Is a Shark Mare's Bark Worse Than Her Bite?

Chapters

Day 2 - Lawai`a
Day 3 - Ho`okipa
Day 4 - Kaumaha
Day 5 - A Hui Hou
Day 1 - Ho`omaka

Day 2 - Lawai`a

You found yourself sitting on the beach, the waves splashing against the shore. It was nice and relaxing, the water splashing up against your legs as you sat barely within range of the tide.

"Hello there."

Turning you noticed a familiar mare walking through the sand. A mare with a pale blue coat along with a tan mane, tail and fuzzy neck. Two curved horns stretching off the side of her head. Her pink eyes glistened as she approached you.

"Amble Barb?"

"Yeah, it's me."

The chimera pony sat down next to you, her coat dripping with water. Her glistening fur causing your heart to skip a beat.

"So what are you doing here?" You asked.

"Oh, I just wanted to hang out with my favorite stallion." Amble said, resting her head against your shoulder, positioning it in a way that her horns wouldn't harm you.

The two of you sat on the beach for a while, the water splashing against your hooves.

"So how have things been in the Crystal Empire?"

"Slow."

"Slow?"

Amble looks up at you, her cheeks a soft shade of pink.

"Yes."

Taking her head off your shoulder, Amble looked at you, her eyes filled with wanting. Your heart almost stopped in response to the sultry look.

"My days feel like they take forever when you're not around."

"I... I didn't realize you felt that way."

Slowly, Amble leaned toward you, puckering her lips to kiss you. Your heart beat loudly inside your ears as Amble's lips drew closer. You wanted to give in, to kiss her back and claim this mare for your own.

As your lips locked, your body seemed to grow warm from the touch. A euphoric and pleasant feeling flowing through you.

Opening your eyes, you withdrew in horror when you realized it wasn't Amble that you had kissed. Sitting in front of you was a shark mare, who glared at you with bright yellow eyes.

"I... Uh!"

The mare's lips quivered angrily, pulling back to reveal row upon row of razor sharp teeth. Slowly the jaws began to separate.

"W-wait!"

The mouth opened wide, the teeth coming closer as the shark mare prepared to bite you. Then right as the jaws we're about to slam shut...

You awoke in your bed, your body drenched in sweat. The sound of the music still playing from the radio. Pulling yourself out of bed, you open the curtains, revealing that the creepy gecko had left in the middle of the night.

Going to the bathroom you took a quick shower to wash off the sweat that clung to your coat. As you dry off, you consider what occurred in your dream.

"I wonder how she's doing?"

You hadn't seen Amble since the time you met on the train, on the way to the Crystal Empire. Sadly, your travels hadn't brought you back to the empire, nor had you heard word from Amble herself. However, even with that the presence of a romantically charged dream did seem a little odd. Perhaps the music you had been listening to had something to do with it.

"I do hope things are working out for her."

You hadn't heard any news about the sanctuary Amble had been working on, so you were hoping that it was just taking a long time to develop. Not that it had been cancelled for some reason.

You pushed your worry aside as you finished drying off. You then proceeded out into the bedroom and turned off the radio before leaving your room.

The sun was shining overhead as you walked down the street toward the docks. The streets were a bustle as the local residents went about their daily lives and the tourists moved around the city with intrigue.

Arriving at the docks, it didn't take you too long to find the couple you were looking for. Fleur De Lis wore a white sundress along with a beach hat, both of which complimented her form. Fancy Pants wore a orange Haywaiian shirt along with a pair of sunglasses.

"Hello."

"We are glad you could join us." Fleur said, with a bright smile.

"Thank you for inviting me." You replied, "So, your friend has a boat?"

"Yes, it is this way." Fancy Pants said, indicating the direction with a hoof.

Fleur skipped on ahead happily, while you and Fancy Pants followed.

"Now listen," Fancy Pants spoke in a hushed tone, "here on the islands there are some important customs in regards to fishing."

"Like what?" You asked.

"When fishing remember that the first fish you catch goes to the captain of the vessel," Fancy Pants explained, "the second fish goes to the guest and the remaining fish are divided up as both the captain and the guest see fit. Usually it is split down the middle."

"I see. And is there a reason you are whispering?"

Fancy Pants gave an embarrassed look.

"I may or may not have unknowingly broken this tradition on my first visit," Fancy Pants answered, "I also may or may not have been thrown overboard while wearing a designer suit."

As you walked along the docks, you noticed ships of various shapes, sizes and colors resting in the port.

"Here we are!" Fleur said, pointing at a decently sized vessel, that appeared that it could serve as both a boat and a home for its captain. Though you did find the large antenna attached to the top to be a little odd. The words, The Oyster were painted onto the side of the ship.

"Hey, Jag we're here!" Fleur called out.

Stepping out of the ship's cabin, was a familiar looking shark mare, her eyes bright when she saw Fleur. Moving in a hurry, Jagged left the cabin and ran down the gangplank to reunite with her friend.

"Lis!"

The two mares greeted each other as Fancy Pants and you drew near.

"It is great to see you again." Jagged Nibble's expression changed to annoyance when she spotted Fancy Pants. "And I see you brought your husband."

Something about Jagged Nibble's mood and the sweat on Fancy Pant's brow, indicated that this was the captain that had chucked him overboard.

"Yes, here I am." Fancy Pants answered nervously.

Jagged's amber eyes seemed to pierce Fancy Pant's calm demeanor, before they turned toward you.

"And who is this?"

"I hope you don't mind," Fleur stepped in, "we invited a friend to come along."

Jagged looked you over, before a smile crept across her face. An air of curiosity and mischief surrounding her in that brief moment.

"No, I don't mind," Jagged answered, "In fact I was hoping to meet this friend of yours."

"Do you know each other?" Fleur asked.

You were about to speak, when the shark mare interrupted. "We are familiar with each other. However, we haven't been properly introduced. Well, come along then."

Jagged Nibble lead you and the others up the gangplank onto her boat. Once everypony was on board, Jagged lifted the plank, raised the anchor, turned on the engine and directed the ship out into the open sea.

Now that you were on the boat you were able to examine it more closely. While not in the most pristine condition, the ship was clearly maintained with care. As for the antenna you could see that it was jury-rigged to the side of the boat's main cabin with some wires going inside.

While you didn't know too much about electronics, you were pretty sure that this antenna was too large to be used just to receive any signals. Perhaps you could ask your host about it later.

The sea breeze was rather nice and you were grateful that your body decided not to betray you or your breakfast. While both Fleur and Jagged could be seen visiting in the boat's navigational room, Fancy Pants was standing by the railing, staring out into the ocean. You decided that this would be a good time to visit with the rich stallion.

"So they know each other," you said as you stood next to Fancy Pants.

"Yeah, when we came here to Haywaii on our first visit the two met each other," Fancy Pants answered, "they became close friends shortly after."

"I was wondering something. Are the rumors that Fleur..."

As you were about to ask the question, Fancy Pants turned and gave you a knowing look.

"Might be a seapony true?" Fancy Pants finished your inquiry.

"Uh... Yeah."

Fancy Pants pausing, looking you over very carefully before answering.

"It really depends," Fancy Pants replied, "if I say anything, one way or another, will I read about in a book or newspaper?"

You contemplated what he was asking, as he looked you over suspiciously.

"I assure you," you answered, "that if I write anything about her, I will change the name, description and events so that your privacy is maintained."

He gave you another look over, as if trying to discern any deceit that might be in your words. Not seeing any ill intent, Fancy Pants looked back out to the sea.

"Our paths crossed as the result of a storm, she and I," Fancy Pants explained, "we became close friends and gradually we fell in love. I wished to show her the surface and while that seemed nearly impossible with her being an octopony, when you're in love, anything is possible. So I found a spell and with a few alterations, I managed to make it work."

"Does she like it," You asked, "being like a normal pony, I mean."

Fancy Pants chuckled at the question.

"Even in this form, I don't think I would consider Fleur to be a normal pony. She is my wife, so she is special to me," Fancy Pants answered, "but to answer the question, while she loves being with me, there are times she becomes 'home sick' if you understand what I mean. In a way the sea will always be her home, which is why we take annual trips to visit. So she can get her tendrils wet. Not to say that we don't do that at home."

While you weren't too certain what Fancy Pants meant by the last statement, it was perfectly clear that the stallion loved his wife very dearly.

"And what about Jagged?"

"Ah, yes. We met her here last year," Fancy Pants explained, "I can't say for certain, but I believe that seaponies have a way of sensing one another. Probably something to do with how large the ocean is. Anyway, Fleur and Jagged met and they became friends. I on the other hoof, kind of made a fool out of myself."

It would seem that both Jagged Nibble and Holly shared that same tendency for holding onto grudges.

"So Jagged is mad at you."

"Kind of. Though I wonder if she is merely doing it, just to harass me."

Soon the ship's engine turned off and the boat slowed to a stop. Having reached the destination assigned by the ship's captain, Jagged Nibble and Fleur joined you and Fancy Pants. The shark mare had four fishing rods with her.

"Alright, here we are!" Jagged called out, "Grab your bait and pick a side of the boat to fish from!"

Fancy Pants and Fleur took the rods and went to left side of the ship, leaving you and Jagged to fish on the right side. Remembering some of your research on boat's this would be the starboard side.

While you had seen other ponies fish, you sadly hadn't been blessed with such experiences in your line of work. So as carefully as you could, you used your magic to take some bait and place it on the hook. For a moment you were quite proud of yourself, until you noticed the captain looking at your with one raised eyebrow.

"Is this your first time fishing?" Jagged Nibble asked.

...

"Yes."

Jagged Nibble let out a little chuckle, a feeling of annoyance radiating in your stomach as you tried to discern if her laughter was truly malicious.

"Did I do it wrong?" You asked.

"Oh, no! No!" Jagged giggled, "You did a great job. It was just kind of amusing to watch you put the bait so gently on the hook."

As her snickering came to an end, a sincere smile stretched across the shark mare's face.

"My name is Jagged Nibble," Jagged introduced herself, "though I am sure Holly already told you that. Personally I hate it when my friends call me that, so you can just call me Jag."

Right as she finished speaking, Jag began to bait her hook. Without magic, Jag used her mouth to hold the hook, while using her hooves to put on the bait.

With the hook properly baited, Jag let the string loss and hurled the lure out into the water.

You prepared to repeat her actions, when Jag gave you a careful warning. "Hold onto your fishing rod. You don't want to throw that in too."

You both laughed at the joke, before you cast your lure into the sea.

"So do you only fish using a rod and bait," you asked, "or do you use any other methods to catch fish?"

"When I invite others on my boat," Jag answered, "I stick to this method."

"What if you're alone?"

"Well, then it depends on how I feel. Sometimes I just dive in and uses these to catch my prey."

Jag flashed her rows of razor sharp teeth. It was definitely unsettling, though not as much as it had been when you had first met.

"Okay," you continued to inquire, "which of the two methods do you prefer?"

"Oh, definitely dive fishing," Jag answered, "it just feels more natural having the water rush across my gills and catching a juicy fish using my own teeth. It is actually quite exhilarating."

"I bet it is."

Jag pointed to a rock outcropping, jutting out of the side of the cliff toward the sea, "You see that? That is Spotter's Point! It is a nice place to sit and relax if you ever feel like it."

"Have you been there before?"

"From time to time," Jag answered, "it is a place I like to go when I'm feeling upset."

As the two of you spoke, the memory of Jag and Holly's encounter yesterday came to mind.

"I know this might be a touchy subject," you spoke up, "but when we meet yesterday you and Holly seemed to have quite a rivalry, the two of you."

There was a moment of silence, as Jag sat there, contemplated what to say.

"We weren't always rivals," Jag answered, "in fact, Holly and I used to be close friends."

"What happened?"

"Apparently, during a luau, I may have had too much to drink," Jag explained, "and I may have in a delirious state... Hit on her sirefriend."

"sirefriend?"

"Well, her special somepony, to ponies like us. A diamond dog by the name of Hammer," Jag continued, "anyway, I have tried to apologise to her, however she's always trying to keep her distance."

"Is she still friends with Hammer?"

"I don't know," Jag answered, "I haven't gone to any of the luaus lately. I'm not sure I would be welcomed anyway."

It was then that you felt a tug on your fishing pole.

"Looks like you caught something," Jag said, "if you don't reel it in, it'll get away!"

By the end of the day you were proud that you managed to catch five fish. Fancy Pants had caught up total of four fish, while his wife, Fleur managed to catch seven. Of course as expected, captain Nibble managed to catch the most with nine fish total.

Following Fancy Pant's advice, you offered Jag your first fish, which she gladly accepted and it was agreed upon that of the fish being split down the middle she would only take one from you. Fleur De Lis was also treated in a likewise manner.

As for Fancy Pants...

"I wondering if I should take two for my share." Jag contemplated.

"What? Why?" Fancy Pants asked.

"Because you invited another tourist along without telling me," Jag answered, "it isn't... Proper to invite others without alerting the captain."

For a brief moment it looked like Fancy Pants might argue a little bit more, but after letting out a deep sigh, he relented.

"Very well, you can have it."

Looking at Jag's expression, you could guess that this wasn't quite the reaction she had wanted. Judging by her mouth movements she was probably grinding her teeth.

"You know what, fine. I will only take one of your fish."

"What? Really?"

"Yes." Jagged Nibble gave Fancy Pants a big grin, showing her sharp teeth in a menacing manner. "Just try to remember how generous I can be."

Sweat dripped down his brow.

"Yeah... Okay."

With the fish divided, they were properly cleaned and bagged, to be saved for a future meal.

At this point the sun was nearing the horizon, as Celestia brought the day to a close.

"We should probably head back to shore." Fleur said.

Jag nodded and went back into the navigation room. Shortly after the engines started and the vessel turned back to shore. While the ship made its course, Fancy Pants and Fleur walked to the bow of the ship.

This left you with your thoughts as you leaned against the rail and watched the passing waves.

By the time you arrived in the harbor, the sun was about to set.

"Well, we're going back to our hotel," Fleur said, "see you both later!"

"See you later!" Jag said waving goodbye to her friend.

Both Fleur and Fancy Pants turned and walked down the street, snuggled up together like two little love birds.

"I guess I should probably be going too." You said.

"If you want," Jag spoke up, "or you could come with me and be drinking buddies for tonight."

While you were sure that this was a bad idea, there were still a few questions you wanted to ask her, especially about her shark like characteristics, and there was no guarantee that you would see her again before you had to leave. So, you decided to come along.

"Lead the way."

You followed Jag to another bar, a different one from the night before. This establishment had a sign, calling it, the Doctor's Advice.

Following Jag inside, you found yourself in a room that was mostly dark, except for some black lights along the supporting pillars, the radius of the dance floor and behind the drinks at the main bar. Along the pillars were sections containing moving blobs and bubbles, giving of the appearance of a purple lava lamp. It was quite apparent now that this wasn't so much a bar as it was a full blown night club.

Customers of various races sat at the tables and danced on the dance floor. Though most of them were diamond dogs who were looking wary of the other races.

As Jag approached the main bench, you caught sight of two big diamond dogs carrying a battered pegasus stallion out of the bar.

"Uhhh... What was that?" You asked as you sat down next to Jag.

"Just a growler being shown the door." Jag answered, as if it was no big deal.

You remembered Holly's warning, that disrespectful tourist or growlers were rarely tolerated by the locals.

"I hope you don't mind me asking," you inquired, "I was wondering if you might be willing to tell me about your shark mare characteristics."

"You wouldn't be the first to ask," Jag answered, "if you want to ask questions then you're also going to have to buy me a drink or two."

You nodded.

"Deal."

A smile stretched across Jag's face, before she waved the bartender over. He was a gray diamond dog with broad shoulders and a butler suit.

"Hey Fido!" Jag called out, "I'll have a glass of Honest Apple Whiskey... Hold the rocks."

"I guess I will have the same." You spoke up.

"Oh, and he's paying." A mischievous grin stretched across Jag's face.

After you placed down the bits, Fido scooped up the coins before pulling out two glasses, opening a bottle and filling them. Once both glasses were filled, Fido push one to you and one to Jag.

"Alright, bottoms up!"

Taking the glass in both hooves, Jag opened her mouth, threw her head back and swallowed the whole drink. Once the glass was empty, Jag slammed it down on the table, before turning to you with a raised eyebrow.

Using your magic you lifted the glass to your lips and following Jag's example, you swallowed the alcohol in one big gulp and slammed the glass down onto the table. Immediately your throat began to burn as the whiskey passed through, eliciting a cough. Jag chuckled at the display and motioned for Fido to refill the glasses.

"So, what's your first question?"

"Yes, *cough* you said earlier you have gills," You asked, "does that mean you are able to breathe underwater for extended periods of time?"

