The Choices We Make

Chapters

A brief History Lesson
Southern Bound
Blood Trail
Choices Given, Decision Made

A brief History Lesson

Well here I am in Ponyville waiting for tomorrow to come so I can continue my journey to find my friend. Hmmm that doesn't really sound like a good introduction. Okay let me start with my name. I am Daniel Voca and as the natives here call my kind I am a Hie. why they do that, I don't know, but at lest it is in good fun. I'm getting off track so let's head back to the task at hand...the best way to explain it is to start telling you a bit about history on how I came here and what not. Yea I know it isn't the most interesting subject but I need to go through it so things can make sense.

Nine years ago the first warp hole appeared ( I rather not say portal, to mainstream). From what I heard apparently some strong Unicorn was experimenting with teleportation magic and ending up creating a bridge between worlds. The warp hole appeared in the US at a public spot soooo no government cover up. At first it was the usually we are being invaded by aliens/monsters/whatever you can think of and then some. Thankfully first contact happened and things started to get better. I won't bore you with the details so I'll make this short. Governments official meet, they talked, treaties were made and cultures were exchange. There was that brief uproar of little kids getting excited about the talking ponies but I think that died down.

Anyway four years ago both governments decided to start a experimental project. This project involved having humans live in Equestria which was a big step up from short visiting trips. I guess I should mention that there wasn't any plans to bring any of that world's residents over to live here. Very few ever stay in our world more then a week.

I decided to sign up and after a gurgling screening process (No lie, along with the normal things they did a full psychological analysis plus you couldn't have more the three misdemeanors on your criminal record). I was accepted of course since I'm talking about it. Now I wasn't just dropped into Equestria to fend for myself. The way it worked was once in Equestria a host would provide a home for us. From there we would work out everything else. The human to host ratio varied so some humans lived together under one household while others like myself lived alone with their host.

This is how I met my first and best pony friend. The same friend I am now trying to find. One can not simply talk about a friend and not describe them. She is. . .well female. Her name is Sundance and she is a earth pony. She has yellow fur though I don't know what shade of yellow so let's just say it's a dusty yellow. For her mane and tail she has alternating colors of ruby red and light orange strands. The top part of her mane is brush off to the left side. She has the most beautiful apple green eyes anyone/anypony has seen. The final part of her description is of course her cutie mark. It so happens to be a open book with a quill in the middle of writing something down on the right page. It's fitting since she is an editor for small time writers.

Now that I got the history lesson as well as my friends depiction out of the way let me talk about what happened three days ago.

It was the afternoon and I was fishing at a pond near the town I lived in. The town's name was Gazington. It is a small town so there not really a need to talk about it much. Anyway I had decided to call it quits after catching three fish. I pack up my stuff and place my catch in a cooler to bring home. Yes I'm allowed to catch and eat fish in Equestria (For all other sources of meat I would need to send in a request to my world for what I desire). I was on the path home when I heard the sound of wings flapping just above me. I being curious and all looked up. Above me was a female Griffin I just happen to know. "Hello there Gilda."

The Griffin's usual annoyed expression became a solemn one. "Hey, you got any fish?" she asked. "Yes I do." I replied cheerfully. I then reopened the cooler grabbed my biggest catch and tossed it to her. After a quick examination of the fish she looked at me and said "Thanks...biped" and with that she took off into the sky.

I wouldn't say Gilda was a friend, she is more of an acquaintance on good terms. Usually if I see her when I have meat I offer her some or she asks. I don't mind doing it considering meat is a part of her diet yet she lives in a place were the natives don't have any need for such food.

Finally I reached the house. Upon walking inside and avoiding one of the two constant evils in my life; the top of the door frame, the voice of Sundance greeted me. "Daniel! how was the fishing catching anything."

"To answer your questions my dear friend...good and yes." I said doing my best gentlemanly impression. Hearing a small laugh come from her work room I drop my stuff and headed down the hallway to my target. I found Sundance in front of her desk which facing the opposite direction I was in. Her ears rotated to face me indicating that she knew I was there. Her forehooves were tapping away on a pony-made typewriter (yes, a typewriter the pre-computer printer). As I got closer she stopped, rose onto her hind legs and bent backwards slightly in a stretch. "YES, finally done." she spoke in jubilee. I heard a cracking sound come from her back before she returned to all fours.

I raised an eyebrow. Sure she got happy when she finished editing but ever this excited. "Oh, and what makes this any different then the other times?"

She turned to face me and smiled. "Because now I'm official on vacation." Making a hoof pump as she finished.

"Ah then we must make a plan to do something in the near future my dear friend." I said in a gentlemanly manner. " 'Indeed good sir." she replied in a lady like fashion. Oddly enough after our little skit I thought I saw Sundance frown but it was right at that moment that my body decided that I needed to blink. After regaining sight from my millisecond of blindness there was no frown on her face. Instead all I saw was her normal smile that she always wore when she was happy.

There is much to say about the rest of the day. After chatting with Sundance I placed my fish in my personal refrigerator. Sundance doesn't mind me catching fish but that doesn't mean she wants to see them in the regular fridge. Once that was done I joined Sundance on the couch and continued to read a book I was currently on. What...no there isn't any T.V. here even though the ponies have the ability make them. Sometimes I miss it but I will live...the internet was a bit harder to go without but I survived the withdraw and at least they have radios which actual plays some songs from my world.

Later, once dinner was devoured and stomachs satisfied I want up to my room. I took care of my hygiene and then with everything out of the way I presented my body to my bed. It took me with no questions asked.

I woke up abruptly for no reason. I don't know what time it was but I'm sure it was late. I laid there in bed, my eyes scanned the room to see if something was there. Something must have woken me up but I didn't know what it could be. there wasn't anything out of the ordinary however...well besides a tingly sensation on my lips. With my fight or flight response dissipating I fell back to sleep.

The sound of birdies chirping woke me up. I zombied my way to the bathroom for my morning ritual then downstairs to the kitchen for breakfast. It was there I realized something out of place. It was eighteen minutes past nine Sundance should be up and making her breakfast by now. Sure some could say that since she is now on vacation she might be sleeping in. The thing is I was the one who slept in. Even on days off Sundance would have been up by nine it's just how she was.

At the time didn't think much of it. Maybe she went to get groceries or run a errand. So I placed it at the back of my mind as I finished my breakfast (which was oatmeal by the way). Skipping the rest of my normal morning actives brings us to me heading off to Magic class. Magic class you say? What do you mean 'magic class' your a human from a planet that initially didn't have magic. Well guess what I Do have the ability to use magic. It was a surprise to all really. Once arriving in Equestia some of the humans felt a strange sensation within themselves. It wasn't long after that someone unknowingly performed a spell. This of course lead to the discovery that some humans had some innate power to use magic. The natural magic of this world acted as the catalyst which made it possible.

Now before you go off and say that it makes us overpowered then I got something to tell you. You're wrong. First, out of all the humans in this world very few are able to use magic. Umm I would say out of a group of two hundred humans only thirty can do magic. Also our magic works on the same bases as Unicorn magic. This means that each one of us is good at a certain spell group. I so happened to excel at casting enhancement spells.

The two hour class past unfortunately quickly. It's like they say 'time flies when you're having fun." Soon after the class I headed back home for lunch. Normally I would have gone to work but as of right now that was impossible. I work at a restaurant called the 'Family Herd'. Being a dexterous human with magic is a big help especially during the busy season. For now however Family herd was closed for renovations.

