Author's Notes:

As you can see, the story continues.

No, it is not dead. But family and personal problems destroyed a lot of my free time.
Hopefully the rest of the year isn´t as bumpy as it has started.
Enjoy the chapter 5 and tell me your thoughts.

This sleep was not something you could call a rest, more a quick dive in the sea of dreams and back. My whole body feels so heavy that every movement seems to cost more stamina than normally. Currently I have my eyes closed tightly in a useless attempt to stay in the dreamland for a little longer. But as you can guess this is not working quite well. Additional to my slowly activating body are there some noises around me. Luckily I have Rainbow´s wing around me and all the sounds are muffled.

… Maybe I can get back to…

“WAKY WAKY YOU TWO!”

Pinkie´s voice hits me and Rainbow like a truck and we get startled. My feathery companion jumps into the air and leave me defenseless against the attacks of the merciless sun. Sunbeams shine against my still closed eyelids and a cold shiver runs down my spine. How could you leave me Rainbow? And curse you Pinkie.

“Ooohhhm… just five more minutes.” I groan and turn around in search for the afterglow of Rainbow´s warmth. Finally I find it and I try to captivate as much as possible.

Seems like pleads fall on deaf ears. Pinkie´s booming voice is now behind the couch and my bed is now under attack! “The day is young and we have so muuuuuch to do! You wouldn’t want to miss all the fun. I won´t let this happen, not if I can prevent that!” With these words my ground shifts and I lose my grip and tumble off the couch.

“Pinkie, take it slow. Last night was long and my head hurts.” The raspy voice of Rainbow comes from above and when I see the blue pegasus flying to the ground. After a big yawn she stumbles to Pinkie Pie. “Like you said we have the whole day free for fun and … aaaa*yawn*wsome stuff. But can we please calm down a little.”

Our morning demise just hops from behind the couch and is now in front of us, she is indeed an energetic pony. “We already started slow you dummies. Hihihi it is already time for breakfast and everypony is waiting just for you.” With these words she starts to push me and Rainbow towards the door. “You wouldn’t want to let the princesses wait any longer, would you?”

Both, me and Rainbow Dash, freeze and look at each other. After that quick glance we both shake our heads simultaneously. “Good. That is good. Now come with me.” She stopped pushing us and takes a big leap over our heads and land in front of us.

Groaning Rainbow and I start to follow the pink hurricane that took us by surprise. The expression that Rainbow makes is probably similar to the one I make. And that is us craving for some more hours of sleep.

“Did you sleep well? After your nightmare last night I could feel you moving all night long.” My blue companion has a worried expression. “I thought that I could make you relax a little. Seems like I did a horrible job at it.”

My breathing stops and I pull up my shirt to see… nothing?! Was it really a dream? It felt so real that it is hard to declare THAT a dream. Clearly I remember that there was a black scar on my chest, after I woke up, and the encounter with the nightmarish pony-like being. No, this was definitely no dream! All this talk is by far not something my mind could come up with. The cryptic talk, the appearance and the fear for my life… it all makes no sense to me.

“Robert?”

I still haven´t answered Rainbow´s question and the pegasus is standing beside me. Worry and concern is written all over her face due to my silence. How is it possible that she didn’t see what I saw? She was right in front of me and acted like I had just a bad dream.

Pinkie Pie sees that we both stopped and turns around. “Is something the matter?”

“Robert had a bad dream last night and wasn’t able to sleep well, even with me by his side.” That is really irritating to see my horrific encounter to be trivialized in front of me.

I shake my head quickly and a sharp pain makes its way down my spine. The pain in my head makes me groan and hold my head. “That was NO dream! Believe me. There was even a black scar on my chest that a nightmarish pony inflicted. It is the truth, even if it is not visible.”

As soon as I finished my sentence Pinkie jumps to me and hugs me tightly. “You poor little human, did the mean dream hunt you?” I appreciate her attempts to help me but that is not what I need right now! “Everything is fine, believe me. There is nothing to be afraid of.”

Forcing my hands in between us, I try to push her off me with harmless force. “PINKIE LISTEN! This was NOT, I repeat it, not a dream! A black pony with white glowing eyes and a long purple mane appeared last night. He said I have something he wants and tried to rip it … out of me.” Now that I speak it out loud it really is hard to believe.

Rainbow steps beside us and puts a hoof on my head. “See? He was scared to death last night and screamed all the time. Took me minutes of shaking and shouting to wake him up.” My two new friends are looking at me like I talk crazy. “Even when his eyes were open it seemed like he didn’t see me. It really was irritating.”

What? That is strange, I never dream with open eyes. Yes, I have nightmares now and then but who doesn’t? Why won´t they believe me? “I felt everything, the fear… the pain. I was scared, completely alone against that being up to the point where ‘someone interfered’ or so he said!” Tears well up in my eyes and run down my face. It is stupid and I know, nonetheless but I can´t help it.

Pinkie overpowers me and hugs me now as tightly as she can. “Ssssh sssh. I said everything is alright. You are with us now so don’t make such a sad face. That will make me sad as well.” When I look up to her she really seems to be close to cry herself. “Don´t cry. Some dreams are reaaaaly mean, but we always wake up at one point. Even if they felt real in the end they are nothing more than dreams. You have to laugh it off. Look at me.” Indeed she started to laugh and I cheer up and giggle. Something about her makes you just laugh.

Rainbow joins her and starts to giggle herself and finally I can laugh too. Well I laugh at the two idiotic ponies who try to cheer me up, but nonetheless it brings the desired result. Finally my tears stop and my heartbeat slow down. There is still the lingering fear inside of me. Just like a predator in the jungle which is ready to attack you in a careless moment. That such a strong reaction could be the result of just remembering the ‘dream’ makes it pretty obvious just how scared I was… and still am.

“Look around you Robert. There is me, who is normally sufficient enough to defend you and also Pinkie. Oh, and don’t forget all the other girls.” Rainbow ruffles through my hair. “There is no way that anything could harm you while we are around.” Her confidence makes me really feel at ease.

“Thanks. Both of you.” I leave the side of Pinkie Pie and take some deep breaths. “I still don’t think that it was a dream but for now I will believe and trust you.” A forced smile is all I can muster right now. “Hopefully there is a chance for me to repay it.”

Pinkie and Rainbow make a low chuckle and step on both sides of me. “You are always welcome.” It feels a little bit out of character for Pinkie to be so serious. Didn’t know that she has such a side. There is really more to them than there is at first glance.

A tired yawn comes from Rainbow. “Ok, we were on our way to the dining hall. Shall we proceed?” Surprisingly I had already forgotten what our first intention was. “Probably a good meal will give me some strength. Also my wings need a good stretch afterwards.”

I and Pinkie give her a small nod and we walk side by side through the amazing and fascinating halls of the castle. There is really much to see here like stained glasses, statues and paintings with different kinds of setting. Each and every one is done in a harmonic way to the castle design, seems like the creator knows his stuff. Sculptures are lined side by side along the hallways most of them displayed a castle guardian in his armor. Some exceptions are the sculptures of other ponies and they all are different. It is hard to describe but if I wouldn´t know better I would say that they captured the essence of each pony in stone… strange.

One unique statue catches my attention. It is a statue of a familiar pony, Starswirl the bearded. He is displayed similar to the one that is in the painting in Twilights home. Standing proud on a rocky ground, his right leg raised in the air and his cape flutters behind him. The way he is displayed reminds me of a general that commands an attack, especially with the harsh expression on his face. An inscription is at the base in a delicate writing style. “Starswirl the Bearded. Gifted unicorn, great mentor and a dear friend. May his legacy never be forgotten.”

Before I am able to take a closer look speaks Rainbow Dash to me. “Robert, are you coming or what? We can look around the castle later if you want.” Being reminded I hurry to catch up to the other. I am not able to stop myself of turning around once more and take one last glance at the magic pony. They really give him some credit here. Can´t wait to read about him in the book back at Twilight´s library.

The rest of the short work is uneventful and we get to the dining hall. There we are greeted by everyone else. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna are sitting at the head of the table in perfect shape. My other friends look tired and a little bit wasted. Only Rarity seems to hold up the standard and tries to look decent. She would succeed at it, if not for her clothes. They are turned inside out and nobody seems to mention it. Maybe they are not even aware of it. A hoof is on my shoulder and it belongs to Pinkie shakes her head slightly and she attempts to not laugh. Surprisingly she succeeds and only her cheeks are a little bit swollen holding in an outburst.

