Morning in Ponyville shimmered as ponies began to flourish from the train station, from their homes, shops, farm, castle and what have you. This time, even more ponies were productive. This was because today was the Sweet Apple Acres' anniversary! However, not everypony was outside. There was Button Mash, the colt who played games 24/7, there was... well it's only him. But it wasn't just him today, Lyra was staying inside too with someone very interesting of her tastes.

In her abode lied a new subject, Paul Sevens, a newly added human from his world, the Milky Way but only living on Earth. His features were very different to the brightly coloured ponies in Lyra's world: Dark, untidy hair, small eyes, peachy skin, no coat nor hooves. He had average arms, strengthened legs and wasn't much of a 'built' type like Bulk Biceps on his upper body. However, he didn't look like a stereotypical gamer; chubby all around, eating chips, sitting on a couch, sipping a drink next to him/her, no. He was a bit of both.

(No offense to gamers, just stereotypes, you know?)

In the morning, Lyra asked what Paul preferred. After her revolting discovery of Paul favouring meat, she immediately went off to buy ingredients for soup - Paul, being an idiot, still didn't realise what he had done until she had come back.

She plopped the paper bags on the counter, removing the contents and beginning to follow a recipe. After placing a soup pot on the stove, she trotted to her cutting board, slicing up pieces of vegetables. Paul, being a picky, non-vegetable eater, turned dull at the sight of the meal.

The ceramic bowls rested on the table, thanks to Lyra's magic, spoons hovered next to the bowls and breakfast had begun. However, Paul had been silent and uninterested, not eating a thing.

Before gulping down another spoon, Lyra noticed Paul's inactive motions towards her meal, "Hey," She asked in concern, "Are you alright? You aren't eating. Do you not like my cooking?"

Paul pulled his collar, "Uh, it's not that," He hesitated in guilt, "I just don't eat vegetables."

"Sorry, but you're going to have to deal with these types of meals. I don't think I could find an alternative without harming anypony, Paul." Lyra explained.

"Right." Paul paused before examining his spoon and sluggishly dipping it inside the soup.

He took a small bite, gagging slightly, "Go on," Lyra encouraged, "You're doing good."

Paul slurped the rest in, quickly crunching and swallowing the contents as to not taste anything. To his surprise, it wasn't half-bad - it was good but not too good. Gradually, Paul ate his breakfast one gulp at a time, attempting at his finest to cope with the meal. After some time, Paul had finally completed his breakfast, still disgusted. Lyra didn't understand how and why he was acting this way - she just knew how to take care of her guests.

"At least you've got something to eat, Paul," Lyra scanned inside her fridge, "And for that, I have decided to give you a drink to wash down the somewhat 'gross' food you ate." Paul wasn't amused, and certainly wasn't looking forward to the drink.

It was probably going to be a dandelion smoothie or grass wine - but what Lyra took out was familiar in his world like mango juice or beer. But whatever it was, Paul was suspicious.

The yellow drink was placed next to his bowl and Paul just stared, alerting Lyra again, "Oh come on, you won't even accept the Apple Family's best and strongest apple cider?"

Not what Paul was expecting - apple cider. He wasn't a heavy drinker nor was he one at all, he decided to be impolite to decline another delicacy so he downed a cup. Suddenly, he hurled up a monstrous wave of gastric juices before slamming down in it. Another surprise for Lyra.

"Wait, you've never drank cider? Ever?" Lyra's eyes widened, Paul nodding in his head in his fluids, "Better get cleaned up, sorry, Paul. Why didn't you tell me?"

Paul burped, "I thought that if I said 'no' again, I'd be a real picky prick so I drank," He glanced at his mess, "Sorry about this."

"No, no, it's fine. I'll clean this and you wash yourself." Lyra insisted, already beginning to dry the table and moving the bowls and cups.

"Alright," Paul groaned, walking towards the bathroom, "I'll be out in a minute." He closed the door, hawking another one.

Lyra sighed to herself, "What am I going to do with him? He's picky, strange and not what I expected from a human," She continued to wipe the table, "I guess I just expected too much but he is sort of an ambassador of his home. I can only imagine what he'll do at the ceremony - talk randomly about himself, how 'good' meat is, drink apple juice? It's outrageous!" She quietly said but a part of her knew she was sounding ridiculous.

The sink's flow in the bathroom ceased as Paul stepped out, better than ever, "What are we doing today? I've eaten, drank-"

For your first time, you moron.

Shut up.

"For my first time so now what? Anything planned today, Lyra?"

"Oh, I don't know," She glanced at her calendar, "We have the Sweet Apple Acres' Anniversary I have to go to, I have to bring a banner - mind fetching it for me?" Still looking at the calendar.