This may bring up questions involving money. Well there is no need to worry I have enough saved up. Sundance gets good pay plus she is given money every month for being my host by the Equestrian government.

I entered the house and went straight to the kitchen for some good old peanut-butter jelly time. I got the required items but as I was about to stick a knife into the peanut-butter container I notice something I hadn't before. The house was quiet. Too quiet.

"Sundance..." no answer. I". "honey I'm home". Every once and awhile I would say that jokingly. It seem to cause her to fluster quite a bit when ever I said that I hope I would get a raise out of her but again no response. I got the nagging feeling something was off. I could have pushed it to the back of my mind making myself believe that my dear pony friend and host was still out somewhere. I however did no such thing. Abandoning the knife in the container I set about searching the house.

It didn't take long to search the entire and needless to say it was fruitless. Defeated I started my way back to the kitchen. I won't lie, I was worried. Yes I did think about reasons why she wasn't home yet still be safe but that didn't help.

I entered the kitchen and looked around. Nothing was out of place...well besides the food I had out. With nothing else I could do I finished making my sandwich. It didn't take long to eat the whole thing. My stomach was happy but the rest of me wasn't.

Since I had used a plate to put my sandwich on I did what any consciences person (or pony) would do. I placed in on the counter next to the sink. A funny thought came to me. there was only one bowl and one plate on the counter This may not seem like a big deal to most but to me, a man who currently had heighten awareness due to worry of a missing friend I notice it. The bowl was mine I had used it for breakfast. I don't exactly remember put my bowl on the counter but hey I was on auto-pilot. Heck a spoon was sticking out of it...one made for humans, and the plate...do I really have to say?

Sure Sundance could have had something for breakfast that didn't involved leaving evidence but we were out of such food items. Neither of us would skip a meal even if we were running late for something.

That, I can say was the last straw. I needed to search for her in town and if I can't find her I would make a report to the authorities. Thus I took off into town to find her.

I run through town asking any pony, human or other if they had seen her (or anypony with her description to those who didn't know her.) As I said Garzington was a small town. The population is just around three hundred mostly ponies with a few humans here and there. Even though I say it's a small town it still took me four hours to talk to everyone I saw.

My search was fruitless as a dead apple tree. In the end I ended up at the town square. In the middle of the square was a fountain. the base was circler. There was a statue of a Unicorn in a rearing position. The water continuously sprouted from the horn. My legs were tired from all the running around I did. The fountain base looked like a good place to sit so I sat own.

Waiting for the throbbing pain in my legs to go away I began people watching. Numerous ponies and humans walking about. Some were talking to others. Some just walked about minding their own business. Then...then there wee those who were no doubt sharing a romantic moment. Ponies hugging other ponies (some kissing) Humans holding hands and a whole lot of other stuff. Deep down I envy them. Before I my thought could go any farther my name was called.

It was male voice so I didn't get my hopes up. I didn't want to be rude even though I wasn't in the mood to talk so I looked for the owner of the voice. searching the coward I found one midnight blue pony with black hair and teal eyes heading straight toward me. I was a little surprise by who it was. Night Watch. In this universe where ponies are given names that relate to their will be talent or personality Night Watch's name should an easy guess. It is the same reason why I was confused and surprised that he was out and about in the sunlight. He was a night owl if you ever saw one. Sundance and I became friends with him after me defused a situation with a drunk pony.

"Night Watch? what are you doing here?" I said as soon as he was close enough.

He chucked "Tryin' to find ya before my shift." My response was a cocked eyebrow. Yesterday...or I guess you could say today Sundance came by ma-" "You saw Sundance." I spoke almost yelling. Night Watch grunted not pleased with my interruption. "As I said I saw Sundance at my post around...one forty, two-a-clock and she asked me to give ya a message before ma next shift which is now. She said that she is heading out of town to find something doesn' know when she will back but told me to tell ya not to worry and she sorry that she left suddenly with a word."

I blinked a few times as my mind tried to process what I had just been told. I did give a verbal response one I did, and it went like this. "WHAAAAAAAT" I think several bystanders jumped at my shout but I wasn't really paying attention. Night Watch was rubbing his ears with his hooves.

"Why, just freaking why. She made it sound like we would be able to vacation together, yet she pulls this." I fumed, getting to my feet and pacing back and forth.

At this point Night Watch recovered. "I don't know why I just was asked to leave the message." Night rubbed the back of his head with a hoof. He opened it up but closed it. He then turned around and started trotting away. My internal reactor cooled down enough for me to think. Why had Sundance left so early in the morning. and why hadn't she left some sort of note or tell Night watch to tell me where she was going. One answer came to me that seem the most plausible. She had deliberately kept me in the dark. What ever she was doing was either something I wouldn't approve of or something she didn't want me to get involved with for my own good (I know that because that is the type of pony she is.). I reentered the world of reality. The crowd had gotten over my outburst and was now returning to their normal lives. I didn't really care about that, instead I cared about finding Night Watch before he disappeared. I was lucky, he hadn't gone far.

"Night. Hey Night Watch." His ears turned back to me before the rest of his body followed. "Which direction did she leave in?"

"ahh The town's west exit."

I ponder for a moment trying to think of what was in that direction. Night Watch apparently saw my predicament and gave me his educated guess. "Well there is the town of Ponyville bout fifteen or so miles in that direction. In between is just grassland so it's not dangerous."

"Thanks." I said before taking off toward the house Leaving Night Watch to his own devices. I had someplace to go and only a few hours of daylight left.

I guess I'm lucky that I had done some camping with family during my youth. I Once I had reach the house I made a mad dash to gather up everything I needed. extra clothes, food rations, bit bag, and maps. There was other stuff but is there a need to mention everything.

I might not have needed to get all this stuff if I could simply take a train. The was however, a problem with that. The powers that be decided that today would be the day they shut down the station so crews could work on track maintenance near said station. So trekking though the grassland is was.

With everything packed in my backpack and on my back, I left. I wasn't stopped until I reach the town limit where a officer was making his rounds. "Dan? what are ya doing?" the guard who so happened to be Night Watch asked. He sounded more curious then integrative.

"Going after Sundance." I said nonchalantly. Having superpowers of mind reading (not really) I could tell he was going to ask me why. "Because I'm her friend and no matter what reason she has for keeping me in the dark I'm not about to sit around the house all day waiting for her return. I'm going after her and find out what it is that made her want to leave to find it." I grinned.

Night Watch stare emotionless at me for a second then smiled. "well you better get going then." I nodded before jogging away.

If I wasn't in such a hurry I would have enjoyed the scenery. Bight sun with few clouds and tall grass everywhere besides the dirt path I was jogging or should I say running like the dickens. I had cast a spell on myself to extend my endurance so I was able to run at full speed for quite some time.

Even running as fast I as I can fifteen miles is still fifteen miles. It took me till evening to get to Ponyville. Once I was close I released the spell and retuned to impulse. I did get a few looks from the residents, some even asked if I was ok or why I was in a rush. At first I replied I was alright and such then after my mind cleared I proceeded to facepalm myself realized I could have asked them about Sundance. I did just that from then on everytime I came across a pony, human or other. Eventually I was told to go to the library. Thankfully somepony had seen a pony fitting Sundance's depiction heading into the previous spoken of place.

