Dragon King: Homecomingby SipiocChaptersHome BoundFamily Binds and Friendly TiesA Bit of an AttractionHome BoundChapter 1 Home Bound The night air under my mighty wings felt crisp and cool as I soared through the dark skies. Every so often I roared, simply because I could. Giving voice to the power that resides in my body in a fierce crescendo that sent those creatures below that dared venture out of their burrows at this hour scattering for cover. This, was my domain. My mountain, the skies above, and all the lands below it, for as far as my eyes could see. And see far they could. This was my kingdom, and I its rightful ruler for over a hundred years. And that is not a claim I make lightly. For I am, Xedranon. And I am King of all Dragons. A rumble in my stomach reminded me that even kings need to eat. I threw myself into a spiral dive as I searched for a worthy meal. Small packs of goats scurry for cover as my shadow passes over them. Fierce mountain lions run in terror at the sight of me. But I am not interested in them. They are but morsels. And I seek a meal. It has been well over a month since last I feasted, and my mighty frame demands sustenance. As I zoomed across the rocky landscape at great speeds, my golden eyes easily piercing the gloom, I picked up a distinct shape in the distance. There in the snow covered valley below strode a mighty mammoth. Easily half my size, this one would be a worthy prey for me, and could sustain me for some time to come. They have become rare of late, these mighty eight ton beasts. I would relish this kill. As I soared closer I could make out the individual details of my prey. A male, with long, battle worn tusks. Judging by his size and coat he is his prime. I felt a surge of adrenaline race through me as I anticipated the kill. I roared my challenge to the beast, and it turned to face me, pawing at the ground in challenge. Most would run at the sight of me, but this beast is clearly made of sterner stuff. Good… I will relish this all the more. With a mighty wingbeat I hurled myself at it like a bolt of lightning. It trumpets and charges me head on. A vicious grin split my face. Yes, come brave beast. Come and meet your maker at my claws! We connected with a clap like thunder. One of the beast's tusks shattered against my armored hide. And though it failed to pierce me and deliver a mortal wound, it still knocks the wind out of me. My claws tore at its hide, seeking purchase. My head shot forward as I opened my mouth wide, while my armored third eyelid slides down to protect my eyes. Teeth that can shatter diamonds made short work of the beasts thick leathery hide as I bit down on the left side of its neck. Instead of the expected howl of pain, I am instead greeted by a feminine giggle. Confused, I took a chance and opened my eyes to find that the once sullen and muddy brown mammoth is now sporting a smile and a head of the most garishly pink curls. “Hee-hee, that tickles, Flint.” It chirped before giggling once more. All I can do is blink. My eyes are narrowed on the current source of my ire, who looks back at me with a wide smile. She flutters her blue eyes at me before laughing a bit more like the lunatic she is. The taste of cherry blossom shampoo from her mane fills my mouth, and I realise I'm chewing on it. I noisily spit out the pink fro before I address the pony who is spooning against me. “....Miss Pie.” I say flatly, not changing my sullen expression nor taking my eyes off her. “Mornin!” She spouts happily bouncing a bit on my bed so she can face me. Now before you can say ‘Really? You and HER?’. Let's be clear: Not. EVER! We both stare each other down for a while, her barely contained mania, my barely contained lividness. After another moment I break the silence. “Alright, how did you get in today?” I remark impassively. Her smile grows impossibly wide as she points a hoof to the ceiling. “You left your skylight open.” “How silly of me to keep it open those few inches.” I say dryly, already feeling a migraine coming on. “Yeah, you’ll let mosquitoes in.” “Among other pests.” I grumble before rolling out of bed onto my three hooves. What remains of my fourth limb lowers as well on instinct, however everything below the radius bone has been gone for a little more than ten years now. Even so I still feel phantom sensations from it on occasion. After popping a few joints, I catch my reflection in the full length mirror in the corner. At first I see the dragon I was; ancient, powerful, above all the trivial matters of a common life. I blink hard and clear my head. I let out a deep breath and look to the mirror again. In the place of a drake is now a blue stallion of the earth tribe, his mane is a ginger orange, the mark of a dragon and shield adorn his upper thigh. What remains the same is the eyes, they still retain that golden glow from before. When he was the fierce king he once was. What I once was. “Take a picture.” looking over I glare at the pink interloper who just looks at me thoughtfully. “No seriously, this place needs something. Like a plant.” “It's fine the way it is.” Stretching my back. “If you say so, but there is not much here to look at when I come over for a visit.” She says rolling to her back and kicking her legs playfully in front of her to amuse her short attention span. “Speaking of your visits,” I say coming to the edge of the bed, “don't you think that sneaking in here and jumping in bed with me might be a bit...I don't know, suggestive of something?” “Why? Is something gonna happen?” She asks innocently before fluttering her eyelashes and smirking up at me. “No.” I answer flatly. “Then nope!” She says before devolving into giggles again. This is brought to an abrupt end with a quick yank of the sheet that sends her tumbling off the bed with a squeak and a satisfying thunk. Not even caring to check on her, I move to my bathroom and shut the door; before opening it again and ushering her out, my scrub brush in her hooves and a shower cap I don't own on her head. She pouts a bit before I close the door again. I would lock it but...what’s the point? Stepping into the cascading water I allow the shower to drown out the ceaseless questions Ms Pie keeps bombarding me with through the door. None of which I will answer, but then again, it doesn’t seem like she’s really expecting any answers, the way she rambles on at full steam. The plumbing spurts a bit due to the suboptimal water pressure in my makeshift accommodations. This loft had been something of an afterthought by the leaseholders. A project for another day. Still it suited my purposes. Having just been eager to set up a hasty residence here nearly a week ago. ‘A week ago.’ The water had long since turned to icy, but my thoughts were elsewhere. I had had it so good. I was out in the world, on the road, traveling about for almost two years. Never staying in one place for more than a day. Taking an odd job here and there that called for the handling of one beastie or another. It seems my old life has given a knack for dealing with any unruly monster with a bad attitude and a penchant for pony meat. ‘Hypocrisy’ says you? ‘No doubt’ says I, considering how many countless lives I’ve claimed with tooth, claw and fire. But that…. that was a lifetime ago. My eyes trail down to the stump where my left foreleg used to be. The price of my epiphany. It was that moment I made a choice, and I’ve stuck with it since, be it begrudgingly at times. But my willingness to accept this choice was now being tested, and it all started when I came home for the first time in nearly two dozen Moons. The Everfree Forest was a place that was full of creatures both mundane and exotic. From the simple wolf and bear to the more exocitc Cragodile and, if you went deep enough, Chimera and Hydra. While this bothered many ponies, for me this was like home. I didn't fear the monsters here because, despite what I may appear now, I was one once. That didn't mean I was foolish enough to believe I was invincible. I had been bit,, stung, scratched, and otherwise tussled by everything in here at one point or another. Difference was I knew what to do when the time came for it. A sharp buck to the eyes, throat, or a well placed arrow, be it pointed or alchemic could convince even the most curious of beasts that this pony was not to be trifled with. Timber wolves though? They were a bit more tricky. The sun was shining more clearer now through the canopy as I stepped steadily through the brush. The bottom of my traveling cloak had seen better days, every thorn and thistle I crossed taking a piece as if demanding tribute for my passing. My calloused hooves and fetlocks fair a bit better but we're still feeling considerably raw from the hike. I silently break the treeline and get into the open air. The weight of the forest leaves me as I get to more open ground. There is malice in those woods, let there be no mistake about that. In the distance I can see the spires of town hall and the thatched roofs of the surrounding homes. This was not the place I was (re)born in, but if one has to have a hometown, this wouldn't be an unwelcome sight. Shaking off my momentary lapse into nostalgia I step