Heroes travels

Quick A/N: Italics will now be used for the characters thoughts. (I should of used this soon but...oh well). Anyway, enjoy the chapter.

Twilight and the humans arrived to Ponyville shortly. Ashley was unsure about what the time was to which was answered by Twilight who told him they arrived at Zecora’s at around midday. As they walked through the busy streets, Ashley was feeling really uncomfortable, mostly because he was wearing only his boxer shorts and a hood that did cover almost around three quarters of his body while the shadow from the hood concealed his face.

First person: Ashley

Callum was greeted by the odd pony now and again, a lot of them wondered what he was walking with that hid under the robe. They were totally oblivious that it was me.

“Someone you’ve seen before.” He mostly used this as an answer. The ponies would either shrug and continue their routine or would try to get a better look at me

My disguise was going well...Until a pink pony who we all know blew my cover.

“Oh hey Twilight! And Callum!” The pink pony paused, drawing closer to the hooded figure

“...Hi Ash...” She said in a quieter tone which was quite the shock but that still didn’t help. A nearby pony heard then name and looked at the hooded figure. It was the same height as the human she saw before.

“HE’S BACK!” The mare shouted, grabbing the attention of EVERYONE in earshot.

“Oh god...Not now...for the love of-“ I brought my hand to his face and stroked over my left eye. I was not in the mood for questions let alone talking much today. I noticed ponies were keeping their distance from me and were quite uneasy to be in my presence. At least they have the decency to give me my boundaries.

Three ponies walked up to me to which I recognised almost instantly. They were the part of the group I ‘saved’ from yesterday. Probably to extend their thanks once more.

“Excuse me...Mister Ashley?” The small pony from yesterday asked in a quite cheerful tone.

Ugh... I placed hand on the end of the hood and pulled it back, the warm light of the sun beaming on my skin “What?” I spoke with a flat voice.

“We’d just like to say thanks again for helping us.”

I lazily stared at the small pony in silence “Wasn’t a problem. What’s your name?”

“My names Dinky!” The small pony replied in the same cheerful tone as before “And that’s my mom.” She pointed to the grey, weird eyed pegasus from yesterday who to, was smiling but not as much as the smaller pony.

The Pegasus held out her hoof towards me “My names Ditzy Doo but you can call me Derpy.” So this is Derpy? I can see why with those eyes with hers.

I lowered myself down to the ponies height and shook her hoof lightly “It’s a pleasure meeting you both but really, it was no trouble at all for what I did yesterday.” I smiled weakly before noticing the unicorn with the blue and white mane from yesterday as well. “What’s your name?” I asked her.

“My name’s Colgate.” Really? A pony named Colgate whose hair looks like toothpaste? If she works in the dental business then I’m going to punch myself. ”And I’m the local dentist.”

SMACK

Huh...Didn’t hurt as much as I thought it would...Aaaand now everyone is staring at me weirdly...Oh wait they already were. I bet I’m going to get at least one awkward smile.

“Why did you hit yourself?” Colgate asked

“Felt like it.” I wasn’t in the mood to say why so hooray for short answers.

“O-kay...” She smiled awkwardly Yep, totally wasn’t going to expect that now was I?

“Come on Ashley.” I heard Twilight speak from behind. She’s been awfully quiet for a while now hasn’t she? Not that I’m complaining, I was enjoying that silence. ”We should get going.” She turned to Pinkie “Are you coming to?”

Pinkie nodded fast. By this I mean I thought her neck was about to snap off. I pulled the hood over my head. Why? Because when you where a hooded robe, you feel like a badass...That and you can hide your face which is the main reason why.

“Do you want me to go get the others Ash?” Callum asked, signalling he was about to leave.

I grunted in approval, seeing Callum leave “Don’t get Fluttershy. I’ll go see her when the time comes.”

He nodded and continued his journey. This robe was quite comfortable...This is so going to be part of my uniform. Not even the princess’ will stop me from wearing this...I wish it was in black though...The princess’...Oh they are going to want to have a word with me and I bet it’s going to be a god damn lecture as well about how ‘Oh we were just trying to help’ and ‘You had everyone worried! What were you thinking?!'...I don’t like walking around in my boxers...

“Who should we go see first Ash?” Twilight asked, making me lose my track of thought.

“Don’t know. You pick.” I mumbled in return.

“Okay. How about we see Rarity first? I’m sure she’d love to thank you for saving Sweetie Belle and she could measure you for your clothes.”

“Yeah...Sure...Whatever.” My voice was barely even audible. I just wanted to tune out their voices so much! As we continued our walk, I remembered about my MP3 and pulled it out as quickly as possible.

“What are you doing?” I saw Pinkie peek her head over my shoulder. I don’t know how she reached up there without any sort of step ladder and I didn’t care “Ooooo what’s that?”

