chik!

Clocked in and ready to go, I excitedly thought to myself. A smile dawned upon my face as I moved through the corridors toward the western section of the castle.

As I passed by guards patrolling the castle, I began to remind myself of the daily routine. It was a schedule so basic that not even a foal could screw it up. First, wait for the human to wake up. Then, walk with him throughout the day for his daily activities. And finally, return him to his room to close out the day.

I made another left turn and finally saw the locked wooden door. Crossing the hall and standing before it, the nameplate and the warning sign below were a stark reminder of what lay beyond it. As I mentally prepared myself for the day’s challenges, I dug the key out of my bag and inserted it into the door’s keyhole. Turning the key to the left, it completed a full circle before unlocking, allowing me to remove it. Opening the door, I trotted through and turned to close the door.

click!

After the door had shut, I moved the locking mechanism on the right side over and latched it into the slot. The door was now secured from the inside, meaning the only way to enter would be to break it open by brute force…or unicorn magic.

And what creature would ever try that? I smirked at the thought. Especially with what was hidden at the end of their futile attempt? After reaffirming the door was secure for a second time, I turned around and faced my greatest adversary. A groan escaped my mouth as I looked up at it.

“Stairs,” I muttered. “Always the stairs that determine this day’s trajectory.” I slowly approached the behemoth pile of stone and began my lengthy climb. It was an unbelievably treacherous thing to place within the castle, leading upwards to a singular tower room?

“Faust, help me,” I whispered to no one. But, as I continued to climb, a part of me felt as though the human could handle his own if he were on ground level. But, if the princesses are trying to protect him from ground forces, I thought, this might be their evilest creation to safeguard him.

It was a stone staircase that would put schools to shame. The treehouse staircases from the town I grew up in didn’t match this one. Not even the mythical Mount Aris could compete with this gia-

clack!

sigh “Finally,” I sighed as I took another deep breath. “Made it without breaking too big of a sweat.” Truthfully, I had gotten used to the stairs leading up to the tower room that held Mr. Alex, the human creature from Earth. With the amount of training I had received before being fully assigned to him, this was definitely one enemy I wouldn’t be afraid of.

As I slowly reached the door to the room, I turned to my left and stopped. Looking out the window, I saw the morning sun beginning to rise from the horizon, marking the start of a brand new day for Equestria.

“Aaaand turn.” I thought aloud, doing an about-face. Then, standing beside the wooden door nearest the knob, I puffed my chest out, stood firm, and looked straight ahead.

And…that was it.

For the next however long it would take for him to wake up, I was to wait beside the door and stand still like a statue. It was the most tedious thing to get used to during the training regiments. Everypony wishing to join the Royal Guard had to do it, especially those working in the castle.

Standing beside a door and remaining still yet focused. Unmoving yet concentrated. Stationary yet locked in. My mind would go on for minutes, rattling off synonyms for standing at attention and staying on course with the objective.

========================================<>=========================================

“...”

Nearly two hours had passed, and my ears slightly perked.

The sound of shuffling was going on inside the room as I heard a wooden bed creak loudly. It woke me from my stupor as the human’s footsteps shook the floor. I stood firm at attention and waited for him to emerge from his room. Usually, this was tedious, but I had to remain patient.

The man was a strange creature and very careful about his surroundings, but his morning routine would be close to a quarter of an hour long. Taking his time was forgivable, and I found new ways to pass the time. But, for now, I waited for him to unlock the door so we could start the day.

Today, I thought methodically. Hmmm, what would be good? I remained attentive as I mulled over my options before selecting the ‘classic.’ A smile crept to my face as the simple melody sprouted from the banks. Remaining still, I closed my eyes and whistled the melody Alex had taught me.

whistle!

From what Mr. Alex told me, it was a simple arpeggio-like melody to something called…‘The Addams Family.’ When the human did the song, he used his hoove-er. ‘Hands,’ to snap his fingers together. It looked so weird, but his sounds matched the song’s tone. I had found an easier way to mimic the sound by clicking my tongue.

“Duh-duh-da-dun!” click-click! “Duh-duh-da-dun!” click-click!

“Duh-duh-da-dun, duh-duh-da-dun, duh-duh-da-dun-”

snap-snap!

My ears flicked as the sound of snapping was heard behind me. I stopped what I was doing and stood at attention as the door handle jiggled slightly.

click!

