Kevin looked over the balcony, the cold breeze passing as he sighed. Today is the day. Through his goggles, he could see the bright blue sky, guard patrols flying here and there, while local ponies trotted in the streets. Gonna miss this view.

" Hey Kev, you ready to go?" Alex said, Kevin turned around, getting off the railing as he walked in. Everyone had their tickets in hand as they waited near the door. Adjusting his rifle, he nodded, as the four left the room, their heavy boots echoing in the hallways as they walked. Kevin took his last looks at the beautiful painted glass windows, surprised on the craftsmanship. They made a left turn, heading for the twin doors that lead to the outside. As they walked, the guards on each end saluted them, Kevin decided to do the same, a sign of mutual respect before they opened the doors. Celestia's sun shined, the warmth of the sunshine encompassing the four as they continued to walk, Kevin sighing in relaxation. This sun is way better than the one back on Earth.

" You guys ready?" Kevin asked, turning his head to the three behind him. Cody shrugged, Zack nodded with a smile on his face.

" I don't know Kevin, you wonder what it will be like there?" Alex asked, adjusting his rifle on his back as they walked. Kevin pondered on the thought, raising a hand to his chin as he hummed.

" I don't know. Before I could ask the girls about the town they had already left on the train. So I guess we'll see it when we get there." He said, Alex nodding his head to the fair answer.

The walk was silent for most of the way, passing through the streets as they looked around the city. Their boots thumping against the colored brick seemed to match the clopping of the local's hooves. Ponies watched as they walked, most giving them smiles as a way of thanking them. Some, the ones mostly wearing clothes, held their heads high, and chose to pass them without even acknowledging their existence. The rumor of these four helping a Canterlot citizen, as well as defending the city from the changelings left a lot on the ponies minds. For most, they viewed them as heroes up there with the Elements. Others, preferred them gone, wanting nothing to do with them. The four friends couldn't care less, a more positive view on leaving Canterlot filling their minds. Upon arriving at the train station, the cart doors were open as ponies got on. Not wasting anytime, the group quickly got on. After a few minutes, the whistle of the train rattled the skies as the gears started to move. Kevin sighed as he slumped in his seat.

" Wonder if they're going to meet us at the station?" Alex said. Zack shrugged as he leaned against the wall.

" The princess said that Twilight would introduce us to the town, maybe give us a brief tour." He brought his arms behind his head as he stretched his legs. Cody looked out one of the windows, hoping to see the town as they descended the mountain. Kevin checked his rifle, taking out the mag as he cocked it back, catching the bullet. Safety first.

**********

The train eventually came to a stop, the hissing of the gears hummed in the cabin as they looked to each other. With the doors opening, the group stepped out as they stepped onto the wooden platform. the wood creaked under their boots as the clopping of hooves could be heard as well. Ponies got of the train, most giving the group raised brows of confusion as they stood there. Kevin searched for Twilight, scanning the platform. He then spotted her, a purple horn above the tiny crowd as she walked up to them, smiling.

" There you guys are! How was the ride?" She asked. Kevin smiling as he shook her hoof.

" It was nice, nothing too bumpy or loud. How have you been?" He asked.

" I've been good. Again, thank you for helping us up at the Empire, it means a lot." She turned around, motioning for them to follow as she started to walk. The four readied their stuff, and began to follow behind, as they walked down the dirt road. Kevin was surprised to see ponies conversing and walking around, more lively than Canterlot. As they walked, twilight noticed they were receiving attention from others. Most just wide eyes and raised brows, but there were some who looked scared, while others started to whisper to their neighbor. Twilight turned to them as she kept her pace.

" My house is just down the road. We'll head there and talk about living arrangements. Sorry if everyone's been giving you strange looks. A uh, lot of stuff has happened here." She sheepishly smiled as she eyed the others, some of the ponies walking away while others continued to stare. Kevin waved his hand to the ponies in a friendly manner, the movement flying over their heads, some even titling their heads in confusion.

" It's okay Twilight. I'm sure this is the first time they've seen anything like us." He said, as they continued their walk. Eventually, they reached her house, and to say that they were shocked was an understatement.

" Your house is a freaking tree? But how? Is it fake?" Zack asked as he stepped up to the trunk, gently rubbing his hand against the wood. Twilight shook her head as she opened the door.

