Make Your Echo Create A Wave

Chapters

A Rude Awakening
Answers
More Introductions
Growing Pains
Adapting
Appleloosa
Transition

A Rude Awakening

Just as the dew drops softly onto an unkept mane

Some so subtle are not yet ready to ride in the fast lane.

CHAPTER 1: A RUDE AWAKENING

As the snowflakes landed softly onto my nose, a sense of confused frustration overtook my shivering form. wasn't it the middle of June? My body ached as I tried to rise. Opening my eyes, I could just barely make out a village. It seemed basic...maybe European...or somewhere is the Mid-West perhaps? Doesn't matter, It was the closest thing I've got, I had to try. Getting a feel for my environment, I was shocked my the results. Am I...ontop of a mountain? No...no...I was with my friends...I WAS IN FUCKING NEW YORK...what the hell? My mind swirled as I tried to rise, getting on all fours before I turned to look at myself in the ice wall the mountain has formed. As I rotated I was instantly shocked by a large creature on the other side of the ice, like a horse, only with huge wings and a horn. I could only scream as I backed up one step too far, falling backwards off the mountain and seeming to hit every jutting rock it had.

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Everything was quiet as I was falling. Maybe the adrenaline, or the vertigo screwing with me, but whatever it was, it only intensified the pain as I felt things tear and crack with each crash, giving me just enough time to gasp for air as I fell again, repeating the cycle for at least a few minutes. The feeling went away as I hit the tenth rock, and everything came back about a minute after landing on solid ground, my right ear down as I landed facing away from the mountain, looking towards the snow covered forest and freshly powdered evergreens as my vision fluctuated, trying desperately to adjust to the new scenery but ending up just making me sick with the wobbling of the trees. Coughing loudly, I watched my own blood trickle and redden the snow around me as I saw a yellow and pink form rushing towards me from a distance. Too weak to fight or call out, I simply closed my eyes as the world went dark.

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Waking up to a warmer atmosphere was a welcome change of pace, but the pain and It's constant throbbing definitely wasn't. Blinking a few times, I tried to rub my eyes to allow them to adjust, but instead only a large, round object hit my face. "Huh? Is...is something covering my hand? why...does it look like a..." Just then, I'm interrupted by a quiet spoken female voice behind me, just above a whisper.

"Um...y...you were bleeding...alot. I...well, I helped you back here, and after I splinted your wings, I was afraid numbing the pain would make your heart weak...I'm sorry if I didn't do it right..." She quickly walks out of the room out of my view and comes back out, muffling as if something is in her mouth "I...I made you some soup...If that's alright. I hope your not allergic...t...to carrots......if so I could take it away."

I gasped loudly as she put it down next to the couch I was laying on, looking her over as my heart rate quickens. "Y...you're...not human" I quickly blurted out, causing her to raise an eyebrow as she pulled her neck back. She wasn't, she was a pony, about three feet tall with a bright, vibrant (yet surprisingly subtle) yellow coat and shining teal eyes, like looking into the Pacific Ocean. Her mane was pink, and draping over most of her back and over one of her eyes and down to her neck.

"W...well of course...y...you are too after all. You are a pony...right?"

"W...WHAT?" She quickly shrunk away as I raised my voice as I looked myself over in fear, panting louder and faster then ever before. It's true, my white and slightly tanned human body was replaced by a light brown coat over my new pony form. My hands and feet were now hoofs, and they had a bright, almost neon purple glow to them that spiraled off almost like one would have for a tattoo. My entire body is bruised up and messy, either with a few dead leaves or a couple of deep gashes covered by a few pads. "Um...m...miss...?" I say with a slightly stuttering and exhausted tone, my words interrupted with a cringe as my body shudders in pain "c...could you please get me...a mirror?"

She slowly took a small hand mirror into her mouths and walked over with extreme caution, placing it on my lap and retreating hastily. As I picked it up between both front hoofs, I closed my eyes as I spun it to myself. Panting lightly, I turned it and held back a scream as I looked at myself. My face was now much different. Scratches and the occasional band-aid covered my bruised face. The same color as the rest of me, my face resembled the other ponies face, with a slightly longer snout that goes vertical at a much greater degree (not a 90 degree angle, just a sharper slant to vertical). My eyes glowed the same vibrant purple and my hair was black with purple tips. My hair was somewhat spiked, but only at the very back and front of my hairline. The hair spikes and stopped halfway back my neck and just before reaching my eyes, the purple tips not as vibrant but still standing out. More noticeably was the horn that was on the middle of my forehead in a slightly upright position. It was a similar tone of brown as the rest of me,with carved spirals connected to make one large design to the tip of my horn. I also notice at first glance that it was chipped badly. The tip was missing and there was a hairline fracture along the length of it.

As I dropped the mirror to my belly, I laid my head back as i thought. Calm down man...think this through. Your in a magical ponies house...who can talk and do her own hair...and you are one as well...perfectly...normal...o...or not...but I can't freak... The pony approached again as I looked over, much more calm now that I had relaxed myself.

"I...I'm Flutter shy by the way...and...that is, if you were wondering...we are right at the edge of Ponyville. I...if you want...I could get my friend to help." She cringed at my imminent answer. She was obviously a quiet one...hopefully any other ponies may have more answers...or at least know how I'm like this.

"Y...yea...that's probably for the best...thank you...Flutter...shy." As I finish, I let out a forced smile, trying to calm her, not sure if this behavior is normal or not. "Um...but...did...you say...splint my wings?"

She tilted her head and smiled back at me as she went to leave and get her friend. "Y...yea...ya know...wings...like these..." she said as she unfolds her wings outside, her hoof on the doornob as she closed the door, leaving me in awe and hoping for answers.

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Answers

With the rising sun on the horizon's peak,

The unknown becomes more and more weak.

CHAPTER 2: ANSWERS

As the door to the small cottage closed, a smiling yellow pony was the last thing I saw before my mind exploded with questions. Where is this place? How did I get here? Was I cursed? Did. . . I die? That last question really turns my gut as I look around anxiously. It seemed real...and this pain felt real...but was it? How could I have gotten here after me and a few of my friends were just hanging out? I suppose it doesn't matter I'll just have to...hold on a second...didn't that pony...I mean...didn't Fluttershy say that she splinted...my wings?

Quickly spinning as far as my body would allow,I looked over my shoulder and gasped as I saw a pair of wings, forced closed with the aid of a few splints and gauze wrapped with medical tape. Even through all of the amateur craftsmanship of the dressing, it was obvious that the damage was heavy. I felted the parts of my wings that were bent or torn and splintered. It had obviously fared worse than the horn, and I was sure that repairing and nursing the wings was a fair greater challenge than I knew.

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Apparently I was thinking for more than I believed I was, because The door was soon opening again. As expected, it was Fluttershy, but she wasn't alone. With her was a purple pony...actually no, she was a unicorn it seemed, having a similar...yet slightly longer horn than mine (my having the tip chipped off and all). Her hair was a a dark blue, almost purple, with a lightening shade into a light red streak going vertical across her mane. Her eyes were the same color as mine, though slightly less vibrant and colorful, and she had a kind of tattoo on the side of her hips in the shape of a star.

As she came in and looked to me, her face turned from concerned to slightly frightened, as if she had seen a friend get hurt. She quickly galloped over to me and knelt down, eye level to me as she looks me over for outstanding injuries. "My gosh, are you alright? You...you look terrible, how do you feel? SPIKE, GET IN HERE!" she desperately called outside. The door swung open and a small dragon, maybe two thirds the size of the others, rushed in. He also had a purple color to him, except for his underbelly and the spikes going down his back, which were a light green tone instead. He stood on two clawed feet and had working fingers, a welcome change of pace. He also seemed younger than the rest, but not childish. He seemed to know what was happening, even in this state of panic the other pony was expressing.

"I'm here...calm down." He glanced over to me, then back at the unicorn, opening a scroll and holding it open in front of her as her horn glowed brightly and she closed her eyes. Bright tendrils of light exploded around me and engulfed my form, setting my aching body to an eased, though still fully aware, state. My smaller wounds were healed slowly but surly as my larger gashes were closing. It wasn't perfect, and the wounds never fully closed, but it helped a lot, and eased my mind greatly knowing that i was being cared for. "Ya know, your really lucky Zecora found this spell her archives and gave it to you Twilight. Who knows hold long a salve would take" said the dragon,almost jokingly to the unicorn.

