Off the Pathby WhispersInTheDarkChaptersA late cup of coffeeSettling inGetting Around TownAn Unforseen ExposureA late cup of coffeeManeville is a small town in Equestria, population about two hundred, give or take. There was not as great a mix of the tribes as in other, larger towns like Ponyville, but the few pegasi and unicorns got along well enough with the majority of earth ponies. There was one constable, who was both well-liked and very good at his job. Maneville had not the criminal element of larger cities like Manehatten or even Canterlot, but every once in awhile some small time hoods tried to see what trouble they could cause. Most never lasted more than a few days, as Constable Jural made it his business to discover the motives of anypony who arrived in town. So when he walked into the town’s only diner late one evening, the pink pony sitting at the counter immediately caught his attention. He sat himself down at the opposite end of the counter and took off his hat. “Evenin’, Emma,” said he to the waitress as she smiled and trotted up to him, holding a pot of coffee and a mug in her magic. “Evening, Constable,” said she. “The usual?” “Please.” After she had poured him his cup she went back to get the apple pie. Jural watched the pink stranger out of the corner of his eye as she kept her head down and focused on her own cup. No, she wasn’t looking at the cup, was she? She was staring down, alright, but her thoughts appeared to be a million miles away. Jural took his time in sizing her up. Her mane was poofy but frazzled as if she hadn’t combed it recently. Her hooves were scuffed as if she’d traveled on those same hooves for quite some distance. Which meant she most likely did not have many bits to her name and was probably a vagrant. Lastly, there was the thousand-yard stare she was currently employing. A pony on the run if ever he saw one. “Good evening, miss,” said Jural. The pony turned her head slightly and looked at him, then went back to her cup. “Evening.” Jural frowned, then got up and sat next to her. She shifted slightly away from him but kept her attention on her cup. “New in town.” It wasn’t a question. She nodded. “Got a place to stay?” “Not yet.” Emma came back around from the counter with the slice of pie, took one look at what was happening then busied herself elsewhere. Jural stared intently at the pink pony for a few moments, as she kept her gaze downward. Finally, he said, “Don’t I know you?” At this, she did turn and meet his eyes. “I’m sure we’ve never met before.” The constable frowned again. “I didn’t say I’d met you, I said I think I know you.” He looked at the three party balloons that were her cutie mark. “I’ve seen that before on another mare. Haven't you?” The pink mare began to visibly sweat as she said, “I don’t know who you’re talking about.” “I think you do.” He shifted closer and held her gaze. “Now, why would one of the Element Bearers be so far away from Ponyville?” The mare seemed at a loss for words at this last. Jural waited patiently, allowing the moment to draw itself out and find its own conclusion. Finally, she said, “I don’t want any trouble, mister.” The constable sat back. “You’re not in any trouble, miss. Not yet.” He reached into his pocket and took out some bits, then put them on the counter. “That’s a loan. You get yourself somewhere to sleep and get cleaned up. Then you find a job if you’re going to be staying here. I won’t allow vagrancy in my town.” He stood. “Emma, I’ll take that pie later.” Then he replaced his hat and walked out. The mare eyed the bits, then reached out a hoof and slowly slid them towards herself. The waitress came over. “You okay, hon?” She turned her head towards the door. “I thought he was going to arrest me.” Emma refilled her cup as she said, “Jural’s tough but fair. He keeps the troublesome ponies in line and we’re all grateful for him. If he’s a bit gruff, that’s just his way.” Then she paused. “What are you doing all the way out here? And it looks like you’ve been living rough, if I may say so.” The pink mare sighed. “It hasn’t been easy for me. Ever since I left…well, never mind that…my first town, I’ve been going from place to place.” Emma’s face softened. “So you decided to come here?” She shrugged. “It seemed like as good a place as any.” Emma reached out a hoof and gave hers a squeeze. “You in trouble?” The mare looked down at her hoof and remained silent. Emma withdrew hers and said, “It’s alright. You don’t have to tell me.” She put down the coffee pot and slid the piece of pie over to her. “On the house.” The pink mare shook her head. “I couldn’t do that. Here…” she separated her bits and gave one to her. Emma pushed it back. “You keep that, hon. What would Equestria be like if I couldn’t spare a piece of pie?” The pink mare picked up the slice and bit into it. “Thanks,” she said around her mouthful. She swallowed and said, “It’s good.” Emma smiled. “Best in town!” Then she took out a pen and some paper, then jotted something down and gave it to her. “You go to this address. They have rooms for rent.” The mare looked down at her bits again. “Are they cheap?” Emma smiled again. “Tell Melody I sent you. She’ll make some sort of arrangement with you.” She hesitated, then said, “Could you…give me a job? I’ll work hard, I promise!” “I thought you might say that. But I have to ask: this trouble you’re in…is it going to follow you here?” She stared at her cup again before answering. Finally, she whispered, "I hope not." Emma looked softly at her, then came to a decision. "You start tomorrow, at three pm. The dinner rush will begin an hour after that, so I want you here before then. For now, go get some sleep." Tears welled up in the mare's eyes, but she brushed them quickly away. "Thank you. You don't know how much this means to me." Emma smiled once more. "I have an idea." She finished her coffee and got up to leave, but was stopped by one last question. "What's your name?" The mare hesitated, then said, "Call me 'Pinkie.'" "Pinkie it is. See you tomorrow." As she left the diner, the mare thought to herself, May as well use that name as any other. Settling inThe pink pony followed the directions given her carefully, and, after a few missed turns, found the address she was looking for. She took a deep breath and knocked on the door. After a few moments, it opened, and a cheery-looking pony stood there. “Well, hello! What can I do for you?” The pink mare looked down at her hooves. “Are…are you Melody? Emma told me to come here.” Instead of answering, the pony turned to the room at large and announced, “Hey, everypony! We have a new mare joining us!” Turning back to her she added, “Come in, come in!” The pink mare cautiously crossed the threshold and looked around. She was in a large foyer that opened up into the room proper, which was predominated by red curtains and dark wooden furniture. Several lamps burned merrily upon the end tables and from a huge chandelier that was suspended from the middle of the room. Seated upon chairs, lounges and sofas were several mares, all representatives of the pony tribes. They all were