Yes, I Am A Brony, Let Me Stay In Equestriaby autobotfan15ChaptersPrologueDepressing Trucks and Uplifting IntroductionsSecrets that lie beneathOpportunities for Work and EducationPrologueI was walking through the halls of a crystal hallway with a Crystal pony guard by my side. “Why didn’t you tell me there was an unexpected intruder and that my friends are speaking to it?” I asked. “It all happened so fast, luckily it only happened barely twenty minutes ago,” the guard responded. He was right. I was helping crystal ponies on the other side of the kingdom when this unknown intruder was spotted on the far side. I do love helping these ponies but sometimes I feel like they rely on my tall human structure too much. Yeah you heard that right. A human in Equestria story. A tale that some would say is a common fanfic trend in the pony fandom. At least that I would say. Still I wonder what this mysterious intruder is. Definitely not Sombra, as there wasn’t much panic around the place. My eyes widened a bit as a thought struck me. “Hey did this intruder look anything like me in a way?” I asked the guard. The guard looked away as he was thinking. “I didn’t see, I only had the orders to find you.” I nodded in understanding and continued my walk. As we got closer to a large door, I gestured to the guard to leave. He nodded and left. I heard what sounded like talking. I carefully put my ear to the door. And I heard the voice of Celestia. “It's been far too long since we have seen each other, TD." I carefully opened the door a crack to see my friends and a stranger sitting at the table. "Sure has," the stranger retorted, setting the plate down. “Back then, you didn't have xenophobic guards.” The Princess sighs. "You will have to excuse them for that. The ponies around here haven't healed from all of the wounds King Sombra inflicted yet, and a strange creature whose magical properties they have no idea of walks into their kingdom unannounced? You have to understand that they would be a bit wary." He give her a deadpan look. "Wary is one thing, Celestia. That was something else entirely." "Wordings aside, again, they feared the unknown,” she explains calmly. “Can you really blame them for that?” "And it ain't like you helped your case any, sugar cube," Applejack pipes in. "You got pretty hostile with them too." “Hey, I tried to be civil. They were the ones who wouldn't have any of it." He helps himself to another ladleful of soup and take a deep drink of crystal punch. “But I think I know what went on. They're suspicious after Sombra, and I'm sick and tired of getting a cold welcome everywhere I go because nobody on this planet's ever heard of a human before. I guess you could call it a series of unfortunate events." "Where have ya been?" asks Apple Bloom. He pauses to stir the hot soup before answering, "Everywhere." Nopony says anything for a little while. "When you say everywhere," Twilight prods, "do you mean..." "I really mean everywhere," he confirmed with a nod. "Griffons, Zebras, Minotaurs... I've even run into some Diamond Dogs." Rarity gasps. "You've met Diamond Dogs? How ghastly!" "It wasn't the most fun I had on my trip, I'll give you that." "TD, tell us something: did you run into the..." says Twilight hesitantly after some thinking. "Did you run into the Changelings out there?" He sighed and put his spoon down, placing his head in his hands and rubbing his temples. "Somehow, I ended up straight in their hive, if you can believe that." "You met Chrysalis?” Celestia questions immediately. He nods, and she grimaces, but she's interrupted before she can say anything else. "How was that?" asks Pinkie Pie. "Honestly? She can be a bit of an idiot," he scoffed. "Seriously, some of the stuff she said..." he shook his head and slurped more of the soup. He must really like that stuff. "What did she say?" asks Fluttershy with a quirked eyebrow. He turns his head to the three fillies I considered little sisters. "It's generally not appropriate for foals," he remarked. Apple Bloom gasps indignantly. "Ah ain't no foal no more," she complains. "We're all grown up, and even have our cutie marks!" He smiles at this, as am I. It felt like only yesterday I helped them get one step closer. "Yeah, I noticed, and I think that's just awesome," TD says. "You weren't there when we got them, though." His smile falls as I hear the subtle bitterness in Scootaloo's voice. He nervously rub the back of my neck, with my eyes fixed on the food. "Yeah... yeah, I know." “It's not just that we are mad about, TD,” Scootaloo picks up again, and from the little I can see of her expression, it's not something this new guy is gonna like to hear. "You didn't leave only us Crusaders in the dust. Do you know how our class reacted when we found out you had abandoned us? You've got no idea what it was like, how it must've been like for Miss Cheerilee to be put on the spotlight when all of us kept asking her where you had gone. She had to calm us down when she didn't have a feathering clue herself, you jerk!" Her anger mounts up until she slams a hoof at the table. At least the crystal is sturdy enough not to crack. "Scootaloo, watch your language!" I said as I opened the door. The whole party turned to the door that was now revealing me. The human, who I learned is named TD, just stared at me with his jaw dropped and eyes wide. The other ponies looked at me with mixed reactions. Some were surprised, others were…unreadable. But they weren’t my focus. After giving Scootaloo a stern glance I stared at TD who was still looking dumbfounded. Eventually he found his voice. “Who the fu-” “That goes double for you too buster,” I said quickly. I went over and stood before him. “As for who I am, my name is Edward. Edward Richards. And you must be TD Powell. I heard so much about you. The man who couldn’t ask Pinkie to throw a farewell party,” I said as I rolled back my fist quickly to punch him. Sadly the punch never came to him as I suddenly found myself on the floor. Sometimes I forget while I maybe a young fighter I still have some things to learn. Like how an opponent can be quicker. TD turned back to the others. “Okay someone better start explaining.” I got up and dusted myself off. Then flicked the back of his neck making him turn back to me. “That's for making your friends sad,” I said as I quickly slapped him across the face with my other hand. He barely flinched. “That’s for making a mockery of humans at these DORK talks,” I said as I gave him a kick to the shin. The guy just took it like it was normal to him. It’s like it was a tap for him. “And that's for anything I missed.” “Edward! Was that really necessary?” Celestia asked with a cold expression. “Hey when I see my friends sad I take action, ask questions later,” I said looking back down at the sitting human who was rubbing his cheek. “Even if it's six years overdue.” TD just looked to me with a mixture of confusion and annoyance. “Might’ve deserved that but now, I have so many questions right now.” I looked down and smiled. “I’ll be glad to answer them mister Abandoner,” I teased, ignoring his scowl. “I’ll start with your obvious one, How did I get here? Well pretty much the same way you came in but I certainly didn’t assault royalty within the first few minutes of waking up. And it certainly wasn't because of a car speeding towards me.” “What do you mean?” TD asked who was now slightly less annoyed and a slight bit more curious. “Well…” Author's Note Yep since I heard Bronywriter was retiring I decided to do a take on his universe with a twist since there are a few other TD the non-brony stories. Edit: Made some adjustments based on Bronywriters feedback but kept some things because I thought they were funny. Hope it’s more suitable. Depressing Trucks and Uplifting IntroductionsLife on Earth has many definitions in my book. Mine is something of a gamble. Some days I feel lucky, others I don’t. In recent years it has been a streak of bad luck. This was one of those days as I got off the Subway in New York after a grueling work day and with my boss giving me a hard time even on my off time. Especially on my off time. “I told you already. You approved my PTO weeks ago and I have every right to take it,” I said into my phone. “Look Edward, it's a busy time and the clients expect us. If you can’t show commitment then maybe we need to rethink your role here.” “Wait til HR hears about this,” I said before getting an idea I might regret later. “You know what? How about you go and play screwball because I quit. I am not going to work for another toxic boss like yourself!” and with that I hung up. It was just a short walk to my girlfriend’s apartment. It would be a nice night cuddling together and maybe watching some My Little Pony together. We first met at Bronycon and we have been together ever since but as I got to her apartment I felt something was off. As I walked up I saw her landlord taking out some garbage. I’d seen him chatting with my girl but we never introduced ourselves. “Hey, who are you?” he asked. “I’m Edward, I'm the boyfriend of someone who lives in this unit.” “Oh you with the Anime girl in room 1B?” I looked at him confused. “No, I’m with the girl in 1C.” The man looked at me confused. “Strange, I know that tenant. She came in with another boy.” My eyes widened and I quickly went inside. After climbing some stairs I could hear some noise from behind the door. I then used the spare key she gave me and went inside and there all time stopped. The pegasister I knew was in bed with another guy. I knew him from another convention but we never fully introduced ourselves. They both stopped their actions and just stared. After a few moments this guy turned his head to look at her. “Boyfriend?” he asked her. I looked around and noticed the clothes strewn about and the phone on the ground it was opened to the messages app. I knelt down and read it. ‘Can’t wait to see you, maybe you can ditch poor boy and we can flee to Cali.’ The response was a heart and excited emoji. That explained all the times she hid her phone quickly whenever I got close. That explains all the less smiles I get from her. “Ex,” I simply said before turning around and leaving. I just simply walked out into the streets of New York and started making my way to the Subway Station as rain started to come down. The perfect weather for my feelings now. Life was much worse for me after that night. I didn’t have much motivation to find work or even talk to anyone. Not even seeing those six mares on the screen didn’t help. One day I just lost my sanity and snapped. One moment I was sitting on my couch the next moment I was running out the door ignoring my Landlord’s letters of rent on the floor. I just ran and ran through the rain. Not stopping for anything, not even to the people I nearly tripped or even the cars blaring their horns whenever I ran out in traffic. It wasn't long before I found myself on a really busy avenue. I didn’t see the light when I tripped and then I saw them. The headlights on an eighteen wheeler screaming towards me. I turned my head bracing for it. The last thing I saw before darkness was a face of fear. Darkness all around me. Is this what death felt like? Am I heading for the pearly gates or am I heading for the fires below? I didn’t know. All I know is that it's dark. And I feel something…warm? It was like a blanket. I could hear something in the darkness too. It sounds like a faint voice. “I did it again.” Did this trucker hit someone before? “What were you thinking?!” a second voice called out. It sounded angry. “I thought this could work if we just tried again,” the voice came again. “I thought I found it.” “You already said to him it's just- nevermine! We need to get him some help now!” I don’t know how long I was in the darkness. But then I heard a beep followed by another. I then felt the beating of my heart. It was matched with the beeping sound. ‘Oh god!’ I thought. ‘I’m still alive!’ Slowly and surely I opened my eyes. The first I saw were the lights and the ceiling. Strangely, I’ve been in the hospital before near my apartment and the ceiling was never that shade of gray. Maybe the ambulance took me to an even further one. I looked around feeling a slight pain in my neck. First thing I noticed was the equipment. It didn’t look like the standard kind I see. It looked simpler. I looked around to see a nurse call button but I couldn’t find one. What kind of hospital is this? “Hello?” I called. “Oh good you’re awake,” came a voice. I looked to my left at the curtains. “Now before I reveal myself can you tell me where you think you are?” “Uh in a hospital, probably the one closer to Grand Central Terminal,” I responded. “No you’re not,” the voice replied again. “I’ll reveal myself but don’t freak out.” I was confused. Does this doctor have an ugly scar or something? Soon I heard steps but they didn’t sound like footsteps. They sounded like hooves. Then from behind the curtain came a familiar face. I recognize it from many episodes of a certain show. My eyes nearly popped out of my skull. A white earth pony mare with a pink mane wearing a nurses cap. Could it be? Nurse Redheart? Was I really in Equestria? Is this Heaven? Or is this a dream? No, I shouldn’t say her name. I don’t want to sound like a spy or break the fourth wall. There were stories of the world fading out of existence if the world knew it was fiction. I just stared at the pony in both shock and amazement. “Now I know you have questions but let me tell you where you are,” Redheart began. “You are in Ponyville general hospital. Your unconscious body was brought here and we did what we could but you had sustained a bit of injury from brute force.” She then smiled a little. “Fortunately we were able to fix you up with a bit of magic but you will need to take it easy on your arms, and collarbone for a while.” “Wait, so I was brought here? By who?” I asked. “I’ll let your visitors explain,” she said as she turned. “I’ll let them know you’re awake. Don’t go anywhere.” With this pain in my neck I shouldn’t. I did what she told me and stayed put. So many thoughts were now in my mind. How was I here? Is this really a figment of my imagination? If it’s not who brought me here to Ponyville? I then looked down at the hospital gown I was wearing. It fitted well on me. Like too well? Maybe this was meant for other bipedal species like Minotaurs or something. Soon the door opened again I turned to see six more figures enter and my eyes just stared in both astonishment and wonder. There, entering the room were the main six characters. The lavender unicorn walked up to me and it was there that a thought just occurred. ‘Not an alicorn yet? I might be in season three,’ I thought. The third season of the show just ended on my world. “Wait, you knew Twilight would get those flappers?” TD asked as he looked back towards Twilight. “How did I not question that yet? When and how did you get those anyway?” “If you were around you would’ve seen the big events that transpired but that's a story for another time,” Twilight responded with a hint of bitterness. “Exactly it would be thanks to a strange force that came into play,” I said as I whipped my head back towards TD. “Now hush and let me tell my story.” The six mares looked at me. I was expecting them to look at me with curiosity, maybe fear or something you can expect out of any alien encounter. But these mares were looking at me like they knew who I was. Twilight Sparkle cleared her throat. “Greetings, I am Twilight Sparkle and these are my friends,” she said as she introduced her friends one by one even though I already knew who they were. Eventually I cleared my throat. “Nice to meet you all, my name is Edward. Edward Richards. But you can call me Ed for short. Now the nurse told me you might know how I got here?” “I believe I can explain that,” said a new voice. We all looked to see the tall white alicorn. She entered the room but despite her regal composure I could see her face had a hint of fear and regret. “You see young man,” she began. “I have been experimenting with portals to see into other worlds and I thought I had success in making one to your world,” she explained as she looked down and frowned. “It was…a project for a friend, but for some reason when I observed the scene of this world I saw you running through the scene like you were in trouble and I saw the large mechanical carriage about to plow into you.” How could I forget the huge truck? It was possibly a peterbilt or a kenworth. “I quickly used my magic and I pulled you in as you slipped on the road. The large machine propelled you through and my magic overloaded and actually started to crush you.” “Wait, are you saying my injuries are not from that big rig that was about to hit me?” I asked. “Most of them are but the injury to your neck was from when you hit your head on that ‘big rig’ if anything it was the worst you suffered from it.” “Wait wait wait, so you're also saying despite the rocky pull that nearly crushed me, you pulled me through just to save me?” “I swear it was an accident,” she said as she got closer. ”I didn’t mean to pull you into my world.” As she did so I could’ve sworn I heard one of the other ponies whisper. “Is she gonna get hit like last time?” I ignored it and stared at the alicorn as she got closer and shut her eyes. She had tears. I could tell she was upset but at the same time, for some odd reason she looked like she was bracing for something. Her eyes then opened as she felt something. That thing being my hand on her cheek. I was gently petting her face. “That’s new,” Pinkie whispered. “I’m still alive aren’t I?” I chuckled as I petted her. “Thank you.” Princess Celestia looked down at me and softly smiled as she leaned into the gesture. And that's how my first encounter with ponies went and I guess you can say it was the start of something bigger in my life. Author's Note No punchies for Celly. Also in this universe Twilight became an alicorn ahead of schedule and not during "life of a nonbrony" and before you ask the crusaders got their show canon marks. Those well be explained at some point. Sorry Bronywriter. Secrets that lie beneathTD just stared at me with a bewildered expression. “You…thanked her?” “Yes,” I responded. “After her magic nearly killed you?” “Yeah.” “And ripping you from your home world being our planet?” “In the words of AJ’s brother eeyup,” I responded with a chuckle. TD was silent as I helped myself to more crystal punch. “How can you thank her!?” he asked with disbelief. “She literally just took you from your home! How did you react when you found out you couldn’t go home?! Did you just accept it with a smile and a nod like a poorly made fanfic character?!” I kept my composure as I took a sip of the punch. After placing down my glass I looked him in the eye. “Admittedly I was but to be honest if I had the choice of choosing Earth and Equestria my answer would be here.” TD scoffed at that.“Of course you Bronies would choose this place over your own. You pathetic nerds would just flock here like a cat to catnip. I bet you would selfishly choose this place over your parents.” “TD that's too far and uncalled for,” Twilight cautioned. “No he needs to hear this,” TD said. “Sure your girl cheated but what about your other friends? What about your parents? When was the last time you told them you loved them?” My hands curled into a fist. I wanted to hit this guy so hard, his head would spin. I calmed down after taking a deep breath. “To answer your first question I had no other friends; they all ghosted me and practically fell out of contact. And what was the other one?” “When did you last tell your mom and dad you loved them?” TD asked with his arms crossed. The mares looked a little worried. “My dad wasn’t in the picture but as for my mom I told her…when she was on her deathbed,” I said. And just like that the non-brony’s eyes widened. His look of near harsh judgement became a mix of shock and regret. “Jesus…sorry.” “Yeah, are you?” I asked with bitterness. “Next time think before you make like a broken garbage truck and spit out garbage.” “Look I-” “No you need to know this,” I interjected as I stood up and loomed over him. “My life sucked. My dreams were too far to grab. My job barely gave me enough to enjoy life. That girl was one of the last things that kept me from going down further.” I then waved my arm to the ponies. “These girls and many others practically put my life back together. Because of them I emerged from the darkness a better man. All I had to do was let them in my life. And throughout my time here, I have become something better than I can imagine.” TD said nothing for a bit but eventually found his voice. “So how did you react when they told you about me? Surely it must’ve been shocking.” I sat back down. “Oh it was, but they didn’t tell me immediately. In fact I sort of found out myself,” I said grinning to Twilight who had a sheepish smile. “I think they were keeping you a secret.” “We weren’t,” Twilight said. “We were afraid of how you would react. You were still new to the world when you found out.” “Really?” TD asked. “So how did you find out?” “Well it all started when I was finally out of the hospital.” I stepped out into the midday sun. I gave my arms a good stretch. I spent all of yesterday talking to the ponies, answering any questions they had and of course discussing where I should go once I’m discharged. The doctor said the pain in my neck should subside in a few days. Rarity was waiting for me outside. “Good day Edward,” she said smiling. “Nice to see you’re out and about.” “It's great to be out,” I said. “So you want to help me by setting up my wardrobe?” “Yes darling you’ll also be living in my boutique for a while,” she replied. “But don’t worry I won’t force you to model or anything I just need your measurements.” “Fair enough,” I said. I hoped she could make me a T-shirt with my favorite characters and things. I was lucky my phone wasn’t damaged and I still had my pics on it. I just hope the battery will last long enough. As we walked through Ponyville many ponies gave me odd looks. Sure I expected that but what I didn’t expect was for ponies to whisper strange things to each other. I ignored it but that was until I heard two ponies whispering. “Is he related to the last guy?” I stopped and turned