“They’re creepy and they’re kooky. Mysterious and spooky. They’re all together ooky…” the voice sang out. I looked over my left shoulder and peered up as the human creature motioned for me to finish the song with his hand.

“‘The Addams Family,’” I sang in reply. Alex pumped his fist in the air and turned back around, returning to his room while leaving the door open.

“Yeah, dude!” Alex shouted from inside the room. I turned around and stared through the open doorway as the human collected his bag from his writing desk. I looked at his room’s layout and how much it had changed from the first time I saw it.

The bed was more toward the middle of the back wall, adjacent to the bathroom. Alex’s bedside had an upright table with a candle and some books. The other side, closest to me and the only window in the room, contained three bookcases. They appeared to have been sorted through and spaced, allowing the human to grab a book as he pleased. The floor was neatly swept, and the bed was tidied, matching the cleanliness of the castle.

“You ready, Swift mah boy?” The human playfully asked as he started to walk toward me. I moved out of his way as he exited the room, noticing his attire as he turned to close the door.

Alex was dressed in a black polo shirt, with the top two buttons being undone. His ‘undershirt’ peeked through, exposing a silver necklace around his neck. He also wore a snug jacket, baggy brown jeans, and dirty brown boots. Those boots pounded against the stone flooring of the tower, telling me they were his steel-toed ones.

“Good morning, Mr. Alex,” I stated with a smile. “Ready to start the day?”

“Sure am!” Alex replied cheerfully. He stood tall and yawned, stretching his arms behind his head. Afterward, he rotated his upper body left and right before bending backward, eliciting a small crack! from his back.

“Ooo, that felt good,” Alex sighed. “Alright, I think we’re good here, Swift.”

“Then follow me, Mr. Alex,” I replied. Alex nodded as we began the long trek down the stairs.

========================================<>=========================================

“Ugh, I hate mornings sometimes,” Alex said as we walked through the vast corridor. I peered at him through the corner of my eye and sighed.

“Well, that’s the schedule you agreed to,” I shot back calmly. “You even said it yourself, Mr. Alex. It’s what you were normally used to back on Earth, right?”

yawn! “Yeah,” the human yawned. “Back when life was peaceful and straightforward for me. My schedule was consistent and concise. Unfortunately, I’m not in that world now, so my body is adapting and reacting like its old college self.” He stretched his arms above his head as some guards on patrol passed us. They gave him a slightly nervous look before looking back at me, and I nodded toward them as they passed by.

“So, Mr. Alex, I will remind you that after your breakfast meeting with Princess Celestia and Princess Luna, we are to report to the Canterlot library for your daily studies and traditional customs exercises,” I said to the human creature beside me.

sigh “Yeah, I know,” Alex would reply while exhaling. “We have done this every time….”

“And we will have many more times to go, Alex,” I countered. “The princesses are adamant about your training. To better integrate yourself into Equestrian society, studying through these customs courses will help you be more respected during social gatherings.” I turned my head and looked up at the human. His eyebrow was raised, and finally, he shook his head.

“Yeah,” Alex scoffed while lowering his jaw. “And next, you’ll tell me that I’ll earn a degree in law after this quote-on-quote ‘training’ is done.” I thought about it briefly before looking back at him with a smile.

“Maybe,” I answered. “Maybe you’ll practice law one day and become a fantastic lawyer here.”

“I think they’re doing it so that from now on, I will know the consequences of my actions if I end up getting in trouble like last time,” Alex muttered. “Wasn’t even my fault…that bastard.”

“Yeah, that was quite a pickle you put yourself in,” I replied, “but you shouldn’t be bitter about it anymore. You were granted immunity, remember?” I glanced over and noticed his eyes widen as he nervously placed his hand on his head.

“O-oh, umm, s-sorry,” Alex sheepishly said. “Force of habit…sometimes, I may say things that come to mind that I don’t actually mean.” chuckle “I mean…ye-yeah?” His face was a bit red as I shrugged the thought off.

“It’s fine to think that,” I offered in response. “There hasn’t been a creature like yourself here, so the princesses are just being cautious. However, unless you do something very, VERY stupid, I think you’ll be fine.” We rounded a corner and saw the large white doors at the end of the hall.

“Yeah, but,” Alex nervously commented. “I don’t want to make any rash decisions or say some shit that is ‘out-of-pocket.’” He slowed his walk and put his hands in his pockets. “Personally, I don’t want to see Princess Celestia’s bad side….”

