Lost In Equestria

Ponyville, Golden Oak Library, 11:45 pm

Applejack tipped her hat back and walked over with a small smirk. “Sugarcube, you sure know how to make an entrance. But I reckon walls ain’t the best place to stop.”

Twilight’s horn glowed as she prepared a spell to free Anon. “Hold still. I’ll get you out.”

Pinkie Pie hopped in place excitedly. “I mean, that was a really cool teleport! Even if you got a little stuck.”

Rainbow Dash hovered nearby, shaking her head. “Next time, maybe aim for the door?”

Anon chuckled nervously. “Heh… I’ll keep that in mind.”

Applejack stepped closer, bracing herself just in case. “Better hurry, Twi. He’s lookin’ like part of the décor.”

Rarity gave a small hum of amusement. “Yes, darling, while avant-garde wall sculptures are all the rage in Canterlot, I don’t think this is quite what they had in mind."

Anon gave a sheepish grin. "Yeah… but I was kind of in a rush with the teleporting. Can’t exactly think of an exact spot I wanna land when I’ve got Timberwolves breathing down my neck.”

Twilight’s magic finally took hold, and with a quick burst of energy, Anon was pulled free from the wall. He stumbled forward but caught himself before he could hit the floor.

“Thanks, Twi,” Anon said, brushing himself off.

Applejack raised an eyebrow. “Next time, maybe holler before you pull off any risky stunts like that.”

Fluttershy nodded timidly. “We were really worried about you.”

Rainbow Dash crossed her forelegs, hovering at eye level. “I’m still trying to figure out how you even outran those Timberwolves. They’re not exactly slow.”

Pinkie Pie bounced closer. “Ooooh, maybe your panicked teleport gave you turbo speed!”

Anon chuckled. “More like sheer panic and dumb luck.”

Rarity took a step forward, inspecting him. “Well, at least you’re in one piece—aside from that dirt in your mane.”

Twilight gave him a serious look. “You said you tricked them. Do you think they’re still out there, looking for you?”

Anon took a deep breath, his eyes flickering with lingering anxiety. "Well, it’s not exactly easy to outrun them. All I did was run until a third one jumped into my path. Luckily, they were slow to rip me apart right away. My unstable magic probably kept them guessing, thinking I was going to attack.”

He glanced around at the group. “Though if they’re as cunning as the stories and Zecora said, I’m sure they’re not too happy about my getaway. I can only pray to Celestia and Luna that they stay in the Everfree.”

Twilight’s expression remained serious. “We can’t count on that. We need to be prepared in case they don’t.”

Applejack nodded firmly. “Timberwolves are too stubborn to just give up. We’d best figure out what we’re up against before they come sniffin’ around Ponyville.”

Fluttershy’s wings twitched nervously. “Maybe we could find a way to scare them off without… hurting them?”

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes but gave Fluttershy a small smile. “If that doesn’t work, we’ll make sure they regret messing with anypony.”

Pinkie Pie pulled out a notebook from seemingly nowhere. “Time to brainstorm anti-Timberwolf plans! Distraction dances! Mega cupcakes! Oooh, maybe confetti traps!”

Rarity sighed, though a smile tugged at her lips. “Pinkie, darling, as creative as that sounds, perhaps we should start with the books?”

Twilight turned to the shelves, determination written all over her face. “Agreed. We’ll search for anything on Timberwolves, forest magic, and protective barriers. There has to be something here.”

Anon tried to sound calm as he added, “Well, you can never be too awfully cautious. But with the number of ponies that live in Ponyville, I doubt they’d be dumb enough to come running this way. Even if their sense of smell is strong, I don’t think they can track a magic trail.”

Twilight’s ears perked, but her brow remained furrowed. “Maybe, but Timberwolves are relentless when it comes to a grudge.”

Applejack nodded. “And if they think you’re unfinished business, they won’t stop till they settle it.”

Fluttershy shivered. “Let’s hope the Everfree’s magic confuses them enough to keep them away.”

Pinkie Pie waved a hoof dismissively. “I mean, worst-case scenario, I’ve got more ideas for Timberwolf distractions!”

Rainbow Dash gave Anon a determined look. “Whether they show or not, we’ve got your back.”

