Entries from the Diary of Amber Song

by meerkat8472

Rating: everyone
Tags: Slice of Life, Sweetie Belle, Main 6, Original Character, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Spike
Length: 27282

Entries from the diary of Equestrias first artificial pony.

Amber Song is no ordinary earth pony. Why? Well, because she is actually a robot. A robot with artificial intelligence, complete with (somewhat limited) emotions. These are entries from her diary. A document she kept to detail her struggles with understanding emotions, both her own and those of other ponies. It is her hope that this diary will show her progress in her quest to be more like organic ponies.

Cover art by SnowFlight96 http://snowflight96.deviantart.com/

Published 2013-03-31 13:40:01 UTC
Last updated 2014-01-28 11:08:03 UTC

Alone

February 5th 1005

Today was, horrible, just horrible, although I suppose it did end okay. I learned a couple of new emotions today, namely sadness and fear. It started this morning, when my mother and father agreed that I should try to go out on my own. Only for a short time though, just to pick up some apples from the marketplace. They encouraged me to talk to other ponies if the opportunity presented itself, but not to go out of my way to talk to everypony I see.

I was pleased with this idea, it meant that my mother and father trusted me to behave in a proper manner. I have been active for over two years now, however I had only come outside for the first time 15 days ago. This show of trust, after a relatively short period of time interacting with public, gave me more confidence in myself.

Over the last 15 days I have observed a lot of pony behavior, however few ponies have spoken to me or even asked about me. There is that mare at the diner that I've been to many times now, and one or two others, but that is all. My father said that ponies can sometimes be reluctant to talk to new ponies, especially if that new pony is somewhat different. I hoped being on my own might make me more approachable and I could meet some new ponies.

I had walked from my home and just turned onto Mane Street when I noticed some ponies looking at me with uncertain, or perhaps fearful expressions. Some of these ponies started quietly talking to each other. Having more sensitive hearing than organic ponies I was able to hear them quite easily, although they probably did not think I could. I heard things like:

“Who is that white mare?”

“Look at her eyes, so golden, they look so strange.”

“Which mare, the one with the black mane?”

“Yes, Oh, and look! She has no cutie mark, what sort of mare doesn't a cutie mark yet?”

“I think I've seen her hanging 'round with Doc Song”

“Julienne's husband? how strange, where did she come from?”

At this point I was starting to feel a bit anxious, it felt like I had drawn everypony's attention. I was thinking that maybe this was not such a good idea after all. I was about to turn around to return home when suddenly a young stallion approached me.

“Hey, who are you?” His tone sounded demanding.

“My name is Amber Song, it is a pleasure to meet you.” I was not actually feeling any pleasure at that time, but my father taught that to me as a standard greeting. “What is your name?”

Instead of answering my question, he asked another question of his own. “Song eh? So you must be related to Dr. Song then?”

I did not like his somewhat unpleasant tone, but decided to answer him anyway. “Yes, I am his daughter.”

“What?! That's impossible, no way could he have a daughter as old as you are.”

At this time a small crowd had gathered around us, I was feeling quite nervous. I realized I was shaking a little. I could not really focus on that at the time, however I later realized that this was my adrenaline simulation program operating. This program is designed to give me the 'fight or flight' reflex, as well as allow me to act more naturally under emotionally stressful conditions. This program also had the effect of making me stutter some of my words.

“O-oh, well, y-you see, I am only technically two years old.”

The stallion scoffed “Ha! Pull the other one.” he said obviously not believing me.

“Th-that is b-because I-I am an ar-artificial lifeform. I-I may look adult, but I have always l-looked like this.”

“You're a what now?” the stallion asked, a few murmurs from the crowd suggesting they wanted to know the answer to that as well.

“A-a m-machine, a r-robot if you prefer.” I said with a smile that probably was interpreted as nervous.

“A robot? Why on earth would the Doc make a robot? A robot daughter at that?”

Before I could answer that, a filly near the front of the crowd spoke up. “Maybe he's trying to replace somepony he lost?”

Somepony near the back called out. “Maybe he wants somepony to do everything for him, like a slave?”

Then there was a rush of voices.

“A slave, that's horrible.”

“Maybe he's trying to make a whole bunch of these things as a cheap labor force?”

“My stars! He could replace anypony with a copy. Anypony could be a machine!”

“We don't need no stinkin' machines on our farms.”

“Yeah, what's he thinking?”

I backed away from the crowd that was slowing advancing toward me. I bumped into the front wall of the building I had been in front of. I was surrounded by a crowd of at least thirty ponies by this time, forming a semicircle around me. I was shaking terribly as I sat down with my back against the wall. I felt like I wanted to be anywhere but there, but there was no escape route. All the voices and shouting had blurred together, I could no longer understand them. I realized then, that I was afraid, I honestly thought these ponies were going to hurt me.

It is true that as a machine I can handle much greater stresses than an organic pony, but I am not indestructible, if they wanted to hurt me, they could manage it eventually. Somepony threw a paper cup full of coffee at me, on impact it splashed hot coffee all over me, but it did no damage to my synthetic skin. Somepony else threw a carrot at me, and somepony else a rock. I felt terrified, but also rejected, like nopony wanted me. I felt like crying for the first time in my life, but I do not have the capacity to cry. So I just curled myself into a ball against that wall and waited for it all to end. I had never felt so alone, so hated.

Then I heard a thump in front of me and a collective gasp from the crowd, followed by a sudden silence. I lifted my head a little to see what happened. In front of me was a purple alicorn mare, her wings spread, facing the crowd in what seemed to be an aggressive stance.

“WHAT IS GOING ON HERE!” Her voice boomed out at an amazing volume, obviously magically amplified.

Almost everypony in the crowd had dropped into a bow, a mare at the front looked up from her lowered position and timidly spoke.

“P-Princess T-Twilight, th-that p-pony isn't a p-pony, it's some kind of m-machine. It d-doesn't even h-have a c-cutie m-mark”

“I KNOW THIS!” Princess Twilight boomed, causing the crowd to collectively flinch. She decided then to deactivate her amplification spell, but still spoke loudly and with anger in her voice as she continued. “But why are you attacking her? Is this really the way you want to go about solving your problems?” The tone of voice carried an edge of disappointment toward the end.

The stallion who first approached me spoke up next. “Princess, you knew of this? Why have you not acted? She could be a danger to everypony!”

“What?” The Princess sounded surprised. “Why would you all think Amber is a danger to you?”

“S-she could replace us.” one pony yelled out

“Take away our jobs.” Came another.

“She's not a real pony, she could turn against us and kill us all!” A young colt near the front shouted.

“Okay, hold it there everypony!” The Princess demanded. “Amber is not a threat to anypony.” She looked in the direction where the first comment came from. ”she is not going to replace anypony, Amber can't change her appearance.” She looked to her right where the second comment came from. “There is only one of her, she can only work one job, and there are no plans to build more like her either.” She then looked to the young colt at the front. “And I think you've been reading too many comic books.” The colt gave a sheepish smile.

“Can you really be sure of all that Princess?” A mare called out.

“Yes, I can.” She replied “Long ago Dr. Song came to me with the idea of creating an artificial lifeform. At first I wasn't sure about the idea, yes it was exciting scientifically speaking, but like you, I wondered if it was safe. He then went on to explain that he was trying to create a daughter for himself and his wife, and that there would be many safeguards built into her. After much consideration, and examining of the safeguards he proposed, I decided to give the project the go ahead. One such safeguard is that she can never harm another pony, except in defense of another pony. I think you've all proven that that safeguard works, she has enough strength that she could have barged right through you all and escaped, but she didn't. She stayed and faced your unprovoked attack.”

A murmur of disagreement rumbled through the crowd at that last statement. The Princess turned and walked up next to me and turned back to the crowd. “Look and her, she has feelings you know, you've terrified the poor girl out of her mind.” I had returned to a sitting position by this point, but I was still shaking terribly and I could not bring myself to lift my head to face the crowd. Princess Twilight put a wing over me protectively, my shaking increased at first, but slowed when she pulled me against her side. “I'm so sorry Amber.” She said to me but she said it loud enough for the crowd to hear. “I didn't think the town would react this way to you, I thought they had learned from the incident with Zecora.” I admit I do not know who Zecora is, but several ponies in the crowd groaned and whined at the mention of that name.

Princess Twilight Sparkle then turned to the crowd and announced loudly “Let it be known by all, that from this day forth, this pony is under my personal protection. If anypony hurts her, they'll have to answer to me.” Nopony in the crowd said anything at that, so she continued. “I'm very disappointed in all of you, I advise you get to know Amber before judging her, now disperse all of you!” she waved her free wing in a sweeping gesture to emphasize her command. Everypony left the area in a great rush. Then it was quiet, just me and the Princess, alone in a mostly empty street with her wing still around me.

Princess Twilight sighed heavily and hung her head low next to mine. “I'm so sorry Amber, I don't know what came over them, this isn't how I envisaged your introduction to Ponyville going at all.”

“A-actually, I have b-been out several t-times in the last t-two weeks or so. Th-this was just my first t-time out a-alone. I-I was j-just going to b-buy some apples and go h-home.” The anxiousness I was feeling before was only made worse because now I was talking to a Princess. Not just any Princess, but Princess Twilight Sparkle, Element of Magic, saviour of Equestria many times over, and the pony who authorized my creation. Not to mention she just saved me, I was quite in awe of this amazing pony.

“Oh, I see.” She replied. “Their behavior was still unacceptable, I can't believe they treated you like that.”

“Th-they were just a-afraid of something d-different, I-I do not really b-blame them.” I said.

“Oh Amber, you're such a kind pony, just like your father hoped you'd be.” She said while squeezing me a bit tighter in her wing hug.

“N-not really, I-I just try to u-understand o-other ponies.” I said, somewhat embarrassed at being complemented by a Princess.

Then I saw the mare from the diner running toward us shouting “Amber, Amber, are you okay sweetheart?” She came to a skidding halt in front of us, she saw the Princess and dropped into a bow. “P-p-princess T-Twilight.” She stammered.

“It's okay miss, you don't have to bow to me, do you know Amber?” The Princess asked while coaxing her to stand.

“Y-yes Princess, she did me a great kindness only a short time ago.” She said.

“Oh really?” Said the Princess as she looked toward me.

“I-it is a c-confidential m-matter.” I said to her.

“Y-yes.” Said the mare from the diner. “But let's just say if it weren't for Amber here, I'd be going out of business right now.”

Princess Twilight turned to face me and smiled. “See, you are a kind pony Amber.” She said as she rubbed her wing up and down my back. I must admit all of this attention from the Princess was calming me down a bit.

“T-thank you Princess.” I said with a nervous smile. I may have been calmer, but I was still shaking a bit.

The mare from the diner noticed my shaking. “Goodness, sweetheart, you're shaking.” She put a foreleg around my neck just above the Princess' wing. “Come with me to the diner, I'll treat you to a milkshake.”

Remembering her financial troubles I quickly said. “No, no, I-I could not a-ask you to do that.”

She was about to say something when the Princess spoke up. “Here.” She said, taking her wing from my back while at the same time levitating some bits from her saddlebags. “Have it on me, it's the least I can do for you Amber.” She gave me an apologetic look, she must think she has some responsibility for what happened.

“Th-thank you.” I said putting the bits into my saddlebags. “But y-you have nothing to be sorry for P-Princess, it was not your f-fault. You could not have p-prevented this or f-foreseen it.

Princess Twilight smiled “Thank you Amber, go enjoy a milkshake and try to relax.”

I was then escorted to the diner by the mare who owns it. She gave me a strawberry milkshake, which I paid for with the Princess' money. I was just about finished when an orange coated mare with a blonde mane and tail and wearing a stetson came into the diner. She looked around until she saw me. She smiled and approached my table.

“Howdy, name's Applejack, I reckon you must be Amber.”

I had heard of this mare, Applejack the Element of Honesty. “That is correct, I am Amber Song, It is a pleasure to meet you Miss Applejack.” I really meant it this time as Applejack seemed really friendly.

“Aw, shucks, no need to go being all formal like, just call me Applejack.”

“Okay.” I said with a smile. She smiled back.

“Well sugarcube, I just came by cause Twilight said you were looking to buy some apples, 'fore you had a little trouble with the townsfolk.” She said, shaking her head a bit. “Twi said ya might be here, so I brung ya a bag of apples, will this be enough?” She said then grabbed a bag of about ten apples from her saddlebags.

“Oh, that should be plenty.” I said “What do I owe you?”

“Aw, shoot, don'tcha worry 'bout that sugarcube, you been through a lot today, they're on me.”

At this point I felt a slight warm feeling inside me at this gesture of kindness. It did not really cancel out the feeling that I was not wanted in this town, but it helped a bit. “Thank you Applejack.” I then gave her an even bigger smile.

“You're welcome sugarcube, well, I gotta get back to my apple stand, catch ya round Amber.” She said as she headed for the door.

“Goodbye Applejack, and thank you again.” I called after her, she smiled at me as she walked out the door.

I returned home after I had finished my milkshake. I came in the door and my mother and father came over to me right away eager to hear how it went. “It did not go well.” I told them.

“Oh no.” My mother said and immediately came over to hug me tightly. “Tell us what happened.”

I related the story to them, the confrontation, the attack, being saved by Princess Twilight, all of it. At some point during the story my mother started sobbing into my mane. My father just looked sad and a bit angry, though he seemed to calm down when I got the part with the Princess.

“...And so in the end I got the apples, but I do not think many ponies in this town want me here.” I said while looking down at the floor.

“I'm so sorry Amber, we shouldn't have let you go out alone.” My mother said, slightly muffled by my mane.

“It is not your fault mother, it likely would have happened eventually anyway.” I said while rubbing my hoof up and down her back. My father came over and hugged both of us at once and we just stayed there holding each other for a while.

We spent the rest of the day indoors, just doing things together. I helped my mother bake a cake. I helped my father reorganize his workshop, after he had given me a thorough inspection for any damage that may have been caused by the attack, there was none. I then came to my room to write this diary entry. I think I will ask my parents if I can sleep in their room tonight. I know that seems a bit foalish but with all the rejection I faced today, I do not feel like being alone. I hope tomorrow will be a better day.

Surfacing

February 6 1005

Today I awoke in my parents room. Of course I did not sleep in their bed with them, I slept on a folding bed we have for guests. I set it up at the foot of their bed, that way I knew they were close at hoof if I felt lonely. It is rare for my sleep cycle to be interrupted by bad dreams, but it can happen, last night I expected it to. However I do not think I had any dreams last night, either that or a have forgotten them. I tend to forget my dreams rather quickly, I do not know why.

I was not very enthusiastic about getting out of bed, however I had to eat. I walked into the kitchen finding my mother reading a book at the table, it would appear she had been waiting for me. She notices me enter the room and immediately rushes over to me to give me a hug. I was feeling rather empty, but it felt good to have a hug. She asked me if I wanted any breakfast, I said yes and made my way to my usual seat at the table. I asked mother where father was, she informed me that he had left earlier to organize something.

She served me two pieces of wholemeal toast with scrambled eggs and a glass of milk. She sat next to me at the table in silence, just watching me eat. It felt nice to have her presence there. After I had finished eating, she slowly reached a hoof out. Touching me on the shoulder, with a slightly hopeful expression, she carefully asked.

