Mister Crowley (Experimental)by AzoktaChaptersChapter IChapter II - Now With Picture[s]!Chapter IV, Part IChapter III - Questionable QualityChapter IMr. Crowley By: Die Philosophen Pre-Story Note: I'm writing this strictly as an experiment, I'm in no way endorsing myself into this, and never plan to endorse myself. To be fully clear, I wrote this purely as a experiment to test peoples opinions through reading it, and their response to this work. In no way will I have some complex reason, or even for that manner, addition myself or my character self into some complex and Mary Sue-esque plotline. Enjoy.- Note: General work is fictionalized, though certain elements may or may not be fiction. - Abnormality never comes to mind to my own opinion when it comes to a great vast of information, even if its socially unacceptable due to 'morality issues' or 'sensitive topics.' Thought I'd love to engage in long-term discussions over topics such as Science Fiction or Occultism, and take my time to research every drop of information I can reach with my fingers and the power of the Internet. I'm always engaged in reading, albeit slightly picky in my opinion when it comes to fiction, otherwise I'll read the book if it claws into my interest. Though with my situation, I'd much prefer to write little stories for publishing then to even step into sunlight. I'll read up on the Sun to understand how it ticks, not step into it. Bluntly, I'm a shut-in, and always will be until the day I'd die or when the fridge is raided to the very depths of its tubs. If I dare to adventure outside, it's because I'm needed. Urgently. Otherwise you can find me hiding in my home behind a computer, expanding my knowledge or generally spending leisure time. However, certain subjects can come to mind when I was ejected from my apartment just sometime ago over an unknown reason, this apartment in mind was a spare I used due to the compact size of the loft I utilize as a home. Mostly filled with my side-projects, such as a homemade supercomputer, or some collection I've been expanding on and displaying for myself. However, the landlord of the complex decided that if I didn't use it beyond living, it wasn't for me to begin with. So now I've been casted out into the streets with my packed up items in a push cart and began the journey to cramp my loft even further. - Quietly cursing out the landlord in my mind, I slid my suitjacket off and firmly planted it between a pair of cardboard color-coded for my convenience. My almost rail-like body didn't hone the muscles, or ever will, to move the cart effectively, so I've utilized my entire body in the slow progress to my loft. Stopping only to 'take a breather' and continue, doing my best to ignore the people around me as they watched on, their gazes like hawks to me as they waited for me to slip up and become yet another unlucky victim for 'laugh at this guy' videos on YouTube. Nothing more to hate then people mocking you for being unlucky. But then again, it's the Internet, and the freedom to be a fuckwit is unparallel. Slowly progressing over time, I fluently cursed in what little Serbian I've adopted from various sources. No one seemed to want to lend a hand to me, opting to just watch as I passed by slowly, though I could feel some group of teenagers nearby were mocking me over my style of clothing most likely. I enjoyed wearing my suits, they're more comfortable than wearing some groin-compressing denim jeans. Possibly they were laughing at my dyed hair, the snow white puffball styled akin to Jareth the Goblin King from Labyrinth. I didn't cut them, only the everyday chore I'd have on hand thanks to medical wonders of genetic disorders and destabilized testosterones. Besides, I enjoy how it looks, simply because I cannot care of how I'd look in public unless I was akin to some loon. It dawned to me that the time I've been hauling this conqueror of my poor athleticism that it was nearly dusk, and soon enough I'd be enveloped in the glow of street lights and the wild roaming chavs. I couldn't just leave my items here, they'd be stolen before morning even comes, I'd have to stay awake throughout the entire night, no difficult task thankful to my night owl tendencies. Taking my seat on a bench, keeping a sharp eye on my items as sure enough the street light I sat near sparked to life, its circuit in full swing. Listening on, I could hear fellow night owls prowling through the night, and the distant sounds of the busy highway. Quiet as it may be, the town was enjoyable. Though, what I didn't expect was a sudden sharp gust of wind, and something slamming down into the back of my head, sending me tumbling face first into my cart, followed by darkness.. - Twilight Sparkle was livid with irritation as her spell had once more backfired, not only did this spell backfire, it tore the literal spacetime, sucking in one of her favorite spellbook, Dimensional Theory & Multiverse Time Fabric and its application in Equestria, volume six. She was close enough to understanding how her mentor, Princess Celestia, so smoothly utilized the spacetime to reverse damage she caused the previous time they'd met, particularly relating to her friend Fluttershy and a large amount of her property being torn into a void. It took some application but Celestia reversed the damage and, in surprising turn of events, Celestia ordered Twilight in turn to study the subject further and revise her works. However, something was off in her latest attempt. She heard faint whipping noises and a cry, but it wasn't a cry of laughter, she felt tear-inducing sharp cries of pain. Then she could faintly make out a figure passing through the portal and disappearing in seconds. The screams were at the forefront of her mind, she never felt such a stabbing pain in her entire life. She knew that the Princess should know of this immediately. "Spike, take a letter." Her assistant, a violet and green drake, retrieved a quill and parchment and poised to copy ber letter. "Dear Princess Celestia, My latest attempts to understand the inner working of the dimensional theories has brought an urgent and sudden anomaly. I've successfully held a portal dimension stable for a record of three minutes, however, this mysterious anomaly has shown itself for no longer then six seconds. The anomaly was a strange voice screaming in pain and terror, and the sounds of an object akin to a whip sounded out. This anomaly might have in possession one of the libraries rarest volumes on the Multiverse theory. I will look into this further if possible, and report any activity or foreign object that's breached our universe. Your Faithful Student, Twilight Sparkle" - - Julius woke with a painful start, his sweat sticking his dress shirt against his pale white skin. His vision blurring in and out before he was able to clear enough to see that his vision of the junction he once faced was gone. Replaced by a thick veil of summer heat, and lush woodland surrounded his body. Slowly lifting himself up, he barely made out a pulsating pain within his arm, and upon inspection of his arm responded with a slight confirmation of fear and his teeth gritting. From his elbow to the ball socket in his shoulder he could see a deep cut, bleeding profusely through the giant rip in his dress shirt. Fluently cursing, Julius did he best to apply pressure to the wound with his hand, barely covering even a fourth of the wound as he looked desperately for his push cart, it had most of his medical supplies and his medicine. A few moments later he found the cart, albeit slightly damaged, but was overall in good condition. Searching through, he found the box he color-coded for medicine and swiftly tore open the homemade tin box for gauze and disinfectant. Uncapping the disinfectant, Julius held down the trigger and swiftly went up and down along the cut, stinging similar to a hornet. Replacing the disinfectant to the tin box, he quickly took hold and rolled gauze around the wound, making sure that it was firmly tight, and held the gauze as hard as he possibly could. It was only temporary, it would last for maybe a half hour, long enough to hopefully come across civilization. The surrounding area was, as far as he could see was an apple orchard, this definitely wasn't correct from his geological knowledge, plus there was a significant lack of any sounds of animals, not even a bird. And the air had a significant lack of gasoline, or the everyday smell of his bustling town. Something was seriously off, and he needed to find a doctor, fast... Staring around, he found a earth pathway, eroded from excessive use, just a short time away from his original position. Retrieving his push cart, which surprisingly moved onto the pathway with extreme ease, confusing Julius and sparking a comment, "That cannot be remotely right...the entire thing should weight a couple hundred pounds at best..." Starting on his way, Julius made sure he wasn't exerting himself, considering his wound was already staining the gauze. - - "Alrighty then, west field it is.." Applejack said to herself, the cart her family used to haul apples hitched to her back. Slowly trotting out, she already knew that her work for the day was just beginning. The western fields were their second-largest orchard compared to the southern fields. But what unnerved the apple farmer was that the western fields ran close to the Everfree Forest, and the fields were infrequently plagued with the various wildlife, and infrequently some other anomalous and strange creatures within the forest. They once planned to close off the fields after stranger creatures had come and gone through, some Applejack never wished to see again. But in contrast, the field had the richest soil in Ponyville, and it was where most of the apples they use for cider, and some of their most delicious apples. Applejack scanned over the field once more, just to make sure they were clear, and began her way down the path. She would normally start at the inital trees, but instead she instead chose the trees closer to the edge. It was her choice, considering how close she was, she didn't want to risk encountering some Manticore wanting a snack while she was tired. However, on her way, the gamboge pony stopped as she noticed something out of place. The ground was stained, but it was fresh, plus it wasn't scheduled to rain for another week. Closer inspection, Applejack reeled when the smell of copper pentrated her nostrils, the familiar smell from when she was young, the stains were large amounts of blood. Unhitching herself, Applejack quickly began searching the area swiftly, the amount of blood meant a pony nearby got a real nasty cut, and uncontrollably bleeding. Her search wasn't in vain as she found the source, but what was shocking was that the source wasn't a pony, it was another creature entirely. She could see the creature was leaning against a tree, dressed in what she guessed was some sort of fancy suit, looking as if he worked hard enough. His mane was stranger, snow white with tints of blood, and was looking ghostly pale. Thinking quick, Applejack checked the creature over and found the source, his arm had a bandage wrapping around his arm. Unknown creature or not, she wasn't about to let some defenseless, or she hoped was, creature die because she was too afraid it'd hurt her. Lifting the creature up, Applejack found that he was about as light as she could figure, though he was stilll as heavy as carrying a whole cart of apples back to the barn. "Big Mac!" Applejack shouted out, the creature limply hanging from her back as she found her elder brother barreling from nearby, questioning her with a shocked expression at the creature. "No time for chit-chat, we need to get this critter to the hospital, quick!" Taking care not to cause anymore harm, Macintosh allowed her to slide the creature onto his back, and with a shout, the two quickly made their way to the hospital ahead. Upon arrival to the hospital, Applejack abruptly stopped and shouted, "Make sure it's gonna be fine, Big Mac, I need ta tell Twi!" And with her best ability, Applejack used her dwindling energy to gallop onto the library. - Several Days Later - Monotonous beeping filled Julius' ears, and the faint sounds of speech filled his confused mind with questions as he could make out faintly, "..was critical....possible coma....blood loss." It was familiar, most likely some form of English, but there was a faint dialect, a foreign dialect. When his mind cleared, and his vision returned slowly, a high-pitched voice spoke up, "Look, Mr. Crow is waking up!" Soon enough, his vision was flooded with strange colorful creatures watching as another pony moved the others away and spoke clearly, though the dialect was erratic, "Mr. Crowley...can you hear us, Mr. Crowley?" Julius barely nodded his head as the doctor closely inspected him. This wasn't a human at all, Julius thought immediately, it wasn't human... Clearer his vision came, the more obvious it became he wasn't dealing with humans at all. They were instead horse-like creatures, and immediately noted they weren't as large as he was himself. He wanted to be scared, but he just...didn't feel any kind of negative reaction, just felt peace. "Slowly, Mr. Crowley, can you speak?" Opening his mouth slowly, Julius only let out a quiet and strained groan, the doctor frowned and turned to one of the other ponies and faintly spoke "...water..." before returning to Julius and spoke slowly, "Mr. Crowley, I need you to stay awake, try to stay awake." Nodding his head slowly, Julius attempted to focus, but his efforts were pointless when he realized that his muscles were weaker than him at the direct moment. All he could do was hold his mouth agape and let out faint grunts as what he suspected were nurses returned with a pitcher. "Keep his mouth open." The doctor said, Julius clearly seeing that these creatures didn't have any fingers at all, instead they were instead hooves, and very elastic. However, his thoughts were overridden when he felt a flood of water clear through his parched esophagus and let out a stronger cough before they stopped. The doctor smiled at him and said loud enough for him to hear, "Mr. Crowley, you've been unconscious for atleast a week. Let your body adjust..." Julius could only nod and watch as the doctor checked him over, "You suffered acute blood loss, thankfully Mr. Macintosh brought you here in the nick of time. Peculiar case, we've never dealt with whatever you are." The words struck Julius, and confirmed a theory he had, he wasn't even in a human universe... The doctor rambled on, Julius staring off into the space as he realized that for once wasn't near humans, a feat he could hopefully approve of in due time. Soon he could feel his body return to a limited state, his vision returning well enough for him to see sharper detail. Slowly dawning to him that these creatures were familiar, their distinct features reminding him of something, but his mind wouldn't focus enough for him to remember. He made a mental note to hopefully remember what it was. Submitting to lying there, Julius could only hope his recovery process was swifter than normal. However, this question was answered well enough, "You'll make a full recovery, thankfully. Not to mention the help that Ms. Sparkle had done, and her potions to replenish your blood were spectacular. Oh, I almost forgot, you have a visitor." As soon as his 'visitor' came, Julius was to put it without a doubt one of the most regal, or stupid, looking 'horse' in his existence. With a feminine look, it wasn't hard for Julius to know this might be royalty he's dealing with, by the look of her aesthetic apparel. With a mixture of cerulean, turquoise, cobalt blue, and heliotrope mane, Julius deducted this was most likely a 'unique horse.' Considering a horn adorned her head, along with what he suspected were wings. "Mr. Crowley." Her regal voice confirmed this was royalty, Julius only able to respond with a groan, the royalty only raising an eyebrow to him before her horn glowed faintly, and Julius felt as if his mind was being probed, his thoughts being watched, and the familiar buzzing noise of something behind him going haywire. 'You can speak to me me now, Mr. Crowley.' Her regal voice spoke into his mind, Julius widening his eyes in shock as he realized that the 'horse' was speaking in his mind. 'Atleast I can deduct that you're not of this world. Now, may we start with introductions?' Julius focused his eyes on the Princess and thought to her, 'May I atleast know your name first, ma'am?' The regal 'horse' smiled towards him and and spoke, 'Manners, even in the face of the unknown, quite a feat. My name is Princess Celestia, Fifteenth Ruler of Equestria. Now may I ask of yours?' Unnaturally relaxing, Julius took note he wasn't even remotely stuttering, or for that manner he was comfortable around the unknown, something was off...'Julius Gordon Crowley, last head of the Crowley bloodline.' He didn't have a will to speak, somehow it was already showing that he wasn't at even remote free will at this point. 'Last of a family...well then, now let me ask you now, where were you from?' Julius gave the Princess a wary stare, but felt unable to resist speaking. '....Reino de Espana...' He felt a shock of success as he stopped himself, or atleast blocked the Princess from knowing his homeland... 'An exotic place, I presume? Very well then, Mr. Crowley, I must say you're in good hands, just relax yourself and respond to my questions. I'll guarantee you won't be harmed in any way...' Finding no way out, Julius accepted it... - Julius divulged too much already, and he knew it. The Princess had some way just uncovered most of his history, and learned too much of what he'd consider acceptable for anything to know about him. His homeland, family, personal history, and even about things he never wished to remember, it felt like a violation. 'So now...tell me about these blocks...' Damn...no way out at this rate, he must relive it... As soon as he divulged, the Princess' eyes shrank and a look of horror crossed her face as Julius' heart rate began to rise quickly as he heard every last thing. From the sounds of cursing, cries for acceptance, tears of bitter rage, and the sounds of glass raking into a body, and a crack of a whip. The Princess continued staring in shock as Julius' voice cracked heavily as he let out a prolonged scream and grasped his head involuntarily. Celestia only watched in horror as each moment replayed before she broke the link. Julius crashed back into his bed and watched in horror, feeling a racking sob and his tear ducts beginning to throb in sharp pain. "W-What....." Celestia was able to gasp out. She never felt such powerful emotions in a very long time, and even then, it stung her to see this. It was like the wars from hundreds of years previously, and the effects its had on ponies. Knowing only one thing to do quickly, Celestia flared her magic and struck Julius hard, sending the human back into his mind, and in the meantime doing her best to block out the memories. Hopefully it'd reverse, it was atleast a quick second thing. Her own curiosity, and her tactics go to her mind, even then she knew very well that she went against what she even established. It was a disgrace to herself, a hypocrite no less. But, she couldn't help but feel sorry for apparently what he calls himself a 'human.' What she had just learned would most likely haunt her for a long time. But to ensure this wouldn't affect him hopefully, Celestia modified his memories shortly after, atleast locking away her conversation with the man, but hadn't dared to seal away the ones she's seen herself, daring not to know what would've happened. Stumbling into the hallway, she was swarmed by the royal guards as a team of response medics swarmed past and into the room. "My lady, are you hurt?" A guard asked as Celestia held back a sudden sob and barely nodded in response as she slowly made her way down the hallway with the guards surrounding her. This man wasn't even remotely a pony, never had he even met a pony, but he's watched her subjects, like some sort of tale but visually. But even then, she couldn't remove her thoughts from what that man was suffering, his mind was nearly shattered by her, and all that he'd been through nearly escaped to haunt him once more. She was a fool, this time she wasn't able to apologize. She never had done such a thing since the incident with her younger sister so long ago. Steeling herself, Celestia spoke in a strained by authoritative voice, "Guards, ensure Mr...Crowley is seen as a top priority subject, he's both a value and a threat to not just the royalty, but to Equestria itself. Report when he's in a stable condition to move, and ensure the luggage he has is kept under security until then. Under no circumstances should ANYPONY even touch him, or his luggage." With a confirmatory shout, four guards dispersed as another four filled their positions as she slowly made way out of the hospital, now deep into her thoughts. - "So yer tellin' me that big ol' thing that bled all over the southern fields is some kinda creature called a 'human'? You sure it ain't just another shapeshiftin' thingy from the Everfree?" Applejack stated to Twilight, the unicorn adamantly nodding in response. "Shapeshifters don't bleed, Applejack, I'm quite sure of it. But what the book says here is that humans aren't even native to Equestria, they're supposed to be mythical creatures made up by Constellations in his book of old mares tales." Twilight injected back, gathering a confusion from the rest of the Mane Six. "Wait a minute, you're saying humans are like the Sonic Rainboom, right?" Rainbow Dash questioned, Twilight giving a nod, "Then why in the name of Celestia is there even one here?" Twilight looked down towards her book and shook her head, "I don't know Rainbow, but it has to do with something about my practice." Gaining the interest of the others, Rarity was the first to speak up before the others. "What do you mean darling? Your practice?" She questioned, Twilight sighing before standing up and concentrating sharply, pointing her horn towards her book. The next few seconds shocked the others as what could be mustered as a black hole slowly expanded from the book, then disappeared. "Dimensional rifting." Twilight stated simply, gaining a loud scream by Pinkie Pie and being tackled by the normally happy pony, however was replaced by a wild and scared frown. "Twilight, are you mad?! You're doing something very dangerous!" The pink pony shouted, "You could cause the entire Multiverse to come crashing down if you keep messing with it!" "Pinkie, what they hay are you talking about?!" Twilight confusedly asked, only to be picked up and shook violently by the pony again, eliciting attempts from her friends to calm down Pinkie, only to be rebutted by her. "You could bring something dangerous Twilight! Stop trying to make portals!" She continued, her eyes wild with fear. "Okay, okay..." Twilight assured her friend, who calmed well enough to have an instantaneous switch back to her happy attitude, as if nothing had happened. But for the others, they were both scared and incredibly confused. "Anyway, we should visit the creature, see if he's awake!" She interjected, the others numbly nodding. - - Julius stared towards the ceiling, trying to understand his predicament. Just an hour ago he was waking up from a long sleep, seeing things that looked suspiciously like ponies, follows by nothing. 'Maybe I just dozed off for too long?' He thought, the plausibility that he was in a coma, and he was trapped within his mindscape... This theory was stomped out as a rather overweight pony, with what he could suspect was lavender hair with white streaks, and a nurses cap entered with a smile and said in a 'comforting' voice, "Mr. Crowley you have another guest." 