"Where is it?" Paul asked.

"In my room. You can't miss it - it's orange."

With that, Paul raced upstairs scrambling through chests, desks and tables for the banner. However, the banner wasn't in one of those places. It was just behind the door.

Paul palmed himself, "Such an idiot!"

"Found it?" Lyra called out.

"Sure did!" He called back, "I'll bring it down. What'll you be carrying?"

"Just a few essentials, for my research."

Lyra, being as organised as Twilight, packed a small notepad, ink, quills and bits in a small pouch. Paul carried the banner Twilight ordered for the anniversary. It had an orange base with yellow interjections as the borders, three large, stitched Macintosh apples below white words spelling out 'Happy 46th anniversary to Sweet Apple Acres!'

I waved over to Lyra, opening the door to reveal the outside. Her small abode was near the edge of town with a tall building with several - what seemed to be - balconies, and another tall building on its own with very feminine-like features to it. Around Lyra's house, were more buildings of the same design as hers.

Obviously, the ponies around Lyra and Paul exchanged confused and suspicious looks. Gradually, Paul became uncomfortable and cowered next to Lyra for some protection like a child fearing a large crowd. It didn't help as the large banner was highlighting their presence and would only get worse at the celebration.

There was only one pony from the crowd that came out to greet them. That was none other than Princess Twilight Sparkle.

"Hi, Paul! I've been looking for you." Twilight exclaimed excitedly, Lyra bowing at her presence.

Paul being late, crouched to show royalty, "Ah, you don't need to do that," She covered her blossoming face, "Anyhow, I see you're helping Lyra with the banner, thank you for that. But with the celebration, you'll be meeting a lot of ponies and I mean a lot of them. Are you sure you can handle it?"

It was obvious that she had some concern for Paul but he didn't want that - being cared for like a child. He was twenty-two for crying out loud!

"Yea, I'm sure. I've dealt with many strangers in my time and we've become friends... since then."

"That's... good," Twilight said, still a bit concerned, "So Lyra, since you've taken Paul away, learned much about him?"

"Have I?" Lyra basically shouted before embarrassing herself, "Oh, right. We're in public. I'll tell you on the way."

"Alright, I hope it's good."

The three strolled across Ponyville towards Sweet Apple Acres, Twilight and Lyra chatting about Paul while he was still being haunted with constant whispers and quick glances.

They had arrived on the dirt path that lead to the farm and some school ponies passed by, but only a few stopped to stay and mingle. One of them was a yellow Earth Pony with a pinkish-red, curved mane, accompanied with a large bow on her head. Another had a messy, purple mane with an orange coat who had wings, presumably a Pegasus. Finally, there was a white-coated unicorn with a curly, multi-coloured mane. All of them, however, seemed to have the same mark but the centre symbol was different.

"Hi, Twilight!" The unicorn exclaimed, "Who's that?" She gestured at Paul.

"Don't you mean 'What is that?'" The Pegasus chimed in.

"Scootaloo!" The Earth pony interrupted.

"What? It's a genuine question." Scootaloo replied.

"Girls!" Twilight gained their attention before sighing, "This is Paul, he's a human. Lyra and I have been studying him for the past hours. Be kind to him since he's only been here for a while and try not to draw any attention to him - he doesn't like it."

Paul rolled his eyes.

"Well, sorry, Paul." The Pegasus apologised.

"Ya should, Scoots," The Earth Pony turned to Paul, "Sorry we didn't properly meet. Ah'm Apple Bloom and this here is Sweetie Belle. Finally, we have Scootaloo, the one who was rude."

"It was a genuine question!"

Apple Bloom chuckled, "I'm only jokin', Scoots. Let's head the farm, Ah'm sure they have everythin' set up there."

"What are we waiting for? Let's go!" Sweetie Belle began hopping gleefully towards the farm. The rest of the group follow whilst talking about their newfound friend.

Once they step foot/hoof onto the vast plot of land, there were a variety of ponies from different areas. To the ponies, they knew where they came from - Apple Bloom and her friends managed to spot someone in the whole group to talk to and Twilight headed towards some familiar faces, greeting them. Lyra, however, stayed with Paul in case of any accidents regarding him.

"Give the banner to the unicorns, over there," She pointed near the barn entrance, "They can set it up. I'll just follow you for, you know, support."

And so, Paul made his way to the bold barn as he attempted to move passed many ponies in his way - however, everyone eyed at him, before returning to their conversations. Paul managed to seek out what some had said - something about being a spy for a changeling queen? Or an experiment of Princess Celestia gone wrong? Whatever it was or meant, didn't seem very pleasant for Paul's ears. He tried to hide his face with the banner but it only made him look more vulnerable than he was.