“Are you feeling any better today honey?”

“No mother, I still feel like I will never be accepted in the community. I'll just have to make sure I always go outside with father, maybe then ponies will leave me alone.” I said as I lowered my head.

“Oh honey.” She said as she plled me into another hug. “I know how you're feeling right now, you're in a terrible place, but I'm here for you, don't ever forget that.”

One part of her statement surprised me. “You know how I feel? how?”

“Oh well, you see honey, before you were born, we discovered I couldn't bear foals.” I already knew this, but I assumed she would add more to this. Also it is worth noting, my mother refers to my activation as my birth. She says it is because she thinks of me as being just as real as any other pony, so I should have a birthday.

“Yes mother, I remember you telling me this before.” I said, looking at her expectantly.

“Yes, but what you don't know is how it affected me.” She lowered her head and spoke more softly. “I thought I was worthless, I thought I had failed your father, failed my family. I know it sounds a bit silly, but family, and it's continuation, are very important to the Carrots family. I cried for hours after the doctor told me, I didn't leave the house for days. I honestly thought my life may as well be over.”

“About a week later, my parents came to visit, because they hadn't heard from me in that time and nor had anypony else. I didn't really want to see them, because that meant I had to tell them. They came into my room, where I had been lying in bed most of the week, they could immediately tell something was wrong. They asked me what was wrong, I was a nervous wreck by this point, I just broke down crying and told them. Before they could react, I realized what I had just said and panicked. I started apologizing like crazy and begging them not to hate me or disown me.” My mother then chuckled lightly. “Well, let's just say, I've never been hugged more tightly by two ponies in my life before or since. They told me they loved me, no matter what, and that they were proud of me.”

“You see, at that time I had already moved away from the farm to live with your father. I knew my brothers would be better at running the farm than I would, when it came time for my parents to retire that is. So, yeah, they said they were proud of me for making my own path in life. They wouldn't leave until they were sure I understood that whether or not I had foals did not change their opinion of me at all, that they would always love me with all their hearts. I felt so relieved after that, but I still felt like a bit of a failure, and continued to for some time, but I got past it eventually. Of course your father helped a lot with that by suggesting he could make us a daughter, make you.”

She then looked me right in the eyes. “So you see, I know what it's like to feel like life is hopeless, and I promise you I will always be here for you, so will your father. You will never be alone, we will help you though this.” She then gripped me a tight hug. “I know it seems hopeless now honey, but you will get through this, okay?”

I had no idea my mother had felt so terrible in the past. From her description she did indeed feel much like I do now, though she probably felt worse than I do. My mother is a pony who seems very content with her life, if she can recover from such an emotional condition, then there is a chance I could too. “Okay mother.” I said quietly. “But what should I do?”

“Well honey, I think you should try to get to know a few ponies at a time, on their own. Eventually you should befriend enough ponies that they will defend your character from the rest.” She suggested.

“That plan is acceptable but it has a flaw mother, who do I start with?” I asked

“Well, you already seem to have a friend in that mare at the diner you told me about, that's a start. Besides I think your father may be working on something to help you with that.” She said with a smile that looked mischievous.

It seemed to me that mother and father were both trying hard to help me. It was clear they had hope, so I should have hope too. “Okay mother, I will try to socialize with ponies in small isolated groups. That just might work.” I gave her a small smile. I felt a little better, like a weight had been lifted from me. My mother and I just hugged each other for a few minutes.

That was when my father walked into the house along with another pony. I was surprised to see that the other pony was Princess Twilight Sparkle. My mother and I got over our shock quickly, we both got off of our chairs and immediately bowed before the Princess.

“No no, please don't do that, this is your house, you don't have to do that.” The Princess' tone was almost apologetic and I noticed her blush slightly. My mother and I stood back up.

“Um, yes, and welcome to our house Princess.” My mother said, sounding a bit embarrassed.

“Thank you Mrs. Song, oh no, you still go by Mrs. Carrots, sorry.” The Princess said with a sheepish smile.

“Oh, that's quite alright Princess, you can just me Julienne.” My mother replied waving a hoof dismissively.

The Princess chuckled lightly. “Okay Julienne, and you can just call me Twilight.” She said. “You all can.” She said looking to me and my father.

“Oh, um, thank you Prin-er, Twilight.” My mother replied chuckling in a nervous manner.

“Well, I actually came to speak to Amber if that's okay.” The princess said looking to my father and mother.

“Of course P- Twilight, we'll leave you two alone, can I get you anything?” My mother said as she moved toward the kitchen bench that has our kettle on it. “Tea, coffee, or I could offer you a glass of carrot juice if you'd prefer.”

“That's okay Julienne, I'm fine.” The Princess then turned her attention to me. “Amber, after that trouble you had yesterday, you seemed rather down. Who could blame you really, and I can't help but feel a little responsible for that. Anyway, I mentioned all this to my friend Pinkie Pie, and she and the rest of my friends want to throw you a 'cheer up' party. It would just be a small get together really, just me and my close friends. You've already met Applejack, and I could introduce you to the others. So, what do you think Amber?” She gave me a hopeful smile.

Well this seemed to fit the parameters of my mothers idea, so I should take this opportunity. “I would love to Princess, when were you thinking of having this party?”

The Princess' smile got bigger as she replied. “Oh, later today around 2 o'clock, I can introduce you to everyone, then we can play some games or just talk, then we can share a meal together and we'll probably go our separate ways in the early evening, how does that sound?” She was smiling broadly with wide eyes and sounding very excited, by the end of her description she was practically bouncing on her hooves, it was strange to see a Princess acting so, excited.

I smiled at her excitement. “I think that sounds wonderful Princess.” I said.

The Princess sat back and clapped her front hooves together a few times, smiling wide with her eyes closed, “Yes yes yes yes, this is going to be so much fun!” Then she jumped up and headed for the door. “Well, I'll see you around 2 o'clock at the library Amber. I'm going to go see if Pinkie needs any help getting everything ready, bye.” She left before any of us could say anything else.

“Well, that was... Unusual.” My mother said.

“Sure was.” Said my father.

“Is that what you went out for father, to ask the Princess to throw me a party?” I asked my father

“Not exactly. After yesterday when you told us the Princess had saved you, I went to ask her what her opinion was. She suggested you may need to get to know a small group of ponies first. Pinkie happened to be in the library at the time, she suggested throwing a party for just you and their friends, so they could become your friends too. I think that's how she explained it, she was talking very fast. Anyway, the idea was formed from there.” he said smiling at me. “And I'm glad you decided to go honey.”

“I just finished telling mother that I would attempt to socialize with ponies in small isolated groups, which seems to be exactly what the Princess invited me to do. So, it seemed appropriate.” I told him.

There was still quite some time until the party, my mother suggested I take a bath and do a little grooming to look my best for the party. I agreed, after all, I'm meeting most of them for the first time, and I am told that appearance is an important part of a first impression. After I had dried myself off, mother helped me brush my coat, mane and tail. She seemed particularly happy while doing this. I asked her about it and she told me that helping me prepare for my first party felt like a mother-daughter bonding experience. I must admit it felt very comfortable having a pony I trust brushing me. By the time we were done my coat was practically shining and my mane and tail were flowing nicely, I was certainly looking my best.

My father and I left for the party slightly earlier than was usually necessary. This was because I had planned an alternate route to the library that meant we would encounter as few ponies as possible. We arrived at the library and my father knocked on the door. It seemed strange to knock on the door of a public building, however it is also the residence of a Princess, so I suppose courtesy dictates we should not just walk in. Princess Twilight Sparkle quickly answered the door.

“Amber, you're here, oh and you too Dr. Song, did you come for the party as well?”

“No no, I was just excorting my daughter here, you know, for safety.” My father replied.

“Oh, yeah, of course.” the princess said, sounding rather sad, but she seemed to perk up again almost immediately as she added. “Well, thank you for bringing her, I know we're going to have lots of fun. You can pick her up around 9 o'clock if you wish to escort her home again.”

“Yes, I think I will, see you then Princess, and thanks for doing this for Amber, it means a lot to me.” My father said as he turned to leave.

The Princess chuckled lightly. “You're quite welcome, and you can call me Twilight.” She called after him.

The Princess moved aside to let me enter the library. “Well come in Amber, everypony is already here and waiting to meet you.” She said with a smile. I walked in and looked around the room. There were a lot of streamers and balloons and confetti spread around the room, seemingly at random. I saw five other mares and a strange bipedal lifeform I didn't recognize mingling in the middle of the room. One of the mares I recognised as Applejack, the others I did not know. I noticed music playing quietly from a gramophone rear the back of the room. The Princess then walked up next to me.

“Come on and meet the gang.” She said, gesturing toward the others with her wing. I walked next to her as we approached the others. The Princes then introduces us to each other. “Girls, I'd like you all to meet Amber Song.” She gestured to me with her wing, then pointing to the others in turn. “I believe you've already met Applejack. Owner and operator of Sweet Apple Acres.”

“Howdy.”

“This is Rarity.” She pointed to a very well presented white unicorn. “She runs the Carousel Boutique.”

“Pleasure to meet you darling.”

“This is Pinkie Pie.” She pointed to a pink earth pony. “She works at Sugarcube Corner.”

“Hiya”

“This is Rainbow Dash.” She pointed to a blue pegasus with a rainbow colored mane and tail. “She is a member of the Wonderbolts.”

“Sup”

“This is Fluttershy.” She pointed to a yellow pegasus who seemed very timid. “She takes care of the wildlife around Ponyville.”

“H-hello.” Fluttershy said while trying to hide behind her own mane.

“And last but not least, is Spike.” She pointed to the strange bipedal lifeform. “My number one assistant.”

“Hi there.” said Spike, while waving one of his arms.

“Hello everypony.” I said with a smile. Then I turned to Spike. “Excuse me, Spike, I am curious, what type of lifeform are you?”

“Oh, I'm a dragon.” he replied.

I was surprised by this response. “Really? From what I have read, dragons are usually quite a lot larger than you are.”

“Well, I'm still just a baby dragon, Although I'm a teenager in pony years.” he says, looking down at the ground, seemingly embarrassed.

“Yes, but he's still my brave little Spikey-wikey.” Rarity said as she came over to join in on the conversation. She then rubbed her hoof over the top of his head while making a strage high pitched sound.

“Stop it Rarity.” Spike said while chuckling a little. “You're embarrassing me.” Rarity just chuckled and gave Spike a hug.

“You know I'm only teasing darling.” They both laughed some more while spike returned her hug.

“So Amber, you're a robot huh?” Rainbow Dash asked while hovering next to me.

“Rainbow!” The Princess cried out. “Don't be so insensitive.”

“What? I was just asking a question, geez.” Said Rainbow Dash

“It is alright Princess.” I replied. “I do not mind. Yes Rainbow Dash, I am a machine, a robot if you prefer.”

Suddenly Pinkie Pie appeared in front of me. “Ooooh, what's it like being a robot are you super strong? Can you shoot lasers from your eyes? Can you transform into into a car or a truck or a plane? Ooooh, do you have like mechanical wings and jet engines hidden in there somewhere? That would be so cool. What do robots eat? Do robots eat metal? Can I make you a gold cupcake, or a steel muffin? *GASP* what about a platinum pie, a platinum pie would be soooo cool- Mph.” She was cut off by Applejack shoving a hoof into her mouth.

“Just ignore her sugarcube, she tends to run at the mouth sometimes.”

Pinkie spat out Applejacks hoof. “Hey! I want to know what robots eat?” Pinkie inquired, glaring at Applejack for a moment, then she turns back to me smiling as happily as ever. “So, what do you eat?”

“Well, my digestive system was designed to handle almost all organic matter, so I can eat anything a normal pony can eat, and many things a pony can't, or at lest shouldn't eat.” I replied

“So, no platinum pie then?” Pinkie Pie asked

“No metal of any kind.” I replied

“Okie dokie lokie. Hey, that means you can enjoy all these delicious treats with us.” Pinkie Pie said excitedly, indicating the table of snacks and drinks set up to one side of the room which I had not noticed before now.

I walked over to the table and examined the items there. There were cupcakes, fritters, tarts, a bowl of potato chips and a bowl of punch. “Yes, all of this is within my capacity to process.”

“Huh?” said Pinkie Pie

“She means she can eat it all.” The Princess told her.

“Oh, good, have a cupcake.” Pinkie said hoofing over a capcake to me.

The frosting was pink in color. I took a bite, it was a vanilla cupcake with strawberry flavored frosting. “This combination of flavors reminds me a little of strawberry milkshakes.” I said.

“Oh, you like strawberry milkshakes?” asked Pinkie pie.

“Yes, I have had them a few times at the diner.” I did name the diner at the time but I can not record it here because of my promise to the mare who owns it.

“Oh yeah, she makes gooood milkshakes.” said Pinkie Pie.

“That reminds me Amber, I did invite her to join us her today. Sadly she couldn't make it because she has to work.” The Princess informed me.

“That is understandable, she has a real passion for that diner.” I said, the Princess nodded.

It was then that Pinkie pie decided to put on some louder, more upbeat music. They all started to dance, I was not sure how to join in this activity, I tried watching for patterns but each of them seemed to have their own pattern. Seeing my confusion Rarity tried to teach me some simple dance steps, I performed the movements as best as I could. Rarity said I did alright but my movements were 'a bit wooden'. I found this statement rather strange, surely she realizes I am made of metal? Rarity suggested we could meet at a later date so she could teach me how to move more naturally, not just in dancing but in walking, sitting, and other everyday motions. I liked this idea, I have noticed that my actions are very sharp and precise, it would be nice to be able to move more smoothly. I have tried in the past, but without exact instruction I found copying the movements exceedingly difficult because nopony ever move the exact same way twice.

Then we played pin the tail on the pony. I had trouble understanding the point of this game, but the other assured me it was fun. After watching Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash have a turn, I stepped up for a turn. I was blindfolded and spun around three times, they then gave me the tail with the pin on it. I heard a collective gasp as I walked up to the poster on the wall and pinned the tail dead on center of the target area.

I took the blindfold off and confirmed I had indeed hit the mark, I turned to face everypony else. “Did I do something wrong, that was the object of the game right?” I asked, confused by their reaction.

“Well, yes darling it is, but how did you get it so accurately even after we spun you around?” Rarity asked.

“Well, I knew where the target was relative to myself before I was blindfolded. I simply tracked the movent of all of my legs to establish my new position after I was spun around. I then determined the position of the target based on that information. I thought that is what you all were doing? I understand you may not be able to track your movement with the same accuracy as I can, but was this not a demonstration of our capabilities?” I said trying to clear up some of the confusion.

“Um, well sort of, I guess, we just do it for fun, to see who can get closest. For us it's almost like a guessing game, because as you said, we aren't that good at locating things without vision. Even if we know where they are first.” The Princess said.

“I see, so the object of the game is to try to locate the target despite having insufficient data?” I asked.

“Hmm, yes, I think that's a good way of putting it.” The Princess said.

“Then can I suggest blindfolding me, then relocating the poster then disorienting me by rotation then face me in the approximate direction of the target. That way I will not know the precise location of the target. That way I would have to guess as much as the rest of you, in theory.” I said.

“Sounds good to me.” The Princess said.