" Nope. This is a real life tree. The Golden Oaks Library." She said with pride, Kevin stepping in behind her as he observed the inside. Alex and Cody joined him, Zack checking the trunk one more time, before stepping in as well. They all looked around, their eyes wide with curiosity. It felt like a library all right, but there was a since of, home in it as well. Twilight walked off into the kitchen, as some of the boys checked out the shelves, hands gently skimming over the titles, picking anything that drew their eyes. Twilight came back with five cups of tea, Kevin sitting down on one of the couches as he waited. Cody eventually joined him, Alex busy trying to make heads or tails of what he was reading. Zack took one of the books, the title reading " Daring-Do and the Quest for the Sapphire Stone ". He smiled as he came towards the couch, sitting on the edge as he tried to read.

" Jasmine tea, anyone?" Twilight offered, Kevin taking his helmet off as he sighed in thanks. As he began to drink his tea, Twilight cleared her throat as Alex placed the book back in its spot. " Okay, now I'm sure that Princess Celestia has told you all where you will be staying correct?" She asked. Kevin finished his drink, placing the tea cup down as he leaned back into the couch.

" Yes that is true. Celestia has us split between four of your friend's residents." He said, Twilight nodding in agreement.

" That's correct. Your friends will be staying at the houses that are big enough to hold them. Alex here will be staying with Rarity, the mare with the purple mane." She said, Alex nodding in understanding. " Zack, you'll be staying with Applejack in Sweet Apple Acres. I'm sure you can even gain a weekly currency from helping them on the farm." Twilight smiled, Zack returning the expression as he thought of the idea.

" That does sound pretty good. Sure that's solid." He gave her a thumbs up. She nodded as she continued.

" Cody, you'll be staying with Pinkie Pie. It was her request." Twilight sheepishly smiled. Cody's eyes through his balaclava showed a glazed stare. That pink pony. That one pony that he wished he could avoid. She requested to the princesses that he becomes her bunk buddy...

" Well, I'm sure that he's just excited is all." Alex jokingly added. Twilight giggled slightly as she continued. Her expression turned to one of uneasiness, as she rubbed her forehoof while looking away.

" S-so, Princess Celestia told you where you would be staying, Kevin?" Twilight said, Kevin nodded as he smiled.

" Yeah, Said I was going to stay with you. But, where exactly am I staying?" He asked, wondering just what she had for him. Twilight thought about the plan. There was too much equipment and stuff cramped into the basement. He couldn't sleep on the main floor. Twilight cleared her throat as she tried to speak. A very tiny blush hid under her fur as she spoke.

" Well, seeing as the basement is full, and this floor will be for customers. I guess I can have you, sleep upstairs, with me." She said with a small smile. Everyone did a double take, Cody shaking himself out of his stare as his eyes widened. Alex smirked as he chuckled, his eyes staring at Kevin mischievously. Zack's mouth hung open slightly with a raised brow, and Kevin's eyes widened slightly, as they all tried to process what she was saying. Twilight wondered why they were staring at her like that, but eventually her mind caught up. A blush rose up her neck and to her cheeks, as she quickly tried to correct herself.

" Wait! I didn't mean it like that! I m-meant that you're going to have to sleep upstairs!" She said, her hooves outstretched as she explained. The four humans took time to understand, Kevin sighing in relief, as Cody leaned back. Alec still held his look, but dropped it later. Zack rubbed the back of his head as he sheepishly smiled, his mind shunning him for thinking something like, that.

" So, do you have anything that I could potentially sleep on or, in?" Kevin asked. Twilight's blush began to fade as she smiled.

" Yes. A guest bed stored in the basement. It's a twin xl mattress, but it's for ponies. However, I'm sure I can grow the mattress with a spell, so it's comfy for you." Twilight said. Kevin smiled at that idea. The bed would be the perfect size for him.

" Sure that works, so I guess my set up is done. I'm sure everyone else has a spare room or bed?" Kevin asked, Twilight nodding. The boys looked at each other with excitement in their eyes. Cody looked like his world had just crumbled up and died.

" Well then it looks like we're good. Now then, how about a tour of this place? I would like to see where my friends will be staying just in case if any of us run into emergencies." Kevin asked. With a stretch, Twilight stood up, motioning for the boys to follow. Kevin picked up his helmet, as Alex popped his back, the group on the move again.

**********

Twilight led the humans to each of the residence that they would be living in. First was Zack, who decided to stay behind and get to know the Apple family better. Cody was next, though Pinkie Pie was nowhere to be found. Sighing, Cody decided to converse with the two ponies in charge of the store. This left Alex and Kevin, as they arrived at the Carousel Boutique. When they got their, Kevin gave a small whistle at how clean the building looked. Well, at least I don't have to worry about finding Alex if I need him.

