Prologue: A Light to step into
Prologue: A Light to step into
It was… a usual day, you know, just like any other. Nothing special. Cars drove by Mapple avenue and past the little statue of…something, that was now in the park. I just can’t appreciate art nowadays. Sometimes is just look plain… wrong, you know. But, anyway, this is story not about art. So, where I was.. oh, yeah. Peaceful, quiet, autumn day.
No school, no problems. Figures, huh? And the thought that school has ended something like three or four years ago doesn’t even matter. Really, it don’t , just like many things around us.
What does make sense in our lives? Money? Fame? Career? Boring happy life?
Does life even have sense? I, for myself, answered that question long ago. Yes, and no.
No, it isn’t, if you don’t believe in Creator of some kind or something like that, but…
Yes, it is. Life have exactly as much sense as we gave to it.
Well, how should I put it? Damn, never was I good at that kind of thing… at beginning something, I mean. Only at fucking ending. Or, rather, ending being fucked up. But, I guess, this is how my story begun. And about the ending, well… it was rather… interesting. Still, first things first…
The well was deep. Not just, you know, “really deep”, rather something along the lines of “I got fucking tired how deep” it was. Not the pleasant fact to know. Walls were slippery, too slippery for my taste(not that I really taste them)all way down, and so, I didn’t even know how, or, even, if, I can manage to get out. Silly me. Okay, very silly me. You can ask me about how I even get there to begin with? Well(goddamn you, well!), the tale is short and simple. I was stalking. Not like, you know, following someone, just… searching for something. Something interesting, maybe. And there were those ruins. Something like an abandoned factory, or, maybe, just some kind of school. Building had suffered so bad, it was hard to say. Walls were gray, just like the floor, and sky above. Definitely not school. Good. Didn’t like them anyway, and who does?
Most parts of building had just collapsed onto itself, and there were nothing interesting, seriously, not even anything to loot. Not even some kind of abandoned mechanism, as you can find in such… territories. Nothing. Plain, dull, gray walls. Not even a sign of graffiti, and that alone should’ve bothered me, but no. I didn’t even hesitate, as if my stubbornness was a virtue, I found myself below, going down, from the second floor to first, and then, into the basement.
You’ve seen one basement? You’ve seen them all. If you don’t believe, then check out yourself, if you dare to tread in such places. They’re not… safe. I warned you. There were dangers, sure, not those as someone can see in a second class movie, lesser ones. Like twisting an ankle or falling down from something, or, you know, landing on broken shards of glass. That kind of danger. Trivial, pathetic, but danger nonetheless. City type. Same danger, twice boring.
Anyway, down with the basement. Once again, nothing. Dusty concrete floor, walls, stained with something brown, or, maybe, rust-black kind of color, and dead-for-sure large industrial fan. Uh-huh, right, ventilation systems. Not now, maybe later. And, yes, there, in the middle of the basement, there were the well. Just a normal well, if someone can call it such. Rusty grate, rusty ladder, and a couple of coins on the floor. And that was interesting all right. Those were… old. Ancient, maybe. And strange. And made of gold. I’d be glad to say something, anything more specific about them, but at the very same moment I touched them, there was a blackout.
I regained my consciousness while lying in shallow stinky water, on the floor of the well, if I can call this floor. If I can call this well. But, more importantly, how did I even get there? The grate… it was up now. So, does this mean, that someone, somehow took my unconscious body and just left here? How? How this even possible? And that… blackout. I’ve never… maybe some kind of gas? Sleeping gas? But, once again, how? Why? And, more importantly, why this happening to me? The answer to the last question was simple – curiosity killed the cat… if so, where’s my satisfaction? What should I do now? Ladder broke when I merely touched lower step, painting my fingers red with rust, and one higher was none the better. And this, as I presumed, gone all the way up. Another ‘how?’? Yes. Another question without answer? Definitely yes.
What should I do now? Cry for help? Nope. Useless, and even if someone’s going to hear me here, maybe, just maybe, it’ll be not the help that I want. What do I need now? I just need my phone call. Cellphones! Human’s best friend! Not in my case. He wasn’t even broke, not even scratch on screen or something, but deep down there were no signal. I should’ve expected that, but still…
Silent sigh escaped my lips, as I tried to slowly think of something, of anything I can do now. Screaming? Useless, that’d just waste my time and strength. Trying to get out by myself? Useless, rusted ladder told me that very clearly. Try to take a better view of surroundings? And that’s sound like a plan. Finally, something. Picture wasn’t bright. In the dim light of my cellphone I could see that the well was something like five feet in diameter, walls were slippery and covered with some kind of… moss, maybe? But there was a bright side. As if someone did hear my prayers, there were another grate, not so rusty, sure, but this was the way out. And it was locked. Great. Nothing can go according to the plan, right? I was cold, wet, and got a major chance to catch a cold, or something far worse, if I stay here any longer. And I just couldn’t do anything about it. Walls of my small prison felt just like they’re trying to crush me, not physically, but mentally, by their sheer presence. It was more than enough now, like a one hundred percent more, than I needed to. And thus, darkness came once again upon my mind.
In the last moment before I drifted to sleep, there were a… a prayer, maybe.
Please, just let me get out of here… somehow.
I awoke to the sound of loud screeching noise. Not the best way of waking up, if you ask me. Then, the loud BANG came. Door came down swiftly, almost if someone did try to kill me with this rusted piece of scrap metal. Well, whoever it was, he or she was out of luck for today. Where the door were standing, now was path to something. Exit, maybe. I did not dare to hope. I shouldn’t… but I did. Once again, silly me. Cellphone was already dead, so I got to lit my lighter, like character in some kind of horror game, and that very thought did not get me any comfort. Behind the door was a labyrinth, a real maze. Twists and turns, twists and turns, just like in the show when discord showed up. My Little Pony, huh. I’m not the fan, mind you, but my girlfriend, or, rather, ex-girlfriend really liked it and made me watch it too. It wasn’t so bad, if you ask me. Not after four or five episodes and a couple of songs… I think I already was here. Maybe I’m going in circles, just like my thoughts now?
