Lilac Wineby Closer-To-The-SunChaptersCh. 2 Take The Long Way HomeCh. 4 Have A Drink On MeCh. 5 The Piano Has Been Drinking (Not Me)Ch. 6 She Talks To AngelsCh. 7 Underneath It AllCh. 8 Fools In LoveCh. 1 Hello ThereCh. 3 Drunken LullabiesCh. 2 Take The Long Way HomeChapter 2: Take The Long Way Home "Ya know, you look familiar….have I seen you around town? What's your name?" Berry asked. Her breath smelt of fruit and alcohol. "I'm Pokey Pierce," the unicorn replied, taking another sip of his ale. "Hokey Clearce?" the mare repeated what she thought she heard. "No, Pokey." "Jokey?" "No, it's Pokey." "Alright Pokey! I won't forget it," Berry said as her body seemed to wobble on it's own. "I'm Berry Punch. And who are you?" Pokey seemed a bit annoyed with her drunken silliness, but didn't let it show. Instead, he asked a concerned question, "Are you okay? It seems you've had a bit much to drink." Berry had a silly smile on her face, "Oh, I'm perfectly fine. I've normally had more by this time of the night!" "Not exactly what I meant by th-" Pokey was cut off by Berry pointing with her hoof. "Are you going to finish that?" her eyes were focused on the glass of ale in front of the blue colt. Before he could reply, Berry took the glass and finished what little liquid was in the glass. Finishing it off, Berry had a satisfied look on her face. The bartender saw this out of the corner of his eye, "Hey! Berry, I told you no more! If you do something like that again, I'll have to put you on probation from the Salt Lick, alright?" While Berry seemed to immediately regret her actions as she was being scolded, Pokey quickly stepped in, "It's alright. I offered it to her. No harm done." The barkeep looked at the unicorn and then to his problem customer, "Alright then, but I'm going to have to ask you to leave for the evening, Berry. You can come back tomorrow, but that's it for tonight." The ears on the pink mare went flat, "Okay then." Berry hopped down from her stool and slowly staggered towards the door. Pokey gave a concerned look to the tottering Berry Punch as she exited the tavern. Getting down from his seat, he followed Berry outside into the night and quickly caught up to her. "Hey, Berry. Are you okay to trot back home?" the unicorn trotted up to the earth pony, who seemed to have trouble moving forward in a straight line. "Of course, I am. I'm super good at trotting home!" Berry slurred her words. The colt wasn't convinced, "You really seemed to have a lot to drink." "I think you are wrong, you increasingly attractive unicorn." Pokey rolled his eyes at Berry's comment and said something he knew me might regret, "Would you like me to make sure you get home alright? I don't think you'll get far on your own." Berry's face lit up at the offer, though her drunken state helped in mixing her words, "That's like a really nice thing for you to do, Pokey. And you know what, we should get some cookies to celebrate!" "Celebrate?" "Yeah, celebrate something! Cause we can!" Berry's statements were becoming more random and strange for anypony to hear. She trotted over to Pokey and slumped herself on his back and shouted, "Onward to cookies! And pancakes! With syrup!" Pokey sighed, "What did I just agree to?" Ch. 4 Have A Drink On MeChapter 4: Have A Drink On Me Sunlight pierced through the bedroom windows and shined upon the pink face of an earth pony. Opening her eyes, the mare looked around to see that she was not at her home. Lifting her head up, she was stopped suddenly by her own pounding head. She placed a hoof to her head as she carefully made her way out of the bedroom. Carefully, she staggered her way out into the hallway. Exiting the room, the aroma of tea filled her lungs. Following the smell, Berry Punch made her way out to the living room of the house. In the room, her eye was drawn to a blue unicorn sitting on the couch, sipping tea and reading a book. The blue unicorn looked up from his book to see the mare in the doorway. With a warm smile, he spoke, "How are we feeling Berry?" The mare let out a long and tired groan, "Oww….what happened?" "Well, what do you remember?" the colt took a sip of his tea. "I remember being told to leave the Salt Lick, and then you showed up….and then my head hurts…." Berry clung to the doorway to keep herself from falling over. Closing his book with his magic, the stallion stood up, "Would you like to lie down a bit have some tea? It might help." "That does sound heavenly….um…." Berry tried to remember something as she slowly moved over to the couch, "I know it sounds awful but what was your name again?" With a smile, he helped the mare, "It's Pokey Pierce. You can just call me Pokey." "Pokey, thank you," Berry finally laid down on the sofa while Pokey trotted to get a cup of tea, "I'm extremely sorry for being such a burden on you last night. I really hope I didn't make a complete mule of myself." From across the room, the blue pony replied, "It's no problem. I was just worried about you and how much it seemed you had last night." "So is that why I stayed at your home?" Pokey returned with a cup of tea, "Yes and no. I was trying to get an answer from you, but it kept singing nonsensical songs. Careful, it's hot." Sitting up, Berry took the tea cup in her hooves and took a small sip. With a small smirk, she replied, "I think I know what lullabies I was singing. I'm so sorry about all of the trouble." "Really, it's not a problem," Pokey insisted. "Still, may I make it up to you tonight?" Berry offered. Pokey's ears perked up, "I'm sorry?" "Please, allow me to take you out for a drink tonight at the Salt Lick, what do you say?" Berry asked with a warm smile. "Well, I guess so. I mean, it will allow us to get to know each other and what not," the colt was able to convince himself, "Alright you got yourself a deal." Placing the tea cup down, Berry stood up on her hooves and took a moment to stabilize herself. "I think I should stop by my home quickly before I head out for the day. Thank you very much for your kindness, Pokey." The mare's expression seemed to be slightly flirty in nature. With a bashful chuckle, Pokey replied, "It's not a problem, Berry. Just happy to help." Pokey and Berry trotted to the door. Pokey used his magic to open the door for the mare. With a smile, Berry bid farewell, "I hope to see you at the Salt Lick later tonight." Smiling back, Pokey waved, "I will be there!" Ch. 5 The Piano Has Been Drinking (Not Me)Chapter 5: The Piano Has Been Drinking (Not Me) Later in the evening, after the Celestia's sun had set for the day and Luna's moon began to rise high in night sky, the blue unicorn departed from his job at the Ponyville's bakery. While Pokey was a bit nervous, he was excited to meet up with Berry Punch and have a few drinks with her. With a small smile, he laughed at his previous encounters with Berry. He enjoyed spending time with her, despite the fact she had a tendency to drink a bit much and would often have an issue with it later. Nevertheless, Pokey felt confident that their rendezvous this evening would be better than the night before. So a small gallop in his pace, the stallion made his way to the Salt Lick. Arriving at the tavern, Pokey opened the door to see a sight he saw just the night before. At the bar, he saw a pink-coated mare with a darker red mane collapsed and her limbs across the surface of the counter. The bartender was speaking to the earth pony. "Berry, I'm sorry but you've had enough," he spoke, cleaning a glass. The mare's voice was heavily slurred, "Come on….