Disregarding the fact that the library could be and most likely was closed. I ended up at the front door after I was given directions. I took a deep breath and knocked on the door.

"Coommiiing" A male voice called out from the other end. There were several thumping noises which I assumed as a earth pony making his way to the door. A second after the thumping notices stopped the door opened. I was wrong, it wasn't a earth pony it was a purple dragon.

The dragon was just a foot short then me (I'm 5'10'') with green ear fins and spikes along his spine. I stared at him for what seemed like an hour. It wasn't of fear, oooohhh no that wasn't it at all. I Like dragons.

"Um hello, need something? we're kind of closed right now." The dragon's deep but kind voice brought me out my stupor.

'Oh right um...hello I was told that a yellow pony with a red an orange mane came here."

The dragon opened his mouth to say something but a voice from beyond the stairs called out. "Spike? is somepony there?" The voice was female.

The dragon turned his head toward the stairs. 'Yup...um" He looked at me with a brow raised I assumed he wanted my name so told him I was Daniel. "A guy by the name of Daniel is looking for somepony."

"Daniel? a human?"

"No...Daniel from accounting." Spike gave me a small grin.

"We have a pony named Dan in accounting?" The female was clearly confused from what I could tell from her voice.

"Nope...just messing with ya Twilight. It is a human." the dragon chuckled loudly. There was a moment of Silence then the next thing I know a poof of purple smoke comes out of nowhere only to reveal a purple Alicorn. It was then realized that Twilight Sparkle Princess of Magic still lived in Ponyville.

After some tea and Biscuits while sitting on cushions I explained to the princess for my reason being there so late.

"yes, Sundance did come by earlier today. She wanted to research transformation spells." Twilight put a hoof to her chin recalling the event.

"Transformation?"

"Yes, unfortunately she didn't seem to be able to find what she was looking for so I asked her if I could help." I wanted to speak up but decided against it; I was in front of royalty after all. Twilight continued "She was look for a particular spell transformation spell in mind." She paused, which if I didn't know any better was for dramatic effect. "Transform Ponies into other humans and vice-versa."

A mix of confusing and bewilderment spread across my face. "Um wait...the closest you can get is a well made illusion spell...I don't know the complexes of magic but isn't that spell impossible to do?."

Twilight gave me a sad yet calm look. "As of right now there isn't any spell for such a propose. Most transformation spells are for inorganic material. I mean it could be possible but that evolves a lot of research to do...but if there is a mistake in the equation even if is minuscule it could lead to a huge disaster...even worse, nothing could be wrong if the spell formula itself and yet it could still result horrible just because how our bodies are."

"Um twilight...I think he wanted an answer not a lecture." Spike said. (I totally forgot he was there.) Princess Twilight blushed but quickly recovered.

A question popped into my mind and I voiced it. "I mean no disrespect but your talent is magic wouldn't you be able to find a quick way make a transformation spell?"

"I...sorry I can't. Just because my talent is magic it doesn't mean I know everything pertaining to it nor can I bend the rules of magic to do what I want." She frowned.

"No worries" I wave my hands. "but if you can't help her then where did she go? I checked the hotels but none of them have seen her and there is only one road leading here from Grazington I would have seen her on my way here."

The room got unnaturally quiet. The Princess had a nervous expression on her face. She knew something and I intended to find out what it was. Fortunately I didn't have to wait long. Almost Immediately she spoke up in a nervous voice. "Ah well I may have said something in passing about how there could be a higher chance that changelings might be better suited to know about transformation."

She ducked her head and flattened her ears readying herself for a outburst. Luckily for her it never came. Instead I just started at her surprised. My feeling weren't directed to her however it was directed to Sundance. Would she really travel to the Changeling's homeland to find out. Why was it so important to find a transform spell that could work on changing a pony into a human or a human into a pony. Either way I needed to find her.

Blinking a few times I was about to regain my composure and wit. I then thanked Twilight for the tea and the help before I want to get my bag.

'Your going to follow her aren't you?" Spike said once the bag was on my back. I simple turned and nodded. Suddenly a letter appeared in front of me.

"it's to late to head off now...show that to anypony working the counter at any of Ponyville's hotels. They should open a room for you no matter what." I opened my mouth to ask why she was doing this. She answered before the question passed my lips. "Princess or not I want to help anypony...or anyone I can...it's just who I am." She chuckled.

I smiled back and thanked her and Spike once again before I headed to the closet hotel I could find.

Southern Bound

I woke from my sleep when the sun decided to shine it's rays onto my face. Rubbing the sleep out of my eyes I sat up in bed. A quick glance at the alarm clock told me it was 7 something. Groaning loudly I flopped back down on the bed and covered my face with a pillow. Since there is no need to get up why not catch a few mor-oh shit. Sundance. I was up like morning wood as I scrambled out of bed to change from PJs to the first piece of clothing for each part of my body.

Next was the bathroom for hygiene and well...need I say more. Keeping the bathroom door open I used magic to pick up the many discorded items on the floor and put them back in the backpack (God I love magic.). After a quick check that I had everything I was out the door.

The hotel had breakfast set up already on the main floor so let the inhaling of hotel food begin. It was oatmeal again but this time with marshmallow eggs that turn into dinosaurs...don't judge me. Once the room key was returned I was out the door before The hostess could say "thank you, come again."

Now Princess Twilight mention the Changelings to both Sundance and me. I am quite sure Sundance would head to their hive. This means she is heading south, pass Appleloosa to the bad lands. While I wish I could just head to the train and take a ride the my destination I shouldn't; not without more supplies.

You know, if you take your time just walking around Ponyville you may discover what a nice town it is (Especially when your trying to find the right store). Certainly it has grown since us humans arrived, but it has kept its small town feel to it. Ponyville would be a wonderful place to visit, but atlas I found the a store that looked quite promising. If a store called Camp Supply Line does not sell camping equipment and supplies then there will be hell to pay...well I guess Tartarus in this case.

Making my way through the crowd of Technicolor ponies I finally got the front door and opened it.

You can tell that the people of Earth have had some influence on this world especially when you hear this. I literally deadpanned when I heard it playing throughout the store. It did however, amuse me somewhat.

The store was jam packed with all kinds of camping stuff. From Tents to cans of beans(no pork and beans though as one should expect). First things first, I needed a bigger backpack. I found them on display behind the counter on the opposite side of the building.

I made my way to the counter while glancing at surrounding items; making my mental list of things to get. Surprise surprise there was a actual human at the cash register. Visual inquiry told me that the human was a middle age (I think) heavy set female with a smile on her face. I did happen to see three other individuals off to the right. A yellow Pegasus mare with a bubblegum pink mane and tail was talking to a green earth pony stallion with a purple mane/tail. The third...well the third surprised me a little. It was a light brown Hippogriff with pink hair.

I know this is a bit of a diversion from my previous thoughts but it's not everyday you see a Hippogriff. Hippogriffs, as some might know are children of a Griffin and pony. They come in various shapes but the mix heritage is always visible. The one I was seeing just so happened to look like a pony with talons for forelegs and the tail was that of a griffin's, you know, the one resembling a lion.

The little tike caught me looking at him ( I could tell the gender because of the muzzle shape). He smiled and waved at me. I waved back thanking his innocent nature from keeping him from noticing my curious interest. What, Hippogriffs are rare. It's hard not to stare at one.