“MP3. Excuse me while I listen to some music.” I held the power button, the LED screen lit up and the word Samsung appeared. I watched the small loading screen pass as a song name came up. I scanned through the songs, immediately going to one of my favourite songs ‘Riot by Three days grace’. I put the volume level onto twenty eight out of forty This should pretty much mute everyone. I plugged in the earphones and connected them to my ears.

If you feel so empty

So used up, so let down

If you feel so angry

So ripped off, so stepped on

As the intro started to play, I felt something pull on one of the earphones, seeing a pink hoof take my left earphone. I saw in the corner of my eye that Pinkie somehow managed to successfully put the earphone into her own ear.

You're not the only one

Refusing to back down

You're not the only one

So get up...

She listened with undivided attention which was a bit of a surprise coming from her. She didn’t seem to be effected that much by the song so far...Until it got to the chorus. I watched as her cheerful face turned to one of slight disgust.

Let's start a riot, a riot

Let's start a riot

Let's start a riot, a riot

Let's start a riot

If you feel so filthy

So dirty, so fucked up

If you feel so walked on

So painful, so pissed off

She immediately took out the earphone and dropped it, letting it hang by its cord “How can you listen to that? It sounds so...so...”

“Angry?” Ending her sentence for her, she nodded. I’ve had this conversation quite often.

“Why do you listen to that?”

“Because I like it and I think it sounds awesome, mostly because I love listening to rock. This music sort of speaks to me.” I must admit, I was cheering up a bit. Must be a side effect of being near this pink menace.

“Rock music? You mean the stuff Dashie likes to listen to?” Dash likes rock? Maybe I can use this to my advantage when I see her...

“What other music do you like?” She slid back to the ground, taking her place beside me while we walked with Twilight who was listening to the conversation taking place.

“Depends on my mood and if I like the song or not.” I pressed pause on the song which was around a third through its duration.

“You said that song is angry...So does that mean you’re angry right now?” Twilight asked Didn’t expect her to ask that sort of question.

“I...Uh...I don’t know really what I feel right now...It’s a mix. There’s shame...a bit of anger...throw in a bit of a positive attitude I guess. The reason why? I don’t know so we should just leave it at that.” I placed the other earphone back in my ear, switching to the OST’s I had stored. I decided to put on some Ace Combat tracks. Never played the games, the OST is pretty epic though.

The rest of the journey went quite quickly, I noticed Twilight’s and Pinkie’s mouths moving so they must have been talking. I could have taken out my earphones at any point but I was into the music and didn’t want to. We eventually arrived at Rarity’s.

Twilight knocked on the door as I put away the MP3 and earphones. Rarity opened the door with slight delay.

“Oh, Hello Twilight and Pinkie. How are...you...” She slowly averted her glance towards me noticed my hooded figure behind them Any second she will snap. “WHAT IS THAT MONSTROSITY TO FASHION?!” Called it

I pulled back the hood, revealing my face “Miss me?” I gave a cheeky smile.

“Ashley!" At first her face was of surprise and then slowly made its way towards a smile "What are you wearing!?” Apparently, clothing is more important than the person who saved your sister and ran into a forest after a rampage.

“Zecora made me this so I wouldn’t have to walk around everywhere in my boxer shorts because of all the stains on my other suit.” I knew she knew what stains I was talking about. “OH! And I’m fine by the way.” I put emphasise on the second part. I saw Rarity roll her eyes as she let out a small giggle.

“Come in, all of you.” She moved to the side of the door, allowing us access. Pinkie bounced into the building which I sort of expected from her happy nature.

“So…” Rarity spoke out after a few minutes in awkward silence which I was enjoying a bit. “Are you…well…”

“Am I okay? Am I sane again? Do I like pie? Do you want me to do something?” I shot the questions like wild fire with a grin on my face. Watching her trying to pick a question was fun.

“Lets just start with are you okay?”

“I’m fine. I feel a bit exposed right now with some other emotions but they’re becoming more neutral now.”

“Well…That’s good to hear.” She have me another smile “I’d really like to thank you for saving dear Sweetie Belle from that…that…”

“I get it.” I held my hand up to stop her talking “And I accept your appreciation but that’s not the main reason why I’m here.”

“Oh? Why are you here exactly?” Rarity cocked an eyebrow, I swear I could hear something moving upstairs but I decided to ignore it.

“I’m here to apologise.”

“Apologise for what darling?”

“For causing everyone to worry about me while I ran into the forest in my state at the time, refusing help from any of you.She better not be a drama queen about this otherwise I’m walking out.

“I will admit. I was worried dearly about you as the rest of us were.” Pinkie and Twilight nodded. I swear I could hear voices upstairs “But seeing you comeback and in good health and apologising…It takes a true stallion…er…Man?” I nodded in approval “Right, It takes a true man to say sorry for their actions no matter what they are and actually mean it. I gladly accept your apology.”

“Good.” I turned to Twilight and Pinkie “Do you accept?”

“Of course!” Pinkie bounced as she practically screamed into my ear.

“Ashley, I would be a fool to refuse your apology.” Twilight smiled.

