Here I am, sweating profusely while sitting on a loveseat, Princess Celestia walking behind me observing my new home for the first time. My face tells it all, I’m terrified, the monarchs sudden arrival could only be explained as she uncovered the truth, the culprit of that stallions suicide. I give a sideways glance over to the Princess, she currently admires a painting I’d had purchased recently, it’s an image of the spot I had originally arrived here at. It was something I wanted done so that I never forgot where things started here, a local artisan was willing and I paid the fee.

“Is this not a lovely painting? Why it reminds me of my fillyhood, time spent running through fields with Luna, my family had a small home in the country, this of course many moons ago” She reminisces her past as I stand there wondering if this is my cue to take her out now, like Jesse James going to fix his painting yet I had no weapon holstered and she was no Jesse James.

“I-it’s where I first arrived here... the very same spot. I paid to have it painted like 2 weeks ago” I try not to seem nervous as I speak. Truthfully I’m not much of an art person, the picture is more for sentimental value than aesthetic.

Celestia replies with a simple ‘hmm’ and takes her focus away from the painting toward me. “How has Ponyville been to you Marshall? Do my ponies treat you well? And how goes your luck with building friendships?” Curiously observant, she stares toward me, her confidence clear as she does not sway from making eye contact, talk about serious.

“It’s been great! Everypony makes sure to avoid making me feel uncomfortable, and for my friendship luck... well I guess I’m pretty close to the girls but, not many ponies outside of that” I say while reaching to the back of my neck. I try not to be caught up in my lie attempting to come off as natural as possible.

She stares at me with a smirk before sitting down across from me. “I sense your nervousness, maybe it’s best we get to the point.There’s word of a hexing bipedal creature in Ponyville, one that even attacked ponies. Young human, I have been ruling for too long to be deceived by white lies and I’m sure you know this as well. Why hide the mistreatment my ponies put upon you? I could make arrangements for your comfort at the word”

I sigh, “Look, I don’t want to come off as some sort of problem, I don’t mind ponies ignoring me or making up rumors but, I would mind being considered a liability for the ponies living here. Even though most the town hates me I still have friends here that I want to keep”

“This is understandable yet, you seem to waste the purpose of this home you sit in now. Why is it that you refuse to remove the collar Marshall? It’s effects will only damage you progressively worse if you continue to wear it without breaks”

“I’m sorry Celestia, I didn’t mean to make it seem I was ungrateful for this home”

“No you seem to be misunderstanding, I simply wish to make things as comfortable for you as I can as ruler. It is my job to make my subjects feel welcomed and loved, this home had more purpose than means of safety. The problem I face is figuring out why is it you persist on wearing the collar as often as you do? My sister says you even wear it as you sleep” Her look is of genuine curiosity.

Luna screwed me! Also how does she know I keep it on when I’m alone?

I cut to the chase, “Princess.... do you think I had something to do with that ponies suicide?” Facing her with fear in my eyes, knowing that the outcome of this answer could determine my future.

Looking away to the rest of my home she speaks with a softer tone, “I am unable to answer that yet” looking back to me saying, “perhaps you could help me understand what might your involvement been” Leaning in closer to me as she speaks.

I gulp, “Well...” Should I lie? She might be able to see through me however she has no idea I had contact with the pony before, although she might have an idea already of what happened given how bad I’m keeping my composure. I can’t afford to be caught in a lie with this and she definitely would find out eventually what occurred, probably from some spell I never even heard of. “H-He was an ice cream vendor me and Dash went to a-and I did come close to him but it was only for like two minutes”

The large Princess seemingly hovered over me with her proximity, only to back away in thought. “This was it correct? Just one occurrence?” I nod yes furiously. “Marshall even if this whole... incident was caused by your own magical illness, I couldn’t hold it against you if it was unintentional. We both know this problem is complicated and if your trying your best to avoid any issues with the ponies here then I will take no disciplinary action” I still sit there nervously looking to Celestial, she face hoofs, “That means I don’t blame you Joey. Course it was my own pupil who caused this, why should I blame you for the curse you’ve been stricken by?”

I take a deep breath, “I really didn’t mean to hurt anypony Celestia I swear. It was my first day with the collar and I was so embarrassed, I couldn’t find the strength to put it on yet” Pleading my case I’m met with a white hoof to my shoulder.

“All is forgiven just make sure to wear the collar around others until we can figure this issue out”

“I promise I will keep it on always” She looks at me with impatience.

“I also shall make a decree that you are to remove the collar when away from others, your harming yourself too much from this accident that occurred. I can see the guilt you carry, if you do not find peace with yourself you will only prolong your suffering” The look I’m met with can only be described as a caring mother who is worried of their child’s well-being, it’s disturbingly comforting.

“It feels wrong that I’m allowed to go unpunished though, I probably caused that ponies death Celestia! It’s not fair that I should get to keep living after he lost his chance to”

“While it is extremely misfortunate a pony has perished under my supervision from his own hoof, I am unable to punish you for something that even I struggle with understanding. Prove to that pony that your life is worth living and make something of it if you truly believe you are in his debt however, I will not allow this mistreatment toward yourself to continue. I will have my sister make sure you follow through with my decree Marshall. Learn to find peace with yourself, your not at all a bad pony”

“Person” I correct her.

