A New Life in Ponyville

Chapter 1

Zecora’s Cabin, The Everfree Forest

Determination.

Such an interesting word, is it not? For some, it is the force of will that allows them to persevere against all odds, to strive for anything they so desire. Sadly though, that same determination can also be used to implement one’s desires upon others, be they willing or otherwise.

Most of my life has been a poignant example of such machinations. For over a decade, a silent battle raged between the determination of my father for me to become his successor, and my own determination to walk the path of my choosing.

Determination has brought me to where I am today. A place free from my father’s tyrannical influence…a place where I’m free to pursue what I’ve always wanted: the simple life of an herbalist. Many in my position would ask: Why give up the pampered life of a chieftain’s daughter for that of a lowly herbalist?

The answer is not a simple one. I never chose the life my father so carefully constructed for me. It was thrust upon my shoulders as soon as I was able to speak. Was it always so terrible? No, I cannot say it was. For one thing, my father’s position granted me the best education money could afford. My regimen included: herbalism, medicine, hunting, martial arts, foreign language studies, politics, and proper etiquette.

I was always an eager student, often devouring materials and lessons faster than my tutors thought possible. My mind was constantly filled with images of far-away places, exotic peoples, and exciting ideas.

Looking back, I suppose that is why I developed such a strong sense of self and the determination to break away from my father’s mold. He often said I was far too intelligent for my own good. Fortunately for me, he was so absorbed in his own ways that he never noticed the subtle change in my demeanor.

Despite my inclination for intellectual pursuits, I found that I quite enjoyed physical activities as well. The movement of my body helped to stimulate the movement of thoughts and ideas. But it was far more than that. It gave me the opportunity to earn coin that didn’t come from my father’s coffers.

Hunting and Engolo lessons came first. In my homeland, men were most often the hunters but women could learn…under special circumstances, of course. The reason I practiced Engolo was simply because my teacher insisted it would lead to enhanced muscle memory and help me avoid getting killed by the multitude of predators who called the jungle their home.

As the years progressed, my skills improved. It even got to the point where I was able to hunt with the same level of competence as my teacher. If the hunt was successful, I would bring the pelts and meat of various beasts into the village, earning me a modest sum of coin for my efforts. But pelts weren’t the only thing I brought back. The village shaman would often ask me to bring her plants for her mixtures, often paying me with her own creations or the knowledge to make them myself.

Eventually, I went out into the jungle just as often for plants as I did for beasts. That was when I began to appreciate the fine art of herbalism in earnest. The shaman’s lessons were simple at first. They included balms to prevent infections for minor wounds and tea made from the leaves of various plants meant to stimulate the mind and body.

When I finally managed to memorize most of the local flora, only then did she start to teach me more advanced brews. They were the sort of concoctions that required a precise mixture of ingredients to function properly. If the ratios were even the slightest bit off, mistakes often led to illness…or even death upon ingestion.

I became extremely upset the day when the shaman told me she had nothing left to teach me. Judging by the sad twinkle in her eyes, she knew I was destined to move onto better things. But I truly believe that I granted her some measure of happiness.

Perhaps it was because she finally found a worthy apprentice in me, someone willing to pass on her knowledge to future generations. But I think it was far more intimate than that. She was the female authority figure I so desperately yearned for in my life, and I acted as the daughter she never had.

I spent most of that evening nestled against her, silently watching the glowing embers die out in the fire pit. With a heavy heart, I embraced her tightly while my tears fell onto the dusty floor below. Once I regained my composure, I told her what I had been planning all those years.

At that point, I had already purchased a small property, travel fare, and the supplies necessary for a few days. The only thing left to do was to arrange passage to Equestria through my contact, known only as “Daring”.

I was surprised by her reaction. Instead of getting angry or trying to convince me to stay, she merely nodded her head in understanding. It was almost as if she had expected this outcome…but I could tell she was slightly heartbroken nonetheless. With a gentle smile, she took off one of her gold bracelets and placed it in my hand. What she told me afterwards, I shall never forget.

“Take my bracelet, Zecora. It will serve as a reminder of where you came from and those who care about you. May the spirits grant you a swift and safe journey.”

Now, as I lay upon my bed, my thoughts and feelings inevitably drift towards her. It takes every shred of my willpower not to grab a pen and paper and hastily scrawl a letter to my surrogate mother, assuring her that I am well.

But sadly, I cannot. The last thing I need is for my father to catch wind of my whereabouts. My hopes and prayers shall have to be enough for the time being. After making my final appeal to the spirits of the forest, my eyes begin to feel heavy as I feel sleep’s sweet embrace encompass me. I will need all the rest I can manage. For tomorrow, I journey to Ponyville.

