Counterparts

Chapters

Barry the Bunny
Alonzo the Abyssinian
Calliope (Herald of the World of Illogic)

Barry the Bunny

It was morning time. In a forest, there was a mysterious figure delivering fast punches and kicks at a punching bag that was tied to a tree’s branch.

“Just a few more to go and my workout is completed,” thought the mysterious figure. Their voice sounded young and male.

Before he could land in a few more hits to the punching bag and complete his workout, the air filled with the sound of screaming. It sounded like it was coming from the air itself and nearby. To the mysterious figure, it sounded very familiar.

He gave off a frustrated groan. “Seriously? Those three again?” the mysterious figure questioned. “Are they always trying to get hurt?” He sighed. “Looks like my workout is over. Time to go save them again.”

The mysterious figure then disappeared instantly with a quick burst of speed.

Meanwhile-Up in the Sky Above the Forest

Three fillies were falling at a fast speed. One of them was a yellow-colored earth pony wearing a stetson hat, the second one was a white unicorn with a purple, curly mane and tail, and the third was a blue pegasus with a rainbow mane and tail. Well, the pony and unicorn were falling while the pegasus was holding onto the hooves of the other two while flapping her wings hard, but was instead being dragged down along with them.

“Rainbow Dash! Do something!” shouted the unicorn filly.

The pegasus filly, Rainbow Dash, was struggling to slow down their falling descent but was having trouble as her friends’ combined weight was too heavy for her. “I’m trying, Rarity!” she exclaimed.

The earth pony filly had a brave look on her face. “Rainbow Dash, let me go and save Rarity instead!” she said, seriously. The filly had a country accent.

Rainbow Dash and Rarity were both shocked to hear that. “What?!” they exclaimed.

“Applejack, you can’t be serious, darling! You won’t survive the fall!” exclaimed Rarity.

“Rarity’s right, Applejack! I can’t let you do that!” agreed Rainbow Dash.

Applejack smiled. “Don’t worry, y'all. We Apples are born tough and can take a hit,” she reassured.

They were nearing the tops of the trees.

She was surprised at what she said. “This isn’t a hit. It’s a fall to your death!” exclaimed Rainbow Dash.

Rarity tried to convince Applejack too. “Even if you survive the fall, you’ll be in the Hospital for months in a body cast!” she added.

She was too stubborn to take ‘no’ for an answer. Before Applejack could argue even more, she and her friends were then grabbed out of the air as something had passed by them at a fast speed.

“Phew, that was a close one,” said a male voice. “You three really need to try out things that aren’t dangerous.”

The three fillies recognized the voice. Rarity looked up and saw the mysterious figure’s face. “Barry darling, am I glad to see you,” she said, happy.

Barry was hopping along the tops of the trees, carrying the three fillies while heading back to the location of his punching bag. “I thought I told you three to stop hang-gliding after what happened last time,” he said.

A certain filly decided to speak up. “Sorry, Barry. It was my fault,” admitted Rainbow Dash. “We just wanted to earn our Cutie Marks and I suggested we go hang-gliding.”

Barry raised an eyebrow. “Again?” he questioned.

She looked away. “Again,” muttered Rainbow Dash.

Barry gave off a frustrated sigh and focused on what was ahead of him.

A Few Minutes Later

All of them, except Rainbow Dash, were walking down the path that led them out of the forest and will lead them back to the town known as ‘Ponyville’.

“Thanks for rescuin’ us again, Barry. We shoulda been more careful,” said Applejack.

Barry was actually a tall, male bunny who was walking on his hind legs. He had white fur, long ears, blue eyes, a pink nose, and was wearing a blue-colored cotton shirt and gray pants, which had a hole in it for his tail to stick out through. Barry was carrying a duffel bag around his left shoulder, while carrying his punching bag behind his right.

“It’s no problem, Applejack, but now your and Rarity’s sisters will have to be informed about this little incident,” he said.

She and Rarity were both worried as they knew how their sisters were going to react. As for Rainbow Dash, she was flying without a care.

“The same goes for your parents, Rainbow Dash,” said Barry.

Now she was worried.

He grinned. “Don’t think that just because they live on a cloud in the sky, doesn’t mean that I don’t know how to contact them. I have my ways,” said Barry.

They arrived at a quaint-looking cottage.

“First, I’m going to go inside and take a shower. After that, I’m visiting each of your families and informing them what happened,” he informed.

The three fillies were very worried.

“Please don’t tell our families, Barry. They’ll be angry we did dangerous things to earn our Cutie Marks again,” begged Rarity. “My sister won’t let me design anything

Applejack nodded her head, fearful. “Yeah. Granny will tan my hide redder than an apple if she ever found out I hang-glided again and almost got hurt,” she said.

Rainbow Dash flew in front of Barry’s face. “And mom and dad will ground me and confiscate my Daring Doo books if they ever found out I convinced those two to do something that dangerous and almost got them hurt!” she exclaimed.

All three of them had tears in their eyes. Rainbow Dash landed on the ground next to Applejack and Rainbow Dash. “Please?!” they begged.

He thought about it for a while. Barry then sighed. “I want you three to Pinkie Promise me that you all will never do anything dangerous for your Cutie Marks ever again. I don’t want you three to end up in the Hospital,” he said. “If you three can do this, then I won’t tell your families.”

Rarity wiped the tears from her eyes. “Of course, darling. I was starting to get sick and tired of doing these dangerous things anyway,” she said. “Now I can start focusing on designing outfits.”

Applejack nodded her head, agreeing with Rarity. “Yeah, and I can focus more on helping Big Mac and Apple Bloom with bucking the trees,” she said.

Rainbow Dash was the only one who seemed reluctant.

Rarity looked at her. “Rainbow Dash, come on. He doesn’t tell our families and we won’t end up punished,” she said. “Besides, we can try to earn our Cutie Marks through different ways that don't involve danger, remember?”

She nodded. “I guess so,” said Rainbow Dash, reluctantly.

Barry nodded and crossed his arms. “Great. Now, the Pinkie Promise,” he said.

The three of them then started doing the motions for the Pinkie Promise. “Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye that we will never do another dangerous thing for our Cutie Marks ever again,” they said.

