Unnatural: A Tale of Metal and Magicby soothsayerChaptersChapter 1Chapter 2Chapter 3Chapter 1Trees fled the setting of the sun as their shadowed souls crept along the walls of the simple hut, cuddling his strong form. Ivy jealously clung to cobble walls doing her best to keep its aloof lover from finding solace in the shadowy embrace. The two played out the scenario almost every day before they comprised and shared their lover; later becoming lovers themselves. The hut himself was ordinary but solid. Perhaps that was why the ivy loved him so much. She was intricate and often histrionic; whereas he was stoic and enduring. The ivy hated sharing her one true love with the shadows. Secretly she harbored a strange fascination with the ever changing shadows that bordered on obsession. Nature was ever a fascinating subject and it was all he had for company for many years. Not that trees and animals didn't make good friends because in all of his life he had never found better friends. They were not afraid of him the accepted him as what he was and they never judged him for his eccentricities. Inspire of all his woodland friends that made him feel wanted he couldn't deny his wanting. He wanted to be like everypony else but that was something that was denied him from the very start. The cream colored unicorn toiled away at his small garden. Pulling up a young thistle with a swift yank he eyed the little intruder, ever so slightly wincing at the pain that dug into his hoof. It broad blades were unassuming yet it edges held a sharp danger. Of all the weeds that tried to retake the once wild ground thistles were one of the worst along with thorns, briers, and poison joke. Thistles along with some types of thorns often held some redeeming qualities, like medicinal purposes and tasty berries. Briers were simply a pain and poison joke- was no laughing matter. Toiling away pulling weed after weed he finished just as the sun sunk below the horizon. He would have worked long after sunset and into the night had he not caught a glimpse of a flicker of light in the distance. Dropping onto his belly he watched the little light as it made its way just beyond the limits of his eyes sight. It slowly crossed the little brook that lay down just southeast of his hut. Gulping he hoped that what ever creature carrying the light wouldn't see his earth toned hut in the failing light. The light came to an abrupt halt. His back legs gave a nervous twitched as they prepared to make a hasty escape. Five years he had been here. Five years he enjoyed his isolation. Five years was an incredibly long time to be without the company with which he could converse. He hated being alone. He hated running whenever somepony discovered him. He hated being mocked and shunned. More than anything he hated that he didn't have the courage to face that hatred and endure until somepony saw him for who he was and not what he was. The air tickled his coat as he rushed forward not registering he that he was even moving until he stood face to face with the torch bearer. Moments passed and neither ponies spoke as they looked each other over. One was a cream colored unicorn stallion with a wildly long mint green mane and tail. His muzzle was sharply defined as if it was cast of steel, the only thing giving his face any softness was his warm brown eyes and humorously small goatee. The other was a fierce looking mare with a gray and black striped coat. Her mane was styled in a tall black and white mohawk. She cocked her head side ways, "I do not believe we have met, a friend I may be to you yet" Shaking his head at the old speech pattern he glared at her in disbelief. The universe was a strange thing, it oddly sent him ponies that were as strange as he was every few lustrums. Pawing nervously at the ground, he looked away. "Think, think darn you! Say something or she will leave you like all the others." he thought. "Do not be shy, there are few ponies as un-judgmental as I." she said as she held out her hoof in greeting. He eyed her hoof and slowly raised his own hoof. The two hooves hung their for the longest time but soon the gravitated toward each other meeting with a muted, "Clop". He looked back at her as his lips stretched into a slight smile, "My name is Elmwood Birch!" The mare returned his greeting with a polite smile, "Zecora is my name. When two strangers meet nothing will be the same. And I am glad to see, that I am not the only one who makes their home in the Everfree". "She lives in the Everfree just like me and she keeps calling me friend. Perhaps she is strange enough to not be afraid of me. Who am I kidding! I'm a freak," thought Elmwood. Lost in thought he started to bite his lip. "I hate to cut this chance meeting short, but I have a mission I can not abort," stated Zecora as she looked too the north. "I have never seen you before and I know this part of the Everfree very intimately perhaps I can help you and your quest, umm, mission thing." nervously spat Elmwood. "Looking for the herb Wolves-bane or Monkshood, I would be happy if help you could,". "Follow me," he said as he headed north. The pair walked a short ways along the path until they came to a large water oak, then they cut down hill into a small hollow. Darkness had fallen and the moon light filtered through the canopy. The came to a stop where the two hill on either side of them smoothed out the earth wrapping around the roots of a hickory thicket. Little purple flowers had settled the land around their roots. "My friend you have done good, so quickly helping me find these beautiful specimens of Monkshood." she quipped as she pranced forward and began to gently prod the plants looking for the best ones. "Why do you need Monkshood. There are far less dangerous herbs that have the same medicinal effects," he asked as he walked forward wanting to get a better look at her at work. "Its medical purposes are well understood, learn more about its magical properties we could." she answered as she placed the first of many of the odd plants into her saddle bag. "Researching magical properties requires magic, and don't take this wrong but you're not a unicorn." questioned Elmwood. "Active magic unicorns alone posses. Magic can also be coaxed from leaf, root, bark and stem by an Herbologist." "Herbology?" "Herbology is the study of the magical and medicinal properties of all flora, a skill any pony can learn with even a passive magical aura." She answered as she finished her work. Zecora turned around and saw the doubtful look in his eyes. Rolling her eyes she walked over to him. She noticed he wasn't really looking at her. He sat there caught up in his own thoughts. Flipping her tail she gently smacked him on the end of his muzzle. He quickly snapped out of his thoughts and shot her a confused look. "Some