Finding Peaceby bakersongChaptersA Happier Life?Discussing A Home?Waking Up?A Happier Life?I was just another nineteen year old who suffered from a mild case of depression, nothing to serious. I was even looking forward to my twentieth birthday in August. But now, now I know I won't be able to see that birthday, or any other day for that matter. I wasn't happy with my life by a long shot, but I wasn't so unhappy I would kill myself. But then again, why am I laying here with a knife beside me, and my wrist cut open? Was my depression really that bad? And what is that laughter in my head? Why does it taunt me by offering a happier life when I know it's only a trick? But then again, what do I have to lose if I accept the offer? What it was offering though made me think as I laid there bleeding out, it made me think if I was really happy with my life here. I mean, I didn't have very many friend, in fact I don't think I actually have any friends at this point. But then there's my family, which either gave up on me or abused me emotionally in some way. So, was I truly happy with my life here? Even if this laughter is the devil waiting for me to answer so it can drag me to hell, would it be in someway better than to stay here? I mean I've been bullied all throughout my childhood, and even some until high school before I dropped out, and like I said my family has either given up on me or turned to emotionally abuse me. "So, have you made your decision then?" The laughter stopped, and the voice that spoke echoed within my head. "I-I want to b-be happy for once in m-my life..." I answer, tears streaming down my cheeks as I start to lose consciousness. "Good, cause I'm sure you'll be much happier where I'm taking you, and you'll cause a little chaos as well." Was the last thing I heard the voice say before the darkness surrounded me. I awoke with a chill running down my spine, and as I sat up feeling groggy and nausea like someone suffering from sea sickness. But as that wore off, I finally took in my surroundings. Only to find that I was in fact surrounded by darkness, but my eyes locked onto something in the distance. A single spot of light, and I started walking towards it. "Ah, it looks like you've finally awoken my little human friend." I heard the voice, not in my mind this time, but like it was a real person talking. Only in the darkness I couldn't tell where it came from as it echoed. "Please, don't panic. If you recall I'm the one who gave you this chance at happiness. But first, before I let you go into this new world to you, I will give you the same choice. You can either go back to your world, and die, or you can still go to this new world and live." "I-I remember, and I'm sticking with my choice!" I yell, feeling a bit frustrated at being reminded of what I did, even if I didn't remember doing it to myself. "Good, good but before I let you continue I'll need to explain a few things first." The voice said. "Explain, explain what?" I ask, frustration giving way to a little panic. "Oh, just a little something about this world you'll be living in from now on." The voice answered, and in a tone that made me shiver for some reason. I let the voice start explaining, and my eyes go wide in surprise and shock. A world full of mythical creatures, and the ones I'll be living with are ponies. Not just any ponies though, some were unicorns, some were pegasi, while some were normal ponies that could talk and have plenty of strength. But the rulers of this land of ponies were known as Alicorns, and there was a total of four. "Any questions?" The voice asked, breaking me out of my thought but I was still in a bit of a haze. "W-will they even accept me? I-I mean I'm not even the best example of what humans could be, after all I did try to kill myself." I said, letting my shoulders sag and I wanted to crawl into a ball. "All the more reason why I decided to bring you here, so you can get over that little issue you have. Don't worry, they even accepted me as a friend even though I tried to take over their world twice and betrayed them." The voice replied, again making my eyes go wide and then narrow. "T-then how can I trust you?" I asked, knowing what the answer was probably going to be. "Because I saved you, and I am fully reformed now. I'm not entirely bad," the voice answered making me give a sigh. "So, are you ready to go into your new home?" "I...I guess," I answer getting up and starting to walk towards the light. "Oh, and a warning before you go." I turn to face away from the light and into the darkness. "Don't be surprised if they do treat you like a monster at first." The voice had what sounded like actual sympathy in it, making me give a hesitant nod. At that moment I felt a sudden force pushing me towards the light I had been walking to with enough speed that my feet left whatever invisible ground there was. As I was coming closer to the light, even with me facing away from it, I had to shut my eyes before it blinded me completely. But soon the light faded, and yet I still refused to open my eyes as I started to get a sense of being weightless and knowing what was about to happen. Though it felt like I was just floating there for a few seconds before I felt gravity take hold, bringing me into a free fall. I didn't even get the chance to scream out of panic, as I suddenly hit the ground with great force. I couldn't move after I hit the ground though, the wind was knocked out of me and I was completely dazed. I managed to open my eyes though to see a beautiful night sky, that had more stars then I ever seen. But soon I started to lose focus as black spots started to dance in my vision, and soon the darkness took me once again. I woke up in a coughing fit, my lungs still were on fire from getting the wind knocked out of them. Though, as I started to get up I winced as my entire body was completely sore. Like I had run into a wall multiple times, but as I stood I thought that everything I had been through was some kind of nightmare. That's when I looked my wrist, which now had a scar running across it. My eyes widen and I started to look around, to find I was in some kind of woods. Then I started to remember all that voice had told me, that this land I was in was run by ponies and has a lot more nature in it then what I might have been used to. Though I was a little nervous and skeptical about what the voice told me, I had no choice but to believe it. After all, I apparently was in between dimensions or something like that. I knew that if it was telling the truth, then I would have to just accept it. Even if the main species of this land were talking, mythical ponies, it could have been worse. That and I bet if anyone else were in my shoes, they would have panicked a lot more than I did. But then, what did I have to lose from coming here and panicking? I was apparently more unhappy with my life than I had thought I was, and to be offered a chance to actually be happy for once was all that I needed. I shook my head to get myself out of my thoughts, as I realized I would need to find the nearest town or city. Though, I wasn't exactly the best person to take on a survival trip, I did know a few things. So, I decided to follow what looked like where the sun was rising in hopes that it would lead me, at very least, outside of these woods. It wasn't long before I had come across a trail though, but if the sun was any indication it was a little past noon and already I was tired. Taking that fall last night had done a lot more than I realized, and it doesn't help that I'm overweight. So, I quickly found a tree to rest on for a little bit. I looked up at the nearly clear blue sky, and the few clouds that where hanging around. I take a deep breath letting out a sad sigh, and also realized how fresh the air was. Though as I sat there I wondered about my choice, granted this may have seemed like the better option than going back and dying, but it still made me feel even more alone and sad than I already was. After what I assumed was at least an hour, I finally got up and started down the trail which looked like it was recently ran through by a stamped or something. It made me wonder if these ponies that did this was doing some kind of tradition or if they weren't as smart as what that voice said. Though I guess there's only one way to find out, and that's to follow this trail and hope it leads to some kind of city or town. Though after a little while I start to hear what sounded like a creek, and feeling thirsty I follow the sound. What I come to is in fact a small creek, that looked like it was so pure you could bottle it up right then and there and it'll be ready to sell. Cupping my hands, I dip them in and take a hesitant sip that led into taking an even bigger drink. I soon dipped my face in, feeling some of the weariness go away and getting a good drink. Once I managed to pull my head out of the water I let out a satisfied sigh, now feeling refreshed. I then started my way back the way I came to the trail to continue to see where it leads. Though as far as I knew, these woods could be deeper than what I thought and it could take me more than just a day to get out, even longer to find some kind of town at very least. Though as I walked back to the trail though and looked at the scenery, I still couldn't bring myself to even remotely smile. It was beautiful, especially since with the leaves different colors and spread across the ground giving it a fall feeling. But just thinking about it, once again brought up my inner thoughts. 'Why did I agree to this when I don't deserve to look at this beautiful landscape? Why did I try to kill myself when I wasn't even that depressed? Why would I think these ponies would accept me into their society? And why did that voice decide to give me this chance at a happy life when there are far better people who actually deserve it instead?' I took a moment to take a breath to try to clear my head of these questions, what has been done, has been done. I can't just let my depression win again, not after I did get this chance. Though one last question kept creeping up on me, and that's why am I so accepting that I'm in a world full of ponies and mythical creatures? I guess it could be because that voice explained it and gave me the time to get my head wrapped around it. Maybe I was just more open minded than most people. Maybe a mixture of both, because if I would have just woken up in this world surrounded by ponies I doubt I would be calm, and if I did remain calm then how without it being explained? But before I dive in too deep, I take notice that I'm now outside of the woods which were about ten feet behind me. I give a little chuckle at my own getting so into my own thoughts I wasn't even paying attention. That's when I decided to take a look at my new surroundings. Like I said, the woods I just came out of is behind me but not far I can see a green wall of leafs. I felt a shiver as I could have sworn I saw what looked like some kind of pack of wolves running just beyond the trees. But I look away, and as I'm skimming the horizon I can make out what looks like roofs that look like they might be apart of some kind of medieval architecture. Once again, I give a sigh of relief as I know that I won't be lost for days trying to find even just a building. I started walking, and despite my excitement I knew I still had to be cautious about how I approach this town. After all, if they were ponies and a tall creature comes running into their town with a smile that shows their teeth, it wouldn't make the best impression. The sun looked like it was really starting its descent, behind the horizon. Knowing that it would be a bad idea, probably even worse than just running into the town, I decided to find a place to just camp out. I look around and see a nice looking tree, and start heading over to it. Once I sit down and lean against the trunk of the tree, my limbs decided to let me know that they didn't appreciate taking the fall and walking