to the two ponies who quickly dispersed. What did they mean by that? I didn’t wonder for long until the boutique came into view. I then saw the door opened to reveal a certain unicorn filly. Sweetie Belle looked and stopped dead in her tracks as she saw me. “R-R-Rarity?” she stuttered. Rarity quickly ushered us inside. “Darling, would you please wait here? I need to discuss something with my little sister in private.” “Uh sure?” I said as she gently pushed her sister into another room. Curiously I went over to the door and put my ear to it. “Listen dear,” Rarity began. “I know this is shocking to you but please try not to bother him too much. He might not be like you-know-who.” “But how long is he staying?” Sweetie Belle asked. “Will this new guy disappear like he did?” “Sweetie I know you miss him,” Rarity soothed. “But we can’t think about that right now. For now let’s just make Edward’s stay here as comfortable as we can.” I quickly stepped away and tried to pretend I didn’t eavesdrop on them. Rarity soon came back with a role of measuring tape. “Now good sir, please stand up and hold still.” It took a while but she soon got my measurements and we discussed what I want in terms of day clothes, night clothes and a few other articles. All the while I could feel Sweetie Belle watching me and after what I heard I was now asking myself: Was I really not the first human? “So how long will it take for you to make them?” I asked. “Oh don’t worry darling,” Rarity assured. “I’ll have your first pair of night clothes and a pair of day clothes ready for you by sundown.” “Thanks, I’m gonna explore for a bit.” “Oh okay don’t be long and don’t get lost,” she said. I nodded and left with a head full of questions. I decided to head down to the library. I had a sneaky suspicion that maybe there are answers. As I made my way through town the looks came back. Some just awkwardly waved at me. Maybe the main six already informed them while I was in the hospital. I had to ask a few ponies where the library was. There was some hesitation but they pointed me there. As I got close I noticed a certain dragon walking out with a bag and a scroll. He was probably gonna do some shopping for Twilight. I approached him and waved to him. “Excuse me,” I said. Spike jumped slightly but regained his composure. “Can I help you?” he asked. “Yeah I’m looking for Twilight. I have some questions for her. Is she here and is she busy?” Spike looked away awkwardly; it was like he was trying to find an excuse. “Please I just need to speak with her real quick and I’ll be on my way I promise.” Spike was silent for another moment before he tilted his head and pointed to the door. “Upstairs reading,” he said as he hoisted his bag and walked off. “Thank you,” I said as I entered the library. As I entered I looked to the doorway that led upstairs but then I looked to the other side of the library to see another door. That one had to lead to the same lab in the episode ‘Feeling Pinkie Keen’. I sneaked over to the door hoping Twilight was too preoccupied with her book to hear me come in. Once I entered I went down some stairs and just as I suspected it was the same lab. Many bits of equipment laid about. The lights gave everything an almost spooky vibe. I looked around and saw a desk that had a lamp shining down on something. I walked over and my eyes had to blink twice to make sure I wasn’t hallucinating. There on the desk was a partially disassembled cell phone. A few parts of the exterior were detached along with the battery. Next to it was an open notebook. I looked over to it and read it. ‘Testing on new voltage spell worked successfully but will wait for the battery to cool before attempting to activate again.’ I carefully reinserted the battery that was cool to the touch and turned the phone on. Surprisingly it was unlocked. The first thing I saw on the screen was just a basic background. I immediately went to settings and to general to see if this phone had anything to tell me about the previous owner. It was there I found the name TD Powell. “Huh, what an odd name?” “Oh great now you’re gonna insult me about that? I know it’s not a normal everyday name but come on,” TD moaned. “Hey, I know there are names like DJ, CJ, AJ, JT, RJ, maybe DD. But TD is an odd one.” I then let out a chuckle as a dirty thought entered. “It almost sounds like I’m saying-“ “Don’t finish that sentence,” TD warned. After reattaching the other exterior parts which were an easy snap I slipped the phone in my pocket and went back upstairs. After carefully closing the door I went over to the front door when I heard hoofsteps. I turned to see Twilight. “Edward? What are you doing here?” “Uh, I was exploring Ponyville and decided to visit the library,” I said, glancing around the wooden interior and bookshelves. “It's uh…very nice now I’m off to see Sugarcube Corner. Which way is that?” “Just up the street. Tall building that looks like a candy house, can’t miss it.” I nodded and quickly left. Once I got to Sugarcube Corner I took a seat in a corner where I hoped no one would see me. I pulled out the phone and tried to see more. I then found pictures. Some were selfies of a human guy. “This must be TD,” I said as I went through the pictures but for some reason I expected to find pony pics or something about his time here. But there weren't any. I then heard a cough right by me. I snapped my head to see a sad Pinkie Pie. “You now know, don’t you?” I looked back at the phone then to Pinkie. “I wouldn’t say I know enough but maybe just now wanting to know more.” Pinkie looked down in shame like she was about to cry. I then cupped her chin. “Hey, I’m not mad. But clearly there's more to this than I can imagine. You want to be my friend right?” The pink pony nodded. “And you want to see smiles right?” Another nod from her. “Then how about you tell me more about this guy and I’ll be grateful,” I said smiling before placing one hand on my heart and the other raised. “I Pinkie Promise.” Pinkie perked up at that. “Pinkie Promise?” I nodded and did the old trick. “Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye,” I said, nearly poking my eye out. Pinkie giggled and I have to say it was cuter than I thought. She then looked up to me with a warm smile. “Okay, I’ll tell you everything.” And so she told me the story about a man who came here nearly the same way I did and how he spent a few months in Ponyville before mysteriously disappearing, leaving some stuff behind, and I would have to say it was an enlightening talk. Especially the part about fake fire. I didn’t say much after that. Instead I ordered a cupcake and went on my way. I wasn’t lying when I said I wanted to explore Ponyville. It was later that night when I exited the bathroom wearing a simple shirt and sweatpants. Rarity works fast. “Edward, can you come down here?” I heard Rarity called. I went downstairs to see Rarity and her friends in the kitchen. They were all carrying concerned looks. I went over and sat down at the table. “I think I might know what this is about,” I said as I pulled out the cellphone and slid it over to Twilight. “Sorry I went snooping in your lab.” “We aren’t mad at you,” Twilight began. “But we were hoping to tell you when we felt you were well adjusted to here.” “I kinda figured as much,” I said. “Pinkie pretty much told me everything. From the punch to his departure.” “We actually thought you would’ve reacted the same way TD did when he first got here but dude,” Rainbow said impressed. “You took it like a champ and actually thanked the princess.” “I would never punch a lady,” I admitted. “Let alone a ruler.” “So you consider yourself a gentleman?” Rarity asked. “Good to know.” “Maybe, but since we’re on this topic you mind if I ask something important. Pinkie knows but do the rest of you-” “We know about the cartoon,” Twilight finished. “And we know you might not want to spend your life here but if you want to join him in the dangerous outlands we can understand-” “What are you talking about? You think I would just up and leave my new friends and the ponies I’m a fan of?” I asked as I dramatically placed a hand on my chest, earning a round of surprised looks from the six mares. “Twilight Sparkle, where's the fun in that?” “Wait, you're a f-fan?” Fluttershy stammered. “You’re what TD calls a Brony?” “I am and I’m proud of it,” I said. “In all seriousness, as much as I would like to see the world and explore, I don't want to find a way home. If anything this world to me might as well be my fresh start from the nightmare my home was.” “What do ya mean?” Applejack asked. It was there I told them the story of my adult life and how it ended on earth. From my idiotic toxic boss to my cheating girlfriend. I nearly broke down a few times but a pony hug makes the perfect medicine. We spent the next few hours talking and many laughs were soon shared that night and it turned into a sleepover at Rarity’s. That was how my first official day went but little did I know there would be more interesting days to come. Author's Note Spoiler alert: I'm trying to decide on a ship for this guy. Two candidates im strruggling between. I cant say which ones but they are both magically powerful. Opportunities for Work and EducationTD took another spoonful of soup before speaking. “So how long did it take you to fully adjust to life here?” he asked. I put my hand to my chin and pondered, trying to remember. “If memory serves me correctly it must’ve taken me probably a month or so to become completely adjusted but emotionally it was a lot sooner,” I explained. “I still needed to find work and it didn’t feel right sitting around all day. Luckily I had my opportunity.” I spent the next two days meeting the locals from Derpy who gave me welcome to Ponyville muffins to Filthy Rich who was generous enough to lend me some bits to use. While I was grateful for the hospitality, I felt like I needed to do something with my life. One day I was eating breakfast with Rarity while reading the want ads in the newspaper. “So Edward, any idea what job you would like?” Rarity asked. After taking another bite of my toast I sighed. “Well the weather team is out of the question,” I said. “Not much of a farm guy and I don’t have the best experience with baking.” I could work the register at Sugarcube Corner but I still think I need a bit more time for the locals to get used to the second human in Equestria. “Maybe Twilight or someone in Townhall can help.” “Well you won’t have to worry too much about being a burden to me, but if you want you can have the last job TD had and that was helping out around town,” Rarity suggested. “I’ll save that as a last resort,” I said. Just then Sweetie Belle trotted in with a saddlebag, I looked at the calendar and it was Monday which meant school for her. We both looked at each other for a split second before she awkwardly looked away. Rarity levitated a small bag for her. “Here's your lunch Sweetie Belle,” she said. “Thanks,” she softly said before turning to leave the kitchen. I then had an idea. “Hey, would you like me to walk you to school?” Both the unicorns looked at me. ”I don’t think we were properly acquainted plus I’m