“Wow, looks like Amber's another egghead.” Rainbow said with a chuckle.

“Egghead? I do not understand, my head does not resemble an egg.” I said. Rainbow Dash starts laughing and rolling around on her back.

“No Amber, the term egghead is slang for someone of higher than average intellect.” The Princess informed me.

“Oh I see.” I replied. I walked over to Rainbow Dash, who was just calming down from her laughter. “Thank you Rainbow Dash, that is kind of you to say.” After I said this, Rainbow Dash started laughing again.

“Can you believe this girl, I insult her and she takes it as a compliment.” She said while laughing.

“Insult? I do not understand.” I said. The Princess walked over to me.

“I'm sorry I should have explained, terms like egghead are often used in a derogatory sense, because of the common belief that intelligent ponies have limited social skills. Basically, it means smart but socially awkward.” She explained.

“I see.” I replied, then I had a realization. I sat down where I was, my ears flattened and my head lowered. “Perhaps that is why nopony seems to like me, I do not know how to associate with them properly.” I said quietly. Rainbow Dash stopped laughing and everypony else went quiet. There was silience for a few seconds, then Rainbow Dash spoke up.

“Aw geez, I'm sorry Amber, I didn't mean it like that, well sort of, but I didn't mean to make you sad.” She came over and sat next to me and put a wing around me. “I was just kidding around, you're not that bad really. Hey, you're actually fairly new at being with other ponies aren't you?”

“Yes, I only came out of my house a sixteen days ago.” I replied.

“Hey, well, nopony can expect you to be good at getting on with other ponies with so little experience. We'll all help you get better at it, and if anypony gives you a hard time again, I'll give them what for.” She said finishing her last sentence while stomping the floor once. I turned my head toward Rainbow Dash.

“I am confused, you were just insulting me, now you are offering to defend me?” I asked. She flinched.

“I didn't mean it to be that insulting, I was just playing around, I'm really sorry.” She said with a of regret, at least that is what it sounded like to me.

“You really think I can get along with other ponies.” I asked her

“Of course you can, you just need practice.” Said Rainbow Dash. “Now why don't we get back to pin the tail on the pony.” She gave me a small smile, I gave a small smile in return.

“Okay Rainbow Dash.” I agreed.

Rainbow Dash chuckled. “Just call me Dash, it's easier.” She said.

After blindfolding me and moving the poster so I did not know its exact location, I was spun around three times. I approached to poster, I could feel the presence of the wall as I approached it. I pinned the tail onto the poster and took off the blindfold to see how I did. Many of the other ponies broke into laughter at the sight. I had pinned the tail right on the pony's nose, it literally looked as if it had a tail growing out of its nostrils. My ears flattened and I lowered my head and turned to slowly walk away.

“Hey, hey, it's okay Amber.” Said Applejack as she came over to me and put a foreleg over my shoulders. “We ain't laughin' at ya sugarcube, we just think it looks kinda funny, it's all in good fun.”

I looked at the poster again, even though my understanding of humor is limited, I had to admit it looked rather comical. “It does kinda look funny.” I said smiling a little.

“I thought she did very well, you know, for a first try.” Said a small voice behind me, I turned to see it was Fluttershy. When she saw me looking at her she made a sharp high pitched sound, that sounded like “eep” and hid behind her mane again. I gave her a small, encouraging smile.

“Thank you Fluttershy.” I said to her softly. Her head did not move but her eyes looked up at me and she smiled slightly.

After this the group decided it was time to have a proper meal. We each had a slice of a large apple pie along with some hayfries, then we had icecream for dessert. Spike was even kind enough to make me a strawberry milkshake. The whole meal was delicious, I made sure to thank all those who helped make it. After we were done eating, we played a few card games and board games. I found the evening to be relaxing and enjoyable. My father came to get me at 9 o'clock, as arranged. Before I left Rarity was sure to organise a time to meet so she could teach me about natural movement. Rarity was eager to start so we arranged for tomorrow at 10 am.

I think I made a good impression on the Princess' friends. I enjoyed my time with them and they seem comfortable with me, except perhaps for Fluttershy, but I got the impression that she takes time to bond with new ponies in general, so only time will tell with her. I am looking forward to my lessons with Rarity tomorrow, I hope I can perform to her expectations. More importantly, this evening I feel much better about myself, I feel hopeful that one day I can earn a place in this community. I know I have a long way to go, but it now seems possible, where yesterday it did not.

Author's Note

If anything confuses you about this story, just ask in the comments. There is some backstory to this that I haven't put in any of the chapters yet, so it's a little hard for me to know if this is confusing or not.

The art of the walk

February 7 1005

I got out of bed around 9 o'clock this morning to start getting ready for my day at Rarity's place. After a quick shower and some breakfast, my father and I were ready to go. He accompanied me again, for safety. Even though the Princess had told everypony in town to not hurt me, I still felt afraid. I know it is an irrational fear, it would be difficult for them to actually damage me seriously, but I think it is the feeling of being attacked that I fear. After arriving at Carousel Boutique my father arranged with Rarity to pick me up at half past five, when he finishes work, he then had to leave in a hurry as he was already running late.

Rarity, looking as pristine as she always seems to, turned to me. “Well, come on in darling, I must say I've been looking forward to this.”

“Why is that?” I asked.

“Well darling, how do I put this, I've never had the chance to mold a pony's behavior quite so, extensively before. We really are just about starting from scratch aren't we?”

“Yes, I suppose we are, is that a good thing?”

“Oh, I think so yes. You see, starting from scratch means I can teach you what you need to know without you having to unlearn any bad habits you may have developed otherwise.” Rarity then smiled, she seemed quite excited to be teaching me. “Now darling, why don't you tell me about any previous attempts you have made at walking naturally.”

“Okay, first I tried studying general pony movements but quickly discovered that there were far to many variables. So, next I tried analyzing a single pony's movement patterns. I wanted to collect data from a single subject over a longer period, instead of watching many ponies as they walked past me. I chose my mother as she is the only mare I could observe for long periods, at this time I had only left the house two times you see.” I explained.

“Uh huh, go on, what did you learn?” She asked.

“I learned that although my mother has a aesthetically pleasing way of walking and moving in general, much as you do Rarity, her movements are never identical when observed closely. The movement she uses to, for example, pick up a knife and even her cutting technique, are never quite the same speed or indeed the same movement. There are always slight variances in elbow and wrist movements. This turned out to be true of all her movements, any attempt at copying one of her walking movements precisely usually ended up in me almost losing my balance.”

“Oh dear, didn't you ask your mother for help with this?” Rarity asked.

“No, at the time I did not consider this a matter of much importance, I was just experimenting, of course this was many days before I realized how different I must seem to other ponies. I do not think my mother even realized I was observing her.” I told her.

“I see, well, I think I know where you are going wrong, and this may be more difficult than I thought, but no matter, it will simply take more time.”

“Rarity, on the topic of time, are you sure that you can spare the time to do this with me? Your shop is currently open is it not?”

“Oh yes darling it is, but don't worry I don't have any orders to work on currently, nor do I have any fitting appointments scheduled for tody. If a customer walks in I may have to leave you for a few minutes but I'm sure it won't take long.”

“Okay, I just do not wish to be in the way.” I said.

“Oh nonsense darling, you're not in the way at all, and come to think of it if there is time maybe I can help you with your speech too.” Rarity said with a thoughtful expression.

“My speech?”

“Yes my dear, your speech is so, exact, you have a beautiful voice you'd sound divine if you would speak more, naturally. Don't worry though, even if we can't fit it in today, I'll teach about that some other time okay.” She said smiling at me hopefully.

“Okay, you said earlier that you think you know where I went wrong in trying to walk naturally, can you tell me about it?”

“Of course, you see, the problem you are having is that you're trying to analyze walking in a mathematical kind of way.”

“That is correct, I was trying to derive a series of movements” I explained.

“Yes dear, and that's the problem, walking gracefully isn't a science, it's an art.” She stated firmly.

“I do not understand, how can something so intrinsic to pony life be an art form?”

“It's simple dear, you said yourself that your mothers movents were 'aesthetically pleasing' yes?” Rarity asked.

“Yes, her movements seemed graceful and fluid, watching her work in the kitchen was, comforting.”

“Well, what is art if not a thing that evokes emotion, hmm?” She asked.

“You have a point there, dance is considered an art form, why not movement in general.” I pondered out loud.

“Exactly darling, if done properly of course.” Rarity said. “Now, I guess I have to think of a way to teach you this that you can understand, hmmm. Well, how about instead of walking we start with some simple gestural movements and work our way up?”

“Okay, that sounds logical.”

“Alright, this is a gesture I'm sure you've seen many times.” She moved her hoof up and swept it from left to right and then placed it back down. “It is to indicate everything in the general area, for example.” She turned to the right slightly as if addressing someone else in the room. “I need all of this gone.” She repeated the gesture to her imaginary counterpart. “Do you see darling?”

“Yes, I understand, I am familiar with the gesture.” As I said this I performed the same gesture although not as elegantly as Rarity had.

“No no no darling, you're movement are far to sharp and quick.” her eyes then moved up in a thoughtful expression. “Your movements need to flow more, oh how do I explain this? Um, okay, let me put it this was, none of your joints should change direction too sharply, see how I do it.” She repeated the gesture. “See how I lift my hoof and sweep it around and put it down again in one continuous movement. You shouldn't be able to tell where the lifting becomes the sweeping and the sweeping becomes the putting back down motion. Does that make sense?” She asked with a hopeful expression.

“I see, so the whole action should be performed in one flowing arc.”

“Yes!” She exclaimed “Now you try it.”

I performed a sweeping gesture almost like I was trying to draw a circle in the air, to my surprise it actually looked natural, at least it did to me. “How is this?” I asked as I did it again.

“That's much better darling!” Rarity had a huge smile on her face, apparently it looked natural to her too. “But, it isn't quite a sweeping motion, more of a circle motion.” She added. “Try flattening the arc a bit at the top so it's almost but not quite flat.”

I did as she asked, and it seemed to work. “Is this better?”

“Yes! oh that is fantastic darling!” She seemed to barely be containing her excitement, I smiled at her enthusiasm.

“Now, we just have to get some emotion behind it, put the gesture into context, yes?”

“Okay.” I turned to face the rest of the room. “Everything in this room is beautiful.” I said while performing the gesture again. “How was that?” I looked to Rarity.

“That was fantastic darling, you sounded so sincere too.”

“I was being sincere, I do not believe in lying for any purpose.” I responded.

“Really? You really think my work is beautiful?” She asked with a hopeful smile.

“Yes, I think you do wonderful work Rarity. Of course my knowledge of fashion and aesthetics in general is rather limited.” I replied.

“Be that as it may, thank you for the compliment darling, it's nice to feel appreciated every now and again.”

As the morning went on Rarity and I went through several more gestures. I came to realize that I could develop a more natural movement simply by using an algorithm that limited the rate of change of the angle of my joints. Of course finding the optimal rate of change for every joint and every movement will take some calibration, but it is progress.

We took a break for lunch, Rarity was kind enough to make me a cucumber and carrot sandwich, and some tea to go with it. I was sure to thank her for her generosity. Rarity said that after lunch we will try walking gracefully. With my new approach I hoped it would not take long to perfect, but I imagine it will still take many hours.

At about two o' clock, as we were working on the finer details of walking, the bell above the shop door rang, we were near the back of the main room using a space behind some dress forms as a 'runway', I did not understand the term as it was walking I was practicing, not running. “Coming!” Called Rarity to her new customer. then as she turned to go attend to them said over her shoulder. “Keep practicing that okay, I'll be right back.” I nodded.

I walked up and down the 'runway' a few more times. could hear Rarity talking to her customer, I recognized the voice as Fluttershy. As I became visible at the end of the line of dress forms Rarity called over to me. “Oh Amber darling, come over and say hello to Fluttershy, we can get back to practicing in a few minutes.” I trotted over to the two ponies using my new walking style to the best of my ability.

“Oh Amber, you're walking so wonderfully, you've done so much in one day.” Fluttershy said before I could even greet her, not that I minded, it was nice to see her not being so timid. I smiled at her compliment.

“Thank you Fluttershy, and how are you today?” I asked her.

“Oh, I'm very well thank you. I was just in town picking up some groceries and thought I'd drop in on my friend Rarity.” She said with a smile. “Oh, and to see how you were doing of course.” She quickly added, looking horrified that she forgot to mention me. I smiled to let her know that I was not offended.

“Thank you Fluttershy, that was thoughtful of you, I am doing well. Rarity and I are making significant progress with my walking technique.” I informed her.

“I can see that, you look beautiful walking that way.” Fluttershy said.

“Thank you Fluttershy, I hope one day I can look as beautiful as you and Rarity do while walking.” Both mares blushed slightly at this.

“Oh, um, I-I'm not that b-beautiful, a-and you're already more beautiful than me.” Fluttershy stammered. I looked at her with confusion.

“Why do have such a low opinion of yourself, you're easily one of the prettiest mares in town, from what I have observed.” I told her, she blushed furiously.

“Yes darling, Amber is quite right, you really shouldn't put yourself down like that. There's being humble and then there's putting yourself down. you know.” Rarity said to Fluttershy.

“Oh, um, thank you girls, you're right I guess I-I am... pretty.” Fluttershy said in a voice almost too quiet for even me to hear.

“Yes you are darling, I know you don't like to be reminded of it but you were a famous model for a little while.” Rarity said to Fluttershy, then she turned to me. “Although Amber, I have to ask, how are you certain of your opinion of Fluttershy's beauty? You said earlier that your knowedge of aesthetics is limited.”

“That comment was in reference to clothing, I do have some knowledge on the female form however. I once read a book on the subject, before I had ever left the house, to see if my father had done a good job constructing my form to mimic a typical mare. Also although I have not been outside much in life I have overheard several conversations while I have been outside. Several of these conversations concerned Fluttershy.” I told them. Both mares gasped lightly at this information.

“Well, what did they say about Fluttershy?” Rarity asked, she seemed a little worried.

“Well, two mares wished they were as graceful as you.” I nodded to Fluttershy. “One mare said she wished her mane were as silky as yours, and one stallion said you were, and I quote 'the most beautiful sight in Equestria', end quote.” I finished my summary. By this time Fluttershy was blushing intensely, and Rarity was smiling at her friend.

“See darling, we aren't the only ones who think you're beautiful, and it seems you have at least one gentlecolt admirer.” She then turned to me. “I don't suppose you know who this stallion was do you?” She asked me.

“I am sorry, no, I may be able to recognize his voice if I heard it again, but I am not sure I got a sufficient audio sample for that.” I do apologise.” I said aiming my last sentence toward Fluttershy.

“That's okay, I don't think I want to know.” Fluttershy said quickly.

“Why ever not darling?” Rarity asked.

“Because if I knew who he was I'd never be able to look at him again, I'd be too embarrassed too. I mean what if he say me looking and came over to me and asked me out, that's too much pressure.” She said in a panicked voice while she was curling up into a ball on the floor.

“Darling, calm down, it's okay.” Rarity said while lightly stroking Fluttershy's mane.

I could understand what Fluttershy was feeling. I decided the best way I had to comfort her was to show her she was not alone in her fear. As Rarity was already using the mane stroking technique I would have used in this situation, I instead lay on the floor in front of her so I could look into her eyes.