for hours with barely any rest. I knew it was going to be awhile before I can fall asleep, knowing that with me hurting this much would keep my mind active for a little bit. So, until the pain in my limbs and back calm down I look at the night sky. Which now that I could actually look at it, I felt in awe at the many stars in the sky. Not one seemed to be blinked out of existence due to light pollution, and it alone was breath taking. After all, on my world you'll get lucky when you're out in the country to even see half as many stars. Though, the exhaustion finally grabbed hold and I quickly feel asleep. "Himm, interesting. I've never encountered your kind before." I opened my eyes to see a dark blue pony standing above me, staring at me intently. "What brings a creature like yourself to Equestria?" "I-I..." I couldn't speak, this pony had a long horn on it's head indicating it was a unicorn, and then my eyes traveled to her wings, and from what the voice had told me I knew this was a princess. But how was this possible? I had just arrived not a day ago, and not one pony knew I was here, and I didn't know what any of these princesses looked like so this couldn't be a dream. Not unless I was just creating what I thought one of them looked like, but why this accurate and why so lucid? "It is a dream creature, I just have the power to enter into them. I noticed your dreams when I was doing my patrol and knew you weren't a pony. Every time I enter a dream, it becomes lucid. And I am one of the rulers of this land. Now, will you answer my question of why you came to Equestria?" She asked again, but before I could answer everything started to break apart. "Curses, you are waking up. Be warned, if you are here to start a battle we will not hesitate to make sure you cannot harm any of our citizens! And like that, I woke up in a cold sweat at the alicorns warning. Though I figured it could have just been a lucid dream of my darker side trying to play on my doubts, but seeing as how I heard a voice in my head before dying and having it transport me here was enough proof that made me think it wasn't just a dream. I don't blame that princess for giving me that warning though, I am an unknown creature to them that may present a threat. Though still feeling a little shaken, and quite sore I got up and leaned on the tree holding my head. Feeling like it was about to split open, and feeling like I was going to puke I stayed standing there for a little while. Once my stomach calmed down, and the pain in my head I look around to see that the sun was just now rising. I turn to face the town, and I could now see something that I hadn't either noticed or thought was just a weird shaped tree. But as I looked, I could see that what I saw coming towards the town wasn't just a tree. It was a tree that was made out of some kind of crystal, and looked like some kind of castle. I decide to just chalk my bad vision on the fact that I was dazed, it was getting dark, and I was very tired and hungry. But thinking about my hunger only made my stomach growl, and I realized that was why I might have felt the need to puke. Though I pushed that thought back, and started to walk forward towards the town hoping that they wouldn't just attack me. Once I'm close enough, I stop to sit down and to take a look to see if I can approach them this early without them panicking or trying to attack me. Though I highly doubted it as it seems that the town just now looked like it was just coming to life. Besides, by the way that princess acted made me think this wasn't a good idea. That's when I saw the first pony walking out of their house, with a huge smile on his face as he trotted off towards where ever. From what I could tell, he looked to stand around my waist, maybe even stomach given as to how far away I am. But if that's so, then these ponies are a little bigger than the ones on Earth. I waited for awhile until I thought the town was completely awake and started to move closer. Though with every step, I feel a little slower and slower, until I come to a stop by the edge of the town. Not one of them have spotted me, and maybe that was a good thing. Maybe I could head back to the woods, and either try to survive there or die starving. But, before I could turn around I heard a scream. "What is that over there?!" A frightened voice cut across, and the near by ponies turned their gaze to see what she was screaming at and my eyes widened in fear, frozen by the stares. For a good moment, everything was silent in the immediate area with only the wind blowing in a nice little chill in the air. Before any of them could act, I finally broke free and started to make my way back to the woods. Though my path was cut off by a group of ponies, pegasi by the looks of their wings, staring the same shocked and some what frightened expressions. "Somepony call the guard!" I heard the voice of a male call, and after that everything that I was worried about came to be. "Please, don't call the guard, I'm friendly!" I scream in panic, hoping that they listen but that only made them go into a riot. I soon found myself somehow moving into the town, most likely because I was running on blind panic hoping to find at least one of these ponies who would listen. But by the time I got to what I would assume was the town market place, everyone of them were in a panic. I look around, and see what looked like stallions in golden armor coming towards me, but then I took noticed what looked like a mare with a pale yellow coat and a purple mane, with a light purple steak in it looking at me with surprise. Though, that wasn't what actually caught my attention fully as I saw one of the market carts seemingly moving on it's own accord. I stared for a second to see if my eyes were playing tricks on me, but the cart seemed to be leaning further and further. The mare was right by it, still focused on me to realized she was in danger. "Hey, get out of the way!" I yelled, and started to run towards her, having to push my way pass many of the panic induced ponies. I feel something hit me in the back, but kept running knowing if I didn't do something this mare would be crushed by this cart. Knowing it would be my fault for causing this panic, which the pony running the cart had left in a panic jumping over it and making it start to tilt somehow. Yet another force hit me, this time on my right leg, though like the last one I ignore it and the mare is only a few feet away, she now wore one of horror. Everything happened in a blur, I remember tackling the mare out of the way of the tilting cart in enough time when a panicked pony ran and bumped into it making it fall. I was on top of this mare, who was still staring at me with horror, but her eyes drifted from me to where she had stood. But before she could speak to me, I'm pulled off and tossed back. The guards that I saw finally caught up, staring at me making me shrivel back in fear. They had looks in their eyes that told me that they intend to kill me, tear flowing down my face. I hadn't wanted to die, that was the whole point of me choosing to come here, to avoid dying. Though, I guess that's what I wanted in the first place, but then what did I actually do to deserve death? All of this panic was brought on by mob mentality, not by me. They started to move towards me, and I was about to run in panic before I gave a yelp of pain as I tried to put weight on my right leg. I looked down, and see a deep gash in it making me pale, and then the pain in my back made me completely fall. The guards were on me before I could even move a muscle, hooves striking my body, making me wonder again what I did to deserve this. "Stop! You'll kill them!" I could barely make out a female voice. "Get back, we have to deal with this thing before it can cause any more damage." I heard a guard say, restraining the mare who was trying to pry the guards off of me. Though, why didn't they just finish me if that's what they were going to do, didn't they have weapons? "Please stop, it didn't do anything!" The mare yelled, and from the tone she was crying. "It started a riot, and some say it was trying to attack some of the citizens." The guard restraining her snapped. "No, it didn't! I was there when it came into town, we caused the riot ourselves by panicking! And I know it didn't try to attack anypony, it was running away from being attacked!" The mare yelled back, breaking free of the guard and managing to pry off one of the guards before they restrained her again. I don't know how I was still conscious after being beaten like this, and from how I arrived and to the injuries I gained from trying to save that mare. Though, one punch sent black spots throughout my vision and I started coughing as I grabbed my neck where the punch had landed, most likely crushing my wind pipe. After that, I blacked out yet again the last thing I felt was a warm body on top of mine, and barely hearing a booming voice. Author's Note Well, this idea was on of those that popped out of no where and wouldn't leave me alone. So, hope you enjoyed and remember to smile, smile, smile! Discussing A Home?I look at the poor creature now laying unconscious in the Ponyville Hospital, who had severe injuries after what had transpired not more than a day ago. From what the doctors had said, it had internal bleeding, a collapsed lung, it's windpipe almost crushed, and it's vocal cords seemed to be badly bruised. So it may not be able to speak for awhile. "Sister, I'm sorry I tried to get there as fast as I could." Luna said, and I could hear the concern and guilt she hid behind her mask. "I know Lulu, and don't beat yourself up because of it. The doctors here did everything they could, and the doctors from Canterlot said he would make a full recovery." I said, giving my sister a gentle and understanding smile. "He? How do you it's gender?" Luna asked, and I couldn't help but let out a slight giggle but quickly stopped myself. "When they were exaiming him after they got him stable, they did a special examination. During this, they took note of his reproductive organs." I give her another smile, and she has a slight blush. "R-right, I almost forgot that they can be quite thorough when doing examinations, especially when it comes to an undiscovered species." Luna said, and I only nodded my head. "Well, he may not be a completely unknown species." I said, getting a curious look from my little sister. "Do you remember those old myths I used to tell you when we were little?" "Yes, the ones with creatures who walked like Minotaur's, but where more related to monkey's rather than bull's." Luna answered, and her eyes widened slightly, though only enough where I could tell. "You mean he is one of these creatures?" "I believe so, and before you say it can't be true, it's just a myth from olden times. You must remember, that every story has truth behind it. After all, the ponies of Equestria had thought Nightmare Moon was no more than an old mares tale for the past five hundred years, until one night she came back." I did hate to bring it up, but I knew it would get her to see the point. "I see what you mean, but if he is one of these creatures, won't he be dangerous?" Luna asked, and I can tell she remembers the myths quite well. "Maybe in those days, yes he may have been dangerous. But I believe that as time went on, as our species grew, so did his. That, and if I read the reports right, it had said he not only saved a mare from being crushed, he didn't even try to defend himself from getting mercilessly beaten." I felt another tug in my gut, after hearing what happened, it had nearly sent me into a righteous fury. After all, for over a thousand years me and my sister have been trying to spread harmony and friendship. I had trained my guards, that unless they absolutely knew there was a threat, they would capture not harm. It sickened me to know that even after beating him to the ground, they continued their assault. Though what also bothered me was that