“Person. Mistakes are unavoidable in life, it’s what we learn from them that’s important. Even I have much to learn still, my own worst mistake one I had with my sister...” Celestia’s saddens and she looks to the window.

“I appreciate your concern... I’ll try to be useful with the life I have, it’s the least I can do”

“Yes, we all try” Her smile coming back. “I believe that I have done enough talking, I apologize for going on for so long. Enjoy your day young human, and if need be it I shall be one letter away” Celestia’s horn starts to light up, her form dissipating before me. “Oh before I go, I heard of your incident with that farmer, do avoid any fighting. I am here for protecting my ponies and that includes you so if there is any more mistreatment you just contact me, I would like to avoid violence amongst my ponies”

She gives a serious glare that sends shivers down my spine. “I’ll try... and why didn’t you teleport here before?”

She giggles, “There is such a thing as privacy, I couldn’t just appear in ones home at random. Perhaps I could share a story with you next time of such mistake”

Just before she fades away into smoke I’m able to reply, “I’d like that” which brings a smile to the large princess. Her previous location now stands empty besides a cloud of smoke that fades away into the air.

I wish I could teleport

Moving on from my desires, I sit back down wondering what to make of my day, the royal surprise mixing things up already. Struggling to put together an idea, I decide to think about it over some breakfast. Enjoying Equestria’s equivalent to Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Cinamini Snacks, I let yesterday’s disaster come to mind. Rubbing at my wrist, guilt of my actions toward Dash invade my conscience. I need to apologize.

With my plan for the day now assembled, I cover myself in an assortment of warm clothes to take on the coming winter that lives outside. Moving my beanie into a comfortable position I walk outside to begin my search for Ponyvilles fastest resident. Although I’ve never seen Rainbow Dash’s home, I’ve heard her talk about it being made of clouds, moving constantly to different locations of her choice. As I think about it, there’s really no way for me to find it, I oughta ask for Fluttershy’s help seeing as she’s a Pegasus like Dash.

After walking down the aged dirt path that leads to Shy’s place I reach the cottage, walking over to its large form. I’m not sure if I’ve said this before but Fluttershy has the largest of all the girls homes I’ve been to, it’s shape somewhat circular yet robust and tall. If I remember correctly, it’s very well furnished inside as well. Approaching the door, I knock three times and wait for a response, hopefully the timid pony is home.

After a few seconds of waiting the door is slowly pulled open barely revealing the yellow pony within. “H-hi Joey, what’s going on?” She asks with a raised brow. She always seems embarrassed at first whenever I see her but, given some time she always warms up to me, giving her full undivided attention.

“H-hey, d-do y-you mind if I-I c-come in?” Shivering as I speak. To tell the truth, I like the cold more than the blistering heat of summer even if I freeze easily.

“Of course!” Shy exclaims suddenly, realizing my discomfort. She pulls me inside, warming up a cup of coffee for me. “I know it’s around lunch time but I know your a late riser, so I thought I’d make you some coffee to help warm up” She says with a smile while bringing me the cup, creamer and sugar included as well.

I’d hate to deny Fluttershy’s nice gesture as I don’t like coffee all that much but, seeing how she went to the trouble worrying about me I could take this one for the team. “Thanks” I say, taking a sip from the mug.

Ugh, so bitter even with the sugar and cream. I don’t get how people enjoy this, must be an acquired taste

Although the flavor hitting my tongue screams abort, I drink a healthy amount of the serving without a reaction. “So... how have you... um been Joey?” Shy asks timidly, with a blush on her face. She’s bad at small talk like your boy here.

“I’m fine, actually I was wondering if you could help me find Dash today. Ya see I have something important to talk to her about and I don’t really know how to get a hold of her, she usually just finds me” I move the mug to my face pretending to take a drink.

“Well... she has her cloud home but in the winter she doesn’t stay there. It’s too cold. Actually um... the funny thing is, she lives with me during the winter” Her hoof rubbing a circle into the floor as she explains.

“That’s perfect! Where is she now?” I look around the house for signs of the tomboy Pegasus. Shy starts to look sad at hearing my question.

“She umm... wasn’t feeling too well yesterday and said she was going to her parents for a few days” Aaand now I feel like shit. “Joey are you.. are you okay?”

I stand up wondering how I’m to fix my mistake, rubbing my hand through my hair. “Yea... I’m fine, by the way Pinkie is moving in with me. We thought it was a good idea so she could save some money and I could get some help with fixing up my place” I attempt to change the subject away from me, moving around the room observing her photos as I speak.

“Really? That’s wonderful! Two of my best friends are now going to be my neighbor, this is exciting!” Shy’s sudden outburst surprises me at first, a smile grows across my face at her excitement. “The girls always found it hard to come over often because my cottage is so out of the way but now I have friends close enough for weekly tea parties!” She giddily stomps her hooves.

It’s dangerously adorable seeing a pony act this way, it reminds me of the general innocence of most ponies. “You consider me a best friend huh?”

She gives me a funny look, “Of course Joey! Your so nice, and caring, plus you love animals too!”

I chuckle, “Besides bears, yes I like animals... and reptiles, they’re unpredictable”

Fluttershy giggles, “You just don’t know how to read them, they’re just like any other animal once you get to know them” I laugh at her explanation, the absurdity of getting to know a non sentient being ridiculous in my eyes. “What’s so funny?”

