A ‘’Simple’’ World.

By: Xien (X, XienThe1)

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I have walked this world for knowledge, for understanding. It was lonely. A twisted world of self-gain, greed, misunderstanding. I sought out why…why is it like this. Did nature intend us to do so? Would evolution not make us better creatures of heart? It sickened me, made dreams die out. Betrayal of love, friendship, betterment, because of fear. Is that why they attack, out of fear? Fear of getting hurt first. All that was asked for was acceptance. It hurts my head to constantly question myself. Losing control of myself, driven to the edge.

Listen to me ramble and not introduce myself. I was a simple stallion named-”Hey you!”. A sturdy voice was heard from behind, I looked. Just as quickly I shuffled to the side as a bag was thrown at me. ‘’Stay out of Canterlot you poor hippy!’’, it screamed and behind the voice was an overlay of others, yelling as well. I picked up my bag and went on my way. Ignoring such pitiful insults. Trying to make this bad situation better I gave myself nice thoughts. At least they gave me my bag, and didn’t chase me out of town. Why was I kicked out? For speaking freely of course. It started not even 5 minutes upon entering town.

Walking around I could instantly tell I was in a richer neighborhood. Colorful buildings, castle in the distance, Jeweled ponies everywhere, with expensive looking clothing to touch. Even a blind pony could tell it was a rich place just by eavesdropping on some of their conversation. ‘’What a marvelous dress, will you be a dear and grab it for me?’’, overheard from a local. Dear? Who in all my travels calls someone a dear? It wasn’t even a couple. Out of curiosity, I walked over and looked at the dress myself. It started quite a talk. The dress was of nice quality. Shining and glistening, it wasn’t even in light! More curious I looked at the price. Not that I was going to buy it or anything. The ‘’fancies’’ giggle as I looked at the price. 500 bits?! How absurd for a dress. I’ve seen dying and staving folk who would kill for ½ a bit, or even an apple core. ‘’Even a dress like that could make a dirty stallion like you look good, and its not even your color.’’, once said by a fancy, and uproar of laughter occurred. Just a ignorant insult, wasn’t go to let it get to me. I turned and replied,’’ Don’t you think the money should go toward something better? Like helping starving ponies or rebuilding dying cities?’’. The laughter stopped, they all looked toward each other. Maybe there was hope. Then a more massive laughter was heard. The racket attracted unwanted attention. More and more came to see what was going on. One of them said back, ‘’why must I spend my well earned money to help someone who isn’t even earning a bit for themselves?’’. Agreed murmurs could be heard at that of the statement. ‘’Maybe they are too busy trying to live another day, hoping for someone to aid them’’, said raising my voice a tad. ‘’why don’t you help them if your so concerned?’’, scoffing at me. This wasn’t a normal thing to happen to me but I snapped. After so long of hearing insolence from everyone I couldn’t take it. Towns before me have said the same things. But this time…it was one too many. ‘’Ignorant [censored], even one of you could save villages with that of a small percentage of your paycheck! I’d be willing to help but like you said, IM POOR! I struggle to make it past everyday. Nearly starved every week. Why?! Cause of [censored] like you who are too busy with material needs to give a [censored]’’. The crowd gasps and the screaming caused guards to come. ‘’Excuse me sir, but I’m going to have to ask you to leave our kingdom. Your portraying too much violent behavior and scaring town folk’’. Calmed down, I took a deep breathe. Easy now…but a sudden urge overcame me. Silence befell the crowd; a rattling sound was heard…as if something hit the ground. I didn’t do it, I didn’t do it. Looking over, a mannequin wearing that dress was on its side. What did I do…rage overcame my sense of tranquility. I have gone and kicked the dress. Without thought or feeling, I don’t even recall doing it. Guards slowly surrounded me, ‘’destruction of property and aggressive initiations, your coming with us bud’’. In a panic, I kicked a guard and ran past him. What was I doing now?! They were Pegasus, no earth pony can outrun (fly) a Pegasus! ‘’Stop you rebel!’’. I didn’t think, just ran! The shop keepers and some town folk joined in on the chase. ‘’your going to pay for that dress!’’, ‘’I was going to buy that you peasant!’’. 5 minute walk into town should be a minute run, right? Being all panicky made it harder to breathe. I began to slow down. All of a sudden a whistling was heard. It baffled me but I couldn’t think. I just ran! It sounds almost as if…something is diving toward me! A guard lifted me from the ground by my bag. I thought quickly and took the bag off. Stupid idea, it would only end up one way. BOOM! I hit the ground…and hard. But this was no time to recover, the crowd approached quickly and the guards quicker. Pushing through the pain I made it past the town entrance. Luckily they went no further.

This saddened me greatly. It was rumored that the princess was a kind hearted soul. Such high hopes I had of meeting her. Spreading my concern of helping others. I should have expected anything less than that from rich ponies. I’ve been around enough to know what was going to happen. What dense, half-witted -ow. The fall appears to have injured me more than I thought. A fractured bone I believe. Adrenaline kept the thought of pain out. Rich folk wouldn’t bother to help me after the events that happened. Only thing I could do was limp over to some shelter. A cliff-side cave, I was crazier than I thought. This was the closest shelter before my next stop. My final one at that too, Ponyville. Even though I hadn’t arrived to the town yet, I’d already given up on it. Wait? What was that? Giving up, I’d never do so!…not until now. The soothing cricket sounds kept my mind off of things. I drifted off to sleep, wasn’t comfortable but it was all I had. More peace…than I ever had…

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Morning arose and stopped the peaceful endeavor of sleep. Soreness covered that of my whole body, maybe sleeping on rocks wasn’t a good idea. Now was a time to walk (limp) to my next stop. Hopefully a hospital exists there. It looked to be a hefty walk too. A huge tease as I could see it, the town. From the cliff’s high above. This was a beautiful site, kind of kept my mind off the fact that I have to walk down there. Shortly after struggling to get to Ponyville a relieving sound was heard. CHOO-CHOO. A train, how could I have forgotten. The tracks even looked to lead to my next stop. I followed the noise which didn’t seem to move. Hopefully the train was at a rest stop and it was! I hurried toward it but stopped quickly remembering yesterday’s events. There is no way I was going to walk. It’d take me another day or 2 to reach my destination by foot. Desperate and being the only other way, I attempted to sneak onto the top of the train. Why not inside? Familiar faces could be seen from outside the train. Besides, riding on top of the train couldn’t be that dangerous. Just hang onto a rail and hope for no sharp turns. ‘’Last call for boarding’’, the intercom announced. I mustn’t waste time! Thus, I climb the ladder to the top of the train. This wasn’t the easiest thing to do knowing that I’d get seen. Shortly enough, ‘’what do you think your doing?!’’…I was. Engines ignited and the train moved along. Guards rushed after me, being Pegasus didn’t slow them down. Trains usually need time before moving along. ‘’Back to cause more trouble? We let you go once but we won’t this time’’, snarled from a guard. Why won’t it move faster! Without hesitation they cornered me. There was no way that I’d spend the rest of my life in jail. So doing the only thing I could do, I stalled. ‘’Lets be reasonable fella’s. Was their any real harm? I was being harassed’’. One guard stepped up with hoof marks on his face. ‘’No harm?’’, the Pegasus said with anger. ‘’I’ll have you beheaded you fool!’’. The train started moving faster and an idea popped up in my head. I had to stall more. In other words, run to the front of the train. This wasn’t an easy task with my leg still being broken. ‘’He’s running away! Get him!’’, and then a scurry of guards chased. I hopped onto the next train cart, adrenaline rushing again. These turn of events made me realize…’’What the heck am I doing?!’’. ‘’I’ll fly after him sir!’’ confidently said from a guard, ‘’Don’t do it you fool!’’. My plan worked…sort of. Several Pegasus opened their wings, catching wind and getting flung off. The captain (I’m guessing) was the only one smart enough not to do so. At the front was of course, was a dead end. Jumping off the train could result in death. Captain, who followed me the whole time, stepped forth. The train was near its maximum speed. I hung onto a railing trying not to fall. Fear struck my heart as the captain was still on. He withstood the wind and slowly made it toward me. ‘’You have caused enough trouble! I’m going to finish you off, permanently.’’ This only meant one thing. He repeatedly stomped on me. I held strong, but slowly losing my grip. ‘’What will the princess think if she knew you killed someone!’’. The captain replied, ‘’how will she know? No-one is going to find your body out here. A forest beast will have great pleasure feeding on your dead corpse.’’ He lifted his leg…I closed my eyes. Then, it went dark. Wait…I’m still holding on, wind flowing through the air. ‘’Hahaha’’, I was laughing, I didn’t know why. Looking at where there was light, was seen a body. Laying on the tracks. I went through a tunnel! What luck that was. ‘’Tell the princess I said hi, and sorry for the trouble!’’, assuming he would hear. It was bright again as I exited the tunnel. I lifted my head and watched the illuminating site. Still high in the Cliffside like this morning. Sun shining over the mountains, lighting this valley. Lakes lit up in sparkles and beauty. I smiled and laughed, feeling free as ever. Maybe I will give this next town a chance. Life was anew, I’d never seen such allure in life. The princess had such great choice in location. I settled on the roof, easing down. ‘’Next stop, Ponyville’’, and I was off.

