StolenAlicorn's Sad Storiesby StolenalicornChaptersA Quiet LifeGrowing Old is Hard to doYou like the quiet, remember.Warning: AbuseIt just hurts a little, that's all.Party Ponies are Supposed to be HappyTalking to Her BrotherA Quiet LifeIt's quiet so far from town. When morning came the only sound to really be heard were the tweets of birds out looking for food. Few would realize to look at the small plot of land that somepony actually lived there. Hidden behind a small hill was a caravan. On it's roof was a layer of dirt with it's own grass growing from it, helping keep the quiet residence hidden. Even though it had wheels it hadn't moved in more than a decade and vines had grown so thick around the wheels and spokes that it was unlikely to move even if a team of ponies were to try and make it. A wild looking garden stretched out from the side, several of the vines holding the wheels in place were from fruit plants that the occupant had planted. The door creaked as it opened and a pudgy earth pony stretched as he walked out. He was unusually tall for a pony and had to duck whenever he walked through his door. His long golden mane brushing the ground as he collected a watering can that he filled from the nearby river. Once full he put the can down and dunked his head, holding it below the water for several seconds. Once in the open air again he shook his head, throwing the water from his gray fur and golden beard. With a sigh and a smile he looked around. In the distance he could see pegasi foals flitting about the clouds with unicorns and earth ponies playing in the fields. He collected his watering can and went about taking care of his wild garden, picking fruits and vegetables as they were ripe. He quietly thought about several of his favorite preservation methods and what would work best for his excess. He placed the now empty watering can beneath the wagon and walked back inside with his small harvest. The windows were shuttered and on a small end table sat a pile of books with a lantern. His black cat was almost invisible as she slept on the back of the small couch that doubled as his bed, perking up once the shutters were opened. She stretched and rubbed her head against the earth pony before walking to her food dish and eating what leftovers she had. Remembering that he hadn't had breakfast either, the pony began to go through his cupboard and collect what would pass for a meal. Cold coffee, soon to be toasted bread, and his last egg. He grumbled as he realized he'd have to go into town for the few things he didn't just grow himself. Once he had finished the simple meal he collected his cloak and draped it over himself, hiding his face, hair, and belted book cutie mark. He held the door for a moment as he walked left. “Did you want to go out?” His cat's response was to climb onto the pillow he had used that night and curl up, purring contentedly. With a shake of his head he closed the door and walked towards the town. He didn't need much, just milk and eggs, and he could just go to the farm and get those. But he wanted to walk around town for a bit. His face was neutral as he walked, his heart beating faster as he saw everypony, but at the same time their stares got to him. No matter how he enjoyed visiting town, he could never shake the feeling that he was unwelcome. He'd just get what he came to get and leave, he didn't want to bother everyone more than he had to. He looked to the unicorn mare store clerk and place his bits on the counter. “Have a good day.” She said with a smile as she took his money. “Thanks.” He said quietly as he took his groceries and left. He kept his head down as he walked towards the edge of town, not ready to be done but ready to leave everyone alone again. Something flew past him as he walked and moments later he saw the pegasus mare land and start talking and laughing with somepony. Even as the familiar ache began to take hold in his chest he smiled and watched her for a moment. Eventually forcing himself to look away, he continued his walk home. Once his shopping was put away he sat on the couch and idly pet his cat, unable to muster the desire to read any of the books he had been planning on reading that day. With a heavy sigh he lay on the couch, his hind legs hanging over the edge. He would go out later and do some of the other things he had planned on, maybe even pick up one of the books if he felt like it. But right now he just didn't have the will to do any of it. Author's Note I posted this in my blog and soon decided that I should put these stories here under one heading, just in case a few people might like them. Growing Old is Hard to doHe stat in his wheel chair looking out the window. Silver Stable really was the best retirement home he could have asked for. There was a vibrant community and loads of activities. He couldn't join in many of them, he was much older than most of the other residents and couldn't move around so well anymore. There was a particularly nice earth pony mare who would come by and talk to him. She had moved there in the last couple years and was set to not stay in one place too long. She would sign up for any activity, do whatever was offered. Take what she liked, left the rest behind. His own children didn't have that drive for life. A nurse came by to check on him, ask him if there's anything he wanted to go see. He was nice too, just like his grandson. “No thanks son, it's almost time for the mail. Don't want to miss it.” “Of course sir. I'll see you in a little while.” He went back to staring out the window, quietly wondering to himself what news he'd get today. Maybe his grandson would have decided to become a nurse like the stallion who had just come by. He was such a nice foal, anypony would be lucky to spend time with him. He would love to know just what the colt was up