Rainbow also greets the present in a raspy voice. “Good morning. Sorry for the wait. We had a rough night and overslept a little. My apologies your highnesses.” Quite amazing, that Rainbow Dash is able to still address them formally.

“It is alright, Rainbow Dash. We were just about to start breakfast so you could call it right on time.” Celestia eyes us and gives a small nod. “Please, take a seat.”

We make our way over to them and each and every one sits down. I am now sitting between Fluttershy and Rarity. Dear god why? Now I have to not laugh at Rarity with her messed up dress, which is probably a blue dress with some stitching and highlights on it. Of course it is hard to tell due to it being wrong way.

Fluttershy addresses me and I switch my attention to her. “You had some bad dreams? Or was it something else that kept you from sleeping?” In the meantime servants bring in the food and it is indeed looking good.

While I try to stay focused on my interlocutor I find it harder and harder not to look at all the delicacies. “Pinkie and Rainbow say that it was probably a dream… but I think it was real!” A shiver runs down my spine and I take a deep breath. “It was a horrible encounter with a nightmarish pony. I remember the way he spoke, the taste of the air while he was around, when he attacked me. Just remembering the pain makes me tremble.”

The reactions of both of them are exactly like you guessed. Because the moment I told them what I saw they hugged me and say “everything is alright.” It really is annoying to be a kid and no one takes you seriously. But I know what I saw.

“Seems to be a horrid dream you had there. But everyone has one or two in a while. Princess Luna is not able to fight against each and every nightmare one dreams in her night.” Rarity pours in some coffee in her cup and adds some sugar and milk to it. “With that wicked Tirek attacking Equestria it is understandable that the poor ponies of Equestria can add one or two more fears to their list.”

A question arises due to her mention of Princess Luna. “She is able to do something against nightmares?”

The answer comes from Fluttershy since Rarity drinks from her hot steaming coffee. “Oh it is not only nightmares. She has knowledge about everypony in Equestria who is currently sleeping and what dream they have.” She peeks in the direction of the princess of the night. “Some say that she is even able to invade some dreams, so she can help you out.” Something in between nervousness and excitement is in her voice. Well the all present lingering possibility that one of the ruler can invade your dream is not something I would like.

“Doesn’t this make you a little bit nervous? I mean… there are some things I don´t want anyone else to see!” My concerns seem to have different effects on them. Rarity´s expression changes barely and she still smiles. Fluttershy on the other hand makes a slight grimace and is struggling to find the right words.

“Oh uhm… yes. No. It is hard to describe. While the thought of Princess Luna inside my dream doesn’t disturb me in the slightest, it´s still my privacy.” After she stated her position it is Rarity who answers to it.

“Why should I feel offended or hurt in my privacy? Isn´t it more of an honor to have royalty inside one´s head?” Her view gets dreamy and she pictures such a situation in this moment. “I can just see it; Princess Luna in my dreams while I arrange the grandest designs in the history of Equestria.”

Fluttershy shakes her head in denial. “But they are still MY dreams. I wouldn´t want anypony to just come and go like they want.” Both arguments have a certain value and it is hard to decide.

Looks like a heated discussion is about to take place and I am the one who started it. “What citizens would we be to distrust our dear princesses; even more since Twilight herself is a princess.”

Should I stop them? That would be the best but I find it refreshing to talk about such a serious topic. “Government in my world can do the same. Well they are not able to look into our dreams but they can look up all our private information. They are prohibited by certain laws and there are exceptions when they are allowed to overlook them. Is it not the same with you?” I shouldn´t mention that our government is doing whatever they want. Regardless of what law they break and if they are discovered they try to make it seem like a small slip. What can I say? I watch news every day with my family after dinner and that is what my dad always states.

A theatrical cough comes from Rarity. “Well, there is no such law to my knowledge. It should be up to the princesses to decide. Otherwise who would we be without them?” She really blindly trusts them, they certainly never heard of Princess Luna misusing her powers.

“But my dreams are my own and no one should be allowed to infiltrate them just when they want to.” Rainbow Dash, who is sitting next to Rarity, speaks out her thoughts. “Wouldn´t want to let the princess see all the things I dream about.” A light blush appears on her cheeks. Why is she so flustered?

“Up till now there was never a single incident with this issue.” Rarity looks back at me. “Look Robert, Princess Luna and Princess Celestia are good leader . We have to, and we do, trust them.”

“Don´t misunderstand me. I do trust them, they welcomed me with open arms… legs… hoof. It is just that my ‘dream’ last night raised some questions.” My excuse seems to calm her welling up emotions. “Is she able to look only into the dreams of ponies or is she able to do that with everyone?”

The fashionista puts a hoof to her chin and thinks about it and shakes her head seconds later. “Sorry, I don´t know. Why do you not ask her yourself?” With that she makes a nod in the direction of the princess of the dreams.

My gaze is now on her and Rarity is right. While I still don’t know if them being able to look into the dreams of their subjects is good or bad, I know one thing for sure. Up till now they treated me well and that was not a given. They could also banish me or something worse. “You are right. It´s best to ask directly before making assumptions. But I do that after this delicious breakfast.”

Everyone start to eat their meal and I go for the waffles with honey and a cup of hot chocolate. The smell is just wonderful and the taste is breathtaking. I can literally feel the waffle melt in my mouth and don´t let me start with the honey. The hot chocolate is not too hot and not too cold, just the perfect temperature. To describe the texture is a little bit hard to grasp in words. I think you can call it fluffy, creamy and still liquid.

When I look around I notice that one is missing, Discord. Where is he? “Is Discord not with us today?” He is a cryptic guy and to read him is impossible. Maybe he is at fault that I am stuck here… at least to some degree but he seems like a decent guy and I like him. Somehow I just had to forgive him and couldn’t be mad.

“He mentioned something. A lose end, did he call it. But please don´t ask me what he meant by that. Surely he will join us later,” says Fluttershy after swallowing her bread.

Rarity sets down her cup of coffee and is looking at me. “Do you have anything in mind that you want to do today?”

“Now that you say it, I indeed want to see the city. Yesterday was quite the rush and I only had the chance to get a glance at some things.” Everyone pointed out some of the amazing sights and I couldn´t keep up with it, let alone visit one of them.

“Oh my, look at that adorable face. Come here you have honey everywhere.” Rarity picks up a serviette and cleans my face. Which result in me blushing since it is the same gesture my mom always do. “It is a good decision to see some of the marvelous buildings around the town. Gladly would I be your guide and on our way around we can sto-…”

“At the candy store!” Once again Pinkie interrupts the conversation by leaning over my chair from behind. “There are sooooo many things; muffins, lollipops, cakes, doughnuts, sweets and a vaaaast amount of other delicacies.” After that statement she starts too droll and mutters something about ‘triple-chocolate-cake-burger’. Her head is on my shoulder and the droll is running down my shirt. The serviette gets a new task by Rarity and she just stuffs it inside Pinkies mouth with a grin. Funnily that doesn’t disturb her in any way.

“You sugar monster that is not what I meant at all.” Judging by her tone she is amused by Pinkie´s display.

“I would like to see the candy store.” I try to say this with the most innocent smile I can muster and let me tell you, it is hard.

“Not you too!” Both of her legs are raised to the air. “Am I surrounded by uncivilized diamond dogs? Oh, the poor me.”

“Why can´t we do more than one thing? I thought we have nothing else to do today?” Another sip of my drink makes me shiver in delight. “While I indeed want to see the sights I also want to take a look at the delicacies. Just this hot chocolate makes me want to know and eat more.”

“A lady has to watch her weight but I can´t deny the fact that they indeed have a vast variety of sweet sins.” A smile spreads across my face while I think about our horses back home. They also loved to get a sugar cube. “I want to bring you along to a local supplier for different fabrics. You can´t always wear the same clothes. And I promised you to make you a sufficient set of clothes.”

Yes, she indeed said that back when she was introduced to me. “You would really do this for me? But the cos-…”

“Ah ah ah … what did I tell you?” She puts a hoof on my mouth and silences me. “Don´t bother about such insignificant things like money. You have a greater need for it than me at the moment.”

She takes off her hoof off my mouth and I am free to speak again. “Thanks, you are generous.”