" So this is where Rarity lives as well?" Alex asked.

" Yes. She's inside if you want to say hi?" Twilight offered, to which Alex accepted, nodding as they walked up to the door. Opening the door, and the two humans dipping their heads as they entered, a bell chimed from the action. It rang through the clothing shop, to which a sing song reply was heard.

" Coming!" She said, the sound of her hooves clopping against the tiles echoed as she came around the corner. Rarity smiled as she realized who it was.

" Ah, Twilight! And is that, Kevin and Alex?" She said. Rarity still wasn't used to their names as much as Twilight. The two nodded as they were correctly addressed, a small wave of relief washing over her.

" That is correct. Twilight was giving us a tour of the town, and I wanted to see the house I would be staying in." Alex said with joy, as he looked around, admiring how fancy and beautiful the dresses looked. Rarity cleared her throat as she walked up behind the man, noticing how interested he seemed in the dresses. She smiled as she spoke.

" You seem to be quite interested, do you like them?" She asked. Alex smiled as he nodded, observing a certain yellow dress that fit snug around one of the mannequins.

" Yeah. My mom was a tailor. She made clothes for everyone in our neighborhood, as well as a starting business in downtown." Alex said, Kevin noticing Rarity's eyes light up like stars. The world of these humans clothes. Her brain just couldn't wrap around it. Rarity giggled to herself as she clopped her hooves together.

" Well why don't you tell me all about your mother and her expertise in clothing? I'm sure we'll have much to talk about." Rarity said, as she walked over to Alex, who was close to the far end of the room, looking at the machinery. Kevin turned to Twilight with a smile as he chuckled.

" Alex, we're gonna head back. You going to be okay?" He asked. Alex turned to Kevin, giving him a thumbs up, as Rarity pulled up her drama couch, smiling as she patted the seat next to her, hoping to hear more about his mom. The door closed as they began to talk. Twilight and Kevin started to walk back to the library.

********

The door opened, Twilight stepping in as Kevin did the same. He stretched his back as he placed his rifle against the wall. Sitting down on the couch, he slumped in it as he sighed.

“ Well, here we are. Living in Ponyville. What a quaint little town it is. So, now what?" He asked, Twilight pulling out a book as she was about to step up the stairs. She stopped, her mind thinking as she turned to look at him.

" Well, our plan was to show you around town, but we already did that. But we do need to find you a bed, and the one down in the basement doesn't seem too fitting for you... How about after I finish my notes here, we can head to the Quill's and Sofas store, and see if we can find you a bed?" She asked, Kevin looking up as he thought, he smiled, nodding his head.

" Sure, I can do that. But, seeing as how small you ponies are, is there even a bed that can fit me?" He asked, his hands gesturing to his body. Twilight raised a hoof to her chin, before she brightened up, a small smirk on her face.

" Don't worry Kevin, there's a spell in one of these books about growth, size modification. I should be able to use it to make the bed bigger for your liking." She said. Kevin liked the idea, deciding to roll with it, he nodded in agreement, as he plopped down onto the couch, sighing as she walked up the steps. Looking at one of the shelves closest to him, he lazily reached out, pulling a random book. He noticed that it was a language he had never seen before. Closing the book, he placed it back, as he looked down to his rifle. Might as well see if he could take it apart. Sitting up, he grabbed the rifle, hoping dismantling it would pass the time.

**********

It took Twilight an hour and a half until she was done. Turns out, the rifle couldn't be dismantled no matter how hard Kevin tried. He had to explain to her what that metallic banging was, how he slammed it against the ground in a last attempt to crack open the damn thing. As they walked outside, Kevin decided to leave most of his equipment back in the library. Deciding that it would be best, and less intimidating to walk around with a rifle strapped onto him, he decided to use his free hands to wave at a few of the locals. Some would wave back, but their smiles were obviously forced. They arrived at the store, Twilight and Kevin walking through the entrance as the tiny bell atop the door chimed.

" Hello there Miss Sparkle! Welcome to Quills and Sofas! How can I help you?" The stallion asked, as he stepped out from the back. He saw Kevin, but unlike some of the locals, he didn't really seem to mind the tall creature.

" Nice to see new faces around here, welcome to my store." The stallion tipped his head in respect, Kevin doing the same.

" Nice to meet you too." He replied. Twilight cleared her throat as she got the stallion's attention.

