Artist's Block

by Hot Dog Jones

Rating: teen
Tags: Slice of Life, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Romance, Original Character, Cutie Mark Crusaders
Length: 22909

Sketch is a happy colt living in Manehattan, but what'll happen when he has to leave it all behind?

Sketch's life has changed. Having left his hometown and past friends and lovers, what'll befall him when he moves to Ponyville? What will he keep, and what will he lose?

Published 2012-03-04 09:04:02 UTC
Last updated 2012-07-13 01:02:00 UTC

Chapter 1 - Irreplaceable

Chapter 1 - Irreplaceable

"We're MOVING?!" I exclaimed to my mother as she gave me the news.

"I'm afraid so, darling," she said back, "Now, now. Don't look so glum! You'll have plenty of friends in Ponyville, I'm sure of it."

"But nobody can ever replace Starshine, mom. You know that."

"I know, I know." She stroked my mane softly as she saw my sad expression. "I'm sure Starshine is important to you, but I'm afraid you'll have to let her go. Maybe you'll find somepony new - hope for the best, Sketch," she added with a sort of grim smile.

"But I don't want somepony new!" I said back, "I want her." My mother just shook her head apologetically and walked out of my room. I sat on my bed, sulking. How would I ever tell Starshine I was moving? And to Ponyville of all places? That town's in like, the middle of nowhere. Would I even get to visit her? What would we spend our final days together doing? Would she hate me?

These endless questions continued to plague my mind as I slept. Actually, scratch that. I couldn't sleep. I tossed and turned in my bed, but the sleep wouldn't come. I must have laid there for hours, trying to sleep.

But that's when I decided I had to take action. That's when I decided it was time to set things right. I got out of my bed and walked out the front door.

The night air was cold and chilled my fur, but it didn't matter. Nothing mattered, because I was going to see the filly I loved. I could see Starshine's cottage in the distance, we didn't live very far. My heart pounded in my chest as I walked through the streets. I was nervous, but I was determined to fix this. With a confident look on my face, I finally reached her house. I hoped she would understand me waking her, but on the other hoof, this was important.

I picked up a few small pebbles. I had only seen this in movies, but I hoped it would work. I drew back my hoof and then threw a stone towards her window. With a few rock throws, I finally saw her open the blinds. Huh, so the movies were right for once. She appeared at the window tired, but happy to see me.

"Sketch? Why are you here this late?" She said.

"Listen, Starshine.. We need to talk."

***

I brought her up to our secret place, a tall hill with a shady tree on top. We sat down, enjoying the cool night air for a moment before I finally spoke the bad news. "Jeez, um.. How to say this.." I said, stumbling over my words.

"Sketch, it doesn't matter what you say. I'll still love you," she said, putting her head on my shoulder.

I sighed and began my explanation. "Starshine.. I'm moving away from Manehattan." I hung my head and continued, trying not to look the filly in the eyes. "We're going to Ponyville so my mom can work for a new client there, somepony who runs a boutique or something.. You're not mad, are you?" She simply smiled and put her hoof under my chin, slowly bringing my head back up.

"Don't worry," she said, "I'm not mad. I'll send you letters, and we can still visit, and.. Well, it's not that bad." She said, trying to cheer up my mood. "We still have the time until you move, anyway.."

There was a long silence. I was going to say something, but I stopped, feeling Starshine's hoof on top of mine. She looked me straight in the eyes, and I knew everything was going to be okay.

"I love it when she does that," I thought to myself.

***

That week, we were on top of the world. It was just me and her, and we were madly in love. I drew pictures of her, and she giggled with excitement whenever I did. We went to big meadows and rolled down the grassy hills together. We visited the beach and made sand sculptures of eachother. We weren't Sketch or Starshine - we were us. But then something particularly magic rolled around, right before the day of my move.

I awoke slowly around 10:00, glad to be on winter break away from school. I reached for my glasses, and when I put them on, I was astonished.

Outside my window was the most beautiful blanket of snow I had ever seen.

I ran downstairs in my excitement, grabbing my coat and running out the door. My parents didn't question it- They always knew what I did for the first snow. I ran straight to the local coffee shop, and didn't hesitate to buy two hot cocoas. Putting them in my saddlebag, I headed straight for Starshine's house.

I knocked a few times right before hearing hoofsteps and the opening of a door. There was Starshine, already prepared to spend the first snow with me, and not to mention looking pretty as ever. I handed her the cocoa and we walked down to our secret spot, ready to spend the day together.

***

We had just come in from the snow after spending what would probably be our last first snow together. Now it was time for the last part of the day, and arguably the best one.

It was the time we spent together, just cuddling by a fire. We laid there, holding each other, and simply talked about things. I knew I had to bring up the subject some time, and so I tried my best not to make it too sad.

"Starshine, I just want you to know that this past week was the time of my life. Thank you for everything you've done for me, and even when I move, I'll never forget you," I said to her, a tear in my eye.

She smiled and said, "Sketchy, you're the best coltfriend I could ever hope to have, and I want you to know that even though you're moving, I'll still love you. I always will. And even though it seems like I'm gone, I'll always be with you, in your thoughts and in your heart."

It was that moment where we shared a kiss. This wasn't a normal kiss though - it was the most magical kiss I've ever experienced- No, the most magical kiss in all of history. My heart pounded furiously, and my mind refused to think. And everything just stopped.

Chapter 2 - Goodbye

"So I guess this is goodbye," I said to Starshine.

We were at the train station, and I was scheduled to leave in a few minutes. This may be the last time I would see Starshine, so I had to make things count.

"No, Sketch, it's never goodbye. We'll still have mail, and visiting, and-"

I stopped her sentence with a kiss. I wished it could have lasted forever, just me holding her and having us kiss. But I knew it had to end some time. Our lips parted, and I could see my train in the distance; I knew what we said here would count forever. But we said nothing - just merely smiled at eachother. I got on the train and sat down in a compartment, immediately going to a window. The train started to move, and we looked at eachother until we were just tiny specks on the horizon.

I laid down on my seat and sighed in my grief. Who knew what Ponyville would be like? Would I meet new friends?Maybe even a new marefriend? What would I do?

I sighed and tried to push all the questions out of my mind. Eventually I fell asleep, the light clicks of the track being my lullaby.

***

I awoke to the sound of my mother calling my name. "We're almost there, Sketch. You should get your things." I sat up and rubbed my head. The seat of a train wasn't really the most comfortable place to sleep. Through the small window, I could see Ponyville coming up in the distance.

I grabbed my saddlebags and my sketchbook, ready to see my new home. The train came to a halt, and I moved for the doors.

"Huh," I thought, "So this is my life now." I came out of the train door, looking at what seemed like a simple town- a few shops here and there, many houses lining the streets. Either that, or just all the shops looked like houses... I was confused to say the least: I hadn't expected something this simple. Where were the skyscrapers and the roads? Was this it?

As I walked down the.. Well, supposed street, I noticed that everypony was much nicer to eachother than in Manehattan. It was like one of those rare towns you would find in the middle of nowhere. Actually, that was probably what it was.

My parents stopped me at a strange looking shop. It was shaped like a merry-go-round, like one you would find at a carnival- Heck, it almost seemed rideable. I noticed a sign hanging above the door- "Carousel Boutique." I knew this must be the pony my mom was working for.

"Sketch, your father and I think you should meet my new client," she said to me, putting on her best smile. Welp, just as I thought. Hoping that this pony wasn't crazy, (I mean, her place was shaped like a fair attraction,) I entered the shop, my parents behind me.

"Welcome to Carousel Boutique," a very dainty looking pony said, "How can I help y- Oh, Bit Star! How nice to see you, did you just come from the station? I must get you some cider right away!"

"That's not necessary, we're just here to stop in and introduce you to our son," my father replied.

"Ooooh, I had no idea you had a son, Civil! What's your name, little guy?" she said to me with a smile. Jeez, it sounded like she was talking to her cat.

"Sketch," I replied, an unamused look on my face.

"Sketch? Oh, what a pretty name. I'm Rarity. Are you into art?" This pony was starting to freak me out.

"Yeah.." I said, hoping to get off the subject of me.

"That's just lovely! You'll have to draw something for me one of these days," she said with a grin. "But for now, we must get you home! You must be exhausted." Now that she mentioned it, I was a bit tired despite my nap on the train. My parents and I started walking out of the simple store.

"Thanks for everything, Rarity! See you tomorrow!" my parents called back to her.

***

Soon after, we arrived at our new house. It was a simple little cottage that was surprisingly spacious. It wasn't that special, but its simplicity is what made it cozy. “My new home,” I thought as I observed my new room. It was already fixed up with some furnishings, which was nice – I just wanted to lie down and think instead of unpacking. I noticed some parchment on my desk, and I decided to write Starshine a letter. I really missed her, and now was as good a time as any. So I picked up a quill and began to write..

“Dear Starshine,

Let me start off by saying that I really miss you. Like, a lot. My life feels empty without you by my side, and I’m certain you feel the same way. But away from the mushy stuff, let me tell you what’s been going on.

I met my mom’s employer, and she seems really nice – A bit ‘posh’ we’ll say, but nice. Maybe I can get her to send you a dress or something. And the cottage by the forest is alright. We’ve only got one neighbor, but he or she hasn’t talked to us at all yet. Also, I haven’t been to the schoolhouse or anything yet. I guess I haven’t seen that much of the town, but I really just wanted to let you know that I love and miss you, and that’ll never change.

Love,

Sketch”

I sighed and folded the paper, promptly placing it in an envelope. I put her name on it and went outside to put it in the mailbox. Heading out my door, I saw my new neighbor going for her own mail. She was a bright yellow pegasus with three butterflies as her cutie mark. One look at her house and I could tell what her special talent was. “She must be good with animals: her place looks like a zoo,” I thought to myself with a chuckle.

I waved to her, and she simply muttered, “Hi,” and ran back into her house. “Well, that was… weird,” I thought. “She must be really shy around people.”

I went back inside to my parents. "Sketch," my mother said to me, "Maybe you should go down to the schoolhouse to meet your new teacher."

"Yes, that's a great idea!" my father said, "As long as you don't have anything to do. Besides, winter break does end tomorrow."

"I know, I know.. Don't remind me," I replied, grabbing a coat and heading out the door. I started my way through the streets of Ponyville, looking at all the scenery. It was a lot greener than Manehattan, even on the outskirts where I lived. Since I was new, I saw ponies in the town waving or saying "hi," and I few even came up to me and introduced themselves.

I kept walking, when a pink pony stepped in my path. She looked down at me, and suddenly jumped into the air, screaming. With that, she ran away. ,,There are some crazy ponies in this town.

I finally reached the schoolhouse and stepped in the small door, putting my coat on a rack. At a desk, grading papers (no doubt final exams from early winter) was a dark purple pony who I supposed to be my teacher. Putting on a confident look, I went up to her.

"Excuse me," I muttered. She jerked her head up from her grading so she could see me. "Uh.. Hi. I'm Sketch, the new pony in your class," I explained.

She smiled and said, "Oh, Sketch! I've heard about you. Your parents, Bit Star and Civil, made you sound really great. Just hope you live up to that expectation, eh?" she added with a wink. "I'm Miss Cheerilee, Sketch. Nice to meet you."

We made small talk for a bit. I imagined she wouldn't normally talk to her students like this, so I decided to end the awkward conversation.

"Well, I'll let you get back to grading. See you in tomorrow's class, Miss Cheerilee!" I said, about to leave.

"See you later, Sketch!" she said in response, "I hope you like Ponyville!" I grabbed my coat and trotted out the door, heading for home.

***

"Well, she seems nice," I thought as I went through the door to my room. When I entered though, something seemed a bit.. off. With one look out my window, I suddenly realized what it was. The shy pony's house was quite loud. Odd, for such a meek mare. I went back downstairs and out the door so I could get a closer look. It looked like it wasn't her in the house, but instead a few small ponies. And it also looked like these ponies were breaking everything in the house. My curiosity overtook me, and I went to investigate.

Chapter 3 - Something You're Looking For

I knocked on the door with my hoof. “Hello?” I called, “Is everything alright?” I heard nothing but the sound of things breaking. Most definitely odd. I creaked open the door and poked my head in, not going fully inside. “Hello in there? It’s your neighbor. I heard some weird noises and- oof!” I was hit by a sudden blow to my back, something large and heavy, almost like..

Wow. Wasn’t expecting that. It was a filly, a little bit younger than me by the looks of it. It also looked like she was unconscious. Uh-oh. I let her down and started shaking her, trying to check for signs of injury. "Hey, are you okay?"

“Wake up!” I shouted at the white mare. “Please, get up!” I guessed that she had fallen from the window above the door straight onto me. She was extremely lucky that I was there to break her fall, and that she wasn’t injured more than a bump on the head. She didn’t appear to be bleeding anywhere. I let out a sigh of relief.

Suddenly the commotion upstairs stopped, and I heard voices coming from the open window.

“Where’s Sweetie Belle? She was over there a second ago!”

“Well, we better look for her. Looks like being Cutie Mark Crusader Gymnasts wasn’t such a great idea, especially when pole vaulting’s involved.”

I figured that the young filly in my hooves was the pony they were talking about. And, if they spoke the truth.. Eeyup. I saw a pole and a mattress a bit away from the window. “Who would even think something that crazy?!” I sighed and took the mare inside.

This cottage really looked like it had been through a lot. Most of the animals were scared away, and it looked like these “gymnasts” had taken quite a few falls. And that’s just the downstairs. The upstairs was probably even more of a mess.

I went up the set of steps, filly still in my hooves. Looking over to the upstairs room, I saw two more fillies – one an orange pegasi, and the other a yellow earth pony. They stared at me for a while, and there was a terrible silence. I guess they weren’t expecting to see somepony hauling their friend up the stairs.