“That´s better.” Pinkie is still in stasis and her expression looks really stupid. “Now for you, Pinkie Pie, what about it? We want to look at the sights of Canterlot and stop by at my supplier and the candy store.”

By the word ‘candy’ she shakes off her petrification instantly. “Supy dupy that is just what I wanted. I can´t wait to show you the most special things they have there.” Before she drifts off in her thoughts again I poke her.

“That would be great. But getting everything for my clothes is important. Due to our time to spare it still shouldn´t be a problem.” Such a sweet tooth, hopefully she never gets diabetes or something similar. If this will ever happen than it would be a fatal blow.

Since my schedule for today was settled we resumed our breakfast and the conversations were about trivial topics. It was pleasant and nothing out of the ordinary happened.

I am honest when I say that I am looking really forward to go shopping with Pinkie Pie and Rarity. But before that can take place I have to talk once again with the princesses. They want it and I have a question for Princess Luna.

After we finished our breakfast we found us once again in the throne room. The princesses are seated on their outstanding thrones and the rest of us are in front of it. The sun shines through the stained glass and bathes the gigantic room in beautiful different colors. A little piece of heaven. Before I am able to gape at the wondrous display some more it is Celestia who starts to talk.

“Robert, now that you are an official temporary resident you have to obey the law. That means you have to behave and don´t get astray of the right path.” She gives me a wink and I feel my cheeks flush. “But I don’t think that this should be a problem. If there is a problem than rely on your teacher.” Now she gives a nod in the direction of Twilight, who is blushing herself now. That leads to some giggles from the other girls and an annoyed mumble of Spike.

Her sister takes over. “She is right. Since you stay here we have judge you like anypony else… human in your case.” One can tell that she is dead serious. “But you are still a guest, besides being a resident. Just don´t do anything that will make us take actions and everything should be fine.”

“Don´t forget that he is still a kid.” Such an embarrassing comment can just say one.

When we turn around we see Discord standing behind us. “Missed me?” The sly smile of his is enough to make me smile myself. “Sorry that I couldn’t be there for breakfast. Being the spirit of chaos is a full time job.” Out of opening palm falls out a calendar and on each day stands ‘bringing chaos’. Under it is in smaller size written ‘only little so Celestia and Luna won´t see it’.

Celestia raises an eyebrow and her expression says all. “Uhm… yeah hehehe. So you are about to head out I guess?” The calendar vanishes into thin air.

A cough comes from Celestia and she has again her composed expression. “Yes, they want to do some activities in Canterlot before heading home. Am I right?”

“Yes that is our intention.” I scratch the back of my head. “But before that I would like to ask you, Princess Luna, something in private. Is that ok?”

“Me?” Her puzzled expression brings a smile on her sister´s face. “Yes, of course. That is no problem at all.” She looks at everyone behind me. “I wish you a nice day and enjoy the rest of your stay.”

“Same for me. My little ponies, it was great to see you and I am looking forward to repeat something like this.” Celestia gives off a wink and giggles slightly. “Really… ‘everything’ included.”

They all bow before their rulers and say their farewells before leaving the throne room. On their way out Discord and Twilight turn their heads in my direction with different expressions. Concern is written all over Twilight´s face and Discord has a stern look and I shake my head slightly which seems to satisfy them. Reason for this is probably because he thought I would talk about something from our talk yesterday.

No, I have something completely different in mind.

At the end it is just the princesses and me. “So, we are alone now and what is it that you want to ask me?” A hint of nervousness is noticeable in Luna´s voice. I don’t know why.

One more time I take a deep breath. “Well first off, I know that you are able to go into the dreams of other ponies and help them to have a good sleep.” A nod comes from her. “I want to ask you, are you able to invade my dreams too?”

My blunt question seems to hit a vulnerable point, since she takes a sharp breath. “Robert, are you concerned I would threaten your privacy?”

Frantically I shake my head. “No no no. Look, I had a horrible encounter last night and I want to know if it was a dream or real.” Both of their looks change to what I didn’t want to see, the expression of an adult who smile at a child´s nightmare. “It felt so real and it hurt so much that I can´t believe that it was just a dream.”

Her sister comes over to me and puts a wing over my shoulder. “Oh Robert, nightmares are a common thing. We all ha-…”

“I don’t think that it was just a dream!” Angrily I push her wing off me. “Listen to me!”

Slowly comes Princess Luna closer and stands in front of me with a look I am unable to interpret. “Robert,” her voice is calm and settled, “I am able to sense dreams and I am able to go freely in these dreams, mostly those of ponies. The dreams of other species are a little bit hard for me to enter. When you slept last night I was able to sense you faintly but I was not able to grasp your dream. Somehow I felt like your dream was always in the corner of my eye and I was unable to look at it.” A sad sigh comes from her. “I was aware that something disturbed you but I am still unable to say if you were fully awake at that moment. What I can say is that you were sleeping at one point. How deep or if you had a daydream is not an answer I can provide you with.”

Silently I observe the princess. Everything she just said gives me an better grasp of her powers… probably. “Why didn’t you do something like waking me up or looking after me? I could have rea-…”

“Robert,” her voice takes on a royal tone, “do you have any idea how many bad dreams I witness in one single night?” I shake my head in denial. “A few thousand approximately. Can you understand? I may be a princess and wield some power but nonetheless I am a single pony. There is no way that I can handle every dream alone.” The tone of voice changes to a more casual one and she gives me a sad smile. “Don´t misunderstand me, I am sorry that you had a bad dream but I couldn´t do anything to help you with. “

My head sinks on my chest and I stare at the ground. Wait a second? We drifted off again. “What if it wasn’t a dream?”

Silence falls over the room like a thick cloth and only our breaths are audible. My heart races and I am feeling anxious about the upcoming answer, if they answer it.

“You say that there could be someone, who invaded the castle, assaulted you and leave without any trace left behind?” Celestia´s voice makes it clear that it really is hard to believe. “If there would be someone using such magic than we would have felt it. Even if we missed it, there is still Twilight Sparkle who has exceptional skills in magic.” She shakes her head. “No Robert, there is no way that this was real.” Slightly she gives me a little nudge with her head.

Her sister has the same opinion. “You are save here. A bad dream is not something out of the ordinary and shouldn’t be paid too much credit. They mirror our fears, mixed with all different kinds of impressions.”

Somehow this feels more like a defeat than being comforted. “Ok, I hope you are right. Thank you for answering my questions. Your highnesses.” As I am about to make a bow I am stopped.

Celestia has put her hoof under my chin and raises my head. “Robert, you don´t have to worry that much. Also, I and Luna are more than happy to make the first human in Equestria happy.” A gentle smile spreads across her face. “You are not alone here, even if you are separated from your loved ones. We will help you,” her head comes closer to my face and she gives me a kiss on my forehead, “and comfort you, if needed. But talk to your teacher first in the future. Twilight will surely provide you with great help. A good relationship between teacher and student, based on trust and honesty, makes a wonderful cornerstone for learning.”

I am standing frozen there for a while and just stare dumbfounded at the princess with an open mouth. After my mind finally evaluated, what just happened, turns my face red. “I uhm… yes… than-… that wou- … I mean.” Unable to form even one decent sentence I stammer helplessly.

Princess Luna rolls her eyes, while smiling over her sister´s behavior. “Have a great time in our world. Enjoy it while you can because there are many wonders that you are not able to witness anywhere else.”

I turn on heels after mumbling a silent “thank you” and rush for the exit, leaving the probably giggling rulers of this magical country behind. Not once do I turn around or slow down up till I am through the great door. Then I rethink and turn around once only to see both princesses waving me goodbye. Which I answer.

The others are quickly found. They waited not far down the hallway for me; otherwise I would have gone lost in no time. Looks like they are talking to each other about their plans for today and don´t even notice me coming. Except for Twilight and Discord, who excluded themselves from the rest and stand separate from each other a few feet away.

As soon as I come into vision my new teacher rushes to me. “Is everything ok? You seemed to be troubled and when you asked a private audience by the princesses…”

“Everything is alright, believe me.” Quickly I try to calm down my teacher. Shouldn´t it be exactly the other way? “I had a little trouble with something and they were kind enough to allay my concerns.” This doesn´t seems to fully satisfy her, but she isn´t asking anymore questions… for now.

