At the Heart of it All

Chapter Three

Making Friends

Part Two:

A Big Mac in the Big Apple

“So where are we going?”

“To the hospital Rose,” Star Dancer replied while  continuing to look out the window. “You got a pretty nasty bump on the back of your head after you took that fall in the bathroom, and we just want to make sure you are not seriously injured okay?” She said turning back to look at Black Rose for a moment.

Black Rose looked down to her hooves fidgeting with the blanket wrapped around her for a moment. “Do... do I have to go?” She said rather quietly, glancing up to look at Star Dancer. “I know I said my head was hurting a little bit, but I don’t think it’s bad enough to go see a doctor though.”

“Why are you so apprehensive about going to see a doctor Rose?” Star Dancer said now looking at Black Rose somewhat confused.

“They just give me the heebie jeebies,” Black Rose nervously replied shivering slightly. “All them needles, knives and pointy things they stick at you. I just don’t trust them.”

“I know right! I totally despise needles myself Rose. I can’t stand the sight of them!” The two of them chuckling slightly afterward at their shared resentment. “But, all that aside, you really should have that bump checked out Rose, I am only concerned with your well being.”

Black Rose smiled leaning back to rest against the seat and sighed. “Alright Star Dancer, you win... I’ll go. But can we please stop somewhere first and get something to eat? I’m really hungry.”

“I think thats a great idea Rose, I’m a bit hungry myself. But, might I suggest something if I may?”

Black Rose turned to glance up at Star Dancer, a questionably look now residing on her face. “What is it?”

Star Dancer smiled reaching around to her side and grabbed her bag then brought it around to set it down in front of her. “May I suggest a change of attire?” She chuckled opening up the bag revealing Black Roses freshly cleaned clothes. “That blanket totally clashes with your coat.”

“Thanks Star,” Black Rose said, chuckling slightly while taking the bag. “I really appreciate all that you’re doing for me.”

“Don’t mention it,” Star Dancer said. “Now go ahead and get yourself dressed, I’ll hold the blanket up to give you some privacy.” She then looked forward to the driver.  “And you Alex, no peeking now! I’ve got my eye on you mister!”

Alex laughed waving his hand at her. “My eyes are set firmly on the road Star Dancer.” He then laid his hand back on the steering wheel and thought to himself for a moment. ‘Why would she say that to me? It’s not like I was going to take a look.’ But, for some reason a nagging curiosity had crept into his mind. ‘I wonder why they wear clothing anyway? Their bodies are covered in fur. It’s not like they walk around naked, or is it? I think I’ll ask her about that once we get everything settled.’

For the next few moments Alex thought to himself about how he was going to ask Star Dancer about it; all the while hearing the shuffling sounds of Black Rose trying to slip into her clothes. Occasionally hearing a grunt or two as she struggled to wiggle into them.

“So Star Dancer, where did you two want to stop and eat at?”

Star Dancer looked back over to Alex then out the window. “Get off here Alex,” she said pointing to a sign rapidly approaching them. “I know a place in Ponyville that we can stop and get some breakfast.”

“Alright Star,” He said with a nod then clicked on the turn signal and veered off, heading down the country road leading into Ponyville.

****

“Where are we headed by the way Star?” Alex asked turning off the long country road to head into the town itself. Morning was still apparent to the trio driving down the road as most of the small city was still waking up. Vendors were preparing their stalls for the days business, equestrians and humans alike heading to work; some browsing the stalls that had opened, while others had stopped at the various restaurants to get a bite to eat.

“There’s the place over there Alex,” she said leaning forward to point in the direction of a small building with a pink and blue awning providing shade for a few tables strewn about in front of the building. “Park over there.”

Alex nodded, swinging the truck into the small parking lot set alongside the building. Afterwards the trio hopped out and made their way over to to the restaurant. “Hey girls why don’t we sit outside? It’s mighty nice outside today, and it would be a shame to waste it being cooped up inside.”

“I don’t mind do you Rose?” Star Dancer asked looking over to Black Rose. She was still fidgeting with her skirt trying to get it on straight.

“Oh no... thats fine with me to Star. I prefer to stay outside anyway.”

“Then its settled!” Alex cheerfully chirped clapping his hands. “After you my ladies,” he said bowing with a smile while holding out his hand. Black Rose trotted on past still fiddling with her skirt. Star Dancer however had seemingly stopped briefly to look away after hearing the comment. “You alright there Star Dancer?” She looked up at him nodding quickly a few times.

“Y-yeah... I’m fine,” She said, quickly clearing her throat then trotted quickly on past and took a seat next to Black Rose at the table. Alex looked at her a bit perplexed scratching the back of his head.

‘Did I say something wrong?’ He wondered glancing over to the two ponies sitting at the table. Black Rose was simply eyeing over the menu that was sitting on the table, while Star Dancer was looking a bit apprehensive trying to downplay a slight flushed look that was on her face. ‘Blush? Why would she be blushing?’ He took a moment to think about it, but nothing really came to mind. At least nothing that really made any sense. So, he pushed it to the back of his mind and made his way over to the table to take a seat himself, but all the while he felt like he had forgotten to do something.

“I think you left your lights on Alex.” Black Rose said pointing over to his pickup. Alex swung his head around to look back himself and nodded pressing a hand to his face.

“Dammit... I knew I was forgetting something,” he grumbled pushing himself up from the table. “Be right back.” He then walked off heading back to his truck.

“Hey Star?”

“Yeah Rose?”

“Are you feeling ok?” Rose asked, a bit of concern coming from her voice.

“Yeah I’m fine. Why do you ask?” Star Dancer replied looking up from the table to Black Rose.

“Your face... it's all flushed. I'm surprised I can actually see it through the color of your fur.”

 “Oh t-that?” She chuckled nervously. “It’s n-nothing...” She lied, but Black Rose could tell she was trying to dodge the question, but instead of trying to draw it out and possibly embarrass her new friend, she opted to switch the topic over to something else.

“Well alright. Anyway, what are you going to get for breakfast? I am really liking this pancake breakfast with hashbrowns and a biscuit.” She then slid the menu over to her friend.

Star Dancer let out a breath finally shaking off her flustered look and took the menu then opened it up. “Well let me take a look see Rose. I haven’t eaten here in years,” she said eyeing over the meal choices. Oddly enough, sausage and bacon were also items offered in the breakfast lineup. “Wow... I didn’t think meat would have managed to make it’s way into the menu in a town like this,” she said aloud not really speaking to anyone in general.

“Why is that Star?” Black Rose asked still fidgeting with her clothes. “Also, I think you shrunk my shirt. It’s a little tight.”

“Hmm?” Star Dancer hummed looking up from the menu. “Oh... I don’t think it shrank Rose, I think they were just so dirty that the fabric probably loosened up from you wearing it too long. And to answer your first question.” She laid the menu down closing it for a moment. “True most equestrians are omnivores, but for the most part ponies tended to stick to a mostly vegan diet. Especially around here. Now from where I come from, ponies and other equestrians like griffins, diamond dogs and dragons all lived together in the same city. So eating meat was pretty much seen as a common thing. No one really disapproved or shunned us for our dietary habits.”

“Well that makes sense... on both parts actually,” she remarked tugging on her shirt collar noticing how the fabric tended to now stay more taut than before. “Who owns this establishment by the way?” Star Dancer was about to speak up when an all too familiar voice came from the entrance of the building.

“Hiya Star Dancer!”

“Hi Lyra how are you...” She trailed off after seeing Lyra emerge from the front doors not wearing any clothing, casually trotting up to the two of them.

“So what brings you back into Ponyville? And who is this? A new friend of yours?”

“Y-yeah. Her name is Black R-Rose, Lyra.” Star Dancer stammered trying her best to remain focused on Lyra, and not draw any attention to her discomfort of seeing another mare out in public without clothing. Black Rose on the other hoof was staring—mouth agape—as the minty green colored pony strolled on up to the table. She did have a small side pouch with a tablet in it however.

“Something wrong? Lyra asked taking notice of the two acting rather nervous at her arrival.