"I can indeed," Jag answered, "in fact I can stay underwater for quite a while. However, doing so will deplete any residual oxygen in my lungs. When that occurs that transition from breathing underwater to breathing above water can be a bit... painful."

"How so?"

"Imagine that under all that pressure your lungs become a deflated balloon. That in order to breath above the water you have to inflate that balloon enough to provide room for more oxygen. So if I were to just burst forth from the water without having any oxygen in my lungs and no water flowing over my gills, I am pretty much suffocating. As a result when I feel that my lungs are completely depleted I will usually drift with my head above the water, to allow my gills to pick up oxygen from the water while filling my lungs with air through my mouth."

"I see."

Jag swallowed another glass of whiskey and motioned for me to do the same.

"If I am going to answer your questions you need to drink too."

You don't recall this being a part of the bargain, however not wanting to annoy her, you followed her instructions and took another swig of the alcohol. While it still burned going down, it wasn't as bad as last time and you started to feel a heat welling up in your stomach.

"Alright, so I noticed that you have a different style compared to most of the ponies and natives I have seen here. Is there any particular reason for that?"

"Well, when I first came here to the islands, the natives referred to me as an Aumakanni."

"An Aumakanni?"

It was that word you had heard Holly mention yesterday.

"It's basically a sea spirit, the natives think of them as messengers from the sea," Jag continued, "well, three of us washed ashore and from that moment we were called the Aumakanni. However, after a long while it felt like that was all I was to them. Just some shark pony sent to them by the gods. Out of the three of us, two of us were female and one was male, so when those two married, I was alone. A lonely Aumakanni. Well, I didn't want that to define me, so I decided to define and rediscover who I was. You see this mane?"

Jag motioned to her purple and blue mohawk with a hoof.

"Yes."

"I found the styling in a magazine," Jag said, "I just loved how the mare wore it as if it were her own style. So I cut my mane and dyed some of it blue. I enjoyed certain aspects of the punk style and took them as my own. Then one day I found that I enjoyed electronic music, however it is kind of hard to find that kind of music here. So after some hard work I found a way to have it brought back here to the islands, so that others too might enjoy it."

As Jag waved for another round, you recalled listening to Coldwave last night on the radio and now that you had spent plenty of time with her, you were almost certain that Jag might actually be the DJ Sharp. Now there was a question you had to ask.

"Hey, you wouldn't happen to DJ Sharp from Channel 93.9 would you?"

Jagged Nibble seemed to ponder your question, then looking at your glass, Jag gave you a wicked smile.

"Drink two more glasses," Jag said, "and I'll tell you."

Throwing back another glass, Jag took another drink. Wanting the answer to your question, you threw back your head and drank more of the whiskey. It now felt like your belly was a furnace.

*Cough* "Another!" You told the bartender and Jag let out a little snicker.

Taking your fourth drink, the world around you seemed a little bit off. Perhaps a little lopsided... or wobbly. It was hard to tell. Looking back at Jag, the shark mare motioned for you to come closer as if to whisper some sort of secret into your ear. You complied.

"I am DJ Sharp." Jag giggled.

Stepping off the bar stool, Jag motioned with a hoof for you to follow as she made her way to the dance floor. Jumping off the bar stool you found your legs were a little wobbly. No big deal.

All around the dance floor were various creatures, each moving with their own style to the beat of the music. Some would move and tandem with others, while some just danced by themselves.

As you followed Jag to the dance floor, you noticed a few of the other club goers giving you and the shark mare strange looks. Some seemed weary of the shark in their midst, while others looked at her curiously. Much like her animalistic side, Jag was able to cut through the crowd, until she found a spot she wanted to dance at.

Jag moved to the music, her hips swaying back and forth, her head bobbing to the beat. Her slender tail moving back and forth like a predator in the water. An elegant dance from a practiced individual.

Your movements on the other hoof, were much sloppier, a clear sign both that you hadn't danced for a long time and the fact that you were probably a little tipsy.

"You dance like an old stallion," Jag giggled.

"Yeah," you snickered, "what's wrong with that?"

Jag stepped closer, her face drawing closer to yours.

"Try to move less like a robot and more like a reed," Jag suggested, "just move your hips back forth to the music. Like kelp moving with the current."

You tried to imitate Jag's motions, as she rocked to the beat and it wasn't too long before your movements were synchronized. Your bodies moving as one to the rhythm of the music. As the two of you danced, you couldn't help but admire how cute she looked. Of course, that also could have been a side effect of the alcohol you had consumed.

"You're pretty good at this." You said.

Jag chuckled, "I enjoy coming here."

"Do you always try to dance so closely with others?"

Jag gave a toothy grin, "Only with ponies I like."

A few more songs passed by with you and Jag dancing with one another. Once you both finished dancing, you returned to the main bar, where Fido was polishing some mugs.

"How do you do it?" You asked.

"Do what?"

"Manage doing all of this," you answered, "going to night clubs, living on the sea and running your own radio program?"

"Oh, it's quite simple," Jag chuckled, "I fish during the day and at night I broadcast my show from my boat."

You motioned for Fido to refill the drinks. Any worry you had about the evening was gone. Now there was only you, Jag and the glass right in front of you... oh and Fido. You tried to make a mental note not to forget Fido.

"That's amazing. You're kind of like one of the Power Ponies."

"Power Ponies?" Jag inquired, "Who are they?"

"Some group of comic book super heroes," you answered, "apparently they're really good comics."

You tried to reach for your glass and for some reason it felt as if it was further way. Not too sure why. Maybe it had sprouted tiny little legs and walked a little ways. How silly.

"We don't have very many comics here." Jag said. As she spoke you became transfixed on her teeth.

"Has anypony told you that you have really nice teeth?"

Jag just got a laugh out of that and started slamming her hoof against the counter.

"I know right! They would say that in the white room all the time!"

Then almost as if a switch had been hit, Jag's mood changed. Her expression becoming distant and sad.

"Are you okay?"

"Uh... yeah... I'll be fine. Let's have another drink!"

"You read my mind!"

The rest of the night was a bit fuzzy, but from what you can recall, you and Jag had a few more drinks, danced a little more on the dance floor, before stepping outside of the bar. As of right now, it felt like the whole world was swaying under your hooves.

There were still a few street vendors out, serving to drunk tourists as they left the local bars. Looking around you saw one vendor selling stuffed toys of the various aquatic life around the island.

"Hey how about I buy you something," you said as you stumbled toward the vendor.

"You've... Already bought me plenty," Jag said placing a hoof over her mouth to hold back a hiccup.

"Oh, I insist. You have been... So nice to me."

"Very well," Jag relented, "but then... I'm buying you one... Too."

"D-deal."

The two of you stood in front of the vendor, contemplating what to purchase. After examining a few of the plushies, one if them caught your eye.

"I think I'll buy you... That one."

You pointed a hoof at a purple octopus plushie with blue circles along its fabric tentacles.

"Why?" Jag asked.

"Well, you're friends with an octopony," you answered, "so why not?"

It made sense in your head at the time.

"Okay, then I'll buy... This one."

Jag pointed a hoof at a gray shark plushie. You giggled, a clever question popping up in your head.

"Why?"

"Well, you will be going back to the mainland right?"

"Eeyep," it was now your turn to try to hold back a hiccup.

"So you'll need something to remember me by." Jag answered.

You nodded.

"Okay."

After a lengthy exchange with the vendor, both you and Jag managed to buy the plush animals you had sought out.

"Well, it was nice meeting you!" Jag said as she began to wobble down to the docks.

"It was nice seeing you too!" You called back, "And don't worry I think you're very unique! You are your own mare!"

"Damn right I am!"

Slowly you made your way back to the hotel. Occasionally you would find a puddle or a crack in the road that you would try to side step, only to then find yourself in a bush, palm tree or garbage can. At one point you had considered letting your new shark plushie swim in one of the puddles, then you reminded yourself that it wasn't a real shark. If it was there wasn't enough water for her to swim in and she would die from not getting enough oxygenated water against her gills. This thought made you sad and you began to sob for a while until you forgot what you were sad about and resumed your journey.

When you reached the front door of your hotel, you found that you couldn't open the door. It wasn't until after some yelling, crying and praying to Celestria for forgiveness, that you realized that you had been pushing on a pull door this whole time.

After stumbling up the stairs, you finally arrived in front of the door to your room. You fumbled with the key for a bit but eventually you managed to open it. Stepping inside you were greeted by a swarm of geckos who were sitting on the bed watching the television. Or maybe it was just one gecko. You couldn't really tell for sure. They seemed to be shifting in and out of one another.

"How did you do that?" You asked.

Stepping inside the room you stretched and let out a big yawn before walking over to the table with the radio. After a few attempt and almost knocking the contraption off the table, you managed to turn it on to Coldwave.

Walking back over to the bed, you sat down with your shark plushie and watched the show the gecko was watching. For some reason you found the sight of black, white and gray worms wiggling on the screen to be quite entertaining.

"This has been fun," You told the gecko, "however I really need to get some sleep."

After a few failed attempts you managed to pick up the remote and turned the television, before crawling under the covers and drifting off to sleep.

Day 3 - Ho`okipa

When you woke, a massive headache ripped through your skull and the music coming over the radio wasn't helping either. Pulling yourself out of bed, you walked over to the radio where a gecko sat waiting.

"How did you get in here?"

The gecko merely tilted its head as if to remind you that you were talking to a cold blooded reptile. That no matter how much you asked, all it could do was stare at you.

After deciding to ignore the creature, you turned the radio off and went to the bathroom to take a shower.

"Well, that was probably a bad idea, drinking all that alcohol. I'm not even sure it was worth it."

You were feeling very fortunate that you'd managed to not throw up; though it was very likely that you'd need to drink a few cups of coffee. Some sunglasses wouldn't hurt either.

Leaving the bathroom you were greeted by the gecko, sitting on the floor looking up at you.

"Hey, don't you judge me!"

There you were, talking to the gecko again.

At the sound of somepony knocking on your door, the gecko scurried off. After a quick moment of making sure you were presentable, you opened the door. On the other side was Holly, who after looking you over, gave you a worried look.

"Are you okay?" Holly asked.

"I could really use a cup of coffee."

Holly sniffed the air, her nose turning upwards at some foul scent.

"I can tell," Holly said, "I know a place."

You followed Holly out of the hotel and into town, until you across a coffee shop by the name of the Blue Brew Bar. After each of you purchased a cup of black coffee, you and Holly sat down at a table. As the coffee flowed down your throat, you could feel your head start to feel better. The dark liquid helping to wash your brain of the poison you had ingested last night.

"You went out drinking last night."

"Yes," you answered, "and I already know it was a bad idea."

Holly let out a deep sigh, "Please tell me you didn't make a big scene."

Putting a hoof to your chin, you tried to recall any memories from the night before, that might have indicated that you did something horrible. While they were filled with a few regrettable moments, you could recall anything that would come back to haunt you.

"Not that I can remember." You answered.

"Well, that is good. It would be very problematic if you earned the reputation of a growler. It would make a few of the things I wanted to give you a tour of, very tricky."

"Yeah, all I did was have a few drinks with Jag. I think we may have danced at one point but that is all I can say for sure."

Immediately, at the mention of Jagged Nibble's nickname, Holly face became downtrodden.

"Oh, I see."

Perhaps it might be wise to change the subject. At least for now.

"So you said there were a few things you wanted to show me?"

Holly took a sip of her coffee, "Well, would you like to see more of our culture up close?"

"Sure. What did you have in mind?"

"My family is having a gathering today," Holly answered, "we'll be getting together to have a luau. There will be some great food along with some dancing. There will be a few other families there as well. It will be great."

"That sounds like fun," you agree, "sure, I would love to go."

Holly's house rested on a hill overlooking the sea. The structure was two stories tall, finely crafted with wooden planks and some concrete pillars.

As you drew near to the house you noticed three young diamond dogs playing outside. Seeing Holly approach the children smiled and waved.

"Hey sis." One of the young pups with a blue collar said.

"Hello Gib," Holly said, petting the top of her brother's head, "keeping your siblings safe right?"

"Yep!"

Seeing you, Gib's other two siblings rushed over to their big brother, using him as a shield as they peaked around to look at you, a combination of caution and curiosity filling their expressions.

"Who is that?"

"This is my friend," Holly explained, "I thought he would like to see and learn more of our culture."

"So he's not a growler?"

"No, of course not." Holly gave a slight chuckle.

You gave the children a slight wave and with some reassurance from their older sister, the pup's expressions softened.

"Allow me to introduce you to my brother and sisters," Holly said with a smile, "this is Gib, Jill, and Shana."

As she introduced her siblings, Holly pointed from one to the other. Gib was the older male pup with the blue collar you had seen earlier with dark gray fur and blue eyes. Jill was a younger pup with blonde fur and violet eyes. Shana was the smallest with gray fur similar to that of her older brother and violet eyes. Neither one of the sisters had collars. Come to think of it, even Jag had a collar.

"Why don't you go on ahead and let Mom know we will be having a guest." Holly suggested.

You watched as the three pups ran to the house, their tails wagging as they went.

"You have a nice family." You said. Holly smiled at the complement.

"Thank you."

"I was wondering," you began to inquire, "I've seen you and most of the other natives around town with collars. Yet two of your siblings appear to be lacking any. Why is that?"

"Here on the islands, collars are a sign of adulthood or maturity," Holly explained, "the reason neither Jill nor Shana have collars, is because they aren't old enough to have one yet."

"So Gib is an adult?"

"A very young one, but yes."

"I see," you pondered, "are these collars given exclusively to the natives?"

Holly began to walk toward the house and you followed.

"Not necessarily," Holly answered, "sometimes if a pony comes and visits, they might be deemed worthy of a collar if they prove themselves."

Walking up to the house, Holly opened the door and motioned for you to step inside. Upon entering the building you realized that the three siblings you had seen outside were only a small fraction of the children inside the house.

At first most of these pups seemed to look at you with cautious expressions until Holly started introducing you to them. While you were certain that you would forget most of their names you put forth the effort to try to remember them.

Gradually you and Holly waded your way to the mother of the house: a stout, female diamond dog with brown fur like her eldest daughter. She was busy soothing a crying pup in her arms, while also trying to guide another pup as they learned to walk on their hind legs. Seeing Holly, the diamond dog smiled.

"Holly, it is so good to see you."

"Hey mom." Holly said, hugging her mother.

As the two exchanged hugs, Holly's mom noticed you.

"Is this one of your friends?"

"Yes," Holly answered, "I brought him here because he wanted to learn more about Haywaiian culture."

With a wide smile, Holly's mother walked over to you.

"Hello, I'm Kalna, Holly's mother, Kalna said, "will you be staying long here on the islands?"

"Just for a couple more days," you answered, "I am here doing some research for a book I am writing. I wanted to represent Haywaiian culture as accurately as possible."

"Well, in that case, you should have some Poi," Kalna offered, "I'll just need to fetch another bowl."

"I don't want to be a bother."

"No, I insist," Kalna urged, "please have a seat."

Before you knew it you were sitting at the table with Holly on your right and Gib on the left.

"So what is Poi?" You asked.

"Poi is produced from mashing the root of the Taro plant," Holly explained, "water is gradually added making it have consistency similar to the dish you call pudding on the mainland."

"I see."

You had to admit that it sounded kind of tasty.

"Some of our fellow islanders have religious beliefs pertaining to the dish," Holly continued, "it is believed that the first diamond dog was fashioned by the spirit, Howloa from a Tora root and that Howloa is always present at the unveiling of a batch of Poi."

Wooden bowls were set out in front of those sitting at the table. Once everyone had a bowl, Kalna began pouring the Poi into the containers. Like Holly said, the Poi resembled pudding with a grayish pink color.

Looking around you watched as the others are the table proceeded to scoop the food out of their bowls to eat. Seeing your confusion, Holly began to explain, "It is customary to eat Poi with one's paws."

Giving her a nod, you decided to follow the others example and scooped some Poi out of your bowl with a hoof. It was a difficult feat but you managed to have a decent amount of the Poi on your hoof.

With the morsel of Poi on your hoof, you placed the pudding like substance into your mouth. It was kind of sour.

"What do you think?" Kalna asked.

Not wanting to insult Holly's mother, you did your best to prevent your face from scrunching up.

"It's really nice." You answered.

Smiling, Kalna walked around the table to check on the other children at the table. Holly leaned in closely to you.

"You found it a little sour, didn't you?"

"Yeah, a little."

"Do you actually like it?"

You considered the thought.

"I think after a while I could grow used to it." You answered.

"It isn't always sour," Holly explained, "the fresher the Poi is the sweeter it will be. However, some diamond dogs like most of my family like it a little sour."

"Which do you prefer?"