Barry gave them a thumbs-up. “Perfect,” he said. “Now, run along. I really have to take a shower now.”

The three of them walked down the path while waving at him. Well, Applejack and Rarity were waving, Rainbow Dash was flying after them, sulking.

Barry waved back at them. “Hope those three find their Cutie Marks soon,” he said. “I also hope that is the last time they do something that dangerous too.”

Barry then headed for the Cottage. As soon as he was at the door, he knocked on it with his free paw. “Flutters, I’m back from my workout. Can you open the door please?” Barry called out.

After a few seconds, the door opened. At the door was a yellow pegasus with a pink mane and tail, and three butterflies as her Cutie Mark.

“Hey there, Barry. Need any help?” she offered.

“No thanks, Flutters. I got it,” he said.

Fluttershy moved out of the way in order to let Barry inside the cottage. He set his punching bag and duffel bag on the wall to the left of the door.

Barry’s stomach growled. “Man, I’m starving,” he said. “What’s for dinner?”

“After you take a shower, you can eat,” she said. “I made some vegetable soup.”

Barry smiled. “Sounds delicious, Flutters,” he said. “I’d better go take that shower now before I starve to death.”

He patted her on the head with his paw while heading off towards the Bathroom.

Few Minutes Later

Barry walked out of the Bathroom, feeling refreshed now thanks to that shower. “Ahh, that felt good,” he sighed.

Barry was now wearing a purple vest and blue jeans.

Fluttershy had left those clothes for him on the toilet seat. Speaking of her, she was sitting on the couch, reading a letter scroll. He could hear what Fluttershy was saying thanks to his hearing.

“We need you and your friends' help to acquire for us some Constellation Flowers. They’re a special kind of flower that grows in places where Ursa Majors live. From our sources, there’s a cave in the Everfree Forest to the Northwest where an Ursa Major and its child, the Ursa Minor, sleep.

After informing your friends’ about this and getting their decision, send a reply letter when you all have decided when you’ll be leaving before tonight.

Sincerely, Princess Luna,” she read.

Barry was silent. He then decided to make himself known. “Hey, Flutters,” he said.

That shocked Fluttershy since she didn’t even notice him. “Eeep!” she screamed.

“Sorry about that,” apologized Barry.

Fluttershy calmed her heart down once she saw it was him. “No, it was my fault. I was so distracted with the letter that I didn’t notice you, Barry,” she apologized.

He chuckled. “How about we say it’s both our fault and share the blame?” suggested Barry.

Fluttershy smiled. “Sounds good,” she agreed.

He had a feeling that there was only one person who could have delivered the letter to Fluttershy, but Spike was not here. “Was Twilight here just now?” guessed Barry.

She nodded. “Yeah. She wanted to show me a letter that was from Princess Luna that mentioned me and the girls,” explained Fluttershy. “Twilight already showed the letter to the others and I was the last one. She wanted to get all of our opinions before she sent the reply letter to the princess herself.”

She didn’t notice that he frowned. “Another dangerous adventure?” guessed Barry.

She gave off a sheepish smile. “Yeah,” confirmed Fluttershy.

“Obviously Princess Luna will be helping too, right?” he asked.

She nodded. “That’s right. She’ll help us in case the Ursa Major and its child wakes up,” responded Fluttershy.

He had an idea, but he wasn’t going to like it. “How long before you all leave?” asked Barry.

She thought about it. “Well, since this adventure is going to be dangerous and we’re going to need to prepare for a journey into the Everfree Forest...Either tomorrow or in two days,” informed Fluttershy.

“And knowing how your friends are always good at preparing themselves for an adventure...that means that you’ll be leaving...tomorrow,” he guessed.

She looked at the floor and nodded.

“Well, let’s have some soup. Then after that, I’ll help you out with your packing,” suggested Barry. “What do you say?”

Fluttershy smiled. “That sounds lovely, Barry. Thanks,” she said

Fluttershy headed off to the Kitchen, while she was doing that, Barry was staring at the letter scroll that she left on the table. He stared at it for a few more seconds before following after her.

A Few Hours Later-Nighttime

Once Fluttershy was asleep, Barry was reading the scroll, which contained not only the message, but also the drawings of what the Constellation Flowers look like. They looked like tulips, were a galaxy purple color, and there were lines on them that were connecting the silver flakes together to create drawings of constellations.

There was even information that they only bloom at night, so they have to be picked at night too. Once he got what he needed from the scroll, Barry then headed for the door and quietly shut it. He turned towards the path that led into the Everfree Forest.

Barry was starting to regret his plan, and then he sighed. “The things I do to help people,” he said.

He then disappeared in a burst of speed, heading for the Everfree Forest.

Some Time Later

Barry arrived at the giant cave where the Ursa Major and Ursa Minor lived.

“Okay. All I need to do is go in and get the flowers,” he said to himself. “Either sneak through without making a sound, or fight my way through.”

He could hear loud snoring coming from it.

“It’ll be impossible for me to sneak through that cave and get out without waking them up,” said Barry. “In a fight against an Ursa Major and Ursa Minor, I won’t make it out alive...But-” He took out of his pocket two vials that contained a red and blue potion. “-with these two potions, I should be able to stand a chance. Although, I’ll be feeling the pain in the morning and will be regretting this for a long while.”

Barry sighed. “The things I do to help people,” he said.

He removed the corks from both of the vials. First he drank the red potion, and then the blue one.

Barry cleared his throat. “Hey, Ursa Major! I’m coming in!” he shouted.

He then ran inside the cave. The cave was filled with the sounds of roaring and fighting.

Few Hours Later-Morning

Barry slowly opened his eyes. He could feel his arms, legs, and neck were hurting. “Ugh. Where am I?” he groaned.

He moved his eyes around to get a look at his surroundings. Barry noticed that the place he was in was familiar. Then, he realized that he was laying down on the couch in Fluttershy’s Cottage.

Barry was confused. “How’d I get here?” he thought. Then, Barry remembered. “Oh, yeah. I dragged myself back to Fluttershy’s house after that fight with that Ursa Major.” He couldn’t shake his head since his neck was in pain. “She was so surprised to see me injured. Then I gave her those Constellation Flowers just before I fell unconscious.”

