A sigh of relief echoed softly as Paul stretched on his comfortable bed. He initially thought that sleeping on a couch for a few days would change his habits but, no, sleeping on a non-spring, sinking mattress was the best feeling in his life.

Paul shook his head, "Nah, it's the second best thing of all."

He slid over to the edge, feet falling to the floor. He rubbed his eyes thoroughly, wetting his eyes a bit until they dried. Paul stood and arched his back causing a loud pop. He sighed in relief as he took his gaze to the door. On the flat carpet laid a suitcase, one familiar in Ponyville. The one he used to carry his clothes in.

He ambled slowly towards the suddenly familiar object and sat down next to it, noticing the note beside it. He flipped it open and upon opening it, he already realized who it was from: not Rarity, but Twilight. The note read:

Hi Paul! How's your visit going over there in Canterlot? Must be pretty exciting since you're in a royal castle, right? Or you might be scared. That'd make sense too. Anyways, if you're having a tour by Princess Celestia, try suggesting to visit my old library. A pony might be in there, her name is Moondancer and if she shows up, say 'hi' to her, from me? On another note, I decided to mail your clothes over to you, having it delivered by Rainbow Dash since her house is just floating above both regions. Anyways, I hope you have fun at Canterlot and take a shower. You're going to need it when you're there.

-Signed, Twilight Sparkle, your friend

A pretty long note but it was one of reassurance. A caring friend caring about Paul while another caring friend cares for Paul. There was a lot of care in this world.

He left the note to the side and clicked open his suitcase finding his clothes neatly packed inside. A plain shirt and pants were sitting on the top waiting to be worn, as well as rolls of underwear sitting between those two stacks. Paul grabbed one of each and headed off to the bathroom, suddenly noting of how big the showers are compared to Earth's. Of course, they were ponies but the shower size would equal to a bathtub on Earth.

He observed the showerhead and it seemed to be the normal size. For the temperature control, however, were simple red and blue buttons adjacent to one another on a tiled wall. Paul found a few more buttons, this time, with labels. All of them had clear glass above them and some sort of liquid inside of each. They had small tubes hanging out from under them too. One was shampoo, the other, conditioner, and finally, soap.

With all this complexity, Paul had hoped that the water stayed the same. He sat his clothes near the sink, one actually recognizable, and pushed the blue button. Instantly, a stream of cold shot out hitting the tiles. Paul held out his hand and shivered at the chilly river. He pushed the red button and soon, the water turned warm and then hot.

Paul clicked his tongue and tried to push both buttons at the same time. He did so and felt the water. It was warm!

Feeling the warmth, he took off his clothes and tossed them to the side, making a note to clean them later in the sink. Paul stepped inside carefully and felt the liquid cover his entire body, alluring him to stay forever. His eyes remained closed as his thoughts overcame him.

What're you thinking about now? It's her flank again, ain't it?

You should stop teasing me about that. Soon, I'll make you embarrassed around Rarity and we know she can kill us in one slap of her tail.

Her to be dominant, eh? I can dig that. Negativity nodded in approval.

Ah, shut it. Where's the soap?

Paul turned over to the toiletries and pushed the soap button, waiting for a certain something to happen. Soon, a streak of pink exited the pipe. He took it with his hand and began to spread it across himself, letting the bubbles enrapture him in comfort. Paul stood in the shower and washed it off until he moved on to the shampoo and conditioner.

Turning the flow, the water came to a close and Paul whisked a towel from the nearby rack. Drying himself, he continued to think about his existence in Equestria.

You liking it here so far?

And you're asking me? Negativity? Out of all people?

Alright, alright! I can take the hint. I thought you'd say your opinion about it, that's all.

Well, Paul, don't get me started with the mares, and the food, and the-

Okay, I get it. You can stop now.

Honestly, I don't know why you ask such close-minded questions.

Paul tossed the dripping towel on the rack, grabbing his clothes and chucking them over his bare self. He glanced at the mirror, observing his slim build, not something he was proud of. He had the thought of improving his stature at home but never got the chance. Paul never took chances to go outside for himself but to accompany his sister with his gaming.

Sighing in defeat, he ambled outside the bathroom. Once again, he felt a warm sensation but this time, it was his right side. Eyeing him, he stared out the bright window noticing the sun rising from its slumber. Paul gazed in awe at the gleaming sight until faint knocks tapped against the door, breaking his satisfaction.

