Twilight Sparkle sat in her castle, looking over papers sent by Celestia.

“How’s that paperwork coming along, Twi?” Spike asked. He had a tray of goodies and a pot of tea with him. He figured that Twilight had gotten engrossed in her paperwork and forgot to eat, again.

“Confusing… It’s all about alternate dimensions and multiverse theories… I don’t understand why Princess Celestia would send these over. And I don’t know what I’m supposed to do with them.” Twilight replied, sounding frustrated.

“If I were you I’d send them to another dimension,” Spike said, attempting a bit of humor. He set down his tray and poured Twilight a cup of tea. “Seriously, Princess Celestia has always known when you need to study something, somehow. So, maybe something will happen that involves alternate dimensions and multiple verses.”

“I hope not, Spike. It’ll be worse than dealing with Starlight Glimmer…” Twilight sighed. “Maybe I need a break…”

“Good idea, Twi. I’ve brought you some tea and snacks since you’ve probably forgotten about eating while you go over the papers that Celestia sent you. Hey, what are the other girls up to today?” Spike wondered. He set the cup of tea in front of Twilight along with the snacks.

“Thanks Spike. Fluttershy’s tending to an animal shelter that was damaged, AJ’s working the apple farm, Pinkie’s with Starlight helping her with stuff… I think Rainbow’s free, but she’s probably sleeping.” Twilight explained. “And I don’t think I can handle Rarity today. She’s a good friend and all, but there are just days I like being ‘unlady like’.”

“Well, what about visiting the castle of the two sisters? It’s been forever since we’ve been there and there’s plenty of work to do to get it back into shape for the princesses,” Spike suggested.

“Yeah… I guess you’re right. But… Why would they have us clean it? It’s in the middle of the Everfree Forest!” Twilight rubbed her head. “I mean… It’s just… Nevermind, there is a book I need anyway. You mind watching the castle while I’m gone?”

“Sure thing, Twi. You know you can count on me.” Spike put his claws on his hips and struck a heroic pose.

Twilight giggled. “You’re right, I do know. I’ll be back before sunset, if not, then I probably decided to stay overnight.” As the Princess of Friendship was leaving, she snatched the goodies and took them with her. “Later Spike!”

“Later, Twi, have fun!” Spike called as Twilight trotted out of the room.

When Twilight finally reached the castle of the two sisters, she noticed something that made her freeze.

“Oh look, more proof that we’re exactly where we thought we were sent. Who are you and what do you want with this abandoned castle?” Goliath said as he stood next to Tigre on the castle ramparts. Tigre had his bow fully drawn and aimed at the pony below them.

Twilight shook her head and sputtered. “I-I-I came h-here f-f-for a b-b-b-book…”

“Well, that answers what you want, but not who you are. Here, I’ll show you what I mean. I’m Goliath and this is our home,” Goliath stated.

“And I am Tigrevurmud Vorn. You can call me Tigre,” Tigre added.

“I… I’m Twilight Sparkle… I didn’t know anyone lived here, I used to come here a-all the time…” Twilight gulped after she said that.

“We’ve been living here for about a day now, Miss Sparkle. Where did you come from anyway? We can’t see a thing from here besides forest,” Tigre asked. He slowly let his bow relax while keeping the arrow nocked and ready.

Goliath sighed after Twilight didn't answer for a little bit, “It appears that I'm scaring her speechless. I'll go tell the others while you stay with her, Tigre.” Goliath then glided down to the inside of the castle and out of sight.

“Got it. You okay, Miss Sparkle?” Tigre asked once Goliath was gone.

Twilight could only nod.

“Wait there and I'll be down in just a moment,” Tigre said before heading for the closest set of stairs. It didn't take long for him to get to the ground level and walk out to meet Twilight with a smile on his face and a twinkle in his hazel eyes. “Where did you come from, Miss Twilight? You're the first contact we've had since we got here.”

“Uh… P-Ponyville…” Twilight said, trying to calm her nerves. ‘Keep a level head Twilight, this is first contact with an unknown species… Two if that Goliath isn’t part of Tigre’s race!’

“Ponyville… That's like naming a town Humanville, but okay,” Tigre said with a chuckle. “No offense, Miss Sparkle, but you don't look or act anything like the ponies I'm used to. None of them could talk and they definitely didn't have wings and a horn.” Tigre smiled the entire time hoping that would help the situation.

“Well… It’s not normal for a pony here to have both a horn and wings…” Twilight then narrowed her eyes. “Your species looks familiar… What are you?”

“Oh, I'm a Human. What are you if having a horn and wings isn't normal?” Tigre said while he started to fiddle with his bow and arrows to keep his hands busy.

“Alicorn.” Twilight stated. “Wait, are you from the mirror portal!?”

“Mirror portal? What are you talking about?” Tigre said in a very confused manner.

“The mirror portal. The thing connecting the human world to this one? Are you not from Canterlot High?” Twilight questioned.

“I’m from a place called England. I’ve never heard of Canterlot High. Are you telling me that there’s a way to go to a world besides this one?” Tigre asked. Upon hearing that there was another world attached to this one his hands had frozen and the arrow he’d been fiddling with fell to the ground.

