Wrong Door, Perfect Oppurtunity

Chapters

The New World
Starting of on the wrong(?) claw.
An Awkward Beginning
Everfree Roaming
Everfree searching

The New World

Chapter 1: The new world

When I opened my eyes I knew something was wrong. This place was strange. I felt like I was floating in a black sea but had no form to speak off. I heard a voice call out to me then. “Hello wanderer. You seem to have stumbled across a portal to another realm.” I couldn’t tell whether the voice was male or female. I hated voices like that. Something about the way it had neither male or female tones just creeped me out. “But do not worry. I am here to make sure your trip in Equestria is as easy as I can make it.” Wait Equestria? That wasn’t right I was supposed to go to… Umm. Crap I’m losing it already. Okay focus. Can’t go back now I guess. Even though I really didn’t want MLP to be my first world…

“How can you help me? Who are you?” The questions I wanted to ask came to my mind and then seemed to slip out into the void. Yeah that wasn’t creepy or anything….

“I am the spirit of friendship and I am here to help you on your journey… but my power is limited and each bit of help I can give you will drain some of it. Here is what I can do for you.” With that the spirit showed me a set of different things. ‘Races, Equipment, Humanity, Perks, Talents’… It’s like a D&D game… really wish I took up Hermione’s offer to play a game with her family now… Scanning the lists I saw “AVAILABLE MANA=50” flashing at the top. Okay so it’s a number system…. Sure wish I could get more though. “I am able to grant you a few more points should you so desire. However, you must know that in order to do so you must accept a drawback.” As the spirit spoke one of the tabs expanded allowing me to get a better look. Let’s see; ‘Rival’, no thanks. ‘Solitude’, where the fun in that? ‘Outlaw’, interesting story arc but I have definitely had enough of being falsely hated.

What’s left… Elder Dragon… Hello what have we here. ‘Your existence in Equestria has enraged a very large and powerful dragon’ obviously… blah blah ‘wingspan blots out the sun’ blah blah blah ‘Conventional weapons and magic are useless’ blah blah blah ‘will find you one month after your arrival’ oh good, training time ‘it is said that only those with the truest understanding of friendship, love and magic can stand a chance against this ancient foe’… “Wait so you are saying that I get 20 extra mana and the chance to fight an all-powerful dragon? Oh yeah I am so taking that.” The spirit didn’t even ask me if I was sure, just blotted out the drawback section and added an extra 20 to the total.

The first list for selection was on races. There were your typical three pony types, Alicorn which cost 50 but came with royal duties so no dice, and pretty much every other race that has appeared in the show. Except of course for ‘Human’… Selected. ‘costs 10 mana… get memories perk for free… physical body remains precisely as it was in real life…’ … Wait… Exactly? My mind flashed over my years in the Harry Potter world. Blake said that I had become a character all my own so what else could he base that of off if not the condition my body was in when I died? Picked. And that makes 60 mana left and a whole host of perks and abilities rendered unnecessary. This is so not fair but hey I’m not making the spirits job any harder so why should I care?

Next is equipment. ‘Survival Kit’ for 5 mana… woah that’s a lot of neat stuff for 5 mana. Will sure come in handy when I need to leave town to fight the Elder Dragon. The change of clothes is neat too. Picked. ‘A Bunch A’ Bits’ for another 5 mana, gets me a sack of bits so I’m not penniless but… for an extra 5 I get it refilled each day? Picked. Now; ‘Melee Weapon’, useless. ‘Armor’, useless. ‘Ranged Weapon’, meh I think I have that covered. ‘Staff’, also useless. Well 15 mana on Equipment… I am so glad I did what I did in life. Next is the ‘Humanity’ tab. ‘Memories’, got that for free. ‘Laptop’, managed without the net for over 10 years now I think I’ll be fine. ‘Portal’, permanent way home… meh I’ll probably die in a month anyway may as well enjoy it.

So onto the ‘Perks’ now. ‘Civilisation’, Ehh I have the map, I can handle the Everfree forest fine. ‘House’ tempting… especially that safe haven bit. Could potentially hide from the dragon but I’d rather not risk it if it doesn’t apply to that circumstance. ‘Castle’, Oh now that could be nice. Especially the servants and guards thing. But I’d probably get bored having everything done for me and I’d be insulting Mitzy in a way so no. ‘Companion’, perfect girlfriend? No thanks I can make my own friends… probably. ‘Pet’, oh here we go. 5 mana for a regular pet but an extra 10 makes it more exotic or a beast of myth… Well I do miss the cat I got after that transfiguration accident… and it becomes more intelligent and combat capable so that’s good. And I’m pretty sure it fits in my height/weight range. Yeah fine picked. So that brings me down to 30 mana.

Man this feels like it’s taking forever. Finally, ‘Talents’. ‘Magic’, heh not needed. ‘Nature’, Sorry Fluttershy it isn’t my thing. ‘The Elements’, I think I’m fine on that front… Though I did focus more on brute strength than speed so… Oh why not I’ll buy the speed and agility bit of wind. And the tangible heroic aura is neat to. Boost’s morale and intimidation? Yep. ‘Darkness’ I think I’ll avoiding playing the thief this time. Pass. ‘Light’, hmm another aura that soothes emotions and spreads happiness along with some other benefits if I focus? Sounds kind of like an empath ability. Yeah I’ll take it. I could upgrade it but I wouldn’t call my intent pure so no good for me. ‘Fitness’, got it handled buddy, man do I love being me right now. ‘Flight’, yeah no wings. ‘Alchemy’, oh I can handle potions fine… Though this is a new world with new ingredients and poisons I would be unfamiliar with… Okay I’ll get the two 5 mana options. Allows me to brew simple potions and identify ingredients and spot the dangerous ones.

That leaves me with 5 mana to spend… which just so happens to be the amount needed to be put into the ‘Community’ talent. Let’s see here ‘will grant you natural skill and special talent in one creative skill, craft, or profession of your choice (smithing, singing, baking, mercantile, dance, art, carpentry and any other job can work), or amplify your ability in that field if you are already talented in it already.’ Wow… that’s a lot of choice… Hmm… well smithing does sound interesting… and I did learn a couple of things from the Goblins that one time… Plus if I pick it then that opens up so many other potential possibilities thanks to my magical past… God this must be cheating but screw it smithing it is. Kind of wished I picked the ore sense now but I’ll make do. With my choices made and finalised I saw a portal open in front of me and a strange power shifting my body and forcing new knowledge into my mind. It has been quite some time since my mind felt any sort of stress. So as I fell towards the portal I could feel myself pass out.

When I woke up I was lying down on the ground in some kind of forest. Looking down I noticed my clothes had changed. I was wearing all black. Black shoes, black pants, black shirt. I mean I prefer darker colours but I'm more of a dark blue or crimson type then a straight pitch black. I also had the sack of bits attached to my belt. Looking down told me one thing though. My skin was that stupid type of pale pink you get from those so called "skin coloured" markers. I had a good tan going damnit. Now it's ruined all because I'm in a bloody cartoon. Stupid writer me could have warned me I was going in the wrong door. But this is okay. I got a good deal out of the situation. Not that the spirit realised it… I feel a bit bad for taking advantage of the spirit of friendship but really it’s not my fault I had such a good skillset before I got here. Standing up I started walking after making sure to pick up the survival kit lying next to me, I did have a cat to find after all. It got a bit gloomy the further I went though, I must have been on the edge and picked the wrong direction to head towards. That would probably be for the best though, no point in heading for civilisation without my pet... I paused and looked around again at the forest that had now become dark with creepy shades of blue. Knowing my luck, and my own sadistic pleasure at torturing myself, I probably got stuck on the edge of the world map in a barren wasteland... Well barren except for the forest. What's the word for nobody around for miles again? ... I miss the little voice in my head... He could always help me out and it made me feel less crazy for talking to myself even if it is just in my head.

Getting caught up in my train of thoughts I almost missed the crunch of leaves being stepped on. In fact, had I not just gone through hell I might have missed it even if I had been paying attention. Turning to my right I shifted and raised my guard. I don't know how well my magic would work here considering the rules I got given but considering I can still feel my wand in its holster I should be able to handle anything a simple cartoon can throw at me... Then again this isn’t your average cartoon... This one had some dangerous creatures.... Had I not turned towards the noise I would have missed them again, I have got to stop letting my mind wander. Another thing Christian was good for. They stepped out slowly, there were three of them moving silently, and when I focused on them again the blood drained from my body. Not out of fear, handling them would be a breeze even if I had been stripped of my magic, but because dear God did I hate myself right now. Especially since it just occurred to me that even if I had picked the wrong door he could just change it after I went through. The door was my choice not me stepping into another universe.... Least I don't think it was.... I moved on reflex as one of the beasts lunged at me shifting to the left and slamming my open palm into its side, thankyou agility boost. With the firm blow the timber wolf collapses into a pile of the sticks and branches that made it up. Determined not to lose focus again I turned back towards the other two that were now watching me warily their green eyes glowing knowing that I wouldn't be some easy prey. I lifted my hands slightly away from my sides palms facing towards them with my fingers lightly curled. Now let's see here... If I'm right and my magic is largely unaffected then... With a thought and a slight force of will fire erupted into life in my hands flickering around my fingers. Slightly more effort than normal but not that big of a deal. I didn't spend years mastering wandless fire magic for nothing. Upon seeing the flames, the remaining timber wolves freaked out and ran for it.