Rarity tilted her head. “Still, darling, it doesn’t hurt to have a plan.”

Anon’s words were filled with sincerity as he spoke. “And I’m not trying to dismiss those worries, Rarity. I’m just saying that even if they have a grudge against me, there are plenty of capable ponies here in Ponyville—just like you girls. Again, I’m not dismissing your worries. I’m just saying they’d sorely regret trying to come here, even if they could pick up my scent from my magic.”

He paused, looking at each of them with a small smile. “You six are strong as is. Just you alone, I think, could easily disorient a pack of Timberwolves—even if you’re scared. But from what I’ve read about you six in the history books, you’re capable of almost anything when you’re together.”

Twilight’s eyes softened, and a small smile tugged at her lips. “Thanks, Anon. That means a lot.”

Applejack adjusted her hat. “He’s not wrong. We’ve faced plenty together. Timberwolves are nasty critters, but they ain’t unbeatable.”

Rainbow Dash puffed out her chest. “And if they show up, I’ll make sure they know messing with us is a bad idea.”

Fluttershy still looked uneasy but nodded. “We’ve come through worse… and we’ll come through this too.”

Pinkie Pie gave Anon a wide grin. “With a little teamwork and some party cannon magic, we can take on anything!”

Rarity gave a soft chuckle. “Even Timberwolves would think twice about messing with us.”

Twilight placed a hoof on the stack of books. “Still, preparation never hurt anyone. Let’s see what we can learn to make sure we stay ahead.”

Anon let out a long yawn. “Twilight, always the overly cautious one. But you’re right—if they do somehow, for whatever reason, turn up, it’s good to read up on them a bit. But for tonight…” He stretched his legs, his wings drooping slightly. “I don’t know about you girls, but I am tired, like I’ve been through Tartarus itself.”

Twilight gave a small chuckle. “You have been through a lot. Rest is probably the best thing right now.”

Applejack nodded. “Agreed. You’ll be no good to anypony if you don’t get some sleep.”

Fluttershy gave a soft smile. “And it’ll help you recover your strength.”

Pinkie Pie bounced on her hooves. “Ooooh! A good night’s rest will have you ready for anything tomorrow! You’ll be unstoppable!”

Rarity’s eyes softened as she looked him over. “Rest is the best thing for both body and mind, darling. And you deserve it.”

Rainbow Dash hovered over him with a grin. “I’ll keep an eye out while you crash. Don’t worry—if any Timberwolves show up, I’ll take care of ‘em before you even wake up.”

Twilight motioned toward a spare cushion. “You can stay here tonight, Anon. You’re safe with us.”

The girls watched as Anon flopped onto the cushion with a lazy thud, the sound of the soft “Poomph” filling the quiet library. He didn’t even move once his head hit the pillow, already out cold.

Twilight smiled warmly, shaking her head. “He really must have been exhausted.”

Applejack chuckled. “Poor fella’s had a rough day. I reckon he earned that rest.”

Fluttershy knelt down and gently adjusted the edge of a blanket over Anon’s side. “He’ll feel better after a good night’s sleep.”

Rainbow Dash hovered above him for a moment, giving a small nod. “He’s tougher than he looks, but yeah, rest is what he needs.”

Rarity adjusted the corner of the blanket with her magic, making sure it was just so. “No need for him to be anything but comfortable tonight.”

Pinkie Pie whispered loudly, “Should we throw him a ‘Glad You Survived the Timberwolves’ party tomorrow?”

Twilight smiled but shook her head. “Let’s give him some peace for now, Pinkie. Tomorrow, we’ll figure out what comes next.”

They each found their own spots to settle in, the tension of the night giving way to a quiet, peaceful calm. Outside, the moon cast a gentle glow over Ponyville, and for now, the danger seemed far away.

Anon’s restless stirring intensified as the nightmare continued to grip him. In his dream, he stood frozen, trapped inside his own mind as King Sombra controlled his body. Dark crystals pulsed at his hooves, rooting him in place. No matter how much he struggled, he couldn’t break free.

Before him, Celestia and Luna were chained, their once-bright eyes dimmed with sorrow. Sombra’s cruel laughter echoed as he approached Twilight, who stood bravely despite the fear in her eyes. She called out to Anon, but he couldn’t respond—he could only watch, helpless.