to these days. A bird landed on the window sill as his neighbor opened her window to water the flowers. She always did that at the same time, it was his signal to make his way to the desk he had by the door. His forelegs were sore as he slowly moved the wheels around and the chair inched towards the desk where he had his letter reading/writing station set up. Papers were neatly stacked by envelopes and stamps with a freshly sharpened pencil just off to the side. A smile worked across his face as he heard the steps of the nurse carrying the mail. “Anything for me today?” He asked when the nurse appeared in the doorway. “Sorry Mr. Wheat, still no mail.” The nurse said, clearly trying to keep his voice upbeat, or at least neutral. “Oh. That's alright, there's always tomorrow.” “Did you have anything to send today?” He gummed his lower lip a moment before shaking his head. “No, I'm going to write to them about the play tonight. What is it again?” “Of Mice and Ponies.” “Yeah, I remember that story. I really look forward to seeing how Miss Pages acts in it.” He chuckled quietly to himself. “She's quite the busy bee.” “That she is sir. … I'll see you later.” Once the nurse had moved further down the hall he collected his pencil, he may as well write what had happened since the last letter he sent. Maybe tomorrow he'd hear back. There's always tomorrow. ---------***--------- August breeze heated the oatmeal and added a tablespoon of honey and a dash of cinnamon. Just how her grandmare liked it. A silver aura enveloped the bowl and gently lifted it from the counter as she walked towards the living room where her grandmare sat reading. “Oh, thank you sweetie.” The elderly unicorn said as she took the bowl with her hooves and carefully began to eat. After a couple bites she looked up and smiled. “I love it, but I'm afraid I can't stay long. I have to go and see my son soon. Have you met him? He's such a nice young stallion.” “Yes Grandma, I have. Dad's still in Canterlot with the EUP.” The elderly mare smiled sweetly and shook her head. “Oh no, dear. My son. He's about your age, he's going to be an important wizard.” “No, grandma. Dad couldn't make it as a wizard, he joined the EUP as a back up. But he's happy where he's at.” “That's nice dear.” The elderly mare had tuned out again. At least she wasn't talking about going to have lunch with her mother again. August hated lying to her grandmare, but even that was better than the heartache she had seen when she had to tell her grandmare that she was gone. “Thank you … I'm sorry, I've forgotten your name. Getting old isn't for sissies, I'll tell you that.” “I'm your grandfilly, August Breeze.” She answered with a patience gained only through repetition. “My grandfilly? … Oh dear, I was just playing.” The elderly mare laughed just a bit too quickly. August forced a smile for her grandmare, she didn't want to upset her further. “Would you like me to read your book to you while you eat your lunch.” “Oh, that would be lovely dear.” A silver aura surrounded the book as it lifted off the end table and August began to read. After several minutes her Grandmare put down the bowl and stood up, looking around and clicking her tongue. “Are you looking for something Grandma?” August patiently asked. “Oh, don't worry about me dear, go back to your book. I'm just looking for Cherry, little pup should be around here somewhere. I just know it.” August closed her eyes and took a second to brace herself. Her Grandmare had loved that dog. Here we go again. You like the quiet, remember.Sunlight streamed into the half open window. Another day just like any other: Quiet. It was early still, but he fully expected things to stay as they were. It had been like this for … how long now? He shook the thought from his head, reminding himself to stop thinking about it. It was quiet, and that was nice. Besides, he still had his chores to do. He gripped an old worn rag in his hoof, thankful he was so tall and didn't have issues with normally hard to reach places. His clock ticked away, monotonously running throughout the day. Much like him … no, this was fine. He was just a little bored. Tick … tick … tick … He was counting again. He walked over to the door and put his hoof on the handle … then let it drop as he turned away. He didn't have any reason to go out. “Nopony wants you out there anyway.” He bit his lip as he pushed the thought from his mind. It was going to be another one of those days. He went quickly back to his chores, trying to keep his mind clear. “Why do you bother? Nopony's come by in at least a month, that's not changing any time soon.” He grit his teeth and tried humming to drown out the thoughts. “Why don't you just go?! Nopony wants you here!” He stopped and listened to the ticking, counting each second as it passed. “Why would you think anypony would want to be your friend?” The voice of his mind took a more hostile tone as it continued. He covered his ears, though he knew it wouldn't help. “You'll always be alone. Nopony wants to talk to an ugly, stupid, pathetic, useless pony like yourself.” He wanted to stop, he wanted to go back to the quiet. But he couldn't let himself forget this. He wanted to, but he couldn't. He took a shaky breath, holding back his tears. He didn't want to start crying. “Go ahead, you damn foal.” He clutched the dusting cloth tighter as a tear rolled down his cheek. “See, you're crying and there's nothing going on. What, you're lonely? Like you're the only one who doesn't get to have friends?” His mental voice berated him. “Other ponies deal with it just fine. You're not special. Live with it!” He sat quietly on the floor, reminding himself of why he lived here. Why he was alone. Why he'd always be alone. He dropped the rag. It didn't matter anyway, nopony ever visited him. Why did he bother? He