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Upon arrival I noticed something most towns don’t have. It was…fresh. Wait, is that the right word. I’m not sure anymore, I just felt free here. Though I was still a convict and hitch-hiked a ride on the train. Which started to slow down as the town drove closer. I went to the back and stayed till it was safe to jump. Feeling stupid when jumping cause I remembered my broken leg. My leg hurt from all the stress put under it. Instead of landing, it ended up as a roll. Rather than a roll it ended…well…a fumble, a fall, it just wasn’t right. All my mind registered was pain. I held and limped into town as if nothing happened. Well except the hurt leg. Which not long into town, concerned folk asked to help me. Asked to help? This was new to me, normally I asked to help others out instead. But in my condition, I can understand. I smiled saying ‘’just point me to the hospital, I’ll be fine’’. Some were explaining how to get there. Others insisted on carrying me and helping. This nearly brought a tear from such kindness. Being modest I requested to just walking. The determined towns’ people wouldn’t give up until I received help. This was against my beliefs…but I eventually gave in. A few lifted me up and walked toward the hospital. I did nothing but admire their kindness. ‘’Thank you all for your help’’, I said. One of them replied ‘’,no prob’ sir, but can I ask how this happened?’’. Honest I was, but this wasn’t something the town’s people would like to hear. I was going to be honest…just not tell everything that happened. ‘’I…I fell off the train,’’. ‘’Sorry to hear that, luckily for you, we care ‘bout our folk’’, the one said to me. Strange that this town is below that of the horrid greedy one. Celestia must’ve been wonderful to these people. Course this was based on rumor from what was heard. When arrived at the hospital, the staff quickly moved. I was lifted onto a stretcher and carried into an emergency room. ‘’best of luck!’’ a mare yelled out to me. Such kind people, others from my travels would have been happy to meet them. The staff had to put me on some medication so no pain was felt during the operation. Because of this, much wasn’t remembered. Only faint words like, ‘’this is very bad’’, or ‘’his leg looks to have been under much stress.’’ What was remembered was waking up. Hospitals weren’t the friendliest of places to be waking up in. Strikes fear into the public. Though me, I was just happy to know everything was going to be fine. ‘’Hello sir, how are you this evening. You had quite the broken leg there’’, heard from the doctor when he walked in.  ‘’Thanks for the help, may I ask how long I’m staying here’’. I replied back. ‘’Someone doesn’t like hospitals; well we had a very successful operation. You only need to stay here a few days. Lucky you’’.  ‘’Thanks doc, I’ll ask if I need anything. Good luck’’. The doctor smiled, and went his way.  From what the doctor said, I’d have to relax a few days. It has been on and off with resting and rushing. I felt that something was yet to come. As soon as my leg was healed, BLAM, another turn of events would happen. I’d be sprinting away from another thing. Maybe breaking another leg, or my neck. Too much was on my mind, just settle, take a nap. Another 2 days would pass and I would get eaten by a hydra or an ursa. Of course this was a joke because my confidence in this town. Sadly, a few days would need to pass. Though I never expected to end up here. Life is full of surprises, is it not?

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A few days have passed without much notice. On occasion a local would stop by with a get well gift. Normally for most of the injured here at the hospital. Days were boring; I would try to sleep the time away. If I was too awake, a book would suffice. Night was interesting at one point. Someone was heard stealing slippers. The night patrol could be seen outside my window, chasing somepony. I figured it to be a prank or a joke. Who steals slippers, not even the poorest of communities I met would steal a slipper. KNOCK KNOCK. ‘’Hello sir, your free to go now’’, Miss RedHeart said. Such a generous mare, she was my nurse for the time I was here. RedHeart took the cast off. ‘’good luck sir, no falling off trains you hear.’’ All I could do is snicker at that comment. I grabbed my bag and went off. ‘’Thank you Miss RedHeart, have a nice day’’, and out the door I was. Fresh air, birds chirping, sun shining. What a glorious day. Being in the hospital made me forget what I was going to do first thing here. Instead of thinking, just let the roads lead to my designation. The town was a rounded community. Mixture of housing, stores, and a farmers market. Where to stop at first…’’HI THERE!’’, shouted from somewhere as a flash of pink befell my eyes. ‘’Are you new here? I’d never seen you here before! So you must be new! I’m Pinkie Pie. I work at the bakery and love parties and singing.’’ She rambled on, not a word could get past her. ‘’what’s your name, mine is Pinkie Pie! Opps already told you that, never can be too careful ya know!’’. A blank and confused stare was all I could give. ‘’Well since your new and I know EVERY pony, which is why I know your new, I’m gonna give you Ponyville’s initial welcome.’’ This puzzled me as she broke into song. Couldn’t tell if she was really nice or annoying. I bet everyone thinks the same though. Upon finishing her song, a burst of confetti filled the local air. Then, DING, out popped a cake from her contraption. ‘’I didn’t mess up this time! Here is your bake, welcome to town. Have a good one friend!’’ I grabbed the cake and thanked her for it. Though she sprinted off quite fast. Such an active one she was. More importantly…what was I going to do with this cake? ‘’Is that one of Pinkie’s welcome cakes?’’, a caramel colored stallion said with bright eyes. ‘’Its not often she gets it right, they are SO good. I’ll pay 20 bits for it’’. The cake sounded amazing…but I needed the money. ‘’Uhh…sure’’, said I. He grabbed the cake as quickly as he gave the money. Maybe a bite would’ve been a good idea. 20 bits wasn’t bad though. The town had me caught. I loved it here; its standards are strange though. Like I do in most towns, research was needed. Library was a nice find here in Ponyville. A tree house it was, literally. It was a house made out of the entire tree! No time to waste on that though. I walked inside, surrounded by books. There was a bed on the second floor. I assumed someone was living here. ‘’Hello’’, I shouted, ‘’is anyone here?’’ From the corner of my eye was seen…a purple scaled monster! It was small, I tackled it. The thing scurried and yelled, ‘’what are you doing! Get off.’’ On closer examination was seen a dragon. Dragons were a trouble in my previous travels. Destroying towns and eating local stock. This purple one appeared to be that of a baby. Cautiously I asked, ‘’be ye friend or foe?’’. He replied, ‘’friend if you cut it out’’. Stepping off, I apologized for my actions, explaining why I did so as well. ‘’I see why you attacked me but do I seriously look threatening. Well, not that I’m doubting my dangerous looks’’, mockingly said by him. ‘’are you working here?’’ I asked. ‘’yeah but I’m not the owner though. You must be looking for twilight. She’s out right now’’. ‘’No no, I just need a book, history preferably’’. The dragon pointed toward a row of books near a ladder. ‘’I’ll be stacking books, just so you know and don’t tackle me’’. I walked over and picked a book out, ‘’history of Equestria’’, it reads. I sat down at a table and began reading. Equestria…I didn’t even know the name of the land before arriving here. Learn something new everyday.

Quite some time has passed, hours I believe. The history here is so interesting. War between three races, evil spirits, 1000 year banishment. Sounds as if the worse came, left, and good was all the remained. Unity and harmony were usually end results of such events. ‘’closing time, wrap it up.’’ I looked at the dragon. My initial thought was replying ‘’ok!’’, but instead I accidentally said ‘’winter wrap up?’’ The dragon looked confused, ‘’yeah…sure.’’ Wrap it up made me say that. At least I knew I paid attention to what was being read. A good book it was too. It was set back where it was found and out the door I was. Hold on, it’s night already? What an amazing book to pass time like that. Only to be followed by the thought of ‘’hey, where am I going to sleep tonight?’’ Dumbfound, and it being too late to find a hotel, I thought. All that could be done is finding an alley or a hay stack. Which was done, not comfortably though. ‘’I got to stop doing this.’’ said while obtaining hay. It was dragged into an alley and laid about. I got cozy, sort of, and attempted to sleep. Familiar cricket noises were heard. ‘’What a lovely sound.’’ I smiled and drifted off. What new things awaited tomorrow?