*hick*….just one more….I have a friend coming….*hick*….I swear!" "You drank down three glasses of vinho do porto and four glasses of cherry rakia. To be honest, I'm surprised you haven't passed out. I'm sorry, no more," the barkeep finished cleaning the glass and moved to another part of the bar to assist another customers. With a thunk, Berry placed her head down in defeat. Trotting up, the blue unicorn spoke, "Hey Berry, are you alright?" Lifting up her head, her exhausted expression turned to one of joy as she saw her new friend, "Oh….Pokey! Can you tell this mean mister bartender that I'm okay to have another drink?" Pokey was hesitant to answer, "Uh….it does seem you've had enough. Maybe you should get some rest? I can walk you home so you don't have to stay at my place again." The mare began to whine, "Aww….do I have to? Can't I stay just a little more?" "No, it's time to go home." Pouting, Berry gave in, "Okay….but you have to carry me!" "Huh?" Before Pokey realized what was happening, she flopped right on the stallion's back. With a hoof in the air, Berry shouted, "Onward!" She began singing a nonsensical song as Pokey trotted out of the Salt Lick with the intoxicated pony on his back. Trotting through the night, Berry abruptly stopped her signing and started chatting with Pokey. "Hey….why are you carrying me?" she asked, confused. "Because you hopped on my back," Pokey explained, puzzled as well. "But why can't I trot?" "Well, because you're intoxicated." "No way! I've never felt better!" after her statement, Berry vomited on the ground while still on Pokey's back, "Okay, now I've never better." With a slightly bothered expression, Pokey continued his trotting, "Let's just get you home, how's that?" "That way!" she pointed with her hoof to the stallion giving her a ride. Finally, after a few false alarms from Berry, the two ponies arrived at Berry Punch's home. A few lights were on inside, but the house looked empty. Trotting up to the door, Pokey turned his head to look at the mare on his back, "Do you have a key?" "Oh, don't worry! Just knock on the door. Like this!" Berry knocked on the stallion's body hard, which caused the pony to wince a bit in pain. Bearing the pain, Pokey nodded, "Duly noted." He did just as the mare instructed except on the door instead of a pony's body. After a few moments, the door opened up to a small filly. The small unicorn had a lighter coloration to that of Berry Punch. She stared at Pokey for a few moments until she noticed the mare on his back. "Oh, hello mom," the small pony said. Berry looked at the filly and waved, "Hi sweetie! We're there always two of you?" "No, mom. Come on in," the filly spoke. At her words, Berry dragged herself off of Pokey's back and into her home. As soon as the mare entered the house and disappeared from sight, the filly turned to the blue stallion, "Thanks for dragging my mom home." It took a second for Pokey to reply, "Oh, not a problem…." "Ruby Pinch." "Right, Ruby. It's no big deal," Pokey added as soon as he got her name, "Um, if you don't mind me asking, does this…." "Happen a lot? More than you would think. But I'm used to it. Sometimes I have to be the parent of the two of us. And when she doesn't show up, it doesn't worry me too much," Ruby explained. Pokey gave a small worried look, "Alright. Is she going to be okay?" With a small chuckle, Ruby replied, "She will. A glass of fruit juice and a bit of tea will fix her up in the morning." "Good to hear," the stallion gave a sigh of relief "Well, I'll see you two around." Pokey turned around and began to trot away. "Hey, mister?" the filly called." Pokey turned towards back to the door. "Thanks for bringing back my mom." Ch. 6 She Talks To AngelsChapter 6: She Talks To Angels The next evening, Pokey got off from work early. Exiting Sugarcube Corner, the unicorn headed off to the tavern he had been visiting quite a bit in the latest few days. He seemed to be very exhausted from the past few days and endeavors that have occurred and a strong drink seemed to be just what he needed. The blue stallion arrived at the Salt Lick tavern and noticed his good pal Caramel was already having a drink at one of the tables. "Hey, Caramel, didn't expect you to be here so early," Pokey commented, pulling up a seat at the table. Swallowing the beverage in his mouth, Caramel welcomed his friend, "Oh, what's up, Pokey? I could say the same for you." "Shouldn't you be at the farm? I don't think your cousin Applejack would be exactly happy to see you pounding down a few glasses of cider," Pokey pointed out. "Got the day off," the earth pony said proudly. "Really now? So what did you do today, drink your wages?" Pokey joked before calling to the bartender his order, "Barleywine? Thanks." "Barleywine? Dang, you really do like to experiment with your drinks. And I was out with Twilight Sparkle for a lunch date, if you must know," Caramel explained. The unicorn's ears perked, "Oh, I assume it was fun." Caramel began to slightly brag, "Yeah, it was pretty awesome. A nice little picnic and just sky gazing." "Sounds nice." "By the way, where have you been the last two days?" Pokey was hesitant to reply, "Well, I was just looking after Berry." The tan pony tilted his head, "Berry? As in Berry Punch?" "Yeah…." Caramel tried to hold himself together, but ended up busted out laughing anyway. "Seriously? You've been hanging around the Berry Punch?" Pokey's expression became sour, "What's so wrong with that? I've been just making sure she's alright and gets home safely." This caused the pony to laugh even more, "So you've been her designated driver? Oh Celestia, this is rich! Haha!" The blue colt's face turned pink as his friend laughed. He was relieved when his drink arrived with the barkeep bring it to the table. After Caramel calmed down a bit, the bartender spoke, "I'm sorry to intrude in your conversation, gentlecolts, but I couldn't help hearing you two talking about Berry. Well, she is a regular around here and after all of the time she spends here, which is quite a bit, I've never seen her take quite a liking to you, sir." "Huh?" Pokey swallowed his liquor hard at the barkeeps statement. Caramel's laugh started up again at the bartender's account. "Are you serious? Oh, this is getting better and better! Haha! This is priceless!" The bartender excused himself back to behind the bar, leaving the flustered unicorn and his laughing friend. "Caramel, will you please shut it?" Pokey asked in an annoyed tone. Wiping a tear from his eye, the tan stallion stopped, "I'm sorry, but this is so funny. She's actually crushing on you!" "Can't you just leave it be?" "How can I? You two make a cute couple!" "There is nothing between us!" the blue unicorn became defensive as he took another big drink of his barleywine. "Sure, and there's nothing between Big Macintosh and that yellow pegasus," Caramel laughed up again. Pokey let out an irritated sigh, "I don't need this right now." He finished his drink and placed a few coins on the table. "When you are done laughing, let me know." "Aw, come on Pokey, I'm just having a little fun," Caramel called out to his friend, "you know that!" "Again, when you are done laughing, let me know," Pokey waved to his friend as he left the tavern. Caramel stuck his tongue out towards friend's exit, "Geez, spoilsport." Ch. 7 Underneath It AllChapter 7: Underneath It All After leaving the tavern and after Celestia's sun set on the horizon, Pokey made his way back to his home. Once inside of his small hom beyonde, he let out a loud sigh. Trotting to his bookshelf, he took down a book with his magic to read. Plopping down on his couch, he tried to get lost in his book, yet he was unable to. 