looking her way: some openly curious, others a bit calculating in their observation. But most were welcoming glances. “Did you just get into town?” the first mare asked her. “Y-yes…just tonight.” She couldn’t meet her eyes, for fear that her thoughts would be readily transparent. She needn’t have bothered. The first mare smiled and said, “First time in a brothel?” The pink mare startled and stammered, “W-well, yes…but I’m not judging you! Honest!” “It’s okay. I’m Dawn. What’s your name?” “Pinkie.” “Well, Pinkie, let’s take you to meet the Madame. Don’t worry,” she added, “She takes good care of us.” Pinkie stood stock still and said, “There must be some mistake. I…I don’t belong here.” Dawn cocked her head at her and said, “You don’t belong in a place that makes stallions…happy?” Pinkie looked down at her hooves. “I just need a place to stay. I’ve never done what you mares do.” Dawn gasped. “Never? Not even once?” Pinkie blushed bright red and remained silent as several mares giggled. Dawn looked around. “Be nice, all of you!” Turning back to Pinkie she said, “Come on: let’s get you in front of Melody and then we’ll go from there.” She turned and began to lead her through the room. After a few moments, the pink mare sighed, then followed her, breaking into a trot to catch up. Dawn led her upstairs and stopped in front of a large ornate door that was covered with intricate carvings. Dawn knocked, waited a tick, then turned and nudged her charge into the room. It was even more opulent than the downstairs living area. Thick sconces were positioned artfully about, as well as several exotic plants. In the corner stood a baby grand piano with yellow sheet music propped upon its music rack. Two high-backed lounge chairs were placed in front of the fireplace, its flames dancing and flickering. The carpet was ornate and thick, as Pinkie felt her hooves sinking slightly into it. An older mare sat behind the enormous oaken desk. Though her mane was silver, there remained auburn highlights in it. She was dressed in a flowing silk Neighponese robe that did little to hide her still youthful figure. She looked up and met the newcomer’s gaze. Pinkie could see the beauty behind those eyes as the mare silently regarded her. Then she got up from the desk and approached her while moving with a casual grace. “Hello, sweetie,” she began, “what brings you to my establishment?” As Pinkie kept silent and stared at her own hooves, Dawn spoke up for her. “She says she just got into town and needs a place to stay.” At this, Pinkie found her voice. “Emma from the diner sent me here.” She looked up. “But I didn’t know what sort of place this was. She didn’t tell me.” Melody tilted her head at her, a gesture Pinkie had seen before, and said, “Tell me: are you a proper mare?” Pinkie’s brow knitted. “I’m not sure what you mean.” Instead of answering, Melody took her time walking around the pink mare, humming to herself as she silently scrutinized her. “Umm…what are you doing?” Melody didn’t answer until she’d walked back in front of her. “You have potential, but I don’t think you’ll fit in with my mares. At least not providing the services they do.” Pinkie didn’t know whether to be disappointed or relieved at this. Melody returned to her seat behind the desk and said, “Dawn, put her in with Chloe.” She paused. “Is she busy?” Dawn smiled. “Not at the moment!” As she turned to go, Pinkie hesitated. “Wait: how much is the room?” “We’ll work something out,” Melody said with a smile. At Pinkie’s startled expression she added, “Not that! I assume you’re out of bits, or have very few. I sure we can find something for you to do around here.” Pinkie hesitated again at this last, then said, “Why are you helping me?” “Sweetie, I don’t know what you’ve heard about these sorts of…establishments, but I never turn away a pony in need.” She made a shooing motion. “Go on, get yourself cleaned up and get some sleep.” “Th…thank you.” ********** Dawn led her back down the hallway, chatting as she went. “So what brings you to our fair town?” “I…just needed to get away,” the pink mare quietly answered. Dawn looked back at her. “Stallion troubles?” Pinkie grimly smiled. “Something like that.” Dawn smiled back. “Honey, we’ve all been there. Ah, here we are!” They stopped in front of a large door, which Dawn pushed open. Inside were two vanities and two canopied beds. A door in the back was open, revealing an impressive bathroom. Paintings adorned the walls and the carpet was almost as rich as the one in Melody’s office. Pinkie gasped. “Is…this where I’ll be staying?” Dawn giggled. “Of course, silly! You didn’t think we’d put you in a barn, did you?” Pinkie couldn’t help staring. “This is the nicest room I’ve ever been in, besides the one we just left.” Brightly, Dawn said, “I told you she takes good care of us. Now, get yourself settled. Bathroom’s back there, you’ll be taking this bed.” She indicated the one in the far corner. “My room is the third one down from this one; come by whenever you need me, but don’t knock if you see the red light on.” She smiled. “I’ll be working then.” Pinkie blushed and said, “I’ll remember!” As Dawn turned to go, Pinkie added, “Thank you again.” Dawn gave her a playful push and left. Just in time. Pinkie went into the bathroom and shut the door. Her forehead had been tingling for the past few moments, so she looked at herself in the mirror. Sure enough, her horn was starting to reappear, so she concentrated and it became invisible again. “Pinkie” sighed in relief. Getting Around TownSometime later that night, Pinkie was awakened by the sound of her roommate returning. She snuggled herself deeper into her blankets and gave an unconvincing snore. She could feel the other mare watching her, then heard her turn and head for the bathroom. Once the door was shut, Pinkie sat up and looked in that direction. She debated internally about whether she should try to speak to her...but just then the doorknob turned and the other mare, "Chloe", she remembered, stepped out. "Oh! Hello," she said. Pinkie gave a small smile and said, "Hi. I'm Pinkie." Chloe nodded. "I saw you when you came in. I'm Chloe." "I'm...pleased to meet you." Pinkie fidgeted with her hooves and finally stammered, "H-how long have you worked here?" The other mare gave a knowing grin and said, "You mean 'how long have I been a whore?' " "N-no! That's not what I meant at all!" "But it's what you were thinking. Don't worry: I'm not embarrassed." Chloe went on without waiting for a reply. "I started working here two years ago. I was up to my neck in student loans, I could barely feed myself, and I didn't want any help from my parents. So, since stallions wanted me for my body, I figured I'd get them to pay for it as well. " She looked up at her roommate. "So what brought you here?" Pinkie looked down again before answering and finally said, "I needed to get away from the place I was at before. So I found myself on the road." Chloe stared at her for a minute, then said, "I think I understand. Are you better now?" "I hope so." Chloe crawled into her bed and pulled the covers up to