out toward the main road. “Hi there!” Two years of travel kick in, as in an instant I have my bow out, an arrow notched and gripped in my teeth, pointed into the muzzle of a very pink pony, “WHOA! Easy there Trigger!” She quips but shows no sign of true fear. “Where did you come from? How did you sneak up on me?” I hiss at her.. “I came from Ponyville! Well- not originally, see I grew up on a rock farm just a ways from here. A stone's throw away. Hahahah-snort- that's a little joke we say out our way. Any who, I grew up there with my my mom and dad and my three sisters; Marble, Limestone, and Maud. I came to Ponyville to stay a year or so ago. I think it was June. Yep definitely June, because it was right after the Juniper Berry Festival, ‘cause that was where I met Mister and Mrs Cake. We hit it off from the get go and they offered me the room upstairs in exchange for working at the shop. Have you ever been to Sugarcube corner? D’oh silly me, you just got here. -GASP- You know what we should do we should go to Sugarcube Corner!” After that tirade of gum flapping my own jaw was getting tired but I wasn't altogether sure I shouldn't keep this mare at arrow point. After a moment though I relent and bring my foreleg back down. Releasing the nock, I return the arrow it to the quiver at my side. Three arrows remaining, best not waste it on this nut. “Thanks for not shooting me.” She says in a ho-hum sort of way that doesn't reflect that of a pony who was about to get a third nostril. “Whatever.” I grumble as I resume my trip toward town. “I'm Pinkie Pie, by the way.” She is now hopping along side me, chipper as a chipmunk; toothy little rats that they are. “I’m sure you are.” I say disinterestedly as I attempt to put more distance between us. “Whatcha doin’ in Ponyville?” She queries. “None of your business.” I retort cooly. “In town for the Summer Sun Celebration?” “No.” “Do you like parties?” “No.” “Have plans for tonight?” “No.” “Am I bugging you?” “Yes.” “Should I stop?” “I would.” “And you are?” “Getting seriously annoyed.” “So I should stop?” “Again, yes.” “Geeosh Flint you really are a stick in the mud.” She says with a puff moving curly strand of her mane out of her face. My mounting irritation nearly makes me miss it, but when I do pick it up, I stop walking and turn to face her again. “How did you-” “-know your name?” She replies aloofly. “Yes.” “I dunno.” She shrugs looking uninterested. “Are you purposely trying to egg me on or do-” “-I think this is a game?” “Actually, I was gonna say: do I need to get the arrow out again?” “You wouldn't hurt lil’ ol me, would ya?” She says pouting her lips and giving a pair of puppy dog eyes. I bite the inside of my cheek, part me really would, but all of me would just like this conversation to be done and over with. “...probably not.” I say with a grumble. “Course not, you seem like a nice guy. A bit grumpy, but nice.” I do my best to ignore my chatty pink shadow as I cross the bridge into town. Miss Pie is not at all as dumb as she appears. Her relentless chatter was only brought to a halt provided I agreed to go to that party at the Library that night. The Icy water finally manages to grab my attention as a shiver runs down my spine. Having had enough I turn off the faucet and step out of the shower, only to be handed a towel. With the pink pain in my flank having literally bounced out the door I headed down the steps to the kitchen. The clinking of dishes made me hesitate on proceeding down. A rustle of a newspaper, the pouring of juice into a glass, and the rhythmic tapping of a hoof on a plate. Yup all three of them were up. For a moment I considered just walking out the door, but the aroma of grounds percolating gave me pause. I had spent many a month out on the road and if there was one thing I couldn't resist it was a hot cup of the vice known as coffee. I could function without it but if there was one consolation about being in civilization, it was that. Making a decision, I mustered my reserves and made contact with the main floor. The light clacking of my metal prosthetic hoof made a heavy thud on the hardwood, even with the suspension in it, it still felt awkward at times. Immediately, I could tell the atmosphere had tensed in the kitchen. As the usual noises fell silent. Rounding the corner I confirmed my suspicions from the stairs. I couldn't ignore the irony, I had been a king once, now I shared a crude domicile with three peasants. “Good Morning, Flint.” Spoke the unicorn. His name is Written Script. He has a job at town hall doing...something. I simply mumble in response. Opening the cabinet door I pulled a mug down and soon had carefully poured it full, steam rising to my nostrils offering a brief moment of serenity. “Woke up with your bed buddy again?” And just like that, serenity was shattered. I simply glare at the Pegasus. “She may be a bit... odd, but she's probably a beast between the sheets, eh eh?" he said with a lewd wink in my direction. I suppressed the urge to smash the coffeecup into his stupid face, not because he doesn't deserve it, but because I hate to waste a good brew. "Drop dead Thunderlane." I growl as I sip my morning joe. I hate my life right now. “Whoa, hostile.” Says the final member to this jamboree. This one goes by Caramel, which means he runs slow and is overly sweet. “Now that we are all here,” Script says, changing the subject, “it's time to go over the chore list for the week.” Somehow he finds excitement in this as he pulls out a pad and marker and lays it on the table. Amazing, I actually hate my life more right now. Author's Note A special thanks to Aprion, whose coaching and great ideas got this off the ground. This story though is for me guys. If you like it? Great let's see where it goes! Hate it? I get it. Family Binds and Friendly TiesChapter 2 Grocery shopping. That is the one thing that didn't seem like a root canal with a hammer and nail. Plus it got me out of there, so... bonus. Making my way through town, I received a mixture of greetings and stares from ponies. Both go unheeded as I look over the list. It has been meticulously itemized down to the type, whom to buy it from, and how much to pay. All I needed to do now was pin it to my chest and prance into town and I would look like a proper idiot. I could see the marketplace come into view and I picked up the pace. The sooner this was over the sooner...we'll okay I had nothing really better to do. The first stop on the list was vegetables, and the purveyor was one Golden Harvest. The mare in question nibbles on a carrot as I trot up to her stall. “Good morning.” The orange haired mare jumps to attention before recognizing me. “Oh! Hiya Flint! “Hello.” I woke up next to the embodiment of chipper, this was just cruel. “Did my Scrippie send you to shop from me.” Nope, I’m here to kill you if you keep talking like that. Despite what I want to say, I manage a nod. “Aww he is so sweet! Just the other day he was telling me…”. Choke on the carrot, please, just choke on the carrot. Well she didn't choke, but despite me being her coltfriend’s roommate she does manage to charge me more than what Script wrote on the list. The price of being able to leave. Shrewd mare. The remainder of the shopping goes mercifully faster and it isn't long before I have everything on the list. The bags feel heavier on my back but it's nothing I can’t handle. Walking through town in more of a daze than anything else. Absentmindedly, I look to the north, and in the herd of thatched roofs one stands out in particular. Miss Pie had finally let me alone since I got back into town. All it took was agreeing to attend one party tonight as well as a “Welcome Back to Ponyville” party for me personally tomorrow night. Jokes on her, I won't be here that long. I smirk slightly as I come to a stop at my destination. The two story house had changed little in my absence, but it...was good to see it again. Being gone so long I surmised the etiquette would be to knock. After I did I could hear a familiar male voice through the open window. “Just a minute!” The shuffling of materials followed by the clang of metal told me that Sparks was tinkering again. His voice came again after a long stretch of silence. “Snug Bug? Honey, can you get the door while I get this cleaned up before your mother-” “Too late.” Came a clearly ticked female voice. “Bugaboo, get the door please?” “Yes, Mommy.” A smaller voice responded. There's a click and the door opens. A pegasus filly answers the door. Her coat a tannish yellow and is complimented by her red mane that's held in a modest pony tail. She is still young but has just reached the age where her wings now tuck at her sides neatly, partially covering a mark that hadn't been there since last we saw one another. Upon recognition her eyes go wide at the sight of me, shock on her face. This is soon replaced by a sullen expression. “Oh...it's you.” Irritation is heavy in her voice. The feeling is mutual. “Shouldn't you be at the Boarding School?” I met her ire with my own. “It's summer,” She parries condescendingly, “and it's not a ‘boarding school’ it's The Calvary Academy for the Gifted.” She continues haughtily. “Oh my, I’m