they had used their weapons in a heavily populated area, and only two of them had struck the creature. Those concerns were proven when she had heard of three ponies who had been struck with spears had been admitted to the hospital. Thankfully none of them in serious condition, but I would have to speak with Captain Shining Armor about it. "So, we at least have an idea of what he is. The only questions are, why has he showed up after so long, and where is the rest of his kind?" I look over a Luna, who had directed the question at me. "I believe his kind may have found another world to live on, as for why he came here, only he can answer that. Though it is quite exciting to make contact with the first human in thousands of years. I just wish it was under better circumstances." I say giving a sad sigh, and looked at this humans unconscious form. "As do I, and I only wish I could have helped sooner. I had known he had been in Equestria three days ago. I could have warned him that this town has a tendency to overreact to the tiniest thing." Luna said, again letting her guilt come through. "Luna, even with our abilities we could not have prevented them from doing what they did. I'm more surprised that they reacted so violently towards him, even when he had done nothing. I had expected better from my little ponies." I said, making me wonder why such a little town, even with a new princess, would go to this length. "What will we do with him when he wakes up and recovers enough to be able to leave the hospital?" Luna asked. "I'm sure you've already figured it out. We would need to find somepony who would be willing to take him in, until his injuries are healed and to make sure he doesn't try anything to himself, or to others out of revenge. That, and to let him have a place to stay until we can properly repay him for how he has been treated." I answer. "I can understand him wanting to try to do something out of revenge, but why do you think he would do something to himself? And why not let him stay with us?" Luna asked. "Because they had found a scar on his wrist that looked self inflicted, which leads me to believe he may suffer from depression and may have tried to take his own life at a point.As for why I decided not to let him stay with us, think about it Luna. If a small town like Ponyville reacted so horribly, think about what the high society of Canterlot might try to do. They might try to be civil about it, but I think they might try to demand we put him in a cage or something worse." I answer, looking at his left wrist and back to Luna. "I understand, but his scar does make me wonder if he had been forced to make the self inflicted wound, as a form of either self exile, or banishment." Luna suggested, and I nodded my head. "Maybe, but we won't know until he wakes up. Even then we will have limited ways of communication with him." I said. "Why not use a telepathic spell? I had no trouble getting into his dreams." Luna said, making me raise an eyebrow. "And you did that while not knowing how magic might affect him?" I ask, and I can see her grimace slightly. "I-I'm sorry, I was not thinking when I did it." Luna replied, hanging her head slightly. "It's fine Lulu, now we know we can at least communicate through that means without risk of his mind being shattered in the process." I said, knowing that dream walking was the most advanced kind of telepathy that only Luna and StarSwirl had managed to master. "So, if not with us at the castle, then who? The citizens of Ponyville seem to still be afraid of him, as they were with me when I came back only this time they lashed out." Luna said, making me think for a moment. "We could always ask Twilight, or one of her friends to take him in. With Twilight now having her own castle, she has plenty of room, and her friends might have a spare room where they live." I said, already figuring out what to say in order to get Twilight to agree. "Um, excuse me Princesses?" Both me and Luna turn to see a doctor that we had brought from Canterlot standing in the door. "There's a young mare here, who says she would like to visit our patient. I told her that it would be up to you whether or not he should be allowed any visitors right now." "Does she look like she might be a danger to him, have any weapon what so ever?" Luna asked. "No, all she has is a bouquet of roses with a thank you card attached. From what we could tell, he only has minor allergies so the flowers won't cause much harm." Both me and Luna looked at each other, knowing what we each were thinking even without telepathy. "Let her in, and she has our permission to visit him any time she wants." I said, giving the confused doctor a friendly smile. "As you wish Princess," the doctor said before leaving. "It looks like we might have somepony other than your old student who might be able to take him in. If she is willing of course, but speaking of Twilight, where is she?" Luna asked, looking at me with a little confusion in her eyes. "I do hope so too, and as for Twilight she's in the Crystal Empire visiting her brother for the time being." I replied, and the door to the room opened again soon after revealing the mare with the roses. "Oh, hello dear, please do come in." The mare was shocked for a moment, even though I knew she had been told we were here. Though she seemed to get over once she laid eyes on the unconscious human, which she walked over and placed the flowers next to him on the stand, which had a nice little vase to keep them in. I quickly scanned the flowers, and indeed there was a thank you card. "So, what is your name?" I ask, gaining the mare's attention. "Oh, um, I-I'm Roseluck, but everypony just calls me Rose for short Princesses," Rose quickly bowed to both of us. "There is no need for formalities right now, you can just call me Celestia and I'm sure Luna wouldn't mind it if you addressed her by name as well." I turned my head, and Luna only gave a nod showing she wouldn't mind. "T-thank you prin...I mean Celestia," Rose said, giving me a nervous smile. "Please, do not be nervous. I assume you're the one this young man saved when the town was in a panic?" I asked, and I could already see her relax a little. "Yeah, I am. That's why I brought him these flowers, of course you probably already knew that." Rose said, forming a slight blush. "They are lovely, did you grow them yourself?" I raised an eyebrow as Luna asked that, and she gave me a look that told me she did in fact like the flowers. "Um, yeah I did. They're from my own personal garden, me and my friends run the local flower shop. I never sell ones out of my personal garden though, and I pay extra attention to them." At this point, I couldn't help but give a genuine happy smile. "So, as a thank you, you gave him the best ones I assume?" I ask. "Yeah, it only seems fair. He did save me from being crushed." Rose replied. "Though I do wish I could do something else to help him, I mean I was there when he came into town and saw everything that happened. Then he pushed me out of the way of that broken cart." "So, you were not afraid of him when he first arrived then?" Luna asked. "Of course not, I mean he came into town already looking beat up, like he fell from a high cliff, tired, hungry, and thirsty. I took one look at him and knew he couldn't be dangerous." Rose said, then her eyes widened. "I-I'm sorry for my outburst." "It's quite alright, though hearing you say that does bring comfort to me. Which leads me to this question, do you want to do something more to help him?" I ask, knowing the answer. "Of course, it's only fair after what he did to help me and everything he's been through." I could see the look of determination in her eyes, saying she was telling the truth. "Now, keep in mind that you could say no to this. But due to him being new to Equestria, as I'm sure you know, he won't have a home of his own. Me and my sister were discussing where he could take up residents temporarily until we either build a house for him, or he finds a house of his own. The reason why we would like to have him move in with somepony is simple, we need somepony to watch over him until he has recovered from his injuries." I said, looking at the mare. "Yes, and because of how ponies have reacted here we wouldn't feel comfortable introducing him to the high society just yet." Luna added. "So, you're asking me if he could move in until he heals?" I nod my head at the mare, who took a look at the human and I could tell she was debating on it. "Why am I thinking about this? Of course he can live with me until he recovers!" "Are you sure? You know that taking this on, even for a short amount of time, will most likely make you a target for harassment?" I ask to make sure. "Yeah, I mean like I said if there's anything I could do to help. But, could you um, tell me what exactly happened to him?" Rose asked, developing a little blush. "The doctors wouldn't tell me anything." "Don't worry about that for right now." Luna replied, and I gave her a slight glare. "I'm afraid he had some internal injuries that would have been severe if not treated right away, which includes internal bleeding, collapsed lung, nearly crushed wind pipe, bruised vocal cords, and a few broken ribs." I said, giving the mare a little smile. "But don't worry, we brought the best doctors from Canterlot to help, so he'll be fine." "That's good, but did you say he has bruised vocal cords?" Rose asked, and I nodded. "Yes, and I'm afraid that may have been the most permanent injury. The bruising will heal of course, but do to the damage the doctors think that there is a chance he won't be able to speak again." I answer. "Oh, that's really is sad. I heard him speak, and I thought he had such a good voice." Rose said, giving a sad look at the human. "Tell me, do you know what he is?" Luna asked, making the mare look at her in confusion and giving a shake of her head. "He is what we believe is apart of a mythical species called humans. What many scholars had thought, like I said, was a myth about nearly hairless monkey's who had developed into sentient. But they were believed to be dangerous back then, but like I said it's only a myth. Even if he is a human, we believe his kind may have grown even more." "So, wait he's one of those things that Lyra studies?" Both me and Luna look at her in confusion, and a deeper blush formed on her. "Um, Lyra is a Unicorn who studies old myths about humans in her free time. She even likes to sit on a bench like them, or as close to them as a pony can, and she took interest in their hands." "Make sense, even the doctors took interest in his hands. As close as they are to that of a Minotaur, they have an extra finger." I said, nodding my head. "So, tell me Rose, what do you think about him?" "Oh, well I think he looks very interesting, that's for sure. And I think he seemed really nice from what I could see, I mean he didn't even try to attack anypony. In fact, from what I could see he did everything to avoid ponies. It did scare me when he was running towards me though, especially when I saw the two spears hit him and he kept running." Rose said, getting a shiver. "Yes, but he was running off of pure adrenaline at that point, so he might not have felt the pain." Luna said. "Though, those guards who did that was dealt with accordingly. For not only trying to stun him like they were supposed to, and they even had a Unicorn with them to help with a stun spell, but for using unauthorized use of deadly force. Not only putting a creature who was not causing any harm or problems into the hospital, but for also putting three other ponies in here as well. Not to mention, even after managing to restrain him, they proceeded to beat him without mercy." Luna said, getting another glare from me as I took notice of the frightened state of the mare, who also had a few tears going down her cheek. "Forgive my sister, she can be insensitive sometimes. It's mostly due to her still not completely being adjusted here yet. I know what