" We're looking for a mattress that my friend here would find comfortable. Now don't worry about the size, I can fix it, we're just hoping to find a mattress of good price and comfy." She said. The stallion brought a hoof to his chin as he thought, suddenly perking up with a smile.

" Well, let's see what his personal preference is. Come on then, why not try a few of them?" The stallion asked. Kevin brought a hand to his chin as he thought. Well, this was how he tested beds back in his world. Nodding, he shrugged after.

" I don't see why not. Sure let's give them a try." He said. Following the stallion, he led them to far corner of the store, a mattress with a bed frame, dark blue paint freshly coating the wood. He gingerly placed his hand on top of the mattress, the springs gently bending below the patting. Taking another risk, he decided to try and sit on the mattress. The springs creaked in protest, but did not give. Kevin had placed his full weight on it, and was surprised on how sturdy it was. He was also surprised on how soft the mattress was. It felt as though the springs were non existent.

" This mattress is nice, but let's keep looking if you don't mind." Kevin said, carefully getting off of the bed, as they began to try another one.

**********

Zack wiped the sweat off his brow, before he continued to pull the rope, bringing the hay stack to the attic of the barn. Applejack waved her hoof, gesturing for Zack to raise it higher. Finding a good stopping point, Applejack stuck her hoof out, grasping the hay stack, as she pulled it in. Zack sighed as he rolled his shoulders. That was the fifth haystack he had to pile, wrap up, and raise. Looking to the sunset, he smiled at how beautiful it was. He remembered back on Earth how when the sun set, it would be blocked by clouds, some made by Earth while most were, made by the factories. How the buildings towered over its light, blocking its wonder. But now, the sky was clear, the orange setting relaxing his exhausted body.

" Good job there Zack. We'll have a little down time before dinner." Applejack said, as he exited the barn. She noticed him looking out to the sun, smiling as she walked up to him. " Mighty pretty ain't it?" She asked, Zack nodding as he spoke.

" Beautiful. How can your sky be so... clear?" He asked, his eyes glued to the landscape. Applejack chuckled a little under her breath.

" The Pegasus keep control of the clouds, today is supposed to be a no sky day." She said, making Zack raise a brow as he turned to her.

" Control the clouds? What do you mean by that?" He asked. Applejack gave him a surprised look, but continued to explain.

" The Pegasi are the one's that control the weather here. They move the clouds with their hooves as well as create them using a factory in Cloudsdale." Applejack said, Zack looked at her with widened eyes.

" Wait, so the weather here, pretty much bends to your will doesn't it?" Zack asked, to which Applejack nodded. He looked back to the landscape, taking in the cloudless sky with this new found information. He was surprised, and quite frankly, a little envious. If humans could move the weather on the planet, then things would be a little less challenging. He looked to the Everfree forest's edge, seeing the clouds above it swirl and drag. he saw that it looked more like a blanket of fog rather than the puffy clouds he'd seen in the sky previously to the day.

" Soooo, is it their job as well to make the forest look creepy or?" Zack asked, waiting for Applejack's response as she turned to the Everfree. She shook her head, as she replied.

" Nope. The Everfree is home to untamed magic, and wild dangerous animals. That there weather ain't controlled by anypony, just moves by itself." She said, Zack looking back at the forest as he hummed in thought, giving her a small smirk.

" Hm, reminds me of home. No one back on Earth controlled the weather." Zack said, Applejack's eyes widened a little, as she began to walk back to the house. Zack realized that the sun was almost gone now, the moon was already rising. Zack stretched his back as he walked beside her, Applejack deciding to speak up about their recent topic.

" So yer tellin' me that back on yer planet, that nopony controls the weather? How do ya'll survive if you don't mind me asking?" Applejack asked, Zack simply shrugged as he replied.

" We've been doing pretty well. The world kind of, has it's own 'harmony' I guess. Storms clear crops, fires destroy trees and homes, animals die and then the cycle repeats. Plants regrow, homes, rebuilt, new animals, born. Circle of life we call it." Zack said, Applejack brought a hoof up to her chin in thought. They came to the door, Zack opened it for Applejack as she stepped inside. As she walked into the kitchen, her grandmother shouting something about setting up dinner, Zack decided to help, seeing as they were having him as their guest, the least he could do was put the plates around the dinner table.

" Five plates? Are we having someone over?" Zack asked, placing the last plate in front of one of the seats. Applejack perked up a little, as if she had just remembered something important. Applejack shook her head as she smiled.