“It is alright Fluttershy.” I said softly. “I understand how you feel, I do not have any significant knowledge of romance either. I think if a stallion asked me out, I would be afraid too. Afraid of hurting his feelings if I said something wrong, afraid of looking silly by saying something completely out of place. It would be quite the anxiety inducing experience I think.” She lifted her eyes a little, looking at me hopefully, so I continued “I think if that were ever to happen to you, you should tell him you need time to think about it, and then get abvice from your friends or family. I admit I am only guessing here but I think any stallion who wants a romantic relationship with you will be willing to give you time to consider it.” Fluttershy smiled, and slowly stretched up into a sitting position, I did the same.

“You're right Amber, if that ever happens, I just need to ask for time, and think about it calmly and talk to my friends.” Fluttershy said looking at me, then she looked down at the floor again. “Sorry about that, I just get panicky sometimes.”

“It is quite alright Fluttershy, I think it is a good thing, it shows you care about how others feel.” I smiled at her.

“O-oh, t-thank you, Amber.” Fluttershy said starting to blush again. “Um, I'd best be going, I have some animals to attend to this afternoon.” She added.

“Oh of course darling, don't let us keep you, see you soon Fluttershy.” Rarity said.

“Okay bye Rarity, bye Amber, um, I hope to see you again soon.” Fluttershy said looking at me.

“I hope to see you again soon too Fluttershy.” I smiled at her. “See you later.” With that Fluttershy left the boutique.

“That was very nice, what you did for Fluttershy.” Rarity said smiling at me.

“Thank you Rarity, I just wanted to help her, and I do understand her fear in that regard. Although I doubt I will ever have to worry about a stallion asking me to be in a romantic relationship with him.”

“Oh I wouldn't be so sure of that darling, you do have quite a nice figure, and your mane, properly styled, could be amazing. By the time we have you walking and talking more naturally, I think you'll have stallions lining up to be with you.” Rarity said.

“You think so?” I asked feeling a bit anxious about this.

'Mmhmm.” Rarity said while nodding.

“Then, what will I do if that happens?” I was starting to get very worried about the prospect of being desirable to stallions, yes I want friends, but romance is something I am clearly not ready for.

Rarity laughed a little. “Then you follow your own advice, talk to your friends, you have a number of them already you know.” She said smiling at me.

I calmed down upon hearing that. “You are right, that is exactly what I should do.” I smiled. “After the events of two days ago, I thought I would never have friends.”

“Oh darling, I know that must have been terrifying for you, and I was frankly appalled at the behavior of those ponies when I heard about it. However, you do have friends now, and we'll look out for you, always.” Rarity said in a soothing voice, then she came over to me and hugged me. It amazes me what can change in two days, the feeling of loneliness that I had then is completely gone now. I have confidence in myself again, and I think I made a new friend in Fluttershy. I think I would like to spend a lot more time with her, she is so pleasant to be around.

Rarity and I got back to my walking lesson and by the time five o'clock came around I had perfected it. Rarity said I was walking like a true lady, I had smiled with pride when she said that. My father came and picked me up at half past five as arranged. Rarity and I had just finished drinking tea and talking a little. On the way home I walked with my new technique, which of course I would be using from now on. My father was smiling at me with pride the whole way home. When I showed my mother my new walking style, she clapped her hooves with happiness and hugged me, telling me how proud she was of me. Tomorrow I may visit Fluttershy at her cottage, despite how quietly and awkwardly she speaks, Rarity tells me she may be able to help me speak more naturally, but even if she can not it would be nice just to see her again.

Speaking Naturally

February 8 1005

Today was a good day for the most part. My father had to leave early for work so I spent most of the morning helping my mother with housework. At around eleven o'clock I asked her if it was alright for me to visit Fluttershy. She said yes with a happy smile on her face, she also agreed to accompany me there. On the way there my mother said how happy she was that I was making friends and again complimented me on how well I was walking. I don't think she could have smiled more even if she were Pinkie Pie.

We arrived around half past eleven, I could hear Fluttershy humming inside and the smell of several types of food was coming from within. I gently knocked on the door so as not to startle the timid mare. She answered the door a few seconds later.

“Oh, hello Amber, I wasn't expecting you, this is a surprise. Oh and... um,” She trailed off as she looked at my mother.

“Hello Fluttershy.” I said. “This is my mother, Julienne Carrots.”

“A pleasure dear.” My mother said.

“Oh, yes, it's a pleasure to meet you Mrs. Carrots.”

“Please, dear, call me Julienne. Mrs. Carrots makes me sound old.” She chuckled.

“Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to offend, you're not old, you're actually very pretty.” Fluttershy said hurriedly almost in a panic.

“Relax dear, no offense is taken.” My mother said cutting off anything further Fluttershy had to say, and gave her a friendly smile to reassure her no harm was done.

“Oh, o-okay, s-sorry.” Fluttershy said quietly.

“No apologies necessary dear, it's quite alright, I'm sorry for panicking you.”

“Oh no, you don't have to be sorry for-” Fluttershy started to say but my mother cut her off.

“Ssh, it's fine dear, don't worry about it.” She gave Fluttershy another smile.

“O-okay, I was just scared that I'd made a horrible first impression.” Fluttershy said almost too quietly for my mother to hear.

“Not at all dear, you seem like a sweet young mare.”

“Oh thank goodness, I've enjoyed spending time with Amber, I'd hate to have made a bad impression on her mother.” Fluttershy said with a sigh of relief. My mother was smiling with such pride upon hearing that.

“I'm so glad to hear that dear, it's so wonderful that Amber is making friends. That's why we're here actually, Amber was hoping to spend some time with you if you are able?” My mother asked.

“Oh yes, that shouldn't be problem at all, I have some animals to attend to, but I'd like to have some company while I do it.”

“Thank you Fluttershy, I will try to stay out of the way.” I said smiling.

“Well I'll leave you two to it then.” My mother said. “Should I come back at a certain time to take her home?”

“Oh no, I can walk her home later this afternoon, if that's okay with you?” Fluttershy suggested

“Well, if you're sure dear, I don't mind. Are you okay with that Amber?”

“Yes, that sounds like an acceptable arrangement.” I said smiling at them both.

“Okay see you later girls.” My mother said as she turned to go.

“Bye Mrs. Car- I mean Julienne, sorry. Bye Julienne.” Fluttershy called after her.

“Goodbye mother, I will see you later.” I called after her. She gave a quick smile over her shoulder at us.

I turned to Fluttershy and smiled. “Oh, come in, come in.” She said, moving aside to let me into her cottage.

“Thank you.” I said as I made my way over to a couch in her living area. I looked around seeing many animals eating several types of food, which would explain the smell I had picked up from outside. Fluttershy went to her kitchen and returned with a few more dishes that she laid down for some animals that weren't eating yet, then joined me on the couch.

“So, um, what brings you here today Amber? If you don't mind me asking?”

“Two reasons actually, the first was just to spend some time with you, the second was that Rarity thought you may be able to teach me how to speak more naturally.” I explained.

“Oh, I see, well I'm not sure I'd be much use but I can try if you want?” She said quietly.

“I would like that, yes.”

“Well, let me think about it for a minute, I may know some things you could work on. If that's okay with you?” She said.

“Of course, take your time.” I said smiling at her calmly to let her know there was no rush.

Fluttershy closed her eyes and sat still in thought for a couple of minutes. She then opened her eyes and looked over to me with a small smile. “I think I've figured out where you may need some improvement.” She said. “I need to feed some of the animals outside, how about we go and do that while we talk about it?”

“Okay.” I agreed. Fluttershy gathered some fruits and vegetables from the kitchen, then we headed outside. While she was feeding various animals she spoke about her ideas for improving my speech.

“Well, first of all, you speak a bit too formally, you don't use any contractions. Also, you use lots of technical words, it can be hard to follow you sometimes, um, n-not that I'm c-criticizing or anything.” She finished in a rush obviously worried that she had insulted me.

“It is okay Fluttershy, I want criticism, I would not have asked for you help if I thought my speech patterns were acceptable. You will not hurt my feelings, I promise.” I reassured her.

“Oh, o-okay, well maybe you could try using some contractions and maybe simpler words, i-if you don't mind that is.”

“Contractions like don't, didn't, won't, wouldn't, couldn't, shouldn't, are those what you are referring to?” I asked just to confirm I was grasping the concept.

“Yes, those are the kind of things I mean.”

“I always thought those were used by lazy ponies trying to lessen the amount of words they used.”

“Oh no, well maybe they started that way, but they've become an important part of our language now.” Fluttershy explained.

“I see, I can try to integrate contractions into my speech I suppose. I am already familiar with the basic contractions used in day to day speech, so it should not be too hard.” I reasoned.

“That's the spirit, um, I have some other ideas though, if that's okay.” She said.

“Of course, go ahead.” I replied.

“Well, um, this is a little hard to explain but um, I guess what I'm trying to say is that you don't seem to think about what you say. I know that's not true, cause you always speak with such certainty, but you don't seem to take any time to think. If you know what I mean?”

“I'm afraid you've lost me.” I said, “Hear that, I used two contractions there?” I added, smiling at my small achievement. Fluttershy smiled back.

“Yes, that was very good Amber, but um, you did it again. You respond so fast that it seems like you haven't thought about it. you know?”

“I see, but I do think about everything I say. I guess I just think faster than an organic pony.” I reasoned.

“Yes, of course you do, um, it's just a bit off-putting, um, it kinda gives the impression that what you're saying wasn't worth thinking about. I-I know that that's not what you're doing, but, i-it can seem that way sometimes. I'm sorry.” She said slowing increasing in speed and pitch, starting to panic about insulting me again.

“I understand, it's okay Fluttershy, no offense is taken, alright?” I smile at her to reassure her.

“O-okay.” It almost sounded like a squeak rather than a word.

“I think I understand what you're saying though. I could add a small pause before I speak. Also Rarity taught me some gestures that indicate that one is thinking, I may be able to use those during those pauses. Do you think that would give the right impression?” I asked her.

“That sounds promising, but maybe also try saying 'um' or 'mm' or something similar. Oh, and maybe only do these things for questions that require lots of consideration. You wouldn't do that if you were answering something like 'nice weather we're having huh?' or something like that.”

“That sounds appropriate.” I said. “Let's try it, ask me a question.”

“Oh, um, okay, um, what do you think of the weather management here in Ponyville?” She asked.

I put on a small frown while looking up slightly and put a hoof to my chin “mm.” I said for about half a second then lowered my hoof, smiled a little, and looked back to Fluttershy's face. “It all seems to run very well, from what I've seen.” I paused to indicate the end of my answer then added. “How was that?”

Fluttershy smiled “That was wonderful, very convincing, and good choice of words too. I just thought of another situation that's similar though and it shows another small, um, problem of yours.” She said.

“Okay, what is it?”

“Well, you never seem to act surprised, not even a little bit. You see if somepony asks you a question you weren't expecting, most ponies would act a bit surprised.” She explained. “A bit like this.” She paused a moment then she shifted her head back a little opened her eyes a bit more and said, “oh, I wasn't expecting that.”

“I see.” I said.

“That's another thing, when you realize something you should express that to. Like this.” She then moved her head up and then down again while widening her eyes slightly and saying, “oh, I see.” She then paused and smiled. “Kind of like that, get it?”

“Yes, I think so.” I said. “Should we try a short conversation for practice purposes.”

“Okay.” She agreed. “I'll begin. Um, okay pretend I've just approached you and you're walking along the road.” She then cleared her throat. “Hi Amber, how are you today?”

“Oh.” I expressed a little surprise at suddenly being addressed, as in our scenario she would have been previously unnoticed. “Hello Fluttershy, I'm doing very well, thank you for asking. How are you?” I smiled a little at the pleasant welcome.

“I'm doing wonderfully, I was just out doing some shopping, how about you?”

“Oh, I was here shopping as well, just picking up a little food.” I said.

“Oh yes? me too, do you want to walk together?” She then cleared her throat again to signal the end of the scenario. “That was very good Amber, although you could use the word thanks instead of thank you, and hi instead of hello. Makes things a bit less formal.” She said with a small smile.

“Okay, thanks Fluttershy.” I said. She giggled at my immediate uptake of the new word.

While we had been talking Fluttershy had finished feeding her animals and we went back indoors. We had a couple more practice conversations to refine my technique. Fluttershy then suggested we have lunch as it was getting close to one o'clock. We had a simple salad and orange juice, which was delicious, of course I thanked her for her generosity. After lunch I helped Fluttershy wash the dishes, while we talked some more. Not for practice but just because we wanted to.

“Thanks for all your help today Fluttershy, I think I'm already sounding better.” I said.

“Oh yes, you are sounding wonderful, and it was no trouble at all.” She responded.

“I'm curious Fluttershy, how did you get so good at teaching natural speech?” I asked.

Fluttershy blushed a little. “I'm not that good, but I guess it's because I've done it before.”

“Oh, you have?”

“Yes a number of years ago now, I helped Princess Luna learn about modern speech. You see she had only recently returned from the moon after a thousand years, and ponies talked quite differently back then.” She said. I had read the story of Nightmare Moon and her return and her cleansing by the Elements of Harmony. I guess speech patterns would change quite a bit over a one thousand year period. “Anyway, the first Nightmare Night after her return, she visited Ponyville. Most ponies were afraid of her, so Twilight brought her to me to teach her how to speak more quietly. Truth be told, I was terrified of her myself that night, but Twilight convinced me that she was safe now. In the following weeks, at Twilight's suggestion, she came to me a number of times to learn more about modern speech. Twilight thought it would do us both some good, and she was right, I'm glad I got to know the Princess. Anyway, the next Nightmare Night came and the town welcomed her warmly, it was a good day, er, night.” She smiled as she put away the last plate. We then just leaned against the kitchen bench as we continued to talk.

I put a hoof to my chin in thought. “I wonder if the town will ever accept me.” I thought aloud, then I frowned and looked at the ground. It was strange, hearing about another pony being accepted had somehow made me a bit sad. I heard a quiet gasp, then suddenly I was engulfed in a tight hug from Fluttershy.

“I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to remind of that horrible attack, I'm so sorry.” She said quickly.

“Um, it's okay Fluttershy, it only makes me a bit sad to think about it now.” I said honestly.

“Still, it must have been horrible for you. I-I mean I know what it's like to be a-afraid, b-but what you went through-.” She shivered violently and trailed off. She clearly hates to think of a friend being so scared, Fluttershy really is so kind. I wrapped a hoof around her neck to hug her back.

“It's okay Fluttershy.” I said quietly. “It doesn't bother me that much anymore, I know it only happened a few days ago but it feels like a lot longer than that. Hmm, that is a strange effect, anyway Fluttershy, try not to think about it anymore okay?” I gently stroked my hoof up and down the back of her neck, she wasn't crying but she seemed like she almost was.

“O-okay.” She said quietly. She then broke the hug and looked me right in the eyes. “B-but I want you to p-promise me that if feel that scared or sad again, and you're near here, that you'll come to me. I-I'll look after you okay?” The sincerity in her voice and facial expression was intense. I felt that warm feeling in my chest again that I've come to associate with friendship.

“I-I promise.” I whispered, suddenly feeling overwhelmed by this warmth. She smiled at me and hugged me again. We stayed like that for a few minutes before she slowing broke the hug again.