“That’s good…” I walked up Twilight who was watching me with confusion.

“What are you doing?” She asked, my shadow covering the majority of her body

“Oh…I don’t know…” I turned my head away, appearing to look deep in thought. I quickly grabbed Twilight, making her squeak in surprise as I hugged her. I could tell she felt awkward but she wrapped her forelegs over my shoulders to return the embrace. I put her back down after a few seconds, noticing her with a smile on her face.

“Aww…” I heard both Pinkie and Rarity from behind, commenting on my friendly gesture towards the lavender unicorn

“Don’t think this is over yet.” I quickly grabbed Pinkie who was giggling in excitement as I hugged her. I don’t usually hug people...ponies…but I think that this is a special occasion since I could do with some cheering up.

She was still giggling as I set her down, I turned to Rarity who reeled back when I approached her, disgusted by my outfit.

“We can do this one way or another Rarity.” I said playfully “Either you hug me like this.” I pointed to my hooded robe “Or I take it off and hug you with my slightly sweaty body.” I bared a small evil grin. Man I love messing with this girl.

“I…Uh…” Rarity hesitated for around ten seconds, trying to buy herself more time.

“I’m only kidding Rarity.” I heard her sigh in relief “I’ll comeback for the hug another time.” I heard muffled voices come from upstairs once more “Is someone up there?” I pointed upstairs

Rarity nodded “Yes, Sweetie Belle and her friends are upstairs. I’m sure they would like to meet you.” She approached the stairs and walked up them. As she disappeared around the corner, I could hear her faint voice talking to the others followed by what sounded like a mass of hooves dashing towards me.

That’s when I regretted coming to this place…

I watched as three small ponies ran down the stairs. One being Sweetie Belle, another was a small Pegasus with purple hair and orange coat while the last one…I remembered her instantly and she done the same.

“THAT’S THE MONSTER!” She tried to hightail it back up the stairs but Sweetie Belle and Rarity blocked her path. She couldn’t run through the door because I was standing near it.

“Applebloom! You’re acting irrational!” Rarity said in a strict, motherly tone.

“But that’s the monster I saw near the farm!” The earth pony said in her thick southern accent.

“If he really was a monster then would he have saved Sweetie Belle? Wouldn’t he have attacked us already? If he was a monster, would he have saved several other ponies from the diamond dogs? If he was a monster, wouldn’t the princess’ have taken him away?” Twilight spoke up. She made some very good points.

I watched as Applebloom couldn’t say a word. Finally, I decided to speak up. “I see you remember me.” I started to pace around the room with my arms crossed “Tell me…What makes me so scary. Don’t hold back on your opinion.”

“Well…Uh…Yer really tall…Taller than most ponies…You have sharp teeth an’ usually things that have sharp teeth eat animals an’ you look evil with that there scar.” She pointed to my face.

Okay…I was a bit displeased being told that but I know that’s what I pretty much asked for.  “Thanks for sharing that. Now let me enlighten you. My teeth? Yes I do eat meat, but also have flat ones to eat fruit and vegetables. Eating meat isn’t really necessary for my survival since my species is an omnivore like I just described. This scar is from an accident I had as a child, nothing big, ran through a bush and cut my face. As for the whole being taller thing…I like being this tall and I wouldn’t change my height if I had the option.”

I heard her sigh slightly in relief and watched as she looked at everyone in the room. The small Pegasus looked at me in utter awe She must of heard something about me while I was gone or something while everyone else was giving her looks to reassure her I was okay.

“If it helps…Celestia said that me and Callum who is a human also. My closest friend as well, are going to be appointed to the guard after witnessing our combat training in before her own eyes.”I gave a faint smile. “Now that I have done what I needed to do for Rarity. I need to be elsewhere. If you have any questions then come see me or Callum.” I started to head towards the door but Rarity blocked me.

“Oh nonono. You’re going to sit here while I make your uniform. I will not let a guard let alone a dear friend go out in…that.” She pointed to my outfit in disgust.

I shrugged “Fine by me.” I turned to Twilight and Pinkie “I’m probably going to be a while so you do whatever you had planned today.”

“Okie dokie.” Pinkie burst out the door pretty much instantly, Twilight remained in her place.

“I think I’m going to stay with you a bit. I’m sure the girls here would love to ask you some questions.” She gestured to the three small ponies whose faces were smiling widely.

“Alright.” I cocked a smile as we all followed Rarity into her work area.

There were many types of fabrics piled neatly around the room. Among them was measuring equipment, accessories, gems and pieces of paper that appeared to have dress designs on them, all of them in neat piles. A couple of mannequin’s were dotted round the edge of the room, some had parts of dresses on them and some had full dresses while some had ones that were nearly completed. For someone who works hard, Rarity is still capable of keeping her work area presentable.

“Lets begin shall we?” Rarity levitated several measuring tapes next to her.

“Lets my fair maiden.” I put on my gentleman voice, getting a small laugh from the fashionista.