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I attempted to wake up early in the morning. Sunsets and morning breezes lifted dull spirits. Not that mine was in need of lifting. Well, I also needed to get out of an alley before anyone notices. What will the public think if I arose from a dark alley? Even though it was early, many ponies were up and at it. Getting out of the alley wasn’t much difficulty though. A few might’ve spotted me but paid little attention. I paid little attention to them as well. New town and new people, what was I going to do this evening? Then a low growl was heard. Urrrrrggggghhhhh. My stomach seems to have answered that question for me. With it being an active town, there was many choices between the restaurants and markets. I sat at a table of one. This one didn’t seem too expensive and looked to offer a nice meal. ‘’Hello, what can I get for you this evening’’, a waiter said handing me a menu. It wasn’t long before I picked something out. It all sounded good. Apple crumpets, lemon pies, many kinds of salads. Even muffins were on the menu. I was never a big fan of muffins though. So I went with a simple salad. ‘’Ah, good choice sir, I’ll get it right away.’’ Ponyville was very lively. So many unique mares and stallions seen. Just by looking at the cutie marks I could tell of many musicians and artiest. Far in the crowd I thought I saw a zebra. Maybe hunger was getting to me. I’d haven’t seen a zebra since my visits to the savannas. ‘’Your salad sir, that will be 2 bits’’. I paid the waiter 5 bits, 3 as the tip. He looked stressed and deserved a nice tip. ‘’Excuse me sir, I said it was only 2 bits’’, he said with question. ‘’Keep the change, it’s the least I can do for excellent service’’, I said back to the stallion. All he did was smile and went his way. The salads were amazing here. Hard to believe it was 2 bits. The lettuce was sweet and crunchy. Tomato pieces, big and juicy. I may have pigged out a bit on the salad, but it couldn’t be helped. It was a great way to start my day. Laughing was heard around the corner. My curious nature overcame me and I checked it out. The site…was unpleasant. This town of nice ponies should have been expected to have rebels as well. A few stallions (Pegasus from what I saw) were seen messing with a mare. She appeared to be of Pegasus variety as well. The group was tricking the mare into running into things/ponies. At a closer looked, her eyes explained her actions a bit. An odd set of eyes giving her a ‘’derpy’’ appearance. ‘’Why don’t you show us your flying backwards trick again?’’, one of the stallions said. The others agreed, cheering her on. She played along. Flying along with ease. Until she bumped into another mare carrying many items. It fell about the ground, causing pots and bowls to break. The stallion group laughed and rolled around. The female Pegasus looked at the earth mare with regret in her eyes. ‘’Nice going, your gonna pay for those broken items. 10 bits will do.’’ ‘’I don’t carry money on me very often…’’, the Pegasus replied. I rushed over and paid the lady myself. Quickly turning to the stallion group with a stern look. They stopped laughing, and looked back. ‘’I think you owe this nice mare an apology for teasing her.’’ The group looked toward each other and one said back, ‘’ Ditzy Doo here is our friend, we weren’t laughing at her, we are laughing with her.’’ I stepped closer, anger filled my heart, an inferno went ablaze in my eyes. The bunch of them felt the tension of one another. Feeling threatened by looking at me. My aura was felt through the air. One flew away apologizing, followed by another, then the rest. I wasn’t going to let anyone get pushed around like that. Ditzy looked at me, ‘’thanks I guess, nobody was really hurt.’’ It was hard to tell where she was staring at really. Not making fun of her at all its just one directed toward me and the other at the clouds. ‘’Well I don’t like to see innocent mares being bullied.’’

‘’I wasn’t being bullied, it doesn’t bother me much.’’

‘’Ok then, sorry if I was being bothersome miss.’’

‘’No problem. Hey…I never seen you around here. I’m the mail-mare so I know everyone. You must be from out of town’’.  

‘’Well I hav-’’

‘’I’ll need you to tell me your address incase I need to deliver anything to you!’’

‘’Well you see-’’

Suddenly a raspy voice was heard ‘’Ditzy! Stop bothering the locals and deliver the morning mail!’’

Ditzy looked back and forth, ‘’I have to go mister, nice meeting you.’’ She tucked her mail bag on and dashed off. Mail-mare sounded like an important and busy job. I wonder why she didn’t have an money. Even more curious, how’d her eyes end up like that. So unique, I hope she doesn’t get picked on much for it. Then again, bullying didn’t bother her. From my knowledge, Pegasus’s are either care-free or rowdy. Oh how much I wish to fly…drip. Huh, what’s this? Drip drip drip. Oh no, not on a perfect morning. No where to hide for shelter, this was bad. Distances thunder was heard, a storm was coming. I ran by a fruit stall, grabbing its sunroof. The mare at the stand was given the remaining bits I had for it. It wasn’t enough for a sunroof but my gut told me she knew I needed it. The rain grew heavier and heavier. Dragging the roof along I rushed to my alley. Odd that I claimed an alley as my own. No time for stupid thoughts like that. I stabbed the stilts in the ground and angled the sunroof above my haystack. Slightly wet but not too bothersome. This makeshift house was all I had at the moment. Complaining would only make me regret what little I had. Although the weather was quite depressing. So much was planned for today. A visit to Apple Acres was one. It was overheard from locals. The main food supply in the area. Try a little apple pie, maybe a sip of cider. I can almost taste it as I’m drooling. But no, I’m stuck, snuggled into my hay-bed. BOOM, thunder crashed and wind sped up. So lucky the alley was closed off. My sun-roof would have been a mile away by now. BOOM. Looks like I’m going to have to get cozy…

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Why wasn’t this obvious before. Such cowards they were to ruin the day. I’d completely forgot the Pegasus could manipulate weather. It’s clear on who did it as well. No mercy on them when we meet again. That sounded too violent, just friendly revenge is all. Anyways, this storm was not going to ruin my day. What do people do during storms…aside from sitting at home. Water did more help than harm. How about turning rain into a game. I was always the adventurous type (or course being a traveler). Because of this, I emerged from the alley and began splashing. Simple yet fun. Actually…this was really fun! Others from inside their dorms looked out their window. They looked at me as if I was crazy. Course I wouldn’t REALLY know, having too much fun in the rain. Fillies would want to come out and play. Parents weren’t sure of this. Crazy stallion hopping around, giggling. I might as well have been mentally unstable. Until one little filly walked up toward me. Pipsqueak people called him. He began splashing and laughing. Other joined in and played. Racing in the rain, splash fights, it was loads of fun. I stopped for a minute to look up and see that group of stallions. I then gave a stern smile, it spoke ‘’ruined what day?’’. Mad as every, they cleared the clouds, reveling sunlight. Last minute attempt I’m guessing. Kids were disappointed a bit, till I yelled out ‘’what a glorious day, playground anyone?’’. ‘’YEAH!’’, shouted as the army of fillies dashed to play. As for the Pegasus, they gave in. Pipsqueak walked up to me, ‘’thanks mister, rain was normally a bum. You showed it whose boss.’’ Such young bright children, I hate to see them grow up in an imbalanced world. At least Ponyville was safe. I hope…

Living in an alley would not suit. Going to give me a bad reputation after all. I searched for a home-owner. What no money? No problem, my travel bag carried valuables from previous travels. Distinct rare items, only native to the area found in. Hopefully a deal could be worked out. Asking around, I found directions to one. In the market, why didn’t I think of that. I saw the pony needed to talk to. From a distance it seemed fine but on closer inspection…oh no. Homeowners you’d imagine are quite wealthy. It makes sense why them ‘’familiar faces’’ were seen on the train. Stay calm, what if she doesn’t remember me. ‘’Hello miss, I would like to buy a home, I’m in dire need of a place to rest.’’ easing into it. ‘’Hold on a minute dear, I mustn’t forget your paperwork. Just…wait tad second.’’ scrupulously examining me, I began to shake, sweat ran down. This home was desperately needed. I could not mess this up, a house was at stake. ‘’you…you look so familiar, are you from Canterlot? Couldn’t be with those dreads. Then why do you…’’ A miracle was needed right now! Uhhh,uhhh. I panicked, reaching into my bag. Pulling out a fine bit of cloth. Los Pegasus silk, a fine piece of material it was. ‘’Might I interest you in this, all yours, just allow me to sign the papers and be on my way. Hahahaha’’, hurryingly said by me. ‘’I know who you are now, you’re the crook!’’. Darn…so close. ‘’Get out of my stand, get out now! Before I report you faster than a wonder-bolts race.’’