"Hi what can I help you with today."

I jumped back suddenly recalling that I was near the counter thus near the clerk. She let out a small laugh. At least one of us was amused.

"If I am able to scare you that easily and you plan to go camping I got some bad news for you." The woman spoke with mirth.

"Well last time I checked the wildness don't have ninja ladies" I quipped.

The woman just shook her head at my sad attempt to make a good retort. "So, what can I help you with." She asked politely with the smile never leaving her face.

Ahh, this is the part where I need to explain the reasoning behind my need of supplies. From what I have heard, it seems like Sundance is heading toward the Changelings. I'm sure this fact has already been made apparent. Now before anyone asks, We (as in both Earth and Equestria governments) have reached a truce. I don't know the details but I think was long as we supply them with what they need, they will not try to attack or whatever. Also they opened their boarders to travelers.

"Do you have a large backpack with a sleeping bag attachment?"

The woman responded by pulling out a sheet of paper. It looked like some sort of list. "Yep, lucky you, we have just one in stock. Let me get retrieve it from the back."

Once she left I decided to do a little shopping. I placed my old backpack on the counter to inform the woman I was still in the store just incase she made it back before I was done. First thing on my mental list to get...drum roll please...med kit. I'm a smart boy aren't I. Equestria and the surrounding continents may seem nice and harmless but that only because people only ever visit the 'safe places'. It's far more dangerous considering there are mythological monsters out there along with the normal wild life.

It didn't take long for me to find and pick up the med kit I wanted. Just as I was about to head to toward the next item something rammed into the back of my right leg. I would have fallen if I hadn't grabbed the shelves in front of me. Finding balance again I whipped around ready to fume at whatever hit me. My words became caught in my throat. Before me was the Hippogriff who was still recovering from the collision. Before I could ask if he was ok he shook his head like he was getting rid of a dirty thought then took off once again.

Oh my,are...are you ok?"

I turned and looked down to find the yellow Pegasus from before. "Yep, I'm ok" I replied.

'Um are...are you sure? I could provide you with medical assistance...that is, if you don't mind." she said in a less then assertive voice.

"No really, I'm fine" With the force the kid hit me with I'll probably get a bruise but I rather not mention that to the mother.

There was an awkward silence between the two of us for a few seconds before the mare spoke up again. 'I apologize for Aero. He's just so exited about the family camping trip." She spoke with a little more confidence.

'No worries, I remember back in the day when I was so excited about something I would forget about the world around me...lead so some awkward situations." I rubbed the back of my neck while the mare lifted a hoof and laughed lightly into it.

"Yes...well he might be I little too excited...but I don't have the heart to tell him to calm down especially when...oh but that doesn't mean I condone him running into others."

Again I tell her that it was alright I even add a joke about already having a med kit with me. As they say Curiosity killed the cat but there was one thing I wanted to ask. "Um it sounded like something is wrong. You started to mention it before going back to apologizing."

the mare who had already started to turn to leave stopped and looked at me inquisitively before for her teal eyes lit up with understanding. 'Oh...well um lets just say it won't be just Aero, his father and me for much longer." She smiled as she sat down on her haunches and rubbed her belly. "I still have eight and a half months but I don't think we will have time to take another family vacation after this one."

I nodded in understanding. I whispered a congratulations just incase her foal/chick (Idk what you would call a hybrid kid of a pony and a bird-lion, heck, cub might work as well.) was nearby. Though it kind of felt strange for doing so since I don't know this mare at all...oh well. Unfortunately I was reminded about the fact that I was looking at on half of a cross-species relationship.

"AH you don't have to answer this but how excitedly does it work...the relationship I mean...the relationship between you and the father.

Her first response was a big bright smile that I didn't think was possible on such a creature. It practically took up the entire lower half of her face.

"It works like any other relationship. We met, found out that we had similar interests, spent a lot of time together then...then got married."

"You didn't have any problems with him being a Griffin...wait I didn't mean it like that...um, was there any problems that came about with him being from a different species?"

Once again The Pegasus smiled, but not as much this time. "Yes...but we got through it and you want to know why?"
She paused for a moment before continuing "Because, Love is Love, no matter what form it takes or who is bonded through it. As long as you love them enough and they accept that love and return it, you will be able to overcome any hurdles that get in your way."

I just stood there looking at her as I took in what she said. It had been a simple question sprouting from curiosity about mix species, but it felt like I got something more out of it. I don't know what so don't ask me...at least not right now.

"MOMMMMY" The voice of a child called out from the beyond. Both the mare and I turned our heads toward the direction of the voice. I turned back to find the mare smiling at me.

"I better go...it...it was nice to meet you sir." With that she trotted away.

I quickly went back to gathering everything I needed. I'm sure giving a list of what I got would be tedious and boring considering the lengthy monologuing I'm already doing.

The cashier was already waiting for me when I got back. I quickly paid for everything which came up to hundred and ten bits, It may sound like a lot but compared to prices on earth the stuff here seems like they always have everything at half price.

After placing my bag into the other bag...sorry but I must...bagcption...I thanked the woman and left. Thanks to my investigations last night I vaguely remember coming across the train time chart. The next train to Appaloosa would be leaving just under a half-an-hour from now. I made my way to the station in which I already learned it's location from my last night wondering as well.

The big backpack (which I will refer to BB from now on) slowed me down a bit but wasn't unbearable. In fact I was still able to jog without much problem. Jogging and sidestepping pedestrians was actually kind of fun. I even started to smile.

Out of all the things that could have stopped me in my tracks it had to be the most peculiar thing I've seen to date that did just that. I saw Gilda having a heated discussion with a cyan colored Pegasus with a rainbow colored mane.

The both of them were flying steadily a few feet above the ground. Gilda's was moving her arms around to emphasize whatever she was saying. The Pegasus on the other hand had her forelegs crossed in front of her carrying a disapproving expression. It was when I got close enough to hear, that the Pegasus started speaking.

"It doesn't matter G. Sure, I enjoy pranks, heck I'm the top prankster in Ponyville but what you did was extremely rude and irresponsible. I thought you would start treating ponies better, especially since your cousin is married to one of my best friends, but what you pulled...not cool girl, not cool at all."

"Come on Dash, those boring ponies need some excitement in their lives even if they don't think they do. What's wrong with me giving it to them."

The Pegasus stared blankly at Gilda before bolt up into the sky a few more feet before speaking again. "I'm done talking to you until you stop acting like douchebag toward everypony." The Pegasus then shot into the sky leaving Gilda to stare at her will contempt.

"Whatever, I've better places to be." The Griffin said out loud. She turned to leave and wouldn't you know it, I was in the direction she leaving in. Even in brooding she recognized me. Surprise and curiosity overtook her once brooding face.

I needed to be careful for this was a delicate situation. She may not look angry anymore but deep down there is a volcano waiting to blow. I had to act by saying something that could both cool her off as well as apologize for eavesdropping.
and the best way to say all that is..."Hi there." 'smooth real smooth'.

"What are you doing here." She said without missing a beat. She also gave me a death glare so I might as well speak quickly.

"Oh...I'm just lookingforafriend that so happen tohavecomehere just recently." I gave her the most honest smile I could give. Being airborne she flew a few paces back with a disgusted look on her face. I guess the puppy-dog eyes and the innocent blinking wasn't helping my case.