Twilight reached a hoof out toward him. “Anon, please… fight it.”

He tried with every ounce of will he had, but the dark magic binding him was too strong. Sombra raised his horn, preparing to strike, and Anon’s mind screamed in despair.

Just as the nightmare reached its darkest point, a bright silver light pierced the darkness, banishing the shadows in an instant. The chains on Celestia and Luna shattered, and Sombra froze, his cruel grin turning into a snarl.

From the light, a regal figure emerged—Princess Luna, her midnight-blue form glowing with celestial power. Her gaze burned with determination as she faced Sombra.

“Begone, foul nightmare!” Luna’s voice thundered, shaking the dream world itself. “You have no dominion over this pony!”

Sombra hissed, but before he could retaliate, Luna’s horn flared with radiant magic. The darkness surrounding Anon shattered like glass, and the chains holding him dissolved into nothingness. Anon fell to the dream’s ground, gasping for air, finally free from the oppressive control.

Luna turned to him, her expression softening. “Anon, you are safe now. This nightmare will plague you no longer tonight.”

"Sorry for having to have to save me again Luna..." Anon said panting out of breath in my dreamscape of nothingness, once more his soul taking on human form.

Luna stepped closer, her gaze filled with both empathy and determination. “You have nothing to apologize for, Anon. Even the strongest hearts need help at times.” She paused, observing his human form with a thoughtful expression. “Your form shifts as your soul reflects your truest self. It is a reminder of your past, but it does not define your present.”

Anon’s brow furrowed. “Ok... But I swear that nightmare changes every time… but at the same time not… as if it’s showing me something, but I don’t know what. All I know is that I’m trapped in my own body or mind and am powerless to whatever happens,” he explained. “Though I have this nagging feeling that it might not just be an everyday nightmare, besides it being repeating.”

Luna’s expression grew more serious, her ethereal mane swirling gently with the stars of the dreamscape. “Your instincts are wise, Anon. Repeating dreams of this nature are rarely random. They often carry a message—one that can be difficult to understand.”

Anon sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “That? A message?” He let out a scoff. “If anything, it feels like an insight to what the future may hold for me.” His shoulders slumped slightly. “And I really hope that isn’t the case.”

Luna’s gaze remained steady, though thoughtful. “It is wise to be cautious. Dreams that linger in the mind often carry truths not yet understood. However, not all visions are meant to be warnings of doom. They may also be keys—guiding you to the choices you must make.”

Anon frowned slightly. “Choices… but I don’t even know what I’m being shown.”

“That uncertainty is part of the challenge,” Luna said gently. “But you are not powerless, Anon. Whatever fate may lie ahead, you have strength, will, and the support of those who care for you.”

The dreamscape shimmered with Luna’s magic, soothing the frayed edges of Anon’s restless mind. “Rest now. The future may be uncertain, but together, we will face whatever comes.”

With those final words, the shadows of dread faded from the dream, leaving only peace behind.

Anon woke with a sharp gasp, sitting upright as the remnants of the dream faded from his mind. The sunlight streaming through the windows indicated it was morning, and the library was bathed in a soft, golden glow. The girls were still asleep, each resting peacefully on their respective cushions.

Not wanting to disturb them or cause unnecessary worry, he quietly slipped out of his makeshift bed and scanned the room for something to write with. Spotting a quill and parchment on a nearby desk, he walked over and began to scribble a quick note.

Gone exploring town, Anon.

He hoped the girls could read his handwriting—along with the fact that it was in English—and carefully placed the note where they would easily see it upon waking. With a final glance to ensure they were still asleep, Anon made his way to the door, ready to explore Ponyville in the light of day.

Anon trotted along the streets of Ponyville, humming the Annoying Dog theme from Undertale as he enjoyed the fresh morning air. The town was coming to life—vendors setting up stalls, ponies chatting cheerfully, and birds chirping from nearby trees. Walking on all fours was starting to feel more natural, and he felt less wobbly than before.

“Ok, first on my agenda, look for a job I’m good at…” he mused aloud, his eyes scanning the storefronts for any potential opportunities.