“I’m going to ask you to remove that thing.” Bet she is talking about this hood. Better do what she asks.

I removed the robe, standing in the middle of the room in my boxers with everyone looking at me. I could tell they were examining my near naked figure.

“Whoa…you look strong.” I heard the orange Pegasus speak up, noticing she was examining my toned body “Not as strong as Big Mac I bet.”

“Oh really? Have you seen those bruises he has?” She nodded “Where’d you think he got them?” I smiled smugly “Although, he did quite the number on me.”

“So…Are you really good at fighting?” the same pony asked again

“Not going to lie. Yes I am. I’m surprised you don’t know what happened in the last couple of days.”

“What happened?” Applebloom asked.

“Brief version. Me and Callum beat up a lot of the guards. I stopped the diamond dog attack.”

“Pfft. Fat chance you could take on the royal guard. Those guys are tough!”

“Oh really? Why don’t you ask the princess’, the guards themselves and pretty much everyone who lives in this town. A large crowd watched us fight the guards with ease.”

“I’ll take yer word for it. You look pretty strong.” Applebloom spoke up

“I’m also fast.” I lifted my arms up to my sides, allowing Rarity to measure my upper body. “I’m hoping to have a running race with Rainbow Dash at some point. You can watch if you want.”

“Puh-lease.” The orange Pegasus spoke up “Nopony is as fast as Rainbow Dash.” She says it like she’s her role model…

“You’re right…” I saw her smile smugly “No-PONY. I’m not a pony as you can tell.” Her smile disappeared while I brought out my own smug smile. Messing with these ponies is quite fun. I should do this more often.

“That’s your upper body done. Spread your legs a bit.” Rarity spoke, I done what she asked.

“So…What’s your name?” I pointed to the orange Pegasus.

“My name’s Scootaloo.” She replied as she leaned herself against a desk, trying to look cool. “Rainbow Dash’s number one fan.”

“Aww ain’t that cute? Rainbow’s got a fangirl!” I cocked my cheeky smile again. She gave me an evil glare.

“Hey stop it you two.” Twilight giggled “Don’t you girls have more questions?”

“Oh oh!” Sweetie bell chimed “Do you have a cutie mark?”

“Cutie mark? Our species doesn’t have them.”

“But…How do y’all know what your secret talent is?” Applebloom asked with slight sadness.

“Everyone has a talent but having a mark to prove it would make the person restrict to that talent. Humans like to have a wide variety of skills. For example, one of my skills is cooking while another is being able to fight my opponent with moves that don’t hurt them but restrain them to prevent them from movement. Why’d you ask about the cutie mark anyway?”

“Because…” Sweetie belle smiled, all three small ponies drew in a deep breath

“WE ARE THE CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS!” They screamed. Not the loudest thing I’ve heard but it’s up on the list. I looked towards Rarity and Twilight who had their ears covered with their hooves Wow…They didn’t even think to give me a warning…oh well.

“Oh-kay then.”

The rest of the process was amusing. They told me about what they did to get their cutie marks but failed every time. I told them from what I understood from the subject that the experience you have earning your cutie mark even if you fail many times is much better than getting it straight away and that later in life, you’ll look back at those adventures and the fun times you had with your friends as you all tried together. This cheered them up almost before they darted out the building to attempt another cutie mark operation.

“Well, I have your measurements. It will be much easier to make your outfit since I’ve already done Callums and know the shape. Can you comeback in a couple of hours?” Rarity said as she levitated different coloured fabrics towards a sewing machine

“Sure. Shall we get going Twilight?” She nodded “Oh and Rarity, Can you make me a black one of those robes? It grew on me and I’d love to have one that goes with my uniform.”

“Sure. That will only take a few minutes to make anyway.”

“Great. See ya’.” Both me and Twilight waved goodbye. I made sure to pick up my robe and put it on, covering my face with the hood. I closed the door when we exited.

“So, who shall we see next?”

“Well, are the princesses still in town?”

“No they had to take care of some business but they said that if we find you then we should tell them. They said they would visit as soon as possible.”

“Well that’s nice of them. Shall we go see Spike so he can send the letter?”

“Sure. Lets get going.” We started our journey back to the library.

As we walked through the town, I noticed quite a few of the townspeople…ponies were easing up to me. Instead of running away, they would step out of my way while others continued on with their day. Some would stop by to have a quick chat with me. I didn’t want to talk to them much but some were really impressed with some of my moves in the fight yesterday except the whole breaking bones thing.

First person: Callum

It’s great to see Ashley is back. Hopefully he has already apologised to either Pinkie, Twilight or Rarity. I continued my path towards Sweet Apple Acres, spotting Applejack and Big Macintosh was quite easy. Applejack was bucking the apple trees while Big Macintosh was dragging the cart which they would carry their produce in. By dragging I mean easily pulling the almost full cart. Seriously, that guy is a like a tank when it comes to the strength of these ponies.  I approached them both after a few minutes watching them do their work.

