Chapters The Newcomer
By Mythic Legacy
Chapter 2: Arrival
--New Years Eve 11:00 PM--
The final bell rang signaling the end of the night shift, soon the hustling mass of remaining employees headed out to their lockers before heading home. Some we're conversing about what today's work entailed while others joked around about some off the wall story they had, others mostly just walked along getting out as soon as possible. I was one of the individuals who was all too ready to leave being that I had to work over, on today of all days. I'd just finished moving the last shipment of parts to the docking area before heading to the lockers as well.
“Finally, I thought this night would go on forever.” I sighed in relief, wiping the grease and sweat from my forehead while stretching out my neck and aching shoulders coaxing satisfying pops and cracks relieving the tension. Heading to punch out for the night I made a quick stop in the locker rooms putting my work gloves and equipment in the locker, grabbing my jacket and backpack before leaving. The smell of fumes and sweat after working a double shift made me in dire need of a shower. As I was heading towards the exit, I noticed someone was still in the cafeteria.
“Hmm, wonder who's still here? More importantly, lets see if there’s any food still left..” I, feeling the ache in my stomach, was hoping to grab whatever leftovers the cafeteria still had before they started throwing it away after everyone leaves. Sighing as I entered the cafeteria,upon seeing trash bags and half empty platters of food on the counter, I approached a sandwich tray looking over what was left, a frivolous voice grabbed my attention from behind the counter.
“Hey there Keitan, you still here? I thought you'd be the first outta' here after working a double.”
I looked up to see one of my coworkers, Brian, who was setting down a trash bag walking up to me, wiping his hands on his pants. “That would have been the case if I knew you wouldn't let all this food from today go to waste.” I replied a bit of exhaustion in my voice as I picked up one of the untouched sandwiches. "Besides you're still here and you had the morning shift as well." I added taking a bite.
“Yea but I had it easy today ya' know, didn't have to work on the floor so I don't have any complaints.” Brian said waving his hand dismissively. “So anyway you got any plans tonight maybe a young lady waiting to celebrate the new years with you hehe?”
“I don't think so, I'm not that fortunate.” I looked at him grinning at his somewhat non subtle indication.
“Haha, are you kidding me man, come on it's new year's eve! I'm sure there's some pretty thing wanting to start the new year with a bang ”. Brian girated his hips a bit for unneeded emphasis only to get an eye roll and smirk in response.
“Yea yea, that might have been the case if I hadn’t just finished working, plus with me smelling to high heaven, I’m doubting that very seriously. Anyway work is work right, they pay us extra for it so it’s all good.” I stated shrugging.
After a bit of back and forth we said our goodbyes as I made my way for the exit ,the clock next to it showing 11:32. As I made my way home,a low rumble in the distance caught my attention,I looked up to see the dark clouds arriving overhead, the moon's pale light barely perceivable past the heavy storm clouds. evident to what was coming, I hurried towards home.
On the way I couldn't help feeling depressed, my mind replaying not the day but rather my whole life up till now. For the most part I had a content life, not smooth most of the time but it wasn't as rough as it could have been. Nevertheless having a job, a place to live and, once in a blue moon, a drink with some co-workers or friendly passerby helped Most of the time it was just the same old story where nothing seemed to change and with the absence of a more pleasing interaction, heading home to just solitude only made it all the more depressing.
“Jeez, I work late today on new year's eve and not even a celebration to help me unwind, talk about luck.” I sighed kicking up dirt from the road, hearing the cheers of people enjoying themselves as I walked past a nightclub. It's booming music and illuminating, flashing lights pouring out of the club into the street. I took in a deep breath, sighing heavily as I continued walking.
“Could this night get any worse?” I blinked slowly, kicking at some rocks. Continuing down the uneven path through the park, the clouds began to rumble as if to answer with a condemning boom, as a few drops of rain fell onto my forehead and cheek. I wiped it away and groaned. Soon I was almost completely drenched by a sudden downpour.
Wonderful, ” I growled in a low tone, quickly making my way over to a small nearby shop standing under its overhanging frame in an attempt to get out of the rain. Finally clear of the rain, I pulled out a handkerchief to dry myself off as much as I could, chuckling at my poor fortune . Well I guess I did need a shower. After getting somewhat dry I pressed on, the rumbling sky overhead conveyed that it wasn't going to end anytime soon. Looking around I thought taking a shortcut through the park home would be better than going the long way.
After awhile of trudging through the park home, I could have sworn I heard a voice. Like someone talking near me at first, I dismissed this as a trick of the wind until the voice spoke again, slowly gaining volume and clarity.
“Twilight.. ”
There it was again, what I originally thought was nothing could be heard as if someone was right beside me. Startled, I turned around to see if someone was following me. Maybe from the club? I thought, but it was a ways away with no one around the thought was quickly dismissed before another sound was occurred.
“Are you sure about this Twi? .”
“Dammit I should've brought an umbrella with me.” I cursed holding my hand up to my forehead trying to see more clearly. I kept looking around to see if someone was following me, possibly to pull a prank, but with the rain, trees and late night conditions I could barely see ten feet in front of me. The most that I could see was the areas lit up by the park lights and the distant club lights. As I focused something off in the distance sparked and flashed .
The loud rhythmic music had died down as people started counting down to new year "10..9..8 ." As it continued, Keitan could hear more than just one voice causing him panic. Rushing on ahead to get away from whatever was going, attempting to spot the source of who or what was talking.
“Well I, for one, don't think you should, what if something were to happen like last time?. .” Went another voice.
“Who's there?” I demanded. “If this is some sort of joke it's not funny!” I then attempted to hide behind a tree in hope of losing the person I assumed was following me. After a while of nothing new happening, I decide to keep moving, deciding getting home was my first priority. Pulling up the collar of my coat to try to cover up as much as I could, walking at a hurried pace while occasionally scanning around to see what was going on around me, soon a spark or flash off in the distance caught my eye.
Keitan was distracted by the sudden occurrence that he didn't look where he was going. Before he knew it, the faint glowing in the distance jetted towards him now in his face blinding him, the sudden surprise caused him to misstep, tripping over an elevated root of a nearby tree as the last numbers were cheered by the crowd 3..2..
"Aww shhhi'!" followed by a thud as I felt my head collid with a tree, my head spinning as I fell to the ground. As the new years count down ended a crackling of lightning echoed through the park with a final bang of thunder before everything around him faded to black, his consciousness slipping away.
--Everfree Forest 7:20 AM--
Keitan couldn't really be sure of what happened as he started to wake up, the side of his head throbbing in pain as his cold, damp clothes clinging to his body.. As his eyes slowly opened, he could see the stars slightly visible in a twilight lit sky above him, he attempted to prop himself up with his elbows as his head began to throb again with the shift in elevation. He sat there with his hand against his head, only noticing the blood as he pulled his hand back into view. With a groan he stood up, his body feeling very stiff and groggy.
“Man what happened last night? I got to get out of this park find the street.” I murmured aloud to myself as I made my way to the edge of the forest I could see smoke overhead. When I finally made it out, to my surprise, there were no streets or paved roads in sight, just a field and a lone cottage in the distance. I looked back to where I started realizing that what I thought was a park was actually a forest stretching in either direction, the trees, bushes, and shrubs adding to its denseness. "What the.. how long was I out, and where's the street. It should have stated here." Confused I turned back, making my way towards the cottage.
While I was approaching the cottage I noticed that leading to the home was a bridge over a small lake, on the other side was a patch of flowers as well as a bird house. Looking at the cottage it was built like the normal architecture one would expect, cream colored siding , a mostly wooden frame, a few windows at its sides with a small fence, and mailbox. What was setting it apart from the average home was the roof was covered in leaves like a tree's canopy with bird houses spread around it. It looked very well kept, like someone had been living there for awhile, but I couldn't remember anyone living this close to the park before. I then noticed someone standing outside watering a few plants in hanging baskets on the front of the home. What was strange was there was no other residents near by, just meadows and a dirt road. Shrugging it off, I kept moving along to see if I could find out where I ended up.
“Um, hello there.” I called out to the stranger. At first I noticed that this person had long pink hair that curled at the ends, with.. a Tail, and ears . As my mind focused on what I was seeing. A yelp of shock sounded as the pink haired, well girl by the sound of her high squeal, spun around after hearing an unfamiliar voice behind her. When she saw me her eyes grew wide, taking a step back towards the cottage.
I took another step towards the paved steps, assuming that I was seeing things, the girls features were not at all what I expected. She had light cream colored fur with ears that swiveled in my direction, her face was slender, but also slightly elongated like the muzzle of a horse. It was hard for me to process what I was seeing as I looked into her uncertain eyes. I figured it would be best to say something. I took a step towards her, speaking calmly as to not frighten her further.
“Sorry about that, I didn't mean to surprise you but I was wondering if you could tell me where I am exactly?” I asked attempting to ease her nervousness.
The girl slowly felt around behind her for the handle to the door while glancing between the door, and him. Once she found it she darted back in her home, slamming and locking the door behind her. I was still a bit shocked by the sight of her but soon snapped out of my reverie, walking up to to the door knocking softly.
“Umm hello? Listen, I'm not going to hurt you or anything. I'm kinda lost, could you help me out?” I asked pressing my head against the door trying to listen in, all I could hear was her panicked breathing through the door.
“Oh..my, umm sorry n-noponies home.”
I pulled my head away confused. Did she say nopony? “Ah, well do you know of where I can find a clinic or something? I hit my head and it’s really unpleasant.” I asked, taking a step back after a moment with no reply. I sighed at getting no response. Turning to look at the landscape around the cottage to gather my thoughts. It's tranquil appeal helped distract me from my current predicament. I breathed deeply, taking in the fresh air, the scent of the flora and wet grass filling my senses. If nothing else this place sure is peaceful .
A few moments passed before the door unlocked, slowly opening, A light cerulean eye peeked through the crack in the door frame. Keitan turned around giving his best smile to reassure her he meant no harm. The door slowly opened all the way and the pink haired girl stepped out looking at him curiously. He wasn’t just larger than most ponies she'd seen, he was taller, but also burly with a scruffy beard along with hair that was down to his shoulders. But what she concentrated on most was his eyes, a shade of green with hazel encompassing the center, surprisingly the other was a lighter shade of blue. They were captivating, soft yet focused. She then looked to his head, noticing a bit of blood on the side of his forehead.
“Oh my you're hurt.” her voice was soft just barely above a whisper and yet it was comforting.
Now that she was closer, I was even more fascinated by her appearance, aside from what I had originally seen she was above average height, five nine or so, wearing a light blue and white sun dress laced with pink butterflies around the collar which was unbuttoned just above her chest, which they had to be at least a D cup. Quickly peeling my eyes away from the set of globes in front of me, the design of the dress had white flowers covering it in random places, ending about halfway on her calf. The dress was a nice design yet the amount that was covered hardly held any merit compared to how well it showed off her well developed figure.
We stood there in silence, unsure of what to say. The girl fidgeted a bit, looking away then back at me awkwardly. “W-Would you like to come in, I-I can take care of your injury, um..if you want that is.” She looked down at the watering can she was still holding onto, some of her hair falling in front of her face, glancing up at him nervously through her mane unsure what to make of this strange creature She didn't feel right just leaving him alone with an injury.
At first I was uncertain on what to do, her looks and demeanor were both intriguing that I didn't respond at first. A few more moments of awkward silence came between us again before noticing that she was waiting for me to respond, I then snapped out of it smiling warmly.
“Really? Well I'd appreciate it instead of walking to.. wherever I'd need to go. Oh, my name is Keitan by the way.” Introducing myself as I made my way inside. Not wanting to be rude, I stood awkwardly in the center of the living room looking around.
The inside of the cottage was fairly large as well as cozy decorated with bird houses plus small hanging houses, a bag of what I suspected to be bird feed or something sat next to a writing desk. In the center of living room there was a large, apricot rug on the green wooden floor, and a lime colored sofa with a wooden table setting in front of it. On the other side of the room there was a stone fireplace with a pot, skillet, and teapot nearby. . Closer to the back of the room was a lounge chair, kind of like the ones you would find in a therapists office, with the same lime colored cushions as well as a small table with an odd dragon-goat looking lamp next to it.
She didn't at me directly, just the occasional glance in my direction., Eventually pointing to a stool for me to sit on, she placed the watering can down on the counter on her way to the back. Soon she returned with what I assumed to be a medkit of sorts and a towel to dry off while she got out some gauze and disinfectant. She moved closer, standing in front of me in order to attend to my injury. What's going on? I start to hear voices last night, then wake up in a forest and now this . I thought to myself, confounded by the girl. Aside from where I was, maybe there’s more I could find out later. More importantly, this girl's appearance was something out of a story book. Her skin, or fur, was butter yellow with a pink mane and tail. I turned my head slightly to get a better look at my stand in nurse, as I did she noticed me staring at her intently.
“Um, is there something wrong... D-Did I hurt you?” she said with a worried look.
Hesitantly I asked "A-Are you real?" She was startled by the question. Raising my hand to the side of the her face, she froze in place for a moment. When I touched the her cheek the feeling of soft plush fur against my fingers, a blush started to form across her muzzle. After a moment the girl flinched away from my hand, stepping back looking apprehensive.
“Oh..I-I'm sorry, I wasn't trying to do anything I was just curious about your appearance.” I said with a sheepish smile placing my hand back on my lap. “If you don't mind me asking this, but what are you exactly? Is that suppose to be a costume or something? Whoever made it is one hell of an artist. I mean, is that part of some movie around here or something?” I looked her over noticing that her feet, well hooves, seem real as well. “Wow, how do your fit your feet in there, is it like a high heel with a hoof around it?” As I went on she didn't seem to understand what I was talking about, tilting her head in confusion. “Hehe, sorry for all the questions but I never caught your name?”
“Well my name is Flut- tershy.” she answered, looking away from me, a bit of her mane falling in front of her face. I looked at her not sure what she said, the last bit trailing off.
“I didn't catch that, could your repeat your name?” I asked again not sure what was this girls issue was, but she sure was demure. Maybe it was her acting in character or something.
“It's Fluttershy.“ she said more clearly, grabbing a bit of her hair to move it from in front of her face. She looked a bit more calm now then a few moments ago.
“Fluttershy huh.” As her name implied she was quite shy but she had a gentle nature that was comforting so I didn't mind it. “Well its nice to meet you Fluttershy, but you really have the whole image from head, to well hoof. I gotta say you're definitely selling it.” I praised. While I was talking, I noticed she had a pair of wings.
“You even have wings? Man you went all out with this Fluttershy.” I added looking around her.
Unsure of what this strange creature was, Fluttershy was lost about what to do, he didn't seem to be bad or dangerous yet curiously she turned to face him. “Umm th-thank you.” She continued hesitantly. “I'm not exactly sure what you mean by what ‘I'm selling’. She looked at me puzzled.
“I'm talking about your costume.” I said pointing at her, she then raised her hand referring to herself and I nodded.