Should have gone with the fire-ruby. I walked away from the stand sorrowfully. Knowing my remaining days in Ponyville is to be spent in an alley home. Nothing much happened the rest of the day either. I visited apple acres, only to find no cider. Not even a talkative worker. The old lady was sleeping and only awoke to speak a gibberish of words. As for the red stallion, yeeup…and nope. Previous statement being self explanatory. There was one more but she was out of town for a rodeo competition. This may sound silly, but I entered one once. Fillideplhia it was in. I wasn’t much a cowpony, still worth a shot. 5th place. Wow, some strong ponies too. 1st place beat everyone by a landslide, surprisingly a mare. Apple…apple…applejack? Not sure, somepony with apple in their name. More importantly this was a spectacular eye-opener. Don’t take it that ‘’oh it’s a female thing.’’ It kind of was, but in a good way. Beat the stereotype of woman being weak and such. Personally a favorite in the competition. Most didn’t take the defeat lightly, even those who placed lower than I. The rest I’d rather not tell, didn’t end so well. Another competition I saw was the Pegasus races…well from afar. Not really Earth pony accessible. Stubborn as most Pegasus are, I do wish that I was one. Proud and free.

Like the end of most days, a nap in my hideaway was in order. This night was different though…my mind was full of thoughts. It was difficult to sleep. Anxiety crowded sleep. Just the uncomfortable stacks I kept telling myself. No…what was it. A foggy thought. A pony I believe. Was it a mare? No no no no no no. I promised not to fall for another female. Reasons not required to be heard. It looks like a mare. Love was too much of a gamble. Only one person in the world is good for their one person. Estimating couple hundred thousand ponies on this world. Me meeting my one was a chance of never. Risk was too much. How come I was thinking about this. I can’t even see the image. All I know is it’s a mare. Just…just go to sleep.

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Something touched my head in the morning. Felt as if it gently fell from the sky. It was too early to be awaked. I grabbed what was on my head. A letter? How the…’’howdy mister! So is this where you live?’’ shouted from above. That voice…Ditzy? Speak of nightmare moon (speak of the devil for those whom don’t get the reference.) the pony of spoken name appeared in front of me. ‘’Quite a home you got. A sunroof, little hay bed. Couldn’t have done better myself’’. I agreed assuming she was messing around. ‘’I’ll keep this noted as alley by sugarcane corner. More mail needs delivered seeya!’’. I must’ve been hallucinating again, could have swore I saw a muffin in that bag. No matter, who would’ve sent me this letter. I don’t know any pony here. Pinkie? Nah, when I opened it I could clearly tell this wasn’t her. It states: we will be coming for you. Guards? Misfit Pegasus? Home owning mare? Thinking it over, I do have more local enemies than previously thought. Then, the worse was seen. Guards, surveying the area, asking for a ‘’criminal’’. Who else but me. Urrrrgggghhh. Must my morning hunger pester me now?! Eventually I changed my mind. Sneaky time, peek around corners, be extra cautious. It was only a quick glimpse, but the coast seemed clear to the market. Couldn’t help but notice Ditzy delivering mail. ‘’this is the wrong mail! Again! How do you mess up so many time!’’, local screaming at Ditzy. Her boss even joined on the hurtful rants. As much as I’d like to go over there and help, guards were well noted in that area. I’d never make it without getting snatched. Good luck to her.

The market and restaurant areas were mostly clear. Too many ponies were grabbing a morning snack. Guards would loss track of me too easily. I simply walked to a food stand. ‘’Hello, can I interest you in an apple?.’’ a voice was heard but no pony seen? ‘’excuse me, down here.’’ awww, a young filly. Oddly not a cutie mark seen. She didn’t appear too young, just a late bloomer I suppose.

‘’I would, but I don’t have any bits. Could I interest you in a trade?’’, I said.

‘’sorry sir, granny doesn’t take anything other than bits.’’

‘’What about a good luck charm? Its made of rare metal, could sell for a decent amount of bits.’’

‘’Luck? I’m listening’’

I wasn’t trying to scam the little filly. It did bring luck, how else did I escape the guards twice? The metal was valuable too. Not that her voice spoke in importance to that.

‘’I brought it with me on all my travels across the world. It was blessed by a zebra in the savanna’s’’.

Her eyes widened, ‘’ya don’t say? I’ll give you some apples for it, just don’t tell granny, k?’’

I agreed as she handed me apples. The charm was taken out and given to her. She most likely won’t sell, the eyes spoke it. I hope it brings her as much luck as it did me. For now, Munch Crunch Munch. My taste buds were awakened to new wonders. Apple acre apples I presumed. Should’ve tried one yesterday (or even stocked up some). Perfect texture, juicy flavor. If I wasn’t trying to hide I’d enjoy it a bit longer. No time though, where to now. I’d be stuck at my alley if I went back. Library? What guard would want to go there? I began evading guards and locals whom recently spoke to guards. Lurking in the shadows like a ninja. Ohh so much fun and it was tense. Like the raid of the dragon cave. Sneak pass the dragon and obtain its treasure. Wasn’t an easy task either. My treasure was a safe slip into the library. I was only a bridge away too. Well until…’’Look out!’’. Unexpected, unseen, like the pink flash only more colorful and painful. CRASH. Oooowwww. It was like getting hit in the face with a rainbow, never expected. ‘’You messed up my trick. Sorry if your hurt but watch where your going next time’’. All was a blur as that rainbow figure dashed off again. Risky dare-devil to fly so low. I’ve also never seen a Pegasus fly so fast. Reminds me of the wise-tales spoken in the rich part of Fillidelphia. An unexpected BOOM, then a rainbow filling the sky. Memories of it all a blur. Sounds like my scenario at the moment. I bet this ‘’rain-boom’’ was quite a site. Went as far as the rock farms over the valleys. Wonder why I never saw it. Better get up before a guard see’s me. ‘’What was that noise?’’, ‘’It came over here.’’ These guards appeared to be in more places than expected. Such ignorance, who could’ve ratted me out. The Pegasus and the homeowner mare are my only suspects. Probably both. Gah! There was no-where to hide. Better get running. I sprinted off, guards seeing me of course. Even a known voice was heard out of them. Mister captain. Being in Ponyville for a few days helped me familiarize the surroundings. Shortcuts and sharp turns threw the flying marauders off. Told you I’d be running again. Thought I’d be use to it by now. This wasn’t looking good either. Not that the Pegasus made any progress catching up to me. Rather the town seeing this all was my concern. I took many back roads (some leading to cliffs, how strange) but some ponies still saw me. I eventually took a break and hid around a corner. It was good for some time. Though one thing was clear as day.

‘’Hello, captain.’’ I said turning the alley corner.

‘’that’s Commander Caesar to you!’’

He was ready to strike. His body positioned to take flight in a split second.

‘’you speak highly for someone who failed to catch me twice. Correction catch and kill me.’’

‘’Your very cocky for someone who had a nearly died.’’

‘’And your brethren at this feeble attempt to catch me?’’

‘’Feeble? HA, you’re cornered, just a dead-end behind you and an angry guard in front.’’

Sure I was afraid, but I gave a confident smile at him. Fear was a simple illusion of the mind

‘’Your too predictable captain’’

‘’make your move then’’

We stared down for a while. Becoming more agonizing as time passed. I made my move…big mistake. I attempted to hit Caesar neglecting how ready he was. He dodged swiftly, moving to my side. It was a flash; I knew the worse to come. He kicked me in the gut. Feeling like a train hit me head on. I withstood, which he didn’t expect so I fought back.  A hit landed but the commander was tough, another strike was driven into my stomach again. This time I was down for good. Watching as he laughed, ‘’really? Like you would win against a military officer.’’ Meh, still worth a shot. It was better than giving up. I started to black out when a calamity occurred. A whistle followed by clash of hooves. If only I knew what was going on. It appeared to be more fighting? Unexpected, the commander fell, similar to me. ‘’Get up, get up!’’ a voice repeated many times. This I couldn’t do. I was eventually hoisted into the air, and then I went unconscious. Who was that?

________________________________________________________________________

Strange, the first thing I remember waking up was a smell. Streams of the steamy smoke came from another room. It smelt of something familiar. Though it wasn’t appealing, curious nature makes me wonder. Actually, curiosity makes me wonder where I am. Furniture was that of an average household. Well bedroom wise, being the only room I’d been in. As much as I would like to get it, my injuries spoke otherwise. So I laid in wait. Who do would have saved me from the guards? I hadn’t any real friends in town. This poor soul to get caught up in my predicaments. A strong Pegasus was all that’s brought to mind. There was a whistle followed by the defeat of Caesar. Who…’’Gah!’’. I mildly shouted as a silver tray was dropped in front of me. Paying no attention to the tray, I looked around. A wing and a hoof were seen exiting. Strong and very fast; it was a Pegasus. The smell was closer; I took a few whiffs before realizing it came from the tray. A muffin? Out of all the things in the world, it was this. Not an apple Danish or a simple salad. I didn’t hate muffins; the flavor of them was just never caught on. This muffin laid with me for hours, staring. No way was it going to be eaten. Hadn’t the owner of the home have at least little worry on how I’m doing? They did save me after all. Suddenly, a hoof appeared grabbing the muffin. Before this mysterious savior flew out, I grabbed a hold of their leg. Stronger and faster than thought, I was flung out of the bed into a wall. ‘’Opps, you ok?’’, wait…not that voice. It couldn’t be, no way in all of Equestria it was that pony.