“Um... Hi,” I said to break the silence, “I think I have something you’re looking for.”

They still stood there, mouths agape. “Uh.. Ok! So I guess I’ll just be going then,” I said, placing the filly on the floor and turning to the steps.

“But, uh.. You can’t leave now!” the orange one said to me.

So they can talk. Thank Celestia. “Uh.. why not?” I replied in surprise.

“Well, uh.. for one thing, who are you, and another thing, what happened to Sweetie Belle?” the orange one continued.

“Oh, uh.. Well, I’m Sketch. I’m new in town, so you probably don’t know me. As for Sweetie Belle here, I’m not sure, but I think she may have had a, uh.. pole vaulting accident,” I said, trying to withstand my laughter.

The fillies just stared. I guess they weren’t sure what to say next. I had to break the silence yet again.

“So you are?”

“Oh, yeah, um.. I’m Scootaloo, and this is Applebloom,” she replied with a nervous smile. She sat there for a second, blushing, then bumped Applebloom with the side of her hoof. Applebloom then put on a nervous smile as well.

“Well, this is awkward.”

"Listen, I should probably help you fix up Sweetie Belle.. I was outside and I managed to break her fall, but I still think she might be injured." The two fillies nodded in compliance.

"Well, Fluttershy is gonna be back here soon. She'll know what to do," Scootaloo said.

After a few more silences they started to warm up to me. Over the next couple minutes they told me about how they were searching for their cutie marks by doing gym practices, and that the filly who I helped was Rarity’s sister. It clarified a lot of things, but it also put more weight on my shoulders. If I didn’t fix up Sweetie Belle, my mom could be in trouble with Rarity, and we could lose a client. Eep.

As if on cue, Fluttershy came through the door right at that second. "Oh, hey Fluttershy. We, uh.. need 'yer help with somethin'," Applebloom said in her natural southern accent.

At that very moment, Sweetie Belle started to wake up. “Where am I?” she said through her grogginess, “How long’ve I been out?”

Fluttershy nodded, understanding what happened. With a sigh, she picked up Sweetie Belle in her hooves. “Shhh, don’t worry. Let’s get you back to momma,” Fluttershy coaxed. She then took Sweetie Belle out the door and flew her away to the boutique.

There was another silence when Fluttershy was away. I thought I would make the most of it and try to learn more about these strange fillies. “So, you girls go to the schoolhouse with miss Cheerilee, right?”

“Well, duh. It’s the only school in town,” Scootaloo teased.

“And you guys are trying to find your cutie marks from what I hear,” I replied. Scootaloo nodded happily.

“Uhhuh, we’re the Cutie Mark Crusaders! We strive to find our special talents, no matter the cost!”

I grinned and said, “That sounds really cool. I still haven’t found mine either. People say I have a knack for drawing, but I don’t think I’m that good.”

“You can draw? Oooh, draw me, draw me!” Applebloom exclaimed.

“Applebloom!” Scootaloo shot, “Don’t you think he’s done enough tonight?”

I chuckled and said, “No, no, it’s totally fine. I just need some paper.”

About ten minutes later I had a rough sketch of Applebloom.

“Wow,” she said, “that’s so cool! Where’d you learn to do that?”

“I kinda.. taught myself,” I replied with a sheepish grin.

“That’s awesome! Do you mind if I keep it?” she said back.

“No problem,” I said, giving the picture to her. She giggled and put it in a bag that was supposedly hers. “Hehe,” I thought, “That’s almost exactly what Starshine used to do.”

Just a bit later, Fluttershy made it back. “Okay girls, I suppose the sleepover’s off without Sweetie Belle here,” she said with a obviously fake frown.

“Or, we could just hang out with Sketch over here!” Applebloom exclaimed.

“Yeah, he can help us find our cutie marks!” Scootaloo added in. Fluttershy smiled nervously.

“I guess she’s not getting out of babysitting tonight,” I thought with a chuckle.

Me and the Crusaders (minus 1) went upstairs. Most of the evening we went through silly attempts to get cutie marks. The girls even tried their hooves at drawing. I won’t lie, it wasn’t very good. Anyway, eventually we ran out of stuff and none of us had our cutie marks. A few minutes after, though, we heard a knock on the door, and Fluttershy called Applebloom downstairs.

***

“Aw, sis, do I have to?” Applebloom said to Applejack, who had come to pick her up early.

“'Fraid so, sugarcube,” she replied, “We need some help preparin’ for the zap apple harvest tomorrow morning.”

“But I wanna stay here with Scoots and Sketch!”

“Sketch? Who the crabapples is Sketch?”

I went downstairs, hearing my name. “Did somepony call me?”

Applejack smiled and said, “Oh, you must be the new pony in town! Your mum’s helping out Rarity’s boutique, isn’t she?” I nodded. “Well, ain’t that just a bushel full of apples! I hope you like it here,” she exclaimed happily before looking back to Applebloom. “As for you, little missy, we need to get you home before you fall asleep.” Applebloom sighed and waved to me as she went out the door.

"That probably means it's time for bed for you two as well," Fluttershy said, practically pushing us up the stairs. She can at least try to be subtle. Soon, me and Scootaloo were in sleeping bags in the cramped attic area, trying our best to sleep.

Just as I was drifting off, I heard, “Sketch? You still awake?” Only one pony it could be. I looked directly to my left to see Scootaloo looking at me from her bag.

“Yeah,” I said back, “What’s up?”

“I was just thinking: You’re so lucky.”

“Why? I still don’t have my cutie mark either,”

“I know, but you’re so incredibly close. You know what you’re good at already, you just need to get better with it and whammo, look who has their cutie mark.” She sulked a bit, digging her face into her pillow.

“Well, who said drawing had to be my cutie mark? Sure, I’m good, and my name is Sketch of all things, but it could be something else. Maybe even pole vaulting,” I added with a laugh.

She smiled for a second, and then said, “I guess you’re right. I mean, a cutie mark could be anything, you just have to go out there and find it.”

“Kinda like true love.”

“Yeah, kinda.”

We both sat there in silence, and moments later, I fell asleep.

Chapter 4 - Girls

I awoke abruptly. Something – or, somepony – was poking me in the face. “Scootaloo,” I thought, “I am gonna kill you.” I laughed and opened my eyes. Sure enough, it was Scootaloo.

“Mornin, Sketchy,” she said with a giggle.

Sketchy? The only pony who ever called me that was… I squinted my eyes to see Scootaloo holding an envelope in her hooves. I quickly grabbed my glasses. Sure enough, the envelope had “Sketchy” written on it. Facehoof.

“You gonna gimmie that letter or what?” I said to Scootaloo, who was still holding the bright yellow envelope in her hands. “Also, how did you even get it?”

“Your mom found it in the mail this morning and figured she should bring it over,” Scootaloo replied, “So who’s it from, huh? Why does it say Sketchy instead of Sketch?”

“It’s.. A bit of a long story,” I explained.

Scootaloo rolled her eyes and handed me the letter. It didn’t look like she opened it, which was a relief. I carefully parted the envelope and took out the letter inside.

“Dearest Sketchy,

I miss you a lot as well. Not a day goes by where I don’t think about you. I hope that your new life in Ponyville is great – Don’t let me not being there be a damper on it for you. Go make friends, go work, go live. Just remember that I’m by your side through everything, because we share a bond that’s deeper than friendship, and deeper than blood.

We share love.

Starshine”

My stomach leaped when I saw the kiss mark in the corner. It was almost like being back home again. I re-read the letter, and I felt a tear go down my cheek after the last lines.

“Hey, Mr. Emotional!”

I turned my head to see Scootaloo staring at me. “What’s got you all worked up, huh?” she said to me, stifling a laugh.

”Oh, it’s nothing, don’t worry about it,” I said back, trying to throw her off.

“Then how about I see that letter, huh?” she shot back with a devilish grin.

“What? No!” I said, pulling it away from her.

“Guess I’ll just have to take it then,” she said with a determined look. Ulp. She chased me around the room, constantly trying to nab at the letter.

“Please, Scootaloo, this letter’s important to me!” I said, running out of breath.

“Not stopping until you tell me!” she responded. She was quite determined, wasn’t she?

Eventually I ran out of breath, somehow having a smaller stamina than the filly chasing me. I tripped over my sleeping bag and fell to the ground. She took this opportunity to pin me, holding me down on the cold floor. I froze with letter hidden beneath me and Scootaloo on top of me. To make matters worse, she was staring me straight in the eyes, making me blush. This filly was surprisingly strong.

“Scoots, chances are you’re not going to want to read this,” I said in protest.

“Oh, really? Why, huh? What’re you hiding, Sketchy?” she said back with an evil grin. I felt more pressure as she leaned in closer. Our faces were only a few inches away now, and I could feel her hot breath on my muzzle.

“Sketch, Scootaloo, are you ok? I heard- Oh my.”

We both looked over to see Fluttershy at the stairs. There was a bit of a silence, and I was clearly blushing the whole time.

Scootaloo quickly got off me- I could see she was blushing too. There was a long silence before she finally said, "W-We should probably get ready for s-school, right, Sketch?"

"Uh.. Yeah. Let's, uh, do that."

Aaaaawkward.

Soon after, Scootaloo and I were out the door to go to school. There was nothing but silence as we walked, and I wanted to say something, anything to break it, but nothing came to mind. We simply avoided eachother's gaze and blushed uncontrollably. I tried my best to regain my composure as I walked into the schoolhouse. Scootaloo went to her seat, while Cheerilee told me to stand up front for now. Glad that’s over.

“Class,” Miss Cheerilee said, “This is our new student, Sketch. Mind telling us a little bit about yourself?”

“Well, I’m from Manehattan, so I’m used to city life, but I’m sure I’ll like it here just fine. My only real interest is art, so, if you like that I'll get along with you fine,” I said with a chuckle.

“Very good, Sketch. Your seat is over there, right behind Applebloom,” Cheerilee said, pointing to an empty desk near the back of the room. I trotted over to my desk. I was glad I got one in the back, it gave me an opportunity to draw during class (which I had a bad habit of doing.)

Some time later, Applebloom passed me a note. It read: “You look a little beat up. What were you guys doing when I left?”

I flipped it over and wrote, “It’s hard to explain, we had a bit of a mail mishap.” As I passed the note up, the inevitable happened.

“Sketch! Applebloom! Are you passing notes back there?” Oh horseapples. Miss Cheerilee saw us. “I’d like both of you to stay after class.” I felt my face grow hot as the other students laughed. Detention on the first day. Way to screw up, Sketch.

***

After the class had left, me and Applebloom stepped up to Cheerilee's desk shamefully.

“Now, you two,” miss Cheerilee said, looking at us, “You know that note passing distracts you from the lesson?” We nodded. “Do you promise never to do it again?” We nodded again. “Good. Now, as punishment, you two get to wash the school windows. I’ll be in here grading, if you need me. You can get all your supplies from the janitor’s closet,” Cheerilee concluded. Applebloom and I went to get the supplies, heads hung.

***

“So what really did happen with you two?” Applebloom said as we went outside, “Somethin’ I should know about?”

“Oh, that. It’s nothing, just I got a letter, she wanted to read it, I didn’t let her, she chased me, etc, etc,” I responded.

“Why would ya’ not let her read it?”

“It’s from someone back home, and they’re really important to me.. You guys wouldn’t really understand.”

"..Sketch, is there somethin' we should know about yer' past? I mean, it came up a few times last night and-"

"Don't worry about my past, Applebloom. There's nothing odd about it, it's just.." I paused halfway through wiping down the window. I had to stop thinking about Manehattan.

"It's okay, Sketch. You can tell me anythin'. I won't tell the other girls or anyone else if you don't want me to." I looked over at Applebloom, who smiled sincerely.

I stayed silent for a bit, then finally muttered, "..It's a mare."

"Whut?"

"I knew a girl back home. We were.. a bit more than friends, if you know what I mean.. I just.. Miss her."

"..I can understand that, Sketch. Maybe you would feel better if you started lookin' for a new marefriend," she said, her voice taking on a more cheery tone.

I sighed and said, "I'm not really.. good around mares though. I can't do any of those things real stallions do. I'm not dreamy, I can't talk to girls, hell, I can't even dance."

"Y'all can't dance?"

"Nope.. It's like I've got four left hooves."

"It ain't that hard! C'mon, lemme show ya.

I backed away. "Wait, what? No!"

"C'mon, Sketch? You don't wanna dance with me?" she said seductively.

She kept following me as I backed up, and I unfortunately tripped on a rock behind me, kicking down Applebloom on top of me. I was about to push her off, when suddenly..

“How’re you ponies doing on the window washing?” we heard Cheerilee say, coming outside. “Oh.. my.” She stared for a moment, then came to her senses. “That is, just..” she continued, “Well, it’s certainly very cute,” She was clearly giggling to herself. “Why didn’t you just tell me Applebloom was your special somepony?”

“Oh no, she’s not my-“ I was stopped by Applebloom covering my mouth.

“Oh yes, miss Cheerilee! That's.. actually what the note was about.” she said with a fake blush. What is she up to?

“Oh, well if that’s what it was all about, I totally understand. Why, when I was your age, I had someone too. Please, don’t let me get in the way, carry on!” Cheerilee said, backing into the hall.

We got up hastily, and I pushed her away. When Cheerilee was well out of earshot, I said, "What the hay was that all about, Applebloom?!"

"I got you out of detention early, silly. Now c'mon, let's go."

“Wait, is that all that was? A plot to get out of detention?” I shot back.

"Maybe the leaving was just a plus," she said with a wink. She turned and left.

And I just stood there, mouth open.

