Rainbow's Adventure on Earth

Chapters

Ch. 1: Dash's Arrival
Ch. 2 Settling In
Meanwhile, back in Equestria...
Ch. 4 A Temporary Home, a Temporary Family
Nightlife, Earth Style
Hard work, Deep discussion.
Ch. 7 Thieves and Couples
Next to last
The thrilling conclusion

Ch. 1: Dash's Arrival

Rainbow Dash landed with a hard thud in a pile of trash outside of a huge brick building. After shaking loose her dizziness, she realized she could see over the top of the dumpster she landed next to. Finding this to be quite strange, she flexed all her extremities to make sure she hadn’t broken anything. All her limbs were in working order, now about those wings. When she tried to flap, all she felt was her shoulders twitch. She didn’t feel the normal displacement of air, nor hear the soft whoosh that accompanied her wing flaps. This was when she entered panic mode. Looking around to her back to make sure she hadn’t mangled her wings, she let out a soft, barely audible gasp.

What she saw, or rather, didn’t see, astonished her. Her wings were gone, vanished. She also realized she couldn’t quite mover her neck as far as usual. Trying to stand up, she landed face first into a pile of more garbage. Stifling a gag reflex, she tried standing again, and found she only had two legs instead of four. Also at the ends of what were supposed to be her forelegs were white, muscular appendages that moved upon their own accord, seemingly. These were attached to what she assumed used to be her hooves. Realization and horror slowly crept across her face.

She shook her head even more vigorously than before, to make sure she wasn’t dreaming, and made herself dizzy again. She lay back in the pile of trash, unsure of what to do with herself. Here she was, in an unfamiliar, stinking alleyway, reclining in a pile of garbage, in a body that wasn’t her own.

“Well, you’re really screwed this time, huh Dash?” she asked herself. She then proceeded to answer herself. It felt like the right thing to do.

“Yeah, you’re screwed, at least until you find out what Twilight…”

She trailed off, the reality coming full circle upon her. She had asked Twilight to enchant her body, making it faster and more agile than ever, in an attempt to pull off another Sonic Rainboom in half the distance and time. The spell had worked, obviously, but way too well. She fully sunk into the stinking trash heap, on the verge of tears. She must have time warped, or dimension shifted, or some science craziness thing due to her amazing speeds on her last flight. She then snapped back into her own self.

This was not the Rainbow Dash she knew. THE Rainbow Dash was always brave and strong even in the worst of times. She was not about to let herself down, especially laying in a trash heap. She stood, renewed vigor playing across her features. First off, she had to learn how to use this new body. Steeling herself, she put one foot in front of the other, slowly at first, then picking up the pace. She finally got the rhythm down after a few minutes. She noted that her arms swung with her motion, acting much like a balance, similar to a tail or her wings. After she mastered walking, she tried playing with the funny little appendages on the end of her hooves. Some crazy pony named Lyra, back home, had called them hands, and the appendages were called fingers. She laughed to herself, thinking about Lyra at a time like this.

Now, Dash was never really a stupid pony.

If she had to guess, she must have been changed into a Human in order to fit into whatever dimension she entered. She tried picking up and hefting some stones in her newly developed hands. The rocks felt cool and rough to her hands, much like they had felt back home in Equestria. She had guessed that this dimension wasn’t all that different from home. She then realized she was getting quite cold. It had to have been close to winter in this dimension. Now what could she do? She was cold, hungry, and, now that she realized it, nearly naked. All she wore was some sort of scanty cloth the same colors as her mane over her upper body, exposing her midriff to the elements, and some rough blue material that followed the shape of her hips and flank, making them quite attractive, she noticed. On her feet she wore a pair of white things with rubber soles on the bottom. Tired of thinking, she wrapped her arms around herself, trying to block the cold. She had to find somewhere to go, if only for the night, otherwise she would surely freeze to death. As a Pegasus, she was built to deal with cold weather. As a Human, she wasn’t even close.

She looked around for some sort of exit, all the while mumbling to herself about her surroundings. She saw lights a few feet away, and proceeded towards them, nearly getting run over by a huge machine, much like the Flim Flam Brothers’ Cider Machine. Except it spewed smoke from the rear and the smoke made her gag. It tasted like burning ash, and made her sick to her stomach. She wasn’t going to last the night this way. She decided it was safer to follow the sidewalk until she ran into another human. Hopefully they spoke the same language, otherwise she was really screwed. She walked in relative silence, occasionally mumbling to herself about being cold, and hating this place, and wishing she had some nice, warm cider or a good stiff drink. She wasn’t even looking for other humans even though that was her only hope of salvation for the night. Then she bumped into one, nose to nose with a pair of green- blue eyes.

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The other human yelped a little bit, quite surprised at running into a young, attractive woman at this time of night. Especially as scantily clad as she was. He then spoke to Dash.

“Oh! I’m sorry.” He said with a nervous laugh, looking away quite quickly.

“I didn’t see you, I’m sorry.” He noticed she had the most amazing magenta eyes. And yet she looked somewhat familiar, like he had seen her somewhere, albeit he had no clue where. He noticed that she was quite trim and fit, and almost certainly his age. She looked cold, forlorn, and lost. He was guessing she was some runaway, after a fight with a boyfriend or parents. Seeing her standing there, shivering, he couldn’t help but extend his heart to her. He spoke again.

“I know I’m a stranger, but you look like you could use some help. Do you need directions to a shelter or a ride home?”

Dash snapped out of her stupor. The human was talking, and she understood him! She shook her head and tried to speak, but couldn’t find the words. He then repeated himself.

“Do you need a ride home or a shelter?” he asked again.

All Dash did was nod a “yes”. She knew she shouldn’t be so easily trusting of someone else, but what were her options? Freeze and starve to death in a cold black city? Buck that. She’d rather die warm and with a full belly. She followed him relatively closely, putting on a brave face like she always did.

Alex smiled to himself. He was always raised to be a gentleman, and a good man, so he had no choice but to offer his help. Even he himself would freeze in this kind of weather, and he wasn’t about to let this young girl suffer the same fate of so many Heroine Junkies and Crack addicts, and homeless people. He wasn’t sure if she would even follow him, but he was quite grateful she did. Even if she was cute, he had purely platonic interest in her. He unlocked his pickup truck and opened the door for her. She climbed up slowly, almost as if she was unsure how to. He tossed this thought out of his head. What adult girl wouldn’t know how to climb into a vehicle? He chuckled to himself as he started the truck and turned down the stereo.

She jumped at the sudden noise, so he surmised it must have been a long, quiet walk for her. She was probably a suburb girl, where the nice front lawns and picket fences dotted the streets. If that was the case, she walked a long way from home, since even the nearest suburbs were almost 40 minutes out of the city by vehicle.

He too lived in the suburbs for most of his life, until he turned 18 and got a job in the heart of the city. At the time, he was having home difficulties, so he took his savings and rented a shoddy apartment not far from work. And that’s where he’d been living for two years, until a fairly generous promotion granted him better living quarters. After a few minutes of silence, he spoke again. He hadn’t ever liked quiet.

“My name is Alex, what’s yours?” Dash snapped out from her reverie once again. She had finally worked up the courage to speak, but had resigned to waiting for him to speak first, since she was still plotting how to get back home.

“My name, is, uh...” She faltered. Rainbow Dash was a unique name back home, so she guessed it was not even heard of here. “My name is Sarah…” she read from a magazine on the floor of the truck.

“Really? That’s a pretty name. I’ve always liked it.” Alex said. “How did you get into the heart of the city, Sarah?” He asked, trying to make her more comfortable.

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Dash froze. How was she going to explain this? “I, uh, took a walk after…school…kind of got lost, heh” She said nervously. Why was she behaving like a school filly with a crush? Normally she was quite boastful and loud. And forget about her stuttering or falling over her words. She always said what was on her mind, whether it be nice or not. Matter of fact, her smart tongue had gotten her punished several times as a young filly and even into her teenage years. It still got her in trouble occasionally, like that time they had to chase the dragon away from the cave above Ponyville.

Maybe, it was because for once she actually needed help instead of being headstrong and rebellious. Even back home, she rarely ever asked for help, especially after AJ had launched her to Twilight’s balcony in a funny, albeit painful stunt gone wrong. As she recalled, AJ had decided to clear the entire sweet apple acres on her lonesome due to Big Mac being hurt.

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“Where would you like me to take you?” Alex asked her. She couldn't stop her mouth before it spoke.

“Can I go with you?” she blurted out, covering her mouth and stifling a gasp. She mentally chastised herself for being so forward. But she couldn’t help but feel safe with him. Maybe it was his calm presence, or his blue-green eyes that reminded her of the waters of Equestria from the sky. Or it could be that she didn’t want to go to some shelter with even more strangers. That was the last thing she needed. She wanted to be somewhere safe and quiet, and the shelters of Equestria were always loud and stinky. She felt sorry for the young fillies, colts, and the slightly older mares and stallions that usually lived in these places due to being unneeded or unwanted by their families, or had no family to speak of.

Kind of like her Number One Fan, Scootaloo. The little filly was much like Dash herself. Bold, brash, and fearless. But she was also young and didn’t have anyone to teach her how to fly. So Dash took her under her wing, so to speak, and served as a bit of a Big Sister. Scoots had a family, but they were both Traveling salesponies, who weren’t very good at selling things. They were rarely ever home, so Scoots preferred the company of her friends and Dash.

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Alex coughed suddenly, while trying to maintain his truck’s control. “Go..with me.?” He asked quizzically to himself.

Dash was afraid of this. She was about to be denied, and she sighed sadly to herself. She hung her head in shame, afraid now that she was never going home. “I mean, if it’s ok with you, and you have the room…” she added dejectedly.

It was Alex’s turn to berate himself. How could he have been so heartless? Here was this poor girl, miles from home, with probably no friends or family nearby, and he was set to dump her back home where there was problems, or in a shelter where even worse problems were so often found. He looked at the poor girl and sighed. He couldn’t do that to her.

“Of course you can come with me. I’d love the company.” He smiled at Dash, and Dash, for the first time in hours, smiled back. So she was going to go stay with Alex, her new friend.

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Alex was lost in thought. Here he was, bringing a pretty, lost young girl to his home. The night was beginning to play out like so many different shows he had watched. He smiled inwardly and thought of the family motto; “Why the hell not?” As he turned off to the exit ramp. He turned up the stereo a little bit and noticed that Sarah was really getting into the rock music that was emanating from it, bobbing her head slightly from side to side. Like he did when he was alone or bored. Funny that.

Dash liked the music that was playing. It was basically her personality. Loud and brash. He called it Rock music. It was the same stuff she listened to on a daily basis back home..

They pulled up to a building similar to the one she had landed behind. Alex cut the engine and hopped out of the truck, proceeding to open the door for Dash. Here was his home for the past year. His home was a small two bedroom house with a sparsely manicured lawn. He hadn’t really needed the second bedroom, but this was better than sleeping a hundred feet away from an above-ground train track. He unlocked the door and cut on the lights. A soft, gentle glow emanated from the hall table lamp, illuminating a hallway. Further down the hall were two doors across and slightly apart from each other. Dash assumed these were bedrooms since the rest of the home was open doorframes.

Dash followed Alex a little closer now. He led her into the kitchen, which was also lit by a gentle glow overhead. He rummaged in the fridge for a split second and produced two huge green apples followed by a bottle of some red, fragrant stuff.

“I know it isn’t much, but this should hold you over until I make something more fitting for a guest.” Alex laughed. He didn’t get much company besides his younger sister, her boyfriend, and his nephew, so he never kept much as far as groceries. He usually ate on the go and slept the morning away on his days off. His neighbor would usually leave him some sort of goodies in his mailbox every night, so it wasn’t like he ever went hungry. He also came across a bottle of cranberry juice he had forgotten he had.

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Dash watched Alex intently, trying very hard to hide it. If she had to compare him to some pony, It would probably be Big Macintosh. He was quite tall, albeit a little chubby. He had a dark brown head of hair, and his shoulders were quite broad and strong looking. “How I would love to be held by those…” she found herself thinking, and snapped back to reality. She couldn’t fall for him. She didn’t belong here and she would have to tell him sometime. But she was still grateful for his kindness.

Alex poured each of them a glass of juice and took a hefty chunk out of his apple. He was quite hungry he had suddenly realized. In a sidelong sort of way, he examined Sarah. She was trim, and quite fit, most likely an athlete. But she still had those feminine curves he always went drool-monkey over. She had the slightest hint of a belly too, which he found amazingly cute. Her boyfriend really screwed up on this one, if that’s who she was running away from. What sane girl would walk almost three miles, especially after a day of college?

They sat in silence for a little while, lost to their thoughts. After he finished his apple, Alex whipped up some spaghetti, albeit a leaner version, made with white mushroom sauce, His personal favorite. He had really been trying to trim up that pouch above his belt in time for summer. He hated being chunky even though it was pretty much genetic. He couldn’t complain too much. He kept a relatively constant weight due to hauling ass at work all day. Carpentry was never easy work, but he would have some time to rest once winter started.

Ch. 2 Settling In

Alex and his houseguest had a contenting supper, and being Alex had to be to work early, he showed Sarah to the spare bedroom. She walked around the room, examining and touching the ornate wooden furniture.

Dash noted the furniture was cool and smooth to her touch, albeit quite dusty. This room must not have been dusted in weeks. In the center of the room against the wall sat a huge wooden bed. She was willing to bet her saddle it was warm and comfy, the covers were a lovely royal blue color, the bed frame itself, being cherry, offset the blue nicely. She asked Alex who this room belonged to. He said it belonged to no one in particular. It was sort of a storage room that housed all of his furniture projects. He had to keep busy in the winter somehow.

Alex watched Dash wander about the bedroom and could see the amazement in her eyes. Wherever she came from must not have seen furniture like this before. He smiled; elated to know someone appreciated his work. He took to his own bedroom after letting Sarah know she was welcome to anything she may want in the fridge or cupboards. He also mentioned that there was a TV in the other room if she couldn’t sleep right away. He slept in the back of the house, so he wouldn’t hear it.