her chin. "I have the day off tomorrow. If you'd like, I can show you around town." "I'd like that." She smiled and turned off the lamp. "Good night then." The next morning, around eleven, Pinkie and her new friend set out to see the town. "Over there is City Hall, one of the oldest buildings here," said Chloe. "That clock still works and keeps perfect time." As Pinkie looked up at the clock, she felt her forehead beginning to glow, and she quickly shut it down. Too late. The hands of the clock began spinning, causing the few ponies that noticed it to stare unbelievingly. "Did you see that?!" asked Chloe. "See what?" "The hands of the clock! They started spinning!" Chloe looked at Pinkie as she spoke, then gasped. "What's wrong with your forehead?" Pinkie put a hoof up to her forehead and stammered, "W-what do you mean?" "I thought...I thought I saw it...glowing?" Pinkie moved her mane out of the way and said, "Of course not. See?" Chloe stared at her for a moment, then she laughed. "Silly me! I guess I was seeing things." Pinkie said nothing. “Anyway, that’s pretty much it. There’s not much else in the “downtown” area. Chloe smiled. “I’ve seen bigger town squares than our little downtown, but we like it here that way. All that’s left is the diner on the edge of town, but I’m sure you-” “Oh my gosh! The diner! I’m supposed to be starting there this evening!” exclaimed Pinkie. Chloe looked at her. “Emma gave you a job? That was nice of her.” “Yes, and I don’t want to be late!” Chloe smiled. “Relax. If you don’t need to be there until this evening, you have plenty of time.” Pinkie sighed. “You’re right. I just don’t want to mess up.’” “My, you’re nervous! Don’t be: we’re pretty laid back here.” She glanced back up at the clock while she was speaking, and noticed it had reverted to normally showing the time. “If that clock’s right after that last incident, you have about four hours until you need to be there.” She turned and started walking. “Come on, let’s go back to the house and get some lunch.” “And then the clock started spinning all crazy!” said Chloe to the group. She and Pinkie had arrived just in time for the noonday meal and was now regaling the table of five mares with their mini-adventure earlier. “What do you think made that happen?” asked Amber. Before Chloe could answer, she smirked and added, “If it happened.” Chloe put down her fork and looked at her, then said, “Why do you always have to be like that, Amber?” “Like what?” she asked innocently. Chloe stood. “You’re always so mean to me! I’m heartily sick of it!” Amber giggled. “Listen to you! “Heartily sick of it.” You talk like some heroine in a romance novel.” Chloe flushed. “I do not sound like that! And even if I did, what’s wrong with it?” Just then Melody entered the room. “That is quite enough, girls,” she reproved. They all said, “Yes ma’am,” then fell silent. Melody looked them all over. “We have a big night, tonight. Lot’s of clients coming in from Manehatten, or so I’m told. I want you all on your best behavior.” She walked around the table, stopping at Pinkie. “Would you come with me, please?” “S...sure.” She gave her mouth one last swipe with her napkin and followed the Madam out of the room. Melody smiled as she looked over at the younger mare. “As I said when I first met you, I don’t think you’ll be suited for our... hmm...”regular” duties, so you’ll help in the kitchen.” She stopped at an elaborate oak door, then pushed it wide. Pinkie gasped when she saw what was inside. There, gleaming on every surface, was the most professional and decadent kitchen she’d ever seen. Modern appliances sat upon every counter, the refrigerator/freezer was huge, and wonderful smells she didn’t recognize filled the air, but it all smelled delicious. In the middle of the kitchen, wearing a chef’s toque and white coat, was an older unicorn stirring something in a bowl. He looked up at the new arrival and scowled. “I don’t need any newbies in my kitchen, Melody.” “Now, now, Ramsey, be nice.” She turned and gently pushed Pinkie forward. “This is Pinkie. She just joined us, and needs to help out somewhere other than our usual “work.” Ramsey stopped his stirring and stared at the pink mare. “Why can’t she? She’s pretty enough.” Pinkie blushed furiously and looked down at her hooves. Melody smiled at the stallion. “I have my reasons. Now, please, find something she can help you with.” Ramsey huffed. “Fine! But if she can’t do anything right, I won’t hesitate to throw her out on her pink butt!” “You know best in the kitchen. But give her a chance, won’t you?” She batted her eyes at him and smiled. Now it was the stallion’s turn to blush. “I hate it when you do that, Melody.” “Do what?” she asked as her smile deepened. “Nothing! You, what’s your name, ‘Pinkie?’” He pointed at the sink where some carrots were sitting in water. “I need those peeled and sliced into one-quarter strips. Think you can handle that?” “Y...yes sir!” “Yes, CHEF!” Pinkie startled. “Yes, chef!” Quickly, she made her way over to the sink and started scooping the carrots out. Big mistake. “You just came in from outside! Wash your hooves first, you donkey!” “Sorry, chef!” She ran over to the washup sink and started scrubbing her hooves while giving Melody a ‘help me’ look. Melody gave her a reassuring grin. “Don’t let him scare you. He’s really a sweetheart!” “Melody!” screamed the reddening stallion. “What? It’s true. What about last week when you gave Tiffany an extra cupcake, only because she looked a little sad? Or the other time, when you-” “Okay, okay, enough! Get out of here and let me get something done, will you?” He turned back to his bowl and scowled as he focused his attention on his work, dismissing the older mare. As she turned to leave, knowing he couldn’t resist watching, she put an extra wiggle in her hips and swished her tail. She glanced over her shoulder at him as she opened the door, to see him watching her out of the corner of one eye. She laughed quietly to herself and left. Despite her reassurances, Pinkie said not a word to the gruff stallion as she began peeling and cutting the carrots. After a few minutes of tense silence, Ramsey finally spoke and said, “So, what’s your story?” “E...excuse me, chef?” He continued his work unabated as he said, “Why are you here?” “I...needed to get away from where I was.” Ramsey turned his back on her and placed his mixture in the oven. “That’s pretty vague. You in trouble with the law?” “No, sir. I mean, no chef!” she quickly added. The stallion grunted. “Hmph. As long as what you’re running away from doesn’t follow you here, it’s no skin off my nose.” He turned to look at her. “Look at me.” She stopped and turned frightened eyes at him. “Melody has a big heart. I won’t have her being taken advantage of. Clear?” “Yes, chef.” He walked over to her and inspected her work. “You’re doing a good job on those. You’ve worked in a kitchen before?” His slight praise made her feel more at ease so she answered, “Sort of.” Then she remembered. “I’m supposed to be working at the diner tonight, chef.” “What time?” “Three o’clock.” He glanced over