hung his head as he walked over to the couch and collapsed. Trying to convince himself that it was all for the best that he just stay here and not bother anypony. The seconds ticked away as he lay in silence. “It's okay. You like the quiet, remember.” Author's Note A bit of a follow up to A Quiet Life. Warning: AbuseAuthor's Note The title and this is to serve as a warning. This story involves abuse, both physical and emotional. I considered just posting this in here as is, but this chapter definitely needs a warning beforehand. While I've stuck to typical relationship stereotypes here, these dynamics can be in any relationship and are by no means limited by gender or even type of relationship. And one type of abuse does not exclude another. If you feel this may upset you, don't read it. If you feel either scenario applies to you, reach out for help. From friends, family, or even authorities if applicable. Abuse is about having power to control someone, take that power back for yourself and remember that you're more important than they say, or how they make you feel. Warning: Abuse She had finished her shopping but wasn't anywhere near ready to go home yet. She loved it out here, with the ponies that adored her. “You're make up is always so perfect.” Another filly cooed. “You have to teach me.” “Oh, it's nothing special.” She tittered dismissively. “It just takes practice, that's all.” “You've got a real talent.” “Thank you.” She said with a genuine smile. As much as she wanted to stay out and be fawned over she needed to get home soon. “I'll see you later, right?” She asked. “Of course!” Her friend happily said. She smiled as her horn lit up and her took her groceries home. The front door creaked open and she carefully walked into the front room. Her husband was sleeping on the couch. Thank Celestia for small miracles. Once the shopping was put away she began to fill a nearby bucket with water. She panicked, though, as she felt her makeup begin to run from the steam. As quietly as she could, she crept to the other room and began to wipe it all away so she could reapply. She winced as she looked in the mirror, hating what she saw. This morning's bruise had begun to turn purple and she'd need to use more concealer to keep it covered. – – – – – – *** – – – – – – “Why are you talking to ponies behind my back?” She pointedly asked as she flew towards him. He nervously rubbed his foreleg as she loomed over him. “I wasn't.” He eventually said, quietly. “Then why were you with that mare again?” Her eyes narrowed to slits as she glared down at him. “She's my friend.” He said defensively. “That's not what she thinks.” She said, moving closer. “I know mares like her. She only wants one thing from you.” She landed and turned away as she spoke. “I know you like earth ponies. You're disgusted by my wings.” “No.” He said quickly, trying to keep up with her. “You're wings are beautiful.” “No they're not. You think I'm disgusting, that's why you only like earth ponies.” She said, hanging her head. He rushed over and hugged her. “Don't say that.” “It's true. You don't love me, you love her. I'm just the mare you stay with.” “No, no. I'm sorry. I didn't want to upset you.” “Then why were you talking to her?” She said with a pout to her voice. “She's my friend, I promise, nothing more.” She huffed and turned away from him. “You're going to leave me.” “I won't, I promise.” He desperately said. “But you don't love me.” “I do love you.” He emphatically said. “You don't act like it.” “What do you want me to do?” “Stop flirting with those other fillies.” “I wasn't flirting!” He insisted. “I was …” “I knew you didn't love me.” She interrupted. “I'm sorry.” He said. He tried to kiss her cheek but she pulled away as he got close. “Don't worry.” She quietly said. “I'll leave you alone. Flirt with those fillies all you want, I won't be around for you to hurt.” “I'm sorry.” He said, starting to sob as he spoke. “I'm sorry. Please don't leave me.” “You don't want me around, you don't love me.” “I'm sorry.” He pleaded. “I won't talk to those fillies again, please don't go.” “Do you promise?” She asked, a little hope creeping into her voice. “I promise. You're the only filly I need.” He said. “Do you love me?” “Yes.” “Thank you.” She said, allowing him to kiss her. It just hurts a little, that's all.The sharp twinge returned to his back, like one really long needle just sliding it's way towards his flank. This was how it always started. He carefully moved towards his chair for support, he had to get this done with soon. He'd promised that he'd pull the cart for his friend as she needed a lot of supplies to fix her roof. Not that he could hurry it along. It moved at it's own pace and would take as long as it liked. With a resigned sigh he looked to the bottle of pain killers on the end table. He'd taken a couple only hours before, and knew if he took more he'd be … if he took more his stomach would be the next problem. She was counting on him, and his strength. He stayed still a moment and all too soon felt his flank tingle, grow hot, then, even worse, he didn't feel it at all. Next his hooves would tingle, but they never went numb. Small miracles. At least when his flank went numb he could usually move again. Tentatively he took a couple steps, only for one of his knees to buckle. Fortunately the other was sturdy enough to hold him upright so he didn't collapse onto the end table. Again. How long would it last this time? He needed to keep from limping. Once she'd caught him limping and said he should see a doctor. It was easy enough to dismiss, lying and saying that he'd stepped wrong and just moved on. He knew by now that she was aware something was wrong. Last time caught him reacting to the pain she suggested he see a doctor, that maybe it was time for him to not take on so much. He