"T...twilight?" My mind was still trying to take in everything and comprehend the confusion. I hope simple questions and observations like her name will have her help me understand my situation.

"Yes...I'm Twilight, Twilight Sparkle. This is my assistant Spike. We've been friends for as long as I can remember." She smiles lightly to me as she notices my wings. "My gosh, Fluttershy...you were right...he is an alicorn. This is amazing...where did you come from?" Her words made me lower my head.

"I...I don't know." I actually begin tearing up as i speak."I...I woke up on a mountain...I...have no idea whats going on." Blinking slowly as i look at Twilight, I receive a frown in return,followed by a soft hug. I whine lightly as my wounds light up with pain again,but hug tighter non the less.Laying my head back as I release her from the hug,I try to get any answers I can.

"So...when can I walk again?" I ask with a mild look of hope.

"Well, you haven't hurt your hoofs in the fall, surprisingly, so if you want...you can walk now. I would, however, advise against flying and magic use...at least until we can help you. If you don't know about anything prior to the mountain, you may have to learn how to fly and cast magic from the beginning. Me and my friend Rarity can teach you how to harness your magic, and I have a friend named Rainbow Dash to help you learn how to fly...once you heal your wings. Um...Fluttershy? Could you show him the basics of flying? I don't want him to hurt himself...and Rainbow tends to train... competitively."

Fluttershy, who was standing behind Spike for safety, slowly steps forward and nods, smiling lightly to me as I rise off of the couch and try to stand on all fours. After a few failed attempts, I'm able to keep my ground, smiling softly to the girls as I think through my future plans.

"Um...do you...have a name?" Twilight asks curiously.

"Um...Its Jacob...Jacob...um...I...I don't know my last name..." I slowly cringe as i try to recall with no avail. "I guess...I'm just Jacob for now."

"Oh...alright...would you like to walk around town with us...help you stretch your legs and get a feel for the area?"

"Yea,that's a good idea Twilight...let's go."

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I adapted quickly to my new form of motion, having to rely on all fours meant I could walk with more stability, making the injuries less debilitating. Heading past the buildings of various shapes and sizes, a boutique was the first to be pointed out by Twilight. Well, less by her and more by Spike pointing to it and yanking on Twilight's tail eagerly.

Heading inside, a unicorn with a white coat has her back to me, humming something quietly to herself as she levitated a few pieces of fabric onto a pony mannequin, hovering a few needles through the pieces. She had a beautiful violet mane and tail, flowing and draping with remarkable care, and eyes like emeralds. Slowly turning as the door closes, she notices me and rushed forward with zealous vigor as she got nose to nose with me.

"Oh darling, what an original design you have. The bandages and intricate cuts and bruises are remarkably done...however did you make this?" She abruptly grabbed at my folded and mended wings as I yelped and cowered under my front hoofs.

Twilight smacked the white ponies hoofs away "It's called falling off a mountain Rarity...and this is not a design choice." she scowled lightly before rushing back to me and re-aligning my dressings.

"A MOUNTAIN? Oh sweetheart, I am SOOO sorry for this, why ever where you on a mountain? It's dreadfully cold this time of year..." She lifted my head and gave a concerned look of apology as I gave a light smile, forgiving the accident as Twilight took her time behind me fixing my bandages.

After a long, drawn out discussion about the events that happened, with Fluttershy chiming in occasionally to fill in gaps in the story, Rarity took a seat on her lounge couch and looked at me again. "Well...Jacob...if this is right...and you don't have any memory or a place to rest...I would be more than happy to let you stay here. It's the least I can do for the pain I caused. Please...let me help you...as long as you need."

Sighing softly, I look to everyone, then at the designer shop I'm currently standing in. "Alright Rarity, I accept...but you have to let me help you, I won't be a burden."

With a few nervous looks, the group nods in unison as Rarity walks up slowly and hugs me, being sure to hug away from my wings and horn as she takes one of my hoofs and walks my upstairs. "Here is the room you will be staying in. It's right across from my room so if you'r bored or lonely...I usually need company." With that she gives a light smile, blushing deeply and turning away as I hear a muffled "fuck" as she turns. I smile wide and look my room over, contempt with the living area and its purple and white tone as I lay on the bed, sighing lightly as I look out the window and see the lowering sun.

"Um...Jacob..." Twilight says from the bottom of the stairs "We're gonna go home, if you need something, I trust Rarity. See you tomorrow." With that,everyone spare me and Rarity are gone, and she trots into my room and smiles lightly.

"Well...I suppose I'm off to sleep as well...good night." She turns and goes to leave "If you need anything,anything at all,I'm here." With that, she slowly shuts the door as I hear a quiet giggle emanate from the other side as i close my eyes and welcome the coming days.

More Introductions

Even if an Echo meets another or a wave meets a wave

Pain and distrust may lead to a difficult relationship to save

CHAPTER 3: MORE INTRODUCTIONS

Waking from a dead sleep, I slowly hopped out of bed, opening my door and heading into Rarity's room. I tried to be subtle but she was still awake with a devious smile across her face. She grabbed me before I was able to make a sound, pushing me to my back and tracing a hoof up my hip, resting it on my midsection. I only moaned in desperate pleasure as my panting grew heavy and I wrapped my front hoofs around her, pulling her into a deep embrace. She only uttered one thing as I began kissing her neck.

"Darling, wake up"

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Opening my eyes quickly I saw eyes peering at me as the room filled with light. I jolted up out of my bed quickly, startling Rarity as I gasped and howl in pain as my wings slammed the wall next to the bed. I opened my mouth to yell more but only air escaped as I fell back down, my wings still in crippling pain as I whimpered quietly, looking up at the unicorn in pain.

"My dear house guest, I'm so sorry I caused this Jacob..." She fumbled as she straightens the bed, her way of making up for the abrupt awakening. As the pain ceased I leaned up as she tries to fix my pillow and held her hoof in mine.

"I forgive you...could you...help me out of bed, Rarity?" She instantly locked up at my touch, a deep blush across her face as she cleared her through to buy time.

"Y...yes, of course Jacob" she stutters out as she helps me to my hoofs. She offered to walk me downstairs, and, out of forgiveness I let her, leaning close to her as we descend the stairs. As we reached the bottom of the staircase, I was suddenly knocked forward and almost lost my footing, looking back to see a small white pony about as tall as Spike sitting at the bottom of the steps where I was just a second ago (I'm implying she tripped me). Her hair was like the color of cotton candy, a mix of purple and pink arranged in thick vertical stripes of the alternating colors.

"Oh my...I'm so sorry Mr..erm...Rarity? Who is this pony?" As she finished her sentence, she's met with a furious faced Rarity.

"SWEETIE BELLE, how could you! I try to nurse a poor, injured pony to health, and you barge down the stairs like a glorified bull; have you no honor or class?" After such words, poor Sweetie Belle could only sniffle and look up to me. I knew she didn't deserve that.

"Um...Sweetie Belle? It's alright, I forgive you." I added a smile after my words to hopefully comfort her. Maybe it worked too well, because she turned tail and galloped up the stairs crying."Rarity...did I...do something wrong?"

"No dear, she simply isn't used to making a bad first impression...nor does she take it well when things go wrong" Rarity points out. "Listen...go meet the rest of mine and Twilight's friends...I'll stay here and fix this. Maybe we could even make a few outfits together for when your...more properly healed." To this I gave a nod and wide smile, hoping I would be able to spend time getting to know this pony.

I had no idea why I would be interested in a pony in the first place, but I was one, and how could I find my own species unattractive. I'm going to be a pony for a long time, it seemed, so I might as well get used to it. Even though it's only the second day here in... was it Ponyville? Yea...Fluttershy called this place Ponyville when she left to get Twilight the first time we met. Guess nothing to do but get used to it. I enjoyed the atmosphere of the area, and if the other ponies were as nice as these few have been, how could I be upset?

I slowly opened the door to leave as I felt a hoof stopping the door. I turned and was met with Rarity blinking lightly, blushing deeply as she pushed me to the wall and kisses me lightly. After a few seconds of this, she pulled back, blushing deeper than ever as she turned tail and headed up the stairs quickly. "I...I trust you'll be fine...have a good day Jacob" she said as her voice faded, leaving me wide-eyed and slightly slack-jawed.