“But I'm not wearing a costume.” Fluttershy uttered meekly. “Are you saying I look bad, is my mane ok, because I-I was thinking of going for a different look.” she expressed looking at herself anxiously before fidgeting with her hair.
“No no, It’s fine you look great, I was just complimenting your appearance is all.” I gave weary smile. I felt bad about what I said, being that I probably offended her.
She stopped giving me an unsure look before turning away. “Um okay, but If you don't mind me asking where did you come from, and how did you hurt yourself? I-I mean if you want to tell me.” she asked, as she put the supplies away.
I scratched my chin in thought. “Um okay—, well I was walking home in the rain when I heard voices of someone talking, calling out to Twilight I think.“ I crossed my arms trying to think about last night when it hit me. “Yea, then there was this bright light, and I woke up in the forest back there.” I pointed in the direction of the Everfree forest.
“Then that's when I saw you watering your plants, although I'm not sure how I got here. I was in the park on my way home then all these lights and voices came from nowhere. I ended up hitting my head, did some event happen that while I was out?”
I held my chin trying to think if I'd forgot something that going on in the park last night that could explain things, however nothing came to mind so I shrugged it off for now. I was removed from my train of thought when Fluttershy spoke up with a carrot in her hand giving it to a white rabbit.
“Really? That sounds awful, to be out in the Everfree Forest alone... at night.” Fluttershy as shiver going down her spine at the thought. “I'm just glad nothing got to you while you were out there but I'm curious of how you heard Twilight’s name.”
“Why, do you know who that is?” I asked looking at the rabbit curiously, it looked back giving me an opposing look before hiding it’s carrot behind him.
“Oh yes, shes one of my very best friends.“ she noticed the two of us staring at each other so Fluttershy petted Angel on the head. “Its ok Angel, he's not going to hurt anypony.” Fluttershy reassured him, Angel looked at me again skeptically, before putting the carrot in his mouth scampering off. I couldn't help but smirk at the rabbit as it seemed to understand her. Fluttershy walked up to me after she was done with putting the supplies away.
“If you don't mind, I think it would be best if you see a doctor about your injury, just to make sure that nothing is wrong.” Looking at his head again, lightly touching the side of his head to make sure nothing was faulty. “We have a hospital in Ponyville that can treat your injury if you'd like.” Fluttershy proposed softly.
“Yea I guess that would be a good idea, I do appreciate the quick fix Fluttershy.” I smiled at her, picking up my backpack heading for the door. “Well I’ll get going now.” Stepping outside I thought for a moment looking around outside. “Um do you think you could point me in the direction of Ponyville?” I asked Fluttershy before she hesitantly spoke up.
“Um w-would you like me to show you the way?” I turned to look at her, Fluttershy looked downward uncertain pressing her index fingers together. “Since you're not from around here, I can show you the way to Ponyville hospital, if you want?” she suggested modestly.
“That's very kind of you Fluttershy, I hope I'm not being too much trouble, being that we just met an all.”
Fluttershy shook her head. “I would feel better knowing that you were alright, I couldn't just let you get lost somewhere.”
“Well I owe you one.” I smiled warmly appreciating Fluttershy going out of her way, I scratched the back of my head grinning to myself. “Well make that two I owe you.” As I followed Fluttershy making our way to Ponyville.
The town of Ponyville was as close to an urban suburb as you could get, most of the homes were one to two stories high, while the streets had a few stalls spread out around the different corners of the town. Most of the homes where in laid out sections, making it compact yet not so much that the place felt cramped or clustered together. The homes themselves were designed to the style of a rural countryside colorful and lavish in it's own way, complemented with flora and greenery to give it a more welcoming presence. They also had a fair amount of different shapes, mostly asymmetrical from top to bottom. Curious enough, the roofs of some of them seemed to be covered in straw. Some having wooden posts or signs referring to what type of business in was. The residents would come and go out of most of the buildings, which left the impression that the homes and business seem to be one in the same to provide a place of housing and establishment to pull the town together.
As they walked through ponyville Keitan looked around surprised at just how different everything looked, the shops as well as the homes had a rustic imaginativeness of something out of a story book which included the vibrant colors of everything, even the ponies themselves. He laughed a little on the inside when he thought about it. Passersby would give a curious glance towards the two, more so to Keitan, a normal looking human seemed out of place in this multicolor land of ponies. Not to mention standing next to Fluttershy only made the size difference more apparent, him being about six eight with his dulled work clothes made him stand out even more compared to the rest of the town. It wasn't as thickly populated at the time, but there were a number of residents moving from shop to stall, or business of sorts buying and selling what they needed. His sightseeing came back to the mare next to him. Noticing Fluttershy walking beside him, he moved slightly closer still unable to state his curiosity even with being so close to her. Noticing the movement in her peripheral, she turned her head to see what was happening. Their eyes met for a bit before she quickly looked away. .
“Is something the matter?” Fluttershy asked glancing at him, unsure of what he was looking at.
I stepped back a bit to give her more breathing room smiling a bit “No nothings wrong, I was just looking at everything around here, I mean it’s really cool how everyone here is really putting this place together but I'm curious about how long has Ponyville been here Fluttershy, when did you set this whole place up anyway?”
Fluttershy looked at him raising an eyebrow. “How long? Well Ponyville has been here for a long time even before I was a little filly actually” she smiled, “but you're right, it is a nice town with lots of friendly ponies and places to shop for food, clothing, and it even has it's own spa along with the fact that my friend's also live here.” As if on cue the sound of someone yelling sprang from behind the both of them.
“FLUUUTERSHYYYY !”
They both stopped as Fluttershy’s ears perked up, she ducked down clearly shaken by whoever yelled out her name abruptly. All Keitan could do was turn to face where the sudden voice was coming from. Before he could say anything, a girl with bouncy, curly pink hair, a darker shade than Fluttershy’s, came bouncing by, landing right on top of him. Keitan let out an "Ooff." which followed by the chattering of his pink assailant.
“Well finally I found you Fluttershy, I've been looking all over the place for you! I went to your home, but you had already left so I tried looking all over town, but couldn't find you until now.” The pink girl expressed happily.
“Oh, hello Pinkie Pie, I didn't know you were looking for me.” Fluttershy replied slowly standing.
“Yea, I went all over town first to the animal shelter, but they said that you had already dropped off the animals for the week, then I tried the vegetable shops the owner said they hadn't seen you either, but if I do happen to find you to tell you they saved some of the extra veggies they harvested for the week.” Pinkie pie continued.
“Thats fine, but Pinkie Pie you're on top of somepony.” Fluttershy replied trying to stop her constant barrage of talking.
“And then I thought I'd try to see if you were at Discords house.” Pinkie said tapping her chin with a finger. “But then I realized that I didn't know where he lived, so I looked around to see if could find it, and I was just on my way to Sugarcube Corner when I finally ran into you.” Pinkie continued talking ignoring Fluttershys attempts to get her attention.
Fluttershy blinked looking at her with uncertainty “Pinkie Pie I don't think you can just find Discords house.” Fluttershy said somewhat doubtful, Pinkie Pie gave her confused look as her eyebrows bowed slightly.
“Aww, so then how do you and Discord send each other letters?” Pinkie Pie asked curiously. “Because I keep getting the ones I send back, I asked Twilight if she had some sort of spell thingy that I could stamp on them to see if that would work, or maybe I could have Spike use his fire breath to send them. But she said that she wasn't sure if that would work, and maybe she could look into it, so then I was like well then how am I going to send him a party invitations if I can't even send them?”
As for first impressions go, Pinkie Pie was about as rambunctious as an energetic little kid hopped up on four cups of coffee. I closed my eyes trying to calm myself, I felt tired, groggy, and with this head injury this situation wasn't helping. I didn't understand what they were talking about and at the moment I really didn't care. Plus Pinkie sitting on my chest wasn't really doing me any favors as I could feel my eye start to twitch at the situation. All I wanted was to go home and bury my face in a pillow.
I was a little miffed at being turned into a human landing pad, I looked up at Pinkie Pie seeing that she was wearing shorts her bright pink fur grabbing my curiosity. Taking the opportunity, I placed my hand on the energetic pink mares thigh feeling that same plush fur from before. Pinkie's eyes widen as she looked down surprised as the sudden feeling of what I was doing got her attention which abruptly ended her back and forth conversation with Fluttershy. I looked up at her now that he had her attention.
“I hope that I'm not interrupting, but Pinkie Pie do you mind getting off? You kinda landed on top on me.” I told her cynically, trying to urge her off by posting up on my elbows.
Pinkie Pie blinked looking at me. “Oh whoopsie, sorry about that.” Pinkie apologized getting up off of me while giggling.
“Are you alright Keitan?” Fluttershy asked as she walked over to me, placing a hand on my shoulder as I got up to dust myself off. Before I could reply the calm atmosphere was once again broken by Pinkie Pie’s over enthusiasm.
“Wait a second, oh my gosh oh my gosh, Fluttershy who is this funny looking pony!” Pinkie Pie asked bouncing in place with excitement. Her comment referring to me as 'weird looking' made me a little agitated at the mare, me giving her a weird look.
“Well nothing gets past you does it?” I commented sarcastically. “And what do you mean funny looking? For one I'm normal looking despite how everyone else looks.” I thought about my situation before shaking my head to how that statement sounded. "Look I’m just trying to get to the hospital so I can get my head looked at, after that I'm heading home after I found out where I am.”
Pinkie Pie looked at me curiously walking around in a circle. “Well what are you? You're definitely not a pony, and I'm certain that I've never ever seen something like you before.” Pinkie kept moving around examining me, seeming to forget about what personal space means.
“Well thats because I'm human .” I deadpanned, pinching the bridge of my nose. “What's with you two, I mean I get that you got something going on an all, but really do you need to be this into the act.” I turned to face Pinkie Pie who reached down shaking my hand feverishly.
“Well hi Mr. Human welcome to Ponyville!” She greeted me in her energetic way, I stopped the handshake midway through, pulling my hand from her.
“My name isn't human it’s Keitan, Keitan Alihan, and what's that about never seeing someone like me before when I look similar to the other humans. Besides you're human too, just in a costume.” I frowned rolling my eyes, getting a little weirded out by the two mares. They seemed to act like they were from another planet or something. “Anyway I was walking with Fluttershy to the hospital to make sure my head injury was alright.” Pinkie just smiled at me tilted her head.
“I'm not a human, I'm a pony silly, just like Fluttershy and all the other ponies here. she snapped her fingers remembering something “Oh yea thats right. Fluttershy, Twilight wanted me to find you too, something about wanting to follow up with you about this years winter wrap up, since you're on the animal team census duty.” Pinkie told her singing a familiar tune.
“You know I remember hearing Twilight’s name last night when all that strange stuff started happening after that I woke up meeting Fluttershy, but I still don't know how I got all the way out wherever here is.” I started scratching my head trying to wrack my brain for an explanation. How did I end up out here anyway, kidnapped... no who would want to do that, maybe I'm having a really weird dream, hmm no.. I feel pain so that's out. I was snapped out of my thoughts when Pinkie bounced in front of me.
“Ohhh~ so you know Twilight then, well that’s funny, I don't think she ever mentioned meeting a human.” Pinkie chirped, to which I just sighed ,rubbing the sides of my temples.
“Ok this pony-thing you have here is cool I get it, but just for a minute could you be straight with me and tell me where I can find the exit to this place. It's been fun and all, but I need to head home.“ I was really not in the mood for what was going on and I just wanted this to be over.
“Aren't you going to the doctor first, are you sure you can just go home without having your injury looked at?" Fluttershy looked concerned, I looked at her giving a small smile.
“Nah it’s ok I'll be fine, but you gotta tell me what kind of convention is this! Its well done I’ll give it that, but I didn't see a moving truck or anything this week, plus your costumes are really well made.” I ran my hand down the side of Fluttershys mane brushing it aside, then resting my hand on her shoulder. "I really would like to know who did it.”
“She's not in a costume silly, and besides Nightmare Night is a long while from now so no one's wearing costumes.” Pinkie chimes in. I just smirked looking over to Pinkie.
“Alright I gave you props on the the outfits, really you don't need to keep up the facade.” I said dejectedly. "Look I'll prove it." I reached behind Fluttershys head for a seam or something to take the suppose false head off, but felt nothing just fur and hair. “That’s weird, where is the seam for this thing?”
“U-Um could you please not hold onto the back of my head like that it's really uncomfortable.” Fluttershy whimpered as she felt me rubbing along her neck, I quickly let go of her with an apologetic look as we separated.
“Uh sorry about that Fluttershy, its just I really don't understand why you're trying to play your characters so well. I get your acting, but that doesn't mean I should have been so forward with you like that.” I responded looking at her coyly.
“I already told you that it’s not a costume see~.” Without warning Pinkie grabbed ahold of Fluttershy’s shoulder spinning her around, as she twirled her sun dress flew up slightly putting her legs on display. As he looked from her hooves up long her legs thinking to himself. Man whoever did her appliance it’s really a perfect fit on her, I can't believe it looks so real. The gloss of her coat as the sun's light trailed down her legs, he kept his eyes on them as he trailed up to her knees, and noticed the bend of the hock. I wonder how they managed to make it so seemless even the... , as his eyes took admiration to the mare, time seemed to slow down when he gazed upon a wondrous sight a pair of yellow and pink striped panties.
As soon as they were visible Fluttershy quickly folded her hands down over the dress covering herself embarrassed turning as red as a tomato looking at Pinkie. “P-P-Pinkie Pie... Why did you do that!?” Fluttershy stammered.
“Hehe well he obviously didn’t believe us, sooo I was proving it.” she replied Pinkie holding her hands up in defense.
Looking at the two of them Pinkie was wearing a light pink short sleeved shirt with the word party in blue and yellow letters across the chest with blue jean overalls shorts with light blue and yellow striped knee high socks that stop about a few inches above her ankle. She must have seen me staring at her she turned to me and did a little twirl of her own then striking a pose giving a flick of her tail playfully. “See all one-hundred percent party pony!” she then gave me a wide grin, I just returned with a blank stare still having the short glimpse of Fluttershys underwear in my mind.
“Hmm you still don't believe me alrighty then.” Pinkie Pie said starting to lift up her shirt slightly before abruptly stopped by Fluttershy.
“What are you doing Pinkie Pie, you can't do that!” Fluttershy dissuaded her hastily standing between Pinkie, and me holding her hands.
"Oh Fluttershy I’m not going to take off my shirt silly I was just going to show him my tummy, besides it’s not like he didn't see your's just now~" Pinkie chuckled giving her side a squeeze.
“Thats because you spun me around without warning.” Fluttershy retorted with a frown mixed with embarrassment, both their ears perked up as they heard Keitan stutter loud enough for them to notice.
“Wait, so this place is real, and everyone here is ..?” I stopped himself from finishing the sentence, not wanting to believe it. I just put my hand on my, head staring at the ground perplexed. None of this made sense, how could this be real? as my mind kept searching for an answer, maybe this was dream.. yea maybe that was it , but no I definitely felt the pain from my head, then Pinkie Pie frivolously landing on top of me so it must be real .
