I woke up due to Celestia’s sun hitting me right in the eyes. I grumbled for a second before getting out of bed and stretching. I looked back and smiled to see Luna sleeping peacefully. I tiptoed through the rest of my morning routine with a smile on my face and headed to the dining room for breakfast. Things had returned to normal after Zinnia returned to her universe. Well, as normal as magical ponyland could ever be. I briefly considered seeing if I had to wake Jason up, but thought better of it. I knew he wasn’t much of a morning person and I’d hate to have something more substantial than a butter knife thrown at my face. I eventually made it to my destination and threw the doors open with a large grin.

“Good morning everyone!” I called out, walking towards the table.

Zed was sitting at the table, chowing away on a steak, very much like a dog. Not that I’d say that out loud. Getting torn apart by an alien with its own strange version of the omnitrix is something I plan on avoiding at all costs.

Jason groaned as he stumbled into the room. He dropped into his chair, letting his head fall onto the table with a thud.

“Morning Jason,” I told him with a bright smile. “Nice to see you up and about.”

“Go to hell...” he muttered back.

“Sure, I’d love to visit your grandma,” I chuckled.

He lifted his head up to glare at me. “Vash, I will freeze you solid.”

“I know you really meant to say, ‘I love you!’” I enthused as I threw an arm around his shoulder. He glared at me harder, letting out a long sigh.

“What are we eating...?”

“The chefs have prepared something called eggs benedict,” Celestia answered. “Along with a nice fruit and flower arrangement that’s perfect for waking one up. Other than that, whatever thou wishes.”

“You realize... me and Vash don’t eat flowers...”

Celestia blushed a bit at that and chuckled softly. “Sorry, we hath forgotten this. Luckily the flowers and fruit will be separated so thou does not need to worry about thy food being contaminated.”

“Thanks...” Jason let his head fall back onto the table.

“Can you at least try to pretend that you’re awake and that you don’t want to freeze us peppy morning people?” I asked

“No.”

“Yeah, that’s what I thought,” I sighed. “Still, I’m impressed that you got up on your own. And you’ve only threatened me once today.”

“Bleh...”

“Okay, is there anything in particular that you wanna do today?” I asked.

“Get out of this castle... go explore Ye Olden Equestria.”

“Sounds like fun,” I enthused with a nod. “Any place in particular you wanna go?”

“I dunno...” Jason lifted his head up, looking at Celestia. “What nations do you know of...?”

“There are the griffins, though thou hast already met them. Diamond dogs, but they are more a loose collection of packs than a proper nation. There’s the dragons, though they’ve rebuked our offers for a proper alliance. And then there are the breezies and the zebras. The latter two we admit to not know much about.”

“So... you need the Yaks... those asshole deer... maybe the sirens, wherever the hell they are…”

“Ooh!” I cheered excitedly. “I think I can help figure out where the sirens could possibly be!”

“Where?”

“I couldn’t give you an exact location,” I admitted, “but I might be able to narrow down an area based on the myths from earth. Okay, so in the Odyssey Odysseus found the sirens on a rocky outcropping on the return trip to his homeland. If we can find the most dangerous part of what is this world’s equivalent to the Mediterranean sea than we might be able to find the siren’s homeland.”

“I dunno...” Jason shrugged. “Anyway... Let’s go visit the Zebras...”

“Okay, but you’re not going to be the one to get us there,” I told him with my arms crossed over my chest.

“Fine...” Jason rolled his eyes, perking up ever so slightly as the food was brought out.

I thanked the serving staff and slowly started on my meal, After a few bites and a drink of orange juice I asked, “Think you can do that chalk trick again so Hel can get us to the Zebras, Jason?”

“No... we’re not bothering my grandmother every time we need to go somewhere, she has a job to do.” He rolled his eyes starting to eat. After a few moments, he gagged, rushing out of the room.

I got up quickly, following after him and stopping at the nearest bathroom door. “Jason, are you okay?” Jason didn’t respond, only vomiting up the contents of his stomach.”I’m taking your silence as a maybe?” I joked with a weak smile.

He turned, punching me through a wall. “Ow,” I squeaked in my heap of limbs and bits of rubble. Jason wiped his mouth, washing his hands before moving back to the dining hall. I let out a long groan as I picked myself off the ground and dusted off any bits of the wall that were on me. I grumbled something about repairs as I sat down at the table again and let my head fall onto it.

“So, feeling better?” I asked carefully, my head still planted firmly on the table.

“Yes...a bit...” he admitted, going back to his meal.

“Great,” I enthused, looking at him with a smile. “Because my castle sure isn’t,” I muttered under my breath.

He just smirked, munching away.

“So, if we’re not going to ask Hel to get us to the Zebra homeland. And you can’t teleport us there without passing out, how do you propose we get there?”

“The old fashioned way... having some pegasi fly us there.”

“Oh…” I started, paling. “Are you sure we can’t just call Hel?” I asked with a nervous chuckle.

"Yes I’m sure.”

“Fine, then do me a favor and knock me out for the flight. Heights and me don’t mix.”

“My pleasure!” he wide before drawing his arm back and socking me in the face.

I don’t know how long I was out, but I eventually woke up with a moan. “Uggh, did anybody get the plate number of the truck that hit me?” I asked groggily.

“Oh good you're awake!” Jason smiled, looking down at me. “Have a nice nap?”

I instantly remembered what happened and narrowed my eyes at the Jotun. “You enjoyed doing that, didn’t you?”

“Why yes, I do enjoy taking my revenge on you every way that I can.” Jason gave a sickly sweet smile.

“Punching me through a wall and the events that transpired after Hodge turned me into a woman weren’t enough revenge?” I asked with a nervous gulp.

“I’ve only just started, Vash.”

“See, that’s what I was afraid of,” I sighed. “So, are we still up in the air?”

“Nah, we landed about an hour ago. Welcome to what I assume is Zebrica.” Jason stood up, throwing his arms out.

“Awesome!” I cheered, shooting up in the back of the chariot. I was greeted by the sight of what looked like the savannah. There didn’t seem to be any animals nearby, probably scared off by us. Shame, I kinda wanted to see some elephants or something. “Wow, this place is beautiful,” I then winced as I felt something land on me which I promptly swatted. “Though I kinda wish bug spray was a thing in this time period.”

“Sucks to be you.” Jason commented. “Now come on, let’s go find us some Zebras.”

“Alright,” I said before turning back to the pegasi that had brought us. “Thanks for the ride, we’re going to start exploring so we’d really appreciate it if you could set up a camp.” Their only response was a quick salute as they pulled the chariot into a shady spot. Jason and I started to walk, and I couldn’t help but swivel my head in every direction.

“So, do you know anything about zebras back in your Equestria?” I asked.

“Think Africa that didn’t get utterly destroyed by Europeans.” Jason nodded. “If you’re a fan of comics, it’s basically Wakanda.”

“Nice, think we’ll run into someone running around in a Black Panther costume then?”

“What is this the Power Ponies?” Jason asked, rolling his eyes.

“Power Ponies?” I asked with a quirked eyebrow.

“Yes, its the pony version of the Avengers. Spike loves them.”

“Wait… is Spike a little purple and green baby dragon?”

“...How did you know...?”

“I met him when I was summoned by Sheogorath,” I answered with a shrug.

“Huh...” Jason looked around. “See anything?”

“Nothing yet, but I have noticed something,” I responded, whispering. “We haven’t come across any animals the entire time we’ve been walking. Almost like something scared them off.”

“Probably us.” Jason narrowed his eyes, taking another look around, his eyes darting from tree to tree.

I followed suit and my hand hovered above my pistol. “I’ve got a bad feeling about this.”

“Now you're quoting Star Wars.”

“Wouldn’t be the first time since I’ve come to Equestria and probably won’t be the last,” I chuckled. Before Jason could respond I heard a faint rustling from behind us that I was barely able to hear. I whipped around, drawing my pistol and leveling it at the source of the disturbance. “Alright, if you can hear or understand me then come out. I won’t do anything to you.”

Jason drew his sword, leveling it next to my gun. “I suggest you do as the man says.”

Everything was deathly silent for a few moments. But then, the rustling returned and a figure stepped out from the brush. It was exactly what we were looking for. A gray zebra about the same height as Jason eyed us suspiciously, though she stared at me as if I was made of garbage. Her clothing was simple, probably made out of cotton or something like it, and she had several bottles filled with various colored liquids strung along her waist. Slung on her back was a bow and a quiver half full of crude arrows. She then turned to Jason and spoke in a strange language that I couldn’t understand.

“Uh what...?” Jason asked blinking. The Omnitrix chirped softly.

“Sampling unknown language.” It spoke, flashing a bright blue color. The zebra seemed to recoil from the sound of the Omnitrix, reaching for her box. A moment later, the Omnitrix spoke up again. “Translation: I’d suggest calling off your pet before I have him gelded.”