Well time to get out of here. I know what my limits are and I could make a fairly accurate guess as to where exactly I am in the cartoon world, considering the timber wolves and all, so all that's left is to talk to a certain somepony and..... Oh god I said somepony... I shook my head and started walking out muttering to myself. "I mean sure I was a brony when I woke up in Harry Potter world but that was 10 years ago... For me at least. I've grown and changed. I mean Jeez the crap I've gone through... Not to mention I'm in my 30's now mentally. Hell after I went to Hogwarts I completely stopped caring about what episode was on... Actually now that I think about it I wonder why I made tv and technology current. Would have been funnier if nobody got the references I made and looked at me like I was crazy. Wait… did I even make it current? I know MLP was there but… Ah well doesn't matter. Getting to the edge of what I now know to be the Everfree forest I stopped and looked over ponyville. Leaning against another tree I took a deep breath. How in the hell was this going to work? I mean aside from Twilight none of these ponies have seen a human and few more know that they exist... Oh jeez how am I even going to explain all this? I mean I got caught up a bit because Rose begged me but that was only up to the end of season 5.... Memories that we're starting to become clearer.... Okay I can take a hint I'm at the end of season 5. That just makes things harder to explain if, oh who am I kidding with my luck it's a definite when, I mess up and say something I shouldn't know. In that case it would be better if I explained myself early... I sighed loudly. This was so not going to end well.

"Umm.... Excuse me?" A quiet question came from my left. Turning I saw a very familiar pegasus. Of course the one I had seen most recently was more of a silver outline instead of the yellow horse now before me.... Ohhh, that was why. More embarrassing if people know what my patronus is. Shaking my head, I focused back on the shy pony who was now shrinking back and hiding behind her hair.

"I'm sorry, I got lost in thought. That was terribly rude of me. Can I help you?" Soft, gentle and as kind as possible without being fake. Best way to make sure she doesn't run off.

The shy pegasus was now pawing at the ground looking away from me before responding. Her voice was even quieter than before and had it been anyone else I doubt they would have heard her. Especially since she was standing so far away. "It's just that... I saw you standing there... And you looked lost.... And the forest is kind of dangerous.... And I'm really really sorry for bothering you........ Please don't be mad at me..." After that I couldn't tell if she was still talking or if she actually started whimpering. I don't think I'm that scary so she may have been mumbling more things to placate me.

"Oh you're not a bother. And how could I hate such an innocent pony like you? I'm not a monster. As for the forest I'd already figured that out. Kind of hard not to when a trio of timber wolves jump you."

She squeaked and came hurrying over to me. "Timber wolves? They didn't hurt you did they? They can be really dangerous with their claws and their teeth. They aren't like other animals which can be nice and sweet once you get to know them.” She kept babbling as she checked me over for injuries. Man was she adorable. I could just pick her up and cuddle her.

So I did. I don’t know why I did. I hadn’t had anything to do with ponies outside my patronus for a long time now but some part made me do it. Something Im certain I had stopped feeling by around 4th year. Maybe it was the reset from entering a new world or something else entirely. All I knew was that hearing the yellow pegasus squeak as I picked her up and started petting her was the absolute cutest thing I could ever imagine. “It’s okay. No need to worry I can take care of myself. But thank you so very much for caring. It’s nice to know that there are ponies like you that are so very sweet and kind.” Okay maybe I was laying it on a little thick but it was all true and damnit I just couldn’t help myself. I was feeling more like a kid than I was when I first ended up in the Harry Potter world. Heck more than when I actually was a kid.

Fluttershy hadn’t said anything yet and at first I thought it was because she was frozen in fear, which made me feel quite terrible, but when I looked at her face it was to see her with her eyes closed and blushing fiercely as I scratched behind her ear. Pausing I brought my fingers back ever so slightly only to feel her press back against them. Correction. This was the cutest thing I’d ever seen. Especially since I don’t even think she realised she was doing it. I mean sure I was holding her a little awkwardly but no way was that going to make me stop. Nothing would in my opinion. At least that's what I thought until something barrelled into the back of my legs causing me to fall flat on my ass, thankfully I avoided crushing the survival pack. Fluttershy let out a squeak and flapped her wings as I hit the ground.

Ignoring the blushing and stuttering pegasus for now I turned my glare on the black ball of fluff that was responsible for my fall. Said ball of fluff was sitting on the ground staring at me while licking its paw and smirking. "I was wondering where you had gotten off to you little furball. What have you been up to?" I folded my arms and stared down at the cat who simply opened its mouth and kicked its lips. "Of course you were eating." Grumbling I got up and brushed myself off a bit. "Fluttershy meet my cat Merry. Fuzzball meet Fluttershy."

I turned to look at the pegasus only to see her stare at me in shock and a little bit of fear. Was it the talking to my cat? Or maybe being so fine with being knocked over? "H-how do you know my name?" Oh. Oh crap. Well stop the clock ladies and gentlemen barely made it a minute talking to my first pony and I've already screwed myself. Geez dude could you make a stupider mistake?

I glared at my cat again. "I blame you for this furball." The cat simply turned and started walking towards town. When I asked for a cat like the one I lost I didn't expect it to be the exact same blooming cat. I sighed and put my face in my hands. "Listen Fluttershy this is going to be one complicated story and I don't expect you to believe me. So I would appreciate it very much if you would just take it in stride and wait until I can tell all your friends at once." Especially Pinkie Pie. Pinkie definitely needs to be there. With my piece said I turned and started walking after my cat. A few minutes passed before I heard the flapping of wings next to me. I didn't turn to look not wanting to scare her off.

It was only when I realised that my cat had decided to take the way around ponyville to the castle that Fluttershy decided to speak up. "So.... Umm.... Why Merry?" It was spoken quietly enough that even I barely heard the question and yet somehow the fuzzball still turned and smirked at me. But I'd take what I could get.

"Well it's a bit of a long story actually. The short of it is that I found her and discovered she had a bit of a talent for turning into a much bigger cat. At first I thought she was some type of chimera so I called her Merra for short. However a friend of mine who really knows his animals said she was actually a species known as a Feraguan who have the ability to alter their size." Merry grew to the size of a small panther to show what I meant. "At that point though I had kind of gotten used to the name Merra so when I was thinking of different ones I noticed how happy she seemed to be all the time. So the name became Merry. She seemed to like it well enough so it stuck." I shrugged unsure if she was looking at me or not. It was by no means the whole story, or even all that truthful, but the less I had to explain the better.

We continued to walk a bit in silence until the front door of the castle came into view. Just as I was about to ask if I should knock or something Merry grew enough so that she could just push the door open. Sighing I followed after her calling out as I entered the door. "Hello? Anybody home? I don't mean to intrude. Blame the cat." Said cat glared at me and continued walking into the castle. How it knew where to go I had no idea....

"Umm.... we were supposed to meet up in the map room today.... It's at the end of the hall..." The yellow pegasus mumbled again seeming to have relaxed a bit once we entered the castle. I had already known that, or at least that it was at the end of one hall somewhere, but that wasn't what I was worried about. Merry had opened up the door to a different hall and walked off. Meaning that a) she did know where she was going somehow and b) she was most likely headed to the kitchen... What am I going to do with her....

So in silence we walked towards the big doors at the end of the hall. When I pushed one open I could hear the slight chatter come to a stop. "Jeez Fluttershy you sure took your...." The voice that could only belong to the rainbow pegasus herself fell silent as a slight gasp rang throughout the room. Looking around I saw the rest of the mane 6 staring at me. Rainbow was shocked, her mouth dropping open. Rarity just seemed stunned, though whether that was due to me being human or my outfit I couldn't tell, anything was possible with that girl. Apple Jack was looking at me suspiciously. Twilight kept glancing behind me looking worried, probably thinking something went wrong with her portal, speaking of which... I didn't see Starlight Glimmer anywhere, since she was now part of the group as of the season 5 finale wouldn't that mean she should be here? Unless of course the finale hadn't happened yet. Meaning the third Equestria Girls movie hadn't happened. Interesting.

Dropping that train of thought I looked for the one pony who I hoped to be here.... Who was no longer in her seat. Where on earth did she-

"Hey there!"

"Waak!" Said pony appeared right in front of my face smiling causing me to fall backwards in surprise and land on my behind again.

"Pinkie do you happen to know this here.... Uhh..." AppleJack trailed off.

"Human." Twilight supplied.

"Thank yeh. Pinkie Pie do you know this here human?" AJ hadn't taken my eyes of me as I stayed sitting on the ground. Fluttershy had flown off to her seat but Pinkie Pie stayed in front of me smiling before turning her head to face the others.

"Nope. Which is really unfair since he knows all about us. I can't even throw an introductory party. Maybe an everyone gets to meet you party? Or welcome to another world party. Oh maybe I could throw a-"

"PINKIE!" Several voices cried out at once. My own being one of them. Couldn't help it really, as much as I found her rambling cute every so often now was not a good time for that.

"Whaaaaat?" Pinkie said pouting slightly.

I cleared my throat and got back to my feet before speaking. "Well Pinkie Pie. Since you seem to somehow have an idea of what's going on mind filling the rest of your friends in?" I asked calmly but inside I was begging any higher power that would listen to not have her say too much. I had no idea what knowledge she possessed of my life and there are quite a few things I would prefer not to have brought up.

"Oh. Okie dokie Loki." She smiled and bounced back to her seat before taking a deep breath. "Well you see our new friend comes from another world except it's not really another world more like a separate reality with wizards and magic wands! But even that's not his original world. Instead he ended up in that worlds version of him because of reasons and since we're a cartoon he knows everything about us that could be shown! Isn't that cool?"