'Another guest?' He thought as the nurse moved to the side, six ponies slowly entered in pairs, all were faintly familiar to his memory. He slowly looked around, his eyes focusing as he felt the pressure of their gazes upon him. Though he couldn't help but feel there was a similar person, or in this case, pony, with a familiar demeanor of scared. One of them spoke up, a light mulberry coated one, who struck his memory the hardest as he attempted to remember. "Sir, my name is Twilight Sparkle, Princess Celestia's apprentice." She had manners, he could denounce instantly, but she wasn't the only to speak up as another spoke up, with a rural drawl he could familiarize with. "Ju-lee-us...What kinda name does that mean?" He tightened his hold on the sheets and looked at the pony, slowly forcing himself to speak up. "I-It's...m-my bi-birth name..." He could manage to stutter our enough for the pony to slowly nod. Her demeanor slowly changed, he could sense, into a more friendlier manner. She tipped her hat in response to Julius. "Sorry there, Mister Ju-lee-us..." She said quietly, gaining the same from her friends, though without hats, they others just simply bowed their heads. All of them were bowing minus the exception of one who hid behind the rainbow-maned one. "I-I-I-It's Ju-Julius...Joo-lee-əs." He managed to speak out, feeling his comfort zone was stretching its limits at this rate before continuing, "W-W-What...a-are your na-n-names...?" The ponies looked up towards her before the mulberry spoke up, Twilight Sparkle. Pointing her hoof to her side, she addressed the one with a rural drawl, an orange-coated and blonde-maned pony with no unique features from his view. "This is Applejack, she runs an apple orchard called Sweet Apple Acres." Applejack held her hoof out to Julius, the man reluctantly but politely responding with a firm handshake, eliciting a smile from the pony. "Nice to meet you, Mister Julius." He simply nodded in response as Twilight pointed to her other side. One with a bluish-white coat, gradient purple-violet mane, and blue eyes. "This is Rarity, Ponyville's pride in fashion design and clothing." Rarity simply bowed again and looked up towards him with a soft smile and spoke in what he could discern was akin to the British accent, akin to the Victorian Era. Her discernible feature was a pointed protrusion from her head, a horn. He could see that it was aswell in the same exact position as Twilight Sparkle's. "It's a pleasure to meet you...Mister Crowley." She read his profile clipped to his bed, eliciting a small nod from Julius. "Not very vocal, are you?" Julius quickly shook his head and spoke up in a faint but discernible voice. "N-N-No..." Rarity simply nodded and moved her hoof down towards the hidden pony and gave a nod to Twilight Sparkle. Twilight proceeded to slowly bring her out from hiding, and to Julius' surprise the pony locked gaze with him, and felt what he could only muster as mental scarring from a period before, just like him. Her most discernible feature was a pair of wings, much to Julius' amazement. Her coat was a light yellow, mane pale pink, and her eyes were teal. "This is Fluttershy, sir. She's kind of similar to you by personality." The pegasus continued to look at Julius and spoke, in a soft and rather comforting voice. "It's...n-nice t-t-t-to meet you...M-M-Mister Cr-Cr-Crowley..." She managed to speak out, Julius responding with a smile that he could muster up, the others watching in silence before Twilight continued onto the next pony. Pointing towards the rainbow-maned one, however his memory struck hard as he recalled this particular pony. She was a pegasus, known as Rainbow Dash, she was the weather manager to Ponyville. However, he refrained from speaking out as Rainbow Dash made a rather 'spectacular' introductory. "My names Rainbow Dash, and speed is my thing!" She shouted and did a sudden backflip, flaring her wings to assist her in the process. "Ever need anything, just ask." She had an air of confidence, and what he could suspect was attempting to challenge him into something. He simply nodded in response, daring not to start such a thing, period. Rainbow Dash seemed to notice then, and subtly calmed down, finding herself struck with victory. "And finally th-" Twilight had no time to speak as a blue of pink began to rapidly speak, breaching Julius' privacy sphere in every way possible. "Hi, I'm Pinkie Pie!" Followed by her rapid speaking confusing Julius quickly, unable to comprehend the pony as her dialect aswell switched certain words, further confusing him until Twilight Sparkle caught his confusion and stopped the energetic pony. "I-I-It's...n-n-nice t-to meet you, P-P-P-Pinkie P-Pie..." He stuttered out, the pink pony giving him a wide grin. Julius slowly lowered his guard, but kept it enough for himself to be comfortable as they slowly began to build up a conversation. - - Their conversation led on and on, Julius warming up to the ponies as his memories slowly recomposed itself. He soon recalled such vivid memories of them, and then it struck him just mid-conversation, it struck him hard. He wasn't dreaming when he felt a sudden and sharp pain in his nasal passage, and a slow stream of tears filling his vision. "S...." He managed out before grasping his nose and gritting his teeth. "You alright, sugarcub-?" Applejack stopped mid-sentence and stared in shock, the others catching sight as Julius was literally beginning to tear up hard, and they could see a steady stream of blood flowing from his nasal passage. But what caught them was his tears weren't just tears, they could see blood again. Then it struck their hearts when Julius began sobbing, his teeth clenched tightly as the bedsheets were slowly stained in his blood. "Q...Quick, get a doctor!" Fluttershy was the first out already, the others doing their best to comfort Julius as he managed out a few short words, "E-Every.....g-gone....ffff...." The Mane Six were soon herded out as Nurse Sweetheart, along side two other nurses galloped in with Fluttershy. All they could hear was a long scream from Julius before everything slowly became silent. Then, the wards door were slammed open, the Mane Six pressing against the wall as the nurses carted Julius out on a stretcher, his chest and face covered in blood. They remained speechless as they saw Julius fine one second, then just collapse and start bleeding uncontrollably. This human was an absolute enigma, and not even Pinkie had caused him to smile or even show any signs of happiness. Speaking of Pinkie, her normal happy demeanor was deflated, along side her pink hair. "Julius....isn't okay at all, girls..." When giving her a questioned look, Pinkie stared back as her own tears were held back. "He's...He's very alone, and his mind is damaged. I can tell..." She stated, "He wasn't happy, not even my own attempts would help him. It's like his own happiness was torn away..." She shook her head before the Mane Six converged on her into a group hug. "Pinkie, whatever is wrong with him, we can fix it. No matter what the costs are, nopony deserves to be this sad. Not even if we don't know them." Twilight spoke slowly, the others nodding together before Pinkie gave them a smile and nodded. - - "Princess, we have a report." One of her senior guards said, bowing lowly in front of her. The Princess stared down at him with the coldest gaze she could give and nodded to him. "The human has slipped back into critical condition. The statement is that six mares had entered his ward against your orders, or a lack of enacting the order as the guards were missing during the time." Celestia's eyes steeled upon the senior guard as he continued, "The doctors state that these six may have caused a reaction within his body, associated with damaged tear ducts and a tear within his nasal passage that caused profuse bleeding." Her gaze deepened as she stood quietly and spoke in her most authoritative voice. "The guards will be punished. And bring me the six that you spoke of, immediately. I will not have my own orders taken for granted. Charge the guards with insubordination." Rising from his bow, the guard quickly gathered a squadron consisting of pegasi, unicorn, and earth, then began the long march towards Ponyville. - Ponyville Library - Twilight passed through her books swiftly. She needed a book, a gift that she could give to the human. The book needed to be something simple enough for him to read, and it needed to show him a general overview of Equestria. No doubt he'd enter the phases of culture shock quickly, and she wanted to ensure it was minimal. However, in her deduction, Twilight knew the human wouldn't understand the written language, she needed some kind of translator spell. "Spike, did you find it yet?" Twilight said from the corner of her mouth, stacking book after book together into a bag. Each held some of the most basic elementary books she could muster up, while a few more complex books she picked out. She wanted to test Julius' mental skills atleast, to get a better grip on where his educational stance was. "Yeah yeah, Star Swirls Spell book, Fourth edition, volume thirteen. Page four hundred and sixty-nine, Vocational Translation Spell, Generation Four, Spell Mk. Fourteen." Spike stated dryly as he landed the book within the pile, Twilight giving him a smile as he returned back to his chores. However, Twilight's plans weren't about to go as she planned. There was a rough knocking, Twilight opening it to find herself in the presence of two imposing Earth Pony guards, their entire bodies covered in the familiar metallic platemail. One of them spoke up almost instantly, "Miss Twilight Sparkle, by order Her Majesty, Princess Celestia, you're to be detained and brought before her in violation of the Protection of Foreign Creatures laws." Twilight had no choice in the manner as her hooves were shackled and marched out of the library, leaving Spike behind who attempted to reach her, only to be blocked by other guards. - Epilogue - The Mane Six were tried and found not guilty, however, Celestia didn't leave them scott free. The court found them all six guilty for breaching a royally-restricted ward, and their sentence was to 'care for Julius Crowley' by order of Celestia herself. Though it was obvious something was off with the Princess, she looked as if she was insomniac with hard bags under her eyes, and slurred her speech quite a bit. However, their concerns also stretched to the human, who was reported to be up and active, against the wishes of the doctor. Their concern was due to the fact the last they saw of him, Julius was nearly bleeding out his entire nostrils. But to Celestia, this was much larger in scope, her tired eyes watching the Mane Six leave quietly, unshackled but escorted out. They didn't know what was to come, or what she knew. Her tired eyes focused down to her paperwork before resting her head on it and falling asleep almost instantly, entering the nightmares of her memories once more... Chapter II - Now With Picture[s]!Mr. Crowley By: Die Philosophen - Note: General work is fictionalized, though certain elements may or may not be fiction. - Also, certain locations may not be consistent with canon. - Additionally, I understand there's stereotypes in the genre, and by the time I was told of them, I already planned the chapter out before, and some very unintentional ones were added. - - Three Days Later - Following the next few days, Julius was cleared from the hospital after the doctors prescribed him a strange medication. They learned of his medical condition where his body refuses to digest vitamins, and gave him a familiar pill bottle filled with fifty pills itself. When questioning, the doctors stated that his medical condition wasn't unfamiliar, but it was an rare occurrence within Ponyville, and his current medicine was primitive itself. And when asked the costs, the doctor stated that medical care was universally free, shocking him even further as the Mane Six assisted him. He spent the past three day reading books that Twilight brought him, surprising the pony when he recited many sentences from the books after her translation spell worked its effects, though had difficulties in full comprehension, which was the primitive translation between 'Pony English' and 'Written Pony', the titles Julius gave the differences in spoken and written language of the Ponies. Overall, he's adapted well enough from the view of books, and warmed his best around the ponies, though his comfort zone wasn't the greatest as he continued to stutter and attempt to make himself shrink enough to where he couldn't be noticed. However the latter didn't help as his height difference between the ponies was noticeable, even Big Macintosh only came up to his ribs at nearly five feet, the others coming down to his waist, and foals to his kneecaps. He felt too high for his own good, and did his best to avoid causing any issues, though he had to lower himself enough to enter doorways and so. But overall, he felt both an accomplishment in the basic adjustments, and the fear of this new land. He didn't know anything about it, and would have to go through an extensive study session. Celestia had assisted him, in an unnatural kindness, by establishing his name under the 'Artisan Welfare' system, granting him enough money to buy himself a studio home, foodstuffs, supplies, and enough for luxuries. When asked by Twilight why he was shocked, he responded that there wasn't even such a thing known as a 'Artisan Welfare' system, his own countries welfare system itself would never even think of such an addition, and the economics here were almost completely different than what he had known. Soon after, the seven scoured out the studio-home real estates in the municipality building, eventually coming to a conclusion that Julius chose a furnished home near the town limits, settled between Sweet Apple Acres, Fluttershy's Cottage, and Ponyville itself. This was, to Julius' idea, to give him a layout of between the three locations, and to help him with landmarking. This home was situated in a off-road location, surrounded by small woodland that was 'tamed.' And overall, it seemed to be perfect to Julius, and approved by some of the ponies, Rarity voicing her displeasure because it was 'most likely a run-down old shack.' Taking her up to this challenge, Julius and the Mane Six placed bets that the home was either nice, or a shack. And by chance, Julius' push cart was brought with them, fully intact to Julius' amazement yet again, and hauled by Big Macintosh out of politeness, the Earth pony refusing to take 'no' for an answer, stating that he was too sick to handle the cart on his own. Accepting, they passed around Ponyville, Twilight stating that Isaac needs to have as little stress as possible, gaining a smile from him. - - The pathway was serene, and the once congested smell of burning gasoline was replaced by almost pure oxygen. He now wore a white suit made from silk, complete with a black dress shirt, black and crimson red pinstriped tie, and complete with a Type IIIa Body Armor, raising a few eyebrows from the Mane Six. “It's a force of habit...” He simply stated. However, what 'clashed' with his entire suit, to Rarity's disgust, was his polished 'formal' boots, with black leather and white laces. He felt himself improved, as for the past few days he's adjusted to walking independently, and other basic functions. Overall, Julius felt himself proud for such a quick recovery, and soon his interest in Equestria took over as they continued on, having the Mane Six explain to him about Ponyville. “Righ' over there, sugarcube, there's Sweet Apple Acres.” Applejack said, pointing her hoof in the direction of the now visible farm and its expansive orchards. Julius could barely detail out, but he could see typical structures of a farm, including what appeared to be a giant silo. When pointing it out, Big Macintosh interrupted with a simple, “Silo, stores all of our harvests we got nothin' to do with over the winter.” Nodding in response, Julius looked around at their surroundings and took in the scenery, the lush greens weren't exactly rare in his hometown, but he'd never see them in this pattern, his eyes directing towards various wildlife that went about their own days. His vision returning towards the road, up ahead should be the divergent towards his home, and the bet reaching its climax as they found the pathway, complete with a mailbox at the edge, which apparently was already registered by the looks of it. Filled to the brim with letters, along side multiple packages. Retrieving the letters, Julius raised his eyebrow before sliding them into his suit jacket, “Someone get the boxes, please?” Applejack took up the request, placing the boxes with his push cart, ensuring they'd be held firmly between the various boxes, alongside multiple hanging bags, ranging from a overpacked duffel bag, along side a satchel, to multiple other various storage bags. “Right then, now that somehow I've been late on picking up my own mail in just a few days, lets end this bet here and now.” Agreeing with him, they began a short trek that lasted only a few minutes before they came across the home. However, despite any of their projected idea of what it looked, it wasn't even close to what they believed it'd even look like. Crowley's Studio - CAD Design The house itself was similar to a rectangle, built from brick and mortar that's seen better days, the rooftop was shingled but appeared to have been rotting in certain places. Though the house was unkempt, there was a small garden fenced off, and a sliding glass door that seemed to be kept in pristine condition. Overall, the house was forty-four feet, ten inches by twenty-five feet, and large enough for him to at least feel comfortable. Julius simply smiled at the home and followed the stone pathway, the mixed feelings of the other ponies, “Big Mac, you can unhitch near that sliding door. Everypony else, if you wanna stay around and help, I'm more than welcome...” It seemed nopony wanted to leave at this point in time, all of them pitching in to help Julius when he dug out a letter addressed to him from the municipality, he found the key to his home. Upon unlocking its double doors and entering the house, he was struck with a rather peculiar site. The house was fully furnished, though there was a significant amount of space between. To his direct left was a coat hanger, and further over was a makeshift living room, complete with a three-seating couch, a recliner, and a regular lounge chair, near it were two bookshelves and a cabinet. And from his viewpoint, he could see a small hearth next to a entertainment center. But what caught his eye was a television set, or at least what he believed was a television set. “A-A-Am I se-seeing som-something...or is that an a-a-actual te-television set?” He asked, Twilight nodding as she helped Fluttershy carry in a bulky cardboard box with a solid black tape over it. Julius shrugged, the only other notable thing was a mahogany table, with a office chair, that could fit certain items of his. Aswell there was granite-topped kitchen, complete with a sink, oven range, and a dishwasher. Finding it at least appealing, Julius made himself useful and helped the ponies carry in the boxes, totaling up to towards almost thirty boxes on itself, Julius setting down his duffel bag and satchel finally before slipping out his clipboard and slowly checked over the boxes. “All's in o-o-order. An-Anyyhow, t-t-t-t-thanks fo-for your h-help, eve-everypony, come b-b-back a-a-around l-l-later on i-if you want, I'd enjoy a bit of p-p-privacy.” After farewells and the ponies departed, Julius took up to himself and began unpacking slowly, followed by organizing whatever he could. It felt good to finally be alone, though, he couldn't help but feel a slight twinge. Confused, Julius only shook it off, returning himself to organizing his items by their color-coding, and setting them where his obsessive desire to have them in quick-to-find and neatly placed locations. - - Unpacking was the easiest part of the day, however, the organization and compulsive need to recheck every last one of his times was the more difficult part of the afternoon. His clothes were neatly organized by their article and stored away, totaling all sixteen of his spare suits, and some casual clothing he rarely wore. Hygienic items within the bathroom, which had apparently escaped his vision easily by its folding doors. His satchel hung on the coat rack with his duffel bag, his medicine were safely placed out of reach from anypony, and his reading glasses for those times his vision worsened. The desk was the most laden, however, as he had most of the electronics from the spare apartment, consisting of a Kindle Fire, his favored way of reading while on the go. Both his very first iPod Touch, the ancient thing barely working since he received it ten years ago. His iPhone Third Generation, aswell useless since there was a significant lack of cellphone towers or satellites in Equestria. Though his laptops still work, with his faithful MacBook Air still operating since he took possession of it from his pawnshop, aswell with three other laptops running on the Windows OS. The technology he had were ancient, last generation, obsolete. He could recall by twenty-fifteen that with the establishment of portable electronics came swift innovation. Laptops and smartphones soon had the capacity to be miniature computers, and home computers were almost reaching supercomputer speeds. He found such advancements amazing, however, it was thanks to the recession beginning in early twenty-oh-nine that made such marvels of the modern world difficult to buy with inflated prices and the significant lack of work. He still had Windows Seven on his laptops, the arrival of Windows Eleven in just a few weeks meant that he'll be struck in the dark without any kind of support. His MacBook Air, as far as recalled, was seriously outdated. Along side his various portable was his personal goal, a homemade supercomputer that he couldn't finish in time. The monstrosity was sealed tight in the corner between his desk and drafting table, fearing that it'd cause even more problems then what he even had with himself. As far as he cared, it'll never see the day of light again. It seemed so strange now, he never went a day without using any electronics, considering his once shut-in tendencies were broken already when he arrived here. He especially hoped with these new technologies would never see the light of day either, and ensured that no mistakes would happen. He had a fingerprint scanner for the laptops, and his supercomputer, and he intentionally forgot what his own password was in favor of the scanner. Along with various miscellaneous objects, he placed some of his treasured items on top of the desks storage cubes. Pictures of his family, his sisters, a jewelry box filled with his various rings and jewels he found significant reason to keep. Though, he still had one ring on his hand to his realization, where his arm was incredibly numbed he could see it lying there. The pure titanium-gold-heliotrope band holding up a diamond engraved with his family crest. That was incredibly expensive, but it was worth to remember the month he spent with his blood brother, Nicholas. He'd never forget him, though it stung him to realize that he'd still be alone without them, but kept himself steeled. Nicholas wasn't his biological brother, but they both had permanent scarring on their left ring fingers to represent an everlasting friendship, and bonding their families together. Clearing his face of tears, Julius noted another jewelry box, which was filled with Valknut pendants, symbols of the Norse mythology that was attested to be either Odin's symbol, or the heart of Hrungnir. He kept these before he left religion, as a symbol of friendship now. He gave only three away in his life, two for his sisters and one for Nicholas. Returning the box to his original position after taking out one of the pendants, Julius swiftly tied it around his neck and slid it under his ballistics vest and slid off his suit jacket. Folding it into his chair, Julius then hid the laptops within the desk, the longest drawer at the top, simply stacking two-by-two. After ensuring they wouldn't be stolen or found, Julius silently cursed to himself and realized one last thing. He quickly did a scan of the room, and then found what he was looking for. Taking grasp of a scabbard, Julius stared at the roughened metal curve that held one of his families ancient blades, slowly dressing his hand along the thirty-inch casing before grasping the oil black cloth grip and slowly drew out the sword. The saber drew smoothly, its edges hissing against the metal edge of the scabbard and glinted its metal blade through the visible sunlight. The overall length of this formal sword was thirty-five inches, weighing exactly one and a half kilogram, including the aesthetics from generations in the past. Julius could see the engravings from just centuries ago, rings of gold and jewels embedded into the blade, his own engraving near the very tip, signaling the blade will soon be complete, and a new one was to takes it place. His engravings were the Mane Sixes Cutie Marks from when he enjoyed watching the show long ago, and the last engraving was the Cutie Mark Crusaders crest. Even with its only use to his family as an expensive heirloom, Julius tested this blade personally, and found that even with its forging in the seventeenth century, it was very durable. Since then, he's polished and kept this ancestral reminder close at hand since he was granted the right to hold it when he turned twenty-five. Subconsciously strapping the scabbard to his suits belt, and returning the gem-encrusted saber to it, Julius stared at himself in the mirror and simply nodded. He'll wear it no matter where he goes, no matter what the customs are, he won't depart with this blade. Leaving his suit jacket behind, Julius boldly stepped into the sunlight and began his search for training equipment, he'd like to test his heirloom once more, and see his full potential. - “Et vaig a ensenyar a trair a mi, merda!” Celestia stared again as she watched what she could describe was a demon beating something small