“A-are you feeling better now Amber?” She asked gently.

“Yes, I am, thank you Fluttershy.” I winced a little, another gesture Rarity had taught me, because I realized that I hadn't used any of my new speech techniques in that last sentence. Fluttershy understood what my gesture meant right away, she giggled a little.

“It's okay Amber, you'll get used to it soon enough.” She smiled confidently at me. I smiled back.

We decided Fluttershy should walk me home at this point. On the way there she came up with an idea to surprise my mother. At first I wasn't sure about it, but Fluttershy assured me she would love it. We arrived at my house a short time later and walked through the front door. My mother was reading the newspaper on the couch, judging by the smell from the kitchen she was waiting for something to finish cooking. She put down her paper and stood up to greet us.

“Hello girls.” she said smiling. I then unleashed my surprise.

“Hi mom, how's it going?” I said with a smile. My mother almost hit the floor as her legs collapsed from under her, but she caught herself and scrambled back to a standing position with a surprised look on her face. Then she leaped over to me and hugged me tight.

“I-I'm going great honey, just great!” I noticed a slight dampness forming on my shoulder, she was crying. I looked over to Fluttershy with an uncertain look, but Fluttershy was smiling happily. I realized then my mother was crying from happiness. I smiled despite being a little confused. I know I hadn't ever called her mom before but I still found her reaction a bit strong. Fluttershy did mention that the term mom was a more intimate term than mother, perhaps that is why she reacted so strongly?

“I'm glad, mom.” I said quietly as I hugged her back. I felt that familiar warm feeling spread through me again, suddenly the more intimate term seemed appropriate. My father then entered the room having heard my mother crying.

“What's going on?” He asked worriedly. My mother broke the hug and turned to him with a huge smile.

“Oh Noonday, it's so wonderful.” She said excitedly. “She, she...” She was having trouble forming a coherent sentence she was so excited. Seeing an opportunity to surprise my father too I cut in before she could say another word.

“Hi dad, how's it going?” I said smiling and giving a small wave. My father gasped and put a hoof over his chest. He seemed to understand then why my mother was so excited. He quickly trotted over to us and hugged us both, as we were still standing fairly close together.

“Oh honey...” That was all he seemed capable of saying, we just stayed there hugging each other for a minute or so. I broke the hug suddenly remembering that Fluttershy was still there and we were ignoring her.

“Thanks for your help today Fluttershy.” I said to her. My parents then turned to her as well.

“Oh yes, thank you so much dear.” My mother said. My father nodded in agreement.

“Oh, that's quite alright, I'm just glad I could help. I-I should be going now though, I have some shopping to do, if that's okay with you.” Fluttershy replied.

“Of course dear, you can come by here anytime you want, you're always welcome.” My mother said.

“Thank you Julienne, see you later.” Fluttershy said as she left.

My parents turned back to me and immediately started hugging me again. The both said how proud they were of me. I think I may call them mom and dad from now on, they seem to like it and it feels right too. I know that sound like a strange thing for me to say but that's the only way I can describe it. Whenever I call them that, I get all warm inside, it just feels right.

Outside, take two

February 11 1005

I haven't been doing much the last couple of days, just helping Mom out with housework, and she's been teaching me to cook a little too. I have read a lot about cooking, but Mom says there is no substitute for experience in cooking. I understood what she meant when, despite following the recipe perfectly, my first batch of vanilla cupcakes weren't quite cooked in the middle. Mom explained that the recipe was made for ideal conditions and any number of things will vary from batch to batch no matter how careful you are and sometimes you have to 'go by feel'. Hopefully I will understand this concept someday.

Today was certainly interesting, and very enjoyable. I decided that I would try to go outside on my own again. Dad has been encouraging me to do so as he believes that nopony will dare disobey a princess. So, around ten o'clock this morning I put on my saddlebags and left the house. Just to go for a walk, no particular destination in mind. I hoped I would see some of my friends, I still have find it hard to accept that I have friends, thinking about them brought a small smile to my face.

I decided to go to the diner that I can not name, for ease of reference from now on I will simply call it The Diner. Sure enough my friend who owns the place was there, again for ease of reference I will call her Strawberry, that isn't her real name but I feel I should call her something in this diary. I went to the counter and she served me.

“Amber, sweetheart, how are you?” She greeted me.

“I'm doing well, could I get one of your delicious Strawberry milkshakes please?”

“Of course, coming right up.” She said and I hoofed over the money for it.

While she was getting everything and mixing it I asked. “So, how's business?”

“Oh actually it's been going very well these past couple of days.” She said while smiling, she did seem more relaxed than usual.

“Oh that's good, I'm glad to hear to that.” I said smiling back.

“Yes, just two days ago Pinkie Pie came by and asked if I would like to provide sandwiches for all her parties from now on, of course I said yes.” She informed me.

“That's wonderful news, I wonder why she decided to that all of a sudden? I understand she's been throwing parties for years now.” I replied.

“Well, she said that Sugarcube Corner doesn't make sandwiches, as they tend to focus on pastries. So she usually makes her own sandwiches for parties, but she figured since her parties are usually so well attended she could afford to pay someone to make them so she can save time.” She explained.

“Oh I see, well that's great, with the amount of parties she throws that will mean a lot of extra business for you.” I said with a smile.

“Oh yes, why just yesterday I provided sandwiches for a small filly's birthday party, I think it went really well, everypony seemed to like the sandwiches, or so I was told later.” She said. “Here you go sweetheart.” She added as she hoofed over the now completed milkshake.

“Thanks.” I said taking it. I looked around and there were a fair few customers in the Diner. “You seem to be doing pretty well in here too.” I observed.

“Yes I know, isn't it great.” She smiled broadly. “I think word is getting around that I'm now Pinkies sandwich maker, and well Pinkie knows everypony, so I think they're coming to try out the sandwiches. I've certainly been selling a lot of them the last couple of days.” She explains.

“Well that's wonderful, anyway I'd better let you get back to work.” I said as I turned to take my milkshake to a table.

“Okay sweetheart, thanks for coming by.” She said.

I smiled at her before heading to a table in the back corner that wasn't occupied. I noticed a couple of ponies of ponies giving me strange looks that I couldn't interpret, but most ponies seemed to ignore me and were just minding their own business. So I tried to do the same, just concentrating on my milkshake, which was delicious. As I got up to leave I noticed Strawberry looking over at me and smiling. She wasn't busy with any customers at that time, so I brought over the empty glass to her.

“Amber, I was just wondering, is there something different about the way you're walking?” She asked.

“Oh yes, I've been learning to walk and talk more naturally from my friends.” I explained.

“Ah, I thought you were speaking differently too.” I nodded smiling a little. “Well it's certainly working for you sweetheart, you look and sound wonderful.” She complimented.

“Thanks, that means a lot to me coming from you, I've always thought you were an elegant pony.” I said.

“Oh thank you sweetheart.” She said, blushing a little. “Oh I've got a customer.” She said noticing a pony approaching the counter. “I'll see you later Amber.”

“Okay, see you later.” I replied and left the Diner.

I was walking along Mane Street thinking to myself that I'd have to thank Pinkie for helping Strawberry out, when I saw Pinkie Pie herself hopping along the street. I waved at her and called out to get her attention “Pinkie, Hi.”

She bounced over to me. “Hiya Amber! How's it going?”

“Very well thanks Pinkie, I just came from the Diner and Strawberry told me about you hiring her to make sandwiches for you, I just wanted to say thanks. It was really nice seeing her so happy.” I said and smiled at her. Pinkie smiled back and then started talking very fast without any breaks so it was like one long sentence, Thanks to my reliable short term memory I can remember it all though.

“Oh well you see I went there to take her some leftover cupcakes from your party except we didn't have any leftover cupcakes from your party so I really went there to apologize that I couldn't bring her any cupcakes sure I could have made more but then they wouldn't be from your party which isn't the same thing but when I got there I completely forgot about apologizing because she looked so stressed and I wondered why cause it didn't look like the 'I’ve been working too hard' kind of stress that Rarity and Applejack sometimes get but then I noticed how few ponies were in the place and I realized she was stressed cause she needed more business then I noticed that she had sandwiches on her menu and I thought I know I can pay her to make sandwiches for my parties that way I don't have to make them and all the ponies that come to my parties will be able to try her sandwiches and I'll tell them where they came from and then they'll go to her diner and everypony's happy.” She then let out a very loud gasp for air and started panting heavily. Speaking in between breaths she added “Somepony... usually... stops me.... before I … run out... of air.”

“Oh I'm sorry, was I suppose to stop you.” I asked.

“No no... it's okay... just not... used to it.” She took a couple of really deep breaths and then started breathing at a more normal rate. ”See I'm better now.” She smiled broadly.

“Oh good, well thanks again for doing that for her Pinkie.” I said.

“No problemo, anyway gotta go, I have to get some alligator food for gummy bye.” Then she raced off before I could respond.

“Alligator food?” I thought out loud. “Don't alligators eat meat?” I felt a little concerned about what Pinkie might be doing, but Princess Twilight had warned me not to try to figure out anything that Pinkie does, so I decided to ignore it. I continued walking down the street, then I heard Rainbow Dash's voice from above.

“Hey Amber.” Then she landed in front of me.

“Hello Rainbow Dash, you're looking well today.” I greeted her. I sat on my haunches in front of her and she sat down too.

“Yeah, going pretty well, you?” She asked.

“Yes, quite well thanks.”

“Cool, it's good that you're out and about by yourself again, you know, after...” She trailed off.

“Oh yes, I thought it was about time I got out again, I'm still a little worried, but I figured that nopony is very likely to disobey Princess Twilight.” I explained.

Rainbow Dash chuckled “Yeah, that egghead can be scary when she gets mad, even burst into flames once.” I was surprised by this piece of information.

“How could she burst into flames? Wouldn't that hurt?” I can't feel pain myself, but I'm told it's very unpleasant.

“Nah, didn't seem to hurt her and it went out in about two seconds, must have been magic I reckon.” She said waving her hoof through the air to dismiss the topic. “Anyway, I was thinking about that attack on you, and I was wondering, why didn't you fight back? aren't you s'pose to be super strong or whatever?” This was said with little tact, but I knew she didn't mean to be upsetting, she was just curious, so I answered her.

“I'm not that much stronger than the average Earth pony Rainbow Dash, and I couldn't hurt them.?

“Why not? They'd have totally deserved it.” She said sounding surprised. I shook my head.

“No Rainbow, they were scared and confused, faced with something unknown, I don't blame them.” I informed her. She looked shocked for a moment then sighed.

“Wow you're forgiving, I'd have totally given what for.” She said. I smiled a little at her bravado.

“I'm sure you would have Rainbow, but I couldn't have even if I had wanted to, it would go against my behavior protocols.”

“What!? You're not allowed to defend yourself?” She said looking really shocked now.

“Oh no, I can defend myself but only as much as needed. I can't fight back, just defend myself, or others, from hostile actions.” I corrected her.

“Oh... well that's better than nothing I suppose.” She said. “You are strong though right? and fast too?”

“I am above average in speed and strength, yes.” I replied.

“So, if I did this.” She suddenly raised her right forehoof to the side and swung it around attempting to hit my face. I could have let it hit as it was unlikely to cause any serious damage, but I knew she wanted a demonstration of my defensive capabilities. I quickly raised my left forehoof to block hers, positioning it so our hooves contacted each others so that neither of us would have any impact on our skin. Because I was already firmly planted on the ground, I was sitting after all, I didn't have to shift my weight to absorb the force of her attempted slap. I didn't blink or break eye contact with her, my left forehoof was the only part of me that moved. This display of efficiency seemed to impress Rainbow Dash, her eyes widened a bit. “Whoa.” She breathed out the word, sounding quite in awe, I just smiled back at her.

“Was that demonstration satisfactory Rainbow Dash?” I asked, still smiling, there was something about seeing her shocked that I found amusing. She lowered her hoof back to the ground and looked away. “Um, yeah, not bad.” sounding dismissive. I lowered my hoof as well, and looked at her with a worried expression.

“Um, are you okay Rainbow?” I was a little concerned I had somehow hurt her feelings, but she seemed to return to normal.

“Yeah yeah, I'm fine, so yeah, you can defend yourself, that's good.” She sounded relieved. I gave a small smile.

“Were you worried about me Rainbow?” I asked her seriously.

“What!? No! Well, maybe a little, you know when you said you couldn't fight back, but I see now you've got it covered.” She gave a small smile.

“That's very sweet of you Rainbow, I appreciate that, but you don't have to worry about me.” I said to her.

“Yeah, I know.” She said quietly looking down a bit, she seemed embarrassed, but then she seemed to perk up again. “So, anyway, do you want to come watch me practice my routine? I get a small solo part in our next show and I was going to show it to my friends today, fairly soon actually, you can come if you want. I know Fluttershy and Rarity will be glad to see you, they both seem to like you a lot.”

“That sounds wonderful Rainbow. I don't actually have any plans for today, I was just out for a walk, so I'd love to watch your routine.” I said.

“Great, be at the park on the east side of town in about half an hour okay?”

“Okay, see you then Rainbow.” I said as she took off.

As I had nothing else to do I decided to just slowly walk to the park. Along the way I got a couple of strange looks, but nopony approached me. I arrived at the park and immediately saw Fluttershy sitting by a tree talking to a pair of squirrels. I approached her, she saw me coming and smiled. I greeted her.

“Hello Fluttershy, hello... squirrels?” I said.

“Hello Amber, this is Mr. and Mrs. Squirrelton. This tree is their home and they were just telling me about a couple of dead branches up near the top that they think should be removed in case they fall and hit somepony.” Fluttershy explained.

“Oh, well they are very conscientious squirrels.”

“Oh yes, a lot of ponies don't realize that the animals in this town look after their houses just as much as they do. I was about to fly up there to see if I could remove them. Could you keep an eye out down here to make sure nopony walks under this tree? You know so the branches don't land on them when I drop them.” She asked.

“Yes I can do that.” I replied.

“Oh thank you Amber.” She then turned to the squirrels. “Come on you two, show me these branches.” She then took off flying into the canopy of the tree as the squirrels ran up the trunk. I took a few steps back so I didn't get hit with falling branches and looked around to see if there were any ponies close by that might walk under the tree, but there weren't any.

Fluttershy called out. “Is it all clear down there Amber?” Although I could tell she was trying to project her voice, I had a little trouble hearing her.

“Yes Fluttershy, nopony's under the tree.” I replied. A few seconds later two decent sized but obviously dead branches came falling from the canopy.

Fluttershy came floating down from the canopy. She laid the branches up against the tree. “I'll give these to Applejack later, she can use them for firewood.” She said to me, then she turned her head up and called out just loud enough for them to hear. “Thanks Mr. and Mrs. Squirrelton, have a nice day.” I heard some chittering noises in return. It was then I spotted Princess Twilight, Rarity and Applejack approaching the center of the park. Rarity spotted us and waved us over.

“Oh girls, over here!”

Fluttershy and I trotted over to them. “Hello Rarity, hello everypony, how are you?” I said. Speaking all at once they replied.

“Can't complain.” Said Applejack

“Good.” Said the Princess.