Barry then noticed a heavy weight on his chest. “What the?” he thought. “What’s on my chest?” Barry had to move his head slowly up a little. He was able to get a good look and saw that on his chest was Fluttershy, sleeping.

“What’s she doing sleeping on me? She should be upstairs, resting in bed,” thought Barry. “Also, why isn’t there any pain in the area on my torso where she’s sleeping? Weird.” He looked out the window and saw that it was morning time. “Better wake her up since she has to feed the animals.”

Barry decided to shake her awake. He had to slowly move his right arm since there was pain in it. He soon noticed that it was wrapped up in bandages. In fact, different parts of his body were wrapped up in bandages too.

“I guess she was very worried about me and decided to patch me up in my sleep,” he thought. Barry then smiled. “Fluttershy is like this, even in the cartoon.”

He decided to wake her up anyway. Barry placed an arm on her and then started shaking her gently.

“Fluttershy? Fluttershy, it’s time to wake up,” he called out.

“Mmm,” groaned Fluttershy.

“Fluttershy, wake up,” said Barry.

She yawned before opening her eyes. Once Fluttershy saw he was awake, she quickly hugged Barry around his neck. He tried so hard not to scream or shout in pain.

Fluttershy started crying. “Oh, Barry. Thank Celestia, you’re awake,” she said, relieved. “Promise me you’ll never do something that dangerous for me again.”

Barry grinned and chuckled a little, when in fact, he was in pain. “Flutters, I wouldn’t allow myself to die. After all, it would make you sad,” said Barry. He was able to keep the pain out of his voice. “Besides, I got those Constellation Flowers for you. After all, you did say you needed them.”

Fluttershy stopped hugging him and looked at him. “Y-You heard that?” she asked, worried.

Barry slowly nodded his head. “Yeah,” he said. He was curious about something. “What did Princess Luna need those flowers for anyway?”

Now she was even more worried because she didn’t want to tell Barry that the Constellation Flowers that Princess Luna wanted was for her garden, which will end up making him mad since he went through all of that for nothing.

Fluttershy decided to tell a bit of a lie. “I gave the flowers to Princess Luna. She wanted to use them for their medical purposes in order to help ponies in the future,” she said.

It was partly true since the Constellation Flowers could be used to make medicine.

Luckily for Fluttershy, her lie fooled Barry. He smiled. “Glad to hear that. I’m happy I was able to help,” he said.

She smiled too, but only because his smile was infectious. Before Fluttershy could say anything, there was a knock at the door.

“U-um, I need to see who’s at the door, Barry. I’ll be right back,” she informed.

Barry was okay with it. “Take your time,” he said.

Fluttershy flew off of his chest and headed for the door. A few seconds after she did that, there was pain in his chest area. It felt painful just like in his arms, legs, and neck.

“Oh, now I feel pain there,” thought Barry. “Can this day get any worse?”

As soon as he thought that, Fluttershy opened the door. “Oh, hello girls,” she greeted.

He realized who was at the door since there’s only one group of Fluttershy’s friends who she greeted that way. “Please tell me she didn’t tell them about this,” thought Barry.

“If you’re here to see Barry, he’s laying on the couch,” she informed.

“Thanks, Fluttershy. We came here to see your patient after all,” said a mare.

He recognized the voice. “Oh, no,” thought Barry.

Fluttershy moved aside to allow a group of angry and unhappy mares to walk inside her home. They were her other friends: Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash were there too, and they looked unhappy as well.

“Uh-oh. This won’t end well for me,” he thought, fearful.

Fluttershy closed the door.

Author's Note

Barry's Story:

Barry is a descendant of a group of anthropomorphic bunnies that were originally regular, normal bunnies more than 1000 years ago. But then one day, Luna came and used her magic to help his ancestors. Luna's magic had mutated and changed them. As a result, they became the size of Diamond Dogs, gained the power of speech, and the ability to walk on their hind legs. They created their own town and kingdom.

Many generations later, even though Luna's magic disappeared, their forms remained the same. They can even use a special kind of magic. Also, they even use Alchemy to create potions.

Barry's Info: Barry is not only good at magic and Alchemy, he's even great at hand-to-hand combat, pretty strong, and the fastest in his town.

Counterpart Info: After my counterpart arrived in Equestria, he would do dangerous things for others just so they won't have to, and he'll even do it without telling them. Just like he did for the Mane 6.

The red potion was a "Self-Healing Potion" that can heal wounds quickly and would last for a few hours, but it doesn't heal pain. The blue potion is a "Durability Potion", which strengthens the body and also lasts for a few hours too, but it doesn't protect against pain.

This is an AU where Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity swapped ages and roles with Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity are the CMC, while Apple Bloom is Honesty, Sweetie Belle is Generosity, and Scootaloo is Loyalty.

The drawing of Barry and the first drawing of the Constellation Flowers was created by a friend who wants to remain unnamed, while the other drawing of the Constellation Flowers were created by @ask-lion-steven on Tumblr.

The Psychopath proofread this story. Thanks. :heart:

Comments are welcome. :heart:

Alonzo the Abyssinian

Inside of a wedding chapel that was located in Prance, a tough-looking, cream-colored earth pony stallion with periwinkle-colored eyes, short, grayish-silverish colored mane and tail, some scars on some parts of his body and some iron cell bars for a Cutie Mark. He was wearing a black and white tuxedo and was trotting over to the groom’s door and knocked on it.

“Yeah?” said a male voice.

“Alonzo, only a few minutes before the wedding starts. Are you ready, or do you need a pep talk?” he asked. The stallion’s voice was all gruff sounding.

There was a sigh. “No thanks, Mr. Iron Chains. I’m just trying to make sure that my bowtie is straight enough,” said Alonzo. “After all, I’m getting married today…To your daughter.”

“Don’t remind me,” grumbled Iron Chains. “Well, come out of there already. I’m supposed to be walking my daughter down the aisle soon. I don’t want her big day ruined just because you suddenly got cold paws. Got it?”

“Yeah, I know. I’m coming out,” he said.

The gruff stallion moved out of the way as the door opened.