'It seems kind of dull tonight,' the unicorn thought to himself, 'Maybe, Caramel is has a point. I mean, a broken clock is right twice a day.' Pokey laughed at his small joke about his friend. Finally, he was able to begin his reading. A few hours later, there was a knocking at his door. Pokey placed his book down and went to the door. "Coming," he called out and then spoke softly to himself, "Who could it be at this hour?" Opening the door, he saw a very familiar, intoxicated mare. "Oh Pokey, thank goodness it's finally you. The last four houses were very rude," Berry spoke in a very inebriated manner. "Berry?" Pokey was worried as he was surprised. The earth pony waved her hoof, "Hii~" "How many glasses of wi-" "Bottles," the mare corrected. "How many bottles of wine did you have?" With a brief pause, Berry thought before she answered, "I don't have that many hooves…." Pokey decided to change the topic, "What are you doing here?" "I was at the tavern, having a drink at seven. And then I thought, 'whoa, where's Pokey? He should, like, be here with me to drink with me, and to talk with me….and drink with me….' so I came out to find you." "But it's almost midnight." "I know right? I kept getting lost in the neighborhood near the tavern….and in the tavern…." "Come inside, we such try to sober you up a bit," Pokey stepped aside to allow Berry Punch inside. "Aww….do I have to be sober?" Berry stumbled her way in Pokey's home. "At least get some sleep. Is that okay?" the unicorn asked. "Okay…." Berry replied, sounding like a child that was told that she could only have one cookie. This made Pokey smile, admitting it was kind of cute. The two ponies trotted to Pokey's bedroom. The blue colt figured it would be the same as last time: Berry would just be so tired that she would just fall asleep and he would go back out to the couch and sleep there. Berry hopped onto Pokey's bed and sat up before speaking, "Sit." "Huh? Um, okay. You want to talk?" Pokey sat down next to Berry on his bed. The mare's response surprised Pokey. Berry leaned in towards the colt and kissed him right on his lips. With her eyes closed, she kissed the stunned and blushing unicorn, who was surprised that she was doing such. There was one thing that Pokey's mind could process during the kiss, and that was that the kiss tasted like fermented fruit. When Berry finally broke the kiss, the mare looked up to Pokey and slurred her speech, "You're my knight in shimmering armor…." Pokey, whose face was a bright red, tried to correct her grammar, "Um….d-don't you mean 'shinning' or something?" Berry didn't reply. Instead, she snuggled up to Pokey's body where she quickly fell asleep. Her face seemed to have a content and comfortable expression as she slept against the unicorn. With a soft sigh, Pokey couldn't help but smile and give a quiet laugh, "You're just like a little filly underneath it all." Ch. 8 Fools In LoveChapter 8: Fools In Love The next morning, Berry Punch woke up on Pokey's bed. Rubbing her pounding head, the mare dragged herself out into the living room where she saw the blue unicorn on the couch. Pokey turned to see Berry enter the room, "Good morning, Berry. How did you sleep?" Berry smiled, despite the pain in her head, "Fine, thank you. And I'm sorry for any problems last night. I only remember bits and pieces right now, so please do forgive me." She trotted over to the couch and sat, placing a hoof up to her head. "It's not a problem. I'll make us some tea, that should help," the stallion stood up and trotted to heat some water up. "Thank you again," Berry spoke, "Could you perhaps fill me in on what happened last night? As embarrassing as it sounds, I kind of forgot after I left the Salt Lick." Using his magic, Pokey got a couple of cups for the tea as well as the bags, "From what you told me, you were looking for me for some reason or another. You made it to my home around midnight and told me you were looking for me, while intoxicated I should add." He poured the hot water into the cups and the placed a bag in each cup before levitating the cups over to the couch. Berry's expression was one of complete embarrassment, "Oh goodness, I'm really sorry to have to trouble you so late." She took the cup of tea from Pokey, thanking him before taking a much-needed sip. "Feeling better?" Pokey asked before he took a sip himself. The mare nodded, "It's certainly a start. Anything else happen by chance?" "Actually yes," Pokey started. He was hesitant to continue, "After I suggested you get some rest, you….well….kind of surprised me." Berry finished her sip and tilted her head slightly, "Oh dear, did I say something ridiculous again?" Pokey was cautious about continuing, "Not so much. Well, you kind of….kissed me…." His head was turned away from Berry as his cheeks grew a pink tint to them. "Wha wha what?!" the mare almost dropped her tea cup when she heard what the unicorn said. Her face was in utter shock and completely red. A few moments of silence passed before Pokey continued, "Heh, yeah. You said that I was your 'knight in shimmering armor'. I think that was the alcohol talking." Looking anywhere else to hide her blushing face, Berry replied, "Actually, no. You're a wonderful stallion, Pokey, and I really do like you. And I do mean what I said…. except that 'shimmering' part." The blue stallion's ears perked up, "R-Really?" Berry finally had the courage to turn her blushing face back to Pokey. With a nervous but sincere laugh, she nodded, "Yes, I do. I guess it was the wine that loosened me up to admit it, perhaps a bit too much. I know it sounds silly, but those really were my true feelings, Pokey. I really hope you don't hold it against me." Pokey smiled back to Berry, "Well, you are a bit of a handful when you are inebriated, but I would be lying if I said these past few days were boring. I do like you too, Berry. Quite a bit." Overcome with joy, Berry threw front limbs around Pokey's neck, discarding her cup and causing the unicorn to almost lose his, "I'm so happy. Thank you, Pokey, thank you." Puzzled, Pokey asked, "Huh? For