“Nothing... nothing heh, your just silly Shy” She blushes, confused of what I mean. I pat her head, “Maybe when your older I’ll tell ya”

“I’m older than you!”

“Eh, maybe” I wink.

“Well I will tell Dash when she comes back that you want to see her”

“Thanks Shy, that’d be super cool”

Shy giggles, “You sound like Dashie”

“I do? She’s rubbing off onto me.... I have to be more careful before she makes me gay!” While in her confused state after what I had just said, I head to the door of Fluttershy’s cottage. “See ya Shy! Thanks for the coffee!” She still remained there attempting to reboot her brain.

Now what? Maybe Twilights? I haven’t spent time with my boy Spike in a while either

Surprised by my sudden energy today, I push my confusion to the side appreciating the abnormal occurrence, making my way to the Ponyville library. It’s best I take advantage of the way I feel right now otherwise when I start feeling like shit again I’ll never get anything done.

My path takes me through the outskirts of Ponyville. Even with the decreased traffic through the town I’d still like to avoid any unwanted attention. The yellowish tan of each home becomes monotonous, very few differences distinguishing them apart, their similarities are almost enough to make it seem like your walking in circles if you were not paying attention. There is however, a few decorations of pumpkins and other Nightmare Night themed objects, one home even carrying a painted image of Luna’s former self, the large dark pony barred her sharp fangs. I’m able to see most the detail given that it’s still light outside, the recent days becoming shorter making it even more difficult for me to get tasks done. Specially with my new routine of waking up late since the move from Twilights.

Rounding the corner I come upon the large tree home, it’s familiarity stirs a welcoming feel, almost like returning home from a long trip. I reach the door and pull on the knocker, it’s detail that of a lion holding the metal bar within its mouth. After a few knocks and a brief period of waiting I’m greeted by my scaly pal Spike, he lights up at my presence before quickly attempting to play it cool.

“Oh, hey Joey, how’s the new place going?” Spikes attempt to hide his excitement fails miserably, I mercifully spare him this time however.

“Pretty great, pretty great.... just was in town and thought I should stop in for a moment and say hi, it’s been uh.. a bit since we last hung out” I’m a little flustered at my broken promise to stay in touch, besides a few times I quickly came over for help or other small errands I’ve really been a stranger to my former roommates.

“Your probably busy with moving in and all I’m sure. You should come in, Twilight would love to see you, she was telling me yesterday about some book she wanted to talk to you about”

I walk in past the small drake making my way into the library, looking around for Twi. Spike tells me she’s up in the other room organizing some new books that had come in today. Heading through the door leading into the living section of the home I’m met with a large pile of fresh books along with a nerdy Twilight glossing over one before stamping it with her mark and placing into the pile beside her. She glances over, tilting her glasses down and brightens up at her recognition.

“Hey! What brings you back so soon? Did you already read the journal?” She continues to work away at the next book as I walk over and pull up a seat next to her.

“Yea I did, it was interesting but I feel like it gave me more questions than answers. I mean that pony that originally had it affected pony DNA, and I’m not exactly a pony. I don’t understand why I’d carry the same problem he did, what connects us? Also that Prance pony might have been a carrier as well and my magic set it off or something” Twilight puts the book she’s working on to the side.

“For your question on your connection to him, I don’t know. That stallion that you and Dash met however, is currently under autopsy, I’m sure we could get an answer for your second question after that. And Joey... please don’t blame yourself, I’m sure Celestia has met with you already about your collar” Giving me a look of empathy.

I sigh, “I’ll try but no promises, I can’t exactly change the way I feel”

“That’ll have to do for now, so do you have any other questions?” Going back to scanning over the book for imperfections.

“Hmm, how’ve you and Spike been without me? I bet it’s pretty boring around here without all of-“ I move my hand over my figure, “-this” and give a goofy smile.

Twi laughs a little, “You weren’t exactly the type of pony to get into trouble when you were here so I’d say things are about the same but we’ve missed your company”

“There’s no need to butter me- wait what? That’s it!? We’re taking about the only human in Equestria sister, not some goldfish you flushed down the drain. I was the energy when I lived here, the spark!” I give my speech with heart.

“Ha, Joey you didn’t wake up earlier than 1 for the first week and a half here” She has a valid point.

“Doesn’t change the fact that when I’m awake, the train is in the station and everypony has got tickets to a one way trip to.... shit I don’t know... I was the glue that held us together!” (Ever walk into a sentence and not know where your going?)

Twilight stops for a moment to think, “I’ll give you... the spirit of the team, how about that?”

“I’ll take it, well deserving of course. Joking aside, I’m sorry I haven’t been around that much, I promised to stay in touch”

“No no, your fine most of the girls and I hang out a few times a month anyway, everypony is busy around this time of year but we all meet up for the upcoming holidays!” Twilight smiles in excitement at the thought of being with her friends.

“Luna told me about the one coming up, um... Nightmare Night. It’s pretty much the same thing as something we have on Earth beside the whole return of an evil pony of course”

“Really? Well tell me about it!” Twilight quickly swaps the book she was working on to her notebook on Anthropology, I told her the word.

“Alright, it’s uh, a holiday of course and we wear costumes and give out candy. It’s for younger people like kids, but sometimes adults get into the action as well with things like cosplay or other sultry activities. I believe it’s origin comes from the Spanish, based on the ‘day of the dead’ I forget what it’s called in it’s native tongue” Twilight furiously scribbles down everything I say.