and defenseless, the screams of pain and sounds of the beating desensitized her as she watched on. Her eyes danced at the scene before changing towards another one of the humans memories. “Escolteu amb molta atenció, ves a la merda sense valor per a un nen. Si vostè o aquesta puta tonta sortir del meu ranxo, jo personalment et trobarà i et matarà.” The same demon spoke towards the battered and twitching teenager she was all to familiar with. The man disappeared through the doorway before silence overtook the empty ranch. A vague imprint of what she suspected was a human female quietly whispered into his ears. “Run...just run....find your la tia i l'oncle in the town, then get away from here...just don't return. I'll be fine, el meu fill perfecte, just go.” Celestia awoke again, staring towards the ceiling of her opulent bedroom and blinked slowly, she kept diving into these memories, and the deeper she went, the darker each became. She saw the boy slashed, some by a long, curved sword, others by food utensils. It was like she entered some kind of twisted movie that somepony got a kick out of. She needed to do something about this, and stop another restless night of insomnia. Lifting herself from the bed, Celestia stretched and popped her joints before slowly dragging herself to the bathroom to prepare for the evening meeting. - “So what do you think Julius would say once we give him this?” Rainbow Dash asked the others, holding up the scale-like wallet in her hoof. She found this little thing in Spikes hands just hours ago, the infantile drake claiming he found it on the ground a while ago. Further investigation broke his lie and he admitted to taking it from the cart when the others were introducing themselves to Julius and left the room before they noticed him. After being chastised by the others, he was forced to come along and apologize to the human, though they softened on the dragon soon after. “I don't know Rainbow, but I want to know where he found that luxurious outfit.” Rarity said dreamily, seeing that very same suit again in mind and imagining what sort of clothing sets she could make out of them. The warm colors had gone well with the whites and the tie completed it to her imagination. “There anythin' you talk about other than a ponies duds, sugarcube?” Applejack asked irritatingly to the fashionista, eliciting a glare from the unicorn before they were stopped by Twilight moving between the two and nervously laughed. “Maybe he'll cheer up with this!” Pinkie Pie excitedly pointed to her saddle bag, almost bursting with what anypony could guess were packaged sweets and various other items. This elicited a smile from Fluttershy, who spoke up from the back of the others, walking in tune with their seventh companion. A pegasus pony with bluish-gray coat, smoothed but erratic light yellow hair, and gradient yellow-lime to amber eyes that point into their own willful directions. She seemed to not pay attention to the general conversation and watch the woods in appreciation. However, their conversation was cut short when they heard what could've been a troubling scream, and the dull sound of something being torn down. Rushing to the home, the ponies in turn stopped and stared in awe as the scene enveloped before them. Standing around the yard were a series of heavy-looking but rather old items, ranging from old barrels to what the ponies would consider junk. At the far side, they could see the solid black ballistics vest of Julius raising something into the air, and with a booming yell, brought it down into a barrel. The receiving end of the barrel splintered as a deep cut from the blade drove into it. Julius sticking his boot against the barrel and drew it out before letting out another scream and rapidly tore into the side of the barrel before an ovular piece slid off into the ground. Julius proceeded to check over his blade and resheathed it into the scabbard and took notice of the awestruck ponies. “O-Oh...He-Hello...” Julius managed out as he moved his hand away from the hilt of the saber, the ponies staring in awe as Rainbow Dashes turned into a wide grin and quickly shot up to him and quickly spoke up. “Julius, that was AWESOME!” The excited pony shouted into his face before looking towards the barrel and back to him, “That thing you used is so...cool!” She managed out as she quickly reenacted Julius' hack-and-slash technique with her own sound effects. Julius nervously smiling towards her as she was abruptly stopped by a equally nervous Twilight before Dash realized what they were coming here for besides watching him tear apart the various junk with a lethal weapon. Digging out the wallet from her saddlebag, Twilight forcing Spike before him, the drake staring up in awe and shame at him as he thankfully took his wallet from the rainbow-maned pegasus before looking down at Spike, uncomfortable but curious as to why the strange creature was standing before him. Taking note, Twilight quickly spoke up, “Julius, this is my personal assistant, Spike, he's a baby dragon.” Julius blankly stared then rubbed his eyes before looking down at the dragon that barely went up to his shins. “Spike, don't you have something to say?” Twilight asked sweetly, masking a bit of anger from her voice that gave Spike fear. Quickly, Spike muttered out his apology while Julius watched him, his eyes narrowing and speaking up icily towards him, “I-I can f-f-f-f-forgive, b-but r-r-remember t-that I-I'll only b-b-be l-lenient for n-now...” And stuck his hand out for Spike to accept, the dragon gladly taking his scaled hand into his. After shaking hands, Rainbow Dash quickly began begging Julius to show them his blade. Though reluctant, the pegasus pony wouldn't take no for an answer and eventually gave in. After clearing the area, Julius adjusted the items and took stance. Drawing his blade swiftly, Julius grasped the hilt with his hands and took aim, the ponies and dragon watching on in both excitement, awe, and nervousness as he swiftly brought the blade down into a small block of wood. In just seconds the blade cleanly tore it in half, the blocks falling from its stand as Julius then swung the blade at the next target, an old decaying signpost that long lost the post that it once held. A dull thunk registered the blade hit, but it embedded itself into the post. Slowly drawing it back out, Julius wiped the blade with his hand and took aim again, this time with Rainbow Dash cheering him on. “Come on, Julius, you can break that signpost in a snap!” She called out as Julius let out another vicious call and struck true. The post tore in half, Julius proceeding to swing his blade down into what remained of its trunk and slowly dragged it out. - Several Hours Later - The spectacle continued on well into the evening, Julius showing them various techniques and the power of the blade by cutting into many objects. However, Julius had easily worked himself over and voluntarily decided to end the show before he collapsed from exhaustion, much to Rainbow Dashes disappointment. Inviting them inside, the ponies each decided to at least keep their newfound friend company on his first night in Ponyville that wasn't a hospital. Though without a dining table, they decided a less formal approach by sitting down and watching television while Julius took use of the apparently stocked refrigerator and cupboards to make a rather simplified meal. Though what he realized that there were a lack of meats or poultry for that manner, wasn't a big deal, but it did affect him morale when he realized that he couldn't eat the delicious mouth-watering cow beef known as the all-mighty steak. Once or twice Fluttershy attempted to assist Julius, only for him to politely refuse through stuttering, claiming that his own morals dictated for his generosity to extend towards ponies who apparently were staying over for the night. Though uncomfortable at the idea, he didn't want to be very vocal of it, knowing that something might go awry and he would cause an issue amongst the ponies. Soon enough they were all relaxing, either lying on the couch, floor, or the only armchair while leaving the recliner alone at Julius' request, stating it was his bed. Though questioning his motives for such a bed, the ponies in return were respectful of his idea. When Julius brought their foods over, the ponies were both surprised and amazed at his spread. It was a group meal consisting of two kinds of potato chips, grape punch, grilled cheese sandwiches, and a variety of side dishes. “I-I l-l-lived o-on m-my own, s-so I w-w-went to c-cullinary c-c-c-classes an-and t-t-taught mys-self to c-cook.” His methods were questionable on how swiftly he made this spread in just twenty minute tops. Taking his seat at the recliner, the ponies all began to enjoy feasting on the snacks. But it soon struck Twilight on something that bothered her, she hasn't even introduced their friend Derpy. “Oh my gosh...I'm so sorry for this, I know it's rude, but I never introduced Derpy.” The mailmare shot up at her name and did her best with her double vision to see Twilight before introducing herself to Julius. “Hello! My names Derpy Hooves, six time winner of the Best Mailpony Award, and Ponyville's most dedicated mailmare of all time!” She hook Julius' hand with her hoof, and attempted to say something but lost her train of thought and became confused quickly. She proceeded to ponder on what she was to say, forgetting even watching the show the others were watching and seemed to talk to herself, Julius simply smiling when his memories of said pony from watching the show reminded him of her antics. Time slowly passed by and then it dawned onto the ponies that they were missing certain things, most notably Twilight stating they should have some things for later on if they stay up late. Derpy shooting up and yelling that she forgot about her 'precious little muffins' and barged out the door, stating she'll be back with them later on. The ponies each disappeared quickly, soon leaving it down to Julius himself as the others would similarly promise that they'd be back shortly. Julius paid no mind to this, though he felt a twinge of loneliness and sighed, slipping out his Kindle Fire, kept safely hidden within his suit vest. Powering the electronic on, Julius swiped his finger across and put in his pin. Settling back, he began reading the latest magazine of an old computer gaming magazine publisher and read through it like a blitzkrieg before swiftly returning it into his vest when the double doors slid open. Looking over, he nodded to Derpy, however he noticed the presence of two other ponies and moved slightly to see what he could only state must've been foals. One of them was an carbon copy of Derpy, Pegasus and all. The other however was different, with a light purple coat, two-tone yellow hair, and golden eyes, plus adding the fact she was a unicorn raised a few question in Julius' mind. “We're here, Julius!” Derpy said happily as the two ponies reluctantly entered the home and gave him a hello. Derpy smiled and slowly nudged them ahead, “Come on, my little muffins, Mister Crowley won't bite.” Still reluctant, the two foals took their seat together on the armchair, looking at Julius. “H-H-Hello...” Julius gave them the best friendly voice he could give, similar to when he did his best to comfort his sisters when it called. The two foals seemed to relax slightly until he handed them what he suspected was the remote and nodded, “G-Go a-a-ahead...” He said, then directing his hand towards the various remaining foodstuffs, “M-M-made th-them for e-e-everypony....” Taking him up to the offer, the two had decided what they wanted to eat, and to his surprise they both enjoyed it. While the silent foals enjoyed the food, Julius took a stand and returned to the kitchen while Derpy seemed to be cooking something of her own. “Oh, I'm sorry Julius, I should've asked....” She began only to be stopped by a smiling Julius and waving her off simply. “I-I-It's okay...j-just m-m-make sure t-t-there's n-no mess...” He quietly said before opening his refrigerator and retrieving a glass bottle filled to the brim with an apparent soft drink. “S-S-So wh-what're t-t-there n-names?” He said again more softly then before and directing his finger towards the two. “The pale one is Dinky, and the one that looks like me is Dizzy. They're...my younger sisters, and my loved ones...” Derpy said quietly with pride, Julius smiling back towards her before setting his glass down on his counter and stated quietly, “I..n-n-need to d-d-d-do something, b-be r-r-r-right b-back...” Without a question, Julius disappeared into the bathroom, leaving the folding doors locked before he went to work. - - One by one the Mane Six returned with their saddlebags filled with various things, Pinkie leaving her original gift for Julius in a separate saddlebag on the tub of stuff between the tables. While they settled in for the sleepover, and questioning Derpy where Julius was, she simply pointed towards the bathroom. Settling in with Dinky and Dizzy, the ponies brought with them each a gift for Julius, celebrating his arrival to Ponyville instead of a party, much to Pinkie's distaste, they aswell brought various overnight provisions like a sleeping bag, and other miscellaneous items. Spreading out their sleeping bags, and Fluttershy politely leaving a pillow and blanket on the recliner for Julius. Soon enough Julius returned from the bathroom, and surprised the ponies with his sudden change. His once wild hair was now tamed, trimmed down and slicked back behind his ears and reaching down to his neck, and the once snow white dye was removed and presented with dirty blond hair. His suit folded neatly into his arm and replaced with grey sweatpants and a solid black tanktop, which exposed the gauze wrapping under his body. “W-W-Welcome back...” He quietly stated as the ponies smiled back, Julius storing his suit in a laundry basket and took his seat at the recliner. Soon enough the ponies returned to watching the various shows and commenting on them, these ranged wildly from movies to historical shows, culinary to gardening, the variety was expansive to Julius' thoughts, and there was a significant lack of advertisements, to which he could approve of. Dinky and Dizzy quickly stopping when it came to a particular show, an animated series on the Wonderbolts, much to the enjoyment of Rainbow Dash and the irritation to Rarity. Julius' interest raised here as the show went on for most of the half-hour while the twins enjoyed the show along with Rainbow Dash, Rarity's snarky comments on the show brushed off simply. As the show came to an end, the three began debating the rating for this episode and came up with an eight out of ten. When asking Julius about what his opinion was on the show, he replied that he didn't know anything about the show, or for the matter what the Wonderbolts were. Upon the realization that he didn't know, the three chastised him before starting on the members and what they do, from amazing acrobatics to demonstrations of their skills, telling off all eleven of their names with a notable addendum that Rainbow Dash would become a Wonderbolt, Julius soaking in the information as they continued on until he could calm them down. “I-I-I'm s-sure t-t-that y-you could t-t-tell me a-a-all a-a-about t-t-them s-s-soon...b-but p-p-p-please c-calm d-d-down..” Complying at his request, the three calmed down before it became apparent the twins warmed up to Julius and began a series of questions about him. “What's your actual name?” Dinky asked innocently, Julius humming for a second before speaking slowly. “J-J-Julius G-Gordon C-C-Crowley, b-but I-I a-a-also g-go by D-Demirci a-after m-m-my a-ancestors...” He softly said, pointing at his saber, which was lying by his side, propped up by a stand. “C-C-Culture i-in my h-homel-land h-had a f-f-first name, t-t-then t-two l-last n-n-names...” he explained before Dizzy asked the next question, her voice pitch almost the same as her sisters which surprised Julius a bit when he realized it. “Are there different kinds of people, like Pegasus or Unicorns?” Dinky looked at her sister then back to Julius with another innocent smile, Julius smiling before leaning forward to take one of the last grilled cheese and proceeded to explain. “S-Sort of....w-we g-g-go by w-where we l-l-live. I-I-I'm H-H-Hispanic a-and T-T-Turkish. M-M-Means I-I h-h-have t-t-two k-kinds o-o-of p-people. H-Hispanic b-b-because I-I'm p-p-primarily f-f-from my h-h-homeland o-of S-Spain. T-T-Turkish f-from m-m-m-my a-ancestry....” The twins looked at each other then to Julius as he ate the sandwich quickly before they attempted to learn how to say the rather complicated words. Julius let out a small laugh and proceeded to teach them how to pronounce it. Although they still needed to practice, they got the basics down in a good few minutes before Derpy came over. “Alright, my little muffins, that's enough bothering Mister Crowley, it's almost bedtime and there's still school in the morning.” She stated, the two foals voicing their disapproval but accepted it, allowing their elder sister to help them get a bed going while the others slipped into their sleeping bags and prepared for sleep. Julius watched them slowly before staring at the ceiling until he could hear just snoring a half-hour later and slowly stood up, creeping from the group after grasping his szabla he simply strapped it to his belt and slid himself over to the desk and took his seat. Carefully checking over the group, he slid out his Kindle and began reading. - - However, as the clock on his Kindle ticked it was midnight in his home, the moon was rising over the home and the last light within his home was doused out. However, Julius felt that someone was watching, and slowly set the electronic down and turned towards the sliding door, seeing nothing before something caught his vision and drew the blade swiftly. His woke only Rainbow Dash up, who looked around before noticing Julius' blade was drawn, but she could tell that he wasn't at all happy. “J-Julius?” She mumbled out as the human looked towards her and put his finger against his lips and pointed towards the window. Looking over, she couldn't momentarily see anything, then it became clear what she was looking at. It was some kind of creature from the Everfree, and matched the description of what Applejack was saying she saw in the western fields. What either couldn't see was that this creature was staring back at them....without any eyes. Julius gritted his teeth as it slowly circled the home before the rest of them were awaken by sounds of rattling bones and then a ear-piercing scream before the house shook and Julius released a series of curses in the languages he knew. “What the hay was that?!” Applejack quickly shouted as they were roused by the creature calling. “It's some kind of abomination!” Julius shouted, the rare moment that he could manage to push his stuttering away. Twilight quickly took note of the creature before rousing Spike from his deep slumber with a violent shaking. “Spike, quick!” The dragon roused from his sleep just as the creature rammed itself into the house again, Julius releasing another series of curses and aimed his blade towards the sliding door as the creature became even more obvious that it was in fact some kind of abomination. “Spike, send this letter to the Princess, quick!” As the dragon inhaled and sent the letter, Julius gripped the hilt of his saber and quickly nodded his head towards the bathroom. “H-hide th-there...” He directed, most of them complying in exception to Applejack, Twilight, and Rainbow Dash who stood their ground as the creature began rattling again. “F-Fine...s-s-stand your g-g-ground....” Julius whispered quietly as the creature continued rattling its bones in intimidation. The others took deep breaths, knowing very well they were scared as this creature reared itself and prepared to charge, before it suddenly began to crumble. Julius watched as his stance strengthened, then he noticed a brightly colored pony slipped from where it was. “W-What...” He simply stated before two more ponies joined them. “Are you KIDDING ME?!” Twilight suddenly shouted, unlatching the door and slamming it open as the rest followed in suit. Julius relaxed his stance as the 'creature' was becoming more obvious. It was a cleverly made costume, to Julius' notice before his gaze turned to the ponies as Twilight began to tell them off. “Why did you do this?! Huh?!” She shouted, as it became evident she didn't enjoy what this scene was. Sheepishly one of the ponies, a bulky stallion with a solid orange coat and blue mane, spoke up. “We...wanted a joke on that thing?” He said pointing his hoof towards Julius before Twilight's eyebrows furrowed even further. “A joke? You call THAT a joke?!” She shouted, pointing at the costume as Julius surveyed the damage done to his home, noticing that the decaying mortar was chipping and a spiderweb of cracks spread out across it. “You are so...so...STUPID, you could've hurt somepony, especially the two foals inside!” However, as she opened her mouth to speak again, Julius put his hand in front of her face and looked at the three stallions. “G-Get the f-f-fuck off m-my property.” He said menacingly, pointing the tip of his blade at the stallions, who quickly complied and started running. Julius resheathed the saber and took deep breaths. “S-Sorry, T-T-Twilight...I-I'm....I-I dunno....” He stated, Twilight put off at the fact he just threatened three stallions, and concerned as he shook. “T-T-They....I-I-I just w-w-wanted t-to p-p-p-protect....” He stopped when he felt a hoof pat him on the shoulder, Twilight realizing that he was just being protective of them. “It's okay, Julius, I understand.” Soon enough Applejack and Rainbow Dash joined Twilight in a short-lived hug as Julius quickly felt uncomfortable, haven't dealt with such affection from ponies he met in a short amount of time. “O-Okay...l-l-lets g-get everyp-pony back t-t-to bed...” He started, the three complying while Rainbow Dash congratulated Julius on sticking up for himself, and having the guts to teach them a lesson not to mess with you. Julius took it as a compliment before returning inside, and dead bolting the sliding glass door. Later that night, Julius was already fast asleep, his energy drained enough. However, with that nights events passing by, the sleeping arrangements were obviously affixed with Derpy asleep with her sisters, and the Mane Six were all huddled around the coffee table, leaving the couch for Julius to sleep on. The last to sleep was Twilight, and even then, the memory of the night were burned into her mind. - Epilogue - The following morning, Celestia arrived with a squadron of her Royal Guards, desperately apologizing to Twilight as she blacked out before the letter arrived. Upon accounting the events from each pony, omitting Julius' threat and utilizing his now hidden saber, the guards were dispatched to arrest the troublemakers. After her short visit came an end, Dinky and Dizzy gave Julius their best attempt at a hug and thanked him for 'being a hero' for them, and allowing them to stay. The Mane Six each left afterwards until Rainbow Dash was last, and made Julius do a promise he would show her more of his techniques with his sword. When silence came over his home, Julius was content that he made a mark today. But he couldn't help but feel his eye twitch violently at times, and he felt something in his mind burn before he faintly began hearing voices in his head. Shaking this off, Julius decided that he needed another nap, believing he was just hallucinating at the moment. Leaving the day and following night alone as he slept on. Chapter IV, Part IMr. Crowley By: Die Philosophen - Note: General work is fictionalized, though certain elements may or may not be fiction. - Also, certain locations may not be consistent with canon. - Apologies for such a short chapter, but I've decided to do a two-part, and I'd like to have a short one where I can set in motion the second part. - - The Following Week - Julius was suitably adapting to his loss, having spent the past few days in confinement of the hospital recovering on his own accord. The doctors had opted to return him back into the hospital for an entire week at the request of Princess Celestia for further checks on his person. Despite protests, Julius endured facing even further checks on his person, ranging from simple blood tests to whole body examinations. However, today wouldn't have been in the best interest for Julius as he was finally released, the doctors had requested he return soon, eliciting a rather distrusting look from Julius. All now that he wished was to return home and rest for the time being, but his mind have it, he wouldn't be returning home unscathed again. - - Deep in thought as to what his life meant now, and what he should at least do with himself now that he's starting to settle down in Ponyville after what he could suspect was two or three weeks since his unexpected arrival. He was the only living