"OOOOOKKKKKK...you go do that and I'll just be on my way out of this dull town." Gilda said, returning to her usual monotone voice. Her wings flapped harder as she begin to build up strength to ascend.

It was at that exact moment that I was hit with an idea (metaphorically speaking). "Hey Gilda, you know how to take care of yourself in to wilds, right?"

The flapping of her wings eased a little. "Yea, I was taught how to survive in the wilderness...what of it?"

"Well would you be willing to go on a little adventure with me to find my friend Sundance. She's traveling to the Changeling hive and since there isn't exactly a clear path to it I was wondering if you could help me out."

Surprisingly my proposal actually made her lift a talon to her beak. I had no doubt she was contemplating the idea. I mean she was rubbing the bottom of her beak with a talon so how could she not.

'Hmmm...well I don't actually have anything to do for a while....but what's in it for me?" she looked at me sternly.

Luckily I considered she wanted something in return so I was able to answer her immediately. "I'll give you all the fish I catch for fiv...no a year, yea a year."

"You know, I do eat stuff other then fish." she said in a disappointed tone. Her arms crossed in front of her.

While I thought of a better offer I looked around to see if anypony was near us. There wasn't, so I revealed my new deal with out needing to worry about getting distasteful looks from onlookers. "Ok...Along with the fish I can order any type of food from earth that isn't sold here...including all kinds of meat....besides equine that is (Horse meat products became illegal to make after an alliance between both worlds was made.) " This seemed to perk Gilda's interest albeit the 'not bad' expression that somewhat resembled a internet meme that I've seen before.

"That includes veal, right?" she finally spoke "I always wanted to try veal." I simplify nodded trying to hide a smile. she lowered the talon that she had on her beak and reach out to me with it. Realizing she wanted to 'shake on it' I did the same. Talons and hand met, shook once and before she let go she said "Then you got yourself a deal." she smiled slyly.

This time I didn't hold back my smile. It didn't last long for I remembered that I (now we) needed to be at the train station pretty soon. "Oh snap, we need to get to the train." I yelled taking off.

"Oh, and your going to have to pay for my expenses too. She called out. I tripped and fell flat on my face. Before I could recover on my own, I was grabbed by the arm and lifted to my feet by Gilda.

"Come on, you don't want to be late do you?" she said before taking off toward our destination.

Goodbye my well earned money, you will be missed.

Author's Note

Fact of the day: Sundance's name came from the Sundance channel.

Blood Trail

The train ride was relaxing for the most part. At one point Gilda told me the reason why her friend (Who I know as Rainbow Dash.) was scolding her. Apparently Gilda played a prank on Princess Twilight's guards making them think that the Princess was in trouble. She laughed saying that those dull ponies needed some excitement. I didn't make any comments for or against what she did. The reason being was I wondering why I didn't see any guards while I had visited her last night...then it came to me, Ninja night guards.

Ignoring the idea that I might have been watched by unseen guards I watch the passing scenery. The grassland and occasional tree could be viewed through the window I was sitting next to. It had been just over an hour since we left Ponyville, and it will be another two hours till we reach Appleloosa. I guess It's a good thing that among the few Earth technologies that Equestrians decided apply in this world one of them happened to be our more advanced trains. I heard somewhere that with the new trains hours are shaved off travel time.

Anyway, I continued to watch the moving world around us while Gilda just sat quietly next to me. She was probably bored but to lazy to find something to do. It wasn't long after the second hour of our traveling that the grassland gave way to the dusty, dry landscape that I would refer to as the Old West, though in this case I guess it would be called the Old South (weird huh).

....

"Five minutes till we reach Appleloosa, Five minutes till Appleloosa folks. Anypony deported on this stop make sure you have all your stuff before you leave." the Passenger Director called out.

"Finally" Gilda stretched, audible joint cracking was heard. I cringed at the sound which seemed closer to bones breaking then joints cracking.

"You shouldn't do that to much. You'll end up with bad joints when you get older."

Gilda, who at the time I spoke had one arm raising to the ceiling and the other limb holding it in place paused to look at me.

"That will be a problem for my future self to deal with." she said nonchalantly before rolling her eyes. "Now come on, get your gear together so we don't have to waste anymore time here then we need too." She got up from her seat and headed to the door.

I grab BB which I was able to place in front of me and picked it up as I rose from my very own cushioned seat. Got to say this seats were the best I every sat on within a train. The train finally slowed down to a halt and the passengers along with Gilda and me got off.

Ok first order of business: Find clues that lead to Sundance's whereabouts. I related my thoughts to Gilda who let out a agitated sigh before taking to the air. I left her to things her way. No sense in making a big stink about it.

Well this would be the third time that I have to play the 'find a clue game' which I'm sure isn't that exciting to describe again so let me talk about the town itself.

The town hasn't changed much from what I have seen in books. Sure there or more houses and shops but the style hasn't changed. There is a saloon here too. I did go inside to get clues, I didn't find any but I did find out that the place did sell some pretty good alcoholic drinks (I might stop there latter). Among the humans and ponies there are some buffalo as well. Apparently their peaceful co-existence has lead to closer friendship between the two species. Oh guess what the town's highest selling point is...apple pie. The residence have perfected the taste thanks to years of making them for both themselves and the natives.

After walking out of a candy store upon making a excellent purchase I saw Gilda flying toward me with a Stetson wearing stallion cantering behind her. Her eyes were focusing on me intently so I knew she might have found something. I jogged toward her. It wasn't till she landed in front of me that she spoke.

"Hey, this guy told me that he spoke to Sundance, so I brought him with me so you could here it straight from the horse's mouth..........If you even think of laughing you're going to find a fist in your face."

It wasn't until Gilda had threaten me,,,or was it the pony that I realized she had spoken an unintended pun. Luckily for the both of us neither me or the mustard color pony smiled at the play-on-words.

The stallion spoke in a slightly nervous tone. "Um, nice to met you sir Ah'm Braeburn and welcome to Applelooooooosa."

"AGHHHHH WE DON'T HAVE TIME FOR THAT JUST TELL HIM WHAT YOU TOLD ME." Gilda screeched.

"OOok um, w-well that there pony Sundance, ah saw her leaving town a few hours ago. Ah could tell she was gonna do some heavy travelin' considering her saddle bags were packed to the brim with stuff. Ah went up to her and told her that it's dangerous to travel alone...and..." I lifted a brow repeating his last word. "...Well she went off on me about how stallions this days are sexist and don't think mares can handle things on their own. Then she ran off."

"And you didn't chase her." I said in a lest then happy tone.

"I..well....I was surprised at her yelling at me...and well Ah don't handle pressure well." Braeburn smiled at me nervously, a bead of sweat rolled down the side of his face.

I let out a groan "She went south right?". The pony nodded rapidly. I muttered a thanks and walked passed the pony who again nodded nervously all the while watching me leave. Once I was a distance away Gilda flew up besides me.

"Well that makes things easier." she said

"How so?"

She gave me a 'I can't believe you are that stupid." Look. "Look, the pony said she left a few hours ago which means that she spent quite a bit of time in town for some reason or another. Also it's not like she is going to be running the whole way. She going to slow down to a walking pace so as long as we make good speed we will catch up to her in no time at all...now let's get going I can already taste the veal." Gilda flew forward licking her chops and making run to keep up with her.