"I like it a bit sweeter," Holly answered, "however I am content with whatever my family likes."

Gib leaned in, looking past you toward Holly.

"Hey sis," Gib spoke up, "a few of us are going to play some Ultra-Fetch before the luau. Do you want to come?"

"I'm not sure," Holly said, "I don't want to impose upon my guest."

"I don't mind," you answered, "it might be kind of fun."

Gib gave you a curious look, "Do you want to play?"

"If you're alright with that," you replied, "I haven't played this sport before, but Holly has told me about it, and I wouldn't mind giving it a try."

"Then it's settled!" Gib smiled.

"We should stop here and grab some supplies." Gib suggested, as the group stood in front of the open air market.

The group consisted of Holly, Gib, one of their siblings, one of Gib's friends and you.

"This is our little brother, Jake." Gib introduced.

"I'm not little!" Jake growled.

Jake was a young pup, maybe a few years younger than Gib, and while he lacked a collar, the young diamond dog wore a red scarf around his neck proudly.

"And this is my friend, Drew."

"Sup!" Drew raised a paw in greeting.

Drew appeared to be about Gib's age wearing a green collar with a green and white cap, resting backwards on the top of his head.

"Okay, we probably have ten minutes to spare," Holly said, "just meet back up here at the entrance."

Receiving permission, the other members of the the group rushed off leaving you and Holly still standing there.

"Well, let's go!" Holly smiled before walking into the market.

Stepping through the entrance, you saw numerous stands, covered with various items. Wooden sculptures, trinkets from the sea, bowls of colorful fruit and other items. As you walked along one of the booths caught your eye.

A sign on the top of the booths, noted the place as, The Explorer's Way. The items on the booths consisted of water canteens, backpacks, flashlights and maps. Behind the counter stood a diamond dog wearing an Explorer's cap, but what had grabbed your attention was the green gecko resting on his shoulder. It was identical to the gecko you had seen hanging around your hotel room.

"Hello there," the sales dog said, "my name is Roger and welcome to my stand. Does anything here interest you?"

"Well, I saw that gecko there," you replied, "and I was wondering what you could tell me about it?"

"This little guy's name is Herbert. There are many geckos like him here on the islands, but he is my friend."

"I just have been noticing one hanging around my hotel room a lot."

"Yeah, they like to do that. The building's provide them sanctuary and in return they eat the bugs. There is also a little trick Herbert can do. If you buy something I'll show you."

"Okay."

Giving the stall a quick look, you noticed a map of the Haywaiian Isles that cost only a few bits.

"I think I'll buy that map."

"Alright!"

After the map was bagged and bits were exchanged, Roger pulled Herbert off his shoulders and set him down on the booth.

"Now put your hooves on the stall." Roger instructed.

You complied, setting both of your front hooves on the wooden surface. From behind the table, Roger pulled out a bottle of honey and poured a drop onto your left hoof. After putting the honey away, Roger took Herbert and placed him on your right forehoof, the gecko stood completely still.

"Now watch this."

Roger whistled and immediately Herbert scurried up your right foreleg, across the back of your shoulders, down the other leg and proceeded to lick the honey from your left hoof.

After that impressive display, you went looking for your new friends. You found Gib and Jake standing in front of a booth with a wizened old diamond dog with an eye patch.

"It's gonna cost ya two hundred bits." The salesdog said.

"What! No way!" Jake protested, scrunching his nose.

Stepping closer you discovered that the item being bartered over was a silver sphere with a couple odd looking gems sticking out of it.

"Why not?" The salesdog asked, "This is an object I found, in an alien spacecraft, sunken in the deep sea!"

Gib shook his head.

"More likely it's a fancy bobble that fell off a growler's boat." Gib said.

"Nah! It's real I swear!" The salesdog growled, "And it's worth every bit I'm asking!"

"All the same we don't have that kind of money," Gib said, "come on Jake, let's go! We can buy you another toy at a different vendor."

Jake frowned.

"Okay."

Seeing Jake's sullen appearance, you couldn't help but feel bad for him. However, even if you had the bits to pay for it, you knew you would regret purchasing it.

You followed Gib and Jake to another vendor where they were able to purchase a toy zeppelin for only a few bits.

Taking your new purchases, the three of you went back to the entrance where Holly and Drew were waiting.

"I got us a six pack of Frizzle Cola!" Gib grinned.

"You know mom doesn't like you drinking carbonated beverages." Holly stated.

"Are you going to tell her?"

"Nah," Holly chuckled, "is everyone ready to go?"

It wasn't a long trip from the open air market to the Ultra-Fetch course. As you entered the park, Gib tried to explain a couple things to you.

"Now since you don't have paws we are going to allow you to use your horn," Gib explained, "however there are a few rules you need to follow to ensure a fair game."

"Alright, I'm listening." You answered.

"First off, if you are pitching you can't teleport the ball. As cool as that would be, it isn't fun if the fetcher can't find the ball."

"That makes sense."

"Second, if your fetching the ball you can only use your magic within the range of one of your legs," Gib continued, "after all, the rest of us can only pick up and hold the ball within arms length."

You nodded. The conditions made sense and for the most part you had a clear understanding of the rules.

"I think I have a handle of what's going on."

"Then let's do this!"

The group split into two teams with Holly and Jake on one team, you and Gib on the second and Drew serving as a referee. The first match had you and Jake fetching, while Gib and Holly pitched.

Due to his small size, Jake was able to fetch the ball and after slaloming through three flags, managed to score thirteen points with a minute to spare. You on the other hoof, found the ball, before accidentally hitting yourself in the face with it as you tried to slalom your way back. it was ultimately agreed upon that your team had earned eight points from the venture.

Then the roles switched. Now it was your turn to throw and Gib's turn to fetch.

"Now remember you want to throw it far enough that I can come back and weave through all the flags," Gib said, "however you don't want to throw it too far."

Back when you were a colt and learning to use your magic, you learned very quickly how to throw things. However it took you a little longer to develop the necessary skill to gradually move and hold objects. Once you learned how to perform the task, your parents refused to allow you to throw any more stuff.

Now the challenge would be to not only be able to throw the ball, but to have it land not to far out of range. You took a deep breath as you held the Ultra-Fetch ball with your magic.

Opening your eyes, you examined the field, there were a total of five flags on this course and the other team had managed to slalom through three of them in the previous round. If you could manage to throw the ball far enough and Gib it as able to pass all five flags in a timely manner, you might be able to catch up.

"Alright, here goes!"

Taking one final breath, you pulled the sphere back with your magic. On the exhale you pushed forward and released. The ball hurled through the air, to land right next to the Fourth flag.

As soon as the ball hit the ground, Gib was off. While he was good at pitching it became very clear that this was what Gib loved most about the game as he sped toward the sphere. Once the ball was in his paws, Gib ran back, weaving between the flags.

Jake on the other hoof, didn't manage to throw the ball very far. With his little arms he was barely able to make it land halfway to the first flag. Despite this, Holly giggled and returned the ball.

Much of the event went on like that, with you excelling well at pitching the ball, while coughing your lungs out after fetching it. Still everyone had fun and you enjoyed the time you spent with the group.

During one of the times, you were throwing the ball, you looked up and noticed a large mountain in the distance. Holly observed your gaze and walked over.

"That is Kalaugie," Holly explained, "the sleeping throne. It is a dead volcano said to once have served as the throne of the goddess, Pelesh. Some say that one day it will awaken again."

"Isn't that frightening," you asked, "having a volcano in your backyard?"

"Maybe a little," Holly answered, "it is believed that while Kanene, the god of the sun and procreation created our kind, it was Pelesh who created the Haywaiian islands for us to live on, and continues to do so to this day. So long as one does not disgrace her sacred lands, no I'll will shall befall us."

"Sacred lands?"

"It refers to the lava flows," Holly explained, "the land blackened by Pelesh's lava is sacred to her. As a result it is wise to treat those lands with respect."

As superstitious as it sounded, you didn't want to get into an argument. After all a long time ago, most considered Nightmare Moon's return to be a myth and that turned out to be true. So who was to say that Pelesh couldn't be as well.

"Are there any rules I should know about in regards to Pelesh's sacred realm?" You asked.

"Just don't step into it without praying to her and don't take any lava rocks away from the islands without her permission," Holly answered, "doing so can bring bad luck."

Well, considering how your luck could be at times, you would prefer not to invoke any more.

The game went on for a few more rounds Holly and Jake scoring a total of sixty points, while Gib and you scored a total of sixty one. While Jake wanted to go for another round, Holly brought the game to a halt.

"We should probably start heading back." Holly said.

"Do we have to?" Jake whined.

"If we don't we will be late for the luau." Gib explained to his younger sibling.

With that said, you and the group began to make your way back to Holly's home.

The luau was a glorious event, much like Holly had promised. The sound of drums, flutes and ukulele filled the air as ponies and diamond dogs went about eating the food. At one point they had served some roasted pork, which as expected by your host didn't really fit your diet too well, so instead they gave you and the other pony guests some Poi, vegetables and some salmon for the unicorns that were present.

As the sun went down, the entertainment became more vibrant as the fire dancers came out. Some belched forth fire like dragons while others carried torches, which they would spin and juggle.

Rings of fire were burned into your vision as many of the dancers twirled their flaming torches, sometimes even with only one paw. The faster the torches moved, the faster the beat of the drums. It was a jaw dropping experience.

"Are you enjoying the show?" Gib asked.

You nodded, "It's quite breathtaking."

Looking around, it became very apparent to you that while you had been watching the festivities, Holly had disappeared.

"Where did Holly go?" You asked.

"She's getting ready to dance!" Jake answered.

Almost as if it was on queue, a group of dancers came out before the crowd. While most of them were diamond dogs a few of the dancers were ponies as well. They wore skirts made of long green leaves, necklaces of flowers, anklets and bracelets made from leaves, along with crowns of flowers. Standing among the group was Holly.

The pace of the music slowed to a gentle pace and the hula dancers proceeded to move to the rhythm. They would sway their hips to the beat, occasionally bending their knees to emphasize their hip movements. While the diamond dogs would stretch out their paws forming wave like motions, some of the ponies managed to perform a similar technique while standing on the hind legs. For the ponies it was an impressive feat, showing that they had trained their leg muscles to carry their weight while performing the difficult task.

It was a joyous spectacle and you were glad that you had been invited to watch. All the dancers looked great and there were even a few of the dancing mares that you thought looked pretty cute.

As the dance went on, occasionally one of the dancers would pull someone from the crowd to dance along. You found it to be humorous with the first few ponies you saw this happened to. That was until you saw Holly step into the crowd, reaching her paw out to you.

"Go on!" Jake said.

"I don't think that's a good idea." You said, trying to back peddle out of it.

"Come on! Do it!" Gib encouraged. The pup repeated the encouragement and soon a majority of the crowd was cheering you on. All the while, Holly continued to smile with her paw outstretched.

Seeing that there was no way out of this, you swallowed your pride and took Holly's paw.

"Don't worry," Holly whispered, "just follow my lead as best you can."

With some difficulty you managed to lift your front half upwards, trying to emulate the movement the other pony dancers performed. The crowd laughed at your attempts. You were certain that if there was a mirror in front of you, it would show you your face, bright red with embarrassment.

"You don't need to work so hard," Holly whispered, "just try to move your hips and knees to the music."

Her advice kind of reminded you of your drunken dancing with Jag the night before. Taking her suggestions you attempted to move your hips and bend your knees. Once you grew accustomed to the rhythm, you found that you were really having fun. It was almost saddening when Holly motioned that it was time for you to return to your seat.

"Oh, you definitely have a tourist's legs," Gib teased.

After a few more songs, the dancing ended as the luau gradually came to an end. While Gib started corralling his younger siblings for bed, Holly walked over to you, her hula outfit still on. Holly looked stunning in the dance uniform here under the light of Luna's moon, and for a moment you could understand why a pony might fall in love with such a creature.

"Hey, would you like to go for a walk?" Holly asked, pointing toward the beach, "Walk off some of the food you ate."

"Uh, yeah... That would be great."

Walking along the beach, you could feel the sand crunching underneath your hooves and Holly's paws. Holly would giggle as the waves splashed across the beach, making contact with her feet.

"You looked lovely this evening," you said, breaking the silence.

"Thank you," Holly giggled, "you did a pretty good job, yourself."

"Oh, I wouldn't say that."

"No, really," Holly answered, "for a tourist that was pulled out of a crowd, you danced your first hula pretty well. Pelesh would be pleased."

"So Pelesh likes dancing then?"

"Yes, in fact it is said that the hula was created when Pelesh begged one of the other gods to dance for her. Her sister, Hi`iakazawakh, would be the first to perform the hula."

"Family is important in Haywaiian culture isn't it."

"It certainly is."

As Holly and you walked along the beach, you remembered what Jag had said about last luau they had shared.

'Apparently, during a luau, I may have had too much to drink and I may have in a delirious state... Hit on her sirefriend.'

"Holly, may I ask you something?"

"Sure, what is it?"

You swallowed hard, hoping that your friendship with Holly wouldn't be fractured by your question.

"Why are you upset with Jag?"

Holly stopped walking, her gaze turned downward toward the sand.

"Was it that obvious?"

You nodded, "She thinks you hate her."

Holly's head shot up toward you, a shocked expression on her face, "What? She thinks that? I don't hate her..."

Once more Holly's head lowered.

"...I'm afraid of her."

"Why?"

Looking back up, Holly considered your inquiry. Then slowly she reached down and began to untie the wraps around her arms. As she did this, you realized that not once had you seen Holly without them. As the wrappings came off it became very clear why.

Holly flinched as the flesh underneath was revealed. Pink scars were positioned on her arms to reveal numerous jagged teeth marks.

"At the last luau we had been on," Holly began to explain, "Jag had had a lot to drink. A lot more than usual. We were walking along the beach, like you and I are now, when I voiced my concerns to her, however she wouldn't listen. At one point I had stepped on a sharp shell or rock, and started bleeding. It was then that she... Changed..."

"Changed?"

"Yes!" Holly began to cry. "She wasn't herself anymore! She lunged at me and all I could do was ward her off with my arms! After punching her in the nose, I managed to run away! Then... The next day she acted like it never happened!"

Holly covered her eyes with her paws, tears streaming down her cheeks.

"I'm sorry," you apologized, "I had no idea."

Your heart felt heavy at the revelation. As you tried to comfort Holly, a thought occurred to you.

"So this had nothing to do with Jag hitting on your sirefriend."

"No," Holly sniffled, "why?"

"That's what Jag told me," you answered, "she thought you were mad at her because she had hit on Hammer."

"No. Hammer and I mutually broke up because he was moving to the mainland and we didn't think we could maintain a long distance relationship."

Your heart felt sick, having to listen to Holly sob. There was no words you could think of that could comfort her, all you could do was stand next to her and place a supporting hoof on her arm. Moments later you were shocked to find yourself trapped in the middle of a tight hug, wet tears dripping down your shoulder. While a part of you wanted to push free, you weren't sure how Holly might interpret your actions, so instead you tried your best to return the embrace.

"Will you be okay?" You asked.

"Yes," Holly sniffled, "thank you so much for listening."

"No, I'm sorry. I really shouldn't have pushed the issue."

Holly released the hug and began rubbing tears from her eyes with a paw.

"It's fine," Holly answered, "I've been holding onto that for a while now. Not even my family knows what happened."

Slowly, Holly rewrapped her arms and put on the best face she could.

"I think it's time we called it a night." Holly said.

With aching hearts you went back the way you came, to the site of the luau.

You felt exhausted as you stepped into your hotel room. The Ultra-Fetch game, the luau and your discussion with Holly had really worn you out. As you made your way to the bed, you saw your familiar friend, the gecko. He was sitting next to the shark plushie Jag had purchased for you, watching you from atop of the broken television.

For a brief moment, you ignored the intrusive gecko and walked over to the radio and turned it on. As the music played you went over and threw yourself onto the bed.

"That was Crystalline Sphinx and their new single, Unbroken," DJ Sharp's voice came over the radio, "before we start our next song, I was informed that there will be a storm tomorrow evening. So get home early or bring a raincoat."

You hadn't really anticipated any stormy weather when you had packed for this trip, so it would probably be wise to try to buy a coat tomorrow. While you were sure that Holly's family might just give you one, you didn't really want to impose.

"Next up, we have the hit classic, Endangered Zone," DJ Sharp announced as the music returned.

This further reminded you of the conundrum at hoof. There was DJ Sharp, whom you now knew was Jag who had apparently bitten Holly a few weeks ago. As a result, Holly had distanced herself. Meanwhile Jag seemed to have no knowledge of having bitten her friend and instead believed Holly was being bitter over another event entirely. And in the span of three days both of them had become your friends.