“Well howdy there Cal! What can I do fer ya’?” Applejack asked after striking the tree with her back legs, apples falling into the baskets beneath the tree.

“Not much. We found Ashley at Zecora’s and he seems fine now. He wanted me to come and get you and Big Mac.”

“Tell him we’ll meet him at Sugarcube Corner once we’re done with work fer today.”

“Right. Do you know where Rainbow Dash is?”

“Hold on a second.” Applejack trotted off deeper into the orchard. I could barely see her but I could make out her kicking one of the trees, followed by a thud. “Found her!”

I walked over to Applejack and saw the cyan Pegasus rubbing her head.

“What the hay was that for Applejack?” Rainbow groaned.

Applejack looked towards me “you tell her. I’m going back to work.”

“Right see ya’ in a bit Applejack.”

“I told you that you can call me AJ Callum.” She smiled Oh yeah, now I remember

“What is it you wanted to tell me?” Rainbow stood back up and stretched herself. Her feathers were a bit ruffled from sleeping in the tree. You could tell that she was lacking sleep from the slight darkness forming under her eyes.

“We found him.”

“Found Ashley?” I nodded “Where’d you find him?”

“He was asleep at Zecora’s. He’s fine and the last I saw of him, he was with Twilight and Pinkie. He asked me to get the others so I thought get Applejack, you and Big Mac while he does whatever he wanted to do.”

“Oh alright. Are we going to stand here forever or what?” She taunted as she already started to walk back to Ponyville.

“Lets go. I told him that you were probably up all night trying to find him.”

Rainbow yawned “Yeah…I was…Sort of collapsed when I was flying over AJ’s farm and decided to sleep in a tree. I didn’t feel like grabbing a cloud at the time but now I wish I did.” Man I’d love to sleep on a cloud. Bet it would feel like almost nothing.

“Since he’s with Twi, should we go to the library?”

“Good idea.” I nodded. We continued our journey.

First person: Ashley

As we opened the door, the heavy scent of wood polish filled my nose This must be Spike’s doing…or Twilight got him to do it.

“Is that you Twilight?” I heard Spike call out from upstairs.

“Yes Spike. I need you to take a letter.” Twilight replied in the same volume. I listened as claws scratched against the wood as Spike came downstairs. I pulled back my hood.

“Oh hey Ash. How you doin’?” Spike smiled as he grabbed a quill and paper

“Fine. How about yourself?”

“Not bad.” Small talk even though it’s highly likely he knows about what happened…I’m really liking this kid. ”So Twilight, what is it you want me to write?”

“Oh just a letter saying that we found Ashley and that he’s back to normal.”

I watched as Spike wrote on the letter before rolling it up and engulfing it in his green flame. “Still cool you can do that.”

“Heh. Thanks.” he beat his chest as his cheeks grew in size, he released a large belch that would put me to shame any day although I’m not really one for that sort of thing.  A letter appeared out of the green flames he emitted. He opened it and began to read aloud…

Dear Twilight Sparkle

I’m glad you found him and its wonderful news to hear that he is back to normal. Luna and I shall be preparing a carriage to visit your library again very shortly.

Please notify Ashley of our visit when possible.

From HRH, Princess Celestia

“That’s great. I think we should have about an hour to kill.”

“Well since we have an hour…What shall we do?”  Twilight asked.

“I don’t know about you but I’m starving. I haven’t eaten since last night.” My stomach growled a bit when I said that. It just had to pick the perfect moment when to strike.

“We can visit Sugarcube Corner. I’m sure Pinkie would love for you to try some of her confectionary.”

“I’m guessing Pinkie works there, doesn’t she?” She nodded “Sort of expect that with all the energy she seems to have endless amounts of.”

Twilight laughed a bit as we left, I pulled my hood back up. I really love having a thing like this although I can’t wait to see what Rarity makes for my outfit.  As we approached Sugarcube Corner, I saw Callum coming towards us with Rainbow Dash.

“So I heard that you might have stayed up all night trying to find me?” The bags under her eyes confirmed it with her slight nod. I picked her up and hugged her “I’m sorry for making you worry so much.”

I felt her hug me back “It’s cool. I don’t leave my friends hanging.”

I put her back down and pulled by hood back.

THUMP

“What was that for?” I questioned as I rubbed my arm from the punch from Rainbow.

“Don’t make me worry so much like that!” She said jokingly and laughed a bit. I rolled my eyes and shared the laugh.

As we spent around thirty-five minutes in Sugarcube Corner, I felt sorry for Mr and Mrs Cake for having Pinkie work there. Seriously, she’s freaking insane! But they said that her parties and the amount of work she puts in really helps out the business so I shrugged off my thought from earlier. Twilight, Callum, Rainbow and I made our way back to the library and waited for the princess’ to arrive. We only had to wait around five minutes when we got through the door to hear it knocked on.