organism of his species that's in this world, surrounded by ponies from a television show he once watched long ago, and not to mention he's been conflicting in his attempts to adapt, his inability to release his pent up stress, and the last strands of his family now severed and isolating him. A weight pressed down on him that day as he checked over himself, staring at the gauze wrapping that enveloped his upper body like vines, seeing the faded scarring that reminded him of the past. Taking a few deep breaths, Julius did his best to ignore the fact that beyond his sweatpants and underwear, he was pretty much naked. His feet stung as the dull edges of the rocks pressed into his soles. It was a rather heavy embarrassment to him, walking almost half-naked, looking similar to a walking skeleton and without any other clothing considering the doctors had 'misplaced' most of his clothing. But he was thankful that he still had his personal effects, including his gifts and saved himself from being caught with the Kindle, and nearly breaking his self-imposed law on secrecy. And thankfully the Mane Six had taken his saber before the nurses took notice of it, returning it back to his home. It was a close call, but he got out with it easily, and now all he wished to do was return home and find himself a conduit to vent himself, maybe he'll finally take out one of his laptops and try to write after a long time, or maybe he'll log in another couple hours of studying... However, he felt his chest beginning to compress itself and felt faint, Julius immediately knew what would happen. And sure enough when he desperately attempted to breathe and collapsed against the fencing to Sweet Apple Acres. Standing beside him was his other self, the same insane grin and his tattered suit drenched in blood, with the awkwardly positioned bones showing through his skin. His right eye was covered in a eyepatch aswell, except Julius could see the blood slowly seeping through it. He opened, and spoke eerily in the same voice, albeit with a higher pitch and twitches violently, “Hahaaaa, welcome back to your mind, Julius!” Julius simply gave a grunt in response as he did his best to stabilize himself as his other self simply laughed at him. “Ahahaha! You look so fuckin' ridiculous!” Julius muttered out a string of curses, his other self continuing to laugh as he regained his composure. “Ahaahaaa....Oh for the love of a whore, your about as pathetic as your sisters now...Haa...Oh fuuuck this is just golden!” “F-F-Fuck o-off...” Julius only stated, watching his other self continued laughing as he leaned against the fence. “Hahaaaaaa.....Oh god damn, this is too rich to end now...I'll catch you later, fuckwit...” Continuing his vicious laughter, his other self just simply disappeared, and then he could finally feel the pressure on him decay, and his return to sanity. “F-Fuck this....I-I-I need t-to find Twilight....” Julius muttered to himself, quickly regaining his composure and began running, his sense overridden with both fear and confusion as he rushed towards Ponyville. - Ponyville Library - Twilight's saddlebags were considerably heavier after another traveling merchant passed through Ponyville, this one with a suitably large array of books. It costed her a near-fortune, but it was worth it considering some of the books were in fact a chronological order of the 'Equestrian Scientific Records', a series of research notes and recordings from across the ages, ranging from Star Swirls Prototype Spellbooks, Constellations Theories of Humanity, and Celestia's Geological Recordings of Early Equestria. Most of them were either restricted in areas Twilight couldn't have entered without raising the castle alarm, or were lost in the annals of history itself. She bargained with the trader and got away with it, these financial-destroying collections were now hers for merely six hundred Bits, most of which came from her tendencies to refuse spending any of her Bits unless it was absolutely necessary. However, as she was securing these books for intensive study, the library door was almost rammed off its hinges as Julius stumbled in, taking deep breaths as Twilight snapped up from the upper rooms of the library and took notice of Julius. “Oh my Celestia, Julius whats wrong?!” She managed out as the human looked towards her and barely got out through his stuttering and deep breaths. “T-T-T-Twilight...s-something's w-wrong...” He managed out, the magic protege quickly descending from the room and swiftly assisted Julius to taking a seat on one of the cushions and allowing him to catch his breath, retrieving a glass of water from Twilight's telekinetic field and draining it under five seconds before returning it with a thank you. After his breath was recovered and he was prepared, Julius began his issues, explaining his hallucinations in vivid memory, and the loss of his own eye. Twilight was suitably concerned, and fearful of Julius' condition and quickly began to search through her various medical dictionaries, Julius left silent before he was forcefully able to reference that it could have related to Twilight's translation spell. This changed her search substantially, and with the absence of Spike for an unknown reason, Julius was left to himself. Ascending to the balcony, and in the midst taking multiple pillows with him, he created a makeshift recliner and stretched out across it before his mind slowly began to wander off. He was descending into dementia, most likely, and the very thought had given Julius a cold feeling. He'd be losing his own sanity, and it'd cause grievous harm to the ponies around him, which would end in his very own demise at the hands of the same ponies who'd saved him from near death. It pained him to even imagine what would happen, and how his actions would affect even the very future of Equestria itself, himself being a rogue anomaly thanks to time-space itself. He could derail an entire civilization by the very simple process of harming a pony, or worse, killing them. He had the means to, and the skills to prove it. He couldn't deny that he'd was feeling scared, for once since he was a child, that he'll be killing something that he considered so close to him. That put up another thought, the fact that even if he's forgotten how long it has been since he's arrived, he's quickly forged friendships within a fraction that'd have been the norm. And on another note, he's hardly taken into account that he felt alone even more, he's lost all contact with his younger sisters, what remained of his family. It dawned onto him, he didn't have a choice or would even be able to amend to this. But he knew very well they'd would cope without him now, they were old enough to begin living on their own without his support. But what he feared was the fact that he wouldn't there to see their future, and help them so. It wouldn't e a future he'd ever see, now that without any chance, he'd be stuck here for the remainder of his life. In the end of it all, Julius saw no choice but having to adapt into this new life, and let go of his own past. It felt like a cheesy reasoning, and most likely was, but it was the only tactic he has, unless he could by chance get a meeting with Celestia to see if she could do something, but considering the circumstances, and the reminder that she was by fact royalty, most likely would be too busy in the future to even bother with him, not even if he was such a mystery to Equestrians. Finding this revelation dried, Julius muttered out lowly to himself as he raised up, staring down at the ponies going about their day. “Because things are the way they are, things will not stay the way they are....” To Be Continued - Chapter III - Questionable QualityMister Crowley By: Die Philosophen - Note: General work is fictionalized, though certain elements may or may not be fiction. - As a reminder, this is still just an experimental story, however it's starting to have some nice results. So I give thanks to my little unaware testers. If there's anymore approvals, I'll turn this into a writing project. -Subnote: I'm not fully sure about the quality I wrote this chapter. I'd appreciate some feedback on it. - -Additional Subnote: This chapter is shorter than normal because I've found that this particular one wasn't exactly the most enjoyable to write, but nonetheless was still a good one to my opinion. - - Following the fiasco a day ago, Julius was now fully rested and prepared for the new day ahead of him. The translation spell he's been under for the past few days had passed on, and the rough translations for Pony English and Written Pony were now lost until Twilight came to visit. She luckily states, though with difficulty, that she experimented for a longer-lasting translation spell, aswell bringing with her certain textbooks that'd assist him in at least starting a basic function of their language. Thanking Twilight, he started his way into studying, absorbing information while in the meantime utilizing his laptop for the very first time to copying down notes. Pooling in that session to at least four hours, Julius ended the session by checking the gifts he received the other night. The first was by Twilight, which turned out be a rather hefty amount of books she chose personally from the library as gifts. Placing them aside for the next gift, Julius found a crudely written note, and from what the spell translated into his retinas, Applejack's gift was at the farm as she apparently forgot where it was last placed. He found Pinkie's already, a cake and assortments of other baked goods he's kept safe. There was a Rose lapel lying in his cabinet, and a note that was directly impossible for him to even comprehend, the hoofship extremely elegant and beautiful for his eyes. When he attempted to start himself lunch, he realized that there were significantly more cooking utensils in his drawers, but there wasn't anything to signal just who gave him it. Whoever it was, he was thankful for. And finally there was a ticket to an apparent Wonderbolts show later this evening, and by deduction, this was by Rainbow Dash or the Hooves twins. Overall, they seemed to be nice gifts to his opinion. But today he'll attempt to walk on his own to Sweet Apple Acres, hoping he could landmark the best way to find it. - - Dressing himself in his best attire of the day in full black, a white tie, and pinning the rose to his lapel before checking himself over once again in the mirror. Subconsciously running his hand down the length of his hair before shaking his head slowly and slid out the Valknut pendant before turning. However, before he could even take a step towards the door, he felt his heart pulsating unevenly and his vision began to blur in and out. He grasped at his chest and leaning against the wall before staring up at the mirror before feeling a cold awash. Standing within the mirror was himself, except he could see that instead his body was mangled worse than before, his left elbow broken through the skin. Blood drenching his clothes as his reflection was cutting itself open, from the wrist to his shoulder with a sharpened rib. When he looked into his own face, he could see his left eyes pupil were shrunken and his right wasn't even there, in replacement was another one of his ribs. Faintly he could hear himself speaking something, but couldn't comprehend. And then it stopped suddenly. Julius slouched to the floor and watched in fear of the mirror, his reflection returning to normal as he felt a sudden sharp stab at his right eye and released a sudden string of curses before he realized that his own finger had poked him. Shaking his head, Julius slowly lifted himself up and took deep breaths as his watering eye slowly recovered itself. “What...the fuck...” Julius simply managed to get out before his body slowly recollected itself and he could move normally once again. Staring back at the mirror, and found that his right eye wasn't the normal gray. Instead, looking back towards him was a rust-colored iris, causing Julius some due alarm before he simply stood up and decided he should see someone about this sooner or later. - - After a quick return to strap his scabbard to his belt, Julius started on his way down the countryside path, keeping his left hand close by his saber while his other slowly adjusted the rose. His first landmark came when he found a crossroad and its sign, directing his immediate left to the Everfree Forest, the north towards Sweet Apple Acres, and east towards Ponyville. Following north, Julius slid his right hand into his pocket and watched the orchards, recalling the last time he saw the trees were for just maybe twenty minutes tops before he bled out enough for him to collapse. Even then, it was an amazing feat that he could even walk almost normally, considering he'd probably be lying in bed for the next couple of months while his body attempted to restore itself to its best ability. Those doctors knew just what to do, and did it quick. However, he wasn't the only one out for the time being as he noticed an approaching figure in the distance, and closing in fast. Raising an eyebrow, Julius stared at the figure for a couple moments before it dawned on him that the figure wasn't galloping, and the figure was actually a foal riding a scooter. And then it came clear he wasn't going to be able to avoid this one, as the foal shouted she couldn't control the scooter. Bracing himself for impact, Julius gritted his teeth as the foal finally lost stabilization and was launched into the air, Julius doing his best to catch the pony before she got hurt. Grunting as he caught the foal, stumbling to the ground with a grunt. Lifting himself up and slowly lowering the foal to the ground, she turned her attention towards Julius. Her gamboge coat was dirty, and from what he could see, was covered in scratches and grazing's. Her fuchsia mane was haphazardly made and covered by a purple helmet with twin white streaks, and her sheepish grin signaled something didn't go right. “Sorry, mister.” Julius simply nodded and lifted himself up before the foal realized just who he was. “Whoa...you're Julius, that human Rainbow talked about!” She said excitedly, eliciting a raised eyebrow and bushed himself off quickly. The filly was about as tall as his kneecap, and was easily dwarfed as she stared in awe, “U-Uh...y-yeah?” He managed out as the filly quickly got her scooter back upright and looked back to Julius. “She said you could use some thing to cut stuff in half, and that it looks awesome. Is it true?” Julius took note to make sure Rainbow Dash doesn't spread it enough to where he'd most likely get in trouble for even having the blade in the first place. Julius simply nodded and directed his hand towards the cloth hilt of the blade, the filly staring in awe of its intricate hilt, “Can I see it?” She asked excitedly, Julius sighing before grasping the hilt and drew the blade out and held it low enough for her to see, holding the underside of the blade gently in his open hand. The filly stared in awe as Julius then returned it to his scabbard. “D-Don't t-t-t-tell a-anyone, i-i-i-it's s-supposed t-t-to be a-a s-s-secret.” He managed out, the filly rapidly nodding before she remounted her scooter and began trailing Julius as he started walking towards Sweet Apple Acres. “So what're doing, Julius?” she asked, using her own wings to keep up with Julius as he returned to his casual walk. “V-V-Visiting S-S-Sweet Apple A-Acres.” He simply stated as the filly continued at his side and stared up towards him in awe, “W-W-What i-is y-y-your n-name, a-anyhow?” “Scootaloo!” She responded happily, Julius smiling at her for a moment before her next question came, quite literally, out of the haze when she noticed his eyes, “What's up your eyes, Julius?” He put his hand up to his eye and slowly rubbed it before looking back down towards her, and clearly she could see that his left eye was a solid gray and the other she could see there was red patches around his iris, which itself had changed from its gray to an ominous rust red. “T-Trauma, I-I-I d-d-dunno w-why...” He gave his best attempt to a lie, Scootaloo still curious but stopped herself by asking the next question. He couldn't tell, but to his own guess when he saw it that he must've taken some trauma to it during his appearance in Equestria, not to mention he lost the feeling in his left arm for sometime now. Their conversation dragged on for almost an entire hour, the questions almost never ending as Scootaloo learned a little bit about Julius' history and eventually asked him a rather serious, in her own opinion, question. “Hey Julius, do you think you could get Rainbow Dash to be, like, a teacher for me?” She asked, Julius raising his eyebrow before giving her his best smile and nodded. “I-I-I'll s-s-see w-what I-I can d-do...” Scootaloo, suitably excited, gave Julius a farewell and stated she should practice attempting to fly before Rainbow Dash considered her offer. Julius smiled before he continued following the path onto Sweet Apple Acres, and finding himself pondering his new course of action. He knew that his body was deteriorating at this rate, especially his mind now considering what the saw just earlier today, and his mind was forcing itself to adjust. It all seemed alien that just a week ago he was running a pawnshop, still playing video games, and wondering what he'll do with his life at that rate, and now this? He needed to relax, and take his adjustments into consideration before something does on and he ends up either dead or worse. - - Sweet Apple Acres stood before him soon enough, the simplistic but beautifully designed buildings surrounding him left and right, two barns situated near each other, one used to his guess as their home while the other was for storage. Aswell the silo towered close by the background, and a slew of other minor buildings dotted around the farm, including what Julius could guess were shops for the apples. Overall, it was a simplistic but unique in architecture, Julius' architectural sense approving. However, his vision directed towards the familiar Stetson hat of Applejack. “'Ey there, sugarcube, welcome to Sweet Apple Acres!” Julius smiled to her as she checked over his new suit with some minor distaste, “Looks like yah found Fluttershy's rose.” She said, Julius nodding as he adjusted his lapel before she remembered, “Sorry fer the delay, sugarcube, but I found the little thing hidden in the barn.” She presented him with another Stetson hat, this one however Julius could see that it it was rather old, and by the looks it's seen better days. Politely retrieving it from her grasp and tested it on his head, finding it a comfortable but rather tight fit, Applejack voicing her approval. “Anyhow, if you'd like to stick around fer a spell, I wantcha ta meet Apple Bloom.” Accepting, she proceeded to show him around the farm, meeting Granny Smith and a short hello with Big Macintosh. It was only a couple of minutes after the tour, Julius and Applejack were greeted by a filly with a grayish olive coat, amaranth hair up in a pink bow, and gamboge irises. She stopped short of about to greet Applejack when she caught sight of Julius and stopped in awe of him, Julius tipping his hat in her direction out of respect. “Apple Bloom, this big old feller is Julius Crowley, Equestria's first ever real human.” Applejack introduced her to the suited individual, Apple Bloom simply staring in awe. After Apple Bloom's shock subsided and their conversations subsided, Apple Bloom didn't make it unknown that she voiced her disapproval about a 'cute-ceañera' because she didn't have a cutie mark, which raised an eyebrow from Julius and a rather sour look. "It's just not fair!" Apple Bloom shouted once again, venting her frustration to Julius while pacing back and forth, who in turn was watching Applejack bucking the trees. "Everypony in my class is going to it, and I'm the only one who doesn't have a cutie mark!" Julius simply sighed before speaking up. "A-A-Apple B-Bloom, c-c-c-come h-here a m-m-moment." He said, patting the grass next to him, the foal reluctantly taking a seat next to him, Julius jokingly putting his new hat ontop of her. "L-L-Look. C-Complaining w-won't h-h-help a-anypony,n-nor w-w-would it h-h-help y-you g-g-g-get...a-a c-c-cutie m-m-mark s-s-sooner. Y-Y-You're g-g-going t-to find i-i-it s-sooner o-o-or l-later, n-n-no m-m-matter w-what." He said, pointing at her flank, "J-J-Just f-f-find w-w-what y-you're b-b-b-best a-a-at, a-a-a-and y-you'll f-find i-i-it." Apple Bloom gave him a look of awe as he took his Stetson back from her and smiled, "N-N-Now g-go f-f-f-find i-i-it." Julius' bout of wisdom seemed to raise Apple Bloom's spirit suitably higher as she quickly began a crusade to find what her cutie mark was. "Got a right way with words, dontcha Julius?" Applejack teased, Julius smiling back to her before taking a stand. "T-T-Thanks f-for l-l-l-letting m-m-me w-watch, I-I n-need t-t-t-to g-go.." Taking his stand and about to leave, he was stopped short by Applejack. "'Ey, sugarcube, Pinkie wanted me ta tell yah to be at Sugarcube Corner for the cute-ceañera." Julius sighed before nodding, and bade her farewell. - Sometime Later - After an uneventful encounter with Rarity and her younger sister, Sweetie Belle, Julius had returned home momentarily, steering clear of the mirror this time. After spending a good period of time clearing his facial hair, and masking his body odor, Julius had prepared himself atleast for being outside. Aswell, Julius finding the need subsided, he left his ballistics vest within his cabinet for the future as now showed his suit vest. Preparing for the party, only due to keeping his friendship with Pinkie high, was overall simple in view. Final adjustments made, Julius caught up the Mane Six as they started on their way to the party, Derpy aswell joining them with Dizzy and Dinky. The group had started idle conversation, each ignoring certain looks from the various ponies while Dinky and Dizzy shared a confused glance while they then glanced at Julius, then to his hand resting on the hilt of his sabre as he stared around carefully. However, they began conversing with each other as they came upon Sugarcube Corner, Julius taking a deep breath as they entered, and the encounter with Apple Bloom became evident as some party goers realized he was there and quickly made way as the Mane Six quickly dispersed, however he took notice when Apple Bloom was moving directly towards him and noticed two other fillies coming towards him aswell. "Julius, quick, hide me!" Apple Bloom said, and without a confirmation, she quickly hid herself behind his leg as the two others stopped and turned away, seemingly to avoid Julius' presence as he stared them down. "Thank..." Apple Bloom said exasperated as he gaver her a questioning look, then turned when there was a a rather obnoxious shout. "Hey, look everypony, Apple Bloom's hiding behind the giant freak!" Julius snapped his head up towards the voice, finding it came from the same filly he deterred from harassing Apple Bloom. “Not to mention she's still a blank flank!” There was a small appeal to laughter as the Mane Six quickly moved to stop Julius when they noticed his shaking hand began wrapping around the hilt to his blade and forced him to relax, however, there was a retaliation just after the filly spoke up. “Oh yeah, what do you have against blank flanks?!” The familiar voice of Scootaloo shouted out, Julius finding her alongside Sweetie Belle, aswell as Dinky and Dizzy. “Huh?!” Scootaloo shouted, pointing her hoof at the other filly. Soon enough Julius' memory unveiled this particular scene from the show itself and watched as it almost canonically composed itself, and came to the realization that this wasn't even remotely right, it should at least diverge from what the original show was, by his memory, unless the divergence was...Dinky and Dizzy. He watched them huddle at one of the tables and began plotting down the name for their club, then he felt a sharp stabbing pain within his right eye and quickly put his hand up to it and felt something warm against his hand. Using his left eye, Julius then noticed there was blood, and almost let out a scream before he forced himself away, doing his best to avoid crashing into other ponies and disappeared, making his way to the hospital while tripping and falling when his balance became erratic. - Epilogue - Admitted to the hospital, Julius was put under almost instantly after he was brought into a surgery room. When he woke later in the day, surrounded once again by the Mane Six and the recently formed Cutie Mark Crusaders, he was told that his right eye was lost to a bacterial infection and required surgical removal. It came as a shock to him as he realized that he truly couldn't see out of his right eye. Closer inspection put it that his right eye was replaced by an eyepatch. Suitably upset, Julius was again kept overnight, released with a bitter attitude as he returned home alone and did his best to calm. - End Note: Again, I'm not fully sure I'm doing a good job on this chapter, please voice opinions in a constructive manner. -