“LYRA! Put on some clothes for Celestia’s sake!” Came a sudden shout emanating from the inside of the restaurant. Shortly after a cream colored mare with a curly pink and blue colored mane and matching tail, wearing a pair of tan shorts with white t-shirt came trotting out of the restaurant entrance. Her mana mark: three pieces of candy emblazoned on the sides of her shorts. “You’re obviously shocking these two judging by the looks on their faces.”

“What?” Lyra replied looking over to the  cream colored mare somewhat confused. “I didn’t think I was doing anything wrong Bon Bon.”

“Well you’re not as far as equestrian law is concerned, but obviously these two are affected by it.”

The two mares continued to argue over the subject for the next few minutes; both forgetting completely about the two younger mares still sitting at the table staring at them. That is until Alex returned from his truck. He stopped at the table and looked over to the two older mares arguing over whatever it was they were arguing about and decided to butt in.

“Hey ladies, I hope I am not interrupting something important here am I?”

The two immediately stopped their bickering and looked over to Alex.

“Oh a human!” Lyra smiled trotting up to him, her tail wagging slightly as she approached him. “Hey there handsome what’s your name?”  She said with a bit of a sultry voice.

“Heh... It’s Alexander, Ma’am. What’s yours?”

“LLLLrya Heartstrings,” she purred stopping just a few inches from him. “So... What brings you to Equestria, Alex?” Her voice still flowing with a touch of sultriness. “Come to check out the mares?” She then winked at him while giving him a playful nudge with her elbow.

Meanwhile Star Dancer had returned to her menu trying to find the meal she wanted. Satisfied with her choice, she laid the menu down closing it up. But, when she was about to ask Alex if he wanted anything, she looked up and noticed how Lyra was actively flirting with her new friend. Her new malefriend. Immediately her smile vanished; replaced with a scowl as she scrunched her face. Then without conscious, or rational thought, Star Dancer sprang up from her seat slamming a hoof down onto the table.

“He is here with ME Lyra!” Star Dancer quickly—and again not taking the precious few seconds to think about it, blurted it out as if she was protecting something of hers. Lyra looked back to her smiling.

“Oh, you two are dating? That’s so cool! I knew you would find someone eventually Star Dancer! Way to go!”

Star Dancer immediately reeled back—her wings flaring, while blushing a deep shade of pink. It was so apparent you could even see it through her amber colored fur. She instantly regretted the way she phrased the remark, however, at the same time a small feeling had again begun to well up inside her, one that had been slowly building ever since she first met him. Alex meanwhile had simply laughed waving a hand dismissing the remark.

“We’re not dating Ma’am, we just came to Equestria because this mare here,” He pointed over to Black Rose. “Had a little accident and bumped her head on something. We just stopped here first on the way to the hospital.”

“Y-yeah... that’s all.” Star Dancer added letting out a breath; happy that Alex didn’t pick up on her nervousness. She was half right. He didn't really understand why she was acting so nervous. It was just a simple mistake after all. But that is not why he didn't pick up on it. It was because he was more curious as to why her wings had suddenly shot up again.

‘Huh... There go her wings again. I wonder why they do that? It's like her wings are tied to her emotions somehow.’ These equestrians were just getting stranger and stranger as he continued to learn more and more about them. More questions he figured he would ask her once things had calmed down and he could get some more time to spend with her. But once that line of thought crossed his mind it abruptly came to a halt. 'Wait... Did I really just think about wanting to spend more time with a pony?'

‘Yep, you sure did buddy. I was against this, but it seems like you're curious about this, so I guess I can go along with it for now...’His mind was right. He was curious. Even if he had only spent a little time with her, he still liked it. He was then ripped from his thoughts a moment later as Bon Bon quickly rushed up to the table.

“Oh you poor thing!” Bon Bon said coming up along side Black Rose. “Are you alright? What's your name?”

“Black Rose.”

“Why didn’t you go to the hospital first?” Bon Bon asked taking a seat next to Black Rose. “Head injuries can be pretty serious believe me.” She looked up to Lyra shooting her a stare.

“What?” Lyra asked confused at why Bon Bon was staring at her.

“Nothing...” Bon Bon replied shaking her head. “Anyway.” She resumed her gaze back onto Black Rose. “You never did answer my question Honey.”

“Geez Bon Bon! You're acting like her mother for Celestia's sake! Give her a break already. She looks like a tough mare, she’ll be alright.”

“Girls?”  Black Rose said trying to interject to no avail.

“This coming from a pony that comes running to me crying when she gets a papercut?”

“Hey! That was only one time!” Lyra quickly retorted crossing her forelegs while turning to look away from Bon Bon. “And I had accidently spilt lemon juice in it after I had cut myself.” She finished with a huff.

“Oh sure... I believe you.” Bon Bon shot back with a quick roll of her eyes. “What about the time you came running to me crying and wanting a hug after you had stubbed your hoof trying to come out the front door last week?”

“Thats different!” Lyra snapped back spinning around to glare at Bon Bon. “And I wasn’t wearing my hoof boots either!”

“Girls, can I...”  Rose said still being ignored from the two arguing.

“You mean like right now right?” Bon Bon returned, staring back at Lyra. “Kinda making the same mistake twice you big dummy!”

“I only came out like this because you said you liked it when I didn’t wear clothes!”

“Would the two of you shut up already!”  Rose yelled at the two arguing mares.  Everything went quiet, and everyone’s eyes were on her.  This made Rose duck down, trying to get out of sight.  “I just...oh.”

“What’s all the commotion goin’ on over here?” A southern sounding voice said. Immediately the group spun around to be greeted by two advancing ponies. One was an orange colored mare with a blond mane and matching tail wearing a brown stetson with a matching green top and shorts. The other, a red stallion with the same blond colored mane and tail—albeit a slightly darker shade. He was wearing a white t-shirt with a pair of brown cargo shorts.

Both of them displaying apple like mana marks on their shorts.

“Oh hiya Applejack! Hey Big Mac! What brings you two out here today?”

“Takin’ mah brother ta the Immigration Center Lyra. He wants ta go an' make a life for himself on Earth. But we dun figured we’d stop an' grab a bite ta eat before we went to the center.” She then trotted up to the table and dropped her bag by it and took a seat. “Tarnation that bag was heavy! What did ya bring Mac?”

“Hey, ya offered ta carry it Sis, and Ah did tell ya it was gonna be rather heavy.” Big Mac chuckled taking a seat at the table himself. “Nice ta meet y’all by the way. Mah name is Big Macintosh, but y’all may call me Big Mac if ya want.” He then scanned around the table at the ponies and human there stopping on Black Rose briefly for a moment—their eyes locking with one another—causing her to look away afterward, but she briefly glance back over to him after he had took his eyes off her.

“Hello Big Mac, My name is Star Dancer, and it’s nice to meet you!” She cheerfully replied smiling at him.

“Names Alexander, but you can call me Alex.”

Big Mac returned his gaze back on to Black Rose. “And what’s your name?”

“Rose Black....Black Rose...I mean...Hi.”

“Black Rose, Eh? Hmm...” He thought to himself for a moment keeping himself fixated on her causing Black Rose to begin to fidget nervously. “I like it. Beautiful yet mysterious, just like a real rose,” he replied smiling at her.  Black Rose looked away, a slight tinge of pink on her cheeks.

“T-thanks,” She said softly feeling a slight bit of happiness well up inside her. She never had a stallion compliment her before. “S-so where are you going to be visiting Earth at?” She asked once she had regained some of her composure.

Big Mac put a hoof to his chin and thought for a moment. He hadn’t really planned ahead  that far, he was still working on going to the immigration center. “Well Ah dunno really... Ah never thought about where Ah was gunna head to.”  Star Dancer looked at Rose with a curious look.

“Rose has been to Earth a little bit Big Mac, and she too still needs to go to the Immigration Center as well. Maybe the two of you can explore Earth together? I mean, that is after you two get your immigration paperwork taken care of.”  A cold chill ran up Black Rose’s spine, she looked at everyone.  Star and Applejack seemed to have an inspired glow.

“Thats a great idea!”  Applejack said happily.  “Y’all two can go together, that way Ah won’t have ta go and Ah can get back ta the farm.”  Applejack hastily got up and began pushing the two in the direction of the Immigration Center.