Chapter 5 - Quite the Catch

After I got home from detention, I dropped my stuff in my room and layed down on my bed. Jeez. Just a colt of 14 and I’m already being used by girls. Where’s my life going?

“Oh, there you are,” my mom said, popping her head in the door, “I was getting worried. Have fun with your friends?” Assuming she had heard about the sleepover, I nodded.

“Well that’s good. Dinner will be done in half an hour, I’ll call you down when it’s finished,” she concluded, heading downstairs to the kitchen. Looks like I have some time.

I picked up a piece of paper, ready to draw. But, what exactly would I draw? I sighed and started on an outline of a pony. But would this pony be a filly or a colt? Filly. Hair long or short? Long, most definitely. Face? I, uh.. Don’t know. Who was I drawing? Was it someone I knew? Well, so far it could be anyone. But who was this anyone? Was it Applebloom, or Scootaloo, or Starshine, or.. “Ugh!” I yelled, crumpling the paper. My mind froze up, and I forgot what was important to me.

Is.. this what my life is now?

I threw the crumpled paper aside. It could go anywhere, hell if I cared. It was that moment when I heard my mom call for me. I sighed and went downstairs.

I didn’t eat, I couldn’t eat. I just picked at my food with my fork, waiting for dinner to be over. Ugh.. Now things are all weird with Applebloom and Cheerilee, and now I'm all awkward with Scootaloo and Fluttershy.. Why did she have to pin me down like that? And why did she blush so much? ..Why did I blush so much?

“So, uh, how was school, son?” my dad said to me, interrupting my thoughts.

“Fine,” I responded, hoping he couldn’t hear my lack of enthusiasm.

After a small silence, my mother said, “Oh, yes! We wanted to let you know that your father got a job with the Ponyville guards!”

“Cool,” I muttered back.

“Also, Rarity said she wanted to thank you about saving Sweetie Belle the other day, so she’s treating you to a suit and a fitting, totally free!” she added with a smile.

I stared back. “Save? When did I save Sweetie Belle?”

“Why, when you caught her of course! She would have been quite injured if you didn’t,” my dad said, “and I’m so proud that you did.”

They think I saved Sweetie Belle intentionally.. It was all just a big mistake though! Why would I save somepony I don’t-

“Saving somepony you don’t even know, now that’s my boy!” my dad added, ruffling my hair.

Well, at least they’re not expecting anything else out of me. I’ve already been through enough since we got here.

“May I be excused? I’m not hungry,” I said to my parents.

“Oh, ok. Be sure to rest up for tomorrow, I doubt you got any sleep at that little stay over of yours,” my mother said with a concerned look. I nodded, washed off my plate, and went upstairs.

I don’t feel like drawing. I don’t feel like anything. I sighed and flopped on my bed. I took off my glasses, but didn’t even bother with the covers. It was just one of those days.

***

I awoke the next morning to the sound of my alarm clock. These things need to go die in a pit. I slammed my hoof down on the bells and they stopped abruptly. I sighed and grabbed my glasses. Groggily trotting downstairs, I heard the sound of hay bacon frying. “Well, I guess today won’t be all bad,” I said to myself with a snicker.

After I ate, I grabbed my stuff and went out the door. Well, I had to give mother nature credit, it was a good day outside. The sun was shining, the birds were chirping, and somepony was running straight in my direction. Wait, what? Who is- My train of thought was stopped suddenly by a hug from a white filly.

“There you are! The stallion who saved my life!” she exclaimed, still not breaking the hug.

“I-It was nothing, really, Sweetie Belle,” I said in protest. Yet she hugged tighter. I noticed I was blushing and broke the hug.

“Heh, sorry if I freaked you out or something,” she said, blushing as well, “but I’m just really glad you were there to catch me. I’ll admit that the pole vaulting was a stupid idea, but thanks.”

I smiled and said, “We better get to school.” She nodded and we started walking.

“Y’know, we actually haven’t formally met,” she said with a chuckle.

“Well, I’m Sketch,” I replied, shaking her hoof.

“Ooh, cool name,” she said, “You must be into art then.”

I nodded and replied, “Yep. You can ask Applebloom, I drew her at the sleepover the other night.”

“Wow, a colt who’s a hero and an artist,” she said with a smile, “Rarity was right when she said you were quite the catch.” Realizing what she had said, she caught herself. “Wait, I mean, uh-“

“It’s ok,” I said back with a chuckle, “I understand.”

She smiled as we kept walking. After a while we made it to school and took our seats. “Okay class,” Miss Cheerilee announced, “Today we’ll be talking about Equestrian History. Everyone take out their textbooks and flip to page 394.” I took out my textbook, but also my sketch book and a few pencils. This was one lesson I was definitely not going to listen to.

***

After class, I had no gained knowledge and a lot of doodles in my book. Suddenly I hear, “Sketch!” I turn around to see Sweetie Belle. “Rarity wanted me to tell you to stop by the boutique today,” she said, “She’s giving you a reward for, y’know, saving me,” she finished with a blush.

“Okay,” I replied, “We can go now if you want.”

“Alright,” she said back. We started down the road.

After a short walk, we reached the boutique. “Welcome to Carousel Boutique, we have a special on- Oh, it’s you!” Rarity said with a smile, “How good to see you again, Sketch.”

“You too, Rarity. My parents said you had something for me?” I responded.

“Oh, yes! Step this way, please,” she said, pointing to an arrangement of suits and some mirrors. “To reward you for saving my sister, I’m giving you a suit and a fitting, totally free of charge!” she added, still smiling. I trotted over to the rack of suits.

“Now, let’s make you look like a gentlecolt,” she said, picking out a few suits. “Let’s see.. Something dashing, to express your heroism, but something also simple to humor your other features..” Well, someone’s really passionate about their work. She pulled out a black suit with a red tie. “Now, this is a good one! It’ll compliment your fur, and your eyes!” she exclaimed, handing me the suit.

After putting on the shirt and tie, I put my hooves through the jacket holes and looked at myself in the mirror. Rarity was right, it did bring out my features. The tie wasn’t so bad, either. I smiled and said, “Y’know, I really like this one. Thanks so much, Rarity!”

“You’re ever so welcome, little Sketch,” she replied, “how about you go upstairs and show your ‘damsel in distress’ your new suit, eh?” She winked and nudged me with her hoof.

I laughed and thought I’d humor her. It was a nice suit, after all. I went upstairs to show Sweetie Belle. “Hey, Sweets,” I announced, approaching her.

“Oooh, awesome suit,” she said coming forward, “Do you mind if I take a quick look at it? I.. kinda wanna be a designer someday.” “Oh, sure, no problem,” I replied. She smiled and started looking at different parts of the suit, with me as her mannequin. “You’re 15, right Sweetie Belle?” She nodded. “Have you looked into any internships or anything like that?”

“Well, I’ve done some work for my sister before, I was hoping I could get a job with her. I mean, she is one of the biggest designers in all of Equestria, and it could be really big for me.”

“Well, I hope you get it. You deserve something that good,” I added with a smile.

I could hear her muttering designer stuff to herself, like, “Good blanket stitch over here, though it collides with the cross stitch on that side..”

After around 10 minutes of this, she finally said, “Okay.. done! Thanks for modeling.” She smiled at me, and I nodded.

“No problem, any time,” I said back, returning a smile.

“You’re lucky,” she said, “It’s a very nice suit. Rarity wouldn’t give that away to just anyone.”

“Well, she keeps saying I’m a hero,” I replied with a chuckle, “and she thinks you’re my ‘damsel in distress.’”

“Well, in a way, I guess I am,” she replied with a giggle.

I laughed and said, “Well, I better get home.”

“Okay, bye hero,” she said back. She then did something totally unexpected. She came up to me and kissed my cheek.

“Um.. uh.. Okay then!” I said, head spinning. “I’ll, uh, see you later, Sweetie Belle.”

***

I turned and left the boutique, only to see Sweetie Belle waving at me seductively from the second floor window.

What the hell have I gotten myself into.

Cookie for you if you get the reference!
-HDJ

Chapter 6 - Surprise

As I trotted home, something seemed weird, but I couldn’t quite put my hoof on it. It seemed like.. Well, like the town was empty. The market, usually bustling with ponies, had nobody in it – not even the shop owners. The houses seemed like there was no life coming from inside.

Where is everypony?

When I finally reached my house, not a light was on. I slowly opened the door. “Uh, hello?” Suddenly, all the lights turned on, followed by yells of, “Surprise!” A.. Surprise party?

“Eeyup, a surprise party!”

I gave a quick yell, only to see a pony the color of cotton candy approaching me.

“Hi! I’m Pinkie Pie, and I threw this party just for you! Hey, nice suit,” she added, pointing at my tie.

“Um.. Why is there a surprise party for me?” I said back, a bit freaked out.

“I throw one for every new pony that comes to town! So naturally, your parents are here too,” she said, gesturing to my parents.

“I.. see. So that’s why everypony wasn’t in the city.”

“You guessed it!
AndIdecidedtousethatsuitthingasadiversionbecauseIknowRaritycangetreallyintofittingsanditcouldsavesometimefortheparty
andittotallydidandnowyouhaveagreatsuittoosoyay!”

..What the buck did she just say?

“Um, uh.. Yeah! Anyway, I better go mingle. See you later, Pinkie Pie!” I said back, hoping to get away from the pink pony.

I never thought my house could be this decorated – Pinkie really went all out. The crowd also looked huge too, no wonder Ponyville looked empty. To me, it seemed impossible to find somepony specific. For the Cutie Mark Crusaders though, it was a different story.

“Howdy there, Sketch!” Applebloom said, “Likin’ the party?”

“Oh, yeah, totally. I never knew my house could be this crowded,” I said with a chuckle.

“Yeah, Pinkie tends to go crazy with this stuff. She won’t stop until you know everypony in town,” Scootaloo responded, also laughing.

“Hey, what’s with the suit?” Applebloom added.

“Rarity gave it to me for saving Sweetie Belle. I should probably go take it off, huh?”

“Yeah, maybe. It’s a bit formal for a Pinkie party,” Scootaloo said.

“Alrighty, I’ll just be a minute,” I said back, trotting up to my room.

As I took off the jacket, I noticed something in the pocket. Taking it out, I noticed Sweetie Belle’s hoofwriting. She must have put it in there when she was checking the suit.. horseapples. It read,

“Sketch,

There’s something I need to tell you. Be expecting me at your window tonight, 8 o’ clock.

-Sweetie Belle”

Just as I suspected.. Ugh. This meant two of the Crusaders had fallen for me. Of all the things that could have happened, this was the worst possible thing. I sighed, put the letter somewhere somewhere safe, and finished taking off the suit. Trotting downstairs, I noticed Pinkie started some festivities. Well, as long as I’m here, I might as well enjoy myself.

***

“Thanks for the party, Pinkie Pie!” my parents said to Pinkie as she was going out the door.

“Any time, C and B!” she replied happily.

“What a delightful pony,” my mother said.

I rolled my eyes and took a glance at the clock. 7:52?! I better go up to my room. Trying not to seem like I was in a hurry, I trotted up the stairs.

“Sweetie Belle? You out there?” I said, head out the window.

“Sketch! You got my note!” I heard her respond. “Um.. I’m not sure how to say this.. Could you come down here?”

I nodded and stepped downstairs. Sneaking out the door and sliding around to the back of the house, I saw Sweetie Belle once again.

“So.. What was it you wanted to-“

My words were muffled by her lips.

After the kiss broke, she giggled and said, “I think you get the picture. I.. like you. Like, in that way.” I nodded. “Nobody, not even the girls know, but.. it’s true.” I nodded again. “So.. what do you think?”

“Sweetie Belle.. I’m not sure what to say.”

“Then don’t say anything.”

She came closer, and I felt her lips touch mine yet again. My mind had a million objections, but I felt myself kissing her back. I’m not sure how long the kiss was, it seemed like hours even though it was only seconds.

I guess I really do have feelings for Sweetie Belle…

***

I awoke around noon. I didn’t have school, a fact I thoroughly enjoyed. Groggy and hungry, I went downstairs.

“Mornin’, son. You’re up a bit late, aren’t you?” my father said with a chuckle. I could see he was in his uniform, ready to go on his watch.

I nodded. “You doing another late night guard tonight?”

“I’m afraid so, son. Don’t worry though, we can hang out tomorrow, I promise,” he said, patting me on the shoulder. “Be good for your mother, now, and enjoy your weekend!” he added, stepping out the door.

“Bye dad, I love you,” I said with a smile.

“I love you too, son.” And then he was gone.

My mother stepped into the kitchen and asked, “Did you want to go play with your friends today?”

Thinking back to the previous night, I said, “No, I think we’ve done enough recently.”

Chapter 8 - Those Eyes

Ugh! Two girls in two days, what were you thinking, Sketch? I mean really now, what is wrong with you? Are you trying to get a beating, cause that’s what’s going to happen if you don’t break up with one of them! No, wait, don’t take that the wrong way, just.. Ugh!

My brain was constantly reminding me how bad kissing Scootaloo was, despite how much I liked it. On top of that, I had the pressure of them finding out about it. What would they think of me then? I let out a big sigh.

“Please hold still, Mr. Sketch. We need to get an accurate reading on these bones.”

Oh yeah. The kissing Scootaloo was only 5 minutes ago. Well, carry on then, I’ll scold you later.

I sat in my bed while the doctors examined my leg. Apparently they thought it was broken, but they had to be sure - and so, they continued to check me.

“Well, that’s most definitely broken. Looks like you’ll have to be in here longer than expected, Mr. Sketch.”

“How long do you think, doctor?” I asked, hoping it wasn’t too long.

“At least 3 days. Sorry, but that’s the best I can do, these things take time. I’ll see if I can get you out early with crutches, but with the fall you took I doubt it,” he responded with a grim look.