couldn't do that. Ponies depended on him. They needed him to pull whatever was necessary. He'd been … he is the one everypony comes to when they need something pulled. When they needed help moving anything. He forced a chuckle as he remembered the furniture sales pony commenting how well they knew him, despite him never really buying anything. He'd helped countless harvests, bucking trees and pulling plows. Whatever job needed doing, everypony knew they could count on him. His mind drifted back to the suggestion he see a doctor. He never did go see them. He may not be as young as he once was, but he wasn't even middle aged. He'd argued to her that he'd just been working too hard and needed a day or two. The pain was just a nuisance, that's all. A sudden jab in the small of his back, almost nothing. When it first started he'd yelp, after a while he'd grunt, now he just sneered at the pain. The less he made of it, the less of a problem it was. The numbness came later. He could usually work through it, he just needed to keep moving. As long as he kept moving the feeling would eventually come back. His knee was another problem, that stopped him for a few seconds without fail. And it didn't always happen so it would catch him off guard and he would almost always stumble, or worse if he wasn't lucky. The numbness was now beginning to fade. With a little luck he wouldn't have to deal with it again that day. He had work to do. He couldn't just sit around. He couldn't be laid up by a little pain, or a minor inconvenience. He shook his leg as the tingling came back to his flank, soon too that would go and he'd be alright. Just the pain, but that was normal anymore. He put on a smile as he walked out his door towards his friend's home. He couldn't let himself be stopped by such a little pain. He couldn't be … useless. Party Ponies are Supposed to be HappyParty ponies are supposed to be happy. They aren't all the time, but there's always this satisfaction to what they do. Not that she didn't love seeing the smiles she brought to the faces of others. That was the best part about what she did. Seeing somepony smile, often for the first time that day. But the happiness that brought her never lasted long. The foal was winning this game of Dragon Pit, but they kept taking breaks to talk and tell each other jokes. There was no real hurry, everypony deserved to take as much time as they wanted. His smile alone brightened up the room and his laugh lifted the hearts of everypony to hear him. He cheered as his dragon reached the goal. The celebration was short lived though as he began to cough. Her heart stalled as she heard the coughing fit, but it was only a couple seconds and he smiled the moment it was done. She reached out her wing and rubbed the top of his bald head and offered her own smile. His eyes were half closed and he yawned as got more comfortable in his bed. “Will I see you tomorrow?” His tiny voice wavered slightly as he spoke. “Of course, precious. Whatever you want.” She assured him. “Are you sleepy now?” He nodded and rested his head on his pillow, his smile drifting away. “Sorry, it's just getting harder to stay awake.” “No. No no no. Don't apologize, it's perfectly okay to be tired.” She said as she put away the game and the half eaten cake. “I'll see you later, okay.” “Okay.” He said as he smiled again. She left the cake, balloons, and streamers, but took the games and books. She'd need those for the next foal. A beautiful lilac filly just down the hall. Once the door closed behind her she stopped and hid her face behind her wing. She couldn't be bothered to hear the hospital announcements as she stood shaking, desperate to stop crying. “Keep it together, filly. You've got to keep it together for them. They need you.” With her other wing she pulled out a stained handkerchief and once again wiped her face clean. She'd long ago given up on wearing make up, the foals could always tell when she had been crying when she used to wear make up. All she wanted was to see the foals happy. She loved them all. She hated her job, Talking to Her BrotherA warm breeze carried the smell of nearby flowers over the hillock as the sun gently warmed the ground. A unicorn mare sat down and smiled as she enjoyed the sun. “Oh boy. Where do I begin?” She asked aloud. Her horn lit up as she picked a flower and smelled. “Well, nothing much has changed. I know, it sounds boring to you when nothing happens. But sometimes that's just what you need.” She watched as a group of ponies walked along the nearby stream. It struck her once more how nice this place was. “My fillyfriend still thinks it weird that we do this every week, but I'll never stop. I promise. Your big sis isn't going to just up and leave you this time. Oh, that reminds me, I got the bits to open my bakery. We'll be opening in a few days. I'm using your frosting recipe, and there's no stopping me.” She said in a singsong fashion. The ponies had wandered out of sight now, but their voices and laughter still carried over the hillock. “My fillyfriend and I are talking about adopting a foal. Bet you never saw that coming. Me: a mother. Your big sis is finally growing up. I swear, that foal's going to be so messed up. … I'll make sure they know their uncle, no worries about that.” She sat in silence a moment as she thought, eventually deciding on what to talk about next. “Mom and dad are talking about moving. Not that I blame them after what happened. I'm not going anywhere though. I promise.” She went silent again, wishing she would hear something. “I still miss you bro. See you next week. I'll bring my best cake.” As she stood up she patted the headstone. She didn't want to go, but staying wouldn't make a difference now. “I love you.” Author's Note Some clearly wont be as good as others. But I kind of liked this one.