“Uh… Yeah… What about Goliath? What’s he?” Twilight’s curiosity got the better of her.

“Goliath? He’s a gargoyle. Don’t let the big wings fool you, though, he can’t fly.” Tigre said as he leaned over to whisper the last part to Twilight.

“Okay…” Twilight said. “I assume you’re not from Equestria.”

“Like I said, I’m from England. Unless that’s the name of the planet in which case I’m from Earth.” Tigre said. A yellow and orange blur collided with Twilight as Tigre was finishing his sentence.

“A new species to study! Oooh, oooh. It’s got wings and a horn like the banner. She’s completely different from ponies back on Earth,” Cheetara said excitedly after her high speed glomp.

Twilight yelped while rearing up on her hind legs. Aelita crashed next to Cheetara, before groaning.

“You okay, Aelita?” Tigre asked while trying to hold back his laughter. Aelita raised a hand and extended her thumb, signaling to them that she was fine.

“Her plumage and fur are so soft! I wonder what the horn is for? Also, these wings seem too small for her to fly. I have so many questions!” Cheetara said as she inspected Twilight’s wings, horn, and fur. “She can talk can’t she? I mean, you weren’t just talking to yourself right, Tigre?”

“Yes I can talk… How did you know my gender from just looking at me!?” Twilight went back to her forelegs. ‘Is this what I sound like to my friends?’

“Well, to be blunt you don’t have the parts downstairs to be a stallion, dear. That and I’m used to studying animals. Now, are you the only kind of pony or are there multiple kinds? If there are multiple kinds then what are they called and how are they different?” Cheetara rapidly asked.

“Uh… I’m an Alicorn, and yes, there are multiple types. There are Earth Ponies, which have no wings or horn, but are stronger and more durable. Pegasi, which have wings and lighter bone structure. And Unicorns, who have a horn that helps them with their magic…” Twilight felt like a kindergarden teacher for having to explain this.

“Okay, I’d like to see examples of each of them… This might be a bit personal, but what’s that on your hindquarters that looks like a star with stars around it?” Cheetara asked after she’d calmed down enough to notice the mark on Twilight’s butt.

“That’s… My Cutie Mark. It shows a pony what his or her talent is once they discover it.” Twilight answered, blushing a bit.

“Wow, she’s not as awful looking as the ponies on MLP.” Aelita said once she was sitting cross legged.

“That’s sooo not fair. Getting a mark to tell you what you’re good at. To get something like that we have to go through a painful process involving needles and ink.” Cheetara said as she mock pouted.

“What the hell does it mean?” Aelita asked.

“It means magic. My special talent is the arcane arts.” Twilight responded, glaring at the pinkette. “Did you call my race awful looking!?”

“Well, in our world this one isn’t real. So... yeah. Stars equals magic and the arcane arts here. Good to know.” Tigre said as he sat down next to Aelita.

“Not always. Sometimes Cutie Marks are hard to tell, like a lightning bolt could mean speed, weather manipulation, or even destruction. It’s hard to tell with these things.” Twilight elaborated.

“Hmm, you’re an Alicorn. Does that mean anything or is the giant banner in the castle just for show? Also, are there any cats here?” Cheetara asked.

“Uh… There are only four Alicorn’s including myself, and we have the attributes of all other ponies. And yes, there ar-” Twilight stopped abruptly. She started purring while Aelita scratched behind her ear.

“Hey Cheetara! Alicorns are part kitten!” Aelita laughed as she continued. “Maybe dog too~!” Cheetara squeed and joined Aelita in scratching Twilight behind the ears while she petted Twilight’s fur and wings for good measure.

Ethan walked out from the castle, and upon seeing the three girls, went back inside to beat himself over the head.

“Aaaahhh~! S-s-stoooop~!” Twilight whined through moans and purrs.

“Yes, do stop. We can’t get anything out of her like this,” Goliath said as he exited the castle and saw the current situation.

“But her fur and feathers are so soft! Plus, she likes it.” Cheetara said.

“Yeah! She smells like lilacs too!” Aelita added.

“I believe that ‘she liked it’ is an excuse people back on earth use to get out of rape charges. That usually wasn’t the truth. Even if it was the truth here, we need information and she’s the only one who can provide it,” Goliath said as he crossed his arms over his chest.

“Only you could bring up rape in harmless petting…” Aelita grumbled, moving her hands away from Twilight.

“I’m sorry, miss.” Cheetara said as she hugged Twilight’s head to her chest.

‘I’ll need to ask Cheetara what these lumps are later…’ Twilight thought to herself.

Ethan walked back out with Kaz trailing behind. “Okay, everyone’s here. Now what?”

“Well, for one we ask about what we can and can’t eat around here. It’s not like we can go on forever just drinking water. We should also ask about local customs in case we have to go into town for some reason.” Goliath reasoned.

“Good thinking.” Ethan responded. He then turned to Twilight, “You heard what the Gargoyle asked.”