you saw must have terrified you, and I really am sorry you had to witness it." I said, hanging my head. "W-what did they get?" I raise my head, and I could see that she had a bit of anger in her eyes that replaced part of the fear. "They received dishonorable discharges, and have been put in jail and are waiting for trial." Luna replied. "I-if they don't get offered any deals, and are found guilty, what will their sentences be?" Rose asked. "If no deal is presented to them, they will most likely get twenty years minimum for putting the lives of civilians in danger, and for harming and trying to kill a creature without proper reasoning. Yes, it was very possible that he could have been a threat, but as everypony can see he is no threat. For all we know, he could have came here in order to find a better life, and if so we will make sure he gets a better life." Luna said, and I gave her a smile knowing she would make sure of it. "Um, sorry to interrupt but Princess Twilight has returned, and has been updated on what happened. She, and Spike will be here momentarily." A guard said, saluting. "And I would like to apologize for what my fellow guards have done." "It's fine, and thank you. You are dismissed," I say, waving my hoof. "Thank you Princess," at that the guard turned around and walked out. "Well, looks like we'll have two more guest in a few minutes. Rose, would you mind staying here and telling Twilight your side of the story?" I ask. "Of course," Rose answered, making me give another smile. Author's Note Okay, first let me start off by asking those who read this and chose to dislike it, could you leave a comment on why you don't like it? Is it because you didn't pay attention to the tags, and didn't read the dark tag on it? Or do you just not like dark fics, or is it just too dark for the teen category? If you liked this story so far, you can also feel free to leave a comment with answering theses questions as well. And like I said in one of my reply comments, it will get a bit lighter as the story goes on, not that it won't have it's dark moments of course. But hope you enjoyed, and remember to smile, smile, smile! (Please note that I do know I repeat a few things in this chapter, like explaining his injuries and his housing situation, but those were just a few things that had to be explained more than once. So, try to leave those moments out of the comments if that's all you have to complain about.) Waking Up?I watched the door patiently for my former student and fellow princess to arrive with her assistant. Though I could feel the awkwardness of the quiet room as we waited, and I was almost glad when Twilight finally did show up. Though she looked very disgruntled, probably from having to fill out the reports that was sent to her a few days ago. "Princess Celestia, I'm so sorry I'm late. I just had to wrap up the court case real fast." Twilight said. "It's fine Twilight, I hope you were well informed with what happened and why I asked you to come here?" I ask, knowing if she wasn't it would most likely make her even more stressed. "Um, well I know some of the new guards attacked another creature with deadly force without probable cause." Twilight answered, her ears folded. "That is correct, and I would like you to meet this creature. Though meet is used lightly since he hasn't regained consciousness yet." I said, nodding my head towards the bed making Twilight look and she gave a shocked gasp. "This is horrible, why would they do this?" Twilight asked, and I could see a little anger in her eyes. "They claimed he was attacking citizens of Ponyville causing panic. But many witness say that when he showed up, he didn't try to attack anypony but the panic came from the ponies themselves. They were only authorized to stun and capture him if he decided to run, in which in perfect understanding he did try to run out of panic. Though if he came willingly no force would have been necessary, but that didn't excuse them from nearly killing this poor human." I said. "Has my brother been informed of this?" Twilight asked. "Yes he has, and I have summoned him to Canterlot in a weeks time." I replied. "Oh, and this is Rose. She was there when he first arrived and witnessed the attack, and she is the one who managed to save him from being beaten even more." At that, Twilight looked at the mare and smiled. "Hey Rose, long time no see. So, you saw everything that happened when he first came into Ponyville?" Twilight asked. "Yeah, I did and it wasn't a pretty sight." Rose answered, making Twilight nod in understanding. "Rose has agreed to take him when he is well enough to leave the hospital until he is well enough." I said, making Twilight give me a confused look. "He could have stayed at the castle here, I mean I have plenty of room in it." Twilight said. "I know, but she came here and me and Luna already asked her if it was alright." I said. "Yes, oh by the way, where is Spike?" Luna asked. "He's helping Rarity with a dress order for Fancy Pants store," Twilight replied. "So, he's staying at your place for now huh? Is there anything you want me to do?" "Make sure the citizens of Ponyville know the situation and know he is no danger, and make him feel welcome. He has been through a lot already since arriving, and I feel when he wakes up he will most likely be terrified." I answer, making Twilight nod. "Also, I would like you to speak to the head of the guard here yourself. I believe he may have a few things to say to the local princess." "What kind of things?" Twilight asked. "Mostly complaints about the treatment of his new recruits," I answered. "Okay, well do you know when he's going to wake up? Or even what language he speaks?" Twilight asked. "No, we don't know when he's going to wake up, and as for his language we have no idea. Though it won't matter," I answer. "Why won't it matter? I mean of course it matters, or how else will we communicate with him?" Twilight asked. "That's not what I meant Twilight, his vocal cords were bruised when he was being attacked. He won't be able to speak for a little while, if at all." I replied giving another sigh. "So, how will we speak to him then?" Twilight asked. "A telepathic spell, as it turns out Luna had entered his dreams already. So a simple spell like that won't cause any harm to his mind," I answer. "So, you guys are gonna speak with him in his mind? How will I know what he's saying then?" Rose asked, making me give a chuckle. "We can set up a multiple link, it's fairly easy to do really." I answered. "Sister, just to let you know he keeps trying to wake up. It shouldn't be too long now before he finally does," Luna said, making me give a nod. "That's good to hear, let's just hope when he does he won't be in too much panic. Of course his injuries will probably help keep him from doing too much." I said. "What if he is dangerous though and manages to attack us?" Twilight asked. "I don't think so, I was there. If he was that dangerous, he could have easily of knocked those guards away. He even save me from a cart that was about to fall on me." Rose said. "No offense, but it could be apart of a plan to get close to us. So what if he is dangerous, then what?" Twilight asked. "Then we will have to restrain him and then once he is healed, we'll have to arrest him. But until he wakes up, we won't know that and we can't assume it either by the way he arrived." I answered. "Right, of course, I know I was just curious about it. And I am sorry Rose, but we do have to be prepared if he is in fact dangerous and tries to attack us." Twilight said, giving Rose an apologetic look. "I know, but I still don't think he is." Rose said. "Neither do I, and let's hope we're correct in saying that." I said. "Yes, we can only hope," Luna said. They sat there talking a little bit more, and doctors and nurses came in every now and again to check on him while they talked. I explained a few more things to Twilight, like how we knew he was a male, and what he was. It wasn't long before she had to leave though, and I promised when he wakes up I would send word to her. "Tia, I will also take my leave for now. It may be okay if one court is closed, but if both day and night court is closed then the nobles might throw another hissy fit." Luna said. "Good point, alright I will see you when I can Lulu. Do you want me to send word to you as well when he wakes?" I asked. "That would be most appreciated, I would like to meet him as well." Luna said, giving me a little smile, before leaving. "So, it's just you and me now Rose. Do you have any questions about what's going on?" I ask, seeing the mare relax now. "No, not really. But, do you mind if I get some shut eye? I mean it is late, and I haven't really slept since about six in the morning before I had to go to work." Rose said. "Of course, go right ahead." I answer, and watched as the mare got comfortable and closed her eyes. I finally let my demeanor drop a little, and I give a tired sigh with a yawn. I personally haven't slept in two days due to the fact I had to deal with a tremendous amount of work that had to be done after Tirek attacked. It only took a few hours to fully calm the ponies of Equestria down. Being sent to Tartarus without magic was a horrifying experience, but one that I knew I had to go through in order to make sure everything was okay. Though I was worried on the effects it would have on Cadence, but she seemed to be fine. I was proud to know she could handle going through that, of course I shouldn't have been surprised since she had to keep Sombra at bay for a few days straight. The only who seemed to be effected was Luna, which doesn't surprise me since she has only been back a little over a year from being banished. It had probably brought back memories of that time, but she refused to show any of it. Something I had hoped she would get past so the past wouldn't repeat itself. Twilight and her friends seem to be getting along just fine with their new position as the council of friendship. It was hard to believe that they have come so far in such little time. It really does make me proud to know that my former student and her friends could be this successful were eve the greatest have failed. Though another good thing did come out of this, Discords reformation seems to finally have taken hold. It didn't really come as a shock of his betrayal, but it was worth a shot if it meant preventing Tireks rise to power. He still plays jokes, but not like how he used to and Twilight has even went out of her way to make sure he knows she really does consider him a friend. "Excuse me Princess?" I look to see a doctor staring at me. "Yes, what can I do for you?" I ask. "Well, you look exhausted and if you like we can set up a room for you?" The doctor asked. "It's quite alright, thank you though." I replied, giving her a kind smile. "Well, try to get some sleep. No point in having a tired and exhausted Princess on our hooves, especially if that Princess ends up needing to be treated for said exhaustion." The doctor said, and I nodded. "Don't worry, I will be going to sleep in a little while." I said, and the doctor nodded and left. I give a sigh, knowing that I will have to get some sleep soon enough. Though, before I do I decided to get something to eat, and walk out of the room. I went straight for a vending machine to see what they had in stock, and I couldn't help but blush a little as my stomach growled at the sight of the food. Picking out what I wanted, I quickly paid the machine and once I got my food I started my way back to the room. The apple was gone before I got back, though I was feeling even more exhausted now that I had something in my stomach. Though as soon as I walked into the room, I felt a difference in the air, and as I look I could see his eyes open, but were slowly closing again. "I guess he must have woke up for a minute or two, that's good. Let's hope you'll be able to wake up fully in the morning," I say giving another yawn. Author's Note Hope you enjoyed, and remember to smile, smile, smile!