“What or who is ‘the Spanish’?”

“Another culture or race from my own, they speak a different language but, it’s generally not that much different than my own. I can speak a few words but never hold a conversation. Would you like an example?”

“Please?”

“So if I wanted to say, ‘what is your name’ I would ask, Cómo te llamas? You would respond with, ‘me llamo’ and then your name”

“Hm, that sounds awfully familiar to the way ponies speak in Pexico”

of course it does....

“Anyways that’s about all that’s important when it comes to Halloween, most of the pumpkins and scary stuff is the same” Twilight gives me a look of confusion.

“Hallow-ween? Is that the name?”

I face palm, “Sorry yes, I can’t believe I forgot to say that”

“Well this was really insightful, I’m sure learning about your culture could help us find a way to get you home” She seems optimistic but my attitude differs.

“I won’t hold my breathe” We sit there for a few seconds in silence before Spike barges in, spotting us quickly.

“Spike you need to watch the front for any visitors, I’ll switch places with you in a bit” Spike continues toward us ignoring her concern.

“It’s fine Twi, it’s been a slow day and Joeys over. I put the ‘on break’ sign up just in case” This news dismisses Twilights worry.

She gives in without struggle, “Alright fine”

“So what’s going on with the big guy huh? Anything interesting?”

I shrug my shoulders, “Nah, nothing really, I mean Pinkie is moving in with me for the foreseeable future”

Spike stares in confusion while Twilight lifts her head, “How come? Lonely without me and Spikes company? I mean I’m sure your a little used to having somepony around now”

“That’s not it, Pinkie thought it was a good idea to help me with taking care of my place and in return she wouldn’t have to pay to live with me. It’s a win-win ya know?” My lie has some solid reasoning and works easily as the both of them look to each other before nodding.

“Makes sense but, Pinkie really is a handful though. I hope you understand what you’ve gotten yourself into”

“Spike you shouldn’t talk about Pinkie like that, sure she’s got a lot of energy but, she’s very considerate. I’m sure Joey is completely aware of the situation” She smiles to me as she says this.

I nod in agreement, “Yea, plus we get along pretty well. Even though we have differing lifestyles, I think we respect each other, it’s like the saying opposites attract”

Spike grins for a moment, “So your saying you think she’s attractive?”

I give Spike a glare, “And are you and Rarity any closer than when I left?” His grin is replaced with frustration.

“We were not talking about me and Rarity!” A puff of smoke fumes out of his nostrils as he pouts.

Me and Twilight share a laugh at the drakes expense. “Well maybe you need a pointer or two. Also how old even are you Spike, is she even in your age range?”

“Of course she is, I’m 18! That’s plenty old enough for dragons”

I look to Twilight for confirmation, she answers without looking away from her book, “Dragons are considered mature at 16 even though they can live for thousands of years. Also Rarity is 25, and the age of consent for ponies is 21 so what he’s saying is technically true” I look back to Spike, his face beaming with validation.

“What make you think Rarity sees you as mature enough? You heard Twilight say the age of consent for ponies is 21, she might see you as a minor” He thinks for a moment before deflating.

“I... I never thought about it that way. She does always treat me like I’m a kid still” Spikes previous confidence now shot.

“It could just be the way you look honestly, I thought you were like 13 or something with how prepubescent you look” He shoots me and angry look. “Hey listen that’s not my fault, when do dragons start to grow?”

Twilight charms up again, “After a few decades, somewhere around their 20s and 30s but, if a dragon were to have a larger hoard, they would grow accordingly to its size”

“Hoard?”

Spike answers this time, “My own personal stash or belongings. Think stories of dragons having large piles of treasure that they protect, it’s all based on real history”

I keep a confused look even after his answer, “But how does having more shit translate to growing?”

“Pfft magic silly, dragons need to be large enough to protect their possessions so they grow using their own genetic magic” Twilight answers my question as if it was something I should have already known, I give her a deadpanned look. “Oh yeah... I forgot, hehe”

“So if we get you a large enough hoard you’ll grow right?”

Twilight pipes up suddenly, “Hold on now, we’ve already had a problem like this before you came here Joey, Spike has a problem controlling his urges the larger he gets so it isn’t a good idea getting him a hoard” Spike looks away a little embarrassed.

“What if it was just enough to make him grow a little Twi? I me-“

“No, absolutely not. It’s too dangerous”

I sit back into my chair in thought. “Listen dude, you don’t really have to help me, I’m sure Rarity sees me as a man how it is”

“That’s a great attitude Spike but something tells me Rarity wants a more masculine figure and I think we can find a way to make you just that” Spike tilts his head in confusion.

“How’s that?”

“What if you consider Rarity your hoard? Like if she agrees to be in a relationship, wouldn’t that mean technically you could consider her a part of your ‘treasure’ even if you don’t actually own her? That might make you grow enough to protect Rarity right?”

“Maybe but Spike might still be pulled by uncontrollable urges if it works and I don’t know if that’s safe or what to expect”

“Don’t be a party pooper Twi, I’ll take full responsibility for anything that happens”

“And how do you plan on stopping Spike once he becomes larger then you?”

I pause for a moment, “Well I happen to know this purple pony that is super good with magic and I’m sure she could help get me out of a jam” I give a huge toothy smile, Twilight face hooves.