“Uh, I’m not an expert in that area, but I could tell Zecora to bring you enough meals to hold you over until you guys move into a town or city.” Twilight suggested, “And as for customs… Just be friendly…”

“Do you see how some of us look? Me, especially?” Goliath asked. “If you reacted like that then how are the other ponies going to react?”

“Oh, believe me, the ponies of Ponyville-” Twilight was cut off as Kaz burst out laughing.

“Aahahahaha! I’m sorry, but Po-pfft!” Kaz held his mouth shut as best he could.

“It’s not that funny, Kaz. Kinda strange, but not that funny.” Tigre said as he shook his head at Kaz’s reaction. “Sorry, Miss Sparkle. I guess some of us are less mature than others.”

“What were you saying before you were rudely interrupted?” Goliath asked.

“The ponies in Ponyville are much worse than me. But, I think I can calm them down enough for them to act normal around you.” Twilight finished.

“Oooh, more ponies to study and scratch behind the ear!” Cheetara cheered.

“Wait, why would they so easily listen to you?” Kaz asked, not buying the purple Alicorn.

“I’m one of the four rulers of Equestria. I think they’ll listen to me.” Twilight replied.

“You’re royalty!? Forgive me for aiming my weapon at you.” Tigre said as he took a knee, bowed his head, and placed a fist on the ground before Twilight.

Twilight groaned mentally. “You don’t have to do that, I don’t like being treated special.”

“So you’re a modest queen?” Kaz asked mockingly.

Twilight glared at the redhead and spoke through gritted teeth. “Princess.”

“I thought you said you were one of the rulers!” Kaz laughed.

“I am! I’m the Princess of Friendship!” Twilight almost screamed.

“But a Princess is the daughter of the king and queen, isn’t it?” Kaz said, smirking.

“What!? A king and/or queen is a tyrant! A Princess is a ruler of kindness and compassion!” Twilight shot back.

“My Queen is not a tyrant!” Tigre shouted as he continued to kneel despite what Twilight had said.

“It’s a difference in culture, Tigre…” Aelita commented.

“Bet it’s just a phrase to make them feel young.” Kaz snickered, and Twilight’s eyes sparked.

“Allow me, Twilight.” Goliath said before smacking Kaz on the back of his head. “You need to learn to keep those kinds of comments inside your head, Kaz. It’s unwise to anger someone who could have an entire military here with a word, especially when you have no way of fighting back.”

Kaz folded his arms, before looking away with a scowl.

“Anyway… I myself would like to study each of you, but not until everything is settled and you give me permission.” Twilight said, “So I’ll have Zecora come by for the next week to give you guys food. That okay? Oh, and here.” Twilight placed a folded paper towel that held Spike’s treat. “To tide you over.”

“That sounds wonderful, Twilight. I do have one question. Is there a clear path from here to Ponyville?” Cheetara asked.

Twilight shrugged. “Head straight after the bridge, pass the trees, over the river, up the gorge, there’s a path heading towards Ponyville. I wouldn’t recommend it though, Timberwolves are all over the paths. I almost exhausted all of my magic reserves.”

“Timberwolves? If they’re the same as back home then we’ll have no problems getting through them. Why don’t you, as a princess, have a squad of guards guarding you when you go out?” Goliath asked.

“I don’t need guards, and besides, I’m only here to take a book back home.” Twilight said simpley. “And I don’t have any guards…”

“You’re royalty and you don’t have any guards? Blasphemy! Every royal needs some loyal guards or knights around to help protect them,” Tigre said as he struck a knightly pose.

“That seems so old fashioned, though. Maybe she should have some maids that can kick ass as well as do household chores,” suggested Cheetara.

“Why does it matter?” Ethan deadpanned. “She seems fine on her own…”

“She’s not and she knows it. She’s got five friends that wield this rainbow magic thing with her to defeat their opponents. Plus, she admitted herself that she almost exhausted her magic reserves during her journey.” Goliath pointed out.

“Wait, how did you know I had five friends!?” Twilight’s eyes widened in fear, and Ethan face palmed.

“Sorry. Should I tell her now that I’ve blurted that out without thinking?” Goliath asked after he’d realized his blunder.

“Go on, it doesn’t matter…” Ethan grumbled.

“Okay. In our world, this world is a fictional cartoon show. The girls at my orphanage loved it, but couldn’t stand spiders being around. So, they would call in me and some of the other boys to come kill the spiders. It’s kinda hard to not see or watch a bit of the show while coming to help them. That’s how I know you have five friends that shoot rainbows at people.” Goliath explained.

“They shoot gay beams at people? Why haven’t I ever watched that show, it sounds fun!” Kaz said, sounding shocked.

“Shut up Kaz…” Aelita commented.

“So, what are you going to do now that I’ve told you how I know about your friends, Princess of Friendship?” Goliath asked, ignoring Kaz.

“I… I’ll need to ask you more about this later…”

“I’ll answer your questions as best as I can. I don’t know a whole lot about it, though.” Goliath admitted. “How about we get you that book and then back home? We wouldn’t want anyone getting worried about you even if you are a bit of a hypocrite.” Goliath started to walk towards the castle.