“I got this one.” I split myself from the group and opened the door, seeing both princesses looking at me as I returned the stare. I immediately bowed “Princess Celestia and Princess Luna.”

“Hello Ashley.” Celestia spoke “How are you doing? Also you can stand back up.”

I stood back up “Doing fine. Better than yesterday that’s for sure.” I moved out the way for the princess’ to enter “Come in if you want.” Both princesses walked in.

Rainbow, Callum and Twilight noticed the princess’ and bowed respectively. Both princesses told them to rise and they done so. Twilight and Callum began to speak to Celestia about how they found me while Rainbow Listened.

After a couple more minutes of telling the princesses my story, Celestia spoke up.

“Are you in a stable condition to take on your part as of the guard like Callum has?”

“Indeed princess.”

“Excellent.” Celestia smiled “Have you been to Rarity yet?”

“Yes. She measured me for my outfit a while back and said that it should be ready soon. Why don’t we check on her?” Celestia and Luna nodded before we all exited the library towards Rarity’s.

As we walked down the streets of Ponyville, the ponies would immediately bow to the sight of the princesses. Twilight walked between Celestia and Callum while Rainbow walked between Luna and I. Luna and Celestia were side by side.

As we approached the door to Rarity’s, it opened as my hand grew near.

“Oh hello Ashley.” Rarity greeted me with a smile “I finished your uniform quicker than expected.” She leant her head to the side of me and saw the princesses and the others behind me and bowed “Princesses, it is an honour to be in your presence.”

“Rise Rarity.” Celestia smiled “We are here to discuss the design of the emblem that Ashley and Callum will need to have on their uniforms.”

Third person

Even though half an hour had passed, it felt like several hours. The tension of making something with the princesses overlooking everything you do was stressful for Rarity. She suggested many designs for the emblem but either Ashley or Callum disagreed or the princesses disagreed. Ashley was wearing the black uniform Rarity made him with the robe resting over his shoulder. Ashley gave his many thanks to the fashionista

“I think I have an idea...” Everyone turned towards Ashley “How about we each have an emblem to represent one of the princesses? I was thinking that my emblem could be a half moon with an image of my knife and handgun crossing over each other to make an ‘X’ shape on top of it?”

“That...Sounds pretty good.” Callum agreed “Mine could be a sun instead of a moon though. Care to share your thoughts on this?” He looked towards the princesses

“I think...” Luna spoke first “It sounds good as it enables those who see it to instantly know which princess you’re working for. It has my vote.”

“I share the same opinion as my sister.” Celestia smiled

Rarity sighed in relief in the fact they came to an agreement “I’m going to need your...weapons...as references to complete the design.”

“Alright.” Both humans said in unison. They both took out their handguns and removed the clips and put on the safety followed by taking out their knives. Rarity levitated the weapons out of their grasp and put them on a nearby desk as she instantly started to sketch out the designs.

“So while Rarity does her thing. Is there anything I need to know?”

“Yes there is Ashley.” Celestia spoke “You two will be patrolling the streets at least four days a week. If you wish to do some extra hours during the night then do so. If you wish to take up a second job then that is your choice as long as it does not collide with your patrol shifts.”

“When are the shifts?” Callum asked

“The shifts will be Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday starting from ten in the morning and ending at six in the afternoon. The local guard station will be notified of your presence and that you work for us. Your pay will consist of twenty bits an hour.” Luna added

“That sounds pretty good. We can do training on Saturdays and do a bit after each shift.” Ashley smiled, hiding the fact he knew nothing about the currency here.

“Excellent. I’m glad that you understood this quickly.” Celestia smiled towards the humans before Rainbow spoke up.

“Y’know, if you’re looking for a second job, there is a club that I used go to on Fridays that could use some new bouncers since the others quit and moved town.”

“Sure. Who do we need to speak to for the jobs?” Callum asked.

“The clubs owner is known as Neon Light. She’s quite laid back and a good friend of mine. I’m sure she would love to have some guards protecting her place if I put in a good word.” She replied in a smug tone.

“Tomorrow is Wednesday right?” Callum asked, getting a nod from both princesses before putting his attention back on Rainbow “Good, you can show us the place after we finish our shift.”

A small amount of time after this, Rarity returned with three sets of each emblem.

“I’m going to need your jackets and shirts.” She requested, both humans complied and stripped the necessary items off themselves. Both princesses and Rainbow were examining their upper bodies. Looking at every muscle and seeing how toned they were. Callum’s muscles seemed to be slightly bigger than Ashley’s.”

“Whoa...Nice muscles.” Rainbow said awestruck as she stared at Ashley’s muscles.

“Uh...Thanks...I guess.” Ashley replied modestly. He noticed her staring at his body “You should take a picture, it would last longer.” He winked playfully, causing her to blush slightly.

“What these old things?” Callum smugly said as he flexed his muscles, you could see some of the veins rise closer to the surface of his skin.

“Stop being a douche Callum.” Ashley said as he jokingly punched his friend in the arm.