After crossing the 'Path of Hate & Mystery', as Paul would call it, he held out the banner to the unicorns and they did nothing but shrug and turn Paul away - even more hate and quite possibly racism. After sighing, Paul just dropped the banner on top of a crate and fled behind the barn, pushing and shoving everyone in his path.

Paul laid on the painful dirt as he kicked some away from sitting, "What the hell," He began whispering, "This isn't how I thought it'd be. Or is it that the Princess of Friendship can't do her job? Why the hell am I even here? I have no damn purpose living in this land."

"You do have a purpose," Lyra, who was following him the whole time, laid a hoof on his thigh, "You're friends with me and some other ponies - doesn't mean you have to be friends with everypony. Besides, you're the best subject for my research."

Paul groaned, before standing, "It's all about the damn research, isn't it? Why don't you go find some other method rather than wasting my life away?!"

"That's what you humans do with other animals." Lyra remained her composure.

"Is that what this is? Revenge and research? Gee, what a way to go, Paul. Death by imprisonment."

"That's not what I meant."

"Whatever, just go join the party," Before Lyra could speak, Paul interrupted her, "I don't belong here. You do. Leave me be. I'll find a place and then you can visit as much as you want. But if I'm dead, so be it. Didn't matter much anyways, now that I'm here."

A small tear ran down Lyra's face as she turned tail and headed towards the party, seeing Applejack behind a crate, seemingly eavesdropping.

"AJ, I can see your hat." Paul noted.

"Ah know, sugarcube-"

"Please don't call me that."

"But Ah want ta. Ah heard everythin' and I want ta say somethin'. Yer one of the most unique things that's ever happened 'round 'ere in Equestria. It's obvious, ta me, that this is one of the challenges t'at our ancestors gave us. Ah mean, my friends have defeated many enemies in our time and now comes a new challenge but this time, we have to care and cherish it, 'cause that's what we do." She landed a hoof on his chest.

The most cheesiest crap I've ever heard.

Shut up, you were the one that drove off Lyra, douche.

Yea, but you got a date now, huh?

Psh, highly doubt it.

And I thought you were positive.

Depending on the situation! Now keep quiet!

Paul stared at Applejack for a few seconds, analysing what she had said before falling onto his knees, dripping tears on the dirt, "I'm sorry."

"It should be me ya should be apologisin' ta." She gestured her hoof on the other side of the barn.

Paul took a breath, wiping the remaining tears, "Okay. Thank you, Applejack."

Paul gained some courage and crept outside, receiving strange looks from ponies again but this time, he paid no attention to them. This time, he was on the lookout for one pony, and one pony only - Lyra Heartstrings.

She was there near the gate, about to leave with her head down, damn, Paul, you messed up. Instantly, Paul rushed through the crowd, pushing ponies away and attracting a lot of attention.

Paul called out, "Lyra!" But she didn't answer.

"Lyra!" He attempted again, "I'm sorry." Lyra's ears perked up and ceased her step.

"I'm sorry for how I acted and what I said to you," Lyra swivelled, "I just miss everything I left back in my home. I didn't even had the chance to say 'goodbye' to my family and that I know I'm never going to return. All I hope now is that... you can forgive me." Paul became silent.

"It's okay. I understand, I'd be pretty sad too. You're forgiven." And with that, everyone cheered as Lyra and Paul embraced one another.

Hours and hours had passed ever since Paul had arrived in the ceremony. He had made a couple of friends to sit next to, and he was chatting a lot with Applejack, Lyra and Twilight. Rainbow Dash was with Pinkie Pie downing all the cider before eventually passing out. To Paul's surprise, Rarity had been a guest at the party, but she was silent while sitting with Paul. Fluttershy had been talking with Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo, along with a friend, Babs Seed - one of many new friends Paul made at the party.

More ponies from the Apple Family came to celebrate the Sweet Apple Acres' anniversary, meeting Paul with unsteady hooves but then talking up a storm a few minutes later. To Applejack's surprise, being so close to Paul when sitting, some ponies even thought they were going out on a date - but obviously, it was a joke, or was it? Nah, it was probably the 'cider talk'.

Soon enough, Pinkie and Rainbow had awoken before heading to the bathroom in haste. Everyone's reaction was priceless, chuckling and hollering - this was even better than human parties. Ponies still made glances at him but he didn't mind anymore - it just showed that they know he's there and not forgotten.