“Hypocrite!?” Twilight’s face went red in anger.

“Yeah, hypocrite. You want to be treated like normal, but expect the ponies in your town to listen because you’re a Princess. So, which is it?” Goliath replied, turning his head to address her over his shoulder.

“I’m royalty whether I like it or not. I didn’t ask to be in charge, but I am. But I try to be normal as possible.” Twilight glared. “But that doesn’t give you the right to call me a hypocrite!”

“Isn’t that the very definition of ‘hypocrite’? Royalty who wants to be as normal as possible while still wielding the authority thereof?” Goliath wondered.

“Hey! You’re making our new cute friend angry, Goliath!” Cheetara shouted.

“I never wanted the power!” Twilight growled. “But it’s not like I can return these wings! I wanted to be a teacher or something!”

“You think we wanted to come here!? We’re stuck here and there’s no way home! There’s no running away from what we are and that’s what it sounds like you’re trying to do by making people treat you like a normal pony while having those wings!” Goliath returned eyes turning pure white.

“But we don’t have paperwork and a ton of responsibility. Plus, who said there’s no way home.” Aelita said, raising an eyebrow.

“She has a point, Goliath. There might be a way back,” Tigre said, still kneeling before Twilight.

“So there’s no reason to be a dick.” Aelita added. “And all she said was she didn’t want it. She only started to complain once you called her a name.”

“Fine, there may be a way home. I overreacted and I’m sorry, Twilight Sparkle. It has not been that long since we got here and I am still wrapping my head around that fact.” Goliath said, hand to his head as though it hurt.

“You should try to relax a bit more, Goliath. Maybe go off and relieve some stress. All I’ve seen you do is patrol the walls with me and look through the castle.” Tigre said in concern for his gargoyle friend.

“There, there, Twilight. The big, mean Gargoyle apologized and you’re too cute for anger to mar your muzzle.” Cheetara said, hugging Twilight and petting her mane soothingly.

Twilight stared at Cheetara for a bit, before sighing. “Okay…”

“Yay! Now, what book did you come here to find?” Cheetara asked.

“It’s a book on a topic I’m curious about. A book called ‘The History Of Clover The Clever’. I wanna know more about one of the ponies who founded Equestria.” Twilight responded.

“Okay, I’ll go grab it for you. Won’t be gone too long.” Cheetara said before running away in a blur of yellow and orange.

“Is it just me or is Cheetara really into all of this?” Tigre asked.

“Maybe she swings that way?” Kaz joked, snickering.

Aelita rolled her eyes. “She’s an animal lover… Twilight’s new to her…”

“She did say she was a zoologist before getting sent here. She’s probably just really excited about seeing species that have never been discovered before.” Goliath reasoned, turning back to the group.

“So…” Ethan started. “This is going to be fun…”

“Yep, especially if she gets more energetic the more she sees.” Tigre agreed.

“I’m back!” Cheetara said before stopping in front of Twilight. “Here you go, Twilight. ‘The History of Clover the Clever’.”

“Thanks… That’s a real help!” Twilight said, grinning from ear to ear. “And how did you move so fast!?”

“I think my body can speed up my molecular structure to some degree, but I’m unsure about that.” Cheetara told her.

“Well, maybe you two can study each other…” Kaz stated, shrugging.

“Why don’t we let Twilight get the food ready and get back home first.” Ethan said.

“That’s a good idea, but didn’t she say that she used a majority of her magic getting here? I think some of us should go with her as far as the forest’s edge to ensure she gets back safely.” Goliath suggested.

“I volunteer!” Tigre shouted as he stood up.

“Well that was fast…” Ethan said, crossing his arms. “Tell me the reason?”

“A knight always protects royalty!” Tigre said resolutely with a fist over his heart.

“That’s all well and good, but you can’t fight in close quarters with your bow. Someone else should go as well.” Goliath pointed out.

“Thanks for volunteering G.” Ethan said simply.

“But-! I didn’t-!” Goliath stammered.

“Your idea!” Ethan said, waving his friend off.

“Ugh, fine.” Goliath said, resigned to his fate.

“Anyone else wanna go?” Ethan asked.

“I do, but I also need to keep Kaz from sexually harassing Aelita.” Cheetara said, running over and hugging Aelita.

“I can handle that, she’s my sister.” Ethan said snarkily.

“Right. Well, I’m also unsure I’ll be able to keep from running into town if I saw it. I don’t want to mess up and get us hated before we all arrive.” Cheetara reasoned.

“Hey, why doesn’t Cheetara just take Twilight to the town in a flash?” Kaz suggested. “She’s fast, so…”

“I can only run so fast for so long, Kaz. Adding a passenger would decrease that time significantly. I’m not even sure how far I can run before I need to stop.” Cheetara explained.

“So, Tigre and I are escorting Twilight home while the rest of you stay here to guard the place and see what else you can find, right?” Goliath asked for clarification.

“That sounds right to me.” Cheetara agreed.