Dash thanked Alex for offering his home to her, and stretched a little bit. She hadn’t realized how mentally weary she was until this moment. He left with a small bow (he felt like being cheesy), and proceeded to leave her to herself.

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Alex walked into his bedroom. It was much messier than the rest of the house. He didn’t spend enough time in the kitchen or living room to leave messes. But here was where he slept and oftentimes would be back in here right before and after work. And his days off were usually spent running errands. The bed and dresser were the only things not cluttered with random bits and pieces of stuff. Clothes mostly, but here and there were small piles of nails or screws that he tended to find in his pockets after work and a random tool here or there.

He landed on his bed with a soft “whump” noise. His body slowly eased into relaxation mode. More than likely he was going to be awake for a while yet, but if he didn’t lay down he was definitely going to be up a lot longer than he intended. He just realized it was closing on midnight and sighed. 8am came too early for his liking, but he only had about six hours’ work left to do and he was free for the rest of the day tomorrow. He decided he would help Sarah get home tomorrow afternoon. He liked having her around, but she had a home to go back to, and she was a college student no less. He wasn’t much older than her, but the fact remained.

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Dash gingerly sat on the huge bed and instantly felt waves of relaxation course over her body. It felt just like the clouds and squishy hay mattresses back home. She didn’t have much time. She had to figure out how to break the truth to Alex, as kind and attractive as he was, otherwise she may never get home until Twilight figured it out. She came to the only real inevitable conclusion after a couple hours of agonizing thinking that manifested itself as a migraine headache. She would just have to be out with it and hope Alex was a sensible person, and didn’t put her out to the frigid streets. The truth was gonna hurt to tell, but what alternative was there? A massive lie that would probably bite her in her flank later, and also smash whatever trust he had for her. Either way, the migraine wasn’t making things easier, so she decided to sleep it off.

Alex awoke early the next day. Even though work didn’t start till 9pm, he had to be up to shower, shave, and find some clean clothes, which were becoming scarce. As the 7am alarm still echoed in his head, he suddenly remembered he had a guest who was probably hungry if she wasn’t sleeping. He decided to make some breakfast after showering, shaving, and changing. As Breakfast was finishing cooking, he knocked gently on the spare bedroom door. He poked his head in after no answer, and couldn’t help but “aww” to himself as he saw what lay before him.---

Sarah was buried up to her head in covers, snoring gently. He was glad at that moment that he had not woken up the sleeping girl. She looked so young and innocent, as her age was nearly indeterminable from the sheer amount of blankets and sheets. He closed the door gently and proceeded to the kitchen to eat his portion of breakfast, and head off to work. He left a note and a plate of breakfast in the microwave for Sarah. He had even set the timer so all she had to do was heat & eat.

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Dash awoke groggily. Looking around, she was frightened for a split second before remembering everything from the previous night as it flooded her mind. After the initial shock, she noticed that soft, warm sunlight was streaming in, between folds of cream-colored curtains. She smiled stupidly at the warmth that surrounded her, between the blankets and the sunlight. The weather inside was much like a summer day in Ponyville. She sunk back into the bed and dozed for another few minutes. She had a feeling Alex was already gone off to work.

Alex arrived at the jobsite, cup of coffee in hand and a piece of a bagel hanging out of his mouth. He opted for a small breakfast, as he was short on both time and appetite. Snapping up the last bite of the deliciously crispy bread product, and washing it down with a sip of coffee, he hopped out of the truck. The sight from this morning was still in his head and gave him warm fuzzies. A frazzled looking underling approached to foreman’s right-hand man, scared out of his wits. Locking his gaze upon the young man, Alex was handed a list of things that had been finished and needed his approval. Foreman John wouldn’t be here for another hour, so he was in charge. As he proceeded around the jobsite, everything was in check (much to his surprise), so he decided to get on with his work after slogging down his now cold coffee.

Dash finally climbed out of bed at about 10pm, judging by the sunlight, which had moved away from the windows now. She shook her head and wondered what there was to be eaten. Now that she was settling into being here, and had finally made up her mind about how to break the truth to Alex, she could relax and concentrate, and maybe enjoy her time here. To be honest being in a house wasn’t as horrible as being out in the streets. She explored the different rooms and the furniture. Much of it was new to her, as Ponyville was of minor means. She had seen things like radios in Manehattan and Canterlot, but here was a new thing with wires connecting two pieces of equipment, and then all the wires running into holes in the wall.

She pushed a button on it, and it beeped and whirred, and the upper piece of machinery, that resembled a smaller TV, popped into life with a static sound, like after Dash had gotten too close to the carpets in Fluttershy’s house. She touched the screen and it zapped her. She yelped at the zap and frowned in a most comical manner, her bottom lip puffing out. She wouldn’t touch that again for as long as she was here. She wandered about the living room, flicking the TV on with a touch of a button. TV’s were really new to Equestria, and only the richest cities had them. One had yet to be seen in Ponyville. She got bored of the talking humans and turned it off.

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Dash moseyed on into the kitchen and found a note sitting on the front of a black box with a door. All it said was “push the silver button and wait. Breakfast is inside.” So she did. It whirred, and a light popped on, and she stepped back, not knowing what it would do. After a few moments, it beeped at her and she opened the door. Inside was a steaming plate of eggs and two slices of toast. She touched the plate, to be sure it wasn’t hot, and pulled it from the microwave. She sat and the table and ate, looking around the kitchen. There was the black box with the door, a refrigerator, and an oven like inside Sugarcube corner. She noted the oven was immaculately clean, as if it had never been used.

While at work, Alex’s mood was relatively light all day which was strange to him. Normally some lackey screwed up something, or did something stupid like drop a crate of nails down two stories. At this rate he would be home before he was required to leave. Then he heard the crash and swore so loudly that the whole site heard it. He jogged over to the source of the crash, hoping nobody fell off a scaffolding or ladder. When he arrived, all he saw was wood and sheetrock scraps littering the ground. Somebody had apparently forgotten to look outside of what was supposed to be a doorframe before dumping their scrap pieces into a dumpster that wasn’t there. He bellowed at the lackey to show himself. This was gonna take a hell of a lot of explaining, and Alex wasn’t about to go it alone. Especially with the Foreman hot on his heels within minutes.

Dash left her bare plate in the sink and smiled happily. This human could cook something fierce. She was uncertain if he was the only one that cooked like that, but she wasn’t regretting eating the entire plate. She decided to explore upstairs a bit. There wasn’t much else up there besides a huge storage closet and a bathroom. The bathroom was the exact same design as the bathrooms back home. A toilet sat in front of a sink, and a standing shower was on the other wall. She walked outside and took a look around. Where Alex lived was quite different from where she found him the previous night.

She was in a residential part of the city, with no building taller than a story or two, much like Ponyville. The smell of fresh grass wafted her way and she could see the skyline of the city from here, but it was far enough away to not detract from the picturesque neighborhood. She heard young voices playing and laughing, and a sort of buzzing-clipping noise. Dogs were barking too. She decided she didn’t mind being in the neighborhood at all and sat gingerly on the steps. Even if she never got home, she would happily stay here.

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Alex could feel the Foreman literally breathing down his neck. He was never one to be scared of other people, but if he deemed fit, the foreman could take any person’s job and throw it out the window, even someone with such high regard and rank as Alex. As Alex gingerly explained the situation to his immediate superior, he was backed up with nods and agreements from the lackey who had made the huge mess. Apparently, the dumpster was supposed to be moved to this side of the house so they could prime the rest of the house’s Eastern wall for painting.

Foreman John wasn’t a bad man, but he hated when stupid mistakes were made, like a lackey dumping a wheelbarrow fill to the max with debris into his jobsite. Usually his right-hand man, Alex, would deal with punishment for said lackey, but this was not the first time a stupid mistake was made by this particular worker. Just a day or two ago he had nearly fallen off of a scaffold by reaching over way too far to nab a hammer from a neighboring scaffold. If he had fallen, there was an instant lawsuit and instant loss of credibility, even if it was the kid’s own stupidity. Good thing the others on the neighboring scaffold had grabbed him.

Alex sighed, with a little too much ease. At least his job wasn’t on the line anymore. The lackey would probably not fare so well. A formal written warning usually meant a week’s pay gone. A third screw up, and he was searching for another job, the poor kid. He was all too often a victim of his own stupidity. Alex was only able to hide what the foreman didn’t hear or see. Alex saw himself in the kid, so he often took pity on him. But if he didn’t learn like Alex did, and soon, he was screwed.

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Dash enjoyed the warmth of the front porch, then popped back inside. Thoroughly bored now, she perused the bookshelf in the living room for something to read. Then she saw some books with similar covers to the Daring-Do novels she loved. She immediately pulled a couple from the shelf, noting where they were, and started to read. She had gotten about halfway through the first of the two when the front door startled her. Quickly dropping the book on the couch with a soft thud, Dash hid behind the huge chair in the living room, shaking, waiting, her breath held. As she heard the door close, she shrunk even more into the back of the chair. Then she saw Alex walking in and dropping his sweater on a nail in the wall. She was overjoyed to see him, but waited until he was out of sight before leaving her hiding spot. She DID NOT want to startle the big man.

Meanwhile, back in Equestria...

Twilight was absolutely beside herself with grief and worry. All she had wanted to do was help Rainbow, not teleport her to Celestia knows where, if that’s what happened. All she remembered was enchanting Dash to double her already base speed and agility, which was probably a bad idea. She was chasing dash through the sky, making sure she didn’t get hurt, then there was a faint pop and Rainbow was gone. Vanished without a trace, not even a Rainbow streak remained. Usually teleporting involved magic, so there had to be some kind of scientific explanation. A dimensional rift, time warp, something like that.

As Twilight was bolting around her library home, books of all manner of scientific and magical subjects strewn about, she came to a screeching halt when she almost ran into spike’s tiny form. A dragon he was, but she was at full gallop inside the tree house. Not a good ending for spike if she didn’t stop. Spike simply inquired:

“What’s goin’ on, Twilight? You lose a letter to the princess or something?” he said with a snicker. She shot him down immediately.

“Spike, this is no time for jokes. I’ve lost Rainbow dash and I don’t know where she went” She said, before she could stop herself.

Spike simply said “oh.” A look of revelation slowly crept over his face, and then it clicked.

“WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU LOST RAINBOW DASH! HOW DO YOU LOSE A FULL GROWN PEGASUS?!” Spike started yammering incoherently.

Realizing Spike was effectively broken, Twilight resumed her research allowing him to chatter to himself. Then, like a slap in the face, she found what she was looking for. She flipped immediately to the page with the information she needed. She read aloud:

“As with any particularly powerful magic spell, speed spells, especially when used on creatures with already amazing land or flight speeds, have been known to spontaneously cause dimensional rifts with little to no warning. Very few cases of such an occurrence have been documented, and resulting from this, there is little to no information on how to reverse or return the rifted subject. Oftentimes, a nearly-divine power must interfere and return the subject to its original plane of existence. It has been rumored that there are particularly powerful magic objects in Equestria that can return a rifted subject, especially if it’s tied to their soul or spirit. An example of such an item would be the Elements of Harmony, noted in days of yore as having the power to dispel chaos, and even mostly purify tainted souls.”

An idea popped up in Twilight’s head just then. If she could assemble the other elements and trigger them without needing a near-cataclysmic event to occur, then it might simply just pull Rainbow back. How she was going to trigger this was an altogether foreign concept to her at the moment.

As Twilight began pondering this, she only wished that wherever Dash was, she was safe and warm. She would be absolutely mortified if she caused Dash to be injured or worse, especially when she knew she shouldn’t have done this. But Dash was persistent, much to Twilight’s dismay and constant advice against it. Hopefully Dash learned her lesson this time, if there was still a Rainbow Dash. Twilight then verbally berated herself for thinking this.

“There always was and always will be a Rainbow Dash, she thought to herself, giving her renewed vigor and purpose.”

Twilight gathered her saddlebags and prepared to face the worst thing she could imagine: Earning the distrust and scorn of all her friends. They probably would not take too kindly to her losing Rainbow Dash, especially Pinkie and Fluttershy, who seemed to be most attached to her. Since it was closest, she resigned to stop at Rarity’s first.

Rarity answered to a quiet, almost shameful knock at her door. Wondering who it could be, she placed her spectacles on the table in front of her. She hadn’t any clients scheduled today. Matter of fact, she hadn’t had anything scheduled today. She had been feeling rather overwhelmed as of late, and decided to give herself a personal day. The only thing she would break that vow for was her friends. And sure enough, at her door, there was Twilight, looking rather harried and twitchy. That was awfully unusual of her. She was always well put together, even for someone of less expensive taste. “Twilight, are you alright, darling?” Rarity asked. Twilight swallowed hard. “No, I’m not, Rarity, I have some bad bews.” Rarity gasped loudly and began yammering about teas, while escorting Twilight to the nearest chair, which Twilight respectfully refused.

Twilight gave Rarity the whole situation from top to bottom, and Rarity couldn’t believe it. But she did know that Rainbow was in trouble, and needed all of her friends to help her. Putting on her best game face, Rarity gathered her saddlebags, which were always ready for an adventure, especially after meeting Twilight and becoming an Element of Harmony. As they set out together, they discussed Twilight’s plan. After Rarity’s boutique, they proceeded along to Sugarcube corner, Fluttershy’s Cottage, and eventually Sweet Apple Acres.

With more or less satisfying explanations to each of her friends, Twilight had one last thing to do. She would probably need one of the Princesses’ help if she was going to activate the Elements without a near-cataclysmic event. She would also have to explain her foal-like stupidity to the Princesses themselves, which scared her more than anything. The twins had been the original bearers of the elements, and even Celestia herself had bore them all at once to lock away an irate Nightmare Moon. If anyone knew how to activate them, it was those two.

