her.
"It'll be fun. I volunteered." I gave her the warmest smile I could, "Besides, it gives me a reason to be near a pretty mare." Wait, I didn't think I was going to say that out loud.
She gave me a smile, and her eyes sparkled like gems. "You think I'm pretty?"
"Well," Ozo, don't feather this up "Yes." I grabbed my drink, but before Rarity said anything, the waiter returned with our food. He barely threw his eyes to me, instead he took the time to ogle the mare across from me. "Move along." I said after he placed the plates on the table, which was completely unlike me to start any confrontation. It felt so... real. My heart was pounding, my head was light, and my hooves felt clammy, but I was focused. Rarity was looking at me with surprise. I wanted more, "She's mine."
The waiter scoffed and left the table. Lucky for us, I waited until he couldn't spit in our food before randomly snapping at him. I don't know why in the hay I did it. "So, I'm 'yours' now?" Rarity spoke. And now the embarrassment came back.
"S- Sorry. I just didn't like the way he kept staring at you." I looked down, starting to feel ashamed. I looked up when I felt a hoof on my own. I looked up and saw she was holding my hoof on the table. I smiled.
"A true gentlepony will always defend the mare he's with." She smiled warmly. We dug in to our foods and before we knew it, we were leaving the restaurant. "Where to next, Ozi?"
"Well, it's only 8-ish, so we could go to the park." I shrugged.
"That sounds lovely." Rarity agreed. "We shouldn't stay out too late. It's supposed to get colder tonight."
"Well, how about we go to the Boutique? We could stay warm in there.
Rarity gasped, "Ozone! Are you implying that we mate!?"
What.
"What?! I wasn't implying that! I was just-" I was cut off by a pony behind me placing a hoof on my shoulder. I turned and saw a tall stallion wearing a hat with a gold star and a chord around the band.
"Are you Ozone?" he asked. Oh no. I sighed.
"Yes, I am. Where is he?" I asked. At least he's safe.
"We have him down at the station. Come with me."
The cage doors of a cell in the Ponyville Detention Facility rattled open. Lantern was passed out on the concrete floor. "C'mon, Lantern." I mumbled more to myself then actually my buddy, "Get up, bro." I managed to get him to wake up and sit up on the bed. "Hey, buddy, how're you feeling?"
"I- I'm hurting, Zo Zo. They- They won't let me have any meds, or any ale."
"It's because you're in prison, Lanti." I called him by his teenage nickname. I told him to hold on for a second, then turned to the officer. "How much will it cost to bail him out?"
"1,500 bits. Public intoxication, disorderly conduct, fighting, and vandalism tend to add up, sorry."
Ponyfeathers, 1,500 was going to put me under for about a month. But this was Lantern, so I had to get him out. "It'll take almost all my bits, but I'll get him home."
"Very well, I'll get a release form. You can take him home tonight and I'll send an officer to your residence tomorrow morning to collect the finances." I thanked him and he left.
"Lanti-" I tried talking to him, but I was interrupted by a certain alabaster mare.
"You should be ashamed of yourself, Mr. Jack-O-Lantern!" She suddenly transformed into our 10th grade teacher. It was high school all over again. "Putting Ozone in this position, and having to spend nearly every bit he has, is a low move for a so-called 'Best Friend'! I demand you apologize to Ozone this instant!"
I was waiting for Lantern to explode by that point: no one ever spoke to him like that without him snapping back, but instead he hung his head low. "I'm sorry, Zo zo."
"Hey, Lanti, don't worry about it! I'll make those bits again in no time." I gave him a smile, even though he was still looking down, but then Rarity turned to me.
"And you ! How can you be so easy going about this? Your friend's recklessness is going to cost you a fortune to get him home."
"Hey, Rarity, calm down. These things happen to everypony. Besides, I don't care how much it costs, he's my bro, and I'll get him out of here."
"Hmph, typical stallion; willing to give up so much hard work for their friends." I was about to ask what in the hay that was supposed to mean, but she seemed to calm down. "But the loyalty is an admirable trait in a coltfriend."
Did she say coltfriend?
"Uhhh," I tried to speak, but I really couldn't think of anything. My brain was still processing what she had said about coltfriend. Coltfriend, that's right! Bring that up! ask her! "Coltfriend? I-I'm your c-col-coltfriend?"
Rarity giggled, "Well, no. But I will say I like the idea."
She did say coltfriend.