Luna's moon rose to the sky, everyone staring in awe, still partying to their content. Some of the Apple Family had already left for their homes and only few still decided to stay and chat for a little longer. Lyra had also left, leaving Paul to decide whether to spend the night there or with Twilight. Since he hadn't seen the interior of the homestead, he chose to sleep with the Apple Family for the night.

However, Paul didn't head inside immediately. He assisted the Apple Family in packing everything up - from the trash to the banner - he helped them one-by-one. While throwing away the last of the rubbish left behind, he spotted a small hill with a large apple tree on its peak. Needing a break, Paul climbed the hill and rested his head on the trunk, admiring the bright glow of the stars. It was like home but there was nobody or anypony around to enjoy it with him, but he did like peace and tonight fulfilled his needs.

That was until, "Hey, Paul?" Applejack peered from the bottom, looking tired and rundown.

"Yes, AJ?" Paul replied, "Need something?"

"Nah, not really. Ah just want ta look at the stars with ya. It's been a while ever since Ah've done it."

"Sure, no one's stopping you so go ahead." He patted the grass next to him, luring her.

As expected, the tired pony, sat up against Paul - hat next to her and eyes up with him, "Everything's so gorgeous tonight, ain't it?"

"Yea, sure is." Paul replied before gazing upon Applejack, who smiled at the wondrous sight.

What are you waiting for? Good view, a lady sitting next to you and you're looking at her?

Nah, not tonight. She's been through a tiring day.

So you were considering it? Gross.

"But you know what I'd want to see more?" Paul asked, rhetorically, catching Applejack's attention, "You."

CHEESY LITTLE -

"Aww, that's sweet, sugarcube, but Ah don't think you'd want ta date me." She turned down.

"Why not?"

"'Cause Ah know yer going ta find someone that'll have more worth than me. Ah'm just a silly, ol' pony who works on the farm, earnin' bits for my family. Ah'm the Element of Honesty, but it's no better than the most loyal or generous."

"I doubt it, AJ. Plus, I like silly. It's one of my favourite traits. And earning bits for your family? That's amazing! And old? Wait... How old are you?"

"Twenty-two, same as you."

"And how old do you all live for?"

"Some ponies are lucky to reach ninety and over, but our usual is between seventy and eighty years of age."

"Well, we're not really young, young anymore so I guess we are old." Paul chuckled with Applejack.

As minutes passed, staring at the glorious stars, Apple Bloom called out, "Hey! Ya'll comin' inside? It's a bit windy out there!"

Paul looked at Applejack, wanting to follow Apple Bloom in the warmth. She nodded, getting up on her hooves and making for the homestead. Paul stretched his limbs and walked, tailing Applejack.

I bet you want to look at that sexy flank and maybe... peek at her-

Sorry, but we're no perverts, unless if you're one.

Oh, what gave it away?

Suddenly, a branch broke off the tree and a blue aura immediately flashed, alerting Paul and Applejack, "What was that?"

"Ah don't know, Paul. Ah probably drank a lot." Applejack yawned.

"You only drank three cups."

"Yea, but do ya know how hard that cider is?"

"Now that you mention it, it probably was strong. This is why I don't drink."

"Hold on, ya don't drink?"

"Well, yea. I don't want my body doing things while my real one isn't awake."

"Good point, but ya should try it some time."

"Where will ya sleep tonight?" Applejack asked.

"I can sleep on the couch if that's fine by all of you." Paul gazed at the Apple Family.

"Eeyup!" stated Big Macintosh, Applejack's older brother.

"Ah don't know, don't'cha think it's uncomfortable?" Apple Bloom protested.

"Yea, Ah want ya to have a good rest tonight. Maybe Ah could sleep down here and you could sleep in my bed. How's that sound?" Applejack said, already sitting on the couch.

"Definitely not. I know I may be a guest but a couch is luxury enough. Besides," He pushed on the couch, feeling its texture, "It's soft."

"Well, Ah guess we do want ta make our guest comfortable now do we, y'all?" Applejack questioned.

"Eeyup!"

"Well, alright, g'night then." Applejack and her family cantered upstairs while Paul began to soften the pillows and rested his head, falling asleep.

Everyone was sleeping soundlessly whilst crickets began to chirp throughout the night in the moon's spotlight. The sounds you could hear were the waving wind and the stirring of crickets. That was until two in the morning.

Paul groaned in his sleep, most likely having a nightmare of losing his family... again, but this time he didn't yell or scream in the middle of the night. No, this time, somepony had put a spell on him to keep him dreaming, "Hush," A dark, cheese-like hoof rested on his head, "I see the Mane Six has done some work. Time to delay them." A feminine, distorted voice said.