Chapter IMr. Crowley By: Die Philosophen Pre-Story Note: I'm writing this strictly as an experiment, I'm in no way endorsing myself into this, and never plan to endorse myself. To be fully clear, I wrote this purely as a experiment to test peoples opinions through reading it, and their response to this work. In no way will I have some complex reason, or even for that manner, addition myself or my character self into some complex and Mary Sue-esque plotline. Enjoy.- Note: General work is fictionalized, though certain elements may or may not be fiction. - Abnormality never comes to mind to my own opinion when it comes to a great vast of information, even if its socially unacceptable due to 'morality issues' or 'sensitive topics.' Thought I'd love to engage in long-term discussions over topics such as Science Fiction or Occultism, and take my time to research every drop of information I can reach with my fingers and the power of the Internet. I'm always engaged in reading, albeit slightly picky in my opinion when it comes to fiction, otherwise I'll read the book if it claws into my interest. Though with my situation, I'd much prefer to write little stories for publishing then to even step into sunlight. I'll read up on the Sun to understand how it ticks, not step into it. Bluntly, I'm a shut-in, and always will be until the day I'd die or when the fridge is raided to the very depths of its tubs. If I dare to adventure outside, it's because I'm needed. Urgently. Otherwise you can find me hiding in my home behind a computer, expanding my knowledge or generally spending leisure time. However, certain subjects can come to mind when I was ejected from my apartment just sometime ago over an unknown reason, this apartment in mind was a spare I used due to the compact size of the loft I utilize as a home. Mostly filled with my side-projects, such as a homemade supercomputer, or some collection I've been expanding on and displaying for myself. However, the landlord of the complex decided that if I didn't use it beyond living, it wasn't for me to begin with. So now I've been casted out into the streets with my packed up items in a push cart and began the journey to cramp my loft even further. - Quietly cursing out the landlord in my mind, I slid my suitjacket off and firmly planted it between a pair of cardboard color-coded for my convenience. My almost rail-like body didn't hone the muscles, or ever will, to move the cart effectively, so I've utilized my entire body in the slow progress to my loft. Stopping only to 'take a breather' and continue, doing my best to ignore the people around me as they watched on, their gazes like hawks to me as they waited for me to slip up and become yet another unlucky victim for 'laugh at this guy' videos on YouTube. Nothing more to hate then people mocking you for being unlucky. But then again, it's the Internet, and the freedom to be a fuckwit is unparallel. Slowly progressing over time, I fluently cursed in what little Serbian I've adopted from various sources. No one seemed to want to lend a hand to me, opting to just watch as I passed by slowly, though I could feel some group of teenagers nearby were mocking me over my style of clothing most likely. I enjoyed wearing my suits, they're more comfortable than wearing some groin-compressing denim jeans. Possibly they were laughing at my dyed hair, the snow white puffball styled akin to Jareth the Goblin King from Labyrinth. I didn't cut them, only the everyday chore I'd have on hand thanks to medical wonders of genetic disorders and destabilized testosterones. Besides, I enjoy how it looks, simply because I cannot care of how I'd look in public unless I was akin to some loon. It dawned to me that the time I've been hauling this conqueror of my poor athleticism that it was nearly dusk, and soon enough I'd be enveloped in the glow of street lights and the wild roaming chavs. I couldn't just leave my items here, they'd be stolen before morning even comes, I'd have to stay awake throughout the entire night, no difficult task thankful to my night owl tendencies. Taking my seat on a bench, keeping a sharp eye on my items as sure enough the street light I sat near sparked to life, its circuit in full swing. Listening on, I could hear fellow night owls prowling through the night, and the distant sounds of the busy highway. Quiet as it may be, the town was enjoyable. Though, what I didn't expect was a sudden sharp gust of wind, and something slamming down into the back of my head, sending me tumbling face first into my cart, followed by darkness.. - Twilight Sparkle was livid with irritation as her spell had once more backfired, not only did this spell backfire, it tore the literal spacetime, sucking in one of her favorite spellbook, Dimensional Theory & Multiverse Time Fabric and its application in Equestria, volume six. She was close enough to understanding how her mentor, Princess Celestia, so smoothly utilized the spacetime to reverse damage she caused the previous time they'd met, particularly relating to her friend Fluttershy and a large amount of her property being torn into a void. It took some application but Celestia reversed the damage and, in surprising turn of events, Celestia ordered Twilight in turn to study the subject further and revise her works. However, something was off in her latest attempt. She heard faint whipping noises and a cry, but it wasn't a cry of laughter, she felt tear-inducing sharp cries of pain. Then she could faintly make out a figure passing through the portal and disappearing in seconds. The screams were at the forefront of her mind, she never felt such a stabbing pain in her entire life. She knew that the Princess should know of this immediately. "Spike, take a letter." Her assistant, a violet and green drake, retrieved a quill and parchment and poised to copy ber letter. "Dear Princess Celestia, My latest attempts to understand the inner working of the dimensional theories has brought an urgent and sudden anomaly. I've successfully held a portal dimension stable for a record of three minutes, however, this mysterious anomaly has shown itself for no longer then six seconds. The anomaly was a strange voice screaming in pain and terror, and the sounds of an object akin to a whip sounded out. This anomaly might have in possession one of the libraries rarest volumes on the Multiverse theory. I will look into this further if possible, and report any activity or foreign object that's breached our universe. Your Faithful Student, Twilight Sparkle" - - Julius woke with a painful start, his sweat sticking his dress shirt against his pale white skin. His vision blurring in and out before he was able to clear enough to see that his vision of the junction he once faced was gone. Replaced by a thick veil of summer heat, and lush woodland surrounded his body. Slowly lifting himself up, he barely made out a pulsating pain within his arm, and upon inspection of his arm responded with a slight confirmation of fear and his teeth gritting. From his elbow to the ball socket in his shoulder he could see a deep cut, bleeding profusely through the giant rip in his dress shirt. Fluently cursing, Julius did he best to apply pressure to the wound with his hand, barely covering even a fourth of the wound as he looked desperately for his push cart, it had most of his medical supplies and his medicine. A few moments later he found the cart, albeit slightly damaged, but was overall in good condition. Searching through, he found the box he color-coded for medicine and swiftly tore open the homemade tin box for gauze and disinfectant. Uncapping the disinfectant, Julius held down the trigger and swiftly went up and down along the cut, stinging similar to a hornet. Replacing the disinfectant to the tin box, he quickly took hold and rolled gauze around the wound, making sure that it was firmly tight, and held the gauze as hard as he possibly could. It was only temporary, it would last for maybe a half hour, long enough to hopefully come across civilization. The surrounding area was, as far as he could see was an apple orchard, this definitely wasn't correct from his geological knowledge, plus there was a significant lack of any sounds of animals, not even a bird. And the air had a significant lack of gasoline, or the everyday smell of his bustling town. Something was seriously off, and he needed to find a doctor, fast... Staring around, he found a earth pathway, eroded from excessive use, just a short time away from his original position. Retrieving his push cart, which surprisingly moved onto the pathway with extreme ease, confusing Julius and sparking a comment, "That cannot be remotely right...the entire thing should weight a couple hundred pounds at best..." Starting on his way, Julius made sure he wasn't exerting himself, considering his wound was already staining the gauze. - - "Alrighty then, west field it is.." Applejack said to herself, the cart her family used to haul apples hitched to her back. Slowly trotting out, she already knew that her work for the day was just beginning. The western fields were their second-largest orchard compared to the southern fields. But what unnerved the apple farmer was that the western fields ran close to the Everfree Forest, and the fields were infrequently plagued with the various wildlife, and infrequently some other anomalous and strange creatures within the forest. They once planned to close off the fields after stranger creatures had come and gone through, some Applejack never wished to see again. But in contrast, the field had the richest soil in Ponyville, and it was where most of the apples they use for cider, and some of their most delicious apples. Applejack scanned over the field once more, just to make sure they were clear, and began her way down the path. She would normally start at the inital trees, but instead she instead chose the trees closer to the edge. It was her choice, considering how close she was, she didn't want to risk encountering some Manticore wanting a snack while she was tired. However, on her way, the gamboge pony stopped as she noticed something out of place. The ground was stained, but it was fresh, plus it wasn't scheduled to rain for another week. Closer inspection, Applejack reeled when the smell of copper pentrated her nostrils, the familiar smell from when she was young, the stains were large amounts of blood. Unhitching herself, Applejack quickly began searching the area swiftly, the amount of blood meant a pony nearby got a real nasty cut, and uncontrollably bleeding. Her search wasn't in vain as she found the source, but what was shocking was that the source wasn't a pony, it was another creature entirely. She could see the creature was leaning against a tree, dressed in what she guessed was some sort of fancy suit, looking as if he worked hard enough. His mane was stranger, snow white with tints of blood, and was looking ghostly pale. Thinking quick, Applejack checked the creature over and found the source, his arm had a bandage wrapping around his arm. Unknown creature or not, she wasn't about to let some defenseless, or she hoped was, creature die because she was too afraid it'd hurt her. Lifting the creature up, Applejack found that he was about as light as she could figure, though he was stilll as heavy as carrying a whole cart of apples back to the barn. "Big Mac!" Applejack shouted out, the creature limply hanging from her back as she found her elder brother barreling from nearby, questioning her with a shocked expression at the creature. "No time for chit-chat, we need to get this critter to the hospital, quick!" Taking care not to cause anymore harm, Macintosh allowed her to slide the creature onto his back, and with a shout, the two quickly made their way to the hospital ahead. Upon arrival to the hospital, Applejack abruptly stopped and shouted, "Make sure it's gonna be fine, Big Mac, I need ta tell Twi!" And with her best ability, Applejack used her dwindling energy to gallop onto the library. - Several Days Later - Monotonous beeping filled Julius' ears, and the faint sounds of speech filled his confused mind with questions as he could make out faintly, "..was critical....possible coma....blood loss." It was familiar, most likely some form of English, but there was a faint dialect, a foreign dialect. When his mind cleared, and his vision returned slowly, a high-pitched voice spoke up, "Look, Mr. Crow is waking up!" Soon enough, his vision was flooded with strange colorful creatures watching as another pony moved the others away and spoke clearly, though the dialect was erratic, "Mr. Crowley...can you hear us, Mr. Crowley?" Julius barely nodded his head as the doctor closely inspected him. This wasn't a human at all, Julius thought immediately, it wasn't human... Clearer his vision came, the more obvious it became he wasn't dealing with humans at all. They were instead horse-like creatures, and immediately noted they weren't as large as he was himself. He wanted to be scared, but he just...didn't feel any kind of negative reaction, just felt peace. "Slowly, Mr. Crowley, can you speak?" Opening his mouth slowly, Julius only let out a quiet and strained groan, the doctor frowned and turned to one of the other ponies and faintly spoke "...water..." before returning to Julius and spoke slowly, "Mr. Crowley, I need you to stay awake, try to stay awake." Nodding his head slowly, Julius attempted to focus, but his efforts were pointless when he realized that his muscles were weaker than him at the direct moment. All he could do was hold his mouth agape and let out faint grunts as what he suspected were nurses returned with a pitcher. "Keep his mouth open." The doctor said, Julius clearly seeing that these creatures didn't have any fingers at all, instead they were instead hooves, and very elastic. However, his thoughts were overridden when he felt a flood of water clear through his parched esophagus and let out a stronger cough before they stopped. The doctor smiled at him and said loud enough for him to hear, "Mr. Crowley, you've been unconscious for atleast a week. Let your body adjust..." Julius could only nod and watch as the doctor checked him over, "You suffered acute blood loss, thankfully Mr. Macintosh brought you here in the nick of time. Peculiar case, we've never dealt with whatever you are." The words struck Julius, and confirmed a theory he had, he wasn't even in a human universe... The doctor rambled on, Julius staring off into the space as he realized that for once wasn't near humans, a feat he could hopefully approve of in due time. Soon he could feel his body return to a limited state, his vision returning well enough for him to see sharper detail. Slowly dawning to him that these creatures were familiar, their distinct features reminding him of something, but his mind wouldn't focus enough for him to remember. He made a mental note to hopefully remember what it was. Submitting to lying there, Julius could only hope his recovery process was swifter than normal. However, this question was answered well enough, "You'll make a full recovery, thankfully. Not to mention the help that Ms. Sparkle had done, and her potions to replenish your blood were spectacular. Oh, I almost forgot, you have a visitor." As soon as his 'visitor' came, Julius was to put it without a doubt one of the most regal, or stupid, looking 'horse' in his existence. With a feminine look, it wasn't hard for Julius to know this might be royalty he's dealing with, by the look of her aesthetic apparel. With a mixture of cerulean, turquoise, cobalt blue, and heliotrope mane, Julius deducted this was most likely a 'unique horse.' Considering a horn adorned her head, along with what he suspected were wings. "Mr. Crowley." Her regal voice confirmed this was royalty, Julius only able to respond with a groan, the royalty only raising an eyebrow to him before her horn glowed faintly, and Julius felt as if his mind was being probed, his thoughts being watched, and the familiar buzzing noise of something behind him going haywire. 'You can speak to me me now, Mr. Crowley.' Her regal voice spoke into his mind, Julius widening his eyes in shock as he realized that the 'horse' was speaking in his mind. 'Atleast I can deduct that you're not of this world. Now, may we start with introductions?' Julius focused his eyes on the Princess and thought to her, 'May I atleast know your name first, ma'am?' The regal 'horse' smiled towards him and and spoke, 'Manners, even in the face of the unknown, quite a feat. My name is Princess Celestia, Fifteenth Ruler of Equestria. Now may I ask of yours?' Unnaturally relaxing, Julius took note he wasn't even remotely stuttering, or for that manner he was comfortable around the unknown, something was off...'Julius Gordon Crowley, last head of the Crowley bloodline.' He didn't have a will to speak, somehow it was already showing that he wasn't at even remote free will at this point. 'Last of a family...well then, now let me ask you now, where were you from?' Julius gave the Princess a wary stare, but felt unable to resist speaking. '....Reino de Espana...' He felt a shock of success as he stopped himself, or atleast blocked the Princess from knowing his homeland... 'An exotic place, I presume? Very well then, Mr. Crowley, I must say you're in good hands, just relax yourself and respond to my questions. I'll guarantee you won't be harmed in any way...' Finding no way out, Julius accepted it... - Julius divulged too much already, and he knew it. The Princess had some way just uncovered most of his history, and learned too much of what he'd consider acceptable for anything to know about him. His homeland, family, personal history, and even about things he never wished to remember, it felt like a violation. 'So now...tell me about these blocks...' Damn...no way out at this rate, he must relive it... As soon as he divulged, the Princess' eyes shrank and a look of horror crossed her face as Julius' heart rate began to rise quickly as he heard every last thing. From the sounds of cursing, cries for acceptance, tears of bitter rage, and the sounds of glass raking into a body, and a crack of a whip. The Princess continued staring in shock as Julius' voice cracked heavily as he let out a prolonged scream and grasped his head involuntarily. Celestia only watched in horror as each moment replayed before she broke the link. Julius crashed back into his bed and watched in horror, feeling a racking sob and his tear ducts beginning to throb in sharp pain. "W-What....." Celestia was able to gasp out. She never felt such powerful emotions in a very long time, and even then, it stung her to see this. It was like the wars from hundreds of years previously, and the effects its had on ponies. Knowing only one thing to do quickly, Celestia flared her magic and struck Julius hard, sending the human back into his mind, and in the meantime doing her best to block out the memories. Hopefully it'd reverse, it was atleast a quick second thing. Her own curiosity, and her tactics go to her mind, even then she knew very well that she went against what she even established. It was a disgrace to herself, a hypocrite no less. But, she couldn't help but feel sorry for apparently what he calls himself a 'human.' What she had just learned would most likely haunt her for a long time. But to ensure this wouldn't affect him hopefully, Celestia modified his memories shortly after, atleast locking away her conversation with the man, but hadn't dared to seal away the ones she's seen herself, daring not to know what would've happened. Stumbling into the hallway, she was swarmed by the royal guards as a team of response medics swarmed past and into the room. "My lady, are you hurt?" A guard asked as Celestia held back a sudden sob and barely nodded in response as she slowly made her way down the hallway with the guards surrounding her. This man wasn't even remotely a pony, never had he even met a pony, but he's watched her subjects, like some sort of tale but visually. But even then, she couldn't remove her thoughts from what that man was suffering, his mind was nearly shattered by her, and all that he'd been through nearly escaped to haunt him once more. She was a fool, this time she wasn't able to apologize. She never had done such a thing since the incident with her younger sister so long ago. Steeling herself, Celestia spoke in a strained by authoritative voice, "Guards, ensure Mr...Crowley is seen as a top priority subject, he's both a value and a threat to not just the royalty, but to Equestria itself. Report when he's in a stable condition to move, and ensure the luggage he has is kept under security until then. Under no circumstances should ANYPONY even touch him, or his luggage." With a confirmatory shout, four guards dispersed as another four filled their positions as she slowly made way out of the hospital, now deep into her thoughts. - "So yer tellin' me that big ol' thing that bled all over the southern fields is some kinda creature called a 'human'? You sure it ain't just another shapeshiftin' thingy from the Everfree?" Applejack stated to Twilight, the unicorn adamantly nodding in response. "Shapeshifters don't bleed, Applejack, I'm quite sure of it. But what the book says here is that humans aren't even native to Equestria, they're supposed to be mythical creatures made up by Constellations in his book of old mares tales." Twilight injected back, gathering a confusion from the rest of the Mane Six. "Wait a minute, you're saying humans are like the Sonic Rainboom, right?" Rainbow Dash questioned, Twilight giving a nod, "Then why in the name of Celestia is there even one here?" Twilight looked down towards her book and shook her head, "I don't know Rainbow, but it has to do with something about my practice." Gaining the interest of the others, Rarity was the first to speak up before the others. "What do you mean darling? Your practice?" She questioned, Twilight sighing before standing up and concentrating sharply, pointing her horn towards her book. The next few seconds shocked the others as what could be mustered as a black hole slowly expanded from the book, then disappeared. "Dimensional rifting." Twilight stated simply, gaining a loud scream by Pinkie Pie and being tackled by the normally happy pony, however was replaced by a wild and scared frown. "Twilight, are you mad?! You're doing something very dangerous!" The pink pony shouted, "You could cause the entire Multiverse to come crashing down if you keep messing with it!" "Pinkie, what they hay are you talking about?!" Twilight confusedly asked, only to be picked up and shook violently by the pony again, eliciting attempts from her friends to calm down Pinkie, only to be rebutted by her. "You could bring something dangerous Twilight! Stop trying to make portals!" She continued, her eyes wild with fear. "Okay, okay..." Twilight assured her friend, who calmed well enough to have an instantaneous switch back to her happy attitude, as if nothing had happened. But for the others, they were both scared and incredibly confused. "Anyway, we should visit the creature, see if he's awake!" She interjected, the others numbly nodding. - - Julius stared towards the ceiling, trying to understand his predicament. Just an hour ago he was waking up from a long sleep, seeing things that looked suspiciously like ponies, follows by nothing. 'Maybe I just dozed off for too long?' He thought, the plausibility that he was in a coma, and he was trapped within his mindscape... This theory was stomped out as a rather overweight pony, with what he could suspect was lavender hair with white streaks, and a nurses cap entered with a smile and said in a 'comforting' voice, "Mr. Crowley you have another guest." 