‘’…Ditzy?’’

A chuckle was heard ‘’yes’um, you were in a big mess. Did you like the help?’’

‘’But why…I didn’t do anything worth getting you in jail for.’’

‘’you paid that lady when I had no money, that could’ve sent me to jail’’

‘’you’re a nice person ditzy, but I am of no need of your assistance.’’

Attempting to get up ended up in me falling down

‘’hehe, looks like you need help now.’’ She lifted me back into bed, handing me the muffin. ‘’Eat up.’’ I only held it, staring again. This event was unexpected, my mind went into a fury of thoughts. Life IS full of surprises.

Its cold…the breeze was unbearable. Opening my eyes to that of valleys, covered in snow. I was attached to a climbing harness, swaying much due to the wind. A blizzard was literally going on. Ah! How am I here! I’ve hadn’t been to the Far-end mountains in 5 years! Unicorn magic, a curse…was it a dream. I looked as the cable weakening. The bindings slowly becoming undone. A dream…I accepted. If it wasn’t then a good run I’ve had. Confidence emitted the air. Cable snapped, I closed my eyes and fell. It was freezing and the fall fast. This felt so real. This felt so…free. Like flying, even if I’d only been in the air for less than 10 seconds. It didn’t feel right after that. The feel was too real, was I actually falling? Before panic overcame me a shadow was seen. Diving after me. It looked to be that shadow from my dream the other night. I needed a closer look! It approached, realizing I was still falling I looked behind to see how close the ground was. Time slowed at that moment. Inches away from my face an arctic death awaits…I awoke! Gasping for air. ‘’That shadow!’’. I knew who it was! The answer was another surprise. As if enough of those hadn’t happened. Maybe it was not as much of a surprise as I thought. I was in love…looking back I saw why. It’s odd that only seeing this mare few times spoke a wonderment of things. Almost the opposite of me in a sense. She was carefree, not a worry in the world. No hate, anger, or worry emitted from her. It still confused me; I had a promise to myself. Love was a risky game; it requires work on both ends. Compassion, care, giving spirit and life into each other. Could it ever be done again…? I had to try, not for this special mare, but for myself. Ditzy rushed in hearing the panic. ‘’Are you ok? Sounded like a nightmare.’’ I stared, ‘’nightmare? It was a discovery…’’

The next morning filled with worry. How was I going to approach this special mare? Oh, was that all I worried about? Not that of the guards or the towns’ ponies being aware of my crimes (assuming after what happened yesterday). ‘’Muffin? You look stressed’’. Ditzy has been good to me, watching and feeding me. Despite this muffin obsession, it was alright with me. ‘’I’ll try it, but only because I’m hungry’’, sheepishly said by me. I took a bite, it wasn’t pleasant. I wanted to spit it out, but food was needed. That and I didn’t want to appear rude. She did save me after all.

‘’Now all we need is a name for you.’’ Ditzy said excitingly.

‘’I do have a name, its-‘’

She interrupted me before my sentence was finished ‘’hold on, let me think!’’

I patiently waited until ‘’Banana muffin!’’

Face hoofing, I replied, ‘’why that?’’

‘’It’s my favorite kind, now come on!’’ She grabbed my hoof and dragged me out the door.

‘’I just had breakfast and now your dragging me into town. Don’t you know guards are after us?!’’

‘’that’s right…well the guards aren’t after me silly. Caught mister captain before he could see me.’’

Note to self, don’t every mess with Ditzy. ‘’well what am I suppose to do?’’

‘’Make yourself at home, I gotta deliver letters, be right back!’’

She flew out, slamming the door behind her. This left me with nothing to do. An average house that I am now bound to. No house and town full of people was going to keep this adventurer from pushing on. Ditzy being a Pegasus would make you think of her having a cloud home. To my knowledge it appears to be at the edge of the forest. That’s right, a forest! Local exploring will ease my nerves. Stress grew as I found my bag to be missing. I searched for it, looking everywhere. Though there was enough respect given not to enter Miss Ditzy’s private dorms. Bored and tired I exited the home and traveled into the forest. Adventurers spirit was my guide, off I go!

Minutes into the forest filled me with regret. This was no normal forest. It was unnaturally dark and the air smelt of death. The aura was as sinister as nightmare night. Noises of growls and uneasy wind flowing about. There wasn’t even road to follow. I assumed myself lost. Staying by a river was the best idea at the moment. Of course something else beat me there. An Ursa, what a dangerously magnificent site. Quick biology lesson, baby Ursas stand two stories high, are extremely territorial and would/could tear me to literally nothingness. With a baby there was a guarantee the parent was around. I’ll just pass by and hope they don’t see me. Naturally, dark places carry treasure and such. This was just adventure talk to make this trip worth while. Then a site of terror appeared before me. A beast out of mythology, looking blood thirsty. It roared, I ran. The roar of the lion scorpion looking creature attracted the Ursa across the river. Being the size of a home didn’t slow him down as powerful river currents swept by. I now had a creature chasing a creature in turn chasing me. This didn’t bother me much though. Must’ve finally gotten use to running for my life. I’d be dead if an idea wasn’t brought up soon. They stopped as I approached a cave. Well stopped chasing me, that poor lion creature was chased into the distance by that monster of a baby. More fear was felt in this cave then outside in the forest. But…more than fear was felt, I felt treasure. I continued on into the darkness without thought. Snoring was heard deep inside. I followed the noise as a guide. When arrived, my eyes lit up. Piles and large amounts of coins, gems, and treasure were found! Why did this seem familiar though, and that snoring…ZZZZZZ. The snore rumbled and shook the whole cave. I wish I brought a bag, this was an amazing discovery! This dream was stopped after walking father in, a site unseen. A dragon, fully grown, is sleeping over another pile of treasure. I wasn’t going to let fear upstage me. Walking closer to the treasure I picked up a gem, proceeding to quietly walk out of the cave. Then an uneasy feeling overcame me, as if something was watching me. ‘’I’ll give you one chance, put that gem back. Or else’’, rumbled that of the dragon. Before his sentence was finished, I was sprinting out the cave. Haha! This fed my need for adventure. Better move out of the way, I feel heat coming. Out of the cave I dived to the side. An eruption of fire burst from the cave. As if it was a side-ways volcano. I began to climb the mountain the cave was dug into. A fierce fiery eyed dragon appeared from the cave. It gave a loud roar and lit the forest up. The dragon then began to survey the area for me. Near the top, I hid behind a large bolder. Escape was so easy and within grasp. Looking around the bolder was the site of an inferno of a forest. I jumped as a poke was felt. ‘’What are you doing out here banana muffin? Messing with dragons isn’t nice’’. The dragon froze, its ears twitched. I quickly covered Ditzy’s mouth. ‘’What are you doing out here! It’s dangerous.’’ Abruptly, a shadow hovered over us. The ground felt slightly colder. ‘’Your going to pay with your life for that gemstone!’’, the dragon yelled and dove toward me. Ditzy picked me up; while she was doing that I kicked the bolder off the ledge. She flew out of there hastily. Flying was new to me; it was scary from that height. Looking back the dragon went into was stuck on the bolder. It appeared to roll over his hand causing him to be stopped in his tracks. During the panic, Ditzy dropped me. Lucky for me I landed in a soft bed of blue flowers. She raised me up again and went off.  If it wasn’t for Ditzy…

She locked herself in her bedroom for the remainder of the day. These events must’ve freaked her out. I felt bad, dragging her into another one of my predicaments. Trying to make up for being inconsiderate I attempted to bake a muffin. I entered the kitchen and searched for a cookbook. With all the muffins she made before there must be a cookbook around here. The search seemed pointless. Could nothing be found in this mare’s home…? Couldn’t be too hard, I’ve cooked before! Ditzy entered the kitchen after smelling the mess of burnt muffin abominations. Her kitchen looked no better than the muffins. Just as messy as the mentioned items was I. ‘’Ditzy, I’m sorry, I tried to make you a treat for saving me and it just went into a mess and…and…sorry…’’. She gave a bitter look at me. Afterwards beginning to laugh. ‘’hahahaha, silly. That’s not how you cook a muffin. Let me show you’’. What happened afterwards was pretty simple. We cleaned up and made some muffins, though the kitchen ended up just as messy as it was before we cleaned it. I got into a food fight with her using the dough. The muffins ended up pretty tasty. Until that ended in a food fight about her living room. It was fun hanging with Ditzy. The least I could do for her is give up the gemstone we nearly got killed for. I handed her the stone. It gleamed a blue shine similar to that of her eyes. She stared with a blank look switching back and forth between me and the gem. ‘EHEHEHEHEHE!’’ shrieked by her. She gave a swift tight hug and flew elegantly into her room. Ditzy deserved it.