ponies do not believe until they see with their own eyes, so how bout I come show you my skill around five." she giggled. "She hasn't run away, yet. She want to show me how herbology works." Deep in his chest he could feel his heart start to beat faster. "She wants to see me again. I shouldn't be this excited about seeing her again. I'll just end up getting hurt over this and I'll regret it later. Screw regret, its been over five years since I've even talked to anypony. Even if this does turn out to be another lynch mob scenario I can't miss the opportunity to feel like I'm normal," He thought. "That sounds great! I'll fix us a small dinner. How does tea and soup sound?" he said excitedly. "A dinner with you tomorrow would be great, I cannot wait." "Aroo" howled a timberwolf off in the distance. A small shiver made its way down Zecora's spine. Elmwood cocked an ear toward the direction of the sound trying to judge the distance. "We need to get out of here. It isn't close but I don't want it coming any closer." said Elmwood as he pushed his muzzle against Zecoras stifle. The mare let out a little squeak. His eyes fell on her face and he noticed a slight blush on her cheeks. Nervously he gave her a sheepish grin. "I didn't mean-" he started to apologize when she cut him off. "I take no offense at your pushing me, but a safer place we must be." she answered quickly. The two hurried back towards Elmwood's hut, Zecora leading the way. He tried his best but his eyes kept drifting back to her plot. Every time he became aware of what he was looking at he would quickly avert his eyes. "This is just great! The first pony that I have been around in a long time is not only nice but also quite beau..., sexy," Looking back over her shoulder she noticed his preoccupation with her plot, "Do not be so embarrassed by your wandering eye falling on my plot, I myself think it is as the more modern ponies would say, hot!" She said trying not to laugh. "Aroo" another howl tore at the night sky. Despite the danger of the night, Elmwood decided to through caution to the wind as a playful glint started to shine behind his brown eyes. Picking up his pace he craned his neck forward and quickly nipped the spot where Zecora's tail met her bottom. She let out a loud gasp at the playful assault. Laying her ears back she glanced back at him only to notice he was beside her; no he was passing her, and he was laughing. It was infectious and she soon began to laugh too. They raced each other only slowing down as the came upon his home. The slowed down to a fast trot and then to a slow walk. Their breath was labored and the coats were slick with sweat. And they didn't care. His sides ached from the sudden cardiovascular activity. It had been sometime since he had done anything at a fast pace and his lack of exercise had caught up with him. Elmwood heard Zecora take a deep breath as she strolled up to him, "You have given me a pleasant evening that was fun, but too my home I must run." Elmwood gave her a longing look. "Today turned out to be great, why does she have to go now,". "I'll see you tomorrow then," he sighed. Quickly she reached over to him wrapped a foreleg around him and pull him into a half-hug. His head drooped and he nervously started reaching around her shoulder to return it when she pulled away. "Why don't you-" he muttered as she pulled away and started to galloped away. Tears tried to claw their way into his eyes and a dull ache infected his heart. "I hate this. Just as I'm starting to loosen up and have some fun, away she runs. Oh crap! I'm starting to rhyme now,". Chapter 2After Zecora hurried off; Elmwood retired into his hut. His stomach had begun to protest its lack of attention with a loud rumble. "Ok! Ok, I'll try to find something to eat if you would shut up." Being so far for any power source he didn't have the luxury of owning a refrigerator. All of his food was either fresh picked, dried, pickled, or caned. He walked out his door and around back. The cellar door lay snug against the rear of his home, why he hadn't built away to get into the cellar without leaving his house earlier was beyond him. "I'm just to lazy to change something that should have been more convenient when I built this cozy little cabin to start with." Throwing the door open he was assaulted by the earthy aroma of the underground store room. He took a few steps down the stairwell when he was met with the dark eyes of a fuzzy creature. Both of them glared at the other daring the other to move first, "Gah! How do you keep getting in here, Ferdinand?" The little chipmunk gave a angry squeak as he crossed his little arms. "I know. I know we did agree to share the cellar. What I want to know is how you keep getting in without opening the big heavy door?" asked Elmwood in a not so slightly condescending tone. Ferdinand shot him a wicked grin and then shook his head no. "Fine, be that way. If some other creature discovers your entrance and steals all of your goodies don't come looking to me for some vittles. Oh, and if they get into my food stores I might make have to make chipmunk stew." The little rodent pantomimed Elmwood which earned him a hard look. When it dawned on Ferdinand that the pony was right, he let out a little gasp. Blushing at his own stupidity he ran down the stairs to his little door. He squeaked and pointed drawing Elmwood's attention. The pony looked over the little doorway as Ferdinand gave him a worried look. "I build you a little door first thing in the morning, ok". He stomped his foot in agreement and rushed over to ponies leg and gave it a tight squeeze. "Ahem!" voiced Elmwood. Ferdinand let go and backed up quickly- a little blush crossing his little cheeks. He ran a hand behind his head and gave a nervous chuckle. He then shot Elmwood the "were cool" look. Which Elmwood returned with a goofy smile. "He is as bad about physically showing his emotions as I am,". Elmwood looked over his goods and settled on a couple carrots and a small jar of pears. He didn't feel look cooking tonight. He returned to his hut. Walking over to his sink he gave the old red pump hydrant a few quick pumps washing the carrots off quickly under the cool well water. The carrot found it way into his maul. It broke off in his mouth with a "Pop". Elmwood pulled his old tin wash tub out and filled it a quarter of the way with the well water. A few moments latter he had walked over to his fire place and got to building a fire. After the framework was set he reached for his flint and steel, striking a few sparks into the bundle. The fuzzy bundle started to smoke wildly and after a few warm breaths from the stallion it burst into flame. After adding more wood to the fire; warmth started to creep into the room as the fire roared to life. A large black cauldron