'Another guest?' He thought as the nurse moved to the side, six ponies slowly entered in pairs, all were faintly familiar to his memory. He slowly looked around, his eyes focusing as he felt the pressure of their gazes upon him. Though he couldn't help but feel there was a similar person, or in this case, pony, with a familiar demeanor of scared. One of them spoke up, a light mulberry coated one, who struck his memory the hardest as he attempted to remember. "Sir, my name is Twilight Sparkle, Princess Celestia's apprentice." She had manners, he could denounce instantly, but she wasn't the only to speak up as another spoke up, with a rural drawl he could familiarize with. "Ju-lee-us...What kinda name does that mean?" He tightened his hold on the sheets and looked at the pony, slowly forcing himself to speak up. "I-It's...m-my bi-birth name..." He could manage to stutter our enough for the pony to slowly nod. Her demeanor slowly changed, he could sense, into a more friendlier manner. She tipped her hat in response to Julius. "Sorry there, Mister Ju-lee-us..." She said quietly, gaining the same from her friends, though without hats, they others just simply bowed their heads. All of them were bowing minus the exception of one who hid behind the rainbow-maned one. "I-I-I-It's Ju-Julius...Joo-lee-əs." He managed to speak out, feeling his comfort zone was stretching its limits at this rate before continuing, "W-W-What...a-are your na-n-names...?" The ponies looked up towards her before the mulberry spoke up, Twilight Sparkle. Pointing her hoof to her side, she addressed the one with a rural drawl, an orange-coated and blonde-maned pony with no unique features from his view. "This is Applejack, she runs an apple orchard called Sweet Apple Acres." Applejack held her hoof out to Julius, the man reluctantly but politely responding with a firm handshake, eliciting a smile from the pony. "Nice to meet you, Mister Julius." He simply nodded in response as Twilight pointed to her other side. One with a bluish-white coat, gradient purple-violet mane, and blue eyes. "This is Rarity, Ponyville's pride in fashion design and clothing." Rarity simply bowed again and looked up towards him with a soft smile and spoke in what he could discern was akin to the British accent, akin to the Victorian Era. Her discernible feature was a pointed protrusion from her head, a horn. He could see that it was aswell in the same exact position as Twilight Sparkle's. "It's a pleasure to meet you...Mister Crowley." She read his profile clipped to his bed, eliciting a small nod from Julius. "Not very vocal, are you?" Julius quickly shook his head and spoke up in a faint but discernible voice. "N-N-No..." Rarity simply nodded and moved her hoof down towards the hidden pony and gave a nod to Twilight Sparkle. Twilight proceeded to slowly bring her out from hiding, and to Julius' surprise the pony locked gaze with him, and felt what he could only muster as mental scarring from a period before, just like him. Her most discernible feature was a pair of wings, much to Julius' amazement. Her coat was a light yellow, mane pale pink, and her eyes were teal. "This is Fluttershy, sir. She's kind of similar to you by personality." The pegasus continued to look at Julius and spoke, in a soft and rather comforting voice. "It's...n-nice t-t-t-to meet you...M-M-Mister Cr-Cr-Crowley..." She managed to speak out, Julius responding with a smile that he could muster up, the others watching in silence before Twilight continued onto the next pony. Pointing towards the rainbow-maned one, however his memory struck hard as he recalled this particular pony. She was a pegasus, known as Rainbow Dash, she was the weather manager to Ponyville. However, he refrained from speaking out as Rainbow Dash made a rather 'spectacular' introductory. "My names Rainbow Dash, and speed is my thing!" She shouted and did a sudden backflip, flaring her wings to assist her in the process. "Ever need anything, just ask." She had an air of confidence, and what he could suspect was attempting to challenge him into something. He simply nodded in response, daring not to start such a thing, period. Rainbow Dash seemed to notice then, and subtly calmed down, finding herself struck with victory. "And finally th-" Twilight had no time to speak as a blue of pink began to rapidly speak, breaching Julius' privacy sphere in every way possible. "Hi, I'm Pinkie Pie!" Followed by her rapid speaking confusing Julius quickly, unable to comprehend the pony as her dialect aswell switched certain words, further confusing him until Twilight Sparkle caught his confusion and stopped the energetic pony. "I-I-It's...n-n-nice t-to meet you, P-P-P-Pinkie P-Pie..." He stuttered out, the pink pony giving him a wide grin. Julius slowly lowered his guard, but kept it enough for himself to be comfortable as they slowly began to build up a conversation. - - Their conversation led on and on, Julius warming up to the ponies as his memories slowly recomposed itself. He soon recalled such vivid memories of them, and then it struck him just mid-conversation, it struck him hard. He wasn't dreaming when he felt a sudden and sharp pain in his nasal passage, and a slow stream of tears filling his vision. "S...." He managed out before grasping his nose and gritting his teeth. "You alright, sugarcub-?" Applejack stopped mid-sentence and stared in shock, the others catching sight as Julius was literally beginning to tear up hard, and they could see a steady stream of blood flowing from his nasal passage. But what caught them was his tears weren't just tears, they could see blood again. Then it struck their hearts when Julius began sobbing, his teeth clenched tightly as the bedsheets were slowly stained in his blood. "Q...Quick, get a doctor!" Fluttershy was the first out already, the others doing their best to comfort Julius as he managed out a few short words, "E-Every.....g-gone....ffff...." The Mane Six were soon herded out as Nurse Sweetheart, along side two other nurses galloped in with Fluttershy. All they could hear was a long scream from Julius before everything slowly became silent. Then, the wards door were slammed open, the Mane Six pressing against the wall as the nurses carted Julius out on a stretcher, his chest and face covered in blood. They remained speechless as they saw Julius fine one second, then just collapse and start bleeding uncontrollably. This human was an absolute enigma, and not even Pinkie had caused him to smile or even show any signs of happiness. Speaking of Pinkie, her normal happy demeanor was deflated, along side her pink hair. "Julius....isn't okay at all, girls..." When giving her a questioned look, Pinkie stared back as her own tears were held back. "He's...He's very alone, and his mind is damaged. I can tell..." She stated, "He wasn't happy, not even my own attempts would help him. It's like his own happiness was torn away..." She shook her head before the Mane Six converged on her into a group hug. "Pinkie, whatever is wrong with him, we can fix it. No matter what the costs are, nopony deserves to be this sad. Not even if we don't know them." Twilight spoke slowly, the others nodding together before Pinkie gave them a smile and nodded. - - "Princess, we have a report." One of her senior guards said, bowing lowly in front of her. The Princess stared down at him with the coldest gaze she could give and nodded to him. "The human has slipped back into critical condition. The statement is that six mares had entered his ward against your orders, or a lack of enacting the order as the guards were missing during the time." Celestia's eyes steeled upon the senior guard as he continued, "The doctors state that these six may have caused a reaction within his body, associated with damaged tear ducts and a tear within his nasal passage that caused profuse bleeding." Her gaze deepened as she stood quietly and spoke in her most authoritative voice. "The guards will be punished. And bring me the six that you spoke of, immediately. I will not have my own orders taken for granted. Charge the guards with insubordination." Rising from his bow, the guard quickly gathered a squadron consisting of pegasi, unicorn, and earth, then began the long march towards Ponyville. - Ponyville Library - Twilight passed through her books swiftly. She needed a book, a gift that she could give to the human. The book needed to be something simple enough for him to read, and it needed to show him a general overview of Equestria. No doubt he'd enter the phases of culture shock quickly, and she wanted to ensure it was minimal. However, in her deduction, Twilight knew the human wouldn't understand the written language, she needed some kind of translator spell. "Spike, did you find it yet?" Twilight said from the corner of her mouth, stacking book after book together into a bag. Each held some of the most basic elementary books she could muster up, while a few more complex books she picked out. She wanted to test Julius' mental skills atleast, to get a better grip on where his educational stance was. "Yeah yeah, Star Swirls Spell book, Fourth edition, volume thirteen. Page four hundred and sixty-nine, Vocational Translation Spell, Generation Four, Spell Mk. Fourteen." Spike stated dryly as he landed the book within the pile, Twilight giving him a smile as he returned back to his chores. However, Twilight's plans weren't about to go as she planned. There was a rough knocking, Twilight opening it to find herself in the presence of two imposing Earth Pony guards, their entire bodies covered in the familiar metallic platemail. One of them spoke up almost instantly, "Miss Twilight Sparkle, by order Her Majesty, Princess Celestia, you're to be detained and brought before her in violation of the Protection of Foreign Creatures laws." Twilight had no choice in the manner as her hooves were shackled and marched out of the library, leaving Spike behind who attempted to reach her, only to be blocked by other guards. - Epilogue - The Mane Six were tried and found not guilty, however, Celestia didn't leave them scott free. The court found them all six guilty for breaching a royally-restricted ward, and their sentence was to 'care for Julius Crowley' by order of Celestia herself. Though it was obvious something was off with the Princess, she looked as if she was insomniac with hard bags under her eyes, and slurred her speech quite a bit. However, their concerns also stretched to the human, who was reported to be up and active, against the wishes of the doctor. Their concern was due to the fact the last they saw of him, Julius was nearly bleeding out his entire nostrils. But to Celestia, this was much larger in scope, her tired eyes watching the Mane Six leave quietly, unshackled but escorted out. They didn't know what was to come, or what she knew. Her tired eyes focused down to her paperwork before resting her head on it and falling asleep almost instantly, entering the nightmares of her memories once more...
Chapter II - Now With Picture[s]!Mr. Crowley By: Die Philosophen - Note: General work is fictionalized, though certain elements may or may not be fiction. - Also, certain locations may not be consistent with canon. - Additionally, I understand there's stereotypes in the genre, and by the time I was told of them, I already planned the chapter out before, and some very unintentional ones were added. - - Three Days Later - Following the next few days, Julius was cleared from the hospital after the doctors prescribed him a strange medication. They learned of his medical condition where his body refuses to digest vitamins, and gave him a familiar pill bottle filled with fifty pills itself. When questioning, the doctors stated that his medical condition wasn't unfamiliar, but it was an rare occurrence within Ponyville, and his current medicine was primitive itself. And when asked the costs, the doctor stated that medical care was universally free, shocking him even further as the Mane Six assisted him. He spent the past three day reading books that Twilight brought him, surprising the pony when he recited many sentences from the books after her translation spell worked its effects, though had difficulties in full comprehension, which was the primitive translation between 'Pony English' and 'Written Pony', the titles Julius gave the differences in spoken and written language of the Ponies. Overall, he's adapted well enough from the view of books, and warmed his best around the ponies, though his comfort zone wasn't the greatest as he continued to stutter and attempt to make himself shrink enough to where he couldn't be noticed. However the latter didn't help as his height difference between the ponies was noticeable, even Big Macintosh only came up to his ribs at nearly five feet, the others coming down to his waist, and foals to his kneecaps. He felt too high for his own good, and did his best to avoid causing any issues, though he had to lower himself enough to enter doorways and so. But overall, he felt both an accomplishment in the basic adjustments, and the fear of this new land. He didn't know anything about it, and would have to go through an extensive study session. Celestia had assisted him, in an unnatural kindness, by establishing his name under the 'Artisan Welfare' system, granting him enough money to buy himself a studio home, foodstuffs, supplies, and enough for luxuries. When asked by Twilight why he was shocked, he responded that there wasn't even such a thing known as a 'Artisan Welfare' system, his own countries welfare system itself would never even think of such an addition, and the economics here were almost completely different than what he had known. Soon after, the seven scoured out the studio-home real estates in the municipality building, eventually coming to a conclusion that Julius chose a furnished home near the town limits, settled between Sweet Apple Acres, Fluttershy's Cottage, and Ponyville itself. This was, to Julius' idea, to give him a layout of between the three locations, and to help him with landmarking. This home was situated in a off-road location, surrounded by small woodland that was 'tamed.' And overall, it seemed to be perfect to Julius, and approved by some of the ponies, Rarity voicing her displeasure because it was 'most likely a run-down old shack.' Taking her up to this challenge, Julius and the Mane Six placed bets that the home was either nice, or a shack. And by chance, Julius' push cart was brought with them, fully intact to Julius' amazement yet again, and hauled by Big Macintosh out of politeness, the Earth pony refusing to take 'no' for an answer, stating that he was too sick to handle the cart on his own. Accepting, they passed around Ponyville, Twilight stating that Isaac needs to have as little stress as possible, gaining a smile from him. - - The pathway was serene, and the once congested smell of burning gasoline was replaced by almost pure oxygen. He now wore a white suit made from silk, complete with a black dress shirt, black and crimson red pinstriped tie, and complete with a Type IIIa Body Armor, raising a few eyebrows from the Mane Six. “It's a force of habit...” He simply stated. However, what 'clashed' with his entire suit, to Rarity's disgust, was his polished 'formal' boots, with black leather and white laces. He felt himself improved, as for the past few days he's adjusted to walking independently, and other basic functions. Overall, Julius felt himself proud for such a quick recovery, and soon his interest in Equestria took over as they continued on, having the Mane Six explain to him about Ponyville. “Righ' over there, sugarcube, there's Sweet Apple Acres.” Applejack said, pointing her hoof in the direction of the now visible farm and its expansive orchards. Julius could barely detail out, but he could see typical structures of a farm, including what appeared to be a giant silo. When pointing it out, Big Macintosh interrupted with a simple, “Silo, stores all of our harvests we got nothin' to do with over the winter.” Nodding in response, Julius looked around at their surroundings and took in the scenery, the lush greens weren't exactly rare in his hometown, but he'd never see them in this pattern, his eyes directing towards various wildlife that went about their own days. His vision returning towards the road, up ahead should be the divergent towards his home, and the bet reaching its climax as they found the pathway, complete with a mailbox at the edge, which apparently was already registered by the looks of it. Filled to the brim with letters, along side multiple packages. Retrieving the letters, Julius raised his eyebrow before sliding them into his suit jacket, “Someone get the boxes, please?” Applejack took up the request, placing the boxes with his push cart, ensuring they'd be held firmly between the various boxes, alongside multiple hanging bags, ranging from a overpacked duffel bag, along side a satchel, to multiple other various storage bags. “Right then, now that somehow I've been late on picking up my own mail in just a few days, lets end this bet here and now.” Agreeing with him, they began a short trek that lasted only a few minutes before they came across the home. However, despite any of their projected idea of what it looked, it wasn't even close to what they believed it'd even look like. Crowley's Studio - CAD Design The house itself was similar to a rectangle, built from brick and mortar that's seen better days, the rooftop was shingled but appeared to have been rotting in certain places. Though the house was unkempt, there was a small garden fenced off, and a sliding glass door that seemed to be kept in pristine condition. Overall, the house was forty-four feet, ten inches by twenty-five feet, and large enough for him to at least feel comfortable. Julius simply smiled at the home and followed the stone pathway, the mixed feelings of the other ponies, “Big Mac, you can unhitch near that sliding door. Everypony else, if you wanna stay around and help, I'm more than welcome...” It seemed nopony wanted to leave at this point in time, all of them pitching in to help Julius when he dug out a letter addressed to him from the municipality, he found the key to his home. Upon unlocking its double doors and entering the house, he was struck with a rather peculiar site. The house was fully furnished, though there was a significant amount of space between. To his direct left was a coat hanger, and further over was a makeshift living room, complete with a three-seating couch, a recliner, and a regular lounge chair, near it were two bookshelves and a cabinet. And from his viewpoint, he could see a small hearth next to a entertainment center. But what caught his eye was a television set, or at least what he believed was a television set. “A-A-Am I se-seeing som-something...or is that an a-a-actual te-television set?” He asked, Twilight nodding as she helped Fluttershy carry in a bulky cardboard box with a solid black tape over it. Julius shrugged, the only other notable thing was a mahogany table, with a office chair, that could fit certain items of his. Aswell there was granite-topped kitchen, complete with a sink, oven range, and a dishwasher. Finding it at least appealing, Julius made himself useful and helped the ponies carry in the boxes, totaling up to towards almost thirty boxes on itself, Julius setting down his duffel bag and satchel finally before slipping out his clipboard and slowly checked over the boxes. “All's in o-o-order. An-Anyyhow, t-t-t-t-thanks fo-for your h-help, eve-everypony, come b-b-back a-a-around l-l-later on i-if you want, I'd enjoy a bit of p-p-privacy.” After farewells and the ponies departed, Julius took up to himself and began unpacking slowly, followed by organizing whatever he could. It felt good to finally be alone, though, he couldn't help but feel a slight twinge. Confused, Julius only shook it off, returning himself to organizing his items by their color-coding, and setting them where his obsessive desire to have them in quick-to-find and neatly placed locations. - - Unpacking was the easiest part of the day, however, the organization and compulsive need to recheck every last one of his times was the more difficult part of the afternoon. His clothes were neatly organized by their article and stored away, totaling all sixteen of his spare suits, and some casual clothing he rarely wore. Hygienic items within the bathroom, which had apparently escaped his vision easily by its folding doors. His satchel hung on the coat rack with his duffel bag, his medicine were safely placed out of reach from anypony, and his reading glasses for those times his vision worsened. The desk was the most laden, however, as he had most of the electronics from the spare apartment, consisting of a Kindle Fire, his favored way of reading while on the go. Both his very first iPod Touch, the ancient thing barely working since he received it ten years ago. His iPhone Third Generation, aswell useless since there was a significant lack of cellphone towers or satellites in Equestria. Though his laptops still work, with his faithful MacBook Air still operating since he took possession of it from his pawnshop, aswell with three other laptops running on the Windows OS. The technology he had were ancient, last generation, obsolete. He could recall by twenty-fifteen that with the establishment of portable electronics came swift innovation. Laptops and smartphones soon had the capacity to be miniature computers, and home computers were almost reaching supercomputer speeds. He found such advancements amazing, however, it was thanks to the recession beginning in early twenty-oh-nine that made such marvels of the modern world difficult to buy with inflated prices and the significant lack of work. He still had Windows Seven on his laptops, the arrival of Windows Eleven in just a few weeks meant that he'll be struck in the dark without any kind of support. His MacBook Air, as far as recalled, was seriously outdated. Along side his various portable was his personal goal, a homemade supercomputer that he couldn't finish in time. The monstrosity was sealed tight in the corner between his desk and drafting table, fearing that it'd cause even more problems then what he even had with himself. As far as he cared, it'll never see the day of light again. It seemed so strange now, he never went a day without using any electronics, considering his once shut-in tendencies were broken already when he arrived here. He especially hoped with these new technologies would never see the light of day either, and ensured that no mistakes would happen. He had a fingerprint scanner for the laptops, and his supercomputer, and he intentionally forgot what his own password was in favor of the scanner. Along with various miscellaneous objects, he placed some of his treasured items on top of the desks storage cubes. Pictures of his family, his sisters, a jewelry box filled with his various rings and jewels he found significant reason to keep. Though, he still had one ring on his hand to his realization, where his arm was incredibly numbed he could see it lying there. The pure titanium-gold-heliotrope band holding up a diamond engraved with his family crest. That was incredibly expensive, but it was worth to remember the month he spent with his blood brother, Nicholas. He'd never forget him, though it stung him to realize that he'd still be alone without them, but kept himself steeled. Nicholas wasn't his biological brother, but they both had permanent scarring on their left ring fingers to represent an everlasting friendship, and bonding their families together. Clearing his face of tears, Julius noted another jewelry box, which was filled with Valknut pendants, symbols of the Norse mythology that was attested to be either Odin's symbol, or the heart of Hrungnir. He kept these before he left religion, as a symbol of friendship now. He gave only three away in his life, two for his sisters and one for Nicholas. Returning the box to his original position after taking out one of the pendants, Julius swiftly tied it around his neck and slid it under his ballistics vest and slid off his suit jacket. Folding it into his chair, Julius then hid the laptops within the desk, the longest drawer at the top, simply stacking two-by-two. After ensuring they wouldn't be stolen or found, Julius silently cursed to himself and realized one last thing. He quickly did a scan of the room, and then found what he was looking for. Taking grasp of a scabbard, Julius stared at the roughened metal curve that held one of his families ancient blades, slowly dressing his hand along the thirty-inch casing before grasping the oil black cloth grip and slowly drew out the sword. The saber drew smoothly, its edges hissing against the metal edge of the scabbard and glinted its metal blade through the visible sunlight. The overall length of this formal sword was thirty-five inches, weighing exactly one and a half kilogram, including the aesthetics from generations in the past. Julius could see the engravings from just centuries ago, rings of gold and jewels embedded into the blade, his own engraving near the very tip, signaling the blade will soon be complete, and a new one was to takes it place. His engravings were the Mane Sixes Cutie Marks from when he enjoyed watching the show long ago, and the last engraving was the Cutie Mark Crusaders crest. Even with its only use to his family as an expensive heirloom, Julius tested this blade personally, and found that even with its forging in the seventeenth century, it was very durable. Since then, he's polished and kept this ancestral reminder close at hand since he was granted the right to hold it when he turned twenty-five. Subconsciously strapping the scabbard to his suits belt, and returning the gem-encrusted saber to it, Julius stared at himself in the mirror and simply nodded. He'll wear it no matter where he goes, no matter what the customs are, he won't depart with this blade. Leaving his suit jacket behind, Julius boldly stepped into the sunlight and began his search for training equipment, he'd like to test his heirloom once more, and see his full potential. - “Et vaig a ensenyar a trair a mi, merda!” Celestia stared again as she watched what she could describe was a demon beating something small and defenseless, the screams of pain and sounds of the beating