at the wall clock. “That’s in two hours. We’ll be done by then.” He turned away from her and took some mushrooms out of the fridge. “We have quite the crowd coming tonight, so I’ll need these prepped too. After that, you can leave.” Finishing the last of the carrots, she said, “Thank you, chef, but I’ve got time and I really want to do a good job...for Melody and for you.” He actually let a ghost of a smile cross his lips at this last. “I usually work alone, so as long as you don’t screw up, you’re helping.” Pinkie finally allowed herself a smile. “Thank you, chef.” At two thirty Pinkie showed up at the diner. “Evening, Emma!” she called out as she made her way behind the counter. Emma looked up at her, then at the clock. “Oh! You’re early!” She smiled. “I like that.” Gesturing to the storeroom, she said, “There’s a waitress uniform for you back there. Put it on, and let’s see how you look!” Pinkie made her way to the storeroom and inspected the uniform. It consisted of a cute blue blouse and skirt, along with a little cap and a nametag, already printed out with her name. She quickly put them on, tied her mane up as best she could and settled the cap. She came out and did a little turn for Emma. “Don’t you look adorable! Now, here’s your pad and pencil. Suggest the fried mushroom steaks, that’s tonight’s special.” “Yes, ma’am!” Soon, diners began pouring in. Pinkie rushed around, taking orders. She messed up one or two of them, but on the whole she did a good job. Until a group of stallions came in. An Unforseen ExposurePinkie swallowed nervously as she saw the rough-looking stallions pile into the diner, but she had a job to do. Unknown to her, Constable Jural came in right after the stallions came in, took a seat at the diner's bar, and watched. Determined to do her best on her first day, she squared her shoulders, put on a smile, and went to their table. "What can I get for you gentlecolts? Our special tonight is the fried mushroom--" but that's as far as she got. "Hey...you're a cute one!" leered the biggest of them. "Why don't you come sit on my lap and take my...real...order, babe?" The others with him guffawed and snorted laughter at her expression. Pinkie felt her face get hot, and her heart started racing, but she clamped down her anger and tried to remain professional. "I'm really sorry, sir, that's not allowed." She looked down at her pad and pencil. "Now then, I can get you all started on some drinks while you decide---" she stopped when her wrist was grabbed. "I guess you didn't hear me: I said, sit on my lap, bitch." He began pulling her onto his lap when she lost it. Her hidden horn suddenly glowed, and his hoof caught fire. He screamed and drew his hoof back, as he and his buddies all jumped to their hooves. Pinkie turned, grabbed a pitcher of water from a nearby table, and doused him with it. "What did you do?! HOW did you do that?!" he yelled as he held his injured leg. Pinkie remembered to look shocked. "I didn't do anything, sir! I don't know what happened!" She drew closer to him, trying to see his hoof. "Are you alright?" "Get away from me, FREAK!" he screamed, as he bolted for the door, his friends following after him. But they were stopped by the Constable as he blocked their path. "Now, boys? We don't allow that sort of behavior nor language against a female in our little town." He squared up against the biggest one and uttered one word: "Apologize." The big stallion looked around at his buddies, then leaned over the Constable. "And if we don't, Little. Old. Pony? What then?" he sneered. The Constable looked up at the younger stallion, who probably outweighed him by several kilos, definitely was at least twenty years younger, and had almost a third of a meter of height on him. It didn't make a bit of difference. Without taking his eyes off his opponent, he took off his hat, hoofed it over to a filly sitting at the table next to him with her parents, and said, "Hold this please, sweetheart." Then he grinned, and without warning, he grabbed the younger stallion by his uninjured hoof, flipped him over his back onto his stomach, then bent it at an unnatural angle, causing the brute to cry out in pain. "AHHH!!! Stop! Stop! Let me go!!" cried the stallion, but Jural just applied more pressure, while the stallion's friends stood frozen in fear. "Are you going to apologize?" asked the Constable in a calm voice, showing neither strain nor hurry. "Yes! Yes! I'm sorry! I'm SORRY!!" sobbed the youngster. "PLEASE! Let me go!!" "That's all I wanted to hear." He immediately released him, then stood back and retrieved his hat. "Thank you, baby," he said to the filly, as the stallion got to his hooves and stared balefully at him. "Now then, I think you boys have stayed long enough in our little town. I don't want to see any of you come morning." His face became dark as he looked around at them all. "Understood?" They all frantically nodded, then helped their friend up and scrambled out of the diner, never looking back. Jural took a moment to watch them leave, then turned and started for the back of the diner. Pinkie smiled up at him. "Oh, thank you, Constable! That was really--" but she stopped as he brushed past her with neither glance nor word. He spoke briefly to Emma as he made his way to the back room. "Bring her." Emma swallowed, then quickly walked up to Pinkie and threw a hoof over her shoulder, forcing her to follow her. When they came to the back of the diner, she pushed the pink mare in with the Constable and shut the door, keeping herself outside, as she went back and kept up the business of waiting on the customers, as if nothing untoward had happened. Pinkie looked back at Emma, who was doing her best to ignore her, then pushed the door open to the backroom and went inside. There, she found the Constable seated at a small table, with one unoccupied seat in front of him. He glanced up at her. "Sit down." She slowly approached the indicated seat and sat down, trying not to perspire too much. He took off his hat and placed it on the table, then sighed. The silence dragged on. After a few more moments, he spoke. "So...what are you? A Changeling?" "Pinkie's" eyes grew wide. "N...No! I'm not! Why would you---" he held up a hoof to cut her off. He raised his eyes to meet her's, and his look was far from friendly. "I saw what you did to that young asshole. From what I saw, he definitely deserved it, but that's not my problem right now." He leaned forward, and his gaze became more intense. "What I need to know is: are you a danger to anypony here? What are your intentions?" She leaned back, trying to put some distance between them. "P...Please, Constable, I assure you...I'm not a Changeling, and I don't wish anypony here harm!" Jural stared at her, tapping his hoof against the table. Then he said, "So, why are you here? You're not an Earth pony. No Earth pony does the sort of magic I just saw you do, and probably half the diner just saw." Pinkie gasped as he suddenly reached across the table and grabbed her hoof. "I want the truth from you, and I want it RIGHT NOW." Knowing she was finally trapped, she closed her eyes, sighed one last time, and began.