“Wait, what about breakfast?”  Black Rose cried out, her tummy screaming for nourishment, but to no avail as both Mac and her were pushed away from their respective friends. With no breakfast, and sadly because of Applejacks insistence, with no choice either.

“I could have given them a ride,”  Alex said as the three walked away. “I did drive us here after all,” he said as he stood up from the table. “I’ve got plenty of room for you and your brother.”

“That’s an even better idea!” She happily chirped now leading the two over to Alex’s pickup truck; stopping at it for a moment to give it a quick look over. “Nice truck Alex, Chevy Silverado right? ”

“How did you know what kind it was Applejack?” Alex asked looking at her somewhat surprised. She turned back.

“Ah was driven around in one during mah stay on ya world Alex. Ah was one of the first equestrians along with three others ta make the very first gateway entrance between Earth and Equestria.”

“Shes one of the Elements of Harmony Alex,” Star Dancer added trotting up next to the truck. “The ones responsible for finding your world.”

“Wow... Thats pretty cool! It’s an honor to meet you Applejack!” She smiled and tipped her hat.  Alex couldn’t help but smile at the mare.  Applejack settled her hat back on her head and looked at all of them.  Soon her expression changed to a confused one.  “Are we going or not?”

“We were going to catch breakfast before we went.”  Star Dancer said with a bright smile.  She looked at Alex and he smiled back, nodding in agreement. Star Dancer’s wings pomfed up slightly and her expression became a little distorted. Returning to a more bashful look as she quickly returned to her menu.

“Ah gotta admit Sis, Ah am a bit famished mahself,” Big Mac said returning to the table. “You can go ahead and take off if ya want ta Ah’ll be alright.”

“Well alright Mac.” She then walked up to her brother and gave him a hug. “You take care of yerself now, ya hear me? And don’t forget ta give me a call every now and then.”

“Thanks AJ, Ah won’t forget. Ah’ll even send ya pictures from time ta time, how does that sound?”

“Ah would very much like that Mac.” She smiled. “Well... Ah am gonna head back ta the farm now. Gotta get ready fer mah date with Steve tonight.”

“Have fun Sis!” Big Mac smiled breaking from the hug to return to his place at the table. “Where are y’all two going by the way?”

“Well he was saying something about going ta another one of them Brony conventions.”

“Ah bet you’re going ta be the life of the party there eh?” He said with a chuckle.

“Yeah... Ah do get bombarded by the fans, but Ah kinda like the attention. And it’s a good way ta bring tourism back ta Ponyville too. Well... that’s what the princesses think anyway.”

“Ah hope Ah don’t get all that attention on mah trip over. Ah just want ta have a fun time experiencing the world without havin’ ta be harassed by them bronies.”

“Aww come on Mac, they’re not that bad.” Applejack said with a chuckle. “Matter a fact, most of them are pretty darn friendly.”

“Well... if ya say so AJ.” He said and then turning back to face the group at the table. “Could someone pass me a menu please?” Black Rose looked over to Mac smiling slightly.

“You can have my menu Big Mac,” she softly replied sliding it over to him. Big Mac returned the gesture and reached over to take the menu from her, but as the exchange was made the two ponies hooves came into contact with one another causing the two to freeze and gaze at one another for a moment.

Black Rose slowly and absentmindedly started to tighten the hold all the while her mind was screaming. ‘What are you doing? Let go of him already. We are not interested in this stallion!’ But, at the same time another feeling was compelling her to continue the embrace. Torn between her two emotions, Black Rose continued to keep her gaze fixed on Big Mac who at the moment had taken his attention off her and was looking over the items on the menu. But, after still feeling her hoof on his—still continuing to tighten its grip, Big Mac looked back up to her. “Can Ah have mah hoof back Rose?” Black Rose immediately broke from her trance and snapped her hoof back, a look of pure embarrassment spread completely over her face.

“I am SO sorry Big Mac, I... I didn’t mean to. I-I just kinda...” She trailed off looking away.

“Don’t worry about it Rose, come on, don’t be like that.”

“Ah think ya went and flustered the poor mare Big Mac,” Applejack quietly whispered while giggling softly into her brothers ear.

“What?” He snapped his attention back over to Black Rose who was still keeping her eyes off him, a slight tinge of pink showing through the fur on her cheeks.

“Just teasing ya Mac,” Applejack chuckled while giving her brother a playful nudge with her elbow.

“Shouldn’t you be heading back ta the farm? Ah thought ya had ta get yerself ready for yer date with Steve?” Applejack reared her head back in shock, quickly pulling her phone out of her bag.

“Oh crap yer right! Bye Mac! Take care of yerself!” Applejack yelled as she galloped off back down the dirt road leading to Sweet Apple Acres. Meanwhile Big Mac returned to his menu picking out a simple meal of pancakes with hashbrowns and a biscuit.

“So are you all ready to order?” Lyra asked returning to the table.

“Can I have the scrambled eggs with sausage and toast please?” Star Dancer asked setting down her menu.

“Sure thing Star, what would you like to drink?”

“Orange juice please?”

Lyra smiled jotting down her selection. “Anyone else?”

“Can I have this Southern Equestrian omelet with a side of breakfast fries?” Alex asked. looking up from his menu. “And I’ll take a cup of coffee please.”

“Sure thing handsome,” Lyra replied teasing him with a wink. Star Dancer responded to the gesture herself by looking over to Lyra  giving her a slightly upset look, but quickly wiped it from her face—replacing it with a smile—the moment Alex had glanced over to her.

Lyra caught the look she had gotten from Star Dancer and returned it with a smirk as she tucked her tablet back into her pouch. “Well if there isn't anything else?” The four looked up shaking their heads. “Okay.” She turned around to face her cream colored friend. “Let's go Bon Bon,” she said holding out a hoof. “We've got food to make, and hungry customers to feed.” Bon Bon simply stood back up and trotted past.

She was still a little upset at Lyra from their recent argument. “Geez Bon Bon, you need to lighten up a little bit. You're so tense.” She then smiled deviously. “Here maybe this will help loosen you up,” Lyra said reaching forward to give Bon Bon a soft slap on her rump as she trotted on pass.

Bon Bon instantly spun around after the soft contact was made and glared at her minty green friend. “Lyra! I can't believ- Mmmff!” She was cut off mid sentence as Lyra quickly closed the gap and pressed her muzzle up against Bon Bon’s; pushing her tongue inside her mouth afterward just for extra measure.

Bon Bon’s eyes went wide in shock; her irises shrinking to the size of pinpricks shortly after as she felt the warm silky appendage slide into her mouth. She recoiled a second later breaking from the kiss, falling back losing her balance; coming crashing down onto her rump with a yelp shortly after. She then looked back up to Lyra—her face bright red.

“Wow Bon Bon, you sure have some color there!” Lyra giggled holding out a hoof to help her friend back onto her hooves. But, Bon Bon refused swatting Lyras hoof away then righted herself and hastily shot off back into the restaurant. Her tail twitching the whole time as she disappeared into the building.

“Lyra! Inside! Now!” Bon Bon demanded popping her head out from the entrance. Lyra gulped figuring she was in for a huge argument seeing as how she had embarrassed Bon Bon right out in front of some customers. But, strangely enough, Bon Bon’s expression was not one of anger. And as Lyra closed in on the restaurant entrance she thought she heard... Giggling?

“I'll be out with your food in a little bit alright?” The four at the table looked to Lyra and nodded. Still a little taken back by the display they had just witnessed.

“Well that was.... Interesting,” Big Mac said aloud. “Can't say that Ah didn... Ow!” Big Mac looked down after being cut off from finishing what he wanted to say, and saw a red hoof sliding away from his own. Following the hoof up the length of the leg (for some odd reason), Big Mac eventually found himself staring at Black Roses white rose Mana mark on her skirt.

“You're weird.” Came a familiar females voice just above him.

Realizing he was now staring at Black Roses butt (technically her hip), Big Mac quickly tore his eyes off her Mana mark and looked back up to face her. “Heh... Sorry about that,” he softly replied, smiling meekly, while rubbing the back of his neck. He was about to apologize, but just as he was going to speak a sudden crash sound came from the restaurant. “Sounds like Bon Bon is laying into Lyra.”