The dusty plains are hot and it doesn't help that we are walking during the sun's zenith. Sure, Appleloosa was hot but it was bearable. I've already downed a water bottle and Gilda is halfway done with hers. Might I add that she grab one out of my hand that was meant for me. I'm starting to wonder if it was a good idea to ask her for her services.

"Hey Dan." I looked down at Gilda for she had given up on flying in this heat. Before I could reply she spoke again. "I've heard a lot of things in my life but never have I heard a pony speak about sexism before...I'm guessing she got this from you somehow." She lifted a brow curiously at me.

"Why do you want to know." my expression matching hers, except with a sweater face.

She frowned, more like a dissatisfied glare but I digress. "Like I said I've never heard a pony speak about sexism before. Considering you live among those dweebs you should know that those types of things don't really happen in Equestria that often."

In truth it shouldn't really be something to hide. I already told Sundance about the pros and cons of earth, so when ahead and told Gilda about where Sundance's sexism rant came from (though I am surprise she never heard of a pony doing something like this before.) "Well Gilda, Long ago in our world men were considered the dominate gender. They were the head-honcho, the big wig, the-" I stopped as I noticed the ever increasing scowl on Gilda's face. "-and well women were considered weaker. It got better over time. They went from being property to housemaids to working, voting members of society with all their accomplishments recognized by everyone else...with that being said there are still those who still treat women poorly and such."

Gilda just stared at me for awhile, or at least in my direction. I felt like she was judge me, but for what I do not know. I jumped slightly when she spoke again.

"That does support those activist's claims." She said tonelessly looking away from me.

"Wut."

"Activists against your kind being here.They think humans are-is that what I think it is?" She pointed a talon to something in the distance. It was something beige and bulky. Gilda took off into toward the object leaving me once again to play catch-up.

Gilda had picked up the object and was examining it when I reached her. The material was flexible but strong. It wasn't beige like intently thought it was white but somehow it hold gotten dirt all over it. It was divided into two parts connected by a strap. I could see things poking out of it like a canteen and food. On the back of one of the bags I saw a reddish smear. it wasn't that wide but the length stretched the entire back. I don't think I need to tell anyone what I think the reddish smear was. It's shape, the separate but connect departments it could be only one thing. A saddlebag and on the flap was a cutie mark that identified the owner. I was a open book with a quill writing scribble lines on the right page. "This belongs to Sundance." I said. my worried gaze fell upon Gilda.

She was about to say something but stopped to turn her head to the right of me. I turned to look at whatever she was looking at. All I saw was a small mesa quite a distance away. I was going to say something but a light brown and white blur flying passed me almost making me fall. It was Gilda. My words were once again prevented from leaving my lips when Gilda turned back to me and said "I hear barking."

Running full speed with a huge ass backpack isn't easy but when you are thinking more about your friend then you do the constantly shifting weight on you back you tend to not notice those things. The Mesa was coming closer and closer as I ran and Gilda flew. I was finally able to here the barking, it was definitely dogs...wild dogs to be exact. When I saw them I noticed that most of them were light brown in color with some white here and there. I counted about ten, nine on the ground and one trying to climb to a overhang of rock jutting out of the mesa a few yards above the ground. Just as the dog was able to stick his head over the side of the overhang a yellow hoof spring out decking the dog in the face. Needless to say the dog fell down backwards hitting the ground. I got to it's feet just as quick.

At this point we were close enough to caught the dog's attention, and that's exactly what I did. I yelled at the top of my lungs making them turn around to face me. They growled, snarled and barked at me but did not attack me. What ever was going to happen next the weight of BB would slow me down so I took it off. Too late I realized the that the big bulking BB attached to a tall mammal might have been the only thing imitating enough to keep the dogs from attacking. What happened next?...well they attacked, all ten of them.

I quickly casted a spell to strengthen my hands. The lead dog leaped at me just as I finished the spell. I punched it in the side of the face. Note to self: even when a buffed up fist allows you to sent you opponent flying farther then non-buffed fist, it still hurts a lot when said opponent's skull is very hard.

I wave the hand franticly trying to stop the pain. Thankfully my counter had knocked the dog out cold since it hadn't moved since it landed. My victory was cut short when I felt a weight on my back along with a sharp pain in for different location on said back. One of the dogs had circled around and attack me from behind as I became distracted with the pain in my hand. I could fell it's hot breath on my neck were it would soon bite down on.

Suddenly the weight was lifted from my back and I heard a thud from my right. I turned to see Gilda on top of the dog. "Idiot, were did you learn to fight." she yelled before punching the dog hard in the face. Eight more to...correction four more to go. In the span for me to take down one waving my hand like crazy and almost get chewed on Gilda had defeated four. Three of watch were running away.

Learning from my mistake I quickly focused on rest of the dogs. Three headed to Gilda, one to me. It looked like it was going to go all ankle-bitter on me so I swung my magic induced fist down on it's head. It jerked it's head up and caught my hand in it's mouth and bit down. Oh god did it hurt, there was even some blood as well. I did what any other man would do in this situation...I screamed like little girl. Fighting through the pain I used my free hand to hit the dog. It wasn't a punch though if that is what your thinking. No, it was a karate chop to the neck. It worked very well.

The dog dropped to the ground. Ignoring it I turned to see if Gilda needed any help. I looked just in time to see three dogs run past me whimpering. Gilda on the other hand was standing up proud. Here feathers were ruffled and I saw what seemed to be a scratch on one of her forelegs but other then that she was unharmed.

''those dogs didn't have a chance against me." She smiled. "You're lucky I was here are you would have been dog chow Danny boy." Her smiled increased. For my part I let out a groan.

A moment passed before I recalled that I had seen a hoof on the overhang, a hoof with a familiar color. Gilda caught on and motioned with her head to tell me to go ahead and climb the rock face.

.....

Thanks to the digits known commonly as fingers I was about to climb the rock face without much trouble . Having a lean and upright body does help. The rock face comes out at a sharp but decent angle. It has good foot and hand holds but I'm surprised that Sundance was able to get up here...must have been the adrenaline. Right when I place a hand on the overhang I hesitated. Last time something reached the overhang she punted it. Better play it safe. "Sundance It's me, Dan the human. Do not repeat do not kick me." I said in a higher octave then I wanted to. There was no answer of any kind. Now I'm worried.

Rising my body above the overhang. My body did two things. One My heart skipped a beat, two my body when cold. It was Sundance who was on the overhang and she didn't look good.

She was laying on her side. Her coat and hair were ruffled badly. Here flank had scratches, right below her cutie mark. They didn't look that deep or big but there was blood trickling down. That wasn't the worse of it. On the side of her abdomen were four large gashes. From the small amount of blood beneath her the other side must have had them too. One moment I was at the edge of the overhang, the next I was hovering over Sundance with my hand under her head lifting it up.

"Sundance, Sundance" Her eyes, which had been closed slightly opened. Her apple green eyes were dull and filled with unspoken pain.

"D-Daniel?" She whispered weakly.

At that moment I knew that I needed to take her to a hospital. I will make damn sure that I make it as well.

Choices Given, Decision Made

Bat out of Hell times ten. That would best describe the speed in which I took of with. I had scooped up Sundance into a burp-the-baby position and jumped off the overhang. Yes it was a stupid idea that could have broken both my legs but when you have magic that you instantly cast to make you lower body as durable as steal you tended not to care so much. It only took a moment to remove the spell and cast a speed spell as well as a spell that would keep my legs from tearing apart. In mere seconds I past a confused Gilda. I didn't want to waste time explaining.