found it way on to one hangers on the cast iron bar that run parallel to the base of the fire place. It was soon filled with water and left to boil. Supper ended unceremoniously just as the water warmed up to the proper temperature. Gently he removed the Cauldron from its place as he carried it to his tub. He emptied it carefully so as to not splash himself with the scalding water. The steamy froth looked very welcoming, so Elmwood promptly slid into the tub after fetching a bar of soap and his homemade shampoo. The bath was heavenly. After working in his garden all evening and the almost whimsical experience with his new friend Zecora it was a much needed addition to his fine day. "Friend. What exactly is a friend? I've spent time with a few ponies and other creatures over the years. I've enjoyed their company and I believe they enjoyed mine. But is companionship the same thing as friendship?" he wondered. Which led him to think of Zecora, with her rhyming speech pattern and toned body. "Why is this so frustrating? She was nice to me and she is exotically beautiful what of it." he asked himself. He felt his member tense up at the thought of the sexy mare. He let out frustrating groan and the leaned back plunging his head beneath the warm water. Ethereal quietness filled his mind as the water muted all sound. Soon his heart set the cadence of his mental march and his thoughts returned. Running a dry towel over his body he noted a difference in how he smelled. Oftentimes he didn't really notice his own odor until getting washed up and that was an embarrassing thought. When your alone you don't really care how you look or smell. But when entertaining a guest a certain amount of hygiene is required. "I hope I didn't smell too musky when I was around her. Who am I kidding! I can't even convince myself of that line of thought. I smelt like a workhorse. Sweaty, filthy, and lathered over with the grime of a days work. She didn't seem to mind. She was just being nice," he groaned. "Wait! She gave me a hug. Nopony hugs somepony they find disgusting do they?" he exclaimed, his exuberance dying as the happy smile on his face twisted into a questioning frown. Thinking was an exhausting undertaking. Working his little homestead didn't take much thinking it only required doing. If there was anything in the world he was good at, it was surviving. Doing something, anything to make life easer made surviving bearable. Having others to survive with was an out and out joy. Ferdinand was the nearest thing he had that remotely resembled a friend. They argued a lot but at least it was company. Sure the two of them convinced a trio of doves to not steal the seed they were plant. Edgar, Loopi, and Agatha, the doves, learned to plant seeds themselves and were a great help. Shelah was much more difficult; mostly because as a fox she wanted to eat the doves and Ferdinand. Elmwood eventually got her to come around with the promise of blackberry jam. There was also a family of mice that shared room and board with Elmwood in the winter. Although Mr. Mouse died the fall before, Mr. Mouse Jr. often visited and promised to bring is mother and his wife and kids before the cold set in. Even without the companies of other ponies Elmwood's life was filled with other critters. They were fun and they were company, but for all their good qualities the one quality they lacked was the ability to converse with anything much more a squeak, bark, growl, coo, or whine. Elmwood loved to talk. After putting his bath gear away and brushing his teeth the cream colored stallion walked over too his bed and fell into its soft comfort. Eyeing the water filled tub. "I'll use that to water my garden tomorrow. Most of it was dirt anyway and the rest is all organic." His eyes drifted up to the ceiling. It wasn't very interesting just framework and timbers holding up the shingled roof. The fire had long since died out a the cool of the night had started to infiltrate his cozy cottage. Wiggling under his covers he basked in his own warmth. Turning toward the wall a pair of button eyes gazed lovingly at its bed fellow. Elm grinned at the gray big toothed animal. A foreleg found its way around the gray critter's haunches and was pulled against the stallions chest, "How are you tonight Fanny?" he asked the stuffed elephant. Fanny didn't say anything, she didn't have to because they both knew how much she loved him. "I'm glad you are feel good Fanny," he yawned, "I think I'll go to bed now. I got a lot to do tomorrow. I've got to build a door for Ferdinand, water my garden, and clean my place up so it looks nice for my visitor. Can you believe it. I'll have a visitor tomorrow. She is going to give me a herboloy demonstration. And she going to stay over for supper. I tell you tomorrow is going to great." The stuffed animal enjoyed the warmth and happiness of her dearest friend hoping for his sake that tomorrow was just as great as he had hoped. Chapter 3Light filtered through the window as the sun began its daily journey into the sky. Night had silently slipped away allowing her more conceited sister to take charge of the sky. Nopony wants to leave the comfort and warmth of their bed. Not when it is so dang cozy, but not everyone has a bi-polar chipmunk for a room mate. The fuzzy little tycoon glowered at the unicorn from his perch on the window sill. Pointing to the sun he was doing his very best to let the world know its morning, time to build my door. Ignoring Ferdinand, Elm snuggled Fanny close letting her plushy coat rub across his own. Satisfied he placed her one the edge of his bed allowing her to every so gently lean against the wall. Crawling out of bed he belted out a low yawn that sounded more like a roar. Stretching like a cat he looked up to see Ferdinand rolling on the sill laughing like he had seen the funniest think since the invention of the whoopee cushion, "What are you laughing at fuzz ball?" he said with a slight crack in his voice. Ferdinand rolled over on his belly and started to beat his fist on the sill, tears streaming down his face. Elm reached for the hand mirror that lay on his bed side table and took a look at himself. His mane and tail were a disheveled mess. Elm had seen rats nest that were more orderly. Finally getting the joke he couldn't help but join the chipmunks antics. A short while later after brushing out his mane and tail and shedding a few non laughter related tears his mane shone in all of its glory. He took a deep breath and started his daily ritual and the not so daily task of build a door, even if it was a minuscule one. The time whizzed by and before Elm was even ready he spotted Zecora trotting up the trail towards his home. He ran his hoof through his mane and grabbed the mirror checking to see if he any thing in his teeth. Satisfied