The rest of the ponies just stared at Pinkie in shock before slowly looking at me. All I could do was chuckle nervously and nod slowly. Did not expect that much.

"So.... We are a cartoon in your world? And you watch us?" Great I'm being judged for watching MLP by Rainbow Dash now. This is not my day.

"Uhuh. In fact there is an entire adult fandom out there that makes songs and art and stories all about us." Pinkie answered for me before I could even open my mouth to defend myself.

"Well while that is quite interesting sweetie I must ask how our guest came to be here?" It was Rarity that spoke up this time but once again it was Pinkie that spoke up.

"Oh he went through the wrong door."

"...... Beg pardon?" Silence broken by AJ of course. I expected Twilight to have started grilling me by now but maybe she was still trying to figure things out. Whatever it was I should probably try and clarify things... Least as well as I could.

"Okay.... Well like Pinkie said my last world wasn't my original one. I'll fill you in on what that means some other time if you'd like? Once I had fulfilled my purpose in that world I was given a choice. Stay in that world or move onto some others." Kind of true. No need to mention me staying in that world meant accepting death. "And since I was told I could keep the abilities I'd learnt in that world in the others, within reason, I decided to explore a different world..." I paused slightly embarrassed. "And.... I kind of picked the wrong world to enter and wound up here. I can't even remember what world I originally picked." No need to mention more than that for now I think. At least unless they ask.

"So you were brought to our world from your own by some powerful being correct?" Twilight spoke up at last. Seems she has figured out what she wanted to say now. Not sure how that will affect me though.

"Um.... Yes?" I mean that is probably the easiest way of putting it.... Especially without going into all the confusing details.

"And you trust this being?" She was looking at me seriously now... Oh I get it. She's worried that whatever magic was used to bring me here may have some long reaching affects.... That or she hopes to study me to find out what magic was used. Man I really cannot read these ponies.

"If I didn't I would not have agreed to their proposal." The ponies looked at each other unsure of whether they could trust me or not. May as well say something else. Not like I have been telling the whole truth already. "Listen whatever door I picked I could choose to either adventure or relax. I know this world, as Pinkie has explained." Said Pink pony smiled and started bouncing, that's probably not good for me. "I know how peaceful it is and what dangers may potentially arise. Me being here will not bring any increased danger upon you all." Except for the ancient dragon but that's a month away and he will only be after me.... Speaking off. "I don't intend to stay here for long anyway. I'll be able to pick another world to travel to in a months’ time."

"A month? Why can't you just leave now?" Brash as ever Rainbow....

"Because by the time a month has passed I'm certain I'll be able to fulfil the requirements that allow me to move on. Which I am afraid I am unable to share. In fact I'm amazed I could say this much." Mainly because I never believed you would hear me out and I doubt you want to know I'm going to die trying to fight the dragon. Times like these I'm not surprised I ended up in Slytherin. I'm too manipulative to have ended up anywhere else. "Though..." I trailed off not really wanting to say it.

"Yes?" The entire table spoke then in differing tones. Except for the still bouncing pink one though.

"If it would make you feel better I could leave? I'm quite capable of surviving for that long on my own. I wouldn't even have to meet another pony if I stayed away from towns." Not how I would like to spend my time in Equestria but if it's what they want.... I mean it is why I got that survival kit… even if I thought I would only need it when it comes to the end of my time here.

"No."

"What?" My voice joined Rainbow's and Apple Jacks in response to Twilights announcement.

"I will not force someone to cut of all contact with society until we have properly discussed this."

"What's to discuss. He gives a mean back scratch." I have no idea when Pinkie Pie ended up in my arms or when I started scratching her behind the ears but I probably should have expected that. "Right Fluttershy?" The yellow pegasus obviously didn't if the way she blushed bright red and sunk down under all the looks she got was any indication.

"Yeah I feel like I should apologise for that. Sorry if I made you uncomfortable at all, I just didn't really think before I did it." I continued to scratch and pet Pinkie Pie as I spoke. Not like I had much choice in the matter but I wasn't complaining.

"And what exactly caused you to act without thinking?" AJ turned to look at me and folded her front hooves. This would look really weird if it wasn't a cartoon...

"Hey she was fussing over me to see if I was hurt from my confrontation with the timber wolves. It was adorable. Nothing new for Fluttershy of course, she has a lot of those moments, you all do really, and well I am really not good at controlling myself when it comes to cute things." Speaking off. Pinkie had started purring and nuzzling more against me. I hope it was to prove my point because I'm pretty sure she is not meant to be this affectionate.... Or she's messing with me. Probably the latter.

"Err... Come again?" AJ spoke up again and seemed quite bewildered as to what I meant. I assumed she was referring to me saying they all have cute moments

"Well in my world you are a show aimed at young girls. Your morals and adventures won you favour with the adults and the males but can't really ignore what you started as. So cute happens all the time to all of you. Whether it be Fluttershy just being herself, Pinkie Pie being herself." I pulled my hand away causing her to glare at me. Definitely messing with me. "Or Rainbow Dash having one of her Wonderbolts freak outs.... Or her moments with Tank. All cute and adorable."

The entire table was silent and Pinkie had her mouth wide open in shock… Wait… Looking down I saw I was scratching thin air. How on earth did she…. Nevermind. I put my arms down by my side after fiddling with the straps of my survival kit. Well Twilight cleared her throat and everyone turned to look at her. “Well… I believe we know enough about you and your world. If you could please step outside while we discuss this?”

“Oh sure. No problem.” I turned and left the room feeling a bit more scared then I thought I would be… I mean so what if I have to wonder around for a month… It’s not like I’m aiming to truly understand the magic of friendship and love to beat the unbeatable dragon. It’s basically time to kill until it kills me and I can go to a different world… So why do I feel so sad…

Author's Note

Well..... Did not expect it to be that long.... Im kind of new to this sort of formatting so if I have overlooked something or accidentally messed something up please let me know. Not sure when the next chapter will be up or how long it will be. I probably could have cut this up but I just kept writing and couldnt find a place where I wanted to stop until I forced it. I'll link the picture that gave me this idea once I find it again. I had it saved but I can no longer find it. Or post it here if I figure out how to without it being to intrusive.

Anyway let me know what you all think.

Starting of on the wrong(?) claw.

Starting off on the wrong(?) claw.

Okay this was fine. Everything would be absolutely fine. I'm just stuck in a world full of ponies, that I'm betting writer me has grown to love more than I have, and I may be forced to be an outcast until I'm hunted down and killed by the dragon... "Why did I pick that option again?" I mumbled to myself as I kept pacing back and forth in front of the doors.... Oh yeah. Because I figured death would get me to move onto the next world quicker. A sound plan. After all that's how things went the first time through.... So why am I completely regretting that decision now? I've dealt with dragons before. Sure they were nowhere near as big and powerful as this one sounds like... Well except for that one time but I wouldn't really call that a dragon.... Demon? Yeah that's a better fit.... Where was I?

Coming to a stop I wondered how I managed to derail my train of thought so perfectly. I knew I was worried about something but I'd completely forgotten what that was.... Great. It seems I've lost my mind if I can be distracted and confused that easily. That won't come back to bite me in any way.... Sighing I leant against the wall and waited for something to happen. I did not expect that thing to be a small purple dragon rushing last me and into the room screaming for Twilight. However, I should have expected the black blur that was chasing after it, which didn't seem to notice me as it tried to run into the room amid shocked cries. The fuzzball sure did notice when I tackled it to the ground before it reached the table and pinned it there.

"Oh.... I didn't know she could grow that big." Fluttershy was the first to speak after seeing me hold a giant cat to the ground, where it continued to struggle.

"Yeah.... Sorry about that Spike. I keep forgetting how much trouble she can be...." I glared down at my overgrown furball Merry as she growled back at me having somehow managed to twist around to face me. "Every time. Just tell me why you have to make a mess and feel like picking a fight every time we go somewhere knew." It was bloody déjà vu of the first time I brought her home. Of course she was much younger then but the exact same thing happened. She ran through the house and I decided to be stupid and tackle her. Of course she settled down immediately once I had her still... But now....

I threw myself off of the not so merry kitty amid gasps as she took a swipe at me and managed to tear through my shirt. Okay something upset her and triggered her predator instincts. Not good. Especially since her attention was on me now. Okay think. What could have done it. I dove to the side as she leapt at me and just managed to grab her around the middle and toss her into the hallway. Well the only time she ever got this mad was when she caught her reflection in the rubies on Gryffindor's sword.... And I left her alone in a castle with a ruby eating dragon. I threw my hands out and blasted my giant cat back out of the room as she jumped again. "Could I be any dumber today?" I cried out in frustration as I ran after her this time. First the immediate slip up with Fluttershy, getting close to being exiled from pony contact and now I'm being attacked by my own cat. The one thing capable of hurting me that I can't bring myself to harm.

I tackled Merry to the ground again wincing as one of her claws pierced my shoulder and holding back a cry as she turned her head and chomped down on my right arm. But still I had her restricted now. And with a force of will that was never required of me before I pooled my magic and thrusted myself into the wild mess that was a furious cat's mind. Bursts of rage and buried instincts pushed against me as I searched for the trigger that had been flipped. Why a red reflection makes her go nuts and attack everything I never found out but as I could still feel her teeth and claws tearing at my skin I didn't really care. I found the light red pool that signified her berserker mode and upon dipping a finger in it turned back to its clear reflection of the surrounding world. With that I also felt the claws and teeth immediately withdraw from my skin so I did the same and retreated from her mind.

