Dwindling Light

July 25th 2014,  12:24 P.M.

Ponyville Library, Equestria

        My body shot into an upright sitting position as a fit of coughing overcame me due to the dust that traveled upwards with me. The room was almost pitch black, allowing me to see the vague outlines of the room and its furniture. I felt a pain in the back of my head causing me to bring a hand up and explore the newly found growth, wincing as my fingers barely skimmed its surface. Memories of what had just happened flooded back to me.

        I was trying to speak with Luna, yet somebody or something must’ve struck me from behind. Of course that would happen, they told Twilight to sedate me so they forcibly did so. It was the only conclusion I could come to since Twilight and Spike had no reason for aggression towards me, while Luna and her guards had been extremely wary of me. I got to my feet and dusted the thin layer of dust that coated me.

        At first I hadn’t noticed any smell to the room, but as my senses fully returned a strong odor of mold was made apparent to me. I scrunched my nose at this and covered it with a single hand. For one I despised the smell, and two the smell always gave me a headache.

        I was standing in the middle of the room, to my left was an array of machines I had never seen before as well as to my right. I chose not to touch any of the machines. I looked down to see there were hoofprints in the dust that led up the stairs to a door that no doubt led up to the foyer of the library. From here I could hear the sound of a plethora of voices discussing something, but they were too quiet for me to make anything out really.

Hopefully they don’t attack me again. I thought to myself as I walked up the stairs and stopped in front of the door. There were no longer voices coming from the other side. My heart started beating faster and faster as I reached for the doorknob. As I felt the cold metal in my hand I nearly jumped back down the stairs but realized quickly it was just my nerves getting the better of me.

        I grasped the doorknob, turned it, and pushed forward, causing the door to open with a long eerie squeak. The light causing me to shield my eyes as I ducked under the doorway and walked into the foyer. Standing around the table were a mix of pegasi guards wearing both ebony and golden armor. At the far end of the table however stood Luna, Twilight, and lastly Princess Celestia.

        The guards were now standing at the ready, taking formation around me awaiting an order to attack. Princess Celestia and Luna were both glaring at me while Twilight gave me a warm and welcoming smile.

        “Umm, Hi?” I said as I closed the door and stood with my back against it. The guards clad in golden armor almost seemed to flinch in surprise, while the guards in ebony stood their ground. Celestias glare turned to a slight look of confusion. “Please don’t knock me out again.” I said as I shielded my head and dropped into a ball.

        I didn’t want to be knocked out again, mostly because I don’t want to wake up down there again. I also did this to try and show them I was no threat to them, let alone that I would even think of hurting them. I heard the sounds of hooves growing closer and closer, the sound of a dozen hooves moving and then the sound of hooves right in front of me. “Please, don’t hit me again.” I said as I clenched my eyes tightly shut.

        I felt a hoof fall lightly on my shoulder, causing me to look up to find Twilight staring down at me with that same friendly smile. “Why would I hit you Robert?” She asked as she took a step back from me. I tried to muster up a smile but ultimately failed to do so.

        “I-I don’t k-know. The last thing I remember i-is talking to Princess Luna, trying to explain myself and then feeling something slam into the back of my head.” I replied as I stood with my back still against the wall, holding my hands on my head with the fear of being hit in the back of the head still plaguing me. The guards around the room returned to their previous spots around the table with a look of unease present on each of their faces.

        “We apologize for such actions…Robert, but we were told you were to be a human, but it seems we were mistaken.” Luna said, her gaze flat and expressionless now as she said this. Celestia was still confused by the current events.

        I was about to respond when Celestia interrupted. “What are you strange creature? We’ve never seen the likes of you before, do you mind telling us?” She spoke slowly to as if I couldn’t understand her, causing me to frown at her.

        “Pardon me Princess Celestia, but I am not a child so speaking to me as such is rude, disrespectful, and degrading to me as an individual.” I retorted. “I am a human, through and through. Your mythological references towards my kind are inaccurate as they describe another mammal on my planet that are called monkeys. No doubt you have monkeys in your forests and jungles spread across the globe.”

        “But you’re also right in your myths. We evolved from that species and became the first sentient species with the ability of speech, and further thought on our planet. No doubt as Twilight and Dr. Hooves have told me, we are nothing more than myths, legends, monsters in a child's bedtime story to get them to sleep. Portrayed as evil creatures am I correct? Such as the Boogieman, Bloody Mary, Chuckie, Jason Voorhees, Freddie Kreuger, Jeepers Creepers, The Grudge, The Headless Horseman, Frankenstein, Dracula, and many more such people, ghosts, and creatures from our stories.”

        “Whereas you think we are all evil, I guarantee you that not all of us are. I have no intention of harm towards you or anybody else. Princess Celestia, I come from a different universe altogether no doubt and I’m scared out of my wits that I may never have the chance to return to my home. I’m six months into the future of the universe I was transported from. All I have ever known and loved is now but a distant dream that I may never be able to return to.”

        “How do you think I feel? I feel terrified, broken, lost, and lonely. More so than I have ever in my life. I feel more terrified than you, Luna, and your entire Royal Guard combined multiplied by a million. The only reason I don’t let that show through the facade I’ve kept up till now is because that’s what I’ve done my whole life. Keep everything inside and let it all out in one foul swoop.”

        “I keep a strong facade on the outside most of the time so that my friends and family can feel at ease with themselves and not have somebody else to worry about in their lives. If I see somebody hurting, I take them onto my shoulders and carry their weight so they can be happy even if it causes more distress to myself."

As I finished my small rant I struggled for breath, my skin and blood hot as the suns fire, my head light, my body shaking. I scowled deeply at Celestia as all of them looked at me in confusion and surprise. I realized what I had just done and calmed myself down and looked at the floor in embarrassment. "I'm sorry for that outburst, it was uncalled for. It's just... i'm scared Princess Celestia... I may never get to see my family ever again and well..."

I was about to continue but was cut off by Celestia. "I understand,  I am sorry for speaking to you so carelessly. I am sure I would be just as scared as you in a situation such as this, we apologize Robert." I looked up at her, a broken smile present on my face while she still held a stern gaze.

“I’d almost guarantee that you’d handle it better.” I replied in a far friendlier tone than before. Luna and Celestia motioned the guards to exit the library. Most of whom bowed slightly in acknowledgment and didn’t question the Princesses as they exited the building. Only a couple of guards were still standing inside of the library.

“Captain Storm and Captain Dawn, you may leave as well.” Princess Celestia said to them. They both kept glaring at me but did as she asked, slowly exiting out the door. When they were finally outside and the door closed I let out a deep breath that I didn’t realize I was holding in.

“That certainly was…weird.” I said with a light chuckle. Celestia returned to her position next to her younger sister and sat down.

“They are wary of you Robert, with all right should they be.” Luna replied coldly. Her voice sent a chill down my spine. Celestia shot a glare at her. “Don’t look down on me as if I’m wrong, we should not trust this creature nor should we trust what it says. It could be lying to us, but you show it trust.” She hissed at Celestia.