The doctors eventually left, and I was alone once again. I longed to have something to distract from the boredom, but had nothing. Eventually I drifted off to sleep, leaving the long day behind me. I could only hope everything would turn out okay.

***

I awoke to the sun peering through the hospital window, shining into my eyes. I groaned and turned over, hoping to fall asleep again.

“Mr. Sketch, you have a visitor,” I heard a nurse say from the doorway.

My head jerked up in surprise. “A visitor? Go ahead, send em’ in.”

She gestured the visitor inside. I could see it was my parents. “Oh my, Sketchy, are you alright?” my mother exclaimed, running over to the bed. She was perfectly fine, but I noticed my father had a long bandage down his left side.

“I told you not to call me that, mom. And yes, I’m fine, except for my leg,” I said back, looking down at my injury. “How’re you holding up, dad?”

“I’m alright, son. Just got a nasty gash across my side from a bull’s horn – Never noticed how pointy those things were,” he said with a laugh.

“So how long are you in here for then?”

“I’m actually gonna be let out today – They’re just letting the bandage do it’s work, so I can leave when the paperwork’s done,” he said with a smile.

I sighed. Looks like I won’t be getting any company.

“Oh, cheer up, honey! You’ll get lots of visitors, I’m sure of it. Your father and I will visit you every day, and you’re bound to see those friends of yours. And look, we brought you something,” she said, holding up a ragged book.

“My sketch book, thank you so much! I don’t think I could live without this thing,” I said, laughing and taking the book.

There was a silence until my mother said, “I’m so glad you’re ok, Sketch. We love you, and’ll be back to visit you soon.”

“Wait, you’re leaving?” I said, not wanting them to go.

“I’m afraid so, honey.. I have to get your dad home so he can rest. And you should get some rest too, you look tired,” she concluded, starting to trot out the door.

I waved to them as they left. Looks like it’s just me and my sketch book. I pulled out the old book and started looking through it once again. All the old pictures were there, even the scraps I would normally get rid of. I just didn’t have the heart to throw my drawings away.

Wait, this picture.. It was one piece of art that made me stop. It seemed almost uncanny how I would stop on this one in particular, but I did. It was of her. Her rosy cheeks. Her bright smile. Her soft hair.

And those eyes. Dear Celestia, those eyes.

I snapped the book shut. I couldn’t take it. I felt tears streaming down my face. How could I have done this to an innocent mare? Twice, even? I felt terrible.

I buried my face in my pillow and cried.

***

“Mr. Sketch? You have some visitors – unless you would prefer to rest.”

The voice of the nurse jerked me awake. I quickly said, “Uh, sure, send em’ in.” I hurried to fix my mane and glasses. That whole “crying myself to sleep” thing wasn’t exactly good looking on my face. Looking up, I saw three young fillies were at my door.

Trying to forget my sadness, I put on a smile. “Hey girls, what’s up?”

“Sweets and Applebloom got really worried when they heard, so they wanted to come over as soon as they possibly could,” Scootaloo said, looking at her two companions.

“How’re ya doin’?” Applebloom said to me, smiling back.

“I’m alright. The doctors say I’ll have to be here a few more days, but I should be fine. So we can get back to crusading after I’m outta here.”

“That’s great news!” Sweetie Belle exclaimed, sitting on my bed.

“You’re lucky I carried you,” Scootaloo said, sticking out her tounge. Applebloom burst out laughing.

“She carried y’all? HAH!”

I shot a look at Scootaloo, and she just shrugged and smiled. I rolled my eyes and said, “Hey, it’s not that funny. My leg was broken.” But Applebloom continued to laugh until Sweetie Belle gave her a hoof upside the head. Applebloom gave a groan and rubbed her new sore.

***

The crusaders said their good-byes as they walked out the door. I waved and smiled, and then took a glance at my bedside table. The girls had filled it up with get-well cards and sweets from Sugarcube Corner.

I’ve got some real friends.

I smiled and layed my head down just as the sun set from the horizon.

Author's Note:

Howdy, everypony. Sorry about my hiatus, I went on a vacation of sorts, and hopefully I won't have to stay that far away from my writing again until I have this fic done.
Also, my editor hasn't got a chance to look at this one yet, so there might be a few small errors if you're reading this around the 21st.
Happy reading!

-HDJ

Chapter 9 - Love You Too

Where am I?

Nothing but darkness. Strange.

Wait a minute.. What’s that? My sketch pad?

I picked up the dirty book and held it in one hoof. Seeing nothing else to do, I flipped a page.

Nothing.. But I’ve been drawing in here for years!

The book showed nothing but blank pages. I kept turning the rustic pages, hoping, praying, to find something, but all I found were blank pages.

That is, until I turned to the last page.

What is.. I know this picture.

It was the outline of a mare - I could tell by the long hair and slim form. But it also looked really old and tattered, like..

That picture I crumpled a few days ago! What is it doing here?

Suddenly, the picture started to take the shape of someone. I could see the curves moving to a bit of a bulky frame, and the body turning a distinct shade of orange..

Scootaloo..?

“Why?” a light voice said.

I jerked my head up to see a filly, about 15 years of age, and with a white coat and horn.

“Sweetie Belle, I-“

“Wha’ indeed!” another voice said.

I turned to see yet another filly, with a yellow coat and a bow in her silky, red hair. She gave me a glare, and I stepped back, hitting something behind me. I quickly turned.

It was a mare with a yellow coat, hair the color of fresh pine wood, and a frown upon her face. It wasn’t an angry frown, but a look of sheer sadness. Like nothing else in the world had made her that devastated.

She turned away, and began to walk.

“No, don’t leave!”

She continued to trot, not even glancing my way.

With a yell, I awoke.

***

“NO!” I screamed, jerking myself awake, and severely scaring the pony by my bed.

“Mr. Sketch, are you alright? Can I get you something?” the nurse said to me, frazzled from my sudden awakening.

“Uh, no,” I chuckled, “I’m fine. Just a bad dream.”

She nodded and left me to my thoughts. Thinking back to the dream, I grabbed my sketch book from the bedside table. Turning the pages, I noticed all my drawings were safe inside the tattered covers. I checked the back page, and sighed in relief when I saw it was empty.

But what does it all mean?

I pondered the dream over and over, thinking what it could all be about. Did I have some sort of vision? Is this what’s going to happen? Or is this just my worries, plaguing my mind?

The one thing I couldn’t drive out of my brain, and still can’t to this day, is the look of utter sadness on Starshine’s face. I couldn’t handle the utter demolishing I had brought upon this poor filly’s spirit. I had to make things right, but how?

I lay in my bed, tossing and turning, as the dream refused to leave my head. Finally, something relieved me of the useless practice.

“Sketch? You awake?” a familiar voice said. It was my mother, Bit Star, coming to comfort me.

***

My mother was a simple mare, worked in finance, had a husband and a kid. It was a great life, despite it being so resistant to change. She had grown up in Manehattan, with only her own mother to protect her from the harsh ways of the city. Her father deserted her when she was only 3, but from what I hear they had the same coat – a sky blue that could brighten the rainiest of days.

She met my father when they were around 25 – he was patrolling around the town and she just happened to bump into him. It was a quick way to meet your soul-mate, but I guess that’s just love. My father was what her father should’ve been, but never was – a shining beacon of care and protection – I suppose this all plays in to their love.

My father was a light brown colt, just like me, but with light brown hair. He told me about he was always teased as a kid, and that went to him getting a civil protection job, making the world a better place to live. He loved to joke, but was always serious for you if you needed help. He probably knew us better than we did because of all the love he gave us. Anyway, delving back into my past..

***

My mother stepped in the room, hoping to give me some company. “Hi, mom,” I said, sitting up and smiling. She smiled back.

“Hi, little Sketchy. How’s the leg? Do you need a doctor or something?” She pointed to my cast bound hind-leg.

“It’s fine, mom, don’t worry. And I thought I told you not to call me ‘Sketchy,’” I said back with a chuckle.

She nodded and apologized, “I’m sorry, I’m just so used to calling you that from your foal years.”

“It’s okay. Anyway, what brings you here?”

“Just thought I’d see how my Sketch was doing,” she said with a ruffle of my hair, “Oh! And I brought you something!”

She pulled something out of her saddlebag and placed it on my bedside table. Grabbing my specs and putting them on, I could see the object was a picture. It was a photo of my classmates, CMC in the front with big smiles. It had many signatures on it, along with the caption, “Get well soon, Sketch! – Miss Cheerilee”

I smiled. The card was a connection to the world outside my room, and the friends I held so dear. I propped up the frame and continued to observe the signatures of my peers.

“Haven’t seen you smile like that for a while,” my mother said, smiling herself now.

I looked back at her and nodded. “Well, the leg’s a bit of a distraction.”

We both laughed. My mother could be controlling, strict, and sometimes even mean, but she never failed to be one of my best friends. I truly loved my mom, and she loved me.

She stayed for an hour or two, telling me what was happening at home and school, making small talk. I was surprised she was able to find time to visit me in her busy day.

“Alright, honey, I have to go.. I have to file some papers for Rarity in around an hour. But keep your spirits up, you’ll be healed in no time.” She gave me a huge hug. It broke, and she kissed me on the forehead. Stepping away, she added, “Your father should be coming some time later.. Just don’t forget how much we love you, Sketch.” She smiled, and trotted out the door.

I love you too, mom.

Chapter 10 - Wheels

“Heya there, kiddo!”

I brought my head up from the pillow to see my father, still in uniform, standing at my door with a big smile. I smiled back. “Hey dad,” I said as he came over to my bed.

“I wanted to check on you as soon as possible, so I came straight from work – and I have some great news too!” he said back in a happy tone.

“What’s the good news?”

“I just checked with the doctors, and guess what? You’re getting let out tomorrow!”

“That’s great!” I exclaimed, “I’ll finally be able to get back home. You have no idea how weird it is staying here.”

“I can imagine it, bud. But you only have to go through it for one more night. I’m gonna grab the paperwork on my way home and fill it out asap. Then I can get my Sketch back home,” he added, rustling my hair. I laughed and pushed away his hoof from my head. “Sorry I gotta be in such a hurry, but I have to pull a night shift tonight. But in the meantime, try to enjoy your time off school.”

I laughed and responded, “Okay, dad, I will. I’ll see you later.”

“Oh, by the way – I have another letter from your marefriend. I would go on about how cute you guys are, but you don’t wanna hear that mushy stuff.” We both laughed. He dropped the letter onto my bedside table, gave me a hug, and went to the door.

“Love you too, dad. See you at home!”

I heard his steps from the hallway slowly fade and fade, until they were completely gone. I was alone with my thoughts once again. And my sketch book. My poor, untouched sketch book.

I hadn’t opened the ragged book since the day I had the dream, and that was easily one or two days before. I guess I was scared of what I would decide to draw. My sketch book had seemed like some sort of gateway into my soul, revealing my true feelings about the world around me.

The problem was, I was scared of my feelings.

I fell asleep before I could even read my letter.

***

I was at home, inside my room.

Everything seemed pretty normal, like it had been before I was admitted to the hospital. I smiled, recognizing my past and glad to get back to it.

I walked around the fairly dirty room, looking for nothing in particular – just enjoying the splendor of being home. I heard a rustle of paper, and felt something under my hoof. Looking down, I saw it was just a scrap of paper that had somehow littered my floor. I picked it up and un-crumpled it, looking at what it had on it.

Oh, Celestia, not this again.

It was a familiar picture I had drawn, the outline of a mare. Recognizing it, I crumpled it again and threw it across my room. It hit my bed with a rustle, but then something odd happened that I’m not quite sure how to describe..

The paper started sucking in my room, like some sort of black hole. It grabbed my belongings and everything in its path, slowly growing. I stepped back, watching it devour everything dear to me. I ran into the hallway, still watching in awe, until it finally came near to me. I ran down the stairs and out my door, hoping my parents weren’t inside.

The black hole continued to expand, sucking in my house. I kept running – it started growing faster and faster, and I had to be quick to escape it. I passed Fluttershy’s house, the schoolhouse, and even the city line, but it kept growing until it sucked in all of Ponyville.

Then, it all stopped. Everything froze, as if stopped by time – everything except for me that is. With a big booming sound, the black hole disappeared, leaving behind no trace of Ponyville or its residents.

My family. My friends. My home.

All gone.

I fell to my knees, and pushed my face into the ground. It was gone. Everything. It was all-

***

“Sketch? Wake up, ya knuckle-head!”

“Civil!”

“Just a joke, dear.”

“Honey, please get up. We’re going to sign you out of the hospital today, remember?”

I dragged my face up from the pillow and grabbed my glasses. My parents were at my bedside, with a clipboard and a pen.

“Alright, I’m up, I’m up,” I pleaded, getting out from under my sheets and into a wheelchair they brought for me. I took the clipboard from my parents, signing the papers wherever they told me to. A few minutes later, I left my hospital room for the first time in four days.

We handed in the paperwork and walked (well, I wheeled) outside. I hadn’t really learned how to use the wheelchair yet, so my dad was pushing me around. In fact, I have no idea how I ever got used to the wheelchair, but I remember it being really difficult. For example, there was a certain lack of paved streets in Ponyville, so I clunked around the dirt roads.

There was also a lack of my home being wheelchair accessible. Thus, when we got home, I had lots of trouble getting around. Also, my dad couldn’t really push me around forever, so I had to learn how to push the wheelchair myself. It was a lot harder than I first thought – I always ended up going too slow, or too fast, turning the wrong way, or some weird combination of the three.

I decided to go outside to practice, as there weren’t any walls for me to bump into. I practiced moving back and forth, along with moving the wheels to turn the proper way. The sun was just going down as I heard a voice behind me.

“Well, well, well, look who’s out of the hospital.”