Coming back into my own head I saw Merry whimpering and licking at the wounds she had caused me. Nudging her head lightly I smiled as she looked at me upset. I didn't hear the shouts of the other ponies or feel their hooves as they tried to get me away from my monster of a cat. All I knew was that I was in more pain and feeling a whole lot more exhausted than I had for a very long time. So I passed out on top of my cat.

When I woke up I found myself laying on a bed with my feet dangling over the end. Kind of expected to be half on and half off any pony bed but I guess I was wrong about the dimensions of their mattresses. More important though was how my entire upper body was covered in bandages with my right arm bound tightly to my chest. Merry must have done more damage to me than I thought. Aside from piercing my shoulder and chomping down on my arm she must have gone nuts slashing at me when I entered her mind. I could practically feel where she broke the skin beneath the bandages. No wonder I passed out. Shirt is probably ruined too. Well at least I'm still in my pants.... Back to Merry though. I should probably see if she's okay.

Slowly using my left arm to ease myself up I turned and was about to stand up when the door opened and voices entered the room. "I don't know Rainbow... He was hurt pretty badly... Maybe we should take him to the hospital."

"Oh come on Twilight you heard Pinkie Pie. He heals quickly I bet he'll be just fine. Besides he's the one who decide to- oh." Said pegasus and alicorn had stopped and were now staring at me in surprise.

Tilting my head at them I figured being blunt was the best way to handle things. "I take it you still expected me to be out cold and in pain?" Two slow nods were my response. Smiling at them I stood up fully hiding my wince as the freshly healed skin pulled lightly. "Well Pinkie is right. I do heal fast. It's thanks to the magic of my world." Along with several painful rituals that would probably scare you and that I am extremely glad still apply here. "So umm... Where is Merry? And who do I have to thank for fixing me up?"

"Huh? Oh! Right. Well... After patching you up Fluttershy went to find... Merry was it?" I nodded and Twilight continued. "Well she's currently hiding under the table in the dining room." I frowned and quickly left the room with the two of them quickly following me.

"Uh do you even know where the dining room is?" Rainbow Dash asked flapping along behind me.

"Third door on the left as you enter the castle, second on the right correct?" I replied as I kept walking before stopping. "But... I have no clue how to get there from here."

Twilight stepped in front of me and kept walking so I followed her. "Close" she said sounding surprised. "It's actually the fourth on the left." I could hear Rainbow sigh behind me as we entered another hallway and was just about to say something when Twilight continued. "So... What happened? Fluttershy said your cat seemed friendly. If a bit..."

"Cheeky?" I offered as she trailed off.

"Yeah... And she seems calm now. Upset but calm." Twilight responded looking back at me curiously.

"Yeah..." I scratched the back of my head. "That's kind of my fault."

"Told ya..." Rainbow muttered from behind me but I ignored her and kept going.

"See Merry has done that before. She was smaller and so easier to deal with but she must have been trying to scare Spike away from whatever he was cooking when her switch was flipped." I'm really glad she was a tiny kitty the first time. She probably would have torn me to pieces back then.

"Her Switch?" Rainbow flew next to me as she asked her question.

"Yeah. We were never really sure why but for some reason she goes berserk whenever she spots her reflection in a ruby. Only rubies too. We must have tried hundreds of other red gemstones to see if she just had problem with the reflection of a gem or the colour red in general. Nothing." I shrugged. That confused everyone. Even Hagrid and he was the one who told me what she was to begin with.

"Could it be something to do with her species? And the magical properties they have?" Asked the ever curious Twilight.

I shrugged again as we came to a stop in front of another door. Guess she wanted me to answer before we entered. "Don't know. Feraguans were thought to be extinct. In fact, they were well on their way to just becoming a made up creature before I found Merry." I stepped forward and opened the door, holding it for the mares to enter behind me.

Looking around I saw Fluttershy peering under the table, Rarity and Applejack of in the corner talking about something. Pinkie Pie did not seem to be around anywhere but I did keep my eyes open in case she jumped me again. But to get the most important thing out of the way first I carefully walked up next to Fluttershy and smiled at her as she turned to look at me. I turned back to the table so I didn't notice how looks were exchanged behind me or how AJ quickly moved towards Twilight and started talking about something. Slowly I eased myself down onto my knees so I could look under the table. It took a while for my eyes to adjust enough but when they did I could just make out Merry's outline curled up and shaking lightly.

"Oh my poor kitty. It's okay. I'm alright see?" I spoke softly and smiled as Merry slowly turned towards me. "Come on Merry. You know I'm tougher than that. I'm fine." My now tiny chimera stood up and slowly crawled towards me before stopping halfway. "What's wrong sweetie?" I asked before seeing her eyes focused on the bandages wrapped around my chest. "Ah. Right." Sitting upright I reached behind me and quickly found the end of it and started unwrapping them before any of the ponies could voice an objection. When they were lying in a pile next to me I bent back under the table. "See Merry? Not a scratch." I reached both my arms under so she could see how not even a bite mark remained. After that she quickly bolted towards me purring and mewling softly. Smiling I held her to my chest and slowly stood up as she nuzzled against me. Had this been the first time I'd held a cat the fur against my skin would probably have tickled. As it stood it was kind of comforting in a way.

Noticing the ponies looking at me in shock I scratched Merry behind the ears and cast a silencing charm around her. I rubbed my nose against hers as she looked up at me to reassure her. I just cheered her up I don't want her scampering under the table again talking about what she did. "How in tarnation are you okay?! You were out cold for 20 minutes!" AJ's shock made me blink in surprise. Less than half an hour? It normally takes 5 times that before I'm fully healed. And that's with some magical assistance.

"I don't know... That's definitely a new type of record for me." I shrugged and kept petting Merry while the ponies looked at each other.

"Well... You have to admit darling... It is a bit strange. You were quite injured and now... Well you didn't even stain your bandages." Rarity was the next to speak up and she gestured at the bandages on the floor as she did so.

Looking at the bandages I raised my hand, causing Merry to look up at me again, and with another push of will and magic they rolled themselves up and flew into my hand. "Who do I have to thank for that by the way?" The ponies looked at me in disbelief as Fluttershy slowly raised her hand, err hoof, blushing. I smiled at her before looking back down at the bandages. "Well.... They may be clean but I'm not entirely sure you would want them back...."

Fluttershy blushed some more and looked at the ground before mumbling. "It's okay.... You can keep them.... You know... Just in case...."

I smiled and slipped them into the pocket of my ripped pants before looking over all of the mane 6. Wait... "Pinkie where did you come from?... And what's with the cake?"

"Well duh. This is for your 'Welcome to Equestria' party. Though I wasn't quite sure what to put as your name." Pinkie Pie had dragged a cake to the front that did indeed say welcome to Equestria on it.

"You know she's right, you still haven't told us your name." Rainbow spoke up crossing her forelegs while flapping in place.

"Huh. My apologies. I guess I was so caught off guard by everything it completely slipped my mind." While I spoke my thoughts moved rapidly. What should I call myself here...? My name would just be awkward but I'm not the same guy who made a pony OC so no way in hell am I doing that. So something pony like but similar enough to my name would be ideal... So the best choice would be... "Call me Striker." However, with that out of the way... "There a problem Twilight?" I asked the purple alicorn who seemed determined to hide and not look at me.

"What? No. No of course not. Why would there be a problem? No problem here." I folded my arms and walked towards her while she was rambling and crouched down in front of her.

"You sure?" I asked trying to look her in the eyes. She simply glanced at me then down to my chest before looking away and blushing. "Ah..." I said standing up. "My apologies. Of course being the only pony familiar with humans you would understand the importance we put on clothes. I did not mean to make you uncomfortable." I took a step back and held out my hand… and nothing happened.

“Something wrong?” Rarity asked me curiously as I stared out my hand

“No… my magic just isn’t reacting properly. Should have expected it honestly but it will take some getting used to.” That got Twilight’s attention. Rest of them too, guess they were glad to know that I was actually going to explain what I had been doing. Closing my eyes, I focused on the survival kit I’d had with me and pushed on my magic to summon it to me. However, something else happened instead… One moment I can hear the bag rushing into my hand and the next my magic floods back into my body and up to my brain. It felt like thousands of thoughts and memories had come shooting to the surface all at once.

I must have passed out because when I opened my eyes I was laying on the cold floor while being softly shaken. “Striker?” Huh…didn’t expect Fluttershy to want to be close to me… then again she did bandage me up so what do I know?

Letting out a quiet groan I pulled myself into a sitting position with my head in my hands. “Can someone pass me the backpack?” I asked holding my hand out. After feeling it pushed into my grasp I rummaged through it and pulled out a shirt that I quickly put on. “Thanks.” I muttered as I tried opening my eyes.

“You sure you ain’t still hurt?” AJ spoke and my gaze turned to her. I found her immediately on my right and at eyelevel. Man these ponies are small…

“Striker!” I shook my head and turned towards the voice that called my name. I must have zoned out staring at Apple Jack. Twilight was looking at me slightly worried.

“I’m fine… just… another side-effect.” I shook my head again and thought about standing up but I just couldn’t bring myself to do it. “I think… my memories just re-synched with my original world…” The ponies looked at each other in confusion.