Creaking the door open, he found the royal guards standing proudly about to annunciate, "Good morning, Paul the Human-"

Paul raised his hand casually, "Please, just 'Paul' is fine."

"My apologies, Paul. The matter at hoof, you are requested by Princess Celestia to meet her. If you please, come follow us to the balcony to see her."

"Lead the way, stallions."

And so, Paul strolled alongside the guards, passing various hallways eventually ending near the door to the balcony. Surprisingly, the door was tall at an unnecessary height, taller than Princess Celestia. The guards waited beside the door and engulfed it with their white magic, slowly pushing the giant door to reveal the expected princess.

"Princess Celestia, as expected, Paul has been brought to you." The guard peered his head passed the door.

Princess Celestia did not respond as her horn gave off a golden glow. Her eyes were shut and her stance was serious and tall. She had not recoiled from her calm look - her slight smile remained. Inhaling deeply, she called out for Paul. Shocked the princess's immediate need, he walked unjustified and stood uneasily next to Princess Celestia. But she stood silently. Paul stared at her for a second until gazing upon a lovely view of the rising of the sun as well as the buildings below, giving off a gleaming light.

"Shall we head inside, Paul?" Princess Celestia enquired, "Our first meal is ready."

Paul merely nodded and followed the princess inside, revealing a set of food planted on one end of the table. Syruped pancakes laid freely while scrambled eggs were spread apart, as well as a glass of orange liquid resting neatly next to the plate. Paul held in his excitement from the scrumptious aroma of the food. Looking at the princess, she nodded in approval and Paul began to dig in but in a polite sort of way - he was still in presence of royalty. All of his focus was set on his breakfast, eating away at the eggs and cutting up the pancakes to fit his hungry self.

"The chariot is set, your highness." A royal guard entered the room, bowing.

"Thank you, you may now have your break. Your team earned it." Princess Celestia insisted, still enjoying her own food.

"Great thanks, princess." He continued until he trotted off to the guard's headquarters.

The feast continued with light chewing and licking. The orange substance was drained and forks and spoons laid waste on the pristine cloth. Paul had already made his plate spotless.

Soon, the plates were gone and Paul was sitting silently, slouching slightly and in awe. He had just devoured his breakfast. It had been a long while ever since he had breakfast like that - cereal would just be served at Paul's house so a change of pace would have been advisable. Princess Celestia surprisingly had an amused expression on her face, covering her smile.

She chuckled, "I assume you enjoyed that meal."

Paul returned the gesture, "Yep, is sure great to have a full stomach after countless days of eating milk and cereal."

"Well, don't get too full. We're going on a trip around the city. We'll be visiting a couple of favored landmarks of mine." Princess Celestia explained.

"Sure! That'd be fun." Paul said, sitting up from his chair.

The chariot was fit for a queen - gold, elegant curves slid on the sides as curls whisked at the end, a white frame dominated the specks of brown inside while the width was spacious. Guards posed with strength with their armor shining off the sun while Princess Celestia climbed in her private ride. Paul stood frozen, admiring the ride. Dreaming of a ride like that was simply wonderful to bask in. Princess Celestia cleared her throat, luring Paul as she patted an empty seat next to her.

"Oh, right." Paul blushed as he hopped in.

As Paul aligned himself to his standards, Princess Celestia ordered the guards to cruise around town. And so, they did, trotting at a considerable rate so Paul could view the city while they were heading towards their destination on time.

Paul asked Princess Celestia where their first stop was but it remained a mystery as they passed countless cafeterias, humble homes, and stirring streets. Ponies had already been roaming to their everyday places, completing their daily routines.

"The first place I want to stop is a school." Princess Celestia said, lighting the dull mood.

"Sure, but why out of all places a school? Uh, no offense, your highness." Paul tried to maintain his manners.

"You are forgiven, Paul. Anyways, we are visiting a school that is very dear to me. They are running low on bits and they requested a loan from me so I am heeding their needs," She explained as they passed many citizens waving, "I'd also rather do this with me there just in case the bits are stolen. I wouldn't want that again."