Score! And this time for real! Wait, I can't ask her out here. We're in prison. That's so unromantic. The officer pony returned with a release form: It asked his name, my name, my connection with him, both of our addresses, and other basic information things about when they can contact me if I'm needed in any way. It also had a "time out:" line, so a quick glance at the clock told me it was almost 9:30. I jotted down the time with the pen in my mouth and told the officer I'd be back in after just a second. It would be best if I went ahead and sent Rarity on her way back home. The officer said he'd get Lantern's belongings while I was outside.
The front door opened with a jingle as we stepped outside. The wind was getting pretty chilly. "I'm so sorry this date had to be cut short." I apologized. You're on a good path, Ozo. Don't forget to officially ask her out.
"No need to apologize, darling. Besides it's been the most entertaining date I've ever been on." she nuzzled against my neck, sending a heat wave of nervousness throughout my body. At least I wasn't cold anymore.
Ozo, Ask her out. Right.
"Hey, Rarity." I began, but stopped to figure out how to word my question.
"Yes, Ozi? What is it?" She had a look of curiosity on her face, but I had a feeling she knew what I was about to ask.
Ask her out!
"Well, If it's alright with you.." Have some confidence and ask her out right feathering now! "Um, Rarity, I would like you..."
"Yes?" She leaned a little bit closer.
ASK FOR THE LOVE OF CELESTIA.
"Rarity, will you be my-" I was finally going to ask, but a voice that wasn't Rarity's cut me off.
"Ozone?" It was Brewer. What in the hay was she doing here? She made her way up to me as quickly as she could without running.
"Hey, boss, what are you doing here?" I asked.
"I went by your house because I read about your friend in the newspaper. I wanted to make sure you were ok... And to do this."
"To do wha-" I was instantly cut off by Brewer's lips meeting my own. I stood there like a dumb colt that had just been asked a question by Celestia herself. This was my first real kiss that wasn't just a nervous peck from a teenage relationship. This was a full on, out of the blue passionate kiss that you would only find in your mom's romance novels.
Oh... Oh Ponyfeathers.
Author's Note
Believe it or not, I actually had to bail a friend out of holding for public intoxication and fighting in a bar, which kinda gave me the idea for this chapter. It cost me about $200 since it was JUST public intoxication, but two hundred bits isn't going to put Ozo in a financial snag, will it?
Maybe - The Story of Ozone
Explanations
"I'm so sorry..." Brewer was seated on my couch.
"Don't be, You didn't know. If I had known you had an interest, I would have talked to you about it." I paced back and forth in the living room. Lantern came in (still slightly buzzed, but he was coming down) with a few cups of coffee, even though it was nearly 11 at night. My mind went back to two hours before and kept replaying it over and over in my head.
"Well, It seems like you have a special somepony already!" Rarity shouted; furious about what had just taken place right in front of her.
"Rarity, no! She's not my special somepony!" I tried to explain, but she wasn't going to have any of it.
"Oh really?! Then why ever did she just kiss you?! Has this all been a game? Some twisted revenge for how I made you think we were dating?" By this point, tears were forming in her eyes. "I truly thought you were a better pony than that, Ozone. I thought you were a true gentlepony." Brewer was starting to cower behind me.
"Rarity, It's not what it looks like. Just calm down and-" I was suddenly cut off by a hoof slapping me across the face.
"Don't you dare tell me to calm down!" I held up a hoof to where I was just struck; it stung like a parasprite bite. Rarity looked down at her hoof and then back to me. She was on the verge of breaking down there, but she managed to turn around and run off without a word more.
"Ozone-" Brewer began, but I stopped her. I turned back to the Ponyville Detention Center and went inside to get Lantern.
"I guess the cat's out of the bag, huh? I like you, Ozone. I've never really had anyone in my life before I got a job at Pony Bucks, but even then no one came in for more than a few seconds to order coffee. The time I spent with you at work on Thursday and Friday may have seemed like such a short amount of time, but they meant so much to me." The tears were streaming down her face and she sounded like she was choking when she spoke.
Half of me wanted to wrap my hoof around her, but the other said that would cause mixed signals. Instead, I sat in one of the two chairs that faced the couch. I took a sip from the coffee that Lanti had brought in and instantly remembered why I was the one who made the coffee whenever we spent any amount of time together. Lantern noticed my cringe, so he made a good laugh while he could.
"It's fine, Brewer." Except it wasn't: Rarity was mad at me to no end, I was nearly out of bits, my job would be kinda awkward after what Brewer did, My first real kiss was with a mare I didn't even know liked me, Lantern was still half-buzzed and I-
I really wanted to take a nap.