Jason blinked, looking at me. “Well... that I was not expecting at all...”

“Same,” I said, holstering my revolver. “But this isn’t the first time I’ve been threatened with gelding. Maybe you should do the talking here?” I suggested.

“You geld my ‘pet.” and we’re going to have problems.” Jason narrowed his eyes, lowering his sword. “Why the hell were you following us.

“There was a disturbance that scared animals in the area. I was sent to investigate and determine if it was a threat or not.”

“So, you do live around here?” Jason asked, raising his eyebrow.

“Yes,” the zebra answered carefully.

“We’re from Equestria. We were hoping to open up diplomatic relations with your people.”

“Hmm, I see no reason to deny your request. But be warned, we do not take kindly to threats to our people.”

“I haven’t threatened anybody.” Jason snorted, placing his sword back in his pocket.

“Let’s hope that continues,” The zebra said as she started to walk away, indicating for us to follow. “And do not get too close to me, male,” she spat.

“Uh... the hell’s that all about?” Jason asked, raising his eyebrow.

“Amazonian society?” I suggested with a shrug.

“Oh that's just fucking amazing...” Jason grumbled, following after the zebra, sighing loudly.

“What are you grumbling about?” I asked. “You’re technically a woman right now so you should be fine. I’m the one that’s gotta walk on eggshells over here.”

“Hush.” Jason shot back, looking around.

“Why do you put up with such a mouthy male?” Our guide asked over her shoulder. “Surely you could’ve found a more subservient companion.”

“Yeah, Vash is my servant.” Jason rolled his eyes. “Though...that's not a bad idea...”

I was going to tell Jason to bite me, but like I said I was walking on eggshells and I didn’t want to cause a disturbance. So I kept silent and just started looking around at the nearby scenery.

“So, do you have name?” Jason asked, looking back at the zebra.

“Zecora, I earned it when I became my village’s shaman.”

Jason blinked a few times, shaking his head. “That uh... that a common name?

The zebra chuckled and shot Jason a proud look. “No, it is a name only given to those that truly prove themselves to be great shaman. I earned it by curing a plague that terrorized several villages.”

“I see.” Jason nodded. “I am Jason and this is Vash, a pleasure to meet you Zecora.”

“A pleasure to meet you as well,” Zecora replied, only looking at Jason. “Judging by your sword I assume you are a warrior of some kind.”

“More than you know.”

“Splendid, I am sure your guardian spirits and ancestors are more than pleased,” Zecora said with a bright smile. “Though, what is that… thing that your male companion pointed at me?”

“What do you think it is?” Jason asked, not giving a straight answer.

“Some toy that you told him was a mighty weapon so that he may feel important,” Zecora answered with a shrug.

“No... it's a weapon alright, but only he can use it.”

“What!? What possessed you to allow a male to hold a weapon much less keep one?”

“Because no one should be helpless. It’s not like he’s a mage or anything.”

“If that is what you feel then fine,” Zecora said glaring daggers at me. “But do make sure that he behaves himself.”

“Oh, I think he knows that, at least.” Jason looked back at me. “He should.”

“Yes Jason, I’ll be on my best behavior.” I answered with a thumbs up.

“Good boy.” Jason smirked, seeming to enjoy this.

“Perfect,” Zecora nodded, stopping. “We have arrived, welcome to my village.”

“Nice place.” Jason stopped beside her, looking around. I stopped a few feet behind them, remembering Zecora’s warning. The place seemed nice enough. A large collection of huts decorated in various ways and sporadically placed around a general center point. Nearly all of the zebras we saw milling about the village seemed to be women and children.

“I don’t see any men...” Jason muttered, looking around.

“The males are in their section of the village, tilling fields or waiting for the fertility season.”

“Sounds like slave labor...”

“Perhaps to an outsider, but the males have a place in our society and they are treated according to that place,” Zecora said with a shrug. “Now come, our elder will be who you’d wish to talk to if it is diplomacy you seek.”

“Please, lead the way.” Jason nodded, gesturing for me to follow.

Zecora led us down and into the village, indicating a few important huts and explaining what they were for. I wasn’t really paying attention to anything she was saying though. Mostly due to the death glares that all the villagers were giving me. I did my best to ignore those looks and kept my gaze locked onto the back of Jason’s head.

“Here we are,” Zecora said, waving her hand to the largest hut in the village. “The elder is inside.”

“Thank you Zecora.” Jason nodded with a smile, ducking into the hut. “Hello?”

“Who is it that has come to see me?” a matronly zebra asked, sitting on a cushion in the middle of the hut.

“My name is Jason, I come on behalf of Equestria.” He gave a bow, not breaking eye contact. I bowed as well, though I didn’t say anything.

“And for what reason have you come from Equestria my strange looking friend?” The elder asked, patting a cushion next to her.

“To make peace. While our people are not hostile, we are not exactly friends, we would remedy this.” Jason sat across from her.

“Hmm, I have heard whispers that Equestria has extended hands of peace to other nations, so your offer is not strange. I see no reason to outright reject it.”

“Excellent!” Jason smiled, giving me a pleased look. “We are most grateful.”

“Think nothing of it, it is not our way to needlessly make enemies. We offer you a place to stay just to be sure your words ring true.”

“Thank you.” Jason bowed again. “We will accept whatever accommodations you see fit to give us.”

“Do you wish to share with your male companion?” The elder asked, finally acknowledging my existence. “Or shall we have him stay with the other males while we discuss peace?”

“I do not mind sharing with my companion. Unless he would like to stay with the others?” Jason asked, turning toward me.

“No, I’ll be fine staying with you,” I answered.

“Very well,” the elder said, motioning for one of her nearby attendants. “Show our guests to a place they can stay, and make sure they’re comfortable.

“Thank you again.” Jason bowed, following the attendant out of the hut. We were led to a fairly small hut at the edge of the village with no clear decorations unlike the others.

“I will go and get you a blanket and other commodities to fend off the cold. Would you like one for your male, or can he go without?” The attendant asked.

“He can have mine.” Jason shook his head, walking into the hut. “All I need is a bed.”

The attendant shrugged and walked away to get the items that she mentioned and I followed in after him.

“So, what do you think of this place?” I asked absently.

“Not a fan of the misandry but, Whatcha gonna do?” he laid down on the bed, looking up at the ceiling.

“Wait and hope that the prolonged contact with Equestria will slowly change their ideals?” I offered, sitting against a wall.

“You want the bed?” He asked, sitting back up. “You’ll need it more than me.”

“Yes, I need the bed more than the pregnant person who’s been passing out on numerous occasions,” I said with a roll of my eyes.

Jason got up, moving over to an open space. He worked his magic, weaving a bed out snow and ice. He got up, smirking at me.

“Ya know what, I’m just gonna take the ice bed now,” I said with a smirk. “Looks like it has good lumbar support.”

“Vash, just shut up and take the real bed.” Jason rolled his eyes, getting comfy.

“No!” I said, putting on my petulant child act.

“I can make you a child you know.”

“You think that’s a punishment?” I asked with a laugh. “Celestia and Luna would probably get a kick out of that.”

“Just lay down, Vash.” Jason turned his back to me.

“Okay,” I shrugged, getting into the ice bed.

“Vash... we are not sleeping in the same bed...”

“Well, I told you I was just going to take the ice bed,” I shrugged. Jason sighed before holding his hand out, casting a spell and knocking me out. I woke up to the sound of retching, scrambling to my feet and dimly noting that Jason had dumped me into the real bed.

“Jason, are you okay?” I asked rushing to his side.

“Do I sound ok...?” he asked with a groan, having vomited up his stomach once again.

“Look, we already know I’m an idiot,” I sighed. “Is there anything I can do to help?”

“Go see if they have any herbs or whatever...”

“Will they be able to understand me without you around?”

Jason tossed me a bracelet. “They will with that...”

“Alright,” I said, getting up. “I’ll be back soon. Hopefully without getting gelded.” I added before passing through the opening to the hut.

I carefully made my way through the village, again avoiding their glares. Thankfully, I made it to the elder’s hut without incident and bowed as I entered.

“I’m sorry for intruding, but I was sent to ask for some herbs that Jason needs.” I said, sweating bullets.

“Is that so?” The elder asked, not looking at me as she ate a simple meal. “And what kind of herbs does she require?”

“Um, do you have anything that helps relieve morning sickness?” I asked. This seemed to get her attention because she actually whipped her head towards me.

“Morning sickness you say? Take me to her,” she ordered, getting up from her cushion.

“Okay,” I said, leading her through the village and back to the hut where Jason and I were staying at. The elder pushed past me and entered, walking up to Jason and studying him carefully.