Paul remained silent for the rest of the ride, listening intently to Princess Celestia's issues around the city. Every day there are complaints coming from her citizens as well as strange requests from very few. As tiring as it was, she kept her calm posture and proceeded on with her days. The only time something major that had occurred was the dismemberment of three special ponies, her royal scientists. They were on the breakthrough of discovering a new form of energy until they died by four, mysterious ponies - a story that Paul was fond of.

After Princess Celestia had nothing else to tell, the guards arrived at the school. The school exceeded Paul's expectations: it had a large castle-like exterior with decorations, lined with windows on either side and towers on either end.

"Welcome to Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns." The royal guard announced.
Next to them displayed their allocated drinks with the exact logos fully supplied.
"Let's head inside, shall we?" Princess Celestia said, opening the tall doors.

Without a word, Paul followed her inside while the guards protected the carriage. Paul was as mesmerized as he was when he gazed at the exterior. Cool tiles were laid out in the hallways with fanciful doors adjacent to one another. As the clopping of hooves echoed, Paul glanced through each classroom while following Princess Celestia. There were tables without any chairs but were accompanied by books left on them. The far back of the room stored measuring cylinders, Bunsen burners, and heat mats - it was a science room. On the opposing side remained with various books and posters of a dark-yellow mare with a white and black mane. She also had a safari hat perched on her head, below with words probably stating her name - Daring Do. The chalkboard had a lot of writing along with many examples of different sentences - definitely an English room.

Would they do English? I mean they speak English but do they write the same way we do? Paul thought.

"Here we are." Princess Celestia ended her parade of two at a door unique to the other ones. This also had small stools for ponies to sit on. I mean what else would they be doing with seats?

She knocked firmly hearing a pony allow them in... or at least her in since Paul was told to stay outside. Paul nodded agreeably and sat uncomfortably on the short stools. He kept his legs in a squatting position for most of the time until Princess Celestia called out his name. Immediately he stood and peeked inside of the room revealing the princess and a presumed teacher of the school.

"This is Paul Sevens," Princess Celestia introduced as Paul shook the staff's hoof, "He will be staying in Equestria for as long as he can. I just needed to inform you that there is a human in the world now and that we must be very careful." She continued as Paul's negativity got the best of him, losing focus.

Yea, 'careful'. Here that, Paul? You're an apparent threat to these ponies, with those flimsy arms and weak legs. Haha!

"...And I have already appointed a special pony to keep an eye on him as well as record any interesting findings."

"How splendid! I am, Ms. Chemistry, the Head Teacher of Science, well, mostly on Biology but it's nice to meet you, Paul... Sevens, was it?" Paul nodded, "Ah! How great it is to have another species to know so much about! Well anyways, thank you for the bits, Princess Celestia, and thank you for showing me this wonderful discovery. I hope to see you two soon!" She exclaimed before Princess Celestia waved goodbye and exited the room.

Miss Chemistry? But teaches Biology. How does that work?

It's just a name, Negativity, don't get your tongue in a knot. And DO NOT say anything after that.

Alright fine, I'll save my euphemisms for later. He chuckled.

In the carriage, Paul spotted more colorful ponies pass with smiling faces and strange glances, as always. More carriages began to flourish and ponies were out of their cozy abodes, ready to begin the bright day. Princess Celestia's next stop was the Town Centre, where a popular marketplace resided.

Princess Celestia asked the guards to cease movement and hoped off, keeping Paul in his seat until making her way to her royal duties. As Paul ambled his gaze, he found some stalls filled with fruit, hay and light beverages - some of which seemed familiar to Paul. There were some drinks that caught his eye, as well as a small dispute between two similar ponies. One had a blue coat accompanied by a red and white mane, the other had a dark shade of red for their coat and shades of grey and white for her mane. Thier appearance baffled Paul until he stared at their flanks, to locate their cutie mark (not for anything else. I'm looking at you Negativity). On their flanks, Paul found very familiar logos - Pepsi and Coca-Cola. Paul's eyes widened from that strange surprise. In the background stood their displays, having all their shelves full of their delicious goodness as well as their employee working the stand.

Paul sighed at their argument, having him eavesdrop the whole way through it all. Though their reasoning was quite dull when persuading, it provided sparks of joy and humor to Paul as he chuckled lightly. His curiosity got the best of him and so he peered from the carriage, watching the two put on a comedic show, waving their hooves and making faces, causing a crowd to linger and laugh. After the two continued going at each other saying nothing but excuses, some ponies decided to buy their drinks while watching an exclusive show. It had only taken them a couple more minutes until they noticed the large crowd bunched around them.