With a swift motion, the pony snatched Paul with her magic and soared into the shadows of the night - a perfect kidnap for the perfect queen. After landing, she ambled slowly into a cavern filled with a sticky, green substance like honey. No one else was in the cave except for her and her new acquaintance.

She tossed the body onto one of the substances, Paul slowly seeping inside and powered up her horn before unleashing it unto Paul. Instantly, Paul had awoken softly, eyes blurry and his body trapped.

He tried to wiggle his way out but he stayed idle, "Not this again..." He sighed.

"Again?" The distorted voice spoke from the darkness.

Alerted, Paul questioned, "Hey, who's out there? If you want questions, just ask them. If you wish to kill me, do it and quickly." Paul didn't hesitate those last words.

"What? How forward. I'd thought you'd be scared or worried about my presence. Have you not heard of the Changeling Queen?"

"Sorta, but," Paul looked around, "If you're a queen, where's your henchmen or bodyguards? And, uh, what's this? Jelly?"

The Changeling Queen groaned in defeat, "You're seriously not afraid of me?"

"Nope. Can I see you now?"

She sighed, trotting out of the darkness, revealing a withered, dark coat, lime eyes, a branch-like horn and bug-like wings - not to mention the number of holes on her hooves.

"Huh, cool."

"You think this is cool? How strange. Ponies take one look at me and begin to battle me or run in fright. It seems you're doing none of that."

"Well, yea. I'm being held down against my will. Besides, I'm being genuine. You're very unique from the other ponies."

"That's because I'm Chrysalis the Changeling Queen. I'm no pony."

"Cute name."

With no tolerance left, Chrysalis gave up in defeat and fell onto the cold floor, "How can such creature not be overpowered by a queen such as myself?" She began talking to herself.

"Because I've only met you just now. What am I supposed to expect? That you're evil?"

Queen Chrysalis gave a blank look at Paul, "My suspicions were correct - you really are an idiot."

"Ok, fine. Maybe you are evil but that doesn't mean you don't have to change. Look here, you've done nothing bad to me, well, expect for kidnapping me but I guess we can sort things out. Plus, Lyra did the same - She took me away and just ask me several questions. You could do the same."

"Maybe... but what am I to ask of you? How does it feel to be kidnapped?" Queen Chrysalis asked rhetorically.

Being a fool, Paul answered, "Well, this has happened about twice consecutively so I guess I'm used to it now."

"It was rhetorical."

"But see? We're making conversation without killing one another. That seem safe?"

Queen Chrysalis stopped to think for a moment, "I guess. I don't know your powers so I guess I shall play it safe," She stood up, "But don't expect for me to reveal anything personal." She pointed her horn and blasted the jelly-like substance, freeing Paul.

"Thanks, now let's talk."

"Really?" Queen Chrysalis became surprised, "Aren't you going to run and I'll vaporise you or are you trying to make it easy for me?"

"No, I was being genuine. Would I lie to you? I mean, I'm just trying to make friends since I know I'll be here for a while."

"Oh," She blushed in embarrassment, "Sorry. I guess we can have a short session. Just promise me one thing."

"Sure."

"Tell anypony I'm here, and I'll kill you." Chrysalis powered her horn.

Pupils like pricks, Paul hung his hands near his head, "Your secret's safe with me, don't worry, but you have to promise me something too - be friendly to me and try not to kill anything when I'm gone."

Chrysalis sighed, rolling her green eyes, "Fine."

They had been talking for hours on end, chatting about themselves, having a laugh and having at least eight or nine death threats for Paul's stupidity, but he had been humiliated too but he didn't mind - it was quite normal for him.

Surprisingly Queen Chrysalis had cool drinks inside her den - wine, tea, beer - anything at best for a queen. She had poured a small amount of champagne for Paul as she had known about his previous adventures with drinking, and Paul took a minuscule sip. He smacked his lips, savouring the taste and he had thought it was good.

However, Chrysalis had taken some white wine and chugged it down like it was no big deal.

"So you're fine with drinking some of the strongest wines?" Paul stated in surprise.

"Of course, I am a queen," She admired herself with a hoof on her chest, "How else do you think I made my minions?" She gave a sultry look.

"Oh. Well, uh, yea, of course! I mean, how else do you make them, right?" Paul spat with a slight blush on his cheeks.

Chrysalis chuckled, "Don't worry, Paul! It was only a joke. I won't, you know, with you - you're younger than me, a virgin and I don't need another brood," She playfully elbowed Paul who was looking pale, "Besides, I think you have somepony special already - that little country gal?"

"What? Apple Bloom?"