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Heading out and through town, I slowly made my way to a large house, seemingly made out of a large tree. Not bothering to waste time contemplating the obvious flaws it's design structure, I headed in and was met with Twilight and Spike reading up heavily on alicorns. It was a library of sorts, with books all up the walls in large shelves. They turned there head to give an affirmative nod before turning back to their studies. While cold, I could admire their intent on wanting to learn up more on me if I was to be staying here a while. Spike was the first one up and headed to see me. Having been the assistant, he wasn't doing much of the reading, except for reading off sections of different books for Twilight to listen too while she flipped through pages with her magic.

"Hey Jacob, how are the wings and horn" he asked curiously, hoping to find any reason on avoiding more reading. Twilight was quick to bounce up and greet me, smiling wide as she stepped over any and all clutter of books left around.

"If it isn't hurting any more, we could advance the spell to phase 2 if you would like."

"And...what would that do?"

"Well, the first stage was mending any heavy damage and realigning your wings, so the second phase is hypo-dermal, working on mending any problems that are small enough to be over looked by the heavy hitting spell." She smiled at her own ability to remember as she looked at me."We could remove the bandages and and splints Fluttershy put you into, and get working on fixing that horn and those wings." She seemed overzealous in her tone as she described the process, so for nothing elts, me accepting the offer would help her as well as me.

"Sure Twilight, lets do it."

"REALLY? Great,lets do it now!" Spike poked his ears up from the kitchen and threw Twilight a look before shrugging his shoulders. She quickly rushed back and opened the scroll, casting with exited movements as her horn sparked to life and zapped me with a similar aura of magic, cascading down from the air as it left her horn, arched, then splashed onto the shield of magic already outlining my form.

The magic made my wings spread as the dressings drop. I was amazed as I looked back, watching them spread to almost twice my body length,perfectly straight and beautiful. "My gosh...they...there fixed...their beautiful."

As the magic dissipated, Twilight smiled so hard I thought the corners of her mouth would wrap around her face and connect. "Yea,since Pegasus are known for more durable bones and cartilage, they must have fared well in the fall. Your horn, however, won't work well without a full repair, which will take a lot of time to heal." Slowly the smile faded as she began thinking. "Well,i suppose we should meet Dash first...she's a bit of a hot head, but she will warm up fast...compliments help." She grinned as she rolled her eyes, opening the door as I shut my eyes hard and heard my wings collapse and fold in towards me as I made my way outside.

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A loud whistle caught me off guard as I looked back at Spike, about to growl at him as I turned toward the sound of wings flapping lightly to the ground. My jaw almost dropped as I looked at the pony attached to to those wings. A cyan blue coat covered her body as she swooped down, landing light as air as she smiled at me, her rose colored eyes gleaming gently in the light as she shook her head, pushing her hair into form. Her hair was arranged like a rainbow,her tail having the same pattern, almost covering one of her eyes as she smiled lightly to Twilight. My heart skipped many a beat as I got right next to Twilight for a better view of the Pegasus.

"Jacob...this is Rainbow Dash" Twilight said as she smiled to me, pointing her hoof to the winged pony who abruptly struck a pose. "...and she is going to teach you how to fly." My eyes lit up as a smile wore wide on my face.

"I'm gonna do what now? Can't he fly by himself? He is a alicorn...is he like...slow or something?" The last comment hurt as I shrunk back and sat,my tail curled around as I looked down and let my spiked hair dip low, the neon violet tip dipped over my eyes. Twilight immediately yanked her over and whispered at her for over five minutes. After which she walked over and laid a hoof on my shoulder. "Hey...um...I don't like saying this but...I'm sorry. I didn't know you hadn't ever flown before, let alone didn't know anything past the fall. I would love ta help you...and we're gonna start right now...come on." She grabbed my front hoofs and wrapped them around her neck,lifting me into the air with ease as she flew off into the sky, Twilight's objection echoing off and going silent.

She brought me to a high up cloud with a large house made of a similar cloud texture. The cloud was high above the others and huge as she flew up to it and dropped me. It was so sudden I didn't even yell out as I landed onto the puffy substance. I couldn't see through the bottom of the cloud I was now ontop of, and it had the texture you would think a could would have. It was wispy and light, soft to the touch as i gained my footing. Since there was alot of the cloud, I assumed it was so if i couldn't fly, I had a place to land. The house nearby was a two story living space, similar to what a normal home should look like, except it was purely made of clouds. Rainbow Dash dropped behind me with the same lightness as she watched me look around.

"Alright Jacob, first rule...keep a clear mind. Unless you know how to multitask, you'r mind should be consistent and straightforward. One thing should be on your mind, flying. I don't want to see you daydreaming, you're not ready to let your wings run on cruise control. The only reason you can stay upright on this cloud is your natural Pegasus instincts. Your bones are lighter than a normal pony, and stronger too. This DOESN'T mean to pick a fight with others, unless you know you'll win"

"Second rule, to extend your wings naturally you need to order your wings out. Same with putting them away, control and you will rule the sky. Fail to do so, and you drop like a box of cupcakes...a metal box...with metal cupcakes...SHUTUP." I couldn't help but smile as she gets flustered.

She taught me basic state-of-mind strategies and how to propel myself up and forward, then took me to the edge of the cloud and told me to do it. My heart raced faster than I'd like as I gulped and closed my eyes, ordering my wings open, and stepping off and dropping as I leave the cloud. No amount of concentration helped as my wings clung to my sides. My mind fills instantly with visions of those I've met since I've been here, and I smile lightly as I remember that the last person I was was Rainbow Dash. My vision goes blank as I hear a sonic boom, followed by a flowing of color around me as I'm lifted and brought to a safe area of ground. I'm turned over and look into Rainbow Dash's eyes as I slip into unconsciousness from the rapid altitude change. The last image stained into the back of my mind as I see Dash looking at me biting her lower lip and checking my pulse with one of her wings. Those eyes looking at me as I slipped into a deep sleep.

Growing Pains

Dead falls over a family like a vale made of steel,

overcome with the weight, making it harder for wounds to heal

CHAPTER 4: GROWING PAINS

The cool breeze of the evening temperature welcomed my awakening. Opening my eyes and looking around, I was relieved at my surroundings. Purple and white, I was in my bed at Rarity's house...but she wasn't looking over me this time. As I looked around, what I saw couldn't help but put a warm smile on my face. It was Rainbow Dash. She had fallen asleep at the edge of my bed,curled up and breathing softly as she had her head turned to me. She must have brought me here and was too guilty to leave. She was obviously here waiting for me to awaken. She had a frilled blanket covering her lower body, probably left by Rarity when she realized Dash had fallen asleep.

While I would have loved to just fall back asleep with her so close by, I couldn't let myself do it. Getting to my hoofs lightly, I trotted over a few feet and went to nudge her awake. She was so delicate, but I could tell even through her gentle exterior, she was, as Twilight had said, a hot head. I knew we would be friends, but I'm not sure we could stay friends. We obviously got along well enough, or she wouldn't have been so distraught over my state-of-being after the fall. If I pursued what my heart wanted me to. . .I don't want to know how she would react. The last thing I want is for her to stop being my friend because she doesn't feel the same way I do.

I pushed the thoughts away, to deal with them when the time came. Slowly nudging her awake, she blinked her beautiful eyes at me sleepily, lifting her head towards mine and smiled as she bounced up with a newly acquired spunk. "YOUR AWAKE...I...I mean, I'm glad you're awake. I brought you here as soon as I could. Twilight said you were going to be fine and that I shouldn't have been so advanced in my teachings..." Her face turned away slightly as if to signify the guilt I knew she had. "But hey... you're up, and you seem fine. If you want...we could try again tomorrow...on stable ground." While upbeat on the surface, I could tell she seemed honestly remorseful in her tone, and I wasn't going to let her stay sad.

I didn't know why, and if you asked my in the future, I'd do it again. I pulled her into a hug, wrapping my hoofs around her midsection and hugging softly. "You didn't do anything wrong. Twilight said you would be brash, I should have seen it coming. I hope we can continue tomorrow after we meet the last two of you and Twilight's friends." I smiled as I let her go, taking a step back as she smiled.

"Thanks, that means...alot. And hey...if you ever go to a dance party, hit me up, we could use you as a disco ball." That line confused me but before I could ask, she made a rush out the window, ducking through it and spreading her wings as she took off from the ground, spinning with energy as I sighed. i had been asleep for most of the day so even as the sun was beginning to set, I wasn't at all tired.