“Very well thanks darling.” Said Rarity

I smiled, then I noticed somepony was missing. “Um, where is Pinkie Pie?”

“Right here!” Pinkie Pie suddenly appeared from behind me, like she'd been there all along. This surprised me and I actually jumped forward landing in the middle of the circle of ponies, barely keeping my hooves underneath me. I turned around and addressed her.

“Pinkie, how did you do that?”

“Do what?” She asked cocking her head slightly to side, obviously confused about what I was asking.

I was about to clarify my question when Princess Twilight put her hoof over my mouth and said quietly to me. “Don't... just don't. This is what I warned you about.” I was going to protest that it was just a simple question but something in her tone of voice told me she was adamant that it was a bad idea, so I decided to let it go. Then, as if to change the subject she asked rather loudly so that all the ponies could hear. “Where is Rainbow Dash? I thought she'd be here by now.”

Almost as if on cue, Rainbow Dash flew overhead turned sharply and headed back towards us, she landed just before us all and struck a confident pose. “Hi everypony, glad you could all make it. As you know, this airshow in Cloudsdale will be the first airshow I've had a solo part in. It's not a long part, only about a minute, but it finishes with a Sonic Rainboom. Oh, and it's the finish to whole performance, so it's kinda important I get it perfect, and I won't lie, I'm a little nervous.” She was speaking rather quickly, even if she hadn't just admitted it, it was obvious she nervous.

“Oh, we all know you're doing to great Dashie.” Pinkie said.

“Yeah, you'll knock their socks off.” Applejack added.

“Why don't you show us your routine Rainbow.” The Princess said smiling encouragingly. The rest of us smiled and nodded, voicing various sentiments of agreement.

“Alright then, I'll do it over there” Rainbow said pointing to the side of the park that was furthest from the town, essentially it's empty space as the park is on the outskirts of town. “That way the Sonic Rainboom won't be too close to town, not that it will be anyway, it's going to be a high altitude Rainboom, so everypony can see the full circle of the shockwave. Also, doing it over there will give you guys a good side on viewing angle just like if you were at the stadium.”

“Sounds great.” The Princess said smiling. We all nodded in agreement.

“Alright, here I go.” Rainbow said before she took off at amazing speed heading for the side of the park to start her her routine.

I'm not familiar with many aerobatic terms, so it's hard for me to describe her performance. I could tell that her movements were very quick and precise. It was clear to me that she puts in a lot of effort in getting her movements perfect. Which would explain why she was impressed by my show of efficient movement earlier. The end to her performance was truly spectacular. She flew perfectly vertically into the sky getting faster and faster. Even with my vision I lost track of her completely, that is until she broke the sound barrier.

A massive circular rainbow shockwave appeared high in the sky, followed a couple of seconds later by a rumbling boom as the sound from the explosion of magic caught up to us on the ground. A second later I spotted Rainbow Dash heading back toward the ground leaving a powerful rainbow contrail behind her. Rainbow normally leaves a rainbow contrail but it is smaller than this one was and only remains visible for a couple of seconds at most. This contrail was bigger, brighter and remained visible for over a minute. As she got nearer to the ground she started flying in circles, each one getting increasingly tighter. To us, from the side, her contrail looked like a massive rainbow colored tornado shape. When she got to the lowest and tightest of the circles she had washed off enough speed to be back below the speed of sound and her contrail returned to normal, though she was still traveling very fast. She then headed straight for the ground at a speed that I thought was too fast to be safe. Just before she hit the ground she flared her wings out wide and decelerated quickly, she still landed very hard, though she absorbed the impact with her legs. I thought this last maneuver was strange, I couldn't see the point in hitting the ground so fast, but a fraction of a second later a huge gust of wind hit us and I understood. This gust of wind was of course from Rainbow's wake, she wanted us, the audience, to feel the power behind her speed. The blast of air was strong enough to blow our manes back and ruffle our tails, which was quite impressive considering Rainbow had landed some distance from us. I could see Rarity wasn't too happy about having her mane messed up, even so she seemed awestruck, just like the rest of us.

A short while later Rainbow came flying over to us, the circular shockwave was just reaching the horizon and the rainbow tornado pattern was just starting to fade away. She landed in front of us and took a brief look over her shoulder admiring her tornado pattern. She turned back to us and smiled awaiting a reaction. We were all speechless, so to break the awkward silence she asked. “So, what did you think?”

I was the first to find to find my voice. “That, was truly awesome!” I realized I had almost shouted that and I had a huge smile on my face, it truly was an inspirational performance. Rainbow smiled with pride and relief.

“Yeah, it was superduperamazingtastic!” Said Pinkie Pie.

“Rainbow Dash you rock, woohoo.” Said Fluttershy quietly, everypony chuckled at that, I'm not sure why, but Fluttershy didn't seem to take any offense, she just blushed and smiled a little.

“That was the best dang piece of flying I ever did see.” Said Applejack

The Princess nodded in agreement. “Truly spectacular.” She added.

“Well, you didn't have to mess up my mane, but it was amazing darling.” Rarity said while levitating a brush to return her mane to normal.

Rainbow Dash was smiling widely and looked relieved. “Thanks guys, it feels good to know that I'm ready.” She said. “I know only Twilight can make it to my performance this time, but knowing you all liked it, well it fells awesome.”

“I would come if I could, but I can't walk on clouds.” I said, everyone else chuckled a bit.

“Walking on clouds ain't no problem sugarcube.” Applejack said. “Twi here has a cloud walking spell she can use.”

“Oh, really?” I asked having not heard of this spell before.

“Um, yes, but I don't know if it would wok on you Amber, because...” The Princess trailed off.

“Because I'm not an organic pony.” I finished her sentence.

“Yeah.” She replied looking down at the ground for a moment, she then got a thoughtful look on her face.” I suppose I could try the object enchantment we use so pegasi can have things in their homes without them falling through the clouds.” She thought out loud.

“My skin does have some spells infused in it, as do many of my internal systems. It is difficult to know how my body would react to either spell.” I said.

The Princess shrugged. “I could just cast both spells, the cloud walking spell lasts for a day and the object enchantment lasts for a year. So as long as we have you back on the ground in a day, it won't matter which of the spells worked or not.” She said.

“Oh but darling, the airshow is next week and I've heard that it's practically sold out. Are you sure you can get Amber a ticket?” Rarity asked.

“Um, Rarity remember I am a princess, I get my own private viewing area in the stadium.” She scuffed at the ground and was looking downward. “I-I don't like to use such privileges as you know, but they won't use the area for normal seating so if I sat in a normal seat I'd be taking a seat that another pony could have had and I don't want to do that.” She said rather quickly, she seemed embarrassed.

“Even after all this time you're still having trouble accepting your royalty aren't you dear?” Rarity said chuckling a little.

“Well, you know I don't want others to think that I think I'm better than them, cause I'm not.” The Princess said. “Anyway, the stadium staff said I could cram in as many ponies as I want into the area and they wouldn't mind. As it stands I only have two guardsponies coming with me. I mean, I don't think having guards is necessary but Celestia insists I have guards with me during public events. So yeah I have plenty of room in there and I'd enjoy the company if you'd like to come along Amber?”

I smiled. “I'd love to. Going to an airshow as the guest of a princess, I'm honored Princess.”

The Princess smiled and blushed a little. “I've told you before Amber, you're my friend, you can just call me Twilight. There's no need to be so formal.” She said quietly.

“Okay, Twilight.” I responded though it felt a bit awkward.

“Oh Amber darling, this all reminds me of something I was going to suggest to you anyway, but this makes for the perfect opportunity.” Rarity said. I looked to her cocking my head sideways a bit in a gesture of curiosity. “Well, I've noticed you always seem to wear those large saddlebags you're wearing now, I presume they're to try to cover your, um...” She trailed off vaguely gesturing toward my flank.

“Lack of a cutie mark.” I finished for her, smiling to let her know I didn't take offense to it.

“Um, yes, and I was thinking I could design you some casual everyday clothing that would look much better and do a better job of it, if you'd like?” She said. “I was thinking something like a simple cape.” She added.

“That does sound good Rarity, but only if it isn't any trouble.” I said.

“Of course it's no trouble darling, you're going to an airshow as Twilight's guest, you should look your best.” Rarity said. “Come by the boutique tomorrow and I'll have it done in no time, how's eleven o'clock sound to you?” She asked.

“Eleven o'clock sounds fine to me Rarity, thanks so much.” I smiled at her.

With that sorted everypony started dispersing, I decided to head home and tell Mom the good news. She was so excited for me, so was Dad when I told him later after he got home from work. I'm curious as to what I'm going to look like in a cape. I'm really looking forward to tomorrow.

Author's Note

Sorry this took so long, I don't really have any excuse for it. I know that not much happens in this chapter but I'm planning on having more action in the next chapter. Thanks for reading, any criticism is welcome.

The Rescue

February 12 1005

Today was certainly more exciting than I had predicted. I got up at nine o'clock and shared breakfast with Mom and Dad, then helped Mom clean the dishes. At around half past ten I left to head to Rarity's Boutique. The trip there went without incident, for which I was thankful. I arrived a little early but I didn't think Rarity would mind. I entered the shop and Rarity greeted me immediately.

“Hello darling, good to see you this morning.”

“Hello Rarity, thank you for offering to make me a cape, I'm really looking forward to this.” I said with a smile.

Rarity giggled a little “I'm glad to hear it, shall we begin?” I nodded. “Come this way then and I'll take your measurements.”

She led me to a small round elevated platform and asked to get up on it. She then levitated her tape measure all around me taking various measurements while humming to herself. I just stood quietly and waited. After a couple of minutes she was finished measuring.

“There we are, and thank you for being so still darling. You're far easier to work with than Rainbow Dash, that mare can't sit still for a second.” She laughed a little to show she wasn't be to hard on her friend. “Now, what color should we go with, I think a deep blue would suit you. What do you think?”

“As I've mentioned before my knowledge of aesthetics is rather limited, I'm happy to go with whatever you think will work.” I said with an encouraging smile.

“Very well then, I'll be back in a short while, fortunately capes are fairly straight forward to make so this won't take long. You can come down from there now if you like.”

I nodded and got off the platform and took a seat on a nearby couch. There were a few fashion magazines on a coffee table in front of the couch, Rarity had clearly meant this to be a waiting area. I just finished reading an article on the latest fashion trends in scarves when Rarity returned.

“Here you are darling, let me try this on you to see if it fits right.” I got up and walked over to her, I could see the deep blue color of the cape as she draped it over my back with her magic. “There”, she said as she closed the clasp and adjusted the collar. I sat on my haunches so I could look down and around myself and examine the cape. It was a pleasing blue color, and I liked how it draped over me, it covered my flank nicely. I looked to the gold clasp and saw it had a gem set into it, an amber.

“Oh, very clever Rarity.” I smiled at her, it was a nice touch.

“I'm glad you like it.” She giggled a little. “I thought it would be appropriate, you don't think it's too obvious do you?” she asked suddenly looking a bit worried.

“No, not at all, I like it.” I reassured her with a smile, which she returned.

“Oh good, is the fit okay, does it feel alright?” She asked. I shifted around a little then got up and walked around the room a couple of times to see how it felt while moving.

“It feels wonderful Rarity, very comfortable.” I concluded.

“Oh good, that fabric is water resistant too so it will provide some protection in the rain. Also I would recommend hoof washing this, the fabric will be fine with machine washing but the clasp may get dinged and scratched being tossed around in a machine like that.”

“I understand, thank you so much Rarity, what do I owe you?”

“For that?” She scoffed. “Think nothing of it darling, it was my pleasure.”

I frowned a little at this. Normally I'd accept Rarity's generosity but she had already shown me so much kindness over the last few days, it just didn't feel right. Also, this cape seemed like it would cost far too much to simply give away.

“Rarity, I can't possibly accept this, the materials alone must cost a lot. Please tell me what it's worth? I have to give you something for this beautiful cape.”

“Honestly darling it isn't all that costly. That fabric is a common cotton blend, though a lovely shade if I do say so myself. and the clasp isn't worth much at all really.” She smiled although a little nervously.

“I know jewelery grade gold doesn't have a lot of value but what about this gem?” I inquired.

“Oh, the amber... Isn't worth very much I'm afraid. Not to belittle your namesake or anything, I personally think it's a lovely gem, but sadly there just isn't much call for it. Spike doesn't even like to eat them much. He says they're too sweet.” She said giving me a nervous smile.

Her reaction confused me. It seemed that she thought that pointing out the low value of amber would somehow insult me. Then it occurred to me that she likely thought I was named after the gem and therefore suggesting I wasn't worth much because I'm named after a low priced stone. Fortunately, I could put her at ease rather simply.

“Rarity, you don't have to worry about insulting me, I wasn't named after the gem.” I informed her.

“What?! You weren't?!” She seemed a bit shocked by this revelation.

“No, my name is an acronym. Artificial Mind Built into an Equine Robot. A.M.B.E.R. Amber. Oh and of course Song from my fathers' name.” I said.

“Oh I see, well isn't that creative, I'd have never guessed, it sounds like a proper Earth Pony name.” She said thoughtfully.

“I think that's why he chose it.” I said. “I'd like to return to my earlier question though, what is this cape worth?”

“Oh, darling I assure you it's not worth worrying about.” She said waving a hoof dismissively.

“Please Rarity? I want to know.” I asked gently.

“Oh, very well then, if I had to put a value on it I'd say 25 bits.” She said somberly, probably predicting that I'd want to give that sum of money. I did have 30 bits on me that was my current savings from what I've received from my parents, so I went to get it out of my saddlebags. “But, darling you really don't have to give me anything for it.” She quickly added.

“Rarity, I intend to wear this cape out everywhere I go from now on. It will probably become something ponies will identify me by. If it is to become part of my identity, I want it to be something I paid for. I know that technically this is my parent's money but it's money they gave me, so it is money they wanted me to spend on myself, so I'd like to spend it on this. One day, hopefully soon, I intend to get a job of my own and earn my own money, but for now this is the best I can do. I don't know if this makes sense but I don't want a part of my identity to be something I didn't in some way earn.” I said as I hoofed over 25 bits.

Rarity smiled at me and put and a hoof on my shoulder. “Actually darling, it makes perfect sense, of course I'll accept your payment if it makes you feel more comfortable wearing it.” She said levitating the money to her cash register. She then levitated a quill and a small piece of paper from the table the cash register was on, quickly writing something on the paper. She then floated it over to me.

“There's your receipt dear, to make it all official.” She said smiling.

“Thank you Rarity.” I said, then I grabbed the paper and put it in my saddlebag.

“You're welcome Amber.”

“Well, I'll get going now.” I said as I put my saddlebags back on over my cape. I thought about putting them under the cape but on top they're more accessible and they'll make sure the wind doesn't blow my cape up and reveal my blank flank. Hiding that was the purpose of getting this cape after all. “I don't want to take up any more of your time, you must have have things to do.”

“Oh yes I do have a couple of orders to work today actually, but there's no rush for you to leave darling.” She said.

“It's okay Rarity, I want to go out for a walk and see if my new cape helps me blend in better.” I said.

“Well alright then dear, but be careful. Don't get your hopes up too much.” She said worriedly.

“I will be careful, don't worry, I'm not expecting much, but maybe I'll draw less attention now.” I said.