“And that means what exactly?” Well Rainbow seemed to have calmed down… how nice she’s much cuter when she’s not mean… What the heck is wrong with my thought patterns?

“Well…” I trailed off as another wave of pain rushed through my head. This was nowhere near fun…. I feel nauseous…

“He’s remembering what the original him was like when it came to us!” Pinkie seemed happier for some reason. Then she patted my head. “Don’t worry. Pinkie will explain. Sleep tight Striker-wiker.”

I let out a moan of relief as she said that and, after moving the backpack into position as a pillow, I fell back and closed my eyes. “Pinkie I could kiss you…” I didn’t notice saying that out loud as I passed out again. I knew I’d be out for quite a while as the new memories were sorted. Then Id worry about just what triggered the memory influx.

What I should have been worried about was how much Pinkie knew. But at that moment I didn’t know there was anything to be worried about and even if I did I doubt I could have stopped her. Still… wish I did or the next day wouldn’t have been so awkward…

Author's Note

And another chapter. Could have gone on but I think this is a good point. Am I doing okay so far?

An Awkward Beginning

Waking up was a lot harder than it was last time. My brain felt like sludge and my body felt like it had been chained to the bed... Which my feet were actually on this time... Okay Striker definitely time to move. Forcing myself up I opened my eyes and looked around. The room was the same as the one I was in before and it looked exactly the same. In fact, the bed was the only thing that changed, having gotten bigger.

Groaning I pushed myself off of the bed. And felt my feet come into contact with the cold floor. Looking down I saw that not only had my shoes been removed but that I had been changed into a pair of dark blue pjs that I assumed must have been in my survival kit. Speaking of which, said kit just so happened to be sitting next to the door.... I sighed remembering what had happened when I got to the castle. I might be needing this after all... And there's no point in getting changed if I have to leave. Can't let any pony see me after all. I hope they don't blame Merry for what happened... Well they didn't seem to yesterday. Putting my shoes on I walked out into the hall and paused. "Where the heck am I?" I muttered.

Shrugging I walked the direction opposite the one I went yesterday... Was it yesterday? I felt like I've been out for a while so yesterday is a good bet. Then again I felt like that last time and that wasn't even half an hour. While pondering all this I kept picking doors and walking through them hoping to get lucky. Hallway, hallway, bathroom, hallway, library which I could have sworn was nowhere near here, a locked door, Twilight's bedroom judging from the stuffed animal which actually made sense being near the library. Ah here we go, a hallway with big double doors on either end. And since the double doors on my left had windows next to them with sunlight pouring in that meant the ones on my right had to be the map room/throne room. It also meant that I was in a completely different wing than I thought it was. Well that or I looped around the castle somehow.

Shaking my head I entered the throne room to complete silence. Well almost. Pinkie was busy eating cake while the other ponies all had looks varying in degrees of uncomfortable. Which shot up several notches when they noticed me. Darn it Pinkie what the hell did you tell them? "Pinkie what in Tartarus have you been telling everypony?" It's unnerving how easy it is to slip into pony speak.

"Whaaat?" Pinkie pouted at me with frosting covering her face. "I was just filling them in on what normally happens in these types of situations." The frosting, along with the rest of the cake, was quickly devoured while I tried to figure out what she meant. As the others shifted and blushed, dependant on the pony of course, an image floated to the front of my brain. In fact, a lot of images floated to the front of my brain. "I mean I haven't even told them what happens when Anon shows up."

"PINKIE!" That name brought up a whole different batch of images which left me feeling in desperate need of a shower. "They do not need to know because nothing, I repeat, NOTHING, like that is going to happen. Am I clear? In fact, they didn't even need to know about the other scenario."

"Now hold on a second there. Don't ya think we have the right to know just what the hay we are gettin ourselves into havin you around?" AJ spoke up first of course.

"Honestly? Not really. In fact, I'm quite sure the only reason my memories synced up with the other me is so that I could be embarrassed by moments like this." My head was starting to pound again but I'll be damned if I let this story turn into one of those types. "You girls want to be petted and scratched? Fine. You want to be held? I would be happy to oblige. But I will be damned if the month I spend here is going to involve falling in love with a bunch of candy coloured horses!" I took a deep breath as everyone stared at me before I turned towards the door. "Now if you don't mind I'm going to get changed and leave before I tempt fate any further."

Of course it couldn't be that simple for me as the double doors opened before I even got close and in walked the princesses themselves. "So I take it you are the strange visitor Princess Twilight told me about?" Celestia said as soon as she saw me smiling slightly.

I don't know why but the moment I saw them I dropped to one knee and bowed my head. "Your majesty. It's an honour to meet you." One I was hoping to avoid because 50 bits says I know where this is going but still royalty must be respected.

"Rise Mr. Striker. You can't explain on the floor." I rose slowly and she continued. "Now Twilight has told me how you got here and how you are familiar with our world which I must admit has led me to being quite curious on how we are perceived."

"What my sister means is that she would like you to tell us what public opinion of us is in your world among those of your kind called bronies." Luna spoke up and my gaze was directed to her as she walked closer.

"Well..." I began slowly thrown off a bit by the sudden shift, seeing as I was ready to leave not that long ago. "I suppose the best way to put it in regards to yourself Princess Celestia is that the fandom is split and uncertain. We haven't gotten to spend as much time seeing you as we have the rest of the princesses. Twilight has been in most of the episodes and even Princess Cadence has had more screen time where we see just what type of person, err, pony she is. You have held this strange role where we don't know just who you are. You are portrayed as slightly detached from everything. Above it all yet at the same time you're shown to be fallible." I paused again gathering my thoughts before deciding to simply sum it up. "The show hasn't really given us fans any particular insight into you as it has with pretty much everypony else."

"Fascinating... Dare I ask how I am seen by this fandom of yours?" Luna seemed slightly nervous after hearing what I said about her sister so I figured it best to start of strong.

"Oh we love you." The shock clear on her face was a good signal to continue. "Whether it be your time with the CMC, your struggle adjusting on your first Nightmare Night, your battle with the Tantabus. You've been shown as the redeemed villain suffering for her past actions and the fandom is heartbroken over it." I smiled softly as an idea came to me. "In fact I think I could sum up the thoughts on you perfectly... If I'm allowed to approach?"

Luna definitely seemed confused as she answered. "Permission granted." I walked towards her as she stared at me. I could see her eyes widen as I put my arms around her neck and hugged. "What is the meaning of this?" The princess of the night was definitely not expecting any of this if the way her voice wavered was any indication.

With one hand rubbing her neck and the other the joint where it meets her body, along with the firm belief she was going to kill me for this, I spoke softly so only she could hear me. "We all understand what you went through Luna, and we forgive you for your mistakes. You have become so much stronger for it and we are so very happy for you. We appreciate you and the beautiful night you create." I stayed there for a bit before pulling away. "I apologise for acting out of turn."

"So Mr. Striker. Am I to believe that no one judges Luna for her time as Nightmare Moon?" Celestia was definitely smiling. But that reminded me of one more thing that I should probably mention, especially if lullaby for a princess is canon here.

"Oh not at all. In fact, to be completely honest your highness there are plenty who love her more than you. They've even got a name as members of the Lunar Republic. They think she'd be a better ruler as they have disagreed with some of your choices in the past." Celestia simply chuckled while Luna looked at me in shock. "I can see why they would think that but I stand by my own stance in the matter." Princess Luna looked down at the floor when I said that. Wait... Is she blushing? Oh wow. Don't know if that's good or bad for me. Probably bad but possibly good. Most likely bad though.

"That is very good to hear. One more question if I may Mr. Striker?"

"Oh please your majesty simply Striker is fine. And of course."

"Judging by the shocked looks at your behaviour would I be right in assuming you haven't treated Princess Twilight like this?" I nodded slowly. "May I ask why?"

Pausing I turned towards Twilight, still where she and the other were sitting all with looks of confusion, and bowed deeply. "I apologise for any insult I may have accidentally implied by my actions. It was not my intention." Straightening and turning back to the princesses of night and day I continued. "Twilight is unique. For three seasons we watched her grow and have been proud of her for the long way that she has come since her first day in Ponyville." Princess Celestia smiled as I quoted her song, unintentionally, and I returned it before continuing. Well at least I found out whether they were aware of what they sung. "After that it was another two seasons watching her move on with no real change until receiving this castle after the battle with Tirek and discovering what her role is now. I suppose being witness to all that made me see her as less of a princess and more of a close friend achieving greatness. A mistake on my part I am sorry for making."

Nodding and smiling Celestia replied. "I see. Well it is an honour to have you in Ponyville for your time in our world. I look forward to hearing just what you get up to. Twilight please do keep me informed and thank you for telling me off our new guest." With that both her and Luna turned to leave before I managed to get over the surprise.

"Actually your majesty I was already planning on leaving."

"Oh?" Celestia turned back to look at me still smiling. "Have you discovered how to get home sooner?"

"Well no but..."

"Then we can't simply let you wander around until you go home now can we? Twilight already said she's quite happy to have you stay here so I don't see any problems. Have fun settling in Mr Striker." With a mischievous smile and a soft chuckle Celestia followed her sister out the door leaving me standing there in shock.

"Well maybe the fans that think she's a manipulator are right after all..." I mumbled to myself after a while.

"Well that's all fine and dandy but maybe now we can start talkin about your attitude problem." AJ was so not pleased with me at the moment.

"Before that what are the chances of me leaving without being dragged back against my will?" I replied turning around to look at all of them.