I turned (very clumsily) to see Scootaloo with a devilish grin on her face. “Oh, hey Scoots,” I said, “What’s-“ My words were stopped by her coming forward and sitting on my lap. I blushed and responded, “Hey, what’re you-“ She put a hoof to my mouth to silence me.

“I missed you,” she uttered, giving me a seductive grin.

“I missed you too,” I said, grinning back.

She leaned in, and softly kissed me. I knew it was coming, but for some reason, I didn’t want to stop it. Not that there was much I could do, but it just felt so.. right. Like I was kissing Starshine again.

But her last letter to me lay on my hospital room’s table, forgotten.

Chapter 11 - Memories

I awoke with a start, feeling something stirring in my limp arms.

“Hey, knucklehead, get up,” a voice said.

“Mom, you know it’s a weekend, right?” I said back, still tired.

“Guess again, Sketchy.”

I opened my eyes to see an also-tired Scootaloo by my side, a grin on her face. I jumped back in surprise, retracting my hooves.

“S-Scootaloo?! What’re you doing in my bed?”

She laughed and replied, “You don’t remember a thing, do you?” She continued to laugh, followed by her sticking her tongue out.

“I’m just a little groggy.. It’ll come back to me,” I said, laughing as well.

She leaned forward, bringing me into a hug. She then brought her head back, then leaned it in, and you can guess the rest. She kissed me, her soft-as-clouds lips caressing and cradling mine. After a minute or so the kiss broke, and she said, “Alright, now we gotta go. The girls wanted to do some crusading today.”

I woke up from my love crazed daydream and hobbled over to my wheelchair, sliding inside its silk bounds. I wheeled outside (a bit of difficulty on the stairs) with Scootaloo, hoping to do something fun with the CMC.

I kept trying to remember last night, but I just couldn’t recall it. I don’t get it.. We didn’t, did we? Oh Celestia.

To get my mind off the pressing matter, I asked Scootaloo, “So where are the girls at?”

“Where else,” replied Scootaloo, “but the clubhouse?” She laughed and wheeled out her scooter from the dirt it sat in. I paused when she took out a rope and tied it to the back end of the scooter.

“Hey, uh, Scoots? What’s that for?”

“You’ll see. Just hold this,” she said, grinning and handing me the other end of the rope. My stomach jumped when I realized, but by then it was too late. My wheelchair was speeding down the bumpy road, being pulled by Scootaloo’s scooter.

I held onto my wheelchair with a death grip. I had seen Scootaloo doing this with the girls in the wagon, but it was a totally different story with my rickety chair. Remember how I said Ponyville didn't have asphalt roads? Well, they were dirt roads, causing the wheels to trip over rocks and fall into dips. It was an extremely bumpy ride.

“Y-You mind slowing down, S-Scoots?!” I tried to say against the jolts of the wheelchair and the wind in my face. She obviously didn’t hear my pleas, because she wasn’t hindering in the least. We left the city streets and went into the brush of the Apple Family Orchard, changing the scenery from homes to plants.

The scooter swerved in between trees and various plant life, causing my chair to get dangerously close to a few hard looking apple trees. I must have looked awkward- I had one hoof on my chair and one over my head in case we crashed.

I held onto the rope with the best grip I could muster, hoping we would get there soon. Luckily for me, the clearing where the clubhouse was was just a few hundred feet in front of us. Soon we could hear the cries of Sweetie Belle and Applebloom, yelling at us through the window I had fallen from just a week before.

We came to a sudden stop outside the tree in which the clubhouse resided. With a screech of my wheelchair tires and Scootaloo’s scooter, we arrived at our destination with me in a bit of a daze.

“Hey, Scoots?” I said with my head throbbing, “How about we never do that again.” She laughed and wheeled me up to the clubhouse.

“There you guys are,” Applebloom said, “What were you up to?”

“Nothing really,” I assured her as I went through the door.

Scootaloo and I had agreed not to tell anyone about our relationship. Her parents probably wouldn’t be okay with it, and the girls might just have a similar reaction, partly for reasons Scoots didn’t know. I told Sweetie Belle I didn’t want a relationship so soon in my stay in Ponyville, and if she found out about me and Scoots, she would probably never forgive me.

It had been about a month since I actually started staying in Ponyville, the broken leg incident being just before that week. I was still in my wheelchair, but found I was able to use it less and less. I also found myself thinking about home less as well. The busy, paved streets and tall buildings just didn’t appeal to me anymore. Now I was accustomed to the simple country life. It was nicer, I guess – ponies always looked out for each other and were much nicer, everypony knew everypony’s name.. It just felt like a true home. And that’s something I didn’t want to give up.

And one thing’s for sure – you can’t find a treehouse like the CMC’s in Manehattan, or anywhere in Equestria for that matter. The walls were plastered with different posters, ranging from Wonderbolt ads to maps of Ponyville. The ground was cluttered with various things: action figures, saddle bags, comic books, pretty much anything teenagers would be into. It was funny how the Crusaders could be so much different than other ponies, but so similar at the same time.

And now my bare flank had led me officially into this group. A group of outcasts, maybe, but a group of friends, no doubt.

“So what’re we gonna do?” I asked, hoping for an answer that wouldn’t hurt me physically too much.

“Well, we were planned to help Applejack with the harvest, but you’re kinda..” Sweetie Belle said, pointing to my wheelchair.

“Oh, no, that’s okay. I’ll just watch. I don’t think apple bucking is my special talent anyway,” I said, giving a little chuckle.

“You sure?” Applebloom said to me.

“Yeah, totally. You guys can go ahead,” I added, smiling.

“And maybe me and Sketch can help out AJ with somethin’ else. She might have some finance stuff to do,” Scootaloo said, resting her arm on my shoulder.

“Alrighty then, let’s go!” yelled Applebloom, trotting for the door. Sweetie Belle followed suit, and Scootaloo and I went out after her.

***

“Howdy there, sis!” Applebloom announced to her unsuspecting sibling. Applejack jumped in surprise then turned around to see the Cutie Mark Crusaders and myself (even though I technically was one.)

“Oh uh, howdy, Applebloom. You here to help with the harvest? Cause we got lots of trees to buck,” Applejack said, looking down at the group.

“Eeyup! And Sketch n’ Scoots were wondering if you had any non-physical work to be done, seein’ with wheelchair n’ all.”

“Uhm,” AJ responded, obviously finding it hard to think of something, “Well, you can watch the cattle out back. Usually it’s Big Mac’s job, but I’m sure he’ll be glad to take a break.”

“Okay, sure,” I said back.

We said our goodbyes to Applejack and went into the fields - AB and Sweetie Belle to the orchard, me and Scoots to the pen. When we get there, who do we see but everyone’s favorite stallion, Big Macintosh.

“Hey, Big Mac!” Scootaloo called to him, “Watchin' the cattle?”

“Eeyup.”

“Do you want a break? AJ said we could fill in for you,” I said.

“Eeyup. Just be careful with the cows, they’re a might sensitive.” He stood up and trotted away, leaving us only with the cattle and the gentle breeze.

“Well, that was easier than I thought. I guess even Big Mac’s gotta break sometime, eh?” Scootaloo said with a snicker, “I’ve never really tended animals before, but it should be pretty easy. Besides, I have you here.” She hopped onto my lap, making me blush. She noticed my reddening face and giggled. “You’re cute,” she teased.

“Um.. Thanks?” I said, giving an embarrassed smile. Scootaloo put her arm around me and came closer. Seeing what she was about to do, I said, “Uh, Scoots? What about the cattle?”

“Ponyfeathers to the cattle.” She finally ended her teasing and kissed me once again, making my mind freeze up and my stress drift away. The kiss broke after a while, and I found myself in a daze of love and confusion.

“Hopefully Big Mac’s idea of a break isn’t too short, eh?” she said, smiling at me.

My mind suddenly drew a blank. All I could utter was, “Big Mac? Who’s Big Mac?”

She giggled and said, “I didn’t know I was that good a kisser.” There was a brief silence, but it was lifted by the sound of our lips meeting yet again. This kiss lasted longer, and I enjoyed every second of it. The bliss of her soft lips on mine, and the remoteness of the orchard only being broken by the small smack of our mouths meeting.

When the kiss parted, I felt strange. Of course, I felt sad because it was over, but I felt feelings beyond that. My brain felt totally numb, and I sat back in my wheelchair to mull things over. Well, if I could that is.

Scootaloo noticed something was up and decided to address it. “Sketchy,” she said, “are you okay? Is something wrong?”

“I’m fine, Scoots. Don’t worry about it.” I smiled at her and pulled her closer, snuggling her in my hooves. There was a silence as we sat there embracing one another, enjoying the company of a lover. I broke it by bringing up a familiar topic. “Hey, what did happen last night, anyway?”

She snickered and said, “You seriously don’t remember? Cause it was pretty great.” I could tell she was teasing me, but I had to play along if I ever wanted to know.

“What was pretty great?” I pleaded.

“You know, Sketch, that thing we did,” she giggled. I rolled my eyes. Okay, either we did that, or she’s just pulling my hoof. Or maybe a mixture of both? My mind wasn’t working right. I let it go, knowing that my memory would come back some time.

But unfortunately for me, that wasn’t entirely the truth.

Chapter 12 - She Leaves

Time flies when you’re forgetting things.

Or should I say, you forget time’s even there?

I was running out of things to hold onto in my life, and it wasn’t only frustrating, but it was saddening. Nopony else in town knew my pain, to forget thoughts, feelings, and dreams as if it were a daily thing. I just had to hold onto the important things.

I hadn’t told anyone of my sudden memory loss – I was too scared. Scared they would call me crazy, or send me to a doctor who couldn’t even do anything to help. Is there even a cure for amnesia? Another thing that bugged me was that it was all unexplainable. Why is this happening?

But yet, in all my sorrows, I had some sweet to balance the bitter, and it could only be Scootaloo. Whenever I was sad, she would comfort me. When I was mad, only she could calm me down. She was my everything, and in return, I was hers.

Throughout my entire relationship with her, I had always been either in a wheelchair or in the hospital. But hopefully that would change – I was going to the doctor to see if I could get off my chair for good.

“Good evening, Sketch. How are we doing today, hmm?” the doctor asked, smiling one of his trademark smiles.

“Uh, fine,” I said casually.

“Good, good. We’re planning to do a final x-ray today, just to make sure everything’s set before you get back on your hooves.” He wheeled me down the hall into a place I could only assume as the x-ray room.

***

When the x-ray finished, he seemed glad with the results. “It seems you’ll finally be able to stand again, Sketch,” he said, giving me another smile.

“Really? I can get out of the chair?”

“Yes, you can. Go ahead, try it,” he said, helping me up. I rose to my hooves, attempting to walk. I wobbled a bit, then stumbled back into the chair, emitting a laugh from the doctor. “Well, it does take some getting used to.”

I got up again, this time clutching onto the wall for support. After a few minutes of this, I let go and stepped onward by myself, my leg muscles re-adjusting. My parents were just as pleased as I was. We left the hospital, seeing a familiar face outside.

“Sketch!” Scootaloo exclaimed, pulling me into a quick hug. “I heard you were going in to get your leg checked, and I had to come over. This is awesome!”

I smiled and said, “Yeah, it’s pretty great. I can finally be normal again, and I don’t have to be afraid of stairs,” I added with a laugh.

She smiled back. “I’ll stop by your house later, possibly with the girls, they’ll be so glad to see you like this.”

“Alright, I guess we’ll see you later then.” We walked away, waving.

She waved back. “See you later, Sketchy!” I couldn’t help but laugh at the pet name she gave me.

It was great to be on all fours again, I realized how much I had missed it. Pushing the wheels of the chair became tiresome after a while, I guess. My parents and I approached our home, and I was happy to be there. My bed never felt as good as I lay on the silky sheets and rested my head on the feathery pillow. I was quite eager to sleep, and fell into a dream.

***

She continued to walk away, no matter how much I pleaded.

Leaving.

All alone, into the darkness.

She couldn’t leave. I couldn’t let her. In my frustration I uttered a name, one I thought I knew. One that I seem to remember amongst all my forgetting.

“..Starshine.”

She began to turn, her soft brown hair shifting as her head did. It seemed as if everything was in slow motion as she turned to face me.

My head looked up, my gaze coming from the floor to her legs to her chest to her neck, and finally to her fa-

***

“Wah!” I yelled as my alarm clock jerked me awake. I glared at the piece of simple machinery with a burning passion. I slammed my hoof down on the bells, almost completely smashing the clock itself.

I flopped back on the bed with a sigh. I had always had dreams of this yellow filly lately, but I only now heard her name. I just knew she was important to everything somehow.. Important to me, somehow.

I tried my best to forget about it, telling myself she wasn’t important. Eventually I drifted back to sleep.

***

This dream was different. Instead of the usual “in the void” nothingness, I was now in a bustling city. I was going somewhere, and in a big hurry too. My hooves raced down the busy road, and I had no idea where they were taking me. All I could see was that I was going into the suburban part of town, more houses and less skyscrapers.

I stopped at one of the houses, adrenaline surging through my veins. I picked up a few small rocks and pulled back my hoof, aiming my arm and gaze towards one of the second story windows. I hesitated a bit, but my emotions overcame my body, and I chucked the stone at the window. With a small click, it bounced off. I threw a few more. Click, click, click.

I saw a light come on inside and heard the soft patter of hooves. My mind raced as a figure from inside opened the window. From my angle, I knew it was her. There was her silky brown hair, a bright yellow forehead, and then her eyebrows and her fa-

***

Click. Click. Click.

“Oh, come on!” I yelled in aggravation and disappointment. There were small pebbles hitting the window, coming from..

“Hey, sleepyface! Wake up!”

Yep. Scootaloo.