“You’re just jealous of my larger muscles because you are tiny baby man.” Callum returned in a playful tone, poking Ashley in the chest with his finger.

“Not really.” Ashley shrugged “Remember that while you’re stronger, I’m faster.”

“True.” Callum nodded a bit with a smile.

“Enough you two.” Twilight giggled “We don’t you two getting hot headed now do we?”

“I think it’s a bit too late for that Twilight.” Celestia added as she tried to hold in a laugh.

Several minutes later, Rarity returned with the human’s shirts and jackets which were folded. Their weapons rested on top of their clothes as she levitated the items to them.

“Go ahead, try them on!” Rarity said joyfully, eager to get feedback on her hard work.

The humans put their weapons in their trouser pockets before putting on their shirts. Callum had the emblem he wanted which was on the left of the shirt, the same was with Ashley’s but was the emblem he described. Both humans were smiling like children on Christmas morning as they put on their jackets. They looked on the upper sleeves and saw their respected emblems on there. The stitching was hardly noticeable so it wouldn’t run the look.

“Seriously Rarity, this is absolutely amazing. I can’t say anything bad about this because there is nothing bad about it.” Ashley said smiling, Callum nodded in agreement.

“I’m very glad you enjoy it darling and I really appreciate the compliment.” Rarity returned the smile “If you ever need anything else, clothing wise. Then you know who to come to.”

“As if I would go anywhere else to get something as amazing as this. When it comes to clothing, we’ll always come to you.” Callum replied, causing the fashionista to blush a bit from the compliment.

“Oh really now...There is no need to compliment so much.” Rarity said as she regained her composure.

“Well if you insist.” Ashley replied before turning to the princesses “Is there anything else that needs to be done?”

“No I think we’re done for today. Go to the guard station later today so you can get started tomorrow. We shall be seeing you again soon.” Princess Luna spoke before both princesses took their leave, heading back to the library to get back on their carriage.

“Hey Callum, did you ask Applejack and Big Mac to see me earlier?” Ashley turned his head to him

“Yeah, she said we should meet at Sugarcube corner later after they finish work.”

“Shall we just wait there then?”

“Sure let’s go.”

“You two go ahead. I’m going to go home for a bit to check on Spike.” Twilight waved goodbye, as did everyone else in return before she left.

“I want to take a small break before getting back to work on a dress. Speak to you three soon okay?”

“Sure. See ya’ Rarity and thanks again for everything.” Ashley said as he left, followed by Callum and Rainbow who also said their goodbyes.

The three of them walked through the town, asking for directions to the guard station. Rainbow offered to go to Sugarcube Corner to tell Applejack and Big Mac that Ash and Cal were at the guard station. Both humans agreed and she flew off to the confectionary store.

As the humans approach, they noticed a very familiar unicorn guard walking out of the building. It was the same guard that Callum almost strangled. The guard gave them a glare of pure hatred but the humans just laughed it off. They couldn’t wait to see the same unicorns face when he finds out their on the royal guard.

They entered the main reception. a grey Pegasus mare with a brown mane which was styled in a bun greeted them. Her eyes were a light shade of brown.

“Are you two the creatures the princesses wrote to us about?”

“Yes we are. We were told by them to come here to sort out some stuff before we start our duties tomorrow.” Ashley replied

“Very well. Follow me please.” The mare got off her chair and gestured the humans to follow her through a long hall way. “Let me give you a quick tour.” They passed a green door “That is the training room. We have an outside training area for pegasi and those who want to practice in a more open space.” They continued down the hall, passing a couple of guards who gave them slight nods which the humans returned. They approached a red double door “This is the mess hall. Not much to it much really but you can eat outside if you wish.” They kept going down the hall.

Going past several doors, finding out this station had a shower rooms for both genders. The entire building was spotless which was expected from a place like this.

“I’m just curious, are you two those who injured the guards at all?”

“That would be us.” Callum replied nonchalantly

“Well it’s good to have you working for the guard. We run a tight schedule here and judging from the letter the princesses sent. You two are highly trained combat soldiers if I’m not mistaken?”

“You’re correct once again ma’am.” Ashley said.

“Please, there is no need to be formal with me. Just call me Grey Ink.”

“Well, if you say so. Where are we going to anyway?”

“I’m taking you to the guy in charge of this station. From what I hear, he really wanted to get back at you for beating up his guards but he calmed down since the princesses told him that you’d be working for them.”

“So what’s this guy’s name?” Callum asked.

“Captain Shockwave. He’s a unicorn who can control electricity to some degree. He’s saved quite a few lives and is quite tough. Not as tough as Captain Solar or Night Wing. Those stallions can save me any day...” she said with lust as she started to daydream before quickly snapping out of it with a heavy blush “You didn’t hear any of that.” She snapped.

“Hear any of what?”

“What I just—Oh you’re good.” She said playfully.

“I’m also good at something else.” Callum winked at the mare.