Flashback Starts-Few Weeks Ago (Evening)

Inside of a restaurant there was one creature and a pony sitting in the seating area of the waiting room of some restaurant called ‘Le Brindille Doré’, talking.

“No way I’m doing this,” a male voice said, stubborn and adamant.

“Come on, Alonzo. You have to,” begged a female voice.

“I can’t dine with them, Aster. I just can’t,” argued Alonzo. “I don't want to.”

He was talking to a unicorn named ‘Aster Gladiolus’, a police mare.

“Look, I know you don’t want to have dinner with these ponies since you don't like those mares. I feel the exact same way, but please, do it for me?” said Aster. “This is an important dinner.”

The Abyssinian was acting this way because of two reasons: him and the police mare were there to have dinner with a group of ponies, two of them being high-ranking officials from Canterlot, three of them were from two different kingdoms, one from here in Prance, and the rest of them weren't. Six of them who’ll be there are those that Alonzo hated. The other reason was a secret. He stared at her as Aster had a desperate look on her face.

After a few seconds, the Abyssinian gave off a loud, frustrated sigh. “Ugh, fine. I’ll do it for you, Aster,” he surrendered.

The police mare smiled. “Thanks. I owe you one, Alonzo,” she said. “It’s just going to be a few hours of dinner, then we can get away from their presence and continue to do the things we always do.”

Alonzo rolled his eyes, playfully. “Yeah, yeah,” said the Abyssinian.

They didn’t notice that the ones that they were supposed to be having dinner with had just shown up and were now standing a few feet in front of them.

“Excuse me,” said a mare, shy tone.

The two heard the mare's voice and looked up to see the group. He had to force down his frustration as the ones that the Abyssinian and the police mare were dining with were the Mane 6. With them were Celestia, Luna, Cadence, Spike, the Chief and Aster's father, Iron Chains, and the Captain of the Solar Guards and the Love Alicorn's husband: Shining Armor.

Aster stood up together with Alonzo. “Hello there. We were waiting for you all,” she said. “Let's head for our tables now.”

The police mare trotted away with Alonzo following after her. Aster did not want to be around her dad as the police mare didn’t not need to see his face to know that the gruff pony was disappointed in her for what Aster just said about their guests. Especially when it was directed at one of the princesses who was technically their boss despite the sun princess being the head and founder of the ‘Equestrian Crime Patrol’.

“Stupid, old stallion. It's not my fault we didn’t notice them,” thought the police mare, grumpy. “Besides, I was only telling the truth. They should learn how to deal with others having negative views about them. I did.”

The two arrived where the host, a unicorn, was.

“Reservation for thirteen. Under ‘Gladiolus’,” the police mare informed.

The host checked the list until he found their reservation. “We’ve been expecting you. Right this way,” guided the unicorn.

The host used his magic to levitate thirteen menus into the air at once, and then trotted off. Everyone followed after him until they arrived at their table, which was a few tables pushed together side-by-side. This was the seating arrangement: Celestia, Twilight, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, the dragon kid, the night princess, the Abyssinian, Aster, Iron Chains, the shield pony, and the love princess. An earth pony waiter and a pegasus waitress both approached the table and asked everyone for any appetizers and drinks:

Sun Princess: Mini Cheesecakes and Green Tea

Purple Alicorn: Lavender Tea

Beautiful Mare: Carrot Sticks and Rose Wine

Shy Pegasus: Iced Tea with a slice of Lemon

Rainbow Mare: Mozzarella Sticks and Hard Apple Cider

Apple Mare: Blue Cheese and Crackers and Hard Apple Cider

Spike: Assorted Gems and Lemonade

Luna: Cheese Ball and Stardust Champagne

Gruff Stallion: Whiskey on the rocks

Cadence: Crab Puffs and Rose Wine

Shining Armor: Mozzarella Sticks, and a mix of orange juice and vodka

She looked at the police mare. “What would you like, ma’am?” asked the waitress.

Aster wasn’t in the mood for an appetizer or any alcohol right now. “I’ll just have an orange juice please,” she said.

The pegasus wrote it down before looking at Alonzo. “And for you, sir?” she asked.

“I’ll have an assorted cheese platter and rum,” he said. With the day the Abyssinian was going to have, he was going to need the alcohol.

The waitress nodded. “Okay. We should be back with your drinks and orders in a few minutes,” she said.

Both the waiter and waitress headed for the kitchen. The entire table was silent as either no one had anything to say, or didn’t want to talk or say anything to anyone at all.

In the end, the sun princess was the one who decided to be the one to get rid of the silence. She looked at Iron Chains. “So Iron Chains, I heard about how the Prance Branch has been working together with a certain famous thief to catch criminals, and I have to say, I’m impressed at the speed you have been catching them with his help,” complimented Celestia.

The night princess nodded in agreement. “I have to agree with you, sister. If only criminals in other parts of Equestria could turn over a new leaf and assist the other branches like the Magpie has done, then crime would be way down like it is over here,” she said.

Alonzo felt a bit prideful at the two princesses’ compliments as the ‘Magpie’ was actually him. Back then, the Abyssinian had made a name for himself in Prance as a famous thief known as the Magpie while avoiding being arrested by the Equestrian Crime Patrol. One day, Alonzo got bored of being a famous thief and decided to start working together with them instead, and that’s how he got here today.

Unfortunately, the gruff stallion decided to ruin it. He scoffed. “Yeah, right. The Magpie is probably just trying to become even more famous by teaming up with us while also getting rid of the competition,” said Iron Chains. “It’s obvious that as soon as he puts all of his rivals behind bars, he’ll go back to being a thief again.”

Rainbow Dash nodded, agreeing. “Yeah! Once a thief, always a thief,” she said. The rainbow mare smirked. “If the Magpie even tried to steal anything from Ponyville, I’ll be ready for him. Then as soon as I catch him, his fate is sealed, and I’ll drop him off to Tartarus myself.”

That made the police mare frown. Aster could only slightly stand Rainbow Dash being boastful to the point of annoying, but the gruff stallion was insulting the Abyssinian in public knowing that Alonzo can’t defend himself without making everyone suspicious, which would then make them realize that the Abyssinian is actually the Magpie. Currently, the only ones who know that he’s the famous thief are her and Iron Chains. The police mare looked over at Alonzo and saw the Abyssinian frowning as well. Aster could tell what he was thinking since she was thinking the exact same thing.