“What?” he asked, looking at the elder, raising his eyebrow.

“Your male companion claims that you are experiencing morning sickness. Does this mean that you are pregnant?” The elder asked, her face an unreadable mask.

“That's what causes morning sickness.” I could tell Jason was holding back a ’duh.’

“This is wonderful news!” The elder enthused, breaking out into a wild grin.

“It...is?” Jason asked, raising his eyebrow.

“Of course!” The elder beamed. “Motherhood is a beautiful thing, and such a happening must be celebrated. Come Jason, we will show you how we celebrate the joy of life.”

“Alright, alright lead the way...” Jason got up, moving over to her.

“Excellent, so am I to assume you wish for your male companion to join in our celebration?” The elder asked, walking out of the hut.

“Of course I would... he’s the father after all...” Jason admitted, sighing a little.

“Ah, so that is the reason you keep him close,” The elder laughed. “I will admit to keeping one or two young males close to me for the same reason when I was in my prime.”

“It was more... a drunken accident than anything else...” Jason coughed, looking away.

“Oh well, you still have new life in your belly. That is more than enough reason to enjoy ourselves now.”

“Lady, you have no idea.” Jason just shook his head, laughing.

The elder led us to the center of the village where she gathered the others. She then cleared her throat and began to speak. “We have cause for celebration my children!” She called out, her arms wide spread. “The guardian spirits and ancestors have blessed our foreign friend with the gift of life,” she continued, indicating Jason.

“But elder,” Zecora said, stepping forward. “The fertility season is months away. And Jason does not appear to be far enough into hers to have her child conceived during the last one.”

“I know my trusted shaman, but she has experienced morning sickness. A sure enough sign of impending child. But you can check for yourself if you like.”

“My people don’t ‘have’ a ‘season’,” Jason spoke up, “They’re fertile all year round.”

This seemed to take everyone in the crowd by surprise. A collective gasp echoing through the town center.

“Young Jason, is what you say true?” The elder asked slowly.

“Yes it is.” He nodded. “My people are old, very, very old. So old, that there are only four of us left.”

The elder’s eyes widened and she remained silent for a while. Just when I was debating saying something, she collapsed to her knees and bowed towards Jason. The rest of the crowd followed suit.

“What uh... what are you doing there?” Jason asked, his eyes going wide.

“There are tales that are far older than I that tell of those with the ability to conceive children at all times of the year with no regard to the fertility seasons. These beings were guardians of all who go through the changes of pregnancy. If what you say is true, then surely you are one of them.” The elder explained, a look of reverence in her eyes.

“I-I see...” Jason nodded, looking at them, clearly uncomfortable with the situation.

“I think you just became a god, Jason.” I whispered into his ear.

“Well... technically, I already was one but now I actually have people worshipping me...”

“Really glad I’m not in your shoes right now,” I chuckled. “Godhood doesn’t really suit me.”

Jason just glared, but held back on punching me. “Please.” He looked out at the zebra’s. “Let us celebrate!”

“Of course!” The elder replied, rising to her feet slowly. “Prepare for the traditional celebration, and have a feast ready for the expecting mother!” The entire village erupted into cheers and set about doing various tasks. The elder then smiled up at Jason and motioned for him to follow. “Come, let us sit and wait for everything to be done. I shall have an herbal blend brewed for you.”

“Thank you.” Jason smiled, walking over to her, following her to her hut. We all sat down on the cushions spread around the hut with several attendants flitting about and handing us what looked like tea.

“I hope that is to your liking,” the elder nodded. “That blend is excellent for health.”

Jason nodded, taking a sip of the tea. He coughed, looking away. “Yggdrasil that's strong!”

“It has to be to ensure the strength of the drinker,” The elder chuckled, taking a sip of her own tea without issue.

He shrugged, downing the rest of it in one go, slamming the cup down. He coughed louder, thumping his chest a few times.

“The young ones are always quick to show off,” the elder commented with another lazy sip.

“I get that a lot.” Jason laughed, shaking his head. “I tend to show off more than I should.”

“Part of the beauty of your age,” the elder said with a smile. “Enjoy yourself and continue showing off while you still have something to show off.”

“Yeah...that's going to be a very, very long time...” Jason muttered, looking down at the floor.

“Plenty of time then.”

“So... what does this celebration entail?” Jason asked, looking back up at the Elder.

“First, we will mark you in traditional markings connecting you to your ancestors. Then there will be a feast in your honor. Following which there will be singing and dancing. Nothing too outlandish,” The elder shrugged.

“Sounds fun.” Jason smiled, closing his eyes. “I haven’t had a feast in a while.”

“Good thing we’re about to correct that,” the elder chuckled just as Zecora walked in with a bowl in her hand. “Ah, and there is what we need to mark you.”

“Do I just sit here?” Jason asked, looking at them.

“Yes, just stand up and allow me to draw the symbols on your flesh,” Zecora answered, dipping a finger into the bowl. “This will take but a moment if you remain still.”

Jason got up, holding his arms out, making sure to close his eyes. Zecora ran her finger along Jason’s face and began to hum an odd tune. She continued drawing symbols along Jason’s exposed body parts until her humming came to a climax. She hummed a few more bars and finished by drawing a symbol on Jason’s forehead.

“There, it is done,” Zecora nodded.

“Well... how do I look?” Jason asked, looking around, dropping his arms.

“Perfect,” the elder nodded. “But what’s more important is how you feel. Can you feel the connection to those that came before you?”

Jason paused, thinking for a moment. “Yes... I believe I do... I can feel them in my blood..”

“Good,” the elder beamed with a proud smile. “Let them be your strength to help you through the trials of motherhood, and life. They will not fail you if you trust them.”

Jason nodded, smiling. “Now... about that feast...”

“Of course,” the elder laughed with a shake of her head. “It sounds like you and your ancestors are hungry.”

“Considering who some of them are, that doesn’t surprise me.”

“Come, there will be plenty for you to eat, and even the father gets a special plate at this celebration,” The elder said, turning to me without a sour look for once.

“Thank you,” I said with a deep bow.

“He eats just as much as I do.” Jason patted me on the back before moving out of the hut.

“I suppose we can bend tradition and allow a being such as you to share your helping with your companion,” the elder said with a shrug, following him.

“I appreciate it!” Jason called back.

“Me too ma'am,” I said with another bow as I caught up with Jason. We followed the elder and Zecora to the center of town, where everything had been set up.

“Wow, they sure do know how to set up a party, huh?” I asked.

“And quick too. I wonder if Pinkie Pie is part zebra...” Jason mused, looking around.

“Stranger things have happened,” I shrugged with a grin.

“Like our current situation?”

“You mean the pregnancy or the fact that you’re now a zebra god?”

“...Both...”

“Then yes,” I chuckled. “And the sad thing is, I think I’m not just getting used to all the insanity, but enjoying it.”

Jason giggled, leaning over and kissing my cheek.

“Umm… what was that for?” I asked, looking away slightly flustered.

“A peace offering. I’ve been taking my frustration out on you...”

“And I’ve earned every bit of abuse,” I replied. “Not just for the accidental pregnancy.”

“Vash, stop trying to convince me not to hit you.”

“Alright, I guess I can do that. Otherwise I might start enjoying that along with the insanity.”

Jason just rolled his eyes, taking the seat the elder pointed out to him. I took the seat next to him and looked over to him.

“The thought occurs that since this is a zebra feast, we may not get any meat,” I said with a small frown.

“I got that covered.” Jason assured with a smile.

“Really, how?”

“I keep preserved meat on me at all times.” He smiled, getting comfy.

“I am really starting to see the benefits of having a viking for a friend,” I said, returning his smile.

He chuckled, waiting for the celebrations to start. A moment later the elder of the village signaled for the feast to begin and several zebras came up to us with large wooden trays filled with all kinds of different foods. Though of course, they all appeared to be fruit and vegetable based. I sniffed at the air and could feel myself start to salivate.

“Hey, this stuff actually smells pretty good.”

“I have to agree with you and I’m not a vegetable kind of guy.” Jason licked his lips before diving in, starting to eat.

“And not even at a celebration in your honor do you display basic table manners,” I laughed, tucking into my meal.

“Shuddup.” Jason shot back.

“Yes my goddess,” I said, mock bowing toward him. He glared, flicking my nose. “Ow, I thought you were done doing things like that?”

“Starting now I am.” He grinned sweetly, returning to his meal.

“You are so lucky that you could kick my ass,” I replied, eating what looked like a stew.

“As long as you know who’s in charge.” He teased, grinning still.

“Yeah, yeah, whatever you say,” I said with an over exaggerated sigh.

Our little banter seemed to amuse the zebra’s, who were watching us, all grinning.

“Wow, I didn’t think I’d see them smiling in my direction,” I whispered to Jason.