…or maybe not. Or… I don’t even know what. I mean, there was a really strange feeling. As if someone was watching me with intent or curiosity. Both, maybe? All right, one more paranoid version from my paranoid mind. Let’s say that I’m a laboratory mice going through ever-changing labyrinth, and I need something to get out and get my prize. And what would help me in situation like that? Lighter was already too hot, so I let the fire die and just listened.
You know, if human try to do something all the time, they just keep getting better, even without teacher. Practice makes perfect and such… some skills come easy, some not. Ability to listen to your surroundings is a rather good thing, help focus, help being prepared to some unexpected turn of events. Mind you, I'm not a paranoid most of the time, it’s I just picked this up in my life earlier and kept practicing from time to time. After all, you reap what you saw, right?
Listen… my silent breathing echoed from metal walls.
Listen… almost nonexistent sound of water under my boots.
Listen… rusty metal screech and bang from the tunnel I came from.
Listen… a chord. Huh? A what now?
It was a chord, I’m sure of it. Not the sound you may expect in an industrial dungeon. Well, I could thought about some kind of dungeon party, maybe, punks, rockers, some shit or another, but it wasn’t it. Not lyre’s chord. Not here, and not now. Record of some kind, maybe? Guess there’s only one way to know it. If it will repeat himself, at least…
And it had. Once again, I lift my lighter and gone ahead, slowly, carefully, trying to pinpoint the origins of sound. A cassette player, maybe? VCR? Something else? Slowly, walls began to change. I didn’t notice it at first. Just a subtle change under my water wrinkled fingers, change in texture, maybe. Then, there were no rust. Stone doesn’t rust, as far as I know, but the sight of natural stone block in the middle of rusted metal tunnel wall… well, it almost drove me mad. I started to giggle. Slowly, at first, and a little more hysterical, later. I don’t know just how much time had passed, when I returned to my senses, snapped myself out of sudden burst of unhealthy laughs, I was standing on my knees on the floor, as if ready for prayer. Not another one… at least, not today. Slowly, I got up, and, thus, my path had continued.
And there were light. I didn’t notice it at first, as if it was some kind of illusion, or my mind started to play tricks on me. But now… I stood before light, bright white light, clearly warm and, I was sure of it, not artificial. While my eyes adjusted to it, I slowly turned and nodded. From metal to strange stone tunnel in something like hour or two? Can’t believe… but I had to. Now, though, I got another problem. Even when eyes gave me an A-OK on light, I still couldn’t see a thing, though lyre’s chords I heard and they came from behind it. It was something like a choice, a rather metaphysical one. To dwell in darkness, or to step into… something. Was it Heaven? Maybe there are angels out there? There was only one way to know it for sure.
So, I made my choice and stepped into the light.
Chapter 1: Unrude awakening
Darkness was around me, inside me. Swirling, dreaming, pulsing darkness. Void, devoid of stars, of light, of time. There were no ending, and, thus, no beginning. There was nothing, just a big black something, which was part of surrounding darkness, and, at the same time, not. At the very same moment, as I became a witness to its glory, he, or, maybe, it, came into existence, and I found myself staring in the human-sized giant eye with a vertical pupil. Then, as I stood there, trembling, HE spoke, laughing. I don’t remember words, and I’m not sure, if I want to. Thus, my dream ended, I awoke on cold sweat, and scream was dying in my throat. Giant cold serpent, whose name was… Ebon Dragon, if roughly translates to our language. Being, that I don’t want to meet ever again. Even if I had to.
And thus, I awakened. Bright white light slashed across my opened eyes, and they almost burned… but it was only a moment. A miserable moment, before I, once, had fallen on something plush and soft. Where I am exactly? Was a dungeon a dream just likes that and I was still lying in my bed… no. My bed was, as I remember, a lot harder, as I adjusted myself to that kind of hardiness. Old habits die hard, and it was something like a habit, since time of my childhood… doesn’t matter now, I presume. And then, as I lay down upon that plushy surface, temporarily blinded, and then the voice came. It was kind of weak, trembling… and kind. Kind, calming, soothing, just like a healing balm carefully applied to the wound. She, and, I’m sure, that it was ‘she’, asked me, as if not sure of my ability to understand and communicate verbally with her:
-H-how are you feeling?
Her voice. Funny thing, though it was just barely louder than a whisper, I heard it all right. Maybe it’s because of absence of noise from the street? But, if so, then where am I? Still, there was a question in need of answer. A little sarcastic, maybe, but answer nonetheless.
-Like I’ve been run over by a truck, but I’m alright, I guess.
The reply, though, was not the one I’ve been expecting:
-Um… what the ‘truck’ is?
-It’s a… - I found myself at loss of words. – It’s a machine, a transport device.
-Oh. You mean, like a carriage?
-Kinda. More sophisticated, but, yeah. So… can I ask you a question?
-Um… sure, i-if you want to.
-How can I call you? I mean, by name, if it isn’t rude.
Just before she answered, I knew exactly what she wanted to say. Life is a funny thing sometimes.
-Oh… the name’s… Fluttershy.
You’ve gotta be kidding me. I opened one of my eyes, slowly, carefully, to gain a view of surroundings. Nope, she wasn’t kidding. I stared at the timid yellow pegasus… or was it pegasi? Anyway, she was one of so called mane six, from the show. Fascinating… and beautiful to boot. Very, very beautiful…
She shied under my stare, and struggled not hide behind something, well, at least it was my impression. Thus, I averted my gaze and mumbled, slowly, and, I hope, coherently:
-I’m sorry.
-But… um… for what?
-For scaring you, I suppose.
-Oh, silly, you didn’t scare her at all! Well, perhaps a teeny weeny little bit, and made her shy a LOT!
That was… uh… how can I call event that was unexpected from certain point of view, but was expected something like… unconsciously? Anyway, all hail Pinkie Pie! Hooray, hooray, hooray!
-Hi, Pinkie. - I chuckled. - How are you?
-Fine, tha... - pink pony interrupted herself in the middle of word - Heeey, how do you know my mane?
-Your what, now? - I asked, unsure of what I heard. - Maybe it’s... name?
-Nah-uh! You didn’t even see me! How do you know what color my mane is?