A late cup of coffeeManeville is a small town in Equestria, population about two hundred, give or take. There was not as great a mix of the tribes as in other, larger towns like Ponyville, but the few pegasi and unicorns got along well enough with the majority of earth ponies. There was one constable, who was both well-liked and very good at his job. Maneville had not the criminal element of larger cities like Manehatten or even Canterlot, but every once in awhile some small time hoods tried to see what trouble they could cause. Most never lasted more than a few days, as Constable Jural made it his business to discover the motives of anypony who arrived in town. So when he walked into the town’s only diner late one evening, the pink pony sitting at the counter immediately caught his attention. He sat himself down at the opposite end of the counter and took off his hat. “Evenin’, Emma,” said he to the waitress as she smiled and trotted up to him, holding a pot of coffee and a mug in her magic. “Evening, Constable,” said she. “The usual?” “Please.” After she had poured him his cup she went back to get the apple pie. Jural watched the pink stranger out of the corner of his eye as she kept her head down and focused on her own cup. No, she wasn’t looking at the cup, was she? She was staring down, alright, but her thoughts appeared to be a million miles away. Jural took his time in sizing her up. Her mane was poofy but frazzled as if she hadn’t combed it recently. Her hooves were scuffed as if she’d traveled on those same hooves for quite some distance. Which meant she most likely did not have many bits to her name and was probably a vagrant. Lastly, there was the thousand-yard stare she was currently employing. A pony on the run if ever he saw one. “Good evening, miss,” said Jural. The pony turned her head slightly and looked at him, then went back to her cup. “Evening.” Jural frowned, then got up and sat next to her. She shifted slightly away from him but kept her attention on her cup. “New in town.” It wasn’t a question. She nodded. “Got a place to stay?” “Not yet.” Emma came back around from the counter with the slice of pie, took one look at what was happening then busied herself elsewhere. Jural stared intently at the pink pony for a few moments, as she kept her gaze downward. Finally, he said, “Don’t I know you?” At this, she did turn and meet his eyes. “I’m sure we’ve never met before.” The constable frowned again. “I didn’t say I’d met you, I said I think I know you.” He looked at the three party balloons that were her cutie mark. “I’ve seen that before on another mare. Haven't you?” The pink mare began to visibly sweat as she said, “I don’t know who you’re talking about.” “I think you do.” He shifted closer and held her gaze. “Now, why would one of the Element Bearers be so far away from Ponyville?” The mare seemed at a loss for words at this last. Jural waited patiently, allowing the moment to draw itself out and find its own conclusion. Finally, she said, “I don’t want any trouble, mister.” The constable sat back. “You’re not in any trouble, miss. Not yet.” He reached into his pocket and took out some bits, then put them on the counter. “That’s a loan. You get yourself somewhere to sleep and get cleaned up. Then you find a job if you’re going to be staying here. I won’t allow vagrancy in my town.” He stood. “Emma, I’ll take that pie later.” Then he replaced his hat and walked out. The mare eyed the bits, then reached out a hoof and slowly slid them towards herself. The waitress came over. “You okay, hon?” She turned her head towards the door. “I thought he was going to arrest me.” Emma refilled her cup as she said, “Jural’s tough but fair. He keeps the troublesome ponies in line and we’re all grateful for him. If he’s a bit gruff, that’s just his way.” Then she paused. “What are you doing all the way out here? And it looks like you’ve been living rough, if I may say so.” The pink mare sighed. “It hasn’t been easy for me. Ever since I left…well, never mind that…my first town, I’ve been going from place to place.” Emma’s face softened. “So you decided to come here?” She shrugged. “It seemed like as good a place as any.” Emma reached out a hoof and gave hers a squeeze. “You in trouble?” The mare looked down at her hoof and remained silent. Emma withdrew hers and said, “It’s alright. You don’t have to tell me.” She put down the coffee pot and slid the piece of pie over to her. “On the house.” The pink mare shook her head. “I couldn’t do that. Here…” she separated her bits and gave one to her. Emma pushed it back. “You keep that, hon. What would Equestria be like if I couldn’t spare a piece of pie?” The pink mare picked up the slice and bit into it. “Thanks,” she said around her mouthful. She swallowed and said, “It’s good.” Emma smiled. “Best in town!” Then she took out a pen and some paper, then jotted something down and gave it to her. “You go to this address. They have rooms for rent.” The mare looked down at her bits again. “Are they cheap?” Emma smiled again. “Tell Melody I sent you. She’ll make some sort of arrangement with you.” She hesitated, then said, “Could you…give me a job? I’ll work hard, I promise!” “I thought you might say that. But I have to ask: this trouble you’re in…is it going to follow you here?” She stared at her cup again before answering. Finally, she whispered, "I hope not." Emma looked softly at her, then came to a decision. "You start tomorrow, at three pm. The dinner rush will begin an hour after that, so I want you here before then. For now, go get some sleep." Tears welled up in the mare's eyes, but she brushed them quickly away. "Thank you. You don't know how much this means to me." Emma smiled once more. "I have an idea." She finished her coffee and got up to leave, but was stopped by one last question. "What's your name?" The mare hesitated, then said, "Call me 'Pinkie.'" "Pinkie it is. See you tomorrow." As she left the diner, the mare thought to herself, May as well use that name as any other.