Heading downstairs, I ran into Sweetie Belle, who nodded at me as she ascended the staircase, smiling as she escaped my view. Turning back to the main area of the house, I was pleasantly surprised when Rarity popped out from wherever she was sitting, hugging me tightly before backing up and beaming at me. "Jacob I'm so glad your alright. You...my word, you look lovely. So bright and, well, dashing." Again I was confused. I rushed to a mirror and gasped as I was almost blinded by a pair of glowing orbs (not like that you sickos). They were my eyes. Everything that was violet on my body, the tips of my hair, my hoofs, my eyes, and my tail tips were all glowing a vibrant shade of deep lavender. It was like someone had dropped an open glow-stick on me. I was so confused."It seems you glow at night Jacob, can't say I wouldn't enjoy it, but subtly will not be your friend when the sun sets darling."

She was right, but I had another hour left before the sun was gone, so I decided to at least meet one new friend of the girls. Her name was Applejack, and Twilight was talking about her work on some type of orchard, or farm. She said it while we were walking to Rarity's house, so It seemed like a good time as any.

Arriving at Sweet Apple Acres, I was immediately drawn through the paths towards the large wooden house. It was much larger that I would have thought, and just like the rest of the orchard, it had a lovely aroma of apples. As I approached the country style home, I felt it strange to just knock. Maybe I should wait until someone comes out I thought. No, I could be waiting out here for hours with that idea...guess I'll just go for it.

As I brought my hoof up to knock, I heard ruffling, followed by the whack of an apple breaking upon impact with my head. "Y'all think you're gonna steal from us while me any my family are working our hoofs off?" It was obviously the pony Twilight was referring to as she burst from behind a tree. She galloped as fast as she could and knocked me down hard, pressing a hoof to the side of my head and pressing down. "Now you've got about five seconds to explain yourself before I turn your head into that apple I just threw."

Panting hard and curling up as the hoof is still pressed to my head, I just yelled the first thing I could think of. "APPLEJACK DON'T..." She instantly let her hoof off and stepped back.

"Boy, how do you know my name? You're following me or something?" Her tone was just as rough and bitter, but this time it was peppered with a bit of curiosity. She was an orange shade with a blond mane and tail. She had a cowboy hat on and her tone made her southern upbringing obvious.

"I...I don't know anything before a few days ago. F...Fluttershy found me and Twilight patched my wounds. She told me to meet you, but I though you would have already gone inside for the evening." With a sufficient answer, I heard a sigh of relief as she walked back towards me and helped me to my hoofs.

"Gosh, I'm sorry I had to be so rough on ya, but we've been dealing with quite a few looters in the past few months, I guess I'm just kinda fed up with it. If Twilight thinks you're a good fella, well, I suppose I do too. Hope you understand why I was so brash." Her voice was much more calm as she helped me up, smiling as she filled me in to what happens at the acres.

After an hour of talking about our mutual friends and their traits, I bid her goodbye and made my leave, maybe hoping to meet the last friend Twilight and Applejack talked about the next day.

Stepping inside the beautiful boutique, I noticed an eerie silence in the dark. I had only been gone a bit under two hours, so the utterly quiet tone made me uneasy. I slowly ascended the stairs to my room in the dark and headed to my room as I felt something plastic hit my face. It was a balloon, but it was fully inflated. Suddenly a rush of hoofs clopped around me as the lights flashed on. It was everyone I had met so far and another pink pony. Rarity was sitting on my bed, Fluttershy was in the corner smiling nervously, Spike and Twilight were popping party favors and tossing streamers, and Rainbow Dash had just barely flown through the window with Applejack in her hoofs as the lights has turned on. The Pink pony was bouncing around like she had been on a serious sugar high. She tackled me and smiled with the biggest grin I'd ever seen.

"HI, I'M PINKY PIE AND I AM SOOOOOO HAPPY YOUR HERE. FLUTTERSHYWASSCAREDYOUWOULDN'TMAKEITBUTIJUSTKNEWYOU'DCOMEIMEANYOUHAVETOIT'SAPARTYAFTERALL..." Her words strung together faster than my mind could comprehend them as she just kept talking at me, even as Dash lifted her off of me and sat her down.

"Well Jacob" Twilight started saying, "since you don't have a memory or anywhere elts to go, we hoped you would stay here. Once your fully healed and we can fix you'r horn, we could teach you what it's like to be just like us."

Rainbow Dash piped up soon after Twilight had stopped. "Yea, and maybe this time we can start off slowly...ya know, the basics." She ended her sentence with a big smile as all of them joined together into a wall of smiles looking at me, waiting for my answer. I didn't know what to think. I gazed around and saw just how much they cared about me. I'd never felt as happy anywhere but here, and I realized that they were not only able, but willing to guide me step by step through this transition. They didn't know everything, but they wanted to help. I don't think i could have asked for anything better. My life was never great, and now, getting a chance like this, I wouldn't screw it up.

As i thought all of this out, what followed left everyone shocked...I started crying. I sniffled quietly as tears hit the floor, followed by an audible gasp from the group. Fluttershy and Applejack backed up, while Rarity and Dash rushed forward and looked at me.

"Jacob...what's wrong, we thought this is what you wanted." Dash said as she put a hoof on my shoulder.

"It...it is. I didn't realize how much you guys cared, and...this just means so much to me." I sniffle lightly as Rarity takes some cloth and wipes my tears, a smile growing across my face as I sit down and open my arms (so to speak). "Now...how about a hug...friends."

I was instantly rushed as Rarity and Rainbow Dash smashed into me, followed by everyone elts cluttering around me and hugging tight. Only Spike stayed back and grinned as I was hit with an overwhelming amount of love and smiles. They all laughed loudly as they helped me up, heading downstairs as Pinkie Pie headed to a box and kicked it with her hoof as music started playing. I expected to hear pop, or something classical, but instead I was knocked back by heavy dub-step blasting out of the seemingly magical box.

I didn't know how to dance on all four hoofs,but I ended up just rocking out as usual. Everyone laughed at first, but ended up copying me, smiling as I was tossed from partner to partner, spun around and dizzy as I let the rhythm of the bass rock my body. Twilight had me first, prancing around me as I spun my head to watch her before Applejack yanked me to her. She was much more brash as she danced to the beat, spinning me around and almost knocking me to the floor as she moved. Next was Pinky Pie, who moved so quickly I ended up just sitting there as she bounced from wall to wall around me. I was so dizzy I couldn't even think as I saw everyone take a step back. They all looked at me as I watched Twilight push Fluttershy next to me. She was shaking lightly as she looked into my glowing eyes and made a high-pitched "meep!" I slowly giggled as I decided to slowly dance, taking one of her hoofs with one of my own and humming between beats. She wore a timid exterior through the dance, and dropped out and hid as soon as possible. Rarity took her place and continued the waltz. Smiling at me as I spun her lightly. She was about to get close as the music turned up a notch and Dash lifted me off my feet (literally). She flew back and forth, always in control as I laughed like I was on a roller coaster. Everyone was exited and having fun, joining in the middle of the dance floor as Rainbow Dash let me go.

Dancing like maniacs, we partied until at least three in the morning. The party thinned out until it was just me, Pinky Pie, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash laughing over a bowl of punch. We all yawned as Pinkie turned off the music and led a conga line of only herself out the door and home. Rainbow Dash left next, giggling as her body shook from an overload of dancing and sweet beverages. She took off and tried to fly straight as I heard her curse loudly as she smacked into roof.

As me and Rarity made our way up and to our rooms, we smiled at each other and parted ways. I crashed hard onto my bed, finally tired as I stretched out my wings one last time, then folded them again as I laid my head on my pillow and drifted off.

How long would this last? I didn't know, and I didn't care, but I knew it wouldn't be anytime soon.

END OF ACT 1

Adapting

Echos bounce from wall to wall, always on the go,

not used to being stopped, not used to being told "no"

CHAPTER 5: ADAPTING

The day was warmer than usual, even though snow still covered the ground and the occasional breeze shook my form. Having wished Rarity a kind farewell, prompting to return so we could work on outfits for me, I headed to see Rainbow Dash for a more basic flying lesson. At the welcome party the night before, Twilight assured me that as long as I took it easy my wings wouldn't take damage. She informed me that the fact that the spell worked so well is due to the magic speeding up my bodies metabolism to a great speed, as well as prioritizing the repair of my major functions. Since my wings and body had been healed to a great degree early on, it will be a much slower process to fully heal, so taking it slow is the best idea.

I wasn't comfortable with this body yet, and I was not entirely sure I could adapt fully, but I had realized the prior night that I wasn't seeing the girls as ponies, but friends. Maybe it was their friendly disposition that made me adapt so quickly, but I hadn't felt a bit strange since I've been here (not including the original startling realization). I could only hope my feelings wouldn't change, but I had no idea what was in store for me in the not-so-distant future.