"If Princess Celestia says that you're staying then I guess you're staying." Was Twilights answer to me. "Oh and no need to be formal now. If what you said is true, then I can understand why that might be a bit awkward for you."

"Thank you Princess Twilight but you do hold a royal position. You deserve to be respected as such." The more I stayed detached the better. "What if I told her I found a way home?" Still in my best interest to leave after all.

"You believe you could lie too Princess Celestia? She has ruled for a thousand years and must be well versed in spotting the manipulations of others."

"Well you would know all about that Rarity." I responded desperate to move things along quickly. "And trust me, the stuff I had to do to survive necessitated an ability to spin a tale. I can be quite convincing when I need to be." I did end up in Slytherin after all. "I'm sure I could do it."

"Well, even if you did, what's to stop her from sending an armed guard after you? She probably will just in case you are lying to her." Hearing a logical argument come from Rainbow Dash of all ponies was strange. Mainly because it related to how Celestia would act and seemed accurate. Not something I would expect Rainbow to know but then again possible for her to be correct about.

"Right... Guess I have no choice." I muttered softly. Might need to think of a way to lose them when it finally came time to leave.

"Can we please get back to the point now?" Applejack was getting frustrated it seemed. Couldn't blame her I suppose I had been ignoring her.

"Well I suppose honesty works best so..." I sighed as I spoke up. "I'll be honest. Having my thoughts reset to my original world means opinions of you has shifted slightly."

"And what does that mean?" Twilight seemed to have latched onto my words. Her scientist spirit loving an explanation, as always.

"Well..." God this was embarrassing. "In my world there are plenty of stories and the like of how certain humans would act around you. Whether they be here or you somehow end up in my world." Oh no. Don't think of My Little Dashie. I'm stronger now. "Anyway." Get away from those thoughts before I cry. "Now... While there are those that are like what Pinkie described the major consensus seems to be that... How do I put this?" Deep breaths man. Curse my good memory. And curse that heartbreaking video. "You'd be treated like part of the family. A cross between a pet and a child if you know what I mean?" I asked them and felt the need to smash my head against a wall bringing up kids. I am so not going to be able to look at Rainbow at all.

"So… What?" And of course said Pegasus had to speak up. I hate myself so badly it seems.
Sighing I decided to be blunt again. "The majority of bronies would love nothing more than to hold you and look after you. Myself included it seems." God bloody damnit! I did not want to add that last part.

"Works for me. Hop to it mister!" Once more I found myself scratching the pink pony as she appeared in my arms.

This time I couldn't stop my reaction. "Okay. How? I was looking straight at you and I've just been through a war. I mean sweet Celestia how do you do that?!"

The pink mystery just smirked up at me as she responded. "Don't question it. It's me." She then pushed herself against my hand willing me to keep petting her.

"Well that answers everything." I muttered as I did so. It actually did funnily enough. Pinkie Pie had officially become the way the writer screws with me. What's worse is I couldn't even be mad because with how little what she does makes sense she was perfect to fill that role.

"Well at the very least Pinkie seems to trust you. Even if she's acting a little... Odd." Twilight's answer.

"Please darling Pinkie is always odd. Though I agree he doesn't seem to have any bad intentions." Rarity's answer. I already had Pinkies obvious answer so that was half of them.

"I don't know about this. He could be some secret spy trying to destroy us!"

"Easy there now Rainbow. I may not trust him but I don't think he'd try and hurt us." AJ's southern drawl sounded weird having not heard it in years but at least she was defending me. Kind of. "Fluttershy? What do you think?"

The shy pony shrunk down as all the attention settled on her. "W-well... He seems nice enough... And I don't think anyone who could be so kind to an animal after it hurt them could be all that bad... Also...." She trailed off blushing.

"Also she wouldn't mind being pet again!" I didn't even have to look down to see Pinkie Pie had disappeared from my arms again... Without me noticing. She had popped up right next to Fluttershy and had thrown a hoof around her shoulders after all.

Fluttershy sunk down even lower. "It... Is kind of soothing...."

"I'm glad you think so Fluttershy. I'd be happy to do it again should you want me too." Probably not the best thing to say to calm her down but I could work on it. "So I take it that means you're okay with me staying? Not that I have a choice or anything but you do."

"Why are you in such a hurry to leave anyway?" Rainbow Dash was definitely not a fan.

"Less time I spend here the less likely it is for me too want to stay." Silence greeted my answer. Another one I didn't intend to give. "I cannot keep my mouth shut for some reason..." Sighing I figured it best to just say it all. "Look. For my entire life I've had a... Problem, I suppose. I tend to get attached a little too easily. I managed to deal with it in my last life because I had other things to focus on." Mainly anger but that's something else they don't need to know.

"So that means?" Well, Rainbow seemed surprised enough by my answer to stop suspecting me for a moment. So I guess that's a plus? Better answer her though.

"Well...." Once I figure out how that is. No Pinkie to save me this time it seems. To busy talking to Fluttershy about something... I feel I should be more worried about that... Forget it just let it flow. "As an aspiring writer." Am I though? Screw it follow through. "I tended to like writing my own stories with characters I saw. Of course my need to keep the characters as in character as possible meant I needed someone original to mix things up." Okay going good so far. Just need to cut a few bits out. "This original character was me at first. Then I morphed their personality until they became their own person. However, it was still essentially one character over multiple different worlds. It wouldn't be until I actually started writing that I came up with different personalities for different characters in other worlds."

"Oh would you stop already. Just what does all that have to do with your attachment problem?" Was AJ always this type of no nonsense pony?

"I'm getting there." Word this carefully, mess it up and I'm better off leaving. Screw the consequences. "You see these characters are always facing some kind of danger and, since I didn't understand character growth at the time, my character would try and help them. Protect them to the best of his ability. Suffering instead of them." I sighed. There was no way I could word this that didn't sound like I was dancing around the subject. "So as you can imagine putting them through such stressful situations together led to me asking a simple question."

"How would seeing someone going through all that cause the other characters to react." All eyes turned to Twilight as she spoke. Mine included. It wasn't what I was going to say but it worked better so roll with it. "It's standard story writing. Set up a plot, create the characters and see how they react. No two characters would react in the same way to a certain situation, well with some notable exceptions of course."

"Such as?" Rainbow decided to keep her talking, not sure if I should be insulted that they prefer Twilight's lecture over my explanation.

"Well there are situations that will generally cause the same response, it's how authors know what to do to get their reader to feel what they need to, a sense of suspense during an adventure or sadness over a character passing." Twilight was full into lecture mode now. Wings fluffed out slightly and posture straight. "Seeing a character go through trials and torment is one way to guarantee an emotional connection. Having them do it willingly on behalf of someone else would normally lead to other responses."

"Well go on darling don't leave us in suspense." Rarity was quick to jump into the silence when Twilight paused to look around.

"Oh… Well... Generally, when readers see such a thing they perceive it as a sign of affection. So the next obvious desire would be to see a relationship of some sort build."

"Oh please. There's nothing like that in Daring Do."

"Because Daring Do isn't that type of story, disregarding how her adventures are real, the stories are just that, adventures, she's the main character and a solo act so to speak. Create a story with multiple characters and make one with a mission to protect the rest? Well then an entirely different dynamic evolves." It was obvious Twilight didn't expect to be left talking for this long. Of course one quick look around answered the reason why. “Seems he has a reason for being scared of Pinkie surprising him.”

“Why the sudden change in subject sugar cube?” AJ asked a bit confuddled.

In response Twilight just gestured towards the now open throne room doors. “Looks like my lesson got a bit, um, to close for comfort.”

“Do you think he’ll be okay?” Came a soft voice of concern from one Pegasus only to be answered by the other Pegasus at the table.

“Oh I’m sure he will be fine. He wants to go I say let him.” Each of them seemed to have different thoughts on those matters but they still split up to go home. Unknowing of where the stranger had gone and whether he would be back.

Author's Note

Okay I give up. I cant write to save my life and this is by far the stupidest thing Ive ever thought of writing. Dont be surprised if this never gets updated again.

Everfree Roaming

Had the ponies known where their human guest had gone at least a few of them would be more worried then they currently were. The newly named Striker had promptly booked it as fast as he could away from the throne room as soon as it became obvious Twilight had figured out his thought patterns. He wasn't going to stay around to see their reaction to it all. Or see what type of conclusions they drew from what she said.

As soon as their eyes were off of him he had slipped out and summoned his bag to him before running into the only place he knew they wouldn't look for him. Of course the castle just had to be as far away from the everfree forest as possible but with it being a place where most ponies feared to go it made the most sense to hide in there. Well at least for the time being. Though the creatures in the forest were potentially dangerous it was nothing he couldn't deal with.

All those thoughts and more flashed through Strikers head as he reached the edge of this worlds equivalent to the forbidden forest. Thankfully the stamina carried over as well or he would probably be exhausted. Running around the outside of a town at full speed was exhausting. If he didn't worry about being found by any of the ponies he had just left in the castle he probably would have slowed down a bit but as it was it seemed like the smartest thing to do.

Of course multiple problems reared their head as he stepped inside the creepy treeline. Most weren't that bad, mainly 'what was there to eat' and 'what would try to eat him'. Others, that were much worse in his mind, were 'has this place calmed down too much' and 'how long until Twilight sends a message to Celestia?' Another problem that occurred to him, that could be big or small, was 'what about Mera?' He had no doubt that Fluttershy would look after her, she was too kind not to. He also knew that the shape shifting kitty would look for him eventually. She would probably find him too. The troublesome part came when pondering what Fluttershy would do then. Would she let the cat go? Thinking it would be returning to its owner? Would she follow it upon seeing it enter the forest? Heck would she be able to communicate with Mera and find out she knew where he was?