Crossing the plain I felt Sundance's hooves wrap around my back of my neck. Her grip tighten yet reminded gentle. I tried to glance over at her but it's kind of hard to do when her head is practically right up against ours.

"D-ddaann, I...I'm sorry." She whispered, her word slurring a bit. She was awake. dazed but awake. That counts for something right?

It was a big relief to see the town after running for who knows how long. I was also running on fumes, which happens when your energy is being drained three times as fast. As I got closer to Appleloosa I decreased my spells. By the time I reached the town's border I was running at my normal speed.

I stopped, where was the hospital. I hadn't bothered to look since I was to focused on asking the townsfolk questions. Ponies and humans began to gather around me. I shouldn't be surprised, it's not every day you see a tired worn out man carrying a bleeding pony. This however, could be helpful.

"WHERE'S THE HOSPITAL, I NEED SOMEONE TO TELL ME WHERE IT IS NOW."

The crowd jumped in union at my sudden screaming. One pony answered before the rest; A familiar mustard colored pony. "Hey, follow me." he took off. I had not other choice but to once again use my burnt out legs to follow him (at least the crowd parted immediately to let me pass unhindered.)

The distance between me and Braeburn gradually increased but I never lost sight of him. At one point he turned right at an intersection. Upon making the turn there he was waiting for us. Seeing me, he took of again down the street avoiding bystanders. Seeing me the bystanders simply moved out of the way. Reaching the end of the block Braeburn made a left turn at the intersection nearly hitting a pony-drawn carriage.

following his route I made it to the intersection. Oh how my heart soared at the sight. Just a little farther down the road on the opposite side was the hospital. The big red cross was a dead giveaway. Braeburn however, was no where to be seen. At the moment it didn't matter, I needed to get Sundance in there pronto.

My 'where did Braeburn go' question was answered after I entered the building. He was next to a human male nurse who had a grungy waiting for us. I quickly placed Sundance on it who was surprisingly still awake. The nurse gave me a nod "We'll take care of her." He was join by two more nurse who helped move the grungy down the hall and out of sight. I sighed heavily in relief. Now I could relax. It was then I noticed Braeburn and a male nurse staring at me.

"yer bleeding mister." Braeburn pointed a hoof at my right arm. I lifted it up in front of me to tike a look. Sure enough, I was. I took my next course of action to deal with the stress, the exhaustion, and the pain.

I fainted.

You know when in movies and books the main character wakes up in a hospital. His or her lover is there beside them. The lover is either asleep in a cute fashion or awake and overjoyed. I didn't get anything of the sort. What I got was a death stare but a ticked off Griffon.

In this situation I could have gone with the expected and frequently used 'hi'. Instead I went with " Are you a 11 out of 10 on the angry scale?"

She nodded slightly, here eyes continued to stare into my soul. "It took three hours in this heat to get back here, you're damn lucky that I brought your stuff with me. Don't ever take off and leave me behind again, If I ever decide to help you again." A aura of anger seemed to become visible surrounding the griffin.

'O-o-ook, I'm sorry and thank you for retrieving my pack." I replied a little scared that she would do something to me if I didn't calm her down. Thankfully she did if only a little.

"HMM, you better be." her voice then became softer which is odd to hear when they normally have a growly voice. "Listen, I get that you were worried about your friend and all that junk but that doesn't mean you can leave without saying anything first."

I would have told her that I agreed with her and that I was sorry but then I remembered Sundance. "SUNDANCE, is she alright?"

Gilda stepped back at my sudden outburst. Any remanding anger disappeared. "Yea she's ok, in fact she is the room opposite of this one." Gilda turned her head toward the door.

That was all I needed to hear so I begun to get up. My exhausted body somehow found the strength to move. In no time at all I was sitting up in my bed. Pain shot through my right hand. I looked down to see that it was bandage up. Rotating my body I was able to put my feet on the floor. For some reason my clothes were still on so I didn't have to be worried about my ass being seen in one of those gowns. Gilda who had remained quite till now spoke up. "You shouldn't be moving around to much. The doc said you collapse from exhausted and overuse of magic."

" I don't see you stopping me." I retorted testing my feet on the ground. Gilda just snorted and rolled her eyes. Putting fate into my feet I stood up...and nearly fall down.

It was only thanks to the bed's railing that I stayed on my feet and not land on my face. Gilda just watched me trying to hide her amusement. Slowly stood up to my full height. My legs shook slightly has they tried to support me. I let go of the railing but grabbed on to it before I started falling again. This repeated several times before I was finally able to stand up with out support. A moment later I began to walk toward the down with Gilda following after me.

.......

Making out into the hall and toward the room on the opposite side went without a hitch but as I was about to open the door a voice called out. "You shouldn't be moving yet."

The voice belonged to a pony. A plum colored unicorn pony with Turquoise hair. A white doctor's coat covered her cutie mark so no description there. "Um...I'm just going to walk a little bit...besides my friend is in this room and I'm closer to this one then my room. This is Sundance's room right?" I shift my eyes to Gilda. I trust her but she does seem like the type of griffin who would take revenge at anyone who crossed her even by accident. Fortunately that wasn't the case this time.

"Yes Ms. Sundance is residing in the room you are currently leaning against. My I ask who you are and how you know her."

"She's my host for the housing program...can you tell me how she is?" I asked pleadingly.

My request was met by an analyzing stare. "Very well." she sighed. "She suffered from blood loss as well as exhaustion. She is lucky that you found her; given another day she would have died if whatever attacked her didn't get to her first. Now, we have closed the wounds and given her antibiotics to fight any infection she may have picked up."

"Can I see her?"

The doctor let out another sigh. "I really shouldn't let you, both of you need your rest. However she did ask for you a few times so I guess I can allow it."

I was about to thank her but she cut me off. "But if she is asleep I ask that you do not disturb her. Understood." I nodded in compliance. "Very well then I have things I need to do so I will leave you be...just don't overextend herself either alright." She turned around and trotted away before I could respond.

"Never caught her name." I said more to myself then anyone else. Gilda had the answer and was kind enough to tell me.

"Feel Good."

"What...well a little I'm still sor-"

"NO, her name...It's Feel Good. Dr. Feel Good."

"..."

I burst out laughing nearly losing my balance.

When the moment of mirth passed I stood tall once again ready to open the door. Gilda's voice stopped me. "I'm going to head off to the café or something, I rather not be anywhere near the two of you when you have your mushy reunion." I gave her a simple 'ok' and she trotted off saying something along the lines of "I wonder what they saw about hospital food is true."

Even after she left I didn't open the door right away. I needed to make sure there wasn't going to be another interference; I'm sure everyone knows how annoying that gets. There was no interference of any kind thus I opened the door to a dark room. There was one bed and it was occupied by the one and only Sundance. I left the door open to let in more light than the little window in the door allowed.

"Dan?" Well she wasn't asleep, time to get answers even though I shouldn't be asking her things this soon. Making my way closer I noticed that Sundance was on her back and her head was tilted toward me. The dim light from the hallway fall upon her making her face visible.

"Yep" I answered in a less then friendly tone. Sundance responded by trying to sit up. She succeed only to fall back down again. Her failed attempt did result in bed sheet falling away from her upper body reveling the bandages rapped around her torso. Seeing her like that almost dispersed the anger within me. Almost.