" Oh that's right! No Zack, that there plate is for mah little sister Applebloom! She's hangin' out with her friends at Rarity's place. Rares will be bringing her back here in a bit, till then, let's make sure this table is ready and them pies are toasty warm when she gets here." Applejack said, Zack nodding in agreement as he grabbed a few napkins, as well as silverware.

Closer in the small town, the Carousel Boutique shined gently in the coming night, the lights inside pierced the cold air. Inside, three fillies giggled and laughed, conversing as well as trying to do each other's manes. One of the fillies, an orange coat and purple mane, was standing to the side, constantly being dragged into the fray, as she complained about it being 'too girly' or 'not cool'. As they did this, an older unicorn sighed to herself, as she had just finished putting her last dress on one of the mannequins.

" Sweetie Belle, please clean up and put away those brushes. It's time to take Applebloom back home." Rarity said, earning a disappointed 'awww' from the three foals.

" But sis, we were having so much fun. Come on just five more minutes?" Sweetie Belle pleaded, but her words fell on deaf ears. Rarity shook her head, a small smile on her lips.

" I'm sure you can play with your friends tomorrow Sweetie. But don't forget you still have some homework before you go back to school." Rarity said, her sister sighing in exhaustion at the mention of homework. As the girls got ready, cleaning up their things in the living room, they ran downstairs to the door. As they did, Rarity out some finishing touches on her dress, boots thumped gently behind her as she heard a sigh.

" Wow, I can hear them through the walls. Guess children are crazy in both worlds." Alex said, most of his gear was off and in the guest room, his rifle rested on his back from the strap. Rarity turned to look at Alex, her eyes showing mild exhaustion.

" It's taken me years not to get a headache. Now I just get ridiculously sleepy. But, maybe tonight may wake me from such drowsiness." She said, Alex raising a brow.

" Hm? What do you mean?" He asked. Rarity walked past him, motioning for him to follow.

" Well, we're going to be heading to Applejack's place, drop off Applebloom, and then we're heading to Sugar Cube Corner." She said, raising a few more questions in his mind, as he followed her downstairs.

" Why at this time? Isn't everyone sleeping right now?" He said. Rarity seemed to be a little nervous, but she barely showed it. Clearing her throat, she looked to him as she spoke, her words making Alex even more awkward.

" You know it is uncouth to ask a lady so many questions. Just go with the night Alex dear." She said. Alex held a small blush, but dumbly nodded, his brain seemed to stop from her words. Instead more questions came up in his head, but he refused to vocalize them. Instead, he kept quiet as he finally came downstairs. Rarity raised a hoof, stopping Alex. She turned the corner to the three fillies who were waiting by the door.

" Okay, are you three ready to go?" Rarity asked. They all nodded, but Applebloom had a confused expression on her face.

" Hey Rarity, I've been meanin' to ask ya, but did you have a stallion over recently?" She asked. Rarity's eyes widened as a small blush pierced her white coat. Alex's eyes did the same, as he intently listened.

" Wh-wh-what makes you say that App-Applebloom?" She asked.

" Well, there was some kind of smell upstairs, a mix actually. We didn't recognize it, and it didn't smell like one of yer perfumes. But, the closest thing we could draw from it was that it somewhat resembles a stallions sent. So I was just erm, curious?" Applebloom said. Alex thought about the situation, he could see why they would smell something different. A guy in what was clearly a very girly environment. Not to mention they are animals, so it's obvious that their sense of smell is stronger then that of humans.

Rarity wasn't really sure how to respond. Sweetie Belle looked a little confused as well, Scootaloo's interest had peaked too. She wasn't sure how long she could keep Alex a secret from the girls, but then again,should she? She couldn't bring herself to lie to her sister, and Rarity is certain that all of Canterlot already knows about these four. It wouldn't hurt if just a few kids knew about them... right? Rarity sighed, as she steeled her nerves.

" Alright girls. Yes there was... is a stallion here, and he's going to be... staying, here." She said, their eyes widened in shock. Sweetie Belle's blush was more visible through her coat than the others, but they didn't say anything, as they could see Rarity had more to say. " But, he's not necessarily a... pony. He's here right now girls, and he's not the only one. You see, they're, not from around here and well, they look different." She said. Alex had to hold in a chuckle. Different was an understatement, might as well go with alien.

" What are you saying sis? Do you mean, he's listening to this right now?" Sweetie Belle asked, the three looking at her with wide eyes as they waited. Rarity nodded, and they all gave each other cautious looks. Sweetie Belle wasn't sure how to react to somepony living with her and her sister. What if he's mean? What if he's scary? Her mind began to go to all of the bad scenarios that played in her head. These thoughts were interrupted however, as her sister's voice replayed in her ears.