“Do not mistake my words for trust Luna, nor should you Robert. Until we know full well what is going on here, you’re going to answer our questions and should we find you’re lying to us we will put you in the Canterlot dungeon for the rest of your days.” Celestia stated in a flat tone. I nodded and stood opposite of her from the table.

“I do not mistake them for trust Princess Celestia, I do recognize them as true concern. Just as a mother's words to her child when they get themselves hurt. I also have no reason to lie to you Princess Celestia, I’ve already had everything taken from me so what would I seek to gain through deceit?” I replied. Celestia nodded slightly while Luna kept glaring.

“First Question, where did you come from?”

“Planet Earth, Continent North America, Country United States of America, State North Carolina, City Camp Lejeune.”

“Next Question, do you have any form of identification?”

“I do.” I reach around to my back pocket and pull out my wallet and proceed to toss it on the table in front of her. She picked the wallet up in a field of yellow magic and levitated out the cards and money inside of the wallet. Once she found what she was looking for she held it in her hoof and inspected it carefully.

She then passed it to Luna who also inspected it and then proceeded to place the cards and money back inside the wallet and levitate it back to me. “I take it that you were a child of a member in a guard of sorts?” Luna asked flatly.

“Yes Princess, that I was.” I replied flatly.

“The United States Marine Corps, what is it?”

“They would be the equal of your Royal guard, but whereas you have a single military force we have multiple consisting of The United States Marine Corps, United States Army, United States Air Force, United States Navy, and the United States Coast Guard.”

“That brings upon more questions than I wished for.”

“Once again, I’ll answer as best I can.”

“How long does your species usually live in years?”

“It varies from country to country for us, but we generalize it to a single century. Most usually don’t reach a century old but do live a nice long life. Although my life ended at Seventeen years of age, when I was transported here.”

“Why is that? Did they not send you here for a reason?”

“I wasn’t sent here Princess, I was brought here against my will. I have no magic, nor does anybody else of my species. How I got here is an inexplicable anomaly that I couldn’t explain to you even if I tried.”

“We will not ask again, why did they send you here?” Luna demanded angrily. I glared and held my position.

“And I will not repeat myself again, the anomaly that brought me here is inexplicable by human standards. All I can tell you about it is that it was a strange anomaly in the universe that appeared on Earth and brought me here. As I’ve said before I have absolutely no reason to lie to you.” I retorted. Both me and Luna were standing only a couple inches from each others face now.

She glared into my eyes, prying into my soul to try and find an answer where there was none. “You can stare into my soul all you wish Princess, but you will only find I’m telling the truth. I can tell you exactly what the anomaly looked like, and what it did to me, but I can’t explain what it was.” I stated flatly as I stood straight up, glaring down at the Princess of the night. Celestia and Twilight stood stoic, watching the scene unfold.

“I knew you were lying! You said you couldn’t-” Luna was cut off by Celestia putting a hoof in front of her face.

“Do you care to elaborate Robert?” Celestia asked quizzically. I nodded slightly.

“As I said before and keep to, I have absolutely no clue what the anomaly was other than what I think it did and what it looked like. What the anomaly looked like was a black orb with a smaller pulsing yellow orb on the inside, the first time I saw it the yellow orb was nothing more than a spec. The second and last time I saw it, the spec seemed to be pulsating and was at least the size of my head. The orb was phantasmal the first time I saw it, when I saw it for the second time it was a solid orb that well stuck to me when I slammed my hand down on it.”

“When I tried pushing myself out with my foot, I got my foot stuck in it. When no one was able to pull me out at all and the orb had already dissolved or transported my arm up to the wrist and foot up to the ankle I placed all my limbs on it to make myself more comfortable. Soon enough all that was poking out was my head.”

“What I think the orb did was slowly displace my atoms across the universe to this planet or to another universe entirely onto this planet. In layman terms, the orb was a cross dimensional teleporter. At least that’s what I personally think happened, and to what it is I can’t be for certain. Like I said, I can’t really explain it. Best bet is to get a team of researchers on it asap to figure out what it was.”

Celestia nodded slowly as she took in this information as did Twilight. “So what I’m getting is that the ‘orb’ you saw was a teleportation spell that sends a specific target across the universe?” Celestia asked.

I shook my head. “I wouldn’t say that Celestia, it would be all too improbable considering our world doesn’t have magic in any way, shape, or form. All ‘magic’ is to humans, including myself, is science that has yet to of been explained properly.” In a way its true. Most people called something magic when they see science that they cannot explain.

Celestia, Twilight, and Luna all looked at me dumbfounded. “What? Why are you looking at me that way?” I asked, starting to become unnerved by their looks. Twilight was the first to regain her consciousness from her stupor.

“No magic?! Not even a little?!” She exclaimed. I shook my head.

“Nope.” I said flatly in response.

“But how do you control the weather? The sun?! The Moon?! Anything?!?!” Twilight continued.

“We let nature take its course. If there should be rain, let there be rain. The Sun is at the center of our solar system and the Earth orbits around it creating our calender year of 365 days. The Moon however revolves around the Earth, creating the moon cycles and tides of the oceans.”

All of them looked at me more dumbfounded than before. “Tis a lie! Tis a horrible lie!” Luna shouted angrily as she slammed her hooves down on the table in front of her.

“Think it a lie all you want Princess Luna, doesn’t change the facts present on my planet.” I tried keeping a straight face saying this but ultimately failed as I broke into a fit of laughter when she looked defeated.

        Celestia cleared her throat loudly, causing me to stop my laughing and return to my standing position.

        “With that out of the way, onto other questions. Are you a male or female?”

        I gave her my best ‘are you kidding me’ face I could muster up. “I’ll let you think about that one for a while Princess. Not that hard to figure out.”

        “I’ll presume female.” She gave a joking grin as I shook my head. The grin faded as fast as it came. “Next question, You said that you had family. How many members and who were they?”

        “I lived with my current family, my father, my mother and my sister. My brother moved out a few months ago. Five members in my family including me.”

        “What were their names?” She probed.

        “I’d rather keep that to myself.” I replied.

        “Why?”

        “Personal reasons.”

        “What personal reasons?”

        “What do you not get about personal Celestia?”

        “Fine, what do you plan to do?” She asked cockily. I opened my mouth to answer but closed it when I found that I had none. What was I going to do?

        “He could stay here until we find him proper accommodations?” Twilight interjected. We all gave her puzzled looks. “It would allow you to keep a close eye on him, and allow me to further study him.” She reasoned. Celestia and Luna nodded.

        “Well that soun-” I cut her off.

        “I will not be staying any longer with you Twilight. I only agreed to staying yesterday because I had no idea of where to go. Once we are done here I will be leaving to the Everfree forest.” I stated.

        “No!” Twilight exclaimed slamming a hoof on the table. “You can’t possibly do that!”