Pepsi pony nervously chuckled, "Sorry, everypony." She glanced at the crowd, some of them having Pepsi in the hooves.

She gasped seeing another group with Coca-Cola beverages. Cola pony whispered into the other's ear, gaining a smile and a hoof up about to announce, "Good day, everypony! I'm sorry every one of you had to see that. But now, we've come with a compromise. Pip-C and Coola will be combining to make a drink everypony will enjoy! Just you wait until we get it all done and we'll be selling the greatest beverage in Equestria!"

The crowd went absolutely wild (Get it, because they're ponies? I'll stop now.), holding their hooves in the air cheering.

Hoofsteps neared Paul as he turned to find Princess Celestia return with a pleased look as she saw the piled ponies gather around the stalls with smiling faces and cool drinks at their disposal. Princess Celestia tried to look past the joyful bunch and caught a glimpse of red and blue - she already knew who they were.

She sighed gleefully, "I never thought they'd get along," Paul stared back at her, "Those were Pip Fizzle and Coca Coola. They manufacture drinks for everyone to enjoy but in the past, they had a silly feud over which was better. I couldn't find a difference myself when I had the chance for a taste. I'm glad that they're working together." She had a small chuckle.

"They kind of remind me of a thing back home. It's the same thing just without the whole feud between people, it's just opinion from different perspectives. I don't really mind," Paul said, "Their names are just so similar to brands at home! It's like our worlds are connected in a way. Now I'm curious."

"Don't let that curiosity take you overboard, Paul. It's really dangerous if handled incorrectly or untreated at all. But it is good to have a mindset like yours."

"Then, answer this to filter my questioning mind: How come you don't have any more royal scientists? Couldn't you hire any more?" Paul asked.

Princess Celestia sighed before answering his question, "No, I couldn't. I was afraid that another attack would strike if we continued our research. So I never hired one since. I thought that ponies would still be out there attempting to dismember them."

Paul questioned no more as Princess Celestia changed her mood subtly, asking the guards to pursue their trail. During the ride, Princess Celestia told Paul about their previous topic being forbidden, but being the fool he was, he was excused from his basic knowledge. Paul apologized wholeheartedly and Princess Celestia decided to give an opportunity, a gift: a place he wanted to visit. In her mind, it was risky since he now knew about the murder - he could have asked to go to the murderer's lair or something preposterous like that. To her surprise, Paul wanted to visit Twilight's Old Library. It was plainly obvious that Twilight wanted him to go there, but his decision was impressive.

The sun began to slowly drift downwards, altering shadows and adding a wonderous lighting for their next stop. The carriage's wheels scraped along the stone, hinting their arrival. They had stopped in front of a restaurant.

As though it was on cue, Paul's stomach moaned, causing him to turn red and apologize for his rudeness. Princess Celestia merely tittered at his reaction to the thought of food. She planted her hooves firmly on the ground, asking the guards to... well... guard. As she was about to open the door, an assistant insisted to open it herself. Letting her do her job, she held the door open but Princess Celestia didn't move. She was waiting for someone. Calling out his name, Paul snapped from his observant skills and bounced alongside the princess, causing the assistant to give a curious look.

Paul waved at the neatly dressed pony and she waved back awkwardly with a fake smile. Looking back at Princess Celestia, she cantered inside with her head nodding respectfully to those who bowed down to her. Paul followed through and stood by her side only have the worshipping to be disturbed. Ponies already averted their gaze back to the royal princess while some stared right back at their meal or menu.

Paul gave a hint of disapproval and decided to speak on his behalf for once, "No respect for me? Really? I'm quite certain that you wouldn't treat your princess like that, right?" He claimed a few nods, "So why do it to me? I'm not that different, I just look different, that's all. I know you would treat Princess Twilight Sparkle like that too, you know, the Princess of Friendship? You ponies love friendship, right?" Small murmurs echoed in the restaurant, "So if you know what friendship is, or the fundamentals, do what's right, please. It's the best you could do to help someone out in a situation like mine."