“Don’t look gift zebras in the mouth.” He whispered back.

“Wow, and I thought my puns were awful,” I winced.

Jason rolled his eyes, looking out at the zebras. “Anyone want to ask any questions?” One young zebra raised her hand and Jason indicated it was okay for her to continue.

“Umm, if your kind does not have a fertility season, then does that mean that you always feel the need to mate?”

“Really, we only feel like mating when we’re aroused.” Jason shrugged. “It’s a little hard to explain.”

“Well, aroused or just blackout drunk, but that’s just splitting hairs,” I whispered.

“Any other questions?” Jason asked, glaring at me. I looked away from him and started to whistle innocently when the next zebra raised her hand.

“Why are you so friendly with your male?”

“Where we come from, males and females are treated equally and both can do as they please.” Jason said without hesitation.

This seemed to confuse the crowd, not sure how to respond as they chattered amongst themselves.

“Uhh, do you think that’s good chatter, or ‘Let’s chase the heretic out of the village’ chatter?” I whispered.

“Lets hope it's the first one...”

“I would start praying, but I’ve only met two gods. And one of them was the goddess of death.”

“Well... I’m a god.”

“Already counted you. And do you really want me to start praying to you?”

“Why not, might win you brownie points.”

“Really, and what’s the best way to pray to you oh mighty goddess?”

“Blast some Manowar and headbang.” Jason chuckled, leaning back in his chair. “That is the music of the gods.”

“Ha, if they taught me that back in sunday school, I’d have become religious.”

“Here's your chance.”

“Consider me a convert to Jasonism,” I chuckled.

“Good, I expect sacrifices every other Friday, namely of beer and steak.”

“Do you want me to sing Sons of Odin while I offer my sacrifices?”

“Yes, do that and you will have your god’s blessing upon you.”

“Nice, but I feel like we’re forgetting something here,” I said scratching my chin. Jason blinked, looking back out at the zebras. Luckily, instead of an angry mob, they were just staring back at us with expectant, if slightly confused looks.

“What?” Jason asked, blinking a few times.

“We were just waiting for you two to stop talking about… whatever you two were talking about,” The elder said. “I think a few of them still have questions.”

“Er, yeah sorry... what was the next one?” Jason asked with a sheepish grin.

“Umm, why are males and females treated equally where you’re from?”

“Why wouldn’t they be?” Jason asked, tilting his head to the side.

“Tradition,” the zebra offered.

“I don’t think Equestria had traditions like that.” Jason shook his head. “Though, back in our original home, it was the females who were restricted for a very long time, while the males ruled.”

“So back where you’re from your male companion would lead?” Another zebra asked.

Jason shook his head. “Things changed around a century ago. Some very depressing things happened, two great wars happened, dragging most of the world’s nations into combat. The women of our world where able to fight for their own rights and when we left were equal to the men.”

The zebras started to murmur amongst themselves again, more confused than they had been before.

“Maybe we should stop the Q&A and continue on with the celebration?” I offered. “I think we’ve given these ladies more than enough to think about today.”

“Oh come on, Vash, they would like answers. Anyway, any other questions that don’t involve who rules over who? Like anything in particular anyone wants to know about me?”

The zebras looked between each other and seemed to be thinking of something to ask.

“Favorite color?” A child asked.

“Green, lots and lots of green, seafoam green actually.” Jason nodded, gesturing to his dress. “So... anyone want to hear some of my exploits? I am a very well experienced warrior and mage after all.”

“Oh boy, I’d better grab a pillow. I’m probably gonna be stuck here for a while,” I joked with a roll of my eyes.

“Oh come on Vash, I haven’t even told you all of the things I’ve done with my life.”

“Eh, you make a good point. But I couldn’t resist the urge to deflate your ego a bit. I was a little scared you’d float away from all the hot air,” I snickered.

“You know if it wasn’t for the kid, I probably would.” He chuckled, shaking his head. “You know, this is actually a lot of fun.”

“Glad I could entertain you. Now, I think you have an audience that’s waiting to hear your stories,” I said, waving to the crowd.

“Does anyone have any requests?” Jason joked, looking out at them.

“Ooh, tell them the story about the time you met the handsome and charming devil in the red duster,” I joked back.

“That’s a really lame event to turn into a story.” Jason shot back. “How about... the time I slew my great uncle in combat?”

“Which great uncle is that?” I asked.

“Fenrir, the dread wolf.”

“I’d have just shoved a ton of chocolate down his throat,” I joked.

“He was a giant wolf the size of a mountain, as well as a zombie reanimated by dark magic.”

“Your life is weird,” I deadpanned.

“So is yours.”

“My life started getting really weird once you showed up in it.”

“We are getting way, way off topic.’ Jason shook his head. He cleared his throat, regaling the gathered villagers with tales of his exploits. His training at the hands of a man known as ‘Gilgamesh’, his fight with Fenrir, his fight against a genocidal rebel, and several other tales, though I could tell he left them a little vague, so he didn’t have to explain the multiverse. A part of me started hoping that I’d never have to deal with insanity like that. But then I realized I was already starting to. Between dealing with Discord, Morning becoming a naga, and the changeling situation. I just didn’t have as much time as a Displaced under my belt.

“And that is how I slew several thousand changelings.” Jason finished, leaning back in his chair.

“Wow, I knew your life was crazy, but that was a lot of crazy,” I noted.

“I’m in a Norse world, crazy is just inherent.”

“Still, I’m a little surprised that Chryssi was your stalker for a while,” I laughed.

Jason just shrugged, going back to his meal, humming to himself.

“Jason, in light of your exploits perhaps you would enjoy seeing how we zebras engage in warfare?” The elder asked.

“I would indeed.” Jason smiled, perking up. “I’m always up for learning new techniques.”

“Very well then,” the elder nodded. “Would our two greatest warriors step forward please?” The crowd parted and formed a fairly large ring as Zecora and one of the elder’s attendants stepped into the area that the crowd made for them. “Would you like us to start with a hand to hand combat demonstration?”

“Please.” Jason nodded, watching intently.

Zecora and the attendant dropped into an odd fighting stance and circled each other. The attendant was the first one to make a move, jabbing at Zecora’s chest. Zecora reacted quickly and caught the attendant’s fist before putting her in a hold. She then pushed the attendant away so that their demonstration could continue. The two continued to exchange blows, and from what I saw their fighting style was a mixture of quick strikes and grapples. Eventually, the mock fight was finished and Zecora came out on top.

“What do you think?” The elder asked, turning to Jason.

“You certainly do have a unique fighting style. I would be honored to learn it myself.”

“It would be our pleasure to teach you,” the elder bowed slightly in her seat. “Just be warned, Zecora can be a bit of a taskmaster when it comes to teaching.”

“That's fine, that harder the training the better.” Jason grinned, cracking his neck.

“Have fun, and try not to hurt anyone,” I said between bites of my meal.

“I can control my strength you know.” Jason huffed. ‘Besides, if anyone does get hurt, I can heal them.”

“Ah, the power to have no consequences for your actions,” I joked

“Do I need to put you to sleep again?”

“Do it and I’ll laser your face,” I warned with narrowed eyes.

“And I’ll Ultima you in the face.” He shot back.

“Stupid Norse god with stupid alien watch,” I grumbled, focusing on my meal.

Jason just giggled, turning back to the elder. “Again, very impressive display.”

“Thank you, we can begin your training once the celebration is over.”

“I look forward to it.” Jason smiled. “And of course, I could train some of your own in my ways.”

“I don’t see why not. I am sure they would jump at the chance to learn from you.”

The meal continued for a while and Jason and I continued to eat until we felt like we could barely move. I don’t know how many plates I ate, I lost count after about six or seven. In the end, both of us had a small mountain range of bowls and plates next to us.

“Uggh, that was too good,” I groaned.

“Yeah... so good...” Jason smiled, patting his stomach, “Plus... I am eating for two...”

“We are glad that you’re satisfied,” the elder smiled. “Now all that is left is the singing and dancing and the celebration will come to a close.”

“Wanna dance?” Jason asked, getting to his feet, holding his hand out, smiling at me.

“Alright, but I’ve gotta warn you. I’ve got two left feet when it comes to dancing,” I chuckled, taking his hand.

He just smiled, pulling me to my feet, heading to the gather area. The elder gave a signal and a large group of zebras brought up several instruments. There were various types of drums, along with a few instruments that I couldn’t really identify. After the musicians shared a look they began to play and each of them started chanting. The rest of the zebras started swaying to the rhythm.

“They have good taste in music.” Jason smiled, closing his eyes, starting to sway to the music.

“Yeah, kinda trippy sounding though,” I said, awkwardly following his movements.

“Just close your eyes and feel the music, let it guide you.” Jason instructed, moving gracefully to the beat.