And just how should I answer that? Um, wait a second, just a sec... she read my thoughts or what? No, guess it’s just Pinkie, random as usual. How should I...
-Maybe I saw you in my dreams? - I felt smile crept upon my lips. - Or in some kind of show?
-Oh! - exclaimed party pony - You’re one of THOSE!
Those?
-Um, Pinkie... - once again spoke pegasus.
-Yes, Fluttershy?
-Please, be quiet, he need rest.
-Oh, sure! - easily agreed earth pony, undoubtedly bouncing around(my eyes were still closed,so I could only guess). - But when he get better I throw him a...
-...party. - I think I began foreshadowing her.
-Yes! And there will be...
-...cupcakes...
-Cupcakes! And...
-...muffins. And punch. - this was getting ridiculous, but I continued nonetheless. - And ‘Pin the tail on the pony’... am I right?
-Wow! Dead you read a script too?
Script? Come on... well, what did I expect? It WAS Pinkie after all. After bidding farewell, pink pony left, then and only then I dare to open my eyes, sincerely hoping that they’re already accommodated to the currently bright light. Is it me, or light isn’t so bright now? Just evening, I guess. Well, at least now I got my opportunity to take a sight of building in which I currently reside in. If you’ve seen the show, you recognise the sight almost immediately. House was nice and simple, with infinite nests, small animal houses, etc, etc, etc. Strangely enough, I didn’t see even one of the inhabitants, well, except for one and only. White rabbit curled under the blanket and burrowed me with uneasy gaze. Was he scared? Angel? Scared? No, don’t think so. What else? Stairway to second floor and, if I remember it right, Fluttershy bedroom. Pegasi itself sitting quietly on the couch, and only when I tried to get up, I became aware of one thing. My clothes were gone. Like, I mean, totally gone, without a trace. There were more than enough blankets, but still... Feeling embarrassed, I asked, smiling shyly:
-Um... sorry to disturb you, but where can I find my... things?
-Oh. - Fluttershy shied away and her reply was barely audible. - Rarity took them. They need cleaning and she was fascinated by the quality of material.
Embarrassed? Forget it. NOW I was embarrassed for sure.
-Really doubt it, but thanks... oh, wait! When can I get them back?
-They should be already cleaned... I guess I can fetch them for you. Is this fine with you?
-Yeah, thanks... Max. That’s my name. Didn’t introduce myself yet, sorry. And thanks... for help.
-It’s nothing, really. I’ll be back as soon as I can.
With that phrase on her lips, she left the house. I hope it won’t take long for her to return, not that I have anything against blankets, it’s just... I mean... I don’t know. What do you feel if your first meeting with the favorite shy pegasi pony was while you were only in your underwear, even if covered by multitude of blankets? A mixture of emotions stirred in me right now, but nothing, that I could name, even if I want to.
Time stand still.
I heard the ticking of clock, sure, but it was just... that. Some time to think, to reflect on events of the past day. So, I was in basement, then there were this light, and then I woke up in the magical land of Equestria. Right? Right... or not? Maybe I’m just lying out there somewhere, bleeding, and whole this world around me is nothing more than a vision of a dying mind? Even if it is, it’s probably a whole lot better, than something Harry Mason experienced, that’s for sure. Cancelling out the thought of remembering defining characteristics of Harry’s journey(I don’t want to go into some kind of ‘Silent Ponyville’ after all), I just laid here and tried to think of something. Why I was here, for example? What should I do now? Is there any way to go back home? Should I really go back? Why this is happening to me, not to someone else? I’m not big fan of the show, and...
The door creaked, and a pair of beautiful mares stepped into the house. One of them, of course, was Fluttershy, and then there was a unicorn with pure white fur and delicate purple mane. Rarity... she was even more gorgeous than in the show. No wonder, that Spike... hey, that’s my clothes! Focus of my thoughts changed as I crawled out of bed, seeing, that my bed, was, in fact, composed of two or three mattresses stuck together. Well, no wonder, considering that the height of the average pony was something like a metre or so, but... ah, don’t care. Another problem was, that I was almost naked and standing before a pair of females. Not that was a really problem, but... uh... they were equines and not even one of them wasn't my girlfriend(as that would be really really strange, or, rather, weird). I harrumphed and asked, as politely as I could.
-Good evening, miss Fluttershy, miss Rarity. If I can take my clothes back, I’d be glad to do so and greet you properly.
Unicorn simply nodded, and my things, surrounded by telekinesis field slowly flown into my hands. Whew, that’s a LOT better! Wearing familiar equipment was akin to gift from the Heaven, and I felt a little more confident, not to mention, that I felt a lot less nervous. You know, psychological thing. Light-green pants, black socks and boots, white shirt, and white-green jacket with so much pockets, that sometimes I even forgot how much exactly did I had in there. When the process of dressing was finished, I knelt before Rarity, lightly lifting her forehoof and kissing it. Her fur smelled like mix of forest herbs with the strong hint of strawberry and mint. Perfect. Simply perfect.
-It’ pleasure to meet you, miss Rarity.
-Oh, my dear! - she was shocked. Pleasantly, I hope. - I didn’t expect our new guest to be such a gentlecolt! Its pleasure to meet you too, mister... um...
-It’s simply Max, miss.
-Well, mister Max, - fashionista smiled warmly. - I’m glad to see that you’re in good health. I’m sorry for any inconvenience that I may brought you, but your clothes simply needed to be cleaned properly.
-I understand, lady. Could any of you suggest what could I do now? Not that I’m unfamiliar with the local geography and customs, it’s just... all of sudden.
-Um... you should talk to Twilight... - answered Fluttershy. - I mean, i-if you want to.
-This is your house, am I right?
-Yes, why?
-I guess I should help you clean this mess up... - slight nod to the bed, that was, undoubtedly, was made just for me. - dear ladies, where could I stay for a time being? I don’t want to bother any of you, and such...
Pegasi and unicorn glanced at each other and a little sense of unease, for a second, crept over me. There were something, that was already said. Some hint, that I’m...
‘Oh! You’re one of THOSE!’