A strong stallion marched towards Paul, causing him to lean back from his size, "You really are something, aren't 'cha, Mr...?"

"Sevens, Paul Sevens." He shook his hoof, gaining a couple of more friends while ponies begged for pardon for their inconsistency.

Princess Celestia remained silent, smiling as Paul actually convinced a whole restaurant to be friendly towards a new species. Her mind raced on about possibilities on what Paul will become, but she knew that he had more potential than being a Phycologist or Persuader. She knew something that Paul did not, and it all happened from the moment he came to Equestria.

"Table for two, I presume, Mr. Sevens?" Paul nodded, being lead to a free table next to a window of warm, orange light along with a green tablecloth - the reminiscent features of Applejack's sparkling eyes and fluffy coat.

Woah, here we go, Mr. Sevens! Keep talking like that and soon you'll have mares pleading for you in many ways possible!

Shut it, slick. I'm still hungry.

Yea, hungry to apple cider.

What'd I just say?

Alright, alright. Just having a bit of fun, y'know?

Princess Celestia sat comfortably across from Paul, feeling the smooth texture of the maroon seats. Staring at the menu, she already knew what would be a delicacy for Paul. She had visited this place many times before, knowing what every dish tasted like, so her instincts were sure to not fail her.

"I'd like to order for the both of us, please." Princess Celestia said, luring a waiter towards her.

"How may I serve you, princess, Sevens?" The waiter inquired, pulling out his notepad.

"I would like to order Today's Special, and for Sevens, he would like the Lunch Delight." She said while the waiter wrote away.

Paul sat in silence, questioning the order, but trusted Princess Celestia with her judgment - she has lived longer than Paul in this world... very long. Admiring the gorgeous view, Paul sighed watching the ponies pass with smiles printed on their muzzles while being basked in the calm warmth. Princess Celestia turned her head after she dealt with the waiter and joined Paul, looking out the glass.

A waitress came with a bottle in her magenta aura, asking if anyone wanted a drink. Princess Celestia nodded, making her settle the wine and two small wine glasses as she poured a red liquid inside. Giving her regards, she ambled off to another customer wanting a glass of wine. Paul stared back at his glass seeing the liquid calm itself until he swirled it again. Princess Celestia did the same, just using her magic to circulate the wine.

Paul asked the approximate time the meal was going to be ready to a nearby waiter, and he asked what they had ordered. Recalling their order, the waiter responded with, "About thirty minutes minimum. Is that all?" Paul nodded, going back to drink his wine.

Small sips were repeated, waiting for their main meal until a pony came by setting a bowl full of bread along with a cube of butter. The utensils were already next to the preset plates so Princess Celestia decided to butter the bread, slicing it firmly and adding the butter. She made two slices, one for Paul and one for herself. In reaction, Paul grabbed his fork and punctured the bread and had a small taste. It reminded him of having garlic bread for the first time. It wasn't a pretty name for Paul but once he had a bite, he was immersed in its taste. By the time everyone was done, Paul had eaten the majority of the loaf!

As this thoughts processed that memory, their food arrived on fancy, ceramic plates. Princess Celestia was served with a bowl of lettuce, sliced tomato and cracked celery with a side of hay fries, a delicacy in Equestria. Paul was served with a small bowl corn with mashed potatoes with a slap of gravy on top. He was also given three slices of garlic bread which smelled absolutely divine (except if garlic bread isn't your thing). He took over the aroma and imagined its taste, making his mouth water inside. Princess Celestia munched softly while Paul dreamed of his meal.

With a gulp, Princess Celestia said, "Are you going to smell it or what?" She left a small chuckle.

Going back into reality, Paul set his phasers to 'Eat', biting onto the garlic bread. Two slices were gone and he moved on to the bowl of corn, scooping it into his mouth as well as hearing that familiar crunch. He took a scoop of mashed potato and dropped it with the corn, mixing it about, creating a fine combination. Dipping his spoon in, he tasted it and repeated his actions, having an empty bowl in the end. His sights were on the final piece of bread and he shoved it in his mouth, sighing that his mission was complete.

The End... is what I would have said if I was a lazy boy, but I'm not.