Quickly I try to change the topic. “Twilight is it ok for me to go with Rarity and Pinkie Pie? They wanted to show me some sights. Rarity insisted on buying some materials for making me some change of clothes and Pinkie said something about an awesome candy store.”

She still wants to talk about what I discussed with Celestia but gives off a sigh of defeat. “Yes, that would be rather convenient for me. I have some royal matters to attend, which is nothing exciting and you would get bored quickly… as do I.” This makes me chuckle and the atmosphere changes instantly. “So yes, go on and have some fun with them. We will meet later at the station.”

“Thank you. That is gre-…”

“But!” Oh, by the tone I guess here come the restrictions. “Don’t wander off alone, don´t do anything stupid, don´t go with stranger, don´t be rude to the other citizens and if anything happens ask Rarity or Pinkie for help” One point for me! Is she my teacher or is she my mom? To make that picture complete she should say something like ‘do we understand each other young man?’ which she doesn’t.

“Yes, I will remember that. But it is not like I am a little baby anymore.” Her stern look makes me rethink that. “Or, I am a single boy in a whole new world, which I know little to nothing about and a city I don´t know.”

Glad, this makes her change expression and she has a gentle one now. “Great, now that you understand this, my number one student, you are free to go and have some fun.” When she said ‘number one student’ she couldn’t hold off a little giggle, what makes it so much more… yes what? Adorable? Funny?

This world will hold many new things for me, I am sure of it.

Soon we are set to go and split up so that each and every one can get or do what they want. Twilight has to attend her royal duties and Spike as her assistant accompanies her. The animal loving pegasus Fluttershy wants to visit her friends in main park to have some time with them. Applejack uses the opportunity while being in Canterlot to meet up with some certain shopkeepers who have an interest in selling the products of Sweet Apple Acres. Her companion will be Rainbow Dash, who I think just wants to get a taste of the different products of the shopkeepers. Discord takes his leave again because he had still some matters to attend to. Well he didn’t leave without giving me another one of those glares that says ‘I am watching you’.

Lastly I, Rarity and Pinkie Pie are heading to go sightseeing and our two shops we want to visit. And what a trip that was! Canterlot is like New York, Washington, London or any other great city combined. Wherever you go you find something astonishing. The culture of the pony society is confusingly similar to that of the human world. Statues, fountains, buildings with all kinds of stories; everything is present. While Rarity seems to know a lot about Canterlot and the sights it is Pinkie who knows nothing about all the sights. More than once is it I and Pinkie who are standing with an open mouth while listening to what Rarity has to tell about the sight.

The Canterlot library for example, a three floors high building designed in an ancient Greek-style. Again these similarities; they are just strange. The coloration is mostly white with different ornaments painted at the outside wall. They display ponies reading books and other similar ones which you could associate with a library. On top is a dark purple roof with big windows to give the visitors as much natural light as possible. As much as I wanted to stay there for a while we don´t have enough time at hand to do everything. I also am able to get a peek at some really big museums and enormous monuments in honor of pony heroes.

It was fun and I laughed often. Reason for that was Pinkie who loves to fool around and talking crazy stuff every now and then. Without doubt this was a great decision to accompany Rarity on her shopping trip. Pinkie is a welcomed addition that brings a little bit of spice to the stroll. Finally we arrive at our first shopping destination; the candy store “Sugar Crisp”. Like many other shops it is decorated with a sincere love for details. The building is like a modern tee house; elegant and still has a certain warmth to it.
“Let me present you the ultra super duper delicious candy store ‘Sugar Crisp’ with so maaaany yummie things that just thinking about it makes you all giddy.” With a big leap Pinkie jumps on the canopy and points at the sign. In a flash she stands beside me again. “But time is candy! So let us go in!” Rarity and I are being pushed into the store without any chance of us saying anything and we find ourselves inside in no time. A light jingle comes from a bell and announces our entry.

It was impossible to say anything while being pushed and it is still the same. Boy oh boy, inside this store I get to see something that is best described as a land of milk and honey. Tons of delicacies are around me in every possible amount or size. Cakes, pies, cookies, milkshakes, gums… name anything and you will still be able to find it.

The shop is oblong what you are unable to see from the outside. Its coloration is mostly a light blue, but there are well placed highlights in red, green or orange. Deep brown colored wooden shelves are lined up row after row and have a respectable height up to the ceiling. Beside the ‘normal’ shelves are some decorations, like a chocolate fountain in a light grey color with two pegasus hugging each other and the chocolate comes from their heads. Wonderfully was the designer able to create it to give you an amazing sight. Because of the position of the holes for the chocolate it flows down the back of their heads and give them a never stopping chocolate mane. Kinda resembles the manes of Celestia and Luna.

Besides the fountain are various other mouthwatering creations. Complete cities out of doughnuts or even mirrors out of chocolate. How you are able to make chocolate that it is reflecting?

“Well, did I exaggerate?”

A big toothy grin and Pinkie Pie is very pleased by my reaction it seems. “No, this is awesome! I don´t even know where to start?” I gaze around the shop. “I mean there are at least a thousand different kinds of sweets!”

“Three thousand seven hundred and eighty-six different kinds of candies to be precise. Let me be your guide and I lead you to some of best ones that they have here.”

For the next half an hour I am tossed around by my pink friend and it was great. Exactly as expected; Pinkie didn’t tell a lie when she said that she knows the best sweets. But to be correct, she knows every single product inside this shop. And not just the name, she even knows what the indigents are and what goes well with it. Some are perfect for hot days other for cold ones; some are perfect with coffee and other go well with juice or hot chocolate. Some of them are best served as a desert and other are best to be eaten alone. A big talent of her is that she knows when to eat them based on your emotions. Astonishing was the fact that she could name every single pony or other creature who invented which sweet. Rarity meanwhile was quiet most of the time, but you could tell that she had a hard time to not droll over some of the displayed products.

I noticed that there is something odd. How are ponies, who have no fingers, able to work so delicately? Sure some work with magic and that can be pretty precise I guess, but you can´t tell me that every baker is a unicorn?

Before I am able to think further we are on our way to pay for our sweets. I went for some chocolate cookies and a few muffins which are supposed to taste like cherries. … and I love cherries.

We reach the cashier; an earth pony with a brown and white coat. Funnily the white part is on his back that makes it look like that he is a cupcake with icing. His red mane could be interpreted as the cherry on top. The appearance would make him look sympathetic but his expression tells me something completely different.

His dark blue eyes literally pierce me with glares and I shriek back after I looked into his eyes. Did I insult him in some way? Without realizing I find myself hiding behind Rarity who seems to be as confused as I am.

“Hello dear sir. Uhm… is something wrong?”
Clearly there is something wrong, who would glare at a customer like that!
“You scare my little friend here.”

A snort comes from the cashier. He switches from staring at me to Rarity and the items we hold. “Put the goods on the desk,” he blurts out and doesn’t show any intention to answer Rarity. “So, what do you have?”

“Why the bad mood. Look at all the candy around you! How can anyone be in a bad mood?” Even Pinkie Pie is trying her best to improve the situation. “Working around candy makes you as sweet as them.”

Again not a clear answer comes from the cashier but he mumbles something like, “when someone gives me a bad mood,” all while looking at me. “The goods,” he demands and points at our bags.

My personal pony shield seems to be not entirely sure how to handle the situation and I can see her frown. “A dozen chocolate cookies, three cherry muffins, four chocolate rolls with coconut filling, two packs of “Multi-Fruit” candy, a one-layered nut cake with frozen cream and one pack of strawberry bubble gum. How much would that be?”

“100 bits.”

First there is silence; I don’t know why but by the look of Rarity it seems like that something is odd with the price. “There must be some kind of mistake. Everything together shouldn’t cost more than… around 60 bits?”

Now that she mentions it, all I did was picking up the things I liked without even looking at the price tag. Let us see.

While I estimate the price myself is the cashier again on it to answer harshly.

“100 bits.”

“Now listen to what I…” Again Rarity tries to talk to him but something is off.

“I SAID 100 bits. Buy it or leave… now.” The other costumers show no sign of helping us and just stand there.

Pinkie looks confused and tries another time. “I don´t know why you are so angry but your price tags say that we have indeed less to pay. Don´t be all pent…”

Brashly he interrupts again, “I won´t repeat myself another time. The tags must be wrong.”