Right, party pony, Pinkie Pie. And neither Fluttershy nor Rarity wasn’t surprised at the sight of me. Maybe Fluttershy grown accustomed to various creatures, even not pleasant to look at, but Rarity... I guess there are some secrets out there. Secrets, that, in my opinion, I should not dig into. At least, for now.
-If you want to. - continued Fluttershy - You can stay here.
-I don’t want to scare your little animal friends, and, besides, there are books in the library that I can read en masse. And... consider that I simply don’t want to embarrass you.
Rarity stifled a laugh, and, as I gazed upon her, just shook her head, as if nothing happened. Well, I hope it really isn’t. So... what now?
-Should I meet with Twilight or with someone else right now? - I asked, unsure of what expect to hear.
-Oh, dear! - exclaimed Rarity, as if suddenly remembered something. - Twi isn’t in the Ponyville right now! As far as I remember, she wanted to meet her parents in Canterlot. She had something like a day off... sorry, mister Max, I should’ve remembered earlier.
-No problems at all, miss Rarity. I just go and see other Elements then, if you don’t mind.
-You heard about the Elements? - asked slightly interested fashionista. - I mean, of course you are, but... what exactly did you hear?
-How about I tell you on the way to Sweet Apple Acres? If it’s ok with you, then lead the way.
-I’m free right now, so why not? If you promise to tell me about fashion in your world too, of course. Fluttershy, dear, are going with us?
-Sorry, but no, - pegasi answered - I got some things to do.
-No problem at all. - I smiled. - Look like I’m guest at your house tonight, if you don’t mind. Then, until we meet again, if I can say so.
Thus, we left. Ponyville basked in the light of setting sun. Funny thing, I don’t even know what to say. I mean, I know, that they got a goddess who do this sun thing, and... damn. Is Princess is the goddess or not? From human point of view she could be classified as the deity, but... uh, no, no philosophical discussions this evening, my head hurts enough even without them. More importantly - I was right, it was evening. Maybe it was mistake, but...
-When Applejack goes to sleep?
-Oh, my... - unicorn nodded. - You’re right, we may be a little bit late. How about go to Carousel Boutique, have a little talk at the cup of tea?
-Fine by me.
And so, we gone. The road was not very long, as if some kind of narrative nature law was set in motion here. You know. Point A, point B and downtime in-between, that kind of narrative, as in storytelling RPG’s. Really liked them a couple years ago. Anyway, we stopped at the door, and, I guess, I should give some more details now. Buildings in Ponyville, was build by ponies, for ponies, sure, and I, being a human, got some tough time going in and out.... curiously feeling myself almost like Winnie-the-Pooh, from famous book. Lucky me, it wasn’t really tough time, felt more like going in and out of something like a tent. Not very pleasant, sure, but will do. World around us was... bright. Bright and full of color, almost vibrant with life and greenery, something, that you or I will never see on Earth. It pains my eyes, sure, but I get used to it little by little, though I didn’t know when, or, even, if I could grow accustomed to it in my lifetime.
Only now I finally got chance to look at the mirror and couldn’t shake off urge to do so. If I’m not mistaken, everything was fine right now. My six feet height, seventy two kgs weight, black hair and amber eyes... no mutations, everything in order... and I’m not a pony. Don’t even know what to think of it.
While I took my time, Rarity already made tea, and we sat at her kitchen, talking... about many different things:
-Why do you use such... uh... pale gamma of colors? - she asked, looking at my clothes. - Fine material, by the way, but, still, I can’t adjust myself to the thought of using leather.
-And you shouldn’t, it’s just difference between our societies, states of mind. It’s alien to you, and let it be that way. And, answering your question... Because I like it. It’s just, you know... I don’t really like wearing something, that look like it screams for attention. I prefer to be a little... stealthy?
-But why?
-Not everyone should be like Rainbow Dash, you know. Of course there are situations, when you should impress and inspire awe, but I’m not like this. I mean, look at me! I prefer simple clothes, practical style, and stay away from fame of any kind. Spotlight? Uh, no, thanks.
-You’re... - she paused, as if searching for the right word. - humble.
-I prefer the word ‘lazy’, actually. Why bother? I look just like I feel myself. I’m not bland or anything, it just suit my style, that’s all.
-I think I understand, - said fashionista, making a sip from the cup. - even if I can’t agree with your opinion, I respect it.
-Thanks. It’s not like you meet that much people who could do the same.
She nodded, as if... don’t know. I guess she had her experiences, that’s all. I felt almost physically, as sun setting upon the horizon, invisible clock continued to tick... but I didn’t bother. After all, I got to Equestria, had my fair share of pleasant talks, what else could I wish? A little more meat in the menu, actually, but that was fine reminder about little imperfections of the perfect world. Our conversation lasted and lasted, until stars appeared in the night sky, then, and only then I thanked Rarity for her hospitality and returned to Fluttershy house, exhausted by events of day before, but feeling more alive, than in last five years... tomorrow’s going to be a big day, I can almost feel it. But for now I should just sleep. Light’s... out.
Chapter 2: It’s a brand new day
I’ve always had troubles sleeping in new places, let it be sleepover at the friend’s house or just cottage rented for holidays. Usually... but not this time, or, should I say, ‘almost’? That was a dreamless sleep, though some kind of shadow was on my dream horizon, as if something or someone been bothering me, don’t know. Don’t want to know. Anyway...
I awoke in the middle of the night. The moon was high in the sky, sharing her ghostly light with the sleeping earth and not so sleepy me. Nope, not sleepy at all. Guess I should’ve undress myself before going to bed, but... well... just didn’t have enough fuel in me to do so. But, hey, who cares? It’s not like there were some kind of customs about the clothes, right? Most of Ponyville going out, uh... should I call this ‘nude’ or not? Dunno, maybe. I was a little embarrassed at first, but, come on, really, they’re PONIES! Different societies, different customs and such... and all the way on the Earth we got those... uh, nevermind. There were people that prefer live that way too, it just simply not so... uh... casual? Normal? Guess I should sleep more, but if I can’t, then, maybe, just maybe, I should take a walk? If Twi already have returned, then she shouldn’t sleep, right? Better take my chances, as I got nothing else to do.