The police mare needed to change the subject, and fast. “I heard that a school that was all about friendship was opened up in Ponyville a few weeks ago. My cousin, Hard Boiled, had sent me a letter about it,” Aster informed. “Glad to hear that he’s doing well in Ponyville.”

Her cousin Hard Boiled is an earth pony detective who's great at his job as the stallion has solved tons of cases and has arrested tons of criminals. Last the police mare had heard from him was

That surprised Twilight and her friends.

“Wait. He’s your cousin?!” shouted the rainbow mare.

The noise level of Rainbow Dash’s had attracted the other patrons’ attention.

“Rainbow Dash, inside voice, please! We’re in public!” admonished Rarity. “Either you calm yourself down or I won’t be fixing your Wonderbolt suit anymore.”

She could tell that the beautiful mare was being serious. So, the rainbow mare had no choice but to do it as Rarity was the only one who Rainbow Dash could count on to fix her suits.

She nodded. “Yeah. His mother is my dad's older sister, ‘Tough Love’, and his father is my Uncle ‘Iron Gut’,” Aster informed. “I guess my cousin’s pretty famous in Ponyville for his job, huh?”

The rainbow mare rolled her eyes. “Yeah, right. That psychopath has gotten into fights with others!” said Rainbow Dash, using her inside voice. “We would’ve arrested him, but unfortunately, we can’t since he’s ‘well within his rights to do what he wants by any means necessary when it involves solving a case’, which technically is a part of his process, which we can’t stop no matter what.” The rainbow mare had done the hoofquotes with her hooves. “We can’t even kick him out of Ponyville since he’s well loved by some ponies for helping them out with their cases.”

The police mare nodded, as just like her father, Aster wasn’t surprised at all. “That sounds like Cousin Hard Boiled, all right,” she said.

Applejack smirked. “Not only that, but she had challenged ‘em ta a game of hoofwrestlin’ some time ago an’ lost. About a baker’s dozen last ah counted,” she informed.

Rainbow Dash had to use her inside voice to yell at the apple mare. “Hey! You lost the same exact number of rounds to him that he lost to you!” argued the rainbow mare.

Unfortunately, her provocation didn’t work on Applejack. “Ah’m not angry ‘bout that since he’s a good sport when it comes ta the game. Besides, we both keep track of how many times we won and lost ta each other,” Applejack informed. “He even won against Big McIntosh a few times, an’ they’re really chummy.”

Rainbow Dash’s only response was to cross her hooves together in frustration, which made the rainbow mare’s friends laugh. Luckily for Aster, changing the subject seemed to work as she’s been doing it a few times to make them forget about talking about the thief.

Few Hours Later

Some of them were still eating, while the others had already finished eating. The police mare had ordered cucumber and tomato sandwiches without mayo, and a plain side salad.

Aster looked worried as the police mare drank the last of her orange juice. “I’ve just got to make this announcement. It should be fine,” thought Aster. She was glancing between her father and the Abyssinian. “I hope.”

As for Alonzo, he was finishing the last of his meal, which was Grilled Lemon Pepper Swordfish with a creamy sauce, and a side of Mashed Potatoes and Green Beans, Chicken Alfredo with a side of Garlic Bread, and some Cheesecake topped with a Lemon Sauce.

Inwardly, the Abyssinian was nervous as he stole a glance at the police mare. “You can do this. You’ve been practicing in front of the mirror for days, so you just can’t give up now,” thought Alonzo. “Once you make this announcement, you will have completely given up on going back home.”

Back then, he'd been trying to get back home by looking for and stealing powerful magical artifacts from ponies. So far, none of them would’ve provided enough magic, or they were either fakes that ponies had just to make themselves look good, or the artifacts were duds.

“Actually, I did give up after realizing that I’m stuck here for good. So, I better make the best of the rest of my life after all, and it starts with my marefriend Aster,” thought the Abysinnian, determined.

Both the Abyssinian and Aster stood up from the table at the same time.

“Here goes nothing,” thought Alonzo and the police mare.

The two clinked a spoon on their cups, catching the entire table’s attention.

“I’d like to make an announcement,” said the two at the same time. They were both caught off-guard.

He smiled. “You go ahead first, Aster. I can wait,” said the Abyssinian.

She smiled back. “Thanks, Alonzo,” said the police mare. She looked around at everyone. “I’d like to inform everypony that I’m pregnant.”

The news surprised everyone at the table, except for Alonzo and the gruff stallion, both who were shocked.

Aster then looked at the Abyssinian, smiling even more. “You’re going to be a dad,” the police mare informed.

Even though he looked shocked, Alonzo was actually happy. “I’m going to be a dad…?” he said. The Abyssinian’s shocked look turned into a look of pure happiness. “I’M GOING TO BE A DAD!”

Alonzo’s screaming could be heard throughout the entire restaurant, surprising everypony, except Aster, who felt happy that he was happy.

The Abyssinian looked down at her. “Now it’s time for my announcement,” said Alonzo. He pushed the chair out of the way for some room. Alonzo reached into his pocket, brought out a small box, and got down on one knee before the police mare, who gasped as she realized what the Abyssinian was doing.

Everyone at the table gasped too, except Iron Chains, who was still shocked to say anything.

“Aster, ever since the day we first met we didn’t like each other at all, even after we got partnered up. But, as time went on, we ended up becoming a couple,” said Alonzo. “You’re my inspiration. You complete me. So, will you marry me?”

Aster was sniffed, tearing up. “Of course, I’ll marry you,” she confirmed. The police mare extended her left hoof.

He smiled widely. The Abyssian then took the ring out of the box and placed it around Aster’s left hoof. Everyone, including Rainbow Dash who was forced to do it as well by the beautiful mare, but not the gruff stallion, clapped to congratulate the couple. As for Iron Chains, he started shaking in anger. First, his daughter is pregnant, and now Alonzo is engaged to the police mare, and if the marriage goes through, the Abyssinian will be Iron Chains’ colt-in-law. Alonzo and Aster were closing in for a kiss, but then something stopped them.