Looking at his glass, he swirled it once more and gulped the rest of it down. A waitress came over and asked for another glass but Paul lightly declined, watching her trot off to the counter. Aligning his gaze with Princess Celestia, she was halfway done. She had told Paul that she would pay for the food and to that, Paul nodded in approval. Slowly standing, Paul made his way to the stallion's bathroom, looking at the signs as he walked past. As he expected, the signs had a difference to Earth's. This time Equestria changed them into a silhouette of a pony with a shorter mane which is the opposite to the mares, also having eyelashes with their cut-out.

Making his way in, he found one out of four stalls full and so he took the one closest from the exit. Completing his business, he pulled up his pants and made his way to the sink. Pushing the blue button, he positioned his hands under the sink and rinsed his hands. A stallion exited the stall and proceeded to wash his hooves. He resembled a detective, wearing a brown coat along with his own natural black coat covering him. He had brown eyes and his wings remained folded outside his coat. His fedora was the most notable feature on him as it everything else covered him as though he never wanted to be seen.

Despite his mysterious appearance, he admired Paul, "Some speech, huh? It's pretty great if you ask me."

Paul scoffed, "Yea, it's something, I guess. I was just tiring seeing others look at me like I'm sort of abomination. They should really consider talking to them first or seeing what they do before they judge. But that's how the world works, I guess."

"Huh, interesting analysis, Sevens," He dried his hooves with a nearby cloth while Paul did the same, "Say, what'd you think if you were a part of a group that spreads truth around, other than lies?"

"That'd be quite interesting, but I feel as though that wouldn't be my path living in this world."

"You've got the potential, you know," The detective said, "Heck, I reckon you could convince an entire city to side with an organization! Now, how does that sound?"

"Sounds like you're trying to convince me," Paul had him there, "Tempting, but not my thing, you get me?"

The detective sighed, "I see, it was worth a shot though," He patted his back, "Well, come see me anytime if you change your mind. We'll be needing ponies...er, uh, people like you to help us out."

"Sure." Paul considered, exiting the bathroom.

The final location for the day was Twilight's Old Library - a great place to go for the afternoon. The calm atmosphere mixed with the falling sun would supply a relaxing environment. Rolling in front of its door, and as every other building they visited, Twilight Sparkle's Old Libray was massive. The architecture was brilliant and stood in its prime. Taking less time to admire the professionally built building, Paul knocked on the door.

"Coming!" The presumed Moondancer shouted as Paul heard the clattering of objects.

The pony who opened the door was a creamy colored unicorn along with black glasses, purple eyes, a purple and red mane and tail - who also was given a shock after seeing a human at her door.

"Um, hi?" She said, holding the door in her hooves as she cowered behind it.

Paul waved back, "Hello, I'm Paul Sevens, a human from Earth who is now in Equestria."

Moondancer chuckled uncomfortably, "Yes, well, I'm not accepting guests right now, and the library is closed. I'm so sorry, please come back tomorrow." She shut the door, hyperventilating on the other side, contemplating whether she had just experienced or dreamt.

Paul hesitated his knocks, "Umm, Princess Twilight Sparkle sent me. She told me to say "Hi" for her."

At this moment, she realized her mistake, "Oh," She slowly opened the door, "I'm so sorry. I got scared, that's all. Umm, you're welcome to browse the books if you'd like." She changed her tone into a more pleasant, non-terrified one.

"Sure, I'd love to!"

"Oh, and I'm Moondancer, but you already know that I presume."

As Paul looked over the books, Princess Celestia trotted inside, having a new pony at her hooves. It was all for respect and nothing else as Princess Celestia observed the integrity of the building ever since Twilight's journey to Ponyville. The structure still stood tall, some dust was still scattered among bookshelves and the hourglass was still functional. Nodding in approval, Princess Celestia decided to chat with Moondancer about her relationship with Twilight while Paul explored the shelves.

He slid his finger across the various titles ranging from Equestrian Foundation and Economics. He stared at another shelf and found books, this time having a fictional genre to them. Taking out a book, he flipped to the blurb. It read:

Dive into the life of Ink User, a young pony who grew up in Appleloosa and experienced the sudden changes moving into Ponyville. He was bullied for his lack of knowledge, high stupidity and his ability to be isolated. But he did remain resilient from everything he was thrown at. How could he fit in a world that he didn't belong in? How could he find friends? How could he survive the torment?