My eyes were heavy and my chest felt hollowed out, but at the same time it was like stones were pressing down on me. I wanted to close my eyes, fall asleep, and wake up whenever all of this blew over. But I knew things had to be taken care of.
"First thing in the morning, I'm going by Rarity's to try and sort this out." By this point, the room had started spinning and I could barely keep my eyes open. "I think I'm going to lie down for a bit."
"You don't look very good, Zo Zo." Lantern said, but I don't really remember if I said anything. Actually, I don't remember much after that, except that the floor was flying towards my face really really fast.
I woke up on my bed. The feathered pillow was a softer touch from the brief impact with the floor that I barely remembered from last night. I was awake, but my eyes weren't open just yet. Somepony else was in my bed with me, I could feel their weight pressing down on the bed in front of me. It was probably Lanti; my foreleg was tossed over his shoulders and he gave off a strong scent of coffee. That's strange, he normally smells like pumpkins and cigarette smoke . I cracked my eyes open and saw his forest green mane tickling my muzzle...
Wait a minute.
Green mane. Coffee smell. Small shoulders... Oh sweet Luna's flank, I was in bed with Brewer! I'm not sure what caused it, but somehow I had gone from lying in the bed to crashing onto the floor beside my bed. Luckily, Brewer didn't wake up from the noise. Well, all that I can do is sneak out of here . I stepped out of my room as lightly as I could and closed the door behind me carefully so I wouldn't wake up my surprise bed guest. Then, I slumped to the floor, with my back against the wall.
"Problems?" Lantern called from the living room.
"Brewer." I said quietly, getting up to walk over to him, retaking my seat from the night before. "If we didn't have to work, you and I would be hitting the bar right now. I need a drink."
Lantern let out a sharp laugh, "We don't have to work today, you do. I'm going to the bar anyway." True, he didn't work here in Ponyville. How long of a vacation did he take?
"Be sure to pick up something and bring it back. Get something harder than cid-" I was cut off by a very loud knocking at the door. "I would answer it, but now I'm frightened." I shot a look over at Lantern.
"Hey, it's your house, not mine."
"Ponyfeathers." I got out of my chair as another barrage of knocks pounded on the door. I managed to save the door from being beaten off its hinges with a turn of the handle, that's when two cyan hooves followed by a rainbow slammed into my chest and pushed me to the floor.
"You have a lot of nerve doing that to Rarity!" Rainbow Dash shouted at me. I had to regain my senses for a second.
"What?" Was all that came out.
"Don't play dumb! You played with Rarity when you were really seeing that coffee pony!" She pressed her hooves down harder. By now, Lantern was standing over us. I told him he could contribute to this at any time. He responded by looking at the rainbow pony.
"Wanna drink?" He asked. I really wanted to facehoof. This mare was on the verge of punching me to death and all he can do is hit on her. Suddenly, a rope lassoed around Rainbow Dash and pulled her off of me.
"Simmer down, Rainbow!" I recognized that voice, I looked up and saw Big Mac's sister enter my home. What was her name again? "We can't make him apologize if he's beaten, can we?" She trotted in and helped me to my hooves. "Now, start talkin'."
"What happened last night was an accident." I began, "I asked Rarity to a date because I liked her. We- we had dinner and my bro, Lantern," I waved a hoof to him, "He got arrested so I had to bail him out. I walked Rarity outside and out of- and out of nowhere my boss shows up and kisses me. I didn't even know she like me! I tried telling her it wasn't what she thought, but she slapped me and ran off." The heavy feeling on my chest came back and a lump formed in my throat.
"Rarity's gone and locked herself in the Carousel Boutique. She was hurt about last night, plus feels awful about slapping you and sent us to get you. She told us most of what happened, but the rest kinda turned into a bunch'a giberish from the crying."
"That you caused." The rainbow pony mumbled.
"What happened last night was just a big misunderstanding," Lantern chirped in, "I was drunk off my flank and I could understand what had happened." He left to go dig his pack of cigarettes out of his saddlebags. "You guys run off to the place-thing, I'm getting more smokes." And that's what we did.
I followed Big Mac's sister and Rainbow Dash to Carousel Boutique while Lantern went to probably get drunk and buy more cigarettes. I realized that Brewer was still in my bed. Thank Celestia's sun she didn't come out and try to defend me. That would have looked bad.