A Happier Life?I was just another nineteen year old who suffered from a mild case of depression, nothing to serious. I was even looking forward to my twentieth birthday in August. But now, now I know I won't be able to see that birthday, or any other day for that matter. I wasn't happy with my life by a long shot, but I wasn't so unhappy I would kill myself. But then again, why am I laying here with a knife beside me, and my wrist cut open? Was my depression really that bad? And what is that laughter in my head? Why does it taunt me by offering a happier life when I know it's only a trick? But then again, what do I have to lose if I accept the offer? What it was offering though made me think as I laid there bleeding out, it made me think if I was really happy with my life here. I mean, I didn't have very many friend, in fact I don't think I actually have any friends at this point. But then there's my family, which either gave up on me or abused me emotionally in some way. So, was I truly happy with my life here? Even if this laughter is the devil waiting for me to answer so it can drag me to hell, would it be in someway better than to stay here? I mean I've been bullied all throughout my childhood, and even some until high school before I dropped out, and like I said my family has either given up on me or turned to emotionally abuse me. "So, have you made your decision then?" The laughter stopped, and the voice that spoke echoed within my head. "I-I want to b-be happy for once in m-my life..." I answer, tears streaming down my cheeks as I start to lose consciousness. "Good, cause I'm sure you'll be much happier where I'm taking you, and you'll cause a little chaos as well." Was the last thing I heard the voice say before the darkness surrounded me. I awoke with a chill running down my spine, and as I sat up feeling groggy and nausea like someone suffering from sea sickness. But as that wore off, I finally took in my surroundings. Only to find that I was in fact surrounded by darkness, but my eyes locked onto something in the distance. A single spot of light, and I started walking towards it. "Ah, it looks like you've finally awoken my little human friend." I heard the voice, not in my mind this time, but like it was a real person talking. Only in the darkness I couldn't tell where it came from as it echoed. "Please, don't panic. If you recall I'm the one who gave you this chance at happiness. But first, before I let you go into this new world to you, I will give you the same choice. You can either go back to your world, and die, or you can still go to this new world and live." "I-I remember, and I'm sticking with my choice!" I yell, feeling a bit frustrated at being reminded of what I did, even if I didn't remember doing it to myself. "Good, good but before I let you continue I'll need to explain a few things first." The voice said. "Explain, explain what?" I ask, frustration giving way to a little panic. "Oh, just a little something about this world you'll be living in from now on." The voice answered, and in a tone that made me shiver for some reason. I let the voice start explaining, and my eyes go wide in surprise and shock. A world full of mythical creatures, and the ones I'll be living with are ponies. Not just any ponies though, some were unicorns, some were pegasi, while some were normal ponies that could talk and have plenty of strength. But the rulers of this land of ponies were known as Alicorns, and there was a total of four. "Any questions?" The voice asked, breaking me out of my thought but I was still in a bit of a haze. "W-will they even accept me? I-I mean I'm not even the best example of what humans could be, after all I did try to kill myself." I said, letting my shoulders sag and I wanted to crawl into a ball. "All the more reason why I decided to bring you here, so you can get over that little issue you have. Don't worry, they even accepted me as a friend even though I tried to take over their world twice and betrayed them." The voice replied, again making my eyes go wide and then narrow. "T-then how can I trust you?" I asked, knowing what the answer was probably going to be. "Because I saved you, and I am fully reformed now. I'm not entirely bad," the voice answered making me give a sigh. "So, are you ready to go into your new home?" "I...I guess," I answer getting up and starting to walk towards the light. "Oh, and a warning before you go." I turn to face away from the light and into the darkness. "Don't be surprised if they do treat you like a monster at first." The voice had what sounded like actual sympathy in it, making me give a hesitant nod. At that moment I felt a sudden force pushing me towards the light I had been walking to with enough speed that my feet left whatever invisible ground there was. As I was coming closer to the light, even with me facing away from it, I had to shut my eyes before it blinded me completely. But soon the light faded, and yet I still refused to open my eyes as I started to get a sense of being weightless and knowing what was about to happen. Though it felt like I was just floating there for a few seconds before I felt gravity take hold, bringing me into a free fall. I didn't even get the chance to scream out of panic, as I suddenly hit the ground with great force. I couldn't move after I hit the ground though, the wind was knocked out of me and I was completely dazed. I managed to open my eyes though to see a beautiful night sky, that had more stars then I ever seen. But soon I started to lose focus as black spots started to dance in my vision, and soon the darkness took me once again. I woke up in a coughing fit, my lungs still were on fire from getting the wind knocked out of them. Though, as I started to get up I winced as my entire body was completely sore. Like I had run into a wall multiple times, but as I stood I thought that everything I had been through was some kind of nightmare. That's when I looked my wrist, which now had a scar running across it. My eyes widen and I started to look around, to find I was in some kind of woods. Then I started to remember all that voice had told me, that this land I was in was run by ponies and has a lot more nature in it then what I might have been used to. Though I was a little nervous and skeptical about what the voice told me, I had no choice but to believe it. After all, I apparently was in between dimensions or something like that. I knew that if it was telling the truth, then I would have to just accept it. Even if the main species of this land were talking, mythical ponies, it could have been worse. That and I bet if anyone else were in my shoes, they would have panicked a lot more than I did. But then, what did I have to lose from coming here and panicking? I was apparently more unhappy with my life than I had thought I was, and to be offered a chance to actually be happy for once was all that I needed. I shook my head to get myself out of my thoughts, as I realized I would need to find the nearest town or city. Though, I wasn't exactly the best person to take on a survival trip, I did know a few things. So, I decided to follow what looked like where the sun was rising in hopes that it would lead me, at very least, outside of these woods. It wasn't long before I had come across a trail though, but if the sun was any indication it was a little past noon and already I was tired. Taking that fall last night had done a lot more than I realized, and it doesn't help that I'm overweight. So, I quickly found a tree to rest on for a little bit. I looked up at the nearly clear blue sky, and the few clouds that where hanging around. I take a deep breath letting out a sad sigh, and also realized how fresh the air was. Though as I sat there I wondered about my choice, granted this may have seemed like the better option than going back and dying, but it still made me feel even more alone and sad than I already was. After what I assumed was at least an hour, I finally got up and started down the trail which looked like it was recently ran through by a stamped or something. It made me wonder if these ponies that did this was doing some kind of tradition or if they weren't as smart as what that voice said. Though I guess there's only one way to find out, and that's to follow this trail and hope it leads to some kind of city or town. Though after a little while I start to hear what sounded like a creek, and feeling thirsty I follow the sound. What I come to is in fact a small creek, that looked like it was so pure you could bottle it up right then and there and it'll be ready to sell. Cupping my hands, I dip them in and take a hesitant sip that led into taking an even bigger drink. I soon dipped my face in, feeling some of the weariness go away and getting a good drink. Once I managed to pull my head out of the water I let out a satisfied sigh, now feeling refreshed. I then started my way back the way I came to the trail to continue to see where it leads. Though as far as I knew, these woods could be deeper than what I thought and it could take me more than just a day to get out, even longer to find some kind of town at very least. Though as I walked back to the trail though and looked at the scenery, I still couldn't bring myself to even remotely smile. It was beautiful, especially since with the leaves different colors and spread across the ground giving it a fall feeling. But just thinking about it, once again brought up my inner thoughts. 'Why did I agree to this when I don't deserve to look at this beautiful landscape? Why did I try to kill myself when I wasn't even that depressed? Why would I think these ponies would accept me into their society? And why did that voice decide to give me this chance at a happy life when there are far better people who actually deserve it instead?' I took a moment to take a breath to try to clear my head of these questions, what has been done, has been done. I can't just let my depression win again, not after I did get this chance. Though one last question kept creeping up on me, and that's why am I so accepting that I'm in a world full of ponies and mythical creatures? I guess it could be because that voice explained it and gave me the time to get my head wrapped around it. Maybe I was just more open minded than most people. Maybe a mixture of both, because if I would have just woken up in this world surrounded by ponies I doubt I would be calm, and if I did remain calm then how without it being explained? But before I dive in too deep, I take notice that I'm now outside of the woods which were about ten feet behind me. I give a little chuckle at my own getting so into my own thoughts I wasn't even paying attention. That's when I decided to take a look at my new surroundings. Like I said, the woods I just came out of is behind me but not far I can see a green wall of leafs. I felt a shiver as I could have sworn I saw what looked like some kind of pack of wolves running just beyond the trees. But I look away, and as I'm skimming the horizon I can make out what looks like roofs that look like they might be apart of some kind of medieval architecture. Once again, I give a sigh of relief as I know that I won't be lost for days trying to find even just a building. I started walking, and despite my excitement I knew I still had to be cautious about how I approach this town. After all, if they were ponies and a tall creature comes running into their town with a smile that shows their teeth, it wouldn't make the best impression. The sun looked like it was really starting its descent, behind the horizon. Knowing that it would be a bad idea, probably even worse than just running into the town, I decided to find a place to just camp out. I look around and see a nice looking tree, and start heading over to it. Once I sit down and lean against the trunk of the tree, my limbs decided to let me know that they didn't appreciate taking the fall and walking for hours with barely any rest. I knew