that he looked as presentable as possible. Just as he was about to walk to the door to go out to meet the mare a knock came at the door. Ferdinand had scurried over to Elm while the stallion was polishing off his looks and was almost within reach when he turned around and made for the door. The hoof came down as if it was aiming for the little guy and he let out a loud squeak in fear. Elms gleeful grin turned into one of horror as he looked down to the source of the squeak. All of his weight was focused on a scant few inches of surface and it was too late to pull up so he did the only thing he could think of, he leapt of the floor with his hind legs. He rear passed over him and his world turned up side down as he flew over the wide eyed form of Ferdinand. Gravity pulled the escapee's form and claimed its prisoner once again as his plot smacked the floor. "Oof!" he breathed as he came to stop after sliding several feet. Falling to his side he lay there waiting for the room to stop spinning when his ears caught the sound of laughter. Rolling his eyes he imagined Ferdinand was rolling with laughter at him yet again. Ferdinand's soprano's ranged laughter was drowned out by a alto giggle. While trying to ignore Ferdinand he had missed the sound of the door opening. He rolled over and on to his feet, snorted at his tormentors and then walked over to the fireplace to stir the soup. At that moment he couldn't look at the mare. It wasn't because he was mad at her he was just far to embarrassed. The warmth of the fire stroked his muzzle but it wasn't as hot as the blush that was currently a resident on his face. Before he noticed her Elmwood was relaxed. His body didn't look like the collection of bones, skin, and muscles it was sleek as glass. Zecora watched as he was alerted by her intrusions into his home, which she knew was a faux pas on her part, his body coiled and every muscle tensed up. Many times she had seen the wilder more dangerous animals of the Everyfree look just like he did now. And she had cornered him in his own home. Ferdinand didn't want to see where this was going so he left the two ponies to their devices. "I should have waited and knocked again. I hope by letting myself in you I did not offend. I tried my best, but I couldn't help but laugh at your jest," she said sympathetically. Facing Zecora he let out a deep sigh wearing a hurt look, "It's ok Zecora. I just over-reacted. I'm sorry I walked away instead of saying hello. I was just to embarrassed to say anything." She sat her saddlebags down and then walked over to check out what the soup he cooked. She gave it a stir or two and then glanced at him, "We all make fools of ourselves sometimes, but not laughing at our own mistake is a serious crime. And once more a fool is seldom a bad thing, if happiness it brings," He wasn't sure of her words but offered her a half-smile, "I haven't had visitors in a good while; much less somepony who would call me a friend. I just wanted everything to be perfect." "Perfect doesn't exist my friend, trying your best is the only end." she said with a good natured chuckle. Elmwood laughed with her as his tension eased. "Do you want to eat first or do you want to get straight to the magic of Herbology?" "First we shall eat, and then I will wow you with an impressive feat,". He guided her to the table which he had already set. It was very simple set up just a couple bowl set on saucers with the silver wear laid out neatly beside it. A small basket filled with cornbread muffins sat between them beside a vase filled with daisies and foxglove. Zecora watched him take her bowl over to the fire place and fill her bowl and then return to offer it back to her. He then did the same with his own. Raising her eyebrow she tried to figure out why the unicorn wasn't using magic. The were many strange customs throughout Equstria and beyond. For example many traditional earth ponies didn't like it when pegasi used their wings to pick up food from a communal plate just as it was considered rude for unicorns to do the same with their magic. Unicorns preferred to use magic to manipulate silver ware only making exceptions when in mixed race company. Pegasi were the least concerned with table manners, if you keep your elbows of the table and chew with your mouth closed you were following the rules. She could help but wonder if he was doing wasn't using magic because he was afraid to offend her. While they were eating they chatted about common things like the weather, and what strange things they had saw while living in the Everfree, the talked the longest about medicinal herbs and their uses. Both had a question they were hesitant to ask but just as Zecora worked up the courage to ask him about why he hadn't used magic he beat her to the punch. "Before I settled down here in the Everfree I traveled extensively and I have never seen a pony like you before." he asked innocently as he looked her over. He couldn't believe he missed seeing her neck and ear rings or her stylized sun cutie mark. "I am an exotic breed, there a few of us in Equestria indeed." she answered. "I wished I had met you sooner Zecora," he whispered. Her ears shot forward just barely catching the his words, there was something about him. She couldn't explain it. Perhaps it was that he made her feel like he was a kindred spirit she decided to offer him something she only allowed a few others. They had long since finished their meal so she got up and joined him on his side of the table. She sat close enough to him that his body heat radiated off of her. His ears gave a nervous twitch and he couldn't look her in her eyes. His breath came quicker as he watched her out the corner of his eye. Her hoof slowly traced its way along his lower back and she drew him into a hug. It only lasted a few moments but it was enough to cause the steady march of his heart to rapidly speed up. Her ribs expanded and he felt her breath. A moment later she exiled. Turning to her he saw the warm smile that crossed her face. He had never wanted to kiss somepony more in all of his life as she inched closer. "Does she want me to kiss her. I want to kiss her. What am I doing she isn't even a proper companion yet and I want her. This is wrong. I can't do this!" Thought raced through his head as she stopped her advance. The warmth of her breath ticked his muzzle and her dark blue eyes sparkled with ethereal light. She parted her lips, "Don't worry about what you have missed. Life is too short for worry. Live in the moment and be free," she sang as she released her hug and leaned away. All of the mounting tension and expectations melted away. Brown eyes clouded over with storm of confusion. Laughing at the dumbfound Unicorn Zecora playful stroked his mane, "Rhyming isn't all that I do, sometimes it is easiest to speak straight and true!"
