Anon and Sunshine walked through the room of the museum dedicated to the founding of Equestria. Three distinct sections of the room were dedicated to each specific pony tribe and their early subcultures over the centuries. As the pair walked and talked their way over to the first display in the center of the room, Anon found his attention pulled to the depiction of an early Earth pony. The mare in the picture looked almost as colorful and adorable as any modern day pony, although there was a noticeable dullness in her green eyes, and a slight desaturation of her amber colors that looked out of place against such a colorful background.

"Huh... so this is... Smart Cookie?" Anon read from the display.

Sunshine nodded, "It sure is. She was one of the first ponies to embrace harmony and friendship, and free our lands from the windigos." She explained.

"Interesting... I remember Celestia telling me about her. She helped found Equestria, right?" Anon asked, looking down to Sunshine.

"Yes! That's exactly right!" Sunshine beamed.

"You know, she almost reminds me of some of the horses from back home. What with her coat colors and all. She looks a lot duller than modern ponies." Anon mentioned as he squinted slightly at the picture.

Sunshine's recoiled slightly, "Wait, what did you just call them?" She asked, a slight hint of offense in her tone.

Anon looked over to Sunshine curiously, "Horses?"

Sunshine nodded, "That's... what I thought you said... Anon, it's very rude to call ponies whorses." She explained with the tone of a disapproving parent.

Anon scratched the side of his head, "Wait... what? Horses? I don't understand. That's just the name of the animal. How's that offensive?" He questioned.

Now it was Sunshine's turn to look at Anon in confusion, "You... wait, you're not insulting them? Calling them perverts that sleep with every stallion they can get?" She replied.

"No. Wait, are you saying that... oh my God." He chuckled, before doubling over in laughter.

Sunshine frowned, "Anon, I don't see what's so funny-" She looked around at the ponies in the museum as they started to stare at Anon's laughing fit, "-And could you please quiet down a little, you're starting to cause a scene."

Anon took a few moments before slowly ceasing his laughter. He let out a few more chuckles as he stood back up to his full height and looked down to Sunshine with a grin.

"Sorry about that, but that's just too rich. Sometimes I forget that this world has puns for just about everything from my world." He said.

"What are you talking about?" Sunshine questioned, now completely lost.

"Whorses. 'Cause you're all ponies, which are basically like little horses from back home. Where I come from, there are creatures like you guys, only they're way bigger and have way longer faces. Other than that and, well... you know, magic and shit, a horse from back home is just a big pony. Plus, what you're referring to as an insult, is almost exactly what we say for that kind of person. Only, instead of a 'whorse', it's just a 'whore'." Anon elaborated, shaking off the last of his mirth.

Sunshine stared at him for a few moments as she digested the information. Eventually, she slowly nodded.

"I... I see. Well that's news to me then, for certain. I'll have to assume that unless you say otherwise, you're not trying to be offensive when you say the word 'whorse'." Sunshine nodded.

Anon smiled, "Yeah, sorry about that. I can't believe I forgot to tell you about horses from back home. I only got to ride one once, but it was a lot of fun. My uncle had a ranch down in Texas with dozens of them." He offered.

A hot blush instantly ran up Sunshine's face, "You... rode one?" She questioned, her eyes widening slightly.

Anon stared at the now blushing unicorn for a moment before it clicked, "Oh! Oh god no! Not like that! No way! Ew! Gross! They're just animals, plus like, three times my size. It'd probably kill me." He hastily explained with a nervous chuckle.

Sunshine breathed a small sigh of relief, "Oh, I see. For a moment there I was very confused."

Anon nodded, "Yeah, sorry about that. Sometimes I just speak without thinking the sentence through all the way. When I say I 'rode' one, I mean that I just chilled on its back while it walked and galloped around the ranch. I think I was... maybe ten? It was a while ago." He clarified.

Sunshine nodded, "I see. I'm surprised the creature let you do that. Not too many creatures in Equestria would take kindly to that kind of treatment."