“Yes, the music surrounds us, penetrates us,” I said, still awkwardly trying to follow suit.

“Just let it move you Vash.” He smiled, seeming to rather enjoy himself.

“Yeah, I’ll try. But this isn’t exactly my strong suit,” I said, attempting that and nearly tripping over my own feet.

“You're just a lunk you know that?” he asked, giggling at my expense.

“Hey, I’m just not a dancer. You want someone who can take apart an engine in no time then I’m your guy,” I shot back before actually tripping and falling to the ground. “Ow.”

“You okay?” he kneeled down, offering his hand to help me up.

“Yeah, but I think I’m done dancing,” I said taking the offered hand.

“Alright, you can watch me dance.” He helped me up, going back to dancing, a bright smile on his face.

“Got it, find a comfortable wall to lean on, just like back in school,” I called out as I watched him. Eventually the music stopped and the dancing creeped to a halt.

Jason took a seat next to me, letting out a sigh. “I have to ask, how do you plan on staying with three women when you can’t even dance?”

“Make up for it with my winning personality and smile?” I offered with a weak grin.

“You’re gonna need to learn how to dance. I could teach you.” Jason offered, looking up at me.

“Yeah, that might be a good idea,” I admitted. “The only time I’ve ever successfully danced was when I let Morning take the lead. And that was back when she had legs.”

“Heh, when I’m done with you, you’ll be able to snake charm her with your dance moves.”

“Ha, okay. I’ll take you up on that,” I laughed, with a hand outstretched. He took my hand standing up. He brushed some hair out of his face, looking into my eyes with a smile.

“Uh… didn’t you want to learn these zebras’ fighting moves?” I asked.

“Yeah, I’ll teach you later.” He nodded, moving over to Zecora. “You want to watch?”

“Sure thing,” I agreed with a few quick nods. “Two girls training and grappling with each other is always a good time,” I muttered under my breath with a devious smile.

“I’ll make sure it’s worth watching...” he paused, looking at his dress. “I might not have the right outfit for this...”

“I could always lend you one,” Zecora noted.

“I would very much appreciate that Zecora, thank you.”

“Think nothing of it,” she nodded. “I’ll be back in a moment.” Zecora turned on a heel and ducked into a hut near the elder’s. A minute or so later she came out holding an outfit very similar to the one she was wearing. “Here we are, hopefully it fits.”

“Thanks.” Jason took it, moving off into a hut. He came back out a moment later, adjusting the outfit ever so slightly. “I think it fits...”

“I am happy to hear that,” Zecora nodded. “Whenever you are ready to begin.”

“Let’s.” Jason smiled, cracking his knuckles,bouncing from foot to foot.

“We will start with the basic stance. Copy me if you can,” Zecora said as she got into the same stance she had during the demonstration. Jason observed her for a few moments, doing his best to copy her.

“How’s this?” he asked, looking at her.

“Not bad,” she said walking over to him. “But you are too rigid. Remember, be like water,” she finished, adjusting his shoulders and knees slightly. “How does that feel now?”

“Good.” He jabbed at the air a few times. “And non-too different than the stances I already know.”

“Understandable, this stance is meant to lend itself to the natural ebb and flow of combat,” Zecora explained. “Now, come at me and I will demonstrate a grapple.”

Jason nodded, lounging at her, throwing a fist at her face. Zecora brought her hand down in a sweeping motion, twisting Jason’s arm behind his back.

“Did you notice my motions?” Zecora asked, letting Jason go.

“Yeah, I did.” He shook his arm, giving it a bit of a rub.

“Then show me,” Zecora said, holding up a fist. “Do you think you can do it yourself?”

“Yeah, I think I got it, come at me... uh sis....”

Zecora nodded, quickly jabbing at Jason’s center. He brought his arm down, mimicking her movements, pinning her arm behind her back.

“Not bad, it seems you are a quick study.”

“Yeah, I’ve been told that before.” He released her, taking a few steps back.

“Very well, perhaps we should move on to more advanced techniques?”

“Sounds good to me!” he beamed.

“As you wish,” Zecora nodded and returned to her stance. The two kept going back and forth, Zecora showing Jason moves and him repeating them for what felt like hours. Jason seemed to be enjoying himself, even when Zecora held him in a particularly painful looking hold. By the end of their training session both of them were covered in dirt and sweat.

“You’re one hell of a teacher you know that..?” Jason asked with a laugh, crouched over, panting a bit heavily.

“And you are quite the student,” Zecora chuckled, rubbing a particularly sore spot. “I believe that is enough for one day. Feel free to return to me if you wish to learn more. But first, perhaps we should clean ourselves up?” She suggested, looking herself and Jason over.

“Hey, sounds good to me, I haven’t had a bath in a few days anyway.” Jason nodded, wiping some sweat from his forehead.

“Perfect, then follow me. I shall show you where we wash ourselves,” Zecora said, turning to walk away.

“Watch my dress for me.” Jason said to me, following after Zecora.

“No problem,” I cheered with a little wave. An evil smirk forming on my face once their backs were turned.

‘Was Zecora just talking about a communal bath? Perhaps I should investigate this?’ I thought, subtly following after the two of them. ‘For science of course,’ I added.

Luckily, nobody seemed to notice or care about me as I snuck through the village. Eventually, they made it to a fairly large watering hole and I hid myself in a nearby bush. Securing myself a good vantage point for when things got interesting. Just as I hid, I heard more zebras approaching the bathing spot and greeted Zecora and Jason as they all shrugged out of their clothes.

‘And this is officially worth whatever insanity I’ve been put through up ‘til now,’ I thought with a dopey grin.

Jason stepped into the water, wading in up to his waist, taking a seat. “I was not expecting a hot spring.” He commented to Zecora, who sat beside him.

“There is a volcano in the area. Too far away to be an issue, but close enough to give us luxuries such as this,” Zecora informed him, running a hand through the water for effect.

“Must be nice.” Jason smiled, letting himself sink into the water.

“If I may Jason,” another zebra asked, looking him over, “Why did you leave your bracelet on?”

“Oh that.” He held up his Omnitrix arm, “It uh... doesn’t come off.”

“That must be quite difficult to deal with,” Zecora noted before letting out a sigh of relief.

“Not really, it more than makes up for it. See, it allows me to change my shape, and become other races.”

“Would you care to demonstrate?” One of the zebras asked.

“I would but my pregnancy might be jeopardized.” He shook his head. “Otherwise, I would gladly show off.”

Oh, that’s too bad,” another pouted. “But your child is far more important than our entertainment.”

“I have been meaning to ask something. In order for my... device to work, I need a bit of let’s say...blood, in order to become that race. Is it alright if I take it from one of you?”

“As you wish,” Zecora nodded, holding out one of her hands. “I’ll gladly offer you some of mine.”

“Thank you.” Jason held his hand out, the Omnitrix passing a yellow light over Zecora. “Done!”

Zecora looked between her hand and Jason’s Omnitrix before letting out a chuckle. “When you said you’d need my blood, I was expecting something a bit different.”

“It’s so small you wouldn’t notice.” Jason chuckled, shaking his head. “Though I suppose this would mean we’re sisters in a way.”

“Welcome to my family,” Zecora bowed her head. “Perhaps you will be able to earn a name through deed with whatever time you have left here.”

“A name huh? How does that work?” Jason asked, beginning to scrub the grime off.

“For us there are two different names that we will use in our lives. The names we are given at birth and the names that we earn. I told you earlier that I earned my name when I cured a dreadful plague.”

“That you did... I have many names. My birth mother named me Corypheus Toyason, but the woman who raised me named me Jason.”

“Then you already know what it’s like to have two different names,” Zecora giggled.

“That's true.” He giggled with her. “You know, if I didn’t already have a home, I wouldn’t mind staying here.”

“We will consider that a great compliment. But one should never stray too far from their true home,” Zecora noted.

“Don’t I know it.” He closed his eyes, sighing heavily. “It’s just nice to get away from the stress...”

‘Uggh, this isn’t as exciting as I was hoping,’ I grumbled in my head. ‘No one has started a splash fight or anything! And it’s not like I can just leave. I’d get caught if I did that. Maybe if I’m really subtle about it,’ I thought, moving as silently as I could.

“How long have you been pregnant?” One of the zebras asked, sitting beside Jason and leaning in close.

“Not very long... a month at most. why do you ask?”

“Really?” She asked her eyes going wide. “I thought it would’ve been longer considering how large your chest is.” She said, poking Jason’s chest.

He blushed, moving away a little, trying to cover up. “Well... I mean... my people are giants...”

“What is with your reaction, Jason?” Zecora asked with a chuckle. “It was only some common skinship amongst friends.”

“Skinship?” he asked, looking at her, a bit confused.

“Of course, a form of showing friendship through intimate contact. Perfectly normal at times like these.”