“Pony?” Pinkie Pie added finishing my sentence. “Well yea~ that's what I've been saying this whole time.” she looked at him strangely. “Hey are you alright you don't look so good, do you have a tummy ache or something? Because one time I had a really bad tummy ache after eating a bad muffin me and Applejack made and...” she was cut off when Fluttershy walked up to me.
“Is your head starting to hurt again, do you need to see the doctor?” Fluttershy sounded concerned, placing her hand on my shoulder trying to soothe me. I turned my head to look at her, seeing the concern in her eyes set me at ease and when I nodded she smiled slightly.Suddenly I could feel my head pound in short pulses, the headache was nothing to the pain now. It traveled through my body, as my legs buckled causing me to drop to my knees in pain. The images of last night flashed again in my mind, soon I was on the ground,out like a light.
“Oh no, Keitan are you alright!“ Fluttershy called to him she knelt down beside him shaking him gently, attempting to rise some response from him. “Pinkie please help me carry him.”
“Sure thing.“ Pinkie Pie complied rushing over to his other side lifting his arm over her shoulder. As they carried him away, a small translucent ball of light rose from the ground hovering above where Keitan collapsed. The crescent band of colors wrapped around and expanded, attempting to take on a humanistic silhouette on the ground before evaporating into the unknown.
Author's Note
Alright so things are starting off interestingly enough. I want to say thank you tremulously to Aerigim for helping out ALOT with this one, it would not be as smooth was it not for him. As for the story I'm working on chapter 3 now, so sometime soon it will be ready.
The Newcomer By Mythic Legacy Chapter 3: Welcoming
--Ponyville Hospital 11:05 AM--
As I started to regain consciousness, slowly opening my eyes, yet the bright light in the room made me quickly close them, my head felt like it was underwater as I tried to focus on my surroundings. I could hear the sound of muffled voices of someone talking in the room near me. Again opening my eyes slightly I could only see blurred outlines of whomever it was, so reluctantly I closed my eyes and focused on who was speaking. One of the voices I recognized to be Fluttershy.
“Is he going to be alright Doctor Whitecross? I mean he hasn't been moving for awhile, and with his head injury, do you think it's serious?” Fluttershy questioned looking at the man she brought to the hospital.
Doctor Whitecross was examining the x-ray he held in his hand while adjusting his glasses. “Well I don't see any sign of a fracture to the skull, I would say that it's more of a hit to the head nothing more. However, I'll administer some pain medication to help, but I'm sure he'll be fine. I'll return shortly.” He stated as he left the room.
As the Doctor excused himself from the room, I figured I'd try and sit up, rubbing the side of my head and blinking my eyes a few times looking around. As I started to clear my vision, I could see I was in a typical hospital room, soft white walls and a grey and black checkered tile floor; a few chairs and a cabinet against the wall plus a desk adjacent from it just to name a few things. I noticed the two mares that brought me here, Fluttershy was standing at the window tending to a mixed bouquet of flowers while Pinkie Pie was sitting on a chair looking at a magazine giggling to herself, amused by the illustrations. She glanced in my direction seeing that I was up.
“Oh hey, you're awake!” Pinkie Pie smiled, putting down the magazine walking over to the foot of the hospital bed. "We're wondering when you were going to wake up after we brought you here. How are you feeling, is your noggin hurting?" She asked her cheer fading to concern.
“What happen?” I asked turning to the side of the bed putting my feet on the floor.
“You tell us what happened, you just feel over like suddenly, me and Fluttershy had to carry you here.” Pinkie said patting me on the shoulder.
“HonestIy I don't have a clue. It felt like my whole body was in pain, and my head felt like it was about to split open. Then nothing after that, um... I hope It wasn't too much of a hassle bringing me here.” I stated apologetically stretching out in several places.
“We were just worried that something terrible happened to you when you collapsed, how are you feeling now?” Fluttershy asked looking at me uncertain if I was alright.
“I don't feel anything. Well pain that is, I feel fine now. I'm somewhat surprised you to were able to carry me at all by yourselves. I'm not exactly a small person.” I smiled sheepishly rubbing the back of my neck I was surprised that they went as far as they did to help.
“Of course we wouldn't just leave you in the condition that you were in on the street, that would be awful.” Fluttershy assured me.
“Yea, besides I'm used to lifting heavy stuff, so no worries.” Pinkie Pie agreed, placing her hand on her bicep in a flexing pose.
"Well, in any case, thanks to you two, and about what happened earlier, no I don't know. Other than I felt like my head was about to split open, I can't say why or what caused it, but I'm glad whatever it was I think its over now."
As we thought about what had happened the door to my room opened. Doctor Whitecross came in closing the door behind him, he was an average height tan coated unicorn, with a short dark gray mane with a white streak on the side, wearing a typical doctor outfit a white coat, casual slacks, and a stethoscope around his neck. He was reading something in a yellow folder in his hand. He looked up seeing I was awake before greeting me with a smile.
“Ah, well I see that you've come to that's good, my name is Doctor Whitecross. I've been told you were brought here for a head injury.” He walked overextending his hand as I shook his hand, the Doctor leaned closer looking at me more closely. “If you don't mind before we move forward, I'd like to take a closer look at you make sure everything is alright.” I nodded my head as he stood before me for a moment he did nothing before I saw his horn emanate an orange glow. At first, I just stared unsure what was happening until the magic of Whitecross's horn traveled towards me.
“Whoa there doc!” I defended putting my hands up leaning back from him. “What are you doing, what's with the strange light on your forehead? I've already had enough dealing with weird lights I don't what anymore getting near me!”
Whitecross stopped his concentration looking bewildered. "I'm just using magic no need to worry. I've done this more than a hundred times, it's a simple spell all it will do is allow me to make sure you don't have any problems like a concussion, other than just the contusion on the front of your head this will be the fastest way to diagnose you.” Doctor Whitecross gestured tapping the folder. “I've read an exemplary diagnosis from the nurse that looked at you earlier, and it seems you've had a mild case of fatigue, and dehydration which quite possibly could add to your head injury. So I must insist that you just relax, and let me work, trust me you'll be just fine.
“But I feel fine.” I tried to argue. “Really, I don't feel any of the pain from before, and I'm just a little sore but other than that I'm good.”
Whitecross sighed with a disapprovingly look. “Listen Mr. Alihan when you arrived you weren't even conscious, not to mention your body had worn down as if you'd traveled from the Badlands to Ponyville on foot. We had to administer an Iv for your dehydration plus a healing spell or two to help you recover, but if you continue to push yourself you will end up in a worse situation then just 'sore'.”
I looked over at Pinkie and Fluttershy still feeling unsure, but they both gave me a reassuring nod to which I looked back at the doctor letting out a deep exhale before closing my eyes I wasn't sure what was going to happen. I tried to relax as the Doctor once again consecrated on his magic releasing it as it flowed towards me, at first I felt like a wave of air was encompassing me. I closed my eyes not sure what to expect, then soon a tingling feeling filled my head as the magic washed over me for a few moments.
As I sat there I felt strangely comfortable as the doctor used his magic, it started wiping away the fog from my head. All the tense pressure and soreness I felt melted away I began to relax more as he went to work when Doctor Whitecross finished he released his aura around me.
“Well that didn't seem so bad, now did it Mr. Alihan? As it looks now you have started to recover quite well. However, I would like you to stay here for awhile so that we can monitor you, and before you argue. I must warn you that the nurses do not approve of our patients wondering about, and they can be very insistent .”
Before I could respond a feminine voice called through the door. “Now now Doctor do not make it sound like we keep anypony here against there will, although some patients can be very stubborn and need a fair bit of coaxing. Nevertheless, we take pride in our work here at Ponyville Hospital, and that is to make sure that everypony that comes here leaves with a clean bill of health, wouldn't you agree Doctor Whitecross.” she gave him a knowing glance, but the accusation in her tone was more of affirmation than a question.
Nurse Redheart was an ivory coated mare, with a light pink mane done up in a bun with short bangs to the side of her forehead. Her eyes a shade of baby blue which looked pleasant but striking at the same time with the look she was giving Whitecross. She wore a traditional white nurses' bonnet, and gown with a red cross embroidered on the front of the hat and over the right side of the gowns chest which complemented her overall appeal although looking at her outfit it seemed to hug her a little too closely more so around her hips.
“Of course Nurse Redheart, I was just informing him of how well we care for our patients.” Whitecross cleared his throat then continued. "Well now you know, so Nurse Redheart will be keeping an eye on you if you should need anything. Now if you'll excuse me I'll be off making my rounds.” He nodded before shaking my hand again and leaving.
I was still unsure of being here especially since I'm still coming to terms that I'm in a new world with anthropomorphic ponies. I was about to refuse again, and that I just want to get out of here and back to my own home, but before I got a word in edgewise I saw a pony being lead away in a straight jacket past my door. I blinked unsure if I had seen what I thought I saw. 'What kind of hospital is this...' I thought as Nurse Redheart spoke.
“Don't mind what the Doctor said.” She waved her hand dismissively. "But, if there is anything you need just let me know since you are going to be her awhile would you care for something to eat while you wait I know it can be boring in a hospital."
“Mr. Alihan is something the matter?” she asked, confused as I stared out the door.
“Oh um, no nothing.” I said looking at her.
“Ah well in that case, would you like something to eat while you're here, I'm sure your probably hungry after all.”
A Knock on the door-frame got our attention as another mare came in, she had a lavender coat, deep purple eyes, and her mane and tail were straight and a decent length with a horn same as the Doctor. Her hair was a shade of indigo with two tones streaks of pink and dark violet. She was wearing a blue cotton vest, and a gray long-sleeved buttoned up shirt the cuffs and collar was a shade of pink with dark purple jeans. On the side had a giant pink star with smaller silver stars around it.
“Oh Princess Twilight.” she gave a bow. “I didn't know you would be visiting us today is there something I can help you with, are you not feeling?” she asked alarmed at Twilight's unexpected appearance.
I looked at Twilight the name caught me. First, that's the name that was thrown around before I got here so now I finally see— Wait did she just call her a princess ? I wasn't sure if I'd heard right. Certainly, her clothes didn't attest the title of Princess, I expected a bit more, well flare or something, but so much is different in this world, that maybe she was just off duty? I let it pass whatever the case was hopefully she had answers to whatever happened to me.
“Oh no nothing like that Nurse Redheart I'm fine, I received a call asking me to come here.” she reassured her.
“Well that's a relief to hear, I'll be on my way and let you tend to your business if you'll excuse me.” she bowed again before leaving.
“Hi Twilight!” Pinkie Pie waved excitedly. “I'm glad you could make it we got a doozy of a situation.” Pinkie declared bouncing in front of her.
“What do you mean pinkie? you sounded excited over the phone about wanting me to meet you Fluttershy here, and that there was somepony you wanted me to meet?” she asked looking at the two.
“Well no not exactly a pony Twilight its just um, well he said that he heard your name before, and well we thought you would know him.” Fluttershy stated pointing over her shoulder.
“Well if somepony knows me then I'll be glad to help any way I ca...” she abruptly stopped, as her eyes grew wide when she saw the large human in question. She eyed him over as he sat on the hospital bed looking back at her with curiosity giving a quick wave, but what she could tell what was strange was all the missing features one would expect less hair, no horn or hooves etcetera.
“Yea his name is Keitan, and he said that he's a hooman.” Pinkie Pie exclaimed walking by her side smiling at me. "He also mentioned you so we figured that you would have an idea about it.
“Hello, Princess Twilight, nice to meet you.” I greeted her calmly, though she didn't look like what I was expecting for a princess, I guess things are different here, so I passed the thought along.
Twilight stood there unsure of what to say sure she had seen and read of many creatures in Equestria, but this was a new encounter to her, possibly to all of a Equestria they both stared at each other for a moment before Twilight snapped back to attention noticing I was waiting for some kind response.
“Oh um, hello, your name is Keitan correct?” She asked for reassurance to which I nodded. “Well it's nice to meet you as well, my friend's tell me that you're not from Ponyville. How did you happen to get here if you don't mind me asking?"
As I explained the event's that took place last night, and then somehow was transported to Equestria, while also describing how I met Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie. To my surprise all of what I had told Twilight didn't seem to phase her that much she appeared well lost in thought, however, processing it all, eventually relaying everything back.
“So you're saying that your from another world, and was transported here last night, and also that you heard voices more specially somepony calling my name till the last thing you saw before you fell unconscious was a large ball of light correct.” She hummed holding her chin in thought before continuing. “I wonder if there any abnormalities happening last night or perhaps some spell went wrong, yet I would have gotten a notice of something. The level of magic and skill to cast portals aren't an easy process to perform, would you happen to know exactly the time of when this all happened?”
“Yea it was around new years eve close to midnight actually, since it was the last day in December I had stayed after to help iron out some unfinished parts for my job, which come to think of it I don't even know if I'll be able to contact anyone from my world.” I shrugged letting out a sigh. “Eh, I doubt they'd believe me anyway.”
“Wait hold on.” Twilight blinked. “You said December? but that's been well over two month's now, as a matter of fact, it's March are you sure all this happened yesterday?”
I looked at her skeptically. “Yes, I'm sure, like I said It was well after eleven and—.” I froze did she say two months there's now way! I quickly reached into my pocket for my cellphone trying to turn it on, but it was useless.
“What that's impossible It can't be March I was on my way home last night and then.... I can't believe it.” I stared at her
“But it really is March.” Pinkie Pie spoke up pulling a calendar from off of the wall holding it in front of my face as I looked at the date it indeed read March. “See it's way past December, in fact, winter wrap-up was a few days ago.”
I grabbed the calendar looking at it intently. I couldn't believe that it was right, but with everything else that's happened it wasn't impossible was it? As much as I didn't want it to be true I stared down at the calendar in my hand depression and shock overcoming me at once with such a dramatic change and loss of time was way too much I started to deflate on the spot.
“This can't be happening two month's I've not only been transported to some new world , but lost two month's of my life lost in whatever wormhole brought me here.”
Fluttershy walked over placing a hand on my shoulder hoping to console the distress that was sinking in. “I'm so sorry that this happened to you, but it will be okay. This will all work out, and I'm sure we can figure out how to set it right, Twilight is the best with these sort of things surely she'll know what to do right Twilight.” she looked over to Twilight with a hopeful smile.
“Wait I just thought of something.” Announced Twilight suddenly with an over-enthusiastic demeanor.
“See, she's already come up with something to help.” Fluttershy encouraged me, as I started to feel a spark of hope return.
“Well not entirely, but I might have an idea as to what brought you here. You mentioned this happened at the end of December in which case was the same time the Magi Allotment accrued which means.” She paused with a gasp as her eyes opened wide with excitement. “It wasn't a failure, after all, your being here is proof, that it worked!” Although Twilight was very ecstatic as she kept pacing back in forth, I couldn't find any enthusiasm in it.
