The Moon Lends a Hand

I heard Alex yelling at me to stop running in the everfree. I didn't listen, why should I? I didn't want to walk in a dangerous forest that was described as the ‘earth of equestria’, mostly because of all of the monsters that I didn't want to meet. So I was leaning on a tree at the edge of the everfree when the others came running out, and alex was mad at me, adults are always angry at me.

“I told you not to run.” He said angrily

“I know, but I didn't care, I make my own choices, I pay the price, it doesn't really matter one way or the other really.” I said standing up from the tree.

“It does matter if you die.” He said holding onto my arm, I took my arm out of his grasp and faced him.

“It wouldn't matter if I died, no one I knew would care, I’m surprised you actually care about me at all.” I think I might have hit a nerve or something, because he winced.

“I always care about a life, even if I don't know who I’m saving.” Alex stated, then smiled, “You, my dear, are important to me because... hell, you could be my daughter. All I know is, I’ve seen too many kids hurt and scared in my life, and you should have the chance to be be who you should be.”

“Wow, thats deep, and a little bit emo, some people aren't to be trusted, how do you know that if you save someone, they won't just stab you in the back.”  I challenged

“I give the benefit of a doubt.” He said back.

“I used to as well, but things changed.” I said.

“I think you should read the letter princess luna sent you, Alex.” Twilight said from behind us.

“Yes, I think that would be appropriate.” Said Doctor Emerald.

Rainbow nodded and smirked at me, “I think now’s a good time.”

“Alright.” he said, slightly perplexed. He turned his head and his eyes lingered on me a little, like he was trying to figure me out. He opened up the scroll and started to read it.

***

I looked at Dash, her smirk as endearing as ever. With her encouraging words I snapped the seal, the hard black wax making a strangely comforting sound.

My Dear Alexander Roberts,

My emancipation from Nightmare Moon has taught me the importance of humility. I believe I have made a small error. I was attempting to teleport a female human to Ponyville, but my spell encountered unforeseen difficulty, possibly chaos interference. The female was sent to the changling hive in error. I need you to save her. I sent her to give you a fellow human for company, and perhaps you can help her the same way you have helped the other paladins? I also sent her backpack, with this letter. It seems it was already supplied with her goods, and was able to retrieve it at great cost, which I paid happily. I hope you get to her in time. You also probably have many questions, I will answer those later if you so choose.

Fare thee well, most loyal Alex,

Luna, Regius Principem Nocturnas

I quickly made a decision I hoped would win a little trust.

                                                                                             ***

He stood there, sort of looking off into space, then he rolled the scroll back up. “Alright, Miss. Princess Luna brought you here by accident, and I’ll do my best to send you home. Show of good will, here’s the letter she just sent me. I’ll get the package she sent.” He handed me the letter, and he and Rainbow Dash headed off a short distance.  I’ve never read a scroll before, so I quickly unrolled it and started reading. It was a little hard because the writing was really fancy.

I managed to make out the obvious that she meant to bring me to Ponyville, but some sort of magic interfered and sent me to the changling hive. Something about paladins, the reason she asked if I wanted to come, her full name, and about my backpack. I guess she didn't look into my backpack or she wouldn't have sent it along, what with the contents that might not be safe for ponies.

I should've probably told Alex that he didn't have to get my backpack, since I already picked it up, but what would be the fun in that for me? It’s fun to mess with adults. I rolled it back up and threw it at Twilight, she caught it with her magic with some dismay at having me throw a letter from a princess away.

If only they knew what I was going to do back home before I got teleported here, they probably wouldn't have wanted me to leave. I looked down at my clothes and realized I was still in my pajamas, but it didn't really matter, I could get something later. Alex and Rainbow came back after a minute.

“I hope there wasn’t anything too val...” He looked over my shoulder. “Is that your pack?”