A deep growl comes from Rarity´s throat and she pulls out a coin purse and tosses some big bits on the counter. “There you have it!” He just takes it without a word. “Come guys; let us leave this peasant alone.”

We hastily leave the shop and return to the streets where we are greeted by the warm sunbeams. What exactly just happened is a mystery to me. There was no reason for this kind of behavior and normally the customer should be treated well.

“Oh, this wretch! What was his problem?” Looks like Rarity is about to burst. Good for us she turns around and mumbles some words; most likely a bunch of swears. “Pinkie Pie did you do something in this shop in the past that would make him like this? Don´t get me wrong but I just don´t know what this was all about.”

The normally energetic pink pony just shrugs and shakes her head. “No; I was here once or twice. It may not be the same cashier but I remember that they were all very nice.” Is it me or is her puffy mane flattening by the minute?

“Argh! Whatever,” Rarity sighs and turns to me. “Sorry Robert that you had to see something like this. Normally the ponies of Canterlot may be a little bit uptight but they are normally well behaved to costumers.”

All I can do is looking between her and the shop. “Well at least we got what we wanted,” I point at the bags, “so thank you Rarity for paying.”

A little defeated laugh comes from her. “You are right. But we don´t want to spoil our stomachs just now.” While saying it, she playfully glares at Pinkie Pie and makes a suggestively rise with one eyebrow. “Am I right Pinkie?”

Named pony just lets her shoulders hang and makes the most adorable puppy eyes I saw from a pony up till now. “Just one? Pleeeease!” Rarity denies it again which results in Pinkie Pie looking disappointed for a second. A moment later she smiles broadly. “Well, the greatest pleasure lies in the anticipation!” With this she jumps ahead of us. “Ok let us go; time is candy!”

A self-satisfied grin spreads across and she seems pleased with the result. “Works every time… mostly,” she whispers and looks at me. “She can be sometimes hard to handle, but if you know how to, you can easily handle her.” There is no sign of annoyance or so in her voice; more like a deep understanding. These six seem to really hold each other dear; how enviable.

We are back on our way to the supplier for the fabrics and we chat happily about all kinds of topics. Here and there Rarity makes a stop to point out another building or statue; other than that we proceed quickly through the fairytale-like city. The strange encounter with the cashier seems to be in forgotten; well at least for them. I still have my doubts about that meeting. What went wrong there?

We pass some ponies that are currently talking in the middle of the streets. Two mares and one stallion; all dressed up in the typical Canterlot-style. They seem to have a pretty excitable discussion and they gesticulate in fast pace. One mare spots us and makes a single comment to her two companions; pretty much an instant later they all went silent and turn to me. I did expect this because of similar reactions through the day. Who can blame them for it? I am one of a kind in Equestria.

As we are about to pass them I politely greet them; as do Rarity and Pinkie. Surprisingly they don’t answer and just turn around and walk down the other street quickly. Are they scared?

“What does everypony have?” Pinkie tilts her head slightly. “Do I smell?” She smells herself not very ladylike. “No; maybe one of…”

“Don´t you dare!” A high pitched answer comes promptly from Rarity. “A lady doesn’t smell. WE don´t smell.” She shakes her head and looks in the direction of the leaving ponies. “Somehow I guess they are not comfortable with meeting their first human.” A sigh comes from her and she caresses my head. “It is not your fault. Just give them… some time… and patience.”

While I don´t like being avoided like some criminal I understand what is going on. Hopefully they get accustomed to me quickly; otherwise I feel like an outcast. “Hopefully they don’t take too long. Is there some way to prove them that I mean no harm? Hahahaha… they are ponies and each and everyone of them could easily reduce me to a pulp.”

“Only if you don’t go all magical beam on them and burn them a hole in their manes?”

Darn it, Pinkie. “Oh…uhm… yes… Point taken.”

The rest of the walk is uneventful and we reach our destiny quite quickly.
If you think that it another amazing building with outstanding features, you will be disappointed. Standing in between two big castle-like houses is a small one-storey building; painted in a light blue and almost black roof. At the front is a wooden shield and in calligraphic style states ‘Silky way’. You can see in the store´s window all kinds of pony outfits on mannequins being displayed. They are mostly something you would consider to be something you wear for a wedding, graduation or similar occasions.

“Here we are. Let us go in and we buy the materials for your new set.” A proud smile on Rarity and she goes in, me and Pinkie close behind her. Another bell announces our entry and a normal looking clothes shop welcomes us. At least two dozen rows of clothes are set beside each other with several mannequins around; displaying some fancy fashion. Suits, night dresses, accessories, hats and a fair amount of … hoof shoes?

The main color of the shop is a dark green with white and black stripes on the stone pillars that are neatly arranged at the wall. Set in a row of two are small chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, but they are not lit. On the floor are black and white tiles and I feel like a chess piece… what I would be? Probably the horse; obviously for my leaps that even cross space and time.

Two cashiers in tuxedos are working near the entrance and take the money for the goods. In the back of the room is a small doorway that leads to a second room; there should be the fabrics. Occasionally a pony comes from there with some rolls of materials.

It´s quite busy and there are a fair amount of ponies here. Most of them are dressed as fancy as the common citizens are but there are a few “normal” looking ponies in between them. Here and there are groups of ponies, mostly mares, chatter about the design and what would look good on them.

“Do you like buying clothes? Anything catching your interest?” I am a little startled by Rarity but shake my head.

“No, I am something you would call ‘the typical man’. That is what my mom always said to me and dad.” At the thought of my mom ‘lecturing’ me and dad I have to snicker.

“What is ‘the typical man’?”

Don’t they know? Maybe the males are different here. “You know, don’t want to look around for clothes too long, better go and watch a good soccer or football match?”

“Why would someone not like to look for something that goes well with their style? Isn´t it just magnificent to work through the layers to find just the right one?”

After a moment of thinking I just shrug. “Don´t ask me. I think it is annoying and a waste of time when you have to go in four different stores to buy one thing, when you could just have bought everything at one place.”

“Seems like I have to introduce you to the world of fashion anew? But that is a matter of another time. For now let us go to the fabrics. There you can decide on the color and the material for your clothes,” says Rarity while we head over to the doorway. “As soon as we are in my store I can take your measures.”

Me and Pinkie are close behind Rarity and follow her through the store. As always I get many stares and more than one group sticks their heads together and whisper with occasionally glances in my direction. The looks are mostly curious but some look… angry?

I wince under the stares and feel somehow naked. Out in the streets the stares didn’t bother me that much but here in this enclosed space it feels a lot more awkward and unsettling.

Luckily Pinkie seems to notice and sticks so close to me that I thoughtless place my hand on her back, feeling her puffy mane and silky fur. Before long I find myself caressing her with my finger, digging slightly in her fur. I always calm down when I get pet animals… well they are not animals per se, but I think you get my point.

Pinkie beside me suddenly jerks and makes a cooing sound, what startles me at first and I pull back my hand. “Oh no please continue that feels soooo good.” Big puppy eyes look at me and she pleadingly pouts.

“Ok.” I return to crawl her some more and she just melts beside me and has difficulties walking. “You startled me at first, sorry.” Rarity also took notice of Pinkie and tilts her head slightly in confusion.

“Oh I am the one to be sorry. But seriously what do you call them again? Hands and fingers, am I right?” I nod and look at the normally so hyperactive pony beside me being reduced to goo. “Oh yes that is great… maybe Lotus and Aloe are better in technique …” She trails of and returns to make coos.

“What?”

Two half open light blue eyes look at me. “The spa ponies back in Ponyville. Their massages are so relaxing and they have a great variety of different offers.” In my mind I facepalm myself while I chuckle; what is up with these ponies and their names. The name alone gives you quite the guess what the pony is good at. “Rarity and Fluttershy are regular guests there. As for me, I just go there if I had to pull off a reaaaaaly big party.”

As I look in front of me I see Rarity with a bemused smile before turning around and going through the doorway. And as I guessed there are A LOT of fabrics here. The shelves reach the ceiling and are stuffed with tons of rolls. Some small ones are completely buyable and you can cut off as much as you need from bigger rolls; for that purpose are some scissors at each shelf.

“Robert as you can see, here are the fabrics.” Rarity makes a presenting gesture and points behind her. “Take a look around and pick some of them you want for your clothes. Since we don’t know how long you stay here you should also consider a winter outfit since it is going to get colder.”