"Huh, interesting. Sort of like me in a way," He held the book closer to him, until looking down the at two ponies chatting, "Hey, is it okay if I can borrow a couple of books?"

"Uh, sure!" She called back, "Just don't pick the books that require high knowledge of magic."

Paul laughed, "Like I would ever have that power ever!"

Princess Celestia stayed silent while Moondancer gave a small chuckle. Paul held the book and searched for more titles, whether it was fiction or true. He scanned at a book he never thought he would read in his entire life - a book about magic. As his curiosity overtook him, he added the book to his small pile. Two more books caught his eye: one about food technology and finally one on occupations in Equestria.

After he completed his search, he showed them to Moondancer, slightly confusing her about the book on magic. Paul explained about how his inquisitive mind wanted to know about unicorn's magic - their essence, abilities, etc. Shrugging, she looked at the other three.

"Ah, you're keen on reading about Ink User, eh?" Moondancer questioned.

"Yea, why? Is he a real pony?" Paul asked.

"He is, actually. I don't know where he is though. Ponyville I think. He's living his life as a writer, or journalist, or something. I don't know. Point is, he's real, and I think I spoiled the whole book for you. Sorry." She gave a sheepish smile.

"Ah, don't worry. Why would there be death involved in a book on that?"

She checked the other two books and nodded in approval, "I see you took the academic approach. How splendid! Hey, uh, if you're interested, I could send some books to where you live so you can read and learn more, how's that sound?"

"Great! It's just. I don't have a permanent home. But I think Princess Twilight Sparkle wouldn't mind them in her castle." Paul winked.

"Oh, right! I completely forgot about that! Sure, I'll send them over. Just write a list and then I'll send my recommended." Paul gave his thanks.

Night had fallen over the three ponies, five, including the guards outside. One of them were sleeping in the carriage while the other stayed on guard. Anyways. The duo began to leave, Paul having four books wrapped in his arms while Princess Celestia gave a nod to the guards to bolster themselves. Moondancer waved, smiling at Paul, knowing that she made a new friend, a human friend at most!

As Luna's moon began to rise, Princess Celestia was becoming more tired. Once they arrived at the castle, she insisted for Paul to be escorted to his room. The guards nodded and proceeded to obey her orders. Closing the door behind him, Paul stared out into the sky, noticing the bright sphere overcome the night sky with its smaller companions lighten world. Paul stared down at the city, noticing various lights go off and only some remained. It must have been very late if ponies were to be doing that, or they are unable to stay up until the moon rises. Paul didn't know. I don't even know.

Paul sighed and turned to the bathroom, remembering that his clothes are still there. Too lazy to wash them, he dunked them inside of his suitcase, thinking about where to put his books. He couldn't just carry them around like he's going to school, that would just look strange. Sending them to Twilight would work but he didn't have any parchment. He could ask the guards but that would be a stupid question, even thinking about the scenario made him shiver.

Paul just placed his books on the suitcase, there was no other option. He could just carry the books around until he returned to Ponyville. He would just take the carriage with Princess Celestia when he was done collecting his belongings. He also slid the note in between his clothes so he wouldn't leave a mess.

Suddenly, the door was greeted with two light knocks. Surprised, Paul opened up to see, not the guards but the Princess of the Moon.

"It's a fine night, isn't it?" Paul greeted, Princess Luna nodding.

"It really is, but it won't be complete for you after you have had your dinner. You must be pretty hungry after that tour, I assume?"

"Yea, but we did eat at this restaurant. I'm still down for some more though." He showed some enthusiasm.

"Apologies, but I fail to understand this 'I'm still down' part. Do you wish to sleep with your nightly meal?" Princess Luna gave a worried expression.

"Sorry, it's just a thing we say when they are still good to go after a lot of things happened. I would still like that meal please, if you don't mind."

"Follow, I have a meal to serve." Princess Luna trotted towards the already familiar dining room.

Arriving at the dinner table, Paul could already sense a wonderful scent. The smell of bread stunned him. Sitting down next to Princess Luna, Paul waiting for his dinner. He hoped it was something as good as his lunch and it turns out that it was! Steamed sliced bread was served in between the two along with a side of butter. A teapot was transported into the middle of the two while pannacotta was planted in front of them. The waitresses supplied the two with a small spoon and a fork.