it was going to be awhile before I can fall asleep, knowing that with me hurting this much would keep my mind active for a little bit. So, until the pain in my limbs and back calm down I look at the night sky. Which now that I could actually look at it, I felt in awe at the many stars in the sky. Not one seemed to be blinked out of existence due to light pollution, and it alone was breath taking. After all, on my world you'll get lucky when you're out in the country to even see half as many stars. Though, the exhaustion finally grabbed hold and I quickly feel asleep. "Himm, interesting. I've never encountered your kind before." I opened my eyes to see a dark blue pony standing above me, staring at me intently. "What brings a creature like yourself to Equestria?" "I-I..." I couldn't speak, this pony had a long horn on it's head indicating it was a unicorn, and then my eyes traveled to her wings, and from what the voice had told me I knew this was a princess. But how was this possible? I had just arrived not a day ago, and not one pony knew I was here, and I didn't know what any of these princesses looked like so this couldn't be a dream. Not unless I was just creating what I thought one of them looked like, but why this accurate and why so lucid? "It is a dream creature, I just have the power to enter into them. I noticed your dreams when I was doing my patrol and knew you weren't a pony. Every time I enter a dream, it becomes lucid. And I am one of the rulers of this land. Now, will you answer my question of why you came to Equestria?" She asked again, but before I could answer everything started to break apart. "Curses, you are waking up. Be warned, if you are here to start a battle we will not hesitate to make sure you cannot harm any of our citizens! And like that, I woke up in a cold sweat at the alicorns warning. Though I figured it could have just been a lucid dream of my darker side trying to play on my doubts, but seeing as how I heard a voice in my head before dying and having it transport me here was enough proof that made me think it wasn't just a dream. I don't blame that princess for giving me that warning though, I am an unknown creature to them that may present a threat. Though still feeling a little shaken, and quite sore I got up and leaned on the tree holding my head. Feeling like it was about to split open, and feeling like I was going to puke I stayed standing there for a little while. Once my stomach calmed down, and the pain in my head I look around to see that the sun was just now rising. I turn to face the town, and I could now see something that I hadn't either noticed or thought was just a weird shaped tree. But as I looked, I could see that what I saw coming towards the town wasn't just a tree. It was a tree that was made out of some kind of crystal, and looked like some kind of castle. I decide to just chalk my bad vision on the fact that I was dazed, it was getting dark, and I was very tired and hungry. But thinking about my hunger only made my stomach growl, and I realized that was why I might have felt the need to puke. Though I pushed that thought back, and started to walk forward towards the town hoping that they wouldn't just attack me. Once I'm close enough, I stop to sit down and to take a look to see if I can approach them this early without them panicking or trying to attack me. Though I highly doubted it as it seems that the town just now looked like it was just coming to life. Besides, by the way that princess acted made me think this wasn't a good idea. That's when I saw the first pony walking out of their house, with a huge smile on his face as he trotted off towards where ever. From what I could tell, he looked to stand around my waist, maybe even stomach given as to how far away I am. But if that's so, then these ponies are a little bigger than the ones on Earth. I waited for awhile until I thought the town was completely awake and started to move closer. Though with every step, I feel a little slower and slower, until I come to a stop by the edge of the town. Not one of them have spotted me, and maybe that was a good thing. Maybe I could head back to the woods, and either try to survive there or die starving. But, before I could turn around I heard a scream. "What is that over there?!" A frightened voice cut across, and the near by ponies turned their gaze to see what she was screaming at and my eyes widened in fear, frozen by the stares. For a good moment, everything was silent in the immediate area with only the wind blowing in a nice little chill in the air. Before any of them could act, I finally broke free and started to make my way back to the woods. Though my path was cut off by a group of ponies, pegasi by the looks of their wings, staring the same shocked and some what frightened expressions. "Somepony call the guard!" I heard the voice of a male call, and after that everything that I was worried about came to be. "Please, don't call the guard, I'm friendly!" I scream in panic, hoping that they listen but that only made them go into a riot. I soon found myself somehow moving into the town, most likely because I was running on blind panic hoping to find at least one of these ponies who would listen. But by the time I got to what I would assume was the town market place, everyone of them were in a panic. I look around, and see what looked like stallions in golden armor coming towards me, but then I took noticed what looked like a mare with a pale yellow coat and a purple mane, with a light purple steak in it looking at me with surprise. Though, that wasn't what actually caught my attention fully as I saw one of the market carts seemingly moving on it's own accord. I stared for a second to see if my eyes were playing tricks on me, but the cart seemed to be leaning further and further. The mare was right by it, still focused on me to realized she was in danger. "Hey, get out of the way!" I yelled, and started to run towards her, having to push my way pass many of the panic induced ponies. I feel something hit me in the back, but kept running knowing if I didn't do something this mare would be crushed by this cart. Knowing it would be my fault for causing this panic, which the pony running the cart had left in a panic jumping over it and making it start to tilt somehow. Yet another force hit me, this time on my right leg, though like the last one I ignore it and the mare is only a few feet away, she now wore one of horror. Everything happened in a blur, I remember tackling the mare out of the way of the tilting cart in enough time when a panicked pony ran and bumped into it making it fall. I was on top of this mare, who was still staring at me with horror, but her eyes drifted from me to where she had stood. But before she could speak to me, I'm pulled off and tossed back. The guards that I saw finally caught up, staring at me making me shrivel back in fear. They had looks in their eyes that told me that they intend to kill me, tear flowing down my face. I hadn't wanted to die, that was the whole point of me choosing to come here, to avoid dying. Though, I guess that's what I wanted in the first place, but then what did I actually do to deserve death? All of this panic was brought on by mob mentality, not by me. They started to move towards me, and I was about to run in panic before I gave a yelp of pain as I tried to put weight on my right leg. I looked down, and see a deep gash in it making me pale, and then the pain in my back made me completely fall. The guards were on me before I could even move a muscle, hooves striking my body, making me wonder again what I did to deserve this. "Stop! You'll kill them!" I could barely make out a female voice. "Get back, we have to deal with this thing before it can cause any more damage." I heard a guard say, restraining the mare who was trying to pry the guards off of me. Though, why didn't they just finish me if that's what they were going to do, didn't they have weapons? "Please stop, it didn't do anything!" The mare yelled, and from the tone she was crying. "It started a riot, and some say it was trying to attack some of the citizens." The guard restraining her snapped. "No, it didn't! I was there when it came into town, we caused the riot ourselves by panicking! And I know it didn't try to attack anypony, it was running away from being attacked!" The mare yelled back, breaking free of the guard and managing to pry off one of the guards before they restrained her again. I don't know how I was still conscious after being beaten like this, and from how I arrived and to the injuries I gained from trying to save that mare. Though, one punch sent black spots throughout my vision and I started coughing as I grabbed my neck where the punch had landed, most likely crushing my wind pipe. After that, I blacked out yet again the last thing I felt was a warm body on top of mine, and barely hearing a booming voice. Author's Note Well, this idea was on of those that popped out of no where and wouldn't leave me alone. So, hope you enjoyed and remember to smile, smile, smile!
Discussing A Home?I look at the poor creature now laying unconscious in the Ponyville Hospital, who had severe injuries after what had transpired not more than a day ago. From what the doctors had said, it had internal bleeding, a collapsed lung, it's windpipe almost crushed, and it's vocal cords seemed to be badly bruised. So it may not be able to speak for awhile. "Sister, I'm sorry I tried to get there as fast as I could." Luna said, and I could hear the concern and guilt she hid behind her mask. "I know Lulu, and don't beat yourself up because of it. The doctors here did everything they could, and the doctors from Canterlot said he would make a full recovery." I said, giving my sister a gentle and understanding smile. "He? How do you it's gender?" Luna asked, and I couldn't help but let out a slight giggle but quickly stopped myself. "When they were exaiming him after they got him stable, they did a special examination. During this, they took note of his reproductive organs." I give her another smile, and she has a slight blush. "R-right, I almost forgot that they can be quite thorough when doing examinations, especially when it comes to an undiscovered species." Luna said, and I only nodded my head. "Well, he may not be a completely unknown species." I said, getting a curious look from my little sister. "Do you remember those old myths I used to tell you when we were little?" "Yes, the ones with creatures who walked like Minotaur's, but where more related to monkey's rather than bull's." Luna answered, and her eyes widened slightly, though only enough where I could tell. "You mean he is one of these creatures?" "I believe so, and before you say it can't be true, it's just a myth from olden times. You must remember, that every story has truth behind it. After all, the ponies of Equestria had thought Nightmare Moon was no more than an old mares tale for the past five hundred years, until one night she came back." I did hate to bring it up, but I knew it would get her to see the point. "I see what you mean, but if he is one of these creatures, won't he be dangerous?" Luna asked, and I can tell she remembers the myths quite well. "Maybe in those days, yes he may have been dangerous. But I believe that as time went on, as our species grew, so did his. That, and if I read the reports right, it had said he not only saved a mare from being crushed, he didn't even try to defend himself from getting mercilessly beaten." I felt another tug in my gut, after hearing what happened, it had nearly sent me into a righteous fury. After all, for over a thousand years me and my sister have been trying to spread harmony and friendship. I had trained my guards, that unless they absolutely knew there was a threat, they would capture not harm. It sickened me to know that even after beating him to the ground, they continued their assault. Though what also bothered me was that they had used their weapons in a heavily