“Oh really? And what would that be?” she teased

“It happens in the bedroom department...” Callum had a smile on his face. Seeing if the mare would fall for his trap.

The humans noticed the mares wings flare out almost immediately with a small pomf-like noise and a very noticeable blush on her face.

“Uh...are you okay?” Ashley asked.

“Me? Uh...Y-yeah...Never better. Why’d you ask?” She tried her best to get her wings to go back down but they had a mind of their own.

“Because you’re blushing and your wings flared as soon as...Callum...said...OH MY GOD!” Ashley started to burst out in laughter as well as Callum when he understood what was going on.

“Will you keep it down?! This is a delicate situation.” She whispered loudly, checking the hallway for anypony around.

Ashley could hardly breathe from his laughing fit, Callum jerked a tear of sheer joy. Grey Ink’s wings went down but she was still blushing.

“Oh man...That was brilliant.” Callum finally stabilized himself “Besides I was only kidding.” He heard the mare sigh in relief “That’s what Ashley’s good at.” The mares blush intensified.

“That’s a lie and you know it Callum.” Ashley said seriously.

“Yeah yeah. I know.” Callum rolled his eyes “My names Ashley and I’m an asexual.” He teased.

“And my names Callum and I sleep with almost any girl I can.” Ashley said in a mocking tone, both humans were laughing once more. The Pegasus mare just shook her head.

“You two are weird.”

“Well you’re going to have to get used to it.” Ashley smirked “Shall we keep going then?” The mare nodded as they all continued down the hall.

It took them around a minute to get to what Grey Ink said was Shockwave’s office. She said her goodbyes and so did the humans. She enjoyed their company since they knew how to have a good laugh unlike most of the guards who didn’t really talk to her.

Ashley knocked on the door.

“Who is it?”

“The new guys.”

“Ah! Come right in.”

Both humans walked inside the office. The place was well organised with a couple of file cabinets, images on the wall which looked that had the stallion before them with some other ponies, probably either good friends or family or both. Shockwave was a yellow unicorn with a short, spiked mane that had purple highlights at the tips. He was larger than most stallions but not as large as Big Mac.

“Ah. You must be the hoo-mans the princesses told me about.”

“Humans sir.” Both humans saluted.

“Heh. At ease.” Both humans done what they were told. “I was told you are highly trained combat soldiers from a different world.”

“you are correct sir.” Ashley said

“Please. Don’t call me sir until you start tomorrow.”

“Alright then.” Callum replied.

“Okay. Now, one of the things that concern me the most. You two are the ones who are responsible for attacking my guards?”

“Yes.” Both replied in unison.

“But in self defence.” Ashley added.

“I see. To be honest with you. I’m glad you did, those guards specifically since they’re short fused and rush straight into a fight. They needed to be brought down a notch.”

“Glad to be of a service I guess.” Callum said

“Alright. Now onto your shifts, I’m sure the princesses already told you them?”

“Yes. Sunday to Wednesday, start at ten in the morning and finish at six in the afternoon.” Ashley replied.

“Good. I’m glad we have you on our side. You’ll make fine additions to this station. This town is pretty calm but we like to stay alert since we’re so close to the forest and diamond dogs attack every now and again. I heard one of you two prevented the last attack.”

“That would be me.” Ashley raised his hand slightly and put it back down “After Captain Night Wing used a spell on me and brought horrific repressed memories that made me go insane and brutally kill the thirty diamond dogs that attacked. Saved a few ponies in the process.”

“And you left me to clean it all up.” Callum snapped but wasn’t angry.

“I see. I’m sure they won’t be coming back since unless they have a death wish.”

“Yeah...” Ashley nodded.

“I was told that I have to alarm every guard about your presence and about the emblems you wear.” Shockwave pointed to the emblems on both humans arms “Are those them?”

“Yes. This is our uniform.”

“Why are you not wearing armour?”

“Because we prefer to be able to move freely instead of having armour that does not benefit much in protecting its wearer.” Callum said.

“I see. I don’t care for armour that much but I wear it when I’m walking around town. Mares like a stallion whose in uniform.”

“Callum would totally understand what you mean.” Ashley said with a grin, gesturing to his friend who nodded.

“Ah I see.” Shockwave gave both humans a smile “This has been a good introduction. I hope to see you at ten. On the dot.” He held out his hoof over the desk.

“Oh trust me. You will.” Ashley reached out and shook the stallions hoof. Callum did the same.

“Alright then. You two take care now.” Shockwave waved goodbye as the humans left the office.

Going down the hallways, they noticed the unicorn guard from earlier who shot another look of anger. The reception desk was in sight so both humans decided to talk to Grey Ink again. Telling her about the meeting, she was quite surprised by Shockwave’s reaction to the humans since she expected him to shout at them at least. She told the humans a funny story from her past. After around half an hour of talking to the Pegasus, they said their farewells and left to Sugarcube Corner.

Well guys, I hoped you enjoyed this chapter. Comment and stuff because I like to see them.