        “Nor would we allow you to. It is dangerous for anypony to enter that forest alone.” Luna stated with a hint of concern. I raised an eyebrow at this.

        “It seems that somebody does care for my well being despite their scowling and seething hatred towards me, but evidently you seem to underestimate me. I am capable of surviving in the wilderness.”

        Celestia shook her head and stepped over to me and placed a hoof on my shoulder. “This is the Everfree forest, this is not a normal forest Robert.” She stated with a hint of concern. I shook my head and pushed her hoof off my shoulder.

        “Believe me Celestia, I know it’s not a normal forest. Far more than you think.” I replied.

        “Will you not consider staying here at least until tomorrow?”

        I shook my head. “I will not Princess Celestia. If you have no more questions for me than I will be on my way.” Twilight and Luna were standing in front of the door as I stopped in front of them.

        “One last question, why?” They asked in unison.

        “Why what?” I replied expressionless.

        “Why do you want to face this alone?”

        “Because that’s how it’s been my entire life, facing everything alone.”

        “But you don’t have to now! We want to help as we can best!”

        “The best help you can provide me right now, is to leave me be so I may come to terms with this.” I said solemnly. I reached for my dog-tag quickly finding that it wasn’t around my neck, my eyes immediately going wide in worry. “WHERE IS IT?!” I shouted, causing them to look at me with concern.

        “Where’s what?” Luna asked.

        “MY DOG-TAG! WHERE IS IT?!”

        “Your dog-tag? I believe that belonged to somepony named Zachary, not you.”

        I stopped in the midst of my panic and turned towards Luna fully with a scowl. I leaned down, my face only a mere inch away. “It was given to me by him before he died. Now I won’t ask again. Where. Is. It?” I growled.

        “How dare you speak to me like this!” Luna shouted in my face, scrunching her face against mine.

        We were locked in a heated staring contest before Twilight cleared her throat causing us to turn towards her. She levitated my dog-tag along with the friendship bracelet, and house key in front of me. I gave her a relieved smile as I grabbed the dog-tag out of her magic and placed it around my neck.

        “Thank you Twilight.” I said happily. I turned towards Luna, “As for how I spoke to you before Princess Luna, I am sorry but this necklace holds a special place in my heart, mind, and soul. If I lost this, I don’t honestly know what I would do. They’re a constant reminder that I have and had people that care for me.” I held the three items in my right hand.

        “I do not forgive you for it, but it does peak my curiosity to why one would speak as such to me. Especially for such a questionable group of objects. May I ask what significance they hold?” Luna probed.

        I nodded. “The dog-tag, it belonged to my friend Zachary. He gave it to me shortly before he was killed, he was my best friend so much so that I considered him my brother. The bracelet belonged to my friend Jazmine, she died last year of cancer. The key you see here, it is a new reminder that I have a family that loves me and that I have something to return to if I ever get back. They’re also a reminder of the promises I made and the friendships that meant more to me than anything in the world.”

        The room was silent now. So silent you could hear a nail drop. “I’ve never been anything much,” I started again, “ and they’re the ones who showed me that I should have faith even when the darkness seems all consuming and the light seems so far away. I single myself out amongst others because I’m socially inept except when I’m amongst my close group of friends. I feel like I’m constantly going to screw up or do something wrong.”

        “I constantly put myself down and say I can’t do anything, that I’ll never amount to anything other than being another face in the crowd. No matter how many people surround me, I always feel alone. I’m stuck in a constant daze, oblivious to the world around me.” The room was still silent when I finished.

        I got up from my spot on the table and walked to the door and gripped the handle. I turned around for one last look at the Princesses before me. “I guess all I’m saying is that, I’m not who I used to be and I’d like to be that bright, happy, and bubbly kid I used to be.” The smile I tried keeping had fallen to a mournful expression.

        “Robert, at least allow us to accompany you to the forest

        I tried to curse but I choked on my words as I fell to the ground in pain. I couldn’t hear anything, but I did see Twilight looking at Luna with worry and she was shouting something at her. Luna and Celestia looked down at me in concern.

        When I regained my hearing Luna was profusely apologizing to me. “Princess Luna, i-it’s fine. Y-you couldn’t h-have known. I s-should have t-told you that would happen t-to me.” I stammered as I tried standing on my feet. It felt like there was a ton of rocks on my shoulders when I finally stood up.

        “What did you even cast on me if I may ask?” I asked through pained breaths as I gripped my side and leaned against the wall.

        “I cast an invisibility spell upon you, so that we may move through the town unnoticed.” Luna pointed out. I looked down at myself to find that I could still see myself.

        “Seems it was pointless, it doesn’t seem to have worked.” I replied. Luna chuckled lightly.

        “You are only able to be seen by yourself and the caster of such a spell. Celestia and Twilight only know where you are because I am speaking to you directly.” She smirked.

        To test this I moved around the edge of the room slowly and behind Celestia and Twilight. I then got between them and went “Boo…” causing them both to jump and look at me, or at least where they thought I was.

        They proceeded to glare at Luna who was laughing. “You should have seen that coming.” I stated as I finally felt better and was able to stand straight.

        “Oh yes we should have, you’ve no idea how many times she has done that to me.” Celestia said irritatedly. I smirked at Luna who was whistling into the air innocently.

        “I suppose we should get going.” I stated as I opened the front door.

        “As do I, but are you sure you may be able to survive there?” Twilight asked as we got outside. I stood tall and stretched my arms up to the sky and basked in the warmth of the sunlight. Standing around the library's entrance was a large platoon of mixed pegasi in ebony and golden armor.

        I looked down to Twilight, “It’s not like I will be there all the time Twilight. I’ll start building a shelter along the border of the forest, not too far in but far enough so that it’s unseeable by a passerby.” I informed her. She nodded as we made our way through the platoon of guards, Celestia and Luna leading the way.

July 25th 2014,  3:42 P.M.

Everfree ForestBorder, Equestria

       We stood at the border, staring into its foreboding beauty that was darkness. “Are you sure you want to do this Robert? It’s not too late to take up the offer to stay at my place until the Princesses find you proper accommodations.” Twilight pointed out. I shook my head.

        “I may not want to do this Twilight, but I’d rather be able to roam freely in a creepy forest than be trapped inside of a Library for only who knows how long.” I tried reassuring myself in my head that it would be okay. All I needed to do for tonight is find a cave to set up base camp in. Once I have a base camp I can move from there and start laying base near the border for a home.

        “Robert, please take this.” I felt a hoof poke my shoulder and I turned towards whom it belonged to, to find that Celestia was holding a small leather bag in front of me in her magic.

        I grasped the bag and eyed it curiously. “What is this?” I asked.

        “It contains 10 letters, a quill and inkwell, along with a magical candle. If you need to contact somepony, simply write a letter and put it in the flame of the candle. It will reach the recipient almost instantaneously.” She informed. I gave her a smile and a nod.