Dash met me with a confident smile as I approached her in an open, empty field, spare one tree and a small river. She was relaxing on one of the branches and had curled her hind legs so she could hang off the low hanging limb and smile upside down at me. "Well, I taught you what to do and how to think last time, so were gonna try again. This time, however, I'm gonna have you jump and fly at the waterline instead. Worst case you fall in and get wet, so you should be fine." She beamed at me again, confident in her teaching ability as I made my way to the edge of the river and looked down at the still water.

It couldn't have been more than two feet deep, so was a good idea. I took a step back, opened my wings slowly, and gulped as I shut my eyes and jumped up and out. I was surprised as opened my eyes, waiting to feel wet but instead a few feet away in a small glide to the ground. It worked, I flew up just as I told myself to, and my wings stayed open as I glided to the snow. As I landed I heard Dash cheering loudly, clapping her front hoofs together as I turned and made my way back.

"YOU DID IT JACOB" smiled, probably exited that she could teach me as she dropped from the tree. I didn't want to gloat, but as I though how to respond, Twilight was echoing in my ear. I hid the smile I wanted to express as I got closer to her and gloated loudly.

"Oh Dash, you just wish you had the skill to do that. It probably took you weeks to start flying. guess I'm just better than you." Her mouth dropped as she put on a wicked grin, zipping off into the sky and leaving a rainbow trail behind her as she showed off. It worked. She took the bait and now all I have to do is sit back and admire as I've wanted. She was an amazing flyer, bouncing back and forth as she corkscrewed and flipped wit power and grace. I could only applaud and cheer her on as she made beautiful colors in the sky.

After about ten minutes, she landed with her head up over-dramatically as she laughed. "So Jacob, what where you saying about being better than me?"

"Oh Rainbow Dash, there is a reason your the best flyer in Ponyville. Your probably the best flyer anywhere." I couldn't help but boost her ego. She was cute, and even though she seemed kinda pushy, I felt a kind of spark. I had only talked to her for a little, but she was just...she felt right. I felt like I could be myself around her. I felt like we could have fun, and I kind of wanted to be more than friends. I blushed lightly as I sat back against the tree and continued complimenting her form, her poise, and her power.

"Yes, yes, I am the best aren't I? I've been telling everyone I'm practically famous already. Bet I could beat any Pegasus in all of Equestria." I liked when she was this happy. We ended up talking for well over an hour, then she spend another hour showing me how to get the most out of gliding. I wasn't ready to flap my wings more than a few times, so gliding was all she could really help me master. It was nice knowing she was willing to put so much time into helping me, and I planned on spending as much time as I could with her. I decided the best way to learn more about her was asking around, so I decided to go talk to the one person who wouldn't lie or fudge anything about her.

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As I made my way to Applejack, I headed down the same path I had taken the first time I went to see her. As I recalled the occurrence, I distinctly remembered standing next to a door, then a whack as an apple hit me in the side of the head. Fearing I'd make the same problem repeat itself, I looked around the apple rows first. Sure enough, Applejack was a few rows over, kicking apples out of a tree. With her was Twilight and Spike, who probably needed a break from book reading and decided to head to see Applejack.

I decided to sit in the shadow of one of the trees and listen in on them. They seemed pretty quiet, so I just decided to make my way over and greet them. Just as I went to get closer, Spike, who was eating an apple, glanced over and noticed the neon purple coming from my hair, eyes, and hoofs. In a quick shriek, he lobbed the apple at me and hit me square in the forehead and skewered onto my broken horn, a feeling I was hoping wouldn't be a regular thing. The girls looked over at Spike, then at me as I fell forward and into the light, holding my head with my hoofs.

"Agh, Spike...it is impossible to be subtle when I'm around you ponies...and Spike" I said sarcastically as I rose to my hoofs and trotted over slowly, still a little wobbly as I shook the apple from my mane. They smiled as they greeted me, and I didn't waste time as I turned to Applejack. "So, since I'm going to be learning from her for a while, what can you tell me about Rainbow Dash?" She turned her head to me and grinned.

"Well, ya already know the basics. She's headstrong and brash, though she'll always be a loyal friend. I re'con you'll be around for a while, so just know that she always like those who respect her. Last thing she wants is someone disrespecting her or her friends. She'd take a punch for you, and be the first to dish one out if you cross her." She paused as she squinted at me, getting close as I took mental notes. She got up close to my nose and glared at me. "And if you break her heart, I WILL break you. Don't go acting like you don't know what I'm talking about." My heart was practically in my throat as I gulped.

"What? I...I don't know what you mean..."

"Come on Jacob" Twilight interrupted,"I saw the way you were looking at her when you first saw her." I looked down lightly and blushed.

Spike popped up onto Twilight's back and blinked, "Yea dude, you're not fooling anyone. I was right behind you after all. I thought you were gonna drool with the way your mouth was open."

"Jacob . . . I know about what Rarity did too. You DO know why she kissed you, right?" Spike instantly ran towards me with his claws drawn before Twilight grabbed his tail and drug him back. "Spike, it's not his fault." Spike just pouted and sat there.

"Alright, then explain it."

"Well, your an alicorn Jacob. How many other alicorns have you seen around town? Your kind is very rare, and many look at you as a type of royalty. Alicorns represent a standard of perfection, and Rarity has been wanting to be know as royalty for as long as I've known her. She probably wanted to date you before anyone elts could, or elts she probably wouldn't have been so brash about it. I...I don't think she wanted to use you, but...to tell the truth...you are the only stallion we're friends with, Big Mac not included" she adds, smiling lightly to Applejack.

"We know you won't hurt her" Applejack added, "but please, just...know that your actions have consequences. Dash has never been too kind to stallions, and the fact that she smiles and talks normally around you is reason to believe that she trusts you. At the party she talked to you like you were one of us, that doesn't happen normally. I don't want her to think your using her, and I know she WILL think that. Just, be careful."

I told them that I understood their concerns, and that if it made them feel better, that I wouldn't move forward as fast as I wanted. They nodded, and trusted that I was telling the truth as I made my leave. I was honest, and I realized the actuality of my situation. I wouldn't make any mistakes, I told myself, and if it meant I had to be just-friends with Dash, I could accept that.

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Making my way to Rarity's, I began to see it more and more. people gasping at my sight, amazed an alicorn was just walking through the town without a royal escort or anything. Maybe they DID think I was powerful, that I had been born from royalty, or born into wealth. I shrugged as I stepped faster, almost galloping to the boutique and locking the door. Rarity gasped, not expecting my arrival as I smiled at her. "Alright Rarity...it's time." She tilted her head as she leaned against the mannequin. "It's time, to make some outfits." Her eyes lit up as she raced out of the room and back, tossing a few papers onto the table and giggling lightly as I walked over. She must have had dozens of sketches of clothes for me. All in different colors and patterns. There were vests and jackets, shorts and jeans, top hats and fedoras. I pondered lightly before deciding. I chose a few items from different pictures as Rarity lifted a pencil with her magic and began scribbling quickly. After that, I said color and stitching, then any accessories. She finished and smiled widely as she put the sketch down for me to check. Smiling back at her, she had me grab the appropriate fabrics and textures and begins.

It took a little over an hour before she was finished, tossing me the clothes and ordering me to change into them. As I changed, I heard her tapping the floor downstairs impatiently. Slowly making my way down, she opened her mouth and just stared, dragging me over to the mirror and stepping back. A black fedora sat atop my head, dipped down slightly. Next was a Black jacket with purple stitching covering a plain black shirt. My pants had the same color of black with purple stitching, except it had a few dangling strips of purple fabric that dangled from my midsection. It was more than I could have hoped for, and I didn't even know more was to come.

She shut the lights off and my outfit came alive. Every bit of purple on my outfit glowed vibrantly, from the strips of fabric on my pants to every purple stitch on my clothing. I couldn't hold back, galloping over to Rarity and hugging her tightly with my front hoofs. She fell back and smiled, as she gasped, looking up at me. "J...Jacob...your face..."

I ran back to the mirror and my glowing eyes widened. My cheeks were glowing the same purple color the rest of the purple on my body was. "I...I didn't know my blushing was...wow."

As I looked outside, I noticed the receding sun and instantly sprinted out the door, grabbing Rarity as I ran to Twilight's library/house. I opened the door quickly and was met with Dash, Twilight, and Fluttershy sitting together in a circle on the floor.