This is incredible it actually did work maybe a little over due to yield results, but then again it was a gamble that it would have worked at all. Ah, I need to document all of this it could very well be a breakthrough in scientific discoveries. Twilight thought as everyone just watched her, Fluttershy spoke up trying to get her attention.
“Um, Twilight—.”
“Notes, and a list. Yes, everything has to be documented! Oh um, would you mind staying here Keitan while I go and retrieve my materials.” I merely nodded as I figured I was going to be here awhile anyway Twilight beamed and without another word she gathered her magic, a light lilac aura surrounded her and in a flash, she was gone only remnants of her magic was left dissipating into thin air. While the rest of us stared at the spot were Twilight once was. I looked over at Fluttershy with a raised eyebrow.
“So that was Princess Twilight Sparkle huh.” I said with a bit of disbelief, Fluttershy just looked back at me with a sheepish smile.
“Yep, that's our Twilight ready to hit the books, notes, and work like a sciencey work pony sometimes too.” Pinkie Pie beamed before gasping. “Speaking of work I have to head back to Sugarcube Coner.” Pinkie Pie zipped off out the room with speed that I could have sworn left a dust trail before coming right back standing in front of me. She pulled out a cupcake for seemingly nowhere and handed it to me; it was a simple cupcake with blue icing and pink sprinkles. “I know it's not much but don't you worry; I'll be sure to throw you an official welcome to Ponyville party before you can shake a tail.” She cheered.
“But I don't have a tail, I thought we covered that I'm not a pony remember.” I stated sarcastically to which her response was then like before she pulled out a tail, kind of like the ones you would use to play pin the tail on the donkey, placing it in my other hand then smiled and dashed off.
So there I sat a fake tail in one hand and a cupcake in the other. I just stared at the door confused and frustrated that I could feel my eye twitch slightly. 'what the hell just happened.' I was about to lose it right there, and in the back of my mind, I wanted to take the tail in my hand and flail it about like a madman screaming. But the thought of the pony from earlier in a straight jack made me reconsider perhaps acting crazy was not the best option. Giving the false tail a few shakes on account of why the hell not who knew, something might have happened. I sighed placed the items down on top of the small cabinet next to the bed then buried my face in my hands rubbing my temples. As I sat there falling into an array of emotions Fluttershy calmly walked in front of me as I looked up at her from my hands.
“I'm sorry Keitan I really am, this must be hard for you, and very scary being pulled from your home lost in a place you have nowhere or nopony to turn to. But don't be discouraged I'm sure that we'll make things right and it may seem a bit unsettling being here, but don't worry Ponyville is a nice place and I'm sure you'll be alright.” I wasn't too sure if she believed that or what but her encouragement was thoughtful. I smiled slightly which she did as well, a moment after there was a sound of chirping as a bird flew in through the window hovering in front of Fluttershy it sounded like a gang of cats was on its tail by how frantic it was acting.
“Oh, whats the matter?” Fluttershy asked the bird as it kept chirping away. “Really that's not good at all where are they, are any of them hurt?” There was more chirping as Fluttershy nodded listening intently. I looked back and forth between the two unsure if I was seeing whatever was happening before I said anything.
“Wait you can understand what it's saying?” I asked skeptically.
Fluttershy nodded looking over at me. “Yes it's my special talent I can communicate will animals, I tend to and take care of a lot of woodland creatures at my home.”
“I see, so whats the matter?” I asked wanting her to continue.
“Well Mr. Beverton needs a log to finish his home near a dam he's making and the tree that he wants is a home to a family of squirrels and their fighting each other.” she looked between me and the bird trying to get her to come along with her she was fidgeting with her hands twirling her fingers unsure of what to do. I guessed she didn't want to seem like she was abandoning me but also didn't want anything wrong to happen to the animals.
I sighed looking at her with a slight smile. “Its alright Fluttershy I'll be fine, you go ahead take care of what you need to, I'm grateful for what you've done already.” she smiled and nodded before taking off with the bird following after, my smile faded as I fall back on the bed looking at the ceiling. “Well now what ”?
An hour or more had passed as I blankly stared at a magazine in my hand I'd lost interest in reading it a while ago. The sound of a few birds chirping outside or the intercom page for a hospital staff was becoming nothing but white noise, I put the magazine back on the stack with the others and stretched. 'Well there's no point in waiting around. ' I thought as I grabbed my things. I had finished the sandwich that Nurse Redheart brought me and the cupcake which was surprisingly the best I think I ever tasted, now I wanted to get out of here, I couldn't just sit around all day. If I was stuck here for who knows how long my curiosity and boredom was going to make me stir-crazy, so I figured that I might as well get to know what Ponyville is like.
Leaving out of my room I looked both ways down the long hospital hallways since I didn't a clue which way the exit I just started walking after roaming through the halls seeing a few patients and staff on the way. Some are giving me the look of what the hell is that, while others just looked from the corner of their eyes trying to hide the fact they were starring. I managed to get a hold of a nurse that wasn't too afraid to stop and tell me where the exit was after thanking her and continuing. When I reached the main center of the building it was a decently large room, there were several rows of chairs with some ponies seated in them and a few fillies and colts.
“Well, I see you're up and about Mr. Alihan.” A voice behind me called I turned to see Doctor Whitecross he shot me a gin looking me up and down. “Well I can see that you're a lot taller than I first thought, and where might I ask are you headed?”
“Look Doc before you say anything. I'm glad you helped me out, but I can't stay in that room anymore if I'm stuck here I gotta' figure out what I'm going to do might as well look around Ponyville you know.” I told him, to my surprise he smiled and nodded.
“I understand, and from the time you spent here we haven't had to look in on you after plus the treatment has helped you recover. Still, I would recommend you take it easy. So before I agree and you do head out I would ask you head to our pharmaceutical counter to pick up the medicine that I prescribed for you, here take this slip and give it to the receptionist there.”
I took the slip from the Doctor offering my thanks again, and follow his directions to the pharmacy once there I spotted Nurse Redheart filling some medication on the shelves. I knock on the counter to get her attention as she turns she comes over shocked to see me.
“Well Hello again Mr. Alihan, what might you be doing up and about have you come to see little ol' me?” she chuckles lightly which I do as well.
“Well Doctor Whitecross said to give whoever was here this slip, and you can just call me Keitan.” I stated handing her the slip. She took a moment to look at it before heading in the back soon returning with a bag with a Cross on it with Pegasus wings.
“Well I'm guessing this means you'll be leaving us then huh?” she asks facetiously, leaning down on the counter resting her head in her palm.
“Yea. I also wanted to thank you for the sandwich it was delicious.” I grinned
“Of course, it was nothing really.” she waved a hand dismissively. “But be sure to take care of yourself out there that is to say I don't mind seeing a handsome stallion like yourself, but I would prefer it was outside the hospital.” she stated giving me a smirk. I chuckled again rubbing the back of my neck thanking her.
“If you don't mind, I have another favor to ask you.” she gives me a curious look. “Could you tell me where I could find an information center so I can see where exactly I am as well about Equestria?” Redheart looked up for a moment in thought.
“Well, the best place you could get the most information would be the Ponyville Town Hall I can tell you how to get there if you'd like.” I nodded as she directed me on how to get to the Town Hall after we said our goodbyes I made my way outside.
Outside the sun was shining and it felt pleasant mixed with the soft breeze, much like before the town of Ponyville was still very much active ponies were again handling their business a pair of ponies were standing at a shop browsing. I even watched a few to my surprise were singing while fixing up a shop cleaning, dusting and the like. As I kept walking down the main street to the plaza, I still got the same uneasy looks from the residents, but I just ignored them and kept it moving till I reached the Town Hall.
Opening its doors the inside was mostly and deep brown interior with different colored banners hanging for the pillars lining its sides a sizeable red carpet reached all the way from the front door to the separate areas of the building, decorations of plants and miniature statues in specific spots with a plaque next to them. It was relatively empty except for a few workers and those I guessed needed some domestic matters handled plus some were gathered at a notice board off to one side of the wall. I approached the front desk a tan-coated mare with a silvery mane that had a slight swoosh curl to it sat behind a desk looking at some notes as I approached she continued to work yet still acknowledged me.
“Yes, can I.... help you?” She began to ask before stopping as she looked at me from the top of her gold trim glasses.
“Um hello.” I replied she stared at me for a moment before shaking herself out of it.
“Y-Yes can I help you sir?” she repeated.
“Yes, I was wondering if you had any information about Equestria.” I asked politely.
She looked me over uncertain. “We do, but Equestria is a very large region, and that would be putting it lightly. Would there be any specific information you would like to know?”
“Well, the thing is I've never really been here before not just Ponyville or anywhere in Equestria.” I explained, not sure how much clearer I could be then just saying I'm from another world.
She looked at me as if I wasn't serious before an idea struck her. “Oh I see, you must be from a bordering land? Ah, but where are my manners I'm Mayor Mare. She rose from her chair to shake my hand as I introduced myself before walking to a nearby kiosk of sorts with flyers and guides. “You know I've always wondered what the neighboring lands were like and it is nice to see new faces come to our town.” Mayor Mare finished gathering the information presenting me a map, pamphlet. “Well, that should give you all the information about Equestria although if you're interested, we could set you on your way with a tour group as well.”
“Um no thanks, this will be just fine.” I declined not wanting to get any more attention, although I could use the foreigner excuse if ever asked where I came from.
“Oh, very then that will be five bits.” she requested. I didn't understand and looked at her curiously as to what she meant.
“Bits, bits of what?” I asked was that the currency used here I wasn't too surprised, but I pulled out my wallet handing her a five maybe it would work, but I had my doubts. She looked at it for a moment examining it before frowning slightly.
“Um, this is just a slip of paper.” she looked at for a moment before handing it back to me. “I'm guessing that it's a foreign currency? How about you go ahead and take them as a welcoming gift to Ponyville.” she smiled, relieved I thanked her for her generosity before leaving.
As I made my way down the streets of Ponyville reading the different areas and cities all throughout Equestria some of the names sounded familiar Manehatten, Las Pegasus, FillyDelfia? I couldn't understand why they seemed so familiar with the towns back on Earth but whichever the case it was bizarre, I kept my face buried in the pamphlet partially because I wanted to know what kind of place Equestria was and also so no one would give me a second look that I've been getting since I got here. Not paying attention to where I was walking, as I turned the corner I ended up colliding with a stack of boxes followed by someone yelping. When I got my bearings, I noticed I had run into a unicorn mare that was carting all her shopping bags and boxes I stood up walking to her.
“I'm sorry about that I wasn't paying attention where I was going, are you alright?” I asked, offering my hand to help her up.
“Oh no, I'm terribly sorry it's my fault, I wasn't able to clearly see where I was going.” she looked up her eyes widened there was a slight hesitation before taking my hand as I helped her up. She took a good look at me, and sure enough I expected her to stop and stare, yet she didn't Instead she thanked me as we started picking up her things.
Once all was settled, she lifted her bags and items with her azure magic levitating them around her. “Well thank you ever so much for your help I don't wish to be rude, but I must hurry along.” As she went to shake my hand a bag floated in front of us, I raised an eyebrow as she pushed it away. “Sorry about that I seem to have my hands full as it were.”
“It does. Would you need some help caring your things, I mean I'm sure I slowed you down already.” As I offered she looked at me uncertain, however, she did have a lot of things, bags boxes and cases which most of them were clothing and supplies from what I could tell.
“Oh thank you, but I couldn't ask you to do that, I wouldn't want to impose on you as we just met.” she was unsure about my offer, but I felt sorry about running into her so it was the least I thought I could do.
“I don't mind, besides I offered to help you so no worries.” I assured her.
“Very well, I don't live much further from here so it won't be a far trip.” She said as I took some of the bags floating around her.
Continuing our way through Ponyville Rarity had a charismatic voice like an aristocrat she looked and carried herself as such, her mane was a deep amethyst color with large strait spiraling curls of her mane and tail. Her clear ivory coat and her eyes were a deep blue more the Pinkies what set them apart was her eyelashes and the eyeshadow. Her outfit that she considered just something she "threw together" was a long V-neck purple dress with a corset that was slightly lighter color the trim of the dress was a frilled two tones of purple. She wore a gold belt around her waist with a sapphire gem in the shape of a diamond as the buckle that matched the gold bangles on her wrists each having jewels embedded in them.
As we talked, I learned that Rarity was a fashion seamstress that owned her own business in Ponyville and that her little sister lived with her as well, although most of our conversation was about fashion or some of the best places to shop or dine out and so on. I managed to ask her about Equestria still sticking to my foreigner story, which wasn't a lie, I was from a different planet. After we arrived at our destination the name Carousel Boutique was spot on, it had elements of both names implemented in the structure of the building, lavish with fashion and design; large windows with styled yellow curtains, mannequins dressed in works of exciting styles stood displayed behind the glass. The multiple colors of the building had accented pinks, blues and purples with pillars on the sides and sections of the building with arching angles like a carousel, a few miniature statue ponies stood around the upper half with a flag at the peak.
“We're here!” she announced a small bell rang as she opened the doors to the Carousel Boutique as we entered. The room was well lit and stocked with materials and supplies such as mirrors, dress form mannequins, and mobile screens. Various outfits hung on clothing racks lined about the room for sale some even gem-encrusted, a modeling platform and what looked to be a back dressing area, a stairway leading upstairs to the left and a seating area across from it further to the back.
“Keitan would you mind taking those bags and setting them over here.” Rarity said standing in front of a workstation to the far corner of the room it was set up with a cabinet and dresser, and another mannequin half dressed with a few unfinished layers of clothing on it with pins sticking out holding it together. “Well that was quite the chore, I do appreciate you going out of your way to help me, can I offer you some tea it's the least I can do for your trouble.
“Sure that sounds great if it's not to much trouble.” I agreed. Rarity nodded before she turned and left the room.
As Rarity made her way into the kitchen I took the time to look around the room at the creations she designed, the outfits were interesting they were made with high-quality fabrics and materials. I considered one of the clothes off the rack looking at it more closely it was made of a beautiful cotton that felt soft, the collar and cuffs of the attire were woven into a slanted V shape at the wrists it was slightly longer to cover more of the back of the hand. As I looked around, a voice from up the stairs called down.
“Rarity are you home, do you know where the bow to my shirt is?“ The voice sounded like a younger mare as I looked toward the stairs I watched the young filly come down the stairs onto the ground floor, when she turned the corner into the waiting area she froze when we made eye contact. I put the dress back and turned to look at her she had the same white fur as Rarity and light green eyes with two-tone highlights in her mane and tail of violet and pink. She wore a bright blue long sleeve shirt with the collar slightly open with a mid-thigh length violet skirt, matching her violet highlight.
“Hello.” I said trying to sound friendly, from what Rarity told me I figured that this must be her sister, she gave me a startled look before glancing over to the kitchen entrance hearing dishes moved around, she slowly shifted towards the kitchen while keeping her eyes on me the whole time until she bolted for it. However, as she ran, she missed stepped tripping over a rug falling.
“Oww.” she groaned rubbing her forehead.