The musical warbles of birdsong woke me from my slumber. While I do not begrudge rising at such an early hour, I always take some time to enjoy the peace and tranquility morning has to offer. After getting out of bed, I shuffled towards the window and allowed the golden rays of sunlight to warm my face.

Despite having lived here for a few days, I must confess that I am still unused to the milder climate. In my homeland, early mornings were hot enough to form a slight mirage as the sun crept above the horizon. By comparison, the mornings here were cool enough that dew formed on the grass and left a slight chill in the air.

It was not unpleasant though. I actually enjoyed the feeling of the cool air as it danced across my skin. It was refreshing and helped to dry any residual sweat that remained upon me. After a quick bath and a liberal application of scented hair and skin products, I was finally ready to break my fast.

My morning meal was…dull to put it bluntly. I suppose that anyone eating nothing but boar jerky and dried berries for two consecutive days would come to a similar conclusion. Fortunately for me, Ponyville was well within comfortable walking distance. While the acquisition of fresh victuals was my primary motive for interacting with the locals, I was also interested in scouting potential customers for my own wares.

Before leaving, I donned a plain brown cloak but opted to keep the hood down. I wanted to appear approachable, yet modest. There was little sense in resembling a suspicious sneak-thief in a town full of strangers. With my coin pouch securely fastened to my wrist, I set out to purchase some food.

As I suspected, many of the townsfolk gave me curious looks as I browsed the stalls of the market district. Some even glared at me, like I was a common criminal. Many in my situation would be outraged at such treatment, but I did not allow it bother me.

I was a foreigner in their town, an unknown variable introduced into their daily lives. They had yet to acquaint themselves with me and I them. But that would soon change. All I needed to do was show them how polite and courteous I could be. I imagine most folk would do me the same courtesy, but I was not so naïve to think all of them would. If I ran into anyone like that, I’d simply avoid them rather than cause any unnecessary conflict.

After an hour of shopping, I finally gathered enough supplies to last me for at least a few days. I had not purchased anything exotic or expensive, just simple foods like potatoes and chicken. However, I still had a few coins left and was feeling a bit peckish.

Much to my good fortune, there happened to be a lovely wooden cart nearby filled to the brim with some of the most succulent apples I had ever laid eyes upon. The owners of the cart must have noticed my hungry gaze, for both gave me their brightest smiles. I tried to suppress my growing blush but could not. So, I simply gave them the friendliest smile I could muster.

“Howdy Ma’am!” a little girl with red hair and a bow chirped. “Are ya interested in buyin’ some of our apples?”

“I most certainly am little one. If it is not too much trouble, I would like two of your Red Delicious apples please.”

“No problem! Oh, by the way mah name’s Apple Bloom, what’s yours?”

I shook her hand. “I am Zecora. Pleased to meet you Miss Apple Bloom.”

“Hey now, ya don’t have ta get all proper on me. Ya can just call me AB if ya want.”

I chuckled. “Ah, very well then. AB it is.”

After “AB” counted my coins and presented my purchase, the other owner made his presence known by walking up to the cart and clearing his throat. He was an imposing figure to say the least. By my own estimation, he was at least a head taller than I and likely weighed twice as much. The taunt muscles of his arms and chest bespoke of many years spent practicing hard labor. He very much reminded me of a fierce mountain gorilla.

Despite his intimidating appearance, there was a subtle undercurrent of tranquility lurking just beneath the surface. His emerald eyes twinkled with the quiet intelligence that men of great wisdom often exude. Yet…that was not his most endearing feature. No, what truly seized my attention was the gentle smile he offered me as I waved to him in greeting.

“Mornin’ miss. Ah take it you’ve come ta buy some apples?”

“Indeed I have, sir. Your…daughter procured them for me only moments ago.”

The burly man laughed. “Bloom ain’t mah daughter. She’s mah sister.”

“I am so terribly sorry! I did not know you were merely siblings. Please forgive my ignorance.”

“There ain’t nothin’ ta forgive, miss. The name’s Macintosh Apple, but most folk ‘round here call me Big Mac. Mah family and ah run an apple orchard ‘bout five miles from town.”

“Ah, that would certainly explain the variety of your wares! My name is Zecora and I only arrived here naught but two days ago. I am an herbalist and hunter by trade and it is my sincere hope to conduct business in this fair town.”

Mac rubbed his arm. “An herbalist ya say? Ah…reckon ah could use your advice right about now.”

“Tell me what ails you and I may be able to offer a solution.”