On the walk up to the door, I felt like I could already hear Rarity crying. A weight was pressing down on my shoulders, it said to turn around and run, but at this point turning around wasn't an option. I saw three other ponies: Pinkie, Twilight, and a yellow pony I didn't remember. Twilight was the first(and only) pony to speak. "There you are, Applejack."
Applejack nudged me to the door of the Boutique, "Go on, now." She wasn't angry like Rainbow Dash was, but she certainly wasn't very happy: Disappointed.
Everything was moving in slow motion. I saw myself move up to Rarity's door, but I don't remember moving my legs. As if something was moving me while I was forced to watch, my hoof knocked on the door.
"It's unlocked, now." A voice quietly spoke from the other side. I opened the door and made my way inside, closing the door behind me. "Hello, Ozone." Rarity was across the room.
"Rarity." I hung my head a little bit, "Let me explain..."
Maybe - The Story of Ozone
"You don't have to explain anything. If you want to be with her, then go. I wanted you to come by so I could apologize for slapping you." Her voice sounded distant.
"Rarity, that's what I-"
"No no, you don't have to explain anything. I'm sorry for slapping you." She turned away as if to leave.
"Rarity, please just let me talk." With a sigh she agreed and turned to face me again. Her sapphire eyes seemed dull when she looked at me. Her blank expression felt like it was cutting away at my heart. "What happened last night- with my boss- it was just a misunderstanding." I took a pause, expecting her to interrupt me. When she didn't say anything I continued, "I didn't even know she liked me, so when she kissed me... it was completely by surprise! Nothing went on between us and there's still nothing between us. She's my boss and my friend: nothing more." I stopped to catch my breath, and then decided that was a good stopping point. For now.
"I see." Her expression stayed blank, but her stare softened a bit.
"I honestly don't know why you even flipped out like that. Or why you slap-"
"I like you," she cut me off as she started stepping closer to me in a hostile manner, "I'm always either making dresses or spending time with my friends. I had no stallion in my life until you came along. Sure I've had stallions ask me out before, but you... You're different. You would have completely cut me out of your life if Scissor Clip hadn't brought you here while you were high as a kite off the chemicals! And for some foalish reason, I wanted that. I wanted to know the stallion I accidentally hurt for some stupid misunderstanding. I wanted him to ask me to be his fillyfriend." By this point, she was just a few inches away from my face. If I wasn't taller than her, she'd be glaring down at me. I was afraid she was going to slap me again.
"And I wanted to ask you out. I was about to when Brewer came out of nowhere and kissed me." I swallowed the lump in my throat before continuing, "I wanted the beautiful mare, you to be my fillyfriend! And if it means anything, I still do. Everything went exactly how I wanted it to until the point where Lantern was arrested. And I definitely didn't want Brewer to kiss me." Even though she was a good kisser. Best not to tell her that part "I'm sorry for what happened, and I'm sorry if things didn't work out-" my last words were cut off...
My very first fillyfriend was a mare named Morning Light. She and her parents were on a trip across Equestria to see a giant music expo that was raising attention for the innocence of a radio DJ. I met them when they passed through Manehattan when I was a teenager. We went on a "date" and ended it with a peck on the cheek as she chased after the wagon her family was driving.
Next came a blue maned DJ named Vinyl, but that didn't last long either. I was a stallion by then, so we had a few drinks, a few laughs, and a quick kiss on the lips. A few days later, she discovered a love for a cellist. I never heard from her again.
Third was a business mare named Amber Rain. I never even held her hoof, much less kissed her. She just said she needed the feel of having an innocent coltfriend again since her husband was getting boring.
Lastly as a two part, there was that surprise kiss- a real, passionate kiss- from Brewer. It was my first kiss and I wasn't even expecting it. And now-
Rarity.
She had her front legs wrapped around my neck to lift her up close enough so she could have her lips pressed firmly- yet affectionately- against mine. They were sweet, soft, moist, and most importantly connected to mine.
Idiot! Kiss her back! Oh right!
I did as my conscience told me, returning the kiss as passionately as my inexperience would allow. In other words: it wasn't that much, but it was enough. The kissing became more aggressive, making me a little nervous, but she pulled away soon afterward.
"Yes." She said.
Yes? Yes what? She must have noticed my confusion. She giggled.
"Yes, I'll be your fillyfriend."
"When did I-" I started to ask when I asked her out, but she kissed me again.
"What will you do about your boss?" She asked.
I thought for a moment. I had no idea what I was going to do about Brewer. "She knows how I feel towards you. She admitted she didn't know, and she said it won't happen again." That last part wasn't exactly a lie, but it wasn't necessarily the truth. I certainly hope it doesn't happen again!