Lowering her head in respect, Princess Luna stared back at her food and spoke, "You are free to eat."

And so dinner began. The pannacotta looked a bit odd to Paul. He had never seen anything like it. It wobbled on his plate every time he touched it or moved the plate. Dipping his spoon in, he gulped the piece of white, slowly savoring the taste. It was wonderful! The soft texture along with the sweet flavor was breathtaking. Paul could eat ten of these at once, it was that good! Soon, the plate was clean and the bread was next.

But before Paul even grabbed the bread, Princess Luna asked, "Would you like tea?"

Paul stopped his motions and coiled his arm, slowly nodding. Princess Luna asked for his preference, stating the various teas they were supplied with. Green tea was his preference. Princess Luna clopped her hooves and asked to brew some tea for the both of them. Thanking the waitresses, Paul proceeded to butter and eat the bread.

The meal had come to a close when they were served with green tea. It was professionally brewed with the right amount of taste in their cups. Sipping the fluid, Paul enjoyed his refreshing, warm drink. Sigh in ecstasy, Paul licked his lips before draining more of the cup.

"How was the tour with my sister?" Princess Luna asked, drinking her tea.

Paul told her the story of them going on the trip, detailing every scene: from the silly fight to the time he visited Moondancer, which was only just a while ago. Princess Luna grew a bit uncomfortable around Paul as she never experienced that herself. She would always be sleeping during the morning and performing her royal duties at night, where everyone could be dreaming of things that are fake or true. Her job is to only keep nightmares from helpless ponies. so she barely has any time to eat in a restaurant, meet ponies in person or even talk to her sister. Telling Paul, he fully understood. He was an outcast when he was younger, as well as having not many people to talk to. He would always be on his own, hence the reason why he was living alone in his own home.

And because he's not likeable.

Shut up!

Just saying.

"I was also sent to the moon as stated in Fluttershy's abode. It was not a proud moment nor was it one I would like to experience again. Ever," She spoke, "I turned into something evil, something that was not me." She stared at the table, remembering those past events that unfolded years ago.

"Hey," Paul tried to lighten the mood, "If it makes you feel any better, I know a couple of creatures that are different too, on the inside that is. Even me, I used to be different and I changed. I grew from my past mistakes and I learned from them. Don't take them as something to pull you down but a thing to help you develop."

Just thinking about it made Paul think about Twilight and the others, would they have secret identities that Paul was unaware of? His thoughts were cut by Princess Luna ambling into the dark sky, apologizing as she tended to her royal duties.

"Apologies, Paul. I hope you understand why I need to do this." She flew into the night, disappearing in a flash of sapphires.

Pulling himself out from the table, guards were already waiting for him. Sighing, he followed the guards to his room, locking himself in after he closed the door. Falling in his temporary bed, he began to think about unknown personalities again. It had sparked in his mind before, with Lyra being the example, but now it was a light flame. As his mind droned on, he thought of what Twilight's fake self.

Paul thought, Maybe she could be a mad scientist? She's smart enough to do that, right? I mean, she has friends who possess elements for crying out loud! That can't just be a coincidence, can it? Maybe with her skills, she created the others in a lab, making a brain for each one of them! Oh, that'd be so perfect, but I only wish if that wasn't true.

Then he thought about Pinkie Pie, Huh, maybe she even genetically engineered Pinkie to break the fourth wall. Hah! That'd be hilarious... and scary. Imagine if her hyper self would lead to some sinister things? Heck, I know someone who's sadistic with every sentence they say, and they're perfectly fine! What if Pinkie broke the fourth wall and talked to that guy about that personality? Again, a great story but frightening.

Paul attempted to think about Rainbow Dash's secret life but was unable to as his inside thinking got him into his dreamscape. All he dreamt was all the different lives every pony would have had, wildly dreaming of how things would end. But this only lasted for a couple of minutes until his mind rested into calmer mind, breathing slowly and smiling slightly.

Author's Note

Another chapter, another time for me to rest my fingers. I hope you all enjoyed reading this chapter as I had written everything (sort of, it was a pain at times) even with the lateness being so far. I did promise a chapter between a week-month long, so I hope I didn't disappoint. I probably did though, who knows? Also fun fact: I got hungry writing all the eating scenes.

As always, I'll see you whenever!
-Mr.User