I groaned and opened the window, conveniently placed right next to my bed, and tried my best to smile at the orange filly. “Well, I said I’d be back, didn’t I?” she said, smirking at me. I closed the window and went downstairs to greet her.

“Hey,” she said, her slightly seductive smirk still plastered to her face.

“Uh, howdy,” I said, smiling nervously, “where are the girls?”

“Well, we could go get them, or..” She came closer to me, talking in a bit of a whisper. “we could just hang out by ourselves.”

I laughed and shook my head at the filly. “You’re crazy, Scoots.”

All she did was smile.

Chapter 13 - Who Am I?

“C’mon, Scoots. Where are we going? I can’t even see Ponyville through all these trees..”

“I’ll tell you when we get there. Now keep walking.” She stuck out her tongue and trotted ahead.

I groaned and followed. She told me she wanted to celebrate my loss of the wheelchair by taking me somewhere special. I wouldn’t have accepted if I knew the walk was going to be this long. We were going up a steep mountain, totally surrounded by foliage and brush. I don’t know how she expected me to do this with me just getting back on my hooves, but it was Scootaloo – she was always going extreme.

We continued to trudge on through the thick forest, slowly gaining altitude. I could see the bright orange tones of the setting sun peering through the leaves of the trees, and I knew soon it would be night. She’s already hurting my legs and she wants me to go back in the dark? I chuckled to myself. This filly’s crazy.

“Alright, almost there. Just hop over these next few rocks, and..”

It was beautiful.

In front of me was the greatest view I had ever seen. It was a total overlook of Ponyville, with the lights in the windows blinking but the silence of the streets kept except for the occasional passing pony. I could see my house, the Carousel Boutique, the Everfree Forest.. It was all right in front of me, like a glossy painting I could reach out and touch.

And it was breathtaking.

Somehow this feels familiar. My mind wouldn’t stop telling me that I had done this before, even though I had never been up here in my life.

“Sketch, I just wanted to thank you.”

“Thank me? For what?”

She sat in the grass, and I sat next to her as she continued. “Well, for everything. You’ve.. been really great to me. You’ve always stuck with me, and you always put up with me and the girls’ crusading crap, even with that wheelchair.” She paused, letting her sweet laugh fly through the air. “I guess all I’m saying is, thanks for being with me.”

I put my arm around her, only uttering, “You’re welcome.” We stared at the small village, happy to be in one another’s embrace. We looked towards each other, and kissed.

It wasn’t a normal kiss though. It was the most magical kiss in the entire world.

Or, that’s what I thought, at least.

Suddenly, my mind shut down, and my body fell cold onto the grass.

***

Ugh, my head.. Where am I?

It looked like.. nothing. Just a dark room. Like if everything just.. disappeared.

“Sketch?”

I know that voice.

“Are you ok, Sketch?”

I looked around for the source of the sweet voice. If I was right, it was the voice of..

Yes. There she was.

Or was it her?

I squinted my eyes to look at the yellow pony on the horizon.

“Sketch? Wake up!”

***

“Sketch? Sketch!”

“I think he’s waking up!”

“Shut up, you’re gonna scare him!”

“I’m not scaring anyone!”

My eyelids separated, my vision hazed by the lack of my glasses and my sudden increase of grogginess. My head pulsed, throbbing with pain each time my heart beat. Through my pain I said to whoever was with me, “Ugh.. What happened?”

I could see the outline of an orange filly that said, “You fainted on top of the hill and you didn’t wake up. I wasn’t sure what to do, so I brought you here as soon as possible.”

I groaned, realizing my position and noticing the beeping of the various machines around me. There were two other ponies with the filly, both girls if I was correct. I wondered what they were doing here. Speaking of here.. “And where exactly am I?”

“You’re in the Ponyville Hospital,” a light voice said from behind me. I turned to see a nurse, maybe in her twenties, looking down at me. She was chalk white, and had a cutie mark shaped like a red cross. She pointed to my glasses and I put them on, not immensely helping my memory.

Do I know her? Wait, do I know any of these people? I don’t remember anything.. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but here goes..

“Okay, and, uh.. Who am I?”

The question hung in the air. Obviously nobody was expecting this.

“..You’re jokin’, right?” the yellow one said.

“No.. I really don’t remember,” I said with a frown.

“Wait, you know who we are, right?” the white one said. She looked devastated, but I couldn’t imagine why.

“I’m sorry, but I don’t.”

The nurse immediately ran for a phone. Weird, I seem just fine to me.

“Bit Star? Yes, please hurry – and bring some of his personal belongings, they might help,” the nurse said, supposedly talking to someone named Bit Star. A doctor, maybe?

A few minutes later, a light blue pony came in with some objects. It looked like a letter, a book of some sort, and a red cape with a blue patch.

“Hurry, please bring those over to his bed. We may still have time,” the nurse said to the mare.

Bit Star (at least, I guessed it was Bit Star) rushed over to me and placed the items on my bed.

“Sketch? Do you remember me?” she said in a panic.

I shook my head. “No, should I? And who’s Sketch, anyway?”

I could see tears streaming down her cheeks. Whoever this Sketch person is, I think he makes her sad.

“You’re Sketch! You’re my son! I gave birth to you in Manehattan! I raised you with what little money I had, I gave everything for you! You were always my little colt, and I was always your mom, and..” She shoved her face into the side of the bed, sobbing uncontrollably.

Moments later, a dark brown stallion came in. “Son? Son, are you alright? Honey, what happened?” He ran over to the light blue pony and embraced her, trying to comfort her. After she had calmed down a considerable amount, he stood and picked up one of the objects: the book.

“Sketch, do you remember this?” He flipped through the pages, revealing drawings of all kinds. I shook my head. As far as I knew, I had never drawn anything. He sighed and pulled out the cape.

“What about this?”

“Yeah, that’s the cape we made you, Sketch! Please, don’t you remember the Crusaders?” the orange filly said.

“I.. don’t. I’m really sorry.”

“Last one, son. Concentrate really hard, now.” He handed me the envelope. I emptied the contents onto my bed. A letter fell out, with a kiss mark in the corner. Weird, I don’t remember dating anyone. I read through the letter a few times, going through each word carefully. Nothing rang any bells.

I sighed and shook my head again. Bit Star went through several sobs and cried, “Oh, Civil, we’ve lost our son!” I could tell she was in great pain from the situation. I glanced back over at the envelope. Wait, what’s..?

There was something sticking out of the envelope, a photo from the looks of it. I picked it up.

“I know her.”

Bit Star and Civil raised their heads, and the fillies gasped in surprise.

“I know this mare. I saw her in a dream.”

“A dream? When?” the yellow filly said to me.

“Just now, when I was knocked out.. What’s her name again?”

“Uh.. Star-“ My father didn’t have time to finish.

“Starshine, that’s it! I know her!”

The nurse looked down with a sigh and said to my parents, “If you know where this mare is, she could help restore his memories. He might not be a lost cause if we can find a hole in the barrier to his thoughts.”

My father looked down at my mother, then back to me. “Sketch, get out of that bed.” He wiped my mother’s tears and helped her up. “Star, pack your bags. We’re taking the next train to Manehattan.”

***

The train clacked against the metal track, every now and then a wheel squeaking with a spark. I sighed, resting my head against the armrest of the seat. My mother sat next to me, in a state of concern and anxiety the whole trip. My father sat with her, comforting her, and every now and then giving a sad smile to me.

I listened to the rhythm of the train and my mother's occasional sobs until I fell asleep once again.

Chapter 14 - The First Snow

I smiled to myself, seeing a familiar yellow silhouette in the mist. It came towards me, the figure growing larger and larger steadily in my perspective. I could hear her soothing voice, letting out a tune so beautiful words couldn't justify it.

She was coming back.

***

My mother nudged my limp body, bringing an abrupt but soft end to my sleep. The train had stopped in Grand Middle Station, bringing my family and I to the center of Manehattan. I looked out the window for a few brief moments, basking in the glamour of the oversized station. Everything seemed so big and busy- ponies covering the main floor, looking at the pegasi-held signs stating what time which train was leaving. Trains were moving in and out of the station, causing a large amount of noise along with the chattering on the platform. I turned with a sigh and grabbed my belongings, knowing it was going to be a lot different here than in Ponyville.

It was getting late. The sun shone through the streets, the many tall buildings casting shadows. Many ponies still filled the streets, even at this hour. Some bought snacks or souveniers from various vendors, some walked, seemingly in a hurry, and some just stood by the main road and smoked cheap cigarettes. Nopony seemed to care about what was going on around them, and that was the main difference between the two towns I knew. I basked in the glow of the city, the walk totally silent between my parents and I.

We finally came to a halt outside of a tall building. It had a specifically shiny opening, apparently to draw people in. I knew this must be our hotel. We went through the revolving door, only to be greeted by an overly cheery pony.

“Howdy there, folks! Welcome to the Manehattan Tower Hotel!” he said with a smile too big for his face. “How about letting us take up your bags?” We handed over our luggage to the greeter pony, who then handed it to some work ponies who were much less happy. I could see why he got this job. We pushed past him and went to the front desk to check in.

After receiving our keys, we went up to our rooms. My parents gave me my own room, either because they wanted to give me some peace, or because they didn’t want to see my face. To this day I still don’t know. But it was good, because it gave me time to think.

I set my things down and plopped onto my bed. Even though I had slept on the train, I was still extremely exhausted. I laid on my side, looking out the window at the city I was born in but hardly knew. I remembered my mother’s words almost as distinctly as if I was there- I raised you with what little money I had! I gave everything for you! I couldn’t help wondering what my life was like here, and I couldn’t help feeling guilty for not knowing already. With a sigh I pushed my face into my pillow, knowing it was going to be a hard night to sleep.

***

I awoke from my dreamless sleep, hearing a knock on the door. Glancing over at my clock, I found it was around eleven AM. Woah, eleven? I thought, I must be a late sleeper. Another knock came from the door, louder than the last one. I sat up, stretched briefly, then went over to the door and opened it.

Standing outside was my father. “We’re going to Starshine’s in about an hour, son. Be ready by noon, okay?” he said softly. I nodded, acknowledging his request. He shut the door as I moved back towards my luggage. I didn’t have a lot of luggage. It was mostly clothing because I didn’t remember anything personally. I did, however, bring the three items that were presented to me at the hospital. Who knows, they could’ve had some sort of purpose.

I opened my luggage and grabbed a jacket- It was getting to be winter now, and the air was getting colder. My parents told me we had moved to Ponyville in late spring, so I had forgotten almost a year’s time in the village. Along with everything else, of course. I didn’t have time to reminisce though- I had to meet a certain filly. I put her letter to me in my pocket and set off.

***

I still shivered, even in my jacket. It was much colder than I originally thought, but I didn’t really know what a Manehattan winter was like. I sighed, the air forming a painted echo of my hot breath. Alongside me was my father, not speaking a word, but just walking, determined to get to his destination.

“You okay, son?” he said to me, glancing down with that sincere look of his.

“Yeah,” I chattered back, “Just a little cold.” My father nodded and removed his own jacket, then draped it over my shoulders. I smiled at him and muttered, “Thanks.” He only replied with another nod.

I then realized how much I respected my father. I hadn’t known him for very long, but he was a truly good pony. I heard how he was a part of the Manehattan Police Force, along with the Ponyville Police since we moved there. He always seemed to know what to do in every situation, and put others before himself. I could tell he truly loved his family, and he cared for them every moment of the day. He was probably the best stallion I knew, and I wished I could be more like him.

“Here we are, Sketch.”

I woke up from my thoughts and looked to the small house we were in front of. We were far out of the main part of the city, and instead were in a small suburb with plenty of space. It almost reminded me of Ponyville, the way it was set up. You could see the city in the distance from the small cottage.

I nodded to my father and stepped up to the front door. I raised my hoof and knocked on the wooden door, the pressure making me nervous. Hoofsteps could be heard from inside, coming towards me. The door opened, revealing a bright yellow filly with dazzling green eyes and brown hair.

She stared at me a moment, not sure what to think. “..Sketch?” she muttered, as if she couldn’t believe I was here.

I smiled and nodded, my smile gradually turning to a laugh. She laughed too and brought me into a large hug. We both stood there embracing eachother for a few seconds, enjoying eachother’s company. After the hug parted she said, “Come inside! You must be freezing out there.” She guided me inside and gestured to a couch where I could sit.

I accepted the offer and took a seat. Starshine sat next to me, still smiling. “I can’t believe you’re here! You never told me you were coming!”

“Yeah, sorry,” I said, running one of my hooves through my hair. “It was all kind of sudden. But, we’re here,” I finished with a grin. Starshine pulled me into another quick, tight hug.

“And I’m so glad you are. It’s been a while since the last letter.”

I nodded, pulling the letter out of my jacket. It was found at the hospital and presented to me after my last stay there. I hadn’t even opened it yet- In a way, I suppose I was afraid to. “Yeah, about all that.. Starshine, there’s a reason why I’m here. And it’s kind of complicated.”

“Hmm? What would you come here for other than to visit?”

“It’s.. kind of a long story, and it’s not a happy one,” I said, lowering my eyes to the floor.

Starshine lifted my chin up with a hoof and replied, “Don’t worry about it, I’ll hear you out.” She looked at me, with her piercing green eyes and uplifting smile.

I sighed and began my story. I told her of how I lost my memory spontaneously, how I was having dreams about her, and why I was back in Manehattan. She looked at me the whole time, occasionally nodding or commenting. She seemed like a mother would, sincerely listening.

“So the doctors told you to look for remnants of your memory, and the only one was..”

I finished the sentence for her. “You.” She nodded, and there was a small silence. “..Listen, Starshine, I know this is really sudden, and I don’t want to force anything on you or anything.. You don’t have to help if you-“

She put a hoof to my mouth to silence me. “But I want to help, Sketch. For your sake.” She moved her hoof on top of mine.