“Yesterday, ah was out clearing weeds ‘round the south orchard like ah usually do. Normally, I’m pretty careful ‘bout how ah walk, but ah somehow managed ta trip over a root and scuffed mah arm against a tree.”

“It seems like a minor injury to me. Why not simply bandage the wound?”

Mac rubbed his arm once more. “Well, I’m afraid it ain’t that simple. Ah think the tree was covered in some kind of poisonous vine or somethin'. Ever since then, the cut on mah arm’s been itchin’ like the dickens. Is it somethin’ ah should be worried ‘bout?”

“Tell me, Macintosh Apple. Was the vine rust colored and coiled around the tree like a snake?”

“Uh…yeah now that ya mention it, ah think it looked like that.”

I hummed in thought. “I know precisely what plant has caused your suffering. It is known as Serpent’s Embrace. The plant’s toxins can be deadly to small creatures, but it is merely irritating to mankind.”

“That’s a relief! Ah thought I’d need ta go to the hospital and get it checked out.”

“Such a measure would be unnecessary. However, I would suggest treating the wound with a balm to prevent infection and nullify the toxins. Otherwise, your constant scratching will keep opening it up again.”

Mac blushed. “Y-yeah ah suppose ah should. Ah don’t mean ta sound needy, but do you…happen ta know what type of balm ah should use?”

“You are most fortunate, Macintosh Apple. I not only know but possess the balm you seek!”

“Thank the Maker! All of that itchin’ was drivin’ me crazy. Where is it?”

I giggled. “I must apologize, for I do not have it upon my person. All of the ingredients I require to produce it are contained within my home. If you were to provide me with a scrap of parchment, I can show you where my home is located. You will be able to retrieve it there.”

“O-oh, well that’s completely understandable. How many bits do ah owe ya for it?”

“You need not worry yourself over cost. If my remedy is to your satisfaction, simply spread the word around town. That is all I ask.”

“Are ya sure? It hardly feels proper ta accept somethin’ like that for free…”

“I am certain. What I need now is not coin, but a solid reputation. Your word will assist greatly in establishing that.”

Mac handed me a slip of parchment, along with an apple. “Since ya were so kind as ta offer me the treatment for free, take an extra apple. It’s the least ah can do.”

After scrawling a crude map to my home, I took a moment to bite into the apple Macintosh gave me. While I was no expert on produce, fruit or otherwise, I could tell immediately that this apple was special. The texture was crisp and refreshing, the taste sweeter than honey. I must have looked like an infant, messily devouring the apple as I did. Unfortunately, I did not realize this until…Macintosh bellowed with laughter.

I quickly wiped my face, failing miserably to hide my embarrassment. “I sincerely apologize for my lack of manners! The apple was so delicious a-and I was so hungry that I could not help myse—”

“No need ta apologize. It just makes me happy ta see that ya enjoy all the hard work we put into growin’ our apples.”

“As well you should be! I will most certainly be purchasing more of your apples in the future. That being said, your balm should be ready within an hour.”

“Glad ta hear that. I’ll see ya later, Ms. Zecora.”

Few things in life energized me more than a bout of vigorous exercise. The constant rhythm of the Engolo stances cleared my mind of any lingering thoughts. The rush of adrenaline that followed made me feel as if I could vanquish even the fiercest predators. But my routine was not solely about invigoration. It contained elements of relaxation as well.

One of things I enjoyed about the property I now owned was its abundance of lush grass. I relished the feeling of the soft green blades as they brushed against my bare feet. It was like being gently tickled by thousands of tiny fingers in the most pleasant way possible. Many often claimed that a fine rug achieved a similar effect. But I knew better. Nature’s way was far superior to anything man could ever hope to replicate.

The combined symphony of woodland creatures and the flowing stream nearby served to relax my body further. The initial burst of adrenaline that I felt earlier had long since faded, replaced by growing sense of fatigue. After sitting down, the warm midday sun practically begged me to lie down upon grass and sleep. I felt my eyelids slowly begin to droop. Yes…a short rest sounded…wonderful. It was not as if I was expecting any vis—

My stupor was instantly broken when I heard someone call my name. I had nearly forgotten that Macintosh was coming over to retrieve the poultice I promised to mix for him. Fortunately, I crafted it as soon as I returned from my shopping excursion an hour earlier. Scrambling to my feet, I ran into the cabin and opened the front door.

“Welcome…to my abode.” I huffed. “The poultice you require is ready. Please take a seat on one of those cushions and make yourself comfortable while I retrieve it.”

Macintosh’s response was strange to say the least. Instead of complying with my instructions, he merely stood in the doorway with his mouth agape. He continued to stand there, without uttering a single word, expect for what I could only assume were a series of strained whimpers.