what?" "Everything you've done for me. Just….everything." END Ch. 1 Hello ThereChapter 1: Hello There The sun had set on the land of Equestria and Princess Luna's evening had begun. It was during this time that the many of the Ponyville stores would close and the workers would get off of work. For the blue unicorn Pokey Pierce, it was no exception. After working at Sugarcube Corner all day, it was a relief for Mr. and Mrs. Cake to take over. Now the rest of the evening was his to spend with his friend. The unicorn exited the bakery and leisurely made his way to the town's tavern, the Salt Lick. Entering the tavern, the aroma of fermented drinks filled his lungs. With a smirk, he scanned the room to see a number of ponies were already there enjoying themselves. Pokey was quick to find his friend up at the bar. "Heya, Caramel," Pokey trotted up to the tan pony. Turning his head, the brown maned pony raised his glass up to his friend, "Hey, Pokey. I was wondering when you were going to show up." With a small laugh, Pokey took the seat next to Caramel's right, "Well, some of us actually have to clean up before we end our work day." "Oh just relax, will ya? Come on, first drink is on me, how about that?" Caramel offered. "Cant' say no to that," Pokey chuckled before ordering a drink from the barkeep, "could I get an ale?" "Ale? Trying something new, are we?" the tan earth stallion asked. Pokey shrugged, "Why not? Never hurts to be adventurous." The bartender placed the glass ale in front of the unicorn and gave a polite nod. Pokey took a gulp of the liquid and let out a favorable response. "Well, how's it treating ya?" Caramel asked before he took a sip of his cider. "Tart and sweet, and a very nice taste to it." "Thinking of making it a habit?" The blue stallion shook his head, "Nah, I'll still keep trying different things. You know, keep things from getting boring." Caramel shook his head and laugh, "You always were a weird one, Pokey." "Says the screw up who somehow got the Winter-Wrap Up seeds on the roof of a building. Honestly, how does that happen?" Pokey retorted with a light, friendly punch to the earth pony's limb. "I'm still trying to figure that one out myself. I'm just thankful that Twilight Sparkle found them." "Speaking of the librarian, how's it going between you two? You get enough guts to say a complete sentence to her?" Pokey joked before taking another drink of his ale. "For your information, we are actually dating now." "Really now?" "Yeah, for some reason, she found something she likes in me." "Well, congratulations. Invite me to the wedding when it happens" With a drink of his cider, Caramel playfully returned a shove to his friend, "Oh come on, lay off. Besides, I think you wouldn't be giving me a hard time about it since you're the one who never had somepony special." Pokey rolled his eyes, "Oh, come off it. I did have somepony a while back, but it's not something I need to worry about right away." "Well, at least think about it, alright?" Caramel hopped off the stool and placed a few bits on the counter, "and if you want another drink, it's out of your pocket." Pokey waved to his friend as he left the Salt Lick. He turned his attention back to his ale, taking another drink of the bittersweet beverage. He then noticed the stool where Caramel was seat had been taken by a berry-colored earth mare with a violet mane. The unicorn had seen her around before but never put much thought on who she was. "Bartender…." she began to speak with a slight slur in her speech, "can I get a merlot, aged three years? Or four? Oh, why not, how about five?" The barkeep gave a worried look to the mare, "Berry, just because you change your seat doesn't mean I don't already know how much you've had to drink." The mare plopped the front of her body on the counter with her front limbs stretched out and her head held up to keep talking, "Oh, by why not? I trotted over to this seat. Doesn't that prove I'm fine?" "Um, you used the barstool as a walker to aid yourself over here. Sorry, but I think you've had enough for tonight," the barkeep trotted to another part of the bar. "Aw….but I didn't get a vinho do porto! Come on, please?" Berry pleaded, but her words were ignored. She then turned her head to the right to see a half empty glass of ale. Her eyes then trailed up to the blue unicorn seated next to her, "Oh, hello there, mister unicorn!" "Um….hello." Ch. 3 Drunken LullabiesChapter 3: Drunken Lullabies "Berry, where exactly do you live anyway?" Pokey asked, turning his head to the intoxicated pink mare that was draped across his back. With a goofy smile, Berry Punch slurred her words, "But what about the waffles? I wants the waffles!" "Waffles? But you said pancakes earlier," Pokey reminded her. He just wanted to get her keep talking, making sure she wouldn't pass out. "Pancakes and waffles! With boysenberry syrup for all of it!" the mare exclaimed loudly. A few ponies looked at the two as she shouted out. The unicorn was quick to try and keep Berry's voice down, "Fine, fine, whatever. Can you please tell me where your home is at?" Berry seemed to completely ignore Pokey's question as she began to drunkenly sing a song, "Little bird, little bird, fly through my window. Little bird, little bird, fly through my window. Little bird, little bird, fly through my window, find molasses candy. Through my window, my sugarlump. Fly through my window, my sugarlump. Find molasses candy." With a sigh, Pokey gave up. As the mare continued to sing, adding more verses as time went on, the stallion trotted to his home. Pokey figured at least she would be able to rest there for the night. Arriving to his small cottage, Pokey was already regretting taking Berry. She began a number of other songs, often stopping mid-way to speak nonsense and start a new song. "Uh, Berry? You can stop singing now. We are here at my place," Pokey stated as he turned on the lights to his main room. "Come on, one more song, Pokey! Please? Just a small town girl-" Berry began to sing from her position of laying across the unicorn's back. "No, no. No more singing. You can crash here for to the night." "Crash? But I'm not driving!" Berry laughed. Giving a small smile to her remark, Pokey trotted to his bedroom, "No, I'm saying you can sleep here for tonight." Upon, seeing the Pokey's bed, Berry dragged herself off from the stallion's back and to the bed, "Oh~, okay then. Does this mean you want to sleep here with me?" Pokey was a bit taken back, "Wha? No!" Giggling, Berry continued, "Aww, but why not? Aren't you tired?" "I thought you would be most tired out of the two of us," Pokey commented. "Now why would you say tha-" Berry was cut off by her own body shutting down from exhaustion. Her head plopped down to the side and she was quick to fall asleep. With a soft laugh and smile, Pokey placed a blanket over the mare's body. "She sure can be a handful when she's had a few," Pokey quietly said to himself. He then trotted out of his bedroom and closed the door behind him. In his living room, Pokey turned the lights off and laid down on his couch to fall asleep himself.
