Right now, I am facing the door to the basement with my hand on the knob, trying to steady my breath. I need to stay calm. I know I should head down there as fast as I can, but with Applejack standing behind me, I can’t afford to make a move yet.

"Sebastian?" Applejack's voice calls out my name again, and I can feel her gaze on my back. It’s probably full of curiosity, maybe a bit of concern. She hopefully hasn’t seen the blood yet.

I keep my back to her. The clothes are only stained with blood on the front of my shirt and pants, and if she sees me like this, she'll probably think I'm a murderer.

"What are ya doin’?" she asks, her curiosity evident in her voice. “Ya look like you’re about to jump outta ya skin. Is everything alright?”

"Oh, I am doing just fine. I just didn’t expect you to wake up so early. You gave me a quick scare." I try to infuse my tone with as much casualness as I can muster. My heart races as I keep my focus on the door.

Applejack narrows her eyes slightly, her intuition sharp as ever. "Why are ya standin’ like that? Ah don’t like talkin’ to your back."

My heart pounds in my chest as I try to think of an excuse. She’s too sharp to let this slide, but I can’t keep stalling forever. Then it hits me—I had blood on my shoe from the zombie from the store, but the girls didn't say anything about it. My shoes are black, but that doesn't mean the blood wasn't visible.

Taking a deep breath, I decide to gamble. Slowly, I turn around, keeping my hands low to cover as much of the stains as I can. Applejack’s eyes land on my shirt, and I brace myself.

Her brow furrows. "What in tarnation? Did ya trip over some paint or somethin’?"

I exhale in relief. "Uh, yeah! Red paint," I blurt out. "Tripped over some when moving stuff outside."

She tilts her head slightly, still skeptical but not pushing it. "Red paint, huh? Well, Ah reckon it’s a mighty big spill. Ya oughta clean that up ‘fore it dries."

"Yeah, definitely," I nod, trying not to let my voice shake. "I’ll take care of it right now."

Applejack raises an eyebrow. "Why are ya goin’ in there? Ah thought the bathroom was upstairs."

"There’s a second one in the basement," I explain quickly. "I didn’t want to take the one upstairs because I thought I’d wake you all up if I did."

"That’s a strange place for a bathroom" she replies, tilting her head a bit.

"I'm not the architect of the house; I don't know why there is one there." I smile, trying to lighten the mood.

Applejack looks at me for a moment longer, her shoulders relaxing as she lets out a small chuckle. "Well, Ah suppose that makes sense. This place is kinda odd anyway."

"Yeah, it’s a strange house." I can tell her suspicion is melting away, and relief floods through me. "I am going to take a shower now. get all this off me."

"Alright then," she says, moving toward the couch and sitting down. “I'll see ya later.”

As she settles in, I quickly but quietly walk upstairs, taking some fresh clothes from my closet and walk back into the basement. I let out a breath, grateful for the close call passing unnoticed. This whole red paint thing is pretty unrealistic and unbelievable. Could it be that they don't even know what blood is? I mean, surely they've seen a scratch or something like that, but probably not a real bloodbath.

After taking a quick bath and getting dressed, I feel a bit more composed. I towel off my hair and glance at the mirror, satisfied that I look more presentable.

When I return to the living room, I find Applejack still lounging on the couch, her eyes slightly narrowed as she gazes out the window. "Took ya long enough," she says, though her tone is more playful than accusatory. "Ah was startin’ to think ya decided to live there."

"Very funny." I roll my eyes, sitting next to hear, I decide to ask something that could instanly make everything worse for me. "Say, Applejack... Do you know what blood is?"

She glances at me, a bit taken aback by the sudden question. "Well, sure. It’s what runs through our veins. Why do ya ask? Somethin’ happen?"

I hesitate for a moment, weighing my words carefully. "Just wanted to know, I guess. You could've easily mistaken my stains for blood, but you saw it was paint. Made me wonder if you even know what blood looked like."

Applejack frowns slightly, her brow furrowing as she processes my question. "Of course, Ah know what it looks like. It’s just... well, ya don’t see a lot of it on a daily basis, ya know? Not unless somethin’ serious happens or you get seriously hurt. And since ya weren't in pain ya it couldn't be blood."

"Right," I say, keeping my tone casual. "I suppose not."

You poor, innocent pony...