“In my original culture... this was rather... taboo...” Jason explained, still blushing.

“Then perhaps a demonstration is in order,” Zecora said with a smirk reaching out and grabbing Jason’s chest. He let out a yelp, looking at her, his face a bright red.

‘And suddenly I feel the urge to stay,’ I thought, stopping all movement.

“Oh Jason, there is nothing to be embarrassed about,” Zecora chuckled. “You can do the same to me if you like.”

“Y-you sure...?” he asked, still unsure.

“I told you, it’s perfectly normal at times like this.”

He nodded, reaching up, gently grasping her breasts.

“Jason, How could you?!” Zecora shrieked, turning away and covering her chest.

“I uh...” he stuttered out, looking at her with wide eyes.

She turned back to him and giggled. “I’m sorry, I could not resist.”

“Oh that was totally not cool Zecora!” He pouted, splashing her.

“I would disagree with you there, Jason,” she replied splashing him back. He growled, splashing her again. This devolved into a massive splash fight that everyone in the hot spring got involved in.

“I had no idea this would be so much fun!” Jason laughed, protecting his face from a splash.

“Then you have been missing out. Things like this are a great way to reduce stress after a long day,” Zecora beamed.

“I can tell. “ He laughed, his chest bouncing as he splashed at some of his attackers.

“You seem much more relaxed,” Zecora teased, flinging more water at Jason’s face.

“Oh you have no idea Zecora, this is like a mini-vacation.” he shielded his face with one hand, splashing her back.

“That is good, you seemed so flustered just from touching a pair of breasts.”

“That's... a very long story...” He admitted, coughing again.

“Mmm, well we zebras are fans of long stories,” she said, slipping up next to him.

“Well uh... if I’m going to be completely honest with you Zecora uh... I’m usually, you know... male...” He looked away, poking his fingers together.

“Really, that is quite interesting,” Zecora replied, barely reacting.

“That... was a lot softer of a reaction than I was expecting...” Jason said, looking at her, rather surprised.

“Well, even if you are normally male, your current pregnancy makes you female enough.”

“Huh.. I suppose you're right...” he nodded, leaning back in his seat.

“So, was that all the reason you had to be flustered?”

“Well... yeah...” he nodded his head, looking back at her.

“Then perhaps you’d like to continue our lesson on skinship?” Zecora asked with a wink.

“S-sure..” he nodded meekly, looking at her.

“Then you may start on me whenever you are comfortable,” she said, turning her chest toward him.

Warning: some cloppy bits ahead. Skip to next marked position if you don't wish to see such things.

He reached up, grabbing her breasts, gently rubbing her nipples.

“Mmm, see, there is nothing to worry about,” Zecora assured him.

He smiled, licking his lips and getting comfortable.

“If I may?” She asked, holding her hands up.

“You may.” he nodded. Zecora reached out and mirrored Jason’s motions on his chest. He moaned, closing his eyes, shivering at her touch.

“I take it that you’re starting to enjoy yourself?” Zecora asked, not stopping her ministrations.

“Y-yeah...” he nodded, looking at her, putty in her hands.

“Would you like me to show you more?”

He bit his lip, but nodded. Zecora smirked, removing one of her hands from Jason’s chest and having it disappear below the water. She then snaked her hand between Jason’s legs and rubbed along his inner thigh, dangerously close to his crotch.

He gasped, arching his back, pressing against her. Zecora chuckled slightly as she ran a finger along the outer edges of his folds. He whimpered a little, letting out a pant, squirming. She then circled his clit for a moment before giving it a gentle pull.

“Na...” he moaned, bucking his hips, his head lolling a bit.

“What was that?” Zecora teased. “Did you want me to stop?” She asked as she threatened to pull her hands away.

“N-no...” he whimpered, shaking his head.

“I didn’t quite catch that,” she said as her hand slipped further away. “Could you speak up?”

“D-don’t stop...” he admitted with a blush.

“As you wish,” Zecora said, slipping a finger into his folds.

He moaned, shuddering and leaning on her.

“I am glad you are enjoying yourself,” Zecora giggled, dragging a thumb against Jason’s clit as she continued to finger him. He moaned and whimpered, toying with her breasts weakly, twisting her nipples. “Mmm,” she moaned as she picked up the pace. “Would you like for me to finish this soon?”

He nodded, breathing heavily, rubbing his legs together.

“Very well,” Zecora nodded, removing her other hand from Jason’s breast. She then slipped it between his legs and used it to pinch and tug his clitoris while she inserted another finger into him. He let out a louder moan, squeezing his eyes shut,his breathing getting more ragged.

“How did that feel?” Zecora asked, pulling away.

“T-that felt... amazing...” he panted, looking at her.

“It was meant to,” Zecora giggled again. “Though I am glad you enjoyed it. So, what do you think of skinship?”

“Eh... it's great...” he gave her a big dopey grin.

Clop bits are over, you may resume reading at your leisure.

“Good,” Zecora patted Jason on the back. “Perhaps we should head back to the village?” She suggested, getting up.

“Yeah... wait…” jason stopped, looking toward me.

‘Oh shit, I am so dead!’ I thought, as I held my breath in a vain attempt to avoid detection. ‘If Jason knows I’m here then he’ll freeze me solid!’

“Vash.. were you...watching me...?”

‘Goodbye Equestria, it was fun while it lasted.’ I then desperately tried to think of a way to get out alive.

“Caw! Caw!” I called out from my hiding place.

‘There is no way that’s going to work,’ I winced.

“Get the fuck out here!”

I stood up from my hiding spot with my head hung low. “Um… hi,” I offered weakly. I just whimpered as the zebras swarm me, all of them looking pissed.

‘Death by zebra, never thought I’d go that way,’ I thought as I started to sweat bullets.

“So uh, did you enjoy your bath?” I asked.

“Seriously!? Are you fucking kidding me?!” Jason seethed, stomping toward me.

“Uhh… I’m going to plead the fifth on this on the grounds of either answers will most likely wind up with me dead.”

Jason just glared, stopping in front of me.

“You know Vash... I have the best punishment in mind...”

“Is it too late to say I’m sorry?” I squeaked. Jason glared before grabbed my crotch and... freezing my junk...solid. I tried to say something but the only thing that came out was a series of pitiful squeaks as I fell to the ground.

“There.” Jason smirked, wiping his hands off.

“I-I am v-v-v-very s-sorry Jason,” I said, holding onto my crotch and shivering while I looked up at him pitifully. “Just please, don’t let me stay like this.”

“And why shouldn’t I?” he asked, looking down at me with a glare.

“Because I’m your friend?” I offered hopefully.

He just glared down at me.

“Because you’ll have three angry mares after you, two of which can use the Elements of Harmony and are Alicorns?”

“I could take them.” He informed, crossing his arms.

“Because I won’t ever do this to you again?”

“Swear on your life.”

“I swear on my life that I will never peep on you again,” I pledged with one hand held up. “Is that good enough?” He sighed, grabbing me and chucking me into the hot spring. I surfaced a moment later and let out a sigh of relief as I slowly felt myself thaw. “Thank you Jason, and sorry again.”

“I will turn you into a popsicle.” he shot back, walking out of sight.

“Wait!” I called out. “Don’t leave me alone with these angry ladies!” I cried trying to get onto dry land. When I made it to the shore I was greeted by the sight of over a dozen angry zebras just seething at me. “Oh, this will not end well for me,” I said under my breath.

“Grab him,” Zecora demanded.

The others obeyed and I was hoisted above the crowd as they rushed back to the village. Once we were there, Zecora went into her hut and seemed to be grabbing something. When she returned she was holding a large container that had a strange blue liquid in it. She dumped the liquid right onto my face causing me to sputter for a few seconds.

“What is that stuff?” I asked nervously as I was set down.

“Distilled essence of Poison Joke. The effects of which shall be your punishment.”

“And what is it going to do to me? Kill me?” I asked with a gulp.

“No, but you will find out soon enough,” Zecora chuckled darkly. “Now, head back to your hut. We are done with you.”

“Okay,” I replied, walking to the hut and calling out, “Jason, you in there?”

“What?” Jason asked, not bothering to look at me.

“Is it okay if I come into the hut?”

“Just get in here.” Jason sighed, shaking his head.

“Thanks,” I said as I got in the hut and sat as far as possible from him. “So uh, you did really well in your training with Zecora.”

“Thanks.” He said coldly, laying down in his ice bed with his back to me.

“Umm…” I was going to say something else, but all of a sudden I felt off. “Ack!” I cried out, grabbing at my head.

“You ok?” Jason asked, sounding worried.