        “You should be cautious accepting gifts from others, they may turn to be bad.” The voice from earlier made it’s appearance again, coming from behind us.

        “Princesses, do you hear that?” I asked to the three standing in front of me, they all shook their heads and looked at me worriedly.

        “Hear what?” Twilight asked.

        I shook my head. “It’s nothing. I should be on my way, I will write to you tonight when I have found an area to set up base camp.” I smiled and waved as I turned and ran down the path and into the forest.

        The only thing lighting my way were a few streaks of light permeating the foliage of the trees above. I looked over my shoulder to see that the princesses had left. I looked back in front of me and decided to turn into a brush, starting to trailblaze my own path. “You’re still there, aren’t you?” I asked aloud.

        “That I am, you should be more cautious as to whom you accept help from.” The voice said from above me. I shook my head.

        I stopped to catch my breath and pulled out my knife, proceeding to mark a tree with an ‘X’ to mark a way back to the main path. “Yet I should accept the advice of one who knows nothing of the path I tread? Let alone the one who is too scared to show themselves or at least give me their name? I’d be better off accepting advice from a psychopath.” I retorted as I breathed heavily.

        “You honestly haven’t figured out who I am yet?” the voice asked.

        “Should I of by now?”

        “Honestly I’d thought you’d recognize your own consciences voice. Guess I was wrong.”

        “So pretty much you’re telling me that you’re the manifestation of my subconscious mind trying to speak to me through giving yourself an outside voice that can only be perceived by me?”

        “Pretty much.” My consciences replied. I gave an elongated, agitated sigh.

        “So I have literally, gone crazy?” I asked. I waited 1 minute, 2 minutes, 5 minutes for a reply but received nothing but the rustling of leaves. “Going to take that as a yes.” I shook my head as I looked around at where I was at. To my left was a small clearing. I entered the clearing, pulling my knife out of my pocket and flicking it open.

        As I walked through the clearing I had an uneasy feeling that I was being watched, and the rustling from the wind above didn’t aid in calming my nerves any either. The clearing was also a lot larger than I had first anticipated it to be. It was a long narrow pathway that went on for as far as the eye can see.

        This wasn’t a normal path, it had to of been cleared by somebody. At the edges of the clearing stood tree stumps that had long since started to rot, meaning that this area was cleared a long, long time ago. I kept walking along the path until I started hearing the sound of running water.

Might be a good idea to make a makeshift canteen or two and get some water to purify later. I adjusted my path so that I was making headway for the sound of the flowing water. As the sound got louder, the slower I got as well. If there were a rabbit, beaver, or another such animal at the water I wouldn’t want to scare it, or I may be going hungry tonight.

        I stopped as a full river came into view, but I made sure to stop just at the right point to see the other side of the river from where I was crouching in the bushes. I looked around to find a bamboo thicket standing tall and thick on the bank. Well this will be much easier than expected. I thought as a grin sneaked its way onto my face.

        Although there were no animals on this side of the river, it didn’t dishearten me as I reached the bamboo. Each stalk was easily as thick as my foreleg. I proceeded to use my knife to cut down 4 of the stalks and some nearby vines as to create a strap to carry them. It took me about an hour and a half (in total) to cut each one to the right size to make them into a canteen and to carve out holes into each of them. Then an additional thirty minutes to create plugs for each of them.

        Each one was as thick as my foreleg and as long as it as well. They may not be the best, but they will do for now until I can make a gourd or two. Now to fill these. I proceed to walk over to the river, bending down and uncapping each of the canteens and filling each one up with water.

        I filled each one up several times and emptied it out several times to clean it out as best I could before filling them up one last time and slinging them across my back with my package from Celestia. Purifying this water will be difficult without any pots, so next thing to do is to find some well rounded rocks and hope that I can carve it out enough. I started walking up the rivers edge, following it up as far as I could go.

        At the end of the river there was a large wall of stone with a waterfall flowing down into the river. I clipped my knife into my pocket and proceeded to climb the cliff-face, grabbing at the jutting out edges where I could slowly climb up, testing each edge before pulling myself further upwards.

        When I reached the top of the cliff, I laid my canteens and package down on the ground and sat at the edge. The sight that lay before me now was unbelievable to say the least. The sun was only just above the horizon above the thick forest that covered the area for miles around. The cliff I found myself on spread out flat for a while before dipping off behind me further into the forest.

        About a mile to the west of me stood the edge of the forest and further beyond that were the barely noticeable rooftops of ponyville. To the east stood a vast expanse of forest that went on until the horizon, except at one point where ruins jutted out of the tree cover. Might be beneficial for me to make shelter there for the night. I thought to myself as I smiled wholeheartedly.

        The Everfree forest was foreboding from the outside, but from the inside upon this cliff, it was a serene beauty that very few could appreciate to its full extent. From the shows portrayal, it was an enchanted forest that was unnatural to the citizens of Equestria, but to me it was beauty in its greatest form.

        Reveling in its beauty was cut short as I started to notice the sun start descending over the horizon. Should get a move on, I’ll gather a few things for a fire on the way. I thought as I got to my feet and replaced my belongings across my back. I looked over the edge at the river below, it was about a 30 foot drop into it. I shook the thought from my head, getting wet was the last thing I would want right now.

        So I made my way down the cliff face again. It didn’t take too long but I couldn’t risk wasting anymore time so I made haste towards the ruins I saw, at least their general direction. Along the way I grabbed some deadwood and dry leaves to make a fire, also making sure to grab two sticks and a vine to light it when the time came. I bundled the supplies together with two vines, making sure it was bound tightly.

        After about 45 minutes of walking I had gathered enough sticks, wood, and leaves to sustain my fire through the night, and the last hints of sunlight were fading. Not too far off I could see a spire peaking out of the treetops. I hastened my pace to a full on run to get there as fast as I could.

        I came to a skidding halt as I approached the edge of a chasm that separated the ruins and the rest of the forest. No sooner did I look up at the ruins did I recognize where I was, better yet what the ruins were. It was the castle of the two sisters.

Wait a minute, if I’m here then the tree of harmony is… My gaze shifted slowly towards the cave at the end of the chasm that had a soft white light emanating from it. Well that answers that question. I looked to my left, finding a long bridge made of rope and aged wood.

        I jogged over to the bridge and started walking across it, finding that it could hold my weight. What did I expect? For me to fall through and to my death? This bridge could hold 6 ponies easily!

        I shook the thoughts from my head as I reached the end of the bridge and looked up at the castle in awe. The first thought that came to my mind was of how much larger it looked in person. I felt a presence behind me now. “Seems you’re awestruck at how big it is.”

        I ignored him as I walked up the steps to the two large doors that stood in the entryway. Both of which showed their wear over the many years of neglect. I slowly pushed opened the two doors with an eerie squeak that echoed out among the atrium I found myself in. I slowly turned in circles as I walked towards the statue that once held the elements of harmony.