I can’t help but feel sad for her, being thrown into a world like this. The innocence in her perspective is both comforting and frightening. After a few hours of uneasy quiet, I hear the soft patter of hooves on the stairs, breaking the silence that has settled over the living room. One by one, the rest of the girls make their way down.

"Good morning, everypony!" Pinkie Pie chirps, her energy somehow sky high even in the early hours. She bounces into the room, her mane a delightful mess, and I can’t help but smile.

"Morning," I reply, trying to match her enthusiasm. "Hope you all slept well."

Rarity stretches luxuriously, glancing around. "As well as one can in a strange place. But I must say, I do miss the comforts of home already. No offense, darling."

"None taken," I chuckle. "This place has its quirks, for sure.”

Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy enter the room together, both looking a bit disheveled but ready to face the day. "Hey, everypony," Rainbow says with a casual wave, her energy contrasting with Fluttershy’s more timid approach.

"Good morning, everypony," Fluttershy whispers, her eyes brightening as she spots her friends. "I hope everypony is feeling okay."

As the chatter fills the room, Princess Celestia makes her entrance, her graceful presence immediately gaining everyone's attention.

"Good morning, my little ponies," she greets warmly, her voice soothing. "I trust everyone is adjusting well?"

"Good morning, Princess!" Pinkie exclaims, bouncing up to her. "We’re all just chatting and getting ready for a super-duper day!"

Celestia’s eyes twinkle with amusement. "I see that your energy remains undiminished, Pinkie Pie. It is a good trait to have in situations like this."

"Speaking of this situation," I interject. "We should probably discuss your problems. Given that you all are in a completely different world without magic."

"Not without," someone corrects from the top of the stairs.

I jump from the couch and look towards her. It’s Twilight, standing there with a determined look on her face, though she still seems a bit pale. She walks down the stairs slowly.

"You’re awake!" Rainbow Dash zooms over to her, hovering excitedly. "You gave us all a scare yesterday, Twi!"

Twilight smiles weakly. "Sorry about that. I just… seeing Princess Celestia struggle so much with lifting a book, it was so unbelievable. I guess I just fainted from it." She glances at Celestia, who gives her a smile. "But it’s not that we’re without magic entirely."

I frown, leaning forward on the couch. "So you still have some magic?"

Twilight nods. "Yes, but it’s barely there. The magical flow in this world is extremely low. It’s like trying to drink from a almost dried-up river. We can manage small things, like levitation, but anything more complex is almost impossible."

"So, how are we gonna get home if we have almost no magic to help us?" Rainbow Dash asks, her tone concerned.

Twilight looks down, her brow furrowing in thought. "We’re not completely powerless, but it’s going to take some time to figure out how to tap into the magic here—or if there’s even enough for a portal spell."

"We will find a way, Twilight." Celestia says with confindence on her face. "I have faith that with time, we will uncover the answer."

"But what if there’s not enough magic here?" Rainbow Dash blurts out. "Like, what if we’re stuck here forever?"

Celestia smiles softly at Rainbow. "Let’s not jump to conclusions, my dear little pony. There is always a solution, even if it’s not immediately apparent."

"Hey, where is Princess Luna?" I ask, just noticing that she didn't come down with the rest.

Princess Celestia chuckles softly. "She isn’t exactly a morning pony, Sebastian," she replies, her tone light with amusement. "My sister prefers the night and often sleeps through the morning. I imagine she’s still resting."

"Right, of course. Nighttime princess." I completely forgot she is the ruler of the night. "So, anyone up for some breakfast?"

The moment I say breakfast, Rodger instantly gets up from his bed and barks happily. "One vote for yes," I say with a chuckle, rubbing his head as he wags his tail. "Anyone else?"

Pinkie Pie, predictably, bounces up. "Ooooh! Me! Me! Breakfast is the best way to start a super fun day!"

Everyone else chimes in with their own versions of agreement, and soon they’re making their way over to the kitchen table. I glance at the shelves in the kitchen. I only have canned beans, and various soup varieties—nothing that’s going to blow anyone away. I grab a few cans of tomato soup and start heating them up on the stove, stirring slowly as the familiar smell fills the air. Not exactly a royal breakfast, but it’ll have to do.

I pour the soup into bowls and carry them to the table, placing one in front of each of them. "I hope tomato soup’s alright. Not much to work with here."

"It smells wonderful," Twilight says, giving a small, appreciative smile.

"Not exactly the feast we’re used to, but Ah ain't complainin’," Applejack adds with a tip of her hat, taking a cautious sip of her soup. "Heck, it’s better than most rations Ah’ve had on the farm when we had rough seasons."