They instantly got up and looked me over. "Jacob, you look rad" Dash said, yanking on my pants and lifting my hat.

"Wow...um...Jacob, you look great...that is...if it's alright to say so..." Flutter said as she got close and looks at my jacket. I was so exited that I had clothes for a special occasion.

"Jacob...we defiantly have to take you too see Vinyl Scratch, she would love this. She and her colt-friend Caloo run a club not far from here." Twilight was deep in thought of where to take me as she blurted this out.

I turned to Rarity and had an idea."hey Rarity...do you think you could make everyone elts outfits like these? You seem like you would be great at it, and then maybe we could pay that Vinyl Scratch girl a visit." She bounced happily as she nodded her head.

"Well of course darling, how ever could I say no to such a strapping fellow such as yourself? I'll start first thing in the morning."

We talked for an hour about possible ideas, ending up with me and Rarity heading back with piles of sketches. We spent another hour or so picking the fabric and choosing the design. Rarity and I laughed about possible ideas like Flutter shy wearing dark clothing and Rainbow Dash in a frilly formal gown. We headed to bed laughing and hoof-bumped as we went into our separate rooms. Rarity was cool, and she is a lot more calm and relaxed than I had thought.

Appleloosa

Friends may come and go, a stain on your life's rug;

But lovers are like your friends, needing more than just a hug.

CHAPTER 6: APPLELOOSA

It was a warm winter day in Ponyville. The snow had melted a bit and the chill of the ending winter season was diluted to a great degree. Having eaten a lovely salad Rarity had offered that morning, I headed back toward the field to meet Dash and noticed Twilight and Applejack galloping quickly towards Sweet Apple Acre. I joined the two as we soon got to Applejack's house, not bothering asking what happened. She broke down and teared up as she made her way to the front door. The windows were broken, glass was scattered, and there was alot missing from the house. We heard muffled moans as Big Mac stepped out the door clutching his chest. He was hurt, but nothing serious. The girls were too stunned so I quickly went to him and stabilized Big Mac with my own body for him to lean on and my wing nearest to him which I draped over his back as I helped him off of the porch. Applejack instantly panted as her heart raced.

"We...we woke up half an hour ago...a...and we heard a crash. Big Mac told me to get help. M...Mac...what happened?" Applejack rushed forward and looks at her brother.

"Granny's fine...and...ah took care uh the looters. They were...unicorns. Levitated a bunch ah our stuff into a bag and rammed me against the wall. I was out fer a bit....and when I woke they er gone." He wobbled slowly off the porch and away from me as he sat and groaned. After checking on Granny Smith upstairs and checking for the missing objects, Applejack comes back down.

"Alright everypony" Applejack begins, "...I need help. Twilight, we need to find those blasted looters, so get everypony who will help...Jacob?" She looks at me and gulps lightly. "I know you wanna help, and I wish I could allow you to help, but I need somepony to go to Appleloosa and tell my cousin Braeburn about what happened. We can't give out the apples we always do to help the town now that were in such dire straights. Here is some money, get the fastest ticket there and help him. I know you won't let me down."

"Of...of course, I won't let you down." I felt I should do what she deemed best, but the pit of my stomach churned as I felt the need to comfort and aid my friends. I didn't know Braeburn, and he wasn't the one who got robbed. I know my actions there will have meant something, and I would be helping more there than here, but it didn't seem right. None-the-less, I accepted, and I didn't want to make any bad moves. Before leaving, Twilight handed me a jar of purple, glowing liquid that she secured around my midsection. She told me if any pain arose from the spell to heal my wounds, to sip the liquid and reactivate the magic. I nodded and headed out.

After procuring my ticket in exchange for the small pouch of coins, I headed to Rarity to ask about Appleloosa. Upon arrival, I noticed that she was lazily lounging on a couch. She wasn't asleep, but she might as well have been. She hopped up and hugged me as she begged to be brought up to speed. It...didn't go so well...

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"AND I WASN'T BROUGHT IN TO HELP!?" She was obviously irritated. "I've been her friend for just as long as Twilight has, and I'm just left out?"

I didn't want to intervene, but I already had by telling her, so I needed to set things right. "Well, it's the same reason Flutter Shy isn't being asked to help, they may work better with just a small group than too many hoofs to order around." She seemed genuinely hurt by this realization, but she did calm down.

Almost in a whine, she utters "But I would have helped." After the comment, she sat her plot back onto the couch. She seemed sad, and I wished I could have comforted her, but I didn't have much time.

"Um...Rarity? Could you tell me what Appleloosa is like? Applejack needs me to help over there for a while until she can give aid to them again. I also don't want to stand out if it's too different, so...if you had any clothes to match the setting I would appreciate it."

It worked. She galloped away with fabric levitating behind her as I heard snips and tumbling. She re-appeared with a black vest and a cowboy-esque hat. She smiled as I glanced at the time. I only had a few minutes, so I gave Rarity a kiss on the cheek, grabbing the clothes and galloped as quickly as I could out and to the station. Arriving barely on time and handing my ticket to the man, I took a seat and tried to relax my mind and figure the plan out. I hoped to be there as little as possible so I could get back in time to resume my lessons with Dash. I didn't like how I had to leave without saying 'goodbye', and the less time away from her meant the more time to make up for the abrupt departure. It was settled, in...out...back to lessons with the lovely Rainbow Dash.

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I arrived shortly before what I assumed was dinner. My black vest had helping me blend in. As I looked around, I noticed the area was much like an old Western movie, filled with ponies with a wild west style of fashion. Exiting the station I was greeted by a cheery pony with emerald colored eyes. He had a tan, almost golden colored coat and a light orange mane and tail with blond highlights. He had a smile that you would only get from achieving a life goal or something, and he just casually used it at my arrival.

"Well howdy partner, I'm Braeburn. Welcome to my lovely town, APPLELOOSA!" He stood on his hind legs and swung his front hoofs like it was a grand, and very special opportunity for me to be there. His smile was unwavering and I felt a strange attraction to him. The only way to describe it was like when I saw Dash for the first time. But instead of wanting to love him, it really just made me want to get to know him. His natural happy personality made it easy for me to imagine being friends with him, and that smile just made me want to hug him. Suddenly, without warning, he dragged me to the middle of the town and began naming off the buildings. It was a regular old western town with a saloon, town hall, and many amenities one would find in any old timey styled infrastructure. He ended the tour with a quick display of the acres and acres of apple trees in a separate plot of desert land at a slightly lower altitude east of the town. He smiled before finishing with "Now how can I help you on this fine evening? We don't get many visitors. Actually, its been a week since we had a visitor, and he didn't stay long."

His expression faded as he looked down. I knew he must have felt lonely, and there weren't many who seemed to bother talking with him during the tour he gave me. He seemed like nothing more than a big sweetie that wanted a friend. I know I wanted to get back with Dash and the others, but his status made me want to rethink my strategy. He wasn't a bad pony at all, he even seemed genuinely exited that I had arrived, so, if for nothing elts, I made up my mind to help for as long as I was needed. "Well, Braeburn" as I said his name his eyes lit up, "Applejack sent me, and..." as I went to finish my sentence he cut me off.

"My dear cuz AJ sent you? Well ain't she just one big sugar cube. What did she need?"

"Well, her home on Sweet Apple Acre was damaged and looted just today, and she sent me here to help in any way until she can recover what was lost and send supplies like she normally does." At this, Braeburn let out a sigh and turned towards the sun, which was beginning to set.

"Dear me, I didn't know big cousin Applejack was in over her head." He faked a smile as he walked to me and put a hoof on my shoulder softly. "But of course you could help. Now...I don't have much family here, so if for nothing elts, this gives me both company and a better way to feed the people in this town. They don't realize it much, but without me workin' the field, these here settler ponies wouldn't last long." He pauses slightly for effect. "But don't let me get you down, your gonna be my house guest after all, and I always treat my house guests well."

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Before I can open my mouth, I'm whisked away to a beautiful two story ranch. Its not a big place, but it is very well maintained. Braeburn must have spend alot of time fixing or maintaining this place, because it showed. He opened the door and let me in as he looked back at the retreating sun and sighed, stepping in and closing the door. What confused me was the fact that he flipped a dead bolt and a few catches to secure that door, which was very sturdy to begin with. It should have struck me as unusual, but I abandoned the idea and looked around. There were lights everywhere to brighten up the place, and I could tell they were enchanted by their aura, possibly to stop them from catching anything on fire.