        I snapped out of my stupor as I quickly realized that it night now. I pulled up my sleeve slightly and looked at my watch, it showed in bright green numbers that it was 4:12 P.M. Seems that I’ll need to adjust my watch to this worlds time. I thought to myself as I waved off the impertinent task for a more important one.

        I placed my canteens and package from Celestia against the statue and placed the bundle of sticks and tinder in front of me. I gathered some broken stones from around the atrium to lay down a fire pit. I placed some of the leaves in the bottom and layered it with 2 medium sized chunks of wood and a small amount of sticks. I proceeded to make a bow from some of the vine I had leftover and then carved out a small dimple in a relatively flat log with my knife.

        I then took one of the small rocks that I had collected and placed it on top of the stick I had attached to the bow and placed in the dimple of the plank, placing it over a dry leaf and starting to move the bow back and forth fervently. Soon enough I could see a small amount of smoke coming off of it and glowing red, I took this as my sign to remove the bow and stick and proceed to lightly blow on the coal.

        It didn’t take long for me to transfer it to the tinder at the bottom of the fire pit where the flame slowly but surely started to grow. Soon enough I had a nice campfire going. The atrium was a beauty, even in its ruined state. Before I could continue to gape at the structure, the thirst at the back of my throat made itself apparent to me. This place must have an old kitchen, if not I’ll have to take my chances with drinking it from the canteen as is.

        “Be sure to come back to check on the fire now and again to make sure it does not burn out.” My consciences spoke to me. I lifted my left hand up and did a nonchalant wave to him as I felt his presence near the proximity of the fire. I walked up the stairs and took a right down the corridor, quickly finding a torch on the wall of the hallway.

        I picked it up and ran back to the fire I set up. “Might want to use this.” I said aloud. My consciences snickering at me. Once the torch was alight I made my way back to the corridor. I walked along the corridor for a while before taking a left into another corridor, the walls covered in old paintings and tapestries of long forgotten pegasi, unicorns, and earth ponies with the occasional exception of Celestia and what I presumed to be Luna.

        The decoration were only slightly worn with a thick layer of dust covering them, along with the occasional cobweb and tear present on them. The castle would have looked ever more breathtaking if it were seen how it was over a thousand years ago. The thoughts were banished when I came to an open door that showed a long-neglected kitchen.

        “Sweet!” I exclaimed aloud as I walked inside. The room wasn’t much darker than the rest of the castle and the light from the torch helped slightly. To the left of an old worn down stone furnace laid a stack of firewood. My lucky day. I thought as I placed some of the wood into the furnace and held my torch to it. Lucky for me the wood caught fire fairly easily and soon enough the furnace created enough light to keep almost the entire room enveloped in its glow.

        I looked around to find various light fixtures above the counters, each one holding a candle on the inside of it. I took out each candle, lit it, and replaced it into its holder allowing the room to be fully encased in light. Pots and pans hung from fixtures on the wall. I’ll go get my stuff and bring it here.

        I looked around quickly for more candles and as luck would have it I found some in a nearby cabinet, chock full of em. I grabbed 10 of them before starting my walk back to the atrium, placing candles where I could and lighting them to create a path back towards the kitchen so I wouldn’t forget how to get there.

        When I reached the atrium, my fire was still burning brightly. I quickly gathered my belongings and placed them over my shoulders as well as taking the bundle of firewood I had collected, just in case. I moved around the fire so that it would snuff itself out within the next couple of minutes and proceeded to make my way back to the kitchen.

        “You should have been more careful about that fire. One may have seen it.” My consciences appeared again, this time walking beside me. I shook my head.

        “The smoke was hardly noticeable and I’d think nobody would really care for an everfree fire. At least this deep into it, they’d probably see it more as a blessing that it started burning.” I chuckled lightly. “Besides, it’s night time, most are probably either asleep, reading, cuddling in bed, or otherwise. They shan't be busy enough to notice the smoke here.”

        “But if one does see, it could mean drawing somebody here that shouldn’t.” He replied flatly. I sighed and kept on walking. When I reached the kitchen, it had significantly improved as the fire was now roaring and the candles in the fixtures were burning brightly behind their covers.

        “If you were with me earlier, you’d have known that fire was nothing to the one going up that chimney.” I pointed to the chimney of the furnace as I felt the entity that was my consciousness float away from my body and towards the furnace, causing me to shudder as he did so.

        I left him to his own devices as I looked for a pot that didn’t have rust on the inside. When I couldn’t find one, I settled with one that had the least amount of rust. At least I’m up to date on my shots. I thought as I started emptying the canteens into the pot and placing them on an inert stove. I grabbed my bundle of firewood and placed some of it on the inside of it before using my torch to set it ablaze.

        Once I had the pot settled, I moved over to where I placed the leather bag that Celestia had given me and opened it. I picked up one of the scrolls, the candle, and the quill and ink, placing the components on a nearby counter and proceeding to write.

        Dear Twilight Sparkle,

        It’s Robert. I just wanted to inform you I have found shelter for the night in a ruined castles kitchen. On my way here I gathered some basic supplies for survival and have marked a path of my own to the castle using large ‘X’s on the trees. Right now I am boiling some water that I gathered from a river not far from here to purify it so that I may ingest it without worry.

        I will probably use these ruins as a base of operations until I finish my hut closer to Ponyville. Starting early tomorrow morning, probably at sunrise, I will start gathering materials and placing them where my hut will be. Do you know of any good places here in the Everfree forest that I could get good building materials? Also do you know of any nearby clay deposits? If so that would be helpful as well, it would let me make proper containers for anything I might gather that is edible.

        Finally, I will also be scrounging for food as well but will try to refrain from eating any animals unless absolutely necessary. I plan to make a schedule for the next few days as well so that you may be able to find me if you need me faster. More information will come tomorrow when it’s finished. I’ll look around the ruins to see if I can find any writing supplies and clothing.

        Anyways respond when you can and thanks!

        Yours truly,

                Robert Kenneth Rucker

        After I finished signing my name, I rolled up the scroll and bound it with a red ribbon, proceeding to light the candle and let the scroll burn in its flames, turning it into a wisp of green smoke that exited through the hole in the upper right corner of the room.

        After the letter left the room I turned my attention to the water on the stove that was starting to steam, but was not boiling yet. I’ll leave that be for now, it’ll take a while longer before its ready to drink.

        My stomach let out a low growl, causing my hand to place itself on my belly. “Might want to find food or you might die.” My consciences yelled from across the room. I rolled my eyes.

        “You know we can survive for a few weeks without food. Going hungry is the least of my problems right now.” I replied as I placed another 2 pieces of parchment on the counter.

        “Who are you writing to now? Be careful for whom it may be to.” My consciences was now standing over my shoulder. I could feel it leaning on my back, which was kind of creepy considering it is a figment of my imagination.