“Same here,” I replied. “Thankfully, nopony has seen that side of her since…well, you know.”

sigh “I know the incident, Swift….”

“Look, as long as you have a justified and perfectly good reason for your actions, I believe the princesses will be understanding and forgiving of you. After all,” I chuckled before reaching the vanilla-coated doors of the dining hall. “You are?”

chuckle “Only human.” Alex shook his head while chuckling, eliciting a grin from my face.

“That’s the spirit!” I stated before motioning Alex through the doorway. “Now then, enjoy your breakfast, Mr. Alex.”

The human gave me a nod before disappearing into the dining room. I closed the door behind him and moved to the right side of the doorway. My mind was collecting itself as I resumed remembering today’s schedule changes.

He will have to go to work today, Swift, my mind told me. So let’s try and grab a bite to eat before then...or maybe on the way back? There is that restaurant near my housing complex with that cute mare at the entrance. A smile slowly plastered itself onto my face.

ahem!

I snapped to attention, peering straight ahead before realizing another pony was with me.

“Remain focused, Specialist Swift,” the voice softly muttered. My ears perked after hearing the veteran guard. Concentrating on my duty, I kept my thoughts to myself as my neutral expression fully embraced me.

========================================<>=========================================

creak!

“Alrighty then, Princess Celestia. Princess Luna. Take care, and I’ll see you tomorrow!” Alex’s voice rang out into the dining hall.

Wake up, Swift, my mind commanded. It was a dull hour waiting for Alex, the human, to go through his breakfast with the alicorn princesses, but I assumed it was good.

“Ready to go, Swift?” the human asked, appearing on my left suddenly.

“One moment, Mr. Alex,” I said. I stretched my legs and shook my frame quickly. “Ready.”

“Great! Uhh…what’s next again?” Alex asked politely.

“Your lessons,” I replied flatly.

groan! “Oh noooo,” Alex grumbled. He put his hand over his face and pulled it towards his chin. “Do I really have to?”

sigh “Technically, you don’t have to,” I said calmly. Hearing an exhale from the human, I grinned. “You ‘need’ to go do these studies.”

Alex walked slightly ahead of me and put his hands in his pockets. “But do I reeaally need to?” Alex questioned. “I already am well acquainted with customary greetings and actions.” He bowed before I shook my head.

“No no,” I fired back with a soft chuckle. “You can’t get out of these ones. Trust me. It’s for your own good that you’re getting these lectures.”

“And why is that?” Alex stopped and turned around to me. I kept my trotting pace going, remembering that I should not delay no matter how or what the human does or may say.

“Mr. Alex?” I inquired. “What was your occupation back where you came from?”

Alex strolled right up to my left side. “A teacher…why?” His face expressed confusion, but I knew what I wanted to say.

“So you got your education already. That’s not something many creatures here in Equestria can say,” I replied. “Some don’t have the opportunity. Some will never be able to do so and must learn the harder way. And that’s how our little world works. Be glad that you were fortunate enough to do so.”

sigh “Yeah, thank my mother,” Alex sheepishly answered. “She was the one that pushed me to always be at my best. Made sure I got to school on time, brought me to all my practices, attended all the games…mother knew what was best for me.”

“That’s what moms are for,” I replied. “Can thank my mother for caring about her kids too.”

sniffle

I quickly turned my head and noticed Alex had stopped a while back. I promptly galloped back to him and started to get nervous.

“I am so sorry for bringing that up, Mr. Ale-”

“Don’t.” Alex wiped his eyes with his left hand and took a deep breath. His face was slightly red as he looked back at me. His turquoise eyes looked like they had lost their color, but he was noticeably crying. “I remembered all the times I needed my mother the most, and she was always there for me. Now?” Alex spread his arms to show the space he was occupying. “She’s not here to stop the tears from falling.”

I sighed and continued to listen. Eventually, Alex regained his strength and continued to get back on track. “It’s a good thing I listened too. I should be grateful she was there for me…for some others….” sniffle “I f-feel bad for….”

I trotted alongside him as we rounded the corner and headed toward the library doors. “Some of my students weren’t able to get the education they wanted from wherever they came from,” the human reminisced. “I did everything I could to make sure they had the chance. Fighting for their right to learn about music and everything it offers.” Alex closed his eyes and shuddered. “I can’t even begin to imagine what some have to go through….”