His gaze landed on a quaint little candy shop with a brightly colored sign: BonBon’s Confections. The sight of it immediately lifted his spirits.

“That seems like an idea I’d like to try,” he said with a grin. Memories of trying—and failing—to land a similar job on Earth crept in, and he muttered under his breath, “Fuckers should have hired me back on Earth.”

With a determined huff, he straightened his posture and trotted toward the candy shop’s entrance, ready to see if this was his chance to try his hoof at candy-making.

Anon trotted toward the candy shop, his mind still dwelling on old frustrations. “Stupid fucking Earth jobs,” he muttered under his breath. “Fucking not taking me in because I couldn’t be there until first pay. Well, this will show them.”

Reaching the door of BonBon’s Confections, he raised a hoof to push it open. The scent of sweet caramel and freshly made taffy wafted through the door’s edges, and he felt a small pang of excitement as he imagined what it’d be like to work here.

Anon pushed the door open and stepped inside, only for his hoof to slip on a stray piece of wrapping paper near the entrance. He landed hard on his side with a loud thud. “Ah, crap,” he groaned, wincing at the jolt of pain that shot through him.

Though it didn’t compare to the broken rib he had endured in the forest two days ago, falling on his side still hurt like hell. As he lay there, catching his breath, the sweet scent of chocolate and mint surrounded him, almost mocking his less-than-graceful entrance.

A familiar voice called from behind the counter. “Oh, Celestia! Are you alright?” BonBon trotted over, concern in her eyes. “That’s not exactly the best way to make a first impression!” she added with a small, nervous smile.

Anon stood up, stretching out his limbs to shake off the impact. “Eh, wouldn’t be my first fall, won’t be my last,” he said with a wry smile. “Plus, it was my fault for not watching my step.”

BonBon gave a soft chuckle, her worry easing a bit. “Well, the floors are clean, but I didn’t think they were that slippery. I’ll have to double-check that spot later.”

Anon rubbed the back of his head sheepishly, glancing around at the brightly colored jars and trays of candies lining the shop. “Anyway, I came by because I’m looking for a job. Thought I’d try my hoof at candy-making. Always wanted to give it a go.”

BonBon’s ears perked up. “Really? Well, that’s not something I hear every day. Candy-making can be tricky, but if you’re serious, we might be able to work something out. Do you have any experience?”

Anon gave a small shrug. “No, not really. Tried to grab a job at a place once, and they didn’t hire me. But since I’ve recently moved to Ponyville and saw this shop, I decided to give it one more shot.” He offered a hoof with a smile. “Also, name’s Anon. What’s yours?”

BonBon took Anon’s hoof and gave it a firm shake, offering a friendly smile in return. “Nice to meet you, Anon. I’m BonBon, owner of this candy shop. And it’s great to hear you’re willing to give candy-making another shot.”

She studied him for a moment, her gaze thoughtful but not unfriendly. “No experience, huh? Well, everypony has to start somewhere. I’m always happy to give someone a chance if they’re eager to learn.”

BonBon turned toward the counter, motioning with her head for him to follow. “Why don’t I show you around the kitchen? We can see if you’ve got a knack for it.”

Anon followed BonBon as she led him through a doorway into the back of the shop. The smell of sweet sugar and melted chocolate filled the air, along with the faint scent of peppermint. The room was lined with shelves of jars filled with colorful ingredients and tools for candy making.

“I’ll show you the basics, and we’ll see if you’ve got a knack for it,” BonBon said, stopping by a large worktable.

Before they got started, a familiar mint-green unicorn poked her head in through the door. “Hey, BonBon! Need me to take over the register for a bit?”

BonBon gave her a grateful smile. “Thanks, Lyra. That’ll help a lot.”

Lyra grinned and trotted back toward the front of the shop, leaving BonBon and Anon alone in the kitchen. BonBon turned back to Anon, gesturing toward the supplies on the table. “Alright, let’s see what you can do. Ever tempered chocolate before?”

Anon shook his head. "No," he said before thinking to himself, But I’ve watched YouTube videos of it before. He continued, “Besides having a bit of a bad sweet tooth when I was younger—thanks to poor dental hygiene and eating way too much chocolate—I’ve never dealt with it in a professional way.”