Striker couldn't quite remember the capabilities of his playful cat but if the spirit made her into a familiar then the possibility of her being able to find him easily were quite high. On that note though, if she ran into the forest from Fluttershy's cottage at night the shy Pegasus might not even know the cat had left until the morning.

With his thoughts turned back to the forest Striker had to stop. He had kept walking in deeper while he thought on how to deal with any problems, being sure to avoid any paths or such as he did so, but that brought something else to mind. Where could he go? There were three key spots in the forest that he would need to stay far away from. The castle of the two sisters, Zecora's hut and the tree of harmony. Thankfully that third thing was awfully close to the first so all he would need to do would be avoid that and any blue flowers that seemed to grow near where the zebra made her home and he should be able to avoid any scouting parties the ponies formed.

Deciding it was better to keep moving Striker thought more on how he was going to do this. In order to leave his story had to end. In order for it to be a good story it had to end dramatically. No letting himself be killed or jumping off of the weird cliff that was, for some reason, in here. Since he picked the dragon to come hunt him down the only satisfactory story end would be in a dramatic battle against the damn thing. Which meant he had a month to get the hell away from civilisation... Where would that be?

Groaning he leant against a tree and dropped his head into his hands. Why? Why did he have to end up here? He'd put everything pony behind him when he entered his 4th year. I mean yeah he appreciated how they helped trigger his patronus but he wasn't a kid anymore. He had gone through to much crap to still consider being a brony. I mean damn the only reason he caught up at all was to make Rose feel better. "Why am I here?" Lifting his head he threw his arms out and called out to the sky, what little could be seen through the leaves that is.

It was a good thing he did otherwise what happened next may have ended a lot worse for him. Then again it may have ended everything earlier.

The moment his arms were flung out was the exact moment he got jumped. Striker didn't notice anything until a weight crashed into his left arm and sent him tumbling to the ground with a loud crack and throbbing pain. "Son of a..." Scrambling to his feet Striker looked around. "Well damn." Seems the Timberwolves had gathered the rest of the pack and had him pinned. Well they would have had he been a regular person. "You guys don't learn do you?" Holding his right hand up he focused on conjuring a fireball. Which lasted all of five seconds before the throbbing in his arm distracted him.

With a quick look Striker took off running holding his arm tight to keep it from jarring as he ran from the angry piles of wood right on his heels. "Great. Just great. Complete focus or no spells. This just got a lot harder." He could hear them catching up. "Well I knew it was harder. It had to be. Push back the level of mastery and all that." Muttering kept his mind off of the pain that he could no longer block. "Master a spell wandlessly? Now needs focus. Only manage one wandlessly? Now needs a wand... Wait." Stopping he turned and pulled out his wand, that had thankfully never left its holster, and held it up as the timberwolves were just about to pounce. "Protego maxima!" Each wolf slammed into the shimmering blue wall that erupted in between them and him, crumbling into twigs and branches.

Letting the shield drop Striker started running again. It wouldn't be long until they reformed but hopefully it would buy him some time to get further away. "I should probably write this down when I get the chance... Wandless nonverbal to just wandless. Wandless to nonverbal. nonverbal to normal. Normal to difficult. Difficult to impossible. Then of course there is the complete mastery to focus I discovered earlier... So much to remember..." Pain shot through his arm again, he'd forgotten to hold it while thinking and had whacked it against a low branch. It was enough to make him stumble and would have caused him to throw up if he had anything in his stomach.

"F-ferula." Bandages shot from his wand and wrapped his arm tight against his chest. It would do nothing to help the healing but it would at least keep it still. Provide some cushioning too should he be dumb enough to smack it... Again.

"Note to self... When Madame Pomfrey offers you medical spells accept... God I'm going mad." Thankfully he had learnt that one without the incantation. Out of necessity due to him being unable to speak through pain whenever he broke something sure but still he'd learnt it. It's not often you thank your stars that you tend to be accident prone but when it pays off? You kind of need to.

Of course this was only a distraction from the fact that the wolves were getting closer again and, since he found his way onto a path again, he was probably heading to one of the places he wanted to avoid. If it was a choice between the wolves and a search party though? He'd take being shipped back to ponyville.

More shields left his wand to try and slow down the Timberwolves. He would have preferred to banish things at them or set them on fire but without being able to stop and look it wouldn't do much good. They had already gotten to close and one had even manage to get in front of him and land a deep scratch to his leg. That one he had no qualms burning to cinders, to bad the densely packed forest made fire not an option for the others or he would have finished this by now.

With blood dripping on the ground and his lungs starting to burn Striker broke through the tree line to see a wooden bridge. Without stopping to wonder if a bridge built for ponies could even support his weight he hurried across it as quickly as he could. It creaked in places and some of the wooden planks sounded like they were about to snap but it held together.

Making it across he wasted no time in hurrying up to the castle. Wether he would be found no longer mattered to him. He just wanted to avoid being eaten. Opening the door was relatively easy. Slamming it shut jarred his arm a bit and made him lightheaded. With a few spells he had the door shut as tight as it could be before he stumbled up towards the throne. He was planning to sit down and have a look at his leg but the exhaustion and the pain combined meant he passed out as soon as he collapsed into the chair. In all honesty that was probably the worst case scenario.

While he wasn't sure how long he had been unconscious had Striker bothered to look at the sky while he had been running across the bridge he would have noticed it steadily getting darker as day turned to night. In short passing out meant he ran the risk of getting a nighttime visitor. Something that normally would have been prevented by the shields around is mind but those either didn't apply here or weren't raised thanks to the pain. Had he known any of this he would not have been shocked to find himself waking up in the exact same place he passed out yet experiencing none of the pain that caused this to happen.

"It saddens me to see this place in such ruin. Even if it was my doing." Princess Luna was currently looking at one of the ripped tapestries as she spoke somehow knowing Striker was listening. "While I don't blame my sister for leaving it behind there was still some happiness buried in the dark."

"You can remember the good times without being where they happened. And I don't think that's the reason Princess Celestia left it like this." Striker had stood up and walked closer to the night princess while she spoke.

"Oh? Does thou believe they have an answer instead?" Luna turned a curious eye to him.

"I believe it was a reminder. By not fixing any of the damage Nightmare Moon caused she would always be reminded that she let it get that far." I honestly just made that up but it seemed right and I couldn't let her be sad thinking of the past. So I turned my full gaze onto her and spoke as honestly as I could. "Princess Luna I don't know if you've realised but your banishment affected Celestia as much as it did you. Not only did she have to seal away her sister, not only did she have to endure a celebration of the day she did it, she also had to take over your role, listen as her subjects created myths about how evil you were and all of this while looking up at you every night while wondering how she could have been blind enough to miss what you were going through. This?" I gestured around me. "It wouldn't surprise me at all if she considered this as more proof of how she failed."

Luna didn't respond for a while. "Thank you Striker. It helps to be reminded that I have been forgiven. Perhaps my sister requires a reminder as well."

"No problem at all your majesty. It's my pleasure. Though if I may ask? Why are we in the castle? Shouldn't my dreams have taken us somewhere else?" It was a curious thing to note considering how all the other dreamscapes act like actual dreams.

"Had you fallen asleep normally I have no doubt I'd have found you in such a place. Perhaps reliving your memories. I confess to wanting to find out more about you." She began walking back towards the throne so I followed her.

"You mean you were interested in me? I'm flattered your highness. But you could have asked."

"I highly doubt that to be true. Considering when I went looking for your mind I found you unconscious and injured in this castle. Despite my sister telling you to stay put." Oh no. Serious Princess Luna. I'm in trouble. "Would you care to explain why?" Turning she sat down on the throne and looked at me. Yep. Big trouble.

"Would you believe me if I said I wanted and adventure?" I asked nervously.

"Not at all. You left Twilight's castle and have found yourself injured in the forest mere hours after we spoke to you. So I must ask. What are you running from?" Oh good. Counsellor Luna. Even better.

"Besides the Timberwolves?" Her frown told me that she wouldn't accept anything but the truth. So, sighing deeply, I closed my eyes and began to think. "I know you. I know your sister. I know Twilight and her friends, her brother and his wife Princess Cadence." I just let the words flow as I admitted what I had refused to ever since I got here. "I know all of you. Your strengths and weaknesses. Personality traits and flaws and..." I took deep breaths and opened my eyes to look at her feeling like a little kid as emotions jumbled up inside me. My memories synching with reality made this hundreds of times more difficult than it could have been.

"Speak your mind. You have my word that not one thing you choose to divulge to me here will be mentioned outside. It is part of my job to not speak of what I learn from other ponies dreams or from the ponies themselves."

"Thank you..." I swallowed. "I know so much about all of you. Stuff I know because I've essentially been spying on your life..." Tears started running down my face now. I was no longer the adult I had grown to be in the Wizarding World and I wasn't the adult from the real world either. It felt like I'd been reverted to a teen dealing with his hormones and the struggles of his life.... Put that way it made me feel slightly better about breaking down but I would be incredibly embarrassed when I was done. "How can I possibly get close to anyone without weirding them out by how attached I have gotten to them? Since in their eyes, whether they are aware of my past or not, I've only really known them for a day."