Checking the purple liquid still in the jar around my waist, I went upstairs and noticed the lack of a guest bedroom. This struck me as odd. He is a happy, pleasant pony who always tries to be your friend...but why wouldn't he invest in a second bedroom? What is he hiding? I thought. Again, I decided it was nothing as I descended the stairs and met him preparing dinner, adding in some for me. It was great soup, and surprisingly good on the account of a lack of meat (since ponies are herbivores). He then sat me down in the living room on one of the couches and asked me about my story. I had no reason to hide it, and he already seemed intrigued. I told him everything (spare any mention of my human life,love interests or jabs from Rarity) and by the end he was practically on my lap.

"Your sayin that before a bit under a week ago...you were completely new to your life? You don't know nothin bout your past or family? It explains why the others took such a liking to being your friend." I looked down lightly, about to turn away before I was met with a quick kiss on my cheek. My eyes went wide as I looked over at him. He blinked and looked down, blushing deeply. My mind washed with revelations to my own assumptions. It explained the communities' view towards him, his loneliness, and the fact that he had no place to have guests. He was gay.

It was such a shock that I could only open my mouth in shock. I myself have always looked at life very opportunistic (Bi-sexual), but I never imagined a person, let alone a pony, could be interested in me. I wasn't bad looking, and my pony form reflected that, but the idea that someone of the same sex could have interests in me was never thought of.

Braeburn quickly apologized and galloped upstairs. After a moment of thought, I knew what had to be done. I trotted slowly up the stairs and opened the bedroom door to hear a light sobbing. I walked over to him and sat at the edge of the bed. He was sitting in the middle of it,his face in his front hoofs as he wept lightly, a slight shaking rocking his body. "L...listen...Jacob...If-in ya wanna leave, go on ahead. I've never boon one to stop ya, and I sure didn't wanna make such a mess with myself. Please...forgive me." He lifted his head and looked at me. I was on all fours leaning over his form, my eyes glowing violet in the growing darkness. "P...Please partnah, I know your mad but don't hurt me...I...I won't do it again...I won't..."

His words were cut off by my lips, pressed against his as I kisses him. He tasted like apples as I felt him press deeper. He was just a sweet, affectionate pony who wouldn't hurt anyone. Why should I condemn him for wanting love. Dash never had an interest in me, and I knew I was the only one who was willing to make a move...so I did, in the opposite direction. I ran my hoofs through his orange and blonde hair as I pressed him to his pillow, kissing deep before lifting up and looking into those pistachio colored eyes. "J...Jacob...you...you..." he teared up again as he realized I wasn't going anywhere, and that I wouldn't be mad at him. We were together and he wasn't alone any more. I kissed him again and felt him shift as he spun me to my back and pressed into the kiss. Our tongues collided in my mouth as i wrapped mine around his and sucked on his tongue softly. He let out a moan as he felt me suck and immediately pulled me into a deep hug. "Ah...ah don't wanna go too fast, if you understand. I want this to last, and I want you to stay with me..." I knew things wouldn't last forever, and that I would be eventually leaving Appleloosa eventually, but not now, and not soon. I nodded and felt him squeak in a light, joyful tone, nuzzling his head into my neck as I slid the covers over us and fell asleep.

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The next morning arose like a tidal wave. A light increase in awareness before being hit with a realization. My mind flooded with the images that led to us being together in bed. Instead of freaking out, however, I sighed contemptibly. I wasn't surprised or embarrassed. I did everything with a clear head. Braeburn and I were an unofficial couple, and I couldn't wait to talk to him about it.

Looking over, I noticed Braeburn. He was curled into a ball like a kitten, snoozing away with a smile on his face. As I nudged him awake, he gave a slight yawn before a scared look crossed his face. He bolted up and panted before looking over to me smiling and giving him a look of comfort. Braeburn quickly leaned into me and pressed his face to my form, tearing up. "A...Ah didn't think...you'd stay." He looked up with tears welling in his eyes. I kissed him softly and sat him next to me,looking into him eyes and smiling. "S...so Jacob...are we...together now?" His eyes looked scared again before melting into calmness as I nodded. He bounced up quickly and headed downstairs. I grabbed his vest and brought it down with me, slipping it onto him as I watched him make breakfast. It was great, and gave me more time to stare at him. He told me that the purple neon thing I could do in the dark just made me look more beautiful, which I countered by saying that his blonde highlights do the same with him. We both shared a deep blush and looked down bashfully before we headed out.

He showed me how to kick the apples out of trees, and what to look for in a good apple. I was fully paying attention, but a sight made me curious as I took a few steps away from Braeburn. He turned and followed gasping as we rushed towards the scene. All that was left was a large pool of blood and a pony with two large gaps in his side. They were about this size of a pair of horns as I heard Braeburn gulp loudly.

Transition

Freshwater fish are native to the lake,

Put them in the ocean and their conscious may never wake

CHAPTER 7: TRANSITION

WARNING...UM...SEX......MAYBE...THAT IS ALL

Getting the injured pony to his feet, I noticed the wounds closer. They were horn imprints, and they looked like a quick jab from a wild animal. The duel gashes were also close together, so a bull or a walrus tusk was what I imagined. "GEET OFF A ME YA LOW LIFES" the man groaned as we helped him up. He quickly looked to Braeburn with a scowl, then looked me over in a disgruntled fashion before gasping and dropping to his knees. "Ah...my apologies, I didn't mean to..." he pauses to cough, "I didn't mean to insult a royal alicorn." He quickly got up and made his exit, leaving drips of blood on the dirt as he galloped to the clinic. Braeburn just grinned lightly as he stayed his distance.

"Listen, Jacob...people don't like the idea of what I am...more specifically what I do. I don't want to ruin your reputation in this not-so-fair city, so I think it's best if we were just friends...at least in public." He wasn't cheery or happy anymore. He seemed much more cold and broken, though his voiced still cracked with despair as he tried to hide his need to cry. It was obvious that he was alone in this town, and I was just a passer-by. The town didn't take kindly to him, and no matter what kind of a facade he put on, he was still looked down upon in Appleloosa.

"Braeburn...I know you aren't comfortable with this, and I know it isn't easy to live here. Why don't we just...leave? No one here cares about you, and they treat you like garbage. Come back to Ponyville with me, where we are more fairly judged." He just shook his head in response.

"Ah can't leave this town...it's all ah know. Sure I'm not liked, but I have to care for this town no matter what. Especially with the buffalo hostilities here..." He instantly looked away like he had said something he shouldn't have.

"Buffalo? Is that what hurt that pony? Why?"

he gulped loudly as he looked up at me with the biggest pair of puppy dog eyes I've ever seen, his lip quivering as he did it. "Please partner, I'll get in trouble if I tell outsiders and visitors about our past. I...I won't lie to you...but I beg ya not to make me tell you."

His words made me realize how new I was here. I had been here a day and a half and I already made a mess. Getting involved with Braeburn wasn't smart so early on, but I had neither the desire, nor the will to take back such feelings for the colt. He was beautiful, and no matter how quickly I think we rushed into this, I wasn't backing down. But at the same time, I didn't want too seem like a problem to the community. "I...I won't Braeburn. If you don't want to tell me, then there is a reason. I won't question your judgement. Um...could you show me how to harvest apples again?" Any reason to watch him was a welcome distraction, and I didn't wish to make him feel worse than he did.

He rose to his hoofs and trotted back to the acres with a brighter smile, and I smiles back. If for no other reason, Braeburn could be happy in this place because of me, and not Rarity, nor Dash, nor even the pain that slowly throbbed in my chest could stop. As the day went on, we alternated between work and sneaking behind a tree for a quick kiss. He was as passionate as he was kind. After lunch, we were about to head out before he noticed that, because of my help, that we where an hour ahead of schedule. As I headed outside, I felt a hoof wrap around my neck and back inside. We went at it for that entire hour. I never knew we could get so intense without leaving the realm of kissing. He pressed me to the couch and laid over me, lapping at my neck as I moaned teasingly for him. He took the bait instantly, Sliding a hoof through my dark mane and purple tips as he pressed his lips to mine. He was more powerful than I anticipated, but it was the kind of power that wasn't oppressive. He didn't hold me down, and I could have easily flipped him over, but he was just so passionate that his love held me down. It was like the power of his love made me want nothing but him.