"Well, you should at least go and let her know our stand point." She gave me one last kiss before shooing me out the door to her audience of friends. I gave them a smile and told them what had happened and where I was going. Rainbow Dash's attitude seriously changed after I told them everything. She even congratulated me. Best to get back to Alfalfa. Or Coffee Lobby, whichever worked.
The door to Alfalfa creaked open. It had never done that, but after Rainbow's assault, I'm not too surprised. "Welcome back!" Lantern called out from the kitchen. For once, he didn't sound drunk, but there was a familiar smell in the house.
"Lanti, have you been smoking inside?!" I shouted.
"Sorry bro, I had forgotten, but I ran outside with my cig as soon as I remembered." Ponyfeathers, it was going to take a lot of air cleanser to cover that smell. I didn't have a problem with cigarette smoke: I even smoked once in a while with Lantern, and I still had a nearly whole pack in my room somewhere.
"Is Brewer still here?" I asked, peeking into the kitchen.
"Yeah, she's in your room." He gestured down the hall. By then, Brewer had appeared behind me. She smiled and we exchanged hello's before going back to my room to talk.
"What's wrong, Ozo?" she asked.
"I need to tell you about me and Rarity." Her face gave an expression that seemed to be a mixture of hopes that things didn't work out and acceptance if things did. I took a deep breath, thinking of how to say what I needed. "Rarity and I spoke, and we decided that we," I paused, closed my eyes and took another breath, "will start dating." She didn't make a sound. I couldn't even hear her breathing, so I cracked my eyes open to see her with her jaw dropped.
Uh oh. This can't be good.
She looked at the floor, at me, at other various items in the room, then back to me. When she started shaking, I knew I was in a jam. The same weight returned to my chest and on my shoulders. "Celestia damn you!" She finally shouted, causing me to flinch. "I go out of my way to find you in the middle of the night and kiss you and this is what I get? Do you have any idea how much that took?!"
Nope, not good at all.
"Brewer, I-"
"No! Don't you dare start talking! I've been working in that damn coffee shop- by myself - for years! Just once I wanted somepony to lean on, and talk to, and kiss just like Bon Bon did!" She was frantic, she picked up the clock on the night stand and threw it at me. I managed to duck in time, but not fast enough for the photo.
The photo. The one of me and my Grandpa at the Summer Sun Celebration. The frame cracked against my head with a loud snapping sound and the shattered glass cut the photo itself.
That photo was the last thing that I had from him. When I saw the shreds of paper flutter to the floor, it felt like everything was gone in my life. I didn't even care that the broken glass had cut my face a bit.
"Ozone! I'm so sorry!" Brewer scrambled over to me and pressed her hooves against the cut to try and stop the bleeding when Lantern charged in.
"Get away from him! What did you do?!" He shouted, prying Brewer away and standing between the two of us. I was still looking down at the cut up photo. I wanted to snap and yell at Brewer. I wanted to show her the picture and what she did to it. I wanted to make her cry for what she did to my grandpa. I wanted her to feel like manure for hurting me. But I was a forgiving pony, and even though I thought I'd never forgive somepony if this exact situation were to occur, I still found a small- a small - fiber of forgiveness and decided to test its strength.
"Lanti, calm down. It's fine." I placed my hoof on his shoulder. Judging from the look of pure fear on Brewer's face, she needed a calming side. Thank you, forgiveness strand.
"Ozone, I freaked out, I'm so sorry. I just thought I'd finally had somepony in my life that I could call mine. I guess I was just being foalish, I hadn't even told you." She hung her head away from Lantern's glare.
"Down boy, " I whispered to Lantern, who seemed to ease up a bit. "Look, Brewer, you're my boss and my friend. If Lanti here wanted to go out drinking, you'd be somepony I'd invite, not somepony I would tell I can't come over because I'm working later than normal." I cracked a smirk at my own joke, "I see Rarity in a way I want to date her, and I see you in a way I see Lantern. I want to be your friend." I offered my hoof to her.
She looked from me to the hoof, "It'll take some time." She slowly placed her hoof in mine, "I- I'll give it a try." I smiled at her. Brewer was my friend and I wanted it to stay that way.
"I need a smoke." Lantern laughed, leaving out of Alfalfa. I shortly followed him. "Want one?" He levitated the pack over to me. What the hay? I figured, taking one. "Just one second." He cast a small spark from his horn to light the thing.