“Then don’t,” I responded. “Let us be happy that we changed that and got through it. Be it the easy way or the hard way, you triumphed and received it.” I peered back up at him and gave him a gentle smile.

The human took another deep breath and wiped his eyes one more time. “Thanks, Swift,” he said. “But those lessons and practices differed from what I’m learning now.”

“How so?” I asked with a raised brow.

“These are like me learning about my ABCs growing up,” Alex compared. “It’s so….”

“Basic?” I chuckled, trying to hide my smile.

“Yes, exactly!” Alex exclaimed as the Canterlot Castle library doors opened. “Ms. Raven is a great teacher, but it feels too fast for someone learning the ropes of Equestria.”

“What’s on the lecture board for today?” I asked.

pop!

“History,” a unicorn responded. I looked up and noticed that it was Raven Inkwell, Princess Celestia’s top assistant. She was a pale white unicorn mare with a brown mane and a slightly lighter brown tail. Her cutie mark was of an ink pen and the well it is dipped into. Hence the name ‘Raven Inkwell.’

“Good morning, Ms. Inkwell,” Alex replied softly. He bowed his head and smiled slightly.

“I’ll wait out here, Mr. Alex. Good luck!” I called out, rushing for the door and closing it behind me. Then, taking my place on the right side of the door, I began the begrudging task of waiting patiently until the five-hour lesson was over.

========================================<>=========================================

tick-tock!

tick-tock!

I looked at the clock to my right and then stared straight ahead. It was thirteen minutes after 1400, and Alex had not given me an indication that he was don-

creak!

Well, I stand corrected, my mind told itself. I shook my head and ignored it before turning to the left and facing the human. I quickly noticed the crumbs around his lips and motioned for him to clean them off.

“Oh,” Alex wiped off the excess crumbs and slightly stretched his upper body. “Sorry, Swift. The lesson started slow, but after lunch, I got back on track and finished earlier than expected.”

I raised my brow. “Finished earlier than expected?” I questioned before pointing to the clock behind me. “I think that says otherwise, Mr. Alex.”

Alex looked at it, and his eyes shot wide open. “Oh crap!” Alex exclaimed before jogging ahead. “Time for work. We gotta go!”

chuckle “Don’t have to tell me twice,” I softly commented, galloping alongside the human. We turned right and headed down the main corridor for the castle’s front doors. I tried maintaining the pace he had made and even got him to slow down a bit.

“Give me a second, Mr. Alex,” I gasped, trying to get him to slow down even more. Alex turned around but didn’t stop moving. He was running backward as I looked at him with bewilderment.

He shrugged his shoulders. “Try to keep up, Swift,” Alex said as we approached the corner that led to the front entrance. Alex turned around to my left and spun to the right quickly, nearly losing me in the process. Not to be outdone, I pivoted and caught up to his right side.

sigh “No, seriously,” I reiterated. “You might want to slow down. Because you are stil-”

“Halt!” A voice echoed through the corridor as we both came to a stop. We stood still as two guard ponies stood near the entrance of the front doors. Their spears were down and aimed at us.

Alex didn’t know what to do but raised his arms, causing me to roll my eyes. “We do this almost daily, Trent and Blocky,” I lazily told both guards. “It’s just us.”

“Oh. Sorry about that there, Swift,” Trent replied shakily. The pegasus’ spear went back up by his side as he saluted. “Thought he was getting away from you. My mistake.”

sigh “Alex hasn’t shown any signs of wanting to leave, has he?” I motioned to Blocky, who shook his head firmly. “But I understand, though,” I chirped. Trey’s ears perked up. “You’re doing a fantastic job at keeping the castle safe. But, we must exit the castle now, so ‘Mr. Alexander Wallkerrsone’ can get to his job.”

The guard on the right nodded with a firm huff! before reaching for the door handle on his side. On the other hoof, Trent hurriedly opened his side and ushered us out of the castle corridor.

“Good luck, you two!” Trent shouted as we descended the staircase and onto the streets of Canterlot. I waved slightly behind me as Alex slowed down, walking into the center of the open and barren street. The human stopped as he brought a leg up, presumably stretching.

“Walker-sohne?” Alex asked. I looked at him as he dropped his left leg and raised the other. “It’s ‘Walker-son.’ You know…like the actual sun above us?”