all a quiver.” My tone is parched dry as I push past her and enter the house. I can feel her icy glare chill the back of my head before she shuts the door a bit heavier than necessary. “Isn't there a bog or a mud hole you should be wallowing in right now?” “Bug, who are you talking-”any further argument is blocked by the arrival of an Indigo earth mare. Time ticks by interminably, so I decide to cut to the chase and get it over with. “Mother.” That, apparently, is the kick she needs to ensnare me in a hug. “Flint! Oh Flint! Your home!” She squeezes me tighter before yanking my face down to her level so that she can bombard me with a slew of kisses on my cheeks. There was a time I would attempt to reel away or pry her off, but I had learned it was simply better to let her get it all out of her system. “Son!” Came the patriarch; a light grey Pegasus with an orange mane, same as mine. He joins this swarray of affection, thankfully only contributing a clap of a hoof to my back. After counting to ten, I bring it to an end. “Cozy. Sparks. That’s enough.” They both chuckled before relinquishing their hold. ---------- It was a bit after noon when we all sat down for lunch. The little maggot was making faces at me from her side of the table when our ‘parents’ weren't looking. I of course reciprocated in kind. “So it's been forever, my boy!” Sparks said distractedly twisting a pesky nut on what had once been a either a coffee maker or a blender. “Where have you all been?” Hardening my gaze at the whelp, a turned and addressed my ‘father’. “I mostly wandered. South east to the Hayseed Swamps, then through the Badlands. Then... a little further.” I had actually gone all the way to my old domain, but they didn't need to know that. “Oh I wish you wouldn't wander so far out there.” Cozy chided bringing a salad and plate of sandwiches over. “The name alone gives me the willies.” “The lack of supplies is a far more real danger,” I respond with a shrug, “beyond that you just need to stay alert.” “Nevertheless,” Cozy shook her head as if to clear an unpleasant image,”I really wish you would just find a place to settle down, lay some roots…” wait for it,”....find a nice mare…” “Mother..” I sigh, not really wanting to hear this conversation again. “What? What?” She smirked innocently. “Is it wrong I want to see you happy and safe? With two or six little ones running about?” She not so subtly says into her glass of iced tea. “I'm not exactly the relationship or kid type, Mom.” I retort flatly. “Yeah, I would suspect his species eats their own young.” The sibling snarks. “You wanna be the first, runt?” I say getting up from my seat with a growl. “Hey!” A voice break me out of my thoughts. So engrossed was I, that it takes me a moment to realize where it came from. “Up here, Three Step.” The tomboyish voice draws my gaze upward. Well fate is taking a bat to my day, it seems. Her mane, as bright and attention seeking as her ego, is the first thing I see against the backdrop of the midday sky, and it's enough for me to slightly grumble on its recognition; Rainbow Dash. “There something you want, feathers?” I sneer up at her. “A good thunder cloud to zap some manners into you would be a nice start.” She sneers right back in that raspy voice of hers, while she glides down to stare me in the eyes. Its funny how she tries to stare me down, even though she’s a head and a half shorter than me. I narrow my eyes at her. “That would be the last thing you'd ever do.” I say with all the sincerity in the world. From the start, there’s been a level of distrust between us. She’s always telling the others she has a ‘gut feeling’, that there’s something off about me. I would compliment her intuition, were it not for the fact that I refuse to compliment her on principal, for any reason. We stare eachother down for a time, before her nostrils flare and she turns away with a snort, breaking the stalemate. “Whatever, have you seen Twilight?” In another time, turning her back on me would've been insult enough for me to strike, but no. Not today anyway. “No.” I reply snidely. “Big help you are.” She glares back at me. “I’m following your excellent example.” I retort. The already tepid conversation between us turns downright frigid, and we both fall silent. With a huff of disgust she powers into the air in her usual ‘look-at-me’ display of athletic prowess. Her powerful take-off sends a cloud of dirt into my face. I have no doubt she did that on purpose. Snorting the dirt from my nose I brush the remainder off with my good foreleg. “Well, at least you two are talkin’ to one another.” The drawl is familiar enough for me to recognize it in an instant. Despite this, I keep my guard up. I simply chose to rest for the remainder of the afternoon. Cozy and Sparks had apparently turned my old room into a home office, though why it reeked of Body oil I will never know, nor do I really want to find out. Mom offered to set me up in one of her company’s houses for a while. She deflated a bit when I told her I planned on being back on the road by tomorrow. She seemed to perk back up when I mentioned that I had been strong armed into attending a party tonight. She even seemed to know the pink pestilence by name. It was then that she got that look in her eye. That ‘Cozy Homes” look that seems like a wonderful idea but it usually involves me being groomed and dressed in a suit with a big red bow tie. Never again. Instead it was something equally demeaning. “This sucks!” Came the statement of obvious from the sibling I was now strung along with for the evening. “I was hoping to go with Mom and Dad to Filthy Riches party! Now I am stuck with you on the longest night of the year!” She whined, kicking the dirt in front of her. “I know, it's gonna be hell.” I concurred nodding solemnly. “Of all days, why did you pick today to show back up?” She further growls at me. “I could smell it on the wind, today was the day to ruin the Bug’s life.” I respond flatly. “Jerk!” “Brat.” She simply huffed with anger, clearing cycling down. Amateur. The library was still some distance away and while I was content with the silence she could always start up again. “So…” my mind sought for the least mind peeling topic to bring up. It took some considerable effort, “...how's school?” To her credit she saw right through it, “what do you care?” “I don't, but I'll take your mindless chatter over your whining any day.” She narrowed her eyes and regarded me for a moment. “Celestia above, were you always such a plot hole?” “For as long as ah c’n remember,” came a voice from behind, the recognition of which and the irritation within made me tense up instantly. I was careless, trying so hard to drown out the whinging of the whelp that I failed to notice her approach. I attempted to reel about, but this plays right into her plan it seems, as a rope snags my back leg, followed deftly by a shove that knocks me on my back. I attempted to flail but my assailant already has one loop around my other limbs, and begins adding more. I bellow out a roar of anger before that too is silenced by an additional loop of rope. Moments later there I was, hog tied in the middle of the road, my head still spinning. All under twelve seconds. Still I refuse to give up. With a muffled roar I pull against my restraints. The rope digs into my skin holding me tight. Pushing past the pain I fight against it, but apart from some popping of my joints and minor creaking of the ropes they hold tight. A figure steps over me and I already know who it is. Her brown Stetson shading her face from view. “Ya done?” She drawls. I grit and go at it once again, even harder this time, pulling strength from my anger; a well that has never dried on me yet. The edges of my vision go red as I go slightly numb to the world, until a sharp poke to my snout brings an involuntary yelp out of me and equally involuntary tears to my eyes. “That's enough.” the mare scolds cooly, withdrawing her hoof back from the jab she just delivered. “Neither of us need to explain to anypony where you got rope burns from, ponies might talk.” Shaking my head as best I am able, I clear my vision. This allows me to snarl at my captor. “Yeah? Ah bet you’re steamed.” She says tippin her hat back revealing her freckled face and pair of green eyes that regard me with contempt. “Right back at ya, ya warthog.” At this point, I have no choice but to lean back and listen, so with a snort I let my head fall back, but I refuse to look at her. “Yah come back after two long years, not so much a postcard and Ah hafta hear about it from Pinkie Pie?” She punctuates her point with a jab to my ribs. “Ah thought yah treated yer friends better.” The list was short, but…. yes, she was somepony I counted as a friend. “Nmwory.” I relent an apology. “Save it.” She says yanking on the bonds for good measure before summarily sitting on me like a bean bag chair. To my right I can hear the Bug is rolling over laughing at my current status. “Ohohohohoho! Applejack you have just made this night A-mazing!” Laugh it up while you can, Insect. The older mare swells with a pride as she shifts on me, giving me a juicy opening. “T’wert nothing Snug, just a little-EEEP!” She squeals and jumps off me rubbing her flank where I was able to nip her, even with a restrained jaw. She is beat red as she glares at me, indignantly. I meet this with the best smirk i can manage. "Dn't unnerestmte me.” Author's Note Trying to keep steam up is hard. But there are parts I really want to get to. Now back to family day! A Bit of an AttractionChapter 3 A Bit of an Attraction The remainder of the grocery shopping goes by much smoother, I will admit. It does help that I have an expert haggler to accompany me now. Applejack’s personal wealth of knowledge and her familiarity with the locals and their wares works to my advantage as prices are set up and likewise knocked down by the savvy business pony. I normally would refuse her help, or any help for that matter, But our shared history offered her some leeway. ‘I suppose I should be thankful.’ I relent, feeling the growing lightness of my bit pouch as we walk away from the baker stand. Cozy’s deal of free rent for the first two months was ideal for my current situation, but other expenses were slowly bleeding me dry. At this rate I would need to find work, though I shuddered to think what that would entail. A more permanent solution was needed. One that would get me out of here. “Gold stack gettin’ slack?” The orange farm mare quips at me as I begrudgingly put the sack away. “None of your concern.” I retort in a tone would that would repel others, but she merely shrugs it off. “Have it y’er way.” Her gaze goes up to the sky as she spots the rainbow one overhead; hopping from cloud patch to cloud patch above. “Just means ah get to laugh when yah come crawlin’ up to my door beggin’ for a job.” She eyes me with a smug little grin. “That would be the day.” I snort derisively, making her chuckle, and for a brief moment, very brief, making me genuinely smile. If there was anything that was tolerable about being back in this town. It was her. While she could be just as naive and cloying as the rest of her kind, this mare somehow balanced her more unctuous tendencies with a iron forged tenacity. Something I grew to respect in my youth here. It was by no means immediate, not without its compromises and...personal sacrifices; for a moment I can feel the remaining muscles in my crippled leg go tense at a long passed memory, but I am quick to shake it from my mind. Despite that and more, she earned the right to be considered my first friend. Ever. “Could always talk to the Mayor, might be somethin’ somepony of y’er talents could do.” “Ugh. Pass.” I could only imagine the kind of mundane tasks I would be forced to endure. The bounty out on overdue books? Crashing a den of fiendish loitering teenagers? Or the absolute CRISIS, that is newspaper theft? Still, what I wouldn't give for something big and toothy to kill. But this was Ponyville we were talking about. Even with last week’s excitement, I doubt that would become a trend. "Ohhh stop actin’ so crotchety, yah ol’ grump." She says playfully as she rubs up against me, before moving on and flicking her tail in my face. There was also a downside of being around her lately: I watch her canter ahead, taking notice of the sway in her toned hips. The swish of her tail. My face begins to burn when I realize what I am doing. ‘Accursed Equine hormones!’ I grit and attempt to hide the redness in my cheeks, by looking away. In the past only Draconess’ would feel ‘the drive’ to propagate the species, leaving me free of any such compulsion. Now? I was begrudgingly at their mercy when I least expected it. A few deep breaths and some androgynous thoughts later, I had recovered and she was none the wiser. “Have a bite?” The sample of watermelon she is offering me from the stand says one thing but my residual mindset has me thinking another, bringing me right back to where I was before. ‘Stupid Equine Hormones.’ Mercifully, I was able to blame my red complexion on the warm weather. Unmercifully, I was down a another bit to buy lemonade. (She offered, but I treated. Shut up. That's why.) We managed to find a comfy spot in the shade of a old maple tree near the fountain, sipping our drinks in the late morning air. Casual silence reigning. The sky above was dotted only with a few modest sized clouds and one Rainbow narcissist. For reasons beyond my interest she had taken to jumping from cloud to cloud. Occasionally peeking her head through, as if searching for something below. “Sneaky little, feather duster.” My ears perk at the half mumbled words to my right. To find Applejack glaring at the Pegasus over the rim of her cup. “Which one of us said that?” I ask dryly without even turning “Cause I know I was thinking it.” “Sorry.” Applejack chuckles without taking her eyes off the Pegasus above. “Dash an’ ah had a bit of a row this morning.” “… over what?” I don't really care, but on the off chance I could have a tactical advantage over the Pegasus, I would make small talk. “....Nuthin’” She finally says downing the rest of her drink in one gulp before crumpling the cup in her hoof. “Nothing?” I pique, unconvinced. “Not a thing.” She responds only more un-convincingly. Pressure is then applied through no words but via a subtle turning of my head to her. She doesn't meet my gaze, but her eyes darting from her peripheral and back tell me she knows. She knows. “Alright!” She caves under my stare. “If you have to know! Twilight got a spare ticket to the Grand Galloping Gala and…” Aaand tuned out. It's not enough that I am stuck here but now I am forced to listen to-OW!! My face tightens into a sneer as I rub the place where I have just been punched. “You had ta hear it! Now pay attention!” She admonishes me, while brandishing her offending hoof. “Like. ah. was sayin’”. She says pointedly before continuing. “Twilight promised that Ticket tah me! Now Dash thinks she can just waltz on in and steal it out from under me! Ah deserve tah go just as much as her!” “Really?” Is the response that comes out. The intent is aloof disinterest. It comes across differently, it seems. If her sudden appearance in front of me says anything. “Whatcha mean ‘really’?” She says pushing up against my face. “You sayin’ what ah think yer sayin?” Crap. This is one of those choose your next words carefully moments, isn't it? Normally I would say whatever the slag I wanted, but as much as I wasn't afraid of her or anything, I also didn’t want the headache of an apology later. “Why would you really care?” Nudging her out of my personal space firmly. “Spending the evening with a bunch of inbred unicorns? What's the appeal?” Scoffing at my callousness, as well as mouthing the word ‘typical’ she continues “It's one of the biggest shin digs in all of Equestria, yah big ape!” “Oh well, in that case,” I say, before bringing my cup in a mock toast, before sipping on it in an exaggerated fashion to express my opinion on the matter. The little remnants of the lemon drink is then capriciously tipped into my face by an equally sour orange mare. “Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yuck it up yah thug.” She relents, giving me a glare, before smirking. “Not like anypony wants you there.” “I am truly crushed.” I answer half heartedly. As I crudely wipe my face with a foreleg, spitting to the side to punctuate my sentiment on the matter. “No doubt. You’d wind up burning down the whole of Canterlot in one night if they did.” Her words inspire some rather vivid imagery, some not entirely from imagination. “There's an idea.” My face curves into an expression only definable as fiendish. “Well, on that cheery note,” Applejack stands, and looks back to the sky, but I can't help but notice she takes a tentative step away from me, as if I was overdue for (literal) Celestial retribution for my crass thoughts. “Looks like ahm getting off here, sug’”. Looking in the direction she is heading I can see Rainbow Dash drift down from the clouds into what I know to be close to Sugarcube Corner, also known as: Pink Territory. “Stay out of trouble, Flint.” She calls over her shoulder as she trots away. “I would be so lu—”. The words die in my throat with a strong pulse that resonates just below it. ‘No. Not this again.’ I growl in anger, my actual good mood utterly ruined. The feeling is jarring, so much so I am pulled to my hooves combat it. It's like hitting a wall of rubber, in which there is some give to it, but in the end I am merely deflected against it. There is no pain, but an inescapable magnetism that only grows pulling me toward the departing figure of the stetsoned mare. I grit my teeth. Dig my hooves into the trodden path of the square. But it only gets stronger the further she gets to the point that it dragging me within an almost invisible gap of around fifteen hooves. ‘What could this be’ you might ask? More I want to say? Not really. Pony Hormones? If only. Destiny? Hah. Aforementioned, Celestial Retribution? ...in a way. Power of..Fffff-riend-sssship? …..perhaps it's just best I tell you when it all began. When I went to a party I didn't want to go to, to celebrate a pony I don't want to celebrate, and where I actually chose to do something selfless, and have since been paying for it. Author's Note Busy schedule. Mass Effect Andromeda. Procrastination. That's is all.