        “Writing to Celestia and Dr. Hooves. If Celestia knows I’m at the ruins of their old castle, she may be able to help us in gathering supplies or she may tell us to get the hell out of here. As for why Dr. Hooves? I guarantee he will want to know what is going on and where to find me as well.” After I finished my consciences let out an elongated sigh and retreated to the other side of the room near the furnace.

        With that, I proceeded to copy what I had told Twilight into a letter to Dr. Hooves. Of course changing the wording so that it fit appropriately. Also adding on to see if I could tell the princesses and Twilight about my knowledge. After I sent that letter off I pulled the second sheet over and began writing.

        Dear Princess Celestia,

        It is Robert. I have made shelter for the night in some old ruins that seem to be a castle, deep into the Everfree forest. I have started boiling some water in a kitchen that I found and will start out early tomorrow morning to start collecting supplies to make my hut closer to ponyville but far enough for it to be invisible to the naked eye.

        I wish to ask if you know of any areas around the ruins that may serve a use to me for gathering materials. I will be placing what materials I do find near the place that I plan to start building my hut as well. Tomorrow I will write you again along with Twilight with a schedule of where I plan to be for the next few days so that you may find me quickly if you are to need me.

        It may not be my place to ask this but what do you plan to do? I mean about me? I know that I’m probably a trivial concern compared to other political items that you have to address, but I don’t want to have a false hope of returning home. Whether you can help me return home somehow, or are sure that you will never be able to return me home I would like to know.

        I don’t want to try and believe in something that will never happen because if I do when you or Luna or somebody else tells me it’ll hurt me a lot more than it would if you told me now. I’d rather endure the pain of that knowledge sooner rather than later. I want a chance to establish a life here if I have no chance of returning home. So please tell me and do not sugarcoat it.

        In the meantime, just as at Twilight's Library, any questions of my civilization and who we are as humans I will answer to the full extent that I am able to. I do request though that you show me the same kindness and respect in that aspect.

        Tomorrow during my wanderings I will search around for edible plants, fruits, and vegetables. I will only turn to eating wildlife if push comes to shove as to respect your customs. I will be also using the kitchen in these ruins as a base of operations until my hut is complete. I thank you for your time, ears, consideration, and cooperation Princess Celestia. I await your swift response.

        Yours truly,

                Robert Kenneth Rucker

        No sooner did I finish writing the letter did I send it off. The wisp exiting through the same hole in the ceiling as the others. My water was fully boiling now, notifying me that it was ready to start cooling down so that it may be consumed safely. I poured the water into a separate pot to allow it to cool off faster, placing the other pot on the counter across from the stove.

        “It would be wise to get some rest, lest you wish to be too tired to work tomorrow.” My consciences said from behind me causing me to jump a little, forgetting that he was there.

        “I suppose, but not until the water has cooled off and I have replaced it into the bamboo canteens. I’d rather have the taste of bamboo than the taste of rust.” I replied as I moved around the room, organizing that kitchens utensils into that which is usable and that which is far too rusted to be used at all.

        “I have a question for you, since when could you exit my body? Let alone speak to me with a mind of your own? Lastly do you have a name for yourself?” I asked aloud while organizing a cupboard full of tankards and glasses.

        I felt my consciences walk over to me and sit on the counter to the left of where I was organizing. “I suppose it started the first time you touched that anomaly as you would call it. As for speaking to you, I’ve been speaking to you all your life but in the form of thoughts, and lastly I do not have a name other than your own as I am you, but the more levelheaded, peaceful, and logical part of your mind.” he replied quickly.

        I got up from my crouching position and looked to where my consciences was sitting. I could see a slight blur to where he was, but other than that he had no distinguishable features. “It’d be easier for me to address you if you were to have a name. Also by what you said, does that mean that you have multiple personalities?” I probed.

        “For now just call me Zeke, and to the multiple personalities I would say negatory. It seems only I was split from you.” When he finished I felt his presence vanish once again. So Zeke? Weird name I’ll give him that but whatever. I shook the thought from my head as I walked over to the water pot and stuck my finger in.

        It was lukewarm now. I brought over the canteens to where the pot was and started pouring water into each one. After that was done I placed the canteens and small leather bag on the counter closest to the furnace. I then layed down my jacket in front of it and laid down. Slowly I drifted off to sleep in the warm glow of the furnaces fire next to me.

July 29th 2008,  2:18 P.M.

Camp Lester, Okinawa, Japan

        The day was bright and beautiful today, the sun was out from the previous days of gloom and I was exploring the forest with my best friend. This birthday is one that I will remember for many years to come.

        “Hurry up Zachary! The abandoned lot is just over this hill!” I yelled down through the trees far above the ground. I was in my element, nature. The world around me was bright and the forest around only made everything seem so far away. The clean crisp air of the forest was all that I needed to make my life what I wanted.

        “I’m coming, I’m coming! Keep your shorts on!” Zachary yelled back up to me. He was far below on the forest floor, taking the harder path. More so because he didn’t have a choice. Even though he was stronger, faster, and more athletic than me he could never climb like I did. No one could.

        I jumped from the branch I was on to the tree in front of me and climbed up higher into another perch before jumping to the next perch. “C’mon Zachary! We don’t have all day!” I teased him from above. Not long after a rock soared past me, barely missing my head. “Hey! That was mean!”

        “All’s fair when you’re teasing me out of reach!” He yelled back with a barely visible smirk. He reached down to grab another rock, launching my mind into action. Jumping to the next perch to avoid the rock and then down to a set of branches, swinging from each one as fast as my little body could take me. Each swing brought another rock flying towards where I was before they finally stopped and I couldn’t see Zachary any longer.

        I decided to sit in the crook of a tree closer to the ground to catch my breath. Where as I had been almost 20 feet above the ground in the trees above, I was now only a couple feet off the ground. When Zachary finally reached me again, I was still panting from the exercise he gave me. I punched him in the arm hard. “You know I’m not made for that!” I exclaimed.

        Zachary simply rubbed his arm and laughed. “Made for what? Being a monkey! You’re perfect for the job! You needed that exercise anyways.” He joked. I rolled my eyes.

        “I may be able to climb like one but I certainly can’t keep swinging like one.” I stated. Zachary shrugged his shoulders. Zachary was a military child just like I am, but unlike my parents they let him have really long hair. He had brown hair a green eyes. He wore his hair in a ponytail, allowing me to easily pull it if he made me mad, but usually I refrained from doing so because I didn’t want to hurt him.

        Today he was wearing a pure white t-shirt with khaki cargo shorts. He carried his pocket knife with him as well, just in case something went wrong. I envied him for that because my parents wouldn’t let me get one at the time. We were the same age but he was far more well built for his age than I was. Where as he looked like a normal 6th grader, I looked like a walking light pole.

        “So this abandoned lot, what did you say you wanted to show me in it?” Zachary asked. I was about to respond but found that my voice was drowned out by the eerie cracking as the scene around me started to fall apart. I tried to reach for Zachary helplessly as his face turned into a twisted smile and I fell off the edge of the world and into the darkness.