going out anyway to job hunt.” Sweetie Belle looked unsure but after what I heard I sort of understood why. “Sweetie dear, at least get to know him a little, it's just until you get to school.” Sweetie thought for a moment before deciding. “Okay…” A little later we were out walking to the school house. It was an awkward silence but I somewhat let my inner fanboy out and broke the silence. “Okay, I’m gonna come out and say this, you’re adorable.” Sweetie looked up at me surprised. “Really?” “Yeah, you’re as cute as a kitten. You and your two friends,” I said, earning a blush and a giggle from her. “Thanks,” she said. She sounded a little more comfortable now. “So how long are you planning to stay?” “Oh I don’t know until I buy my own house in town or something. I need a job first,” I said. “No, I mean how long are you planning to stay here in Ponyville?” she said, sounding a little disappointed. I looked down and her sad face returned. I knelt down to her level and placed a hand on her head. “I don’t know how much Rarity told you about me, but I’m not leaving this town anytime soon.” “How do I know that when you’re the second human here?” Sweetie asked. “How do I know humans aren’t nomadic species that constantly wander?” Wow the fandom joke about her and the dictionary is canon here. “Good point,” I said. “Look, I don’t know enough personal stuff about this guy but he sounds like he was a good friend despite being violent with royalty. The point is we are all different from each other. TD obviously had a good life on earth growing up while I had a…not so pleasant life.” I then stood up. “I know it may not mean much but unlike him, I want to make a life here. Now come on or you’ll be late.” We soon arrived at the school and the children stopped playing the moment we strolled up. “I should probably go now. Have a good day Sweetie Belle,” I said. But just as I turned to leave I felt her hoof tap the back of my leg. I stopped and looked down at her. “I’m sorry I’ve been reluctant to meet you,” she said. “I was afraid of losing another friend but now I want to know…will you be my friend too?” I smiled warmly, knelt back down and patted her head. “I’d be happy to, my little friend. I’ll see you later,” I said before leaving. I took one last glance to see Apple Bloom and Scootaloo gallop up to her and began talking. Probably about me. I sighed and started my trek towards Ponyville. “Come on mister,” I said to the restaurant owner. “There's gotta be something. A dishwasher maybe?” “No sorry, got plenty already,” he replied. “What about another waiter? Doesn’t it get busy here?” “During the time when we have tourists flocking here yes, but not at this time,” the owner replied. I sighed and looked down. “Right, thanks anyway.” “Look it's nothing against your species but this is just one of those times I’m overstaffed. If you want I can give you a free drink for your troubles.” “No, that's fine, thanks,” I said leaving. And here I thought the job market in America was bad. At least here ponies can get jobs the old fashioned way by just waltzing up to a manager and asking about employment opportunities rather than submit an application on the internet and wait weeks for a reply. It was late in the afternoon when I decided to sit down on a bench. I pulled out a notepad which had a list of many stores and other places. I placed an X over the restaurant I was just at. Barely a few places left but I was starting to doubt myself. “Maybe I should take that guy’s old job,” I said to myself. I then heard hoofsteps approaching and saw Cheerilee approaching me. “Oh hi,” I said. “Hello, you must be Edward,” she said. “Sweetie Belle told me all about you.” “So it seems she’s another wildfire that spreads the news,” I said, smiling a little. “Too bad your school doesn't have a career counselor.” The teacher raised a brow. “What do you mean?” “I’ve been trying to find a good job most of the day but it would seem not many are hiring,” I said as I looked back down at my list. “That's actually why I’ve come to find you,” she said. “I would’ve offered TD this, but he already had a job and he’s gone, but how would you like to be my classroom assistant?” “Huh?” “I’ve been teaching the students for a long time and I could use some assistance. Did you know when I started teaching I only had five foals in my classroom? It certainly has grown.” “And you want me to assist you? Does it pay well?” I asked. “It might but if you don't get enough you can do TD's old job as a side hustle,” she suggested. “Plus you can learn more about the world as my assistant.” That was actually a good point. The show might’ve shown me enough about the science and history of this world, but if there were more seasons beyond season four I could become well prepared. So I made my decision and stood up. “Very well, I accept your proposal,” I said, offering my hand. She took it and shook it. “When do I start?” “How does tomorrow sound?” she asked. “It's a deal,” I said as I went off to inform Rarity. A teacher's assistant, what could possibly go wrong? I would be so sorry I asked as I stood in front of the classroom with many fillies and colts looking at me. For some odd reason I felt like I was being viewed by a jury and not a class. While some looked at me with slight concern there was a small minority that viewed me with judgement. “Now remember class, Mr. Richards is our new assistant so I expect you to give him the same respect as you give me,” Cheerilee said addressing her class. “Yes Miss Cheerilee,” the class responded. “So Mr. Richards, mind telling the class a little bit about yourself?” she asked. I tried to shake off the shock as I stood up from the chair, took a deep breath, and cleared my throat. “Greetings class I came from a place called New York City. From my understanding it’s a lot like your city of Manehattan. Lots of streets, tall buildings, and lots to see and do.” “You lived in a big city?” asked Snips. “That I did,” I responded. “But it wasn’t quite the glamorous life. Sometimes the city gets so noisy one can hardly get a wink of sleep at night.” “If you had a cutie mark what would it be and what would it mean?” a random pony asked. I didn’t see who but I assumed it was Silver Spoon. “Well if I had a cutie mark it would either be a calculator or an abacus,” I replied. “I always did have a thing for numbers. My old job was working in finances for some fancy company. Then again it might not be for it wasn’t my passion.” “No wonder you lost it,” TD interrupted. “I’d lose my mind too at a job like that.” “My cheating girlfriend and rotting sanity caused that,” I said annoyed. “It may have been boring but he at least had a pretty good skill,” Twilight said. “Yeah this guy is good at math. Like scary good,” Rainbow added. “Watch this,” she then turned to me. “What's one hundred twenty three times sixty five?” “Seven thousand nine hundred and ninety five,” I responded quickly. “That's true?” TD asked. “Yes,” Twilight responded. “That's amazing.” “It's a gift,” I said. “So what is your passion?” asked another student. “I guess you can say my passion is learning about the many wonders that make life worth living,” I responded. “When I was your age, I was always a curious kid always wondering many questions like what is the meaning of life? Why is the sky blue? Can you put anything on pizza?” The last question got everyone giggling. “But I guess my goal in life is to change the world with something no one has ever thought about and make everyone’s lives better even if it's a little.” The class was silent but somehow I had the feeling they actually understood. Cheerilee soon began normal class lectures which was soon followed by lunch and recess. Cheerilee asked me to keep an eye on the kids while she gets some paperwork done. But as I watched the kids play I had a feeling someone was watching me closely. I soon noticed at one of the tables Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom were looking over some drawings. Probably another crusade planned for after school. “Wait a second, where's Scootaloo?” I asked myself. I then turned and saw half a face quickly vanishing from around the corner. Curiously I went over and peered around to see Scootaloo. “Hello?” The filly jumped and quickly turned around. “Whoa! Sorry about that,” I apologized. The filly just stared at me for a bit before turning away with a pout and her fore legs crossed. “Hey what's with the case of the grumps?” I asked. “You know why,” she snapped. “You say you’re friendly but the moment you go homesick you’ll leave us in the dust like he did.” “Geez, was this TD guy a really good friend?” I asked. Scootaloo was silent for a bit but after a minute or two she spoke up. “He loved teaching us,” she began. “He introduced us to a new game. We thought if he would one day leave us he would tell us or at least have Pinkie throw a farewell party. But he didn't, it was like…he didn’t even care.” TD frowned sadly and looked over to the filly. “Oh Scoots…I did care but well…It’s just…It's not like I…” “Yeah, sounds like you totally screwed up in the friendship department,” I said. “Honestly, have you ever thought your journey around the world would've been slightly easier without a guilty conscience? I mean you made history by being the very first human to walk in a world we all thought was fictional and you couldn’t have left on a better note.” “Thanks for the tip,” TD sarcastically said. “No problem, but don’t worry I made sure everyone had no sour feelings towards you.” TD just raised a finger and pointed to Twilight and Scootaloo who both had a look of slight regret. ”But it may have only lasted until today.” “I’m sure he did care,” I assured the filly. “I bet he’s thinking about you and the little adventures you’re going on with your friends.” “Do you really think so?” she asked, cheering up a bit. “Oh yeah,” I replied. “In fact he’s probably thinking about you crusaders right this minute.” Scootaloo was about to say something else when we heard Cheerilee. “Recess is over children! Time to get back to class!” The rest of the day went on smoothly until it was time to go. The parents and older siblings came and picked up the children and I had the chance to meet them as well. Just as the last of them were leaving I felt Scootaloo tugging my pants leg. I looked down and asked what was up. “Sorry about the cold shoulder treatment but if Sweetie Belle trusts you then maybe I should and maybe Apple Bloom would too.” “If you’re asking me to be your friend too then my answer is yes,” I said before patting her head. “And I do believe you three will get your cutie marks.” The little filly beamed and quickly got on her scooter. “Thank you! See you later!” she yelled as she sped away. Cheerilee stepped outside as she too watched the filly sped away. “Well I think you did well on your first day,” she said. “You think so?” I asked. “Absolutely,” she said. “Think maybe once in a while you can teach us more about Earth?” “Only if there's a topic TD hasn’t covered,” I replied. “I’ll have a list ready for you by tomorrow. You can go back to Rarity’s. I’ll see you tomorrow.” I nodded and waved goodbye as I left the schoolyard. I must say she was right, it felt like a good start. “No worries,” I said to myself.