" Um... A-Alex, you can, come out now..." Rarity said, Sweetie Belle looking up and past her sister to the stairs. Scootaloo and Applebloom did the same, and to say they were surprised would be a severe understatement. Alex took in a breath as he turned the corner, a little surprised on how low his eyes had to go. The three subconsciously took a few steps back, taking in his entire form. Alex still had all of his equipment on, but his scarf rested on his shoulders, as his hat was left in the room, along with the railgun. There was only silence between Alex and the three fillies, as they both were too busy observing each other. Alex kept his stoic mask, but found it hard when he saw the cautious expressions on their faces. Deciding the be the first one to make the move, Alex gently knelt down, making them step farther back. Rarity gave Alex a worried expression as he sat with his legs crossed. Without making any subtle movements, he spoke up, giving them a small smirk as his mask was lifted.

" Um, h-hey, you three. I'm Alex. A-and you are?" He asked, gesturing to them as he waited for someone to speak up. The three girls remained silent, and after a while, it seemed that they were in no mood to talk to the man just yet. Rarity decided to step in, clearing her throat as she got their attention.

" Well, I believe it is time we head on the Applejack's farm and drop off Applebloom. Um, Alex dear, do you have everything?" Rarity asked, Alex standing up as he checked himself.

" Everything's clipped on and good. I'll follow you I guess." Alex said, as he waited on the side for Rarity and the three fillies to walk out. As they did, they couldn't shake their eyes off of Alex as they walked out, Rarity right behind them, followed by the man himself. As they walked through the calm night, Rarity noticed that the three still gave cautionary glances behind, Rarity turning her head to see Alex as he casually strolled behind them, looking more up at the stars rather than where they were going.

" Girls, it's very rude to stare. What's the matter? I told you he's not a pony." Rarity reasoned. This seemed to perk them up, as Scootaloo turned to her, the other two fillies standing by Rarity's sides.

" Yeah we know, but just, WHAT, is he? I've never seen anything like him before." Scootaloo whispered, as she kept sneaking glances his way to make sure he wasn't listening in.

" I'm with Scoots here, ain't never seen a critter such as him, how does he walk like that?" Applebloom asked, as she watched his legs stride casually. The movements were, alien to her, to say the least.

" Sis, why is something so tall and scary living with you? With US?" Sweetie Belle emphasized, giving her sister a worried look. Rarity was about to scold her sister for calling Alex an 'it', but held her tongue. She noticed how unnerved the three kids were, and it was understandable. Rarity remembered the first time she came into contact with these four beings. To say they were strange would be an understatement. Rarity sighed as she spoke in a low, but comforting tone.

" Sweetie Belle, I know my friend Alex here may seem a little odd, but trust me, he and the others are very friendly once you get to know them." Rarity piped up. Sweetie Belle's eyes widened as Scootaloo turned around with the same shocked expression.

" You're saying there's more than one-" Her voice was cut off, Applebloom grabbing their attention to their surroundings.

" We're here." She said, Rarity looking up, seeing the door to the home not that far up the hill. Applebloom quickened her pace a little, as well as the other fillies. Rarity turned around to see Alex, waving to her with a small smile as he followed. She thanked him inwardly for understanding their discomfort, and keeping a good distance behind. She turned to the door, only for her eyes to widen. The three fillies were pressed against the white guard rails on the front porch, as they all stared at the figure standing in the doorway. Zack smiled as he saw the three, turning around to the inside of the house.

" Applejack! We've got some surprise guests!" He said, before turning back to the fillies, who stared up at him in shock and growing fear. " Okay so! Which one of you is Applebloom?" He asked. Even through fear, Applebloom raised her hoof shakily, catching Zack's attention. He still wore his cap, but his weapons were gone, his vest and clothing still on his person. With his blue eyes staring into Apple Bloom's green, he spoke up, smiling as he did. " Hey kid. Wow, you are THE most cutest thing I think I've ever laid my eyes on. Come on in, your sister is waiting for you, not to mention the food is ready." He said, as he got and walked back inside, leaving the door open. The three fillies stood there, Rarity and Alex finally catching up.

" What happened to those three?" Alex asked, raising a brow as he looked down at the three. Rarity just shook her head as she sighed.