July 26th 2014,  6:42 A.M.

Castle of the Two Sisters, EverfreeForest

        I sprung awake, grasping my pocket knife and flipping it open as fast as I could. I was drenched in sweat and I was already standing, ready to attack anything that might have been there. I heard a small yelp come from the other side of the room. “WHO’S THERE?!” I shouted angrily.

        Whatever it was, it was clearly scared of me as it kept on whining. Wait a minute, I know that sound… I thought to myself as I put my knife back in my pocket. I walked around to the edge of the middle counter to find Winona crouching in the corner utterly terrified, looking straight at me. “What in the world?!” I exclaimed.

How did Winona get here?! Why isn’t she with the apples?! Why is she in the EverfreeForest?! My mind was working at a million miles per second as I looked at the terrified animal with great worry in my eyes. “Stop asking question and help her get home!” Zeke yelled at me from behind causing me to whirl around with a fist this time, hitting only air.

        After my little scene I slowly walked over to Winona and crouched down in front of her as she continued to cower and was now holding her paws over her eyes. I placed a hand on her head and pet it softly. “It’s okay Winona, I’m not going to hurt you.” I cooed as I continued to pet her, trying to calm her down.

        Her fur was soft and silky, the signs of a well groomed animal. She slowly looked up at me, still scared out of her with. “It’s okay Winona, I know you’re scared but I won’t hurt you. I’m sure your owner is worried out of their mind right now.” I gave her a comforting smile as she finally stopped shivering and slowly sat on her haunches. I pat her head.

        She still had worry in her eyes but it was immensely less than what it was a couple minutes ago. “Do you want some water Winona? You must be thirsty.” I asked as she wagged her tail slightly. “I’ll take that as a yes. C’mon.” I said as I stood up, towering over the small dog. I walked over to the cabinet that held bowls and took one out and walked over to my canteens, proceeding to pour some of the water into the bowl, presenting it to Winona with a smile.

        “Here you go, drink up.” I said as I walked back over to where I had slept the previous night. Much to my surprise, three letters wrapped in a red ribbon were laying next to where I slept. I opened the first one to find it was from Dr. Hooves. It read:

        Dear Robert,

        It is good to hear from you again my friend. I cannot say that it does not worry me that you would choose to live in the Everfree, but the choice is yours to make. I may be able to help you in terms of tools but where to get materials for such a building is unknown to me as I’ve hardly traveled a few meters into the Everfree before turning tail.

        I will place tools near the entrance to the Everfree in a package. It will have your name on it and it may be large so do be cautious when moving it. Also please make sure that nobody sees you doing this. As for telling the princesses I think it would be a good idea, but I’d try to ease them into it so that they do not flip out on you. Celestia may be the most understanding, so I would tell her first.

        Good luck my friend and I hope to see you again soon!

        Signed,

                Dr. Hooves.

        “At least now I’ll have some tools to work with other than a knife.” I said happily as I placed the letter into the leather bag nearby. I proceeded to unwrap another one of the letters, this one from Celestia.

        Dear Robert,

        The ruins you find yourself in are the ruins of the Castle of the Two Sisters. It is our previous home from over a thousand years ago. If you wish, you may stay there for as long as you want as long as you promise to help in its restoration with the several other ponies that wish to restore it.

        If you need tools, or materials you may find them throughout the storage rooms in the castle ruins. I cannot guarantee however your safety as the castle is laden with traps. So I do ask for you to be careful. I also cannot guarantee that the tools or materials you find to be in the sights of usability.

        As to returning you to where you have come, I cannot guarantee you will be able to return for now it is best for you to assume that we may not be able to get you home. For this I am truly sorry, but if we find anything that might be able to help do so, I will inform you immediately. Do not despair though, I am sure that my little ponies will accept you with open hooves.

        Animals in the Everfree are larger than what you may be used to, so if you do dare hunt there I ask you take precaution not to get yourself killed. As well there should be a grove nearby with a plentiful amount of berry bushes, if you are not allergic to such berries that is.

        Signed,

                Princess Celestia

        My heart sank to the pit of my stomach. “At least she was honest with you like you wanted.” Zeke appeared in front of me, and sat down. I looked up to find nothing but a slight blur to where he was.

        “Yeah...but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t hurt. Like I said, I’d rather deal with this now.” I said solemnly as I stood up. “I also can’t let that thought get to me. It will only hinder me.” I perked up slightly as I rid the thought from my mind for the time being.

        “You still have one final letter Robert.” Zeke pointed out. I picked up the scroll and unwrapped it. “So what’s it say?” Zeke probed as I felt him stand up and walk behind me.

        Dear Robert,

        That’s good news! I know exactly where you are so I will be there tomorrow morning after sunrise. I will be bringing one of my friends with me as well so that we can search together for proper materials. You’re going to need my knowledge of plants and herbs if you don’t want to get poisoned accidentally. My friend is also really strong so she will be able to carry the extra materials you aren’t able to carry.

        Also please, please, please refrain from doing anything to other animals, most of the animals in the Everfree are friends of my dear friend Fluttershy and it would be disastrous if you were to hurt one of them. Thanks for the information about the schedule as well, it’ll help keep us organized and on task!

        Your friend,

                Twilight Sparkle

Hmm, definitely not what I would expect to be called out of everything. Never thought I’d be called a friend by a pony. I thought as I rolled the scroll up and placed it in my bag. I proceeded to put the canteens and small bag over my shoulder and walked over to Winona who was sitting quietly next to her empty bowl.

        I knelt down and held out a hand to her allowing her to sniff it. “I’d say its time to help get you back to Applejack, wouldn’t you?” I gave a comforting smile to her as she perked up and let out a happy bark. “Let’s go.” I said as I stood up and blew out each of the candles, leaving the furnaces long dead fire alone. I walked out the door and proceeded to close it as Winona came bounding out and around my legs.

        It didn’t take long for us to make it to the atrium of castle ruins. The long dead camp fire sitting still in the middle of the room. When we walked outside the sun was still barely peeking over the horizon. “Looks like we got some time before they arrive, lets get walking.” I said positively as I started walking down the long winding path towards the entrance of the Everfree forest.

        It took about an hour to reach the edge of the forest where the trail ended. The sun was just over the horizon now, signaling the start of the day. No doubt Twilight and Applejack were still getting ready to come to the forest. “Lets wait here Winona, it’ll be a while before Applejack arrives.” I stated as I took a seat in the brush of a nearby bush. Winona following suit.

        The day was already alive with birds flying overhead and the pegasi in the sky readying for what was going to be another cloudy day. I watched in envy as they flew overhead, free to go where they pleased. The sky and the forest had always beckoned me to their embrace, ever since I was a young child.

        Every time I was in the forest, I climbed the trees to the highest point I possibly could. I always sat in the treetops wishing and waiting for the day when I could join the sky and free myself from the ground. Sadly that day will never come, no matter how much I want it.