“Is that how you spell it?” I replied in confusion. “I thought it was with an ‘o?’”

“It is…uugh. Never mind that,” Alex shrugged off. “Let’s go.”

========================================<>=========================================

As we made our way through the streets of Canterlot, I occasionally glanced to my left and right to take into account my surroundings. Of course, I wanted to be extra sure that Alex was safe, but to prevent an accident and put myself in harm’s way was another thing entirely. I never told Alex that, I thought to myself as a pony’s eyes caught mine. The mare’s head tilted to the right as her mouth slowly opened. I gave her a nod and continued to guide the human down the street.

“Honestly, this walk is perfect for me,” Alex said as he stretched his arms above his head. Then, I heard a slight crack! followed by an exhale of relief from the human. “Oooo, that felt good.”

“I heard it,” I replied calmly. “Tense?”

“‘Stressed’ is the correct word,” Alex replied. “The ‘company bosses’ are supposed to come in tonight to discuss quote ‘important matters.’” Alex brought his hands and made air quotes with them. “But that isn’t why I am stressed.”

“Then what’s got you stressed?” I inquired.

“...working there. I feel misplaced,” Alex admitted.

“Well, for one, you aren’t from he-wait. Is this about what other creatures think of you?” I asked, slowing down and getting closer to the human’s side. “You know you can simply ignore them.”

“Yeah, but that’s the thing,” Alex countered. “You shouldn’t feel unsafe in that environment, no matter the reason. It’s supposed to be a judgment-free zone, Swift.”

“I understand that, but you must remember, Mr. Alex,” I argued. “You still are not considered trustworthy. Many ponies and creatures in Canterlot and across Equestria think of you with neutral opinions. Some may view you as trustworthy, like the princesses…but others may have already concluded that you aren’t to be believed and pose a threat.”

sigh “And that’s the sad reality,” Alex admitted, his shoulders sagging. I looked past him and noticed two ponies talking to each other. One of them pointed in our direction, covering his mouth with his hoof and whispering something to his ‘buddy.’ I immediately stopped and glared at them. In response, the two ponies’ eyes widened as they quickly proceeded in the opposite direction without looking back.

“Hmpf,” I smirked, trotting faster to catch up with the human. “Sorry about that, Mr. Alex.”

“What happened? Did I miss something?” he asked with a confused look.

“No, you didn’t,” I reassured. About a minute had passed as I continued to pace myself. We turned another street corner, and I began to make plans. Only a few more buildings and I can get some lunch, I thought to myself. Maybe take a nap, read a book, or even play som-

“Hey, Swift?” Alex interrupted my thoughts. I looked up at him and didn’t say a word. “Did you hear the question?”

“Ummm,” I stammered in response. This elicited a chuckle from the human as I shook my head.

“Okay, I’ll repeat it,” Alex concluded. “I started by saying that I know I’ve been here for over a month and still may not be trusted in interactive settings.” He then stopped and pointed behind him. “So why again was I given a job where I have to interact with creatures and ponies alike?”

I stopped and realized we were here already. “Speaking of which,” I reminded myself. “Why are you working at a grocery store? You could be useful in other aspects of Equestrian life.”

“Like what?” the human asked.

“I don’t know,” I replied, pursing my lips in thought. “You could do construction. Or maybe join a band. Oh! What about becoming active and competing in sports? You said you were an athlete at one point in your life. We have sports like buckball and hoofball. There’s even the Equestrian Games you can compete in.”

Alex shook his head and shrugged his shoulders. “Construction?” chuckle “I’ve never done that. Maybe with Lego bricks, but not actual building materials. As for the other two, this seems the most practical and poses less risk to my health.”

“Why?” I tilted my head in confusion.

Alex winked and waved his hand. “Well, Swift,” the human said as he turned around to face the store, “I have more years of experience in this one than teaching. See you in eight hours, buddy!” Alex slowly made his way up to the door and entered the building.

I stood there for a few seconds, watching him enter the store, the doors closing behind him. I shook my head and turned around, heading back for the castle.

I could use some lunch, I thought to myself. After all, eight hours was a lot of time to relax.

========================================<>=========================================

yawn!

I yawned as I sat outside the store doors. The clock down the street clicked past 2245, and I was beginning to grow impatient. Where is Alex? He should have been done half an hour ago, my mind grumbled. I got up and slowly stretched myself.

fwiish!