“Okay. Kaz, try to make yourself useful and find something to do.” Ethan said. “No offence buddy.”

Kaz grumbled. “Some taken…”

Aelita smiled. “Then it’s settled. See you two later, and don’t be perverts.”

“A knight would never defile royalty like that!” Tigre said in protest.

“You know me better than that, Ailita. We’ll be back as soon as we can and tell you what we find out about the forest.” Goliath said as he took the lead into the forest with Twilight between him and Tigre.

“So, are Timberwolves the only thing we have to worry about on this trip?” Goliath asked, scanning the forest around them for any trouble.

“Cockatrice’s… They turn ponies to stone with one look…” Twilight said, shrugging. “Maybe an Ursa… Possibly some kind of crocogator…”

“I recognize the first of those, but those last two are new to me. What are they?” Tigre asked curiously.

“An Ursa is like a giant star bear… With an entire galaxy in it’s fur if you believe that. I don’t know the last one's name though, but it’s a rock crocodile that’s eight times bigger than me.” Twilight said. “The Ursa’s the scariest, it’s as big or bigger than our town.”

“Well, we didn’t believe in talking ponies before coming here either.” Tigre commented. “Hopefully, those Ursas aren’t very common. They don’t sound like something I’d like to fight or see.”

“Would it be better to be loud or silent to avoid trouble in this forest? Back home it was advised you talk while in bear territory to keep them away.” Goliath said, continuing to scan the forest.

“Ursa’s are pretty calm, and only when they’re disturbed are they a threat.” Twilight said.

“That's good to know. I'd think those croc things would stick to swampy areas if they're anything like the ones back home. So, that leaves Cockatrices and Timberwolves to worry about.” Tigre reasoned.

“We’re almost halfway there.” Twilight said, her wings twitching.

“Any reason why your wings are twitching, Princess?” Tigre asked.

“Her wings are twitching? Stay alert. She’s used to this world and its dangers so she might be sensing something without knowing it.” Goliath said, wings spreading out to make him seem bigger.

“No, no… They just… Kinda do that from time to time. It’s weird since my brain is used to only being a Unicorn.” Twilight explained. “The muscles are still pretty new.”

“So you got them fairly recently then? How’d that happen?” Tigre wondered as he noticed Goliath let out a sigh.

“Well, Princess Celestia, my mentor, gave me a spell to fix. She didn’t tell me much though. So I fix it, and since I wasn’t sure it’d work, I tested it out. I thought it failed, so I went to sleep. Next morning, I come to find my friends cutie marks were swapped with one another!”

“The marks on their rears switched…?” Tigre asked perplexed how that could happen.

“Yeah, the cutie marks represent a ponies talent, so my friend Rainbow Dash thought her talent was taking care of animals and… No, she’s not. My friend Fluttershy thought her talent was making others laugh… Guess how that turned out?” Twilight said, eyebrow raised.

“She sucked at it, right? Not everyone can do what another can.” Goliath chimed in.

“Her name’s FlutterSHY.” Twilight giggled. “She did suck, yes. I figured out how to fix it, and after everything was I used a spell on the Elements of Harmony and… I’m not sure… I woke up with wings, and suddenly I’m a Princess…” Twilight stared up ahead vacantly. “Huh… I just realized how cryptic that sounds out loud…”

“So you grew some wings in your sleep after helping your friends with an identity crisis and you have no idea how or why.” Goliath summoned up.

“You didn’t even feel anything when they grew onto your body?” Tigre wondered.

“I felt a warm bubbly feeling in my chest, but that’s it.” Twilight said, shrugging.

“You know, for a forest that you seemed reluctant to travel through this trip has been rather peaceful.” Tigre commented as he looked at the forest around them.

“I’m actually quite glad it is. I’m sure we could handle ourselves well enough, but I’d rather not have to fight if possible right now.” Goliath said, folding his wings around his shoulders. “What’s your town like, Twilight Sparkle?”

“Just Twilight is fine. And it’s pretty okay. It’s usually quiet or exciting.” Twilight explained. “The ponies, like I said, get scared easily though. So it’ll take some time to get them used to the idea of you. Other than that, it’s a beautiful country town with the most unique ponies you’ll meet. Best Apple Farm in Equestria, Fastest Flier in Equestria, and the best Party Mare on the planet.”

“Great. A town full of scaredy cats and we have the scariest looking of the six of us, me, tagging along. Hopefully, no one sees us then.” Goliath said, throwing his arms up in exasperation.

“It is interesting that a country town could hold some of the best ponies in your country, though. I wonder if that’s coincidence or if someone planned it that way?” Tigre said, tapping his chin with his free hand. “Oh! Are there any archery ranges or contests in Equestria? I’d love to be able to practice on more than trees and doors.”

“Uh… I think there’s a filly whose talent is archery, she might know more.” Twilight suggested.

“Hmm, I’ll have to look her up once we’re introduced to the town and they stop being afraid of us. Thanks, Twilight.” Tigre said, a smile playing across his face.

“Is there a way we can not scare them as much? I really don’t know how to handle scared animals. Even if they can talk.” Goliath said.

