The Shy One

I went off the beaten path while munching on my cupcake as nightfall began hitting the sky. I was always fascinated with stars and space, wondering what more was out there. If we were the only ponies in Equestria or if there were more out there.

Whenever night hit the sky, I felt a sense of calmness and security. Fewer ponies would be out during the night, making it more peaceful. I was never one for crowds; I always chose small friend groups and rarely attended parties. It was a simple life, just the way I liked it.

I approach hundreds of trees with fresh, ripe apples on them. Earth ponies, indeed, had their work cut out for them. I could never do the work they do; I was just fortunate to have wings, although I didn't use them much. I always had a sense of pride when I would fly in the sky.

A massive barn took my eyes away from the apple trees, where I saw an orange earth pony gathering hay in barrels.

“She might know where the path to Fluttershy's cottage was," I thought. I trotted over to her as she looked up at me.

"Well, Howdy there, stranger! What brings you out to our farm so late?”

“Hey there, my name is Blue Bolt, and I'm new to town."

"Well, you're no stranger anymore! Howdy Blue Bolt, I'm Applejack!"

"Howdy, partner," I said rather awkwardly. "I'm trying to find Fluttershy's cottage. She offered me a place to stay for a bit, told by Pinkie Pie that it's around here somewhere.”

“Fluttershy offering ponies a place to stay? Now that there is a first, she's always inviting every critter over, but other ponies are a surprise.”

“That’s the same thing Pinkie Pie said as well; I feel honored that she would offer me a place to stay, but she never got around to telling me where she lives.”

"Hm, well, I can definitely help you with that, mister; she just lives up ahead on the hill; her cottage sits near the bank of the river and on the outskirts of the ever-free forest.”

“Thanks, Applejack, I appreciate it.”

"No problem, partner; I hope you enjoy Ponyville, and you can't leave my farm without trying some of our family's famous apple cider! Here, this one is on the house; enjoy!" She threw me a pint of cider, and I went into the night's darkness.