desensitized her as she watched on. Her eyes danced at the scene before changing towards another one of the humans memories. “Escolteu amb molta atenció, ves a la merda sense valor per a un nen. Si vostè o aquesta puta tonta sortir del meu ranxo, jo personalment et trobarà i et matarà.” The same demon spoke towards the battered and twitching teenager she was all to familiar with. The man disappeared through the doorway before silence overtook the empty ranch. A vague imprint of what she suspected was a human female quietly whispered into his ears. “Run...just run....find your la tia i l'oncle in the town, then get away from here...just don't return. I'll be fine, el meu fill perfecte, just go.” Celestia awoke again, staring towards the ceiling of her opulent bedroom and blinked slowly, she kept diving into these memories, and the deeper she went, the darker each became. She saw the boy slashed, some by a long, curved sword, others by food utensils. It was like she entered some kind of twisted movie that somepony got a kick out of. She needed to do something about this, and stop another restless night of insomnia. Lifting herself from the bed, Celestia stretched and popped her joints before slowly dragging herself to the bathroom to prepare for the evening meeting. - “So what do you think Julius would say once we give him this?” Rainbow Dash asked the others, holding up the scale-like wallet in her hoof. She found this little thing in Spikes hands just hours ago, the infantile drake claiming he found it on the ground a while ago. Further investigation broke his lie and he admitted to taking it from the cart when the others were introducing themselves to Julius and left the room before they noticed him. After being chastised by the others, he was forced to come along and apologize to the human, though they softened on the dragon soon after. “I don't know Rainbow, but I want to know where he found that luxurious outfit.” Rarity said dreamily, seeing that very same suit again in mind and imagining what sort of clothing sets she could make out of them. The warm colors had gone well with the whites and the tie completed it to her imagination. “There anythin' you talk about other than a ponies duds, sugarcube?” Applejack asked irritatingly to the fashionista, eliciting a glare from the unicorn before they were stopped by Twilight moving between the two and nervously laughed. “Maybe he'll cheer up with this!” Pinkie Pie excitedly pointed to her saddle bag, almost bursting with what anypony could guess were packaged sweets and various other items. This elicited a smile from Fluttershy, who spoke up from the back of the others, walking in tune with their seventh companion. A pegasus pony with bluish-gray coat, smoothed but erratic light yellow hair, and gradient yellow-lime to amber eyes that point into their own willful directions. She seemed to not pay attention to the general conversation and watch the woods in appreciation. However, their conversation was cut short when they heard what could've been a troubling scream, and the dull sound of something being torn down. Rushing to the home, the ponies in turn stopped and stared in awe as the scene enveloped before them. Standing around the yard were a series of heavy-looking but rather old items, ranging from old barrels to what the ponies would consider junk. At the far side, they could see the solid black ballistics vest of Julius raising something into the air, and with a booming yell, brought it down into a barrel. The receiving end of the barrel splintered as a deep cut from the blade drove into it. Julius sticking his boot against the barrel and drew it out before letting out another scream and rapidly tore into the side of the barrel before an ovular piece slid off into the ground. Julius proceeded to check over his blade and resheathed it into the scabbard and took notice of the awestruck ponies. “O-Oh...He-Hello...” Julius managed out as he moved his hand away from the hilt of the saber, the ponies staring in awe as Rainbow Dashes turned into a wide grin and quickly shot up to him and quickly spoke up. “Julius, that was AWESOME!” The excited pony shouted into his face before looking towards the barrel and back to him, “That thing you used is so...cool!” She managed out as she quickly reenacted Julius' hack-and-slash technique with her own sound effects. Julius nervously smiling towards her as she was abruptly stopped by a equally nervous Twilight before Dash realized what they were coming here for besides watching him tear apart the various junk with a lethal weapon. Digging out the wallet from her saddlebag, Twilight forcing Spike before him, the drake staring up in awe and shame at him as he thankfully took his wallet from the rainbow-maned pegasus before looking down at Spike, uncomfortable but curious as to why the strange creature was standing before him. Taking note, Twilight quickly spoke up, “Julius, this is my personal assistant, Spike, he's a baby dragon.” Julius blankly stared then rubbed his eyes before looking down at the dragon that barely went up to his shins. “Spike, don't you have something to say?” Twilight asked sweetly, masking a bit of anger from her voice that gave Spike fear. Quickly, Spike muttered out his apology while Julius watched him, his eyes narrowing and speaking up icily towards him, “I-I can f-f-f-f-forgive, b-but r-r-remember t-that I-I'll only b-b-be l-lenient for n-now...” And stuck his hand out for Spike to accept, the dragon gladly taking his scaled hand into his. After shaking hands, Rainbow Dash quickly began begging Julius to show them his blade. Though reluctant, the pegasus pony wouldn't take no for an answer and eventually gave in. After clearing the area, Julius adjusted the items and took stance. Drawing his blade swiftly, Julius grasped the hilt with his hands and took aim, the ponies and dragon watching on in both excitement, awe, and nervousness as he swiftly brought the blade down into a small block of wood. In just seconds the blade cleanly tore it in half, the blocks falling from its stand as Julius then swung the blade at the next target, an old decaying signpost that long lost the post that it once held. A dull thunk registered the blade hit, but it embedded itself into the post. Slowly drawing it back out, Julius wiped the blade with his hand and took aim again, this time with Rainbow Dash cheering him on. “Come on, Julius, you can break that signpost in a snap!” She called out as Julius let out another vicious call and struck true. The post tore in half, Julius proceeding to swing his blade down into what remained of its trunk and slowly dragged it out. - Several Hours Later - The spectacle continued on well into the evening, Julius showing them various techniques and the power of the blade by cutting into many objects. However, Julius had easily worked himself over and voluntarily decided to end the show before he collapsed from exhaustion, much to Rainbow Dashes disappointment. Inviting them inside, the ponies each decided to at least keep their newfound friend company on his first night in Ponyville that wasn't a hospital. Though without a dining table, they decided a less formal approach by sitting down and watching television while Julius took use of the apparently stocked refrigerator and cupboards to make a rather simplified meal. Though what he realized that there were a lack of meats or poultry for that manner, wasn't a big deal, but it did affect him morale when he realized that he couldn't eat the delicious mouth-watering cow beef known as the all-mighty steak. Once or twice Fluttershy attempted to assist Julius, only for him to politely refuse through stuttering, claiming that his own morals dictated for his generosity to extend towards ponies who apparently were staying over for the night. Though uncomfortable at the idea, he didn't want to be very vocal of it, knowing that something might go awry and he would cause an issue amongst the ponies. Soon enough they were all relaxing, either lying on the couch, floor, or the only armchair while leaving the recliner alone at Julius' request, stating it was his bed. Though questioning his motives for such a bed, the ponies in return were respectful of his idea. When Julius brought their foods over, the ponies were both surprised and amazed at his spread. It was a group meal consisting of two kinds of potato chips, grape punch, grilled cheese sandwiches, and a variety of side dishes. “I-I l-l-lived o-on m-my own, s-so I w-w-went to c-cullinary c-c-c-classes an-and t-t-taught mys-self to c-cook.” His methods were questionable on how swiftly he made this spread in just twenty minute tops. Taking his seat at the recliner, the ponies all began to enjoy feasting on the snacks. But it soon struck Twilight on something that bothered her, she hasn't even introduced their friend Derpy. “Oh my gosh...I'm so sorry for this, I know it's rude, but I never introduced Derpy.” The mailmare shot up at her name and did her best with her double vision to see Twilight before introducing herself to Julius. “Hello! My names Derpy Hooves, six time winner of the Best Mailpony Award, and Ponyville's most dedicated mailmare of all time!” She hook Julius' hand with her hoof, and attempted to say something but lost her train of thought and became confused quickly. She proceeded to ponder on what she was to say, forgetting even watching the show the others were watching and seemed to talk to herself, Julius simply smiling when his memories of said pony from watching the show reminded him of her antics. Time slowly passed by and then it dawned onto the ponies that they were missing certain things, most notably Twilight stating they should have some things for later on if they stay up late. Derpy shooting up and yelling that she forgot about her 'precious little muffins' and barged out the door, stating she'll be back with them later on. The ponies each disappeared quickly, soon leaving it down to Julius himself as the others would similarly promise that they'd be back shortly. Julius paid no mind to this, though he felt a twinge of loneliness and sighed, slipping out his Kindle Fire, kept safely hidden within his suit vest. Powering the electronic on, Julius swiped his finger across and put in his pin. Settling back, he began reading the latest magazine of an old computer gaming magazine publisher and read through it like a blitzkrieg before swiftly returning it into his vest when the double doors slid open. Looking over, he nodded to Derpy, however he noticed the presence of two other ponies and moved slightly to see what he could only state must've been foals. One of them was an carbon copy of Derpy, Pegasus and all. The other however was different, with a light purple coat, two-tone yellow hair, and golden eyes, plus adding the fact she was a unicorn raised a few question in Julius' mind. “We're here, Julius!” Derpy said happily as the two ponies reluctantly entered the home and gave him a hello. Derpy smiled and slowly nudged them ahead, “Come on, my little muffins, Mister Crowley won't bite.” Still reluctant, the two foals took their seat together on the armchair, looking at Julius. “H-H-Hello...” Julius gave them the best friendly voice he could give, similar to when he did his best to comfort his sisters when it called. The two foals seemed to relax slightly until he handed them what he suspected was the remote and nodded, “G-Go a-a-ahead...” He said, then directing his hand towards the various remaining foodstuffs, “M-M-made th-them for e-e-everypony....” Taking him up to the offer, the two had decided what they wanted to eat, and to his surprise they both enjoyed it. While the silent foals enjoyed the food, Julius took a stand and returned to the kitchen while Derpy seemed to be cooking something of her own. “Oh, I'm sorry Julius, I should've asked....” She began only to be stopped by a smiling Julius and waving her off simply. “I-I-It's okay...j-just m-m-make sure t-t-there's n-no mess...” He quietly said before opening his refrigerator and retrieving a glass bottle filled to the brim with an apparent soft drink. “S-S-So wh-what're t-t-there n-names?” He said again more softly then before and directing his finger towards the two. “The pale one is Dinky, and the one that looks like me is Dizzy. They're...my younger sisters, and my loved ones...” Derpy said quietly with pride, Julius smiling back towards her before setting his glass down on his counter and stated quietly, “I..n-n-need to d-d-d-do something, b-be r-r-r-right b-back...” Without a question, Julius disappeared into the bathroom, leaving the folding doors locked before he went to work. - - One by one the Mane Six returned with their saddlebags filled with various things, Pinkie leaving her original gift for Julius in a separate saddlebag on the tub of stuff between the tables. While they settled in for the sleepover, and questioning Derpy where Julius was, she simply pointed towards the bathroom. Settling in with Dinky and Dizzy, the ponies brought with them each a gift for Julius, celebrating his arrival to Ponyville instead of a party, much to Pinkie's distaste, they aswell brought various overnight provisions like a sleeping bag, and other miscellaneous items. Spreading out their sleeping bags, and Fluttershy politely leaving a pillow and blanket on the recliner for Julius. Soon enough Julius returned from the bathroom, and surprised the ponies with his sudden change. His once wild hair was now tamed, trimmed down and slicked back behind his ears and reaching down to his neck, and the once snow white dye was removed and presented with dirty blond hair. His suit folded neatly into his arm and replaced with grey sweatpants and a solid black tanktop, which exposed the gauze wrapping under his body. “W-W-Welcome back...” He quietly stated as the ponies smiled back, Julius storing his suit in a laundry basket and took his seat at the recliner. Soon enough the ponies returned to watching the various shows and commenting on them, these ranged wildly from movies to historical shows, culinary to gardening, the variety was expansive to Julius' thoughts, and there was a significant lack of advertisements, to which he could approve of. Dinky and Dizzy quickly stopping when it came to a particular show, an animated series on the Wonderbolts, much to the enjoyment of Rainbow Dash and the irritation to Rarity. Julius' interest raised here as the show went on for most of the half-hour while the twins enjoyed the show along with Rainbow Dash, Rarity's snarky comments on the show brushed off simply. As the show came to an end, the three began debating the rating for this episode and came up with an eight out of ten. When asking Julius about what his opinion was on the show, he replied that he didn't know anything about the show, or for the matter what the Wonderbolts were. Upon the realization that he didn't know, the three chastised him before starting on the members and what they do, from amazing acrobatics to demonstrations of their skills, telling off all eleven of their names with a notable addendum that Rainbow Dash would become a Wonderbolt, Julius soaking in the information as they continued on until he could calm them down. “I-I-I'm s-sure t-t-that y-you could t-t-tell me a-a-all a-a-about t-t-them s-s-soon...b-but p-p-p-please c-calm d-d-down..” Complying at his request, the three calmed down before it became apparent the twins warmed up to Julius and began a series of questions about him. “What's your actual name?” Dinky asked innocently, Julius humming for a second before speaking slowly. “J-J-Julius G-Gordon C-C-Crowley, b-but I-I a-a-also g-go by D-Demirci a-after m-m-my a-ancestors...” He softly said, pointing at his saber, which was lying by his side, propped up by a stand. “C-C-Culture i-in my h-homel-land h-had a f-f-first name, t-t-then t-two l-last n-n-names...” he explained before Dizzy asked the next question, her voice pitch almost the same as her sisters which surprised Julius a bit when he realized it. “Are there different kinds of people, like Pegasus or Unicorns?” Dinky looked at her sister then back to Julius with another innocent smile, Julius smiling before leaning forward to take one of the last grilled cheese and proceeded to explain. “S-Sort of....w-we g-g-go by w-where we l-l-live. I-I-I'm H-H-Hispanic a-and T-T-Turkish. M-M-Means I-I h-h-have t-t-two k-kinds o-o-of p-people. H-Hispanic b-b-because I-I'm p-p-primarily f-f-from my h-h-homeland o-of S-Spain. T-T-Turkish f-from m-m-m-my a-ancestry....” The twins looked at each other then to Julius as he ate the sandwich quickly before they attempted to learn how to say the rather complicated words. Julius let out a small laugh and proceeded to teach them how to pronounce it. Although they still needed to practice, they got the basics down in a good few minutes before Derpy came over. “Alright, my little muffins, that's enough bothering Mister Crowley, it's almost bedtime and there's still school in the morning.” She stated, the two foals voicing their disapproval but accepted it, allowing their elder sister to help them get a bed going while the others slipped into their sleeping bags and prepared for sleep. Julius watched them slowly before staring at the ceiling until he could hear just snoring a half-hour later and slowly stood up, creeping from the group after grasping his szabla he simply strapped it to his belt and slid himself over to the desk and took his seat. Carefully checking over the group, he slid out his Kindle and began reading. - - However, as the clock on his Kindle ticked it was midnight in his home, the moon was rising over the home and the last light within his home was doused out. However, Julius felt that someone was watching, and slowly set the electronic down and turned towards the sliding door, seeing nothing before something caught his vision and drew the blade swiftly. His woke only Rainbow Dash up, who looked around before noticing Julius' blade was drawn, but she could tell that he wasn't at all happy. “J-Julius?” She mumbled out as the human looked towards her and put his finger against his lips and pointed towards the window. Looking over, she couldn't momentarily see anything, then it became clear what she was looking at. It was some kind of creature from the Everfree, and matched the description of what Applejack was saying she saw in the western fields. What either couldn't see was that this creature was staring back at them....without any eyes. Julius gritted his teeth as it slowly circled the home before the rest of them were awaken by sounds of rattling bones and then a ear-piercing scream before the house shook and Julius released a series of curses in the languages he knew. “What the hay was that?!” Applejack quickly shouted as they were roused by the creature calling. “It's some kind of abomination!” Julius shouted, the rare moment that he could manage to push his stuttering away. Twilight quickly took note of the creature before rousing Spike from his deep slumber with a violent shaking. “Spike, quick!” The dragon roused from his sleep just as the creature rammed itself into the house again, Julius releasing another series of curses and aimed his blade towards the sliding door as the creature became even more obvious that it was in fact some kind of abomination. “Spike, send this letter to the Princess, quick!” As the dragon inhaled and sent the letter, Julius gripped the hilt of his saber and quickly nodded his head towards the bathroom. “H-hide th-there...” He directed, most of them complying in exception to Applejack, Twilight, and Rainbow Dash who stood their ground as the creature began rattling again. “F-Fine...s-s-stand your g-g-ground....” Julius whispered quietly as the creature continued rattling its bones in intimidation. The others took deep breaths, knowing very well they were scared as this creature reared itself and prepared to charge, before it suddenly began to crumble. Julius watched as his stance strengthened, then he noticed a brightly colored pony slipped from where it was. “W-What...” He simply stated before two more ponies joined them. “Are you KIDDING ME?!” Twilight suddenly shouted, unlatching the door and slamming it open as the rest followed in suit. Julius relaxed his stance as the 'creature' was becoming more obvious. It was a cleverly made costume, to Julius' notice before his gaze turned to the ponies as Twilight began to tell them off. “Why did you do this?! Huh?!” She shouted, as it became evident she didn't enjoy what this scene was. Sheepishly one of the ponies, a bulky stallion with a solid orange coat and blue mane, spoke up. “We...wanted a joke on that thing?” He said pointing his hoof towards Julius before Twilight's eyebrows furrowed even further. “A joke? You call THAT a joke?!” She shouted, pointing at the costume as Julius surveyed the damage done to his home, noticing that the decaying mortar was chipping and a spiderweb of cracks spread out across it. “You are so...so...STUPID, you could've hurt somepony, especially the two foals inside!” However, as she opened her mouth to speak again, Julius put his hand in front of her face and looked at the three stallions. “G-Get the f-f-fuck off m-my property.” He said menacingly, pointing the tip of his blade at the stallions, who quickly complied and started running. Julius resheathed the saber and took deep breaths. “S-Sorry, T-T-Twilight...I-I'm....I-I dunno....” He stated, Twilight put off at the fact he just threatened three stallions, and concerned as he shook. “T-T-They....I-I-I just w-w-wanted t-to p-p-p-protect....” He stopped when he felt a hoof pat him on the shoulder, Twilight realizing that he was just being protective of them. “It's okay, Julius, I understand.” Soon enough Applejack and Rainbow Dash joined Twilight in a short-lived hug as Julius quickly felt uncomfortable, haven't dealt with such affection from ponies he met in a short amount of time. “O-Okay...l-l-lets g-get everyp-pony back t-t-to bed...” He started, the three complying while Rainbow Dash congratulated Julius on sticking up for himself, and having the guts to teach them a lesson not to mess with you. Julius took it as a compliment before returning inside, and dead bolting the sliding glass door. Later that night, Julius was already fast asleep, his energy drained enough. However, with that nights events passing by, the sleeping arrangements were obviously affixed with Derpy asleep with her sisters, and the Mane Six were all huddled around the coffee table, leaving the couch for Julius to sleep on. The last to sleep was Twilight, and even then, the memory of the night were burned into her mind. - Epilogue - The following morning, Celestia arrived with a squadron of her Royal Guards, desperately apologizing to Twilight as she blacked out before the letter arrived. Upon accounting the events from each pony, omitting Julius' threat and utilizing his now hidden saber, the guards were dispatched to arrest the troublemakers. After her short visit came an end, Dinky and Dizzy gave Julius their best attempt at a hug and thanked him for 'being a hero' for them, and allowing them to stay. The Mane Six each left afterwards until Rainbow Dash was last, and made Julius do a promise he would show her more of his techniques with his sword. When silence came over his home, Julius was content that he made a mark today. But he couldn't help but feel his eye twitch violently at times, and he felt something in his mind burn before he faintly began hearing voices in his head. Shaking this off, Julius decided that he needed another nap, believing he was just hallucinating at the moment. Leaving the day and following night alone as he slept on.