"What can I do?" You asked yourself out loud.

Looking up, you saw the gecko sitting there, observing you from beside his stuffed friend, their eyes blinking very slowly.

"So what do you think," you asked, "do you have any ideas on what I should do?"

The gecko gave you a blank stare, almost as if trying to remind you that it couldn't talk to you even if it wanted to. Even if it could, it wasn't like he could read your mind anyway. Of course, you hadn't expected the gecko to say anything, but there was nothing wrong with trying. After all, in a world where chimera, monstrous hybrids and shark ponies exist, you wouldn't be surprised if there was a mind reading gecko out there somewhere.

"If only I could get them to talk to one another in a civil manner."

Tired and uncertain how to proceed, you pulled yourself under the covers and went to bed. Perhaps in your slumber, Princess Luna would deliver to you the answers you were looking for.

Day 4 - Kaumaha

All around you, there was water. It was dark and cold, sapping the heat from your coat. Even as you swam in the deep, you could feel something else moving through the water. The sound of the swirling currents filled your ears.

With no way to see in the darkness, you cast a light spell to illuminate the water around you. Due to the density of the water, the light of your magic didn't spread far, only just long enough to confirm your fears, as a gray tail disappeared into the surrounding darkness.

You watched wide eyed as you watched a shadow moving through the darkness. Slowly it moved past you, just enough to pass through your light, revealing its form. Your heart froze as Jag swam into view, her mouth opened wide, teeth bared, the pupils of her eyes dilated, filled with a primal hunger that would make a dragon sweat.

This wasn't Jag. It looked like her, but this beast was something else entirely. It was Jag ripped clean of all the things that made up her personality, replaced by the hunter instincts of an ancient killing machine.

Once more Jag vanished into the deep, bubbles trailing her as she moved. You keep watching the darkness, looking out for her shadow. Seeing some bubbles drifting upwards you tried to swim to the surface, however even as you ascended all you could see was darkness. Occasionally you would see Jag pass through the light, not enough to see her, just enough to know that she was still hunting you.

Then in a flash you saw something swooping in out of the corner of your vision. Turning you watched a rows of sharp teeth advanced toward you, ready to bite into your flesh. You tried lifting your hooves but they were slow to respond in this frigid water.

Yet before the maw could take a bite out of you the world came to a halt. It was as if time had stopped by itself.

"You seem to be troubled, my subject." a regal, feminine voice filled the watery void.

A glowing blue doorway appeared in the depths and a pony stepped through; a tall blue alicorn with a flowing mane filled with the stars. While you hadn't had the privilege to see her in person, you knew the mare before you was none other than the princess of the moon herself.

The princess walked through the water with ease, focusing her attention to the primal shark mare that was the centerpiece of your nightmare.

"She is an odd one." Princess Luna said, "Though I have a feeling you know her. Am I correct?"

You would have replied, but you were still frozen in the dream.

"Oh, yes let me fix that."

With a wave of a hoof, the entire scene evaporated into a sea of stars. As a result you landed on your hooves, on the invisible space that served as a floor.

"Let's take this to my study if you don't mind."

Luna proceeded to walk toward a wooden door that had materialized in the dreamscape. Her horn glowing a soft blue as she turned the knob, opening the door and gesturing for you to step inside. You were so awestruck by the turn of events that it took a moment for your legs to register that they needed to move.

Stepping through the doorway, you found yourself in a large room, with wooden floors, dark blue walls and a skylight overhead, revealing a star filled night sky with the moon at its center. Occasionally glowing shapes resembling yellow fish would pass by the skylight window. Bookshelves covered portions of the walls along with a few bust showing the faces of a few famous star gazers, chiseled into stone. There was also a wooden railing, with a set of stairs leading down to another area with a desk and two large chairs, both of which were facing toward a fireplace. The orange and yellow flames within served as a warm contrast to the rest of the room.

"Please take a seat," Luna said, "I will be with you shortly."

You obeyed the princess's orders right, descending into the main study and sitting down in one of the chairs. Meanwhile, Luna went through a door off to the side and disappeared for a moment.

As you sat, you decided to examine your surroundings a little further. Above the fireplace was a painting showing Princess Luna and Princess Celestia sitting next to one another. On the mantle above the fire, were various models of the moon.

After a moment, Princess Luna returned, wearing a purple bathrobe and carrying a tray with a teapot and two cups. As Luna sat down in the chair opposite of you a small table appeared, for the tray to rest on.

"Would you like some tea?" Luna asked, "don't worry, you're still sleeping and the tea shouldn't wake you from your slumber, just help you relax from your nightmarish ordeal."

"Uh, thank you."

A cup was poured for each of you, before being levitated to their respective owners. Taking a sip of your tea, you noticed the flavor of lavender with just a slight undertone of ginseng.

As you sat there and observed Luna in her relaxed state, you couldn't help but notice that she looked cute in this casual manner. Wearing the purple silk bathrobe and no longer adorned by her royal jewelry, Luna was quite alluring.

Luna noticed your gaze and smiled, "Oh, don't mind this. Let's just say I was about to retire when I noticed your plight. Now enlighten me on the little nightmare you were having."

Thankful for the distraction you began to recall the nightmare, Luna had rescued you from.

"Well, I was underwater and my friend... Was swimming around me, except she wasn't herself."

"How so?"

"Well, like you saw she was more bestial," you responded, "I've never seen her like that."

"Then why did you dream of it?"

You took another sip of the tea. "Recently a friend of mine who used to be one of her friends, told me of something like this happening."

Luna raised a hoof, "Why don't you tell me the names of these friends. It will make things easier, besides what happens here stays here."

Taking a deep breath you complied, "Jagged Nibble, or Jag as she likes to be addressed, was the shark pony in my dream. Recently I have become friends with both her and Holly. Holly is a diamond dog I have meet during my visit in the Haywaiian islands. Apparently they used to be friends at one point, however it sounds like Jag may have bitten Holly and now she feels she can't trust her."

"That seems fair," Luna said, "if someone attacks you it only makes sense that one would be more interested in protecting themselves then relying on the one who caused such wounds."

"The thing is, I don't know if Jag even knows she harmed Holly. Holly says Jag acted like she didn't remember and Jag believes the rift was caused because she accidentally hit on Holly's sirefriend."

"Sirefriend you say..."

"Uh, yes."

It seemed a little odd that Luna would take interest in that particular word. Luna shook her head as if trying to refocus, before taking a deep sip of her tea and clearing her throat.

"Do you have a reason to doubt either of them?" Luna asked.

"No, they both seem to be pretty genuine."

Luna took another sip of her tea.

"So if Jag did indeed attack your friend, Holly, then is there anything you can think of that might cause her to forget?"

You pondered this question and you did recall something Holly had said. 'At the last luau we had been on, Jag had had a lot to drink. A lot more than usual. We were walking along the beach, like you and I are now, when I voiced my concerns to her, however she wouldn't listen.' In fact, it seemed like Jag enjoyed drinking a lot. After hanging out with her, you had the hangover to prove it.

"She does drink quite a bit." You answered.

Luna stroked her chin with a hoof.

"That could certainly be the cause of her forgetfulness," Luna pondered, "do you know anything about Jag's past?"

"Nothing really. All she told me was that apparently she and two other shark ponies washed ashore one day."

"Hmm..." Luna resumed scratching her chin. As she sat there, considering what you had said, a thought came to mind. Perhaps Luna could help fill in the blanks.

"Is it possible that you could perhaps look into her dreams and..."

"No!" Princess Luna said bluntly, "If I were to share the dreams of one of my subjects with another without permission I would be breaking the trust my subjects place in me. No, I am afraid you will have to figure that out on your own."

You took a deep breath as you acknowledged Luna's statement. You knew full well that you wouldn't want some of your dreams or nightmares shared with others, so clearly it would be wrong to expect that to be ignored for your account. With a nod you agreed with her objection.

"Yeah, you're right. I suppose that was a pretty dumb question to ask."

Luna craned her head to the side, a small smile on her lips.

"You really care about them, don't you?"

"Well, they're my friends," you replied, "so I would like to help them before I return from my trip."

"Well, you now have an idea what might be the source of the problem." Luna smiled. "That is a place to start at least."

"Yeah, I suppose you're right."

Suddenly a romantic jazz tube started to play in the room. In your confusion, you looked around and realized that you were not alone.

Stepping forth from the shadows was a muscular looking diamond dog with brown fur and bright amber eyes. Around his neck was a lei of red flowers and held between his teeth by the stem was a single rose. Pink and white rose pedals followed in his wake and despite all the flowers he exuded the fragrance of pure masculinity.

"Hello my dear." The newcomer said in a sultry voice, before offering the rose to Luna.

"Kanene!" Luna exclaimed, "What did I tell you about showing up while I am talking with one of my subjects?"

"Luna dear, don't you remember? It's time for our... appointment."

Hearing Luna state the newcomer's name, a realization occurred to you as you remembered something Holly had said during the Ultra-Fetch game yesterday.

"Hey, isn't Kanene, the Haywaiian god of the sun," you inquired, "as well as fertility?"

A bright pink blush filled Luna's face, indicating that there might be some truth to the matter.

"I think it is time you woke up now."

Before you could say anything more, you found yourself sprawled out on your bed. An electric jazz tune played over the radio. While you pay there, a part of hoped it had happened and another part of you hoped that what you had experienced was just a really weird dream brought on by the music you coming over the radio. As you lay there, you wondered if perhaps the weird dream was brought on by a combination of the music and the fish you had eaten during the luau.

Looking toward the contraption, you noticed the gecko sitting next to you on the bed.

"Oh, for crying out loud!"

"What do you think?" You asked as you posed in the new, dark green rain coat you had just purchased.

Holly nodded, "I think it suits you well."

Your heart seemed to swell with the complement, possibly two sizes. No doubt the byproduct of having a unicorn's ego.

Holly was herself wearing a bright yellow raincoat.

"So what is the plan for today?" You inquired.

"Today I thought I would show you the Gemstone Harbor memorial," Holly answered, "it is a historical landmark for our people, so I thought you might find it interesting."

"Indeed. Will it be a long walk from here?"

Holly giggled, "Yes, if we were to walk there. Fortunately there is another method of transportation here on the islands."

You followed Holly to a long building, with the words, HOWL Tran Transit. Stepping inside you found yourself in a train station similar to the one you used often to move between Ponyville and Canterlot, and once to the Crystal Empire. It was a fond memory for you.

"Somethings aren't so different." You said, a slight twinge of remorse in your tone.

"What?" Holly asked, confused by your statement.

"Oh, sorry," you apologized, "this station is just awfully similar to the one I ride back home."

Holly smiled, "I'm glad you like it. We should probably stand in line, if we want to make it there before the rain gets too bad."

"Yeah."

It didn't take long for you and Holly to get your tickets and to be seated on the train. Even with it sprinkling lightly outside the scenery was gorgeous. The lush foliage standing as a light contrast to the rain clouds overhead. The scene reminded you of the last time you rode a train to a new and unfamiliar region.

"I'm sure Amble would love to see this."

"Amble?" Holly asked, "Who's Amble?"

It was then that you realized you had spoken your thoughts out loud.

"Well, it's a bit of a long story," you answered, "she's somepony I meet one day when I overslept on a train ride. While I did miss my stop, Amble was able to keep me company for the remainder of the ride."

Holly smiled, "It sounds like she must be a very nice mare."

"Yeah, she is."

After a half hour, you reached your destination. Exiting the train, you passed through Gemstone City, before catching a boat with a few other tourists, which moved out to a large white structure that appeared to have been anchored above the water. As the vessel approached it's destination you noticed that the surrounding water had changed color, turning from its regular crystalline blue to a dark purplish color.

Once the ship docked, Holly and you made your way off the boat and into the structure. The interior showed maps and models of various diamond dog war vessels that had fought long ago.

"This memorial," Holly explained, "was built over the ruins of the Arizonorwich, one of the many vessels that fought against the Storm King when he lay siege to the islands."

There was a map and a model that showed the span of the vessel when it still sailed on the water, as well as the wreckage of what remained. According to one of the displaces on the wall more than two thousand diamond dog sailors and soldiers died when the Arizonorwich was destroyed.

Holly made her way to an outer observation area and you followed. Here the water was a dark, sickly purple with a rainbow sheen on the surface.

"The water here is still contaminated by the amount of gem fuel leaking from the destroyed vessels," Holly explained, "while there are a few trying to figure out how to either gather the fuel or safely disperse it, for now we can merely contain it."

You could recall how gem fuel was made from some research you had made for a previous novel. From what you could gather, magical gems we're melted down into a thick sludge, which could then be processed by a gem engine. While it was an efficient source of energy, it could be a hazardous mess to clean up. Being a magical substance, it was even difficult for magic to contain.

"It's so dark." You said, pointing a hoof to the murky water.

"Yes, the fuel continues to leak from the damaged tanks," Holly explained, "it chokes the life from any fish the swim inside and even if the water was clean enough for the fish, these waters are sacred to our people. The blood of our brothers and sisters were spilled here."

"From what I've seen of this land, it has had it's hardships, however that just makes its beauty that much brighter."

"Can't the same be said for the mainland," Holly asked, "we hear of the various monsters and villains that plague it every now and then."

You pondered what Holly said and smiled.

"I suppose you're right."

Stepping back inside, Holly directed you to the back of the structure where a large, marble wall was erected. Carved into its surface was a series of names. With a paw, Holly pointed at one of the names.

"My great aunt, was stationed here during the conflict." Holly explained.

Stepping closer to the wall, you examined the name, Holly had pointed out. Lily.

After observing the names of the fallen, Holly and you made your way back to the town of Haikuvasz. The journey was peaceful and you enjoyed watching the scenery pass by with the light drizzle.

"So what's the plan when we return back to town?" You asked.

"There might be a restaurant we can go to," Holly answered, "I know this one place that serves great food."

"Just as long as it isn't just fish." You said, remembering the weird dream you had.

Upon leaving the train, you saw the weather outside and donned your hood in preparation for the wet weather. Stepping out of the train station, you were surprised to see an angry looking Jag waiting for Holly and you.

"Holly, we need to talk!" Jag growled.

Taking a deep breath, Holly straightened herself and stepped forward. "What do you want, Jagged?"

First off, it's Jag," Jag growled, "Second, I think it is time you got over it!"

"Over what?"

"Don't play dumb with me," Jag barked, "I have apologized countless times for hitting on your sirefriend! It was an accidental! Why won't you forgive me?"

"That isn't the reason I am upset with you!" Holly yelled.

A crowd began to gather around the three of you, drawn to the commotion that was being made.

The expression on Jag's face became that of confusion, "Then why won't you hang out with me?"

"Do you really not remember?"

"Remember what?"

Pulling up the sleeves of her raincoat, Holly began to unwrap her bandages.

"You don't have to do this." You whispered, knowing how humiliating this must be for her.

"No, I do," Holly answered, "I'm tired of hiding this."

With the scars on her arms revealed, Holly presented them to Jag. "Do you not remember doing this?"

Jag was mortified by the sight of the scars, before shaking her head in disbelief.

"No... No, I couldn't have done that! You're lying!"

Jag made a few steps closer, the slight scent of alcohol becoming apparent as she drew near.

"I'm not lying, Jag!" Holly replied, "We were walking on the beach after the luau. I was talking to you about your drinking, when you went feral and attacked me!"

"Why?" Jag yelled, "Why would I attack you?"

Raising her foreleg to make a gesture, Jag's hoof hit you in your weak spot. Your nose. The pain washed through your skull and a taste of iron touched the back of your tongue.

As blood trickled from your nose, you caught a sight of Jag and for a moment your heart froze. Slowly Jag's lips pulled back revealing rows of sharp teeth, her pupils dilating to massive black disks. Sniffing the air, Jag stepped closer, her jaw opening wide as saliva dripped from her muzzle.

"Jag?"

There was no response, only the gradual approach of death. It was that primal hunger that you had seen in the dream the night before. Those two starving eyes focused completely on you.

It was in that moment, that Holly stepped in front of you, using her body as a shield.

"Jag! Stop!" Holly barked.

Rage filled the shark mare's eyes at the sight of somepony standing between her and her prey. Her posture lowered for a brief moment before Jag pounced forward, pushing Holly to the ground. Jag glared down at the diamond dog beneath her. It was then that the shark pony stopped in her tracks, Jag's eyes returning to normal as her face took on a horrified expression.

Among the crowd was the sound of fear and horror. A few of them fled from the scene, some stood there watching the scene in shock and there was one mare who actually fainted. Jag stepped back off of Holly, a look of dread etched across her face.

"I... I..."

Before you could say anything, Jag ran away, the crowd parting in her wake as she fled. For a moment you just stood there, watching as Holly pulled herself from the ground.