Laziness, or, rather, a little unexpected turn of events, allowed me not to waste my time on dressing again. Some rare pluses... decision was made, and thus I just had to follow it. The main problem was, at the same time, both simple and hard. Did you ever tried to leave the unfamiliar house with a little bit creaky floors unnoticed? I think it totally need a guide.
‘How to leave Fluttershy’s house at night unnoticed?’
‘Step One: Don’t.’
Regretfully, such guide(s) didn’t exist(for it would be really weird if they did and I would like ask author a question or two), and thus noise was made, some animals woke up, looking at me with their sleepy eyes, then, as if nothing happened, they yawned and gone to bed again. Wow, didn’t expect that, though it certainly good. Lucky me, huh? Well, time to go. Time to sleep, actually, but...
Slowly closing door behind myself I looked around in fascination, and sighed. Silent Ponyville was... beautiful. Peaceful, quiet, without all constant never ending noise of those big cities, it was just like a... dream. Long, beautiful dream, of those, that should never end...
‘I wonder’ - suddenly sprang thought into my mind - ‘What season it is? First or second?’
Guess it doesn’t matter much for me right now, or does it? As far as I could understand, I was not the first human, that ended up in Equestria, and not the last one, I suppose. This simple conclusion was drawn from reactions of Rarity and Fluttershy, and, to a little extent, Pinkie. If so, where are the others? Already assimilated, and away from Ponyville and mane six? Hardly, if they’re fans of show, of course. Well, who knows...
There was a light, in Ponyville library. Hmm, I wonder, maybe Twilight returned a bit earlier, than I expected? Guess, there is only one way to find out, right? I sure hope we have some things to discuss.
It wasn’t a long walk. Five, maybe ten minutes, hardly more. Still, it was long ten minutes by the road, which lead me between comfortable Ponyville houses, but, as every road has both beginning and the end, this was no exception. I stood before a grandiose tree, and tried to guess, just how old is it? A hundred years? A thousand? Maybe more? No idea, but it is... it is. So, I stood, there, for a long five minutes, trying to guess, and, in my own opinion, failing miserably. When I grow tired of this game, I knocked.
One, two, three, pause. Is anypony home? Hope, that it is, or it’d be a rather strange situation. Thieves, maybe? What should I even do with pony thieves, m? Tie them up and go to the police? Or... was it guard here? And did I even saw at least some guards in the show in Ponyville? Urrgh... don’t remember. don’t remember at all.
And then there were steps. Gentle clapping of hooves that were heard from behind the door, silver light enveloped it, and door slowly opened, revealing a silhouette of a certain pony standing right before me. My brain shut down almost immediately while trying to process information from eyes, and then did the only thing I could and thought appropriate of. To put it simply, I lowered and layed my head, for the one who stood in the doorframe was no one than the Princess Luna itself, and I totally didn’t want to mess with the royalty. How or why she ended up in the library at that time of night? Uh, shouldn’t ask... but, what exactly should I do know, without knowing a proper rules of etiquette? Uh...
Her words, they did surprise me, and her actions even more. The mighty alicorn, sister of the Sun goddess stifled a giggle and said:
-You’re... interesting. - she stated in the matter of factly. - Proceed into the library, so we can talk.
-Yes, Your Highness. - I scratched my chin and sighed. - Sorry for my lack of good manners, but I simply didn’t expect to see you here.
-We totally understand, young one, but, please, come in, the wind is the cold, though the night is young.
It sounded rather cryptic. What wi... I hadn't had chance to finish the thought, as cold chilling wind appeared out of nowhere, freezing me to the bones. Damn. How? Oh, she is a part pegasi all right, sure, she can predict the weather. Now I didn’t hesitate, and finally accepted an invitation. Library looked, well... librarish. You know, it’s like all those high ceilings, lots of books, other things. It was all too familiar to me, but the mistress of this place were not. Luna. Why, of all ponies, it was she?
-I thank you, Princess, but... may I ask for some tea before we could talk?
-The kitchen is that way. - she waved with effortless grace and precision, honed movements made me stare in jealousy. Of course, if you can live more than thousand years old, you can pick up a lot of useful and not so useful skills. - Shall I make a tea for you?
-I’d be grateful, Princess. - my teeth made a stakkato while I was trying to get warm. How summer night would be that cold? Or, maybe that wind was special? - If you don’t mind.
-Not at all... and call me Luna, please, for we do not have enough time in this place, the time is on with steady pace.
-I bet I could call you that, if you will not call me ‘young one’, please. I got my name, even if it is not good enough for this world. The name’s...
-Wind-That-Walks.
-Wha?! How did you... one of your secrets, Luna?
-At least now you call me by my name, not by title. - night-blue alicorn smiled a little bit shyly. - We... I like that. Now, how about some tea? Which do you prefer?
-Hot. - was my response. Luna giggled and nodded.
We made our way into the kitchen and, while she was making some tea, there were some small talk. Funny thing, after the initial shock from encounter, I found out, that talking with her was... easy. I mean, yeah, she still was a near-immortal all-powerful Goddess, but... I felt like I’m talking with, dunno, someone of my age. Someone smart, sure, but still. We talked about a lot of things, mostly she asked about something from my world, I told about films and books I’ve read, about my profession and daily routine, those trivial things that made my life, and she was somehow fascinated by it. I wonder...
-Luna, forgive me my interest, but... is my life really so... uh... storylike?
-Both yes and no. - answered the Goddess - Your world is interesting, and you’re a messenger, if I’m not mistaken?
-You can call me that. Deal with various papers mostly. I have a strange feeling now, Luna... what is the point of this... talk? I doubt that our meeting was just a lucky coincidence.
-It didn’t, I’ve made the choice, but, more importantly, I knew about your coming and wanted to talk to you. Even Twilight, head of project, don’t know yet.
-What project are you talking about? Smells fishy.
-You will know when the time will come. - ‘calmed’ me Luna. - I will not tell things... that you shouldn’t hear, for now, at least.
I already finished my tea at that time, feeling as warmness filled my whole body. That was a nice pleasant talk, but, I guess, I’m in need of some sleep now. Only when I stood at the doorframe, I said:
-Thanks anyway. You really should get out more. Listening to stories of others isn’t a good way of writing your own, and if you’re doing nothing, the book will be blank.