Chapter 1Trees fled the setting of the sun as their shadowed souls crept along the walls of the simple hut, cuddling his strong form. Ivy jealously clung to cobble walls doing her best to keep its aloof lover from finding solace in the shadowy embrace. The two played out the scenario almost every day before they comprised and shared their lover; later becoming lovers themselves. The hut himself was ordinary but solid. Perhaps that was why the ivy loved him so much. She was intricate and often histrionic; whereas he was stoic and enduring. The ivy hated sharing her one true love with the shadows. Secretly she harbored a strange fascination with the ever changing shadows that bordered on obsession. Nature was ever a fascinating subject and it was all he had for company for many years. Not that trees and animals didn't make good friends because in all of his life he had never found better friends. They were not afraid of him the accepted him as what he was and they never judged him for his eccentricities. Inspire of all his woodland friends that made him feel wanted he couldn't deny his wanting. He wanted to be like everypony else but that was something that was denied him from the very start. The cream colored unicorn toiled away at his small garden. Pulling up a young thistle with a swift yank he eyed the little intruder, ever so slightly wincing at the pain that dug into his hoof. It broad blades were unassuming yet it edges held a sharp danger. Of all the weeds that tried to retake the once wild ground thistles were one of the worst along with thorns, briers, and poison joke. Thistles along with some types of thorns often held some redeeming qualities, like medicinal purposes and tasty berries. Briers were simply a pain and poison joke- was no laughing matter. Toiling away pulling weed after weed he finished just as the sun sunk below the horizon. He would have worked long after sunset and into the night had he not caught a glimpse of a flicker of light in the distance. Dropping onto his belly he watched the little light as it made its way just beyond the limits of his eyes sight. It slowly crossed the little brook that lay down just southeast of his hut. Gulping he hoped that what ever creature carrying the light wouldn't see his earth toned hut in the failing light. The light came to an abrupt halt. His back legs gave a nervous twitched as they prepared to make a hasty escape. Five years he had been here. Five years he enjoyed his isolation. Five years was an incredibly long time to be without the company with which he could converse. He hated being alone. He hated running whenever somepony discovered him. He hated being mocked and shunned. More than anything he hated that he didn't have the courage to face that hatred and endure until somepony saw him for who he was and not what he was. The air tickled his coat as he rushed forward not registering he that he was even moving until he stood face to face with the torch bearer. Moments passed and neither ponies spoke as they looked each other over. One was a cream colored unicorn stallion with a wildly long mint green mane and tail. His muzzle was sharply defined as if it was cast of steel, the only thing giving his face any softness was his warm brown eyes and humorously small goatee. The other was a fierce looking mare with a gray and black striped coat. Her mane was styled in a tall black and white mohawk. She cocked her head side ways, "I do not believe we have met, a friend I may be to you yet" Shaking his head at the old speech pattern he glared at her in disbelief. The universe was a strange thing, it oddly sent him ponies that were as strange as he was every few lustrums. Pawing nervously at the ground, he looked away. "Think, think darn you! Say something or she will leave you like all the others." he thought. "Do not be shy, there are few ponies as un-judgmental as I." she said as she held out her hoof in greeting. He eyed her hoof and slowly raised his own hoof. The two hooves hung their for the longest time but soon the gravitated toward each other meeting with a muted, "Clop". He looked back at her as his lips stretched into a slight smile, "My name is Elmwood Birch!" The mare returned his greeting with a polite smile, "Zecora is my name. When two strangers meet nothing will be the same. And I am glad to see, that I am not the only one who makes their home in the Everfree". "She lives in the Everfree just like me and she keeps calling me friend. Perhaps she is strange enough to not be afraid of me. Who am I kidding! I'm a freak," thought Elmwood. Lost in thought he started to bite his lip. "I hate to cut this chance meeting short, but I have a mission I can not abort," stated Zecora as she looked too the north. "I have never seen you before and I know this part of the Everfree very intimately perhaps I can help you and your quest, umm, mission thing." nervously spat Elmwood. "Looking for the herb Wolves-bane or Monkshood, I would be happy if help you could,". "Follow me," he said as he headed north. The pair walked a short ways along the path until they came to a large water oak, then they cut down hill into a small hollow. Darkness had fallen and the moon light filtered through the canopy. The came to a stop where the two hill on either side of them smoothed out the earth wrapping around the roots of a hickory thicket. Little purple flowers had settled the land around their roots. "My friend you have done good, so quickly helping me find these beautiful specimens of Monkshood." she quipped as she pranced forward and began to gently prod the plants looking for the best ones. "Why do you need Monkshood. There are far less dangerous herbs that have the same medicinal effects," he asked as he walked forward wanting to get a better look at her at work. "Its medical purposes are well understood, learn more about its magical properties we could." she answered as she placed the first of many of the odd plants into her saddle bag. "Researching magical properties requires magic, and don't take this wrong but you're not a unicorn." questioned Elmwood. "Active magic unicorns alone posses. Magic can also be coaxed from leaf, root, bark and stem by an Herbologist." "Herbology?" "Herbology is the study of the magical and medicinal properties of all flora, a skill any pony can learn with even a passive magical aura." She answered as she finished her work. Zecora turned around and saw the doubtful look in his eyes. Rolling her eyes she walked over to him. She noticed he wasn't really looking at her. He sat there caught up in his own thoughts. Flipping her tail she gently smacked him on the end of his muzzle. He quickly snapped out of his thoughts and shot her a confused look. "Some ponies do not believe until they see with