“I dunno,” I admitted through gritted teeth. “Zecora decided to throw something called Poison Joke on me. That’s probably what this is all about.” I said before letting out a howl of pain and huddling into the fetal position. When the pain finally died down, I let out a groan and sat up. As soon as I did though, everything seemed to look… bigger. Including my own clothes. “Jason, what happened to me?”

“Oh geez you're adorable!” Jason practically squeed, lifting me up out of my clothes. “Heh, you make a cute colt Vashie.”

“What did you just say?” I asked slowly, my eyes turning to pinpricks.

“You don’t look any older than... I dunno two? Heh, I wonder if you’ll start lisping...?”

I took a deep breath, trying to collect myself so I wouldn’t get angry. “Jason, could you get me a mirror? I wanna get a good look of myself.” Jason waved his hand, creating an ice wall, holding me in front of it. Just like he said, I was a colt. A red furred one at that. And dear sweet God were my eyes huge! I was about to explode in an odd mixture of rage and confusion when I had an odd feeling.

“Hey Jason, could you scratch my back please? I have the weirdest itch right now.” I commented, my tiny infant arms failing to reach the spot that bothered me.

He reached behind me, giving my back a scratch. Which caused it to twitch oddly just below the shoulder blades. I took another deep breath and asked, “Jason, do I have wings?”

“Yes you do. You’re an adorable little pegasus.”

“That’s just friggin perfect,” I sighed. “That’s it, I’m grabbin’ my gun!” I shouted, trying to wriggle out of Jason’s grip.

“Oh no you don’t.” he chuckled, pulling me close to his ample chest.”This is a most fitting punishment.”

“No, you freezing the boys was a fitting punishment. This is just cruel and unusual,” I pouted, crossing my arms over my chest.

“Anyway, lets get you a diaper before you have an accident or something.” Jason chuckled, grabbing a spare cloth that was around the hut.

“That’s not funny,” I grumbled. “I’m still a man dammit. I’m not going to crap myself.”

“No you are a colt.” Before I could stop him, Jason quickly tied the cloth around my waist. “There! Now I do believe its bed time.” He got into the non-ice bed, keeping me close.

“You’re enjoying this way too much,” I hissed.

“Hey, if you're good, mama might give you some milk.” Jason smirked, pulling the covers over us.

“I am so grabbing my gun and using the angel arm when you fall asleep,” I mumbled.

“You're not a Plant anymore... besides, you’ll shoot your eye out.”

“Grrrr,” I growled, but otherwise I didn’t say anything else.

“Just go to sleep.”

“Can’t, too angry.”

“Sleep.” Jason commanded, casting the spell again.

“Oh you…” But I didn’t get a chance to finish that sentence as I drifted off to sleep.

I slowly drifted back into consciousness the next morning with a long groan. “Please let that all have been an awful dream,” I muttered. Jason was snoring away, with my face pressed into his bosom. “Well, at least it’s not all bad,” I commented as I made myself comfortable.

Jason mumbled, curling up around me, having gone to sleep naked.

‘And suddenly I am totally okay with being turned into a pony baby,’ I thought with a dopey smile as I nuzzled into Jason’s chest. ‘Actually, I just had an evil idea,’ I continued with a devious smile. I took a deep breath and started to wail loudly, just like an infant. Jason stirred slightly and and I swear he smiled. The next thing I know, his nipple had been shoved in my mouth.

‘Yes, I am a genius!’ I cheered in my thoughts. I then started to suckle and made cooing baby noises... and too my surprise got milk to start flowing. I was taken aback by this development but continued with my impromptu breakfast for a while. When I was full I pulled away with a grin. Jason just muttered something, keeping me close. I started to wonder how far the baby act would get me as I settled back into a comfortable position and decided to wait for Jason to wake up.

Jason let out a loud yawn, cracking his jaw, opening his eyes. “Sleep well, Vashie?” he asked, looking down at me.

I just looked up at him with the most innocent baby look I could manage and started to babble happily.

“What? Your mind match your body?” he asked, looking rather concerned now. I tilted my head, looking confused by his question. “Oh that's just great...” he set me gently on the bed, getting up and getting dressed, deciding the zebra outfit was much more his style than the dress.

While he did that I sniffled and reached out pitifully toward him.

“Alright, alright, I got you.” He muttered soothingly, hoisting me back up into the air. “There. Happy now?” I let out some happy noises as I nuzzled into his chest. He sighed, rubbing my back, a small smile on his face. He stepped out into the village, looking around. “Uh Zecora,” He called, spotting the zebra stepping out of her hut.

“What is it, Jason?” She asked, seeming to not notice me.

“Besides me suddenly getting a foal? Nothing major.”

“Oh, is that the effect the Poison Joke had on your male?” Zecora asked with a chuckle. “I could not have picked a more fitting punishment,” she said as she came up to me and pinched my cheek.

“He is rather adorable isn’t he?” Jason giggled, bouncing me a little. I babbled a little more and attempted to flap my wings, which came surprisingly naturally to me. Baby instincts I guess.

“A vast improvement over what he was before,” she nodded.

“Oh?” Jason asked, gesturing for her to continue.

“ For one thing he can’t talk,” Zecora giggled.

Jason giggled with her, shaking his head. “I suppose that's true.” He reached down, booping my nose. I giggled and grasped at his finger. He let me have them, looking back at Zecora. “It appears his mind is a blank slate now”

‘Heh, that’s what you think,’ I thought as I teethed on Jason’s finger.

“That is quite the development,” Zecora noted as she rubbed her chin in thought. “Though it is not surprising considering what I used on him was the distilled essence of the oils secreted by the Poison Joke plant. The effects were bound to be strong.”

“Isn’t that kinda harsh?” Jason asked, placing me on his hip.

“He committed an egregious act and spied on us during our bathing time,” Zecora answered, her tone turning harsh. “He is lucky that you had already delved out a form of punishment on him. Otherwise we would’ve been tempted to do more.”

“Like what?” He asked, casting a glance down at me.

“Gelding is a common punishment for that kind of transgression.”

“Well than, I’m glad I gave that punishment...” he muttered, wincing a little. Which I was tempted to do as well. But instead I just grasped at Jason with a whimper. “Anyway.. you do have the cure right?”

“For the most part.”

“May I have it before we leave..?” he asked hopefully.

“Yes, but it wouldn’t do anything if you used it. One of the ingredients needed has not blossomed this year due to the weather,” Zecora admitted.

“I see... and what kind of weather does it need...?”

“Temperate and mild with little sunlight. Like in a dark forest.”

Jason sighed, pinching his nose. “Winter I assume?”

“It depends, sometimes those conditions are met at other times of the year. But this has been a particularly warm year so the Night Lily hasn’t bloomed.”

“I can fix that.” Jason sighed, looking down at me. “Though, I am remiss to start messing with the ecosystem...” I just tilted my head up at him and smiled.

“It’s supposed to be winter right...?”

“Yes, and so far it has been a fairly typical one,” she answered.

“How would you like a white christmas?” he asked with a big smirk.

“Christmas?” Zecora asked with a tilt of her head.

“Eh, don’t worry about it.” Jason shook his head. “He can stand to spend a few months in diapers.” He looked down at me smirking. I did my best to fight the urge to gulp. Instead I buried my head in his chest and let my face fall.

‘Months! No, I don’t wanna spend months in diapers! Oh, this is not good.’

“And why the sudden lack of hurry to change him back?” Zecora asked with a chuckle.

“Because I just know the princesses are going to love him like this.” Jason grinned, winking at me.

‘Does he know that I’m faking it?’ I thought, still not dropping the act.

“Plus, he’ll be easier to deal with like this, and he’ll be easily entertained while we train.” He smiled, turning back to Zecora.

“Fair enough,” Zecora giggled. “Whenever you are ready to leave I shall give you the incomplete cure and a drawing of the Night Lily so you can cure your male at your discretion.”

“Sounds good! Shall we get started than?”

“Of course, I hope you are ready to learn some more advanced techniques.”

“You know I am!” He smirked rather cockily.

“Then let’s not delay,” Zecora nodded and led Jason to where they had trained yesterday.

“Where do I set Vash? I don’t want him wandering off on me.” Jason looked down at me with a pensive look.

Zecora thought for a moment and flagged down a random villager. The two talked amongst themselves before they both turned to Jason and I. “She has agreed to hold him while we train.”

“Be good, you hear me?” Jason asked, giving me a stern look before passing me off to the villager. I sniffled slightly and reached out to Jason as he walked over to Zecora. The villager chuckled and patted me on the head.

“Calm yourself young one. Mama isn’t leaving you,” she said as she sat down and pointed me at the two.

“You ready?” Jason asked, getting into the stance that Zecora had taught him.

“I am always ready,” Zecora nodded as she got in her own stance. “I’ve simply been waiting for you.”