“Listen I am-“

“I’ll be your test subject for an entire week if something goes wrong AND I’ll tell you anything you want to know about Earth for as long as you want for one day” She sits there considering the offer. “I’ll buy you those caramel chocolates you like at Sugar Cube Corner as well....”

“Alright alright but you stop this whole experiment if things get even slightly out of control, you here me?”

“Yes ma’am!” I give her a salute and turn to Spike. “I’m a little busy with Pinkie moving in this week so next week we will come together with a plan to win Rarities heart alright? I call this operation ‘Prince Charming’ except instead of you becoming a person from frog you just get a little bigger” I raise my fist to the dragon for a bump.

“Ugh, this sounds like your going to cause more trouble for me then good...” Spike meets my fist hesitantly.

“All right!” I jump from my seat with a fist pump. “Also I have to wait for Pinkie to get done with work today so is there anything I could help you two with until then?”

The next few hours went by in a hurry as I was back to my original job of helping Twilight and Spike run the library like old times accept old times were only a month ago. Just as I am about to leave, Twilight pulls me to the side.

“What’s up?” I say with a hand on my hip and a raised brow. Twilight fiddles with her hoof for a bit before building up the courage to speak.

“Listen... about the day you moved out, when we... when I tried to um..”

I cut her off, “Hey look, I get it. You felt guilty for me and didn’t want me to leave right? I understand that you were desperate in the moment and were worried about me, I think it’s best if we forget it ever happened” I offer a small smile.

Twilight returns me one as well but I could tell there was more on her mind, “Yea... okay, that’s probably the right thing to do” We stand there for a little longer until I feel like I should go stepping toward the door only to be pulled by my arm.

Looking back to see Twilight holding my sleeve with her magic, she stares away from me blushing. “Just... be careful okay?”

“Of course” My answer releases her grip allowing me to head to the door. Twilight is always worrying about me, I wish I could get her to realize how pointless that is.

After waving them both goodbye and heading outside, I look to Ponyville and it’s now darkened appearance, the night falling over with only the moon to illuminate my path in this part of town. I head toward Sugar Cube Corner, my breath visible in the cold air yet there was stillness in the night, no wind or sound beside the occasional hoot of an owl. I gain some distance from the library before I realize I’m being trailed by three small fillies, I recognize the one as Rainbow’s pupil or admirer, her coat orange with a purple mane. I quickly turn and face their way causing them to jump behind the nearby building.

“Hey! What are you fillies planning over there? You know it’s not nice to stalk peo- ponies!”

I hate referring to myself as a pony, it just seems illogical that with all these other species that they wouldn’t have another term for all

One of the fillies is pushed out from their hiding spot, her eyes filled with fear as she is now visible to me, it’s the orange one. She walks over slowly to me and stops short by about 5 feet. “M-mister H-human... I w-was wondering I-if you knew w-where Rainbow D-Dash is... y-you know her right?”

I squat down to her level, “Yea, me and her are friends” I say with a smile, “She’s at her parents for a few days but she’ll be back after that. Your her pupil or whatever right? What’s your name?”

“S-scootaloo...”

“Well Scootaloo, there’s no need for you and your friends to be scared of me, I’m a cool guy just ask Dash when she comes back”

“Actually... she’s t-told me about you before” She sits there awkwardly before speaking up again, “Is it t-true that you curse p-ponies?”

I chuckle, “Heh, no. I can’t do any magic, the only thing I can really do is give a mean hug and keep Dash from getting too full of herself”

And hurt her feelings

She giggles a little, “Dash is super cool though isn’t she?” Her mentioning of Dash lights her up, completely removing any fear she might have had before.

“I mean, kinda but don’t let her know I said that okay? I’ll never hear the end of it” She pretends to zip her lips and I reach out my fist toward her for a bump. She stares for a moment not knowing what to do.

“Hoof bump, just hit my fist” She does, punching a little harder than I would’ve liked but I ignore it giving her a smile. “I have to go now, I’m going to be late to helping out my friend. You be careful and tell your friends that it’s rude to believe in rumors without asking the person yourself okay?”

She nods before running off back to her friends, they leap from their hiding spot joining her in a trot opposite from where I’m heading.

Scootaloo... Scootaloo, orange, orange scooter? No... that would only make sense if she rode a scooter. I don’t know, I’ll just try to remember her name

Oh the ignorance I had of not knowing Scootaloo’s actual skill of riding scooters, only if I knew, it would have made remembering her name much easier but my inability to remember names is a pointless endeavor to speak anymore about anyway.

After reaching my destination, the large gingerbread designed shop, I came up to the entrance noticing the sign had read ‘closed’, was I too late? I knock on the door and wait, my action causes a muffled stir from inside. The door starts to move, a pony’s voice greeting me as it swings open.

“Sorry, we’re closed silly didn’t you re-“ Pinkie stops mid sentence after realizing it’s me. “Joey! What are you doing here? I said I’d be back after my work! I still have to get all my stuff packed, my party bag together, say goodbye to the cakes, throw away things I don’t need-“ I shush the pony with my finger.

“I’m here to help! I’m sure this isn’t something you can just do alone Pinkie, even with all you mysterious tricks” I wave my fingers all spooky like.

“That’s super duper nice of you Joey but I could have done this by myself, I’m a full grown pony now!” She proudly states.