I love it when girls do that.

***

The sun was setting and the sky was turning a bright orange. By now it was getting late, and Starshine and I were spending our day together. My father had gone back to the hotel and gave me money for a cab, which I didn’t have any objection to. My only hope and care was that I got my memory back, given to me by this cute yellow filly.

“C’mon, there’s something I want to show you,” Starshine said, giving me my jacket and scarf. “It’s an old spot we used to go to.” I nodded and donned the garments. We stepped out the door into the cold evening air. It had gotten much colder since my father and I’s walk to Starshine’s.

We walked for a few minutes until we came to a tall, grassy hill. Starshine started climbing it and I followed. At the top was a low tree, giving enough shade to cover somepony in summer and enough to keep them dry in a snowy winter. “This is it,” she said, sitting down. I sat down next to her against the trunk of the tree, only to see the most spectacular view of the city.

I could see small ice crystals coming from the sky. Starshine looked up and smiled. “The first snow.” I looked over at her and couldn’t help smiling myself. “Do you remember what we used to do when the first snow of the season came?”

I shook my head and told her to go on. “You would always come to my house with some cocoa and invite me to go out. Then we would spend the whole day together, playing in the snow. And then we would come back in and cuddle by the fire.” She nuzzled my neck. “I miss those days.”

“It sounds fantastic,” I said back. “And.. well, you sound fantastic.”

She laughed and said, “You always know what to say, Sketchy.” She sat there for a moment, her head resting on my shoulder. Then she suddenly stood up. “C’mon, let’s go,” she said, reaching out a hoof to help me up.

I accepted it and got up as well. “Go where?”

“Well, we don’t want to keep the snow waiting, do we?” She winked at me with a grin before grabbing my hoof and pulling me out of the shade of the tree.

***

The sun had fully set and Luna’s moon was resting high above Manehattan. I laid in the snow next to Starshine, holding her as we looked up at the sky. “So, do you think you remember anything yet?” she said to me, her gaze not straying from the stars.

I sighed and said, “Not really.. But this day was wonderful, and I’m so glad I got to spend it with an amazing filly.” I ran my hoof through her hair and smiled at her.

“If you don’t remember our relationship, then why are you holding me so tight?”

I pulled away from her grip. “I.. Um.. Well..”

“Well?” she said with a chuckle.

“I.. Kind of like you.” I said, my face red.

She pulled me back towards her. “You’re cute,” she said with a smile.

“Heh.. I-“ My sentence was stopped short by her kiss. It was technically my first kiss, and it was an amazing one. We spent what seemed like hours just kissing, embracing one another and softly smacking our lips together.

***

After walking Starshine home, I hailed a cab and went back to the hotel. I was feeling better about myself- about my memory, about my life, and about my situation. Sure, I hadn’t gotten any ground yet on regaining my memory, but I had no doubt I could pull it off with Starshine’s help. She was the most amazing mare I knew, right along with-

“Sketch!”

“What the hell?!”

Behind my hotel door was a small, orange filly. She immediately ran up to me and kissed me. My reflexes reacted and I parted from the kiss. “What’s wrong, Sketch? Aren’t you happy to see me?”

“Scootaloo?! What are you doing here? You should be in Ponyville! How did you even-“

“Okay, okay, okay. I know it’s weird, but I can explain.”

“Please do.”

***

“Okay: so tell me what happened, one more time.”

“Ugh, fine. So I was being all girly and over-reactive, and I was really worried about you. So I ran away from home with the girls, took the train here, and snuck into your room when the cleaning lady wasn’t looking. Is it really that big a deal?”

“Is it a big deal?! Of course it’s a big deal! Your parents are probably worried sick! Why did you even need to bring the other girls?”

“Well, I couldn’t go alone.”

I sighed and sat down on the bed, burying my face in my hooves. So Scootaloo was here, in Manehattan, along with Sweetie Belle and Applebloom, all crowding up my hotel room. It seemed like a dream, no- a nightmare. I wanted someone to pinch me and have myself wake up in my bed, finding out none of this really happened. But it was really happening. Right now.

“There’s one thing I want to know,” Sweetie Belle chimed in. “What was with that… yknow, the..”

Applebloom finished for her. “I think the thing Sweets is trying to ask is, why were you guys kissing?”

I looked over at Scootaloo, who had obviously forgotten that our relationship was secret. “Well, you see..” she began, “Me and Sketch are kind of a.. thing.”

“Wait, you? And him?!” Sweetie Belle yelled, pointing to us.

“Well, were kind of a thing. Were. I mean, I hardly know you guys now. It would be..” I didn’t finish, but instead just looked at Scootaloo.

She looked back at me, about to tear up. “Yeah, I get it.” She paused and stood up. “Listen.. I’m going for a walk. I’ll be back in a bit, I just.. Need to clear my head.” She went out the door, and once it was closed, somepony else spoke up.

“Dammit, Sketch!” Sweetie Belle yelled, banging her hoof into a nearby wall. I backed off.

“Sweetie, be easy on him! It’s not his fault he doesn’t-“

“Shut the hell up, Applebloom! You have no idea the things that have happened between me and him!” She moved her deathly gaze from Applebloom to me. “You,” she said, threateningly moving closer to me, “You think you can just use us?!”

“What are you even talking about, Sweets? I-“

“Look, pal, you have no idea about my feelings for you. I was devastated the entire time you were in Ponyville. I thought I saw things. I saw you and Applebloom dancing that one day after detention, I saw you and Scootaloo resting on that hill, and I sure as hell saw you kissing me!”

“Look, maybe I was a bit of a jerk, but-“

“A BIT of a jerk?! A BIT? Really, Sketch? I thought you were our friend!”

I looked at Applebloom. “We danced?” She blushed and nodded.

“Yes, Sketch. And we kissed. We were a thing. But of course, you don’t remember, no, because you’re not just a bit of a jerk, you’re a damn MORON!”

She lurched forward and hit me with a punch so hard it could break cement. I flew back against the wall and started to black out. The last thing I could see before I was totally unconscious was the image of Applebloom holding back a tear-faced Sweetie Belle.

Chapter 15 - In Your Heart

I sat on a familiar hill, alone. It was spring, and the flowers in the grass were blooming as the birds sang their happy songs. The tree I was under provided a perfect amount of shade, keeping me cool in the hot weather. I sat against the trunk, comfortable and satisfied.

I probably would have fallen asleep if it weren’t for the yellow filly walking up the hill. She pulled off her saddlebags and sat down next to me, resting her head on my shoulder. I smiled. Everything was perfect, right at this very moment. Me and Starshine were looking over the city on a warm, inviting day, and there were no troubles to be had.

“Starshine, do you think we’ll be doing this forever?” I looked down at the filly, grinning and waiting for my answer.

She paused, and the smile left her face. She got up and sighed, now looking down at me. “Sketch, that’s sort of what I wanted to talk about…”

My expression switched to concern. “Wait, you’re not saying-“

“Let me finish.” I paused and nodded. “..Sketch, sorry to snap you out of being happy and everything, but… This is a dream. None of this is real.”

I stood up. “It’s not?”

“No, it isn’t. But sitting here with me isn’t the point of this dream. There’s something important I need to tell you.” I could only nod, encouraging her to go on. “Look, Sketch.. You’re a great colt, you really are. The day I just spent with you was one of the best of my life, just because I got to love you again. But that can’t keep happening.”

I paused in surprise. “Why not?”

She sighed. “Let me show you something.” She opened one of her saddlebags and pulled out a tape recorder. She set it down and said, “Remember how I said this was a dream?”

“Yeah.”

She showed me the inside of her bag, which was filled with various cassette tapes. “Well, these are your memories.” She reached inside the cloth sack, looking for a particular tape. When she found it, she pulled it out, put it inside the tape recorder, and pressed “play.”

I looked down and frowned. On the tape was marked “Scootaloo.”

Suddenly I heard the tape playing. It sounded like Scootaloo’s voice. “Oh, yeah, um.. I’m Scootaloo, and this is Applebloom.” I sighed. My first time meeting her. “I guess you’re right. I mean, a cutie mark could be anything, you just have to go out there and find it.” After her voice, I heard my own speak. “Kinda like true love.” “Yeah, kinda.” That night at the sleepover..!

The small machine kept emitting my memories of the small orange filly.

“Sketch, what we’re trying to say is this – We want you to be a Cutie Mark Crusader.”

“Well, yeah. I mean, like that time at the sleepover, and the carrying you here.. I just think I, well, kinda.. Like you.”

“There’s just this.. thing about you that I can’t explain. You’re one of the best ponies I’ve ever met. You’re always nice, and you can be kinda quiet but really outgoing at times, and.. I like being around you.. Is that ok?”

I smiled at the last one. I knew that was when we first kissed, right in the middle of the hospital.

Wait a minute.

I remember something.

Starshine must have seen the look on my face. “Yes, this is where all your memories went.. You were so focused on me, you left them here. And I think it’s high time I returned them to you.” She packed up the tape recorder in the saddlebag and held it out for me to take.

“Wait a minute,” I said with a sad expression, “If you give me these memories, won’t I have to forget you?”

She sighed. “Eventually, Sketch, yes. But it’s for the better. If you can remember everything else you know, it’s more important than me.”

“That’s not true!” I said, tears beginning to form in my eyes. “Couldn’t I just stay here with you and not go back?”

She frowned. “..Sketch, you know I can’t do that to you. You’ll have to move back to Ponyville eventually, and I can’t send you back without these memories. However, I can send you back with something else, though.”

She reached into her second saddlebag and pulled out an envelope. She handed it to me, and I inspected it closer. The only thing written on it was “Sketch” in ink with a fancy cursive print. It had a letter inside it from the feel of it.

“Alright, Sketch. That’s all I can do. Now you have to wake up and go back to Ponyville.”

My tears became more intense. “But Starshine, I don’t want to go. Everything here is perfect- you’re perfect. Please, just..” My sentence tapered off, and I started crying. I sat down and buried my face in my hooves, sobbing. It was the hardest I had ever cried, sitting there, wallowing in my sadness. I’ll never forget it. But I’ll also never forget what came after.

Starshine sat down with me and ran her hooves through my hair, comforting me. “Don’t worry, it’ll be alright. It’ll all be okay,” she whispered as she held me, as if she were protecting me.

I looked up into her eyes. They were a dazzling green, just as they’d always been. But now they seemed inviting. They seemed content. They seemed as though this filly knew everything was going to be okay.

“Please, Starshine. I don’t want to lose you again,” I choked out over my tears.

Starshine said nothing, but instead took action.

She leaned in and kissed me.

But it wasn’t a normal kiss.

It was the most magical kiss in all of history.

As I was kissing her, the figure of Starshine turned to dust which floated away in the wind.

I managed to smile over my crying. “Thank you, Starshine. I know what I have to do.” With that, I grabbed the saddlebag full of memories and slung it over my back. In my hoof was the letter from Starshine.

I jumped off the hill, plummeting to the valley below.

***

I heard my name being called several times, from what sounded like three different voices.

“Sketch!”

“Skeeeetch!”

“Come on Sketch, wake up, please!”

I opened my eyes and saw three fillies. One orange, one white, one yellow.

No- I saw the Cutie Mark Crusaders, and I was one of them.

“Sketch! Thank Celestia you’re okay!” Scootaloo yelled, grabbing me into a hug. I surveyed my surroundings- I was sitting against my hotel room wall, still dazed from the punch Sweetie gave me. I rubbed my head, suddenly remembering my pain.

“Wow, Sweets, you got him good. Look at his face!” Applebloom exclaimed. I slowly got up and stumbled over to a mirror. My face was covered in blood that seemingly came from my nose; Sweetie must have punched me right in the muzzle.

“Yeah.. Sorry about that, Sketch.. My temper just got carried away, and I..” Sweetie’s sentence tapered off.

“It’s okay,” I said reassuringly, “It’s not your fault. It’s mine.”

“No,” she said back, “It’s my fault. You don’t even remember what you did, and-“

“You mean the whole ‘kissing you behind my house’ thing was a dream?” I said with a smirk. Sweetie’s mouth dropped open. The Crusaders stared in her direction, expecting some sort of answer.

Sweetie Belle said nothing, but instead galloped to me and embraced me in a large hug. The other two fillies just stared.

“Girls.. I remember now.”

“What?!” Applebloom and Scootaloo yelled in unison.

“I know it sounds crazy, but.. My memory is back,” I said, smiling and embracing Sweetie.

The fillies smiled as well and did the same as Sweetie. Soon we were all in a huge hug, smiling and laughing. Suddenly, I heard a familiar voice at my door.

“Sketch? What’s all the ruckus in there?”

I ran to my door and flung it open. Behind it was my mother, who I hugged without hesitation. “My memory is back, mom. We can go back home,” I said, tears of joy on my face. I stood there, hugging my mother for a few minutes, not wanting to let her go. This is what she had been hoping for, and I knew it made both of us truly happy.

I broke the hug and ran to tell my father. Everyone was happy, and everything was the way it should be.

We were going home.

***

We left for the train early the next morning. Eventually, my parents had to find out about the CMC’s presence in my hotel room, so they were a bit mad. But after I explained that without them I wouldn’t have my memory, they let it go. They made me reimburse them for their train tickets, but it was worth it.

I deposited my bags in the baggage car and ran up to the passenger side of the train with the Crusaders. We hopped into a compartment and sat down, ready for the journey ahead. We were all truly happy at that moment. We were among friends, and everything was alright again. I sat next to Scootaloo and Applebloom and Sweetie Belle sat across from us. Now it was time for the trip home.