“Are you alright there?” I asked approaching her. She kept still not moving an inch before she slowly turned to look up at me tower over her, for a moment we just stared until I noticed her horn glowing a light green, I looked at her confused until something hit my shoulder. It was a broom levitating in front of me I looked back at her questioningly, but before I could ask she hit me with it again. Attempting to fend me off with pokes and swats. As I grabbed the broom out of the air, she took that moment to scramble to the safety of the kitchen. I soon heard Rarity yelp before exiting the Kitchen trying to hold a severing platter with tea steadily.
“Sweetie Belle! I've told you before not to run in the house before you break something, or hurt yourself.” She tried to scold the filly hiding behind her, she then turned to me raising an eyebrow curiously. I noticed that I was still holding onto the broom, I quickly set it aside before smiling awkwardly.
“I think I might've scared her. I said chuckling slightly. Rarity blinked before looking over her shoulder at her sister.
“Oh, there's nothing to worry about Sweetie. This is Mr. Alihan, and he is visiting Ponyville.” Rarity assures her. “Now come and introduce yourself properly.” Rarity encouraged trying to shift Sweetie from behind her.
“H-hi.” She said softly peeking around her sister to look at me. I opted to walk closer trying to get a better look at her while trying to make as much of a friendly first impression as possible.
“Well hello, your name is Sweetie Belle right. That's a cute name.” I smiled, my comment making Sweetie blush slightly her ears perking up.
“Th-thanks.” she added meekly looking me up and down, still a somewhat hesitant.
“Did you hurt yourself when you fell?“ I asked, she just shook her head still keeping her eyes on me. Rarity then looked down at her as well.
“Sweetie, what was it that you were asking for, something about a bow?” Rarity inquired.
“Oh um, it's nothing. I'm gonna go, I have to meet up with the others. I'll see your later sis!” Sweetie started to rush to the door as Rarity called out to her.
“Wait, Sweetie, before you go would you like some—”
'SALM'
“Tea..” she sighed looking at the door for a moment then to me. “Well, I guess we'll just enjoy it ourselves. I don't mean to be rude, but I hope you don't mind me working while you're having tea. I had a wave of inspiration earlier today for a design and wanted to finish my orders before it left me. Rarity enthusiastically sang placing the severing dish on the table.
“Of course not, your kind enough to offer me tea.” I sat down looking at the fine china as she started to set the cups.
“Oh you know I just remembered that I purchased some treats that would go well with this.” Rarity stood up walking away to the kitchen again before returning with a brown rectangular box with fancy writing on it. I wasn't sure if I could make it our correctly it seemed French. Rarity opened the bow setting it down and taking one of the wafers taking a daintily bite.
“Mm, these are quite delectable.” Rarity mused as I took one myself taking a bite she was right these were good as she poured our tea we both took a sip enjoying the taste. Rarity walked over to her work area again staring intently at the mannequin she levitated the cup of tea back on the table then a few of the bags were enveloped in an azure aura. As some of the supplies levitated out around her as she began to work as I sat and watched enjoying the moment with a bit of small talk here and there on occasion.
After some time had passed there was the sound of rapid knocking at the door. Rarity stopped working approaching the door. “Hello, may I help yo—.”
“Rarity!” A voice shouted through the door causing her to jump, it was Twilight looking at her expectantly. “Is he here? Oh please say I didn't miss him again.
“Is who here Twilight?” Rarity asked thinking for a moment. “Do you mean Keitan? Well yes, he's in the waiting room if—.” Again she was cut off as Twilight rushed past here giving her a quick 'thanks'. As she began to close the door, she abruptly stopped when she heard somepony else approaching. It was Spike jogging up to the door, pausing as he came to the entrance carrying an oversize bag close to bursting at the seams on his back, he wore a slightly loose dark green shirt with long camouflage cargo pants.
“Oh hello Spike, I'm guessing you came with Twilight as well?” Rarity asked before looking at him slightly concerned seeing how out of breath he was.
“Are you alright dear?” she asked.
Spike held up his claw for a moment as if he was going to respond but put it back down on his knee, then taking a deep breath getting himself together. “Y-yeah we've been searching all over, f-for somepony she met at the hospital. I'm guessing their here?” Spike asked looking inside.
“Well yes, but let Twilight handle that, come in I'll get you something to drink.” she motioned for the dragon to enter, Spike squeezed in the front door letting the bag fall to the floor, as Rarity closed the door leading him to the kitchen. As he followed behind Rarity, Spike guessed to who they were looking for seeing as Twilight was staring him down.
“Um... hi?” I said awkwardly, setting my tea on the table. Twilight just stared wide-eyed and had the biggest smile on her face, which was a little unsettling, but I tried to keep somewhat of the calm atmosphere, so I stood up extending my hand. “It's nice to see you again.” Princess Twilight looked at my hand for a moment; then she reached out grasping my hand with both of hers. Beginning to examine it like it was a valuable trinket as she ran her fingers over my hand.
“It's so different, the texture; no fur or scales nor claws at all, yet it feels structurally the same.” As much as she was inspecting my hand, I began to feel that she forgot I was attached to it.
“Uh, Princess.” I stated gaining her attention. “Do you um, think I can have my hand back now?” I asked as she looked at my hand. She quickly let go a slight blush coming to her cheeks.
“Oh, sorry. I was kind of in the moment.” she apologized with a sheepish grin.
“Its alright don't worry about it, but you did say that you were looking for me?” I replied.
“Oh right, yes well I was expecting you to still be at the hospital, but when I got back, they said you had already left for the town square, when we got there Mayor Mare then told us we'd just missed you. So the logical best was to find you was to spread out in an arching pattern, so Spike and I split up to cover the most likely areas of Ponyville.
As Twilight went on with her explanation, I glanced away seeing Rarity leave the Kitchen with a full-grown lizard ? I stared for a moment. I'm guessing the feeling was mutual as he was staring back apprehensively, Twilight stopped talking soon following the direction I was looking at.
“Oh let me introduce you, I see you already met Rarity and beside her is my assistant Spike. Spike this is Keitan.” She held her palm up motioning as she introduced us.
“So he's the one you've been getting all frantic about, the way you we're acting I thought he was a noble or something. You're not are you?” Spike asked looking at me unsure, I just shook my head. “So then what was all the fuss about and why'd you have me lug all this stuff around?” He pointed to the large bag still at the door.
“Well I couldn't just move him on a whim, and I didn't know they would release him so soon. Twilight explained as Spike walked over to the bag opening it up and digging inside.
“Well we would have probably gotten back earlier had you not have to double check that we had everything .” The clear emphasis on 'everything' had Twilight give him a look.
“Twilight what exactly is going on?” Rarity stepped next to Twilight looking at her curiously. Isn't he just visiting Ponyville from a neighboring land? or am I missing something.”
“Yes, a definite part. You see Rarity, Keitan here is the byproduct of a discovery alien to our world in fact.” Rarity looked even more unsure as she looked at me for a moment then back to her.
“Well I would say that he looks a bit peculiar, no offense dear but I wouldn't say he's alien .” Rarity added.
“Actually she's right about that Rarity I'm not from Equestria from what I know its complicated Twilight was explaining it to me before sorry I didn't come clean about it before.”
“Well Its quite alright I'm just surprised to hear this, so what exactly caused you to be here.” She asked me curiously, Twilight then cut in eagerly.
“Well, Rarity Remember that night two and half months ago when we all gathered at the castle during Prisma day?” Rarity thought for a moment, sighing then nodded.
“I remember that I had to wash my mane several times to get the cake all out, again, but yes I do.” She said somberly touching a bit of her mane.
“Yes and what turned out to be a disaster, in turn, had results, Keitan has been brought to our world from his own.” The excitement she had was evident, but I didn't share Twilight's enthusiasm, it reminded me of my situation I was now in and what possibility of me returning to Earth.
“Hmm, in any case, we did catch up to him so are we going to do this?” Spike spoke up pulling out a notepad and quill and what looked to be a vial of something that I wasn't sure but would instead not find out.
“No, not here spike now that Keitan can move about we can just head back to the castle.” The young dragon looked at her a slightly deflated mouth agape.
“Aw come on, so does that mean I'm gonna carry all this back to the castle.” He groaned looking at the large bag.
“No Spike I'll take us to the castle.” Twilight reassured him as Spike sighed in relief nodding as he put away the notepad and strange vial, grunting as he was slinging the bag on his back. “Keitan would you mind waiting for us outside?” I nodded walking out the front door.
As I made my way outside, I noticed a small group of ponies passing by one of them gave me a curious look while the other two just stared I smiled giving a short wave. One of them whispered something to the other which made them both giggled as they passed by giving me a wave and wink, which was a change from the way the other ponies would react to me, after a moment Twilight and Spike both came out.
“Alright are you ready?” she asked I nodded slowly, I was as ready as I was going to be but for what exactly?
“Princess Twilight. You said you were going to take us to this castle how exactly are you I mean are we're getting a ride or something?” Twilight just shook her head slightly.
“Well not exactly I didn't send for a carriage, so I was going to teleport us there.” She offered nonchalantly.
“Oh, I see.” I responded before doing a double take. “Wait what, um... Princess, did you say teleport?” I asked as Twilight began focusing her magic on her horn the purple light coming from it started to envelop us with a faint glow I looked at myself feeling a slight tingling on my skin. “Hold on wai...” I couldn't finish as the world around me disappeared.
Harmony Castle both a monument and testament to the magic, harmony, and friendship that the elements have proven to outweigh even the most staggering of odds in the greatest of moments, and together. They vanquished Tirek and in doing so have shown that yet faced against adversity, when all hope seems lost together we can overcome anything. Thus Harmony Castle came to be.
As I read the gold plaque in front of the large stained glass window my eye's looked upon its design the large window similar in design to the castle with six figures stood at its base four of which I recognized. Twilight, Rarity, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie, there were two others a blue Pegasus and an orange earth pony I wondered if they were also friends with the others considering that four of them are and Elements Of Harmony. I looked over my shoulder seeing two guards standing at attention against the large double doors a brown Pegasus and teal Earth pony they wore a traditional guard armor the primary color was a deep lavender which had pink accented trim its style was a bit interesting considering their species.
Since I had been waiting for awhile, I figured I'd see if I could try and have a conversation to pass the time. As I approached them there stock attention moved from straight ahead to me, their expressions were hard to read with their helmets on, and they seemed calm enough, but the unflinching look they gave me didn't help reassure much so I cleared my throat and went for it.
“Hello there.” I greeted with somewhat of a smile they both gave each other a brief glance before looking back to me. “I don't mean to bother you, but I was wondering if you could tell me what exactly is going to happen its been awhile since I've heard anything.” I asked the Earth Pony looked to her fellow guard who only shrugged.
“Sorry we can't answer that, the decision is for Princess Twilight and the other Elements to decide if you're concerned about your well-being to rest assured that nothing would happen in regards to that. You seem more docile then when you first arrived, so as long as you don't cause any trouble, I wouldn't worry.” she gave me a once-over. “By the way, I've seen many different inhabitants of Equis in and out of the guard but never seen something like yourself, sorry for being blunt but what are you?” she asked tilting her head.
“Well, I'm a human and uh, it's a bit complicated to explain.” I told her a bit of how I met Fluttershy and Pinkie and up until Twilight brought me to the castle I had a rough escort , when I first got here, I was kinda freaked out, to say the least teleportation was not what I was expecting.
When Twilight teleported us to the castle, it was as if the world around you was being ripped away in an instant, and replaced with a whole new one so when we first arrived I was frantic. As I was trying to come to understand what the hell just happened which I might have said something that would've made a seventy-year-old veteran turn red. I took massive breaths as a few passing guards came to see what the commotion was and as you can imagine a strange, unfamiliar creature was freaking out with there princess nearby. So before the situation could get out of hand and the guards apprehend me, gently while Twilight explained and calmed everyone down.
“Right about that, when you first teleported in you seemed a bit shaken, and we didn't know if you were a threat or not sorry for the misunderstanding.” she said apologetically.
“Well if you had been we would have dealt with you regardless.” The Pegasus chimed in as we both looked at her the Earth Pony giving her a look before shaking her head.
“Don't mind her she's just bent outta shape because she has a busy night ahead of her.” She chuckled which got the Pegasus to groan.
“Don't worry about it, miss—?” I let my statement linger before she responded.
“Granite Yarn and you can spare me the 'miss' pal. And my partner here is Silent Wisp, even though she seems a bit grouchy she's not always like this.” She added looking over at her.
“Can I ask what's wrong?” I said curiously.
“Well, she—.” Granite began before being cut off.
“I don't need you telling everypony alright!?” Silent snapped looking at her.
“Sorry I didn't mean to pry.” I apologized holding up my hands.
“Oh, its alright it's not like its a secret.” Granite reassured me. “You see Silent here was playing cards one night, and she couldn't help but stay in even when I told her not to; so big shocker she lost every hand eventually making a bet with her last hand.”
“Did she lose a lot of money.” I stated for her.
“Well, not exactly she has to serve rounds at the guard's pub for a night.” Granite explained which didn't sound too bad.
“Oh well, that doesn't sound like much.” I said how bad could that be anyway?
“Yes, however she has to do it wearing a Prench maid outfit .” She started laughing as Silent glared at her before she could give her an ear full the doors opened and another mare guard stepped through she quickly gave them both a look as they promptly stood at attention Granite still keeping her smirk while Silent frowned.
The guard hummed looking at them before looking at me. “You there, Princess Twilight and The Elements Of Harmony will see you now, this way please.” As I followed, I could here Granite say good luck before the doors closed.
“So um, what exactly is this meeting for if I've already met the princess?” I asked as I followed the guard down the long hallway she gave a quick glance before answering.
“Well, usually when there is an issue or situation similar to this or something that involves the citizens of Ponyville, and such the Princess holds a court, where a discussion with the other elements are held. Being that Princess Twilight is the element of Magic and Friendship she thought it best if all the elements were involved. And because of it there are times where courts can be quite troublesome than others as there are different viewpoints between them, I would guess its a matter of how your time here in Ponyvllle is handled.” she stated continuing down the hall.
As we reached the doors to the audience chamber two stallion guards both stationed at its sides, one guard opened the doors for us as we entered, into the room expansive area banners hung from massive crystal pillars that framed the sides. On the walls with stained glass windows above the ceiling had mostly rounded which curved into arches holding a giant crystal in the center. Heading forward as I took in the architecture following a long gold rug leading up to a dais with seven thrones lined across it right away I noticed the four mares from earlier today especially Pinkie Pie who was waving at me excitedly. I slightly smiled and waved back.
“Princess Twilight Sparkle I've brought the hue-man as requested.” She announced somewhat unsure as she addressed me.
“Thank you, that will be all I can take it from here.” With a bow, the guard turned leaving the chamber as the doors closed with a low drum. Standing there in the center of the room I couldn't help but feel some anxiety having several pairs of eyes on me it was a bit awkward after a few moments before Twilight cleared her throat getting everyone's attention.