“I think I’ll get you started with my friends. And don’t call me an animal.” Twilight said, glaring.

“Sorry, still getting used to talking ponies. Ponies were just animals back home so it’ll take me awhile to stop thinking of them as such. Are your friends more resilient than the other ponies?” Goliath explained.

“Once I tell them what you are and who you are, they should be. And hopefully not attack you.” Twilight said. “I know Fluttershy and Pinkie wouldn’t, but the others…”

“Are more shoot first and ask questions later?” Tigre provided.

“Yeah, but once they get to know you they’ll like you. You’ve got to understand, whenever there’s something new it’s usually dangerous. Sirens, Draconequus, Changelings. They’ve all invaded when we didn’t know what they were.”

“Sirens I get, but Draconequus? Changelings? Never heard of them before.” Goliath said.

“The first is a spirit of chaos, they can create, alter, and manipulate anything. There’s only one left, his name is Discord. The Changelings are a race of shapeshifting equines that tried to invade us months back.” Twilight explained.

“Are those two threats no longer able to invade or are they in a dungeon somewhere?” Tigre asked.

“Discord became an ally recently, but the Changelings are still at large.” Twilight said.

“You let an invading race that can shapeshift live to invade another day? That seems foolish to me.” Goliath said.

“We kicked them out, and we haven’t relocated them since.” Twilight snarled. “When we tried to find them, they had retreated. What could you have done instead?”

“Engage them in combat and imprison those who surrender or can no longer fight. Rout them from from the field so as to show them it would be foolish to try another invasion.” Tigre said, thinking along the lines of what a knight in medieval times would have done.

“That’s what we did, but they took us by surprise and had our armies taken out like they were nothing. The only reason we won was through the power of love, which sent them far away.” Twilight stated.

“Power of love? Sounds like a cheesy anime. Did you kill any of them or capture any of them? I’m sure studying their bodies would enable you to figure out how to see through their shapeshifting.” Goliath posed.

“We did, but the Changelings haven’t returned.” Twilight said, rubbing her head.

“Sorry if we seem to be asking obvious questions, your majesty. We don’t know the first thing about this world and can only compare it to what we already know. We appreciate you explaining so much to us.” Tigre said, concerned they were giving Twilight a headache with all their questions and counter arguments.

“It seems your race isn’t as forgiving as I first thought, Twilight. I thought for sure that you hadn’t killed any of your enemies. Or was that just the Changelings?” Goliath said.

“No, we killed a tyrant called King Sombra.” Twilight said, shivering. “That was… Unintentional.”

“So, you wanted to try to capture him, but ended up killing him instead? That must have been one bad situation if it made you unintentionally switch tactics like that.” Goliath responded.

“So, what’s your favorite pass time, Your Majesty?” Tigre said, steering them away from what he perceived as a sensitive topic.

“Mostly reading or spending time with my friends.” Twilight responded.

“Hmm, no other hobbies or anything?” Tigre asked curiously.

“Uh… I practice a lot of magic. And I like to make checklists. Organize books. Uh… Helping my friends...” Twilight listed.

“Hmm, interesting choices. Is there any ponies in town that we should be careful around when we decide to show ourselves? More than the others that is,” Goliath wondered.

“Perhaps Lyra Heartstrings. She’s obsessed with ‘the bipedal way’.” Twilight giggled. “She may be a handful. And maybe the flower triplets.”

“Okay, what’s up with the flower triplets? I can understand Lyra after your explanation, but what is it about those three in particular?” Tigre inquired.

“They freak out about butterflies.” Twilight deadpanned, but it was more of a deadpan aimed at the triplets.

“Then I don’t want to know what they’d do when they see me for the first time. Hopefully, we can stay out of sight of the town when we get to the end of the forest,” Goliath replied.

“How long do you think it’ll take for you to get the ponies to not freak out as much?” Tigre wondered.

“Just let me try to see if I can warm them up to the idea first. Okay?” Twilight asked.

“Alright, I’m just wondering how long we should wait before showing ourselves, that’s all,” Tigre said with a shrug. “A day? A week?”

“A week. I’ll have Zecora the Zebra tell you when I finally am ready.” Twilight said. They finally reached the edge of the forest. “Thank you gentlecolts. Once my magic is full, I’ll see Zecora and tell her to bring to guys food. Kay?”

“You are welcome and you have our thanks, Twilight. If you decide that we can help in anyway or that you have more questions. You know where to find us,” Goliath told her.

“We look forward to meeting you again, Your Majesty,” Tigre said as they began their journey back through the forest.

Twilight sighed happily.

[One Week Later]

Kaz spat his lugy into the unknown crevice. He waited a moment before hearing the splat. “Haha! I knew there was a bottom!

“... You’re disgusting…” Aelita said, making a weird face.

“Isn’t there something better for you to be doing right now?” Cheetara asked. “It’s been about a week since Twilight showed up so maybe you should get ready for the ponies to see you.”

“We’re waiting for Zecora.” Kaz said. “Besides, shouldn’t you be with Ethan and Tigre? Coming up with a plan?”