Anon shrugged, "Eh, well they were raised by my uncle, and he rides them pretty much every day for his job. Plus they're super friendly for the most part. Last time I was there I could just walk up to one and it'd let me pet it and feed it carrots. They like carrots."

"I see. So... you enjoyed riding these... horses?" Sunshine questioned, her tail swishing ever so inconspicuously.

"Oh hell yeah. It was a ton of fun. I was a mechanic by trade, but there was just something about riding a horse that was so rewarding. It was like the animal trusted you to guide it in a certain direction safely, and as long as you did your part, the horse would get you there as fast as it could. It was like... there was an unspoken bond between the two of you. I dunno, it's kinda hard to explain, but it was definitely one of my favorite memories from back then." Anon explained, a fond smile of recollection on his face.

Sunshine's tail swished ever faster, "And... how exactly did you keep from falling off of these horses? Surely you didn't just... hold onto their manes?"

"Bareback? Not me, no. But there were some guys that did that down south. Nah, we used saddles and reins to guide the horse and keep us on the horse. A bridle too, but other than that, we didn't need anything else. There might be more that I'm missing since I only rode one time, but you get the picture." Anon responded.

Sunshine's face was flushed in red as her tail swished back and forth almost uncontrollably. She managed to shakily nod before turning to the display to hide her blush from Anon's eyes.

"S-so... assuming that there was a pony in Equestria that you could... ride like that... would you?" Sunshine asked, pawing at the floor as her nerves raged.

Anon held his chin with his hand as he thought over the question, "Well... I mean... that's a pretty specific question, but okay. I think the only pony big enough for me to even ride on without my legs just dragging on the floor is Celestia, and there's no way in hell she'd ever go for it. I mean... she'd probably banish me to the sun or something." He chuckled.

Sunshine took a deep breath before calming herself down and trying to hide her excitement. Once she was confident that she no longer looked like a tomato, she turned back around to face Anon and giggled, "You're right, that was a silly question. Plus I'm sure Celestia would take offense to that."

Anon laughed, "Oh you bet she would. Could you imagine that? And what if she did say yes? What if Luna walked in on us? Oh god, she'd lose it."

They both shared a laugh over the thought as Javelin walked up behind Anon and tapped his thigh.

"Oh hey, what's up, Jav?" Anon asked, stifling the rest of his laughter for the moment.

"We should probably keep going. You two are starting to hold up a line here." Javelin pointed out.

Anon looked back behind Javelin to find that a sizable line of ponies dragged on behind them down the hallway. He sheepishly chuckled as several of them looked at him expectantly, or pointed to the watches on their hooves.

Anon leaned down to Javelin, holding his hand just in front of his face as he whispered conspiratorially to the unicorn stallion, "Can't they just like... go around us?"

"Sir, they're part of a tour. It's done chronologically. This is their next stop." Javelin replied.

Anon paused for a few moments as the murmurs of discontent grew louder from the group, particularly the tour guide. Eventually, he quickly turned back to Sunshine, "Yeah, we should probably move. Let's get out of the way." He agreed.

"Here, I know what I want to show you next before we leave." Sunshine replied, turning tail and leading the way toward the opposite side of the room.

Anon and Javelin followed behind as Sunshine led them out of a pair of double doors and into a new exhibit in the center of the building. A massive , bubble shaped skylight in the center of the ceiling of the new room, poured volumptuous amounts of light over the displays on the floor. Anon looked on in fascination as he took in the entire room.

Unlike the previous wings of the museum, this particular wing was focused almost exclusively on artwork and paintings as opposed to historical science and pony societal development. The pieces littered the wall as well as being organized into a spiral in the center of the room. They all reflected a mosaic of color that made the room feel more like a kaleidoscope than an actual museum.

Sunshine giggled at Anon's jaw-dropping reaction before using her magic to grab his hand and pull him along after her.

"Come on! I have a few favorites that I want to show you." She cheerily explained as Anon shook off his shock and followed her, his hand still wrapped in her magical aura.

Sunshine practically pranced her way over to the first piece she wanted to show Anon, which happened to be a depiction of Celestia and Luna moving their celestial bodies for the first time, if the plaque next to the piece was anything to go off of.