“And a goodnight to you too,” Alex’s cheery voice chimed. Turning to the left, I noticed the human walking away from the automated doors. “Hey, Swift! How are ya this evening?” I trotted up to him and shook my head. Then, motioning for him to crouch, he secured his bag onto his back and leaned in toward me.

“Mr. Alex,” I said. “I’m tired. How many times are you going to keep working past your shift to realize I need sleep, too?” His face contorted into confusion before knowing what I was saying.

“Well, Swift, I-I just clocked out. What do you want me to do?” Alex retorted.

“You are always clocking out late,” I replied with annoyance. “These past two weeks are evident of it. I am simply asking if you can clock out ‘on time?’”

“Pssh. It’s not ‘that’ bad,” Alex sarcastically countered as he rolled his eyes. “I’ve worked many shifts past my clock-out time. There was one time I went home nearly four hours past midnight-”

“YOU DID WHAT?!” I yelled at the human. My nerves had gotten the best of me, and I immediately cupped a hoof over my mouth. Alex said nothing except stare back at me, his mouth hanging open as my eyes widened. “I am so sorry, Mr. Alex-”

“No, you’re right…” he relinquished. “I should be the one that’s sorry. I see why they don’t want me working overtime here.” He put his hands in his pockets and slowly walked down the street.

I quickly caught up with him as he kicked a rock to the other side of the street. “It’s my fault, I know,” Alex softly reflects. “I’m keeping you from going home and getting proper rest while I’m doing this for my own selfish gain. I put more stress on others than I do for myself.” His head hung low as his eyes closed.

I shook my head and tried to switch the subject. “Don’t worry about it,” I quickly said. “I’m not pressed for time. Really, I am not. Others in the Royal Guard, especially the Lieutenant, would have been upset if they were to wait for you…don’t tell anypony I said that.”

“Not like it matters,” Alex grumbled. “They are considering sending me to Ponyville to be closer to the princess of friendship, Ms. Twilight Sparkle. Something about learning to make friends, uphold my public image, and finding somecreature to be with…whatever the hell that means.”

Alex was in a depressed state, causing me to panic heavily. I frantically looked at the street intersection coming up and tried to come up with an idea. Come on, Swift, I thought to myself. How can we fix this? Then, after a couple seconds, I saw some bright lights appearing from the rightmost street. I immediately recognized the street as an idea popped into my head.

“Let’s just forget it and talk about something else, yeah?” I tried to direct the human toward the right. “How about this? Bet you haven’t seen something like this in a while.”

“I’m not joking,” Alex stated. His eyes opened as he noticed me dragging him away from the castle. “Hey! Swift, the castle is that way-”

========================================<>=========================================

Alex stopped in the center of the street as I held my hoof and pointed to what was before us. On both sides of the street, the neon lights that brightened up the central district’s many buildings and busy roads captured his attention. I grinned, nodding to the human to check it out for himself. Alex took a step forward and looked around at all the various signs.

“Neon lights,” he whispered. “Vibrant and full of life. This…This does remind me of home….”

“Isn’t it beautiful?” I asked, strolling up to his left side.

“A-Always is,” Alex said shakily. “The restaurants even have little light strands on the patios. Lanterns hanging above the dining tables, the vibrant colors of the signs making you feel welcomed….” His eyes wander for a bit before stopping, his mouth hanging open.

“What is it, Mr. Alex? What’s got your attention?” I inquired before looking in the direction of where he was staring. Seeing the relaxed textures of the green and yellow neon sign, I realized why Alex, of all creatures, would find it interesting. “The ‘X-Perience’ Music Bar, huh?”

“I didn’t even know one existed here,” Alex silently mouthed. “It’s like the ‘Hard Rock Cafe’ back where I am from. Do I really work that close to it?”

“Best music cafe in Canterlot from what I have heard,” I replied. “It’s got a great atmosphere and is inviting for all creatures, no matter who they are. Best of all, a rock band plays music for the patrons every weekend. That’s something totally up your alley!”

Alex stood still for a few more seconds before nodding in admiration. “I guess I’ll have to check that out some other time then,” the human noted before turning and walking toward the castle.

“Wait, we can check it out now, Mr. Alex!” I countered. However, Mr. Alex was already nearing the intersection, and I galloped to his side just in time. Making sure the coast was clear, we crossed the street and found ourselves back on track to the castle.