Ch. 2 Take The Long Way HomeChapter 2: Take The Long Way Home "Ya know, you look familiar….have I seen you around town? What's your name?" Berry asked. Her breath smelt of fruit and alcohol. "I'm Pokey Pierce," the unicorn replied, taking another sip of his ale. "Hokey Clearce?" the mare repeated what she thought she heard. "No, Pokey." "Jokey?" "No, it's Pokey." "Alright Pokey! I won't forget it," Berry said as her body seemed to wobble on it's own. "I'm Berry Punch. And who are you?" Pokey seemed a bit annoyed with her drunken silliness, but didn't let it show. Instead, he asked a concerned question, "Are you okay? It seems you've had a bit much to drink." Berry had a silly smile on her face, "Oh, I'm perfectly fine. I've normally had more by this time of the night!" "Not exactly what I meant by th-" Pokey was cut off by Berry pointing with her hoof. "Are you going to finish that?" her eyes were focused on the glass of ale in front of the blue colt. Before he could reply, Berry took the glass and finished what little liquid was in the glass. Finishing it off, Berry had a satisfied look on her face. The bartender saw this out of the corner of his eye, "Hey! Berry, I told you no more! If you do something like that again, I'll have to put you on probation from the Salt Lick, alright?" While Berry seemed to immediately regret her actions as she was being scolded, Pokey quickly stepped in, "It's alright. I offered it to her. No harm done." The barkeep looked at the unicorn and then to his problem customer, "Alright then, but I'm going to have to ask you to leave for the evening, Berry. You can come back tomorrow, but that's it for tonight." The ears on the pink mare went flat, "Okay then." Berry hopped down from her stool and slowly staggered towards the door. Pokey gave a concerned look to the tottering Berry Punch as she exited the tavern. Getting down from his seat, he followed Berry outside into the night and quickly caught up to her. "Hey, Berry. Are you okay to trot back home?" the unicorn trotted up to the earth pony, who seemed to have trouble moving forward in a straight line. "Of course, I am. I'm super good at trotting home!" Berry slurred her words. The colt wasn't convinced, "You really seemed to have a lot to drink." "I think you are wrong, you increasingly attractive unicorn." Pokey rolled his eyes at Berry's comment and said something he knew me might regret, "Would you like me to make sure you get home alright? I don't think you'll get far on your own." Berry's face lit up at the offer, though her drunken state helped in mixing her words, "That's like a really nice thing for you to do, Pokey. And you know what, we should get some cookies to celebrate!" "Celebrate?" "Yeah, celebrate something! Cause we can!" Berry's statements were becoming more random and strange for anypony to hear. She trotted over to Pokey and slumped herself on his back and shouted, "Onward to cookies! And pancakes! With syrup!" Pokey sighed, "What did I just agree to?"
Ch. 4 Have A Drink On MeChapter 4: Have A Drink On Me Sunlight pierced through the bedroom windows and shined upon the pink face of an earth pony. Opening her eyes, the mare looked around to see that she was not at her home. Lifting her head up, she was stopped suddenly by her own pounding head. She placed a hoof to her head as she carefully made her way out of the bedroom. Carefully, she staggered her way out into the hallway. Exiting the room, the aroma of tea filled her lungs. Following the smell, Berry Punch made her way out to the living room of the house. In the room, her eye was drawn to a blue unicorn sitting on the couch, sipping tea and reading a book. The blue unicorn looked up from his book to see the mare in the doorway. With a warm smile, he spoke, "How are we feeling Berry?" The mare let out a long and tired groan, "Oww….what happened?" "Well, what do you remember?" the colt took a sip of his tea. "I remember being told to leave the Salt Lick, and then you showed up….and then my head hurts…." Berry clung to the doorway to keep herself from falling over. Closing his book with his magic, the stallion stood up, "Would you like to lie down a bit have some tea? It might help." "That does sound heavenly….um…." Berry tried to remember something as she slowly moved over to the couch, "I know it sounds awful but what was your name again?" With a smile, he helped the mare, "It's Pokey Pierce. You can just call me Pokey." "Pokey, thank you," Berry finally laid down on the sofa while Pokey trotted to get a cup of tea, "I'm extremely sorry for being such a burden on you last night. I really hope I didn't make a complete mule of myself." From across the room, the blue pony replied, "It's no problem. I was just worried about you and how much it seemed you had last night." "So is that why I stayed at your home?" Pokey returned with a cup of tea, "Yes and no. I was trying to get an answer from you, but it kept singing nonsensical songs. Careful, it's hot." Sitting up, Berry took the tea cup in her hooves and took a small sip. With a small smirk, she replied, "I think I know what lullabies I was singing. I'm so sorry about all of the trouble." "Really, it's not a problem," Pokey insisted. "Still, may I make it up to you tonight?" Berry offered. Pokey's ears perked up, "I'm sorry?" "Please, allow me to take you out for a drink tonight at the Salt Lick, what do you say?" Berry asked with a warm smile. "Well, I guess so. I mean, it will allow us to get to know each other and what not," the colt was able to convince himself, "Alright you got yourself a deal." Placing the tea cup down, Berry stood up on her hooves and took a moment to stabilize herself. "I think I should stop by my home quickly before I head out for the day. Thank you very much for your kindness, Pokey." The mare's expression seemed to be slightly flirty in nature. With a bashful chuckle, Pokey replied, "It's not a problem, Berry. Just happy to help." Pokey and Berry trotted to the door. Pokey used his magic to open the door for the mare. With a smile, Berry bid farewell, "I hope to see you at the Salt Lick later tonight." Smiling back, Pokey waved, "I will be there!"