“Does Lyra always act like this?” Star Dancer asked.

“Pretty much,” said Big Mac. “Ah’m surprised Bon Bon puts up with that crazy mare.”

“Puts up with her? You mean like a relationship?”

“Yup. Bon Bon and Lyra have been dating each other fer sometime now. Ah’m surprised ya never knew Star Dancer. Y’all two are friends right?” He said. Shortly after some more commotion could be heard from the restaurant. It sounded like Bon Bon and Lyra were talking to each other, however from the distance the group wasn’t able to make anything out of it.

“I never knew she was...” Star Dancer trailed off.

“A lesbian?” Big Mac finished for her.

“Yeah that’s it.”

“Well don’t call it that Star Dancer. Here in Ponyville we don’t look at equestrians like that. We simply see them as lovers... as partners. Companions in life if you will.” Just then some more commotion came from the restaurant. This time however a voice was heard. It sounded like Bon Bon’s.

“What do you think you’re going to do with that?” After that the sounds of giggling could be heard and some more commotion; sounds of movement. Then silence. “Oh... My... Celestia.” The four whipped their heads around when they heard that.

“What they heck are they doing in there?” Black Rose asked.

‘Each other it sounds like,’ Big Mac thought, looking over to the restaurant entrance with smirk on his face.

 “Hey Star Dancer.”

“Yes Alex?”

“You wouldn't mind answering a few questions I have would you? I mean now that I’ve had time to learn about your kind a little bit there is a few things kinda bugging me.”

“Not at all Alex.” She smiled. “What is it you wanted to ask?”

“Well I had a few questions actually Star. My first question... Well it's more liked I wouldn’t have expected it.”

"Well what is it?”

“I never figured your kind would eat meat. Honestly though my reasoning is purely based off Earth equines... the limited knowledge I have on them anyway.”

“Wikipedia I take it?” Star Dancer calmly replied.

“Heh... That obvious?”

She nodded with a slight twist of her head, giving him a knowing look. “Mmhm... That silly grin you're giving me right now kinda gave it away.”

Alex leaned back in his seat and smiled rubbing the back of his neck. He felt a little embarrassed by how fast she had picked up on his lack of knowledge on this matter. But, after letting the gears in his head turn for a few moments to let everything process he quickly sat back up looking at Star Dancer surprised. “Wait... you equestrians know about Wikipedia?”

Star Dancers ears fell back as she rolled her eyes and sighed. “No offense Alex, but have you been living under a rock or something? We have been hooked into your internet for over a year now. It’s an interesting place to say the least.”

‘Indeed it is,’ He thought to himself. “So what have you been looking up on if I may ask.”

“Oh nothing much really. Mainly I’ve been reading up on this cultural phenomenon currently happening on your world. It’s a bunch of humans calling themselves Bronies or something.”

“Oh really? What is a Brony? I’ve never heard of them.”

“It’s not a ‘what’ Alex.” Big Mac said adding to the conversation. “It seems we are pretty popular back on y’alls world. It all stems from some cartoon show called My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic.”

“Wow...” He stopped for a moment, his expression a little bemused. “Umm... it sounds like a show for little girls.” Alex said chuckling to himself.

“Apparently not judging by the HUGE fan base that has risen from it. They even changed the name of mah hometown ta Ponyville ta honor them. But, Ah just feel they went and done that ta simply boost tourism.”

“Makes sense.” Alex figured. “So umm... back to the question.”

“What? Oh, right.” Star Dancer relaxed in her chair clearing her throat. “Well to answer your question Alex, yes, we can and do eat meat... well those wanting to anyway.”

“Oh so your kind is omnivores then?” Star Dancer nodded.

“Correct Alex, but like you earthlings we equestrians also sometimes follow stricter dietary habits and lifestyles.”

“Oh, so some are vegetarians ?” Star Dancer nodded again.

“And some are simply vegan only,” Star Dancer added.  “But, they have to supplement what they can’t get by eating veggies and plants alone.”

“So I take it you’re?” She nodded.

“I eat meat myself Alex, and I very much enjoy it.” She turned to look at Big Mac “How about you Mac?”

“Ah eat meat as well Star, mainly because Ah dislike the thought of havin’ ta take dietary supplements ta stay healthy. And it’s not so bad honestly. Although at first Ah thought the citizens of Ponyville felt Ah was crazy after they saw me stopping at the griffin vendor ta buy it.”

“You had to sneak it?” Big Mac looked at Star Dancer and nodded.

“Yup. Ah had ta go to the neighboring city of Calamity Junction ta shop for my meat products. Ah usually got spotted on the way back by Ponyville residents, since most that wanted ta get meat had ta go there also.”

“How did your family take it?”

“Well Star, at first they kinda looked at me rather disgusted. Mah Grandma used ta call me a monster.” He looked down, his ears falling back as he frowned.  “Said it was disgusting fer us ta eat another animal. Said Ah was a monster. She even went as far as wanting ta throw me out on the street fer it.”

“Oh wow...” Star Dance said, shocked. “Is that why you are going to Earth?”

“Kinda Star Dancer,” he replied. “It’s not as bad as it used ta be seeing as there is actually a few vendors now selling meat products right here in Ponyville. Mah granny however has not changed her fundamentalistic way of thinking sadly, but nowadays she keeps it ta herself.”

“What about your sister Big Mac?” Black Rose asked joining into the conversation.

“She is accepting of me and of the other residents that eat meat Rose, and Ah think she too occasionally sneaks a chicken salad or sandwich since Ah have caught her leaving the recently opened human restaurant called Chick-fil-A. Plus her new boyfriend is a human, and me and him have had a few barbecues together.” Big Mac looked over to Alex. “Y’all humans have some pretty good tastin’ alcohol by the way. Me and mah sister Applejack love that stuff called Woodpecker Cider.”

“Never tried that stuff Big Mac,” Alex replied. “How is it?”

“Well needless ta say Ah found mahself wakin’ up in the morning in his bathtub.”

“And your sister?” Big Mac crossed his forelegs and looked at Alex with a smirk.

“Lets just say she wasn’t the only one feeling good the next morning.”

Star Dancers mouth dropped open. “No... You mean she and her boyfriend?” Big Mac simply nodded, his expression was dead serious. “Wow...” She trailed off, completely blown away by the scope of what she just heard. But, a second later a thought had occurred. “Big Mac.”

“Yea Star?”

“How did you know?”

“Lets just say mah sister can get a bitnoisywhen properly... stimulated.” He reinforced that last part by adding air quotes to it. Alex mentally one upped the guy for having the nerve to add that notch to his bedpost. Star Dancer having processed the information went quiet, and returned to her laptop, her mind now swimming with all kinds of weird thoughts. Occasionally though she peeked up to glance at Alex when he was not looking in her direction.

“Well since we are on this subject I might as well ask it.”

“What would you like to know now?” Star Dancer asked looking up from her laptop.

“Well...” He trailed off chuckling nervously, not sure if this was the right time to ask.

“Come on Alex, tell us what is is you want to know already.”

“Why is it you guys wear clothing? I mean, it must be really hot in them things.” He then stopped for a moment to think. “How do you even put them on? You don’t even have hands!” The mood at the table became eerily silent as the three ponies stared at Alex. Each one looking at one another unsure how to answer this without offending him or embarrassing themselves. “I didn’t mean to offend any of you, it just seems odd. You are all covered in fur and your tails can cover your...”

“Stop Alex.” Star Dancer quickly replied holding up a hoof.

“What? Is it something about your tails?”

“Umm...” Star Dancer mumbled, her face starting get a little flushed as her eyes darted around  trying to think of a way to answer this. “Let’s just say I don’t like the idea of having to keep my tail pressed up against my butt all day long Alex.”

“I like to wear clothing Alex, because it makes me feel...” Black Rose said trailing off unable to finish her sentence.