“It’s fine, Swift, really,” Alex said. A soft yawn escaped his mouth as he rolled his head. “I’m wiped out as well. Feel like I need an extra cold shower and some reading time before I officially ‘hit the hay.’”

“Fair enou-wait. ‘Hit the what’ now?” I asked in confusion. The human rolled his eyes.

“Figure of speech,” Alex called out. “Meaning I need to get some sleep.”

I nodded and thought about it for a second. “Makes sense to me,” I concluded. “Not a bad idea, either. I might have to do the same thing.”

“You should,” Alex replied. I nodded in contempt as he sighed. “Also, I’m not mad at you. In fact, showing me those neon lights made me forgive you. It was a great reminder of what I had forgotten, and I can’t believe I didn’t notice them sooner. Nevertheless, you pointed them out to me, and I had fun reliving old memories. So thank you.” He smiled at me as I shook my head.

“Yeah,” I scoffed. “But what about the other fourteen times we walked past that street at night?” I smirked as he glared back at me.

“Oh, come on,” Alex exaggeratingly said. “I was reminiscing about my past, and we were pretty much having a moment being bros. Don’t ruin this now!”

chuckle “Yeah, but what about the other fourteen times?” I chuckled to myself as he grinned. It’s a crooked grin, usually shared between friends after witnessing something hilarious for the first time. Alex could only shake his head as he joined in on the laughter.

“You are an interesting pony, Swift,” Alex admitted. My eyes widen as I stare back up at him.

“And you don’t think you yourself are an interesting creature, too? I’ve never met anyone like you ever,” I replied. “And I don’t think anycreature in Equestria has either.” Alex smiled as he nodded to himself.

Got him relaxed, my mind thought. That’s good. Keep it that way, Swift. I nodded and continued to guide Alex back to Canterlot Castle. The staircase leading up to the doors slowly emerged in sight as he started to jog ahead.

“Come on, Swift. I’ll race you back to the tower door!” Alex called out before he looked back at me deviously. “Unless you’re ‘scared.’”

I looked at him with shock, and a fire slowly formed within my eyes. I began to gallop after Mr. Alex as the guards slowly opened the entrance doors. Alex laughed as he picked up the pace.

“You’re on!” I confidently shouted back. Then, passing through the doors, we were in a dead sprint for the tower door and the winding staircase.

========================================<>=========================================

huff!

huff! “Finally,” Alex said to himself. sigh “Made it up…whew…just in time….”

huff! “Yeaah,” I replied tiredly. My head hung for a bit as I tried to catch my breath. “Never a good idea to…” huff! “…to race through the large open corridors of the castle at night.”

huff! “Why…why is that?” Alex asked softly. He was practically wheezing as he brought his arms above his head, resting his hands on his hair.

I shook my head. “It’s…It’s the Night Guard you gotta look out for,” I explained. “They patrol the castle…when Princess Luna is up.” My heart was racing as I tried to take some deep breaths.

sigh “Ye-Yeah,” Alex said softly. “I do know about th-them….” The human’s expression changed as his head slowly drooped. I looked at him and decided to usher him into his room.

“I think…think that’s enough for t-today, Mr. Alex,” I firmly replied. Then, pushing him toward the doorway, Alex picked up on what was happening.

“Swift, I’m f-fine,” he stuttered.

“Yeah, and I can see how sleepy you are,” I shot back. “You do need to rest, Mr. Alex….”

The human ruffled his hair with one hand as he managed to open the door to his room. Regaining his balance in the doorway, he leaned against the wooden frame, breathing heavily.

sigh “I knew I shouldn’t have tried that salad at the store,” Alex admitted. “They said it was good for me. And now it’s messing with my stomach….”

“Well, I think you should get a good night’s rest then,” I replied, bowing my head towards the human. My breathing had normalized as my heart kept thudding. “I’ll be back in the morning to start a new day with you.”

“Hmmm….” Alex hummed to himself as I looked up at him. He pursed his lips in thought as his hand rested on his chin. Rather, he was in deep thought as he furrowed his brow.

“Is something the matter, Mr. Alex?” I inquired.

“Have you ever felt like you don’t belong somewhere, and no matter what you do, there will always be one individual to still treat you with fragility?” the human asked. Alex stretched himself out to his full height and exhaled. “Like, you say you’re alright, but one perso-I mean, creature, will always try and coddle you like you aren’t? Does that make a little more sense?”