PrologueI was walking through the halls of a crystal hallway with a Crystal pony guard by my side. “Why didn’t you tell me there was an unexpected intruder and that my friends are speaking to it?” I asked. “It all happened so fast, luckily it only happened barely twenty minutes ago,” the guard responded. He was right. I was helping crystal ponies on the other side of the kingdom when this unknown intruder was spotted on the far side. I do love helping these ponies but sometimes I feel like they rely on my tall human structure too much. Yeah you heard that right. A human in Equestria story. A tale that some would say is a common fanfic trend in the pony fandom. At least that I would say. Still I wonder what this mysterious intruder is. Definitely not Sombra, as there wasn’t much panic around the place. My eyes widened a bit as a thought struck me. “Hey did this intruder look anything like me in a way?” I asked the guard. The guard looked away as he was thinking. “I didn’t see, I only had the orders to find you.” I nodded in understanding and continued my walk. As we got closer to a large door, I gestured to the guard to leave. He nodded and left. I heard what sounded like talking. I carefully put my ear to the door. And I heard the voice of Celestia. “It's been far too long since we have seen each other, TD." I carefully opened the door a crack to see my friends and a stranger sitting at the table. "Sure has," the stranger retorted, setting the plate down. “Back then, you didn't have xenophobic guards.” The Princess sighs. "You will have to excuse them for that. The ponies around here haven't healed from all of the wounds King Sombra inflicted yet, and a strange creature whose magical properties they have no idea of walks into their kingdom unannounced? You have to understand that they would be a bit wary." He give her a deadpan look. "Wary is one thing, Celestia. That was something else entirely." "Wordings aside, again, they feared the unknown,” she explains calmly. “Can you really blame them for that?” "And it ain't like you helped your case any, sugar cube," Applejack pipes in. "You got pretty hostile with them too." “Hey, I tried to be civil. They were the ones who wouldn't have any of it." He helps himself to another ladleful of soup and take a deep drink of crystal punch. “But I think I know what went on. They're suspicious after Sombra, and I'm sick and tired of getting a cold welcome everywhere I go because nobody on this planet's ever heard of a human before. I guess you could call it a series of unfortunate events." "Where have ya been?" asks Apple Bloom. He pauses to stir the hot soup before answering, "Everywhere." Nopony says anything for a little while. "When you say everywhere," Twilight prods, "do you mean..." "I really mean everywhere," he confirmed with a nod. "Griffons, Zebras, Minotaurs... I've even run into some Diamond Dogs." Rarity gasps. "You've met Diamond Dogs? How ghastly!" "It wasn't the most fun I had on my trip, I'll give you that." "TD, tell us something: did you run into the..." says Twilight hesitantly after some thinking. "Did you run into the Changelings out there?" He sighed and put his spoon down, placing his head in his hands and rubbing his temples. "Somehow, I ended up straight in their hive, if you can believe that." "You met Chrysalis?” Celestia questions immediately. He nods, and she grimaces, but she's interrupted before she can say anything else. "How was that?" asks Pinkie Pie. "Honestly? She can be a bit of an idiot," he scoffed. "Seriously, some of the stuff she said..." he shook his head and slurped more of the soup. He must really like that stuff. "What did she say?" asks Fluttershy with a quirked eyebrow. He turns his head to the three fillies I considered little sisters. "It's generally not appropriate for foals," he remarked. Apple Bloom gasps indignantly. "Ah ain't no foal no more," she complains. "We're all grown up, and even have our cutie marks!" He smiles at this, as am I. It felt like only yesterday I helped them get one step closer. "Yeah, I noticed, and I think that's just awesome," TD says. "You weren't there when we got them, though." His smile falls as I hear the subtle bitterness in Scootaloo's voice. He nervously rub the back of my neck, with my eyes fixed on the food. "Yeah... yeah, I know." “It's not just that we are mad about, TD,” Scootaloo picks up again, and from the little I can see of her expression, it's not something this new guy is gonna like to hear. "You didn't leave only us Crusaders in the dust. Do you know how our class reacted when we found out you had abandoned us? You've got no idea what it was like, how it must've been like for Miss Cheerilee to be put on the spotlight when all of us kept asking her where you had gone. She had to calm us down when she didn't have a feathering clue herself, you jerk!" Her anger mounts up until she slams a hoof at the table. At least the crystal is sturdy enough not to crack. "Scootaloo, watch your language!" I said as I opened the door. The whole party turned to the door that was now revealing me. The human, who I learned is named TD, just stared at me with his jaw dropped and eyes wide. The other ponies looked at me with mixed reactions. Some were surprised, others were…unreadable. But they weren’t my focus. After giving Scootaloo a stern glance I stared at TD who was still looking dumbfounded. Eventually he found his voice. “Who the fu-” “That goes double for you too buster,” I said quickly. I went over and stood before him. “As for who I am, my name is Edward. Edward Richards. And you must be TD Powell. I heard so much about you. The man who couldn’t ask Pinkie to throw a farewell party,” I said as I rolled back my fist quickly to punch him. Sadly the punch never came to him as I suddenly found myself on the floor. Sometimes I forget while I maybe a young fighter I still have some things to learn. Like how an opponent can be quicker. TD turned back to the others. “Okay someone better start explaining.” I got up and dusted myself off. Then flicked the back of his neck making him turn back to me. “That's for making your friends sad,” I said as I quickly slapped him across the face with my other hand. He barely flinched. “That’s for making a mockery of humans at these DORK talks,” I said as I gave him a kick to the shin. The guy just took it like it was normal to him. It’s like it was a tap for him. “And that's for anything I missed.” “Edward! Was that really necessary?” Celestia asked with a cold expression. “Hey when I see my friends sad I take action, ask questions later,” I said looking back down at the sitting human who was rubbing his cheek. “Even if it's six years overdue.” TD just looked to me with a mixture of confusion and annoyance. “Might’ve deserved that but now, I have so many questions right now.” I looked down and smiled. “I’ll be glad to answer them mister Abandoner,” I teased, ignoring his scowl. “I’ll start with your obvious one, How did I get here? Well pretty much the same way you came in but I certainly didn’t assault royalty within the first few minutes of waking up. And it certainly wasn't because of a car speeding towards me.” “What do you mean?” TD asked who was now slightly less annoyed and a slight bit more curious. “Well…” Author's Note Yep since I heard Bronywriter was retiring I decided to do a take on his universe with a twist since there are a few other TD the non-brony stories. Edit: Made some adjustments based on Bronywriters feedback but kept some things because I thought they were funny. Hope it’s more suitable.
Depressing Trucks and Uplifting IntroductionsLife on Earth has many definitions in my book. Mine is something of a gamble. Some days I feel lucky, others I don’t. In recent years it has been a streak of bad luck. This was one of those days as I got off the Subway in New York after a grueling work day and with my boss giving me a hard time even on my off time. Especially on my off time. “I told you already. You approved my PTO weeks ago and I have every right to take it,” I said into my phone. “Look Edward, it's a busy time and the clients expect us. If you can’t show commitment then maybe we need to rethink your role here.” “Wait til HR hears about this,” I said before getting an idea I might regret later. “You know what? How about you go and play screwball because I quit. I am not going to work for another toxic boss like yourself!” and with that I hung up. It was just a short walk to my girlfriend’s apartment. It would be a nice night cuddling together and maybe watching some My Little Pony together. We first met at Bronycon and we have been together ever since but as I got to her apartment I felt something was off. As I walked up I saw her landlord taking out some garbage. I’d seen him chatting with my girl but we never introduced ourselves. “Hey, who are you?” he asked. “I’m Edward, I'm the boyfriend of someone who lives in this unit.” “Oh you with the Anime girl in room 1B?” I looked at him confused. “No, I’m with the girl in 1C.” The man looked at me confused. “Strange, I know that tenant. She came in with another boy.” My eyes widened and I quickly went inside. After climbing some stairs I could hear some noise from behind the door. I then used the spare key she gave me and went inside and there all time stopped. The pegasister I knew was in bed with another guy. I knew him from another convention but we never fully introduced ourselves. They both stopped their actions and just stared. After a few moments this guy turned his head to look at her. “Boyfriend?” he asked her. I looked around and noticed the clothes strewn about and the phone on the ground it was opened to the messages app. I knelt down and read it. ‘Can’t wait to see you, maybe you can ditch poor boy and we can flee to Cali.’ The response was a heart and excited emoji. That explained all the times she hid her phone quickly whenever I got close. That explains all the less smiles I get from her. “Ex,” I simply said before turning around and leaving. I just simply walked out into the streets of New York and started making my way to the Subway Station as rain started to come down. The perfect weather for my feelings now. Life was much worse for me after that night. I didn’t have much motivation to find work or even talk to anyone. Not even seeing those six mares on the screen didn’t help. One day I just lost my sanity and snapped. One moment I was sitting on my couch the next moment I was running out the door ignoring my Landlord’s letters of rent on the floor. I just ran and ran through the rain. Not stopping for anything, not even to the people I nearly tripped or even the cars blaring their horns whenever I ran out in traffic. It wasn't long before I found myself on a really busy avenue. I didn’t see the light when I tripped and then I saw them. The headlights on an eighteen wheeler screaming towards me. I turned my head bracing for it. The last thing I saw before darkness was a face of fear. Darkness all around me. Is this what death felt like? Am I heading for the pearly gates or am I heading for the fires below? I didn’t know. All I know is that it's dark. And I feel something…warm? It was like a blanket. I could hear something in the darkness too. It sounds like a faint voice. “I did it again.” Did this trucker hit someone before? “What were you thinking?!” a second voice called out. It sounded angry. “I thought this could work if we just tried again,” the voice came again. “I thought I found it.” “You already said to him it's just- nevermine! We need to get him some help now!” I don’t know how long I was in the darkness. But then I heard a beep followed by another. I then felt the beating of my heart. It was matched with the beeping sound. ‘Oh god!’ I thought. ‘I’m still alive!’ Slowly and surely I opened my eyes. The first I saw were the lights and the ceiling. Strangely, I’ve been in the hospital before near my apartment and the ceiling was never that shade of gray. Maybe the ambulance took me to an even further one. I looked around feeling a slight pain in my neck. First thing I noticed was the equipment. It didn’t look like the standard kind I see. It looked simpler. I looked around to see a nurse call button but I couldn’t find one. What kind of hospital is this? “Hello?” I called. “Oh good you’re awake,” came a voice. I looked to my left at the curtains. “Now before I reveal myself can you tell me where you think you are?” “Uh in a hospital, probably the one closer to Grand Central Terminal,” I responded. “No you’re not,” the voice replied again. “I’ll reveal myself but don’t freak out.” I was confused. Does this doctor have an ugly scar or something? Soon I heard steps but they didn’t sound like footsteps. They sounded like hooves. Then from behind the curtain came a familiar face. I recognize it from many episodes of a certain show. My eyes nearly popped out of my skull. A white earth pony mare with a pink mane wearing a nurses cap. Could it be? Nurse Redheart? Was I really in Equestria? Is this Heaven? Or is this a dream? No, I shouldn’t say her name. I don’t want to sound like a spy or break the fourth wall. There were stories of the world fading out of existence if the world knew it was fiction. I just stared at the pony in both shock and amazement. “Now I know you have questions but let me tell you where you are,” Redheart began. “You are in Ponyville general hospital. Your unconscious body was brought here and we did what we could but you had sustained a bit of injury from brute force.” She then smiled a little. “Fortunately we were able to fix you up with a bit of magic but you will need to take it easy on your arms, and collarbone for a while.” “Wait, so I was brought here? By who?” I asked. “I’ll let your visitors explain,” she said as she turned. “I’ll let them know you’re awake. Don’t go anywhere.” With this pain in my neck I shouldn’t. I did what she told me and stayed put. So many thoughts were now in my mind. How was I here? Is this really a figment of my imagination? If it’s not who brought me here to Ponyville? I then looked down at the hospital gown I was wearing. It fitted well on me. Like too well? Maybe this was meant for other bipedal species like Minotaurs or something. Soon the door opened again I turned to see six more figures enter and my eyes just stared in both astonishment and wonder. There, entering the room were the main six characters. The lavender unicorn walked up to me and it was there that a thought just occurred. ‘Not an alicorn yet? I might be in season three,’ I thought. The third season of the show just ended on my world. “Wait, you knew Twilight would get those flappers?” TD asked as he looked back towards Twilight. “How did I not question that yet? When and how did you get those anyway?” “If you were around you would’ve seen the big events that transpired but that's a story for another time,” Twilight responded with a hint of bitterness. “Exactly it would be thanks to a strange force that came into play,” I said as I whipped my head back towards TD. “Now hush and let me tell my story.” The six mares looked at me. I was expecting them to look at me with curiosity, maybe fear or something you can expect out of any alien encounter. But these mares were looking at me like they knew who I was. Twilight Sparkle cleared her throat. “Greetings, I am Twilight Sparkle and these are my friends,” she said as she introduced her friends one by one even though I already knew who they were. Eventually I cleared my throat. “Nice to meet you all, my name is Edward. Edward Richards. But you can call me Ed for short. Now the nurse told me you might know how I got here?” “I believe I can explain that,” said a new voice. We all looked to see the tall white alicorn. She entered the room but despite her regal composure I could see her face had a hint of fear and regret. “You see young man,” she began. “I have been experimenting with portals to see into other worlds and I thought I had success in making one to your world,” she explained as she looked down and frowned. “It was…a project for a friend, but for some reason when I observed the scene of this world I saw you running through the scene like you were in trouble and I saw the large mechanical carriage about to plow into you.” How could I forget the huge truck? It was possibly a peterbilt or a kenworth. “I quickly used my magic and I pulled you in as you slipped on the road. The large machine propelled you through and my magic overloaded and actually started to crush you.” “Wait, are you saying my injuries are not from that big rig that was about to hit me?” I asked. “Most of them are but the injury to your neck was from when you hit your head on that ‘big rig’ if anything it was the worst you suffered from it.” “Wait wait wait, so you're also saying despite the rocky pull that nearly crushed me, you pulled me through just to save me?” “I swear it was an accident,” she said as she got closer. ”I didn’t mean to pull you into my world.” As she did so I could’ve sworn I heard one of the other ponies whisper. “Is she gonna get hit like last time?” I ignored it and stared at the alicorn as she got closer and shut her eyes. She had tears. I could tell she was upset but at the same time, for some odd reason she looked like she was bracing for something. Her eyes then opened as she felt something. That thing being my hand on her cheek. I was gently petting her face. “That’s new,” Pinkie whispered. “I’m still alive aren’t I?” I chuckled as I petted her. “Thank you.” Princess Celestia looked down at me and softly smiled as she leaned into the gesture. And that's how my first encounter with ponies went and I guess you can say it was the start of something bigger in my life. Author's Note No punchies for Celly. Also in this universe Twilight became an alicorn ahead of schedule and not during "life of a nonbrony" and before you ask the crusaders got their show canon marks. Those well be explained at some point. Sorry Bronywriter.
Secrets that lie beneathTD just stared at me with a bewildered expression. “You…thanked her?” “Yes,” I responded. “After her magic nearly killed you?” “Yeah.” “And ripping you from your home world being our planet?” “In the words of AJ’s brother eeyup,” I responded with a chuckle. TD was silent as I helped myself to more crystal punch. “How can you thank her!?” he asked with disbelief. “She literally just took you from your home! How did you react when you found out you couldn’t go home?! Did you just accept it with a smile and a nod like a poorly made fanfic character?!” I kept my composure as I took a sip of the punch. After placing down my glass I looked him in the eye. “Admittedly I was but to be honest if I had the choice of choosing Earth and Equestria my answer would be here.” TD scoffed at that.“Of course you Bronies would choose this place over your own. You pathetic nerds would just flock here like a cat to catnip. I bet you would selfishly choose this place over your parents.” “TD that's too far and uncalled for,” Twilight cautioned. “No he needs to hear this,” TD said. “Sure your girl cheated but what about your other friends? What about your parents? When was the last time you told them you loved them?” My hands curled into a fist. I wanted to hit this guy so hard, his head would spin. I calmed down after taking a deep breath. “To answer your first question I had no other friends; they all ghosted me and practically fell out of contact. And what was the other one?” “When did you last tell your mom and dad you loved them?” TD asked with his arms crossed. The mares looked a little worried. “My dad wasn’t in the picture but as for my mom I told her…when she was on her deathbed,” I said. And just like that the non-brony’s eyes widened. His look of near harsh judgement became a mix of shock and regret. “Jesus…sorry.” “Yeah, are you?” I asked with bitterness. “Next time think before you make like a broken garbage truck and spit out garbage.” “Look I-” “No you need to know this,” I interjected as I stood up and loomed over him. “My life sucked. My dreams were too far to grab. My job barely gave me enough to enjoy life. That girl was one of the last things that kept me from going down further.” I then waved my arm to the ponies. “These girls and many others practically put my life back together. Because of them I emerged from the darkness a better man. All I had to do was let them in my life. And throughout my time here, I have become something better than I can imagine.” TD said nothing for a bit but eventually found his voice. “So how did you react when they told you about me? Surely it must’ve been shocking.” I sat back down. “Oh it was, but they didn’t tell me immediately. In fact I sort of found out myself,” I said grinning to Twilight who had a sheepish smile. “I think they were keeping you a secret.” “We weren’t,” Twilight said. “We were afraid of how you would react. You were still new to the world when you found out.” “Really?” TD asked. “So how did you find out?” “Well it all started when I was finally out of the hospital.” I stepped out into the midday sun. I gave my arms a good stretch. I spent all of yesterday talking to the ponies, answering any questions they had and of course discussing where I should go once I’m discharged. The doctor said the pain in my neck should subside in a few days. Rarity was waiting for me outside. “Good day Edward,” she said smiling. “Nice to see you’re out and about.” “It's great to be out,” I said. “So you want to help me by setting up my wardrobe?” “Yes darling you’ll also be living in my boutique for a while,” she replied. “But don’t worry I won’t force you to model or anything I just need your measurements.” “Fair enough,” I said. I hoped she could make me a T-shirt with my favorite characters and things. I was lucky my phone wasn’t damaged and I still had my pics on it. I just hope the battery will last long enough. As we walked through Ponyville many ponies gave me odd looks. Sure I expected that but what I didn’t expect was for ponies to whisper strange things to each other. I ignored it but that was until I heard two ponies whispering. “Is he related to the last guy?” I stopped and turned to the two ponies who quickly dispersed. What did they mean by that? I didn’t wonder for