Home BoundChapter 1 Home Bound The night air under my mighty wings felt crisp and cool as I soared through the dark skies. Every so often I roared, simply because I could. Giving voice to the power that resides in my body in a fierce crescendo that sent those creatures below that dared venture out of their burrows at this hour scattering for cover. This, was my domain. My mountain, the skies above, and all the lands below it, for as far as my eyes could see. And see far they could. This was my kingdom, and I its rightful ruler for over a hundred years. And that is not a claim I make lightly. For I am, Xedranon. And I am King of all Dragons. A rumble in my stomach reminded me that even kings need to eat. I threw myself into a spiral dive as I searched for a worthy meal. Small packs of goats scurry for cover as my shadow passes over them. Fierce mountain lions run in terror at the sight of me. But I am not interested in them. They are but morsels. And I seek a meal. It has been well over a month since last I feasted, and my mighty frame demands sustenance. As I zoomed across the rocky landscape at great speeds, my golden eyes easily piercing the gloom, I picked up a distinct shape in the distance. There in the snow covered valley below strode a mighty mammoth. Easily half my size, this one would be a worthy prey for me, and could sustain me for some time to come. They have become rare of late, these mighty eight ton beasts. I would relish this kill. As I soared closer I could make out the individual details of my prey. A male, with long, battle worn tusks. Judging by his size and coat he is his prime. I felt a surge of adrenaline race through me as I anticipated the kill. I roared my challenge to the beast, and it turned to face me, pawing at the ground in challenge. Most would run at the sight of me, but this beast is clearly made of sterner stuff. Good… I will relish this all the more. With a mighty wingbeat I hurled myself at it like a bolt of lightning. It trumpets and charges me head on. A vicious grin split my face. Yes, come brave beast. Come and meet your maker at my claws! We connected with a clap like thunder. One of the beast's tusks shattered against my armored hide. And though it failed to pierce me and deliver a mortal wound, it still knocks the wind out of me. My claws tore at its hide, seeking purchase. My head shot forward as I opened my mouth wide, while my armored third eyelid slides down to protect my eyes. Teeth that can shatter diamonds made short work of the beasts thick leathery hide as I bit down on the left side of its neck. Instead of the expected howl of pain, I am instead greeted by a feminine giggle. Confused, I took a chance and opened my eyes to find that the once sullen and muddy brown mammoth is now sporting a smile and a head of the most garishly pink curls. “Hee-hee, that tickles, Flint.” It chirped before giggling once more. All I can do is blink. My eyes are narrowed on the current source of my ire, who looks back at me with a wide smile. She flutters her blue eyes at me before laughing a bit more like the lunatic she is. The taste of cherry blossom shampoo from her mane fills my mouth, and I realise I'm chewing on it. I noisily spit out the pink fro before I address the pony who is spooning against me. “....Miss Pie.” I say flatly, not changing my sullen expression nor taking my eyes off her. “Mornin!” She spouts happily bouncing a bit on my bed so she can face me. Now before you can say ‘Really? You and HER?’. Let's be clear: Not. EVER! We both stare each other down for a while, her barely contained mania, my barely contained lividness. After another moment I break the silence. “Alright, how did you get in today?” I remark impassively. Her smile grows impossibly wide as she points a hoof to the ceiling. “You left your skylight open.” “How silly of me to keep it open those few inches.” I say dryly, already feeling a migraine coming on. “Yeah, you’ll let mosquitoes in.” “Among other pests.” I grumble before rolling out of bed onto my three hooves. What remains of my fourth limb lowers as well on instinct, however everything below the radius bone has been gone for a little more than ten years now. Even so I still feel phantom sensations from it on occasion. After popping a few joints, I catch my reflection in the full length mirror in the corner. At first I see the dragon I was; ancient, powerful, above all the trivial matters of a common life. I blink hard and clear my head. I let out a deep breath and look to the mirror again. In the place of a drake is now a blue stallion of the earth tribe, his mane is a ginger orange, the mark of a dragon and shield adorn his upper thigh. What remains the same is the eyes, they still retain that golden glow from before. When he was the fierce king he once was. What I once was. “Take a picture.” looking over I glare at the pink interloper who just looks at me thoughtfully. “No seriously, this place needs something. Like a plant.” “It's fine the way it is.” Stretching my back. “If you say so, but there is not much here to look at when I come over for a visit.” She says rolling to her back and kicking her legs playfully in front of her to amuse her short attention span. “Speaking of your visits,” I say coming to the edge of the bed, “don't you think that sneaking in here and jumping in bed with me might be a bit...I don't know, suggestive of something?” “Why? Is something gonna happen?” She asks innocently before fluttering her eyelashes and smirking up at me. “No.” I answer flatly. “Then nope!” She says before devolving into giggles again. This is brought to an abrupt end with a quick yank of the sheet that sends her tumbling off the bed with a squeak and a satisfying thunk. Not even caring to check on her, I move to my bathroom and shut the door; before opening it again and ushering her out, my scrub brush in her hooves and a shower cap I don't own on her head. She pouts a bit before I close the door again. I would lock it but...what’s the point? Stepping into the cascading water I allow the shower to drown out the ceaseless questions Ms Pie keeps bombarding me with through the door. None of which I will answer, but then again, it doesn’t seem like she’s really expecting any answers, the way she rambles on at full steam. The plumbing spurts a bit due to the suboptimal water pressure in my makeshift accommodations. This loft had been something of an afterthought by the leaseholders. A project for another day. Still it suited my purposes. Having just been eager to set up a hasty residence here nearly a week ago. ‘A week ago.’ The water had long since turned to icy, but my thoughts were elsewhere. I had had it so good. I was out in the world, on the road, traveling about for almost two years. Never staying in one place for more than a day. Taking an odd job here and there that called for the handling of one beastie or another. It seems my old life has given a knack for dealing with any unruly monster with a bad attitude and a penchant for pony meat. ‘Hypocrisy’ says you? ‘No doubt’ says I, considering how many countless lives I’ve claimed with tooth, claw and fire. But that…. that was a lifetime ago. My eyes trail down to the stump where my left foreleg used to be. The price of my epiphany. It was that moment I made a choice, and I’ve stuck with it since, be it begrudgingly at times. But my willingness to accept this choice was now being tested, and it all started when I came home for the first time in nearly two dozen Moons. The Everfree Forest was a place that was full of creatures both mundane and exotic. From the simple wolf and bear to the more exocitc Cragodile and, if you went deep enough, Chimera and Hydra. While this bothered many ponies, for me this was like home. I didn't fear the monsters here because, despite what I may appear now, I was one once. That didn't mean I was foolish enough to believe I was invincible. I had been bit,, stung, scratched, and otherwise tussled by everything in here at one point or another. Difference was I knew what to do when the time came for it. A sharp buck to the eyes, throat, or a well placed arrow, be it pointed or alchemic could convince even the most curious of beasts that this pony was not to be trifled with. Timber wolves though? They were a bit more tricky. The sun was shining more clearer now through the canopy as I stepped steadily through the brush. The bottom of my traveling cloak had seen better days, every thorn and thistle I crossed taking a piece as if demanding tribute for my passing. My calloused hooves and fetlocks fair a bit better but we're still feeling considerably raw from the hike. I silently break the treeline and get into the open air. The weight of the forest leaves me as I get to more open ground. There is malice in those woods, let there be no mistake about that. In the distance I can see the spires of town hall and the thatched roofs of the surrounding homes. This was not the place I was (re)born in, but if one has to have a hometown, this wouldn't be an unwelcome sight. Shaking off my momentary lapse into nostalgia I step out toward the main road. “Hi there!” Two years of