" I honestly don't know dear. Come on girls. Applebloom, go join your family. Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, say your goodbyes, we need to tuck you in Sweetie, and bring Scootaloo back home." She said, Alex seeing the girls being brought back to the world. Apple Bloom rubbed one of her legs with her hoof as she looked around awkwardly.

" G-guess I'll see ya'll tomorrow then." She said, Scootaloo hugging her friend as Sweetie Belle joined in.

" Geez, you both got those weird creatures in your houses. Let me know if they give any trouble, I'll have Rainbow Dash pummel them." Scootaloo whispered, giving them a confident smirk. Those words gave some to very little comfort to the other two, both returning the small smirk as they broke away. Alex stepped in the house a little, seeing Zack.

" Hey man, so how's the whole settling in thing for you going?" He asked. Zack rolling his shoulder as he walked over to Alex.

" Eh, been pretty good. Family here is nice, Applejack's a hard working girl, she means well. Her sister is straight up adorable, kind of reminds me of my own." He said, Alex placing a hand on his shoulder as he gave him a comforting squeeze.

" More fuel to the fire Zack. We're going to get home. Now that we have a general sense on where we are and how things work, we can dig a little deeper here. Who knows we may find a way back tomorrow." Alex said hopefully, Zack giving him a chuckle.

" I sure hope you're right about that." He said. The two ended their quick meet up, as Alex, Rarity, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo left, leaving the Apple family's farm. Arriving back at the Carousel Boutique, Rarity told Alex she was going to tuck Sweetie Belle in as he and Scootaloo waited downstairs. As Alex leaned against a wall, he waited as Scootaloo kept looking at him from the other side of the room. With his arms crossed and eyes closed, he wandered his mind, as Scootaloo lightly shook in her seat. She wanted to be brave, but his height alone was making it hard. She wondered if he was any taller than the princess.

" I-If you hurt any of my friends, Y-you're going to be sorry you hear me?" She said, her voice was barely above a whisper. a small part of her wishes that he wouldn't hear, but life had other plans. Alex raised his head as well as a brow. He looked Scootaloo in the eyes, making her turn away. His eyes were calming as he spoke.

" Um, Scootaloo, was it? There's no need to worry. You're friends are quite adorable, and I wouldn't want to harm them for the world. You're all nice people, and if you're nice to me, to us, then we'll repay tenfold." Alex said. Scootaloo took in his words, but her body beat her brain.

" What about me!?" She said, her eyes widening as her brain finally caught up. Alex was a little surprised by the outburst, but raised a hand as he chuckled.

" Don't worry Scootaloo you're plenty cute yourself. Like the colors." He said. Scootaloo's cheeks flushed, as she covered her mouth, her tail wrapping around her as she buried her head in her hooves. Alex raised a brow at her reaction, not expecting it, but didn't have time to dwell, as Rarity came back downstairs, grabbing their attention.

" Sweetie Belle is asleep, now it's your turn Scootaloo, come on." Rarity said, as they walked back out the door and into the night. By the looks of it the night has just started, Alex smiling a little as he saw Scootaloo sleeping on Rarity's back. He looked up, seeing a pretty nice two story house. It seemed, surprisingly original, given the other places he had seen. As they walked up to the door, Alex turned to see Kevin and Twilight walking down the road. His eyes widened In surprise as he turned to the pair, Kevin smiling as he gave a quick wave to Alex.

" Geez what's with everyone being up right now?" Alex asked, as the two stopped in front of him.

" I honestly don't know, Twilight said we were heading to the place Sugar Cube Corner. Apparently there's something there she wanted to show me. Or, actually, you said all of us, didn't you?" Kevin said, as he turned to Twilight, who looked up and nodded.

" Huh, well then who knows, maybe we'll see Zack somewhere around. Rarity's and I were just bringing a filly home for the night." Alex said, as he turned to see Rarity walking up to them, a smile on her face as the four were together. " Oh, well, guess that's done. So, what now?" He asked, Twilight deciding to speak up.

" We'll meet with Applejack and Zack in front of Sugar Cube Corner after they finish. Well, let's go." Twilight said, the three following close behind her as they walked through the brisk night air.

**********

The three humans and ponies finally arrived at the building, the moon had rose a little higher in the sky. As the each party greeted each other, Kevin sighed as he looked around, raising a brow as he asked.

" Hey Zack, Alex, see Cody anywhere?" He said, the two turning to him, Alex started to observe the group as Zack replied.

" No not really. I mean he is staying here so maybe he's with Pinkie Pie?" He suggested, Kevin shrugging as he decided to put the question away for later. Twilight walked up to them as she motioned for them to follow.