“Well, first I would like to welcome you to Harmony Castle Keitan Alihan. And although you've met a few of us already I would like us to introduce ourselves properly. I'm Twilight Sparkle, and to my right.” she directed to Spike standing next to her.
“Spike the dragon, also I'm Twilight's assistant nice to meet ya.” He spoke modestly looking at me curiously as Twilight continued with introductions sitting next to him was Pinkie Pie.
“Hello, Keitan! Remember me? It's great to see you out of the hospital, oh now I can throw you a welcome to ponyville— no wait, welcome to "Equestria" party since this is your first time here it's going to be great just you wait. She boasted bounding in her seat with a smile that I couldn't help do the same with her enthusiasm.
Next to her was a cyan pegasus the first thing that caught my attention was her mane and tail with multiple streaks of different colors like a rainbow. She wore a blue denim jacket vest with a black long sleeve shirt a lightning bolt with the same pattern as her mane on the front with black track shorts, and her arms crossed looking at me like she was expecting me to grow a second head or something. Her rose-colored eyes kept fixed on me for a moment.
“I'm Rainbow Dash and Equestrias awesome top flier, ask around, I'm pretty well known for my spectacular stunts, and feats of mind-blowing acrobatic performance, sup?” She Introduced herself which made me think she just wanted to get to the point. Before I could respond, a posh voice cut in.
“If you mean by landing in Roseluck's flower garden, then yes I'd say that you did a marvelous performance Rainbow.” Rarity interjected.
“Hey, that wasn't my fault!” Rainbow tried to make a comeback but got ignored.
“Oh don't mind her darling it's good to see you again.” Rarity smiled with a nod. She sat with her legs crossed aside from what she had on before now she had a cloak draped around her, the primary color of amethyst like her mane with white trim, light blue diamonds lined it with the sides. I returned the greeting with a smile and nod of my own then turned to Fluttershy beside her.
“Oh hello Keitan, um its nice to see you again.“ she greeted it was so quite that I almost didn't hear her she gazed at me through her mane she looked apologetic, I figured probably because of her leaving the hospital abruptly, I smiled at her to reassure her.
“So Fluttershy did you have any trouble settling that issue that bird came to you about?” I asked hoping to get her to open up a bit more.
“Oh yes, the beavers agreed to leave the tree alone it was just a misunderstanding that they had, they'll be fine now, but I'm glad to see your doing better.” she said with a warm smile that made me feel better seeing it.
The last individual to introduce herself got up from her seat walking toward me she stood almost eye level me, she tipped her brown Stenson up extending her hand for me to shake with a grin, she wore a green button-up long sleeve shirt that had the sleeves rolled up with weathered brown jeans.
“The names Applejack, Twilight told us about your situation and how ya got here. I'm mighty sorry to hear it, but don't you worry none I'm sure will set things right but until then Ponyville is a mighty fine place, and you'll be right welcome here.” She stated as I shook her hand noting the firm grip.
“Thanks it's nice to meet all of you officially and that but would you happen to kno— grumble my stomach protested interrupting me.
“Ooo sounds like somepony's hungry.” Pinkie Pie chimed in hopping out of her seat trotting towards me.
“Ah sorry, that's not really what I was going to ask.” I paused as my eyes darted around.
“No worries, Ponyville has plenty of places to eat come on!” she beamed taking my hand leading me out of the castle the rest of the group following after us.
Walking through the town of Ponyville it was much calmer than when I first was here the majority having stopped at the restaurants and outlets for lunch as we came up to one a sigh above the building reading Wheat Stable . Entering the place was a bit crowded a bright blue earth pony with a light green mane and tail dressed in a brown waitress outfit carrying a platter of food noticed us as she sat down the ordered food at a booth before approaching us.
“Well hello there, welcome to the Wheat Stable! Sorry but were a bit full today so if its alright would eating out on the patio be alright with you all?” she asked a bit uncertain.
We agreed as she lead us outside to a fenced patio it was a beautiful day looking up I noticed a pair of Pegasus pushing a cloud overhead as the waitress passed around our menus as we made our order of drinks while we looked through them. I looked for something good, but all were apparently vegetarian, but nothing gave me taste for it when it was my turn to order I just settled on a hayburger and fries fortunate that it wasn't hay unless asked for it. Mostly it was made from vegetables like soy, legumes beans, mushrooms and such. I smiled apologizing for the delay handing my menu to her she hesitated staring at me before taking it which was strange, was it something I said I question aloud as she went back inside.
“Um, Keitan can I ask you something?” Fluttershy asked before I nodded.
“What do humans eat exactly? I mean if you don't mind me asking.” she asked while everyone looked at her then me the question was a bit weird at first but I realized where this was going.
“Well, we can eat just about anything really that we can digest safely.” They looked a bit uncertain to my answer, so I clarified. “Well we're omnivores so we can eat a variety of both vegetables as well as meat is that something that is going to be a concern here?” I asked concerned.
“Oh well no, its okay I just noticed because of your teeth, and it was probably why the waitress stared at you. We don't see many meat eaters here, so it's not uncommon for some to be around.” She stated looking at me. I understood being that it would through some off if most of the inhabitants didn't eat meat. Rarity cleared her throat getting our attention.
“Well now that we have that understanding lets talk about something a bit more charismatic than your eating habits dear, tell us about yourself this "Earth" you ventured from.” Rarity leaned over to me giving me her full attention as did the others.
So after awhile, we received our meals, and for awhile I talked about my life on Earth my job, living area and so on answering questions and asking my own some of the interesting parts of the conversation was the similarities that both of our worlds shared. They all told me about themselves their jobs time spent in ponyville and adventures, it took me a bit of convincing to the whole magic and Elements of Harmony deal but a few levitation spells and an instant fu Manchu mustache model by spike to sell me.
After our meal we walked down the main street of Ponyville, it was late in the evening, and most of the stalls and shops were shut down or closing the setting sun left the sky in a warm orange with a slight mix of purple its rays through the clouds it was almost relaxing. Except for the pair of eyes on me the whole time we walked I glanced over to see Rainbow looking at me from the corner of her eyes as she kept ahead of me hovering in the air.
“What's up Rainbow Dash, you've been giving me looks for awhile now.” I asked looking straight at her she turned her head to look back at me before stopping to hoving in front of me keeping eye level as she squinted slightly.
“Yea, there's something that's been bugging me whats with your eyes dude?” She questioned.
“Rainbow don't be rude asking him something so uncourteously.” Rarity chastised.
“Well nopony else was going to ask, so I did.” she defended.
“Well you don't have to be so blunt it could be personal as to why that is.” Rarity countered.
“I wanna know too. is it a different color because you can see different colors or can you only see things in that color or oh maybe you have like a super duper sight or maybe~ Mhm nim...” Pinkies questions were cut short as Applejack put her hand over her friend's mouth to quite her.
“Well, its not personal its just how I was born there's a scientific description about it, but I don't recall most of it simply its when your specific genes for your eyes pigment is different that's about it. I don't have super sight, sorry Pinkie.” I added with a chuckle.
“Ah well shucks, you won't see many around here that's for sure there are a whole lot of different colors all around sure shades and hues and what not but that there is probably one unique thing when it comes to what color eyes folks are born to have.” Applejack stated stopping in front of a road leading out of Ponyville.
“Well I'll be headin on back to the orchard it was nice meetin ya Keitan, I'm sure ill be seen ya around.” she said her goodbyes as Fluttershy walked up to me.
“It was very nice to meet you as well Keitan, I should head back to my cottage as well and make sure that all the animals are alright.” Fluttershy seemed a bit hesitant and first but I assured her it was alright and I would see her later.
As they both walked away, it was just the five of us continuing our walk and as before Rarity and Pinkie and Rainbow Das took their separate ways as well saying their goodbyes but not before Pinkie gave me a big hug ensuring that she would throw me a party. Once it was just the three of us, I noticed how late it was getting and wasn't sure what was going to happen so I figured I state the obvious as I could see we were approaching Harmony Castle.
“So Princess Twilight ill be staying at the castle for awhile?” I asked wanting to end the silence.
“Yep that's right for now I'll be having you stay here until we get a better understanding of what to do in regards to your situation I'm sorry for the long walk, after what happened earlier today teleporting us to the castle again might not be a wise decision. I should have asked before teleporting us since you don't have magic in your world that must have been very jarring.” Twilight explained her ears feel to the sides of her head I guessed she felt responsible for what happened.
“Its alright Princess you don't have to be upset about it true, that was my first time, but nothing happened to me other than a shock to my psyche.” I stated not wanting her to feel upset.
“But that's just it, it could have been bad I don't know how your body would react to magic and if it would have fully worked properly at all. I was just so ecstatic to get you back to the castle I didn't think twice about the consciences you could have had a negative reaction to that spell and who knows what would have happened.” She stated frantically she stopped and looked at me her eyes filled with concern. The thought of what could have happened flashed in my mind, what if she was right? What if it did and what if only half of me made it through...I shook that idea out of my mind.
“Twilight really I'm fine, and like I said it all worked out, and I'm sure everything else will be fine, I promise.” I placed my hand on her shoulder so she would look me in the eyes she blinked her misty eyes and nodded as spike comforted her as well.
After all that we made it back to the castle and Twilight gave me a brief tour of the areas as she directed me to the room id be staying in, as we finally made it. I looked around at all the crystal it made question if this place would hold any heat, but Twilight told me about the unique gems that everyone used as magical heaters. So after a brief explanation of the room and where and how I could get to the main areas throughout the castle Twilight and spike said their goodnights and left me to it, which I was grateful for all that they had done for me. After having a nice shower, I finally laid down in what I figured to be a king plus sized bed that could fit probably three of me comfortably even with all that went on in the past hours I still managed to fall asleep with my last thought on how my life will change from here on out.
The Newcomer By Mythic Legacy Chapter 1: New Allotment
It was a chilly day in Equestria as the end of December was approaching. Celestia's sun covered Equestria like a warm blanket as it peered through the grey clouds and onto the snow covered houses in Ponyville square. Everypony went along with their business in spite of that, opting to dress warmer for the weather. Ponies were browsing the town, while some were buying things in preparation for tonight's event, others merely window shopped or walked together making idle chatter while taking in the decorations hung all around, overhead a few pegasi were moving clouds, attempting to shake out what snow remained in them to clear the sky.
Today was a special one for Equestria, today was the countdown to the new year, and everypony had prepared themselves for the event, signs, posters and other propaganda where place through Ponyville. Tonight at midnight there would be a spectacular show of multi-colored lights in the sky that will stretch all over Equestria called 'Prisma Day.' Excitement was high in preparation for tonight, shops, stores an even stalls were selling all there wears for tonight and like most of the business in town Sugarcube Corner was especially busy.
The smell of fresh baked goods filled the streets as the Sugarcube Corners pastry baker's decided to sell a selection of sweets dedicated to the theme of today at a special price, buy one get another half off, along with a complementary Pinkie certified cupcake. Almost all the baked goods were sold and with the weather as cold as it was the pleasant welcoming Gingerbread bakery bazaar was almost packed with ponies, the booths and almost every table had been taken.
"Next pony in line, please!" said Pinkie Pie’s cheery voice, easily heard over the noise of other ponies around.
Usually the baker's were kept busy with just normal circumstances, but today was an exceptionally busy day, there were orders for éclairs, turnovers, muffins, and danishes to list a few, plus the regular orders from the other establishments and homes all over town had them in a frenzy with Pinkie bouncing back and forth from the kitchen to the register, Mr. Cake was on packaging an oven duty while Mrs. Cake handles the preparations.
As everypony was enjoying themselves a brown-maned colt with a cropped haircut and dark tan coat approached the counter. He wore a blue jacket with a white and black-checkered scarf and black jeans he, looked at the different pastries filling the case in front of him spotting one in particular he rang the small bell on the counter.
"Comming!" An enthusiastic voice came from the back kitchen. Pinkie Pie came bouncing out up to the counter wearing a Long-sleeve blue turtleneck with pink dungarees her pink curly mane had a bit of flour in it that she dusted it out while adjusting her hat that closely resembled her pet alligator, Gummy, with its big lilac colored eyes.
"Hi there welcome to Surgarcube Coner, what can I get for ya'?" she asked with a smile, setting a white box on the counter.
"Um, I'll have one panettone." The colt said in a congested-sounding voice while reaching in his pocket, and handing a few bits over to Pinkie.
Pinkie Smiled, counted the bits then reached down into the case and presented the bread, wrapping it in wax paper. "Here you go, one panettone." said Pinkie, handing the wrapped bread to him. "And here is that special cupcake." she smiled placing a cupcake in front of him. "Come again!" she beamed grinning with a wave. As he walked away she noticed Mr. Cake walking from out of the kitchen.
"Hello Pinkie Pie." said Mr. Cake. "How about you take a break for a bit, I’ll handle things from here."
"Oh really, are you sure?" asked Pinkie. “Would Mrs. Cake need any help with the baking since we have the special today?"
"It's alright Pinkie Pie, me and Mrs. Cake will be just fine, besides didn't you say that you had to see your friends around this time?" he tapped his chin in thought. Something about Princess Twilight studying a magical allon...err…something, you told us about it yesterday remember?"
She thought for a moment before gasping in shock. "Oh my gosh, you're right thanks Mr. Cake." said Pinkie, starting to remember she was talking about it all last night nonstop. She had even prepared to throw a party for the occasion. "It's been awhile since we had a party together. Twilight has her own castle, and duties as the princess of friendship and seems too busy lately. Rainbow often worked keeping the flight schedule in check, while Fluttershy tended to the animals at her home, Applejack had to make sure that the apple cider supply stayed maintained with her brother at Sweet Apple Acres, and Rarity was finishing up her winter lineup while getting ready for the spring's lineup." she pouted slightly as she mulled everything over. "But tonight is going to be different, we're all together and I'm going to make sure that this is the best night ever!" she exclaimed practically jumping with excitement.
"It sure does sound like you've all had yourselves busy lately, And since tonight is a special night after all, you should spend it with your friends. I bet they're probably waiting and like I said we'll be fine, go and enjoy yourselves tonight." Mr. Cake smiled placing his hand on her shoulder.
"Thanks Mr. Cake." Pinkie cheered then darted off into kitchen where Mrs. Cake was setting a fresh tray of muffins on the counter, as she set her oven mitts to the side, she noticed Pinkie's approach.
"Well hello Pinkie." said Mrs. Cake putting the muffins into a container. “Are you heading off to see your friends? My husband said he was going to remind you."
"Yes indeedy Mr. Cake just did, I'm about to get ready to go and I didn't want to forget to bring the special double cream stuffed cupcakes I made yesterday," Pinkie grabbed a mid-sized pink box from the shelf turning around almost getting ran into by the twins.
"Well hello you two." she said, to them as they ran past trying to tag one another.
"Hi Pinkie!" they both chirped in unison as Pumpkin tried to catch Pound cake before they turned the corner, Pinkie taking a moment to look down the hall after them before standing across the counter from Mrs. Cake.