I am a bit overwhelmed and look around and then up. So many different fabrics are there, each in dozens of colorations. … This will take some time.

Before we are able to do anything else we are interrupted by a loud cough behind us. A big white and black colored unicorn stands behind us in a black tuxedo and wearing some small glasses. His grey mane with some red stripes makes him look quite intimidating. He looks… disgusted or annoyed?

“Oh Prized great to see you,” happily Rarity welcomes the colt seemingly oblivious of his mood. “Robert let me introduce you. This fine stallion here is the owner of the shop, Prized Strike. He is a long company partner of mine.” When Rarity introduces him he looks at her and his expression changes to a slight smile.

“Oh miss Rarity, you praise this plain stallion far too much.” He puts a hoof to his chest in an exaggerated display of being flattered. “Your fashion sense outshines mine by far. The only reason for my small establishment to be in a contract with yours, is that I am able to get a hold of some extraordinary fabrics.”

A small blush appears on Rarity´s face and the floor was never more interesting it seems. “Hahaha uhm… yes… thanks.” Cute how she draws circle in the ground with her hoof.

I take a step behind Pinkie what seems to get me his focus again. Darn it, and even his expression changes back to being annoyed. “Even more I am sorry to disturb you in your tracks but I didn’t come here to chitchat.” This gets Rarity to look back at Priced Strike with a confused look. “I am sorry but,” after a pejorative gesture he points at me, „this has to leave.” I flinch and make myself smaller behind Pinkie.

His statement seems to take Rarity by surprise and her mouth hangs open. Pinkie tenses up and spreads her leg a little in a defending stance. Reminds me of a lion ready to pounce someone who is about to attack her cubs.

“Come again?” After the first shock Rarity is able to regain her senses and looks about to explode. “We didn’t do anything wrong, did we?”

The stallion makes a snort and shakes his head; if we are all dumb and don’t realize the obvious. “It is not you, my dear. No this,” he makes a disgusted expression, “thing here is what makes the other customers uncomfortable and I have to ask you to make it leave.” A sigh escapes him and he looks accusingly at Rarity.

“WHAAAT!?” With a burst Rarity explodes and in a mere second her face is right in front of Prized Strike. “Did a diamond dog hit you with a club? Otherwise I am not sure what I just heard from you!” Rapidly she pokes at his chest at each and every word.

Nonetheless Prized Strike doesn’t even flinch and just looks at Rarity if she was a little kid rebelling against her parents. “Rarity, this is business. You understand?” He moans and he shakes his head. “The customers are my income and if there is something that disturbs it,” he looks at me, “then I get rid of it. To be clear, that thing beside you.”

A deep growl makes them both jump and look in the direction of it. Pinkie beside me snarls and walks slowly up to the colt. “You mean pony let Robert alone! He has far more problems than he deserves, so why bother and increase the number huh?!” The outburst doesn’t quite fit her and even I take some steps back from her. “We just want to buy some things so that Rarity can make him some clothes. Nothing less!”

Prized Strike rolls with his eyes and looks at the pink party pony. “Miss, understand me. It is generous of you to help it… him, but you are not helping me and my business. I have a reputation to lose.”

“I thought better of you Prized Strike. That is not the stallion that helped me out so many times when I was in trouble!” Rarity´s emotions are between confused and furious. “What is up with you?”

“Just hard bits my dear, nothing more.” A smug smile spreads across his face. “This is my shop so I have the right to demand your leave if necessary.”

Both of my companions don’t have the intention to do as he says. A heated debate starts between the three of them and I stand a few feet away. What is going on? I thought everything would be fine. Even Celestia announced it that I am a guest. Why are all of them so… so… mean?

My whole body shakes and I look franticly around in hope to find another pony to dissipate my suspicion and that there are only a few ponies who have that opinion. They can´t be all bad, right?

Let me tell you, I am shocked. All I see is the same expression that Prized Strike wears. They even nod now and then while Prized Strike talks to my two friends. Every one of them thinks that I am … what? An abomination, an alien, a monster or something infectious.

Some of them even have their gaze on me and turn up their nose.

Slowly I back off, step after step I increase the distance between me and the accusing gazes. My eyes get teary… again. I shake my head in disbelieve and fright; why are they so mean? I didn’t do anything wrong. It isn’t even my fault that I am here! All they do is staring at me; this picture burns itself in my mind. In search for help I look to Pinkie and Rarity, only to see them still arguing with Prized Strike.

“Help,” I whisper and I am now having two forces pushing me. One is the gazes that make me want to run as fast as I can, while the other is my hope to get to Pinkie and Rarity. Sadly the gazes win.

As I am through the doorway and back in the main room again I turn around on the spot and dash for the door. With a hard push I open it and the bell gives a pained ring after getting slammed by the door. I find myself on the streets again and just begin running with no sense of direction or goal. All I want is to get as far away as possible from the ponies.

Due to my tears I am unable to see clearly and sometimes bump against a pony, or so I think that it was. Every time I did so I say a fair amount excuses; not waiting for an answer each time. All I could do at the moment is running… in my mind that seems like the best idea so far. If the majority of the ponies in … Equestria… are like that than I will get insane in no time. All I want now is to be back at home, in the arms of my mother, my sister besides hugging me and my father standing tall above with his hand on my head.

After running for maybe ten minutes I have to stop and catch my breath. My lungs and my legs hurt like hell. My lack of stamina makes itself very present. Never did I like sport that much; I am more the bookworm type. I bow down my hands on my knees in a desperate attempt to regain some strength.

As I look up I see that I unintentionally ran into a park and currently in front of a pond. The park is quite the sight; filling a large area with a little piece of heaven. Trees are placed around the park to seclude the idyll from the city, giving the visitors a haven to relax and enjoy the sounds of nature. Golden and brown benches are placed beside the paths on which some ponies sit at the moment. Not far away from the pond is a large circular clearing. In the middle of it is a fountain with a pony sitting atop of a white marble pillar. The pillar itself is overgrown with vines, which seems to be intentionally. You can easily tell, because the vines are cut in nicely to be present but not a bother. On top of the pillar is the pony statue, holding a stone flag with its front hoof and the creator made it look like that the wind is currently blowing. Trash cans and benches are set around the clearing.

A small clear river runs through the park which leads finally to the pond in the middle of the park. Water lilies dance on the surface and dragonflies zip around the blooms; sometimes they land there for a few seconds to give their wings a rest. Other residents in the park, besides birds and dragonflies, are frogs, squirrels, fishes and some other small animals. Even a small bridge was built over the river; it is brown with a black metallic railing.

The lawn is cut down with many flowers here and there; coloring the park in different colors of the rainbow. Hedges are also well maintained and some even are cut to look like ponies or animals. Also the height differs much, some are not even as big as a pony and others are as huge as a small van. Whoever did it has a hand… hoof for things like this.

I snivel once and realize that nobody has seen me for now, which is just my aim. After a quick look I see a hedge near the pond which would hide me a little. With quick steps I reach it and sit down on the soft lawn near the edge of the pond and stare at my reflection in the water.

My mirror image stares back at me; a human… with puffy red eyes, a non-existent hairstyle and a red face. The only set of clothes that I have is damp of my sweat and I somehow was able to tear them at some places. All in all I look horrible.

… A human…

I sigh and pull up my knees and let my forehead rest on them. This hurts so much; being looked at as some kind of monster or outcast. Reduced to the same level as an animal… no even less and with no concerns for my feelings. Just thinking about it makes my heart ache and brings back the tears. Is that how you feel when you live on the streets and everyone treats you like dirt? My mom taught me to treat every person nice and never refuse to offer a helping hand.
She always said: “What would you feel like when you feel miserable and no one is there to give you a helping hand?”

A growl escapes my throat as I think about the gazes that the citizens gave me. Stupid despicable snobby cocky… pests. I hope they creak a joint or two because of their oh so high held head. Or that a big truck drives through a mud pool while they stand beside it. Oh they don´t have cars here. Than a carriage, I saw one on the streets. … But when ponies pull the carriage while ponies ride them... Isn´t that more like a rickshaw? Whatever! I wish them all bad luck and horrible dreams.

My train of thoughts continues for a long time and I just sat there, thinking about what happened in the last two days.