A Quiet LifeIt's quiet so far from town. When morning came the only sound to really be heard were the tweets of birds out looking for food. Few would realize to look at the small plot of land that somepony actually lived there. Hidden behind a small hill was a caravan. On it's roof was a layer of dirt with it's own grass growing from it, helping keep the quiet residence hidden. Even though it had wheels it hadn't moved in more than a decade and vines had grown so thick around the wheels and spokes that it was unlikely to move even if a team of ponies were to try and make it. A wild looking garden stretched out from the side, several of the vines holding the wheels in place were from fruit plants that the occupant had planted. The door creaked as it opened and a pudgy earth pony stretched as he walked out. He was unusually tall for a pony and had to duck whenever he walked through his door. His long golden mane brushing the ground as he collected a watering can that he filled from the nearby river. Once full he put the can down and dunked his head, holding it below the water for several seconds. Once in the open air again he shook his head, throwing the water from his gray fur and golden beard. With a sigh and a smile he looked around. In the distance he could see pegasi foals flitting about the clouds with unicorns and earth ponies playing in the fields. He collected his watering can and went about taking care of his wild garden, picking fruits and vegetables as they were ripe. He quietly thought about several of his favorite preservation methods and what would work best for his excess. He placed the now empty watering can beneath the wagon and walked back inside with his small harvest. The windows were shuttered and on a small end table sat a pile of books with a lantern. His black cat was almost invisible as she slept on the back of the small couch that doubled as his bed, perking up once the shutters were opened. She stretched and rubbed her head against the earth pony before walking to her food dish and eating what leftovers she had. Remembering that he hadn't had breakfast either, the pony began to go through his cupboard and collect what would pass for a meal. Cold coffee, soon to be toasted bread, and his last egg. He grumbled as he realized he'd have to go into town for the few things he didn't just grow himself. Once he had finished the simple meal he collected his cloak and draped it over himself, hiding his face, hair, and belted book cutie mark. He held the door for a moment as he walked left. “Did you want to go out?” His cat's response was to climb onto the pillow he had used that night and curl up, purring contentedly. With a shake of his head he closed the door and walked towards the town. He didn't need much, just milk and eggs, and he could just go to the farm and get those. But he wanted to walk around town for a bit. His face was neutral as he walked, his heart beating faster as he saw everypony, but at the same time their stares got to him. No matter how he enjoyed visiting town, he could never shake the feeling that he was unwelcome. He'd just get what he came to get and leave, he didn't want to bother everyone more than he had to. He looked to the unicorn mare store clerk and place his bits on the counter. “Have a good day.” She said with a smile as she took his money. “Thanks.” He said quietly as he took his groceries and left. He kept his head down as he walked towards the edge of town, not ready to be done but ready to leave everyone alone again. Something flew past him as he walked and moments later he saw the pegasus mare land and start talking and laughing with somepony. Even as the familiar ache began to take hold in his chest he smiled and watched her for a moment. Eventually forcing himself to look away, he continued his walk home. Once his shopping was put away he sat on the couch and idly pet his cat, unable to muster the desire to read any of the books he had been planning on reading that day. With a heavy sigh he lay on the couch, his hind legs hanging over the edge. He would go out later and do some of the other things he had planned on, maybe even pick up one of the books if he felt like it. But right now he just didn't have the will to do any of it. Author's Note I posted this in my blog and soon decided that I should put these stories here under one heading, just in case a few people might like them.