"D-Dan are you ok? I heard you collapsed." She spoke in a worried tone.

"yea, I'm ok, a little tired out but okay. You?"

"My sides hurt a bit but I'll live."

"Oh...that's good."

The room dropped into silence. Now I was at the side of the bed ready to speak my mind and Sundance knew it; I could see her body tensing up. Oh by the way fowl language ahead.

"WHAT THE FUCK WERE YOU THINKING GOING OFF ON YOUR OWN. NOT ONLY THAT BUT MAKING SURE THAT I WOULDN'T BE INFORMED UNTIL YOU WERE FAR ENOUGH AWAY TO KEEP ME FROM STOPPING YOU." Her eyes were watering. It wouldn't be long before the dam broke and I still need to ask her my question. "WHY? WHY DO YOU WANT TO FIND SOME MAGIC SPELL OR WHATEVER TO BE ABLE TO CHANGE INTO A HUMAN...ANSWER ME." It's been awhile since I was this angry. I could practically feel the heat rising off my body.

You know how some things turn out to be obvious only after they are pointed out. Well this I didn't see till now.

Sundance was crying now, tears falling down her furry cheeks. I expected her to continue sobbing all the while giving me an explanation that I had already thought about. I was wrong on all accounts.

With tears streaming down her face she stared boldly into my eyes. Her teeth gridded together as she inhaled deeply to speak. She then spoke words that I never thought I would her say.

"I DID IT BECAUSE I LOVE YOU, GOD DAMN IT." let me stop there for a sec to explain something. She just used the word God...ponies don't do that. They have nothing against the various religious deities of earth but that doesn't mean they use their name to drive home the point they are making which in this case was shocking all on it's own.

"I...wh-you" I spoke my mind.

Sundance took a large breath and dipped her head looking down at the covers. "I...I love you so much Dan and it's not the I love you like a brother type of thing. You made it clear that you would never allow yourself to get into such a relationship with anypony because you can't get over the bestiality thing. I-I have been in love with you for a long time now and it...I just couldn't take it anymore-" she looked up at me again. Tears streaming down her face. "Do you know what's it like to be so close and yet not be able to do anything...I want to cuddle with you like only lovers do. I want to kiss and be kissed. Be able to wake up next to you in the morning. I...I-I even want be able to make love to you but I know as long as one of us is a different species that wouldn't happen. That why I went off to find out a way to change. I was afraid if I told you you would find a way to stop me from going. I know you think it's stupid or impossible but please...please let me do this."

The room was silent once more. It kind of surprised me that no one came in during the whole thing, I'm sure we were loud enough to draw attention. That however is totally off topic. Sundance just told me she was in love with me. Out the entire population she fell in love with someone who was from another world.

"I need time, time to absorb all of this. I-I'll be back later." I said calmly.

"ok, you know where to find me." She said with a ghost of a smile trying to break the sadness in her voice. I turned an left the room.

I didn't realize that I was in my room until my head hit the pillow. I stared up to the ceiling submerging myself within my thoughts. It's odd, if we were to have witness this happening to someone else and not ourselves we would probably desensitized to it. I however, am completely bewildered by Sundance's confession. She loves me, a pony says she loves me. Heck she practically said she wouldn't mind bumbling uglies with me. She's also trying to find a spell to turn herself human to remove the specie barrier between us. That devotion to her quest alone tells me that she really loves me. I mean how many people would go off on a journey to find the means to be with the one they love. That being said there is another factor to look at. My feelings.

I could just say that I don't and will never like her like that and be done with it. The thing is...I can't. If she was human I would have probably have asked her out already. She has a great sense of humor, she's even quick to understand the jokes that are earth origin. She's smart and well educated which, to me is very important. Looking pass the pony body is a very wonderful woman and, well no need to repeat what she is trying to do again. I think I have already made my decision.

........

This time I closed the door after me when I entered Sundance's room. I would have thought she had fallen asleep had she not spoken. "Dan...have you finished thinking things through?" She questioned. A hint of hopefulness laced her voice.

"Yea" I answered making my way to the bed (Not as easy when there is barely any light.). Sundance waited quietly for me to speak again. I reached out my hand trying to find her shoulder which I eventual did thankfully. She gulped nervously and shifted a bit. It was time to tell her.

"This little journey to find a way to turn human, it's only going to continue under the condition that I come with you. Understood?"

She hugged me.... I guess she understood, that and the "thank you, thank you, thank you." repeated for a time. Freeing myself from the hug I looked down at her then the door. The noise of shuffling brought my attention back to the bed. While I couldn't really see I could tell that Sundance had scooted to one side of the bed leaving enough space for me. She farther motion me to settle next to her by tapping a hoof on the empty space she provided. I accepted and gently got onto the bed. I ended up laying on my side with the arm on the bottom stretched out. Sundance shifted again laying her head on my arm. Though she was on my arm which wasn't as heavy I thought it would be we remain at a distance from each other. We're close but not close enough to go into snuggle mood.

"Hey Dan...."

"Hmmm?"

"Do you love me?"

It was a reasonable question even though it was an unusual time to ask. Never-the-less I answered it. "At the moment I can't say I'm in love with you, but I do like you...a lot so I'm willing to get it a try...give us a try."

I think she smiled. "I couldn't ask for anything more." She nuzzled my arm.

I had my on question to ask and now as a good time as any and I better do it before she falls asleep. "When did you realize that you were in love with me?"

It took a moment before she answered. "Do you remember two years ago during my Estrus cycle?"

"um...wait you mean the one where I ended up coddling you almost every free moment we had?"

Yep that's the one...remember how I was crying about being alone."

I nodded. From what I heard about her life she had never dated onepony. There were offers but she never took them. I don't know what triggered it but not long after going into heat she became depressed. It wasn't until she jumped me and started crying into my chest that she told me that she felt so alone. She hadn't shared any of those lovely moments couples have nor just having somepony close to rely on. She didn't blame me though some could for various reasons. I can't say I really know why she broke down that time but I guess the mix of the normal feeling of ageing, Estrus and loneness just piled up enough to cause her to break down. As I mention before for the rest of her cycle I ended up just hugging for long periods of time when ever I could.

"Yea, and I remember how sacred I was when you jumped me. I thought what you told me about a mare's Estrus cycle was wrong." (there is a difference between the Estrus cycles of the human world and this world.)

"really? hmm...well that's something to keep in mind." I couldn't see but I think she was giving me a mischievous. "it was after a few days of our coddling that I realized that you had always been there for me. We had shared so many pleasant memories already that while they weren't romantic they felt just as good. I guess I also kind of found your figure appealing to me, at least as time went on."

"it's the hands isn't it. All you hoof limbed creatures want the hands and the magical powers they possess" I commented.

Sundance laughed and shook her head. "You wish, we can handle things just fine without them. Also what magical powers are you talking about. Your skinny hands and even skinner fingers hold no power." She said in a matter-of-fact tone.

"we'll see. Anyway was there something more." I replied.

"Not much really. I just began looking at you in a new light though I made sure you didn't catch on that I had a thing for you. I guess since we've ended up in this mess it worked." she yawned.

After that we stopped talking and slowly she fall asleep. I followed soon after.

Author's Note

For those of you who want to know, I will reveal more about the Estrus cycle later on.