-Wise words, Wind. - she answered calmly. - I wish you good luck.
-There is one thing I think I want to tell you... but it will wait for another time. It’s not... something I’m ok to tell right now.
-And this is..? - asked Luna curiously.
-Story for another time, Princess. - I smiled. - Good reason to meet again, don’t you think so?
Luna stifled a giggle, than, then shuddered a little, and, finally, allowed herself to laugh. A beautiful laugh indeed. But, as she laughed, world around me was becoming dimmer and dimmer, until last drops of color left space around me, and...
...I awakened. Was I dreaming? Ugh, my head... what, exactly, was that? I got up. Slowly, carefully, as if this world was a dream too. But it was not. I lost any doubt of it when stumbled painfully upon the floor and nothing happened. No awakening again, no such thing, no, sir. And strange feeling. Crumpled piece of paper in my hand. And there it was. A lone word, written in deep-blue ink.
‘Sorry’.
-L
Wha? I kneeled here, and, as dream slip from my head, so note vanished too, slowly, but surely. Less than a minute has passed, and there was not a single sign of it, only vague memory of mine. Was this a dream too, or I’m going mad? Let’s hope for the better.
Look like Fluttershy was still asleep, like most of her animal friends. Most, mind you, but not all of them. A white bunny from yesterday, Angel, as I remembered, stared at me with sceptical glare of his. And what should I do? I didn’t wanna sleep anymore, and got nothing to do, so... oh, yeah...
-Hey, little fella, how about lend a... uh... paw?
He stared quizzically, but, when I told him my idea, well... he agreed to help, as usual, wordlessly.
-Good morning, Fluttershy!
-Uh, wh... - timid yellow pegasi tried to hide under her bed, but, as she saw, that it was just me, smiled shyly. - Oh... wow...
-And ‘wow’ it is. Nothing serious, really, just... trying to repay you a little bit, if you don’t mind.
-Thanks, it’s... unusual, I didn’t get a chance, to have breakfast in bed... until today.
-Enjoy.
As I settled the tray upon the small table(cakes, muffins, teapot, cream, sugar, and one cup) and readied myself to leave, when she gently touched my hand with her hoof and asked:
-Could you... m... share the breakfast with me? Please?
-I’ve already ate... - as I begun, her ears flattened, and I found myself continuing phrase in totally unexpected way. - ...but I will be glad to drink some tea with you.
Warmth of her smile was akin to golden rays of summer sun... how could I refuse? She ate slowly, sipping her tea, and I looked at her with interest. I already knew, that unicorns got the TK sphere, but looking at Fluttershy and how she managed to use her hooves for manipulating the cup... it’s war rather... intriguing, not to say the least.
We didn’t talk at all. Not a single word was said, but, strangely enough, I felt ok. Back on the Earth there were two kind of people. Those, with whom you gladly want to talk, and those, with whom it is ok to stay silent. Fluttershy was of second type. We took our time, sipping tea little by little, and watching, as sun slowly got up with Celestia’s power. And at that moment, when I noticed, that yellow pegasi opened her mouth to finally say something, the window burst opened, and appeared... guess who? You’re right, it was...
-Rainbow Dash! What are you... - shockingly began Fluttershy, but were interrupted by her pegasi friend.
-I needed to... WOW! YOU ARE SO CLOSE ALREADY?!!
What should that mean, I wondered. But, looking at the Fluttershy I understood. That was very same meaning as I’ve guessed. Great. Simply great. Now she was totally shocked.
-Uh... Fluttershy? - No response. I took cup from her hooves, slowly and carefully, and put it on a tray, then and only then I turned to the pegasi with the seven-colored mane. - Hello, Rainbow Dash. What’s up?
-Hi, uh... who are you? Oh, wait, you’re one of those all right. But Twi didn’t tell me anything about you...
Of ‘those’, huh? Not very same ‘those’ as in ‘those’ of Pinkie, but, as I can see, there is some hidden pattern, that I couldn’t recognise now. What did Luna told? It was a dream, of course, but...
-I guess, that I’m uninvited guest. The name’s... - Which one should I use? Human one, or... - Call me Wind. Wind-that-Walks.
-Sound cool enough even for a pegasi! - exclaimed Rainbow Dash. - But, you know, too slow. Fluttershy, I needed to ask you something...
-I doubt she could hear you right now.
-Yeah, right. Anyway, I don’t even remember what I needed to ask. - Dash facehoofed. - What a shame... hey, you’re that guy, that Pinkie preparing the party for?
-Um... yes, I guess.
-Cool! Meet you there, then!
In an instant she was gone, leaving rainbow trail behind. How could I forgot about Rainbow Dash and some of fiction laws? Damn, I definitely in need of comic sense or something like that, to know, what to wait for. And Fluttershy were still in shock. What a beautiful day... I don’t think, that playing ‘Sleeping Beauty’ with her will do anything good, so, let’s use more... appropriate methods. No cold water, of course. Just...
-I think, that you should drink your tea, and tend to animals, don’t you agree?
As soon as I finished the phrase, she blinked, and nodded eagerly. Let’s count it for the answer. At least, that was some kind of answer all right.
-Uh... can I help?
She shook her head. ‘No’ is ‘no’, ok. It’s a brand new day, and I got nothing to do. Fluttershy need her time to recover, and I... really, what should I do? Twi is away, but there is one Element I hadn’t spoke with. Applejack. Sweet Apple Acres, here I go!
It was not so long, but, definitely pleasant walk. Not so cold, not so warm, I kept my jacket on, and just enjoyed the breeze. So, I’m really in Ponyville now, and this isn’t a dream. But... why me? Not even a brony, but, here you go, your lucky ticket! Funny enough, why didn’t I thought about it earlier?
Language. They spoke Equestrian, right? Humans speak English. Right? Right.
...how I managed to understand them, and, more importantly, communicate with them? And it wasn’t some kind of vocabulary spell, I think... but I don’t know, I’m not even a mage. ‘Even’, huh? How could someone from Earth grow accustomed to this world without some... transformations? Maybe those ‘those’ became Earth ponies? Should I ask some Earth ponies some silly questions? Guess not.