Growing Old is Hard to doHe stat in his wheel chair looking out the window. Silver Stable really was the best retirement home he could have asked for. There was a vibrant community and loads of activities. He couldn't join in many of them, he was much older than most of the other residents and couldn't move around so well anymore. There was a particularly nice earth pony mare who would come by and talk to him. She had moved there in the last couple years and was set to not stay in one place too long. She would sign up for any activity, do whatever was offered. Take what she liked, left the rest behind. His own children didn't have that drive for life. A nurse came by to check on him, ask him if there's anything he wanted to go see. He was nice too, just like his grandson. “No thanks son, it's almost time for the mail. Don't want to miss it.” “Of course sir. I'll see you in a little while.” He went back to staring out the window, quietly wondering to himself what news he'd get today. Maybe his grandson would have decided to become a nurse like the stallion who had just come by. He was such a nice foal, anypony would be lucky to spend time with him. He would love to know just what the colt was up to these days. A bird landed on the window sill as his neighbor opened her window to water the flowers. She always did that at the same time, it was his signal to make his way to the desk he had by the door. His forelegs were sore as he slowly moved the wheels around and the chair inched towards the desk where he had his letter reading/writing station set up. Papers were neatly stacked by envelopes and stamps with a freshly sharpened pencil just off to the side. A smile worked across his face as he heard the steps of the nurse carrying the mail. “Anything for me today?” He asked when the nurse appeared in the doorway. “Sorry Mr. Wheat, still no mail.” The nurse said, clearly trying to keep his voice upbeat, or at least neutral. “Oh. That's alright, there's always tomorrow.” “Did you have anything to send today?” He gummed his lower lip a moment before shaking his head. “No, I'm going to write to them about the play tonight. What is it again?” “Of Mice and Ponies.” “Yeah, I remember that story. I really look forward to seeing how Miss Pages acts in it.” He chuckled quietly to himself. “She's quite the busy bee.” “That she is sir. … I'll see you later.” Once the nurse had moved further down the hall he collected his pencil, he may as well write what had happened since the last letter he sent. Maybe tomorrow he'd hear back. There's always tomorrow. ---------***--------- August breeze heated the oatmeal and added a tablespoon of honey and a dash of cinnamon. Just how her grandmare liked it. A silver aura enveloped the bowl and gently lifted it from the counter as she walked towards the living room where her grandmare sat reading. “Oh, thank you sweetie.” The elderly unicorn said as she took the bowl with her hooves and carefully began to eat. After a couple bites she looked up and smiled. “I love it, but I'm afraid I can't stay long. I have to go and see my son soon. Have you met him? He's such a nice young stallion.” “Yes Grandma, I have. Dad's still in Canterlot with the EUP.” The elderly mare smiled sweetly and shook her head. “Oh no, dear. My son. He's about your age, he's going to be an important wizard.” “No, grandma. Dad couldn't make it as a wizard, he joined the EUP as a back up. But he's happy where he's at.” “That's nice dear.” The elderly mare had tuned out again. At least she wasn't talking about going to have lunch with her mother again. August hated lying to her grandmare, but even that was better than the heartache she had seen when she had to tell her grandmare that she was gone. “Thank you … I'm sorry, I've forgotten your name. Getting old isn't for sissies, I'll tell you that.” “I'm your grandfilly, August Breeze.” She answered with a patience gained only through repetition. “My grandfilly? … Oh dear, I was just playing.” The elderly mare laughed just a bit too quickly. August forced a smile for her grandmare, she didn't want to upset her further. “Would you like me to read your book to you while you eat your lunch.” “Oh, that would be lovely dear.” A silver aura surrounded the book as it lifted off the end table and August began to read. After several minutes her Grandmare put down the bowl and stood up, looking around and clicking her tongue. “Are you looking for something Grandma?” August patiently asked. “Oh, don't worry about me dear, go back to your book. I'm just looking for Cherry, little pup should be around here somewhere. I just know it.” August closed her eyes and took a second to brace herself. Her Grandmare had loved that dog. Here we go again.
You like the quiet, remember.Sunlight streamed into the half open window. Another day just like any other: Quiet. It was early still, but he fully expected things to stay as they were. It had been like this for … how long now? He shook the thought from his head, reminding himself to stop thinking about it. It was quiet, and that was nice. Besides, he still had his chores to do. He gripped an old worn rag in his hoof, thankful he was so tall and didn't have issues with normally hard to reach places. His clock ticked away, monotonously running throughout the day. Much like him … no, this was fine. He was just a little bored. Tick … tick … tick … He was counting again. He walked over to the door and put his hoof on the handle … then let it drop as he turned away. He didn't have any reason to go out. “Nopony wants you out there anyway.” He bit his lip as he pushed the thought from his mind. It was going to be another one of those days. He went quickly back to his chores, trying to keep his mind clear. “Why do you bother? Nopony's come by in at least a month, that's not changing any time soon.” He grit his teeth and tried humming to drown out the thoughts. “Why don't you just go?! Nopony wants you here!” He stopped and listened to the ticking, counting each second as it passed. “Why would you think anypony would want to be your friend?” The voice of his mind took a more hostile tone as it continued. He covered his ears, though he knew it wouldn't help. “You'll always be alone. Nopony wants to talk to an ugly, stupid, pathetic, useless pony like yourself.” He wanted to stop, he wanted to go back to the quiet. But he couldn't let himself forget this. He wanted to, but he couldn't. He took a shaky breath, holding back his tears. He didn't want to start crying. “Go ahead, you damn foal.” He clutched the dusting cloth tighter as a tear rolled down his cheek. “See, you're crying and there's nothing going on. What, you're lonely? Like you're the only one who doesn't get to have friends?” His mental voice berated him. “Other ponies deal with it just fine. You're not special. Live with it!” He sat quietly on the floor, reminding himself of why he lived here. Why he was alone. Why he'd always be alone. He dropped the rag. It didn't matter anyway, nopony ever visited him. Why did he bother? He hung his head as he walked over to the couch and collapsed. Trying to convince himself that it was all for the best that he just stay here and not bother anypony. The seconds ticked away as he lay in silence. “It's okay. You like the quiet, remember.” Author's Note A bit of a follow up to A Quiet Life.