“Pretty?” Big Mac added looking over to her. She nodded slightly, looking away from him. “Ah have ta agree Rose, Ya do look awful cute in that outfit of yers.” He said smiling at her. Black Rose after hearing the complement let out a quick girly laugh as her face turned a shade of pink, but a second later after catching her slip up she gasped, quickly throwing a hoof over her mouth as she looked away blushing. “Was that a smile Ah saw on yer face there a second ago Rose?”

Black Rose turned to look back at him bringing a hoof to her mane moving it out of her face and blinked revealing both of her startling silver eyes to Big Mac for the first time. She kept her gaze on him and nodded meekly. Big Mac however was entranced so much so with her eyes that he completely missed the gesture, and opted to continue keeping his own eyes fixed on hers as he watched her sometimes glance around slightly—as if she was looking for something. But what he wondered? It was as if there was a conflict going on inside her. Like there was another part of her trying to escape.

“Ahem...” Big Mac and Black Rose broke from their gaze at the sound of someone clearing their throat. “You two alright?” Star Dancer asked looking over to them. Big Mac sat back in his chair nodding.

“Y-yeah...” He then glanced back over to Black Rose who had returned to looking down at her hooves on the table, but then a second later she glanced up briefly to look at him. Their eyes quickly met, but this time he looked back in shock when he saw an image of another pony glaring at him. She looked like Rose, but something was different. Something just wasn’t right.

‘We don’t like you. We know you are trying to take Rose away from us. We will NOTlet you!’

Big Mac looked at Black Rose in utter disbelief. Her lips were not moving and her expression unchanged, but... he did infact hear it. Or was it just in his mind? ‘Did Ah just hear her say something ta me in another voice?’ He wondered as he looked back to Black Rose, but strangely enough, the image he had seen a moment ago was gone. Black Rose was back to herself (figuratively speaking).

“What’s up with them two?” Alex asked, leaning over to Star Dancer with a hand up against the side of his mouth. Star Dancer shrugged looking over to them.

“I... I don’t know Alex. It’s strange you know? It’s like they’re talking to one another simply by looking into each others eyes.”

“FOODS READY!” Lyra yelled appearing from the entrance of the restaurant; Bon Bon following shortly after. Both now looking rather sweaty as the trotted forth with a noticeable pep in their step. Also noticeable as the two mares approached the group (besides the smell of sex), was their manes were a little frazzled. Unkempt one could say. Lyra being the first to make it to the table, leaned over to set down a large plate she was carrying with her telekinesis. “Who ordered the pancakes with hashbrowns and a biscuit?”

“Ah did.”

“I did.” Black Rose and Big Mac looked at one another. “You got what I got?” They both said in unison, afterward looking away from each other. Lyra looked at the two gigging.

“Great minds think alike right?” Big Mac and Black Rose looked at Lyra nodding while taking their food. They decided not to continue this, and just let it go as a  simple coincidence. Next Bon Bon came trotting up to the table bringing her forelegs up onto the table to balance herself.

“Got you guys your meals. One Southern Equestrian omelet with breakfast fries, and one scrambled eggs platter with sausage and toast.” She then took the plate from her back and set it on the table; passing out the meals to its respected individual. However, as Bon Bon was hoofing Star Dancers food over to her, Star Dancer had noticed something different. Something out of place. Squinting her eyes to scan over the cream colored mare, Star Dancer found what is was, and promptly reared her head back in shock blushing in embarrassment.

“Umm... Bon Bon?” Star Dancer whispered tugging on her shirt.

“What is it Sweetie?” Star Dancer replied by tilting her head downwards to point at Bon Bons shorts, and to the fact they were unbuttoned. Unzippered too. Revealing the top of her white colored panties with a cute little red bow set right at the middle of her waistline. It almost resembled a piece of wrapped candy. Bon Bon looked down and blushed. “Oh drat!” She face hoofed.

“What’s going on over there?” Lyra asked, as she set the plate down onto the table. She then walked over to see for herself. And laughed. “Geez Bon Bon! You forgot to close the barn doors! You’re letting all the heat out.”

“Guess I almost let the cat out of the bag there... eh Lyra?” Bon Bon chuckled pulling up on the tab with a quick *ZIP*.

“Oh my Celestia! I can’t believe you said that!” She then stopped, realizing what she had just said herself. “I can’t believe I just said that. Because you said that jus...”

“WHA HEYYY!!!” Bon Bon quickly hopped over to Lyra pressing a hoof to her mouth silencing her. She then leaned up to whisper into her ear. “Have you ever heard the phrase ‘if you don’t have anything good to say keep it to yourself’?”

Lyra held a hoof up to her chin as she looked up thinking to herself for a moment. “Nope, never heard of it.” Afterward she scooped up the plates with her telekinesis and trotted off back towards the restaurant, her tail wagging from side to side not caring for one second about who may have been watching.

“Celestia Lyra! Control that tail!” Bon Bon yelled racing over to her friend to pull down on it to keep it from swaying. “You’re going inside right now to put some clothes on,” Bon Bon said as she pulled the minty green mare back into the restaurant with her.

“Enjoy your meals.” Lyra smiled as she disappeared into building leaving the four to eat their food in peace.

“Yet another reason why I myself prefer to wear clothing Alex.”

“I can see that...now,” he said quietly while in his mind he was yelling. ‘What was seen cannot be unseen!’

****

Finishing up their breakfast and paying the tab, the four said their goodbyes and hopped back into Alex’s truck heading off to the hospital to have Roses head looked at. The drive to the hospital hadn’t taken them no more than twenty minutes or so since Ponyville medical was just on the outskirts of the town. Once they pulled up they found a place in the parking lot, they made their way inside. The lobby of the hospital was rather big, open too, as there was a skylight letting the warm morning sun blanket them in its glow.

“Might as well get this over with,” Black Rose grumbled as the three ponies trotted across the lobby. Alex had decided to stay outside, as he wasn’t one for hospitals. Something about  the smell of antiseptic and hospital food made him queasy.

“Come on Rose, it’s not so bad,” Star Dancer remarked as they made it to the receptionist's counter. A light green colored unicorn mare wearing a white blouse with matching skirt was sitting at the counter scribbling something onto a tablet. She looked up and smiled at the three.

“Hello there, what can we help you with?” Star Dancer pulled Black Rose up beside her and looked at the receptionist.

“My friend here slipped and bumped her head this morning. She also needs her inoculations so she is allowed to return to Earth.” The receptionist nodded and scribbled something on her tablet then looked up to Black Rose asking her some simple information like her age, where the injury was located, and if she was allergic to any medicine. Answering the questions as best as she could, the nurse smiled and scribbled them down then slipped a bracelet around her hoof.

“The doctor will see you shortly Honey. Please have a seat in the waiting room until then.”  Star Dancer and Black Rose nodded then trotted off into the adjacent room leaving Big Mac at the counter.

“And you Sir, what is it I can help you with?” The receptionist asked.

“Ah need mah inoculations too Ma’am. Going ta be headin’ off ta Earth mahself aswell.” The receptionist nodded and scribbled his information down then asked that he too wait in the waiting room until the doctor would see him also.

“Black Rose?” A voice asked.

“Yes?”

“The doctor will see you now,”  a white colored Earth pony mare replied. “Please come with me.” Black Rose nodded hopping up off the couch she was resting on, and followed her back into a small room just behind a large set of double doors. “My name is Nurse Redheart, what seems to be ailing you today?”

“I slipped in the shower this morning Ma’am.”

“Please call me Redheart dear, no need for formalities.” Black Rose smiled, nodding slightly. “Anyway let’s have a look at this bump.” She went over to a the small bed in the room and patted on it. “Hop up please.”

“Okay.” She said making her way over to the bed and hopped up onto it, then pulled on her skirt so she wasn’t sitting on it. Afterward Nurse Redheart trotted around behind Rose and reared up on her hind legs, resting her belly against the bed as she gently ran her hooves through Black Rose’s mane trying to find the injury.  Black Rose gasped and ducked back like someone was about to hit her.  Nurse Redheart looked at her with confusion.

“Everything okay dear?”  She asked Black Rose.  Rose realized what she did and blushed, showing a little pink covering her face.  “Does it hurt right there?”