The gruff stallion stood up from his seat. “Stop this right now. I am against you getting married to him,” said Iron Chains.

She let out a frustrated sigh. Then, the police mare smiled sweetly at the Abyssinian. “Wait one moment, please,” said Aster.

The police mare turned around, and then Aster grabbed her father by the shirt and strongly pulled him down to have a surprised Iron Chains look the angry police mare in the eyes. “You listen here, old man. I am sick and tired of you constantly insulting my coltfriend while he has to stand there and take it,” said Aster. “He does a great job at what he does, he treats me right, and makes me feel special. You on the other hoof have scared away every guy I ever dated or was even interested in me. Not only that, but you’re going to become a grandfather and have a colt-in-law, yet you’re being so ungrateful you–”

Before she could say more, Alonzo placed a hand on the police mare’s shoulder. “Aster, please calm down. Think of the foal,” he warned.

Aster, hearing the Abyssinian, knew that he was right. She breathed in and out for a few seconds until eventually, the police mare was calmed down.

Aster smiled at Alonzo. “Thanks,” she said. Then, the police mare looked back at her father with a calm look. “Listen, this is a joyous day for us. If you don’t want to be a part of it, then fine, but I found somepony who’ll stick by my side no matter what. That’s all that matters.” Aster let go of the gruff stallion, and then turned to face everyone with an apologetic look. “Sorry everypony, but Alonzo and I are going to have to leave early. Thanks for the meal.”

The police mare trotted away before anyone could say anything, while the Abyssinian followed after her, but then he stopped and looked at everyone.

“Great meal, but me and Aster hope we never see or interact with any of you ever again. No, we don’t need any parties, and no, none of you are invited to the wedding or any parties we’re having before or after the wedding,” said Alonzo, speaking quickly. He was only saying this since this might be the only time Aster and the Abyssinian will be with the group. “Also, Iron Chains, you’re paying for our meal for being such a jerk. Good bye, good luck, and good riddance to you all.”

Alonzo quickly ran after the police mare.

Flashback Ends

The Abyssinian, wearing a tuxedo, was standing up in front of the chapel with Radiance Glow the pastor; Book Case, his best stallion; And Aster’s maid of honor, Prism Everglow. There were ponies and creatures seated down in the aisles, some of them were Alonzo and the police mare’s co-workers.

His heart was beating fast. “You can do this, and whatever you do, do not mess up your wedding vows. You only get one chance to do it perfectly,” thought the Abyssinian. “Make this count.”

As soon as Alonzo thought that, the chapel doors opened, revealing Aster who was looking beautiful and wearing her wedding dress, while standing beside the police mare was her father, Iron Chains. Then, a mare started playing wedding music, and Aster and the gruff stallion started walking down the aisle.

He smiled. “She looks so beautiful,” thought the Abyssinian.

Eventually, she made it to the end and stood across from Alonzo, while the police mare’s father went to sit down in the front aisles.

“You look beautiful,” complimented the Abyssinian.

Aster giggled. “Thanks. You look handsome,” complimented the police mare.

Alonzo smiled even more. “Thanks,” said the Abyssinian.

Radiance Glow opened his mouth as the pastor began to speak.

Author's Note

After ending up in that universe, they trained themself to master Alonzo's thievery and art forgery skills. One day, Alonzo got bored from being a famous thief, and stealing and forging stuff, he decided to work together with the authorities to capture thieves, crooks, and forgers. The Chief's daughter, Aster Gladiolus, was partnered up with Alonzo to keep an eye on him. The two didn't like each other at all, but after a while, they started treating each other like friends before developing a secret relationship without anyone knowing.

Alonzo doesn't like the Mane 6 for a few reasons.

Hard Boiled was inspired from when I decided to make him a hardboiled detective.

The drawing of Alonzo was made by scorpio-gustavo, while the drawing of Aster was made by ask-that-one-firefighter-girl.

This is what Aster looks like during when she's on a case.

The Psychopath proofread this story. They were also the ones who suggested "Magpie" as Alonzo's thief name, and also the restaurant's name "Le Brindille Doré", which means "The Golden Branch" in French.

Calliope (Herald of the World of Illogic)

At a carnival, there were ponies trotting around, having fun chatting with their friends, riding some rides, or buying some snacks from food vendors. The sight of smiling ponies, the sounds of ponies’ hoofsteps on the ground, their screams and laughter, and the taste and smell of cotton candy, snacks, and sweets made the place a cornucopia of the senses. Everything was peaceful.

“Step right up, step right up! Try and dunk this stallion into the dunk tank for only 5 Bits!” announced a female voice.

Over where the voice was coming from, there was a mare with a megaphone that was floating around in a magical aura.

Meanwhile, her friend, a unicorn stallion, was sitting on the seat that was connected to the bullseye. Instead of water, the dunk tank was filled entirely with cotton candy. There was even a sign next to the dunk tank that said: ‘No magic or flying’.

“Um, are you sure about this, Calliope? Won’t we get in trouble?” he asked.

Calliope nodded. “I’m sure of it, Indigo. We won’t,” she confirmed.

Indigo Sand was only asking this since the two friends have been doing crazy, illogical stuff at the carnival for an entire week. Today, they were doing a dunk tank filled with cotton candy. If Indigo fell in, then they would burst out and a plethora of cotton candy would soar out the top of the basic and shower the crowds with sugary goodness As they had done before, after their day at magic school ended, the two would go to the carnival and set the entire thing up with permission from the carnival owner, and before the carnival, there were those times with the circus too. There was even a special surprise that the enthusiastic mare put at the end that will only happen the moment somepony manages to hit the target and dunk the stallion.

She cleared her throat. “Step right up and dunk my friend into this vat of cotton candy!” announced Calliope.

There were some ponies who looked interested, while others only passed them by.

“I’ll give it a try,” said a female voice.

The two saw that it belonged to the pegasus mare, Snowfall Diamond, who was being flanked by two of her friends, Emerald Petunia, an earth pony mare, while the other was Pearl Luminescence, a unicorn mare. The three had trotted over.

“That’ll be 5 Bits for one throw,” the mare informed.