travel kick in, as in an instant I have my bow out, an arrow notched and gripped in my teeth, pointed into the muzzle of a very pink pony, “WHOA! Easy there Trigger!” She quips but shows no sign of true fear. “Where did you come from? How did you sneak up on me?” I hiss at her.. “I came from Ponyville! Well- not originally, see I grew up on a rock farm just a ways from here. A stone's throw away. Hahahah-snort- that's a little joke we say out our way. Any who, I grew up there with my my mom and dad and my three sisters; Marble, Limestone, and Maud. I came to Ponyville to stay a year or so ago. I think it was June. Yep definitely June, because it was right after the Juniper Berry Festival, ‘cause that was where I met Mister and Mrs Cake. We hit it off from the get go and they offered me the room upstairs in exchange for working at the shop. Have you ever been to Sugarcube corner? D’oh silly me, you just got here. -GASP- You know what we should do we should go to Sugarcube Corner!” After that tirade of gum flapping my own jaw was getting tired but I wasn't altogether sure I shouldn't keep this mare at arrow point. After a moment though I relent and bring my foreleg back down. Releasing the nock, I return the arrow it to the quiver at my side. Three arrows remaining, best not waste it on this nut. “Thanks for not shooting me.” She says in a ho-hum sort of way that doesn't reflect that of a pony who was about to get a third nostril. “Whatever.” I grumble as I resume my trip toward town. “I'm Pinkie Pie, by the way.” She is now hopping along side me, chipper as a chipmunk; toothy little rats that they are. “I’m sure you are.” I say disinterestedly as I attempt to put more distance between us. “Whatcha doin’ in Ponyville?” She queries. “None of your business.” I retort cooly. “In town for the Summer Sun Celebration?” “No.” “Do you like parties?” “No.” “Have plans for tonight?” “No.” “Am I bugging you?” “Yes.” “Should I stop?” “I would.” “And you are?” “Getting seriously annoyed.” “So I should stop?” “Again, yes.” “Geeosh Flint you really are a stick in the mud.” She says with a puff moving curly strand of her mane out of her face. My mounting irritation nearly makes me miss it, but when I do pick it up, I stop walking and turn to face her again. “How did you-” “-know your name?” She replies aloofly. “Yes.” “I dunno.” She shrugs looking uninterested. “Are you purposely trying to egg me on or do-” “-I think this is a game?” “Actually, I was gonna say: do I need to get the arrow out again?” “You wouldn't hurt lil’ ol me, would ya?” She says pouting her lips and giving a pair of puppy dog eyes. I bite the inside of my cheek, part me really would, but all of me would just like this conversation to be done and over with. “...probably not.” I say with a grumble. “Course not, you seem like a nice guy. A bit grumpy, but nice.” I do my best to ignore my chatty pink shadow as I cross the bridge into town. Miss Pie is not at all as dumb as she appears. Her relentless chatter was only brought to a halt provided I agreed to go to that party at the Library that night. The Icy water finally manages to grab my attention as a shiver runs down my spine. Having had enough I turn off the faucet and step out of the shower, only to be handed a towel. With the pink pain in my flank having literally bounced out the door I headed down the steps to the kitchen. The clinking of dishes made me hesitate on proceeding down. A rustle of a newspaper, the pouring of juice into a glass, and the rhythmic tapping of a hoof on a plate. Yup all three of them were up. For a moment I considered just walking out the door, but the aroma of grounds percolating gave me pause. I had spent many a month out on the road and if there was one thing I couldn't resist it was a hot cup of the vice known as coffee. I could function without it but if there was one consolation about being in civilization, it was that. Making a decision, I mustered my reserves and made contact with the main floor. The light clacking of my metal prosthetic hoof made a heavy thud on the hardwood, even with the suspension in it, it still felt awkward at times. Immediately, I could tell the atmosphere had tensed in the kitchen. As the usual noises fell silent. Rounding the corner I confirmed my suspicions from the stairs. I couldn't ignore the irony, I had been a king once, now I shared a crude domicile with three peasants. “Good Morning, Flint.” Spoke the unicorn. His name is Written Script. He has a job at town hall doing...something. I simply mumble in response. Opening the cabinet door I pulled a mug down and soon had carefully poured it full, steam rising to my nostrils offering a brief moment of serenity. “Woke up with your bed buddy again?” And just like that, serenity was shattered. I simply glare at the Pegasus. “She may be a bit... odd, but she's probably a beast between the sheets, eh eh?" he said with a lewd wink in my direction. I suppressed the urge to smash the coffeecup into his stupid face, not because he doesn't deserve it, but because I hate to waste a good brew. "Drop dead Thunderlane." I growl as I sip my morning joe. I hate my life right now. “Whoa, hostile.” Says the final member to this jamboree. This one goes by Caramel, which means he runs slow and is overly sweet. “Now that we are all here,” Script says, changing the subject, “it's time to go over the chore list for the week.” Somehow he finds excitement in this as he pulls out a pad and marker and lays it on the table. Amazing, I actually hate my life more right now. Author's Note A special thanks to Aprion, whose coaching and great ideas got this off the ground. This story though is for me guys. If you like it? Great let's see where it goes! Hate it? I get it.
Family Binds and Friendly TiesChapter 2 Grocery shopping. That is the one thing that didn't seem like a root canal with a hammer and nail. Plus it got me out of there, so... bonus. Making my way through town, I received a mixture of greetings and stares from ponies. Both go unheeded as I look over the list. It has been meticulously itemized down to the type, whom to buy it from, and how much to pay. All I needed to do now was pin it to my chest and prance into town and I would look like a proper idiot. I could see the marketplace come into view and I picked up the pace. The sooner this was over the sooner...we'll okay I had nothing really better to do. The first stop on the list was vegetables, and the purveyor was one Golden Harvest. The mare in question nibbles on a carrot as I trot up to her stall. “Good morning.” The orange haired mare jumps to attention before recognizing me. “Oh! Hiya Flint! “Hello.” I woke up next to the embodiment of chipper, this was just cruel. “Did my Scrippie send you to shop from me.” Nope, I’m here to kill you if you keep talking like that. Despite what I want to say, I manage a nod. “Aww he is so sweet! Just the other day he was telling me…”. Choke on the carrot, please, just choke on the carrot. Well she didn't choke, but despite me being her coltfriend’s roommate she does manage to charge me more than what Script wrote on the list. The price of being able to leave. Shrewd mare. The remainder of the shopping goes mercifully faster and it isn't long before I have everything on the list. The bags feel heavier on my back but it's nothing I can’t handle. Walking through town in more of a daze than anything else. Absentmindedly, I look to the north, and in the herd of thatched roofs one stands out in particular. Miss Pie had finally let me alone since I got back into town. All it took was agreeing to attend one party tonight as well as a “Welcome Back to Ponyville” party for me personally tomorrow night. Jokes on her, I won't be here that long. I smirk slightly as I come to a stop at my destination. The two story house had changed little in my absence, but it...was good to see it again. Being gone so long I surmised the etiquette would be to knock. After I did I could hear a familiar male voice through the open window. “Just a minute!” The shuffling of materials followed by the clang of metal told me that Sparks was tinkering again. His voice came again after a long stretch of silence. “Snug Bug? Honey, can you get the door while I get this cleaned up before your mother-” “Too late.” Came a clearly ticked female voice. “Bugaboo, get the door please?” “Yes, Mommy.” A smaller voice responded. There's a click and the door opens. A pegasus filly answers the door. Her coat a tannish yellow and is complimented by her red mane that's held in a modest pony tail. She is still young but has just reached the age where her wings now tuck at her sides neatly, partially covering a mark that hadn't been there since last we saw one another. Upon recognition her eyes go wide at the sight of me, shock on her face. This is soon replaced by a sullen expression. “Oh...it's you.” Irritation is heavy in her voice. The feeling is mutual. “Shouldn't you be at the Boarding School?” I met her ire with my own. “It's summer,” She parries condescendingly, “and it's not a ‘boarding school’ it's The Calvary Academy for the Gifted.” She continues haughtily. “Oh my, I’m all a quiver.” My tone is parched dry as I push