their own eyes, so how bout I come show you my skill around five." she giggled. "She hasn't run away, yet. She want to show me how herbology works." Deep in his chest he could feel his heart start to beat faster. "She wants to see me again. I shouldn't be this excited about seeing her again. I'll just end up getting hurt over this and I'll regret it later. Screw regret, its been over five years since I've even talked to anypony. Even if this does turn out to be another lynch mob scenario I can't miss the opportunity to feel like I'm normal," He thought. "That sounds great! I'll fix us a small dinner. How does tea and soup sound?" he said excitedly. "A dinner with you tomorrow would be great, I cannot wait." "Aroo" howled a timberwolf off in the distance. A small shiver made its way down Zecora's spine. Elmwood cocked an ear toward the direction of the sound trying to judge the distance. "We need to get out of here. It isn't close but I don't want it coming any closer." said Elmwood as he pushed his muzzle against Zecoras stifle. The mare let out a little squeak. His eyes fell on her face and he noticed a slight blush on her cheeks. Nervously he gave her a sheepish grin. "I didn't mean-" he started to apologize when she cut him off. "I take no offense at your pushing me, but a safer place we must be." she answered quickly. The two hurried back towards Elmwood's hut, Zecora leading the way. He tried his best but his eyes kept drifting back to her plot. Every time he became aware of what he was looking at he would quickly avert his eyes. "This is just great! The first pony that I have been around in a long time is not only nice but also quite beau..., sexy," Looking back over her shoulder she noticed his preoccupation with her plot, "Do not be so embarrassed by your wandering eye falling on my plot, I myself think it is as the more modern ponies would say, hot!" She said trying not to laugh. "Aroo" another howl tore at the night sky. Despite the danger of the night, Elmwood decided to through caution to the wind as a playful glint started to shine behind his brown eyes. Picking up his pace he craned his neck forward and quickly nipped the spot where Zecora's tail met her bottom. She let out a loud gasp at the playful assault. Laying her ears back she glanced back at him only to notice he was beside her; no he was passing her, and he was laughing. It was infectious and she soon began to laugh too. They raced each other only slowing down as the came upon his home. The slowed down to a fast trot and then to a slow walk. Their breath was labored and the coats were slick with sweat. And they didn't care. His sides ached from the sudden cardiovascular activity. It had been sometime since he had done anything at a fast pace and his lack of exercise had caught up with him. Elmwood heard Zecora take a deep breath as she strolled up to him, "You have given me a pleasant evening that was fun, but too my home I must run." Elmwood gave her a longing look. "Today turned out to be great, why does she have to go now,". "I'll see you tomorrow then," he sighed. Quickly she reached over to him wrapped a foreleg around him and pull him into a half-hug. His head drooped and he nervously started reaching around her shoulder to return it when she pulled away. "Why don't you-" he muttered as she pulled away and started to galloped away. Tears tried to claw their way into his eyes and a dull ache infected his heart. "I hate this. Just as I'm starting to loosen up and have some fun, away she runs. Oh crap! I'm starting to rhyme now,".
Chapter 2After Zecora hurried off; Elmwood retired into his hut. His stomach had begun to protest its lack of attention with a loud rumble. "Ok! Ok, I'll try to find something to eat if you would shut up." Being so far for any power source he didn't have the luxury of owning a refrigerator. All of his food was either fresh picked, dried, pickled, or caned. He walked out his door and around back. The cellar door lay snug against the rear of his home, why he hadn't built away to get into the cellar without leaving his house earlier was beyond him. "I'm just to lazy to change something that should have been more convenient when I built this cozy little cabin to start with." Throwing the door open he was assaulted by the earthy aroma of the underground store room. He took a few steps down the stairwell when he was met with the dark eyes of a fuzzy creature. Both of them glared at the other daring the other to move first, "Gah! How do you keep getting in here, Ferdinand?" The little chipmunk gave a angry squeak as he crossed his little arms. "I know. I know we did agree to share the cellar. What I want to know is how you keep getting in without opening the big heavy door?" asked Elmwood in a not so slightly condescending tone. Ferdinand shot him a wicked grin and then shook his head no. "Fine, be that way. If some other creature discovers your entrance and steals all of your goodies don't come looking to me for some vittles. Oh, and if they get into my food stores I might make have to make chipmunk stew." The little rodent pantomimed Elmwood which earned him a hard look. When it dawned on Ferdinand that the pony was right, he let out a little gasp. Blushing at his own stupidity he ran down the stairs to his little door. He squeaked and pointed drawing Elmwood's attention. The pony looked over the little doorway as Ferdinand gave him a worried look. "I build you a little door first thing in the morning, ok". He stomped his foot in agreement and rushed over to ponies leg and gave it a tight squeeze. "Ahem!" voiced Elmwood. Ferdinand let go and backed up quickly- a little blush crossing his little cheeks. He ran a hand behind his head and gave a nervous chuckle. He then shot Elmwood the "were cool" look. Which Elmwood returned with a goofy smile. "He is as bad about physically showing his emotions as I am,". Elmwood looked over his goods and settled on a couple carrots and a small jar of pears. He didn't feel look cooking tonight. He returned to his hut. Walking over to his sink he gave the old red pump hydrant a few quick pumps washing the carrots off quickly under the cool well water. The carrot found it way into his maul. It broke off in his mouth with a "Pop". Elmwood pulled his old tin wash tub out and filled it a quarter of the way with the well water. A few moments latter he had walked over to his fire place and got to building a fire. After the framework was set he reached for his flint and steel, striking a few sparks into the bundle. The fuzzy bundle started to smoke wildly and after a few warm breaths from the stallion it burst into flame. After adding more wood to the fire; warmth started to creep into the room as the fire roared to life. A large black cauldron found it way on to one hangers on the cast