Settling inThe pink pony followed the directions given her carefully, and, after a few missed turns, found the address she was looking for. She took a deep breath and knocked on the door. After a few moments, it opened, and a cheery-looking pony stood there. “Well, hello! What can I do for you?” The pink mare looked down at her hooves. “Are…are you Melody? Emma told me to come here.” Instead of answering, the pony turned to the room at large and announced, “Hey, everypony! We have a new mare joining us!” Turning back to her she added, “Come in, come in!” The pink mare cautiously crossed the threshold and looked around. She was in a large foyer that opened up into the room proper, which was predominated by red curtains and dark wooden furniture. Several lamps burned merrily upon the end tables and from a huge chandelier that was suspended from the middle of the room. Seated upon chairs, lounges and sofas were several mares, all representatives of the pony tribes. They all were looking her way: some openly curious, others a bit calculating in their observation. But most were welcoming glances. “Did you just get into town?” the first mare asked her. “Y-yes…just tonight.” She couldn’t meet her eyes, for fear that her thoughts would be readily transparent. She needn’t have bothered. The first mare smiled and said, “First time in a brothel?” The pink mare startled and stammered, “W-well, yes…but I’m not judging you! Honest!” “It’s okay. I’m Dawn. What’s your name?” “Pinkie.” “Well, Pinkie, let’s take you to meet the Madame. Don’t worry,” she added, “She takes good care of us.” Pinkie stood stock still and said, “There must be some mistake. I…I don’t belong here.” Dawn cocked her head at her and said, “You don’t belong in a place that makes stallions…happy?” Pinkie looked down at her hooves. “I just need a place to stay. I’ve never done what you mares do.” Dawn gasped. “Never? Not even once?” Pinkie blushed bright red and remained silent as several mares giggled. Dawn looked around. “Be nice, all of you!” Turning back to Pinkie she said, “Come on: let’s get you in front of Melody and then we’ll go from there.” She turned and began to lead her through the room. After a few moments, the pink mare sighed, then followed her, breaking into a trot to catch up. Dawn led her upstairs and stopped in front of a large ornate door that was covered with intricate carvings. Dawn knocked, waited a tick, then turned and nudged her charge into the room. It was even more opulent than the downstairs living area. Thick sconces were positioned artfully about, as well as several exotic plants. In the corner stood a baby grand piano with yellow sheet music propped upon its music rack. Two high-backed lounge chairs were placed in front of the fireplace, its flames dancing and flickering. The carpet was ornate and thick, as Pinkie felt her hooves sinking slightly into it. An older mare sat behind the enormous oaken desk. Though her mane was silver, there remained auburn highlights in it. She was dressed in a flowing silk Neighponese robe that did little to hide her still youthful figure. She looked up and met the newcomer’s gaze. Pinkie could see the beauty behind those eyes as the mare silently regarded her. Then she got up from the desk and approached her while moving with a casual grace. “Hello, sweetie,” she began, “what brings you to my establishment?” As Pinkie kept silent and stared at her own hooves, Dawn spoke up for her. “She says she just got into town and needs a place to stay.” At this, Pinkie found her voice. “Emma from the diner sent me here.” She looked up. “But I didn’t know what sort of place this was. She didn’t tell me.” Melody tilted her head at her, a gesture Pinkie had seen before, and said, “Tell me: are you a proper mare?” Pinkie’s brow knitted. “I’m not sure what you mean.” Instead of answering, Melody took her time walking around the pink mare, humming to herself as she silently scrutinized her. “Umm…what are you doing?” Melody didn’t answer until she’d walked back in front of her. “You have potential, but I don’t think you’ll fit in with my mares. At least not providing the services they do.” Pinkie didn’t know whether to be disappointed or relieved at this. Melody returned to her seat behind the desk and said, “Dawn, put her in with Chloe.” She paused. “Is she busy?” Dawn smiled. “Not at the moment!” As she turned to go, Pinkie hesitated. “Wait: how much is the room?” “We’ll work something out,” Melody said with a smile. At Pinkie’s startled expression she added, “Not that! I assume you’re out of bits, or have very few. I sure we can find something for you to do around here.” Pinkie hesitated again at this last, then said, “Why are you helping me?” “Sweetie, I don’t know what you’ve heard about these sorts of…establishments, but I never turn away a pony in need.” She made a shooing motion. “Go on, get yourself cleaned up and get some sleep.” “Th…thank you.” ********** Dawn led her back down the hallway, chatting as she went. “So what brings you to our fair town?” “I…just needed to get away,” the pink mare quietly answered. Dawn looked back at her. “Stallion troubles?” Pinkie grimly smiled. “Something like that.” Dawn smiled back. “Honey, we’ve all been there. Ah, here we are!” They stopped in front of a large door, which Dawn pushed open. Inside were two vanities and two canopied beds. A door in the back was open, revealing an impressive bathroom. Paintings adorned the walls and the carpet was almost as rich as the one in Melody’s office. Pinkie gasped. “Is…this where I’ll be staying?” Dawn giggled. “Of course, silly! You didn’t think we’d put you in a barn, did you?” Pinkie couldn’t help staring. “This is the nicest room I’ve ever been in, besides the one we just left.” Brightly, Dawn said, “I told you she takes good care of us. Now, get yourself settled. Bathroom’s back there, you’ll be taking this bed.” She indicated the one in the far corner. “My room is the third one down from this one; come by whenever you need me, but don’t knock if you see the red light on.” She smiled. “I’ll be working then.” Pinkie blushed and said, “I’ll remember!” As Dawn turned to go, Pinkie added, “Thank you again.” Dawn gave her a playful push and left. Just in time. Pinkie went into the bathroom and shut the door. Her forehead had been tingling for the past few moments, so she looked at herself in the mirror. Sure enough, her horn was starting to reappear, so she concentrated and it became invisible again. “Pinkie” sighed in relief.
Getting Around TownSometime later that night, Pinkie was awakened by the sound of her roommate returning. She snuggled herself deeper into her blankets and gave an unconvincing snore. She could feel the other mare watching her, then heard her turn and head for the bathroom. Once the door was shut, Pinkie sat up and looked in that direction. She debated internally about whether she should try to speak to her...but just then the doorknob turned and the other mare, "Chloe", she remembered, stepped out. "Oh! Hello," she said. Pinkie gave a small smile and said, "Hi. I'm Pinkie." Chloe nodded. "I saw you when you came in. I'm Chloe." "I'm...pleased to meet you." Pinkie fidgeted with her hooves and finally stammered, "H-how long have you worked here?" The other mare gave a knowing grin and said, "You mean 'how long have I been a whore?' " "N-no! That's not what I meant at all!" "But it's what you were thinking. Don't worry: I'm not embarrassed." Chloe went on without waiting for a reply. "I started working here two years ago. I was up to my neck in student loans, I could barely feed myself, and I didn't want any help from my parents. So, since stallions wanted me for my body, I figured I'd get them to pay for it as well. " She looked up at her roommate. "So what brought you here?" Pinkie looked down again before answering and finally said, "I needed to get away from the place I was at before. So I found myself on the road." Chloe stared at her for a minute, then said, "I think I understand. Are you better now?" "I hope so." Chloe crawled into her bed and pulled the covers up to her chin. "I have the day off tomorrow. If you'd like, I