past her and enter the house. I can feel her icy glare chill the back of my head before she shuts the door a bit heavier than necessary. “Isn't there a bog or a mud hole you should be wallowing in right now?” “Bug, who are you talking-”any further argument is blocked by the arrival of an Indigo earth mare. Time ticks by interminably, so I decide to cut to the chase and get it over with. “Mother.” That, apparently, is the kick she needs to ensnare me in a hug. “Flint! Oh Flint! Your home!” She squeezes me tighter before yanking my face down to her level so that she can bombard me with a slew of kisses on my cheeks. There was a time I would attempt to reel away or pry her off, but I had learned it was simply better to let her get it all out of her system. “Son!” Came the patriarch; a light grey Pegasus with an orange mane, same as mine. He joins this swarray of affection, thankfully only contributing a clap of a hoof to my back. After counting to ten, I bring it to an end. “Cozy. Sparks. That’s enough.” They both chuckled before relinquishing their hold. ---------- It was a bit after noon when we all sat down for lunch. The little maggot was making faces at me from her side of the table when our ‘parents’ weren't looking. I of course reciprocated in kind. “So it's been forever, my boy!” Sparks said distractedly twisting a pesky nut on what had once been a either a coffee maker or a blender. “Where have you all been?” Hardening my gaze at the whelp, a turned and addressed my ‘father’. “I mostly wandered. South east to the Hayseed Swamps, then through the Badlands. Then... a little further.” I had actually gone all the way to my old domain, but they didn't need to know that. “Oh I wish you wouldn't wander so far out there.” Cozy chided bringing a salad and plate of sandwiches over. “The name alone gives me the willies.” “The lack of supplies is a far more real danger,” I respond with a shrug, “beyond that you just need to stay alert.” “Nevertheless,” Cozy shook her head as if to clear an unpleasant image,”I really wish you would just find a place to settle down, lay some roots…” wait for it,”....find a nice mare…” “Mother..” I sigh, not really wanting to hear this conversation again. “What? What?” She smirked innocently. “Is it wrong I want to see you happy and safe? With two or six little ones running about?” She not so subtly says into her glass of iced tea. “I'm not exactly the relationship or kid type, Mom.” I retort flatly. “Yeah, I would suspect his species eats their own young.” The sibling snarks. “You wanna be the first, runt?” I say getting up from my seat with a growl. “Hey!” A voice break me out of my thoughts. So engrossed was I, that it takes me a moment to realize where it came from. “Up here, Three Step.” The tomboyish voice draws my gaze upward. Well fate is taking a bat to my day, it seems. Her mane, as bright and attention seeking as her ego, is the first thing I see against the backdrop of the midday sky, and it's enough for me to slightly grumble on its recognition; Rainbow Dash. “There something you want, feathers?” I sneer up at her. “A good thunder cloud to zap some manners into you would be a nice start.” She sneers right back in that raspy voice of hers, while she glides down to stare me in the eyes. Its funny how she tries to stare me down, even though she’s a head and a half shorter than me. I narrow my eyes at her. “That would be the last thing you'd ever do.” I say with all the sincerity in the world. From the start, there’s been a level of distrust between us. She’s always telling the others she has a ‘gut feeling’, that there’s something off about me. I would compliment her intuition, were it not for the fact that I refuse to compliment her on principal, for any reason. We stare eachother down for a time, before her nostrils flare and she turns away with a snort, breaking the stalemate. “Whatever, have you seen Twilight?” In another time, turning her back on me would've been insult enough for me to strike, but no. Not today anyway. “No.” I reply snidely. “Big help you are.” She glares back at me. “I’m following your excellent example.” I retort. The already tepid conversation between us turns downright frigid, and we both fall silent. With a huff of disgust she powers into the air in her usual ‘look-at-me’ display of athletic prowess. Her powerful take-off sends a cloud of dirt into my face. I have no doubt she did that on purpose. Snorting the dirt from my nose I brush the remainder off with my good foreleg. “Well, at least you two are talkin’ to one another.” The drawl is familiar enough for me to recognize it in an instant. Despite this, I keep my guard up. I simply chose to rest for the remainder of the afternoon. Cozy and Sparks had apparently turned my old room into a home office, though why it reeked of Body oil I will never know, nor do I really want to find out. Mom offered to set me up in one of her company’s houses for a while. She deflated a bit when I told her I planned on being back on the road by tomorrow. She seemed to perk back up when I mentioned that I had been strong armed into attending a party tonight. She even seemed to know the pink pestilence by name. It was then that she got that look in her eye. That ‘Cozy Homes” look that seems like a wonderful idea but it usually involves me being groomed and dressed in a suit with a big red bow tie. Never again. Instead it was something equally demeaning. “This sucks!” Came the statement of obvious from the sibling I was now strung along with for the evening. “I was hoping to go with Mom and Dad to Filthy Riches party! Now I am stuck with you on the longest night of the year!” She whined, kicking the dirt in front of her. “I know, it's gonna be hell.” I concurred nodding solemnly. “Of all days, why did you pick today to show back up?” She further growls at me. “I could smell it on the wind, today was the day to ruin the Bug’s life.” I respond flatly. “Jerk!” “Brat.” She simply huffed with anger, clearing cycling down. Amateur. The library was still some distance away and while I was content with the silence she could always start up again. “So…” my mind sought for the least mind peeling topic to bring up. It took some considerable effort, “...how's school?” To her credit she saw right through it, “what do you care?” “I don't, but I'll take your mindless chatter over your whining any day.” She narrowed her eyes and regarded me for a moment. “Celestia above, were you always such a plot hole?” “For as long as ah c’n remember,” came a voice from behind, the recognition of which and the irritation within made me tense up instantly. I was careless, trying so hard to drown out the whinging of the whelp that I failed to notice her approach. I attempted to reel about, but this plays right into her plan it seems, as a rope snags my back leg, followed deftly by a shove that knocks me on my back. I attempted to flail but my assailant already has one loop around my other limbs, and begins adding more. I bellow out a roar of anger before that too is silenced by an additional loop of rope. Moments later there I was, hog tied in the middle of the road, my head still spinning. All under twelve seconds. Still I refuse to give up. With a muffled roar I pull against my restraints. The rope digs into my skin holding me tight. Pushing past the pain I fight against it, but apart from some popping of my joints and minor creaking of the ropes they hold tight. A figure steps over me and I already know who it is. Her brown Stetson shading her face from view. “Ya done?” She drawls. I grit and go at it once again, even harder this time, pulling strength from my anger; a well that has never dried on me yet. The edges of my vision go red as I go slightly numb to the world, until a sharp poke to my snout brings an involuntary yelp out of me and equally involuntary tears to my eyes. “That's enough.” the mare scolds cooly, withdrawing her hoof back from the jab she just delivered. “Neither of us need to explain to anypony where you got rope burns from, ponies might talk.” Shaking my head as best I am able, I clear my vision. This allows me to snarl at my captor. “Yeah? Ah bet you’re steamed.” She says tippin her hat back revealing her freckled face and pair of green eyes that regard me with contempt. “Right back at ya, ya warthog.” At this point, I have no choice but to lean back and listen, so with a snort I let my head fall back, but I refuse to look at her. “Yah come back after two long years, not so much a postcard and Ah hafta hear about it from Pinkie Pie?” She punctuates her point with a jab to my ribs. “Ah thought yah treated yer friends better.” The list was short, but…. yes, she was somepony I counted as a friend. “Nmwory.” I relent an apology. “Save it.” She says yanking on the bonds for good measure before summarily sitting on me like a bean bag chair. To my right I can hear the Bug is rolling over laughing at my current status. “Ohohohohoho! Applejack you have just made this night A-mazing!” Laugh it up while you can, Insect. The older mare swells with a pride as she shifts on me, giving me a juicy opening. “T’wert nothing Snug, just a little-EEEP!” She squeals and jumps off me rubbing her flank where I was able to nip her, even with a restrained jaw. She is beat red as she glares at me, indignantly. I meet this with the best smirk i can manage. "Dn't unnerestmte me.” Author's Note Trying to keep steam up is hard. But there are parts I really want to get to. Now back to family day!