"Are you okay?" You asked.

Holly shook her head, a tear rolling down her cheek.

"I... I don't know."

You felt tired. Physically you were fine, but on an emotional level you felt exhausted. The confrontation between Holly and Jag weighed heavily on you. After the conflict Jag had run off and Holly said she wasn't feeling very hungry, so you decided to just return to your hotel room and jot down some notes.

After taking off the rain coat you decided to end the silence and turn on some music. As you walked over to the table, you turned on the radio only to discover static on Jag's channel.

"Well, that's weird."

You adjusted the antenna on the radio, but had no luck. Changing the channel, most of the other stations seemed to come through with very little static. Could this be caused by the storm?

"What's going on?"

A part of you worried that perhaps this was the result of Jag and Holly's argument at the station. While you were considering this, you heard a knock at the door. Walking over to the door, you looked through the peephole to see an anxious Fleur de Lis fidgeting on the other side. You opened the door.

"Hey Fleur, is everything alright?"

"Is Jag here?" Fleur asked.

"No, she isn't," you answered, "is something wrong?"

Fleur's mood became more distraught.

"Jag was supposed to meet us in town earlier today. However, she never showed up. We went by the docks and her ship is there, however she wasn't. My husband and I have been looking everywhere for her."

"Have you checked any of the bars?"

It made sense that after her fight with Holly, that Jag may have gone off to someplace to drink.

Fleur shook her head, "We've looking at a few of her regular spots, however nopony seems to know where she is."

Now that worried you. From what you had gathered from your time with her, Jag loved the nightclub scene and drinking. So the fact that she had just up and disappeared was greatly disturbing.

'Could this be my fault?'

"If she comes by here, can you try to keep her preoccupied," Fleur asked, "at least until the storm has passed?"

"I will certainly try."

"Thank you." Fleur gave you a note with a phone number on it. "Please call this number if you find her."

As Fleur resumed her search, you closed the door and pondered what could have happened to your new friend. Your brain hurt as you tried to recall what you had learned about the shark pony over the past few days. Sitting down you stared at the shark plushie that Jagged Nibble had bought for you, serving as a memento of your time together.

You thought back to the first time the both of you met in the fish market and the time you had spent with Fancy Pants and Fleur on Jag's boat. It was when you pondering that day, that you remembered something.

'You see that? That is Spotter's Point! It is a nice place to sit and relax if you ever feel like it.'

'Have you been there before?'

'From time to time. It is a place I like to go when I'm feeling upset.'

"Spotter's point!"

Jumping off the bed, you began looking through the souvenirs you had gather over the past few days. Within seconds you found the map you had purchased at the open air marketplace. Setting it out on the table, you unrolled it and proceeded to search for Spotter's Point. A smile stretched across your face as you found it.

"There you are!"

Throwing on your raincoat, you picked up the map with your magic and placed it in one of your pockets. There was no time to waste, if Jag was out there in the storm she could be in serious danger. So against your better judgement, you made your way out into the rain in search of your friend.

The rain was coming down heavy as you made your way up the hill, to the spot you had marked on the map. Your journey had been a wet and muddy one, with only a few signs serving as your aid to your destination.

"This was a really stupid idea."

There was no guarantee that Jag would be here. In fact, it was very possible that Jag could have already made her way back to her boat or some other place for shelter. All you had to go on was this hunch and it could very likely result in your demise.

As you drew closer to the top a sound caught your attention. It was barely audible over the wind and the rain, however you were sure you heard it. It sounded like somepony was laughing... or crying. Perhaps both. With your resolution restored you started moving toward the noise.

Soon the view of the shrubbery and trees gave way to a small outcropping overlooking the ocean. There was a small rock positioned as a seat to look out over the waves and on the sat a lonely figure. The shark like tail reaffirming who it might be. The closer you got the more audible that sound became.

"Jag are you okay?"

Turning to face, you was an upset looking Jag, an unopened bottle resting between her forehooves. Her cheeks were wet, though whither it was because she was crying or because of the rain, you couldn't tell.

"Hey, there," Jag called out, a sorrowful laughter in her tone, "did you come out here to see the monster?"

Monster? Even with all you had witnessed earlier today, you wouldn't call her a monster. When you were younger, you could recall reading about how sharks are enticed by the scent of blood. In the ocean, blood means death and for the shark it is their duty in nature to follow that smell and bring that struggling creature to its end. Even while she was part pony, Jag was also part shark and in a moment of weakness she had given into her base instincts.

"Uh, no?"

Jag sniffled, "Oh, there is no need to lie. I already know I'm a failure. I already know that I can't do anything right."

Looking around the scene, you managed to noticed that there were a few other empty bottles lying about next to Jag on the rock.

"That's not true."

"Oh, yes it is!" Jag retorted, "Three of us showed up on the beach. Two females and one male and he picked her over me! Then I start making friends here on the island and I have to buck that up too. I couldn't even remember what I did. Not until today, not until I nearly repeated it!"

Jag looked down at the bottle almost as if pondering whether or not she should pop off the cork and drink it's contents.

"But you didn't," you replied, "you stopped yourself."

"Only because Holly got in my way!"

After giving the bottle another look, Jag stood up from the rock and walked over to the edge of the outcropping. The bottle still clutched between her hooves. Your heart froze in your chest.

"Sometimes I wonder if everypony would be better off if I was gone. Maybe if I just returned to the sea then everypony would be happy."

"Don't say that!" You moved closer to your friend. "There are plenty who would miss you if you were gone!"

"Really! Name one!"

You pondered what Jag was saying, before answering.

"Well, there is Fleur and to some extent her husband, Fancy Pants! They were searching for you in town!"

Jag continued to look over the edge.

"And while I know she is upset, I am sure Holly would miss you too!"

Jag sniffled. You felt a lump in your throat as your next answer came to mind.

"And I... I would miss you too, Jag!"

Turning her head, Jag gave you a confused look, "What?"

"Both you and Holly have shown me the beauty of these islands," you replied, "two separate viewpoints of the same location. You can't just disappear! If you did... then our time together would lose all its joy."

You reached out a hoof, motioning for Jag to come away from the edge.

"Please, stay... for me at least."

Jag eyed your hoof, her expression gradually changing from uncertainty to soft whimpering. Lip trembling, Jag spun around and with a terrible cry, she flung the bottle over the cliff into the sea.

Slowly Jag walked over, her tears becoming more apparent despite the rain. Without saying a word, Jag embraced you and started crying into your shoulder. Sharing the embrace, you patted Jag on the back. Soon Jag's sobbing slowed and her body went limp.

"I'm so... Tired." Jag said sounding very sleepy.

Placing her foreleg over your shoulder, you began to walk Jag back to your hotel.

With some difficulty you managed to escort Jag to your room. It didn't help that she had fallen asleep most of the way there or that her tail was so large. For as slim as she appeared, Jag was quite heavy. You grunted as you hoisted Jag onto the bed.

As Jag lay asleep on the bed, you took the opportunity to catch your breath, your lungs and muscles sore from the whole venture.

"Well, now that you're safe, I should probably try to call Fleur to keep her informed."

Jag didn't react, instead just snoring away in her slumber. Not that you had expected any other response.

Walking over to the phone, you dialed Fleur's number. The phone rang twice before Fleur picked up.

"Hello?"

"Hey Fleur," you answered, "I found Jag."

"Is she okay?"

"She's a little drunk and emotionally exhausted. I currently have her back at my place."

"Stay there. According to the news, the storm is pretty bad and won't go away until later."

Having already been out in the nightmare of a storm, you knew it was bad and had no intention of returning to those conditions.

"Don't worry. We aren't going anywhere."

"Alright, thank you for finding her," Fleur said, "I'll come by tomorrow and check on both of you."

"Okay, thank you."

After hanging up the phone, you considered what to do. Jag looked very peaceful sleeping on the bed.

While it was tempting to try to go to sleep in your bed, you were pretty sure that Jag wouldn't appreciate it. You already two dreams with Jag biting you and you had no intention of making that a reality.

Instead you walked over and picked up the edge of the bed sheet, lifting it over Jag's slender form as you tucked her into bed. As you did Jag stirred.

"No..."

You stopped, worried that you had disturbed Jag's slumber.

"White... Rooms..."

Something about the way Jag said those words made you feel uneasy.

Having covered Jag, you walked over to the table and sat down in the chair. You would think that it should be easy to fall asleep like this, considering how you could just fall asleep while writing at your desk back home.

Setting your head down on the table, you closed your eyes and tried to sleep. The sound of the rain splattering against the window gradually lulling you into a deep sleep.

Day 5 - A Hui Hou

With a grunt, you awoke to find yourself, slumped over onto the table, a puddle of drool next to your face. Instinctively you pulled away in revulsion before looking around, praying to Celestia that nopony had noticed the mess you made. Fortunately, you were back at your hotel room and the only other person in the room was still lying unconscious in your bed.

After cleaning up your mess, you walked over to the telephone and called for room service.

"If you could just bring two cups and a whole lot of coffee," you ordered over the phone.

With your order made you walked back over to the edge of the bed and looked over Jag. The shark pony seemed to be at peace, slumbering beneath the sheets. It was such a shame that you were going to have to disturb her. You uttered a silent prayer, hoping that Jag would forgive you for what you were about to do.

Walking over to the window you pulled open the curtains, allowing the rays of the sun to come bursting through.

"Time to get up!" You said loudly.

Jag groaned, placing a hoof over her brow to ward off the light.

"My bucking head," Jag growled, "what are you doing on my boat?"

"We're not on your boat," you replied, "you here at my place."

Looking around the room, Jag's eyes went wide at the realization that she was in a stranger's hotel room. Slowly Jag glared at you with menacing eyes.

"You didn't take advantage of me, did you?" Jag growled.

"No, not at all," you said, shaking your head, "I just brought you back here because of the storm."

Jag eyed you a little longer, before giving a sorrowful nod, "Thank you."

You were certain that she was upset from the events that transpired yesterday.

There was a knock at the door that instantly caused Jag to cringe and clutch her forehead. Answering the door you saw the hotels receptionist stand there with a wooden tray, bearing a large pot of coffee and two white ceramic cups.

"Thank you, kindly." You said as you took the tray. The receptionist gave you a nod before leaving.

Bring the tray over to the table, you proceeded to pour two cups, one for yourself and one for the hungover shark mare. After filling her cup, you presented it to Jag.

"Drink up."

Jag took a sip and coughed, "It's black!"

"Of course it is," you answered, "that's the best cure for a hangover."

Jag let out an annoyed growl but continued to drink anyway. You slowly drank your cup as you watched her gulp hers down.

"That's disgusting!" Jag protested.

Instead of being offended by this statement, you choose to take Jag's cup and refill it.

"What did I do to deserve this treatment?" Jag chuckled, taking the cup.

As she sat there drinking in bed, you remembered something that Jag had said the night before. It might have just been a nightmare she was having, still you felt it was important to ask.

"What are the white rooms?"

Jag stopped cold, sweat dripping down her brow in response to your question. Her eyes burned into you as dread slowly turned to anger.

"How'd you find out about that?"

"You mentioned it while you were sleeping."

Jag watched you for a moment, her eyes red enough to burn a hole in your skull. Gradually her anger waned and her gaze drifted to the window.

"Neither of the other Aumakanni remember it," Jag answered, "but I still remember pieces of it. Of waking up in the white rooms, continually prodded by needles, giving and taking fluids as they pleased. The constant pain and agony as they used me."

"So it wasn't just a nightmare you've been having."

"I wish it was," Jag answered, "at least then it might go away. However even when I'm awake, I still remember."

"Is that why you started drinking?"

Jag looked down at her cup.

"Yeah and for a while it worked," Jag said, "however it seems like it takes more and more just to hold them off."

Hearing this you wondered if maybe this was part of the reason why Jag had been acting feral recently. One of the side effects of alcohol was that it weakened the parts of the brain that inhibited certain behaviors. This was why a stallion who was afraid of dancing might just step out on stage and dance after having a few drinks.

In Jag's case it was her shark instincts that were being inhibited, only to be set loose under certain conditions when she was under the influence of alcohol.

"Have you told anypony else about this?" You asked.

Jag shook her head, "I tried talking with the other Aumakanni, but they both looked at me as if I was crazy. I guess I thought everypony would treat me like that if they knew."

"I think you should give it a try. You stated yourself that the drinking isn't solving the problem. In fact, I think it might be what's been causing you to act so... Feral, recently."

Jag winced at the word. Admittedly you weren't too fond of it, hut it was really the best way to describe it.

"Even if I stop drinking, what about my memories of... That place?"

You let out a deep sigh, "I don't know, but clearly you can't fight it on your own. You are going to need to talk to somepony about it."

The room fell silent as Jag sat there, pondering what you had said. Taking a final sip, Jag brandished the empty cup to you, which you proceeded to refill.

"So what do I do about Holly?" Jag asked.

"Why not just apologize to her?" You answered, "I'm sure she would understand."

Jag shook her head, "No, I doubt she would even want to see me, considering what I've put her through."

Personally you weren't sure if that was true or not. Considering how Holly acted after the incident yesterday, you couldn't discern if she would want to see Jag again or want nothing to do with her.

Slowly Jag pulled herself out from under the bed sheets.

"I think I would like to clean up. Can I use your shower?" Jag asked.

"Sure. Go ahead."

You watched as Jag made her way into the hotel bathroom. Shortly after the door closed, you could hear the shower come on. As you sat there, you considered what Jag had said. Was there possibly a way to give Jag to opportunity to apologize to Holly, and if so, would she accept it?

The sound of somepony knocking on your door distracted you from your train of thought. Standing up, you made your way to the door and looking through the peep-hole and saw Fleur on the other side. Without hesitating, you opened the door and faced her. "Hello."

"Where is Jag?" Fleur asked, "Is she alright?"

"She's fine," you replied, "she is in the shower right now."

Fleur gave you a quizzical look, “Did you two share a bed?”

"No," you answered, "she had the bed and I slept in the chair."

Fleur's stern expression changed to that of confusion, "Don't you have a couch in your room?"

"Both my back and I wish it were so," you answered, "Apparently the Cracked Coconut Hotels rooms come with the bare necessities. Even the TV doesn't work."

"I'm sorry to hear that."

"It's fine. That's what I get for having my publisher make hotel arrangements."

This elicited a light chuckle from Fleur. It was then that a thought occurred to you.

"Hey Fleur, do you think you can help me with something?"

"That depends on what you're asking."

"Well, Jag sort of made a mistake," you explained, "she wants to apologize to Holly, however because of certain circumstances she doesn't feel like Holly will want to speak with her. Do you have any ideas on how we could resolve this issue?"

Placing a hoof on her chin, Fleur began pondering your inquiry. Here eyes glancing upward for a moment before a smile graced her lips.

"I have an idea," Fleur said, "however I will need you to buy me and hour."

"I'm sure I can figure something out," you replied, "what is the plan?"

"Try to spend some time with Jag for an hour, then bring her to Turtle Beach. Oh! But she needs to be blindfolded!"

"Blindfolded?"

"Yeah, for the surprise."

"A surprise?"

"Yes," Fleur groaned, a little frustrated, "Turtle Beach is said to be a place of rebirth. Having both Holly and Jag meet there could function as the perfect way to restart their friendship. Don't you get it?"

You nodded, "I think I understand now."

"Okay, well I best be going then."

Having finished her plotting, Fleur went on her way. After closing the door, you went to your suitcase to see if there was anything that could function as a blindfold. Looking through your luggage you managed to find a black tie that could be used. You shook your head.

"Why did Fleur have to make me grab the blindfold?"

You heard the shower being turn off and shortly after Jag emerged from the bathroom, drying her mane with a towel.

"I think your shower is broken," Jag said, "the water was very cold."

Yeah, almost like everything else in this hotel. Looking over at the window sill you saw the gecko looking back at you, almost as if it were mocking you. Clearing your thoughts you turned back to Jag.

"Hey is there anywhere you would like to go?" You asked, remembering that you had to keep Jag preoccupied for an hour.

Jag was about to say something, before frowning.

"Sadly most of the fun places I know of involve alcohol."

"What about music?" You asked, "Don't you purchase music for you radio channel."

"Yeah, though most of it I have exported from the mainland." Jag answered.

"I see..."

This didn't seem to be working. Furthermore, given enough time there was a chance that Jag might figure out was going on. It was then that you remembered a little treat that you were fond of from time to time.

"How about some ice cream?" You inquired, "Surely there is a place that sells ice cream here on the islands."

Jag thought for a moment and smiled, "I think I might know a place."

The journey to the ice cream shop was an uneasy one. A few of the ponies and diamond dogs gave Jag odd looks, no doubt having witnessed or hearing about, the scene at the train station yesterday. Jag gave you a nervous glance, which you returned with a reassuring smile.