can show you around town." "I'd like that." She smiled and turned off the lamp. "Good night then." The next morning, around eleven, Pinkie and her new friend set out to see the town. "Over there is City Hall, one of the oldest buildings here," said Chloe. "That clock still works and keeps perfect time." As Pinkie looked up at the clock, she felt her forehead beginning to glow, and she quickly shut it down. Too late. The hands of the clock began spinning, causing the few ponies that noticed it to stare unbelievingly. "Did you see that?!" asked Chloe. "See what?" "The hands of the clock! They started spinning!" Chloe looked at Pinkie as she spoke, then gasped. "What's wrong with your forehead?" Pinkie put a hoof up to her forehead and stammered, "W-what do you mean?" "I thought...I thought I saw it...glowing?" Pinkie moved her mane out of the way and said, "Of course not. See?" Chloe stared at her for a moment, then she laughed. "Silly me! I guess I was seeing things." Pinkie said nothing. “Anyway, that’s pretty much it. There’s not much else in the “downtown” area. Chloe smiled. “I’ve seen bigger town squares than our little downtown, but we like it here that way. All that’s left is the diner on the edge of town, but I’m sure you-” “Oh my gosh! The diner! I’m supposed to be starting there this evening!” exclaimed Pinkie. Chloe looked at her. “Emma gave you a job? That was nice of her.” “Yes, and I don’t want to be late!” Chloe smiled. “Relax. If you don’t need to be there until this evening, you have plenty of time.” Pinkie sighed. “You’re right. I just don’t want to mess up.’” “My, you’re nervous! Don’t be: we’re pretty laid back here.” She glanced back up at the clock while she was speaking, and noticed it had reverted to normally showing the time. “If that clock’s right after that last incident, you have about four hours until you need to be there.” She turned and started walking. “Come on, let’s go back to the house and get some lunch.” “And then the clock started spinning all crazy!” said Chloe to the group. She and Pinkie had arrived just in time for the noonday meal and was now regaling the table of five mares with their mini-adventure earlier. “What do you think made that happen?” asked Amber. Before Chloe could answer, she smirked and added, “If it happened.” Chloe put down her fork and looked at her, then said, “Why do you always have to be like that, Amber?” “Like what?” she asked innocently. Chloe stood. “You’re always so mean to me! I’m heartily sick of it!” Amber giggled. “Listen to you! “Heartily sick of it.” You talk like some heroine in a romance novel.” Chloe flushed. “I do not sound like that! And even if I did, what’s wrong with it?” Just then Melody entered the room. “That is quite enough, girls,” she reproved. They all said, “Yes ma’am,” then fell silent. Melody looked them all over. “We have a big night, tonight. Lot’s of clients coming in from Manehatten, or so I’m told. I want you all on your best behavior.” She walked around the table, stopping at Pinkie. “Would you come with me, please?” “S...sure.” She gave her mouth one last swipe with her napkin and followed the Madam out of the room. Melody smiled as she looked over at the younger mare. “As I said when I first met you, I don’t think you’ll be suited for our... hmm...”regular” duties, so you’ll help in the kitchen.” She stopped at an elaborate oak door, then pushed it wide. Pinkie gasped when she saw what was inside. There, gleaming on every surface, was the most professional and decadent kitchen she’d ever seen. Modern appliances sat upon every counter, the refrigerator/freezer was huge, and wonderful smells she didn’t recognize filled the air, but it all smelled delicious. In the middle of the kitchen, wearing a chef’s toque and white coat, was an older unicorn stirring something in a bowl. He looked up at the new arrival and scowled. “I don’t need any newbies in my kitchen, Melody.” “Now, now, Ramsey, be nice.” She turned and gently pushed Pinkie forward. “This is Pinkie. She just joined us, and needs to help out somewhere other than our usual “work.” Ramsey stopped his stirring and stared at the pink mare. “Why can’t she? She’s pretty enough.” Pinkie blushed furiously and looked down at her hooves. Melody smiled at the stallion. “I have my reasons. Now, please, find something she can help you with.” Ramsey huffed. “Fine! But if she can’t do anything right, I won’t hesitate to throw her out on her pink butt!” “You know best in the kitchen. But give her a chance, won’t you?” She batted her eyes at him and smiled. Now it was the stallion’s turn to blush. “I hate it when you do that, Melody.” “Do what?” she asked as her smile deepened. “Nothing! You, what’s your name, ‘Pinkie?’” He pointed at the sink where some carrots were sitting in water. “I need those peeled and sliced into one-quarter strips. Think you can handle that?” “Y...yes sir!” “Yes, CHEF!” Pinkie startled. “Yes, chef!” Quickly, she made her way over to the sink and started scooping the carrots out. Big mistake. “You just came in from outside! Wash your hooves first, you donkey!” “Sorry, chef!” She ran over to the washup sink and started scrubbing her hooves while giving Melody a ‘help me’ look. Melody gave her a reassuring grin. “Don’t let him scare you. He’s really a sweetheart!” “Melody!” screamed the reddening stallion. “What? It’s true. What about last week when you gave Tiffany an extra cupcake, only because she looked a little sad? Or the other time, when you-” “Okay, okay, enough! Get out of here and let me get something done, will you?” He turned back to his bowl and scowled as he focused his attention on his work, dismissing the older mare. As she turned to leave, knowing he couldn’t resist watching, she put an extra wiggle in her hips and swished her tail. She glanced over her shoulder at him as she opened the door, to see him watching her out of the corner of one eye. She laughed quietly to herself and left. Despite her reassurances, Pinkie said not a word to the gruff stallion as she began peeling and cutting the carrots. After a few minutes of tense silence, Ramsey finally spoke and said, “So, what’s your story?” “E...excuse me, chef?” He continued his work unabated as he said, “Why are you here?” “I...needed to get away from where I was.” Ramsey turned his back on her and placed his mixture in the oven. “That’s pretty vague. You in trouble with the law?” “No, sir. I mean, no chef!” she quickly added. The stallion grunted. “Hmph. As long as what you’re running away from doesn’t follow you here, it’s no skin off my nose.” He turned to look at her. “Look at me.” She stopped and turned frightened eyes at him. “Melody has a big heart. I won’t have her being taken advantage of. Clear?” “Yes, chef.” He walked over to her and inspected her work. “You’re doing a good job on those. You’ve worked in a kitchen before?” His slight praise made her feel more at ease so she answered, “Sort of.” Then she remembered. “I’m supposed to be working at the diner tonight, chef.” “What time?” “Three o’clock.” He glanced over at the wall clock. “That’s in two hours. We’ll be done