(a/n)Sorry guys, I kinda fizzled on this chapter. I tried making at least some remote sense of logic, but I don’t think it worked. Also I lost my original draft.

Ch. 4 A Temporary Home, a Temporary Family

Dash popped out from behind the chair. She left the sitting room and called to Alex. Alex was in the kitchen cooking up some lunch. He had been awfully hungry, and couldn’t bear another grease-laden burger or something like that. Instead, he did something he rarely ever had time for. Alex picked up a wide variety of fresh vegetables and fruits from the market, along with some cheese. Alex decided it was high time he got back into cooking on a daily basis. At least he might have food in the house when there was company.

Alex was chopping up some carrots, romaine lettuce, and celery. He followed this up with two containers of juicy grape tomatoes, which he favored considerably over sliced or any other manner of tomato in general. He popped these into a massive plastic bowl easily twice the size of his head. He then made his way to the grocery bags, pulling out some sweet red onions, and string beans. He wasn’t sure what he was making, but it felt right. Topping the medley off with some fresh broccoli heads, he gazed upon his masterpiece.

Dash watched contentedly as Alex strode about the kitchen. Noticing that he was singing to himself, she smiled like a school filly again. He was cute, no doubt about it. Most everypony back home took her for a fillyfooler, which wasn’t entirely true. She just played both sides of the fence. She really did not want to have to break the truth to him, but her time was running short. She watched him for a little while longer, taking note at how deft he was with the kitchen tools in his hands. His hands were large and rough, as they well should have been, but he chopped and diced and sliced and cut as if he’d been raised with those things in his hands.

Alex decided it was high time to get to work on dessert. A delicious fruit salad his mom used to make whenever there were funds available for it. He rummaged through the other grocery bag, pulling out red, green, and yellow apples, green and purple grapes, and an assortment of small berries and nuts. “This is definitely rabbit food”’, he thought to himself. He went to popping grapes off of their vines and dropping them into a smaller bowl. Next on the list were apple chunks, dried cranberries, blueberries, and some of the nut mix, which contained walnut, almond, and pecan pieces. He dropped a couple cans of mandarin oranges in the bowl, and proceeded to mix the sweet and juicy concoction. Only then did he notice a certain prismatic-haired houseguest watching him with the slightest blush on her face.

Alex turned and stared Dash straight in the face. He had a goofy grin on his face and spoke up. “Well hello there Sarah, surprised to see me?” She nodded and walked into the kitchen, dropping her gaze from his. She always got lost in those blue-green eyes of his.

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“Alex, I have something I need to tell you.” Dash stated flatly, all emotion fleeing her normally chipper voice. Alex looked at her confusedly, and started to speak.

“You don’t have to explain anything to me, Sarah.” He said, softly. Growing up with three sisters, he knew when a girl was hurting inside. His sisters were his life and he’d do anything to keep them happy.

“Yes, I do, Alex. please hear me out.” Dash pleaded. Alex nodded.

“Can it wait till after lunch, maybe?” Alex asked. “The salads are freshest within the first hour of being prepared.” Dash nodded to him and sat down. She noticed her stomach did feel sort of hollow and empty, which probably was due to nerves and insecurity more than anything.

As Alex sat, he tried to read Sarah’s expression. He noted that her face was not one of heartbreak, but loneliness, as if she didn’t have a single friend in the world. Something truly horrible must have happened or was happening, he thought to himself. Keeping her gaze mostly downcast, Sarah waited to be served.

Alex dished out a hefty serving of the vegetable medley, which he had added a bit of cheese to as an afterthought. Then off to the side in a smaller dish, he served out some of the fruit medley. He then poured out some sweet, golden apple cider for his guest and himself. It was only just barely the closing of the fall season, so the cider plants were still running in full swing.

Cider was Alex’s favorite drink of all time, even though it had less than desirable circumstances if he drank more than his fair share. This cider was a special, “enhanced” batch a close friend had made for him. It was actually a year old, but was allowed to ferment, resulting in delicious hard cider. He figured it would make whatever Sarah had to say come out easier.

They ate in relative silence, only sharing brief snippets of how the day had gone so far. The conversation, though less than spectacular, was comforting. After Alex had cleaned up the dinner mess, Dash swallowed the lump in her throat and got Alex’s attention.

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“Alex, I have something very important to tell you.” Dash started. “Please, promise you’ll hear me out before talking, or making any decisions you might later regret.”

Alex nodded, and gestured for her to continue, obeying her plea to stay silent.

“Uh…I’m not from here, for starters.” Dash labored through every word. “I’m not from this city, nor this country, not even from this planet.” She said. As much as Alex wanted to protest, he did not. Why would she not be from here? She looked human enough to him, and he wasn’t exactly convinced aliens existed.

Dash started again. “I’m from a place called Equestria. Lots of ponies live there. Pegasi, Earth Ponies, and Unicorns.” Alex simply blinked at Dash, incredulous. Had he picked up some insane girl he felt sorry for? No. She was far too composed to even feel remotely insane.

Taking a deep breath and struggling with herself still, Dash continued.

“I’m a pony too, a Pegasus. We can fly and stuff.” She said offhandedly. “My real name is Rainbow Dash. What you see now is how I came into this world. Whatever happened to me, it changed me to fit in better, I guess.”

Alex nodded in understanding, fighting every fiber of his being to argue with this potentially insane young girl. What damage could have been done that made her so strange, and make up such incredulous lies? But somehow, inexplicably, Alex believed her. Her beautiful magenta eyes were full of sadness and sincerity. She can’t have been lying.

Dash, unexpectedly, grabbed his hands. They were rough but tender. “And right now, I’m lost, alone and afraid. I have no friends here, and I have no clue how I’m going to get back home. What I need, right now, is someone like you; I need a real friend to keep me safe from harm until I can go home.”

Dash was fixing to finish her speech by now. The cider tasted mighty familiar, and had a familiar effect on her. “I have nowhere to go, and my only possible way back home is to wait for my friends to help me. I know they will help me, but I don’t know how soon…” Dash trailed off, finally averting her gaze from Alex’s, tearing up as the thought crossed her mind that she might never make it home.

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Alex blinked, several emotions clouding his face at once. He hadn’t realized he was staring Dash in the eye, nor the fact that they were now, in effect, holding hands. Alex dropped his head almost at the same time Dash averted her gaze, her last sentences reaching him. Even though he didn’t fully believe her, he knew that she really did have nowhere to go, otherwise she probably would have left by now. It had been nearly two days and she probably would have left, seeking forgiveness from whoever he thought she had gotten in a fight with.

Alex spoke now, in a tone as gentle and caring as he could muster. “Sarah… I mean Dash,” he said. “I can’t honestly say I fully believe you, but I can tell in your eyes you’re not lying to me.” He heaved a sigh and continued his small speech. “You’re welcome to stay here until you can go back home.”

Dash’s eyes lit up excitedly, all former sadness gone. “Thank you, Alex! Thank you!” She cheered, jumping from the table. Even though it hurt her horribly, she had gotten the truth out and could really enjoy her time here. Alex stood up, and she hugged him, quite strong for a girl her size. Alex laid an arm on her back, holding her tight. He knew she needed a friend right now, and a hug could do immense things to lift one’s spirits.

The somber moment passed now, they broke their hug. Alex spoke up.

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“Dash, let’s see if we can find you some warmer clothes. Winter will be settling in soon, and you’re gonna need to stay warm if you plan to be out and about. You’re also gonna be here for a while it seems, so that’s even more reason for getting warm clothes. Let’s go visit my sisters.” Alex was almost positively strapped for extra money, and he only hoped his sisters had some warm clothes or at least some money to spare.

“ooh, that sounds fun.” Dash said, positively eager to lighten up the mood and atmosphere a bit, as was her nature. She never did care for seriousness, and preferred to be playing pranks or telling jokes, but as she just proved, she could indeed be serious when needed. Her nature was almost the same as Pinkie’s, though remarkably less exuberant.

As Dash followed Alex out to his truck, she realized it was much cooler than it had been earlier that day. She dashed inside, hiding from the sudden cold. Alex provided her a rather overlarge black hoodie that he had worn when he was a bit larger. He kept it cause it was that insanely warm. It practically enveloped her entire body and she looked immensely small inside it. Alex couldn’t help but laugh. She looked immensely cute wearing something that large, so he indulged himself in a glance at her while she was trying to find the head hole.

It was only about 4pm, so Alex wagered that at least one of his sisters were running their shop in the city. As he pulled up to the parking lot, he noticed that his favorite sister was working.

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Michelle was surprised at what just walked through her door. She saw her little brother Alex, which was exceedingly rare. He was accompanied by a rather attractive young girl. Seeing Alex was rare at best, especially on a nice day like today. And Michelle personally thought that Alex never made time for such things as dating. Not since he was in his late teens. But before she allowed her imagination to get the best of her, Michelle greeted her little brother with a huge hug.

“Hey there, stranger.” Michelle said. “I thought you would be off on some big residential project or something. What brings you to our humble clothes shop?” She inquired, fishing for answers.

“Oh, nothing major.” Alex said offhandedly. “My friend Sarah here just came back from college. She left all her clothes and stuff at campus since she could only afford a bus ticket. They wouldn’t let her bring more than her book bag on board.”

“And you’re hoping one of us three have some clothes she could have, right?” Michelle said, a snarky smile creeping across her face.

“Uh, yeah…” Alex said, blushing and deflated. He hated Michelle sometimes because she knew him all too well. Out of the four of them, they felt they were the closest. They even shared the same religion.

“Well, brother of mine, let’s take your cute little “friend” here and see If I can get her started.” stated Michelle proudly.

“Our other two siblings should be along soon. Keep them occupied until I get Sarah sorted out” Michelle said, dismissing Alex with a little wave. Still blushing profusely, Alex sat grumpily in a chair and pawed through the assorted old magazines on a nearby coffee table.

Most of the magazines were not what you’d expect in a clothes shop. Super Street, Time, National Geographic, and even Game Informer magazines were seen. Most of these were from Alex’s subscriptions. There were a few scattered Cosmopolitan and People issues about. Alex was thinking he had a stack still left at home that he had yet to paw through, only a few months old.

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A ringing of the bells above the door alerted Alex’s attention to his other two sisters, Irene and Melanie. They looked every bit the complement of one another, albeit 12 years separating the youngest from the oldest. Alex braced himself for what was about to come. He was now a victim of a bone-crunching hug from the both of them at once. Gasping for breath and smiling, he happily hugged his sisters back. It was rare they were ever all together at once, except for holidays and other such gatherings. They then bombarded him with various questions, all of which he answered as best he could. Questions about how work was, and his love life, and other random stuff sisters tend to usually ask their brothers.

As Alex answered and the other two listened, he was distracted by a small cough a few feet to his side. There stood Michelle, a beaming Rainbow Dash dressed in a white hoodie with pink trim, a pair of bell bottom jeans, and a pair of skater shoes, black with red trim and red laces. It was a very good look for her, Alex noted. Alex looked at Dash, and complimented her. He could just see the slightest rosy tint on her cheeks.

Alex was then told to sit back down, while the other two had a go at Rainbow Dash. Rainbow always liked attention, especially from big crowds, but this was a different kind of attention. Not awe or amazement, but acceptance. She felt perfectly content with the three girls fussing over her, about how nicely her hair turned out, and her small but trim frame, and her eyes. She guessed this is what having sisters felt like. These girls seemed to know exactly what Dash’s style was about. Not the frilly and constrictive dresses Rarity usually made her wear (though she did particularly like her Gala Dress), but comfortable, well fitting, well worn clothes.

Dash blushed at the fact that compared to humans, almost all ponies were naked. The snooty Canterlot and Manehattan ponies were exceptions. As Alex’s siblings fussed over her, she let her mind wander on to thoughts about what it would be like if she could stay here. She let herself believe that she could live here in relative peace. Only Alex had to know her true secret. Nopony else had to. And she could stay with Alex forever or at least until his and her time had come to pass.

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Alex drummed nervously on the arm of his chair. It was getting close to 6pm. He hadn’t expected to be here more than maybe an hour. Just enough time to grab a few outfits and go. He should have known better. Grumbling to himself, Alex laid his head back on the top of the chair. It was never a quick affair in this clothes shop. Sure, most of the materials were recycled and reworked into new articles, but his sisters spent ungodly amounts of time on individual customers. That’s probably why they did such good business. He always felt like a bit of a doll to them. They always wanted to dress him up this way or that. And occasionally, he indulged them, but made it a point to not make it a habit. Even their friends had offered to dress him up.

Alex was a very proud man and had been dressing himself since he was eight. He was not about to let that change. His wardrobe as they called it, was practical and easy to maintain. Mostly blue jeans and t-shirts emblazoned with the company logo he worked for. He did own a couple pairs of khakis and black pants for certain “dressy” functions, but that was it. The last time he wore anything like that was Michelle’s wedding, almost 10 years ago. He even had a couple dressy shirts, but how often does a carpenter get to wear something like that?

Alex walked out of the shop with almost a dozen bags of clothes, so graciously given to Rainbow by his all-too-caring sisters. He hefted them into the back of the pickup, while a beaming Rainbow Dash strutted proudly, almost purposefully, in her new favorite outfit. She now sported a brilliant cyan hoodie with a rainbow on the back. It was explained to Alex as a representation of her cutie mark she had back home. Below this was the same pair of jeans she had been found in. She liked the way Alex couldn’t take his eyes off of her when she wore them. He was very bad at hiding this.

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Dash even took the liberty of poking fun at Alex when she’d catch him staring. She was enjoying her time here, and being the kind of spirit she was, she liked to tease the poor man. He wasn’t really sure what to do to himself. She considered the clothes about as close to preening her feathers as possible. Though Dash horribly missed her wings, she was enjoying walking here or there. She never knew how relaxing it could be, especially when all she did was fly back home.

With their precious cargo in the back of the truck, Dash and Alex headed home for supper, both ravenously hungry now.