“It landed on me at the same time the scroll appeared, I have it.” I said. A question came to my mind. “Why were you stalking out the hive in the first place anyway? Were you going to attack them and take some eggs and save the ponies in those cocoons?” I asked curiously

“Well, I caught wind of some rumours that they may be up to no good. I had to see what they were doing, making sure they weren't planning anything.” Alex said.

“Thats great, so Luna sent me to do something with Paladins and whatever else the scroll mentioned.” I said looking away from the Everfree and over to where ponyville is supposed to be.

“Yes, but first, what’s your name?” Alex asked. I turned to look at him and looked him up and down, he can't do much to me anyway.

“I’m Emily.” I said, Alex smiled.

“Thats a nice name, nice to meet you Emily.” He said

“I think we should get to ponyville now and get away from the everfree.” Doctor Emerald told Alex. He nodded.

“Right, lets go.” He said as he and the ponies started walking. I rolled my eyes and followed.

                                                             ***

When we got to the outskirts of Ponyville, I was greeted by a sudden pink blur known as Pinkie pie, terrifying when it actually happens to you, especially when you can't even understand what she is trying to say.

“HiIhaventseenyoubeforeyoumustbenewandahumanaswellareyouAlex’sdaughterhissisterhisdaughterDOYOUWANTAPARTY!icanbakeyoucupcakes!.” She said in under a second. I was surprised how fast she was able to speak, and still very much unable to understand what the hell she said.

“Hi?” I said, a little worried she might blow up like a balloon and pop if she got any more excited.

“Pinkie, this is Emily, Luna sent her, she will be staying here a while.” Alex said, walking over to Pinkie. Pinkie smiled and nodded.

“Nice to meet you Emily, I can't wait to throw you a party!” Pinkie said excitedly.

“I don't want a party.” I said this a little more harshly than I wanted to. “But thanks anyway, Pinkie.” I continued with a little smile while rubbing the back of my head. She visibly deflated but her smile never left her face.

“Ok, if thats what makes you happy.” Pinkie said, starting to skip away.

Alex had raised his hand to stop her. “Can I ask you a favour Pinkie?” She nodded with a huge happy grin. “Can you get the rest of the girls to meet us at the library? We need to talk about where Emily will be staying.” Alex said, looking at me. I couldn't care less where I would stay, as long as I didn’t live at worst ponies place, aka Rarity. She would use me as a mannequin and try to make me wear dresses.

“Okie dokie loki!” Pinkie replied, skipping away to get the rest of the girls. See you later skipper! Alex, Twilight, Rainbow, Trixie and doctor Emerald started walking towards Twilight’s tree house, so I walked after them. Some ponies gave me strange looks, and a few smiled and nodded at me along the way but ignored me otherwise.

We walked into the library and waited. I sat on the stairs while the others got into a conversation about who would take me while they waited, I didn't join in because I didn't care. Whoever took me I would give them hell, especially if it was rarity. Some of the books looked interesting, I might come here and see what the Daring Do books are actually about.

The door opened to the library a few minutes later. The first pony in was Pinkie Pie, skipping in her usual fashion, Rarity, acting all prim and proper like one of those valley girls came next, she looked at me with disapproval, probably thinking of what kind of clothing she could make me.

Applejack came in after her, followed by a very timid Fluttershy who looked at me and hid inside her mane. I like Fluttershy the most, I don't want her to be scared of me.

“Thank you for joining us, ladies. This our new friend, Emily. She needs a place to stay for awhile, until we can figure out something more permanent.” Alex said gesturing to me, “Does anyone have a spare berth she could use?” He finished looking at them all.

Rarity looked at me with a smug, superior look, “I would simply love to have her live with me. She seems like such a lovely filly, I mean girl. She could share a room with Sweetie Belle, and if she wishes she can be my assistant and earn some bits. Those human fingers are capable of such delicate work. She would be most welcome in my home.” Rarity said. Simply divine blah blah blah FU bitch. Wants me as her frufru dress slave.