long until the boutique came into view. I then saw the door opened to reveal a certain unicorn filly. Sweetie Belle looked and stopped dead in her tracks as she saw me. “R-R-Rarity?” she stuttered. Rarity quickly ushered us inside. “Darling, would you please wait here? I need to discuss something with my little sister in private.” “Uh sure?” I said as she gently pushed her sister into another room. Curiously I went over to the door and put my ear to it. “Listen dear,” Rarity began. “I know this is shocking to you but please try not to bother him too much. He might not be like you-know-who.” “But how long is he staying?” Sweetie Belle asked. “Will this new guy disappear like he did?” “Sweetie I know you miss him,” Rarity soothed. “But we can’t think about that right now. For now let’s just make Edward’s stay here as comfortable as we can.” I quickly stepped away and tried to pretend I didn’t eavesdrop on them. Rarity soon came back with a role of measuring tape. “Now good sir, please stand up and hold still.” It took a while but she soon got my measurements and we discussed what I want in terms of day clothes, night clothes and a few other articles. All the while I could feel Sweetie Belle watching me and after what I heard I was now asking myself: Was I really not the first human? “So how long will it take for you to make them?” I asked. “Oh don’t worry darling,” Rarity assured. “I’ll have your first pair of night clothes and a pair of day clothes ready for you by sundown.” “Thanks, I’m gonna explore for a bit.” “Oh okay don’t be long and don’t get lost,” she said. I nodded and left with a head full of questions. I decided to head down to the library. I had a sneaky suspicion that maybe there are answers. As I made my way through town the looks came back. Some just awkwardly waved at me. Maybe the main six already informed them while I was in the hospital. I had to ask a few ponies where the library was. There was some hesitation but they pointed me there. As I got close I noticed a certain dragon walking out with a bag and a scroll. He was probably gonna do some shopping for Twilight. I approached him and waved to him. “Excuse me,” I said. Spike jumped slightly but regained his composure. “Can I help you?” he asked. “Yeah I’m looking for Twilight. I have some questions for her. Is she here and is she busy?” Spike looked away awkwardly; it was like he was trying to find an excuse. “Please I just need to speak with her real quick and I’ll be on my way I promise.” Spike was silent for another moment before he tilted his head and pointed to the door. “Upstairs reading,” he said as he hoisted his bag and walked off. “Thank you,” I said as I entered the library. As I entered I looked to the doorway that led upstairs but then I looked to the other side of the library to see another door. That one had to lead to the same lab in the episode ‘Feeling Pinkie Keen’. I sneaked over to the door hoping Twilight was too preoccupied with her book to hear me come in. Once I entered I went down some stairs and just as I suspected it was the same lab. Many bits of equipment laid about. The lights gave everything an almost spooky vibe. I looked around and saw a desk that had a lamp shining down on something. I walked over and my eyes had to blink twice to make sure I wasn’t hallucinating. There on the desk was a partially disassembled cell phone. A few parts of the exterior were detached along with the battery. Next to it was an open notebook. I looked over to it and read it. ‘Testing on new voltage spell worked successfully but will wait for the battery to cool before attempting to activate again.’ I carefully reinserted the battery that was cool to the touch and turned the phone on. Surprisingly it was unlocked. The first thing I saw on the screen was just a basic background. I immediately went to settings and to general to see if this phone had anything to tell me about the previous owner. It was there I found the name TD Powell. “Huh, what an odd name?” “Oh great now you’re gonna insult me about that? I know it’s not a normal everyday name but come on,” TD moaned. “Hey, I know there are names like DJ, CJ, AJ, JT, RJ, maybe DD. But TD is an odd one.” I then let out a chuckle as a dirty thought entered. “It almost sounds like I’m saying-“ “Don’t finish that sentence,” TD warned. After reattaching the other exterior parts which were an easy snap I slipped the phone in my pocket and went back upstairs. After carefully closing the door I went over to the front door when I heard hoofsteps. I turned to see Twilight. “Edward? What are you doing here?” “Uh, I was exploring Ponyville and decided to visit the library,” I said, glancing around the wooden interior and bookshelves. “It's uh…very nice now I’m off to see Sugarcube Corner. Which way is that?” “Just up the street. Tall building that looks like a candy house, can’t miss it.” I nodded and quickly left. Once I got to Sugarcube Corner I took a seat in a corner where I hoped no one would see me. I pulled out the phone and tried to see more. I then found pictures. Some were selfies of a human guy. “This must be TD,” I said as I went through the pictures but for some reason I expected to find pony pics or something about his time here. But there weren't any. I then heard a cough right by me. I snapped my head to see a sad Pinkie Pie. “You now know, don’t you?” I looked back at the phone then to Pinkie. “I wouldn’t say I know enough but maybe just now wanting to know more.” Pinkie looked down in shame like she was about to cry. I then cupped her chin. “Hey, I’m not mad. But clearly there's more to this than I can imagine. You want to be my friend right?” The pink pony nodded. “And you want to see smiles right?” Another nod from her. “Then how about you tell me more about this guy and I’ll be grateful,” I said smiling before placing one hand on my heart and the other raised. “I Pinkie Promise.” Pinkie perked up at that. “Pinkie Promise?” I nodded and did the old trick. “Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye,” I said, nearly poking my eye out. Pinkie giggled and I have to say it was cuter than I thought. She then looked up to me with a warm smile. “Okay, I’ll tell you everything.” And so she told me the story about a man who came here nearly the same way I did and how he spent a few months in Ponyville before mysteriously disappearing, leaving some stuff behind, and I would have to say it was an enlightening talk. Especially the part about fake fire. I didn’t say much after that. Instead I ordered a cupcake and went on my way. I wasn’t lying when I said I wanted to explore Ponyville. It was later that night when I exited the bathroom wearing a simple shirt and sweatpants. Rarity works fast. “Edward, can you come down here?” I heard Rarity called. I went downstairs to see Rarity and her friends in the kitchen. They were all carrying concerned looks. I went over and sat down at the table. “I think I might know what this is about,” I said as I pulled out the cellphone and slid it over to Twilight. “Sorry I went snooping in your lab.” “We aren’t mad at you,” Twilight began. “But we were hoping to tell you when we felt you were well adjusted to here.” “I kinda figured as much,” I said. “Pinkie pretty much told me everything. From the punch to his departure.” “We actually thought you would’ve reacted the same way TD did when he first got here but dude,” Rainbow said impressed. “You took it like a champ and actually thanked the princess.” “I would never punch a lady,” I admitted. “Let alone a ruler.” “So you consider yourself a gentleman?” Rarity asked. “Good to know.” “Maybe, but since we’re on this topic you mind if I ask something important. Pinkie knows but do the rest of you-” “We know about the cartoon,” Twilight finished. “And we know you might not want to spend your life here but if you want to join him in the dangerous outlands we can understand-” “What are you talking about? You think I would just up and leave my new friends and the ponies I’m a fan of?” I asked as I dramatically placed a hand on my chest, earning a round of surprised looks from the six mares. “Twilight Sparkle, where's the fun in that?” “Wait, you're a f-fan?” Fluttershy stammered. “You’re what TD calls a Brony?” “I am and I’m proud of it,” I said. “In all seriousness, as much as I would like to see the world and explore, I don't want to find a way home. If anything this world to me might as well be my fresh start from the nightmare my home was.” “What do ya mean?” Applejack asked. It was there I told them the story of my adult life and how it ended on earth. From my idiotic toxic boss to my cheating girlfriend. I nearly broke down a few times but a pony hug makes the perfect medicine. We spent the next few hours talking and many laughs were soon shared that night and it turned into a sleepover at Rarity’s. That was how my first official day went but little did I know there would be more interesting days to come. Author's Note Spoiler alert: I'm trying to decide on a ship for this guy. Two candidates im strruggling between. I cant say which ones but they are both magically powerful.
Opportunities for Work and EducationTD took another spoonful of soup before speaking. “So how long did it take you to fully adjust to life here?” he asked. I put my hand to my chin and pondered, trying to remember. “If memory serves me correctly it must’ve taken me probably a month or so to become completely adjusted but emotionally it was a lot sooner,” I explained. “I still needed to find work and it didn’t feel right sitting around all day. Luckily I had my opportunity.” I spent the next two days meeting the locals from Derpy who gave me welcome to Ponyville muffins to Filthy Rich who was generous enough to lend me some bits to use. While I was grateful for the hospitality, I felt like I needed to do something with my life. One day I was eating breakfast with Rarity while reading the want ads in the newspaper. “So Edward, any idea what job you would like?” Rarity asked. After taking another bite of my toast I sighed. “Well the weather team is out of the question,” I said. “Not much of a farm guy and I don’t have the best experience with baking.” I could work the register at Sugarcube Corner but I still think I need a bit more time for the locals to get used to the second human in Equestria. “Maybe Twilight or someone in Townhall can help.” “Well you won’t have to worry too much about being a burden to me, but if you want you can have the last job TD had and that was helping out around town,” Rarity suggested. “I’ll save that as a last resort,” I said. Just then Sweetie Belle trotted in with a saddlebag, I looked at the calendar and it was Monday which meant school for her. We both looked at each other for a split second before she awkwardly looked away. Rarity levitated a small bag for her. “Here's your lunch Sweetie Belle,” she said. “Thanks,” she softly said before turning to leave the kitchen. I then had an idea. “Hey, would you like me to walk you to school?” Both the unicorns looked at me. ”I don’t think we were properly acquainted plus I’m going out anyway to job hunt.” Sweetie Belle looked unsure but after what I heard I sort