“I hope so darling, good luck and I'll see you later.” She said.

“See you later Rarity” I said as I left the Boutique.

After walking around town for an hour or so I had come to the conclusion that the cape indeed functioned as intended. Most ponies who looked my way barely spared a moment to look at me. Of those that did, few looked unhappy to see me. I even got a couple of smiles, small smiles but it's something. It was around lunchtime then, and I still had some money so I decided to go to the Diner. Of course Strawberry was there and she greeted me as soon as I came in.

“Amber, sweetheart, how nice to see you. Oh you have a new cape, it looks wonderful dear.”

“Thank you, I really appreciate that, Rarity made it.” I told her.

“Oh that's marvelous, can I get you anything sweetheart?”

“Yes, I would like a strawberry milkshake please.”

“Of course dear.” She giggled. “You really like those don't you?”

I smiled. “Oh yes, I think they're my favorite drink.” I told her.

“I don't doubt it dear.” She giggled again. She really did seem to be a good mood today. While I was waiting for her to finish making it I got out my money and put it on the counter. She finished only a few seconds later. “There you go dear.” She took the money and put the drink on the counter.

“Thanks.” I said as I picked it up and looked for a table. My favorite table in the back corner was free so I sat there drank my milkshake. I looked around to see if anyone was observing me. As it was lunchtime the place was busy with few free tables. I was pleased to see that most ponies were just talking to their companions, or reading newspapers or books. I felt relieved, being ignored isn't exactly acceptance but it's a start.

After I finished my milkshake I left the Diner. I decided to just walk around town for a while. After a short walk I ended up at a grassed area on the edge of the marketplace. There was a steep hill at the back of this area, it could be called a cliff face it was that steep. A group of foals were playing with a ball in the area, kicking it to each other. It was a pleasant sight so I decided to walk around the edge of this area, as not to interrupt them, also I would be in the shadow of the hill.

I was walking next to the cliff face when suddenly I felt a vibration through the ground and a noise above me. I looked up and saw some rocks falling from high up on the cliff. I could see a large boulder dislodging from the top of the cliff. I looked down and saw a young colt standing in the area that I predicted the boulder would land. Nopony else had seemed to notice the small rocks falling or the small tremors through the ground. The colt was looking toward his companions further away from the cliff, he was the only one in danger but didn't seem aware of it. As the boulder rolled off the cliff I updated my calculations and realized he was going to be hit. although I was fairly close to him I doubted I had time to push him out of the way. Quickly formulating a plan, I took a couple of quick bounds over to him and jumped on top of him. Being as short as he was a barely impacted his back but the impact pushed him to the ground. As my hooves hit the ground I locked my legs in position, just as I did that the boulder hit my back.

It is true that I only have a little more strength than the average earth pony but my structural integrity is far greater than any organic pony. With my legs locked into position I created a very effective shield for the colt. The boulder impacted with a loud clang and shattered into five large piece and countless little ones and releasing a big cloud of dust. As the dust cleared I heard the colt under me coughing from the dust. I could see all the other foals in the area looking toward us with shocked expressions. I turned my head around and down to look beneath me and address the colt. He was an earth pony with a blue coat and yellow mane and tail.

“I apologize for pushing you to the ground but that rock was about to land on you, are you okay?” I asked.

The colts eyes were wide and he appeared to be shocked by this experience. “Y-yes, I-I think so.” He said hesitantly.

“That is good.” I said, then I looked up at the cliff face again. Nothing else appeared to be unstable up there although I no geological expert. However I couldn't detect any more tremors. I looked back to the colt. “I think you can come out now it seems safe.” He nodded and crawled out from under me. I realized that my hooves had been driven into the soft earth a little from the impact. I pulled my hooves free from the small holes in the ground leaving four hoof sized holes about two centimeters deep. I followed the colt as he made his way into the middle of the grassed area and away from the cliff, just to make sure he was okay.

When we were a reasonable distance from the cliff he turned back toward me and sat down, looking up at me with a small smile. “Th-thanks, for saving me.” He paused a moment looking past me back to the impact sight. “Were all those pieces really one big rock when it fell?” He asked curiously.

“Yes, it broke apart when it impacted on my back.” I told him.

“H-how is that possible, no pony could have survived that.” He asked.

“Oh, well I'm a machine, not an organic pony. My main structure is made of metal.” I said with a little smile.

He gasped rocking back a bit and raising a forehoof. “Y-you're the robot lady!” He exclaimed.

“Well, yes, that's one way of putting it.” I said.

He seemed to calm a little bit and then he seemed to be lost in thought for a few moments. “Mom said I should stay away from you, but I don't get it, you seem really nice.” He said quietly.

I suddenly felt cold inside, I wasn't aware that some foals had been told to avoid me. This revelation hurt a bit, and I knew there was nothing I could really do about it. My father had once said that every parent has the right to raise their children the way they want, within the law of course. So I decided it would be wrong of me to contradict the colts mother. “Well, you should listen to your mother, she's just trying to protect you. So I'd best be going, I don't you getting in trouble with her.” I told him. Just then I heard a mare cry out from the distance behind the colt.

“Hammer!” The colt spun around immediately.

“Mom!” He yelled and started running toward her. She was an earth pony mare, blue in color with an orange mane. I couldn't see her cutie mark from this distance.

I decided it would be best for me to leave at this point. It was clear the colt's mother was not fond of me. I quickly vacated the grassed area and headed back into town. I didn't want to have to deal with a mare yelling at me for going near her colt. After I was back on main street I slowed my pace and walked slowly with my head down. I was feeling sad, I had saved a colts life, but I knew I would be disliked for being near other pony's children without their permission.

As I approached the Boutique I saw Rarity approaching from the other direction with a pony I presumed to be her sister Sweetie Belle, based on her appearance. She was a white unicorn filly with a pink and purple curly mane and a microphone as her cutie mark. Rarity spotted me and looked worried, she then ushered the other pony inside while she came toward me. “Amber darling, you look terrible, what happened?” She gasped. “And your cape is damaged! Come on inside with me darling and fix that right up.”

I looked over my shoulder and saw that my cape had indeed been damaged, that came as no surprise. “Okay Rarity.” I didn't want to be a bother to her, but I thought I could do with somepony to talk to.

We went inside and Rarity levitated the cape off my back. “This shouldn't take long dear. You can wait in the kitchen if you like there is some fresh apple juice in the refrigerator.” She smiled then headed to her workroom.

I went into the kitchen and saw the pony I had guessed earlier was Sweetie Belle sitting at the table. She looked toward me and smiled. “Hi!” She smiled “can I get you something while you wait? I heard Rarity say you could wait for her here. I presume she's fixing your cape as you're not wearing it anymore.”

I smiled a little. “No I'm fine, and yes Rarity is fixing my cape.”

“Okay, so you're Amber the robot huh? Rarity told me about you, I'm Sweetie Belle.” She introduced herself. She had a very pleasant voice.

“Yes, I'm Amber, I had assumed you were Sweetie Belle from what Rarity told me of you.” I told her. She giggled a little.

“Well it seems we already knew each others names huh? Wow, you look really dusty, you know Rarity will probably offer you a shower right?” She asked.

“Oh, well I could do with a clean, but I wouldn't want to be a bother.” I said. Sweetie giggled again.

“Rarity won't see it as a bother at all.” She said. Right at that moment Rarity returned.

“I've fixed your cape and hung it on the coat rack by the door darling.” She informed me. “I think you should have a quick shower darling, you seem quite dusty.” She said.

Sweetie giggled again. “Told ya.” She said. Before Rarity could ask what Sweetie meant by that we heard the entrance bell to the Boutique.

“Coming!” Rarity called out and headed to the main room. Sweetie and I could hear the voices coming from the main room.

“Oh hello Miss Rarity, um I was wondering if the robot mare was here? Somepony outside said they saw her come in here.” An unknown voice, clearly a mare said.

“Her name is Amber.” Rarity said in an angry tone.

“O-oh, o-of course, I-I just wanted to talk with her if I might.” The unknown voice said nervously.

“Well, I'm not sure that she'll want to talk to someone who would refer to her so rudely.” Rarity said with a huff.

I didn't want Rarity to get get into a conflict because of me so I decided to head to the main room. Sweetie following behind me. I entered the main room and saw that the unknown voice belonged to the mother of the young colt I had saved. The colt was sitting next to her.

“It's okay Rarity, I'll talk with her.” I said.

“Are you sure dear? You don't have to.” Rarity said.

“I'm sure Rarity, it's alright.” I said gently as to try to alleviate her concerns.

“Oh hi Hammer!” Sweetie Belle said as she came into the room.

“Hi Sweetie.” The colt, who's name was apparently Hammer said sheepishly.

“You know this young colt Sweetie?” Rarity asked.

“Yeah, this is Hammer Throw, he's in my class.” Sweetie informed everyone.

“I see, well why don't you an Hammer go and play outside for a little bit while we talk?” Rarity suggested.

“Okay, c'mon Hammer!” Sweetie said and lead the colt out the door.

After they left Rarity spoke up. “Well, you two can talk in the kitchen if you'd like.” She turned to me. “And Amber dear, if you need me I'll be right out here.” She said the turning and giving a scowl to the other mare. I smiled a little at Rarity's protectiveness.

“Thank you Rarity.” I said as I headed back into the kitchen with the other mare following me. I turned and sat on my haunches, She sat in front of me. “As you know my name is Amber, what's your name?” I asked.

“O-oh, Jonquil, my name's Jonquil.” She said shakily, she didn't seem to want to look me in the eye.

“So, what did you want to talk about?” I asked, she seemed very nervous.

“I, er...” She then looked me in the eye and tears started flowing. She leaped forward and hugged me crying out “Thank you, thank you so much!” She just continued sobbing into my shoulder. This confused me, I was certain she would be angry with me. It was clear however that she wasn't, I wasn't sure why she was crying though. My theory was that she was crying from relief, but I couldn't be sure. I therefore decided to use my comforting a crying foal technique until I could get more information.

“Ssh, ssh, it's okay.” I said gently as I brought a forehoof up and stroked her mane. “Can you tell me what's wrong?”

“N-nothing, I-I'm just so thankful he's okay.” She said through her sobs. I thought it would be best to let her 'get it all out' as I had heard it described. I just held her and stroked her mane until she calmed down a bit. At one point Rarity poked her head into the room to see what was going on, she seemed rather surprised to see me holding the crying mare. After a moment she gave me a small smile and gentle nod and left the room. When she let go of me and backed up a step she wiped her nose and eyes a bit. Sniffling a little she said “Sorry, I didn't mean to get you messy like that.” I felt my shoulder and found it a bit damp.

“Don't worry about it.” I assured her “Rarity was going to let me use her shower soon anyway.”

“Oh, I see.” She said, then sniffled again. “Thank you again for saving my son, I-I don't know what I would've done if he'd been hurt.” She looked down again sniffling and not looking me in the eye.

“Are you okay?” I asked gently, I was worried she was going to start crying again, she seemed distressed all of a sudden.

“I'm sorry.” She said in a quiet voice.

“Sorry? What for?” I asked.

She sniffled again. “I-I was there, t-the day you were, a-attacked.” She stuttered out quietly. “I-I threw my-my coffee at you.” Her voice had become almost a squeak at this point, her tears had started up again and were dripping on Rarity's kitchen floor. “I-I was j-just so a-angry, I-I didn't t-think a r-robot was good for the town.” Her voice was getting louder and her eyes were closed firmly shut and tears dripping freely. “Then, a-after the Princess got mad with us all, I-I was angry with her for telling us what to do. A-after I calmed down, I-I realized the Princess was right. We, we acted horribly, I still didn't like the idea of a robot in town but I was ashamed of how I acted. I, I told Hammer to stay away from you while I was still mad, and I never brought up the topic with him again. M-mostly cause I still didn't want him going near you.” She turned her head away from me while still facing down. “N-now, now I see, I see you're just another pony. The Princess said there was only one of you, s-so I-I think I'm okay with you now. I-I know it's mostly because you saved my little Hammer's life, so n-now I feel horrible cause i-it shouldn't take something like this to get me to a-accept you.” When she finished her explanation she collapsed to the floor and started sobbing again.

Her admission was quite a surprise for me. I knew she didn't like me before, because of what Hammer said, but to know she was there when I was attacked, and even participated, that I wasn't expecting. It seemed she was ashamed of her past behavior because now I had done something good for her. I know her behavior seemed shallow, but she seemed genuinely sorry. I think she understood how her behavior now could be interpreted. I didn't feel any hatred for her, or fear, I felt more sympathetic than anything. She seemed like a genuinely nice pony, and I didn't like seeing her like this. I moved up to her side and lay a hoof over her back.

“It's okay, I forgive you.” I said gently.

“W-what?!” She said while looking up at me with teary eyes and a look of shock.

“I forgive you.” I repeated. “What you did to me and said about me may have been wrong, but you seem to be truly remorseful. You seem to be a nice pony in general and I don't like seeing ponies cry. So, please stop crying, I hold no animosity toward you Jonquil.” She stared at me for almost thirty seconds before responding.

“Y-you, forgive m-me? You're not upset with me?”

“No, I understand what you were feeling, you were responding to fear.” I felt a little nervous as I recalled my own experience with fear. “I-I've been afraid before, when I was attacked, I understand that you would want to do whatever it takes to escape that feeling.”

“B-but, it was m-me and the others t-that caused you to be afraid.” She said.

“Y-yes, but I understand why you did it, and I forgive you for it. I think I can forgive anyone in that crowd that day if they can accept what they did was wrong, just as you have.” I said and gave her a small smile. She smiled back then she jumped off the floor and hugged me again.

“T-thank you, thank you so much, and thank you for saving my little colt, you have no idea what he means to me.” She said.

“It's quite alright, I'm just glad Hammer is okay. It would have been horrible for him to be hurt, especially as it would have been through no fault of his own.” I felt her nod in response to this. Then she released me from the hug and stood in front of me.

“W-well, thank you again Amber.” She said. She then looked away nervously. “I-I'd like to invite you to dinner at my home sometime, to say thank you, if you would like? You can bring your parents too, I'd love to meet them.”

“I would like that. I'll have to check Mom and Dad first, though generally we are free Saturday evenings, would this Saturday be appropriate?” I asked.

“That should be fine, I work at a flower shop in town most days of the week so just drop by to tell me if your parents wish to come. Oh, the shop is just called The Rose.” She said.

I nodded “I will.”

She glanced at the wall clock in the kitchen and gasped. “Oh my gosh, I have to get Hammer home and start preparing dinner, I completely lost track of the time. Sorry to run Amber but I have to go.” I smiled to let her know it was okay and she bolted out of the kitchen. I heard her call out a quick farewell to Rarity and the door to Boutique closing just after that.

Rarity came into the kitchen just as the door had closed. “Goodness, she certainly left in a hurry, is everything okay darling?” she asked.

“Yes, she just lost track of time.” I informed her.

“Oh, so you sorted out everything that needed sorting out with her?” She asked.

“Yes, she even invited me and my parents to dinner at her house on Saturday.”

“Well, that was certainly unexpected from somepony who was so rude earlier.” She said with a confused expression.

“I don't think she meant to be rude earlier Rarity, she probably just forgot my name and didn't know how else to refer to me.”