Calliope smiled when she got the money, gave a ball to the Snowfall, then stepped away. The pegasus tossed it up and down a few times before bringing her hoof back and throwing it. Everypony watched with much attention as the ball was heading right for the target. The unicorn was shaking with worry. The projectile was getting closer and closer to its intended destination, then…The ball hit a little to the right, missing the target by mere centimeters. It seemed that the ball skewed slightly.

The mare was shocked that she missed the target. “What?!” exclaimed the pegasus. Then, Snowfall Diamond became angry. “Let me try that again!”

Calliope held out a hoof. “5 Bits,” said the enthusiastic mare.

The pegasus gave five more bits to her, who in turn gave Snowfall Diamond another ball. She threw the ball again at the target. The ball had sailed upwards, missing the target again.

“Aaaugh!” groaned Snowfall Diamond, frustrated. “Another!”

After that, the pegasus started wasting Bits throwing balls, trying to hit the target, but missed every time. Ponies were either starting to laugh, were already laughing, or feeling bad for her. Snowfall Diamond’s friends were starting to feel either embarrassed or annoyed, or both as the pegasus hasn’t stopped not even once and is making a fool of herself trying to dunk the stallion.

The enthusiastic mare was also feeling bad for Snowfall Diamond. “Maybe you should stop? There are other ponies behind you that want to have a turn too,” said Calliope. “That, and you came here to have fun with your friends, not be addicted to one game that you’re trying to win at.”

The pegasus panted, hooves feeling tired from all the pitching she did. “Not yet. I can still go on!” said Snowfall Diamond, determined. She reached into her saddlebags to get another five bits. “Huh?! It can’t be!”

The pegasus’ saddlebags were empty of bits. It seems that Snowfall Diamond had spent every last one on the game.

“Wait! One more game!” she said, begging. “Please!”

Suddenly, the pegasus’ entire body was encased in magic before being lifted up into the air.

Snowfall Diamond was surprised. “W-What’s going on?! Who’s doing this?!” she exclaimed. Then, the pegasus became angry. “Put me down!”

“That’s enough, Snowfall,” said a female voice.

They looked to see that the source of the voice was Pearl Luminescence, whose horn was glowing with magic.

The unicorn mare looked up at her friend with an annoyed stare. “You’ve already spent all of your bits and you’re holding up the line. Let’s go check out the other attractions,” said Pearl Luminescence. “I’ll buy you something to eat afterwards.”

The unicorn mare started trotting away while carrying the pegasus in her magic. Snowfall Diamond started shouting at Pearl Luminescence to let her go, but the unicorn mare wasn’t listening.

As for Emerald Petunia, she followed after her friends, but then the earth pony mare stopped and turned to look at the enthusiastic mare and Indigo Sand. “Sorry about that,” said the earth pony mare. She then galloped after her friends.

Seeing as how the pegasus mare was finally pulled away, Calliope then smiled at the crowd. “Anypony want to try next?” she asked.

A Few Minutes Later

After those three had left, there were other ponies who had come to try out the attraction: stallions, mares, colts, fillies, and a few ponies from their school. So far, nopony has been able to hit the target. Some ponies stayed in line wanting to give it a try, while others who were watching had left, bored since nopony had been able to hit the target.

He felt bored. “I’d hate to say this, but I really wish somepony would dunk me already,” muttered Indigo Sand.

The enthusiastic mare yawned. “Next,” said Calliope.

A unicorn mare dressed as a fashion model approached with a buff-looking earth pony stallion.

She was starting to get tired of saying the same words over and over again. “5 Bits for one throw,” said the enthusiastic mare.

The beautiful mare hoofed over five bits, silently. As soon as Calliope brought up a ball, the unicorn had looked over and nodded over at the buff stallion, who responded with a nod of his own. The earth pony trotted over and grabbed the ball from the enthusiastic mare’s hoof, pulled his foreleg back, and launched the ball at the target. It sailed towards the target with great speed. Everypony watched with bated breaths as the ball was getting closer and closer…Then, the ball connected with the target, causing it to release the seat, making the unicorn stallion fall into the cotton candy.

Everypony was about to cheer, when suddenly, the dunk tank exploded, sending cotton candy flying everywhere, even towards the ponies too. Some were able to avoid it, but others got covered in it. The earth pony stallion quickly galloped over and stood in front of the beautiful mare, protecting her from the cotton candy, and became the one who got covered in it instead. Those who were covered in cotton candy, seeing as how it was edible despite them being covered in it, started either removing it or eating it.

Calliope didn’t avoid the cotton candy and had gotten some on her, but the enthusiastic mare was okay with it. “That…Was so awesome,” she said, excited. “It was so” A strange word came to the front of her mind.“So…illogical, that…that…”

A voice sounded off next to the enthusiastic mare.

“That it could knock hats off ponies’ heads?” continued a male voice, a weird tone in their voice.

Calliope almost agreed with the analogy, but she was still pumped. “Something like that, but I do like the analogy,” said the enthusiastic mare. Calliope turned to face the stallion, but was shocked.

The voice belonged to a pony she’d seen and heard of back when the enthusiastic mare was human. It was the pony from the World of Illogic. He seemed to have a bit of cotton candy on him as well. His presence must've been what Calliope sensed. This explains the weird feeling that made her feel like he was both there and wasn't at the same time.

“My name’s Psycho the Psychopath. I saw everything, and what you did before. Lots of fun! And I love ponies that have fun like you do!” said the illogical pony. “A dunk tank full of cotton candy that exploooodes with candy everywhere when somepony gets dunked into it, coating ponies in cotton candy. A fun and tasty prank!”

Psychopath then took off his hat and reached in before pulling out a plate that had two slices of buttered toast on it. After that, the illogical pony grabbed some cotton candy, placed it on top of one of the buttered toast, and smooshed the two together. He turned the plate upside-down, causing the sandwich to fall into his hat. Once Psychopath put the hat back on, the illogical pony then burped.

“Yum,” he said. “Would you like to come to the World of the Illogic? You can be as illogical as you want. You can be somepony who can bring the carnival to ponies, or even be a ringmaster where the spotlight shines on you. Many many many things! What do you say?” The illogical pony asked with an ever-growing smile.

Calliope was shocked that Psychopath was recruiting her to join the World of the Illogic. This was a once in a lifetime opportunity. After all, he might not return back again.