        Whenever I was sad, mad, happy, or pensive, I’d find myself in the treetops. When we moved to Okinawa, we had a single tree in our backyard that overlooked the elementary school below. I’d climb that tree to the very top and sit in its branches, looking out over the school and the rest of the residential area on Camp Foster.

        My thoughts faded back to reality when I heard the sound of hooves approaching the pathway. Winona was about to get up when I put my finger to my lips and hushed her. She stayed put as I poked my head just above the edge of the brush. My heart abandoned the fear it had imparted me with.

        Walking up the path towards the forest was Twilight, and an orange earth pony. The earth pony wore her hair in a braid along with a brown stetson on her head. Luckily they didn’t see me yet so I kept quiet until they were at least a few feet into the Everfree before whistling to them. “Hey! Over here!” I exclaimed as I waved my arms above my head, causing them both to turn around.

        “Morning Twilight! Sorry that I came to wait here but I’m expecting a package of tools from Dr. Hooves later. Also I was going to ask if you could try and find the owner of this here dog.” I pointed down to Winona who happily plodded over to the earth pony, who was gawking at me.

        “Morning Robert, but I thought you were going to be at the castle ruins?” Twilight asked. I shook my head.

        “I just told you I’m waiting here for a package from Dr. Hooves, didn’t I?” I replied. I looked over to the other mare. “Do you mind introducing us?” I asked. Applejack was still gawking at me.

        “Hehe, sorry. Applejack, this is Robert. The human I was telling you about. Robert this is my friend Applejack, Element of Honesty.” Twilight pointed to us accordingly. “Also the dog you found is hers, her name is Winona.”

        “Pleased to make your acquaintance Ms. Applejack.” I stated pleasently as I held out my hand to her. She was still gawking which unnerved me a little bit.

        “Umm, AJ? You okay?” Twilight asked as she waved a hoof in front of her face. Applejack finally regained herself as she shook her head.

        “Huh? What? Oh erm, nice tah meet ya’ mighty sorry fer staring at ya like that, jus never seen yer kind before.” Applejack said with a tint of pink appearing on her cheeks from embarrassment.

        I shook my head and gave a small chuckle. “It’s no problem at all Ms., I’d more expect you to be scared of me at the mention of me being a human. Especially since we’re monsters from myths and legends of your kind, not to mention creatures meant to scare little foals to stay in bed.” I replied jokingly. Twilight looked a little embarrassed now as well.

        “Yea, I was a lil’ taken aback when Twi’ ‘ere told me we were gunna be helpin a human. S’pose I expected a storybook creature. Told me you were mighty kind to ‘er and the princesses though.” She pointed out, pink fading from her cheeks and returning with a pleasant smile.

        I rubbed the back of my head. “Calling that kind might of been a little exaggerated, I was less than pleasant in my opinion.” I gave a nervous chuckle. “But I guess I could only be as nice as that because my mind is at war with itself.” I deflated a little at this.

        “I suppose that’s because I have lost so much now though, I wrote to Princess Celestia last night asking if I would ever be able to return. The answer was less than pleasant for me, but such is the way of life. Nothing good is ever gained without hardship.” I said solemnly as I sat against the tree behind me.

        “Ah’m sorry but did y’all just say ya won’t be able ta return ta where ya came from?” Applejack asked pointedly. Twilight shot her a glare telling her she shouldn’t probe.

        “It’s fine Twilight. Really it is.” I stated to make her stop glaring. “I did in fact say I won’t be able to return, at least Princess Celestia told me the chances were extremely slim to none. She told me to assume the worst. So please don’t get mad at Ms. Applejack here for asking. I extend the same hospitality of answering any question truthfully to her as well.” I finished with a slightly happier tone.

        “Oh…” They both said in almost perfect unison.

        “For now, lets not think upon it. Tis the last thing I want on my mind today as we have a job to do.” I reminded them. They both nodded in agreement.

        “S’pose we should get goin then?” Applejack asked. I shook my head.

        “I’m waiting here for the tools from Dr. Hooves. If y’all want to start looking for materials be my guest, not much I can do without the proper tools and equipment.” I stated as I held out my arms. “I’m not very strong at all as you can plainly tell. The most I can do is scout by heading up into the treetops and carrying a few items with me. Oh and sorry I didn’t say so earlier, but thanks for coming to help Ms. Applejack.” I smiled at her wholeheartedly.

        “Could y’all stop callin me Ms please? Kind of weird fer anypony to call me Ms.” She stated with a slight twitch of her eye. I simply nodded and put my head back against the tree.

        “Alright, Applejack it is than. Why don’t y’all sit down and rest for a while. It’ll be a while before he arrives most likely.” I pointed out. In truth it would be a long time before he arrived, the day had only just begun not a couple hours ago. The tools were also probably lowest on his priority list as well.

        “What er those bamboo stalks doing strapped round yer back fer?” Applejack asked as she sat down across the path from me and Twilight.

        I was about to answer before Twilight interrupted. “I think they’re for nutrition, might have put them there so he could eat them.” I tried to suppress my laugh but ultimately failing as I laughed loudly.

It didn’t take me long to calm down but when I finally did they were both staring at me. “Oh Twilight, how wrong you are. I may be an omnivore but I don’t think bamboo would be very good at all for me. I used some bamboos stalks near a river in the forest to create some makeshift canteens to carry water in.” I proceeded to take one of them off my back and place it in my lap so they could see it clearly.

“What I did was cut the stalk just after a joint on the stalk to make sure that it could hold the water. I then cut out a hole in the stalk and carved some plugs for each one to hold the water in when I filled them up. Of course I purified the water when I arrived at the castle last night using the kitchen. Of course the pots I boiled the water in were rusty so there is still a health risk to drinking them.”

“Y’all may be able to drink water right out of the river, but humans immune system isn’t exactly adept in fighting the impurities that the water has in the wild.” I proceeded to uncap the canteen and drink out of it. Surprisingly the water didn’t taste half bad, more so that I’d prefer it over tap water from a sink.

“But if you’re an omnivore shouldn’t that mean you should be able to eat bamboo?” Twilight asked. I shook my head.

“Just because we can eat something, doesn’t always make it necessarily true that it would one, be good to eat, and two, easy to digest. I’m sure there are plants that you’re not able to digest or eat due to its poisonous properties.” I informed.

“That’s true. There’s still so much to learn about your species.” Twilight drifted off into thought. With a grin creeping its way onto her face.

“Uh-oh.” I heard Applejack mutter from across the way. I looked over to her worried.

“Uh-oh?! Why Uh-oh?!” I asked in panic.

“I think y’all can put er ta’gether.” She stated with a sympathetic smile.

I slowly turned to face Twilight who was now grinning maniacally at me.

“I don’t think I like where this is going.” I said slowly backing away from the lavender mare who was slowly advancing towards me before she pounced at me.