“I took a break to make sure you weren’t doing any pervy things around Aelita,” Cheetara told him.

Kaz growled. “For the last time, I’m not a pervert! Besides, Aelita has powers and I don’t. She could vaporize me.”

“True, but all of us are still getting the hang of our abilities. Now that I know she’s fine. I’m going to return to Ethan and Tigre. Bye~” Cheetara said before running off to rejoin the planning session.

“I hate her…” Kaz grumbled.

“I like her.” Aelita smiled.

Meanwhile with Ethan and Tigre.

“So if things go south, we can flee back here. Without Kaz and Aelita, we can get here faster.” Ethan stated. “Thoughts?”

“Hmm, that’s a good idea. Are we leaving them here to guard the place then?” Tigre asked curiously.

“Okay, I’m back. I think we should have the most normal of us go greet them first once Zecora comes here to tell us they’re ready to meet us to help soften them up,” Cheetara suggested.

“Cheetara, none of us are normal to them. But maybe our weakest and Goliath should stay here, just in case.” Ethan said. “I mean, the three of us can do this. Right?”

“I think so, but they’re going to have to meet Goliath eventually,” Tigre pointed out.

“I said ‘most normal’, Ethan. Like Tigre and you,” Cheetara countered.

“And two “apes” are normaler than a cheetah on two legs?” Ethan asked.

“For us, yes. For them, none of us are ‘normal’. Showing them our most normal might help ease them into accepting our more extreme comrades, though,” Cheetara replied.

“So, Goliath is staying here with Kaz and Aelita while we go to visit the ponies once Zecora gives us the okay. Sounds like a plan to me,” Tigre said with a smile.

“Okay… It’s settled. I’ll tell Goliath while Tigre tells the other two. Cheetara, you get the any snacks ready.”

“Okay, got it,” Cheetara said before running to the kitchen to prepare their snacks.

“Alright, on my way,” Tigre said as he went to tell Kaz and Aelita about the plan.

Ethan made his way to where Goliath was.

“So, you three figure out a plan?” Goliath asked as he noticed Ethan approach him on the castle’s rampart.

“Yep. You, Aelita and Kaz are staying here while Cheetara Tigre and I go into town. No offence buddy, but you’re kinda scary looking.” Ethan said. “We gotta warm them up.”

“None taken, I know I’m intimidating looking, Ethan,” Goliath replied. “Just make a good first impression for me.”

“... We’ll see.” Ethan stated. “I’m mostly scared about our numbers. Two girls and four guys… Not much room for romance.” Ethan was mostly joking, but it did scare him about being alone and single for the rest of his life.

“I know you’re kinda sorta joking, Ethan, but at least you still look like a normal human. I doubt there’s many who’d like a guy looking like me,” Goliath replied.

“Are you kidding? You’re Goliath! You’ve got more rock hard abs than any human! And you don’t looked ripped! Look, I’m sure there’s some way we can fix this… We may not be the only people here.” Ethan said. “You never know… Anyway, I better head off. Wish me luck.”

“Yeah, thanks, Ethan. Good luck, I’ll keep an eye on the place while you’re gone.” Goliath told him with a smile.

“Later!” Ethan yelled, dashing off.

“You two are so slow!” Cheetara exclaimed as she watched Tigre and Ethan walk up to her.

“We had to talk to people. You just had to get some snacks together and you’re a speedster,” Tigre complained.

“Whatever, she’s going to outrun us anyway. Let’s head to Zecora’s hut.” Ethan said, pulling out two blaster pistols.

“Right behind you,” Tigre said as he nocked an arrow to his bow.

“I’ll be sticking with you two since neither of you have close quarters fighting ability,” Cheetara said before holding up a bag of snack she’d prepared. “Besides, you might get peckish before we arrive at her hut.”

“Pfft!” Ethan laughed. “I have close quarters combat!” Ethan switched his weapons slowly. His Sword appeared in his hands.

“Hmm, okay, but have you trained with that very much?” Cheetara asked curiously.

“... Point taken.” Ethan switched his weapons again. This time, two Sabers appeared in his hands. “Let’s go before we start agu-” Before he could finish, Zecora walked out of the shadows.

“Well… This is quite a turnout.” Ethan stated. The three of them were on a rooftop, watching as ponies gathered. “Makes me want to puke.”

“Um, do we have to meet all of them at one time?” Tigre asked nervously.

“Look at all the ponies! I can’t wait to start learning about their culture and about the different kinds of pony!” Cheetara said excitedly.

“I can’t wait to get in a bed…” Ethan groaned.

“You sure you’re up for this, Ethan? I mean, I’m not excited about this like Cheetara, but I’m not getting sick from thinking about it like you,” Tigre said, a bit concerned for his friend.

“It’s just so girly…” Ethan spat below the house onto the ground. “But let’s get this over with.”

“I’m with you, Ethan. Is Princess Twilight going to be here or are we on our own?” Tigre said, looking around to see if he could see the lavender Alicorn.

“I see her. She’s talking to…” Ethan seemed to freeze up.