Warning: AbuseAuthor's Note The title and this is to serve as a warning. This story involves abuse, both physical and emotional. I considered just posting this in here as is, but this chapter definitely needs a warning beforehand. While I've stuck to typical relationship stereotypes here, these dynamics can be in any relationship and are by no means limited by gender or even type of relationship. And one type of abuse does not exclude another. If you feel this may upset you, don't read it. If you feel either scenario applies to you, reach out for help. From friends, family, or even authorities if applicable. Abuse is about having power to control someone, take that power back for yourself and remember that you're more important than they say, or how they make you feel. Warning: Abuse She had finished her shopping but wasn't anywhere near ready to go home yet. She loved it out here, with the ponies that adored her. “You're make up is always so perfect.” Another filly cooed. “You have to teach me.” “Oh, it's nothing special.” She tittered dismissively. “It just takes practice, that's all.” “You've got a real talent.” “Thank you.” She said with a genuine smile. As much as she wanted to stay out and be fawned over she needed to get home soon. “I'll see you later, right?” She asked. “Of course!” Her friend happily said. She smiled as her horn lit up and her took her groceries home. The front door creaked open and she carefully walked into the front room. Her husband was sleeping on the couch. Thank Celestia for small miracles. Once the shopping was put away she began to fill a nearby bucket with water. She panicked, though, as she felt her makeup begin to run from the steam. As quietly as she could, she crept to the other room and began to wipe it all away so she could reapply. She winced as she looked in the mirror, hating what she saw. This morning's bruise had begun to turn purple and she'd need to use more concealer to keep it covered. – – – – – – *** – – – – – – “Why are you talking to ponies behind my back?” She pointedly asked as she flew towards him. He nervously rubbed his foreleg as she loomed over him. “I wasn't.” He eventually said, quietly. “Then why were you with that mare again?” Her eyes narrowed to slits as she glared down at him. “She's my friend.” He said defensively. “That's not what she thinks.” She said, moving closer. “I know mares like her. She only wants one thing from you.” She landed and turned away as she spoke. “I know you like earth ponies. You're disgusted by my wings.” “No.” He said quickly, trying to keep up with her. “You're wings are beautiful.” “No they're not. You think I'm disgusting, that's why you only like earth ponies.” She said, hanging her head. He rushed over and hugged her. “Don't say that.” “It's true. You don't love me, you love her. I'm just the mare you stay with.” “No, no. I'm sorry. I didn't want to upset you.” “Then why were you talking to her?” She said with a pout to her voice. “She's my friend, I promise, nothing more.” She huffed and turned away from him. “You're going to leave me.” “I won't, I promise.” He desperately said. “But you don't love me.” “I do love you.” He emphatically said. “You don't act like it.” “What do you want me to do?” “Stop flirting with those other fillies.” “I wasn't flirting!” He insisted. “I was …” “I knew you didn't love me.” She interrupted. “I'm sorry.” He said. He tried to kiss her cheek but she pulled away as he got close. “Don't worry.” She quietly said. “I'll leave you alone. Flirt with those fillies all you want, I won't be around for you to hurt.” “I'm sorry.” He said, starting to sob as he spoke. “I'm sorry. Please don't leave me.” “You don't want me around, you don't love me.” “I'm sorry.” He pleaded. “I won't talk to those fillies again, please don't go.” “Do you promise?” She asked, a little hope creeping into her voice. “I promise. You're the only filly I need.” He said. “Do you love me?” “Yes.” “Thank you.” She said, allowing him to kiss her.