***

Scootaloo laid her head on my shoulder. “I’m so glad to have you back, Sketch,” she said softly.

I put my hoof around her. “I’m glad to be back. I have no idea how I could live without you guys,” I replied with a smile.

“Hold on a second,” Sweetie Belle said, “What about that Starshine girl you had to speak to? What happened to her?”

“I said my goodbyes and we parted ways. It was great seeing her again, but it turns out the only thing that could fix my memory was a punch,” I laughed.

The other girls laughed too. Now it was all just a funny memory, dust in the wind which passed on. And we were glad to be back.

***

I opened up my sketchbook, thinking about something to draw. I flipped through the pages as I always did, looking at what I had drawn in the past. I smiled, remembering each and every picture I had done. I flipped ahead to the newest page, where I didn’t find a picture, or even a blank page-

I found a letter.

Dear Sketch,

There’s something I want you to know. The time I spent with you was spectacular, and I’ll never forget it, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a better time. So get out there and make your life the best it can be. You have more talent, more care, and more love than anypony I know, and I want you to use it. And if you’re worried about me, don’t be- I’ll be with you always, in this letter, and in your heart.

Love,

Starshine

P.S- The first snow will never be the same without you. Love you, Sketchy.

I read the letter over a few times, and eventually tears came to my eyes. They weren’t tears of sadness though, they were tears of joy. I was with who I loved, and I knew I wouldn’t forget who I loved.

“Hey, Sketchy?”

I raised my head to the orange filly. “Yes, Scootaloo?

“Can you draw a picture of me, just like you always used to?”

“Sure thing,” I said, smiling.

I reached for my pencil.

THE END

Prologue - Let Me Tell You A Story...

"Alright, girls, time for bed," Sketch said to the small fillies. They were still very young, but full of energy as they always were.

"Aww, daddy, do we have to?" they both protested in unison.

Sketch could only laugh. "Yes, yes you do. And the quicker you go to your beds, the more likely I am to tell you a story.." Sketch said in a sing-song voice, teasing the girls. Soon the two younger ponies were in their tiny beds, waiting to hear a story from their father.

"Belle and Starbloom.. Do you two know how your names came to be?"

The fillies shook their heads. "You should tell us, daddy." "Yeah, tell us the story!"

Sketch laughed, the girls' behavior reminding him of past friends. "Alright, alright- let me tell you. It all started on a cold winter evening, when I was about 14. I was finishing up my homework after a long day of school..."

***

There, now I add the curve there, and erase that, and..

“Sketch? Skeeeetch! You gotta brain in there?”

It was my marefriend, Starshine, bringing me back to reality. How long had I been drawing?

“Question 5, Sketch, remember?” She looked at me with a grin and batted her eyes at me.

I sighed and nodded at the cheery filly. How could I resist those eyes?

I guess I should explain my position. My name is Sketch, but of course you know that already. I was a light brown colt with black hair and blue eyes. I wore glasses, even though I never really liked them. Somehow I still hadn't found my cutie mark, even though I'd been working for years to find it. I lived near the outside of Manehattan, very close to the filly Starshine.

Starshine was a bright yellow filly with dazzling green eyes and brown hair. She was a bit of a tomboy, but I didn’t mind it. She had always been good to me, and me to her – We were happy.

“So anyway, question 5!” She exclaimed. “Or at least when you’re done drawing,” she added with a wink.

“Hehe, sorry,” I said back. “Spaced for a second. So question 5..”

We were both still at that teen age, but we don’t let people judge our love. We really did love eachother, me and her. She was an amazing mare, and I was an alright colt, I guess. We just… worked together, like we were soul mates.

I heard the bell ring, hugged Starshine goodbye, and headed back home. As I looked at the tall buildings and busy streets, I thought that the city never looked so good. Hell, it was Manehattan. Anything was possible here, they say.

I entered my apartment with a smile on my face. I dropped my stuff in my room, sat down on the couch, and turned on the TV. Just news, nothing special. My mind drifted back to Starshine as I slowly fall asleep.

Chapter 7 - There Goes My Dignity

I really need to replace this book. I’ve had it since I was what, six?

I was observing my sketch book, about to draw. I always loved flipping through the pages, seeing my increase in skill and my different interests at different times. It was a nostalgic practice I did often, almost every time I went to draw something new. And what was I going to draw? I looked around, my eyes stopping at the window.

The sunset – that’s perfect.

I started drawing, and the hypnotic sound of pencil on paper filled my ears.

No better way to spend a weekend. Everything’s just per-

“Hiya, Sketch!”

“Wah!” I screamed, falling out of my chair. Is that.. Scootaloo?

I looked out the window, only to see an orange filly poking her head in.

“Celestia, Scoots, you scared me half to death,” I said, standing up.

“Sorry,” she said with a chuckle, “I told you guys we should have just knocked on the door!” I heard grunts of objection from below.

“Can we just hurry this up, Scootaloo? Yer’ pretty heavy,” I heard Applebloom say.

“You’re telling me,” Sweetie Belle said from below, “I’m never carrying both of you again.

I laughed and said, “Hold on guys, I’m coming down.”

Hurrying down the stairs, I told my mom I was going out and headed out the door. I stepped around my house to the back, where my window was.

“Hey, what’s up?” I said to the three fillies.

“Come with us, Sketch,” Applebloom said.

“Yeah, we’ve got a surprise for you,” Scootaloo added with a wink.

“Totally, let’s go,” I said, following them.

***

“Hey, what was that?”

“You might wanna check it out, Civil.”

My father nodded and checked his binoculars.

“Sweet Celesia’s hairpiece,” was all he could say back.

***

“So, um.. Where are we going?” I said to the Crusaders.

“It’s a secret, so shut your mouth until we get there,” Applebloom said, sticking out her tongue.

I could see a tower through the thick brush of the trees.

“There it is!” exclaimed Sweetie Belle, “Right over there.”

The Crusaders ran to the tower, which I could now see that wasn’t actually a tower - it was a treehouse.

“Sketch, welcome to the Cutie Mark Crusaders clubhouse,” Sweetie Belle said with a smile.

***

“What is it, Civil?!”

“I’m not sure, but it’s big, and it’s headed straight for town.”

“Is it a monster?”

“Nope.. It’s a mob by the looks of it.”

“Are they armed?”

“I can’t tell.”

“What do you want us to do?”

“Everypony man your battle stations, and now. I don’t like the looks of this.”

***

“Sketch, what we’re trying to say is this – We want you to be a Cutie Mark Crusader,” Scootaloo said, handing me a CMC cape.

“I’d be honored, girls,” I responded, taking the cape.

“How do ya’ like the cape?” Applebloom asked me.

“It’s great,” I said with a smile.

BOOM.

A large amount of dust flew in through the clubhouse windows, and a deep, booming sound filled the ears of the Crusaders and me.

“Whut in tarnation is that?!” Applebloom yelled over the noise.

There was only one thing it could be. I went to the windows to check my theory, fighting the dust and shaking of the clubhouse. I saw a large dust cloud around the north entrance of Ponyville, not very far from us.

A stampede.

I started coughing from the dust – my lungs couldn’t take much more. I tried to warn the girls of the stampede, straining my voice to yell, but I only inhaled more dirt. Suddenly, my consciousness gave and I blacked out, falling over the sill of the window.

***

“Sketch? Sketch, can you hear me?”

It was a familiar voice, like that of a small orange filly.

“S-Scootaloo?” I said, trying to open my eyes. I could see we were no longer in the clubhouse.

“Thank Celestia you’re awake,” Scootaloo said, “After you blacked out we split up, and I volunteered to take you.”

“Right. Thanks for that,” I said, putting on my glasses.

“Any time. But we should probably get home, your parents are proba-“

“Ponyfeathers – My dad! He was on watch near the north side of town! I need to find him- ow!” As I stood up, a surge of pain shot through my leg.

“Don’t try to stand yet! When you blacked out, you fell out the window - I wouldn’t be surprised if you broke something,” she said with a frown. “We’re just lucky that clubhouse isn’t very high. Now come on, lemme carry you.”

"..Carry me?"

"Sketch, you could've broken your leg. I'm carrying you."

She put my still body on her back and started walking, while I tried my best not to blush.

Being carried by a girl. There goes my dignity.

“My dad was working in the north watchtower, over by where the stampede came in. We should go there,” I said to Scootaloo, trying to stay on task. She nodded and we went towards the damaged tower. There’s a lot of destruction.. Must’ve been a big stampede. We arrived at the tower and Scootaloo creaked open the door.

“Hello? Anypony in here?” she said into the darkness of the tower.

There was no answer. She called out a few more times, but to no avail. Letting out a big sigh, she said, “Well, I guess your dad and the other guards already left.. We should get you to a hospital then.”

“No, no – I don’t need a hospital, really. I’ll be fine,” I said in protest.

“Sketch, I care about you too much to not get you medical attention. Now let’s go.”

As she carried me towards the hospital, I couldn’t help but blush. She’s a true friend, I thought with a smile.

“What’s up, Sketch? You’re redder than a tomato,” she said, laughing.

I quickly covered my face. There goes my dignity. Again. Horseapples.

***

When we finally got to the hospital, I was super happy. Sure, it was a tad embarrassing to be carried by a filly half my size in public, but I didn’t care. I just wanted to get this mishap with my leg settled. I quietly sat in the waiting room, doing nothing but, well.. Waiting. I heard a nurse call my name, and I did my best to limp over to her with Scootaloo as my crutch.

“Right this way, Mr. Sketch,” she said with a smile, “Your father is in room 15, if you’re wondering. Pay him a visit if you have the time.”

I nodded and followed the nurse. It looked like I was in room 20.

“You’ll get daily visits from the doctor and I, and no doubt your marefriend here will want to visit,” she said with a wink.

“Oh no, we’re not dating,” I said in protest, “Just good friends.”

She giggled and said, “Sorry, you just look like a couple. Please, lay down in your bed and we’ll examine you.” I limped over to the bed and layed down. “Wait right here, I’ll go get the doctor. It may be a bit of a wait though, he’s with another patient.”

She left, and Scootaloo and I were alone once again.

“So, um.. Thanks,” I said to her.

“Thanks? Thanks for what?” she replied.

“Thanks for, well, everything. I really don’t know anypony else who would carry me to a hospital,” I said back with a chuckle.

“Really? You must be a lonely person.” She paused and thought about what she said, and stumbled over her words trying to catch herself. "Oh Celestia, sorry, I didn't-"

“It's okay. I am kind of, yeah.. I’ve never been a guy with a huge amount of friends really, just a few good ones. Sure, I’m kinda solitary, but I find comfort in my art.”

She sat down on the bed and looked me in the eyes. “Really? Cause you’re like, one of my best friends now, besides Sweetie and Applebloom of course, but y’know.. The thing is, sometimes I feel that we’re more than that.”

“More?” I said, surprised.

“Well, yeah. I mean, like that time at the sleepover, and the carrying you here.. I just think I, well, kinda.. Like you.”

“Me? Why me?”

“There’s just this.. thing about you that I can’t explain. You’re one of the best ponies I’ve ever met. You’re always nice, and you can be kinda quiet but really outgoing at times, and.. I like being around you.. Is that ok?”

“Of course it’s ok, Scootaloo. I’ll admit that I’ve had some similar feelings.. I mean, you did carry me on your back for around an hour,” I said with a chuckle.

“Yeah, I suppose,” she said back, laughing as well.

There was a bit of a silence. After a while she started looking into my eyes again, and I felt my heart beating faster and faster. She smiled and put her hoof on top of mine. I love it when girls do that.

She then started leaning in, and I knew what was coming next. Our lips touched, and we passionately kissed.

Epilogue - The End

Sketch smiled, watching the fillies fast asleep after his story had finished. "The girls in bed?" he heard a voice whisper from the hallway.

He stepped out and nodded before slowly closing the door. "Yep. They seemed to like the story of how we met," he said, going closer to the orange filly.

Scootaloo couldn't help but laugh. "You told them that old tale?"

Sketch shrugged. "What can I say, they seemed to like it. Besides, they deserve to know where their names come from."

"And where their dad comes from," Scootaloo said before pulling her husband into a quick kiss. "Still, there are some good memories from that story.."

"Yeah, there are.. Remember, that sleepover we had?"

Scootaloo laughed and said, "Don't remind me. And how Fluttershy caught us.."

Sketch also laughed. "Yeah.. Say, you never told me, how long did you have that crush on me?"

Scootaloo simply smiled. "Since I first saw you." She kissed her lover once again.

***

Sketch laid in bed, looking at all the past pictures and memories he had. There was his wedding picture with him standing next to Scootaloo, him in his tux, and her in her dress. Next to them were Sweetie Belle and Applebloom, all smiling and all with cutie marks.

There was a picture of the day Sketch got his cutie mark. It was him, pointing to his flank that had a picture of two ponies on it- One brown, one yellow.

Sketch looked down to his marked flank and smiled. Turns out his real talent was being a friend.

At the back of the pile of pictures was an envelope, marked "Sketchy" in a fancy cursive print. Sketch smiled as a tear went down his cheek.

Scootaloo stepped into the room, seeing her husband looking at his memories. "Hey, Mr. Emotional," she joked. She stepped over to the other side of the bed and laid on it.

Sketch placed down his pictures and rolled over to his wife, caressing her.

"Hey, Sketch, do you think we'll be doing this forever?"

Sketch paused, then smiled. "I think so, Scootaloo."

I think so.

AN: And thus marks the end of Sketch's story. Thanks to all the watchers and trackers following me through my first fic, I really appreciate all the support and feedback. Speaking of which, go ahead and let me know what you think. Just comment or message me if you have some advice or anything for a new fic writer. Track me if you want to see more of my writing, cause I'm definitely not stopping here.
Thanks,
-HDJ