“You sure are but I doubt you could carry all of your stuff in one trip, it’s the least I can do for keeping my secret” Her tone switches to a serious one just for a moment.

“It was a Pinkie promise, I had no choice silly” She lights back up, “We better get started now though, it’s already crazy late and I haven’t even cleaned up yet from work!” She pulls me inside in a rush, quickly heading up the stairs. “I need to shower, can you go to my room and help put away some of my things?”

“Sure” I follow after her stopping at her room as the pink pony continues down the hall.

Stepping inside I see her formerly discolored bedsheet was now indeed Pink, I hadn’t been in here since that time I helped Pinkie for the day. Pinkies party bag sat there against the wall near the entrance, it’s appearance encumbered by the weight of many party utensils and various other strange tools like a folded up unicycle. Lifting it to test its weight I’m surprised by the lack of resistance, either I’m really strong or this thing is magically enhanced cause it sure doesn’t look light.

Moving on from the bag, I look to see Pinkies closet, it’s probably best I leave her to sorting out her clothes. Even if ponies wear them only in special occasions, it’s probably still against somepony’s privacy to go searching through their clothes. I settle for searching through her shelves and cupboards for extra things she could take, things like knickknacks and photos. I place most of her things into a duffel bag she has next to her closet, making use of the side pockets so she could excess the main compartment for her clothes.

I pause as I grab one of her photos, it’s of Pinkie of some desolate farm with a few other ponies with much darker coats than her own. Pinkies bright colors stand out like a lighthouse peaking through the mist during a frightful storm. Who are these ponies? I save my question for later, stuffing the picture into the bag, then look into her nightstand for anything of use. I’m surprised to see a plastic container, it’s appearance oddly familiar to a pill bottle. Further inspection reveals that it is indeed one and even has a prescription for Pinkie, the description reads something familiar to a ADHD medication but, the bottle is empty and the date is a few years old.

The door to Pinkies room opens suddenly, the culprit rushes in to see me holding the bottle in my hand. “I knew it! My left hoof was getting all itchy!” Pinkie heads over to me taking the bottle from my hand, her fur still damp and her mane more puffed than normal.

“Sorry I didn’t mean to snoop around I mean I just found it and was curious so-“

“Joey can you Pinkie promise you won’t tell anypony?” She gives me a desperate look. I can’t say no after everything she has promised me already.

“I promise, cross my heart something something something, stick some cake in my eye” She smiles a bit at my slaughter of a pinkie promise.

“I used to take that medication when I first moved to Ponyville from my family’s rock farm but, it made me really really sad so I stopped taking it. I kept the bottle all this time just in case but, I don’t think I’ll ever need it anyway” She throws it away after saying this and gives me a toothy smile.

“You lived on a rock farm? How do you grow rocks? Who eats rocks?” Confusion rises in my voice with each question.

Pinkie laughs at my reaction, “No pony eats rocks, dough Joe, and we don’t grow them either! We collect em up from the field and bring them back to the barn for breaking down and processing. We sell the different types of rock to all types of buyers from across Equestria, my family is pretty well off” She starts going through her closet as she talks. “I didn’t like it that much as you can tell, so I moved to Ponyville in search of something new. Eventually I found my job at Sugar Cube Corner and found my love for sweets!” She happily exclaims while placing her hoofs to both sides of her face.

“It’s nice to see you found something you love, and dough Joe is a terrible nickname”

Pinkie turns to face me, her thinking cap on... literally she’s wearing a hat with a lightbulb on top... wait lightbulbs don’t exist here! As I’m about to question her, the light on top her hat lights up as she comes to an eureka, tossing the hat to the side.

“I know, I know! What about... bro Joe, or slow Joe cause your slow! Or maybe toe Joe cause you got toes and we don’t or-“

“Pinkie please just stop, I have so many questions”

“But I neeeed a nickname for you, every pony I know has one!” She pouts giving me her best puppy eyes.

“My name is already short enough, I don’t see how a nickname is needed I mean you already call me Joey” I sit down on her bed as Pinkie goes through her wardrobe.

“Fine but I’m not giving up yet, I will find one eventually”

There’s a few things that she goes through that seem regular however, she occasionally pulls out something strange like a bee keeper suit or a phantom of the opera mask. It’s probably best just to keep my questions to myself as asking Pinkie will only create more than I started with. We continue to talk for a bit as she gathers the last of her things, then hands me some bags of her stuff to carry downstairs. We make a pile near the entrance for when we head out, Pinkie rented a carriage to help carry everything over to my place as well.

“Well that seems to be it” I say slapping my hands together in order to shake off any imaginary dust I had.

“Thank you Joey! I need to say goodbye to the Cakes for tonight and thank them for letting me stay with them. If the carriage pulls up before I’m back just take everything outside for me” I give an okay and watch her head into the back of the store.

I sit on a bench at the entrance zipping up the coat that is over my hoodie, it’s size more of a fall variety than winter but the layers I’m wearing more than make up for it. Looking outside I notice lantern light approaching the shop. Stopping at the entrance, a brown stallion waits next to it wearing a bowler hat, his face carrying a black mustache with a small patch below his lip. This must be the carriage. I take the bags closest to me and head outside to the stallion, he turns to look at me with uncertainty.

“Um, are you with Pinkie Pie?” His voice is deep and gravely.