"Huh? It almost looks like it was... drawn in crayon. I mean... it's really good, but who painted this?" Anon asked, looking at the plaque more closely.

"It was painted by an un-named pony who apparently only went by the initials of SS. I don't really know much else about the artist, but I do know that this was their first piece of art they ever made, and it won several awards at the time." Sunshine beamed, an ever so slight hint of a blush on her cheeks once more.

"Well damn, I can see why. This was made well over a thousand years ago and the pony who painted it did such a great job with the color and proportions. Every other piece before it looks like just a bunch of scribbles. It's almost like this was the first artist to actually get pony body proportions right. Not to mention, the color is just vivid as hell. Even after all these years, this looks really great. For a first piece ever, this is just downright awesome. I can see why you like it so much." Anon explained, nodding approvingly.

Sunshine bounced in place, "I'm so happy you like it! I'm really pr-pleased to hear that. It's also the first piece to ever be painted with acrylic paint too!" She smiled a slightly nervous smile.

Anon smirked, "You know, I didn't take you for the artsy type. I don't suppose you paint, yourself?" He inquired.

Sunshine smiled sheepishly, "Oh, maybe once upon a time... but I just haven't had the time in ages." She dismissively waved a hoof.

"Well if you've actually painted before, I'd love to see some of your work. Maybe next time we go out, you could show me some? If you made it, then it has to be beautiful." Anon replied with a warm smile.

Sunshine felt her ears burning as she giggled from the compliment, "Oh, t-thank you, Anon, but I'm not that good. My art looks like something a little filly painted compared to some of the pieces in here." She bashfully answered.

Anon shook his head, "I'll be the judge of that. For all I know, you could be the next Picasso." He asserted.

Sunshine tilted her head to the side, "Pi-casso?"

"Human reference. Nevermind," Anon dismissed, "Anyways, you said you had a few favorites you wanted to show me. Which one's next?"

Sunshine pointed to a piece toward the center of the spiral of art.

"This way." She replied, leading Anon and Javelin over to the display.

Quick enough, they arrived at a piece of art that stood out once again for its majestic use of color. In the center of the piece, a burning sunset that bathed the surrounding ocean in a swath of warm colors that gave the piece a very relaxed atmosphere. Lastly, there were no ponies or other living creatures in the painting, leaving only the deep blue sea to enjoy the fading warmth of the sun as it crept down the horizon. Anon placed his hands on his hips as he observed the artwork. He nodded quietly to himself as he took the art in, prompting a look of curiosity from Sunshine.

"What do you think? I really like the warmth of this one. It reminds me of when I was a filly and I used to watch the sun set every evening. That's why I like it so much." Sunshine explained.

"I really like the chill vibe this piece gives. Makes me want to go chill on a beach and just... relax. Maybe crack open a cold one with the boys... er, the boy, in this case." Anon explained, looking over to Javelin.

"I'm glad you like it. Would you believe that it was painted by Starswirl the Bearded?" Sunshine inquired.

Anon shook his head, "I don't even know who that is." He replied.

Sunshine pouted, "Starswirl was one of the most important sorcerers in pony history. He was a great friend and teacher... or so I've read." She explained.

Anon shrugged, "I guess Raven hasn't really got to that point in the lessons yet."

Sunshine sighed, "Well I hope that she does soon enough. He was a very important stallion. Anyway, I have one more piece I want to show you. It's my favorite." She nodded toward the center of the room.

Anon followed Sunshine's gaze until his eyes fell onto the piece of art in the middle of the spiral of artwork in the center floor. The art surrounding it was easily outshone by the elegance and grace of the single art piece taking center stage. Atop a tower of ivory and marble, two alicorns sat side by side, surrounded by their subjects on all sides. Above them, each celestial body hovered overhead, casting brilliant orange, yellow, white, and red light down onto the ponies below.

"Wow. That's... really gorgeous." Anon commented as he stepped up to the piece.