Rodger sits patiently beside me, staring at his empty dog bowl with hopeful eyes. I quickly put a bowl down for him and watch as he wolfs it down in seconds.

I eat my own bowl of soup before I get struck with one big realization. I am extremely low on food now; I only managed to loot enough for three more days—for Rodger and me. Now I have eight more mouths to feed. That means I only have enough for today, and that’s if I stretch it.

"Hey, Sebastian," Rarity’s voice breaks through my thoughts. She’s looking up from her bowl, eyes focused on the wall. "I’ve been meaning to ask for a while now… what’s that big black square you have on the wall?"

I follow her gaze to the TV.

Right, they’ve never seen anything like that.

"Oh, that? It’s a, uh… television. It shows moving pictures and sounds, like stories or the news," I explain, trying to stay composed, though my mind is still racing about the food situation.

"Moving pictures?" Twilight asks, tilting her head in curiosity. "Like magic projections?"

"Kind of," I say, rubbing the back of my neck. "But without magic. It’s all… technology."

I pause, considering how to explain it in a way that makes sense. "It’s a way we humans make things work, like machines or devices. We use electricity and other resources to power things instead of magic. That TV, for example, works because it’s hooked up to an electrical source that allows it to show those moving pictures."

Applejack taps her chin with a hoof. "So, it’s like... y’all found a way to get things done without magic?"

"Exactly," I respond. "Judging by your questions, I take it you’re not used to stuff like this in your world?"

I know this already, but it's better to act like I don't know.

Twilight shakes her head slowly. "Not at this level. Equestria relies mostly on magic. We have technology, but nothing like what you're describing."

Rarity eyes the TV again, her curiosity clearly piqued. "It seems... quite sophisticated. How do you control it?"

I smile slightly. "With this." I pick up the remote and turn on the TV. The screen flickers to life, only to show static.

The ponies all stare at the screen, puzzled. Pinkie squints at it, then leans in, her nose almost touching the glass. "Oooh, are those tiny snowflakes?"

"No, that’s just static," I reply with a chuckle. "It happens when there’s no signal. The channels are down."

Fluttershy tilts her head. "What’s a signal? If you don't mind answering."

"Uh... think of it like a magical flow, kind of like how magic connects to things. When the connection is weak, you don’t get a proper result. Same thing here—no signal means no TV shows."

Twilight’s eyes light up with understanding. "That makes sense! So, it’s like your world’s version of magical interference!"

Rainbow Dash hovers above the couch, her curiosity piqued. "So, this thing can show action? Like... flying stunts, sports, or adventure stuff?"

"Yeah, all of that and more," I answer. "You’d probably love some of the action shows we have here."

"Too bad it’s not working now," Rainbow says, a little disappointed as she watches the static flicker on the screen. "I’d love to see what humans find exciting."

"I think I have some DVDs upstairs," I say, thinking quickly. "Those don’t need a signal. I can pop one in, and you’ll get to see what I mean."

Rainbow Dash perks up, looking a little more excited now. "Sounds awesome! Let’s see what kinda crazy stuff you humans do for fun!"

I chuckle and stand up, heading toward the stairs. "Give me a sec. I’ll grab a few, and you can pick what you want to watch."

I reach the bedroom and rummage through a drawer, pulling out a few DVD covers. Old action movies, cartoons, and some comedies. Should be enough to keep them entertained for a while. As I gather the discs, I notice one from My Little Pony among the rest. Deciding it's best to keep that hidden, I put the DVD under my closet and head back to the stairs.

Just then, Princess Luna emerges from my sister's room. She looks slightly disoriented, her usual regal demeanor replaced by a more casual and sleepy look.

"Ah, good morning, Sebastian," Luna greets, her voice still smooth but slightly groggy. "I trust the others are already awake?"

"Yeah, they’re downstairs. We’re, uh, about to watch some 'moving pictures' on 'the big black square'," I reply, holding up the DVDs as if to explain further.

Luna raises an eyebrow, intrigued. "Moving pictures, you say? How would that work?"

"You'll see," I say with a grin, motioning for her to follow me downstairs.

Princess Luna gives a slow nod and follows me. When we reach the living room, the others are crowded around the TV, watching the static dance on the screen. Pinkie Pie's nose is almost pressed against the glass, her face scrunched in concentration.