… two days. It feels like months because of all the stuff that happened. Oh Robert, if you would have been smart enough to not investigate that stupid orb. Normally you would be at home, playing with your sister, helping around the farm, read a good book or two and enjoy a nice dinner with your family.

What are they doing at the moment? Probably worried sick about me, can´t picture them believing Rachel. My sister is an honest person but she is still just a kid. Because so I guess police is already investigating and searching for clues. Do they think I got kidnapped? Guess they know me well enough that I wouldn’t run away with no word.
…
…
This is exactly what I just did. Rarity and Pinkie are probably mad at me for running away. Hopefully they forgive me for that. Maybe I should go back, but I don’t know where this park is located in Canterlot and just strolling through the city gives me shivers down my spine.

Darn, what should I do?

I want to slap myself for that behavior; not only did I leave the two ponies behind that are in charge of looking out for me, I am even unable to get to the meeting point at the train station. And I don’t want to ask the citizens.

A soft thud is audible beside me. When I look up I see that it is Twilight Sparkle; standing there before me and is pretty much out of breath. Without a word she quickly comes to me and grasps me in a tight hug. Silently she caresses the back of my head with a hoof while regaining her breath. For me, I am just happy that she is here and so I return the hug gratefully. Slightly I am able to smell lavender and feel her soft fur against my cheeks.

I don´t know how long we sat there but after two minutes or so she has regained her breath. “I was worried sick.”

“Sorry.”

Her muzzle is on the top of my head and she nuzzles me. “Why did you run away? Pinkie and Rarity are a mess right now and search everywhere for you.”

“Sorry.”

“First day as my student and instantly causing problems?” She slightly chuckles. “Not the best of starts; but then again, it could be worse.”

“Sorry.” After a snivel I lean back and look her in the eyes. “It was dumb that I ran away, but… I… I just couldn’t take it anymore.” She frowns and makes a snarling sound.

“Rarity told me about what happened at the stores. Can´t believe that they acted like that.” With both hooves I am held at legs reach. “I mean, really? You don´t look evil or bad, you are intelligent, you have manners and Princess Celestia welcomed you as an official guest.” Her expression changes and she looks at me with compassion. “I am sorry you had to endure that. It would have been my responsibility to look after you.”

“No, it´s alright. Nobody could have predicted that this could happen. But a-are Pinkie and R-Rarity mad at me, for what I did?” The answer to that question is something I fear, but it quickly is disposed of as Twilight shakes her head.

“Of course not. They are worried and are sorry that they didn’t have an eye on you.” The answer is the best I could have hoped for. If there are more ponies with the same kind of attitude as these citizens around, then I am thankful for every friend I get.

“I just want to get away from here.”

“Sure thing,” she stands up again and looks around. “Let´s go home for now.”

I blink a few times before standing up, cleaning my jeans in a useless attempt to look a little bit less like a mess. “Uhm… yes…home.”

“Something the matter?”

A sigh later I shake my head and smile at her. “No, it´s alright. Let´s go.”

On the way back the talk gets mundane with Twilight talking about her princess duties and all the things she has to keep track off. For example the meetings with some important ponies, attending fairs, openings of different locations and feasts. Some of them sound really boring while other are sounding funny. For example they have a fair or festival where you exchange things with ponies instead of paying for it. Me? I would try to get the most of it by starting with a small item and working myself to the top items. My dad comes to my mind, because he would always store items before throwing them away. He says: “There is an idiot born every minute.”

Normally to keep track of it you would save everything in your mobile phone. Since they don’t have it I would have guessed that they have calendars or something similar. Twilight has a long paper roll as her check list… and when I say long, I mean really LONG.

We reach the station and are welcomed by all the other. By the looks I guess that Twilight somehow informed her friends that she found me. Pinkie and Rarity pounce me the second they see me and drag me into a warm hug.

“We are so sorry dear. Never should I have let you out of sight. That will never happen again.”

“Yes, don´t be sad about that old moody pony anymore. Forget about him and I pinkie promise you that I will never let that happen again.” Again she does these movements with her leg. Quite cute, if you ask me.

“Please, I am sorry for just running away. It was childish and dumb.” It is cozy to have friends who all have fur and a need to hug all the time. “Can you forgive me?”

A hoof is placed on my head and Applejack stands behind me smiling. “You have nothing to be sorry sugarcube. No one knew that they would all behave like they are all a rooster with their own land. No offense but that was mighty rude of them.”

“I just can´t believe them, that is not how I had Prized Strike and the ponies of Canterlot in memory.” A shiver runs down Rarity´s spine and she tries to shake it off.

“You know, we had our fair share of problems with their… upper crust attitude? Or do I have to remember you off Twilight´s birthday, the fashion show or…”

“Ok ok… Applejack. Yes they are a little bit… uptight. But that just now went too far. Looks like I need to look for some new business partners.” A theatrical huff later and I am removed from my cozy surroundings.

Afterward we board the train and get back to Ponyville. Hopefully the ponies there are not the same as the ones up here in Canterlot. If they are, than I still have enough books at Twilight´s castle to get myself occupied for a long time. And I still have these six ponies and Spike there, who also stated his concerns.

“Hey man, you know what? Just ignore them. I know how it feels to be treated like an outcast; there are some that treat me like I would eat them the moment I look at them.” The little dragon laughs and I look at him with a slight grin.

“Yes, I can imagine yourself gulping down a whole pony in one go. It is not like that they have strength, flying or magic abilities that could keep you at bay. Right?”

He chuckles and shakes his head. “They are probably so terrified that they forget that they can use such things. But jokes aside I could burn their flanks if I tried, which I would never do.”

“You mean the green flames with which you can communicate with Celestia? They are harmful?”

My concerned face seems to make him laugh again. “Of course, they are still flames. Duuuh?”

Now I feel stupid.

We reach Ponyville at sunset. The whole village is bathed in a shiny orange color; the ponies come home from their day of work and are on their way. Maybe they want to relax or have some fun times with their friends. Even the light and occasional songs of birds harmonize with the scenery. Especially Twilight´s castle reflects the sunbeams in a pretty awesome way and gives the impression that the whole crystal tree is burning like a second sun.

Ponyville looks like haven to relax and have a good time. That is also something that I hope will it be to me. My personal little haven in this magic world. Well up to the moment where I get home.

Shortly after we separate and say our goodbyes. Again I get a lot of hugs and promises and all that friendly stuff that just makes my heart jump and my face blush. They really are a helpful and amazingly protective friends and I am lucky that they took me in with open hooves.

Rarity said that she has some spare materials back in her shop and she wants me to go there tomorrow. It should be enough for two sets of clothes, she said, and that it will take some time to look for another supplier to make more. Additionally she mentions that she has to take my measures and that I have to help her a little. Gladly I accept her offer and I look forward to see her tomorrow.

At least fifteen minutes. That is how much time it took to finally separate. Twilight, Spike and I go through the big door and we are welcomed by an owl that sails through the entrance hall. Owlicious, as his strange name is, flies over and lands on Twilights back.

“Did you miss me? We were just gone for a day.” An assuring light smile on Twilights face. “If I am right you are gone most of the night all the time?”

A hoot is the answer and it turns his head slightly.

“Well we are back now.” Twilight turns to me and Spike. “Let´s get something to eat and then head to bed.”

“Oh oh oh can I have a gem salad? We should have enough of them here at the moment.” My little dragon companion beside me jumps from one leg to another in anticipation.

The princess doesn’t seem too fond of the idea. “Didn’t you sleep the night after it really bad because you overeat yourself?” His answer is a set of two big puppy eyes accompanied with begging on knees silently. “Awh… ok… but behave yourself and stop when you are full.”

“YES!” As soon as she said it he jumps up and seems really happy.

“What do you want for dinner?”

At first I didn’t realize that Twilight talked to me, too much was I fixated at the jumping little dragon. But as the silence continues I shake my head and look at her. “Oh, just some bread cheese, ham and some vegetable like a cucumber or tomato.”

I take a few more steps and pass Twilight before I realize the silence. Curious I look at her and as I see her shocked expression I realize what I just did. Oh darn. I just talked again before thinking and now I am in trouble. With a half-hearted laugh I break the lingering silence. “Haha… uhm… cat is out of the bag.”

“What do you mean… ham?” Fear flashes over her expression before she returns to a stern look.