Ch. 5 The Piano Has Been Drinking (Not Me)Chapter 5: The Piano Has Been Drinking (Not Me) Later in the evening, after the Celestia's sun had set for the day and Luna's moon began to rise high in night sky, the blue unicorn departed from his job at the Ponyville's bakery. While Pokey was a bit nervous, he was excited to meet up with Berry Punch and have a few drinks with her. With a small smile, he laughed at his previous encounters with Berry. He enjoyed spending time with her, despite the fact she had a tendency to drink a bit much and would often have an issue with it later. Nevertheless, Pokey felt confident that their rendezvous this evening would be better than the night before. So a small gallop in his pace, the stallion made his way to the Salt Lick. Arriving at the tavern, Pokey opened the door to see a sight he saw just the night before. At the bar, he saw a pink-coated mare with a darker red mane collapsed and her limbs across the surface of the counter. The bartender was speaking to the earth pony. "Berry, I'm sorry but you've had enough," he spoke, cleaning a glass. The mare's voice was heavily slurred, "Come on….*hick*….just one more….I have a friend coming….*hick*….I swear!" "You drank down three glasses of vinho do porto and four glasses of cherry rakia. To be honest, I'm surprised you haven't passed out. I'm sorry, no more," the barkeep finished cleaning the glass and moved to another part of the bar to assist another customers. With a thunk, Berry placed her head down in defeat. Trotting up, the blue unicorn spoke, "Hey Berry, are you alright?" Lifting up her head, her exhausted expression turned to one of joy as she saw her new friend, "Oh….Pokey! Can you tell this mean mister bartender that I'm okay to have another drink?" Pokey was hesitant to answer, "Uh….it does seem you've had enough. Maybe you should get some rest? I can walk you home so you don't have to stay at my place again." The mare began to whine, "Aww….do I have to? Can't I stay just a little more?" "No, it's time to go home." Pouting, Berry gave in, "Okay….but you have to carry me!" "Huh?" Before Pokey realized what was happening, she flopped right on the stallion's back. With a hoof in the air, Berry shouted, "Onward!" She began singing a nonsensical song as Pokey trotted out of the Salt Lick with the intoxicated pony on his back. Trotting through the night, Berry abruptly stopped her signing and started chatting with Pokey. "Hey….why are you carrying me?" she asked, confused. "Because you hopped on my back," Pokey explained, puzzled as well. "But why can't I trot?" "Well, because you're intoxicated." "No way! I've never felt better!" after her statement, Berry vomited on the ground while still on Pokey's back, "Okay, now I've never better." With a slightly bothered expression, Pokey continued his trotting, "Let's just get you home, how's that?" "That way!" she pointed with her hoof to the stallion giving her a ride. Finally, after a few false alarms from Berry, the two ponies arrived at Berry Punch's home. A few lights were on inside, but the house looked empty. Trotting up to the door, Pokey turned his head to look at the mare on his back, "Do you have a key?" "Oh, don't worry! Just knock on the door. Like this!" Berry knocked on the stallion's body hard, which caused the pony to wince a bit in pain. Bearing the pain, Pokey nodded, "Duly noted." He did just as the mare instructed except on the door instead of a pony's body. After a few moments, the door opened up to a small filly. The small unicorn had a lighter coloration to that of Berry Punch. She stared at Pokey for a few moments until she noticed the mare on his back. "Oh, hello mom," the small pony said. Berry looked at the filly and waved, "Hi sweetie! We're there always two of you?" "No, mom. Come on in," the filly spoke. At her words, Berry dragged herself off of Pokey's back and into her home. As soon as the mare entered the house and disappeared from sight, the filly turned to the blue stallion, "Thanks for dragging my mom home." It took a second for Pokey to reply, "Oh, not a problem…." "Ruby Pinch." "Right, Ruby. It's no big deal," Pokey added as soon as he got her name, "Um, if you don't mind me asking, does this…." "Happen a lot? More than you would think. But I'm used to it. Sometimes I have to be the parent of the two of us. And when she doesn't show up, it doesn't worry me too much," Ruby explained. Pokey gave a small worried look, "Alright. Is she going to be okay?" With a small chuckle, Ruby replied, "She will. A glass of fruit juice and a bit of tea will fix her up in the morning." "Good to hear," the stallion gave a sigh of relief "Well, I'll see you two around." Pokey turned around and began to trot away. "Hey, mister?" the filly called." Pokey turned towards back to the door. "Thanks for bringing back my mom."
Ch. 6 She Talks To AngelsChapter 6: She Talks To Angels The next evening, Pokey got off from work early. Exiting Sugarcube Corner, the unicorn headed off to the tavern he had been visiting quite a bit in the latest few days. He seemed to be very exhausted from the past few days and endeavors that have occurred and a strong drink seemed to be just what he needed. The blue stallion arrived at the Salt Lick tavern and noticed his good pal Caramel was already having a drink at one of the tables. "Hey, Caramel, didn't expect you to be here so early," Pokey commented, pulling up a seat at the table. Swallowing the beverage in his mouth, Caramel welcomed his friend, "Oh, what's up, Pokey? I could say the same for you." "Shouldn't you be at the farm? I don't think your cousin Applejack would be exactly happy to see you pounding down a few glasses of cider," Pokey pointed out. "Got the day off," the earth pony said proudly. "Really now? So what did you do today, drink your wages?" Pokey joked before calling to the bartender his order, "Barleywine? Thanks." "Barleywine? Dang, you really do like to experiment with your drinks. And I was out with Twilight Sparkle for a lunch date, if you must know," Caramel explained. The unicorn's ears perked, "Oh, I assume it was fun." Caramel began to slightly brag, "Yeah, it was pretty awesome. A nice little picnic and just sky gazing." "Sounds nice." "By the way, where have you been the last two days?" Pokey was hesitant to reply, "Well, I was just looking after Berry." The tan pony tilted his head, "Berry? As in Berry Punch?" "Yeah…." Caramel tried to hold himself together, but ended up busted out laughing anyway. "Seriously? You've been hanging around the Berry Punch?" Pokey's expression became sour, "What's so wrong with that? I've been just making sure she's alright and gets home safely." This caused the pony to laugh even more, "So you've been her designated driver? Oh Celestia, this is rich! Haha!" The blue colt's face turned pink as his friend laughed. He was relieved when his drink arrived with the barkeep bring it to the table. After Caramel calmed down a bit, the bartender spoke, "I'm sorry to intrude in your conversation, gentlecolts, but I couldn't help hearing you two talking about Berry. Well, she is a regular around here and after all of the time she spends here, which is quite a bit, I've never seen her take quite a liking to you, sir." "Huh?" Pokey swallowed his liquor hard at the barkeeps statement. Caramel's laugh started up again at the bartender's account. "Are you serious? Oh, this is getting better and better! Haha! This is priceless!" The bartender excused himself back to behind the bar, leaving the flustered unicorn and his laughing friend. "Caramel, will you please shut it?" Pokey asked in an annoyed tone. Wiping a tear from his eye, the tan stallion stopped, "I'm sorry, but this is so funny. She's actually crushing on you!" "Can't you just leave it be?" "How can I? You two make a cute couple!" "There is nothing between us!" the blue unicorn became defensive as he took another big drink of his barleywine. "Sure, and there's nothing between Big Macintosh and that yellow pegasus," Caramel laughed up again. Pokey let out an irritated sigh, "I don't need this right now." He finished his drink and placed a few coins on the table. "When you are done laughing, let me know." "Aw, come on Pokey, I'm just having a little fun," Caramel called out to his friend, "you know that!" "Again, when you are done laughing, let me know," Pokey waved to his friend as he left the tavern. Caramel stuck his tongue out towards friend's exit, "Geez, spoilsport."