Nightlife, Earth Style

Dash was humming along with the song on the radio, finally settled into life on earth. She had a place to stay, clothes on her back, and a friend. As she and Alex drove along the interstate, taking the easy way around the crowded city streets, they talked about life in Equestria. Dash went on about all of her friends, and the wonder bolts, and her dreams about joining the stunt flyer team, which Alex assumed were like the famous Blue Angels, stunt jet pilots who performed sometimes at the local airshow. Judging by what Rainbow had told him, Alex guessed she might enjoy seeing the angels perform, if she were around long enough.

They then realized that they hadn’t given much thought to supper, but elected to have leftovers since the salads from lunch were probably still fresh-ish. Since that was solved, they decided to cruise around a bit, so Alex could show Dash what kind of things there were to do here in town. Obviously, being a young girl (or mare), Dash needed to have some sort of social life. Alex inquired about her hobbies and such from Equestria. She like playing pranks, flying, and competition. There wasn’t much of that nature to do around here, so Alex decided to take Dash to a dance club, and see if he could get her up and moving. But that would have to wait for another time. Alex was more focused on eating.

When they got home, Alex helped Dash carry in her clothes and get them situated into her dresser. After this was done, they sat down to eat. Dinner went by pretty quickly, with conversation about the day filling most of the time between bites. They went to watch some TV, which Dash found amazingly enjoyable. TV’s were few and far between in Equestria. Alex then introduced her to the computer and internet, which absorbed most of Dash’s attention. She watched several videos of stunt flying squadrons, taking mental notes. She would definitely impress the wonder bolts now, with the new arsenal of tricks she intended to practice when she got back home. She felt herself getting tired, and settled on the couch next to Alex. She fell asleep laying on top of Alex, and he felt a blush creeping across his face. Scooting away, he settled her head on the couch arm, and covered her with a throw blanket. Alex then slunk off to bed, glad that he had the next day off.

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Alex woke up about noon. That was strange for him, he thought to himself, as he wandered blearily into the kitchen. He heard dash snoring softly in the next room over, so he decided to go for a walk while she slept. It had been a while since he saw or even talked to any of his neighbors or friends, so today felt like a good time to do so.

After Alex made his rounds he trudged back into the house, finding nothing of particular interest to talk about amongst his neighbors. Dash was already awake and watching TV when he returned. She greeted him warmly with a hug and asked him what he planned to do all day. In all truth, Alex had no clue. He decided to go work on another project he started months ago that was sitting in his garage. Dash elected to follow him and watch him work.

Although she was often recruited for demolition work back home, she enjoyed seeing things come together more than being busted apart. In the garage, what Alex had called a “project” was a beautiful red oak dresser. The structure had been completed, but it had yet to be stained and varnished. Opening the garage door, Alex unsealed a can of light-colored stain, which would make the grain of the oak stand out nicely. Using slow, deliberate strokes with his brush, Alex focused his utmost concentration into every fiber of the brush, becoming quiet. Dash watched him with the same amount of silence. She was amazed and how much concentration he possessed, especially when he was usually so carefree and aloof. Dash watched as the top of the dresser slowly began to gloss over, and then Alex moved down to the drawers, legs, and sides. That process took the better part of the afternoon, and before Alex knew it, the sun was beginning to set.

As Alex showered up, he got to thinking if Dash really was old enough to attend a dance club, and then he realized she did not have a valid ID. This nearly immediately crushed any ideas he may have had of showing Dash a good time. Drinking at home was one thing, but at a club was a totally different story. Then he realized he knew one club he could always attend, regardless if he had ID or no, or any of his friends. A DJ friend owned the place and would definitely let him and Dash in.

Dash was quite excited since the moment they left the house. Alex told her they were going to go see some friends of his, and she was eager to meet more humans. She noticed that Alex appeared a bit dressier than his usual blue jeans and grey or white t-shirt. He was wearing all black, looking as sleek as a well-flown Pegasus. He also smelled really nice. When they arrived at the club, Dash heard some familiar music coming through the door. It sounded a lot like what DJ Pon-3 would play at the clubs she frequented in Equestria. Even somepony like Dash needed to take time away from her training. She realized what this place was, and could barely contain her glee. She followed Alex through the door, sticking close to him so as not to get lost (and smell him of course).

Alex approached a room above the dance floor and bar, surrounded by mirror glass. On the Ebony wood door, a sign saying “Owner’s Booth” glared at them, bright red. Alex knocked three times, and he was greeted by a tall, lanky human taller than himself. The other human introduced himself as John, and shook hands with Alex and Dash. Alex explained the situation, but was stopped mid-sentence.

“Say no more, Alex, you know your money is never good here.” John chuckled, smiling warmly. “Neither is your lady friend’s, so don’t even think about it, missy.” John said, departing through the door in which they entered. Dash surmised that a lot of Alex’s friends were, well, friendly. She made herself comfortable on the worn-in couch that overlooked the DJ booth, While Alex looked around for something to drink. He found a pair of bottles labeled “Amaretto”, and mixed up Dash and himself something from the open bottle.

Settling in next to Dash, he realized the Owner’s booth was situated strategically, providing a full view of the dance floor, bar, DJ booth, and tables. The room had a nearly 360 degree view, and was both unsettling and amazing. It was like floating above a bustling anthill, except the ants were decorated with glow sticks and blacklight-reactive paint.

As they drank and talked, Dash got antsy. She was tired of acting reserved and cautious and wanted to let loose for a while. While she was still feeling sure of her feet, she literally dragged Alex down to the dance floor. Alex never really danced before, he just came here to relax. But how could he resist, with such a pretty young woman egging him on, in an almost challenging way. Just then, a bass-heavy tune started playing, and Alex couldn’t help himself. He got up and started raving, which he hadn’t done in almost two years, since the week after he graduated high school. This goaded several other young patrons, barely eighteen, to join him. Keeping a close eye on Dash, who was next to him, they eventually had the whole club out on the floor. The dance floor was a stormy sea of glowing bodies, every one getting nudged or bumped here or there. Once his burst of energy was spent, Alex seated himself at the bar, ordering a tall cold glass of Ice water. As long as he drank water, he could stay sober enough to drive home.

Dash was thoroughly into the dance club now, dancing and bouncing with the rest of the young crowd, who couldn’t have been much younger than herself. She was feeling a little dizzy, but that made the thrill of dancing and music even more prevalent. She was approached by a young man, who asked her if she wanted a drink. She decided to oblige him. He escorted her to the bar, whispering something to the bartender. Shortly after, a small glass was produced, and Dash could smell the liquor from her seat. She took a tentative sip, and it went down smoothly. Confident that the drink was harmless, she finished the rest of it in a few swallows, and instantly felt lightheaded. She was wondering if she had made a mistake, but pushed it to the back of her mind. All the humans she’d met so far were nice to her, so why not this one?

What Dash didn’t see was the malicious glint in the young man’s eyes as Dash stood up and teetered back to the dance floor. Confident that he had bagged his prize for the night, the malicious young man followed Dash, who eventually found her way outside.

Alex had seen all of these events transpire, and was filled with the most unholy rage he’d ever felt. Stalking the skinny punk that had just given Dash the equivalent of an alcoholic nuke, Alex pushed his way between bodies, easily blending into the throng. Alex slunk out of the same door Dash had went through, tailed by the skinny punk. He knew that kid was bad news. He could feel it. Now, that kid was about to feel pure, unbridled rage.

Alex followed his prey, closing the distance with long, silent strides. Years of playing paintball and airsoft had turned the big man quite stealthy. While Dash was distracted by a pair of passing girls, Alex crept up and growled in the young man’s ear “You got 10 seconds to run before I break you.” The young creep was feeling cocky and decided to swing at Alex. Alex easily ducked the blow and followed up with a powerful left hook, flooring the young creep with one hit. The creep saw stars and felt pavement, the last thing he remembered was seeing a huge black figure with startling blue eyes, looking over him with pity, almost remorse.

Shaking his hand out, Alex wiggled his fingers, trying to recover feeling in them. He’d hit the kid pretty damn hard, much harder than he intended, and floored him. He stole one last glance and the floored punk, then Rushed over to Dash before she stumbled into the street. Alex grabbed her firmly, but gently, steering her back towards the truck.

Dash was startled by Alex grabbing her. She turned to face him.

“Hey Alex,” she said, slurring her words slightly. “How’d I get outside? And why are you outside?”

Alex’s rough voice responded to her, gruff but kind, as usual. “Well, you had a bit too much to drink and decided to take a walk. I followed you to make sure you were safe.” Alex agreed to himself to not tell her she’d almost been attacked sexually. “I think it’s time we bid John goodnight, Dash” Alex said, smiling at her.

“Oh, well that was real gentlecoltly of you.” Dash said, laughing, finding that she used an equestrian word on earth quite funny. “I think I wanna go home anyway. I haven’t felt this dizzy since Mare’s Night out back home.” She said, laughing again.

Alex was happy he knew something about horses and equines in general, otherwise he may have thought Dash had gone bonkers. Steering her into the passenger side of the truck, Alex left the windows open for her, in case she felt the sudden urge to puke, which more often than not accompanied heavy drinking. As they drove home, Dash dozed off, face slightly red, her head leaning against the doorframe. Alex couldn’t help but laugh. She looked so much like his little sister; he’d imagined he’d be doing the same thing in a few years, when she turned 21.

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Alex was also thoroughly pleased that Dash was a small girl, otherwise he would have had a fun time explaining why he was carrying a hammered, drunk girl into his house. He doubted many of his neighbors had seen Dash yet, but you could never be too cautious, especially in a small neighborhood like his.

After hazarding a glance around the cul-de-sac he called home, Alex carried an oblivious

Rainbow Dash into the house, and gently laid her on the couch. After locking his truck up tight, Alex went back inside, locking the door behind himself. Somehow, Dash had roused and was trying to walk to her room. Alex escorted her gently, and Dash tried to get his attention before he departed.

“Alex, thank you.” Dash said, half asleep now.

“For what?” Alex inquired quizzically.

“For everything.” Dash said, repositioning herself more comfortably. “for the clothes, the home, everything. I was so scared…” She trailed off, nodding off slightly.

“You’re welcome, Dash.” Alex said sleepily, noticing that she had finally fallen back asleep. Closing her door behind him, Alex went to his fridge and pulled out what was left of the special cider.

Alex sat now, deep in thought. It had been years since he had hit anybody. Why had he reacted so severely at the club, He wondered to himself. The last time he’d had a reaction even close to that was when some punk decided to put holes in his sisters’ display cases at their shop. The punk had broken in, and Alex happened to be working in a building next door when he heard the alarms go off. He’d chased the punk down into an alleyway behind Clothing Row, and proceeded to beat the shit out of him and left him there. But since then Alex had kept his anger in check. Why he snapped after so long deeply troubled him. Searching the bottom of his cider bottle for an answer, but not finding one, he drained the last of the golden drink, and with a satisfying belch, settled into the living room to watch some late night TV. That would probably ease his mind and allow him to sleep.

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Alex was sleeping in front of the TV, when a gentle voice had awoken him. Looking around him, trying to see past his splitting headache, he realized it was Dash

“Hrnnnggg...what is it Rainbow?” Alex asked, grimacing. Clasping a hand over his forehead and right eye, Alex sat up slowly.

“You fell asleep in the living room. Looked awfully uncomfortable. I wanted to wake you up so you could go to your bed.”Dash said in a small voice, flipping her hair out of her eyes.

Alex laughed in spite of himself. Being caught like a drunken teenager by someone younger than you didn’t happen every day. He couldn’t help but feel slightly embarrassed.

“OK, you win, Dashie.” Alex said, sitting up and stumble-walking to his room. Dash grew quite silent. Only Pinkie ever called her ‘Dashie’ and that was usually at intimate moments. She began wondering to herself if Alex was starting to feel a certain way about her. She pushed these thoughts out of her head and watched Alex get into his room. After that was said and done, she went back to her own room and went back to sleep.

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Alex dragged his disheveled self out of bed at 5 in the morning, regretting he had drank half a bottle of special cider on his lonesome. He had to work today too, which made him despair even further. Preparing an especially strong pot of coffee, Alex showered while it was brewing. Toweling himself off, he wandered downstairs in his boxers, not expecting a certain houseguest to be awake at his hour. Regrettably, he found out she was indeed awake.

Dash blushed deep scarlet when she was confronted with the view of a lifetime. Quickly hiding himself behind his soaked towel, Alex ducked behind the kitchen doorway, a blush also spreading across his face. “Eh hehh, Dash, I didn’t expect you to be awake this early.” Alex chuckled nervously, realizing just exactly what Dash probably saw.

“I’m a weather pony back home. I’m always up early.” Dash said, playing with a bit of her hair. She’d seen Alex in all his glory. And she kind of enjoyed it, though it produced a rather awkward silence.

“I smelled the coffee…that’s what woke me up, too.” Dash finished.

“Oh, I see..” Alex said, scooting closer to the doorway in order to conceal himself. “I’m gonna go get ready for work..” Alex departed, feeling the heat in his face subside somewhat. This was bound to make the next couple days awkward as hell.

Going back to the kitchen, Alex was now fully clothed, and Dash was still there, sipping at her cup of coffee. Alex felt a blush coming on once again, and quickly buried his face behind a newspaper. He could feel Dash’s eyes trying to burn through his newspaper, and he surrendered to her probing glance.

“What you just saw, is natural for human males, especially early in the morning.” Alex started, wanted to get past this as quick as possible. “It had nothing to do with seeing you, though that isn’t to say you’re not attractive.” Alex finished flatly, unsure of where to go next.

“Yeah, I figured as much. You realize I’m the same age as you and have been around the block a few times.” Dash said coyly.

Alex blinked. She was quite forward wasn’t she? “OK, understood. Just don’t tell anybody please? That’s the last thing I need my sisters finding out about. You should have heard them when they found out about my first time getting laid.”