“No, no thats not it.  I’m just... well.”  Black Rose felt embarrassed, admitting she was cautious of others made her feel like a bad pony.  “I just don’t like anyone touching me is all.”  She said looking away from the nurse.  “I’m sorry, I don’t want to be difficult.”

“No, it’s fine dear.  We will take this nice and slow, you have show me what hurts and where alright.  I will ask before I do anything sudden, sound good?” Rose looked at her and smiled, nodding in approval and turned around moving her mane away from the spot she had hit her head.

“It hurts around right here.”  Rose said briefly touching where the bump was.  She winced a little from the pain that shot up from touching the bump.  Nurse Redheart leaned in to take a look.  This time Rose stayed put.

“May I touch to see how bad it is.  Looks can be deceiving.”  Rose took in a breath and nodded her head.  When she felt her hooves on her skin she jumped a little.  “Feeling alright?”  Rose nodded and kept still.  “Well it doesn’t look too bad, icing should do the trick.”

“I knew it wasn’t bad.”  Black Rose sighed with relief.  She turned around to face the nurse again.

“I would suggest some medication if you experience any headaches.  It is a possibility, but nothing serious.”  Nurse Redheart said with a smile.

“Like Tylenol?”  Rose asked, Nurse Redheart looked at her with confusion.  At first Rose wasn’t sure why she was looking at her funny.

“If that’s what they call medication on Earth, than yes.”  She said with a smile. “Now comes the bad news Rose.”

“Bad news?” Nurse Redheart looked at Black Rose with a bit of a frown.

“You are going back to Earth correct?” Rose nodded. “Well then I need to give you a shot before you can return.”

“A needle!?” Black Rose almost squeaked, her face becoming pale. Nurse Redheart nodded making her way over to a cabinet to pull out a package with a sterile needle then she went over to a refrigerator to grab the medicine. “It’s not a big needle Rose, but you will feel it nonetheless.”

Black Rose looked down resting her hooves on her thighs and sighed. She knew from the get go this had to be done, but she had hoped she could have avoided it. However now she had no choice. If she wanted to go back to Earth, back with Big Mac, she had to. So, she steeled herself and looked up to Redheart. “Okay I’m ready.”

Nurse Redheart smiled and hopped up next to Rose on the bed. “Pull up your sleeve and hold still sweetie, you don’t want to move while I inject you with the needle.” Rose nodded, sliding up her sleeve, then took in a deep breath and closed her eyes. Nurse Redheart gently took her foreleg and pressed the needle into her shoulder, injecting the medicine into Black Roses body. A cool feeling running down her foreleg as the medicine was making its way through her bloodstream. “All done,” Nurse Redheart smiled rubbing her back a little, cautious to keep things small as to not startle her. “You can open your eyes now.” Black Rose slowly opened her eyes and looked over to Redheart, her eyes a little misty.

“I’m sorry.”  Rose said turning her head the other way with more tears showing. Redheart smiled and reached over to get a towel then gently wiped the tears from Rose’s face.

“Don’t be Rose, I know you’re nervous about this. You’re a lot better than some of the little ones that come in.” Redheart giggled. Black Rose rolled her eyes.

“Thanks... I guess,” she remarked, feeling a little embarrassed. Redheart smiled then booped her on the nose and hopped off the bed.

“Don’t mention it.” She then trotted over to the counter sitting down by a clipboard that she had brought in. “Okay, I am just gonna fill out your form stating you had your inoculations and then you can head on out. Sound good?” Black Rose nodded hopping off the bed herself, and adjusted her skirt for a moment after she had come down onto her hooves. “All set Rose.” Red Heart turned around and hoofed her the paper. “Take care of yourself dear, I don’t want to see you getting hurt again okay?”

“Yes Ma’am... uhh I mean Nurse Redheart.” She smiled opening the door and led Rose back out into the waiting room. Big Mac and Star Dancer were still in the waiting room. Star Dancer was laying on her side with her head resting on a hoof while the other typed away on her laptop, while Big Mac was simply relaxing on a chair rubbing his shoulder.

“Ready ta go Rose?” Mac said when he seen her enter the waiting room. Black Rose nodded, and soon after the three headed back out into the parking lot where Alex was leaning up against the side of his truck chatting on his phone.

“Hey fellas! All set?” He asked looking up from his phone.

“Yup, time ta head back over ta Earth.”

“Where are we headed?”

“Back to my place Alex,” Star Dancer said. “I got a call from my job asking me if I wanted to work for a few hours today.”

“Okay. Hop in.” The three smiled climbing into the truck, and soon after they were heading off back down the country road heading towards the gateway junction leading back into New York.

****

Stopping at Star Dancers home about an hour later the four climbed out of the truck and made their way into her house. Star Dancer headed to her room to get herself ready for work while Black Rose and Big Mac headed into the kitchen to decide on what they were going to do today.

“So Big Mac, what would you like to go and see?”

“Ah dunno Rose, Ah am still taking in everything Ah have seen so far.”

“You’ve never been to Earth?” She asked. Big Mac replied with a quick shake of his head.

“Nope. Ah never came over. Ah heard about a lot of what goes on over here, but Ah never truly imagined the scope of what lies just beyond the gateways. Maybe we can start somewhere more... natural?”

“We can head to Central park,” Black Rose suggested. “It’s a nice place and it lets you take in a lot of the city from there.”

“Okay, let’s go there.”

Black Rose nodded pushing herself away from the table and went back into the living room to grab her bag and strapped it around her waist. Now just as she was about to return into the kitchen she was stopped by Star Dancer as she made her way out of the hallway.

“Take these Rose.” Star Dancer hoofed her a phone and her ManaTech bracelets.

“You’re giving me these?” Star Dancer smiled and nodded.

“Yes, but don’t worry, I’ll grab another pair at work tonight. Plus, I am gonna ask Alex to stop somewhere so I can get another phone.”

“I-I...” Black Rose trailed off, her ears falling back as she looked down at her hoof scuffing at the floor. But, before she could speak back up, Star Dancer interjected holding up a hoof.

“Don’t be like that Rose, friends help friends. Thats just how I am.”

Black Rose smiled looking back up to Star Dancer. “Thank you... you’re a good friend.”

“So are you Rose, you just haven’t realized it yet.” Black Rose looked at Star Dancer confused, her head twisted to the side a little bit with her one eyebrow raised up questionably. She didn’t understand what Star Dancer meant. “Have a fun day with Big Mac!” Star Dancer cheerfully said as she trotted on past. “Oh here take this too.” She tossed a set of keys to her.

“Keys to your home?” Star Dancer nodded.

“In case I am at work and you want to go out to do something.” She then headed on out the door with Alex closing it behind them.

“Ready to go Big Mac?” Black Rose asked trotting back into the kitchen, then over to the fridge to grab a bottle of water, and stuffed it into her bag.

“Yup all set Rose,” he replied hopping out of the chair. “Wait... Don’t we gotta register at the Immigration Center?”

“Tomorrow. Star Dancer set up an appointment for us so we don’t have to stand in a long line all morning.”

“That was nice of her.” Black Rose nodded in agreement smiling.

“She’s a good pony, I am lucky to have a friend like her. Anyway, let’s head on out.”

“Right behind ya!”

Soon after the two left the home and headed off towards the park. The sun now sitting high in the early afternoon sky.

****

It only took Black Rose and Big Mac about twenty minutes to reach the park, stopping along the way a few times to browse the wares of vendors selling stuff outside their businesses. By the time they had reached the park it still was relatively quiet. A few patrons sitting on benches around a fountain feeding the birds, some taking an early afternoon jog through the paths winding throughout the park. None though really paying any attention to the two ponies casually strolling into the park.

“It’s nice here Rose,” Big Mac remarked looking around at park. “Kinda reminds me of home actually.” He stopped and looked ahead for a moment thinking to himself. “Rose?”

“Yes Mac?”

“What was your home like?”

“Strange.” Big Mac looked at her confused raising an eyebrow.

“Strange? Ah don’t understand? What do you mean? Ah don’t mean ta pry Rose, ya don’t have ta tell me if ya don’t want to.” Rose looked at him and then at the sky.  Taking in a deep breath and then slowly letting it out.