"Thanks for letting me leave early Mrs. Cake." Pinkie set down her container grabbing her pink jacket off of the coat rack.
"Of course deary, it’s about time you had some fun with your friends. I think you've helped around here enough for today after all." Mrs. Cake said with a smile that Pinkie returned.
"The twins sure are growing up fast, I can't wait for their fifth birthday party, it's going to be super fantabulous! I have this idea for them to oh." Pinkie hushed herself looking around to see if the twins were still around then leaned closer to Mrs Cake. "But I probably don't wanna say anything that will ruin the surprise." she chuckled. "And maybe they can help me fire the party cannon this time!"
Much to the unsettling notion, Mrs. Cake almost dropped the container of muffins hearing the twins and the use of Pinkies signature party favor of choice.
"W-What?" Mrs. Cakes wide eyed stare turned into a nervous smile. "Um..Pinkie dear could you not use your party cannon for the twins birthday, I know it's exciting an it's sort of your thing, but well last year was very unnerving not to mention the mess after the twins got ahold of it, perhaps they can help you fire it when there older much much older."
"Hehehe, well that is true." Pinkie Pie agreed with an apologetic grin remembering the amount of clean up that day, the distraught cake and confetti covered poines to quite a few homes having cake splatted holes and broken windows. "Sorry about that I didn't think little Pound would be able to find it, let alone start, the cannon on his own."
Mrs. Cake "There, there deary accidents happen no need to be down on yourself." she gave an affectionate nuzzle to Pinki's cheek which she welcomed.
"Thanks Mrs. Cake I should get going though don't wanna be late, I'll see you all later." Pinkie gave her a hug then ran out the back and past a few ponies as she left to meet her friends at Twilight’s castle.
At Twilight’s castle the others stood around a large strange machine centred on the castle’s terrace the sounds of beeping an odd noises echoing from it. The base of the odd spire was a dull black about several feet tall with wires draped across the sides with weaving in and around it, lights flashed along various locations and vents that exuded low steam, it seemingly out of place to be stationed at the castle instead of a scientists lab, yet here it was in front of them. At its peak a large dish sat atop it distinguished by placed in a pattern, rubies, emeralds an other different assortments into it's frame in a hexagram symbol with a large crystal in the center.
"Ugh how much longer Twilight, this thing is heavy ya' know!" groaned Rainbow Dash, the cyan pegasus ears twitched in frustration, she wore a dark blue Mackinaw Coat fastened with silver buttons. The coat also had an embroidered rainbow lightning bolt on the chest the same colors matching her mane and tail, along with black denim jeans that stopped several inches from the bottom of her hooves with a stitched opening for her tail. The beating of her wings from the same stitched openings at the back of her coat helped maintain her balance while she held up the saucer at the peak of the spire.
"I'm almost done Rainbow hold it steady." Twilight called up to her, the lavender alicorn was dressed in a light purple Hooded Pea Coat with buttons of a darker purple, with dark purple buttons, similarly stitched openings in the back, and blue slacks that ended above her coronet. She took a moment to pull a small notepad from her coat pocket while double checking the directions from an old, tattered book laying on top of the machines console. "We just need to have it in the right alignment so I can get the magic frequency stabilized then it will—."
"Yeah yea, angles and stuff just hurry up will you, I'm losing feeling in my arms!" Rainbow sighed at her predicament as she shook her rainbow colored mane out of her face, her arms were beginning to strain as she held up the dish. She tried to adjust herself as sweat rolled down her eyebrow which she proceeded to wipe it away by tilting to the left, almost losing her balance.
"Careful Rainbow Dash! I’m almost done calibrating it," she encouraged her while proceeding to adjust the many switches. "Just hold on a little longer…and almost...got it! Ok, you can leave it in that position!" Twilight announced, as she looked at the reading on the machine its erratic dials and sounds starting to stabilize.
"Finally!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed, as she flew down landing next to Applejack, resting her forearm on her shoulder while stretching out the other arm. "So you mind letting us in on what exactly you're doing with this weird machine of yours? I mean you've had some strange things down in the library basement before, but this is a bit too much even for you."
"Yeah, ah'd like to know what you been goin’ on about for the past few days, Twi. What is this Magi Align— somethin’ or other." Applejack asked, looking up at the strange object, "To be honest it looks like somethin' out of a sci-fi movie and those don't always turn out too well." Her green eyes glanced at the the contraption tilting her stenson back, the earth pony had on a maroon Overcoat which hung to her knees covering most of her sun faded pants, a red ribbon tied both her blonde-mane and tail in a ponytail.
"Well it looks like a dinner plate to me." Spike added, standing in front of the machine licking his scaly upper lip, a hungry look manifesting in his emerald green eyes as he stared at the gem-encrusted machine. His simple purple and green jacket with purple pants matched his spines and scales, his tail swaying back and forth with anticipation.
As Twilight finished checking the panel to make sure everything was correct she turned to look towards the both of them before noticing Spike's reaction, she calmly walked beside him bringing the brown worn book eveloped in her magic's purple haze with her, she leaned forward slightly her eyes squinted while she poked the drake on the side of the head lightly with the book, speaking in a foreboding tone. "And what exactly are you staring at Spike with that look, I hope you not thinking of actually eating what took me weeks in planning and building are you?"
"No Twilight, of course not." spike affirmed glancing away with a deflated sigh.
Satisfied, she walked past him to Applejack. "Well to answer your question, I was just curious about Prisma Day and why it's celebrated, so in my search I came across this book that I happen to borrow from Castle of the Two Sisters. Apparently Pisma Day is not only known as the beginning of a new year, but also another more interesting philosophy is that a phenomenon happens around this time every year. Scientists have called this the 'Magi Allotment' others 'Vault Of The Heavens', as shown here by pony astronomers and scribes like Clover the Clever and Inkwell." Twilight said with pride as she held a book up for them to see that its pages were filled with notes, graphs, and theories. This apparatus is an 'Equestria Geometric Generator' or EGG for short. It's going to help me to understand and evaluate the magic that flows throughout Equestria. Although the workings are dated I've modified a lot of it to a more refined functionality."
"It’s not the only EGG around here." Rainbow Dash commented, her rose colored eyes looking half-heartedly at the book while getting a glare from Twilight.
Applejack spoke up quickly, getting Twilights attention. "Umm so what are you planning on finding when you got all your information and whatnot from this thing?"
"Well Applejack like I said, when this phenomenon happens, the magic in Equestria flourishes and exudes a nourishing multitude of powerful magic, something like a rejuvenation. The sky shines in different hues and patterns when it's occruing, but it will be closer to midnight tonight. What is most fascinating is that when this happens, a strange conflux of rifts that the magic flows through opens. This device will help me locate and open one here so I can study its effects in a more tangible state. Oh, it's going to be a great breakthrough for science and magic!" Twilight squealed at the thought of what could be a ground-breaking discovery.
"Yep, Ah can see that you're really excited an all Twi', but what if somethin' goes wrong, Ah mean, how safe is this actually goin' to be, messing with fluxes and magic rifts an all that. Besides has anypony actually done what're tryin' at before now?" Applejack asked, a little concerned with what Twilight was planning.
"Well that's because nopony could ever pinpoint the exact location, back then didn't have the resources in mechanics like we do now so I can imagine that they probably couldn't get too far in their studies. There are some notes and descriptions that seem to just end like there weren't finished also it required a lot of gems to have enough potency, which I have Rarity to thank for that." Offering an appreciative smile.
"Well it was no trouble at all Twilight, I was happy to help." Rarity said with a smile, "Besides the gems were just going to be sitting around, I slightly overstocked myself and I didn't need them for anything special, so when you told me of the large amount you would require, I felt they would better serve you then me." Rarity was a white unicorn wearing a fashionable ivory Trench Coat with matching gloves and long black slacks matching the black buttons on the coat, her sinuousness amethyst-mane and tail matching her scarf.
"Well, I could think of a better idea for those gems," grumbled Spike, crossing his arms.
Twilight looked at the dragon sighing. "Alright Spike, how about this, I’ll let you have them once I’ve finished since this only happens once a year, I won't need them. So as long as it's alright with Rarity, how does that sound?"
"What, really!?" the young dragons demeanour changing instantly as he rubbed his claws together, looking at Rarity, "Could I have them Rarity? I mean, of course if you'd want them back then that’s fine too..."
"Of course you can Spike, I know how much you enjoy them," Placing her hand on his shoulder to reassure him, Spike blushing at the touch.
"Thank you R-Rarity," said Spike with a flustered response, twiddling his claw together.
"This is an interesting instrument you've constructed Twilight, although it's hard not to be perturbed by the whole affair." Rarity looked at Twilight apprehensively. "I'm worried about this device of yours, are you sure that it is suppose to work as you say, if this Allotment coincides with Equestria is important as you say then would it be wise to tamper with it?"
"Don't worry Rarity I'm just going to take a few recordings maybe a sample or two. The Magi Allotment has been happening for hundreds of years, and nopony has been affected for the record that's why I'm going to do this for science." Twilight's purple eyes widen as she thought of an idea. "Of course if something does happen, this could be the perfect opportunity, that you can all help me as well!" rushing over with a levitated notepad and quill. "We'll just have to make sure of that, if something actually does we can run additional tests and see, you girls wouldn't mind staying after this for a follow-up tests on you would you?" As enthusiastic as she was the wide grin across Twilights face made them a little uneasy.
Twilight felt a tap on her shoulder Fluttershy stood behind her twiddling with a strand of her pink mane that flowed from the sides of her green Duffle Coat hood, unlike Rainbow it had three butterflies on the chest, her bottoms were a darker green with a light blue stiched pattern along the seams of both her coat and pants. "Um Twilight are these test going to be necessary, I mean, they're going to be just something simple right?"
"Don't worry Fluttershy, they'll be just a few tests to see if the rift causes any changes, so I’ll look for irregularity in your anatomy and mood and such." Twilight nodded with a comforting tone patting Fluttershy on the shoulder.
"Oh well that doesn't sound too bad." Fluttershy sighed in relief.
"By the way, where is Pinkie Pie? She was all over the place yesterday talking about tonight, and how we all were going to enjoy our time together. I could hardly get any of my shopping done with Ponyville as busy as it's been this week, she was so excited about today that she didn't give me a chance to ask her what she had planed so I could dress a bit better." Rarity expressed pondering over her outfit.
"She mentioned that she was helping the Cakes with some special sale they were having today." Rainbow Dash explained. "She’s probably still at Sugar Cube corner, and mentioned that she was probably going to be late getting here, I'll go see if she’s coming."
As Rainbow Dash was about to take off for town, the door leading to the terrace swung open as Pinkie Pie came rushing through landing on top of her, with a yelp followed by the commotion of them colliding on the ground. "I’m here, I’m here." Pinkie Pie panted. "Sorry... I’m late... there were more ponies than we thought there'd be to try the new desserts, and I completely forgot about today, sorry." Pinkie rubbing the back of her head, before noticing Rainbow under her. "Hey there Dashie, what are you doing on the ground?" looking at her friend puzzled.
"I was about to go look for you." Rainbow murmured in response while propping herself on her elbows.
"Well you won't find me on the ground silly, it's cold." Pinkie told her.
"You don't say." Rainbow replied tilting her head.
"I do say, I also said I was helping the Cakes this afternoon remember. I told you about it."
"Must.. of.. slipped.. my.. mind.." Rainbow added sarcastically rubbing her face.
"Hey whatcha' got there Pinkie." Applejack asked, noticing the pink container at her side. Pinkie got off of Rainbow picking up the box presenting it in front of them.
"Since were all here I wanted to make a special treat for you all so I brought these." Pinkie opening the pink carton as everyone gathered around to see. "There my super special double cream stuffed cupcakes!" Pinkie Pie smiled with pride.
"Alright Pinkie, you always make awesome sweets!" Rainbow Dash complemented, reaching in for a cupcake grabbing one biting into it. "Mmmm" she mused, savouring the sweet treat.
"Hehe, thanks Dashie." Pinkie said looking to Twilight. "So when is the party going to start Twilight?"
"Ah, well, it's technically not a party Pinkie, more like an advance study of Equestrian geometric groundwork, and well according to the notes by Clover the Clever, it should begin around midnight, so I guess we have to wait and see, maybe we could—"
"Have a party!" Rainbow Dash interjected, nudging Pinkie Pie in the arm.
Twilight blinked. "Well, I was going to say we could review the notes maybe double check what the readings the EGG has found so far, but perhaps a party is a better idea, what do you say Pinkie Pie?"
Pinkie Pies light blue eyes lit up with cheer at the idea, Pinkie smiled and chimed "On it!" dashing off down the hall as the others nodded in agreement, following her inside. Down the hall from the terrace, some commotion was coming from a room as they opened the door seeing that the room had be made over to accommodate a party, within seemingly no time Pinkie Pie had balloons, table desserts, snacks, and mugs of hot chocolate. The others noticed Pinkie Pie was halfway under the table seeming to look for something, eventually finding what she was looking for she pulled out a mid-sized boombox from underneath the table. Setting it on a stand in the corner of the room, she pressed the play button soon music filled the room with a subtle tune, there were two couches and chairs that sat adjacent of a fire place as everypony took a seat.
"Finally out of the cold! I was starting to feel like my spines were going to freeze solid." Spike said, with a shiver as he moved closer to the fireplace holding up his claws getting them warm.
Rainbow Dash had taken a seat on the couch, adjusting her coat so she could stretch out her wings in an attempt to warm them up faster. Fluttershy sat across from her pulling down the hood of her jacket, allowing her mane to flow from its confined shelter from the winter’s elements.
Rarity was seated in an armchair as Pinkie handed her a mug of hot chocolate, which she accepted with a smile. "Why thank you dear, I’m curious though, when exactly did you have the time to get all of the preparations for this done?" she questioned blowing on her mug taking a small sip.
Pinkie looked at her, chuckling. "Well that’s because I always have party preparations planned, just in case a party is needed at a moments notice.” She smiled, placing mugs of hot chocolate on a tray.
"Ah, well I guess, but in Twilight’s Castle?” Rarity continued.
"Of course, Twilight agreed that I could use this room a while ago. I always have party preparations ready all over Ponyville, you can't be too well prepared for a party you know. I mean what if somepony wanted to have a party, and there wasn't any preparations, and if there wasn't any preparations ready then they couldn't have a party, and if they couldn't have a party then they would be unhappy." Pinkie Pie explained with enthusiasm.
Umm, well yes, I suppose that is true." Rarity said, as Pinkie Pie walked around the room handing out the mugs, deciding that it would be better to just leave it at that. Understanding Pinkie Pie’s train of thought was sometimes more baffling than her actions.
As everypony started to relax with their hot chocolate and conversing with each other, Applejack looked over seeing Twilight standing off to the side with her muzzle buried in that book of hers again levitating a mug in her magic. She sighed setting her mug down walking up to her, Applejack was understanding of her friends interests, but there was a time and place for it.