BonBon chuckled softly. “At least you’ve got some familiarity with it from a different angle. Let’s see if we can turn that into some skill.”

She handed him the pot of melted chocolate and a spoon. “Like I said before, the goal is to get it smooth and glossy. Stir it gently and keep an eye on the texture. If it starts to clump or separate, you’ll have to start over.”

Anon nodded, gripping the spoon in his hoof as best he could. He began stirring slowly, focusing on keeping the motion steady. The chocolate shimmered slightly under the overhead light, and he made sure not to let it overheat.

BonBon observed him for a moment before giving a small nod. “Not bad. You’ve got a steady hoof. Let’s see how you handle pouring.”

She placed the candy molds on the table again. Anon took a deep breath, carefully spooning the chocolate into the molds. A few drips spilled over the edges, but for the most part, he kept it clean.

“Decent for a first try,” BonBon said with an approving smile. “Keep that up, and you might have potential after all.”

Back at the library, the early morning sunlight filtered through the windows, casting a golden glow across the room. Twilight was the first to stir, stretching and yawning softly before blinking herself awake. She glanced over to the cushion where Anon had been the night before, only to find it empty.

“Anon?” she called softly, rubbing her eyes. When no response came, her concern deepened.

Applejack stretched and tipped her hat back. “What’s got ya all riled up, Twi?”

“Anon’s gone,” Twilight said, standing and looking around for any sign of where he might have gone.

Rainbow Dash shot up into the air with a flap of her wings. “Gone? What do you mean, gone?”

“I mean, he’s not here. He was right there when we all went to sleep.”

Fluttershy’s soft voice chimed in, worry evident. “Oh no. Do you think he went back to the forest?”

Just then, Rarity’s keen eyes caught a small piece of parchment on the nearby table. “Wait a moment. There’s a note here.” She levitated it with her magic and read aloud: “‘Gone exploring town, Anon.’”

Twilight sighed in relief. “At least he left a note this time.”

Pinkie Pie bounced over. “Exploring town? Ooooh, I bet he’s checking out Sugarcube Corner! Or maybe—”

“Or maybe he’s just lookin’ for a little peace and quiet,” Applejack interrupted with a small grin. “Let’s not go chasin’ him down just yet. He’s probably just getting used to town.”

Twilight nodded thoughtfully. “You’re right. But let’s keep an eye out for him when we go out. Just in case.”

With that, the girls began preparing for their day, now more at ease knowing Anon hadn’t run into trouble—yet.

The girls, though concerned for Anon, knew they had their own responsibilities to tend to for the day. Applejack headed back to Sweet Apple Acres, ready for another day of working the fields and tending to the orchards. Rarity returned to her boutique, sketching new designs while stitching dresses with her usual flair for perfection. Pinkie Pie helped the Cakes at Sugarcube Corner, juggling orders and making treats with her boundless energy.

Rainbow Dash, ever determined, spent her morning training in the skies above Ponyville, pushing herself to be one step closer to her dream of becoming a Wonderbolt. Fluttershy quietly tended to her animal friends, checking on each one and making sure they were well-fed and happy.

Twilight, however, found herself with a mostly free schedule. As the Golden Oak Library’s librarian and caretaker, she only had a few minor tasks to handle—shelving books and updating the library’s inventory. With a sigh, she tried to focus on those duties, but her mind kept wandering back to Anon.

“Where could he have gone?” she muttered to herself, pacing the library floor. She debated whether to go out searching or wait for him to return. For now, she decided to keep herself busy at the library, hoping Anon would come back soon—and in one piece.

Anon stepped out into the early afternoon sunshine, stretching his legs as he left BonBon’s candy shop behind. “Thanks again for training me a bit, BonBon,” he had said before pushing the door open. Now, as he trotted along the cobblestone streets of Ponyville, he couldn’t help but wonder if he’d left the girls too worried.

“Hope I haven’t given them too much of a scare by leaving like that,” he muttered under his breath, his mind already focused on getting back to the library. The familiar sights of Ponyville passed by—a few shops, market stalls, and ponies going about their day—but Anon paid them little attention. His thoughts were on the girls and whatever awaited him back at Golden Oak Library.