I didn’t even venture into Ponyville itself, instead going the long way, and finally reaching Sweet Apple Acres. Easier said than done. When you see it in the show, there are rows and rows of apple trees, but... it’s a cartoon. When you see it with your own eyes, this is a different sight. Totally different.
I stood here, amidst mighty trees, silent in my awe. Those were... huge. Not so huge as Twilight library tree, but monumental. I wondered, how Apples are bucking them? Very soon I’ll see for myself.
The span of gardens... how much there are apple trees? Hundreds, thousands, maybe? I didn’t know, but it was a pretty sight. All sorts of golden, green and red colors surrounded me, and, more importantly, the smell! Did I mentioned smell? Oh, that smell... it was like pears, honey and cinnamon, even a hint of fresh mint was here, all mixed up for a elixir, that I greedily inhaled right now. Only five or so minutes later I managed to break free from the sheer aroma of apples and resumed my walk.
Soon enough I heard monotonous thumping sounds, and changed direction, so go closer while remain unseen. Big red stallion bucked tree, and apples, all of them, fallen like a golden rain, in the three big buckets. Interesting, if they fall, they might, and will, be a little damaged, no? Then, now exactly Apples manage to sell them? Or maybe it’s one of those cartoon physics laws? If so, could I be considered valid target for them or not? There could be at least two points of view. First say ‘yes, you’re in their world’, while the second one stated ‘no, you’re from a different world’. So... a little spaced out, aren’t I? I shrugged, snapping myself out of trance, and left hiding spot, going right to the one and only Big Mac.
-Um... hello there?
THUMP! Another fall of apples, and only after overseeing their fall, he slowly turned to me. He was shorter than me, sure, but made up the difference via sheer volume of muscles. If you compare man and a dwarf... yeah, now I got that feeling. And yet, he stood there, saying nothing, and whole situation was becoming more weird with each passing moment.
-You’re a Big Mac, right?
-Eyeep.
-Brother of Applejack?
-Eyeep.
-Protector of the Chalice?
-E... what?
-Slip of tongue. Where is your sister?
-There, applebucking. - he waved his hoof, directing me further.
-Um.. thanks. I’d better go.
-Eyeep.
Not a talkative type, really. But... protector of the Chalice? Really? How’d I even mentioned that and, more importantly, why? Dunno. Hmm... he would be quite a sight in the knight’s armor. Everymare’s dream, huh? Nevertheless, I got direction now, but got this strange feeling of someone watching me... oh, sure. Looking back, I waved to Big Mac and gone my own way, searching for his sister.
Five minutes flat, and I found her, Applejack, taking a short rest from work. Funny, I thought she is a hard working pony. And she was. I looked upon rows of apple filled buckets, those still waiting to be brought to some kind of cart or point of rendezvous. One pony for all of those? And I thought I wasn’t jealous type... and there she was. Strong, beautiful, and wild. Long mane with the color of ripe wheat, nice orange... uh, let’s call this orange... coat, and brilliant green eyes. Funny thing, green is the color of envy... What am I thinking? Whatever it is, I need to stick with the plan. And, if so... I hope I don’t get carried away again.
-Good day, AJ!
-G’day, uh... who’re you?
-Wind. Wind-That-Walks.
-Uh-huh... and what’cha doin’ here?
-Just decided to meet Element of Honesty. - I smiled. - It’s just like I talked with everyone else, well, excluding Twilight, and thought... why not? Besides, I got nothing to do, and such...
-That’s mighty fine of ya to come and say hello, but Ah’m kinda busy right now. Those apples aren’t gonna haul themselves, ya know.
-Applebloom’s not helping?
-Nah, she’s with the Crusaders. Ya of... uh... bro-sumthin’?
-Brony? No, just a casual observer with a good memory, that’s all.
-It’s been nice talking to ya, but Ah got a job to do.
-How about a helping hand?
-Huh? - Earth farmpony looked at me with sceptical glare. - Ya’re wanna help? Ah don’t think that’s a good idea...
-Well, I can’t do applebucking, sure, but how about I haul those apples... where, by the way?
-There’s a... wait a sec! Ah didn’t agree to your help! Why should Ah...
-One thing. I’m not Applebloom.
She looked at me with a quick glance, then sighed and nodded.
-Point taken. Ah guess there’s nothing bad in it all right. Think you can manage to drag all this by yourself?
-If you got a cart... why not? Deal, then?
-Didn’t refused a helping... uh... paw?
-Hand. Not since that time when you promised to applebuck whole orchard by yourself?
-...yeah. Let’s get going then.
Good, honest, simple work, oh how I missed you!.. well, not really. Dunno... it’s all so complicated. Only a couple of days ago I was in my world, spending holiday doing my stalker thing, and look at me now. I’m in Equestria, working side by side with one of so called ‘mane six’... Whose dream I’m living? No, not a single thought about dreams, I’ve got work to do...
Warm sun shed her golden rays upon the the earth, rows and rows of apple trees, and me, of course. Only after hour or so of hauling buckets of apples I noticed, that I wasn’t so tired as I expected. Courier work helped me to build up my stamina, sure, but that was kind of too much. Never I was a strong type, rather agile, but still... so, what does this mean? Am I stronger than I thought of myself or simply lucky? Or does after all laws of this world apply to me too? And, if so, what exactly does it mean? No, not a single thought for the rest of the shift. Let’s... read a rhyme, then? How about... Carroll?
“The sun was shining on the sea,
Shining with all his might:
He did his very best to make
The billows smooth and bright--
And this was odd, because it was
The middle of the night.
The moon was shining sulkily,
Because she thought the sun...”
-Stop right there!
I was interrupted by AJ’s voice. Not knowing what to expect, I slowly turned with rather heavy bucket of apples in my grasp, and asked:
-Is something wrong?
-Yeah, yer rhyme.
-Um... and... uh... what exactly wrong with it? Is it that bad?
-No, it’s fine all right. - farmpony shook her head - It’s just... made me remember one fella named Discord... and somethin’ Ah don’ wanna remember at all.
-Sorry, I should’ve thought about it. - Silly me! But of course she would be aggravated by such chaotic rhyme! With all of those things Discord had done to Ponyville, and, more importantly, to them... - I’m... really sorry.