At this, they both laughed, and the awkwardness had passed. Alex set off for work, passing Dash a key to the house. “Feel free to do what you want, just make sure you remember how to get home. I can’t leave the job site until the foreman does, so you’re screwed if you get lost.” Alex warned Dash as he pulled out of the driveway. “Dinner’s at six. See you then.” Alex waved and pulled off. Dash really didn’t know what she wanted to do, so she stood there and watched the truck till it turned at the end of the block.

Hard work, Deep discussion.

After Alex had left her sight, Dash went back inside to figure out what she could do for the day. She eagerly wanted to get out of the house, but had no clue where she could go or what to do. Judging by the amount of kids around, there had to be some sort of public park or something nearby. She approached a young child, no older than maybe 7 or 8 years old, slowly and carefully. She didn’t know how the child or his parents would react to her.

“Hey, little guy.” She said to the little boy.

“Hi there miss!” He responded joyfully, raised to be as friendly as possible to everyone.

“What’s your name, little man?” Dash asked the boy. “My name’s Sarah. I live with my friend Alex across the street.”

“You know Mr. Alex?” The boy said, amazement in his eyes. “He lets me and the other kids play with the hose during the summer. He’s really nice. My name is Timothy, but my mommy calls me Tim for short. Nice to meet you, Sarah.”

“Nice to meet you too, Tim.” She said, shaking his little hand. “Do you and your friends know about a park nearby or something like that? I’m kind of bored and wanna go play somewhere.” Dash said brightly, smiling at the child.

“Oh yeah! There’s Johnson Park, right around the corner from my house. Do you want to see if my mommy will take us, Sarah?” Tim said excitedly, jumping up and down.

“I’d love to” Dash said, letting Tim take her hand and lead her to his house.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Alex was cruising down the highway, clocking about 50 mph, jamming to some music on the radio. His mind wandered to Rainbow Dash back home. He knew she must have been getting bored by now. She’d been metaphorically trapped in his house for almost a month now, with nothing to do but watch stupid daytime TV or listen to the radio. He would have to show her other stuff to do, since the club scene didn’t work out too well. He shuddered to think what might have happened to his innocent houseguest had he not been there.

Pulling into the job site, it was shaping up to be a fairly decent day. The skies were filled with shady clouds, blocking out just enough sun to not bake Alex and his workers alive, especially since he elected to wear a black company t-shirt today. He slogged down the last bit of his cold coffee, and threw the container into a nearby debris heap.

“Supervisor!” A familiar voice called to him. Turning around, Alex saw the youth from the accident a couple days ago.

“Yeah, what is it kid?” Alex asked with a grunt, adjusting his glasses on his nose.

“Well, Sir, uh, someone didn’t show up today…” The apprentice said nervously.

“So, can’t they call someone in? from another site?”

“They tried sir. The Supermarket project can’t spare a single laborer. The project is already behind.”

“So, you guys need me to work alongside you?” Alex knew the answer before the lackey even said anything.

“Yeah, otherwise Foreman John will take it out of all of us, including you. Those were his exact words.”

Alex groaned. “So be it, who called out?” Alex asked the lackey.

“Johnson, sir, one of the roofers. You’re probably needed on the sheetrock crew so they can get done quicker, freeing up some time to go to the roof.”

Alex grinned to himself. “Better yet, I’ll get on up there and work on the roof myself.”

“If you insist, sir. I better get back before Foreman John comes to find me. I have a feeling I’m on thin ice already.” The lackey trotted off, nearly jogging.

Sighing, Alex grabbed his tool belt from the truck box. “Time to sweat my balls off” He grumbled as he began to climb one of the 100-foot ladders. He really hated heights, but he worked quick. The sooner the necessary shingles were done, the sooner he could get back to the ground.

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

Rainbow Dash was kind of surprised. Tim’s mother not only offered to take her and Tim to the park, but she also brought along some of his friends from the neighborhood. In this, she met a little girl named Amanda and a little boy named Luke. They all immediately liked Dash / Sarah, and asked her to play with them. She couldn’t resist the little ones, so she chased them around the park and down the slide.

Dash found herself playing on the swings with the little ones, and they all begged her to push them. After they were satisfied, she got on a swing herself, halfheartedly trying to outdo them. She loved the feeling of flying she got from the swings. They also all got on the merry go round together, laughing with such glee that Dash found it contagious, and before she knew it, she was laughing with them.

Before they knew it, sunset was upon them, and Dash and her new little friends all went home with Tim’s mom. Tim’s mother, whose name was Catherine, thanked Dash / Sarah for occupying the kids all day. Dash was more than happy to, and she wanted to go back tomorrow if the weather kept up. Since she had no reason to practice for the wonderbolts, she now had loads of time to kill. She even considered playing with the little fillies and colts back home if she ever got back.

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

Alex’s day was filled with trips up and down the ladder, carrying countless bundles of shingles. This wore him down quite considerably. Add this to hammering in shingles on top of the tar paper, and before Alex knew it, he was wiped out, but busy. He took his lunch break about noon or so, and after milking it to the very last minute, he was pleased to find out that the roofer that had called out, only had an important appointment, and was back on the job site while he was on break.

Pleased with this news, Alex spent the next few hours of his day helping the sheetrock crew finish up the bottom floor’s walls. Before he knew it, they were done there, too. He then moved on to the second floor, where he helped finishing framing up the recently added bedroom. After this, it was damn near sunset, and Alex was let go fairly early because of all the progress they made.

Taking his time back home, he wondered how Dash fared all day. He hoped she didn’t get too bored out of her skull. He just pulled off into his neighborhood, when he saw Dash talking with one of his neighbors. He hoped it was nothing serious, and he pulled into his driveway, cutting the engine and climbing out.

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

Dash didn’t notice the familiar blackish-blue truck pulling into the driveway of her home. She was too busy talking to Catherine about maybe taking the little ones off of her hands tomorrow. Dash was fairly confident she could take care of the three kids, and she had so much fun with them, she couldn’t wait. Catherine agreed, and told Dash when to come pick them up tomorrow. With a wave, Dash ran off, now finally noticing Alex’s truck had pulled in. Overjoyed, she jogged back to the unassuming household.

Opening the door, Dash saw Alex just taking off his work boots. She ran up behind and hugged him tight. Then she realized he stunk.

“Alex, why do you smell so funky?” Dash asked her roommate.

“Eheh, a hard day’s work will do that to you. They needed a pair of hands on the jobsite today and I was the only free pair. They had me up on the roof, in the main house, and even upstairs. I’m so wiped out” He laughed. “Now if you’ll excuse me, I need a good long shower.” He said, stripping off his shirt and tossing it into a basket by the door.

“Oh, ok.” Dash said, slightly dejectedly. She wanted so bad to tell him about her day, but that funk was unbearable.

Noticing this, he comforted his friend. “I’ll be out in 20 minutes, I promise.” Alex said, walking up to the bathroom. “Meanwhile, set us up some tea, eh?”

“Sure!” Dash quipped, bouncing off to the kitchen. She hurried and got the kettle started before Alex started his shower. She realized herself that she hadn’t had a decent bath in a long time. She made a note to herself to ask Alex how to use the shower, if it was any different from ponyville. While Alex was showering, she watched TV.

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

After Alex got out of the shower and dried off, he felt human again. Half-trotting downstairs, he flopped down on the couch next to Dash.

“So, you hungry yet?” He asked her, feeling his own gut go into knots.

“Yeah, I could eat” She added nonchalantly, leaning back on the couch.

“I don’t think we have much left here in the house. Let’s see what I’ve got on me.” Alex said, pulling out his battered wallet. Searching thoroughly through the folds, he found a $20 bill tucked away in some foreign place of the beaten maroon leather.

“Hmm, I’ve got 20 bucks…let’s see if we can find something to eat downtown.” He said, grabbing Dash unwittingly by her hand. With this, Dash blushed a deep scarlet. They climbed into the cab of the truck, and Alex pulled out his keys and started the engine in one fluid movement. Dropping the pickup into reverse, he glided slowly and easily out of the driveway, pulling a 180, and toeing the gas gently, so as not to rocket down the block.

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

“so, Dash, how’d your day go today?” Alex asked her, eyes on the road.

“Not bad. I spent the day playing with some of the kids around the neighborhood. We went over to the park and ended up staying there all day.” She said, flipping her hair out of her face.

“That’s nice. What were their names?”

“Oh, the first one I met was Tim. He had a couple friends his age, too. One was a little girl named Amanda, and another little boy named Luke.”

“Oh! I know those three!” Alex laughed to himself. “They’re always bugging me to play in the hose when it gets warm out. You very rarely ever see those three apart.”

“Sounds like some kids back home I know.” Dash said, saddening a little bit. She missed her number one fan.

“I hope you get home somehow, Dash.” Alex said, looking at her with as comforting a look he could muster.

“I do too. I like it here on Earth, a lot, and if I had to, I would stay. But I don’t belong here, Alex.”

“If you didn’t belong here, why would some divine, benevolent power stick you here, possibly knowing that you wouldn’t be able to get home immediately?” Alex berated her tenderly. “I sort of forgot what it was like to have friends.” Alex smiled at her. “Maybe that’s why you were teleported or whatever?

“I never really thought of it that way. Maybe you’re right.” Dash looked down at the floor.

“Chin up.” Alex took her jaw in his hand gently, lifting it up. “You shouldn’t hide those brilliant eyes of yours, filled with so much wonder and soul. You’ll always be welcome here, with me.”

“Thank you, Alex. I wish I could be fine with staying here forever, but imagine knowing you have a home you can’t go back to. Wouldn’t that rip you apart inside? If all those things in your house, the beautiful furniture, your TV, your sentimental stuff? What if you knew it belonged to you, but had a key to a permanently locked door?”

“It would definitely tear me apart. But I would try very hard to appreciate it from afar. Treasure your memories of your home, and you’ll never feel alone. Your home isn’t just a physical place, it’s also inside you, spiritually, mentally, and physically. It’s what makes you who you are. That will never change, and when you do go back, you’ll realize just how much you loved it.”

“I know, Alex. I’m just finally feeling homesick. I’ll be ok after a little while, promise.” She fixed him with a wan smile.

“I hope so.” He laughed. “Otherwise, you’ll never have any fun again. And you don’t have to be ok all the time. Everyone, every pony, hurts sometimes. There’s no shame in that. But when you do feel ok, enjoy it.”

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

Just then, they pulled into downtown.

“You’re technically still a pony right?” Alex asked her.

“Yeah, I guess.” Dash said, sensing the gears turning inside her companion’s head.

“That means you probably live on a mostly vegetarian diet, right? So, we need to get you vegetable food instead of meat.”

“Yeah. I’ve never ate meat before, but no pony back home does. It’s pretty much against every direction of our moral compasses.”

“Ok, so we definitely need something vegetarian. How about steamed rice and vegetables?”

“Yeah, that sounds vegetarian enough.”

“To the Chinese joint!” Alex screamed, making Dash jump as he was laughing like a madman.

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(A/N) That chapter's done, but feels like it may be missing something. i just can't place what. If you have any suggestions, please leave it down below.

Ch. 7 Thieves and Couples

Alex awoke to a frantic knocking on his door followed by hoarse whispers. Grumbling. He got up out of bed and unlocked his door to find a very frightened Rainbow Dash nearly toppling over on top of him.

“Alex, hurry, get up!” Dash whispered to him as she pushed him into his room.

“What, why? What’s going on, Dash?” Alex asked her, a tinge of nervousness in his voice.

“I was watching TV, and there was a scratch at the door, and then a cracking noise. I ran to your room as quietly as I could. I think someone’s breaking in!” She said, starting to shake.

“Are you sure?” He asked her; surprised that someone had that much gall, especially in this neighborhood.

“Well, not exactly, but I know what breaking wood sounds like when I hear it.” She gripped his arm, hiding behind him.

“Ok, stay here, I’ll be right back.” Alex extricated a baseball bat from between his dresser and the wall. It was short and light, perfect for defense, and painted matte black.

“What’s that? A club? Please tell me you’re not going to hurt somepony, Alex.”

“No, I would never dream of it. I’m gonna take a walk around the house and make sure everything’s locked tight, and I’m going to check the front door. You stay in here. I’ll be back shortly.” He nudged her away from him and into the bedroom, closing the door with a barely audible click.

Alex pulled a short, black UV flashlight from the chest beside his room, holding it in one hand, and hefting the bat in the other. On the opposite side of the door, Dash heard a drawer open, and close, followed by slow, light footsteps, receding into the front hall. Once she could hear footsteps no more, she clicked the door’s lock so it was sealed, then she sat on Alex’s bed, waiting for the familiar voice of her roommate.

**************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

Alex crept along the front hall, all his senses on high alert. His house was dead silent except for the barely audible TV from the living room. Hugging the shadows on the floor, He went, silently, his footsteps light and easy. Playing paintball for so many years made him pretty silent on his feet.

He peeked into the living room, and saw nothing out of the ordinary, except the TV still on. He decided to turn it off later to not alert anyone that may have gotten inside. Moving towards the front door, he noticed it was slightly ajar, the door frame cracked and splintered at about the same spot the knob lock was. Now he knew someone was definitely inside.

Hefting his baseball bat once more, he moved onwards to Dash’s room, where the door was also open. He listened for movement or shuffling inside, and heard nothing. Taking a look inside, he saw nothing. Satisfied that the room was devoid of life, he moved onward to the kitchen, where he kept a valuable collection of silver flatware that was given to him as a gift from one of his exes. They were looking to get engaged at one point, then she skipped town, never to be heard from again.

When he saw nothing in the kitchen, he made sure his silver was still intact, and sure enough it was. Now there were only two places left to check. The bathroom and storage rooms were upstairs. Making his way to his modestly designed staircase, he hopped lightly over the noisy step, and upwards into the upstairs hallway. Immediately, he noticed the bathroom light was on.