"No! I didn't take you for a pedo-"

"I'm only joking, Chrysalis," Paul hurriedly said, turning away for more champagne.

"But you do know who I'm talking about, huh?" She winked sultry-like, "I bet you like her flank a lot. I've seen you stare."

"Wait, what?" A surprised look returned to Paul, "Where were you? I didn't see anypony like you in the castle or when I was.. walking.. with her."

Her half-lidded eyes stared endlessly, "Oh, Paul, don't worry about that. You love Applejack, huh?"

"Uh," He hesitated, "I... guess?"

"Perfect." Her snake-like tongue slithered as she pounced onto Paul, dropping his glass.

With a green flare, Chrysalis was no longer her but a familiar figure - a mare with a soft, orange coat, green sparkling eyes, canary-yellow mane with her red ties - such a gorgeous sight to bask in.

"It's," He analysed carefully, "Wonderful." With that, Chrysalis dove for a passionate kiss, nearly hypnotising him.

Eyes widened, Paul squirmed weakly outside of Chrysalis' wanting lips, desperate to avoid any awkwardness or unnecessary events between the two. Chrysalis took a breath before engulfing his mouth again - this time with a little more tongue (Not Chrysalis tongue, Applejack tongue). As a new feeling, it filled a great sensation inside of Paul but he knew he had to resist. He gulped the air as he attempted to dodge the awaiting kiss.

Paul grabbed her shoulders, "Chrysalis," He strained, "Stop, please."

In an instant, her sleepy self had awoken, gazing at the scene she caused, "We didn't 'do it', did we?"

"We were about to." Paul blushed heavily.

"Wanted to?" She teased, Paul transformed into a cherry, "Ah'm sorry, sugarcube," She imitated, "Ah didn't mean ta scare ya. How about we do that again, and make sure t'at door's closed. Wouldn't want Big MacIntosh to come in here, now do ya?" Chrysalis laughed as she returned to her normal form.

"I'm only messing with you, Paul." The chortle ended with Celestia's sun glowing gracefully from the horizon. It was time to go.

"Sorry, Chrysalis, but I have to go now. The Apple Family's probably expecting me," Paul explained, "But, uh, how can I get there?"

"Just follow the path, east outwards from the cave. Also, remember our secret and have a visit every now and again. Who knows? Maybe you'll get a prize." She winked, Paul slowly backing away into the sunlight waving a gentle farewell.

Paul ambled, admiring the glorious, warm rays, making his way towards Sweet Apple Acres. No one was seen walking on the road or in the bushes, now that Paul was aware of Chrysalis' escapades of spying. He chuckled on that every so often that he nearly past the homestead.

He heard clashing and crashing inside the house and knocked on the door, revealing an unorganised Applejack with a messy mane, "There ya are!" She exclaimed.

"You've been looking for me?" Paul raised an eyebrow.

"Of course, Ah have, sugarcube. Ah was.. uh.. worried, that's all."

"You sure?"

"Obviously! Where'd ya go?"

"Oh, uh, I went... ah... for a morning stroll."

"Morning stroll? Ya mean during eleven at night?"

"How'd you know I was gone at that time?"

"Uh," Her eyes darted, "Ah was a bit worried about ya - sleepin' on the couch and all."

"Alright. Well, I'm here now - don't have to worry about me no more. Let's say: we'll get you rested and ready, and then we'll go do some things for the day?"

"Ah guess. But you must be plum-tuckered from that walk."

Paul shook his head, "No, not really. In fact, I'm more awake than ever. I've always been the one that arrives somewhere and land on a couch or something."

"Really, sugarcube?" She asked in worry.

"Well, for your concern, I guess I can sit down for you." He laid on the couch, stretching his limbs.

Applejack cantered slowly upwards, dripping a trail of a rather scented liquid, probably sweat, behind her. Paul didn't mind much about that, he just wanted Applejack to be her best for the day. However, he didn't want to leave, he wanted to spend the day on the farm - see what they do and maybe help a little bit.

Paul train of thought had been blocked by a loud thud upstairs of the abode. Then, came a indistinct conversation but a quick one. Mystery clouded Paul's mind as he thought of what had just happened. He had planned to go and investigate but it was probably just family stuff - things he wouldn't be involved in.

His train chugged more, staring around the house in hope to find something interesting of his tastes. He had always loved the farm-life when he was a young lad, but now his skills are with technology - something now he had regretted.

Paul's lurking eyes landed on something quite strange, a broken floorboard. Obviously, the Apples have been living here for all their lives but this piece of board was different. It had seemed to be forced on, like someone/somepony was in a hurry. Small specks of dirt cover the outline of the break too, like they had been digging or hiding something.