Nighttime befell us as it did everyone else. Sleep followed and then morning. Without dreams it seems like a wasted time span. Gone so fast effortlessly. That’s why I keep every dream and treat it as a memory, they spoke hidden messages and showed you more about you then you’d know. I awoke without the smell of muffins or a greeting. A letter laid on the kitchen counter as I walk in. ‘’For banana muffin’’ it reads. I opened it.

‘’Dear Banana Muffin,

Thank you for the gemstone, I never received such a nice gift. Sorry for not baking muffins for you this morning or saying goodbye. Mail-mare duty calls. I wrote this letter as a reason to come back and tell you what happened. I need to get back to work, have a good day.

, your friend

Ditzy.’’

This letter made my day, my heart lit up in joy. I made a friend, one I believe to stay with me for a lifetime. Urrrrrgggghhh. Ignorant stomach to interrupt such a moment like that. I searched the kitchen but it appears all the food was gone. Adventurers usually speak impatients. No way would I wait till ditzy got back to eat. Mail duty takes quite a long time. Before exiting in a search for food I found my stomach growl wasn’t that of hunger…but pain. I fell over as it overcame my whole body. It wasn’t damages from Caesars kicks. I healed from that days ago…didn’t I? The pain intensified, unbearable, unlike none other in the world. ‘’Help!’’, I shouted, hoping for mercy. No-one came. I shouted out again, louder than before. It became too much, I dragged my body toward Ponyville, attempting to reach to hospital. What’s going on!

On arrival after several painful hours crowds built up around me. ‘’Move out of the way, I must see what the commotion is abou-…well well well, couldn’t take my kicks could you’’, Caesars said with grief. ‘’Shut up…and help me…’’, attempting to receive mercy. Caesar laughed and turned to the crowd. ‘’This is the criminal we’ve been hunting for a week now. He destroyed public property and injured many of our royal guards. He is a menace to society and will be brought to justice.’’ Many ponies from the crowd nodded their heads in disbelief. I couldn’t tell if it was the fact I was a criminal or that the guards wouldn’t help me. Caesar turned back to me. He lifted his leg and kicked me in the face. Pain was felt all over now. The crowd gasped. Caesar then picked me up by my hair, staring into my eyes with rage. He whispered, ‘’that’s for making an embarrassment out of me, now...it’s your turn.’’. I was thrown to the ground and kicked again…and again…and again. After a few minutes of being pony-handled in front of the crowd, Caesar called the unicorn guards to carry me away. I felt I was going to die soon without help.

‘’Can’t I leave you alone for a few hours without you getting in trouble.’’ Ditzy appeared on the scene and approached Caesar. How embarrassed I was to get help from her again.

‘’Miss, this stallion is a criminal and is being brought to justice, step back.’’

She looked at Caesar, squinting her eyes. As if she was thinking. ‘’How much is bail?’’

Caesar was brought to a smile by this statement. Not the ‘’happy’’ smile, it was more like a ‘’are you kidding me?’’ one. ‘’What’s it to you? You his partner in crime or girlfriend or something?’’.

Ditzy giggled, ‘’Maybe I am, maybe I’m not, how much is bail.’’

‘’Well considering assault charges, destruction of property, disturbance of peace, and other factors. About 2000 Bits.’’

Everyone froze at the sound of that. Murmurs of ‘’2000?!’’ were heard. Ditzy smiled, pulling out of her bag another bag on what was assumed to be 2000 bits. 2000 bits?! Now silence added to that of the seemingly frozen crowd. The guards grabbed the bag and dropped me. ‘’that’s 2000 bits sir!’’. Caesar stared with a blank look. Ditzy then went and said ‘’well the charges are covered, save my friend.’’ The unicorn guards went and carried me to the hospital. ‘’Stop you idiots, he’s a criminal!’’, Caesar attempting to stop them. ‘’Royal duty is to help all citizens sir, the debt was paid.’’ Caesar scoffed, looking toward Ditzy, ‘’I don’t know how you did it but remember this, all criminals eventually end up where they belong.’’. ‘’Years of saving up from mail-mare duty pays off, I never had to spend my money on much aside from food.’’ Ditzy relied. Caesar flew off. The crowd clueless on how to react. Ditzy flew off as well but toward the hospital.

‘’Doctor, why is this happening to him?’’, ‘’Doctor we need to help him stat!’’. Nurses yelled out to the doctor in panic.

‘’I checked the x-rays and scans. Aside from surface scratches, nothing else could be found!’’ I sat on the examination table looking helpless and hopeless.

Ditzy arrived to check on the situation. ‘’Is he going to be ok doctor?’’

‘’We can’t find anything wrong with him! Had he partaken in any strange activates? Consumed anything hazardous?’’

Ditzy thought, remembering the activities from the other day. ‘’…blue flowers…’’

‘’Excuse me?’’ the doctor said.

Ditzy rushed out the hospital. Staff left confused. For hours I rolled around in pain. Doctors tried everything to help. Pain medication, Hot baths, cold showers. Ice and when desperate, meditative practices. All seemed pointless until a striped horse walking into the hospital with Ditzy.  She approached me. ‘’This is the joke flowers playing tricks. Somehow he received an extra kick.’’ That voice…’’Zecora?’’ I knew I saw a zebra that day! Even more luck was an old friend of mine. She helped me during my travels in the savannas. She was the village Shaman and taught me how to survive in the harsh weathers, ‘’I am surprised to see my stallion friend, how did you end up in this bend?’’

She forced a liquid solution down into my mouth. It wasn’t pleasant but knowing Zecora, it was needed. ‘’This will fix him right up, taking a sip from my cup.’’ Everyone snickered at her rhyme schemes. The ache in my stomach was gone within a few seconds.

I still didn’t know how Zecora made her potions or how she even knows this stuff. Didn’t matter, I was just glad she was here. ‘’Thanks, but why are you in Ponyville.’’ I asked. ‘’Location was key to my actions. This place was quite an attraction.’’

‘’Well said Zecora, couldn’t have said it better myself.’’

‘’Why are you here? Ponyville and the village are not very near.’’

Ditzy interrupted while walking out the room, ‘’He owes me a date.’’

Zecora looked at me with a quaint smile. ‘’That answers why you’re here now. Only one word could describe it…wow.’’ [failed attempt to rhyme.]

‘’No it’s not what your think!’’

She giggled, ‘’no need to lie. Go with her and fly.’’

‘’Just like old times, always messing with the tourist…’’. Note to self, stay away from blue flowers.

See Zecora was very exciting, what luck too. Never again will I go near a blue flower. Well let’s just stay out of the Everfree forest from now on. Onto more important matters…a date?! Whoa whoa whoa, that’s why she kept me around. I entered Ditzy’s home after returning from the hospital. Trying to sneak in and not attract too much attention.

‘’Sneaking in won’t help you out. Come here and help me make muffins!’’

‘’Before I help you make a muffin, why did you do that? 2000 bits?! Saving me? All for a date?’’ Looking at Ditzy with disbelief.

‘’No silly, let me explain. I saw something in a dream. A shadow of a stallion. He looked brave and strong…and cute. I’ve been dreaming of him for awhile. Adventurous and kind he was. Much like you, hehe.’’ The dream, the shadows, it all makes sense.

‘’I…had the same dream.’’ Ditzy stopped what she was doing and looked over at me. I continued with my rants, ‘’But you didn’t think of asking me out? You had to go through all this trouble?’’