"Don't worry," you assured her, "everything will be fine."

The establishment, Jag brought you to was called the Haywaiian Brain Freeze, which boasted of having the best ice cream in all the Haywaiian Isles. It was a booth with a few tables out front, open to the elements. Both of you walked up to the audaciously yellow ice cream shop.

"So what type of ice cream will you be having?" You asked.

"I think I'll have the bubblegum flavor," Jag answered. "What about you?"

You looked over the board, at the various ice cream flavors that the shop had available. Out of all of them, one particular flavor seemed to catch your eye.

"I think I'll try the pineapple ice cream."

Jag raised an eyebrow.

"What? It sounds interesting!"

The eyebrow lowered and Jag just smiled.

"Oh, go right ahead."

There was something about that smile, like Jag was going to enjoy the outcome of this decision more than you would. Like she was challenging you to buy that flavor.

"I will." You grumbled.

After the two cups of ice cream were purchased, Jag and you walked over to one of the tables and sat down. A few of the other customers gave Jag strange looks from their tables. In response Jag seemed to focus her attention on you and the delicious treat in front of her.

Taking your plastic spoon you proceeded to scoop up a bit of your ice cream and ate it. It was... Sweet... Like too sweet. It was definitely pineapple, pushed to the maximum, it's strong flavor overwhelming your mouth.

Jag snickered in response to the reaction you made with your first bite. Slightly embarrassed by her action, you frowned and took another bite of the extremely sweet ice cream. Perhaps it would be a good time for a distraction.

"So, I know your mane was inspired, but," you inquired, "what about your piercings and collar?"

"Well, in my research many of the ponies who take on a punkish style have piercings like this," Jag answered, "as for my collar... Holly's family gave it to me."

The reminder of Holly seemed to make Jag sad. Sullenly she took a bite of her ice cream. Time for another question.

"Do you like your piercings?"

The new inquiry seemed to cheer Jag up a bit. Her frown turning into a toothy smile.

"I do. In fact I'm actually considering having my tail fin pierced."

"Wouldn't that inhibit your ability to swim?"

"Yeah, if it was riddled with holes it might cause trouble," Jag replied, "however a few piercings shouldn't have that large an effect. I'm also thinking of getting a tattoo."

"You don't say."

Jag beamed from ear to ear.

"I heard on the mainland there are some places you can buy a glow in the dark tattoo," Jag said excitedly, "though I would prefer one with fluorescence. That way it would glow in the dark under a black light, like at the club, but not deep underwater when I am dive fishing."

You could recall, Jag talking about how she liked to fish with her teeth when she was alone.

"I was wondering what is the biggest fish you've caught?"

Jag held out both her forelegs and stretched them as far as she could.

"I once caught a swordfish that was twice this long!"

You chuckled at the gesture, not too sure if she was being totally honest or if like some of the other sailors you'd met, she was exaggerating. Then again, she was a shark pony, a natural born huntress, so it was possible that she might be able to take down something twice her size.

Jag gave you a suspicious look, "Is there a reason you are asking me these questions?"

"Oh, no reason."

Her amber eyes narrowed; you were blowing smoke and she knew it.

"Really?"

It soon became perfectly clear that you weren't fooling anypony and you knew full well that Jag would be up figuring it all out, once you asked her to put the blindfold on. However there wouldn't be any issues if you gave her a partial truth, right?

"You got me!" You answered, "Fleur wanted to throw you a surprise. I'm supposed to distract you for an hour so she can prepare things."

"Oh, that's really sweet of her," Jag laughed, "Lis always likes throwing little events like that together."

Nailed it. Hopefully that information would tide her over and she would be completely unaware that Holly would be involved. That was the surprise after all.

"You've been friends with Fleur for a while right?"

"Yeah, she is one of my best friends," Jag replied, "she was one of the few who didn't treat me differently because of how I look?"

"Do others act negatively to your... Aquatic traits?"

"Not exactly, mostly just ponies. However it isn't necessarily the odd looks that bother me. Since most Haywaiians consider me to be a spirit of the sea, they do a lot to bend backwards for me, but I don't want that either. I just want others to look at me for who I am. Not because of my fins or my... Teeth."

Once more Jag's mood became melancholy.

"But Fleur treated you differently." You interjected.

"Uh, yes," Jag said, "she treated me like I was just another pony. I would say she is probably the closest thing I have to a sister."

"What about her husband?" You inquired, "you don't seem to be very fond of him."

"Oh, I don't mind him all that much anymore," Jag answered, "when we first met he annoyed me a little. However, he has tried to fix things up and he makes Lis happy, so I guess that makes me happy. Of course, that doesn't mean I don't enjoy teasing him from time to time."

You took another bite of your pineapple ice cream, "I really regret ordering this."

"It would probably go great if mixed in with a few scoops of vanilla," Jag suggested, "how about you try a bite of this."

Jag held out her spoon with some bubblegum ice cream on it.

"That really isn't necessary."

"Please, I insist," Jag begged, "it isn't really fair that I enjoy this ice cream by myself when you're the one who paid for it."

Seeing that Jag was going to take no for an answer, you took a deep sigh and opened you mouth wide.

Jag gave you a puzzled look, "What are you doing?"

"I thought you w..."

Right as you tried to explain your thought, Jag shoved the spoon of ice cream into your mouth. She brandished a mischievous grin from ear to ear.

With the spoon now crammed into your mouth you could now taste the ice cream. While bubblegum ice cream was sweet it wasn't as strong as the pineapple ice cream you had been eating. Slowly, Jag pulled the spoon from your mouth.

"Why did you do that?"

"Oh, just a little payback for trying to conceal Lis's surprise." Jag said sticking her tongue out at you.

"Isn't that the purpose of a surprise?"

"It is," Jag answered, "which means I will have to punish you for ruining it, later."

"This doesn't seem very fair."

"Nopony ever said it was." Jag gave you a wicked grin.

"Now why am I blindfolded again?" Jag asked.

"I told you it's a surprise."

When you agreed to Fleur's plan of bringing Jag to the beach with a blindfold, you hadn't fully considered how difficult the task would be. Fortunately, you were most of the way there. Now you just needed to descend the steps down to the beach.

"Well, it better be good," Jag joked, "otherwise I might bite your head off."

After what you experienced yesterday, you didn't find the joke all that funny. Jag seemed to sense this and her mood became more solemn.

"Sorry."

You continued to guide Jag down the path until you reached the sand, the path fading into the beach. As instructed you waited here for a moment.

"Why did we stop?" Jag asked.

"Hey Jag, I'm going to need you to be quiet for a moment."

"Why?"

"It's part of the surprise."

Jag started to giggle, "Now this is just starting to sound a little kinky."

You rolled your eyes at the statement. Granted you had to admit it did feel a bit odd.

With Jag now silent, you began to escort her down to the beach. It consisted of a bay with large rocks and trees on both sides and on the hillside overlooking the ocean. As you more of the beach came into view you spotted Fleur, Fancy Pants and Holly waiting for you. Like Jag, Holly was wearing a makeshift blindfold.

After seeing Fancy Pants it took some effort not to snicker when you saw that he was wearing a hula dancers outfit and holding a ukulele. A look of annoyance on his face indicating that his wife may have put him up to this.

Following the motions Fleur made with her hooves, you positioned Jag a ways from Holly.

"Thank you both for your cooperation," Fleur spoke, "I just wanted say that I have learned many things here in Haywaii. One such thing being that at times relationships shift like the waves of the ocean, however even in turbulent times a few thoughtful words can settle a storm. Now I present to you both such an opportunity."

On cue, you removed Jag's blindfold and Fleur removed Holly's.

The two individuals gazed at one another, with shocked expressions. They both seemed to tilt their heads downwards as if they weren't sure how to react. There was a pause and you were gripped with fearful anticipation at how your two friends might behave.

Then some movement caught your attention as drops of moisture fell from Jag's face to the sand. A series of sniffling sounds followed.

"I... I'm... So sorry. I... Never wanted to..."

More tears joined the cascade, moistening the dry sand.

"Hurt you... I... I was being selfish... I focused on... my own problems... I ignored... Your advice and it... Ruined our friendship."

You watched as Holly stepped forward, tears welling up in her own eyes.

"I... I understand... If you want nothing more to do with me... You deserve... A better friend than me!"

It wasn't until Holly put a paw on Jag's shoulder that she even knew that her friend had walked over. Jag sniffled as Holly wrapped both her arms around her. Sobbing, Jag returned the embrace.

"Jag... I forgive you," Holly said, "however, I would be lying if said I could trust you again. I am still... hurt by what you did.

"I know," Jag whimpered, "I'll try to regain your trust. I'll work hard. I'll stop drinking. I just want us to be friends again."

The two of them stood there weeping as they exchanged words, before they broke the hug. Together, the two old friends wiped away their tears.

You knew that their relationship wasn't fully mended. Not yet. It would take time for Jag to regain Holly's trust, but at least it was a start.

"Well, now that all has been forgiven," Fleur said, "Fancy Pants and I brought some food and he is going to dance and play a song that I thought would fit the occasion."

"I really don't want to do this." Fancy Pants protested.

"Come on dear."

"This is humiliating," Fancy Pants growled, "do I really have to wear this attire?"

"If you wear it now, I will wear something very similar this evening, and..."

You weren't able to hear what Fleur whispered in her husband's ear, however judging by his blushing face and the eagerness by which he played the song, it was very enticing. The leaves of the hula dress swayed as Fancy Pants moved his hips and magically played the ukulele.

"Everypony's happy! Oh, so happy! Everypony's happy! Very very happy! Everypony's happy! Oh so happy! Smmiiillleee!!!"

There was a pause as Fancy Pant's song came to a close.

"Wow. That was just awful," Jag said smiling, "Please... Play it again."

Fancy Pants let out a sad sigh, before repeating the tune once more. Being a resident of Ponyville, you were pretty sure you knew who the original author of the song was.

While Fancy Pants performed, Fleur started pulling out supplies. These consisted of a few beach blankets, a large, white and blue umbrella and some food.

"Come on," Jag insisted, "once more."

"You're sure your not finding this a little monotonous?" Fancy Pants asked, most likely hoping Jag would cease her request. Instead she gave a mischievous grin.

"Oh, I'm finding it very entertaining..." Jag purred cruelly.

"Jag, why don't you let the poor stallion help his wife with setting up lunch?" Holly suggested mercifully.

"Fine!"

Having been forced to stop her teasing, Jag giggled as she ran down the beach toward the water. It was almost like watching a child on their first trip to the beach... if said child was also part shark. Jag ran into the waves until she was up to her shoulders in water. Turning around, the shark pony gave a toothy grin.

"So what were you two thinking?" You asked Fleur and Fancy Pants as they prepared lunch.

"Well, occasionally some turtles will come to this beach," Fancy Pants answered, "so we were thinking that perhaps we could keep an eye out for them. While we wait, we can eat, enjoy the sun and swim a little bit."

Hearing Fancy Pant's statement, you could recall that you had done any swimming at all while on this trip. It wasn't that you hadn't wanted to, rather it just didn't seem appropriate the few times you were by the beach. Already, you could see Holly running toward the beach.

"Come on in!" Jag called out.

"Go on ahead," Fancy Pants encouraged, "have some fun."

Following Holly's example, you sprinted through the sand, down the beach toward the sea. Without thinking you ran into the waves to making a shocking discovery. Surprisingly the water wasn't as cold as you had expected, instead it was reasonably comfortable.

As you stood there, you were caught by surprise as suddenly a wave splashed into you, drenching you entirely. After gasping from the shocking experience, you soon realizes that it hadn't been a normal tidal wave that had soaked you. Glancing over at Jag, you noticed the wide, mischievous smile on her face. Watching her tail rear back, it became very clear that the initial splash had been done on purpose.

You managed to turn around just as Jag's tail crashed over the water's surface, splashing you once more.

Hearing Jag's laugh, you decided to return the favor, using your hooves you managed to make a really disappointing splash, which barely hit Jag. In response, Jag cackled hardly before a strong splash from Holly slammed into her. The shark pony sputtered as she was caught by surprise.

The two friends laughed as they exchanged water, Holly using her paws and Jag her tail. Seeing as the others were using appendages they were more accustomed to, you decided it was only fair that you use your own abilities.

You could feel your magic flowing through your horn as you telekinetically pulled up some water, forming it into a dripping sphere. Surely if you could throw an Ultra-Fetch ball, an orb of liquid shouldn't be that hard.

"Don't underestimate my power!" You shouted, as you gave Jag a menacing grin.

Carefully you propelled the water ball forward, hoping to give it the strength of a water balloon. However hurling an Ultra-Fetch ball is different than throwing a magically made aquatic orb. For one thing, an Ultra-Fetch ball is made of plastic and should be in a solid form one hundred percent of the time. A ball of water on the other hoof only maintains a solid form when magically suspended or frozen solid.

Thus when you released the sphere, it didn't fly forward like how you had expected. Instead it was more like popping a water balloon, with the water splashing outwards in front of you.

Now while it didn't work quite like how you had planned, it did still have the same desired effect. Jag's eyes shot open wide before the water from your attack splashed into her, knocking her backwards into the waves.

Holly seemed to find it rather hilarious because she couldn't stop laughing.

Jag didn't resurface.

"Ummm... do you think she is okay?" You asked.

With some difficulty, Holly managed to stop laughing and noticed that Jag was still underwater.

"I think so," Holly said, "I mean all you used was water, right?"

"Yeah."

While you were sure that Jag could breath underwater because of her gills, you became very concerned that perhaps the magic you had used to create your water sphere may have injured the shark pony somehow. You watched and there was still no sign of Jag surfacing.

"I'll go check on her," you said.

As you began to move further into the water, a shape appeared out of the corner of your vision. Turning you watched as a gray dorsal fin advanced toward you from the side at shocking speed. There was a spray of water, as Jag leapt into the air and performed a flip before slamming her tail down into the water. The impact sending forth a large wave of water crashing toward you.

Resigning yourself to your fate, you closed your eyes and braced yourself just as the wave washed over you.

Your water-filled ears were greeted with laughter as you opened your eyes. Both Holly and Jag were having fun.

"I'll go grab us a beach ball." Holly said as she made her way back to shore.

Looking back at Jag, she gave you a bright smile.

"Thank you." Jag said.

"For what?"

"For doing this for me."

"I didn't really do much," you said, "Fleur arranged most of this. I just helped out a bit."

"Still you've done a lot for me, and I am very grateful."

"I found it!" Holly called out as she ran toward the water with a multicolored beach ball.

The three of you played with the beach ball for a while, bobbing in the water, the ball bouncing between each of you.

It wasn't long before Fleur disrupted the fun.

"It's time to eat!" She shouted.

The food that Fleur and Fancy Pants brought consisted of lettuce, cooked salmon and some pineapple slices. Considering your previous experience with the ice cream you were hesitant to try one of the slices. The fish was pretty good however.

Much to his disappointment, Fancy Pants was forced to dance a little while in his hula dancers outfit. As he danced, Holly offered him some advice on his dance moves.

"You need to sway your hips more and bend your knees." Holly suggested.

Fancy Pants let out a deep sigh, "All the things I do to appease my wife."

"Hey look there are some turtles coming in!" Fleur called out giddily.

Sure enough at the edge of the water line, three sea turtles could be seen emerging from the waves. Their dark green shells glistening with salt water.

You and the others circled around and watched as the turtles slowly crawled their way up the beach. The turtles' march went on for twenty minutes. After making their way up to a dry patch of sand, they began to dig themselves down, before using their rear flippers to part the sand behind them.

"What are they doing?" You asked.

"They're digging nests for their eggs," Holly answered.

After making the holes large enough, the turtles began to lay their eggs. Once they had finished depositing their clutch, the sea turtles used their hind flippers to push the sand back over the holes, sealing away their future young away so they could grow and mature. With their task complete, the turtles made their way back to the ocean.

Having seen the turtles nest, and as the sun was starting to set, the group began to pack up to return to their hotels. With smiles on their faces; Holly, Fleur and Fancy Pants began to walk home. For your final day here in the islands, it had gone by pretty well.

"Good night!" Fleur called out as she and her husband departed.

You were about to follow the others, when you felt a hoof on your shoulder. Turning you saw Jag looking at you with a nervous smile.

"Before you go," Jag said, "there is something else I wanted to show you."

"Is everything alright?"

"Everything is fine. I just wanted you to see something special."

You followed Jag as she walked further down the beach, the waves light caressing your hooves.

It wasn't long before you came a section of the beach where the sand gave way to smooth stone. As you drew closer you saw that there were small pools filled with water, sand and other forms of sea life. Small fish, mollusks, barnacles, hermit crabs and sea anemones resided in the pools. The pink, blue and green flower like creatures almost seemed to glow in the lighting. Star fish of various shapes and sizes gripped onto the rocks.