“My mother was very strict with me, never wanted me to leave the house. Said it was dangerous if I did. I didn't see much of my father, since he was hardly ever home.  Wasn’t sure how to deal with my life growing up.  I felt something in me change, especially when I ran away from home.”  Rose said closing her eyes feeling the light afternoon wind starting to pick up.

“Change?”

“Yeah, I don’t know how to explain it.  I just felt different once I had left home.  When I met Star Dancer, I felt lost.  But I’m not quite sure what I’m missing.  I didn’t have much of a life, was just a shut in, I felt just like another face in the crowd—a nobody if you will.”

“You know Rose, Ah too once felt like that. It was when Ah was being ridiculed by mah granny and family when Ah was caught eating meat. Even the townsfolk during the early days looked at me as if Ah was a murderer or something. Sometimes Ah would just hide or try ta live off only vegetables like the others, but it made me really sick sometimes, making it hard ta perform mah duties on the farm. Ah felt so bad cause Ah was making mah sister pick up so much of the slack when Ah was trying to recover when Ah was sick.

“But thankfully she stuck with me. Even when she herself was being insulted and ridiculed by them fer defending me. Ah feel that’s what ya need in yer life Rose. Someone you can rely on. Someone you can go to when yer feeling down and just need someone ta give ya some comfort, someone ta make you feel safe and secure.”

“I don’t know Big Mac, I just don’t feel right around others. I just don’t trust anyone, it’s just hard. I feel so scared in a crowd or even alone with someone.” Black Rose said looking at Mac. Big Mac gave her a small smile. But then something occurred to him.

“How do you feel around me?”  Black Rose was taken back by the question.  She hadn’t thought of that.

“I feel calm, not quite sure how I feel.”  She said with a nervous chuckle. Big Mac smiled and began to trot on forward looking back to Rose for a moment.

“Don’tcha worry none Black Rose, a mare as pretty as you should have no trouble findin’ someone you can trust. It just take some time. Eventually ya will learn ta get over this hurdle. Come on, let’s keep going.” Black Rose nodded following Big Mac down a short path under the canopy of some trees into an open field, but just as the two entered they could hear the sounds of commotion coming from a rather large group of people sitting around a few benches.

“Dude, I really never liked that episode man. Way too cheesy. I would’ve never thought Big Mac would fall so easily to that Cheerilee.”

“He was under a spell you know,” another fan stated rather flatly. “Honestly, he was better in the Applebucking Season episode, even though it was a small part.”

The two went on bickering for the next few moments. Others within the large group were cooking food on the grill, some were throwing a frisbee around while others were simply enjoying the sunny day outside.

“Throw me the frisbee! I’ll catch it.”

“Here it comes!”  One of the people in the group said as he whipped the frisbee as hard as he could launching it off towards its intended target, but sadly the person trying to catch it failed horribly as he dove for it; landing hard—face first—into the grass getting a mouthful of the green goodness. The frisbee however still continuing on at its projectile like speed smacked right into the side of Big Mac's head. He yelled out in pain as he collapsed down onto his side rubbing the impact spot on his forehead. He actually yelled loud enough for the group to hear him as well.

“Was that Big Macintosh I just heard?” One of the members of the group said.

“I heard it too. It can’t be, can it?”

“Nice job throwing that frisbee like a frigging missile pal,” the one person said as he spit the grass out of his mouth. “Now go and apologize to the person you just hit with it.”

“Yeah, yeah. I know.” The other said waving a hand as he walked off to find the person he had almost beheaded with the frisbee, but as he walked around the rock to apologize, he stood back in shock as what was before him.  “HOLY SHIT!” He took off running back to the group. “Guys! you will never guess who I just saw!”

“Well out with it man, and where is my frisbee?”

“Fuck the frisbee, I just saw Big Macintosh!”  He yelled. Everyone in the group stopped what they were doing and immediately snapped their attention onto him.

“Where is he?” The guy turned around and pointed off to a rock sitting in the distance.

“He’s sitting behind that rock with another pony. A mare.”

“How can you tell?”

“I doubt guys wear a skirt.”

“Let’s all go and say hi to him! And give him a big brony welcome to New York!”

Meanwhile Big Mac and Black Rose were still sitting behind the rock. Rose having went up to Mac a little concerned after seeing him getting clocked with the plastic projectile.

“Are you alright Mac?” He nodded stand back up onto his hooves.

“Yeah... Ah’ll live Ah suppose. But what the heck was that?”

“Looks like someone hit you with a frisbee.”

“A what?”  Black Rose looked at him and was again about to say what it was, but just then they heard voices approaching them. LOTS of voices.

“He was just behind this rock here...” They stopped. Most looking on in shock at the two red earth ponies standing beside one another.

“Dude you were right! WHAT’S UP BIG MAC!”

Big Mac looked up his eyes going wide as he saw the rather large group standing before him and Black Rose. “Umm... hello?” He said waving his hoof with a nervous smile. The group exploded into sound as they cascaded down onto the two ponies. Suddenly Big Mac was bombarded with a hundred questions, requests and the occasional touching of those in the group.

 “Who’s your friend here Big Mac?”

“She’s just a pony Ah met in Equestria.”

“Is she your marefriend?”

“What!? No!” He let out a sigh while pressing a hoof to his face.

“How’s your sister Applejack doing?”

“She’s fine.”

“Is it true she is dating a human?” Big Mac nodded, then briefly glanced back to Rose. She was lying down on the grass with her hooves over her head—shaking. Her tail tucked tightly against her backside.

“What’s wrong with her?” The one fan said. Another walked up and leaned down next to her to lay a hand on her back.  Rose squeaked in surprise, her body becoming tense as she started to shake.  The fan who place his hand on her took it off and stepped back.  “I don’t think she’s alright.”

“Oh she’s fine, she just looks a little nervous.”  Another fan said going up and stroking Rose’s mane.  Rose shot up and collided with Big Mac.

“She’s freaking out man, back off!”  The fan said pushing the other one.  “It’s alright, no one is gonna hurt you.”

“Breath Rose! It’s alright.”  Big Mac said, Rose wasn’t coherent at first.  “Rose look at me!”  She did as he said and looked him.  The uncontrollable shaking started to die down, but the heavy breathing didn’t waver.  “Ah won’t let anyone hurt you.”

“Please...”  Rose shuttered with tears in her eyes.

“Everyone, can y’all take a step back please?”  Big Mac said to the group.  Everyone shuffled on their feet feeling uncomfortable.  “Now just take a breath and let yerself calm down.”  Rose took in a breath and held it.  Her brain wasn’t working properly so all she did was hold her breath.  “Rose let it out, don’t go and kill yourself.”  She exhaled with a big gasp.

“Is that mare handicapped or something?”  One of them asked quietly.

“How should I know dude?”

“You gonna to be all right?”  Big Mac asked her.  Rose nodded her head.  She looked around and took in the big group.

“Their not so bad from a distance.”  Rose said with a nervous chuckle.  Her breathing was still a little shallow and she shook from time to time, but she was as calm as she could get. Big Mac looked at her then out to the group, he knew what had to be done.

“Sorry guys, but Ah have ta take her home. She’s a might bit shaken at the moment and needs some rest.” He looked back down to Rose. Her eyes were easily telling him she wanted nothing but to get out this. “Ready ta go Rose?” He asked, whispering quietly to her. She looked up and nodded. “Can ya stand?”

“Y-yeah,” she quietly replied, slowly pushing herself up onto her shaky hooves. He then allowed her to lean up onto him as the two slowly walked off the field leaving the bewildered fans to wonder what exactly just happened.

****

Returning to Star Dancers home a few hours later Mac and Rose lumbered into the house, closing the door behind them. Exhausted from the ordeal in the park, and the subsequent walk home afterward.

“Woo... glad thats over with.” Big Mac said. “Feelin’ alright Rose?”

“Yeah...” She said walking over to the couch, her hooves sliding weakly along the floor. “I think I am gonna go and take a bath Mac. I need to relax.” She then took off her bag and tossed it beside the couch.