by then.” He turned away from her and took some mushrooms out of the fridge. “We have quite the crowd coming tonight, so I’ll need these prepped too. After that, you can leave.” Finishing the last of the carrots, she said, “Thank you, chef, but I’ve got time and I really want to do a good job...for Melody and for you.” He actually let a ghost of a smile cross his lips at this last. “I usually work alone, so as long as you don’t screw up, you’re helping.” Pinkie finally allowed herself a smile. “Thank you, chef.” At two thirty Pinkie showed up at the diner. “Evening, Emma!” she called out as she made her way behind the counter. Emma looked up at her, then at the clock. “Oh! You’re early!” She smiled. “I like that.” Gesturing to the storeroom, she said, “There’s a waitress uniform for you back there. Put it on, and let’s see how you look!” Pinkie made her way to the storeroom and inspected the uniform. It consisted of a cute blue blouse and skirt, along with a little cap and a nametag, already printed out with her name. She quickly put them on, tied her mane up as best she could and settled the cap. She came out and did a little turn for Emma. “Don’t you look adorable! Now, here’s your pad and pencil. Suggest the fried mushroom steaks, that’s tonight’s special.” “Yes, ma’am!” Soon, diners began pouring in. Pinkie rushed around, taking orders. She messed up one or two of them, but on the whole she did a good job. Until a group of stallions came in.
An Unforseen ExposurePinkie swallowed nervously as she saw the rough-looking stallions pile into the diner, but she had a job to do. Unknown to her, Constable Jural came in right after the stallions came in, took a seat at the diner's bar, and watched. Determined to do her best on her first day, she squared her shoulders, put on a smile, and went to their table. "What can I get for you gentlecolts? Our special tonight is the fried mushroom--" but that's as far as she got. "Hey...you're a cute one!" leered the biggest of them. "Why don't you come sit on my lap and take my...real...order, babe?" The others with him guffawed and snorted laughter at her expression. Pinkie felt her face get hot, and her heart started racing, but she clamped down her anger and tried to remain professional. "I'm really sorry, sir, that's not allowed." She looked down at her pad and pencil. "Now then, I can get you all started on some drinks while you decide---" she stopped when her wrist was grabbed. "I guess you didn't hear me: I said, sit on my lap, bitch." He began pulling her onto his lap when she lost it. Her hidden horn suddenly glowed, and his hoof caught fire. He screamed and drew his hoof back, as he and his buddies all jumped to their hooves. Pinkie turned, grabbed a pitcher of water from a nearby table, and doused him with it. "What did you do?! HOW did you do that?!" he yelled as he held his injured leg. Pinkie remembered to look shocked. "I didn't do anything, sir! I don't know what happened!" She drew closer to him, trying to see his hoof. "Are you alright?" "Get away from me, FREAK!" he screamed, as he bolted for the door, his friends following after him. But they were stopped by the Constable as he blocked their path. "Now, boys? We don't allow that sort of behavior nor language against a female in our little town." He squared up against the biggest one and uttered one word: "Apologize." The big stallion looked around at his buddies, then leaned over the Constable. "And if we don't, Little. Old. Pony? What then?" he sneered. The Constable looked up at the younger stallion, who probably outweighed him by several kilos, definitely was at least twenty years younger, and had almost a third of a meter of height on him. It didn't make a bit of difference. Without taking his eyes off his opponent, he took off his hat, hoofed it over to a filly sitting at the table next to him with her parents, and said, "Hold this please, sweetheart." Then he grinned, and without warning, he grabbed the younger stallion by his uninjured hoof, flipped him over his back onto his stomach, then bent it at an unnatural angle, causing the brute to cry out in pain. "AHHH!!! Stop! Stop! Let me go!!" cried the stallion, but Jural just applied more pressure, while the stallion's friends stood frozen in fear. "Are you going to apologize?" asked the Constable in a calm voice, showing neither strain nor hurry. "Yes! Yes! I'm sorry! I'm SORRY!!" sobbed the youngster. "PLEASE! Let me go!!" "That's all I wanted to hear." He immediately released him, then stood back and retrieved his hat. "Thank you, baby," he said to the filly, as the stallion got to his hooves and stared balefully at him. "Now then, I think you boys have stayed long enough in our little town. I don't want to see any of you come morning." His face became dark as he looked around at them all. "Understood?" They all frantically nodded, then helped their friend up and scrambled out of the diner, never looking back. Jural took a moment to watch them leave, then turned and started for the back of the diner. Pinkie smiled up at him. "Oh, thank you, Constable! That was really--" but she stopped as he brushed past her with neither glance nor word. He spoke briefly to Emma as he made his way to the back room. "Bring her." Emma swallowed, then quickly walked up to Pinkie and threw a hoof over her shoulder, forcing her to follow her. When they came to the back of the diner, she pushed the pink mare in with the Constable and shut the door, keeping herself outside, as she went back and kept up the business of waiting on the customers, as if nothing untoward had happened. Pinkie looked back at Emma, who was doing her best to ignore her, then pushed the door open to the backroom and went inside. There, she found the Constable seated at a small table, with one unoccupied seat in front of him. He glanced up at her. "Sit down." She slowly approached the indicated seat and sat down, trying not to perspire too much. He took off his hat and placed it on the table, then sighed. The silence dragged on. After a few more moments, he spoke. "So...what are you? A Changeling?" "Pinkie's" eyes grew wide. "N...No! I'm not! Why would you---" he held up a hoof to cut her off. He raised his eyes to meet her's, and his look was far from friendly. "I saw what you did to that young asshole. From what I saw, he definitely deserved it, but that's not my problem right now." He leaned forward, and his gaze became more intense. "What I need to know is: are you a danger to anypony here? What are your intentions?" She leaned back, trying to put some distance between them. "P...Please, Constable, I assure you...I'm not a Changeling, and I don't wish anypony here harm!" Jural stared at her, tapping his hoof against the table. Then he said, "So, why are you here? You're not an Earth pony. No Earth pony does the sort of magic I just saw you do, and probably half the diner just saw." Pinkie gasped as he suddenly reached across the table and grabbed her hoof. "I want the truth from you, and I want it RIGHT NOW." Knowing she was finally trapped, she closed her eyes, sighed one last time, and began.