“Yea, she’s inside saying goodbye” The stallion reaches to take the bag for me but, I pull back. “I can carry her stuff out” He shrugs and heads back to the front of the carriage, sitting down while lighting something similar to a cigarette.

I’ve never seen a cigarette here before. Are they even legal?

The stallions disregard for me noticing seems to answer my question however, who knows given his lackluster attitude, he might just not care. I take a few trips back and forth before I get everything, the last trip greeted by Pinkie wiping away a few tears as she heads in my direction.

“Emotional goodbye?” I ask.

“They’ve been super duper nice and helpful with everything, I’m just so thankful for them” She sniffs, following me as I take the last bag.

We walk to the carriage just as the stallion puts out his smoke, prepping for the trip. “Nice to see you Miss Pie, always a pleasure” He reminds me of some type of old western cowboy in the way he talks and carries himself.

“Thank you Trusty for helping out on such a short notice, it really was a spur of the moment decision” She stops at the step leading up to the carriage.

“Anything for you Miss Pie, ever since ya helped with my little fillies birthday it’s the least I could do for ya” He turns back to the road.

Pinkie hops up into the carriage and I follow behind, the inside rather snug for a being of my size. “Little tight” I say wincing, shifting to try and get comfortable. “Beats walking though”

She giggled at my odd posture. “Sorry Joey, they don’t have carriages large enough for you in Ponyville. The ones in Canterlot are really big though, you could fit in one of those!”

“What is Canterlot exactly, like I know it’s the capital or something but is it just a bunch of snooty nobles or more like a diverse city?”

“Hmm, snooty nobles really but, there’s a bunch of places to shop and eat!” Her excitement makes it believable.

“Maybe one day I’ll go there and check things out” I say, pulling aside the curtain to look outside at where we are.

The ride isn’t that long before we reach my place, the stallion really pulled us the whole way on his own. Remind me not to fight another pony again that isn’t inebriated. We get off and move Pinkie’s things into my place. I also slip the stallion a large tip for helping out when Pinkie isn’t looking.

“Thanks dude, just don’t tell Pinkie I gave you this”

He chuckles, “My lips are sealed pal”

I turn back to my house but stop for a second, “Hey is that thing you smoked illegal here? I’ve never seen a pony smoking before?”

His eyes widen a little, “Listen, I use them just to keep calm alright. They’re called smoke sticks and yes they’re illegal and frowned upon. Celestia banned them not too long ago when it was found out they can make you sick”

I dismiss his worry, “No your fine man, you do you. I was just curious is all, have a goodnight”

“Thank you Mr....?”

“Call me Joey” I reach my hand out for a hoofshake which he obliged.

“Alright Joey, you have a nice night as well” His pronunciation of my name awkward to his tongue but otherwise okay.

I head inside to meet with Pinkie as Trusty heads off with the carriage. He seems like a nice pony the more I talked to him, I shouldn’t judge a book by its cover next time... truthfully I should already know better by now. Closing the door behind me, a few of Pinkies bags still remained at the entrance, glancing down the hallway to my left I see candle light coming from the guest room. Bringing over the last bags I toss them behind the Pink pony working meticulously through her clothes, I lean against the door frame.

“So.. this room nice enough? I could paint it pink if you want, I know how you like everything pink” I scratch my neck. “Based off your room and all...”

“No this is fine, it’s your place anyways and my room with the Cakes was that collar when I moved in, what a coincidinky!” The last word completely made up from combining the two words coincidence and dinky.

“If your fine with the mint green walls that’s good with me, this collar is supposed to be calming or at least that’s what I was told”

“I like it! It’s like we’re living in a mint chocolate chip ice cream home with the trim looking all chocolatey! Ooo maybe we should get mint scented candles and dress up as mints for Nightmare Night!” She starts scribbling her plans sloppily onto a notepad with a marker.

“Yeaaa I don’t know about me dressing up for that, I’m a little too old for that stuff now plus isn’t that a fillies holiday anyways?” Pinkie turns to me with shock.

“WHAT!?! NO! It’s for ponies of ALL ages and everypony dresses up in super cool costumes and gets to eat all the candy they want! Also you have to watch out for Nightmare Moon as well, she’s always on the prowl” Pinkie glances around the room as if Luna could hear her.

“Pinkie you can eat all the candy you want everyday, your just using this holiday as an excuse but, to be fair lots of humans did too”

“You forgot to mention the costumes though, that’s the best part! And at the end of the night, the town has a contest for best costume and I’ve never won before but you never know, this could be the year!” She seems incredibly excited for this, giddily laughing to herself like a little school filly.

“Good luck with that” I start to walk away but am dragged back by Pinkies hoof.

“Hey wait a minute! You can’t not dress up on Nightmare Night, we have to get you a costume! It’s criminal not to wear anything” She pleads.

“I’ll be wearing something alright, my own normal clothes like an adult. That doesn’t mean I won’t give out candy though, I remember how awesome it was to get a large sized candy bar from some stranger just cause I wore some stupid outfit” Pinkie looks offended at my words.

“They’re not stupid, you wouldn’t understand being an alien and all, maybe you should try it out this year and see if you feel different” Giving her best puppy eyes for the second time today. It breaks my will this time, the wall put up only strong enough for one stare a day.

“Alright alright, but I get to choose” Pinkie starts to leap up and down excitedly.