The bathroom lights were sensor activated, and only turned on if something moved inside or made noise. This immediately told Alex his prey was in there. Creeping slowly along the hallway, he readied his bat for the best chance at an opportunistic hit. Just between his bellybutton and chest it rested, in his hand. This would allow him to put his target in a painful sleeper hold or take a shot straight to the kidneys. The bathroom door was wide open. Breathing deep and slow, he ducked below the view of the mirror that rested on the wall opposite of the door.

Being as superstitious as he was, he didn’t like not seeing behind him, which was why the mirror was placed somewhat inconveniently. He poked one eye past the doorjamb, and saw his medicine cabinet wide open and being rifled through by some skinny punk, who had so conveniently placed the mirrored door away from the bathroom door. A malicious grin planted itself upon Alex’s face.

“Got you now, homie.” He said to himself as he crept up behind said punk, placing the baseball bat under one arm and across his chest. Forcing all of his strength into a pull, he yoked up the little parasite.

The kid jumped as he felt a tightening upon his chest and below his armpit. A demonic voice growled into his ear.

“Didn’t your mother ever tell you a thief never wins, punk?” Alex growled into the kid’s ear.

The kid panicked and struggled against a wall of a man. “Whoa man, I swear I wasn’t gonna hurt nobody. I just wanted some vic’s, percoset’s something! I wasn’t gonna kill nobody! Please don’t kill me! I’m sorry! Let me go and I’ll never come back and never tell anybody! I swear on my mom’s grave! Just let me go!” The kid started tearing up, nearly bawling.

Alex chuckled deep in his throat, resembling a wolf’s growl. “Now, I can’t very well take a thief’s words to heart. And I’m not gonna let you go. First of all, you broke my very expensive redwood door. You know how hard that stuff is to come by? Especially on the east coast?”

“I swear, I’ll pay for it, I promise, just don’t hurt me man! Please! Here, in my pocket, there’s a couple grand. That’ll cover your door right? Don’t hurt me, please!” The kid was struggling against Alex’s bear-like strength.

“A couple grand, huh? How tempting. But I’m a good Christian man and can’t accept a bribe from a criminal.” Alex tightened his grip somewhat. “Second of all, you scare my roommate to tears, and make her wake me up at….4am, just because of your stupid ass? When I just went to bed at midnight? They always say you should never wake a sleeping bear. Guess what you just did, shithead?” Alex started dragging the kid backwards towards the bathroom door.

“What I am going to do, however, is drag you downstairs into my living room, tie your hands up with zip ties, and make you apologize to my roommate. Meanwhile, me and Mr. Slugger, here, will call the police, all the while watching you. I can claim self defense, and you were ‘endangering the welfare of my underage daughter.’ You get locked up, I file a report, Sarah gets an apology. Everybody wins!” Alex cackled maniacally.

“Oh! Also, I’m good friends with the sheriff, so anything I say is gospel, homie.” Alex grinned wolfishly.

**************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

True to his word, Alex nearly dragged the perp into his living room, unceremoniously dropping him on the couch. After his hands were snugly bound, tight enough to hold but to not leave marks, Alex fetched the house phone, popped in a few digits, and in a moment or two, Sheriff Jeff Riley was on the other end.

“Alex, why’re you calling the department this late at night?” a frazzled-sounding Sheriff asked him.

“Hey, Jeff. How’re the wife and kids?” Alex asked him in return.

“Cut the bullshit. I know you didn’t call me to check in. I haven’t gotten enough coffee in me to deal with you.”

“Ok, ok, relax. Sorry. At any rate, I’ve got a wannabe drug dealer here in my house, who happened to break into my home, damage my redwood door, and scare my daughter to pieces. Not to mention he’s carrying a couple grand on him and maybe other stuff he might intend to sell. Got time to retrieve him?”

“Yeah, yeah. Hold on. I’ll send a newbie to come get him. That fine with you?”

“I’d actually prefer you to come get him. He’s got a wild look in his eyes that I don’t like.”

“You’re so very lucky we go way back. I’ll be there in 20. Description?”

Alex looked the punk dead in the face. “Young, possibly late teens or early twenties. Tall, Skinny, dirty blonde hair. Gauges in his ears, pierced lip, all black clothing. Good enough?”

“Yup. See you in 20. You restrain him like you’re supposed to?”

“Course. Last thing I wanna do is damage my standings with you, Jeff.”

A click sounded on the other end, followed by a dial tone.

“Now that that’s taken care of, I believe you owe someone an apology, pube juice.” Alex told the punk, as he left the room. He blocked off the broken front door to prevent a hasty escape.

**************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

Three knocks sounded on Alex’s bedroom door. Dash recognized the hasty knocks as Alex’s trademark. She got up and unlocked the door, opening it slowly.

Alex’s smiling visage greeted her. Except he now looked remarkably older and more tired in the dim light emanating from the moonlit windows behind her.

“Hey, it’s safe now. I found him. Come with me.” He proffered his hand to her and she took it gently, cautiously, a stranger to this new embrace. “I told him he’s gonna apologize to you, while we’re waiting for my Sheriff friend to come get him.”

“Oh…ok.” Dash muttered, somewhat bewildered at Alex’s seemingly short aging process. They entered the living room, hand in hand. Dash sat as far away from the stranger as she could. The look in his eyes was part fear, part trapped animal. Dash didn’t like it.

“Well, go ahead. You know how to talk right? I couldn’t get you to shut up in the bathroom.” Alex growled at him, startling Dash and the would-be thief.

“Uh, um, uh…” The kid stuttered, unable to make his mouth work.

“Not quite. Try it again.” Alex sneered at him.

The thief took a deep breath, trying very hard to steady himself. He would have to try and stay calm if he expected to get away.

“I’m sorry, miss. I didn’t mean to scare you. I was just looking for a quick buck. Please don’t hate me.” The kid pleaded.

“Uhm…thank you?” Dash asked quizzically. “Why did you try breaking into Alex’s house? I’m sure there’s a place you could go to make some money. Why be a common thief?”

“I don’t know. It was a stupid idea. I realize this now. And thank you, Alex, for taking pity on a stupid kid like me. I know other people that would have shot me or beat me. Why not you?”

“I promised Sarah I wouldn’t. If she wasn’t here, I would have dealt with you myself.” Alex stated flatly.

Just then, there was a knock at the door. Standing in the broken doorframe, was the Sheriff.

**************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

“This the kid I guess?” Sheriff Riley pointed at the restrained punk.

“Yeah, that’s him. Broke in here looking for some painkillers, probably to sell. My daughter notified me of him right before he made it into the house. I stuck her in my room, found him, restrained him, and here we are.” Alex smiled tiredly.

“What’s your name, kid?” The Sheriff asked him.

“Josh. Josh Thomas, Sheriff.” The kid told him, staring at the floor.

“You’re in deep, kid. You’re probably looking at 10 years or better. Not only do I have you on breaking and entering, but that girl is possibly a minor, landing you an ‘endangering’ charge. Add that to attempted burglary, and possibly intent to sell if I find anything on you. You carrying?

“No, sir. That’s why I broke in to start with. I was looking for some Vicodin or percosets, something.” Josh finished flatly.

“We’ll take care of the paperwork back at the precinct. Cut him loose, Alex.”

“Stay still. I promise I’m not gonna hurt you.” Alex severed the plastic bindings with a deft knife stroke, and helped the kid off the couch.

“All yours.” Alex gently nudged Josh towards towards the Sheriff. Riley took the kid by the wrists, and chained them together with handcuffs.

“You really screwed up tonight, Josh. I’ll be up all night filing this paperwork.” The Sheriff grumbled.

“Go on to bed, Dash. I gotta fix this door before I go to bed.” Dash made her way towards her room, shutting the door with a light click. But she couldn’t sleep. She was a sea of nerves and shakes, and could barely sit or lay down for long. She listened to Alex working in the living room, but decided she shouldn’t bother him.

**************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

As Alex labored in the living room, he felt his head getting heavier by the minute. After a little while, Alex had a rough, but workable door. After transferring the deadbolts and knob locks to the new door, he closed and locked it with a satisfied, tired sigh. By now, it was already time for him to go to work, and he didn’t bother to show up. He’d explain later.

Lumbering his way into his bedroom, he promptly laid down and fell asleep, and didn’t bother to check if his door was locked. Shortly, he was snoring the morning away, oblivious to the world around him.

Dash listened closely at Alex’s bedroom door, and found him snoring loudly. Quietly, she inched her small frame into the dimly lit bedroom, and saw him passed out straight on the middle of the bed. At this point in time, she just didn’t care anymore, and only felt safe when she was right next to him. She eased herself slowly into his bed, laying across his chest. She fell asleep shortly, and the pair were on the last train to dreamland, nonstop.

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Alex awoke with an unfamiliar weight across his chest and bed. Waking up slowly, and looking through blurry eyes, he saw a familiar prismatic head of hair on his torso. He noticed that his arm had also curled itself onto her back, holding her. He had no recollection of hearing her come in his room, or even feeling her weight. She was so light, she barely made any noise. He smiled to himself, and suddenly all felt right.

He fell back asleep shortly, and the couple slept most of the morning away. After they had rested up, they showered and dressed separately, and took off to the lumberyard to find a better replacement for a door. After Alex had selected and paid for a heavier, stronger door, they went back to the house where Dash watched Alex install it. By then, it was lunchtime, and they shared a peaceful lunch in the park, taking their minds off of the night’s events.

Next to last

After almost a year in the human world, Rainbow had settled in to human life. She had found a job with Alex's sisters, and adored the trio as much as Alex himself. After a while, she learned she had an eye for style, and mused to herself Rarity would be giddy with excitement if she ever found out. As fate would have it, She and Alex had fallen in love, and were regarded as a couple by most of their friends and Alex's family. The couple enjoyed their life together, though it wasn't without its trials and tribulations. They always had forgiven one another in the end.

Alex's family eventually found out about Rainbow's secret, but didn't really care as long as Alex was happy. While she still hadn't lost hope of going home, Rainbow wasn't to eager to leave her new life as Alex's love. She did miss the freedom of flight, but this was more or less remedied by the fact that she had learned how to drive the complicated vehicles the humans used to get around, and was allowed to borrow Alex's truck any time as long as he was home.

****

Alex himself was happier than he had ever been. He had a beautiful girlfriend, an excellent position and salary at his company, and he was in excellent health. Healthy as a horse as Rainbow liked to put it. Add this to the fact that it was almost the year anniversary of his chance meeting with the trash heap girl he loved, and his life really couldn't get much better. The romance between the two was far from stale, and even though there had been no mention of intimate relations or marriage, the pair were fine with their lot in life. They held hands, kissed, cuddled, and everything else that goes with being young and in love, and they didn't want it any other way. They shared a room, also, but that was as far as things went.

The pair enjoyed movies and music together, often going to an action movie or live show every week. If there wasn't a movie to be seen, there was dinner to be had, at home or on the town.

Deep down, Alex secretly hoped that he could be with Rainbow for the rest of his life, and it would surely destroy them both if they ever had to part. He knew it was selfish and wrong, but life was so good, he never wanted it to end. And he knew Rainbow still had her hopes about going home.

****

This particular afternoon, the pair were sharing their lunch hour, and had lapsed into discussion about a New movie that was due out this week.

"It looks really good, Alex. Do you think we could make the midnight release this week? It's got Jason Statham in it. We both know he's one of our favorites." Rainbow dash ventured, trying to lift Alex's mood. he seemed rather out of it today.

"I don't know about that one, Dash. Winter's on it's way. We both know I need as much work as possible to give us a buffer until spring. You know our living expenses as well as me. Even if we cut back on dinner and movies, we would still need a bit to keep afloat."

"But you've worked so much this week, sweetie. I've barely seen 5 minutes of you. You need your rest, Mister Tough Guy." Rainbow countered, trying to get him to ease up on himself. Even though he'd been at the office all week instead of on site, he'd been surfing through tons of order forms, payroll papers, job requests, and the like. Such work came with being the vice president of the biggest contractor in the city.

"I get plenty of rest when I'm sleeping or home" He chuckled.

"Not enough rest. I can see it in your eyes. You're drained. You need some time off, maybe even a vacation." Rainbow prodded. This wasn't even about the movies anymore. Her man was working himself to the bone, all for her.

"I can't afford to take time off now. I need whatever I can get."

"We both know you make more than enough money for both of us. Did you forget that I'm working too? We'll be fine even if you took the full two weeks you're owed. So I insist you take a vacation and let me be responsible for once. Or I'll tell your boss to force you to take time off. You know he will because his kids and wife love me." Rainbow smirked. She almost had him, she could tell.

"And what happens if you can't handle it, miss headstrong woman?" Alex countered. It's not that he didn't want or desperately need the time off, but he wouldn't know what to do with himself.

"If I can't handle it, I'll concede that I failed us..."

"Don't put it like that, Dash." For his normally confident and headstrong girlfriend to say something like that, she really must have been worried about him. "Fine, I'll ask for my two weeks tomorrow. But after that two weeks is up, it's business as usual, ok?"

"Fair enough." Rainbow ended flatly, sipping at her coffee slowly.

Just then, the town square's bell tower sounded its 12:45 alarm.

"Oh, ponyfeathers. I gotta go, love." Rainbow told, Alex, gathering up her coat and demolishing what was left of her coffee and lunch. " I promised Irene I would help her design outfits for her school's performance next month. And her homework. She really is a smart kid for her age. Gets it from you I'll bet."

"It's a shame she spends more time with boys than anywhere else, except school. I worry that she'll get ditracted and screw up everything she's got going for her." Alex grumbled.

"Hush, you. You knowas well as I do every young person and pony alike goes through the same thing. You did, I did, we all did. So stop being a hypocrite" She playfully scolded her boyfriend, giving him a quick kiss.

"I hate it when you're right." Alex continued grumbling.

"Yet, you still love me anyway" she laughed as she jogged past him and towards the clothing store.

Alex sighed, finished his coffee, and made his way to his truck after paying the bill, including tip. Slouching into the cab of his beat-up pickup, he ctanked the engine and pulled off, his mood back to it's normal level. A kiss from that girl always did that to him. She knew it and often used the tactic to offset his mind from the day's hassles.