"Thanks, bro." I waved my hoof in a playful salute as I made my way back to Rarity. I sure hope she doesn't mind the smoke. But Lantern called out to me.
"Hey, Zo Zo."
"Yeah?" I answered.
"Well, I was wondering if I could move in. Permanently." I'm not surprised. In fact, I'm surprised he didn't ask sooner. We always ended up in the same place anyway. It would be the first time we were actually roommates.
"Sure thing. Just don't smoke inside." We shared a laugh at that. Ponyville was my home now that my brother was with me.
"There you are, Ozone. Why do you smell like smoke?"
"Oh, uh, Lantern was smoking in the house." Not a lie, but also not the truth.
"Good, I can't stand the smell. Be sure to take a bath later." She smiled at me. She still seemed a bit shaken up from last night, but she was definitely in a much better mood. I laughed at her comment about the bath and kissed her on the cheek.
"Well, I talked to Brew-"
"Ozi, what happened to your face?!" She must have finally caught a glimpse of the gash above my eye.
"Oh, just a flying photo frame, don't worry abouuuuuuuu-" My voice drug off as I felt her gentle kiss on my forehead. It stung at first from the injury, but it started to feel better. "Saaaahah I should get injured more often."
"If you do, I won't do this." She took my face in both hooves and pressed her lips against mine as passionately as she could. My mind was melting. If it wasn't for the fact that her kiss made me fall to my flank, I would have stayed like that all day. Rarity noticed how her kiss affected me and giggled, "I'm going to have fun with that."
"Oh, hush." I smiled at her, trying to hide my embarrassment.
"That's not very nice," she said as she stepped over me, her lips just inches away from mine again. Just as I leaned in to kiss her, she pulled away.
"Hey, neither was that!" I moaned. She giggled and got me to my hooves. We went over to the couch, took a seat, and Rarity snuggled against me as I put my forelegs around her.
"Well, we have plenty of time to do more of that." She said warmly.
I sighed happily. I was on my way to an awesome life: an amazing fillyfriend, my best friend was moving in, I made minor amends with Brewer, and I finally found my new home.
I kissed Rarity's forehead and smiled.
Author's Note
I had the hardest time brainstorming for this chapter. I didn't know what to write at all, so I spent all day throwing bologna at the wall (which is still there from 11 this morning: 8/14/2013) I made koolaid, went driving around for a bit, bought a pack of Marlboro's(never had them before), came back, dumped a pitcher of koolaid that was made and finally sat down and started winging it.
Oh, and this may or may not be the last chapter. Might do an epilogue later on.
Maybe - The Story of Ozone
It's been three months since Rarity and I started dating. I got my hair back to the green and black, and Rarity got a popular fashion trend going for stallions; thanks to me and Lanti.
Jack-O-Lantern moved the rest of his stuff to Alfalfa. He even got a job at Bold Colt's serving- and drinking- some of Ponyville's strongest alcohols. And even though it was a rough road, he and Bean Brewer started to get along.
Brewer and I still work at the coffee shop (which was renamed "The Coffee Lobby" thanks to my suggestions to Bon Bon) and we get nearly three times as many customers nowadays. Must have been the name change.
Even though Rainbow and I are getting along, she still threatens me every now and then with "If you break her heart, you'll have another thing comin'." She's a real charmer.
Big Macintosh became a pretty good friend to me and Lanti. But after a night of hard drinking, strippers, running from the cops, being tackled by the cops, and being bailed out by Rarity using my bits, he's learned a fear of the phrase "Hey Big Mac, wanna get drinks?"
I help Rarity with fillysitting her sister and the other two "Cutie Mark Crusaders" sometimes. I have to make sure my brain can still comprehend reality after spending time with the three hyperactive fillies.
With more customers in the Coffee Lobby, Bon Bon also gets more customers at her Chocolatier. I get more bits than normal, meaning I can afford to bail Lanti out every once in a while. Bon Bon and her fillyfriend, Lyra, spend more of their time rolling in the bits they make.
Big Mac and Golden Harvest are still a thing.
Rarity and I enjoy our relationship to the fullest: we go out, we stay in, she even taught me how to kiss properly, and we only fight when we need to. It is the first real relationship I've ever been in. If anypony asks me if I missed Baltimare, I tell them they are crazy if they think I didn't. But my home is Ponyville, now. It's where my best friend and my fillyfriend live.
If anypony asks me if moving to Ponyville was a good decision, I look at them, I give them a smile and before I turn back I say one thing:
"Maybe."