“Of course! Oooo I can’t wait I’m so excited! We can go do all the events as well at town square like the apple dipping and pumpkin launching!” I shake my head in disbelief of my lack of resolve.

As if I didn’t already have enough problems, now I have to figure out a costume idea

Pinkie and I spend the next hour getting most of her stuff unpacked and settled into her new room. After preparing her bed for the night we both lie down for a moment across each other on the bed. I stare up and the ceiling, thinking of what to say to Dash when I see her again.

“Are you feeling okay Joey?” Pinkie pipes up.

“I’m okay... yea I’m fine” I answer tiredly, the collars restraint finally catching back up to me since I had taken it off the other day. “I just feel like laying around for a bit”

Pinkie flips herself around and crawls up next to me, her face a foot away from mine. “You should take the collar off, I know it’s the reason you feel so icky all the time” Her eyes showing concern.

I think back to what Celestia had said earlier, I had no choice in the matter at this point. I undo the collars buckle and pull it off my neck, setting it aside atop the bed stand. I look back to Pinkie, her facial expression much more relaxed now than before, eyes half lidded with a small smile.

“Doesn’t it feel better to take it off?”

I frown, “Physically it does but emotionally? No I feel like it’s wrong not to wear it, especially after what I did...”

Pinkie hugs my face into her chest, scratching my head slowly with her hoof, it’s not as comfortable as a humans touch but I’m not complaining. My senses are overwhelmed with Pinkie, her freshly shampoo’d fur smelled of cherry, her warm embrace wrapped around my head, it would be very easy to fall asleep like this even with my insomnia.

Pinkie begins to whisper to me gently, “I think your a great pony, I can tell if a pony has a good heart you know”

I reply muffled against her body, “Yhea, how’s thwat?” I give into her embrace fully letting myself go limp.

“It comes with experience, I mean I throw parties everyday for ponies and I know everypony in Ponyville as well. Trust me, your one of the sweetest ponies I’ve met”

“Nhot a pwony”

She giggles, “Shh, you don’t get to decide that now, it’s too late” I give one exhale of a laugh, snuggling into Pinkie tighter. I could give one hell of a raspberry right now but, I don’t want this moment to end.

Time passes before I wake up, checking my surroundings. I’m still on Pinkies bed with her asleep next to me, her body still in the same spot it was before. I look to the clock on the wall and see it’s a little past when I usually go to bed so I tuck Pinkie into bed and head off into my own room forgetting about the collar. I’m half awake anyways so falling back asleep once I take my medication comes easy. My mind already at ease, I fade into the the dreamscape.

Almost like waking up, I’m suddenly jolted upward into a cloud like realm, boundless without any sort of ceiling or floor. Instead of falling, I remain balanced on the invisible floor beneath me with a fog around my legs. From the distance I see a figure swooping down toward me, it’s Luna.

“What’s up Lulu?” She lands close and moves my chin to the side expecting my neck, It’s collarless.

“It’s a pleasant surprise to see thou without the collar, and what caused this change of heart?” She asks innocently.

“Your scary sister that’s what. She said you’d check on me in my sleep but I don’t see how my form now in... wherever we are would tell you anything about if I’m wearing it or not” My skepticism clear.

“We have brought thou... you before me in an unchanged shape from when you began your sleep. The way you are here is the way you are in Equestria” She seems proud of her special ability, grinning happily.

“I guess that’s pretty cool but, I still feel like a little kid being watched by his parent to make sure he brushes his teeth. I’d like some trust here”

Luna smirks, “Does thou not wish to use this opportunity to speak with me? We could spend our time elsewhere in the-“

“No, it’s fine... just, actually I need you anyway cause my collar was the only thing keeping the nightmares away”

“Yes, very true. We shall accompany you during your sleep in order to protect you”

“You can’t just stay with me though right? I mean there are other ponies that need you to beat up their nightmares or whatever you do to them as well”

Once again she seems pleased at my question as if she was waiting for me to ask. “Yes I believe I did tell you a fib before you see I am not actually presently here however, I am at the same time” I stare confused like a chimp. She giggles, “The Luna you see now isn’t my actual form rather there are several of myself spread throughout the dreamscape in order to ensure we can cover everypony’s dreams. Even though it is not my original conscience, think of it as some sort of clone able to replicate the exact actions I would take and share the memories with myself”

I take a moment to process what she says, “So this Lulu isn’t Lulu? Your like a reflection or something?”

“In a way yes” I walk up to her, placing my hand along the side of her face. I move in to plant a kiss before she blushes and shoves me backward. “TIS a joke Joey! We are the real Luna!”

I pick myself up blushing, “Wait, that was all a lie?”

She nods, still embarrassed by my gesture. “That was an elaborate ass lie!”

“Well even if we didn’t lie thou still would have kissed us! Let us not forget that!” We both stand there for a moment shocked before suddenly laughing. Luna brushes away a tear, “We should really get going though perverted human, enjoy thy slumber”

“Thanks Luna, and whenever you wanna talk, you can come over, I’ll always lend an ear for a friend” I say with a wink.

She smiles with a blush, “I would very much like that, we will take you up on that offer” I smile back and wave her off as she flys away, the realm around me darkens as I fall back into my mindless sleep.

Author's Note

Long chapterrrr, also writing Luna is hard since I want her to have broken English. Appreciate her bad speak

Have wonderful day/night