It just hurts a little, that's all.The sharp twinge returned to his back, like one really long needle just sliding it's way towards his flank. This was how it always started. He carefully moved towards his chair for support, he had to get this done with soon. He'd promised that he'd pull the cart for his friend as she needed a lot of supplies to fix her roof. Not that he could hurry it along. It moved at it's own pace and would take as long as it liked. With a resigned sigh he looked to the bottle of pain killers on the end table. He'd taken a couple only hours before, and knew if he took more he'd be … if he took more his stomach would be the next problem. She was counting on him, and his strength. He stayed still a moment and all too soon felt his flank tingle, grow hot, then, even worse, he didn't feel it at all. Next his hooves would tingle, but they never went numb. Small miracles. At least when his flank went numb he could usually move again. Tentatively he took a couple steps, only for one of his knees to buckle. Fortunately the other was sturdy enough to hold him upright so he didn't collapse onto the end table. Again. How long would it last this time? He needed to keep from limping. Once she'd caught him limping and said he should see a doctor. It was easy enough to dismiss, lying and saying that he'd stepped wrong and just moved on. He knew by now that she was aware something was wrong. Last time caught him reacting to the pain she suggested he see a doctor, that maybe it was time for him to not take on so much. He couldn't do that. Ponies depended on him. They needed him to pull whatever was necessary. He'd been … he is the one everypony comes to when they need something pulled. When they needed help moving anything. He forced a chuckle as he remembered the furniture sales pony commenting how well they knew him, despite him never really buying anything. He'd helped countless harvests, bucking trees and pulling plows. Whatever job needed doing, everypony knew they could count on him. His mind drifted back to the suggestion he see a doctor. He never did go see them. He may not be as young as he once was, but he wasn't even middle aged. He'd argued to her that he'd just been working too hard and needed a day or two. The pain was just a nuisance, that's all. A sudden jab in the small of his back, almost nothing. When it first started he'd yelp, after a while he'd grunt, now he just sneered at the pain. The less he made of it, the less of a problem it was. The numbness came later. He could usually work through it, he just needed to keep moving. As long as he kept moving the feeling would eventually come back. His knee was another problem, that stopped him for a few seconds without fail. And it didn't always happen so it would catch him off guard and he would almost always stumble, or worse if he wasn't lucky. The numbness was now beginning to fade. With a little luck he wouldn't have to deal with it again that day. He had work to do. He couldn't just sit around. He couldn't be laid up by a little pain, or a minor inconvenience. He shook his leg as the tingling came back to his flank, soon too that would go and he'd be alright. Just the pain, but that was normal anymore. He put on a smile as he walked out his door towards his friend's home. He couldn't let himself be stopped by such a little pain. He couldn't be … useless.
Party Ponies are Supposed to be HappyParty ponies are supposed to be happy. They aren't all the time, but there's always this satisfaction to what they do. Not that she didn't love seeing the smiles she brought to the faces of others. That was the best part about what she did. Seeing somepony smile, often for the first time that day. But the happiness that brought her never lasted long. The foal was winning this game of Dragon Pit, but they kept taking breaks to talk and tell each other jokes. There was no real hurry, everypony deserved to take as much time as they wanted. His smile alone brightened up the room and his laugh lifted the hearts of everypony to hear him. He cheered as his dragon reached the goal. The celebration was short lived though as he began to cough. Her heart stalled as she heard the coughing fit, but it was only a couple seconds and he smiled the moment it was done. She reached out her wing and rubbed the top of his bald head and offered her own smile. His eyes were half closed and he yawned as got more comfortable in his bed. “Will I see you tomorrow?” His tiny voice wavered slightly as he spoke. “Of course, precious. Whatever you want.” She assured him. “Are you sleepy now?” He nodded and rested his head on his pillow, his smile drifting away. “Sorry, it's just getting harder to stay awake.” “No. No no no. Don't apologize, it's perfectly okay to be tired.” She said as she put away the game and the half eaten cake. “I'll see you later, okay.” “Okay.” He said as he smiled again. She left the cake, balloons, and streamers, but took the games and books. She'd need those for the next foal. A beautiful lilac filly just down the hall. Once the door closed behind her she stopped and hid her face behind her wing. She couldn't be bothered to hear the hospital announcements as she stood shaking, desperate to stop crying. “Keep it together, filly. You've got to keep it together for them. They need you.” With her other wing she pulled out a stained handkerchief and once again wiped her face clean. She'd long ago given up on wearing make up, the foals could always tell when she had been crying when she used to wear make up. All she wanted was to see the foals happy. She loved them all. She hated her job,
Talking to Her BrotherA warm breeze carried the smell of nearby flowers over the hillock as the sun gently warmed the ground. A unicorn mare sat down and smiled as she enjoyed the sun. “Oh boy. Where do I begin?” She asked aloud. Her horn lit up as she picked a flower and smelled. “Well, nothing much has changed. I know, it sounds boring to you when nothing happens. But sometimes that's just what you need.” She watched as a group of ponies walked along the nearby stream. It struck her once more how nice this place was. “My fillyfriend still thinks it weird that we do this every week, but I'll never stop. I promise. Your big sis isn't going to just up and leave you this time. Oh, that reminds me, I got the bits to open my bakery. We'll be opening in a few days. I'm using your frosting recipe, and there's no stopping me.” She said in a singsong fashion. The ponies had wandered out of sight now, but their voices and laughter still carried over the hillock. “My fillyfriend and I are talking about adopting a foal. Bet you never saw that coming. Me: a mother. Your big sis is finally growing up. I swear, that foal's going to be so messed up. … I'll make sure they know their uncle, no worries about that.” She sat in silence a moment as she thought, eventually deciding on what to talk about next. “Mom and dad are talking about moving. Not that I blame them after what happened. I'm not going anywhere though. I promise.” She went silent again, wishing she would hear something. “I still miss you bro. See you next week. I'll bring my best cake.” As she stood up she patted the headstone. She didn't want to go, but staying wouldn't make a difference now. “I love you.” Author's Note Some clearly wont be as good as others. But I kind of liked this one.