" Why don't we head inside shall we? Pinkie wanted to show you all something." She said, the three humans following behind her as Twilight opened the door. To their surprise, it was dark, barely no light touched the shop. As they obliviously walked in, Kevin felt the itch to reach for his firearm, but kept his nerves calm. As the three ponies came in behind them, the door shut, encompassing them in complete darkness. Kevin's eyes widened as her turned to where he though Twilight was, and voiced his complaint.

" Whoa whoa whoa Twilight? Hey, anybody? Come on is this a prank or something what are you doing?-" He stopped, feeling a finger tap his shoulder. Alex cleared his throat as he spoke to Kevin.

" Hey dude, I think there are, ponies hiding here." He said. Zack and Kevin turned to Alex, seeing the dim green light coming from his PLD. Before they could really say anything, what happened next, was a cacophony of screaming, as well as bright lights. The room that was dark suddenly lit up, like a sun had suddenly been born. Kevin and Zack recoiled in surprise, Alex, screaming a very "manly" scream, as he clutched his eyes. The ponies of Ponyville jumped up, their smiles as wide as they could ever be, as they shouted in one big crowd.

" SURPRISE!!!"

**********

It took the humans some time to recover from the sudden light and volume change. Zack and Kevin still had their arms held up, but their eyes were able to adjust. Alex screamed as he dropped the PLD, stumbling back.

" AGH! GODDAMMIT A SECOND FUCKING TIME!? REALLY!? WHY!?" He stumbled back, as he rested against the wall, sliding down it as his head pressed into the ground, his hands still on his eyes. Kevin looking down at his friend, he simple chucked a medic bag at him, as it landed gently next to Alex. He turned to look at the crowd that now was in front of him, Twilight, Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and lastly, Pinkie Pie, were all there among the ponies. Pinkie spoke up first, her smile greater than any other pony's in the room.

" Surprise! We wanted to throw you a 'thank you for helping fight the changelings and saving Equestria and welcome to Ponyville' party, but what's better than a party? a SURPRISE party!" Pinkie said, giggling all the while. Kevin was the first to recover, noticing all the snacks and drinks, even a DJ in the back. He smiled, honestly surprised by how well they put this party together. He saw Cody in the back, the man looked tired as hell, but still held a strong posture as he smirked.

" You did this for us? All of you? I, I really don't know what to say. Um, Thank you, all of you, really." Kevin said. He didn't think the ponies could get even happier, but they proved him wrong. With a giggle, Pinkie was the one to initiate the official party, as ponies finally began to dance, as well as converse. With Alex healing in the corner, Kevin looked to Zack, who simply shrugged in response.

" Eh, I'm sure he's gonna be fine. Come on why don't we enjoy ourselves like the wedding? Except, you know, not pass out with our memories jumbled." Zack said, earning a chuckle from Kevin.

" Agreed, let's have some fun." He said. Alex simply flipped them off, not really caring if they saw or not, as he just lay there on the side. Zack began to converse with a few ponies, one having a yellow mane and grey fur. Zack seemed to take more of a shine to her, their dancing eventually leading to them just talking on the side. Kevin walked up to Cody, who simply clashed arms together as they bumped.

" You seem tired Cody." Kevin said, Cody shaking his head.

" That pink nightmare wouldn't stop questioning me about what I like to eat or what we like in parties. Just told her we like what they like to end it all." He said, taking another quick sip from the glass in his hand. Kevin watched the party as well, smiling as he did. Eventually, Alex came back, glaring at Pinkie as he began to scold her, but the music was too loud for anypony to hear anything. Kevin was about to step in when he saw Alex chasing Pinkie, but relief swept over him when he saw the playful grin on the man's face. Sighing, he turned to Cody, placing a hand on his shoulder.

" Even if we've been here for only a few weeks... I'm gonna miss a community as bright as this one." he said. Cody was hesitant at first, but smiled as he placed a hand on Kevin's shoulder, patting him as he spoke.

" As much as I want to go home. I can't believe that these ponies, were able to grow on me." He said, as they watched the ponies dance, the night losing its slumber, as it found new energy, and excitement.

Author's Note

Life is hard. There are things we cannot control, and it hinders the way we want to live. I'm sorry, I don't deserve you wonderful readers, and it really means a lot to me that you've stuck with me through my life's crap. It really means a lot, I can't say it enough. Anyways, that's the chapter, I'll continue onto the next. Remember my fellow members.

Keep on Writing, and Keep on Reading.