‘’That would be too simple, life is more exciting when you add spice.’’ Funny how much ‘’spice’’ my life already has. Now I have to add a female to that as well. This is going to be a longer day to the already long one…

I wasn’t much of a dating expert considering my past relationships. Heck, this is the first time my crush asked me on a date. Most mare’s like romantic settings, smart strong stallions and mystery. I had the perfect setting in mind. A hill top picnic while the moon shined over the hills in the horizon. Just had to get ditzy there. Hmm…Banana muffins, haha. Nearly dark and the picnic assembled I began setting my trap for Ditzy. A basket full of banana muffins tied to a string. Of course I’d pull the string every time she got close. It was simple and didn’t require me buying much…except string. The muffins were made while Ditzy was out doing whatever she does. I hid behind a nearby tree, string at hand. I saw ditzy coming in the distance. I readied myself. ‘’Basket full of muffins? How nice.’’ I pulled the string and ran toward the hill. ‘’Wait get back here muffins!’’ Plan was working perfect! Then a whistling was heard. Not this again. My running was stopped short when I got tackled over. ‘’Nice try Banana muffin, where you taking me?’’. Ditzy kindly demanded. ‘’This wasn’t how it was suppose to be.’’ I said with a faint smile. Ditzy followed as I showed the way toward the hill. It was awfully dark out and the moon was in the perfect position. We arrived, Ditzy eyes spoke excitement. I was just as excited. We both took a seat at on the blanket laid down. She helped herself to the muffin basket. As for me, I enjoyed the view. I think Luna is underappreciated for her work. Raising the moon, it hard to believe people sleep though this beauty. After the muffins were depleted Ditzy took comfort to lean on me. ‘’Thank you…’’, she said quietly. ‘’We’ve only known each other for a week Ditzy. How are you sure?’’ I replied. ‘’Things aren’t what they use to be, the world isn’t full of nice ponies anymore. I’ve had nightmares…but a shadow would appear and comfort me. Save me from disasters and we went on adventures. Mares decide within the first 7 seconds of meeting a person if they like them or not. It took me 5.’’ I didn’t know how to respond to that. I just closed my eyes…’’Ditzy…thanks for saving me.’’ She closed her eyes as well, ‘’stop climbing high mountains. It’s dangerous.’’ We laid together the remainder of the night in peace…

Everything returned to normal after the guard events. People were glad the guards left, they thought something terrible was happening amongst them. I had to explain why the guards were after me. Most of the town’s people came to understand considering they had related events happen to them. Canterlot didn’t treat Ponyville ponies so well. Except for the fair princess whom most ponies say treat everyone the well. As for me and Ditzy, it became official. We were dating, though I preferred not to make it a public. It wasn’t Ditzy, I was just shy. Months have passed without much notice; I was having an extraordinary time in Ponyville. Then…one day changed it all.

Me and Ditzy moved in together. Most days were quiet near the forest. Heck, she never actually had a visitor. Knock Knock Knock. ‘’who could that be?’’ I thought to myself. ‘’don’t worry muffin, I got it.’’ Ditzy flew to the door, opening it. It’s unlike me to get in other peoples business; I just sat in the living room for waiting for Ditzy. Faint voices could be heard. She walked in, head down. Tears were heard hitting the floor. I’d never seen the bright Pegasus so down. I ran over and attempted to raise her spirits. Then…when the news hit my ears, I understood why. That smug rich mare came by demanding rent as the ‘’new owner’’. It turns out Ditzy never had to pay rent. She was ‘’out of the grid’’. With the emergency funds spent of me months ago, she hadn’t enough money to afford the rent. We lost a home…but at least we had each other. It still confused me on how they found Ditzy. This had to be the doing of an old rival. Who else to know the rich folk other than Caesar.

This was a personal thing, had to be dealt with on my own. Ditzy stayed in Ponyville finding ways to pass time. As for me, I took the train to Canterlot. It occurred that the welcome might not be too pleasant. The bail was paid though so they couldn’t do anything. Just had to deal with the rude insults, and possibly shoving. Didn’t matter, just had to get back at Caesar for making Ditzy loss her home. The view was nice though, high on the cliff sides. Reminds me of my first time coming to Ponyville. Upon arrival at Canterlot many disgusted looks were given to me. My reputation here seems to have stayed. Ignoring harsh comments and rude pushing (just as expected), I walked toward the castle. Train stops were awfully far from the castle. Even though I hate this place, the views were nice. Parks and gardens, art galleries on each corner. Sad this was given to a barbarian community. The castle was a magnificent site. If the princess was as generous as heard, she well deserved this place. I approached some guards standing at the gates, ‘’Hello gentlemen, I’m looking for Commander Caesar.’’ ‘’He is in the barracks; take a left in the main hall and up the first flight of stairs. Do not go anywhere else,’’ one of them said sternly. The doors opened and a bewildering site appeared before me.  Fine silk curtains, soft carpeting, and amazing décor. This wasn’t why I was here but I felt the need to take time to admire it. I did what was told. To the left of the main hall and up the stairs. The main hall was enormous, to be honest a waste of space. The halls seemed endless looking down the center. This castle was much bigger then first perceived. The stairs were very similar to the hall, but vertically. I arrived at the barracks; Caesar appeared to be doing paperwork.

‘’Hello Commander’’. He stopped writing…crushing the pencil in half.

‘’Hello criminal, what brings you to our fair city.’’ He said calmly. I walked closer but with caution as Caesar seemed tense.

‘’I know what you did, with Ditzy’s home.’’ He looked up, emotionless in the face.

‘’I hadn’t the slightest idea what you mean.’’

‘’You told the land owner about our home out of town.’’ I stepped closer, filling with anger

Caesar continued with his nonchalant behavior, ‘’you ruined my rep in ponyville, hurt many of our guards, and quite frankly I hate you. But I don’t know about any home of hers.’’

A guard ran in, interrupting our chat before I could speak. ‘’Commander, a hydra was been seen approaching Ponyville’’. Him and Caesar ran out, words following ‘’Come on criminal, make yourself useful!’’ I froze only thinking ‘’...Ditzy’’.

The team of Pegasus hooked themselves to carts. On these carts were unicorn guards preparing for the fight. I settled myself on one, reading myself. One guard offered me a helmet saying something about protection being needed. Accepting the helmet I put it on. Pegasus began their decent on Ponyville. Even from the heights of Canterlot the monster could be seen in the distance. The residents of Ponyville were seen retreating, except a small group of six from what I saw. The carts were parked near the six mares. A few Pegasus approached them, ‘’Miss Twilight how do you suppose we go about this situation.’’

The purple unicorn surveyed the situation, the yellow colored, pink haired Pegasus interrupted. ‘’Excuse me…but uh…could you not hurt the supposed monster…I mean he is scary but he’s just working off instinct…right?’’

Twilight looked at her, ‘’don’t worry Fluttershy, I got a plan to drive him away.’’ She turned to the group of royal guards. ‘’Rainbow dash, Fluttershy, you take the Pegasus guards and distract the Hydra. Applejack, Pinkie Pie, take the earth pony guards and protect the citizens, make sure they get to safety. Rarity and unicorn guards, follow me. We’re going to combined our magic for a mass teleportation spell. Let get this Hydra out of here.’’ Everyone agreed and went on their way. I was with the earth guards and made sure everyone stayed safe. As said, the unicorns went into a large group and began conjuring the spell. The Pegasus went to distracting the multiple headed serpent by flying around it. The monster was close to town when the plan was devised though. Paying little attention to the Pegasus, it began destroying buildings. Many locals freaked, me and the earth group attempted to get them to safety. ‘’Why don’t you pick on someone your own size!’’, shouted by the rainbow colored Pegasus. She kicked one of its head, causing things to get worse. With multiple heads, it could attack the Pegasus group while crushing buildings. ‘’Hurry with that spell Twilight, I reckon the Pegasus can’t hold off the Hydra much longer,’’ Applejack shouted. Suddenly the worse came, two separate groups off fillies were threatened to be crushed by the Hydra. I was the only one to see this. I had to make a hard choice of helping one group over the other. There was no time to think though so I made my choice. I grabbed the first group of fillies and carried them to safety. Rushing toward the other group, the Hydra began to take a step. I picked the fillies up then the building collapsed over us. The children shrieked and screamed as it fell down upon us. I shielded the children as a group of earth guards removed debris. This helmet the guard gave me protected my head. The child as I was, were badly scratched up. Guards lifted the injured and moved them to safety. Then a shout from a local mare was heard, ‘’my child, where is my child!’’ I stood up, looking back to see a horrifying site. A little hoof was show peaking out of the building debris. I rushed over trying to move the bits of broken building. It wouldn’t budge…then a scurry of troops came to help. It was moved but the filly didn’t look well. They lifted the filly toward safety, I followed behind. ‘’Ok rainbow dash, move the Pegasus team out of there!’’ Twilight yelled out to them. I took a quick look at the unicorn squad as a mass amount of magic was formed. It lit up so brightly I wouldn’t be surprised if someone could see that from the moon. As instructed the Pegasus flew away and a blast of magic followed. The Hydra slowly deteriorated from its legs moving upward. The magic bright and force so powerful. It was almost scary to see as it disappeared from plain site.  Everyone cheered at the site, except for one. The mother of the poor child I attempted to save. ‘’Will my baby be ok?’’ the mother worryingly said. Doctors observed the child, ‘’he will live but the injuries are very bad, I’m not sure how he will end up.’’ I walked up to the mother, ‘’I tried to save your child, I’m terribly sorry…’’. Her head lifted, she turned casually and then the most unexpected thing happened. ‘’you’re the reason my child is hurt! What kind of sick being left my baby to be crushed under a building!’’ Crowds surrounded, nasty looks were given to me. ‘’I did my best to save your child, I couldn’t help everyone.’’ The Twilight walked over,’’ma’m, he tried his best to save your child, there is nothing more we could do.’’ The mother insisted I had everything to do with her hurt child. Caesar entered the conversation as well. ‘’This man is a criminal, why do you think we tried to put him away?’’. This was only expected to end badly. Many towns’ folk recalling the previous events months ago agreed to Caesar’s statement. Twilight tried to help but the group overpowered her sayings. She apologized to me and backed off. Half the town was in a fury against me. Caesar walked passed me, stopping abruptly and whispered, ‘’this…you can blame on me, revenge is sweet. Too bad no-one will believe you.’’ Faintly seen in the clouds was a group of Pegasus. They appeared to be laughing. From then…my reputation only went down