****

As his mind drifted through the endless current of paperwork, he eventually unfocused and began daydreaming about possibly proposing to Rainbow. They'd been officially together for almost 6 months now, and even though he felt it was a bit hasty, he didn't want to miss out on such an amazing event, in case Rainbow did eventually go back home. After he realized he'd been staring at the same payroll list for half an hour, Alex immediately dismissed those thought and buckled down on his paperwork. After all was said and done, he typed up his vacation request and laid it gingerly on top of the stack of papers in the CEO's "Incoming" box. It was now closing on 8pm, and Alex had to get home while dinner was still hot.

Due to Alex's odd schedule and Rainbow Dash being somewhat of a cook, she often made dinner for Alex right before he arrived for work, and it was often out of the stove or oven as soon as he got home. It was one of her most endearing qualities, and with Alex being raised on genuine home cooking, he never got tired of it. Pulling the old pickup into the driveway, Alex cut the engine and waited in the truck to gather his thoughts. The idea of marriage had been an all- consuming thought, moreso than Alex would have liked, but that seemed to be the one thing he couldn't banish right away.

He kept asking himself "Do I really want to do this?" "How will I plan the wedding?" "Will everyone approve?" These thoughts and more possessed him, and when Rainbow flicked on the porch light, he knew she was concerned about him. The light was more or less the signal for "come inside so we can talk about it" and served for both of them on the rare occasion that they were worried or concerned about one thing or another. Swallowing the last bit of unease in his chest, he climbed out of his old pickup and walked slowly toward the home he had lived in for almost three years, now looking strange and alien to him. He had never really looked in depth at his home.

The house was medium sized, cozy, with two floors. Forest green curtains covered the windows upstairs. the outer window sills were a light, earthy brown, the house painted an off-white, almost yellow color. Though they didn't seem to mesh to the untrained eye, the colors worked well together. The living room lamp shone bright as an eye in the front window. The recently repaired door was stained a darkish red, that made it appear to be made of cherry, but in reality was a heavy mahogany door. A gunmetal grey deadbolt and doorknob rounded off the front of the house, with a bronze mail slot in the perfect center of the door. An ornate raven was painstakingly shaped and trimmed, a carving that had Taken alex hours to finish, but he was immensely proud of. As he opened the door quietly, the smell of a lovingly prepared meal greeted him, and all his worries and cares were washed away by the image of the love of his life waiting for him with open arms.

It was at that moment that he made up his mind. He would propose to Rainbow Dash on her birthday, which happened to be in the middle of his vacation. But even with his mind made up, he wanted to test the topic and see if Rainbow was ready for such an important, life-changing commitment.

****

"Hey honey. Are you alright?" Rainbow asked her love, worried that he had sat in his truck for so long. He'd never do that unless something was deeply troubling him. Embracing him warmly, and planting a sweet, gentle kiss on his lips, she took him by the hand and guided him to the waiting meal in the klitchen.

"I'm fine, babe, just drained, like you said." Alex said, putting on his best smile. He knew better than to try and dance around whatever was bothering him. Rainbow knew him so well it was useless hiding it.

"No you're not. Let's eat, and then we'll talk." She said, more than willing to forego their usual TV-bonding time for the sake of her boyfriend.

The spread that greeted him was remarkable indeed. A glistening ham roast sat in the center of the table, glazed with the sweet mix of pineapples and brown sugar. To complement the meaty centerpiece, Rainbow had prepared some sweet potatoes, corn, and a small amount of some sort of sauce she had read about. Candles played and dance on each side of the table, the plates, silverware, and drinking glass laid out with utmost care.

"Rainbow, this is amazing. when did you learn...?" Alex trailed off.

"I learn some things here and there. From your mother, Rarity, and your sisters. I wanted to impress you." She said sheepishly, an absurdly cute blush spreading across her cheeks as she glanced up at him.

"I never need to be impressed by you, but you really outdid yourself this time. This must have taken you forever." Alex pulled out a chair for her, and after she sat, pushed it in. He then seated himself directly across from her, within arm's reach.

"The girls closed early in order to go set up their new booth at this week's fashion show. They didn't really need me, so they let me go early. Figured I'd could use the extra time with you. They know work's been difficult for you lately."

"Regrettably, that's true. I just can't keep up with the paperwork. I'm much more useful on a roof. but enough about that. how long did this take you?"

"Hmmmm..." Rainbow thought to herself, brushing her hai out of her face. "Better part of three hours. It was hard to get the cooking times and ham glaze just right, but I did!" She chirped happily, momentarily forgetting about Alex's concerns.

"Sure as sugar you did." Alex said, taking a large mouthful of ham and potato.

"Thanks. I'm happy you like it." She said, serving herself a plateful of her painstakingly crafted feast.

They ate together, happily, forgetting about Alex's concerns for the moment. After the dishes were finished, and the leftovers put away, they got back to what was bothering him.

****

"So, what's on your mind, dear?" Rainbow asked the now relaxed and content Alex, who had also forgotten his concerns. But there was no avoiding it now.

"Dash, how long have we known each other?" Alex asked her, feigning ignorance. After all, ignorance was bliss, or so he'd been told.

Counting on her fingers, she finished calculating, and decisively spoke up. "Close to a year now, I bet. The weather was almost the same the night I was sent here. Why?"

"I was just wondering. And how long have we been...er...together?" Still trying to flesh out his thoughts into appropriate verbiage. He hoped she wouldn't catch on to his sinking feeling.

"6 months and three days, today." She announced happily, clapping her hands together once. Alex was starting to open up. It was hard for him to get started, but once he did, everything would be clear and concise.

"I see. And in ponyville, is it pretty common for couples to marry quickly? I never really learned too much about ponyville culture and tradition. I'd really like to know." Alex asked, trying to contain his real agenda behind a veil of innocent curiosity.

"Hm.. I don't really know. I was so busy practicing for the Wonderbolts, I never really gave many thoughts to love and realtionships. I mean, I had coltfriends here and there, but who didn't. Even Miss Egghead herself, Twilight, eventually got together with somepony and married him. It probably differs from pony to pony, and is probably the same for humans, right?"

"Yeah...right." Alex said, pretending to be lost in thought. That "not much thought" remark disarmed him momentarily, and he would have to tread even more carefully now that they were on the topic. She was smarter than most people gave her credit for.

Just then, a spark lit up in Rainbow's magenta eyes, and she had almost caught on. "Personally, I feel, if we...I mean a pony or human felt that it was the right time, and both parties agreed, then there is no doubts. I've never doubted any of my actions. I'd get beaten, bruised, or hurt one way or another, but it never stopped me, and I feel it shouldn't stop anyone, or anypony for that matter. Life's short so live every day like you won't have the next is what my gramps always told me, and so I did. He's the one pony who convinced me to shoot for my dreams no matter how big." She finished triumphantly.

At least she wasn't totally opposed to marriage. It was a start, and good enough for him. If she denied him, it would hurt, but at least he would know he was ready, and she would be ready when she wanted to be. Alex wasn't planning to press the topic any further, but then...

"You know, I've never been so happy with anypony in my life, Alex. I'm sure we would be ok if we got married. Not that I want to rush it. I'm happy with the way we are now. I'm happy with you. I love you." It was the first time she openly admitted it, but there was no reason to hide from her feelings anymore.

"I...I love you too, Rainbow Dash." Alex said, Not loudly, or boastfully, but as if it were a proven fact that could never change. And his tone was so soft and passionate, and gentle, he surprised them both. They then shared a long, delicate kiss, lost in each other for what seemed like an eternity. Her man, His woman, and there was nothing that would ever change that.

****

The next morning dawned, bright and cheery. The couple had reached a new stepping stone in their life together. A month from now, Alex was going to make the biggest decision of his life, and never look back, no matter which way it resulted, good or bad. The couple had fallen asleep together, embracing, and Alex had even stayed in bed longer than he should have, with his bride to be, though she didn't know it yet.

Life now felt somewhat more fulfilled. They were both aware of where they stood in their relationship, for they had talked at length about that also. As Alex began saving every penny possible for her egagement ring, he was also counting down the days. 30 days from now, he would either be crushed, ecstatic, or a little bit of both, depending on Rainbow's reaction.

The thrilling conclusion

It had been a little over a year since Alex had met the love of his life, cold and shivering outside of a city dumpster. Since then, he had gotten to know, and eventually love this beautiful stranger that wasn’t of earth, or even of this dimension. They were in love beyond comprehension, and found safety in each other at the best and worst of times.

Her name was Rainbow Dash, but she now went by the unofficial name of Sarah Golden, college dropout and part time worker. As bad as it sounded, her life was pretty easygoing. She fell in love with the man that had saved her so long ago, a kind soul in a world that was extremely harsh and unforgiving at times. She often wondered where she might have ended up if she didn't find security in Alex and his family.

+++

A very nervous Alex approached the counter at the Jewelry store. With a little under a grand invested in the ring he was about to buy, he felt that this would be the worst or best day of his life. He was about to propose to the love of his life that very afternoon, and all his prayers for the past few months would hopefully be answered.

His hands shaking slightly, he finally stepped up to the counter and gave the teller the work order for the custom ring he had made specifically for Rainbow.

“Oh, hello sir. What can The Gold Mine do for you this fine day?” The young girl asked brightly.

“Uh…I need the ring that goes with this work order, please.” Alex tried a smile, but it faltered.

“Sure, let me go find my boss. I’m sure he’ll know where this is.”

“Thank you”

With a polite smile and a nod, the girl drifted away, heels clicking away on tile.

Alex hadn't the faintest idea why he was so nervous. He’d been here at least once a week over the past month, getting every detail just right. It was a beautiful silver ring, inlaid with multicolored gemstones, representing his love’s namesake. Each stone alone cost almost 200$, the ring costing maybe 400$. Altogether, the price ended up coming out to just about a grand

He’d been alongside the Jeweler as each stone was cut and placed. He made sure Rainbow wasn't allergic to any metals, either. He was willing to wager the nervousness came from the importance of the day.

+++

“Well, I believe this is the ring you’re looking for.” With a flourish, the ring was presented to Alex in a dark green box, laid on a light blue pillow of silk within the box. It was even better than Alex had imagined it to be.

“You truly are a master of your craft, sir.” Alex said excitedly.

“At the Gold Mine, quality and beauty are first and foremost in all our creations, unique or otherwise.”

“And what do I owe you in all for this fine piece of art?”

“After taxes…” a few beeps and clicks on the register, and then a receipt was printed. “a grand, even.”

“Seems about right.” Alex affirmed the math in his head, then counted out the bills.

“Is there anything else we could do for you, as well?” The Jeweler asked lightly. “Perhaps an engraving?”

“Will that be much extra?”

“Nope. Just a few minutes of your time is all we require. Custom engravings come as part of any custom project.”

“Ok. I’d like it to say “To Sarah, you are the light of my life. Love, Alex”

“Short, simple, and heartfelt. Perfect”

A short few minutes later, Alex was on his way to the fashion store where his siblings and girlfriend worked. Today was the day. All of his preparations, nervousness, sleepless nights, and less-than productive days led to this.

+++

With a jingle, the boutique’s door gave way, announcing a new arrival. Alex’s middle sister, Michelle, greeted him with a bone-cracking hug.

“Alex, what brings you to my shop, scruffy brother?”

He smiled in spite of himself. She was the only one who called him that, and the only one who got away with it.

“Nothing much, sis. Got some coffee ready?”

“Always. You want the special?”

“Yeah, double the espresso shots though. I’m feeling sleepy.”

“Coming right up” she drifted away, the tile clicking beneath high-heeled feet.

With that, he eased back into his favorite chair, waiting for hide or hair of his loved one. He wanted to find the perfect proposal point, in full view of the street and his sisters and parents, who were on their way as well. Rainbow, obviously, was the only one not privy to the day’s event.

+++

A moment or two after he drained his caffeine-saturated cup of courage, Alex’s parents had shown up, and his sisters had assembled behind their respective service counters. Each sister had their own little niche in the store, to better serve customers looking for certain items, and to make it easier to sell things. Far as he could tell, nothing looked out of place.

Rainbow still wasn’t due to show up for a little while, so they passed the time chatting. It was slow for a weekend. Usually the college girls would come down from campus to pick up an outfit or two for the coming weekend, especially with the weather still fairly chilly outside. Cold weather meant hot business for the little plaza, which housed several bars, coffee shops, and diners.

Adding this to the fact of young people making messes of themselves, it helped the store turn a huge profit on weekends. It’s not that they didn't cater to men, but the store was more geared toward young women. They sold all manner of clothes, from flirty and fun to casual and business. Thankfully, it stayed slow up until Rainbow’s arrival.

With various hellos and hi’s from those assembled, Rainbow was surprised Alex’s family were all here at once. While not uncommon, Alex’s parents usually stayed home during the winter. They were old and couldn't do much on their own anymore.

After being swarmed with hugs, the sisters took their places at their counters, and Alex’s parents went back to their chairs. What surprised Rainbow the most was Alex’s presence here. He was sleeping when she’d left home almost an hour ago.

“Alex, what are you doing here? You’re on vacation. Rest for once.” Rainbow chuckled at him.

“I did, for like an hour. Then I got bored, so here I am.”

“You crazy man.” She kissed him gently, sending shivers down his spine.

“So, Rainbow…” Alex said a little loudly, to be sure he was heard.

“We’ve been together for six months, and known each other for just over a year, but it feels so very much longer. Every day I spend with you is filled with a new level of happiness and comfort. Whenever things are bad, you make them alright, and whenever things are good, you make them better. I love that feeling every day I come home, and I want to have that feeling for the rest of my life. That’s why, today, we’ve all assembled here in the shop. It’s a very important day, for both of us.

“Alex, what are…” She was cut off by a slow, gentle kiss, and as their lips parted, Alex knelt to one knee, eyes fixed on his girlfriend, a slightly stupefied look upon her features.