Yet, the most distressing thing of all was the color of his face. It was entirely red! Perhaps his reaction to the Serpent’s Embrace had triggered a fever? I quickly ushered him inside and sat him down upon the largest cushion I had. Afterwards, I pressed my forehead against his to determine if he was running a temperature.

“Are you not feeling well, Macintosh Apple?”

“A-ah can’t believe this! Of all the things ta happen…” Mac squeaked.

“Well, it is certainly not impossible. Fevers can occur by coming in contact with Serpent’s Embrace, if one has an allergy to it.”

“This ain’t about fevers or allergies!”

“If you do not believe that to be the case, then perhaps you simply ate spoiled food. In fact, there are several varieties of meat that need to be cooked properly befo—”

Mac put his hand over his eyes. “FOR THE LOVE OF CELESTIA! DON’T YA REALIZE YOU’RE NAKED?!!”

“Hmm? I believe you are mistaken, Macintosh Apple. I am nude, not naked. Naked implies that am destitute and defenseless. I am neither of those things.”

“It still doesn’t change the fact that ya ain’t wearing a single stitch of clothing. It just ain’t proper!”

I furrowed my brow in confusion. “Not…proper? Whatever do you mean?”

“Men and women aren’t supposed ta be naked in front of each other, unless…they intend ta make love. And even then, they’re usually…involved in a romantic relationship.”

“Are you suggesting my nudity implies that I wish to initiate sexual intercourse with you?”

Mac blushed harder. “Ah…w-well…ah dunno. Do ya?”

“I am unsure exactly what your expectations are, but my answer is no. My nudity has nothing to do with sexual desire. It is simply part of my lifestyle.”

“If what you’re sayin’ is true, then why were ya wearin’ a cloak in town?”

I crossed my arms. “The answer to that question is a complicated one. But since you are already here, I will tell you a story that will help clear any remaining confusion you might have.”

Now that Macintosh was somewhat settled, I fetched the bowl that contained the balm. In all honesty, I was trying to be as gentle as I could when applying balm but I could tell he was immensely uncomfortable with my ministrations.

If I had been a crasser individual, I would have laughed at the true reason for his discomfort. But I actually found it rather endearing, the way he shyly averted his eyes. I knew he was doing it out of some misguided sense of preserving my modesty and dignity.

However unnecessary I deemed his behavior to be, I could not help but think there was another reason for his discomfort. Perhaps…he was unaccustomed to the female form in its natural state? No, I found that highly unlikely. Surely, he had seen his female sibling in the nude before.

I wrapped a bandage around his arm. “There, it is done. Keep it on for at least two days and try not to get it wet.”

“T-thanks, ah appreciate it. So…umm aren’t ya gonna tell me your answer?”

“When I was still a girl, my father believed it prudent to teach me the ways of the hunter. You must understand that a woman taking up the mantle of hunter was unusual, and the clans were often composed exclusively of men.

“It was strange, at first. I went from playing with dolls to learning how to track animals in the scope of just a week. Even stranger still, was being completely surrounded by older males. Not a single one of the hunters were anywhere near my age.

“But that wasn’t the hardest thing to get used to. Hunters held their own unique set of beliefs. It was what set them apart from the common folk. They believed that the forest contained a multitude of sacred spirits. How much one revered and respected these spirits determined how bountiful the day’s hunt was.

“The best method to show reverence to the spirits was to cast away the trappings of mankind. Such things as spears, bows, or jewelry crafted from kills were considered appropriate but…clothing was not. Thus, hunters made a habit of living in the nude. And despite my gender, tradition demanded that I do the same.

“It took some time to get used to, but I came to accept my new lifestyle and even enjoy it. In fact, nowadays I am far more comfortable in the nude than I am wearing even a single article of clothing. I apologize if it has put a strain on our potential friendship.”

Mac sighed. “Zecora, I’d be a terrible person if I judged folks on how they choose ta live. Ah don’t mind bein’ your friend, it’s just a lot ta take in…ya know? Gimme a little time ta process all of this. Once that happens, ah promise I’ll come visit again.”

“Thank the spirits! Perhaps…you’d like some tea the next time you visit?”

“Yeah, that sounds nice. See ya later, Zecora.”

As Macintosh walked out the door, I could not help but notice the slight smile upon his lips. It was the first time I had seen him do so since I met him in the market. While I was somewhat disheartened by the awkwardness of our second meeting, I still held hope that everything would turn out for the best.

Author's Note

Engolo is a form of martial arts used by the native people inhabiting present day Angola.
----> Here is where you can read about it.