iron bar that run parallel to the base of the fire place. It was soon filled with water and left to boil. Supper ended unceremoniously just as the water warmed up to the proper temperature. Gently he removed the Cauldron from its place as he carried it to his tub. He emptied it carefully so as to not splash himself with the scalding water. The steamy froth looked very welcoming, so Elmwood promptly slid into the tub after fetching a bar of soap and his homemade shampoo. The bath was heavenly. After working in his garden all evening and the almost whimsical experience with his new friend Zecora it was a much needed addition to his fine day. "Friend. What exactly is a friend? I've spent time with a few ponies and other creatures over the years. I've enjoyed their company and I believe they enjoyed mine. But is companionship the same thing as friendship?" he wondered. Which led him to think of Zecora, with her rhyming speech pattern and toned body. "Why is this so frustrating? She was nice to me and she is exotically beautiful what of it." he asked himself. He felt his member tense up at the thought of the sexy mare. He let out frustrating groan and the leaned back plunging his head beneath the warm water. Ethereal quietness filled his mind as the water muted all sound. Soon his heart set the cadence of his mental march and his thoughts returned. Running a dry towel over his body he noted a difference in how he smelled. Oftentimes he didn't really notice his own odor until getting washed up and that was an embarrassing thought. When your alone you don't really care how you look or smell. But when entertaining a guest a certain amount of hygiene is required. "I hope I didn't smell too musky when I was around her. Who am I kidding! I can't even convince myself of that line of thought. I smelt like a workhorse. Sweaty, filthy, and lathered over with the grime of a days work. She didn't seem to mind. She was just being nice," he groaned. "Wait! She gave me a hug. Nopony hugs somepony they find disgusting do they?" he exclaimed, his exuberance dying as the happy smile on his face twisted into a questioning frown. Thinking was an exhausting undertaking. Working his little homestead didn't take much thinking it only required doing. If there was anything in the world he was good at, it was surviving. Doing something, anything to make life easer made surviving bearable. Having others to survive with was an out and out joy. Ferdinand was the nearest thing he had that remotely resembled a friend. They argued a lot but at least it was company. Sure the two of them convinced a trio of doves to not steal the seed they were plant. Edgar, Loopi, and Agatha, the doves, learned to plant seeds themselves and were a great help. Shelah was much more difficult; mostly because as a fox she wanted to eat the doves and Ferdinand. Elmwood eventually got her to come around with the promise of blackberry jam. There was also a family of mice that shared room and board with Elmwood in the winter. Although Mr. Mouse died the fall before, Mr. Mouse Jr. often visited and promised to bring is mother and his wife and kids before the cold set in. Even without the companies of other ponies Elmwood's life was filled with other critters. They were fun and they were company, but for all their good qualities the one quality they lacked was the ability to converse with anything much more a squeak, bark, growl, coo, or whine. Elmwood loved to talk. After putting his bath gear away and brushing his teeth the cream colored stallion walked over too his bed and fell into its soft comfort. Eyeing the water filled tub. "I'll use that to water my garden tomorrow. Most of it was dirt anyway and the rest is all organic." His eyes drifted up to the ceiling. It wasn't very interesting just framework and timbers holding up the shingled roof. The fire had long since died out a the cool of the night had started to infiltrate his cozy cottage. Wiggling under his covers he basked in his own warmth. Turning toward the wall a pair of button eyes gazed lovingly at its bed fellow. Elm grinned at the gray big toothed animal. A foreleg found its way around the gray critter's haunches and was pulled against the stallions chest, "How are you tonight Fanny?" he asked the stuffed elephant. Fanny didn't say anything, she didn't have to because they both knew how much she loved him. "I'm glad you are feel good Fanny," he yawned, "I think I'll go to bed now. I got a lot to do tomorrow. I've got to build a door for Ferdinand, water my garden, and clean my place up so it looks nice for my visitor. Can you believe it. I'll have a visitor tomorrow. She is going to give me a herboloy demonstration. And she going to stay over for supper. I tell you tomorrow is going to great." The stuffed animal enjoyed the warmth and happiness of her dearest friend hoping for his sake that tomorrow was just as great as he had hoped.
Chapter 3Light filtered through the window as the sun began its daily journey into the sky. Night had silently slipped away allowing her more conceited sister to take charge of the sky. Nopony wants to leave the comfort and warmth of their bed. Not when it is so dang cozy, but not everyone has a bi-polar chipmunk for a room mate. The fuzzy little tycoon glowered at the unicorn from his perch on the window sill. Pointing to the sun he was doing his very best to let the world know its morning, time to build my door. Ignoring Ferdinand, Elm snuggled Fanny close letting her plushy coat rub across his own. Satisfied he placed her one the edge of his bed allowing her to every so gently lean against the wall. Crawling out of bed he belted out a low yawn that sounded more like a roar. Stretching like a cat he looked up to see Ferdinand rolling on the sill laughing like he had seen the funniest think since the invention of the whoopee cushion, "What are you laughing at fuzz ball?" he said with a slight crack in his voice. Ferdinand rolled over on his belly and started to beat his fist on the sill, tears streaming down his face. Elm reached for the hand mirror that lay on his bed side table and took a look at himself. His mane and tail were a disheveled mess. Elm had seen rats nest that were more orderly. Finally getting the joke he couldn't help but join the chipmunks antics. A short while later after brushing out his mane and tail and shedding a few non laughter related tears his mane shone in all of its glory. He took a deep breath and started his daily ritual and the not so daily task of build a door, even if it was a minuscule one. The time whizzed by and before Elm was even ready he spotted Zecora trotting up the trail towards his home. He ran his hoof through his mane and grabbed the mirror checking to see if he any thing in his teeth. Satisfied that he looked as presentable as