"Alright," I announce, holding up a few DVDs. "I’ve got a couple of options here. There’s action, comedy, and some animated stuff. You all can pick what you want."

Rainbow Dash immediately zooms over, eyes scanning the DVD covers with eager interest. "What’s this one about?" she asks, pointing to an action movie cover showing a monster truck with explosions in the background.

"That’s an action flick," I explain. "Lots of stunts, chases, and explosions."

Rainbow’s eyes light up. "Let’s watch that one! Sounds like my kinda thing!"

The others seem to agree, so I pop the DVD into the player, grab the remote, and start the movie. As the screen lights up, the opening scenes of the film play and the ponies instantly get fascinated. After a few minutes a race between cars begin.

Rainbow Dash hovers in place, her wings flapping in excitement as she watches a high-speed chase unfold. "Whoa! This is awesome! Look at those metal chariots go!"

"They are called cars," I correct, chuckling at her enthusiasm. "And they can go really fast."

"Fast is an understatement!" she exclaims, eyes wide as the cars weave in and out of traffic and going up ramps. "This is so much cooler than any stunts I’ve seen, aside from the Wonderbolts!"

Twilight, meanwhile, is taking mental notes. "The technology involved in these vehicles is fascinating. How do they work?

"Well, cars run on engines that convert fuel into energy, which makes them move without having to use a hor- pony."

As I explain, the film's protagonist is now in a tense car chase, narrowly dodging obstacles. The tension in the room rises with every sharp turn and explosive scene, and I can see everyone hanging onto the action.

Applejack leans forward, eyes narrowed in concentration. "But how do ya stop those things? Seems like a mighty big mess if they can’t slow down quick enough."

"Good question," I reply, glad to see her thinking critically about it. "They have brakes, like… well, like how you all stop when you’re running or flying. It just takes a bit of skill to control."

Just as I say this, the car in the movie veers off the road and crashes into a nearby dumpster, sending debris flying everywhere.

"Oh no!" Fluttershy gasps, covering her mouth with her hooves. "Did they just crash? Are they okay?"

"Relax, it's all part of the movie, if they crash that means it was supposed to happen." I quickly explain, trying to calm her nerves.

Twilight leans forward, fascinated. "So, this is all done with technology? No magic at all?"

"Yeah," I say, smiling at their reactions. "It's all effects, props, and a lot of work behind the scenes."

Luna’s eyes narrow as she watches a particularly intense scene. "Impressive... your world has its own way of creating excitement and danger without magic."

I take a moment to appreciate how easily they immerse themselves in this human storytelling style. Hell, even Princess Celestia seems to enjoy it very much. Maybe I can use this interest in movies to help keep their spirits up during this stressful time.

I sneak into the kitchen unnoticed and Rodger follows me. I start to think about the food problem. I emptied every building in the area, or they only have spoiled food. I desperately try to find a solution for my problem, but nothing comes to mind. Until I see a picture of my family infront of a hotel hanging on the wall.

The Elysian Grandeur—a luxe hotel downtown with a build in restaurant—was the only place I haven't looted yet, but I had a reason for it. It was one of the first locations where reports of the outbreak surfaced. The military put the building in a lockdown and everyone in there was doomed. It will be dangerous and the risk of death is high, but I know for a fact that it hasn't been looted by anyone.

I let out a sigh, glancing down at Rodger, who looks up at me with curious, trusting eyes. "What do you think, buddy? Is it worth the risk?"

Rodger cocks his head slightly, as if he understands my dilemma. He gives a quick bark, and I take it as a form of encouragement. "Yeah, I guess it’s worth a shot," I murmur, giving him a pat on the head.

I take a moment to formulate a plan. I need supplies, but I also need to ensure the safety of the ponies while I’m gone.

I decide it’s best to wait until nightfall, when the darkness can provide some cover. The idea of venturing out during the day feels reckless, especially considering the heightened risk of encountering zombies. They can see, but only from up close. Everything far away appears blurry to them, so they can't tell me apart from them if I am far enough away.

"You stay here, buddy. I need you to watch over the girls when I'm gone. I don't want to risk you getting hurt out there," I say, scratching behind Rodgers ears. He lets out a soft whine but eventually calmes down and walks back to the girls.

I lean against the counter and rub my hands over my face, feeling more scared than ever.

Tonight... I’ll risk my life for some fucking food.

Author's Note

I know I'm probably going to fuck up Applejack's accent a lot, so I apologize for the inconvenience.