Applejack was about to speak, but Rarity cut her off, “Darling, I do have a question. Is she another... aficionado?” I’m not sure what the last word was, but the way Rarity hated it, I sure hoped I was.

Alex looked a little embarrassed, “I think so. Um, Emily? This will sound like a silly question, but, were you a fan of My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic?”

I rolled my eyes, “Well no shit, sherlock.”

Rarity mumbled, “Humans and that stupid show.”

Applejack cleared her throat, “As I was about to say, Rarity. Sugar cube, Y’all can come on down on the farm. Not as fancy as Rare’s place, but if ya like home cookin’ and don’t mind getting a little dirty, y’all are welcome to stay..” Applejack said, rubbing her hooves together. She want’s to use me to do chores, free labour.

Pinkie pushed the others out of the way and got right in my face. Her breath smelled like cotton candy. I hate cotton candy. “Oh oh oh! Me me me! I would love to take her! We could bake and have a party and sleep in a bunk. I’d have to ask Mr and Mrs Cake, but I can say ‘You owe Alex a favour.’ and they would say, ‘You’re right Pinkie, we do. Bring that dangerous human in our home with our two children’, and I would say, ‘dangerous? No, Emily is sweet and kind, and nice.’ and they would say, ‘Well, if you say so, Pinkie’. And then we-”

Alex placed a hand on her shoulder, “Pinkie, sweetie. What did I tell you about personal space? How important it is for humans, at least until they get to know you?”

She dropped to her hooves, and gave me an embarrassed smile, “I’m sorry Emily. I guess I just get excited at meeting a new friend.” She suddenly lunged at me and gave me a warm hug. “I’m sooo happy you’re here.” I was so surprised I didn’t do anything for a sec, then just before I could shove her away, she let me go and gave me the sweetest smile. It was sickening. She is almost as crazy as a baby on a sugar rush...only she never drops.

Rainbow Dash, was sprawled on a pillow, “What about us, you big lug? Scoots could sleep in our bed and Emily could take her room.”

Alex thought for a moment then smirked, “I don’t think she would mind.”

The softest voice I think I’ve ever heard could only belong to Fluttershy. “I-I could take her. She can take my bed and I can sleep on the couch. I really don’t mind. If that’s alright.” Fluttershy meeped and went deeper into her mane. I felt a little sad that Fluttershy is scared of me, but I did nothing, I just didn't look at anyone. Alex smiled and went over to Fluttershy.

“Hold up, guys. Sorry I’m late, boss. Hello. New human? New changeling?” Woah. Is that Trixie? A bad guy? Here? This was the last character I expected to see. “Oh, and boss? The stalker is on the roof, should I get her down before she hurts herself? So, other than that, what’s going on?”

“New friend, Bea, she’s human and was a fan. She’s kind of stuck here and needs a place to crash. Oh, allow me to introduce you properly. Emily, this is Beatrix Lulamoon, but you may know her as...”

‘Bea’ stood on her hind legs, and an impressive fanfare and tiny fireworks display, and she called out, “The Great and Powerful Trixie!” Everyone in the room clapped and laughed and cheered at their friend. Everyone except me.

“But, Trixie’s a bad guy! How can you guys just, just hang out with her?”

Alex sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. “Emily, the biggest, worst, and hardest lesson I learned here is that the show is wrong. It’s like... a reality show where they cherry pick only the funny stuff from an event and package it into a story. First season is fairly accurate, second season, less so. I watched some bits of third season and it’s just wrong. Even the accurate stuff is taken out of context, or out of order. They give you a small idea, but... look, just ask me, or any of the Elements or Bea before making any assumptions. You can trust them all.”

I was about to say something before the roof exploded and a mint green pony dropped down from the hole with a pained expression.

““Look at this, the pony that the Bronies have called the human fan, who will do anything to study humans and will do anything to get hands, hello Lyra.” I said, then looked at Alex, “I am guessing she has been studying you, taking notes, somehow gotten a blood sample, looked at your hands for longer than a minute and followed you more than once before?”