The enthusiastic mare ishared his smile and nodded. “I accept, but first, before we leave, I want to at least say goodbye to Indigo,” said Calliope. She didn’t want to leave him alone without saying anything first.

Over where the dunk tank originally remained, there was a big mass of cotton candy. It had started to move as it parted away as Indigo Sand came out, unscathed, while there were some cotton candy coating parts of him. The unicorn stallion was okay thanks to a protection and shielding spell cast on the lower half of the cotton. That way, before the explosion happened, the cotton candy imbued with the magic would surround him and activate the moment he fell in.

The unicorn stallion trotted over to the two. “Looks like the attraction was a success,” said Indigo Sand. The unicorn stallion became confused when he saw Psychopath. “Who’s this?”

“This is Psycho the Psychopath. He came to recruit me to the World of the Illogic,” explained Calliope. “I wanted to say goodbye before I leave.”

Indigo Sand was both confused and worried. “Goodbye? So you’re leaving forever?” questioned the unicorn stallion.

“Don’t worry, Indigo. It’s not forever,” she reassured. “I’ll be back to visit soon, and I’ll visit every few months so that you won’t be lonely. I promise.”

The enthusiastic mare held out a hoof for a hoofbump. He stared at the hoof for a few seconds before the unicorn stallion bumped his hoof against Calliope’s.

“You better hold that promise, or else I’ll join my cousin Anonymous’ band,” said Indigo Sand, jokingly. “I’ll be the backup singer.”

The enthusiastic mare chuckled as she knew the unicorn stallion was joking. They both knew he wouldn't be able to join the band because Indigo Sand was tone deaf.

“Yeah, sure. I will,” said Calliope. The enthusiastic mare looked at the mess of cotton candy. “We should clean this up first before we leave. With this mess, a vacuum…is needed.” She had an idea and looked at the illogical pony. “Psychopath, you think you could do something illogical like act like a vacuum that could suck up only the cotton candy?”

“I’ll do one better!” the stallion declared.

The stallion reached into his hat, pulled out an eraser, then focused it in front of his face while focusing on the ‘battlefield’ in front of him. He kept one eye closed and let his tongue loll out of his mouth while he mumbled to himself. Indigo became concerned and was about to speak up when the stallion started swiping left and right, erasing the cotton candy from every surface.

Indigo bounced, startled, causing some of the bits he was holding to fly onto the floor. “What the?!” he shouted.

Psycho snuck up on the young stallion who started to pick the bits up and erupted from the ground. “It’s done!” he bellowed as loudly as possible.

Indigo stumbled backwards while Psycho laughed and picked the bits up himself to give back to the stallion.

Indigo looked around, panting heavily, when he noticed that only the ponies hadn’t been…‘cleaned’.

He was amazed. “Whoa,” said the unicorn stallion.

She smiled. “Yeah,” said the enthusiastic mare.

Finally done, the illogical pony sneezed, excused himself, and wiped the ground with a handkerchief he pulled from his hat, revealing a strange, colorful hole.

“See you later, Indigo,” said Calliope.

Indigo Sand nodded. “You too, Calliope,” he said.

The enthusiastic mare jumped through the portal and was gone. As for Psychopath, he had randomly pulled out some snorkels from out of his hat and put them on. Then, the illogical pony turned away from the portal, stood on his hindlegs and joined his hindlegs together. He slammed his chest in a salute and shattered into hundreds of tiny pieces like glass. Said pieces splashed against the portal surface, causing rippling along the surface with every hit, like the colorful hole was made of water, before they were audibly ‘flushed’ by the portal. Calliope, although hesitant thanks to the sound the hole made, followed after. Everypony was shocked to see the two disappear through the portal, except for the unicorn stallion, who had trotted away, heading for home and ready to sleep.

A Few Months Later

During the time that had passed by, Indigo Sand had been focusing on his studies as part of the unicorn stallion’s parents’ order. They even told him to ‘not look for or interact with Calliope’ as they saw her as a distraction to their son’s studies and grades. Indigo Sand didn’t need to look for the enthusiastic mare since he knew that Calliope would return soon, so he sat down in the circus stands amongst the other students, teachers, and faculty members of his school. Apparently, the entire school was invited to attend some sort of circus all of a sudden. Some of the students were happy either because they were getting away from school for a while or that they liked the circus, while other students weren’t happy that they’ll be missing some of their classes.

“I wonder how Calliope’s doing? Ever since she left, school just isn’t the same anymore,” thought Indigo Sand. “She would’ve liked to see the circus. I wish she was here.”

As soon as the unicorn stallion thought that an explosion of confetti happened in the middle of the ring, surprising everypony. After all of the confetti fell to the ground, everyone was shocked to see performers of different races, and circus animals appear out of nowhere. As for him, Indigo Sand’s face was a different kind of shock in the form of happiness as amongst the performers, there was one the unicorn stallion recognized.

The mare smiled at his happy shocked face.

“Hello, everypony. It’s great to be back home,” she announced. “For all of you who don’t recognize me, except-” The mare points her staff at Indigo Sand. “-for my friend there, I used to go to your school. I’m Calliope, Ringmaster/Carnival Owner, and one of the Heralds of the World of the Illogic. Welcome to my circus.” Calliope grinned. “Are you all ready for our first performance?”

Author's Note

In this Equestrian Universe, there's a school that teaches magic to not only unicorns, but also pegasi and earth ponies too.

Indigo Sand, Snowfall Diamond, Emerald Petunia, and Pearl Luminescence are random names I thought up of.

Indigo Sand's parents don't like Calliope because ever since she became friends with their son, his grades were being affected. They care about his grades since better grades means that they'd be able to use his grades to impress some random high-ranking nobles that Indigo Sand's a perfect marriage candidate for any one of their daughters. Also, they don't like her personality, or even the couple who had adopted Calliope after the mare first came to that universe.

The drawing of the first Calliope was drawn by purple-blep, while the second drawing of Calliope was drawn by emeraldstarlight. As for the drawing of Indigo Sand, he was drawn by Lumiere Angel 90. Check out their drawings.

The Psychopath proofread this story. Psycho also belongs to them as well.