populated area, and only two of them had struck the creature. Those concerns were proven when she had heard of three ponies who had been struck with spears had been admitted to the hospital. Thankfully none of them in serious condition, but I would have to speak with Captain Shining Armor about it. "So, we at least have an idea of what he is. The only questions are, why has he showed up after so long, and where is the rest of his kind?" I look over a Luna, who had directed the question at me. "I believe his kind may have found another world to live on, as for why he came here, only he can answer that. Though it is quite exciting to make contact with the first human in thousands of years. I just wish it was under better circumstances." I say giving a sad sigh, and looked at this humans unconscious form. "As do I, and I only wish I could have helped sooner. I had known he had been in Equestria three days ago. I could have warned him that this town has a tendency to overreact to the tiniest thing." Luna said, again letting her guilt come through. "Luna, even with our abilities we could not have prevented them from doing what they did. I'm more surprised that they reacted so violently towards him, even when he had done nothing. I had expected better from my little ponies." I said, making me wonder why such a little town, even with a new princess, would go to this length. "What will we do with him when he wakes up and recovers enough to be able to leave the hospital?" Luna asked. "I'm sure you've already figured it out. We would need to find somepony who would be willing to take him in, until his injuries are healed and to make sure he doesn't try anything to himself, or to others out of revenge. That, and to let him have a place to stay until we can properly repay him for how he has been treated." I answer. "I can understand him wanting to try to do something out of revenge, but why do you think he would do something to himself? And why not let him stay with us?" Luna asked. "Because they had found a scar on his wrist that looked self inflicted, which leads me to believe he may suffer from depression and may have tried to take his own life at a point.As for why I decided not to let him stay with us, think about it Luna. If a small town like Ponyville reacted so horribly, think about what the high society of Canterlot might try to do. They might try to be civil about it, but I think they might try to demand we put him in a cage or something worse." I answer, looking at his left wrist and back to Luna. "I understand, but his scar does make me wonder if he had been forced to make the self inflicted wound, as a form of either self exile, or banishment." Luna suggested, and I nodded my head. "Maybe, but we won't know until he wakes up. Even then we will have limited ways of communication with him." I said. "Why not use a telepathic spell? I had no trouble getting into his dreams." Luna said, making me raise an eyebrow. "And you did that while not knowing how magic might affect him?" I ask, and I can see her grimace slightly. "I-I'm sorry, I was not thinking when I did it." Luna replied, hanging her head slightly. "It's fine Lulu, now we know we can at least communicate through that means without risk of his mind being shattered in the process." I said, knowing that dream walking was the most advanced kind of telepathy that only Luna and StarSwirl had managed to master. "So, if not with us at the castle, then who? The citizens of Ponyville seem to still be afraid of him, as they were with me when I came back only this time they lashed out." Luna said, making me think for a moment. "We could always ask Twilight, or one of her friends to take him in. With Twilight now having her own castle, she has plenty of room, and her friends might have a spare room where they live." I said, already figuring out what to say in order to get Twilight to agree. "Um, excuse me Princesses?" Both me and Luna turn to see a doctor that we had brought from Canterlot standing in the door. "There's a young mare here, who says she would like to visit our patient. I told her that it would be up to you whether or not he should be allowed any visitors right now." "Does she look like she might be a danger to him, have any weapon what so ever?" Luna asked. "No, all she has is a bouquet of roses with a thank you card attached. From what we could tell, he only has minor allergies so the flowers won't cause much harm." Both me and Luna looked at each other, knowing what we each were thinking even without telepathy. "Let her in, and she has our permission to visit him any time she wants." I said, giving the confused doctor a friendly smile. "As you wish Princess," the doctor said before leaving. "It looks like we might have somepony other than your old student who might be able to take him in. If she is willing of course, but speaking of Twilight, where is she?" Luna asked, looking at me with a little confusion in her eyes. "I do hope so too, and as for Twilight she's in the Crystal Empire visiting her brother for the time being." I replied, and the door to the room opened again soon after revealing the mare with the roses. "Oh, hello dear, please do come in." The mare was shocked for a moment, even though I knew she had been told we were here. Though she seemed to get over once she laid eyes on the unconscious human, which she walked over and placed the flowers next to him on the stand, which had a nice little vase to keep them in. I quickly scanned the flowers, and indeed there was a thank you card. "So, what is your name?" I ask, gaining the mare's attention. "Oh, um, I-I'm Roseluck, but everypony just calls me Rose for short Princesses," Rose quickly bowed to both of us. "There is no need for formalities right now, you can just call me Celestia and I'm sure Luna wouldn't mind it if you addressed her by name as well." I turned my head, and Luna only gave a nod showing she wouldn't mind. "T-thank you prin...I mean Celestia," Rose said, giving me a nervous smile. "Please, do not be nervous. I assume you're the one this young man saved when the town was in a panic?" I asked, and I could already see her relax a little. "Yeah, I am. That's why I brought him these flowers, of course you probably already knew that." Rose said, forming a slight blush. "They are lovely, did you grow them yourself?" I raised an eyebrow as Luna asked that, and she gave me a look that told me she did in fact like the flowers. "Um, yeah I did. They're from my own personal garden, me and my friends run the local flower shop. I never sell ones out of my personal garden though, and I pay extra attention to them." At this point, I couldn't help but give a genuine happy smile. "So, as a thank you, you gave him the best ones I assume?" I ask. "Yeah, it only seems fair. He did save me from being crushed." Rose replied. "Though I do wish I could do something else to help him, I mean I was there when he came into town and saw everything that happened. Then he pushed me out of the way of that broken cart." "So, you were not afraid of him when he first arrived then?" Luna asked. "Of course not, I mean he came into town already looking beat up, like he fell from a high cliff, tired, hungry, and thirsty. I took one look at him and knew he couldn't be dangerous." Rose said, then her eyes widened. "I-I'm sorry for my outburst." "It's quite alright, though hearing you say that does bring comfort to me. Which leads me to this question, do you want to do something more to help him?" I ask, knowing the answer. "Of course, it's only fair after what he did to help me and everything he's been through." I could see the look of determination in her eyes, saying she was telling the truth. "Now, keep in mind that you could say no to this. But due to him being new to Equestria, as I'm sure you know, he won't have a home of his own. Me and my sister were discussing where he could take up residents temporarily until we either build a house for him, or he finds a house of his own. The reason why we would like to have him move in with somepony is simple, we need somepony to watch over him until he has recovered from his injuries." I said, looking at the mare. "Yes, and because of how ponies have reacted here we wouldn't feel comfortable introducing him to the high society just yet." Luna added. "So, you're asking me if he could move in until he heals?" I nod my head at the mare, who took a look at the human and I could tell she was debating on it. "Why am I thinking about this? Of course he can live with me until he recovers!" "Are you sure? You know that taking this on, even for a short amount of time, will most likely make you a target for harassment?" I ask to make sure. "Yeah, I mean like I said if there's anything I could do to help. But, could you um, tell me what exactly happened to him?" Rose asked, developing a little blush. "The doctors wouldn't tell me anything." "Don't worry about that for right now." Luna replied, and I gave her a slight glare. "I'm afraid he had some internal injuries that would have been severe if not treated right away, which includes internal bleeding, collapsed lung, nearly crushed wind pipe, bruised vocal cords, and a few broken ribs." I said, giving the mare a little smile. "But don't worry, we brought the best doctors from Canterlot to help, so he'll be fine." "That's good, but did you say he has bruised vocal cords?" Rose asked, and I nodded. "Yes, and I'm afraid that may have been the most permanent injury. The bruising will heal of course, but do to the damage the doctors think that there is a chance he won't be able to speak again." I answer. "Oh, that's really is sad. I heard him speak, and I thought he had such a good voice." Rose said, giving a sad look at the human. "Tell me, do you know what he is?" Luna asked, making the mare look at her in confusion and giving a shake of her head. "He is what we believe is apart of a mythical species called humans. What many scholars had thought, like I said, was a myth about nearly hairless monkey's who had developed into sentient. But they were believed to be dangerous back then, but like I said it's only a myth. Even if he is a human, we believe his kind may have grown even more." "So, wait he's one of those things that Lyra studies?" Both me and Luna look at her in confusion, and a deeper blush formed on her. "Um, Lyra is a Unicorn who studies old myths about humans in her free time. She even likes to sit on a bench like them, or as close to them as a pony can, and she took interest in their hands." "Make sense, even the doctors took interest in his hands. As close as they are to that of a Minotaur, they have an extra finger." I said, nodding my head. "So, tell me Rose, what do you think about him?" "Oh, well I think he looks very interesting, that's for sure. And I think he seemed really nice from what I could see, I mean he didn't even try to attack anypony. In fact, from what I could see he did everything to avoid ponies. It did scare me when he was running towards me though, especially when I saw the two spears hit him and he kept running." Rose said, getting a shiver. "Yes, but he was running off of pure adrenaline at that point, so he might not have felt the pain." Luna said. "Though, those guards who did that was dealt with accordingly. For not only trying to stun him like they were supposed to, and they even had a Unicorn with them to help with a stun spell, but for using unauthorized use of deadly force. Not only putting a creature who was not causing any harm or problems into the hospital, but for also putting three other ponies in here as well. Not to mention, even after managing to restrain him, they proceeded to beat him without mercy." Luna said, getting another glare from me as I took notice of the frightened state of the mare, who also had a few tears going down her cheek. "Forgive my sister, she can be insensitive sometimes. It's mostly due to her still not completely being adjusted here yet. I know what you saw must have terrified you, and I