After putting 2 and 2 and 2 together I found out what happened. The rowdy group of Pegasus seen messing with Ditzy told the landowner about our home. They also proceeded to attract the Hydra toward town. Caesar and the child were simply luck. Ditzy comforted me through the events. Luckily she was safe from the hydra attack on the town. Everyone went to rebuilding the town. Those without homes were allowed to stay in homeless shelters. Lucky for me and Ditzy too after our home being taken away. We also had to take our relationship public, which brought much commotion. Ditzy was sweet but calling me banana muffin in public wasn’t the best idea. Everyone referred to me as such, not friendly either. Other called me a murderer despite the child being alive. He did suffer slight brain complications and couldn’t speak right. Most wouldn’t bother selling me anything. Ditzy had to get food for me. This once simple town that took me in and treated me well was now turned on me. I fell into a deep depression because of this. ‘’Haha, banana muffin!’’ towns people were heard shouting. Ditzy held my hand, ‘’ignore them, insults can’t hurt you.’’ Sometimes I wish I had the same mindset as Ditzy. Letting simple things like that go. I use to be able to do that; it’s just after many travels and events have weakened my ability to move on. I stopped in the middle of the shouting crowd. It felt like everything was spinning around me. ‘’Banana muffin!’’, ‘’Murderer!’’. The rest of my days were to be spent like this…’’Muffin…are you ok?’’. Ditzy looked toward me, concerned. ‘’Get out of town’’! After the voice was heard, something hard was felt hitting my head, as if someone threw a rock. It must’ve hit a trigger in my head. Something that I never knew was there..I just ran. Ditzy tried to grab me but I slipped away. ‘’Muffin! Come back! Don’t listen to them.’’ Ditzy turned to the crowd, ‘’How could you do this, he was a nice guy. He is just misunderstood. He saved a lot of fillies during the Hydra attacks. The Caesar guy was just out to get revenge on him so he put those thoughts in you head! I know how hard it is being accepted in this world…but people like you aren’t helping. I’d feel ashamed for terrorizing that poor stallion. What happened to treating everyone equally, this isn’t what we are. Just stop…’’. Ditzy fell to the ground crying. The town’s people felt bad about what happened. They all looked to the ground themselves. Silence and tears were all that was heard…

[From this point you can choose one of 2 endings, or even check out both. Below will be the happy ending. Below the happy will be the sad ending. Choose wisely.]

[Happy ending]

I stood atop a hill in the far end of the forest. Nearly midnight from the alignment of the moon. Thinking to myself. It was inconsiderate of me to leave ditzy alone…I just could take the ignorance. I knew if returned, I’d be pelted with insults, possibly for the rest of my life. Never treated with respect or kindness. Ponyville was the last place on my adventure, settling down was my only option. It was great to have found love again…but being seen as a monster by everyone…no. No. No! I kept repeating the phrase, yelling it out. I screamed it out until I passed out from exhaustion. Nothing made sense to me anymore…no

Ditzy was down without me. The town felt need to apologize for the events. Ditzy ignored them and sat in a corner to herself. No pony knew what to do. Even the rowdy Pegasus group came to sorrow and pity. Ditzy attacked them with shouts of rage and anger, knowing of what they did. Pinkie pie and her group of friends would try to comfort Ditzy, it helped until a thought of me appeared in her head. Everyone was at loss because of this…

I had awoken in the night, hours after passing out. Zecora seemingly appeared from nowhere. ‘’How’d you find me here?’’ asked curiously.

‘’My friend, what happened to you. Without you, the town has gone blue.’’

‘’I’m not as strong as I use to be, and I highly doubt the town is concerned.’’

‘’Everyone is concerned. Just keep in mind that strength is found within you, you just have to search deep within.’’

‘’Zecora…your not speaking rhymes.’’ Replied

‘’A poem doesn’t always have to rhyme, sometimes a well spoken statement is a poem all itself.’’ We both stared into the stars above.

‘’I’m…I’m going to be strong…for her. For myself…for everyone.’’

‘’Fly with her, let past events be a blur.’’ Valiantly said by Zecora. I stood up, feeling stronger than ever. Zecora stood up as well, I ran toward her giving a big hug. ‘’thank you…’’

Ditzy stood at the edge of town, tears running across her face. Sunrise was taking place. She looks at the hills almost as if it calmed her down. ‘’I wish he was here to see this with me…’’ She leaned a bit to her left, imagining me in the empty space. ‘’sigh…’’. Over the horizon was seen a shadow. Ditzy lifted he head, her wings flapping lightly. She stared at the shadow with a big smile. Tears were brought up again…but this time they spoke happiness. She stared while whispering to herself

‘’…muffin.’’

[Sad ending]

The only place I could find peace around here was the forest. It was quiet…and away from the hurtful crowd. I felt bad leaving ditzy, knowing what she is dealing with right now. After all I did, they won’t accept me?! This was deviating, I began beating myself up. Slamming into trees and purposely inflicting damage on myself. There is only one was I’d accept my fate…my fate of being hated all the time. Cliffs were nearby so I gave a visit to them. Looking down the seemingly endless heights. Nothing was thought from hear on…only instinct spoke. Zecora walking around the forest saw me. ‘’Don’t jump, its not going to end with a pleasant thump!’’. Its funny…I didn’t hear her. I was already free falling to my fate. Except this time…no shadow was here to help me…

Zecora carried my inanimate body to the hospital. Doctors rushed me to the emergency room much like my first time here in ponyville. Ditzy rushed over when she heard the news. She was nearly crying an ocean in the waiting room. Zecora and other ponies who heard the news were waiting, hoping the best. After hours of waiting, the doctor walked out. Every jumped waiting to hear from the doctor. ‘’He is alive. Bu-‘’ before he could finished everyone yelled out celebrating, too bad they celebrated a bit early… ‘’Hold on ponies, he is alive but I’m afraid to say that the fall was more tragic than thought.’’ Ditzy stepped forth, fear was felt. ‘’what do you mean doctor…?’’ ‘’He’s to…spend the rest of his days in a coma.’’ Everything went still…

The town was in shock because of this. No medicine, remedy, magic, or even a potion would wake me. It was an everlasting nightmare being hooked to machinery to stay alive. Ditzy would visit everyday and stay until visitor hours were up. Even though in a coma, Ditzy was just happy to see me. She would tell me about her mail duties or how much she loved me. It brought tears to my eyes, which is how she knew I could hear her. I miss being able to hug her…keep her near. Why did I do this…why? The ponies of Ponyville gave Ditzy full support through this. The cross-eyed Pegasus did her best to stay in high spirits. Without knowing days were to pass, then months. It even became a year. Ditzy still visiting everyday. Watching over my seemingly dead looking body. It was quieter with every visit. We both didn’t want to live like this. Ditzy hugged me, ‘’muffin…promise me that you’ll always love me’’. Somehow I knew she knew my answer. ‘’I promise that I’ll always love you, that why I spent nearly a year, everyday seeing you. Now comes the hardest choice in any ponies life.’’ She slowly walked over the contractions of life devices. Silently to herself be spoken, ‘’Good bye…keep a special place for me in the afterlife…’’. The plug was pulled and an accursed Beeeeeeeeeeeeep, followed. Ditzy exited the room with one last word…

‘’…muffin’’

Thank you for reading my story. Please note that this was all written without much thought interpreted. Just sort of a think as you go along thing. Well I hoped you enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed typing it. Keep strong brony community!