A Cure for a Toxin.

“Next stop coming up! Welcome to Ponyville!”

Toxic grudgingly pulled his head back inside the railcar. He loved the feeling of wind in his face and mane. Who cares if he looked like a dog in a carriage? His head had been out the window for most of the trip.

The fact that the smoke smelled faintly like a campfire was an added bonus.

With an expected but still sudden lurch, the train came to a halt. Toxic was one of the first out, gleefully retrieving his baggage and levitating as he walked the streets. Just the change of scenery was enough to put an extra bounce in his step, however painful each step may be.

Toxic certainly didn't mind wandering around a bit, casually getting the layout of the town, and searching for his specific apartment. Many ponies stopped to wave, a cheery smile on their features.

Everyone here seemed so...open!

Hmm. So the library was located inside a giant tree, and...well, it was clear to see what THAT building was for! Was that real frosting on the outside?

A good forty minutes later, Toxic finally located his apartment, a small single-room among a complex. It was on the outskirts of town, something he could appreciate. It was only a few minutes walk to the edge of the Everfree forest, and numerous lakes and streams.

Yep. He was going to like it here.

Opening the door and scanning the interior, Toxic nodded approvingly. The walls were made of a dark wood, giving the interior a 'cottage' feel. The single large window had dark tan curtains, matching the other fabric. On the bed was a very VERY large scroll, along with a few books.

Setting down his few suitcases, Toxic beelined for the scroll, reading it over briefly.

Dear Toxic Shield,

I am glad you made it! I think you will find Ponyville to be a most pleasant atmosphere. Oh. This is Luna by the way. We love writing instead of speaking! I mean, 'I' love it. So much easier to communicate without reverting-

I digress. My sister will explain more, further down on the scroll. As she had mentioned, you are largely here to ensure that the water isn't contaminated. This is to be achieved by using the equipment in the closet locker. Just simple tests at certain locations. Also, mentioned in this scroll and in the books, is the installation of some water monitors. You will have to get to know the locals first, for then it would be easier to ask to install said device. This is suppose to be an easy assignment, so be sure to relax in addition to the tests.

I shall let Celestia explain more. I wish you best of luck Toxic, and I hope to find time to speak with you in the next few days!

-Princess Luna.

p.s. If the Elements of Harmony return early, and you happen to meet a pink mare, do not worry, she is harmless.

Toxic shrugged, gravitating towards the equipment locker. Opening the large out-of-place green door, his eyes widened, as did his smile.

In short, he looked like a foal on Heart's Warming day.

From testing kits, to a full biohazard suit, the locker had it all. Toxic couldn't help but skip happily around the apartment a few times.

Finally composing himself, Toxic busied himself with unpacking. Getting settled should take him a while. Maybe he'd head out for a late dinner?

-30 minutes later-

Well, that didn't go as planned.

His belongings stored and organized after but half an hour, Toxic decided to to make use of the extra time to wander around, seeking a diner for a not-packaged dinner.

He settled for a cozy-looking eatery, most of its tables and chairs outside. As for the menu, it was nothing fancy, but the sandwich he got certainly filled him up, as did the apple.

A bit more exploring, and then Toxic finally made his way back to the apartment. He still had those large books to go through, along with the rest of the scroll.

Even as he set the various materials at the small desk in the room, his mind drifted to the mare he had helped but a night or so ago. Who was she? And was she ok?

Toxic's eyes narrowed as he turned to the books and the scroll. He didn't understand why he was so curious. She was discharged from the hospital, and therefore ok. End of story.

The thought that followed caused Toxic to look over at his parchment and quill with a brief glare of loathing.

Besides, since when had a mare ever been interested in him for a friend, let alone something more?