really am sorry you had to witness it." I said, hanging my head. "W-what did they get?" I raise my head, and I could see that she had a bit of anger in her eyes that replaced part of the fear. "They received dishonorable discharges, and have been put in jail and are waiting for trial." Luna replied. "I-if they don't get offered any deals, and are found guilty, what will their sentences be?" Rose asked. "If no deal is presented to them, they will most likely get twenty years minimum for putting the lives of civilians in danger, and for harming and trying to kill a creature without proper reasoning. Yes, it was very possible that he could have been a threat, but as everypony can see he is no threat. For all we know, he could have came here in order to find a better life, and if so we will make sure he gets a better life." Luna said, and I gave her a smile knowing she would make sure of it. "Um, sorry to interrupt but Princess Twilight has returned, and has been updated on what happened. She, and Spike will be here momentarily." A guard said, saluting. "And I would like to apologize for what my fellow guards have done." "It's fine, and thank you. You are dismissed," I say, waving my hoof. "Thank you Princess," at that the guard turned around and walked out. "Well, looks like we'll have two more guest in a few minutes. Rose, would you mind staying here and telling Twilight your side of the story?" I ask. "Of course," Rose answered, making me give another smile. Author's Note Okay, first let me start off by asking those who read this and chose to dislike it, could you leave a comment on why you don't like it? Is it because you didn't pay attention to the tags, and didn't read the dark tag on it? Or do you just not like dark fics, or is it just too dark for the teen category? If you liked this story so far, you can also feel free to leave a comment with answering theses questions as well. And like I said in one of my reply comments, it will get a bit lighter as the story goes on, not that it won't have it's dark moments of course. But hope you enjoyed, and remember to smile, smile, smile! (Please note that I do know I repeat a few things in this chapter, like explaining his injuries and his housing situation, but those were just a few things that had to be explained more than once. So, try to leave those moments out of the comments if that's all you have to complain about.)
Waking Up?I watched the door patiently for my former student and fellow princess to arrive with her assistant. Though I could feel the awkwardness of the quiet room as we waited, and I was almost glad when Twilight finally did show up. Though she looked very disgruntled, probably from having to fill out the reports that was sent to her a few days ago. "Princess Celestia, I'm so sorry I'm late. I just had to wrap up the court case real fast." Twilight said. "It's fine Twilight, I hope you were well informed with what happened and why I asked you to come here?" I ask, knowing if she wasn't it would most likely make her even more stressed. "Um, well I know some of the new guards attacked another creature with deadly force without probable cause." Twilight answered, her ears folded. "That is correct, and I would like you to meet this creature. Though meet is used lightly since he hasn't regained consciousness yet." I said, nodding my head towards the bed making Twilight look and she gave a shocked gasp. "This is horrible, why would they do this?" Twilight asked, and I could see a little anger in her eyes. "They claimed he was attacking citizens of Ponyville causing panic. But many witness say that when he showed up, he didn't try to attack anypony but the panic came from the ponies themselves. They were only authorized to stun and capture him if he decided to run, in which in perfect understanding he did try to run out of panic. Though if he came willingly no force would have been necessary, but that didn't excuse them from nearly killing this poor human." I said. "Has my brother been informed of this?" Twilight asked. "Yes he has, and I have summoned him to Canterlot in a weeks time." I replied. "Oh, and this is Rose. She was there when he first arrived and witnessed the attack, and she is the one who managed to save him from being beaten even more." At that, Twilight looked at the mare and smiled. "Hey Rose, long time no see. So, you saw everything that happened when he first came into Ponyville?" Twilight asked. "Yeah, I did and it wasn't a pretty sight." Rose answered, making Twilight nod in understanding. "Rose has agreed to take him when he is well enough to leave the hospital until he is well enough." I said, making Twilight give me a confused look. "He could have stayed at the castle here, I mean I have plenty of room in it." Twilight said. "I know, but she came here and me and Luna already asked her if it was alright." I said. "Yes, oh by the way, where is Spike?" Luna asked. "He's helping Rarity with a dress order for Fancy Pants store," Twilight replied. "So, he's staying at your place for now huh? Is there anything you want me to do?" "Make sure the citizens of Ponyville know the situation and know he is no danger, and make him feel welcome. He has been through a lot already since arriving, and I feel when he wakes up he will most likely be terrified." I answer, making Twilight nod. "Also, I would like you to speak to the head of the guard here yourself. I believe he may have a few things to say to the local princess." "What kind of things?" Twilight asked. "Mostly complaints about the treatment of his new recruits," I answered. "Okay, well do you know when he's going to wake up? Or even what language he speaks?" Twilight asked. "No, we don't know when he's going to wake up, and as for his language we have no idea. Though it won't matter," I answer. "Why won't it matter? I mean of course it matters, or how else will we communicate with him?" Twilight asked. "That's not what I meant Twilight, his vocal cords were bruised when he was being attacked. He won't be able to speak for a little while, if at all." I replied giving another sigh. "So, how will we speak to him then?" Twilight asked. "A telepathic spell, as it turns out Luna had entered his dreams already. So a simple spell like that won't cause any harm to his mind," I answer. "So, you guys are gonna speak with him in his mind? How will I know what he's saying then?" Rose asked, making me give a chuckle. "We can set up a multiple link, it's fairly easy to do really." I answered. "Sister, just to let you know he keeps trying to wake up. It shouldn't be too long now before he finally does," Luna said, making me give a nod. "That's good to hear, let's just hope when he does he won't be in too much panic. Of course his injuries will probably help keep him from doing too much." I said. "What if he is dangerous though and manages to attack us?" Twilight asked. "I don't think so, I was there. If he was that dangerous, he could have easily of knocked those guards away. He even save me from a cart that was about to fall on me." Rose said. "No offense, but it could be apart of a plan to get close to us. So what if he is dangerous, then what?" Twilight asked. "Then we will have to restrain him and then once he is healed, we'll have to arrest him. But until he wakes up, we won't know that and we can't assume it either by the way he arrived." I answered. "Right, of course, I know I was just curious about it. And I am sorry Rose, but we do have to be prepared if he is in fact dangerous and tries to attack us." Twilight said, giving Rose an apologetic look. "I know, but I still don't think he is." Rose said. "Neither do I, and let's hope we're correct in saying that." I said. "Yes, we can only hope," Luna said. They sat there talking a little bit more, and doctors and nurses came in every now and again to check on him while they talked. I explained a few more things to Twilight, like how we knew he was a male, and what he was. It wasn't long before she had to leave though, and I promised when he wakes up I would send word to her. "Tia, I will also take my leave for now. It may be okay if one court is closed, but if both day and night court is closed then the nobles might throw another hissy fit." Luna said. "Good point, alright I will see you when I can Lulu. Do you want me to send word to you as well when he wakes?" I asked. "That would be most appreciated, I would like to meet him as well." Luna said, giving me a little smile, before leaving. "So, it's just you and me now Rose. Do you have any questions about what's going on?" I ask, seeing the mare relax now. "No, not really. But, do you mind if I get some shut eye? I mean it is late, and I haven't really slept since about six in the morning before I had to go to work." Rose said. "Of course, go right ahead." I answer, and watched as the mare got comfortable and closed her eyes. I finally let my demeanor drop a little, and I give a tired sigh with a yawn. I personally haven't slept in two days due to the fact I had to deal with a tremendous amount of work that had to be done after Tirek attacked. It only took a few hours to fully calm the ponies of Equestria down. Being sent to Tartarus without magic was a horrifying experience, but one that I knew I had to go through in order to make sure everything was okay. Though I was worried on the effects it would have on Cadence, but she seemed to be fine. I was proud to know she could handle going through that, of course I shouldn't have been surprised since she had to keep Sombra at bay for a few days straight. The only who seemed to be effected was Luna, which doesn't surprise me since she has only been back a little over a year from being banished. It had probably brought back memories of that time, but she refused to show any of it. Something I had hoped she would get past so the past wouldn't repeat itself. Twilight and her friends seem to be getting along just fine with their new position as the council of friendship. It was hard to believe that they have come so far in such little time. It really does make me proud to know that my former student and her friends could be this successful were eve the greatest have failed. Though another good thing did come out of this, Discords reformation seems to finally have taken hold. It didn't really come as a shock of his betrayal, but it was worth a shot if it meant preventing Tireks rise to power. He still plays jokes, but not like how he used to and Twilight has even went out of her way to make sure he knows she really does consider him a friend. "Excuse me Princess?" I look to see a doctor staring at me. "Yes, what can I do for you?" I ask. "Well, you look exhausted and if you like we can set up a room for you?" The doctor asked. "It's quite alright, thank you though." I replied, giving her a kind smile. "Well, try to get some sleep. No point in having a tired and exhausted Princess on our hooves, especially if that Princess ends up needing to be treated for said exhaustion." The doctor said, and I nodded. "Don't worry, I will be going to sleep in a little while." I said, and the doctor nodded and left. I give a sigh, knowing that I will have to get some sleep soon enough. Though, before I do I decided to get something to eat, and walk out of the room. I went straight for a vending machine to see what they had in stock, and I couldn't help but blush a little as my stomach growled at the sight of the food. Picking out what I wanted, I quickly paid the machine and once I got my food I started my way back to the room. The apple was gone before I got back, though I was feeling even more exhausted now that I had something in my stomach. Though as soon as I walked into the room, I felt a difference in the air, and as I look I could see his eyes open, but were slowly closing again. "I guess he must have woke up for a minute or two, that's good. Let's hope you'll be able to wake up fully in the morning," I say giving another yawn. Author's Note Hope you enjoyed, and remember to smile, smile, smile!