Ch. 7 Underneath It AllChapter 7: Underneath It All After leaving the tavern and after Celestia's sun set on the horizon, Pokey made his way back to his home. Once inside of his small hom beyonde, he let out a loud sigh. Trotting to his bookshelf, he took down a book with his magic to read. Plopping down on his couch, he tried to get lost in his book, yet he was unable to. 'It seems kind of dull tonight,' the unicorn thought to himself, 'Maybe, Caramel is has a point. I mean, a broken clock is right twice a day.' Pokey laughed at his small joke about his friend. Finally, he was able to begin his reading. A few hours later, there was a knocking at his door. Pokey placed his book down and went to the door. "Coming," he called out and then spoke softly to himself, "Who could it be at this hour?" Opening the door, he saw a very familiar, intoxicated mare. "Oh Pokey, thank goodness it's finally you. The last four houses were very rude," Berry spoke in a very inebriated manner. "Berry?" Pokey was worried as he was surprised. The earth pony waved her hoof, "Hii~" "How many glasses of wi-" "Bottles," the mare corrected. "How many bottles of wine did you have?" With a brief pause, Berry thought before she answered, "I don't have that many hooves…." Pokey decided to change the topic, "What are you doing here?" "I was at the tavern, having a drink at seven. And then I thought, 'whoa, where's Pokey? He should, like, be here with me to drink with me, and to talk with me….and drink with me….' so I came out to find you." "But it's almost midnight." "I know right? I kept getting lost in the neighborhood near the tavern….and in the tavern…." "Come inside, we such try to sober you up a bit," Pokey stepped aside to allow Berry Punch inside. "Aww….do I have to be sober?" Berry stumbled her way in Pokey's home. "At least get some sleep. Is that okay?" the unicorn asked. "Okay…." Berry replied, sounding like a child that was told that she could only have one cookie. This made Pokey smile, admitting it was kind of cute. The two ponies trotted to Pokey's bedroom. The blue colt figured it would be the same as last time: Berry would just be so tired that she would just fall asleep and he would go back out to the couch and sleep there. Berry hopped onto Pokey's bed and sat up before speaking, "Sit." "Huh? Um, okay. You want to talk?" Pokey sat down next to Berry on his bed. The mare's response surprised Pokey. Berry leaned in towards the colt and kissed him right on his lips. With her eyes closed, she kissed the stunned and blushing unicorn, who was surprised that she was doing such. There was one thing that Pokey's mind could process during the kiss, and that was that the kiss tasted like fermented fruit. When Berry finally broke the kiss, the mare looked up to Pokey and slurred her speech, "You're my knight in shimmering armor…." Pokey, whose face was a bright red, tried to correct her grammar, "Um….d-don't you mean 'shinning' or something?" Berry didn't reply. Instead, she snuggled up to Pokey's body where she quickly fell asleep. Her face seemed to have a content and comfortable expression as she slept against the unicorn. With a soft sigh, Pokey couldn't help but smile and give a quiet laugh, "You're just like a little filly underneath it all."
Ch. 8 Fools In LoveChapter 8: Fools In Love The next morning, Berry Punch woke up on Pokey's bed. Rubbing her pounding head, the mare dragged herself out into the living room where she saw the blue unicorn on the couch. Pokey turned to see Berry enter the room, "Good morning, Berry. How did you sleep?" Berry smiled, despite the pain in her head, "Fine, thank you. And I'm sorry for any problems last night. I only remember bits and pieces right now, so please do forgive me." She trotted over to the couch and sat, placing a hoof up to her head. "It's not a problem. I'll make us some tea, that should help," the stallion stood up and trotted to heat some water up. "Thank you again," Berry spoke, "Could you perhaps fill me in on what happened last night? As embarrassing as it sounds, I kind of forgot after I left the Salt Lick." Using his magic, Pokey got a couple of cups for the tea as well as the bags, "From what you told me, you were looking for me for some reason or another. You made it to my home around midnight and told me you were looking for me, while intoxicated I should add." He poured the hot water into the cups and the placed a bag in each cup before levitating the cups over to the couch. Berry's expression was one of complete embarrassment, "Oh goodness, I'm really sorry to have to trouble you so late." She took the cup of tea from Pokey, thanking him before taking a much-needed sip. "Feeling better?" Pokey asked before he took a sip himself. The mare nodded, "It's certainly a start. Anything else happen by chance?" "Actually yes," Pokey started. He was hesitant to continue, "After I suggested you get some rest, you….well….kind of surprised me." Berry finished her sip and tilted her head slightly, "Oh dear, did I say something ridiculous again?" Pokey was cautious about continuing, "Not so much. Well, you kind of….kissed me…." His head was turned away from Berry as his cheeks grew a pink tint to them. "Wha wha what?!" the mare almost dropped her tea cup when she heard what the unicorn said. Her face was in utter shock and completely red. A few moments of silence passed before Pokey continued, "Heh, yeah. You said that I was your 'knight in shimmering armor'. I think that was the alcohol talking." Looking anywhere else to hide her blushing face, Berry replied, "Actually, no. You're a wonderful stallion, Pokey, and I really do like you. And I do mean what I said…. except that 'shimmering' part." The blue stallion's ears perked up, "R-Really?" Berry finally had the courage to turn her blushing face back to Pokey. With a nervous but sincere laugh, she nodded, "Yes, I do. I guess it was the wine that loosened me up to admit it, perhaps a bit too much. I know it sounds silly, but those really were my true feelings, Pokey. I really hope you don't hold it against me." Pokey smiled back to Berry, "Well, you are a bit of a handful when you are inebriated, but I would be lying if I said these past few days were boring. I do like you too, Berry. Quite a bit." Overcome with joy, Berry threw front limbs around Pokey's neck, discarding her cup and causing the unicorn to almost lose his, "I'm so happy. Thank you, Pokey, thank you." Puzzled, Pokey asked, "Huh? For what?" "Everything you've done for me. Just….everything." END