On the edge of the tide pools was a large rock that faced the ocean.

"This one of the other spots I like to visit sometimes," Jag explained, "I just love watching the little critters as they play in their pools. For a time they are captive here, but when the tide returns they will be free once more."

Jag put her hoof in one of the tide pools, the tendrils of a blue anemone rubbing against her hoof as it drew near.

"Have you ever touched a sea anemone before?" Jag asked.

"No I haven't," you replied, "aren't they poisonous?"

"To smaller fish, yes. However for ponies the toxin is so minimal that it is mostly harmless."

"Mostly?"

"It can sting a little but usually it just tingles. You should give it a try."

Following Jag's example, you stuck your hoof in the pool, touching the small creature's tentacles. A tingling sensation radiated from the tendrils contact, it was an intriguing feeling.

"Most ponies think the Clown Fish is immune to the anemone's poison." Jag moved her hoof and began to rub against the side of the anemone's body. "However, it's actually the fact that the Clown Fish cover themselves with the mucous from the anemone's stalk. The anemone then recognizes the fish as a part of itself and chooses not to sting it."

You moved your hoof to the creature's side and felt the mucous that Jag was talking about.

"That's fascinating."

Jag raised her hooves and pulled herself up onto the rock.

"Come on up here." Jag cheered you on.

While a part of you knew that you needed to go back to your hotel to prepare to leave the next day, you also knew that this might be the last chance you would have to be with Jag. So with some difficulty, you managed to pull yourself up on top of the rock and sat down next to Jag who was looking out toward the sea and the setting sun.

"Today is your last day here isn't it?" Jag asked.

"Yes, tomorrow I have to return to the mainland."

"I thought so." Jag turned to face you. "In that case only me to share with you something very special."

Jag adjusted her position so now she was sitting facing you. She motioned for you to do the same.

"Oh... Okay."

"A long time ago it was customary for the natives to greet others to the island with an 'exchange of breathe,'" Holly explained, "however as visitors found this custom to be very strange, it became less common, reserved for special occasions among family and friends. I would like to share this custom with you. If you are willing."

"Why?" You inquired, "Why would you want to share this with me? You have only known me for a few days?"

"Because Lis told me what you did," Jag answered, "sure she orchestrated this surprise meeting, but you were the one who went out into the storm to find me and tried to find a way to rebuild my relationship with Holly. For that I am deeply grateful and so I will share my breathe with you."

"Well, if it means that much to you, then I will gladly accept."

Jag smiled, her cheeks a bright pink in contrast to her gray skin.

"Okay, so first we put our heads together so that the bridges of our noses are touching..." Jag instructed.

Jag held your head with her hooves and carefully guided your movements so that your noses made contact with minimal discomfort.

"Then we inhale at the same time."

Doing as Jag said, you inhaled simultaneously. Your lungs filling with the seaside air. Even as the two of you finished inhaling and exhaled, you felt very exhilarated by the moment. It was a very personal experience. With the 'exchange of breathe' completed, Jag released your head.

"So what did you think?" Jag asked.

"It felt... Kind of romantic."

"Really? It isn't intended to feel that way."

"Oh?"

"This is!"

Before you knew Jag gave you a light kiss on the lips. Electricity seemed to flow through the contact as your lips touched. Your senses now on full alert.

Pulling away, the shark mare giggled, "That's the second half of your punishment."

After standing up, Jag jumped down from the rock and after running a ways, turned back, giving you a wide mischievous grin.

"Come on now!" Jag called out, "If you wait up there too long the tides going to come in!"

You were speechless as you watched Jag resume her trot. Perhaps some day you would be able to return to this paradise or maybe your paths would cross again.

Until then all you had were the memories of this place, not only of the struggles but of the good times you had been given. This trip had been a great blessing and that was something worth writing about.

The Fin... I mean, the End

Day 1 - Ho`omaka

A sigh of relief escaped your lips as the zeppelin came to land at your destination. Your stomach still woozy from your trip, due to the sea sickness that you suffered on board the large aerial vessel, though whether you could truly call it seas sickness or air sickness was still a matter of discussion. Sure you were on a airship, but you also had been flying over the ocean. It had been the matter of debate of more than a few of your fellow passengers much to your bemusement.

While you were certain that the causes for both ailments were different, you couldn't recall what they were at the time. You mind was focused on... Other matters.

You had been very excited for the trip since this was the closest thing you had had to a vacation in a long time. Of course that was before the ship took off and you began lurching the contents of your stomach into the sea below. Hopefully some fish were able to make good use of it.

Either way, you were happy that you would soon be on land and wouldn't have to worry about Iron Will's Aerial Transport for a long time to come. Soon you would be enjoying your time and research on the Haywaiian Islands. You had followed your publisher, Spring Rain's advice and had brought some extra money for your journey, as well as her reminder to be on your best behavior.

'Be respectful to the natives.' You could remember her telling you. 'They are very hospitable and as long as you are polite you will have a good time.'

She had also given you a Haywaiian shirt to wear, made of a red fabric with yellow flowers periodically set out on a pattern. There was a part of you that thought this might be a little redundant considering where you would be spending the next few days.

You and your fellow passengers were organized into a line by a goat wearing a headset, who directed you all in single file down the ramp to the airship docking bay.

"Thank you for riding our zeppelin!" An abrasive voice that belonged undoubtedly to the minotaur in charge. "Please consider riding with us again!"

It wasn't like you really had any choice in the matter, you would need to take the same airship in order to return home on time.

Stepping into the docking bay, you looked around for your guide. According to Spring Rain, they would possess a sign with the name of the publishing company you worked for, RP Books. Looking through the crowd you spot a sigh matching the description, being held by a creature you had never seen in person, but had heard a great deal about.

Holding the sign was a diamond dog with brown fur, amber eyes and a white spot on her nose. A green scarf was tied around her neck, and there were some wrapping around her legs, like something an athlete might wear. She examined the passengers as they left the airship, occasionally sniffing the air as they passed.

Expecting that she was your guide you made your way through the crowd toward her.

"Hello, did Spring Rain from RP Books send you to meet me?" You asked.

The diamond dog's eyes lit up when you greeted her. Before you knew it a necklace of tropical flowers was placed around your neck.

"Greetings," the diamond dog answered, "my name is Holly and welcome to our lovely island. You must be the writer, Rain told me about."

"Good things I hope."

Holly let out a little chuckle, "Yes, now do you have all your luggage?"

"I just have one suitcase," you answer, "I just need to fetch it from the baggage claim."

"Very well, then let's fetch your suitcase." Holly smiled before waving a paw toward the baggage claim.

As expected the line to pick up your bag was a long and annoying one, with more than a few ponies whining about the delay. Despite this, Holly was very patient as you crawled your way to the front of the line. There a large, gray diamond dog with a red collar, stood behind the counter. The expression he had indicated that he might be a little irritated.

"Hello." The diamond dog growled.

"Hello," you replied, "I am here for my luggage."

Pulling out you luggage tag, you displayed the ticket to the clerk. The numbers 1636, were marked on the tag in black ink. After examining the piece of paper, the diamond dog barked a few words in a language you weren't familiar with, to somepony in the backroom.

Shortly after a smaller, brown diamond dog came out with a suitcase, which he gave to the clerk. Taking the bag, the gray dog placed the luggage on the counter for you to take.

You were about to take it when you realized, not only was it not your suitcase, but the tag attached to it read, 9391.

"Uh sir," you spoke up apologetically, "this isn't my suitcase. I think you might have misread my tag."

The clerk merely let out an annoyed snort, before pointing for you to move on.

"I'm sorry, but this really isn't my bag."

You give Holly, a nervous look, uncertain how to progress. Your tour guide merely smiled.

"Allow me."

Walking up to the clerk, Holly spoke in what you had to guess was Haywaiian. After a brief moment, the clerk let out a hearty laugh, his mood changing immediately into a joyous one.

It was at this point that you wish you had taken Haywaiian as a foreign language in college, instead of the dead language of ancient Ponish.

A few more words were exchanged before the clerk called to the backroom and a familiar looking suitcase with the tag, 1636, was set before you.

"There you go." Holly said with a smile.

"Uh, thank you very much."

Using your magic, you took your suitcase off the counter and followed Holly off the dock.

"What did you tell him?" You asked.

"Oh, I just explained that it was the wrong bag and that you were a visitor," Holly explained, "I then told him his collar looked nice and exchanged a few pleasantries."

"That was very kind of you."

Holly turned and gave you a concerned look, "Just be careful. As long as you are nice and respectful to the natives and their customs, they will be accepting of you. You don't want to earn the reputation as a growler here."

"A growler?"

"It is a term used to refer to rude tourists," Holly explained, "I have heard more than a few stories of such tourists being tossed into the ocean for their behavior."

"I wasn't being a growler back there," you inquired, "was I?"

"No," Holly answered, "he was just having a bad day."

As you and your guide exit the airship dock, you find yourself outside on the edge of the town of Haikuvasz. Holly pointed toward one of the streets.

"This is the route we will be taking into town," Holly explained, "we will be taking a bit of a scenic route to your hotel."

"That sounds good."

As you followed Holly, you could look to your right and look down at the city below as well as the forests, the docks, the beach and the ocean beyond. The slight scent of salt on the breeze.

Holly lead you through the streets, gradually moving downward toward the shoreline houses and buildings. More diamond dogs and pony tourists became apparent as you were guided further down the mountainside.

"I thought that on the way to your hotel, I would take you by the fish market," Holly said, "there should be an auction soon as well."

You recall reading that the Haywaiian Islands main resource was fish. While most ponies lived on a vegetarian diet, diamond dogs and to a small extent unicorns enjoyed the taste of meat. In the case of unicorns, they required a regular amount of protein to keep their horns healthy.

Due to the magical properties of their horns, unicorns had to absorb more protein than the other pony races, to insure that their horns worked properly. In fact, a few magic disorders could be traced back to a lack of vitamins or low protein levels. Before the unification of the three pony tribes, unicorns used to be more carnivorous. However, once they joined forces the unicorns had to conceal this, out of fear of offending the other tribes.

While a few ponies tried experimenting with soy as a more "civilized" method of protein intake, the extreme amounts of estrogen could cause numerous hormonal issues. As a result most unicorns relied on fish or even a few species of grub for such protein based meals.

You yourself would eat grub meal or a grub paste smoothie from time to time to gain the necessary amount of protein for your size. While you had tried fish in the past, there had been mixed results. Sometimes a tasty meal other times a rumbling stomach. Of course, in your research of the islands you had learned that eating fish was customary here and had brought some medicine along, just in case your intestines didn't agree with any of your meals.

You gave Holly a brief smile, "That sounds like it could be fun."

The smell of fish became more apparent as you entered the fish market. Vendors had booths holding fish of all shapes and sizes, most of which you had never seen before. One fish you didn't recognize was yellow with a slender body and a blue sheen along the dorsal point.

"That is a Moana Kali fish," Holly said, noticing your intrigue.

As Holly lead you through the streets, you could hear the sound of a few ponies yelling. It wasn't like the outburst of anger or a cry of distress, more like an announcement.

Turning the corner, you found yourself in a section of the marketplace with a large white canopy with a few aisles with palettes holding ice and the fish on top. The fish on these small platforms were being examined by ponies, diamond dogs and a few members of the other races that interacted with Equestrian society. There was even a yak, which looked a tad odd wearing a Haywaiian shirt.

Just giving the scene a quick look, you find it difficult to discern what was going on.

"So what is happening here?" You asked Holly as you pointed a hoof at one of the groups.

"Well, on one side is the auctioneer, someone who has been hired by the Fisher to help auction off their fish," Holly explained, "On the other side are the individuals seeking to bid on the fish. They will haggle for the highest price and the auctioneers will keep them all up to date."

"How are the prices determined?"

"Usually by the fish's weight and size," Holly answered, "as well as its species."

Holly brought you forward for a closer look. Now that you understood what was going on and had a better view of the spectacle you could see it was actually quite organized. Loud certainly but organized.

"Oof!"

As you were watching the auction over a large round fish, you accidentally walked into somepony else. Surprisingly enough, the contact knocked you off balance and you toppled to the ground.

"I'm so sorry." You said, worrying that the person you had bumped into had fallen over as well.

Looking up you saw a curious sight. Not only was the pony still standing upright but she didn't look like any pony you had seen before. Her body didn't have a coat but consisted of grayish skin. Inside of having a tail like a normal pony, she possessed a long gray tail with aquatic fines. There was an actual dorsal fin on her back. Her mane was purple with neon blue highlights.

Was she a shark pony?

Her punkish style of a spiked collar, sharp ear rings, fishnet stockings and even her style of mane, were almost a sharp contrast to the clothing of most of the others here on the island.

The shark mare looked down at you with yellow eyes examining you curiously. As she grinned, her smile revealed rows of razor sharp teeth. In that brief moment you became very concerned for your own personal safety. Thankfully your bladder hadn't voided itself.

"Hello, there visitor." The shark mare said in a rather intimidating manner. That was until she noticed whoever was standing behind you.

The feeling of a paw on your shoulder hinted that it might be Holly, a fact which was confirmed as she spoke.

"Jagged Nibble, fancy seeing you here." Holly said, her tone seeming anxious.

The shark mare frowned.

"So your calling me by my full name now," Jagged groaned, "I told you Holly, I hate that."

"What are you doing here?"

"I fish," Jagged answered, "what do you think I am doing here?"

The tension at the moment was so thick, you felt that a chainsaw might be inadequate to cut through it.

Jagged Nibble looked away from Holly and back to you. Her smile now looking less threatening and more playful.

"Let me guess," Jagged chuckled, "she is your guide here isn't she?"

"Uh, yes." You said as you pulled yourself to her hooves.

"Well, just remember not to get on her bad side." Jagged's mood turned foul. "She might try avoiding you from that point on."

Looking back toward Holly you saw that some of the hair on the back of her neck was raised and she was possessing a defensive stance. Her mannerism more like a protective mother, her gaze solely focused on the shark mare.

"I think we're done here," Holly said, "I think it is time we take you to your hotel."

Holly stepped past you and walked straight forward seeming to almost be ignoring Jagged as she walked by. Even as you followed you could feel the electricity in the air.

Both you and Holly managed to make a few steps before the shark mare called out to her, "I've already said I'm sorry! What else do you want?"

For a brief moment, you could see Holly's ear twitch at the outburst, however she continued to move. Eventually you managed to catch up with her.

"What was all that about?" You asked.

"I really don't want to talk about it," Holly let out a deep sigh. "Let's just get you to the hotel."

While there was a part of you that wished to dig deeper, your intuition informed you that this was neither the time nor the place. Perhaps a better opportunity would appear later.

You followed Holly through the streets until you came across a large white building overlooking the harbor. The hotel appeared to be made with various concrete segments painted white, with brown tile roofing. The sign out front marked the location as the Cracked Coconut Hotel.

Stepping inside you encounter another diamond dog who explained that room twenty eight had been reserved for you by your company. With your reservations in order, you were given a key to your room.

"Go ahead and bring your bags up," Holly said, "once you're done we will head to the submarine tour."

"That sounds like it could be fun."

"Most of our visitors seem to enjoy it." Holly replied, "The Coltlantis Underwater Submarine Tours is one of our most popular tours."

Now you were really hoping that it was airsickness you had felt on the zeppelin ride and not seasickness.

"Well, I'll go drop off my things and be right down."

"Alright, see you soon." Holly smiled.

Going up to the second floor you found room twenty eight and unlocked the door with your key. Turning the knob you stepped inside.

The room consisted of a main bedroom and a small bathroom off to the side. The walls were painted white with various wooden pieces of furniture decorating the interior, one cupboard had a television sitting on top and the table next to the window had a radio. A comfortable bed sat in the middle of the room.

Wanting to clean off the stench of your airsickness, you set your suitcase down next to the bed, before removing a bottle of shampoo and a personal bar of soap from the rest of your supplies. Taking off your Haywaiian shirt, you made your way the bathroom to take a shower.

"Ahhh!"

You nearly jumped and slipped in the shower as freezing cold water came down from the faucet. Fortunately, you were able to catch yourself before you face planted into either the wall or the floor.

Testing the knob you found that the temperature was stuck on cold.

"Just my luck."

After taking a moment to grow accustomed to the frigid water, your proceeded to apply the shampoo to your mane and to suds your body.

Once you were comfortable, you rinsed off the soap, turned the faucet knob and stepped out of the shower to dry. It was a task that telekinetic magic with a towel and a small heating spell made fairly simple.