“Ethan? Who or what is she talking to?” Cheetara asked as she looked over Ethan’s shoulder to see where he was looking.

Ethan nearly burst out laughing. “She’s talking to a skittles pony…”

“Oh! The sheer genetics needed for that to be natural is astounding! It is natural, right?” Cheetara said as she noticed the rainbow maned pegasus Twilight was talking to.

“I don’t know…” Ethan said. “S’not like I know her… If it isn’t, maybe she’s a gay pride.” Ethan wasn’t smiling anymore. “If it is, whoever designed her is cruel…”

“Either way is fine by me. Do we wait for Twilight to stop talking to her gay friend or do we just go down?” Tigre asked.

“There’s a stage, so I assume she’s waiting for more ponies.” Ethan shrugged. “Let’s wait until she signals us.”

Once Twilight was done talking, she got on stage and cleared her throat. When she spoke, even the three on the rooftop could hear her.

“Hello everypony! It’s nice to see you all here! As you may have heard, there are new… How should I say this… A new sapient species I met in the Everfree. I’m here to tell you that all these claims are true! There are six of them, all different from one another! They saved my life and want to live in peace and harmony with us!” Twilight announced. The ponies in the audience had… Mixed reactions, to say the least.

“Huh… Suppose she’s good at telling ponies the truth.” Ethan muttered.

“Their reactions aren’t very confidence boosting,” Tigre said.

“I can’t tell if that was sarcasm soldier.” Ethan stated, confused.

“It wasn’t sarcasm, Ethan. Some of their reactions boost my confidence, some lower it and the rest do nothing. So, I’m not exactly excited to go down in front of them even with a Princess on our side,” Tigre said as he stared the the multitude of ponies below them.

“Whatever.” Ethan muttered.

“The tactician side of me is telling me that a tactical retreat using the bounding method of moving until a more advantageous situation occurs or we secure a more influential ally is our best course of action, sir.” Tigre said as he examined the area for routes of retreat that would keep them hidden.

Ethan turned to Tigre. “Did you just call me sir?”

“You are our commanding officer at the moment and you called me soldier. So, sir is more appropriate than Ethan. I just forgot that for a moment. What do you think of that assessment?” Tigre replied.

“Personally, I think we’ll be fine,” Cheetara said.

“Commanding officer… Oh, uh, sounds okay, but I think it’s best that one of us introduces ourselves. I suggest you, Tigre, because you aren’t an asshole or annoying.” Ethan stated.

“Very well, I’ll go introduce us. I’m sure Princess Twilight will give us a signal or something when she is ready for us to join her on the stage.” Tigre said.

“How am I annoying or an asshole?” Cheetara asked, crossing her arms under her chest.

“You’ve been annoying Kaz about that pervert thing after I told him to wake you up. Other than that you’re adorable.” Ethan said. “I’m the asshole. Go get ‘em Tigre.”

“I can’t argue against that, but it’s just so fun to annoy him.” Cheetara admitted with a shrug.

“Yes, sir.” Tigre said as he made his way down to the ground level and walked around the crowd of ponies towards the stage Twilight was on.

The ponies didn’t see him until he was on stage. Some gasped, others screamed, and more stayed quiet. Twilight cleared her throat.

“This is Tigre, he’s not going to harm anypony.” Twilight assured the audience, calming the masses.

“Tigre better not screw this up.” Ethan said, sitting down. “What’cha got for snacks?”

“Some sandwiches, crackers and cheese, cookies, some veggies and some fruits.” Cheetara told him as she put the basket of snacks next to Ethan. “I’m sure he’ll do fine. He’s our best representative after all.”

“Maybe so, but none of us are really ready for this.” Ethan said. “If this works out, I want us to get citizenship. Then I’m going to look for other humans.”

“Hmm, that sounds like a good plan. Do you have any idea where to start looking for other humans in this world?” Cheetara asked.

“We woke up in ruins, so I’ll find others in ruins.” Ethan looked out into the horizon. “I don’t want us to be the only humans… I was alone before Goliath befriended my sister and pulled me into the mess."

“Ah, that’s pretty good reasoning, Ethan. I’m sure Enid will find others like us and send some of them our way. She didn’t seem like the type to stop with just us six.” Cheetara said before gently hugging Ethan from behind. “Goliath may have been the start, but you’ve got three more friends now. Even if Kaz is a little off at times.”

Ethan smiled weakly. “Thanks… You have no idea how much this means to me…”

“You’re welcome, Ethan. We’re in this together so I’ll do my best to help. Even that means having to fight.” Cheetara told him with a smile.

“Hello, I’m Tigrevurmud Vorn. You may call me Tigre if my name’s too hard for you to pronounce. Princess Twilight has spoken true. I do not wish to harm any of you. Do any of you have any questions that you’d like me to answer?” Tigre said as he stood next to Twilight on the stage. The Alicorn beamed when there were a few raised hooves in the audience, the crowd having a positive response giving her hope that things could work.

Author's Note

Next Chapter we learn what Kaz can do. As well as what Displaced are, training, and... A school of Displaced?