After the hour, we could hardly find the strength to stop. He was kissing my neck, creating audible moans from me, as we glanced the clock and were forced to slowly rise. We adorned our vests and hats, when I had an idea. "Close your eyes, and don't move, Braeburn." His ears perked up as he did so, a nervous smile rose as he felt the clothes he was wearing were stripped off and replaced. When he opened his eyes and looked in the mirror, he giggled like a mare as he noticed we were wearing each others vests and headgear. He immediately took off the hat he was wearing and took a long, slow breath.

"Mmm, Jacob. I never thought wearing another's clothes was so...wow." He popped the hat back on and happily trotted outside with me. As we worked, I noticed him glancing at me from behind multiple times. The fact that I wasn't pounced surprised me, but I suppose his willpower must have been pretty high. I decided to tease him because if I was going to work my plot off while he watched, he might as well get a show out of it.

"Oh dear, these apple seem to be everywhere" I coaxed as I lifted my tail and leaned down to pick them up with my mouth lightly. I heard muffled groans as I grabbed the apples, a deep blush appearing on Braeburn's face as he looked away quickly. I must have teased him for over an hour, leaning down for him as much as I could. He couldn't take his eyes off of me, and I didn't let him either. His presence and love was everything I needed, and his responses just made me keep going.

After another hour of this, the sun was setting and the field was clear. I headed inside and landed on the couch, panting on my back as I closed my eyes and sighed. Hearing the door bolt, it was mere moments before I feel Braeburn lift me up and draped me over his back. He presses me to his bed and resumed the kissing he had done earlier that day. He ran his hoofs up my body with revised vigor as I pulled him into a deeper make-out.

We rolled around, happily giggling as we explored each other. I soon, however, felt his one hoof rest somewhere that made me jump. As he slowly strokes my balls, I could only press deeper into the already involved kiss, moaning hotly as I broke from his lips and laid my head back onto the pillow. He gave me a light grin as his head slowly lowered and I felt his breath on my nether region. I groaned out desperately as I felt him get closer. It wasn't until he was inches from me that a loud explosion rocked the house. We sat upright and peered out the window. There were at least ten buffalo running around the town, attacking anything and any building they could.

Braeburn raced downstairs and put on his vest, getting a makeshift blade and fastening it just above his front left hoof. If he bent his knife-wielding limb and pointed it forward, it was attached so it could hurt whoever was around. I ran to him and asked to help, but he wouldn't have it. "There aint no way in hell your riskin your hide for a town that dont luv ya. It's my town and ill defend it till death." He walked to me, a tear in his eyes as he put on a serious face. "Listen...I saved that Princess Luna lady not too long ago...and she owes me. Ill explain later but I need you to take two of these here magic lanterns and head to the top of the mountain. Its half a mile from town, so get moving. I'll protect Appleloosa, and you go." He gulped as he gave me a nod, his facade breaking away as he hugged me. "Now don't you worry, I aint gonna die out there...this aint the first time...I'll be fine."

"Your a bad liar Braeburn...I...I'll never forget you..." He couldn't take any more, he blinked at me one last time, his eyes welling in the lantern light as he turned tail and sprinted out the door. I followed before we parted, galloping as hard as I could towards the hill, not being able to pull myself to look back. The last thing I had seen of him before we separated was a weak smile break his frown as he turned away and sprinted toward a buffalo and jumped on its back.

I got to the hill and scaled it as more fire was starting in town. I grabbed the lanterns and smashed them together, creating a powerful firework of magic, shooting into the sky and erupting in an earth shaking explosion. I didn't know what was suppose to happen, so I just galloped to town. As I reached the edge of Appleloosa, I noticed the only light was that of the fire. Appleloosa didn't have many unicorns, so magic was not in use upon my arrival. I looked around desperately, my eyes blurred with tears as I got to a pile of rubble and desperately dug through. There was nothing but crumbling buildings left. The remaining buffalo were attacking city hall's doors as I searched for Braeburn, and no luck so far.

I was nearly blinded by a bright light as I glanced at the sky. Pegasi on chariots were racing to town, illuminating the area in a ray of sunlight. It was still night, but the light that was provided was sufficient. I increased my search as I glanced at the Pegasi kicking and attacking the buffalo into submission. Earth ponies were in the chariots and aided in the search, but it was another few minutes before one of them found the body of the golden coated colt. His limbs were bloody and gashed. His face was punctured through his cheek and half of one of his ears had been torn off. Not only was he damaged, but his vest had been ripped to shreds and a buffalo horn was next to him, an impalement in his chest. I rushed to Braeburn's side, tears dropping onto his mane as I shook his still body. "BRAEBURN!...You...you told me you'd be fine. I...I won't let you do this to me! Your not leaving me like this...you...you wouldn't leave me to pick up the pieces." My will was broken as the earth pony who had found him simply lowered his head and walked off.

As I leaned over him to cry against his broken body, I heard the sound of a bottle hit the ground. I quickly took off my belt and grabbed the purple vial Twilight gave me. "In case the spell shorts out, huh? Worth a shot." I quickly poured it down Braeburn's throat, waiting for a miracle that never came.

I broke down again, but this time I had a better idea, my horn. It was broken, but maybe it had enough power to kick start the spell. I chanted the same words Twilight had and ordered my horn to cast the spell. Only a flicker escaped the tip of my horn as I just sat there, lifting Braeburn's beautiful face to mine and rested his nose no mine. As my horn presses against his cheek, a single tear from Braeburn's eyes dripped down and into the crack on my horn. The spell instantly lit up and encased Braeburn in light as he began gasping loudly and cringing in the pain of his battle. I could only gasp as his major wounds were mended. I called over a pegasus pulling a chariot and told him that Braeburn was alive and critically wounded. He quickly loaded us onto the chariot and took off for Canterlot as I held Braeburn's shaking body.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It was a few hours in critical care before I could see him. He was sitting upright and smiling lightly as I entered the medical wing. He had his own room overlooking the park, and his bed was much more spacious than one would think a hospital would have. He had been brought up to speed by a nurse, who told him that the entire town had been destroyed and that even the apple acres were gone. He nodded as he heard this, and just looked at me as the nurse left.

"You...you saved me Jacob. Doctors said if you hadn't had that mystic liquid and cast the way ya did, I wouldn't be here today." I lowered my head as he kisses me, saddened by what had almost happened.

"I almost lost you Braeburn. Your really thick headed, ya know?" He giggled lightly as he smiled. "Its Twilight who you should thank, she supplied the potion...I just got lucky." He looked over at a mirror nearby and sighed as he noticed the damage. He had an almost entire recovery, except for one part, his ear. It hadn't been deemed important enough to be healed by the spell, so he would always be reminded of that day until he ceased to breath (well...again). He put on a smile as he looked over at me.

"So...I accept." He said boldly. "I've literally got nothing to go back to...so...if your alright with it, ah'd love to stay with you in Ponyville. Celestia knows you couldn't live without me." I wanted to pounce him so badly, but the scars were still healing and I was forbidden ahead of time by a nurse. We talked about living space and agreed to start up a home ASAP. I knew this was my goal, and Braeburn would make it much easier to achieve.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Heading to grab a blanket, I was rushed by six exited ponies and a purple and green young dragon. They rushed me and Braeburn, exploding with questions and demanding explanations. After consulting with Braeburn, we decided to say it...ALL of it. We explained the arrival, the hatred, the kiss, and the battle. I though jaws would have dropped, but they practically hit bedrock when I explained how I saved him. Braeburn even was surprised as I explained the revival in much more detail than the doctors gave him. Twilight was the first to speak.

"So...I saved Braeburn because I was worried about Jacob...and Dash saved him because she taught him how to order his magic?" She paused and thought before adding "And I never thought tears could conduct magic. Your full of luck and surprises Jacob"

That was right. Dash may have taught me to control my wings, but she also let me control my magic as well. And my luck had saved me quite a few times...and now it had saved another pony in need.

One pony who wasn't smiling was Rarity, who soon left the room after the story was over. Noticing this, I followed her out and was met with tears. I didn't have to ask, I knew she wanted me for herself. Not only for power, but she probably intended on being loves at one point. I could only hug her as she wept. After a few minutes, she gain composure and went back in. As I went to follow, a dark figure crept shadows over my form. Turning, I was met with Princess Luna. I had heard she co-ruled Equestria, so I was fearful of her intentions as she slowly led me out and towards the archives room. There were many rooms full of books as she sat me down and stood still, looking me over and grinning lightly as she took a seat as well.

"So...you're relatively new, yes?" To this I nodded "Then tell me...what do you think of Equestria...human."