“I’m not that bad. I’m not some crazy pony doing things without thinking, all observations and research has to fall within the Equestrian Code of Research Ethics.”

“I think you have special permission.” I deadpanned.

“Only the princesses and upper levels of the Royal Guard can issue those kind of exceptions, I might have attended Princess Celestia’s School but that doesn’t mean she’d just give me permission like that.” Lyra looked uncomfortable, like she was trying to hide the truth without actually lying.

I decided to screw with her because it would be funny, being able to screw with a human crazy pony, “Actually I am not called a human female, I am called a time lord, all females on earth are called that, and we have more power than the males, who are just normal, we have special powers and stuff.” I said, smiling. God I love Doctor Who...

“So humans do have multiple races. I knew that humans wouldn’t classify race just based off skin coloration, that’s just silly! Ha, trying to hide vital lines of research from me. Which race is Alex?”

“Boring normal male.” I said, keeping a straight face.

“So... like an Earth pony without the physical endurance and fortitude? Interesting.” Lyra scribbled away in her notepad. God she is gullible as shit. To my surprise, Alex snickered and the others all kept neutral expressions.

“Actually they do have something close to earth ponies, they make the best farmers.” I said, smiling a little.

“Oh, so that’s why he hides the whole race thing, he’s really bad at making plants grow. I’ve known pegasi who could take better care of that flower vase on his dining room table. I think Rainbow takes care of it, it certainly looks neglected.” Dash quickly glared at Lyra, but didn't comment otherwise.

“Knowing about something in his house just proves my point that you are stalking him.” I said triumphantly.

“He has had me over for dinner you know.”  Lyra said.

“How exactly would I know that?” I asked annoyed.

“Are all females as aggressive as you?” Lyra sounded annoyed herself.

“You want to start something?” I asked, standing up.

“You mean a fight? Why would you fight someone just because you don’t agree with them? I don’t think I’ll ever understand humans.” Lyra said, shaking her head.

“You never will, because you have to be one to understand anything.” I said, “And why were you on the roof?” I asked.

“It’s a nice day, I’m enjoying the weather.”

“On a roof...that just so happens to have two humans in it?” I asked, unamused.

“Ok, that’s enough. Emily, stop teasing Lyra. Lyra, stop following in secret. You know you just have to ask. And, Lyra was truthful about some of that. I do, in fact, have a black thumb. Now, You can meet her properly at our next weekly meeting, alright? I know you’re excited, but you know how aggressive we humans can be.” I realized then I had to choose who to live with, and I decided the best option for me.

“I'll live with you I guess Alex.” I said, shrugging.

Alex clapped his hands. “Great! School should be out soon, and I want to let Scoots know what is going on.” Alex and I walked out of the tree and towards the school, where cheerilee greeted us. The CMC ran up to him and acted all cute and surprised at me.

“Woah, another human!” Scoots said excitedly

A squeaky annoying prissy voice rang out above the others.  “Please, we don’t need another super tall freak in this town” Diamond tiara said haughtily.

“Hay, she isn't weird!” Sweetie belle said.

“I Don't like you either Diamond. You rich brat.” I said, sticking my tongue out at her.

“Well, I’m going to tell my daddy that another human is messing things up.” Diamond threatened. That rich bitch.

“I’m good friends with your father, Diamond. Don’t forget.” Alex said.

“Your dad can't do anything to me you pink sissy!” I yelled. “Pink is an ugly color and that crown doesn't suit you.” I said, taking the crown off her head and looking at it, before putting it on Sweetie belle’s head.

“Oh, that’s enough.” Alex glared at me and handed the tiara back to Diamond Tiara.  "I'm very sorry, Diamand. Let your father know I’ll talk about this at our next business meeting, alright?”

She glared at me in the way only an angry child could, and I smiled back unfazed by the bitch. I’m surprised Alex can actually be nice to her, most people hate this pink spoiled brat. He sighed, then gave me this sad little smile. It was so infuriating.