Anon sighed contentedly as he trotted along, a slight pep in his step. “Eh, I left a note. I’m sure they’re not that worried,” he said to himself.

He started humming the familiar tune of the Annoying Dog theme song from Undertale again, the cheerful melody matching his upbeat mood. As he made his way back toward Golden Oak Library, the afternoon breeze carried the sounds of Ponyville—laughter from foals playing, the clatter of carts, and the chatter of shopkeepers calling out their wares.

Anon felt lighter after his productive morning, ready to reconnect with the girls and see what the rest of the day would bring.

Twilight was carefully organizing the bookshelves, levitating a few new titles into their respective places when the door suddenly burst open. She jumped with a startled squeak, nearly dropping the books in her magic’s grasp.

“I’m back!!!” Anon sang out in a playful, musical tone, his voice carrying an exaggerated dramatic flair.

Twilight turned, wide-eyed, before narrowing her gaze at him with an exasperated but amused look. “Anon! You scared me half to death!” she huffed, pressing a hoof to her chest to calm her racing heart.

Twilight let out a small sigh, though her lips twitched into a reluctant smile. “Yes, they all had their own responsibilities to take care of today. You’re lucky they weren’t here, or Pinkie might have tackled you for a surprise return party.”

Anon chuckled as he waltzed further into the library, still wearing a playful grin. “I’m not sure if that sounds like a reward or a punishment. Pinkie’s parties are a whirlwind.”

Twilight rolled her eyes but couldn’t suppress a soft laugh. “You’re just as much of a whirlwind, you know.”

Anon placed a hoof to his chest, feigning surprise. “Little ol' me~? You flatter me~,” he said in a playful, mockingly innocent tone. “Anyway, I’m hoping to have a job soon over at BonBon’s candy shop helping them make candy. Then I can make some bits and not have to burden you with having to take care of me for the time being.”

Twilight raised an eyebrow but softened her expression. “Burden me? Anon, you’re not a burden. You’re a friend. Besides, I’d be more worried about how much candy you’ll end up eating before it even gets to the customers.”

Anon gave a mock gasp. “How dare you accuse me of such a thing! I’ll have you know I’m a candy professional now.”

Twilight couldn’t hold back a giggle. “Sure you are. Just remember, BonBon runs a tight ship. If you cause any chaos, she won’t hesitate to set you straight.”

"Eh, I don’t really plan to make chaos," Anon said with a shrug. "Especially since that’s a certain Draconequus’ job," he muttered under his breath, barely audible.

Twilight’s ears twitched slightly, catching the faint remark, but she decided not to press.

“But that’s beside the point,” Anon continued. “And us being friends… yeah, but compared to you and the girls, we’re just acquaintances at best. If you compare our level of friendship to what you all have together, it’s pretty different.”

Twilight tilted her head, her expression thoughtful. “I don’t see it that way, Anon. Sure, the girls and I have been through a lot together, but friendship isn’t measured by the length of time or the number of adventures. It’s about trust, understanding, and being there for each other.”

Anon blinked, caught off guard by her sincerity.

“And you’ve already proven you’re someone we can count on,” Twilight continued with a small smile. “Give it time, and I think you’ll feel the same way.”

"Well yeah, that’s how relationships grow—with time. Well, friendship relationships, not relationship-relationships, not saying that can’t happen but..." Anon trailed off, his cheeks heating up as he thought about the possibility of being a thing with Twilight. "And now I’m rambling over nothing," he muttered, trying to shake the thought away.

Twilight’s ears perked up, but she didn’t comment, instead listening intently as Anon continued.

"But I’m sure, with time like you said, I’ll feel the same," he added. "I’m sure I will. It’s just… back where I come from, as I told you before, friendship wasn’t a big thing anymore since the races separated. Ponies weren’t as trusting in my time. You had to actually show that you deserved their trust and friendship—and even then, only if you were the same race of pony."

Twilight’s smile faded slightly at the mention of a divided future, her eyes filled with sympathy and concern.

"Even if you showed you earned their trust, it didn’t mean you had proven you deserved all their trust," Anon continued as he walked over to the cushions he had slept on the night before. He plopped down onto them, letting out a soft sigh.