-Not your fault, Wind. It’s... Ah did some things I’m not very fond of in that time, that’s all. - she confessed, while looking at the horizon, and gentle breeze made her hair flow with the wind currents. Am I jealous? Or... something else? And what the hay is going on with me? - They say ‘time heals all wounds, right?
-Yes... though some wounds leave us scars. - I shrugged. Clearly not most pleasant theme. - Why did you... even mentioned it? Aren’t I a complete stranger to you?
-Maybe. - she smiled. - Maybe not. You’re a working lot, and Ah appreciate that. Think that you could keep up a couple of hours?
Damn. How much exactly I was working already? Narrative laws in motion, downtime and other stuff... I want my story sense right NAO! Nothing? Tsk, too bad. Will get by with little help from my... waaait a second! Oh, and thank you, Beatles, by the way!
-Sure... it’s... AJ, can I ask you a question?
-Speak up.
-Did you told this to me because... somehow... you consider me a friend?
-Was it so hard to guess? Didn’t you got friends in your homeworld?
-...what is the definition of friendship? - I smiled, sadly. - What does this word exactly mean? This question I’ve never had answer for. Secret for a secret, plain and simple, right? Fair trade...
-I wanna buck you, but don’t want to break some of your bones. But... this question... Ah don’t think Ah got the answer either.
-What do you mean? You and other Elements...
-We’ll finish the job, and Ah’ll explain, ok?
-Agreed.
Those two hours passed like seconds, and I found myself lying and inhaling deeply smells of grass, apples and honey, and whole body ached, but I felt good, like layers of dirt was peeled off me, and, again, I felt cleaner somehow. It was... strange, and it was great. Feeling I will never ever forget...
I think I fell asleep there, on the grassy hill, under the apple tree, my mind free of thoughts, and even if that sleep was short, it was refreshing. Then, something awoke me. Not ‘something’, somepony. AJ. She was standing near me, with the tray in her mouth, and on the tray were three glass bottles filled with apple juice. Wow, such a service. I giggled, remembering breakfast with Fluttershy, and smiled warmly. Throat was dry, like a desert.
-Thanks, AJ.
-Fo fanks, fust fake if. - she mumbled, and I couldn’t help, but laugh. Earth farmpony tried to frown, but just shook her head, and repeated. -Fake it alfeady.
I took all three bottles, while AJ dropped the tray onto earth and laid herself. Why can’t I stop looking at them, appreciating their beauty, manes, eyes? Why... no human-pony relationship anyway. Nothing good will come out of it, really. But just looking at them won’t hurt anypony, right?
-Stop looking that way, you weirdo. - snickered AJ. - Just gimme one o’ those.
-Sure thing. So... other two are mine?
-Yep. Ah betcha you wanna drink fer real, so...
She didn’t finish the sentence, when first bottle was already dry. Only when I begun drink the second one, then and only then I could really taste the drink. I think it was.. cinnamon. Cinnamon, honey, peach, something sweet, yet delicate... vanille, maybe. And it was a simple apple juice... I wanna try their cider, damn it!
-Yer real thirsty, aren’t ya?
She sat, not, better say laid there, holding bottle between her forelegs, and sipping quietly. Only when juice run dry, there were noises, special noises when try to drink all those last drops of something really good. I understood her all right, never liked straws in the drinks though.
-What you’re gonna planning to do next? - I asked her, sighing easily and feeling my thirst quenched. - Gonna go to sleep?
-Ah thought about it, but Ah dunno. There is some kind of party by Pinkie, so Ah think Ah should go.
-You definitely should.
-Why so? - she cocked her head. - Ya know sumthin’ Ah don’t know?
-It’s party in my honor. Or, to be more precise, in honor of my arrival. How about that? Favor for favor?
-What do ya mean by that?
-I helped you, and I ask you now to go to this party. - I saw how she hesitated, but... - Please, AJ. I understand, that you go to sleep early and rise early, but... for me, m?
-Ya shouldn’t do such puppy eyes, Wind. - laughed farmpony. - Ya’re a good... uh... colt? An’ Ah don’t mind gettin’ a little less sleep. Besides, Ah promised to tell ya something, didn’t Ah?
-Go, then... and those bottles?
-Take’em with ya, drop them in the urn by the park.
-Sooo eco-friendly. - I snorted and agreed. - Sure, go.
-Ah need to confess, Wind.
-We talked only for a little while, and you’re already in love with me?
-Nope. It’s just...
We already left Sweet Apple Acres and were going toward Ponyville. Dusk, one indescribably beautiful dusk was served to us. Setting sun colored everything around in bright colors of orange and red, a little monotonous, but it was... just great. I felt a little bit chilly because of wind, but, really, it was nothing. But there was that talk...
-Yer a good guy, Wind. - smiled Applejack sadly. Too bad yer won’t be staying with us fer a while.
-What do you mean by that?
-It’s in your eyes. I know it, because it’s the same wanderlust Ah had when Ah didn’t even got my cutie mark.
-And so?
-Ask Twilight, she will tell ya more. Sorry, she’s sorta... chief in that case.
Great, more mysteries on my head, huh? Chief? Hope that this doesn’t involve me, kitchen cauldron and some spices... or, more importantly, me in the role of main dish. Best served cold and such... what AGAIN Am I THINKING?!
-Could you at least tell me that you promised?
-It’s about friendship?
-Yeah.
-Well, sure, Ah guess... Ah don’t know what exactly friendship is, or, t’ be more precise, how to explain it. Ah think ya just don’t have to. It simply is. Accept it. Live it. Every definition is false, and yet only one is real, the one you made for yerself.
-Hadn't thought about it that way... Thanks.
-Yer welcome. So, what did ya say about the party?
-I guess we’re here.
-Brings back memories...
It’d be strange if it wasn’t. Party was held at Ponyville library, and I hoped, that Twilight wouldn’t mind. If we’re gonna remember first season... well, at least I can have my share of fun until she returned. I glanced at the rapidly setting sun, which was almost nonexistent already, and opened the door, allowing Applejack to enter first. She awarded me with a strange glance, but entered without complaint, and so did I.
Let get this party started!