"It's always been my favorite one here," Sunshine replied, "Everypony just looks so happy and warm, and kind. It helps me remember that there is a lot of good in this world, even when I feel as if there's evil lurking around every corner." She explained.

Anon looked down to the display plate in front of the artwork. His eyes widened in shock upon reading the name written there.

"Hold on, this was painted by Luna?" He asked, incredulously.

Sunshine giggled, "Yes, this piece was painted by her. It was painted exactly one year before her banishment. Her dream was to be loved as Celestia's equal... I always thought that was so beautiful. I'm glad that she's back and can finally live that dream." She smiled as she looked over the piece once more.

"It's... really well done. Like, damn. I had no idea Luna could paint so well. I guess I'll have to ask her about that later." Anon nodded.

"Luna actually used to be quite the painter... from what I've heard." Sunshine replied.

Anon smiled, "Maybe I can get her to paint me something," He said, before looking around the room once more, "This has been really fun, Sunshine. Thanks for suggesting this place." He smiled.

"I'm glad you like it. I've had a really fun time showing you all of this. This museum is one of my favorite places to visit when I have the time." Sunshine beamed.

"I can see why. It's a neat little place. I think I learned more about history from this place than I did from Raven, that's for sure." Anon laughed.

Sunshine snickered as she tried to keep from laughing. Eventually Anon's infectious laughter won out and she laughed along with him, prompting Javelin to roll his eyes at the pair.

After a few moments, they both collected themselves and turned their attention back to the world around them.

"Well, it's been fun. How's about we go get something to eat? Don't know about you, but I'm getting kinda hungry." Anon suggested.

"That sounds great. I'm afraid... that I will have to be leaving soon afterwards though. I really wish I could stay longer, but I have a lot of work I need to do today that if I don't start on it soon, I'm going to be really behind for tomorrow." Sunshine replied.

"That's fine. I think I saw a little hotdog stand somewhere on the way in. We can just grab a quick bite before you have to go." Anon offered.

"Anon, that was a haydog stand. I don't think you'd like fried hay very much." Javelin chimed in.

Anon deflated immediately , "Hay dogs? What in God's name made you ponies decide to deep fry hay?" He questioned.

"It tastes good. Come on, now I kind of want something greasy." Sunshine smiled as she trotted ahead of Anon, gently swatting his backside with her tail as she passed him.

Anon immediately blushed as he watched Sunshine continue on. He heard a slight snicker from beside him, and quickly looked over to see Javelin trying to appear as neutral as always while on duty. Anon squinted at the guard pony for a moment before trailing after Sunshine toward the haydog stand.

The group quickly arrived at the stand near the entrance of the museum and got in line. There was only one pony in front of them, so the line quickly disappeared and they were able to order.

"One hay dog with extra ketchup and pickles, please." Sunshine ordered with a smile.

"Coming right up. Anything for you, sir?" The stand owner asked as he looked to Anon.

"Nothing for me. I can't eat hay." Anon explained as he pulled out a few bits to pay for the food.

"Anon, please, I've got this. You don't have to buy me anything. You already got me such a nice gift." Sunshine protested, pulling out some bits from her small purse that somehow fit under her mane.

Anon sighed, "Are you sure? It's not a problem." He replied, shaking his bits in his hand.

"Thank you very much, Anon, but I've got this. Thank you." Sunshine replied, smiling gratefully before turning back to the haydog stand.

The stand owner simply nodded and took Sunshine's bits before whipping up the haydog. Within a minute, the group was walking out of the museum, haydog in Sunshine's magical aura as she munched happily on her snack.

"Welp, this was a lot of fun. I hope you had at least half as good a time as I did." Anon smirked.

"Oh absolutely! Today was amazing! Just what I needed after a long week." Sunshine beamed, before finishing off her food.

"So... are you doing anything next weekend?" Anon asked, placing his hands in his pockets.

Sunshine shook her head, "Most likely, yes. My heat's supposed to come in sometime this week and I try to keep myself busy so I'm not tempted by every stallion that walks past me." She explained.