I bite the bottom of my lip and look at the ground. Why do I feel ashamed?! It is nothing bad, that is just who I am. “Y-You see. Humans are omnivores. We eat both meat and plants. While we can survive on just plants for a longer period of time, it is still necessary to get our share of meat.”

Spike hides behind Twilight and is clearly not a fan of that statement. “D-Do we have to fear you?”

She just gives his head a slight bump with her hoof. “Don´t be silly. He had never shown any sign of being harmful.” Her gaze falls upon me. “I guess you didn’t tell us this because you feared our reaction?”

Silently I nod and look to the ground.

I am the next one to receive a hoof to the head. “Don´t be silly. I clearly understand it and you could have told me that. You remember? You are my student and I am your teacher. Never fear to ask me anything. For the other… hmm… I guess Fluttershy will not be too happy about it but she knows that some species have a ... more precise diet.”

Happily I hear that she isn´t concerned much about it. “Sorry, but I was just scared that you would behave...” I stop midsentence and look at a floor.

“Everything is fine. Also I am fascinated with your kind; we should definitely talk a lot more about your species. I also need to prepare some rolls and ink for it.” With a hoof she raises my head and pushes me further down the hallway. “We may not have meat here at the moment but we will look at that matter tomorrow.”

Everything with these ponies is just perfect and I couldn’t ask for more. “Thank you.” I could have crashed through anyponies window, but it was Twilight´s. Someone meant it good with me.

Supper was nice and peaceful. We eat and had a pleasant mundane conversation about our normal life experiences. Mostly funny ones; Twilight was wise enough to let the depressing topics of Canterlot drop for this evening. We laughed long and hard often; especially as I told her about some of the pranks that I played my family. And as expected had Twilight to restrain Spike from eating too much, what he comments with some grumpy answers.

It almost felt like home; with all the talking and laughing. I wouldn’t have complained if we talked a few more hours, but Twilight insisted that we head to bed. Tomorrow was another busy day and we need our strength for it. Both, Spike and me, moan and try to persuade her for a little bit more time. Sadly she refuses and turns herself into a motherly figure and we are her kids who are sent to bed… NOW.

As I am now lying in the big soft bed I think about my day. Boy oh boy, what a day it was. In this short time I am here there happened so much… and probably a lot more will happen in the future. What new things will I am able to see? Canterlot, except for its citizens, is an awesome city and Celestia and Luna are really nice. Ponyville on the other hand has yet to be discovered by me; only if the ponies here are a little bit friendlier. Rarity told me to give them time but that doesn’t mean that they can be that mean. Oh yes, what books do I get to read and skills to learn? Twilight´s collection of books is amazing and I still have the books from yesterday to read. She also is now my teacher in magic.

“My magic…”
I still can´t believe it that I am able to use magic and hopefully soon be able to use it. I glance over to the mage outfit; even now it slowly pumps my body full of magic power. A shudder runs down my spine. Better I learn fast, otherwise the next disaster is soon to be up on us. All the things I will be able to accomplish as I wield magic. Flying, teleportation, telepathic and many more.

The image of the nightmarish pony from last night flashes before my eyes and my whole body cramps. Maybe something to defend myself, too. An eerie feeling creeps up my body and wraps itself around me like an anaconda. It grips me and restrains my moves, holds me and squeezes out my breath. Sweat runs down my face, my limbs shudder and all my hairs stand straight.

Maybe it really was just a dream… oh what do I try to tell myself… of course it wasn’t… or?

Evil white glowing eyes and all the other images replay in my mind and I begin to sweat. My mind plays games with me; creating figures in the shadows. I know that there is no one there; nevertheless it still keeps me from sleep as I stare at the shadows for what seems like hours. Hours turn to days, days to weeks, weeks to month and month to years. Chained down by invisible forces and time flies by with no chance of escape.

Imagine a little boat on the edge of a whirlpool, slowly drifted to the deep and dark center. Picking up speed the more the boat sails on the current. In the middle, in the dark center, are evil glowing eyes and a whispering voice talking about madness.

With every rest of my strength I push myself up in a sitting position and the curse was broken. As if invisible chains were broken I feel my body regains some of its strength. It is like if a big stone is pushed off your chest. I am still covered in sweat and I am far from ok… but at least I return to a somewhat normal state again.

“Wow. That was creepy.”
So much for a “good night”, that´s for sure.

Confused and irritated I sit on my bed, looking around the room only to find… nothing. It is just the same room in dark. Nothing out of ordinary. No nightmares, no images … nothing.

For a few seconds I think silently. Sleep is of no use right now. So what do I do?

I flip my legs out of the bed and slip in my shoes. After that I take one of the smaller blankets and wrap it around me tightly. If I don’t find any sleep than I can also do something. My decision is easy; I go to the library and read some more.

First there are still a lot to read in the book I had to leave behind and I yearn to read more about the history of Equestria. If I am right; then I am at the part about the founding of Equestria. Second point is that I hope that reading will make me tired enough to just drift off to sleep. Just lying in this big empty bed will do me no good. Especially when there are no sounds, like back home. There are always the sounds of the animals around, even at night. Together with the whispering wind while it blows through the grass, the crickets playing their song and the creaks of our house. Compared to this is this castle a nice looking tomb.

I take a peak outside my room and discover that the lights are still on, great. Not as bright as before when we headed to bed, but still enough to see your way. Everything is bathed in a light purple color and just seems quiet and peaceful. Additionally there is no pony around; which means, no obstacle between me and my goal.

Quickly I sneak through the door and dart for the library door down the hallway. I am especially careful while passing the rooms of Spike and Twilight. Loud noises are not a problem. The blanket around me goes down till the floor and drags behind me like a cape, muffling all possible noises from my feet.

Creeping my way to the library, which is just two dozen steps away from my room, I enter it. Just slightly I push the door open, only enough to get me through and with a last glance around I am inside. Maybe my years of playing hide and seek with Rachel are now come in handy? “That was easier than I thought.”

“What was easier than you thought?”

On the spot I freeze. Damn it, I know that voice. “Hehe good evening Twilight.”

As I turn around hesitantly around I face the alicorn princess. She lays on the couch and has a pair of glasses on her nose. That just makes her more serious… and together with the stern looks just so more. I should have paid more attention to the inside rather than the outside.

“What are you doing awake and in here?”

I fidget a little and try to come up with an excuse to cover. But because of the situation I am unable to think clear enough and decide to stick to the truth… mostly.”

“I couldn’t sleep and I thought that instead of staring at the ceiling I could use the time to read some more. Hopefully tiredness would be the result.”

Maybe she believes me maybe not. There is no instant reaction of her and she just continues to look at me. If I would guess, than I would say that I am in for a long telling-off. My mom would do such thing every now and then.

Twilight´s hear just flick once and she points at the couch beside her flank. “Come here.” I just give in and walk over to her, getting myself on the comfortable couch with my back at Twilight´s flank. “Now than, care to tell me what bothers you? Something is bothering you and I can tell that clearly.”

Should I just tell her? I mean she is now in charge of me and is something like my guardian for the time being. Celestia and she both told me to rely on her if need arise. Time to lay down my cards.

And so I tell her about my confused state, that I had a nightmare, but I didn´t go deeper into it, my feelings and my concerns. It takes a fair amount of time to talk about nearly everything and Twilight just sits there and listens. Sometimes she asks a question or interrupts me to get an e explanation. Deliberately I don´t talk about what Discord told me back in his realm. This seems to be something that really has to stay a secret for now.

“So you had all these thoughts and worries since you came here. Why didn’t you talk to me about it? You can trust me.” Somehow she seems a little bit hurt because she thinks it is her fault.

“Sorry for that but I don’t know you guys well enough now. So blind trust is a little bit of a high demand. You are nice and friendly and helpful, but still a little bit foreign to me.”

Precisely as I thought does her mood change and a light smile comes from her. “You are probably right. I am sorry for making such assumptions without looking further. Trust has to be build step by step.” My new teacher nuzzles me and coos. “I hope we can build a wonderful relationship my dear little pupil.”

“I hope so too Twilight… I hope so too.”

And I don’t know when but it seems that at some point, while reading, I drifted off to a peaceful sleep. Maybe my exhaustion caught up with me, maybe the lines in the book were boring, but I think that the feeling of safety was the best sleeping medicine I could have obtained.