of understood why. “Sweetie dear, at least get to know him a little, it's just until you get to school.” Sweetie thought for a moment before deciding. “Okay…” A little later we were out walking to the school house. It was an awkward silence but I somewhat let my inner fanboy out and broke the silence. “Okay, I’m gonna come out and say this, you’re adorable.” Sweetie looked up at me surprised. “Really?” “Yeah, you’re as cute as a kitten. You and your two friends,” I said, earning a blush and a giggle from her. “Thanks,” she said. She sounded a little more comfortable now. “So how long are you planning to stay?” “Oh I don’t know until I buy my own house in town or something. I need a job first,” I said. “No, I mean how long are you planning to stay here in Ponyville?” she said, sounding a little disappointed. I looked down and her sad face returned. I knelt down to her level and placed a hand on her head. “I don’t know how much Rarity told you about me, but I’m not leaving this town anytime soon.” “How do I know that when you’re the second human here?” Sweetie asked. “How do I know humans aren’t nomadic species that constantly wander?” Wow the fandom joke about her and the dictionary is canon here. “Good point,” I said. “Look, I don’t know enough personal stuff about this guy but he sounds like he was a good friend despite being violent with royalty. The point is we are all different from each other. TD obviously had a good life on earth growing up while I had a…not so pleasant life.” I then stood up. “I know it may not mean much but unlike him, I want to make a life here. Now come on or you’ll be late.” We soon arrived at the school and the children stopped playing the moment we strolled up. “I should probably go now. Have a good day Sweetie Belle,” I said. But just as I turned to leave I felt her hoof tap the back of my leg. I stopped and looked down at her. “I’m sorry I’ve been reluctant to meet you,” she said. “I was afraid of losing another friend but now I want to know…will you be my friend too?” I smiled warmly, knelt back down and patted her head. “I’d be happy to, my little friend. I’ll see you later,” I said before leaving. I took one last glance to see Apple Bloom and Scootaloo gallop up to her and began talking. Probably about me. I sighed and started my trek towards Ponyville. “Come on mister,” I said to the restaurant owner. “There's gotta be something. A dishwasher maybe?” “No sorry, got plenty already,” he replied. “What about another waiter? Doesn’t it get busy here?” “During the time when we have tourists flocking here yes, but not at this time,” the owner replied. I sighed and looked down. “Right, thanks anyway.” “Look it's nothing against your species but this is just one of those times I’m overstaffed. If you want I can give you a free drink for your troubles.” “No, that's fine, thanks,” I said leaving. And here I thought the job market in America was bad. At least here ponies can get jobs the old fashioned way by just waltzing up to a manager and asking about employment opportunities rather than submit an application on the internet and wait weeks for a reply. It was late in the afternoon when I decided to sit down on a bench. I pulled out a notepad which had a list of many stores and other places. I placed an X over the restaurant I was just at. Barely a few places left but I was starting to doubt myself. “Maybe I should take that guy’s old job,” I said to myself. I then heard hoofsteps approaching and saw Cheerilee approaching me. “Oh hi,” I said. “Hello, you must be Edward,” she said. “Sweetie Belle told me all about you.” “So it seems she’s another wildfire that spreads the news,” I said, smiling a little. “Too bad your school doesn't have a career counselor.” The teacher raised a brow. “What do you mean?” “I’ve been trying to find a good job most of the day but it would seem not many are hiring,” I said as I looked back down at my list. “That's actually why I’ve come to find you,” she said. “I would’ve offered TD this, but he already had a job and he’s gone, but how would you like to be my classroom assistant?” “Huh?” “I’ve been teaching the students for a long time and I could use some assistance. Did you know when I started teaching I only had five foals in my classroom? It certainly has grown.” “And you want me to assist you? Does it pay well?” I asked. “It might but if you don't get enough you can do TD's old job as a side hustle,” she suggested. “Plus you can learn more about the world as my assistant.” That was actually a good point. The show might’ve shown me enough about the science and history of this world, but if there were more seasons beyond season four I could become well prepared. So I made my decision and stood up. “Very well, I accept your proposal,” I said, offering my hand. She took it and shook it. “When do I start?” “How does tomorrow sound?” she asked. “It's a deal,” I said as I went off to inform Rarity. A teacher's assistant, what could possibly go wrong? I would be so sorry I asked as I stood in front of the classroom with many fillies and colts looking at me. For some odd reason I felt like I was being viewed by a jury and not a class. While some looked at me with slight concern there was a small minority that viewed me with judgement. “Now remember class, Mr. Richards is our new assistant so I expect you to give him the same respect as you give me,” Cheerilee said addressing her class. “Yes Miss Cheerilee,” the class responded. “So Mr. Richards, mind telling the class a little bit about yourself?” she asked. I tried to shake off the shock as I stood up from the chair, took a deep breath, and cleared my throat. “Greetings class I came from a place called New York City. From my understanding it’s a lot like your city of Manehattan. Lots of streets, tall buildings, and lots to see and do.” “You lived in a big city?” asked Snips. “That I did,” I responded. “But it wasn’t quite the glamorous life. Sometimes the city gets so noisy one can hardly get a wink of sleep at night.” “If you had a cutie mark what would it be and what would it mean?” a random pony asked. I didn’t see who but I assumed it was Silver Spoon. “Well if I had a cutie mark it would either be a calculator or an abacus,” I replied. “I always did have a thing for numbers. My old job was working in finances for some fancy company. Then again it might not be for it wasn’t my passion.” “No wonder you lost it,” TD interrupted. “I’d lose my mind too at a job like that.” “My cheating girlfriend and rotting sanity caused that,” I said annoyed. “It may have been boring but he at least had a pretty good skill,” Twilight said. “Yeah this guy is good at math. Like scary good,” Rainbow added. “Watch this,” she then turned to me. “What's one hundred twenty three times sixty five?” “Seven thousand nine hundred and ninety five,” I responded quickly. “That's true?” TD asked. “Yes,” Twilight responded. “That's amazing.” “It's a gift,” I said. “So what is your passion?” asked another student. “I guess you can say my passion is learning about the many wonders that make life worth living,” I responded. “When I was your age, I was always a curious kid always wondering many questions like what is the meaning of life? Why is the sky blue? Can you put anything on pizza?” The last question got everyone giggling. “But I guess my goal in life is to change the world with something no one has ever thought about and make everyone’s lives better even if it's a little.” The class was silent but somehow I had the feeling they actually understood. Cheerilee soon began normal class lectures which was soon followed by lunch and recess. Cheerilee asked me to keep an eye on the kids while she gets some paperwork done. But as I watched the kids play I had a feeling someone was watching me closely. I soon noticed at one of the tables Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom were looking over some drawings. Probably another crusade planned for after school. “Wait a second, where's Scootaloo?” I asked myself. I then turned and saw half a face quickly vanishing from around the corner. Curiously I went over and peered around to see Scootaloo. “Hello?” The filly jumped and quickly turned around. “Whoa! Sorry about that,” I apologized. The filly just stared at me for a bit before turning away with a pout and her fore legs crossed. “Hey what's with the case of the grumps?” I asked. “You know why,” she snapped. “You say you’re friendly but the moment you go homesick you’ll leave us in the dust like he did.” “Geez, was this TD guy a really good friend?” I asked. Scootaloo was silent for a bit but after a minute or two she spoke up. “He loved teaching us,” she began. “He introduced us to a new game. We thought if he would one day leave us he would tell us or at least have Pinkie throw a farewell party. But he didn't, it was like…he didn’t even care.” TD frowned sadly and looked over to the filly. “Oh Scoots…I did care but well…It’s just…It's not like I…” “Yeah, sounds like you totally screwed up in the friendship department,” I said. “Honestly, have you ever thought your journey around the world would've been slightly easier without a guilty conscience? I mean you made history by being the very first human to walk in a world we all thought was fictional and you couldn’t have left on a better note.” “Thanks for the tip,” TD sarcastically said. “No problem, but don’t worry I made sure everyone had no sour feelings towards you.” TD just raised a finger and pointed to Twilight and Scootaloo who both had a look of slight regret. ”But it may have only lasted until today.” “I’m sure he did care,” I assured the filly. “I bet he’s thinking about you and the little adventures you’re going on with your friends.” “Do you really think so?” she asked, cheering up a bit. “Oh yeah,” I replied. “In fact he’s probably thinking about you crusaders right this minute.” Scootaloo was about to say something else when we heard Cheerilee. “Recess is over children! Time to get back to class!” The rest of the day went on smoothly until it was time to go. The parents and older siblings came and picked up the children and I had the chance to meet them as well. Just as the last of them were leaving I felt Scootaloo tugging my pants leg. I looked down and asked what was up. “Sorry about the cold shoulder treatment but if Sweetie Belle trusts you then maybe I should and maybe Apple Bloom would too.” “If you’re asking me to be your friend too then my answer is yes,” I said before patting her head. “And I do believe you three will get your cutie marks.” The little filly beamed and quickly got on her scooter. “Thank you! See you later!” she yelled as she sped away. Cheerilee stepped outside as she too watched the filly sped away. “Well I think you did well on your first day,” she said. “You think so?” I asked. “Absolutely,” she said. “Think maybe once in a while you can teach us more about Earth?” “Only if there's a topic TD hasn’t covered,” I replied. “I’ll have a list ready for you by tomorrow. You can go back to Rarity’s. I’ll see you tomorrow.” I nodded and waved goodbye as I left the schoolyard. I must say she was right, it felt like a good start. “No worries,” I said to myself.