A single moment of silence passed between the two of them as Sunshine realized exactly what she said. Her face quickly turned red once more as her eyes widened considerably. Anon awkwardly coughed before clearing his throat.

"W-well, alright then. I, uh... I guess that does make a lot of sense. From what Jav told me, estrus can be a pretty tough time for the mares." Anon responded.

Sunshine nodded quickly and hid behind her mane.

"I, uh... I suppose we should go our separate ways for now. Perhaps we can discuss our next date after heat season is over." Sunshine sheepishly replied.

Anon smiled, "Of course. But, uh... how are we gonna plan it? I don't know when I'll see you again and I don't think you ever gave me your address." He pointed out.

Sunshine bit her lip, "W-well... it's a long story. I don't really have a technical... address... but I know where to find you. Don't worry, I'll come to you once estrus is over." She explained, finally brushing her mane out of her face.

Anon's brow furrowed, "You don't have an address? What do you mean? Sunshine, you can tell me. I think we're at least close enough to where you don't need to keep things like that from me." He said as he squatted down to be at eye level with her.

Anon offered a friendly smile, while his eyes conveyed a compassionate look that sent Sunshine's heart aflutter. She simply stared back at Anon for a moment before finding her voice.

"L-like I said... it's a really long story. B-but don't worry though! I'm not in any danger of not having a home or anything, and I certainly would like to spend more time with you there... but it's just... not ready." Sunshine elaborated, feeling her chest tighten as she continued to speak.

Anon chuckled, "Not ready? That sounds like you've got something planned. Alright, alright. I won't pry if you don't want to talk about it. Just know that now you've got me excited to see your place. The castle is nice and everything, but it's so big and always full of ponies. Almost makes me miss that estate Celestia gave me before I got swept into being her and Luna's consort."

Sunshine let out a tiny breath of relief, "I understand completely. There are quite a few moments where I find myself wanting some peace and quiet in my busy life." She replied.

"Well, if you want, you're always welcome to come to the castle and chill out with me on the weekends. Same goes for Nightshade. If I'm not on a date with one of you, then I'm just sitting around waiting for Raven to yell at me for being lazy. Actually, speaking of Nightshade, I didn't get a chance to ask her out for another date last time. Do you think you could pass a message along?" Anon asked, a small smile on his face.

Sunshine let out another little giggle, "Don't worry, Anon. I'll be sure to run it by Nightshade and see what we can do. I'm certain she'd be thrilled to go out with you again as well." She smiled.

Anon smiled brightly and nodded, "Thank you." He replied, before turning to Javelin, "You ready to head back?" He asked.

Javelin nodded, "Ready whenever you are."

Anon returned the nod before turning back to Sunshine, "Welp, I had an absolute blast today, Sunshine. I can't wait to see you again."

"I can't wait either... thank you, Anon." Sunshine replied, her cheeks quickly heating up once more as she pawed at the ground with one hoof.

Anon smiled for a few moments, but upon seeing Sunshine's contemplative look and body language, he bent down slightly, "Are you alright, Sunny?" He asked.

Sunshine's ears flicked straight toward Anon as her blush deepened even further and she closed her eyes in embarrassment. She didn't respond to his words with words of her own, rather she quickly lunged forward, wrapping her hooves around his neck as she pressed her lips against his. The soft contact took Anon by surprise, nearly making him fall over, but he quickly regained his balance and returned the gentle kiss.

Just as quickly as it happened, it was over, and Sunshine pulled away with a nervous smile on her face, and her heart nearly beating out of her chest.

"I'll find you once estrus is over, Anon. Thank you." Sunshine said, before turning around and heading off.

Anon was still too stunned by the sudden kiss to respond. He simply gave a goofy grin and waved as Sunshine trotted off away from him, the brush box held in her magical grasp.

"Well, I'd say it is now safe to say that she likes you more than just a friend." Javelin smirked from Anon's side.

"And I couldn't be happier." Anon dopily responded.

As the duo headed back toward the castle, a lone pair of eyes watched from afar.

"Got you now, you bastard."

Author's Note

Now who could that be?