“Emily, rule number one. These are people, not cartoons. Don’t forget that. If you want to be treated with respect, you-”

“I can see that, and I see a lot of one type of person in her.” I said, pointing at diamond.

Alex kept that calm ‘daddy’ face that just pissed me off, “Please, don’t interrupt. These people aren’t as... intense as us humans. We-”

“Us humans, you say it like we are a gang! Yo!” I said, doing a gang sign .

“We’re a gang of two. That’s it. As I was saying, we humans fight or run. They freeze or run. They’re just... nicer, than us. Even people like Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara.”

“I don't run, even if I am scared, the last time I tried to run, I almost died, I learned never to turn my back on someone and never to trust anyone, so I never run, I always fight, no matter what.” I said looking him in the eye, daring him to ask what I mean.

Alex’s expression became hard. “Easy way to get killed. I’ve seen far more skilled and experienced soldiers and warriors think the same way. They rarely lived long.” He closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and gave me that stupid ‘daddy’ look again. “You have to learn to pick your fights, and running from ones you can’t win is a way to do it.”

“I have been jumped, stabbed, and a whole lot of other stuff, I am used to being alone, and I have a score to settle with someone that took my father away.” I replied, not in the least bit impressed with all the shit he said.

He smiled. He actually smiled this sad little smile like he was feeling sorry for me. “So, how will you do this without friends?”

“I have no friends, my friend is the person who stabbed me and left me to bleed to death, She also somehow was able to spay me with a knife.” I said.

“Well, I guess you’re lucky. Now, you’re surrounded by people who want to be your friend, no strings attached.”

“Don’t talk me me like I’m a little kid, I have lived half my life on my own and lived through a whole lot of bad stuff that has happened, what I want to do is go back to earth for my revenge on the person who took my dad away.” I said angrily.

“Alright, let’s do this your way. What would you like me to provide? What can me and my family do for you? You’re welcome in my house.” Alex said, making me angrier.

“You said you would bring me back to earth, bring me back, thats what you can do, and did you notice fillies and colts are staring at us?” I asked, looking at the classroom.

Cheerilee looked uncomfortable at my attention to her.

Alex turned to her, apologizing. “Sorry Cherielee. Human teenagers can be... difficult.”

“Adults can be difficult...” I muttered.

“Ok kids, tell you what,” he reached into his pocket and pulled out a small roll of tickets, “Here are some tickets to the practise this afternoon. Tell Miss Beatrix the boss says you guys can get popcorn and drinks, on me. Off you go.” The colts and fillies thanked him. They were so polite it made me want to puke.

Once they were all out of sight, he addressed me and Scootaloo in the pleasant, controlled, daddy voice. “Alright, Scootaloo, I am pleased to introduce Emily.” The worst part is, he sounded like he meant it. “Emily, this is my daughter, the coolest filly in Ponyville, Scootaloo.”

“Sup.” I muttered.

“Hi, Emily! Are you from the same place as my dad is? Do you have scars like he does? Do you have a cool magic knife he never lets me play with or take to Cutie Mark Crusaders meetings? Do you...”, she looked around and whispered, “eat meat?”

“I don’t think I’m from the same place as him, but I do have a few scars, they are cool., I have a few knives, but not a magic one.” I said, smiling, magical knife and scars, this guy is fun...Guess I should answer one more question.

“No I don't eat meat I’m a vegan.” I said smiling at her confused expression.

“Vegan?" Scoots asked "What's a vegan?" is that like a tribe, like we have pegasus, unicorns and earth ponies?"

“No, a vegan is a person who doesn't eat meat or animal products, just fruits and vegetables. Can we go to your house now or something? I would rather not be in the school where the teacher does nothing to help the kids.” I said walking out of the school without waiting for an answer.

“Sure.” Alex said, walking in front of me and leading me to his house.