He hopped off the couch to examine the boards. Hesitating, he lifted the board discover a dirty jar with a ripped cover on it. However, the rip was small and could still be easily read. Wiping off the dirt, he gazed at the image - a pear. A unique appearance for a family that grew apples. What was stranger was the seal wasn't broken. Paul had taken note of the contents of the jar.

It was liquid inside, but not too much for it to be splashing about. It was as slow as honey and had some green tints inside.

"Why is this here?" Paul asked himself, hungry for answers.

He neatly placed the jar back into the hole and covered it up as it was when he first found it. Paul proceeded to the tap and began to rinse his fingers.

"Paul?" A young filly asked, alerting Paul.

"Oh, hey, Apple Bloom," Paul greeted with pleasure, "What'cha doing this early?"

"At five, Ah have ta get ready for school." She yawned.

"Ready for school at five?" She nodded politely, "Why, where's your school?"

"Cheerliee's Schoolhouse is down the road but Ah have ta do chores first before Ah go." She glanced at several items, probably ones for her daily doings.

"Well, alright. Need help?" Paul began to wipe his hands on a nearby cloth.

"No thanks, Paul. Yer the guest 'ere, not me." She chuckled.

Paul backed on the couch again as he needed something else to do rather than wait. This was until Apple Bloom ambled slowly towards him.

"I feel like you have something to say, being that you're all quiet and all."

She nodded in reply, "Uh, yes," She paused, "Did ya do anythin' with Applejack last night?"

Paul chuckled, "Nope. I was out somewhere, well, sort of. I was out somewhere and then I went inside, and then I met a new friend."

"What's her name?" She asked as though she was in a hurry.

"Sorry, I can't say. I can't remember until I drank that champagne she gave me," He thought to himself, "Wait, how'd you know it was a girl?"

"Uh.. uh.." Apple Bloom stalled until her sister shouted, "Apple Bloom! Get up here!"

"Uh, sorry, got ta go, sis is callin' me. Coming big sis!" She trotted off.

Once again, another conversation of indistinct chatter occurred until Granny Smith barged a door open, "What're you kids doin' up 'ere? Go and treat our guest! And quit yer yappin', Apple Bloom's got ta get ta school on time."

"Yes, Granny Smith." The three harmonically said and raced downstairs to began their daily routine.

Granny Smith trailed by, "Darn kids, chattin'. Even Ah wasn't like t'at when Ah was a youngin'."

Paul snickered inside as he watched the Apple Family speed through today's chores. He had offered to help, but being the guest, he couldn't. That was until Apple Bloom was set for another day of child labour, more known as school.

"Hey, Paul, mind takin' Apple Bloom ta school?"

"It's just down the road!" Apple Bloom jumped from behind Paul, who was already standing.

"I'll go, don't worry. What could go wrong?" He asked rhetorically.

"Well, basically everythin'," Granny Smith answered, "But you can make it out there, if you believe in yerself. That's why Ah don't like swimmin'." She cantered off to the porch.

Paul and Apple Bloom blinked a couple of times until they were back from their oblivious minds. Apple Bloom had packed all her essentials - quills, ink, parchment, a book, meals for break. She was set for the day ahead.

Applejack had asked to come as to be a 'guard' for Paul if anypony had asked any questions. Paul politely agreed with her thought and trotted alongside them, leaving Big MacIntosh to do all the work. Of course, she had her reasons and her brother accepted her, just as long as she came back safe and sound. Paul wasn't worried about other ponies though nor was he afraid of anything else in that matter. Chrysalis was on his mind for a while - how she ended up there, why she kidnapped Paul. All that wasn't properly explained, heck, Paul didn't think she was sober when they were talking.

"There's Scoots!" Apple Bloom exclaimed in excitement, "See y'all soon." She dashed towards her orange friend, reminding Paul of his primary/junior years as a young kid.

He sighed at that moment, remembering the events in school Paul dealt with. Applejack had noticed his breath and asked, "Ya alright, sugarcube? Ya seemed a bit down just then."

Paul snapped, "Huh, what? Oh yea, yea. I was just reminded of my past life, that's all."

"Ah bet ya miss everyone there, do ya?" She laid a caring hoof on Paul.

"Yea, family's supposed to stick together and I guess I'm breaking that rule now. They're probably worried sick about me, especially my little sister."

"Ah'm so sorry, Paul. Ah bet if you'd meet them again, they'll be as glad as a pig in mud - not my best expression but it makes a speck of sense."

"No, no, I know what you mean. Let's just head back to the farm."