“Hmm, yes, you're probably right. I should apologize to her next time I see her.” She said.

“That would be nice.” I said.

“Oh, you should have that shower now Amber. I already put a fresh towel on the rack and feel free to use any of the shampoos and conditioners in there.” She said as she ushered me to the bathroom.

“Thanks Rarity.” I said.

After my shower and a quick goodbye to Rarity, I put on my cape and headed home for dinner. Mom and Dad were quite pleased that I had made a new friend and agreed to join in in going to her house for dinner on Saturday. Mom and Dad both said how proud they were of me for forgiving somepony who had hurt me. Seeing the smiles on their faces made me feel so warm inside. I'm looking forward to Saturday, it should be a pleasant evening.

Author's Note

I know it's been ages since I've updated this, I'm sorry about that. I will try to be quicker in future.

Day at the Diner

Dear Reader,

My name is Amber Song, I am Equestria's first artificial life form. Basically I'm a machine. You may prefer the term robot, or simulant, but whatever term you prefer, I am a machine. I was created to be the daughter of Dr. Noonday Song and Julienne Carrot, because they were not able to reproduce biologically.

My father thought it would be a good idea for me to keep a diary of my daily activities. He said it would help me to bring order to my thoughts about those activities. At first I found this suggestion confusing, as that is what my sleep cycle is for. However he explained that it's something organic ponies do, not just to help with ordering their thoughts but to help remember the details of events in the years to come. This made much more sense to me. I should point out that although my brain is entirely magitronic, my memory is not perfect. This is because my brain was designed to mimic the functions of a normal equine brain. I don't forget as much as an organic pony, but I do still forget things occasionally. So, I figured if this is what normal ponies do, then I should do it too. It is my endeavor in life to be more like organic ponies after all.

My father says that scholars in the future may wish to know about the early mental development of Equestria's first artificial life form, and this diary may one day help them. So if you are a scholar reading this in some archive somewhere, I hope you learn what you need from this. My father also says that diaries are meant to be private, and that reading someone elses diary is considered very wrong. However I do not mind if others read this, especially if it helps the advancement of science. So, to anyone reading this, I hope you enjoy it, or at least find it useful in some way.

Amber Song

January 28th 1005

My father has taught me many things about how to treat other ponies, I have also learned from experience and extrapolation. My father says how we treat other ponies says a lot about the kind of ponies we are. He believes that if every pony were to treat other ponies with kindness and gentleness, and of course respect, that Equestria will continue to be the beautiful place it is. I also believe this, for I have seen many times the joyful expression on a pony's face when another pony does something kind for them. Well, today I got to put that philosophy into practice.

Today I had to deal with a pony who was having a 'full-on panic attack' as my father later called it. I think I handled the situation quite well, and father thought so too. It all started very early in the morning, my father and I went to a local diner to get an early breakfast. We arrived just as it opened, we were that early because after we had eaten we planned to do some shopping before father had to go to work. Very few ponies were around that early in the day, after all Celestia had only raised the sun about a half hour before. So we were the only ponies in the diner at the time.

The owner of the diner approached us. She is a mare I have come to like in my many visits here, but she will remain nameless for reasons that will become clear. She took our orders, she normally has one or two other ponies helping her but as the diner had only just opened so she was on her own at the time. Father ordered some haycakes and an orange juice, I ordered a daffodil sandwich and a strawberry milkshake. Strawberry milkshakes are something I have come to very much enjoy.

The mare quickly returned with our our orders. I immediately took a sip from the straw in my milkshake, and I noticed something wrong.

“That is strange” I said “This has a very peculiar taste to it, I do not recognize it at all”.

The mare who had just delivered our orders was still close enough to hear me. She immediately turned around and rushed back to us.

“Oh, really, may I check that for you, make sure it's okay?” She asked, a worried look on her face.

“Certainly” I said as I hoofed it over to her.

She brought her muzzle close to it and took a sniff, her expression became one of shock and horror, which I could not understand at the time. Then she had her 'full-on panic attack'.

“No no no no NO! Not today, not like this.” She practically screamed. She then ran through the door marked 'Employees Only' and slammed the door shut behind her. At this point I was thoroughly confused, I turned to father for clarification.

“Why did she just panic like that? Father, I do not understand”. He leaned over and took a sniff of the milkshake, much as she had, and frowned.

“Oh dear, it would appear the milk has gone off.”

“I see, that would account for the strange taste.” I had never tasted off milk before which is why I did not recognize it. “However, that does not explain why she panicked.”

Father was about to explain when we both heard sobbing through the door, which was not far from us behind the counter. She was not being very loud but seeing as we were still the only ponies in the main room, we could hear her easily. At this point, even though I was still confused as to what upset her, I thought I should act immediately. My father had once said “a crying mare deserves immediate attention.” So I got up and went around the back of the counter and knocked on the door. My sudden action seemed to surprise my father, but as always he did not interfere. He only gets involved with my actions if I am about to do something highly inappropriate, which I am glad to say does not happen often.
I heard the sobbing suddenly cease when I knocked and the sound of the mare scrambling to get up. I then heard her hoofsteps approach the door. She opened it just a crack and I could see one of her eyes looking at me.

“Y-yes” she said, then sniffed. “Oh, it's you, of course how silly of me let me get you a refund on that milkshake.” her voice was still extremely panicked, and only seemed to be getting worse. I was not quite sure how to proceed, but I thought it best if acted quickly to alleviate her stress.

“Oh, no that is quite alright, I am just concerned about you. Can I come in, please?” I was careful to keep my voice quiet, with a gentle tone. I then gave her a small, hopefully comforting, smile. She seemed a little confused by my response, but after a few seconds she answered.

“I, uh, ok.” She was still very upset and I could tell she was holding back her tears, at least for the moment. She opened the door and let me in, my father followed behind, quickly asking if he could come in too, she nodded. Once she closed the door, I turned to her, and spoke with the same gentle voice as I had just used.

“I was wondering miss, why did you get so upset all of a sudden?” She looked at me with a very confused expression and sniffed before replying.

“Well... you tasted it, I served you an off milkshake. When word of this gets out, I'm ruined!” She then collapsed on the floor and began sobbing again.

I could not understand why this would ruin her. It was a simple mistake, probably caused by a small lapse in concentration. Which is completely understandable given the early hour. However, that did not matter to me as much as helping this poor mare. I am not very experienced with emotion, strong emotion in particular, but there in front of me, crying, was the mare who had served me and my father, and many other ponies too, quite a number of meals. She always did her job with a smile on her face and with such a happy sounding voice. I did not believe she deserved to feel so sad because of a small mistake. So I quickly decided to comfort her as best I could. I lay on the floor next to her, reached up with my foreleg and gently stroked her mane.

“Shh, shh, it is okay, whatever the problem is, I am here to help” I said in a very quiet, hopefully soothing voice. I admit I did not really know if this was the right thing to do or say to her. I was adapting the technique from a mother I saw comforting her crying foal, who had just hurt herself, it was the only point of reference I had on how to treat a crying pony. To my surprise, it seemed to work, her sobbing quieted a bit, her body seemed to relax a bit and tremble a little less, she even leaned against my body a bit as if seeking warmth and comfort. She then looked over to me with a hopeful expression.

“Y-you, really want to help m-me? E-even after I potentially gave you food poisoning.” She clamped her eyes shut, and turned away slightly, like she was afraid of what I would say next.

At this point I stopped stroking her mane and just rested my foreleg over her shoulders giving her a light squeeze. This was because I figured that, now she was calmer, continuing my 'comforting of a crying foal' technique might be considered patronizing. As such I also spoke to her in a normal voice, to let her know I was not 'babying' her as I had once heard it called.

“I see no reason not to help if I can, you only made a small mistake. If there is anything I can do to prevent this mistake from ruining you, I would like to do it. Besides, you may not know this, but I am an artificial life form, I can not get food poisoning.”

She sniffed and looked over at me with an almost relieved expression. “Y-you can't?”

“No, not at all. Even so I am still not sure how such a mistake could ruin you?”

She sniffed again and wiped her hoof across her face to clear away her tears and nasal secretions. She looked down sadly at the floor but seemed to regain some of her composure.

“Well, you see sweetheart, when ponies hear that a diner served someone bad food, they tend to avoid the place, to put it mildly.” She then closed her eyes, and a few new tears ran down her face. “My reputation's ruined, I'll have to close the diner.” She started sobbing again, I gave her another gentle squeeze. She turned her attention back to me.

“I do not understand” I said to her gently. “Ponies will understand, at the very least they will eventually put it aside and give you another chance, I am sure of it.” I gave her a confident smile. I was not just saying this either, I truly believed it. She, however did not seem to believe this as she shook her head a couple of times before responding.

“No sweetheart, you don't understand, this place is barely getting by as it is. Once this gets out, I won't have enough customers to keep this place open for very long at all.”

Then it made sense to me, she truly believed this was the end of her business. I like this diner, and I like her, I could not let this happen. An idea formed in my mind, but I needed to consult my father first.

“One moment, I need to speak to my father about this.” She sniffed and nodded somberly at me.
I got up and approached my father, and whispered into his ear so she would not hear me. “Father, I believe we were the only ponies out there just now. Could we not just keep this information to ourselves? That way her reputation would remain intact and nopony would avoid this place.”

My father thought for a moment then smiled. He whispered back. “That sounds like a wonderful idea, that's very kind of you Amber.” He then looked at me with an expression which I have learned means he is proud of me. I may only experience some emotion, but right then I felt very warm and comfortable, and quite pleased with my idea. I looked to the mare on the floor and smiled in anticipation of how happy this would make her.

I lay back down next to her, she turned her head to face me. I gave her a smile which I hope conveyed the pleasant feelings I felt at that moment. “My father and I have decided that we will not tell anyone off what happened here today.” She looked at me with her mouth agape and a surprised look in her eyes.

“Y-you really mean that?” She looked back at my father for confirmation, he just smiled and nodded. She then turned back to me. “You'd do that, for me?” She asked in a hopeful tone.

“Yes I would, we would.” I said looking quickly back toward my father. Then looking back at her I added in a serious tone “This diner is your livelihood and, from what I have observed, your passion. This one little mistake should not cost you so much. After all, how could you learn from this mistake if your diner is closed.” I finished with a small smile.

She gives a small smile in return. “Yes, yes I suppose you're right.” She then suddenly pounced on me hugging her forelegs around my neck and pressing her face into my mane “Thank you thank you thank you thank you so much, you've no idea what this means to me.”

At first I was surprised by the sudden hug, but then I smiled as that warm feeling from earlier returned but even stronger, I felt happy, and a little bit proud of myself. “It is quite alright.” I said to her. “You deserve it, you work so hard, you should not be punished for such a small mistake.”

My father then spoke up from the back of room. “I know why your milk went off, your refrigeration unit isn't operating.”

“What!” The mare jumped up and ran over to it. “Oh my gosh, you're right, why didn't I notice that.” She looked down at the floor obviously feeling like she should have noticed. Then suddenly she gasped. “Oh no, I don't think I can afford to get it fixed, oh no oh no oh no.” She shook her head violently back and forward, once again going into a panic. I was considering what to do to help her, when my father came up with a solution.

“Relax, I'll get this thing going in no time.” He smiled confidently.

“Really? You can do that?” She asked with a hopeful expression.

“Of course, I'm a Doctor of arcanotech, this is simple stuff for me, let me just get my tools. I'll be back soon.” he gave her a warm smile.

I waited in that back room with her while my father went back to our house to collect his tools. The poor mare still seemed to be fairly agitated, or anxious, I wasn't sure. So I approached her, when I got close to her she hugged me tight again and began sobbing again. I thought we had done something wrong, I was about to ask when she started talking in between her sobs.

“Th-thank you, thank you s-so much, I cannot b-believe how kind you are. I mean I g-give you bad f-food and you say you'll keep it qu-quiet, your father discovers my b-broken refrigerator and offers to fi-fix it. What did I do to deserve such kindness.” She starts sobbing even harder and gripping me tighter. I was confused again, I assumed something else must be bothering her.

“Is something wrong? Why are you crying? Is there anything else I can help you with?”

She actually chuckled though her sobs which I found contradictory, until she explained. “No sweetheart, nothing is wrong, I'm just so relieved.”

“Oh, I see.” Then I tried to answer her earlier question “As for what you've done to deserve such kindness, I think you're a wonderful mare and I've seen you show kindness to many ponies, so of course you deserve to shown kindness. Not that kindness is something that should be traded as a commodity, but you definitely deserve some. Just last week I saw you give a young colt an orange juice even though he hadn't realized he was short two bits. With your business struggling, that was a very nice thing you did.”

She sniffed a few times then said “I couldn't let him just go thirsty, he thought he had enough, it was and honest mistake.”

“See how wonderful you are.” I replied. “I am more than happy to lend you a hoof if I can, and my father likes to help ponies where possible too.” We were both silent after that, we just waited there holding each other.

Half an hour later my father had returned and quickly found the problem. Luckily it was a simple fix. Turns out there was inadequate insulation on the main control gem, so it was bleeding energy from it's spell matrix into the main power feed for the unit. My father fixed it by adding some insulation tape to the existing insulation, and re-energizing the spell matrix in the control gem.

“Really? That's all it was? Some insulation, are you sure that's it?” She asked, seemingly unable to believe it was so simple a thing.

“Yes ma'am, believe me, some colleagues and I actually invented this particular gem matrix. It's fairly cheap to make, and fairly robust too, if it's properly insulated. If it isn't, well, energy will bleed from the matrix into the main power feed. Eventually so little energy remains in the gem that the matrix collapses and the unit fails, which is what happened to this unit sometime in the last couple of days. I would like to get the name of the company you use to service your equipment, I think I need to have a word with them about cutting corners.” he finished this with a slight scowl, obviously meant to display his disgust that someone would mistreat a piece of arcanotech so badly.

“Oh, really? You think it was the service technicians?” she asked

“Either that, or the guys that constructed this unit in the first place.” He said, while quickly taking note of the make and model number printed on a plate on the back of the unit, just in case he needed to contact them about this.

“Oh dear.” She said. “Can you let me know if you find out anything? I'd hate to be dealing with poorly trained technicians.”

“Of course.” He says with a smile. Then looking at his watch. “Oh my goodness, it's getting on a bit, we should be going now.”

“Oh, oh of course, I've taken up far to much of your time, I'm so sorry.” she said apologetically.

“It is quite alright.” I said with a smile “It was our pleasure to help.”

“Well, thank you again Amber and...” she looking at my father.

“Dr. Noonday Song, but you can just call me Noonday.” he said with a smile.

She smiled back. “Well thank you Nooonday, and Amber, you two are such wonderful ponies”

“Thank you.” I said. “Well we better be on our way, see you next time.”

“Yes, please come back anytime.” She replied.

We then departed the diner. I found that incident to be quite stressful, I was worried the whole time that I was going to do something that would just upset her more. However, seeing her smile as we left the diner made it all worthwhile. Also seeing my father smile at me with such pride as we walked along the main street of Ponyville to do our shopping, was a very special moment for me.

Author's Note

At this point I don't know if I will continue this. If I did it would just be random diary entries, no real order to them. Let me know if this is interesting at all, or any other comments you may have, positive or negative I don't mind. This is my first ever story, so I'm not expecting much.