“Sarah Golden, will you marry me? To be together until time takes us from this world?”

Tears welled up in Rainbow’s eyes, making their unique magenta color stand out even more. With a hand, she pulled Alex up and to her eye level.

“Alex, I will marry you, to be together forever.”

With that, the family erupted into cheers, hugs, cheek kisses, and generally raucous behavior, and those bystanders who did see were clapping and smiling as well. After the commotion had died down, they all decided the wedding would be held in the next year, right when spring was in full swing, amongst the massive community flower gardens in the park. No more than 100 guests would attend, them being mostly extended families that were close to Alex and his family.

+++

The spring sun shone brightly in the May skies, various birds and beasties traipsing about the gardens on some errand or another. Tables were being assembled in the reception area for the wedding of Mister and Missus Alex Wordsmith. In another, more sheltered area of the gardens, an impromptu “Braided Flower” wedding chapel was erected, a long, red carpet running between two rows of chairs, seating 50 each.

A pair of tables were set up behind the couple’s platform, where the immediate family, those being Alex’s sisters, parents, and best friend would be seated. In this setup, the immediate family had the best view of the ceremony, while the Priest’s pedestal sat between the two tables that sat three each.

Amplifiers, provided courtesy of Alex’s DJ friend, were set up on either side of the seating area, and another amplifier directly behind the priest. With this setup, every word and breath could be heard over the din of the traffic outside of the park.

A microphone sat upon the priest’s pedestal, and another two set up in front of where the bride and groom would be standing.

+++

The reception area, though small, was ornately decorated. Several round plastic tables were assembled, with a long buffet table upon which were heaps of home-cooked food, and farther along the table, drinks and desserts were set.

While the reception area and wedding area seemed ornate and hard to put away, it would take the inside of an hour to load everything back up, not including garbage collection. Since their only son was getting married, Alex’s parents reserved the park for 12 hours. While it cost them a fortune, it was a worthwhile expense, for they loved their children dearly.

Squeaks and whines could be heard as the sound test began for the wedding area. Alex was practicing his wedding march with Irene and Melanie, While Rainbow Dash, AKA Sarah Golden, was getting into her wedding dress with the help of Michelle and Alex’s mother, Bev.

Alex’s father was also hard at work, trying as best he could to aid the sound guy in running wires and adjustments. Alex’s father knew quite a bit about sound, as he had worked on several radio stations in the area for most of his life. With the aid of “that DJ guy”, they had sounds as clear as a bell and twice as loud.

As it was warm out, Alex wore some old clothes that fit like a full suit. While his sisters giggled at his visible pain. He had no idea he’d put on this much weight, and his pants were pinching him most inappropriately, to put it lightly. Thankfully, his suit was tailored to be loose and still classy.

Rainbow was equally as flustered by the wedding dress. It fit her well enough, but old habits die hard, and she still preferred to wander about her home in the loosest clothing she could find. She wasn't allowed to wander naked anymore after a close call with an unlocked door and an unexpected arrival of Alex. (we all know after someone sees you naked, there’s no shame anymore)

With a frustrated grunt, Bev tied the dress just a little bit tighter, nearly knocking the breath out of her prismatic-haired daughter in law.

“Bev, come on, that’s too tight” Rainbow squeaked.

“No it’s not dear, trust me. Your bust will be amazing, and Alex will remember this day for years to come.” Bev chuckled.

With a blush and unnaturally quick movement, Rainbow undid the bindings and pouted.

“I don’t want him to remember my boobs for our wedding day!”

At this, Michelle and Bev laughed heartily. They were only picking fun at the poor girl, and it was so cute when she got flustered.

“Please, tie me back up and I’ll tell you when”

The two women obliged, still chuckling to themselves.

+++

“OK, that’s it, where are my real clothes?!” Alex grumbled. He was thoroughly tired of the repetitive march training and wanted to get his hands on some labor.

“No it’s not, mister.” His sisters stopped in front of him and pushed him back to the start of their makeshift aisle.

“You’re not allowed to do any labor until you walk and stand straight, young man.” Irene screeched.

“Young man? I’m older. By four years. Thank you.”

“Whatever. You still need to walk and stand straight.”

“You’re so very lucky I can’t move in these pants Irene, or I would be chasing you to the creek right now.” Alex grunted.

“You can’t run straight if you can’t walk straight.” At this, Irene cackled and took off, Alex trying to chase her, butt immediately realized it was a bad idea.

“Jesus, Alex, you’re 24, she’s 20. And you both still fight like you were ten.”

“She started it.”

“Forget her for now. This is your day, your wedding, so cheer up a little bit and think of your beautiful bride coming up that aisle over there,” Mel said, pointing to the red carpet and makeshift chapel.

“I guess you’re right. I can’t believe this day is already here.” Alex said joyfully, hugging his oldest sister tightly. “You guys, too. You helped her a lot with adjusting to life. Now it’s like she was actually born and raised here on Earth. Thank you.”

“I knew, once you told me her story, you felt something in here that you never had before.” She said, pointing to his heart.

“Mom told us never to let strangers in our home, under any circumstances. But the one time you did, it worked out pretty well. You’ve been happier in the past two years then I’ve ever seen you. You did something right, and karma returned the favor.”

“I know, Mel. I know. She means everything to me. The promotion, she encouraged me to go for. She’s seen me at my best, worst, and most embarrassing moments. Never once does she speak ill of me or anyone in the family. We’re all she’s got here in this lonely, alien world.”

“Well, not lonely for her, you old poet.” Mel had forgotten her brother’s poetic side. He was always a pretty smart kid, but for the love of who knows what, stuck to labor jobs. It flabbergasted her and many others, but he never once complained about aches, pains, or physical labor in general. Maybe he didn’t feel he was smart enough for anything better, or maybe he liked labor. Who knew? She was certain though, if he put his mind to it, he could have a successful political career. Maybe even President of the United States.

+++

The final preparations had been finished, the guests had arrived, and they were now assembled on either side of the red carpet that served as the path leading to the impromptu altar. Soft, lovely music was playing while the bride was patiently waited for.

“Stop fidgeting, dude.” Alex received a playful punch in the ribs from his best man. “If she sees you wiggling around, you might look nervous and break her confidence. Chill.”

“Easier said than done.” Alex was massaging his ribs, when the ambient music transitioned gently into the wedding march, and a beaming Rainbow Dash glided effortlessly, slowly along the red trail, flanked on either side by Alex’s two oldest sisters. Alex then straightened his posture, crossing his hands across his waist, facing the preacher. He couldn't help but smile like an idiot. He was moments away from his future.

+++

Soft, rippling applause sounded as Rainbow walked past each row of chairs. Most of those assembled were Alex’s family, but the few friends she’d made had attended as well. She was beaming behind the white curtain of her veil, tears brimming in her eyes. Her human life was almost full circle, and she wouldn’t change it for the world.

After the wedding march was done, the preacher began the matrimonial ceremony. His deep, echoing voice resounded off of the trees and surrounding buildings.

“Dearly Beloved, we are gathered here to join this man and woman in the holy state of matrimony. If anyone should feel a need to object to this union, speak now or forever hold your piece.”

After a brief silence, the preacher continued.

“Alex Woodsmith, do you take Sarah Golden as your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, to love and to cherish, in sickness and in health, in good times and bad, till the almighty lord takes you from this earth to his eternal kingdom?”

“I do.” Alex announced, loud and proud, so the very hills echoed with his affirmation.

“That’s the most confidence I’ve ever heard. That works for me.” The preacher then followed up with Sarah.

“Sarah Golden, do you take this man, Alex Woodsmith, as your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, to love and to cherish, in sickness and in health, in good times and bad, till the almighty lord takes you from this earth to his eternal kingdom?”

But before she could answer, A gust of wind began swirling around the clearing, eliciting sighs of wonder or shrieks of fright, as a grey and blue portal opened its gaping maw, and seven equine creatures strolled forward slowly. Two were tall and regal, with opposing colors on their coats and manes, and five smaller equines, all brightly colored in pastels.

The lavender unicorn of the bunch, seemingly the most confident and calm, yelled a name loudly.

“Rainbow Dash, we’ve come to bring you home. Please step forward.” Twilight Sparkle shouted, to be sure she was heard.

“Twilight..?” Rainbow whispered in astonishment, barely audible to Alex, who blinked stupidly, not quite registering what he was seeing. Several vaguely familiar ponies were standing in the middle of his wedding.

The name Rainbow Dash was whispered amongst those assembled, some confused, some aware of who that was.

“Twilight! What are you doing?!” Rainbow screeched.

“We finally figured out how to bring you home. Ponyville is waiting, Rainbow.” Twilight said softly, realizing now what she had disturbed.

“Are you…getting married, Rainbow?” Twilight asked confusedly.

“Yes, Twilight. It’s been two years since I was dropped here. This is my new life, now. After yesterday, I gave up on ever getting home.”

“Two years? No, Rainbow. It’s been 6 months in equestrian time.”

“Perhaps, Twilight Sparkle, I should handle this?” The tallest of all the ponies spoke up, her voice soft, but commanding. Her mane glistened with light colored stripes, resembling an early morning rainbow.

“As Earth and Equestria are two separate domains, it’s natural that there may be some inconsistencies with things like time, date, and other variables. The issue at hand however, is Whether Miss Rainbow Dash will choose to return to Equestria or remain here on Earth.”

After a breath, Princess Celestia continued.

“This is her decision and hers alone to make. The portal will remain open for an hour, but time will not pass. When this portal closes, it’ll be just like the same moment it opened. Think your options through carefully, miss Dash. Is there anyone from the human realm you’d like to help you decide?

“Yes, Princess, my fiancée, Alex. He’s the gentleman with the stupid grin on his face.” Rainbow smiled at his face, so full of goofiness and happiness at once.

“Very well.” A golden glow enveloped Alex and he shook his head. He felt warm, as if he were on a beach, surrounded by sunlight. He then realized he was surrounded by several ponies and his future wife.

“Alex, honey, these are my friends from Equestria. They came to take me home, if I choose to go home.” The introductions were made, deliberations beginning.

+++

“This may be your only chance to go home, Rainbow.” Alex said, sadness in his voice evident.

“But Alex, we’re about to be married, and start our life together. I’ve never been happier then when I’m with you. I may never find that again.”

“But this is your one chance. Are you sure?”

Rainbow sighed, sadly. “I need to think by myself for a little while. Please, Alex.”

“Ok. I’ll get to know your friends until you’re ready.”

"Thank you.”

+++

“

Everybody, I think I’ve made my decision.” Rainbow approached the group, her minimal makeup stretched upon her face. She’d been crying, probably a lot.

“What is your decision, Miss Dash?” Celestia asked gently, understanding how very hard it was for her to decide. Miss Dash was not a pony of tears, and she must have been shaken to her very core by their untimely arrival.

“Girls, I love you all, dearly, and I’ll never forget you. But my life is now here, with Alex. I would be suffering every day without his presence. And he would suffer also. I only wish there was some token I could offer you all.”

“Miss Dash, there are five colors within your mane and tail, correct?”

“There were.” Dash chuckled. “No more tail.”

“Well, if you’ll permit me.” Celestia plucked five different colored hairs from Rainbow’s head, and enlarged each into a chain of each color, draping them over each of the five smaller ponies. Then seemingly out of nowhere, Rainbow’s engagement ring began to glow, each gemstone taking the shape of each element necklace.

“These should suffice, and will never break, melt, or become lost for more than a few minutes. Friendship is the strongest magic known to ponykind, as are the feelings you all share for one another.” Celestia grinned at her handiwork

“Sister, there may be a way to bring Mr. Alex with us.” Princess Luna spoke up finally, as she’d remained stoic through the entire course of events.

“Really, Sister?” Celestia asked, astonished Luna knew something she did not.

+++

“It’s an ancient ritual, only mentioned in the oldest of texts. With an assembly of at least three pureblood Alicorns, souls can be torn from other dimensions, and moved. In bare essential terms, Alex’s existence on Earth would be forfeit, but he could also live among ponykind. He would not remember anything of his past except for what the powers above us manufactured for him, and as such, he would need to fall in love over again. But, his essence, what makes Alex who he is, would remain intact.”

“But Luna, you and I are the only pureblood Alicorns left, to my knowledge. Alex may be quite old and fragile by time we found another one of us, and convinced them to help us for the sake of one human.”

“But it’s still possible, yes?”

“Well I suppose, but we would need his full cooperation and faith in us.”

“You have it, princesses. As much as I am of the human world, If it would let Rainbow go back home to her natural dimension, I would happily make the sacrifice.”

“Are you certain? Do you really understand the implications of such a process?”

“Basically, I wouldn’t be born here on Earth, right? There would be another soul to replace me.”

“Well,not as such, but you are right about your soul. It would be like you were never conceived. No records of you would exist anywhere, at any time. A Ghost, if you will.”

“And what of Rainbow? Would she be erased from the pages of time as well?”

“No, only on Earth would she be erased. She would still retain everything but her memories of you and her time on Earth.”

“Princesses Luna and Celestia, I would love to come live among ponykind if it comes to it.” Alex said with finality.

Well, Mr. Alex. We’ll keep your pledge in mind if the opportunity presents itself. Alicorns never forget.”

Hugs and tearful goodbyes were said and given, Alex and Rainbow waving at the departing ponies. The portal closed with a sharp snap, and the world went black.

+++

Alex had a funny feeling that something was amiss, but that was soon forgotten, as he realized what Sarah had said.

“I do.” Her voice echoed with as much confidence as Alex’s

“You may now kiss the bride.” The preacher finished the ceremony to a round of booming applause.

Alex kissed his wife long and deep, holding her to him in complete serenity. With the kiss, the real music began inside the reception area. With the wedding done, it was time for everyone to en joy the provided food and the good grace of the weather for as long as it held out.

+++

Alex stuck around long enough to help disassemble the scenery from the wedding, but was all too eager to get to his honeymoon.