"If that's what'll make ya feel better, sure, let's head back." She waved to Apple Bloom who returned the gesture.

At the farm, Big MacIntosh was already working - bucking the trees for the apples to fall into large buckets -Granny Smith was sitting on the porch napping and Applejack was already getting ready to work with her brother.

Paul had asked Big MacIntosh to help but before he answered a, "Eee-nope!", Applejack vouched for him, knowing he needed to get his mind off of his usual life. This wasn't an easy process though. Being Paul, he had difficulty carrying large loads so he decided to pick any remaining apples from the tree or the ones dropped on the ground. Having a heavy load, Paul grabbed a large cart from the barn, arranging the buckets in the storage.

He ambled over towards the cart's pulling handles and attempted (keyword) to push the cart, but nothing happened. He tried to pull the cart and ended with the same outcome. It was then Applejack and her brother cantered over and pushed the cart by themselves, leaving Paul in the dust. Obviously, he assisted more with pushing the cart from the back but still couldn't manage it from the long-distance push. According to Paul, it was a workout but six thousand times harder, being a guy who never went to the gym and spent his life on gaming and designing, another life decision he had regretted.

The siblings made their way inside while Paul rested on a hay bale, tired from all the work. He exhaled heavy breaths as he glanced around for any beverage - a glass of champagne would have been nice. With all his strength, Paul pulled himself up slowly ambling inside to look for a drink.

Applejack was already inside downing a full mug of freezing-cool apple cider. Her brother was laying on the couch, coat dripping. It was Paul's turn. He reached for a clean mug in an open cupboard and poured himself some cider.

"Are ya sure about that, sugarcube?" Applejack said in concern, "Ah'm quite sure ya said that'cha weren't quite a drinker."

"I'll be fine," In an instant, he engulfed the liquid down before laying his cup on the counter, "I need a drink, after all."

To their surprise, Paul didn't vomit, faint or even stand unsteadily. In fact, nothing happened besides him being refreshed from his beverage.

Applejack's mouth fell, "What in tarnation? A while ago, Ah heard that ya belched a storm at Lyra's place and now yer all fine? It's like ya get used ta things quickly."

"Don't worry about it AJ, just enjoy our drinks while we can. Besides, we need to pick up Apple Bloom later."

"Actually, Ah can go, sugarcube. Y'all can go visit Rarity, on the other side of town. Just rest up and y'all get goin', right Big Mac?"

"Eeyup." His deep voice strained.

It had been four hours ever since Apple Bloom had been dropped off at school and Paul was ready to go to Rarity's Boutique otherwise called, Carousel Boutique. Big MacIntosh had been awoken from the couch and Applejack was back outside tending the apple trees.

"Come on, Big MacIntosh." Paul poked his head.

With a grunt, Big MacIntosh was on his hooves and cantered slowly on out to their new destination. Paul strolled alongside him, following him inside of Ponyville to meet more ponies along the way - some even were at the anniversary. Obviously there was the mayor, Mayor Mare, and some friends of the Mane Six and Lyra, Bon Bon, Trixie, Starlight Glimmer - Twilight Sparkle's pupil - and much more.

He still received curious stares from new ponies but none seemed to bother him in public. However, he did stay quite silent throughout it all but it was for good reason - accidentally mention Queen Chrysalis would be one and mentioning his 'love life' (if that's what you'd call it) would be another.

The hot sun wasn't a bother anymore since they were only walking for a mile or two, not much energy wasted there. They were still quite parched after arriving at Carousel Boutique. Speaking of which...

Paul had been left at the front door of Rarity's store and knocked politely, didn't want any worry to churn in her stomach. In a couple of seconds before Rarity calling, "Coming in a sec, darling!", she had arrived to greet Paul in a gentle manner.

Rarity had offered Paul to sit down somewhere where there were no items and to fetch some wine - a favourite of Rarity's. Being the guest once again, Paul sat at one of the seats for the awaiting customers but obviously he was no customer, or was he?

Author's Note

Sorry y'all for the non-southern accent talk in the previous chapters. Mr User was bein' lazy. Anyhow, Ah hope you've enjoyed readin' this chapter of the story, took him a lot of effort to get it done. He's just got some work to do with studyin' an' all, not to mention holidays are comin' up so stay alert for any new chapters regarding his other stories.

-Applejack

Hi readers and fellow writers, I'm back from the two month break of this story and in the upcoming holidays, I'll be writing a lot if I don't have anything on -
like what AJ said. (Thanks) As you have read, this chapter is longer than my other ones so take it as a reward for waiting for so long. Also, Applejack is best pony in my opinion and I'm being honest.

As always, enjoy reading!

-Mr User