“Okay, I think Ah’ll just go an...” He was cut off as Rose leaned up into him hugging him. Big Mac was at first shocked by the sudden move, but shortly after he sat down slowly bringing his forelegs up to wrap his hooves around her—squeezing her gently. The two remaining silent for the next few moments.

Rose broke from the embrace a moment later to look up to him. Her eyes weary, carrying a tired and exhausted look. “T-thanks Mac.” She then turned and walked off down the hallway disappearing from Big Mac’s sight.

‘Yer welcome,’ he thought, as he brought a hoof to his mouth, muffling a yawn. A small smile tugging on his lips afterward as he made his way over to the couch.

An hour or so later Black Rose awoke from her nap feeling a whole lot better than before, though she was still very tired. Stretching for a moment, she climbed out of the tub and grabbed a towel from the rack to dry herself off. The scene of chaos from earlier this morning was gone. Alex and Star Dancer must have returned after they had left and cleaned it up. She even left Black Roses pajamas neatly folded on the basket by the newly replaced door.

‘She is so nice to me. I have to find a way to repay her for all her kindness.’ Black Rose didn’t bother to look into the mirror this time. She just slipped into her clean and warm pajamas then headed out, tossing her clothes into the hamper. She would wash them later, she now just wanted to get some sleep. So she headed back into the living room only to find Big Mac sleeping on the couch. He must have passed out while Rose was taking a bath.

‘I don’t want to wake him up. He looked so worn out after that ordeal in the park, but where am I going to sleep?’ She looked around the room and there wasn’t much. A small uncomfortable looking chair, the floor, but that was out since it was hardwood. All that left was the couch, but Big Mac was sleeping there. ‘He wouldn’t mind if I slept with him. It’s not like we’re dating or nothing. There’s just no where else to sleep.’

Her reasoning sound, Black Rose slowly got up onto the couch and laid down next to Big Mac, stretching out her hind legs, trying her best to ease herself in next to him without waking him up, and eventually after a few moments she had managed to slide in comfortably next to him.

Strangely enough, she felt completely at peace lying next to him. Her heart beating calmly, her breathing slow and relaxed while her eyelids continued to grow increasingly heavy. Taking one last glance at Big Mac as her eyes slowly began to close, she smiled; a quiet content sigh escaping her as she drifted off into a peaceful sleep.

****

“What a night Sandy,” Star Dancer remarked a little out of breath. She had figured the place was busy since her boss had asked her to work some extra hours, but that thought was quickly dismissed the moment she trotted through the door. It was actually so busy she had a hard time just snaking her way through the large crowds.

But thankfully now the night was almost over, and all that was left to do was to clean up the bar on the second floor of the restaurant.

“Can you finish up here Star Dancer?” Sandy asked. “I need to head down stairs and finish tallying up today's sales and drop them in the safe.” Star Dancer turned around from the table she was clearing off and nodded.

“Sure thing Sandy.”

“Thanks Star,” Sandy smiled then spun around and headed back down the stairs into the cash room. Star Dancer meanwhile had returned to cleaning the tables, her new set of Mana Tech bracelets allowing her to easily pick up the empty cups and deposit them in her cup holding harness.

“It's too quiet in here, I need some music to work to.” She then headed over to the juke box sitting in the corner and stood up on her hind legs so she could see the screen ‘Hmm... What do I want to listen to now?’ She started to go through the selection. A lot of if though was older generation music, but she figured as much seeing as the bar was for the most part occupied by older people, most looking to be mid twenties to early thirties. Def Leppard, Van Halen, Linkin Park, Ozzy Osbourne, Evanescence... The list went on and on, but nothing really caught her liking.

She just wanted some easy listening, something that would make this mundane task of cleaning up this mess more pleasent.

“What is this here?” Looking down at the screen a band finally popped up. “Fleetwood Mac? Sounds interesting.” She tapped on the band and a bunch of songs popped up. “Hmm.. This one sounds interesting.” She clicked the song, Track number three,

“Hello? Anyone in here?” Alex asked walking into the restaurant. It was late, probably around ten or so. The place was pretty clear. Only a few patrons were still there, most sitting at the small bar having a few last drinks before it closed up. Alex continued on through the back until he came to a lady sitting at a booth. She seemed to have been sorting some paperwork and filling out some deposit slips.

“Can I help you Sir?” She asked looking up from her paperwork.

“Yeah, I am here to pick someone up.”

“Oh?”

“Well not so much someone, it's more like somepony.”

“I see... Well most of the equestrians that work here have left for the evening already. One is still here though. She's upstairs in the bar finishing up.”

“What's her name?” Alex asked.

“Star Dancer, you know her?” Alex nodded.

“Yes Ma’am. She’s a friend of mine.” Sandy sat back in her chair and smiled.

“Oh, well if that’s the case, why don’t you go up and say hello? She should be almost finished by now.”  Alex smiled.

“Thanks Ma’am.”

“Names Sandy, and it’s nice to meet you.”

“Likewise. Names Alex. ” He then walked on past, heading up the stairs. Now when he came to the top, the sight he saw was rather interesting. Star Dancer was cleaning up the few remaining tables, dancing all the while to the music playing from the jukebox. Alex stood in the doorway watching her impressed by how well she could balance herself on her hind legs.

 It seemed like she was using her wings as a counterbalance of sorts, shifting their positions occasionally to keep from falling over, sometimes a gentle flap here and there to give her a little extra boost with some of the spins and twists she was doing. But that was not the only thing that caught his attention. His eyes had began to drift, going from watching her dance, to actually watching her, and he had to admit, she was actually pretty easy on the eyes.

That body, not overly athletic, just physically fit. Just how he liked it. She even looked cute in that outfit of hers. A light green t-shirt with a pair of green denim shorts. The ends of them cuffed up just below her Mana mark. Letting his eyes linger on her rump a little too long earned him a brief chance to her panty lines when she bent over to come back down onto her hooves.

‘Enjoying the view?’ His mind mentally reminded him. ‘I’m curious just how long we’re going to continue staring at this pony's butt before she realizes we are here.’Alex afterward immediately realizing his actions lost his balance momentarily and stumbled into a chair, knocking over a bottle sitting on the table startling Star Dancer.

“Wh-who’s there!” She squeaked spinning around to meet her visitor face to face. “Oh... Alex.” She let out a breath. “D-don’t sneak up on me like that. You scared me.”

“Sorry.” He stood up his face still a little flushed from what he was looking at just a few moments earlier.

“You alright Alex? You got a little color there.” Alex smiled letting out a nervous laugh.

“Yea-yeah. Just fine. By the way, are you free tomorrow?”

“Pretty sure. Why what’s up?"

“Got a call from my parents, they would like for me to come up and visit them, and I was wondering if you would like to come.”

“Sure Alex, I would love to go with you and meet your family.”

“Great!” The two went quiet for a moment not looking at one another.  “Do you need a ride home?”

Star Dancer smiled and nodded, but asked Alex to wait downstairs for a few moments while she was putting her work stuff away. Eventually she met up with him in the lobby and the two waved goodbye to Sandy as they exited the restaurant.

****

About thirty minute later Star Dancer and Alex pulled up in front of her home. The sun having set long ago. The evening moon was just now reaching its apex in the sky.

“Ok Star, I’ll pick you up around noon time alright?”  She nodded and hopped out of the truck.

“Okay Alex, see you then.” She closed the door and made her way down the short sidewalk towards her home as Alex took off into the evening traffic.  “Hmm... Lights are off.” Star Dancer remarked trotting up to her front door, she had guessed that Mac and Rose had gone to sleep so she slowly engaged the lock with a quiet *click*, and opened the door slowly. Afterward she made her way towards the hallway, but she stopped when she took notice of the two ponies resting together on the couch. “Aww... Thats sweet.”

Star Dancer smiled at the two sleeping on the couch peacefully. She was happy to see Black Rose finally open a bit more. She went to her room and grabbed a blanket then returned to the living room and draped it over them. “Good Night Black Rose, I’ll see you in the morning.” Star Dancer held a hoof over her mouth covering her yawn. Afterward she returned to her bedroom. A good nights sleep was just what she needed after a hectic day such as this.