"Twi what are you doin' still foolin’ with this stuff? Come on, put this aside for now and come tie in with the rest of us." Applejack persuaded Twilight from working on her studies.
"I'm just reviewing whether the magic flow direction will correlate with these notes I've gotten through so far, I won’t be long Applejack." Twilight responded, waving her hand passively, continuing her train of thought aloud to no one in particular. "Perhaps the actual flow happens from the land or from the stars? There are different theories as to the point of origin, but from what Starswirl declared magic must have a source, so the flow of magic must come from somewhere."
"Alright, come here you." Applejack abruptly grabbed Twilight by the shoulders pushing her to the table. "Now look here Twi. You've been at this for far too long, come on and enjoy the party, this can wait."
Much to Twilight’s unwillingness, she was sliding in the direction of everypony, her wings flapping slightly giving Applejack a bit of hard time like a foal not wanting to go to school. "Wait just a few more pages Applejack! I almost have something solid to go off of!"
Rainbow leaned over the back of the couch looking at the two. "Yeah Twilight, give that EGG -head of yours a break, and chill with us, it’s not like anypony else is going to mess with it. Have one of Pinkies awesome cupcakes." Rainbow Dash said teasingly hovering over to her side. "Besides you said you have to wait around anyway, so why don't you have some fun before your head gets too big for your crown." her commit making Twilight roll her eyes as Pinkie suddenly bounced by her side.
"Yay! Twilight's joining us." Pinkie bounced in front of her with a smile on her face as she handed Twilight one of the cupcakes she brought with her, an anticipating look on her face. "Go on give it a try! Tell me what you think."
Twilight looked at the cupcake smelling the pink frosting and the vanilla cream. She took a bite, and was delighted by the flavour. "Mmm, this is really good Pinkie, you might have outdone yourself." said Twilight through muffled chewing. Pinkie Pie beamed bouncing around hugging her friends, blowing her party whistle.
As with any kind of celebration thrown by Pinkie Pie everypony was enjoying themselves. Fluttershy was talking to Rainbow Dash about the new weather schedule for the week; Rainbow boasted about the new flyers that she recruited this year, Fluttershy talked about what the animals nesting changes would be for the spring.
Rarity was attempting to coax Applejack to model for her with a new fashion line-up she was making, mentioning the idea after remembering Applejack had worn one of her dresses when Trenderhoof came to Ponyville, Spike and Pinkie Pie were sitting down competing to see who could stack the most marshmallows in their hot chocolate without it spilling over. Twilight was eating a slice of cake while being the referee to Spike and Pinkie.
Later that night a low humming was coming from out of the room causing Twilight's ear to turn in the direction of the sound, she got up heading over to see what was making the sound which eventually led her back outside. She noticed that some of the mechanisms that the gems were set in were faintly glowing. She gasped as she noticed what was happening, she scrambled for her book back at the room everypony was in. Opening it reading intently, Spike notice Twilight's change in demeanor as she walked into the room, curious he approached her.
"Hey Twilight is something happening with your comtrap-" but cut himself off when Twilight turned and gave an ear to ear grin, "ummm is that a yes then?" Spike asked.
"Yes! Yes it is Spike, look here," she held up the book to his face, pointing out the notes written down. “I think it’s starting to activate slowly, but the frequency a bit weak it's not getting a good reading, but the book states that the phase lasts for a short time and because of the immense amount of magic that passes through that it can't pinpoint where the tear will come from exactly!”
Twilight read through her book as the rest of them followed her outside noticing the device was indeed starting to react to something. As they all looked up seeing the sky start to change from a clear, deep blue sky to that of a more iridescent shades of colors barely visible as they swayed throughout the night sky. It wasn't long before the EGG's dish was starting to move following the directions of the moving rainbow above them.
"Ooooo look at all the pretty colours, it’s like when you make a rainboom Dash." Pinkie sang enthusiastic.
Rainbow looked up, eyeing some of the patterns in the sky and noticed that the colours were not a bright more of a faded dull version, but they did spread in all directions, "Yeah, but what I do is way cooler than that, besides doesn't anypony else find it strange that there is a rainbow occurring during the night?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"Aurora Borealis." Twilight stated eagerly, Looking up from her book, Twilight took a step closer to the EGG adjusting it slightly as its erratic movements lessened.
"Aurora borealis, what's that Twilight? Is that some kind of special name for a rainbow or something?" Rainbow looking at her inquisitively.
"Well not quite. It's predominantly seen in the high latitude Arctic and Antarctic regions. The name ‘auroras’ is now more commonly used for the linguistic plural ‘aurorae’ of ‘aurora’. Furthermore because it is mostly found in more of the arctic parts of the land it’s a strange phenomenon to happen here even with the change in climate which may suggest that that the hemisphere is changing as well. Matter-of-factly, the massive magic outflow that I mentioned maybe effect's the entire plans of Equestria happening with hardly any change to the geometrical climate. Those who have tried to study it fall short alluding scientists for centuries.
"I see. Well, it does seem very interesting Twilight, and I’m glad that you are excited with this, so what pray tell will you do to succeed in having a different outcome than those before?" Rarity asked, unsure of what Twilight was planning.
"Well I’ve managed to reconstruct the EGG and everything is in order according to the book, there are a few notes that did seem like they were unfinished or might be missing somehow, but I won't let that deter me." Twilight stated, a fire burning in her eyes. "How it works and what it actually does to Equestria, it will help ponies better understand magic, such as where does this magic come. Do you know how important this could be what could this mean for us in finding the answers?!"
"Well I can see that your very invested in this Twilight, and rightfully so being it is your element dear." Rarity said with a half-smile. "But do be careful with this. We don't want to have another accident from an experiment gone awry, remember what happened with Rainbow Dash with her double rainboom."
With a loud high pitched ring, everypony turned towards the device before them which had started to move more erratically. As light from the Magi Allotment began to flow around the dish, the gems now illuminated much brighter than before: the lights starting to travel faster, one passing around Fluttershy causing her to squeal in a panic and hide behind the door.
Rainbow dash walked over to Fluttershy, placing a hand on her shoulder "What's the matter Shy? It’s just some fancy colors. It’s not like it will do anything to you...um I think anyway. Hey Twilight said that nopony has been affected by this thing, so don't worry." Rainbow Dash said consoling Fluttershy.
"Th-Thats the just it," Fluttershy spoke timidly. "I-I felt it passing over me."
Rainbow gave a confused look. "Huh you mean that you felt something?" Fluttershy followed by nodding.
"Really!" as they both looked up to see excitement on Twilight face that could almost rival that of Pinkie pie, if that was even possible. "Tell me, do you feel any different? Are you experiencing any strange symptoms or anything like that?" holding onto a quill and notepad with an eager look across her face, wanting to know every detail.
"Um Twi I think you need to look as this." Applejack called out worriedly.
The EGG was going from loud rings to a strange rhythmic whines as the gems flickered, alternating it's colors as the Magi aura was forming a small leaf like tear that began to expand in diameter around the EGG’s face, the vents on the sides changed from steam to now discharging the same vibrant colors. Twilight quickly ran over to it, adjusting levers and dials, much to her dismay, nothing seemed to work as she began to frantically try and double her efforts to find a solution to affect the size of the tear as the same iridescent light started flowing from it. The EGG began to convulse as it continued to be recalcitrant.
Fluttershy once again hid behind the door despite Rainbows encouragements to get her from behind it. Another wave of Magi energy blew past Rarity this time. However it felt more physical than how Fluttershy expressed: it actually causing her to take a step back. Looking shocked she turned to Twilight. "I just felt something as well." she added worriedly seeing that thing's were becoming out of hand. "Twilight is this suppose to happen; it seems you machine is being rather uncooperative, Perhaps we shouldn't tamper with this any further and implore Princess Luna for help?"
With a growl of frustration Twilight was lost as nothing she did would seem to work. She took a step back looking up at the dish thinking to herself, then coming to a conclusion. "The EGG is not responding to anything else I do, and I have to shut this down before somepony gets hurt, perhaps if I try an use my magic to close the opening."
Applejack walked up to Twilight with a concerned look on her face. "Hold up there Twilight I understand you're an alicorn and you've used your magic to do some great things, but are you sure you want to try and mess with that thing. Maybe Rarity's got the right idea we should call the princess for help."
"There isn't enough time Applejack, I can’t just do nothing, I have to stop this before anything bad happens." Twilight took a step forward taking a deep breathe as she readied her magic, just before she could begin Rarity stopped her placing her hand on her shoulder.
"Well, I for one don't think you should dear, what if something were to happen to you?" Rarity said hesitatingly.
"I’m not sure what this outgoing force will have an effect on magic, but I have to try would you help back me up with your magic as well Rarity?"
"Me? Well of course I will do my best to assist you, but I would prefer we call princess Luna for help; Surely two alicorns fair a lot better." Rarity suggested adequately.
"That may be true, but theres just no time we have to act now!" Twilight turned towards the EGG with Rarity right behind her. As they were approaching, Twilight's horn began to glow a luminous purple as she started to envelop the sides of the tear with her magic attempting to close it. However as soon as she managed to close part of the tear, another section that she had been holding closed spring open.
"This isn't working!" Twilight cried, stomping her hoof after several attempts.
"Just a moment Twilight." Rarity said. "we start closing it from one end and work our way towards the other. Perhaps it would be easier as it wouldn't leave any room for gaps: just like a tear in fabric."
Twilight then thought for a moment. "Brilliant thinking Rarity!" Twilight turned to smile at her. With that, she again focused her magic as Rarity did the same now starting from the bottom of the tear and working their way up Rarity's azure magic intertwining with Twilight's own in a sewing pattern. Applejack backed away giving them space as her and the others watched.
"That’s it, it’s working Twilight!" she cried as they both continued to close the tear.
Soon it was completely closed, but before they could breathe a sigh of relief, the space where their magic was holding the tear closed was starting to bulge and press outward as the magic flow started to seep out like a heavy fog. Soon the tear began to visibly shake as the two continued to hold the seal in place, sections of the spires paneling began to unhinge as magic began to seep from the edges the magic flowing out pooled on the floor like a dense vapor. Eventually like an erupting champagne bottle, there was a sudden coruscation of lights as the built up energy broke free; blinding them from the sudden burst as a large ball of magic flew off in the direction of the everfree forest.
When everything had died down, the results of the event left the terrace severely damaged. There was a section of the railing that had been shattered with the bottom half barley intact the floor had a few large cracks stretching from the blast from the device there were pieces of paneling scattered around some hanging by the wires connecting to the device.
Applejack was the first came to, finding herself propped up against the side of the railing. She gave a grunt slowly opening her eyes while fixing her Stetson on her head as she stood. "Ugh, what the hay was that, is everypony alright?" Applejack announced aloud, looking around for a response. After a minute or so, the door to the terrace opened slowly as Pinkie, Fluttershy, Rainbow, and Rarity stepped through walking towards her.
"Well, that depends on your definition of alright.” Rarity expressed, glancing around. “Just look at this place, it’s in shambles."
Pinkie Pie looked at Rarity trying to stifle laugh as Rarity followed her gaze. "Ah, and just look at my mane! How did cake land on me?"
"Hey, I was wondering where my cake went." Pinkie Pie giggled, as she attempted to shake the cake out of Rarity's hair, bits of it fell in all directions.
"Pinkie Pie!" Rarity wined at her, stepping away. "My goodness! Stop! You’re only making it worse!"
"Wait how’d ya'll get inside in time before that blast happened," Applejack asked.
Pinkie Pie raised her hand. "Oh oh, I started to get a tingling in my tooth, and my nose itched," Pinkie Pie explained. "It felt like something was about to happen so I pushed everypony I could inside," her ears flattened to the side. "I'm sorry I didn't get to you in time, it all happened so fast. Are you alright Applejack?"
"Yeah, I’m fine, don’t worry sugarcube." Applejack said brushing herself off.
"Where is Twilight and Spike?" Fluttershy asked worriedly. The others looked around, not being able to spot any sign of them. As worry for their friends started to set in, they heard Spike call out to them.
"Hey guys up here!" called Spike, they looked up to see Twilight carrying Spike under his arms as they both glided down to them.
"Thank Celestia you two are alright, we were starting to worry that something bad happened," Fluttershy sighed in relief, as they approached the landing. Twilight began surveying the wreckage of the terrace.
"Well, I guess the parties over now," Rainbow moped looking at the smoking pile of scrap that was once Twilight’s device. "If everypony is alright then good, so what now?"
"Well the first thing is seeing where that blast went. Hopefully, nopony got hurt or more damage was caused." Twilight said, grabbing her saddle bag heading out along the demolished pathway, the rest of the group followed after. When they came to a large clearing Twilight was closely examining at the indentations the blast caused across the ground, small bits of what seemed to be iridescent light fragments were littered all around it.
"Wow, this is amazing, there are residual particles of magic even after the initial occurrence. Interesting; kinetic spells usually dissipate after awhile. I wonder if they're tangible?" She inched closer trying to touch the glowing fragments, she was surprised that it was physically stable, and warm. As she tried to get a closer look however, it broke apart into that was swept away by a light breeze. She then attempted to bottle up some of the fragments, but even then it disappeared through the container.
When they got to an area where abundant amount had gathered the ground was almost covered in patches of the sparkling remnants Pinkie started picking the remnant pieces trying to collect them like snowflakes, the rest more did the same attempting to investigate them as well. Pinkie Pie somehow managed to collect enough to make a sparkling replica of a ponyville home before a stray breeze destroyed her work.
After a good bit of searching for more of the fragment Rainbow Dash yawned; quickly becoming bored of what they were doing and a look back told her that she wasn't the only one. Looking back to the rest of the group only settled her resolve to stop.
Rarity was failing to cover her yawning, Pinkie Pie was half asleep leaning up against Applejack who was trying to get the mare to stand on her own, Fluttershy was continuously nodding off, and Spike was already laying down on a rock snoring.
"Hey Twilight, do you think we could head back now? There’s nothing out here but some sparkling dust, and we've checked around long enough. Nothing got damaged, and nopony was hurt." she pointed out, hovering beside Twilight. "Any further, and we'll be heading into the everfree. I think we should call it a night." Rainbow dash told her.
"I must agree with Rainbow Dash, it is late and I need my beauty sleep." Rarity said with a pout. “And not to mention I’ll be needing a shower." She added grabbing a bit of her mane and examining it.
Twilight sighed, a little deflated that she could not continue her study, but also realising that collecting any samples was impossible. Reluctantly, she agreed and they all headed back to ponyville, the night sky still hinted to the magic of the Magi Allotment, its colors soon starting to fade into the night sky.
Author's Note
Hello this will be my first story so im skeptical on how well I have done to make a cohesive first chapter, im not sure how fast I will post new chapters, but hopefully not to long also positive criticism is appreciated, and I welcome any tips for a new writer as well thanks.
Also I would like to thank The Cake Devil for tips, and pointers as well as Twilight scrach, JeremyStorm and Aerigim for proofreading, correcting and helping me understand my errors and how to correct them. Thanks you guys