A Bit of an AttractionChapter 3 A Bit of an Attraction The remainder of the grocery shopping goes by much smoother, I will admit. It does help that I have an expert haggler to accompany me now. Applejack’s personal wealth of knowledge and her familiarity with the locals and their wares works to my advantage as prices are set up and likewise knocked down by the savvy business pony. I normally would refuse her help, or any help for that matter, But our shared history offered her some leeway. ‘I suppose I should be thankful.’ I relent, feeling the growing lightness of my bit pouch as we walk away from the baker stand. Cozy’s deal of free rent for the first two months was ideal for my current situation, but other expenses were slowly bleeding me dry. At this rate I would need to find work, though I shuddered to think what that would entail. A more permanent solution was needed. One that would get me out of here. “Gold stack gettin’ slack?” The orange farm mare quips at me as I begrudgingly put the sack away. “None of your concern.” I retort in a tone would that would repel others, but she merely shrugs it off. “Have it y’er way.” Her gaze goes up to the sky as she spots the rainbow one overhead; hopping from cloud patch to cloud patch above. “Just means ah get to laugh when yah come crawlin’ up to my door beggin’ for a job.” She eyes me with a smug little grin. “That would be the day.” I snort derisively, making her chuckle, and for a brief moment, very brief, making me genuinely smile. If there was anything that was tolerable about being back in this town. It was her. While she could be just as naive and cloying as the rest of her kind, this mare somehow balanced her more unctuous tendencies with a iron forged tenacity. Something I grew to respect in my youth here. It was by no means immediate, not without its compromises and...personal sacrifices; for a moment I can feel the remaining muscles in my crippled leg go tense at a long passed memory, but I am quick to shake it from my mind. Despite that and more, she earned the right to be considered my first friend. Ever. “Could always talk to the Mayor, might be somethin’ somepony of y’er talents could do.” “Ugh. Pass.” I could only imagine the kind of mundane tasks I would be forced to endure. The bounty out on overdue books? Crashing a den of fiendish loitering teenagers? Or the absolute CRISIS, that is newspaper theft? Still, what I wouldn't give for something big and toothy to kill. But this was Ponyville we were talking about. Even with last week’s excitement, I doubt that would become a trend. "Ohhh stop actin’ so crotchety, yah ol’ grump." She says playfully as she rubs up against me, before moving on and flicking her tail in my face. There was also a downside of being around her lately: I watch her canter ahead, taking notice of the sway in her toned hips. The swish of her tail. My face begins to burn when I realize what I am doing. ‘Accursed Equine hormones!’ I grit and attempt to hide the redness in my cheeks, by looking away. In the past only Draconess’ would feel ‘the drive’ to propagate the species, leaving me free of any such compulsion. Now? I was begrudgingly at their mercy when I least expected it. A few deep breaths and some androgynous thoughts later, I had recovered and she was none the wiser. “Have a bite?” The sample of watermelon she is offering me from the stand says one thing but my residual mindset has me thinking another, bringing me right back to where I was before. ‘Stupid Equine Hormones.’ Mercifully, I was able to blame my red complexion on the warm weather. Unmercifully, I was down a another bit to buy lemonade. (She offered, but I treated. Shut up. That's why.) We managed to find a comfy spot in the shade of a old maple tree near the fountain, sipping our drinks in the late morning air. Casual silence reigning. The sky above was dotted only with a few modest sized clouds and one Rainbow narcissist. For reasons beyond my interest she had taken to jumping from cloud to cloud. Occasionally peeking her head through, as if searching for something below. “Sneaky little, feather duster.” My ears perk at the half mumbled words to my right. To find Applejack glaring at the Pegasus over the rim of her cup. “Which one of us said that?” I ask dryly without even turning “Cause I know I was thinking it.” “Sorry.” Applejack chuckles without taking her eyes off the Pegasus above. “Dash an’ ah had a bit of a row this morning.” “… over what?” I don't really care, but on the off chance I could have a tactical advantage over the Pegasus, I would make small talk. “....Nuthin’” She finally says downing the rest of her drink in one gulp before crumpling the cup in her hoof. “Nothing?” I pique, unconvinced. “Not a thing.” She responds only more un-convincingly. Pressure is then applied through no words but via a subtle turning of my head to her. She doesn't meet my gaze, but her eyes darting from her peripheral and back tell me she knows. She knows. “Alright!” She caves under my stare. “If you have to know! Twilight got a spare ticket to the Grand Galloping Gala and…” Aaand tuned out. It's not enough that I am stuck here but now I am forced to listen to-OW!! My face tightens into a sneer as I rub the place where I have just been punched. “You had ta hear it! Now pay attention!” She admonishes me, while brandishing her offending hoof. “Like. ah. was sayin’”. She says pointedly before continuing. “Twilight promised that Ticket tah me! Now Dash thinks she can just waltz on in and steal it out from under me! Ah deserve tah go just as much as her!” “Really?” Is the response that comes out. The intent is aloof disinterest. It comes across differently, it seems. If her sudden appearance in front of me says anything. “Whatcha mean ‘really’?” She says pushing up against my face. “You sayin’ what ah think yer sayin?” Crap. This is one of those choose your next words carefully moments, isn't it? Normally I would say whatever the slag I wanted, but as much as I wasn't afraid of her or anything, I also didn’t want the headache of an apology later. “Why would you really care?” Nudging her out of my personal space firmly. “Spending the evening with a bunch of inbred unicorns? What's the appeal?” Scoffing at my callousness, as well as mouthing the word ‘typical’ she continues “It's one of the biggest shin digs in all of Equestria, yah big ape!” “Oh well, in that case,” I say, before bringing my cup in a mock toast, before sipping on it in an exaggerated fashion to express my opinion on the matter. The little remnants of the lemon drink is then capriciously tipped into my face by an equally sour orange mare. “Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yuck it up yah thug.” She relents, giving me a glare, before smirking. “Not like anypony wants you there.” “I am truly crushed.” I answer half heartedly. As I crudely wipe my face with a foreleg, spitting to the side to punctuate my sentiment on the matter. “No doubt. You’d wind up burning down the whole of Canterlot in one night if they did.” Her words inspire some rather vivid imagery, some not entirely from imagination. “There's an idea.” My face curves into an expression only definable as fiendish. “Well, on that cheery note,” Applejack stands, and looks back to the sky, but I can't help but notice she takes a tentative step away from me, as if I was overdue for (literal) Celestial retribution for my crass thoughts. “Looks like ahm getting off here, sug’”. Looking in the direction she is heading I can see Rainbow Dash drift down from the clouds into what I know to be close to Sugarcube Corner, also known as: Pink Territory. “Stay out of trouble, Flint.” She calls over her shoulder as she trots away. “I would be so lu—”. The words die in my throat with a strong pulse that resonates just below it. ‘No. Not this again.’ I growl in anger, my actual good mood utterly ruined. The feeling is jarring, so much so I am pulled to my hooves combat it. It's like hitting a wall of rubber, in which there is some give to it, but in the end I am merely deflected against it. There is no pain, but an inescapable magnetism that only grows pulling me toward the departing figure of the stetsoned mare. I grit my teeth. Dig my hooves into the trodden path of the square. But it only gets stronger the further she gets to the point that it dragging me within an almost invisible gap of around fifteen hooves. ‘What could this be’ you might ask? More I want to say? Not really. Pony Hormones? If only. Destiny? Hah. Aforementioned, Celestial Retribution? ...in a way. Power of..Fffff-riend-sssship? …..perhaps it's just best I tell you when it all began. When I went to a party I didn't want to go to, to celebrate a pony I don't want to celebrate, and where I actually chose to do something selfless, and have since been paying for it. Author's Note Busy schedule. Mass Effect Andromeda. Procrastination. That's is all.