Ch. 1 Hello ThereChapter 1: Hello There The sun had set on the land of Equestria and Princess Luna's evening had begun. It was during this time that the many of the Ponyville stores would close and the workers would get off of work. For the blue unicorn Pokey Pierce, it was no exception. After working at Sugarcube Corner all day, it was a relief for Mr. and Mrs. Cake to take over. Now the rest of the evening was his to spend with his friend. The unicorn exited the bakery and leisurely made his way to the town's tavern, the Salt Lick. Entering the tavern, the aroma of fermented drinks filled his lungs. With a smirk, he scanned the room to see a number of ponies were already there enjoying themselves. Pokey was quick to find his friend up at the bar. "Heya, Caramel," Pokey trotted up to the tan pony. Turning his head, the brown maned pony raised his glass up to his friend, "Hey, Pokey. I was wondering when you were going to show up." With a small laugh, Pokey took the seat next to Caramel's right, "Well, some of us actually have to clean up before we end our work day." "Oh just relax, will ya? Come on, first drink is on me, how about that?" Caramel offered. "Cant' say no to that," Pokey chuckled before ordering a drink from the barkeep, "could I get an ale?" "Ale? Trying something new, are we?" the tan earth stallion asked. Pokey shrugged, "Why not? Never hurts to be adventurous." The bartender placed the glass ale in front of the unicorn and gave a polite nod. Pokey took a gulp of the liquid and let out a favorable response. "Well, how's it treating ya?" Caramel asked before he took a sip of his cider. "Tart and sweet, and a very nice taste to it." "Thinking of making it a habit?" The blue stallion shook his head, "Nah, I'll still keep trying different things. You know, keep things from getting boring." Caramel shook his head and laugh, "You always were a weird one, Pokey." "Says the screw up who somehow got the Winter-Wrap Up seeds on the roof of a building. Honestly, how does that happen?" Pokey retorted with a light, friendly punch to the earth pony's limb. "I'm still trying to figure that one out myself. I'm just thankful that Twilight Sparkle found them." "Speaking of the librarian, how's it going between you two? You get enough guts to say a complete sentence to her?" Pokey joked before taking another drink of his ale. "For your information, we are actually dating now." "Really now?" "Yeah, for some reason, she found something she likes in me." "Well, congratulations. Invite me to the wedding when it happens" With a drink of his cider, Caramel playfully returned a shove to his friend, "Oh come on, lay off. Besides, I think you wouldn't be giving me a hard time about it since you're the one who never had somepony special." Pokey rolled his eyes, "Oh, come off it. I did have somepony a while back, but it's not something I need to worry about right away." "Well, at least think about it, alright?" Caramel hopped off the stool and placed a few bits on the counter, "and if you want another drink, it's out of your pocket." Pokey waved to his friend as he left the Salt Lick. He turned his attention back to his ale, taking another drink of the bittersweet beverage. He then noticed the stool where Caramel was seat had been taken by a berry-colored earth mare with a violet mane. The unicorn had seen her around before but never put much thought on who she was. "Bartender…." she began to speak with a slight slur in her speech, "can I get a merlot, aged three years? Or four? Oh, why not, how about five?" The barkeep gave a worried look to the mare, "Berry, just because you change your seat doesn't mean I don't already know how much you've had to drink." The mare plopped the front of her body on the counter with her front limbs stretched out and her head held up to keep talking, "Oh, by why not? I trotted over to this seat. Doesn't that prove I'm fine?" "Um, you used the barstool as a walker to aid yourself over here. Sorry, but I think you've had enough for tonight," the barkeep trotted to another part of the bar. "Aw….but I didn't get a vinho do porto! Come on, please?" Berry pleaded, but her words were ignored. She then turned her head to the right to see a half empty glass of ale. Her eyes then trailed up to the blue unicorn seated next to her, "Oh, hello there, mister unicorn!" "Um….hello."
Ch. 3 Drunken LullabiesChapter 3: Drunken Lullabies "Berry, where exactly do you live anyway?" Pokey asked, turning his head to the intoxicated pink mare that was draped across his back. With a goofy smile, Berry Punch slurred her words, "But what about the waffles? I wants the waffles!" "Waffles? But you said pancakes earlier," Pokey reminded her. He just wanted to get her keep talking, making sure she wouldn't pass out. "Pancakes and waffles! With boysenberry syrup for all of it!" the mare exclaimed loudly. A few ponies looked at the two as she shouted out. The unicorn was quick to try and keep Berry's voice down, "Fine, fine, whatever. Can you please tell me where your home is at?" Berry seemed to completely ignore Pokey's question as she began to drunkenly sing a song, "Little bird, little bird, fly through my window. Little bird, little bird, fly through my window. Little bird, little bird, fly through my window, find molasses candy. Through my window, my sugarlump. Fly through my window, my sugarlump. Find molasses candy." With a sigh, Pokey gave up. As the mare continued to sing, adding more verses as time went on, the stallion trotted to his home. Pokey figured at least she would be able to rest there for the night. Arriving to his small cottage, Pokey was already regretting taking Berry. She began a number of other songs, often stopping mid-way to speak nonsense and start a new song. "Uh, Berry? You can stop singing now. We are here at my place," Pokey stated as he turned on the lights to his main room. "Come on, one more song, Pokey! Please? Just a small town girl-" Berry began to sing from her position of laying across the unicorn's back. "No, no. No more singing. You can crash here for to the night." "Crash? But I'm not driving!" Berry laughed. Giving a small smile to her remark, Pokey trotted to his bedroom, "No, I'm saying you can sleep here for tonight." Upon, seeing the Pokey's bed, Berry dragged herself off from the stallion's back and to the bed, "Oh~, okay then. Does this mean you want to sleep here with me?" Pokey was a bit taken back, "Wha? No!" Giggling, Berry continued, "Aww, but why not? Aren't you tired?" "I thought you would be most tired out of the two of us," Pokey commented. "Now why would you say tha-" Berry was cut off by her own body shutting down from exhaustion. Her head plopped down to the side and she was quick to fall asleep. With a soft laugh and smile, Pokey placed a blanket over the mare's body. "She sure can be a handful when she's had a few," Pokey quietly said to himself. He then trotted out of his bedroom and closed the door behind him. In his living room, Pokey turned the lights off and laid down on his couch to fall asleep himself.