My mouth hung open as I tried to process his question. Finally, after a few moments, the human shook his head and turned around. He looked at his room silently as I offered up a question. “Who do you feel has been like that?” I asked him quietly.

Alex stopped and brought his left hand higher. His fingers pinch the bridge of his nose as he turns his face back to me. “Isn’t it obvious?” he asked. I tilted my head and pointed at myself, causing him to groan in frustration. “No, not you, Swift…the princesses?”

gasp! “Why would you believe that?” I asked with shock. “Do you think they are treating you like a foal? Might I remind you they saved your life and are merely returning the favor by trying to protect you, Mr. Alex.”

“Yeah,” the human scoffed. “After shooting me in the side of my stomach and tearing out a vital organ. Their magic may have saved me, sure, but why do they have to treat me as if I need to be imagined or corrected into their image? It doesn’t...feel right. I’m my own individual and know I can think for myself.”

“You think…wait, the word is ‘reformation,’” I corrected. “And, secondly, the princesses have YOUR best interests at heart. They’re doing everything to keep you safe.”

I shook my head as Alex said nothing. “You get a room in Canterlot Castle. You get to sit in with two alicorn princesses, the most powerful creatures in Equestria, during breakfast,” I began to list out. “You get private tutoring lessons from Princess Celestia’s top assistant. You are assigned a Royal Guard pony to walk with and protect you. A place in Canterlot to work for bits, and if anycreature speaks ill of you, the princesses will have your back in a heartbeat. What more could you ask for, Mr. Alex?” He shook his head and dismissed the thought.

“Never mind then. Forget what I said, Swift,” Alex stated. He turned around again and looked at his bed. “Maybe I’m being a bit selfish. Have a good night’s rest, buddy.”

I looked down at the ground and began to think. I don’t fully understand this huma-

“Wait.” Alex turned his head toward me as I reached for the door. I looked up at him and gave him a shaky nod. “I have felt the way you are feeling right now, Mr. Alex…once.” His eyes widened as he folded his arms. He tilted his head upwards and thought about his next words.

“When could that possibly have been, Swift?” he asks with a puzzled frown. “You have told me about your upbringing, and not once did you outright say you felt coddled to such an extent.”

“Well, that’s because…it was right before I was assigned to you. Before I met you,” I told the human. “Goodnight, Mr. Alex.”

click!

I shut the door and breathed out a heavy sigh. Didn’t want to tell him that, I thought before shaking my head. But that’s the same kind of feeling I got back then. Granted, it was warranted, but…no. Turning the other way, I slowly approached the staircase and looked down into the dark corridor below.

slam!

“Gah!”

“Swift?” Alex’s voice rang out. My head swiveled around as our eyes met, but…they weren’t of anger. Alex didn’t appear mad or bitter, but he felt…relieved. A small smile appeared on his face as he nodded to me. “I’m sorry about all of that. You’re a great pony, and I couldn’t have asked for a better friend. Thank you for today.”

creak!

click!

========================================<>=========================================

“I’m sorry about all of that. You’re a great pony, and I couldn’t have asked for a better friend. Thank you for today.”

“...”

It felt like minutes had passed as I stood at the top of the stone stairs. My mouth was still open as my breathing fell silent. The night sky loomed outside the window as the moon shined brightly, the stars continuing to twinkle and dance about the space like petals in the wind.

For once, the world fell silent as I continued to stand there, staring at the door that housed the human creature behind it. My heart slowed down as I began to take smaller breaths.

And for the first time in a long time, I had felt…contemptuous of my work for the day.

Finally, my eyes closed while a warm smile spread across my face. I turned around, facing the staircase below me, with only one thought remaining.

Mr. Alex…the human called me his…‘friend.’

Author's Note

Side note: This chapter had a different ending. I decided to change it at the last minute because I felt it wasn't relevant yet. For those interested, this is what the original message was: "Ever since that letter came back to me, I felt...happy."

Connections. It's a beautiful thing. Somehow...we may be alike after all.

Just like me missing the upload date by 3 whole days! For THAT...I am sorry.

Alright...let me shut up now and give the actual notes.

Welp! Looks like Swift has gained some of Mr. Alex's trust. So much so, the human might be willing to confide 'something' to his new buddy. We'll just have to wait and see.

As always, feedback is appreciated in the comments below. See you in the next one!

-Harpy