Twilight walked over and sat beside him, her expression thoughtful. "That sounds... difficult," she said softly. "I can’t imagine living in a world like that, where friendship is so conditional. But you’re here now, and things can be different. You’re already part of a community that believes in trust and friendship." She gave him a gentle nudge with her shoulder. "And we’ll make sure you never have to feel that loneliness again."

“I know you girls will, Twilight,” Anon said with a small smile. He reached over and gently ruffled her mane, earning a playful swat from her hoof and a soft chuckle from both of them. “That’s what makes you girls as special as you are. Even with the flaws that are a part of you six. Sure, those flaws can get in the way sometimes, but no matter what, you’re all there for each other.”

Twilight blushed faintly at the compliment, her heart warming at his words.

Anon let out a long yawn. “But if you’ll excuse me, training with BonBon was a lot today. And even though it’s not night, I’m wiped. I’ll see you in the morning.”

With that, he turned on his side, facing the wooden wall, already starting to drift off as exhaustion took over. Twilight watched him for a moment, her gaze soft and contemplative before she stood and began tidying up the library, letting him rest.

Twilight would probably go on about her day as Anon slept through the rest of the afternoon. Strangely, he didn’t have any nightmares this time—just the familiar total darkness he was used to back on Earth.

Eventually, he woke up during the night, feeling a bit more refreshed.

Getting to his hooves, he stretched in a cat-like manner and shook off the tiredness, much like a dog shaking off water. He noticed Twilight had fallen asleep at the table in the middle of the library during one of her nightly readings. Letting out an exasperated sigh, he shook his head and walked over to the sleeping lavender mare. “Never change, Twi… never change…” he said softly to himself.

Using his magic, still unstable from his broken horn, he carefully tried to lift her. The blue glow around Twilight flickered as he struggled, hoping and praying it would work right. After a moment, he successfully teleported her upstairs.

Anon rushed up to check on her without making too much noise. He found Twilight tucked into her bed, safe and sound. “Thank fuck…” he sighed softly in relief. He noticed Spike fast asleep in his basket, the baby dragon’s soft snores filling the room. It seemed Spike had already left Twilight’s blanket pulled down, just in case she returned to bed late.

Anon gently grabbed the blanket with his teeth and dragged it over Twilight. “Sleep well, you beautiful mare…” he whispered, planting a soft kiss on her forehead near her horn. He walked back downstairs and closed the door behind him.

He closed the book she had been reading, leaving a bookmark where she left off. Then, he scribbled a note for Twilight on the cover: Went out for a night stroll around Ponyville. Just leaving this here just in case I’m not back here in the morning asleep.

With that, Anon stepped out the front door into the cool night air, ready for his walk.

Anon wandered along the mostly quiet streets of Ponyville, enjoying the beautiful night sky that Luna had crafted. “Man, even if I’m not an astronomer, Luna really knows how to make these nights more beautiful,” he mused aloud, his pace slow and relaxed as he trotted along the road.

For a while, everything was peaceful—until it wasn’t. Suddenly, all the sounds of the night ceased. The crickets stopped chirping, and the buzzing of cicadas faded into silence. The eerie stillness settled over the area like a suffocating blanket.

Anon’s fur stood on end. His instincts screamed that something was wrong, but he saw nothing unusual. He tried to brush it off as paranoia. “I think I’ll head back to the library now—” Thud.

He froze. He had bumped into something. It felt almost wood-like. I don’t remember there being a wall behind me, he thought, his heart pounding in his chest.

Slowly, he turned around—and his eyes met a pair of glowing, greenish-turquoise eyes. The sight sent a wave of terror crashing over him, and his body began trembling uncontrollably. “T-T-Tim-Tim-...” he stuttered, too scared to move.

The Timberwolf before him let out a bone-chilling howl, summoning two others to its side. Their glowing eyes pierced the darkness as they advanced, the sound of their wooden paws scraping the dirt filling the silence.

Anon crouched down, fear gripping him tightly. “Oh me and my big mouth…” he muttered under his breath, berating himself as the Timberwolves closed in.

End of Chapter 3 - 1. Future thoughts, and past reminders