Completely dry, you stepped out of the bathroom and walked back over to your suitcase. After looking at a few of the shirts you had been given, you decided to wear a black Haywaiian shirt with lavender flowers.

"Okay, I guess it is time for another adventure."

The submarine was a large white vessel, large enough to hold up to fifty ponies. At least according to the sign that was on the top deck.

There was a section on top of the ship designed like the deck of a ship, where the tourists could sit and talk before the vessel descended into the deep. Here a few ponies, yaks, diamond dogs and some hippogriffs stood talking and sharing pleasantries. There did seem to be some foul air between the diamond dogs and the hippogriffs however.

It would seem the Holly could sense this as well.

"There has been some discomfort between the natives and the hippogriffs, since their return from exile." Holly explained.

"Do you have any idea why?" You asked.

"Well, when the Storm King invaded long ago, the hippogriffs fled, apparently disappearing to some unknown kingdom," Holly answered, "the diamond dogs stayed behind and did their best to defend against the Storm King. Now so many years later, they've returned and want their land back. However, my kind don't think this is fair as many of their ancestors fought and died to protect that land."

Looking at it from both sides and having read a little bit of the Haywaiian Isles history, you could understand where both sides were coming from. Both the hippogriffs and diamond dogs had resided on the island in peace. When the Storm King's forces attacked much of the hippogriff forces were taken out resulting in the entire race fleeing into the sea.

The diamond dogs stayed behind and fought for their independence. After nearly a decade of fighting the Storm King left the islands. Two decades later, the Storm King was assassinated and his successor lead the attack on Canterlot.

Logically the diamond dogs deserved to keep that land.

"Were there any attempts at a treaty?" You inquired.

Holly nodded, "About two years ago, both sides tried to come together and arrange a deal. It stated that the hippogriffs would give the natives some rare resources from beneath the sea along with creating monuments to the diamond dogs that perished there. Then things would return to the way they used to be. Unfortunately, it was never signed."

"Why?"

Holly took a deep breath. "On the day the arrangement was to be made, three Aumakanni washed ashore. The elder took it as a sigh and refused to sign it."

"Aumakanni?"

As you were listening to Holly's explanation, you failed to pay attention to anypony that was in front of you. If clumsiness was an illness, then today it would seem you had caught it.

Before you knew it you had bumped into another pony and was doing your best not to fall over. Fortunately, another hoof reached out and grabbed you, holding you fast.

"Are you okay?"

As a former resident of the city of Canterlot, it wasn't hard for you to recognize the stallion who had grabbed you. It was none other than Fancy Pants himself. Standing next to him was his wife, Fleur De Lis. Both ponies looked at you with concern.

"Ah, yes," you replied, "thank you."

Having recovered from the incident, you straightened yourself. It was also a difficult task not to immediately fanboy over the stallion that had been so generous in aiding you.

Fancy Pants was one of Canterlot's rich nobles. While responsible for the production and advancement of airship technology, Fancy Pants was known for promoting various fashion and modelling trends. He had even been knighted by Princess Celestia herself. A statement from him carried a lot of weight in the capital.

Then there was his wife, Fleur De Lis. The mare showed up seemingly out of nowhere, and with Fancy Pant's recommendation began modelling. Shortly after her reveal, Fleur and Fancy Pants were married and had been together ever since.

"I must say," Fleur spoke up, "I think that shirt is one of Rarity's designs."

With a hoof, Fleur gestured to the shirt you were wearing. Truth be told you had no idea if it had been one of Rarity's designs or not. It was a gift from Spring Rain after all.

Fancy Pants squinted and adjusted his monocle as he examined the garment.

"It does seem to match with her excellent craftsmanship," Fancy Pants answered, "you must have good tastes to be wearing one of her pieces."

You scratched the back of your head nervously, "Well, to be honest. It was a gift from my publisher."

"Your publisher you say," Fleur said, "do I take that you are an author then?"

"Yes, I work with R.P. Books and I am here doing some research for one of my novels."

There was a slight cough behind you, reminding you that you weren't alone.

"Oh, forgive me." You turn and give a polite gesture to Holly. "This is my tour guide, Holly. She has been showing me around and had suggested that I try out the Coltlantis submarine tour."

Both Fancy Pants and Fleur gave Holly a polite nod. It was then that both you and Fancy Pants were caught by surprise to hear Fleur say something to Holly in Haywaiian. The diamond dog giggled and replied still leaving you and the other stallion out of the loop. Both Holly and Fleur smirked in amusement.

"Uh... Okay?"

"Oh, it's just a little joke." Fleur snickered.

"Yeah," Holly chuckled, "something about how forgetful one can be in new situations."

You look at Fancy Pants, worried that perhaps he might be insulted but instead he seemed to be enjoying the conversation.

"Well, it would seem you are an interesting fellow," Fancy Pants said, "why don't you and Holly join us on the tour?"

You gave Holly a glance and she smiled.

"I think that would be fine." Holly said.

"Splendid."

It was then that an announcement came over the intercom.

"Attention all of you, who are joining us on this fine day. Please descend the steps and take your seats below deck. Thank you."

"I guess that's our queue." Fleur said as she moved toward the stairs and began her descent.

Making your way down, you discovered a long room with circular windows facing outward to the underwater paradise below the waves. In the center on the chamber were two rows of seats, back to back, facing outwards toward the windows.

Aside from the windows there was no light in this area of the vessel, except for the blue light that filtered through the underwater windows.

You managed to find yourself a seat, with Holly sitting one side, with Fancy Pants and his wife on the other side. Once everyone was seated you could hear the sound of the latch above closing and sealing shut. You could feel your ears pop slightly as the ship was pressurized. Then the submarine began to move.

Water rushed by as the submarine left the dock and began to move deeper into the ocean. Looking out the portal in front of you, you could see water and sand, which gradually gave way to pieces of colorful coral.

"We will now be passing through the Haywaiian Coral Reef." The voice came over the intercom.

Passing through the reef, numerous species of fish began to become apparent among the coral. Pieces of red, yellow, aqua green and purple coral stretched outward like branches and fans. It was like passing through a forest under the sea.

"We will soon be passing by the remains of the Fetcher," the announcer said, "one of our vessels that fought against the Storm King during the Storm Empire's invasion decades ago."

Slowly a large column of copper red coral came into view, its shape almost pony like. A large piece of green seaweed was draped around the coral almost like a flowing dress.

"What you can see is the mast of the Fetcher," the announcer explained, "the decaying wood covered with coral. The shape of the coral, along with the seaweed surrounding it has given this monument the name of the Mare beneath the Waves."

It was a fitting title considering how it looked like a mare looking into the distance.

The submarine continued to move and more species of fish came into view. Even a few species of shark would swim by, though most seemed to be cautious of the massive vessel.

The sight of the creatures reminded you of Jagged Nibble and her conflict with Holly. However you were completely distracted once Holly started pointing out and naming the various fish that passed by the glass.

"That is a Haywaiian Moon Fish," Holly said pointing toward a white fish that looked like a crescent moon. Its round, blue eyes looking through the window as it swam by.

"He looks kind of funny." You chuckled.

"Yeah," Holly giggled, "the males are that bright white while the females are a dark blue. This allows the males to draw away predators from his mate and their eggs."

There was the sound of somepony to you left gasping for breathe, soon the source became apparent as a large red tentacle came into view. There was a slight jerk as the submarine came to a stop.

"Oh dear," the announcer said, "it would seem that our ship has been gripped by a giant octopus."

You heard a scream as from one of the passengers.

"But not to worry," the announcer continued, "long ago the natives developed a song that would pacify such creatures. We shall play the recording now."

Slowly a tune began to creep over the intercom.

"Shou be doo! Shou, shou be doo!"

As the music continued, your ears began to ring. You glanced around but noticed that nopony else appeared to be having any similar ailments. Gradually the ringing began resonating through your skull painfully. You clenched your hooves against you temples, you brain seeming to throb.

"..."

You felt a paw grab your face and found yourself looking at Holly. The diamond dog seemed to be trying to ask you a question, but you couldn't hear it over the ringing. Your vision blurred and seconds later, all you saw was darkness.

When you came to, you could hear the sound of waves crashing.

"Do you think he'll be okay?" You could hear Fleur ask.

"I'm sure he'll be fine," Holly said, "now that he is outside and that song is no longer playing."

You tried to open your eyes, but had to blink from how bright your surroundings were. As your vision returned you found yourself on the docks with Holly, Fleur De Lis and Fancy Pants looking down at you worriedly.

"What happened?" You asked as you tried to stand up.

"The song came on and you fell unconscious." Fleur replied as her husband helped you to your hooves.

"That is quite surprising," Holly answered, "apparently only one in a million ponies have that kind of reaction."

"With that kind of luck you should hit the lottery." Fancy Pants said.

Of course, you knew full well, that with your luck it was more likely that you would meet the mare of your dreams, be hit by lightning and swallowed whole by a Tatzlwurm, before you ever won the lottery.

Everyone went quiet as a low rumble filled the air. After a brief moment you realized that the noise had originated from your stomach.

"Perhaps we should find you something to eat." Holly insisted.

"Well, there is a nice restaurant that Fleur and I enjoy," Fancy Pants suggested, "why don't we go there?"

"Yeah Lunar Noodles is pretty good." Fleur agreed.

The sun was dropping low as the day drew to a close. Having agreed upon the place to dine for supper, you followed your friends as they lead you back into town to the Lunar Noodles restaurant.

The downtown district of Haikuvasz was bustling with activity, as diners, nightclubs and other tourist attraction sprang to life.

"Here we are?" Fleur said.

The restaurant was positioned on the dock, facing outwards toward the beach with a sign in front with the words Lunar Noodles written in both Ponish and Haywaiian with the image of a bowl filled with noodles underneath. The building itself was gray with blue trim, possibly to mimic the colors of the Princess of the Moon. Fancy Pants and his wife lead the way inside followed by Holly and you.

You were about to enter when something out of the corner of your eye, caught your attention. Turning you were surprised to see Jagged stepping into a neighboring building, a bar by the name of the Lime Bowl. The last you saw of her that evening was of her aquatic tail passing through the doorway.

"Are you okay?"

Holly was standing inside waiting for you to enter the restaurant. Glancing back you saw no sign of the shark mare.

"Uh, yes," you answered, "I think so."

Your hooves rested peacefully on your stuffed belly as you looked down at the empty bowl on the table in front of you.

"That was a pretty good meal." You said with a smile.

You were pleased you had taken Fancy Pant's suggestion for ordering the Shrimp Bowel. The dish had consisted of noodles, a semi spicy source, sliced green onions, along with some yummy shrimp.

"Indeed." Fancy Pants agreed.

Looking to your left you were surprised to see Holly happily eating out of a second bowl. Just one bowl had been enough for you and the others.

The interior of the restaurant was fashioned with some Kirin architecture. In contrast with the outside of the building, the inside consisted of wooden planks. The room's decorations had connections to the stars and the moon.

"So what are you two doing here in Haywaii?" You asked.

"Well," Fancy Pants chuckled nervously, "we decided to take a break from our work and visit some of the areas that Fleur had been at when she was younger."

Fleur cuddled up to her husband.

"So you've been to Haywaii before?"

"I did a lot of traveling in my youth," Fleur explained, "journeying along the coasts and a few islands."

Even still the Haywaiian Isles were a large distance away from the Equestrian coast. It wouldn't have been to odd if you hadn't heard the rumors that Fleur De Lis may have been a seapony of some sort. However, while you were tempted to ask about the rumor, you decided that this wasn't the right place for such an inquiry.

"So Holly," Fleur spoke up, "are there any other things you enjoy doing when you aren't being a guide?"

Holly finished her bowl before responding, "I have a few hobbies. I like to collect seashells and I enjoy playing Ultra-Fetch with my friends."

"Ultra-Fetch?" You had heard of this sport, but didn't really know anything about it.

"I suppose you could say it is kind of like a regular game of fetch," Holly explained, "you have two players. One who throws the ball while the other player fetches it. Once the Fetcher catches the ball, the pitcher hits a stopwatch. While the fetching player may return immediately to the pitcher for more points there are also flags on the field that they can weave through to gain additional points. Once the fetcher returns with the ball, their points are calculated and the players switch roles. Once a round is complete they move onto the next course."

The name of the game and the role of the fetcher reminded you of the sunken vessel that you had seen during the submarine tour before your... Incident.

"Wasn't that sunken ship in the tour called the Fetcher?" You asked.

"It was," Holly answered, "the game of Ultra-Fetch was originally a military exercise, however once the war ended it was adapted into a children's game. The vessel was itself named after the fetching role in the exercise."

"So where will Holly be taking you tomorrow?" Fancy Pants asked.

"I don't know," you answered before turning to Holly expectedly.

The tour guide pulled out a small booklet, "Let me take a look at the schedule... Oh, dear."

A dismayed look stretched across Holly's face.

"What is it?"

"One of my nieces is having a birthday party tomorrow and I promised her that I would be there," Holly answered, "I completely forgot. What should I do?"

"Go to the party," you replied, "I can figure out something else to do."

"Or you could come with us for the day," Fancy Pants suggested, "we will be meeting one of Fleur's friends and exploring the sights."

You look back at Holly, who give you an apologetic smile.

"Would that be okay?" She asked.

Both Fancy Pants and Fleur De Lis seemed trustworthy. Also hanging out with them would allow for Holly to go to her niece's party and give you the chance to explore and perhaps see if there was any truth to those rumors.

"It will be fine," you answer, "go to the party tomorrow."

"Then it's settled." Fancy Pants smiled.

Overjoyed by the turn of events, Holly slurped up the soup at the bottom of her noodle bowl. She smacked her lips as she placed the now clean bowl back down on the table.

"Then I guess I'll see you in a couple days," Holly said, "have fun!"

Soon she was out the door and heading home. You found it a little odd that she ran out in a hurry, but shrugged it off and turn back to Fancy Pants and his wife.

"So what did you two have in mind for tomorrow?"

"A year ago I made friends with this mare who lives here," Fleur answered, "she is a little rough around the edges, but she's nice. We were invited to go fishing with her, I don't think she will mind having you come along, so long as you follow the proper etiquette."

"The proper etiquette?"

The waiter came over with the receipt for the food. Fancy Pants proceeded to write a check for the meal.

"Yes, there are special rules that guests on a ship are supposed to follow," Fancy Pants explained, "don't worry we can discuss it tomorrow on our way to the docks."

After paying for the food, the three of you stepped out of the Lunar Noodles restaurant and parted ways.

"Where are you resting?" Fancy Pants asked.

"I am currently residing at the Cracked Coconut Hotel." You answered.

"Oh... I see"

Something about Fancy Pant's tone, conveyed a feeling of surprise.

"Uh, where will you both be at?"

"We have a room at the Fourth Season Resort," Fleur answered, snuggling up to her husband, "it's so romantic."

"Right..."

Something told you that Spring Rain may have picked a hotel on the cheaper side of the scale.

"So where should I meet you both tomorrow?"

"Meet us at the docks," Fancy Pants answered, "once we meet up we will move on from there."

Going your separate ways, you made your way back to your hotel. Your journey was peaceful with the soft lighting and the sound of crickets playing there songs in the night.

Arriving at your hotel, you discovered that there was a different receptionist at the front desk. She sat there, filing her claws as she waited for any patrons to enter. Ascending the steps you made your way to room twenty eight and unlocked the door.

Stepping inside you closed the door and made your way to the television. Turning on the device, you eyes were met with static.

"Really?"

You try changing the channel but your efforts produced the same results. Complete static. You even tried hitting the top of the television with a hoof with no improvement.

A little frustrated you looked around the room and spotted the radio sitting next to the window. Walking over to the table you examined the contraption. It appeared to be in good condition with barely a scratch on its plastic surface.

Clicking the button you turned the knob until you found a decent sounding radio station.

"Welcome to Coldwave on Channel 93.9!" A strong feminine voice came over the radio. "I am your host DJ Sharp, here to bring you some amazing tunes both from the mainland and your fellow islanders!"

You can feel a smile stretching across your face as you hear the host's voice. It would seem that DJ Sharp had a pretty good radio personality. However, there was something about it that felt faintly familiar.

"This next song is brought to you by Vinyl Scratch from the mainland! Clap your hooves and paws for, Laser Dream."

A familiar upbeat song, you had heard a few times while walking through Canterlot. An electronic tune with whimsical beats played through the speakers.

Before you could get lost in the music something caught your eyes. Outside your window was a green gecko, looking in with curious eyes. Its large blue eyes seemingly following your every movement. Not wanting to be spied on during the evening you closed the curtains.

Tired from the days activities you walked over and laid down on the bed. You enjoyed the music as you rested, the tune serving as a siren's call, lulling you to sleep. Even as you began to drift off to sleep you could faintly hear the song in the background.