Chapter IV, Part IMr. Crowley By: Die Philosophen - Note: General work is fictionalized, though certain elements may or may not be fiction. - Also, certain locations may not be consistent with canon. - Apologies for such a short chapter, but I've decided to do a two-part, and I'd like to have a short one where I can set in motion the second part. - - The Following Week - Julius was suitably adapting to his loss, having spent the past few days in confinement of the hospital recovering on his own accord. The doctors had opted to return him back into the hospital for an entire week at the request of Princess Celestia for further checks on his person. Despite protests, Julius endured facing even further checks on his person, ranging from simple blood tests to whole body examinations. However, today wouldn't have been in the best interest for Julius as he was finally released, the doctors had requested he return soon, eliciting a rather distrusting look from Julius. All now that he wished was to return home and rest for the time being, but his mind have it, he wouldn't be returning home unscathed again. - - Deep in thought as to what his life meant now, and what he should at least do with himself now that he's starting to settle down in Ponyville after what he could suspect was two or three weeks since his unexpected arrival. He was the only living organism of his species that's in this world, surrounded by ponies from a television show he once watched long ago, and not to mention he's been conflicting in his attempts to adapt, his inability to release his pent up stress, and the last strands of his family now severed and isolating him. A weight pressed down on him that day as he checked over himself, staring at the gauze wrapping that enveloped his upper body like vines, seeing the faded scarring that reminded him of the past. Taking a few deep breaths, Julius did his best to ignore the fact that beyond his sweatpants and underwear, he was pretty much naked. His feet stung as the dull edges of the rocks pressed into his soles. It was a rather heavy embarrassment to him, walking almost half-naked, looking similar to a walking skeleton and without any other clothing considering the doctors had 'misplaced' most of his clothing. But he was thankful that he still had his personal effects, including his gifts and saved himself from being caught with the Kindle, and nearly breaking his self-imposed law on secrecy. And thankfully the Mane Six had taken his saber before the nurses took notice of it, returning it back to his home. It was a close call, but he got out with it easily, and now all he wished to do was return home and find himself a conduit to vent himself, maybe he'll finally take out one of his laptops and try to write after a long time, or maybe he'll log in another couple hours of studying... However, he felt his chest beginning to compress itself and felt faint, Julius immediately knew what would happen. And sure enough when he desperately attempted to breathe and collapsed against the fencing to Sweet Apple Acres. Standing beside him was his other self, the same insane grin and his tattered suit drenched in blood, with the awkwardly positioned bones showing through his skin. His right eye was covered in a eyepatch aswell, except Julius could see the blood slowly seeping through it. He opened, and spoke eerily in the same voice, albeit with a higher pitch and twitches violently, “Hahaaaa, welcome back to your mind, Julius!” Julius simply gave a grunt in response as he did his best to stabilize himself as his other self simply laughed at him. “Ahahaha! You look so fuckin' ridiculous!” Julius muttered out a string of curses, his other self continuing to laugh as he regained his composure. “Ahaahaaa....Oh for the love of a whore, your about as pathetic as your sisters now...Haa...Oh fuuuck this is just golden!” “F-F-Fuck o-off...” Julius only stated, watching his other self continued laughing as he leaned against the fence. “Hahaaaaaa.....Oh god damn, this is too rich to end now...I'll catch you later, fuckwit...” Continuing his vicious laughter, his other self just simply disappeared, and then he could finally feel the pressure on him decay, and his return to sanity. “F-Fuck this....I-I-I need t-to find Twilight....” Julius muttered to himself, quickly regaining his composure and began running, his sense overridden with both fear and confusion as he rushed towards Ponyville. - Ponyville Library - Twilight's saddlebags were considerably heavier after another traveling merchant passed through Ponyville, this one with a suitably large array of books. It costed her a near-fortune, but it was worth it considering some of the books were in fact a chronological order of the 'Equestrian Scientific Records', a series of research notes and recordings from across the ages, ranging from Star Swirls Prototype Spellbooks, Constellations Theories of Humanity, and Celestia's Geological Recordings of Early Equestria. Most of them were either restricted in areas Twilight couldn't have entered without raising the castle alarm, or were lost in the annals of history itself. She bargained with the trader and got away with it, these financial-destroying collections were now hers for merely six hundred Bits, most of which came from her tendencies to refuse spending any of her Bits unless it was absolutely necessary. However, as she was securing these books for intensive study, the library door was almost rammed off its hinges as Julius stumbled in, taking deep breaths as Twilight snapped up from the upper rooms of the library and took notice of Julius. “Oh my Celestia, Julius whats wrong?!” She managed out as the human looked towards her and barely got out through his stuttering and deep breaths. “T-T-T-Twilight...s-something's w-wrong...” He managed out, the magic protege quickly descending from the room and swiftly assisted Julius to taking a seat on one of the cushions and allowing him to catch his breath, retrieving a glass of water from Twilight's telekinetic field and draining it under five seconds before returning it with a thank you. After his breath was recovered and he was prepared, Julius began his issues, explaining his hallucinations in vivid memory, and the loss of his own eye. Twilight was suitably concerned, and fearful of Julius' condition and quickly began to search through her various medical dictionaries, Julius left silent before he was forcefully able to reference that it could have related to Twilight's translation spell. This changed her search substantially, and with the absence of Spike for an unknown reason, Julius was left to himself. Ascending to the balcony, and in the midst taking multiple pillows with him, he created a makeshift recliner and stretched out across it before his mind slowly began to wander off. He was descending into dementia, most likely, and the very thought had given Julius a cold feeling. He'd be losing his own sanity, and it'd cause grievous harm to the ponies around him, which would end in his very own demise at the hands of the same ponies who'd saved him from near death. It pained him to even imagine what would happen, and how his actions would affect even the very future of Equestria itself, himself being a rogue anomaly thanks to time-space itself. He could derail an entire civilization by the very simple process of harming a pony, or worse, killing them. He had the means to, and the skills to prove it. He couldn't deny that he'd was feeling scared, for once since he was a child, that he'll be killing something that he considered so close to him. That put up another thought, the fact that even if he's forgotten how long it has been since he's arrived, he's quickly forged friendships within a fraction that'd have been the norm. And on another note, he's hardly taken into account that he felt alone even more, he's lost all contact with his younger sisters, what remained of his family. It dawned onto him, he didn't have a choice or would even be able to amend to this. But he knew very well they'd would cope without him now, they were old enough to begin living on their own without his support. But what he feared was the fact that he wouldn't there to see their future, and help them so. It wouldn't e a future he'd ever see, now that without any chance, he'd be stuck here for the remainder of his life. In the end of it all, Julius saw no choice but having to adapt into this new life, and let go of his own past. It felt like a cheesy reasoning, and most likely was, but it was the only tactic he has, unless he could by chance get a meeting with Celestia to see if she could do something, but considering the circumstances, and the reminder that she was by fact royalty, most likely would be too busy in the future to even bother with him, not even if he was such a mystery to Equestrians. Finding this revelation dried, Julius muttered out lowly to himself as he raised up, staring down at the ponies going about their day. “Because things are the way they are, things will not stay the way they are....” To Be Continued -
Chapter III - Questionable QualityMister Crowley By: Die Philosophen - Note: General work is fictionalized, though certain elements may or may not be fiction. - As a reminder, this is still just an experimental story, however it's starting to have some nice results. So I give thanks to my little unaware testers. If there's anymore approvals, I'll turn this into a writing project. -Subnote: I'm not fully sure about the quality I wrote this chapter. I'd appreciate some feedback on it. - -Additional Subnote: This chapter is shorter than normal because I've found that this particular one wasn't exactly the most enjoyable to write, but nonetheless was still a good one to my opinion. - - Following the fiasco a day ago, Julius was now fully rested and prepared for the new day ahead of him. The translation spell he's been under for the past few days had passed on, and the rough translations for Pony English and Written Pony were now lost until Twilight came to visit. She luckily states, though with difficulty, that she experimented for a longer-lasting translation spell, aswell bringing with her certain textbooks that'd assist him in at least starting a basic function of their language. Thanking Twilight, he started his way into studying, absorbing information while in the meantime utilizing his laptop for the very first time to copying down notes. Pooling in that session to at least four hours, Julius ended the session by checking the gifts he received the other night. The first was by Twilight, which turned out be a rather hefty amount of books she chose personally from the library as gifts. Placing them aside for the next gift, Julius found a crudely written note, and from what the spell translated into his retinas, Applejack's gift was at the farm as she apparently forgot where it was last placed. He found Pinkie's already, a cake and assortments of other baked goods he's kept safe. There was a Rose lapel lying in his cabinet, and a note that was directly impossible for him to even comprehend, the hoofship extremely elegant and beautiful for his eyes. When he attempted to start himself lunch, he realized that there were significantly more cooking utensils in his drawers, but there wasn't anything to signal just who gave him it. Whoever it was, he was thankful for. And finally there was a ticket to an apparent Wonderbolts show later this evening, and by deduction, this was by Rainbow Dash or the Hooves twins. Overall, they seemed to be nice gifts to his opinion. But today he'll attempt to walk on his own to Sweet Apple Acres, hoping he could landmark the best way to find it. - - Dressing himself in his best attire of the day in full black, a white tie, and pinning the rose to his lapel before checking himself over once again in the mirror. Subconsciously running his hand down the length of his hair before shaking his head slowly and slid out the Valknut pendant before turning. However, before he could even take a step towards the door, he felt his heart pulsating unevenly and his vision began to blur in and out. He grasped at his chest and leaning against the wall before staring up at the mirror before feeling a cold awash. Standing within the mirror was himself, except he could see that instead his body was mangled worse than before, his left elbow broken through the skin. Blood drenching his clothes as his reflection was cutting itself open, from the wrist to his shoulder with a sharpened rib. When he looked into his own face, he could see his left eyes pupil were shrunken and his right wasn't even there, in replacement was another one of his ribs. Faintly he could hear himself speaking something, but couldn't comprehend. And then it stopped suddenly. Julius slouched to the floor and watched in fear of the mirror, his reflection returning to normal as he felt a sudden sharp stab at his right eye and released a sudden string of curses before he realized that his own finger had poked him. Shaking his head, Julius slowly lifted himself up and took deep breaths as his watering eye slowly recovered itself. “What...the fuck...” Julius simply managed to get out before his body slowly recollected itself and he could move normally once again. Staring back at the mirror, and found that his right eye wasn't the normal gray. Instead, looking back towards him was a rust-colored iris, causing Julius some due alarm before he simply stood up and decided he should see someone about this sooner or later. - - After a quick return to strap his scabbard to his belt, Julius started on his way down the countryside path, keeping his left hand close by his saber while his other slowly adjusted the rose. His first landmark came when he found a crossroad and its sign, directing his immediate left to the Everfree Forest, the north towards Sweet Apple Acres, and east towards Ponyville. Following north, Julius slid his right hand into his pocket and watched the orchards, recalling the last time he saw the trees were for just maybe twenty minutes tops before he bled out enough for him to collapse. Even then, it was an amazing feat that he could even walk almost normally, considering he'd probably be lying in bed for the next couple of months while his body attempted to restore itself to its best ability. Those doctors knew just what to do, and did it quick. However, he wasn't the only one out for the time being as he noticed an approaching figure in the distance, and closing in fast. Raising an eyebrow, Julius stared at the figure for a couple moments before it dawned on him that the figure wasn't galloping, and the figure was actually a foal riding a scooter. And then it came clear he wasn't going to be able to avoid this one, as the foal shouted she couldn't control the scooter. Bracing himself for impact, Julius gritted his teeth as the foal finally lost stabilization and was launched into the air, Julius doing his best to catch the pony before she got hurt. Grunting as he caught the foal, stumbling to the ground with a grunt. Lifting himself up and slowly lowering the foal to the ground, she turned her attention towards Julius. Her gamboge coat was dirty, and from what he could see, was covered in scratches and grazing's. Her fuchsia mane was haphazardly made and covered by a purple helmet with twin white streaks, and her sheepish grin signaled something didn't go right. “Sorry, mister.” Julius simply nodded and lifted himself up before the foal realized just who he was. “Whoa...you're Julius, that human Rainbow talked about!” She said excitedly, eliciting a raised eyebrow and bushed himself off quickly. The filly was about as tall as his kneecap, and was easily dwarfed as she stared in awe, “U-Uh...y-yeah?” He managed out as the filly quickly got her scooter back upright and looked back to Julius. “She said you could use some thing to cut stuff in half, and that it looks awesome. Is it true?” Julius took note to make sure Rainbow Dash doesn't spread it enough to where he'd most likely get in trouble for even having the blade in the first place. Julius simply nodded and directed his hand towards the cloth hilt of the blade, the filly staring in awe of its intricate hilt, “Can I see it?” She asked excitedly, Julius sighing before grasping the hilt and drew the blade out and held it low enough for her to see, holding the underside of the blade gently in his open hand. The filly stared in awe as Julius then returned it to his scabbard. “D-Don't t-t-t-tell a-anyone, i-i-i-it's s-supposed t-t-to be a-a s-s-secret.” He managed out, the filly rapidly nodding before she remounted her scooter and began trailing Julius as he started walking towards Sweet Apple Acres. “So what're doing, Julius?” she asked, using her own wings to keep up with Julius as he returned to his casual walk. “V-V-Visiting S-S-Sweet Apple A-Acres.” He simply stated as the filly continued at his side and stared up towards him in awe, “W-W-What i-is y-y-your n-name, a-anyhow?” “Scootaloo!” She responded happily, Julius smiling at her for a moment before her next question came, quite literally, out of the haze when she noticed his eyes, “What's up your eyes, Julius?” He put his hand up to his eye and slowly rubbed it before looking back down towards her, and clearly she could see that his left eye was a solid gray and the other she could see there was red patches around his iris, which itself had changed from its gray to an ominous rust red. “T-Trauma, I-I-I d-d-dunno w-why...” He gave his best attempt to a lie, Scootaloo still curious but stopped herself by asking the next question. He couldn't tell, but to his own guess when he saw it that he must've taken some trauma to it during his appearance in Equestria, not to mention he lost the feeling in his left arm for sometime now. Their conversation dragged on for almost an entire hour, the questions almost never ending as Scootaloo learned a little bit about Julius' history and eventually asked him a rather serious, in her own opinion, question. “Hey Julius, do you think you could get Rainbow Dash to be, like, a teacher for me?” She asked, Julius raising his eyebrow before giving her his best smile and nodded. “I-I-I'll s-s-see w-what I-I can d-do...” Scootaloo, suitably excited, gave Julius a farewell and stated she should practice attempting to fly before Rainbow Dash considered her offer. Julius smiled before he continued following the path onto Sweet Apple Acres, and finding himself pondering his new course of action. He knew that his body was deteriorating at this rate, especially his mind now considering what the saw just earlier today, and his mind was forcing itself to adjust. It all seemed alien that just a week ago he was running a pawnshop, still playing video games, and wondering what he'll do with his life at that rate, and now this? He needed to relax, and take his adjustments into consideration before something does on and he ends up either dead or worse. - - Sweet Apple Acres stood before him soon enough, the simplistic but beautifully designed buildings surrounding him left and right, two barns situated near each other, one used to his guess as their home while the other was for storage. Aswell the silo towered close by the background, and a slew of other minor buildings dotted around the farm, including what Julius could guess were shops for the apples. Overall, it was a simplistic but unique in architecture, Julius' architectural sense approving. However, his vision directed towards the familiar Stetson hat of Applejack. “'Ey there, sugarcube, welcome to Sweet Apple Acres!” Julius smiled to her as she checked over his new suit with some minor distaste, “Looks like yah found Fluttershy's rose.” She said, Julius nodding as he adjusted his lapel before she remembered, “Sorry fer the delay, sugarcube, but I found the little thing hidden in the barn.” She presented him with another Stetson hat, this one however Julius could see that it it was rather old, and by the looks it's seen better days. Politely retrieving it from her grasp and tested it on his head, finding it a comfortable but rather tight fit, Applejack voicing her approval. “Anyhow, if you'd like to stick around fer a spell, I wantcha ta meet Apple Bloom.” Accepting, she proceeded to show him around the farm, meeting Granny Smith and a short hello with Big Macintosh. It was only a couple of minutes after the tour, Julius and Applejack were greeted by a filly with a grayish olive coat, amaranth hair up in a pink bow, and gamboge irises. She stopped short of about to greet Applejack when she caught sight of Julius and stopped in awe of him, Julius tipping his hat in her direction out of respect. “Apple Bloom, this big old feller is Julius Crowley, Equestria's first ever real human.” Applejack introduced her to the suited individual, Apple Bloom simply staring in awe. After Apple Bloom's shock subsided and their conversations subsided, Apple Bloom didn't make it unknown that she voiced her disapproval about a 'cute-ceañera' because she didn't have a cutie mark, which raised an eyebrow from Julius and a rather sour look. "It's just not fair!" Apple Bloom shouted once again, venting her frustration to Julius while pacing back and forth, who in turn was watching Applejack bucking the trees. "Everypony in my class is going to it, and I'm the only one who doesn't have a cutie mark!" Julius simply sighed before speaking up. "A-A-Apple B-Bloom, c-c-c-come h-here a m-m-moment." He said, patting the grass next to him, the foal reluctantly taking a seat next to him, Julius jokingly putting his new hat ontop of her. "L-L-Look. C-Complaining w-won't h-h-help a-anypony,n-nor w-w-would it h-h-help y-you g-g-g-get...a-a c-c-cutie m-m-mark s-s-sooner. Y-Y-You're g-g-going t-to find i-i-it s-sooner o-o-or l-later, n-n-no m-m-matter w-what." He said, pointing at her flank, "J-J-Just f-f-find w-w-what y-you're b-b-b-best a-a-at, a-a-a-and y-you'll f-find i-i-it." Apple Bloom gave him a look of awe as he took his Stetson back from her and smiled, "N-N-Now g-go f-f-f-find i-i-it." Julius' bout of wisdom seemed to raise Apple Bloom's spirit suitably higher as she quickly began a crusade to find what her cutie mark was. "Got a right way with words, dontcha Julius?" Applejack teased, Julius smiling back to her before taking a stand. "T-T-Thanks f-for l-l-l-letting m-m-me w-watch, I-I n-need t-t-t-to g-go.." Taking his stand and about to leave, he was stopped short by Applejack. "'Ey, sugarcube, Pinkie wanted me ta tell yah to be at Sugarcube Corner for the cute-ceañera." Julius sighed before nodding, and bade her farewell. - Sometime Later - After an uneventful encounter with Rarity and her younger sister, Sweetie Belle, Julius had returned home momentarily, steering clear of the mirror this time. After spending a good period of time clearing his facial hair, and masking his body odor, Julius had prepared himself atleast for being outside. Aswell, Julius finding the need subsided, he left his ballistics vest within his cabinet for the future as now showed his suit vest. Preparing for the party, only due to keeping his friendship with Pinkie high, was overall simple in view. Final adjustments made, Julius caught up the Mane Six as they started on their way to the party, Derpy aswell joining them with Dizzy and Dinky. The group had started idle conversation, each ignoring certain looks from the various ponies while Dinky and Dizzy shared a confused glance while they then glanced at Julius, then to his hand resting on the hilt of his sabre as he stared around carefully. However, they began conversing with each other as they came upon Sugarcube Corner, Julius taking a deep breath as they entered, and the encounter with Apple Bloom became evident as some party goers realized he was there and quickly made way as the Mane Six quickly dispersed, however he took notice when Apple Bloom was moving directly towards him and noticed two other fillies coming towards him aswell. "Julius, quick, hide me!" Apple Bloom said, and without a confirmation, she quickly hid herself behind his leg as the two others stopped and turned away, seemingly to avoid Julius' presence as he stared them down. "Thank..." Apple Bloom said exasperated as he gaver her a questioning look, then turned when there was a a rather obnoxious shout. "Hey, look everypony, Apple Bloom's hiding behind the giant freak!" Julius snapped his head up towards the voice, finding it came from the same filly he deterred from harassing Apple Bloom. “Not to mention she's still a blank flank!” There was a small appeal to laughter as the Mane Six quickly moved to stop Julius when they noticed his shaking hand began wrapping around the hilt to his blade and forced him to relax, however, there was a retaliation just after the filly spoke up. “Oh yeah, what do you have against blank flanks?!” The familiar voice of Scootaloo shouted out, Julius finding her alongside Sweetie Belle, aswell as Dinky and Dizzy. “Huh?!” Scootaloo shouted, pointing her hoof at the other filly. Soon enough Julius' memory unveiled this particular scene from the show itself and watched as it almost canonically composed itself, and came to the realization that this wasn't even remotely right, it should at least diverge from what the original show was, by his memory, unless the divergence was...Dinky and Dizzy. He watched them huddle at one of the tables and began plotting down the name for their club, then he felt a sharp stabbing pain within his right eye and quickly put his hand up to it and felt something warm against his hand. Using his left eye, Julius then noticed there was blood, and almost let out a scream before he forced himself away, doing his best to avoid crashing into other ponies and disappeared, making his way to the hospital while tripping and falling when his balance became erratic. - Epilogue - Admitted to the hospital, Julius was put under almost instantly after he was brought into a surgery room. When he woke later in the day, surrounded once again by the Mane Six and the recently formed Cutie Mark Crusaders, he was told that his right eye was lost to a bacterial infection and required surgical removal. It came as a shock to him as he realized that he truly couldn't see out of his right eye. Closer inspection put it that his right eye was replaced by an eyepatch. Suitably upset, Julius was again kept overnight, released with a bitter attitude as he returned home alone and did his best to calm. - End Note: Again, I'm not fully sure I'm doing a good job on this chapter, please voice opinions in a constructive manner. -