"How attached are you?" Whether Princess Luna was shocked or simply curious I was in no state to be able to tell. I couldn't even look up at her as more tears came and my chest began to hurt.

Full disclosure now."There are times...." I took another breath and tried to swallow the lump building in my throat. "Times where it varies." Another shuddering breath. "Where I consider you friends and maybe even a family to..." I turned away and curled in on myself slightly. God I was acting like a pathetic hormonal 15 year old right now. "To times when I can convince myself that if you were real I'd be in love with you.... All of you." I wiped at my eyes and tried to rush past that. "Well besides Cadence of course. As she is taken. Along with most of the residents of ponyville. Sure there are a few I'd have no problem entering a relationship and some Id just love to hold and comfort." I was in a full ramble now. Nothing good happens when I ramble. "But the real 'I love you' feelings only really apply to you and the main 6 since they are the ones we learn the most about through the show and who the pathetic people get attached to the most. Of course I'm pretty sure I'm the only one this pathetic and that their must be something seriously wrong with me."

"And you want to keep this bottled up?" I'd shocked her. I could tell. I still couldn't bring myself to turn around and face her but I just knew I did.

"I'm going to move on in a month anyway. Heck had I thought it would have gotten me to move on I would have let the Timberwolves kill me. It's how it worked last time and how I hope it'll work in a month. How can you even form a decent relationship in a month?"

"You're planning on dying?" It wasn't until Princess Luna spoke that I realised what I had said. When I did I froze. I had just told someone, err, somepony that I needed to die to move onto the next story. Somepony who had the power to stop me from doing it. Oh no....

Author's Note

Consider yourselves lucky. I write far more of this than I do of any other story.

Everfree searching

I don't know how long I stood there. The memories and feelings syncing up with my old reality combined with the surreal experience of talking to a pony inside a dream meant I was a rambling mess. Getting even the smallest thought out into the open just caused the rest to come tumbling after it. I had gotten so used to talking to the voices in my head that being in my head, in a dream sure but it was still my head, caused me to relax a lot more than I should have. It was fine. Just had to sidestep her.

Wiping my eyes I put on a smile. "Out of everything I said that's what you pay attention to?" I tried to sound genuinely curious, like what I said meant absolutely nothing.

"Why? You are quite right. A month is nowhere near a proper amount of time to form a proper relationship. Since you are so set on dying at the end of that time." Whether I was successful in my attempt didn't seem to matter much. She would not be distracted.

Well, if I couldn't persuade her to forget it. Maybe I could convince her it was unavoidable. I really didn't like what she might be implying either. "What are you trying to say? It's not like I can change anything. I practically summoned the strongest creature in Equestria just to give myself a way to leave this place. Once I'm gone it should go back to sleep. It's only after me."

"And you are so sure that we can't protect you?" Luna's reply baffled me. Had she not heard of an Elder Dragon? Well I suppose I hadn't really explained what was after me. Doing so, being sure to stress how impossible it was to beat, didn't seem to change her mind. Well the Princess of the Night was not one to back down it seems. "If what you say is true and it takes true understanding of the magic of Love and Friendship to beat this creature than why are you so determined to leave the ones with knowledge of this power?"

Opening my mouth to respond I realised I couldn't. If I wanted to beat the dragon then staying near the Princess of Friendship, whose sister-in-law may as well be the Princess of Love, made the most sense. "Because I don't want to beat it. I want to test my strength against it and move on to my next story."

"Even after what you've just told me? And, what I believe, you have just admitted to yourself?" I really had no idea what she was talking about now. So what if I won against the dragon. Id be stuck here waiting for my emotions to go haywire again?

"I don't want to get them involved. And besides I'd be a human in Equestria. That's by no means normal. And, while I bet it would be interesting for a time, I'd be bored. Not like I can settle down. I'd be better of building a cottage near Zecora. Or fixing this place up and hiding here." I gestured around me. It could be done. It would be difficult but there are quite a few spells and wards I had learnt that could help me do it. In response to my thoughts the worn down walls and decorations started fixing themselves.

"If a life with ponies would be uncomfortable for you I'm sure Twilights friends from the human world would be happy to have you."

Okay now I was really getting confused. Either my desire for death had made her completely forget the bombshell I had dropped before or she was ignoring it. Since the Lunar Princess didn't seem the type to forget things easily it made me wonder why she was ignoring what I said. What purpose could she have? "Life with ponies doesn't bother me. It's how it would bother them. We've been over this your majesty."

"Yes I know. Your one month time limit does make it hard for any relationships to form. But that's no longer a problem once the beast threatening you is dealt with." While I had started to slowly walk closer to her Luna just shook her head dismissively, her starry mane flicking slightly.

Okay what? "You realise I'm a human right?"

"Do not be condescending to us. We are fully aware of what you are. It's why we offered the idea of the portal should you wish it." The Princess frowned and her voice got louder. The fact she also slipped into the Royal Plurals meant I touched a nerve.

"I apologise your highness but I'm getting confused. My problems revolve around my feelings that I'm sure you heard me express. There's no guarantee that I can keep those bottled up. Even if I do get to know the ponies over time the slightest thing may make me slip up. How would they deal with that?" I had reached the step up to throne. With my emotions firmly under control, for the time being, I could be more Slytherin in my dealings. Though being blunt seems to work much better so I'd have to see which way had the advantage.

"Why I'm sure you're making a much bigger deal of it than it will be." The Princess of the Night waved her hoof uncaringly and I saw red. No. NO! I would not let it go down this road!

Stepping up so that I was face to face with her my voice went cold. "A pony and human relationship could never work. Not in a thousand years. I think your banishment has addled your brain your highness. I'd appreciate if you didn't pass it on to me. I'll head back when I'm good and ready. And I expect you to keep your word and stay quiet." With more force than was necessary I slammed my mental walls down and ended the dream.

When I woke up both my arm and leg felt like they were on fire. The blood had soaked my entire pant leg and it seemed like the bandages around my arm were cutting of circulation. Vanishing them, which led to just a slight hiss of discomfort, I set about properly cleaning and treating both injuries. A few muttered spells cleaned the wound on my leg and another spell wrapped it in bandages that started to slightly turn red.

This, of course, made me wonder something. Why was this wound still bleeding when I was mauled by a Mera and turned out fine.... Wait.... No. Merry. Her name is Merry now. Been so long since I've seen the fuzzball I forgot the name change. I was a kid when I named her so the first one kind of sticks out more. Was it something to do with her being my familiar? I don't know much about those types of bonds and even less on how they'd apply here. Maybe its something else about her species. I have to admit I was smart enough to stay out of her way on her first rampage and she never hurt anyone she didn't mean to after that. Well at least I wouldn't dirty Fluttershy's bandages, some part of me was really reluctant to do that.

With both injuries treated as well as I could do with the little knowledge on medical spells I had, I could focus on what I was going to do now. I couldn't hide out here, ponies would check soon enough, and while Luna probably wouldn't tell them what she learned, I trusted her enough to not do that, she would probably insinuate that someone should look for me. Speaking of the moon alicorn... I had probably pissed her off. Shocked her too, I bet, managing to kick her out of the dreamscape. "I mean, it's not my fault." I muttered to myself glaring up at the ceiling. This wasn't the world I wanted and I'll be damned if I stay here any longer than I need to.

Reaching into the survival pack I pulled out the map of Equestria. I assume that it would be coming from the dragon lands, that would make the most sense for an all powerful dragon to come from after all, so the best bet would be to get as close to the shore as I could. In that case the Hayseed swamps would be a good bet. Let it find me before it has a chance to scare any pony villages.... Or it could be coming from somewhere else... Like the Undiscovered West. If that was the case then I'd probably be better heading to the Smokey Mountains.... "Well, Buck me. I need to talk to Spike don't I? Maybe Ember will know something about any Elder Dragons." Wait... Who the hell is Ember?

Pausing I looked through my memories. I'd only caught up to season 5 to humour Rose and the family into thinking it may redeem me. However it seemed like Season 6 was currently airing.... Where that put me in the timeline I don't know but maybe a dragon lord could help me figure out.... Or.... Standing I promptly changed out of the sleepwear I was still wearing and headed towards the doors. There's one other pony who may know about dragons, one who wouldn't fear me, one who hopefully wouldn't tell what I asked and, most importantly, one with a way of speaking that would be quite hard to write well. Take that. Still my story, I'll screw with you how I want.

The throbbing pain in my arm was no longer as noticeable. So, as long as I kept my eyes and ears opened, I should be able to deal with anything. It's not like she lived that far. She wasn't on the map but as long as I followed the path I should find her. I think it should be obvious anyway. I mean this castle was about halfway in. Just got to go into the middle of the forest and look for the flowers.

Being careful walking back over the bridge, using a liberal amount of spells to be sure it wouldn't crumble under me, I entered back into the forest and conjured small fireballs to float around me. Anything tried to attack me I'd incinerate them, no hesitation. Of course when I can fight back nothing appeared to challenge me. So I was stuck in the forest walking slowly for what felt like an hour.

I was actually just about to give up when I found the poison joke flowers. As my luck would have it though I picked the wrong way to go. I was walking for another 10 minutes before I realised the flowers were disappearing with no sign of the cottage turning around, grumbling all the while, meant it took me an extra 20 minutes before I saw the hut. Knocking on the door I took in a deep breath and hoped this went well.

Author's Note

Well if all I can bring myself to write is Pony then have more pony.