possible. Just as he was about to walk to the door to go out to meet the mare a knock came at the door. Ferdinand had scurried over to Elm while the stallion was polishing off his looks and was almost within reach when he turned around and made for the door. The hoof came down as if it was aiming for the little guy and he let out a loud squeak in fear. Elms gleeful grin turned into one of horror as he looked down to the source of the squeak. All of his weight was focused on a scant few inches of surface and it was too late to pull up so he did the only thing he could think of, he leapt of the floor with his hind legs. He rear passed over him and his world turned up side down as he flew over the wide eyed form of Ferdinand. Gravity pulled the escapee's form and claimed its prisoner once again as his plot smacked the floor. "Oof!" he breathed as he came to stop after sliding several feet. Falling to his side he lay there waiting for the room to stop spinning when his ears caught the sound of laughter. Rolling his eyes he imagined Ferdinand was rolling with laughter at him yet again. Ferdinand's soprano's ranged laughter was drowned out by a alto giggle. While trying to ignore Ferdinand he had missed the sound of the door opening. He rolled over and on to his feet, snorted at his tormentors and then walked over to the fireplace to stir the soup. At that moment he couldn't look at the mare. It wasn't because he was mad at her he was just far to embarrassed. The warmth of the fire stroked his muzzle but it wasn't as hot as the blush that was currently a resident on his face. Before he noticed her Elmwood was relaxed. His body didn't look like the collection of bones, skin, and muscles it was sleek as glass. Zecora watched as he was alerted by her intrusions into his home, which she knew was a faux pas on her part, his body coiled and every muscle tensed up. Many times she had seen the wilder more dangerous animals of the Everyfree look just like he did now. And she had cornered him in his own home. Ferdinand didn't want to see where this was going so he left the two ponies to their devices. "I should have waited and knocked again. I hope by letting myself in you I did not offend. I tried my best, but I couldn't help but laugh at your jest," she said sympathetically. Facing Zecora he let out a deep sigh wearing a hurt look, "It's ok Zecora. I just over-reacted. I'm sorry I walked away instead of saying hello. I was just to embarrassed to say anything." She sat her saddlebags down and then walked over to check out what the soup he cooked. She gave it a stir or two and then glanced at him, "We all make fools of ourselves sometimes, but not laughing at our own mistake is a serious crime. And once more a fool is seldom a bad thing, if happiness it brings," He wasn't sure of her words but offered her a half-smile, "I haven't had visitors in a good while; much less somepony who would call me a friend. I just wanted everything to be perfect." "Perfect doesn't exist my friend, trying your best is the only end." she said with a good natured chuckle. Elmwood laughed with her as his tension eased. "Do you want to eat first or do you want to get straight to the magic of Herbology?" "First we shall eat, and then I will wow you with an impressive feat,". He guided her to the table which he had already set. It was very simple set up just a couple bowl set on saucers with the silver wear laid out neatly beside it. A small basket filled with cornbread muffins sat between them beside a vase filled with daisies and foxglove. Zecora watched him take her bowl over to the fire place and fill her bowl and then return to offer it back to her. He then did the same with his own. Raising her eyebrow she tried to figure out why the unicorn wasn't using magic. The were many strange customs throughout Equstria and beyond. For example many traditional earth ponies didn't like it when pegasi used their wings to pick up food from a communal plate just as it was considered rude for unicorns to do the same with their magic. Unicorns preferred to use magic to manipulate silver ware only making exceptions when in mixed race company. Pegasi were the least concerned with table manners, if you keep your elbows of the table and chew with your mouth closed you were following the rules. She could help but wonder if he was doing wasn't using magic because he was afraid to offend her. While they were eating they chatted about common things like the weather, and what strange things they had saw while living in the Everfree, the talked the longest about medicinal herbs and their uses. Both had a question they were hesitant to ask but just as Zecora worked up the courage to ask him about why he hadn't used magic he beat her to the punch. "Before I settled down here in the Everfree I traveled extensively and I have never seen a pony like you before." he asked innocently as he looked her over. He couldn't believe he missed seeing her neck and ear rings or her stylized sun cutie mark. "I am an exotic breed, there a few of us in Equestria indeed." she answered. "I wished I had met you sooner Zecora," he whispered. Her ears shot forward just barely catching the his words, there was something about him. She couldn't explain it. Perhaps it was that he made her feel like he was a kindred spirit she decided to offer him something she only allowed a few others. They had long since finished their meal so she got up and joined him on his side of the table. She sat close enough to him that his body heat radiated off of her. His ears gave a nervous twitch and he couldn't look her in her eyes. His breath came quicker as he watched her out the corner of his eye. Her hoof slowly traced its way along his lower back and she drew him into a hug. It only lasted a few moments but it was enough to cause the steady march of his heart to rapidly speed up. Her ribs expanded and he felt her breath. A moment later she exiled. Turning to her he saw the warm smile that crossed her face. He had never wanted to kiss somepony more in all of his life as she inched closer. "Does she want me to kiss her. I want to kiss her. What am I doing she isn't even a proper companion yet and I want her. This is wrong. I can't do this!" Thought raced through his head as she stopped her advance. The warmth of her breath ticked his muzzle and her dark blue eyes sparkled with ethereal light. She parted her lips, "Don't worry about what you have missed. Life is too short for worry. Live in the moment and be free," she sang as she released her hug and leaned away. All of the mounting tension and expectations melted away. Brown eyes clouded over with storm of confusion. Laughing at the dumbfound Unicorn Zecora playful stroked his mane, "Rhyming isn't all that I do, sometimes it is easiest to speak straight and true!"