Jason rolled his eyes before lunging at her, aiming at her stomach. Zecora brought her arm down and attempted to put Jason into a hold. He smacked her arm away with his other, striking her in the chest with an open palm. She hopped away, circling around Jason in an attempt to find an opening to exploit. She lashed out, attempting to hit him in his side. He brought his arm down, blocking her, twisting her arm behind her back. She used her free hand to strike at the nearest part of Jason she could reach. He winced, taking the punch to the thigh, pushing her away.

“You have learned well,” Zecora commented, rubbing her shoulder.

“I’m a very quick study.” Jason smirked. “You’d be amazed how much I can learn in a day.”

“I am slightly aware. You did learn quite a lot yesterday,” she said with a wink.

He blushed a bit before getting back into a stance. He moved at her, jabbing at her head this time. Zecora moved her head slightly and grabbed at Jason’s arm by the shoulder and spun him around. She then attempted to jab him in the small of the back. He staggered back, looking a little dizzy.

“Are you okay?” Zecora asked. “Would you like to take a break?”

“No I’m good...” he suddenly hurried over to a bush, starting to vomit again.

“I will get you something to help with your nausea,” Zecora called out as she slipped into a hut. She returned a moment later with a steaming cup of what looked like tea. “This should do the trick. Sip it slowly.”

“Is that the tea the elder gave me...? That stuff is horrible...” he grumbled, taking it from her, giving it a sip.

“No, this is something I made myself. It shouldn’t taste too bad. But it is still medicine.”

“Thanks...” he nodded, taking a seat, sipping at it again. “How good are you at magic?”

“I am a shaman Jason,” Zecora chuckled as if the answer were obvious. “My entire life has been devoted to bridging our physical world to the realm of the spirit.”

“Well... my magic is a bit different than that, but I’m willing to try and teach you.”

“Hmm, I suppose even the greatest teacher has much to learn,” she mused with a smile.

“We’ll start with something simple, do you have a knife?”

Zecora reached down and pulled out a knife that had been concealed by her outfit. “Always.”

“Thank you.” Jason took it from her... plunging it into his arm, creating a long, ghastly gash. He held his hand up, motioning for her to relax. He closed his eyes, casting a spell, his wound stitching closed, leaving only a faded scar.

I opened my mouth and started to wail, figuring that was the most appropriate response from a child.

“That...might not have been the best idea...” Jason said, giving a weak chuckle.

Zecora just gave him a look that screamed, “You think?” as she covered her ears.

He got up, moving over to me. He took me from the villagers arms, gently bouncing me, rubbing my back. My wailing continued, though it diminished slightly. “Hey come on, I’m ok, see?” My wailing died down to the occasional sniffle and hiccup as I reached out to touch the faint scar where Jason had stabbed himself. “See? I’m okay now.” He leaned down, kissing my head. I finally stopped after one more sniffle and grabbed at the scar. It was normal skin, and didn’t seem to cause Jason pain.

“You calmed him down rather quickly,” Zecora noted as she removed her hands from her ears.

“What can I say? I’m great with kids.” Jason smiled, passing me back to the villager.

“That is good. Now, perhaps we should continue with our lesson without scaring the infant?”

He nodded, moving over to Zecora, sitting down next to her.

“So, what were you trying to teach me before that… little distraction?”

“That was my most basic white magic spell, ‘cure’. It can heal most minor injuries, including broken bones.”

“Sounds most useful. How do I perform it?” Jason went over the explanation, something about pulling the energy out of yourself and willing it to heal. I didn’t really pay attention. Not like I’d ever be able to pull off all that magic stuff anyway. Zecora hung onto his every word though, and seemed to concentrate in order to try and pull it off. It took her a while, but a faint glow briefly surrounded her hand.

“Did I do it?” Zecora asked, bewildered.

“The only way to really know is to try and heal a wound.” Jason looked at her.

“And how do you suggest I do that? Neither of us is wounded and the last time we created one Vash started crying.”

“Anyone got any injuries!?” Jason called out, looking around. Eventually, a confused looking zebra came forward with a small cut on her leg.

“Um, I skinned my knee the other day. Why do you ask?”

“May Zecora try a spell on you? It should heal your cut.” Jason explained, smiling at her.

The zebra shrugged and held her leg out in front of Zecora. She took a deep breath and hovered her hands above the cut. After a minute or so the faint glow surrounded her hands and the cut slowly began to heal itself. After a little bit the cut was completely gone and Zecora beamed at Jason.

“I did it!”

“Good work!” Jason praised with a smile. “Now this is the base level spell. The more energy you put into it, the more it will heal. The next tier is called ‘Cura’, then ‘Curaga’ with ‘Curaja’ at the top.”

‘Is Jason teaching her Final Fantasy magic?’ I thought with a puzzled look. ‘So a norse god with an Omnitrix from Ben 10, knows how to perform magic from Final Fantasy. There is so much insane about all of that, but at this point it actually makes some strange amount of sense.’

“So, what should we try now?” Zecora asked, turning to Jason. “Should we return to your combat training, or continue my studies in magic?”

“I’m up for either really.” Jason shrugged. “I feel we both have a lot to teach.”

“Then why don’t we alternate?” Zecora suggested. “I teach you something and you teach me something?”

“I think that would work wonders!” Jason nodded. “I want to impart as much as I can before heading back to Equestria.”

“Then let’s get back to your training.” Zecora nodded, standing up and getting into her stance. Jason got back into his, starting to throw punches at her. The two continued like this for some time, alternating between teaching one another. By the end of their training they seemed more tired than the day before.

“It seems you make both an interesting teacher as well as student,” Zecora said, trying to catch her breath.

“I try my best... you're my first real student after all.” Jason laughed, falling back onto the grass.

“And you have been mine,” Zecora chuckled. “I still have plenty of time to find an apprentice after all.”

He nodded, picking me up, smiling at the villager. “Thank you for watching him.”

“It was no trouble,” the villager dismissed. “He was well behaved all things considered.”

He nodded, hugging me close to his chest. “So, want do you guys do around here for dinner?”

“We eat things similar to what we had at your celebration yesterday,” Zecora answered. “Though not as much of it.”

“How do you feel about meat?” Jason asked carefully.

“The closest thing we eat to traditional meat is eggs and the occasional fish.”

“I see...” Jason nodded. “Fish sounds good.”

“Then let’s eat,” Zecora said, standing up and leading Jason to get some food. Jason hummed, waving at the villagers, a smile on his face. They all waved back as they went about some basic business. I decided to get involved and jerkily mimicked Jason’s actions while looking up at him.

Some dawwed but others ignored me. Eventually we all made it to a fairly large hut where Zecora sat us down and went to get her and Jason food. She came back after a little while with two different plates, handing Jason the one that had a grilled fish on it.

“There you are, You’re lucky that we had some fresh fish at the ready.”

“Thank you.” Jason nodded, starting to eat. “This is really good!” he beamed.

“Yes, the land has gifted us with a variety of spices that we’ve learned to use over the years,” Zecora said with a proud smile as she started to eat. The smell and sight of those two eating caused me to start drooling.

“Oh! That reminds me!” He reached into his pocket, pulling out a small pouch. “Here.” He offered them to zecora.

“What is this?” She asked as she took the pouch.

“Those are seeds to a fruit called an Enigma berry. When eaten, they will heal a majority of your wounds.”

“Fascinating, where did you get such a thing?” While the two were distracted by their conversation, I decided to reach down and try to eat some of what was on Jason’s plate.

“No, no.” Jason stopped me. “You’re too little for that.” I looked up at him with the most pitiful look I could manage, this time not a part of my baby act. “No, you can’t have any and that's final.” he said moving his plate away.

‘Damn it! I have found a terrible downside to acting like an infant!’ I screamed in my thoughts as I pouted. ‘Not getting to eat the delicious food that these zebras make!’

Jason went back to eating, explaining how he got the seeds from a friend named ‘Medulla.’

“You lead quite the interesting life,” Zecora said.

“Oh you have no idea, Zecora.” Jason chuckled, shaking his head.

“I suppose not, though depending how long you stay I might be able to find out more.”

“How long do you want me to stay?” Jason asked, looking at her.

“This is a matter of what you want, not what I want.”

“That is true, Zecora.” Jason nodded, petting my head. “I don’t see why I couldn’t stay a week or two.”

“Hmm, that might be enough time for you to master skinship if nothing else,” Zecora purred with a wink.

Jason blushed, but smirked at her. “Oh Rarity and Chrysalis will just love that...” he muttered under his breath.

“Then it will be a worthy skill to learn,” Zecora chuckled.

“And it allows me to pass on most of what I know.” he grinned, taking another bite of his fish.

“Seems like more than a fair trade to me. You know, if I didn’t already know Vash was male, his appearance would make me think he’s a little filly,” Zecora remarked, tousling my hair.

Jason got an evil smirk. “Lets dress him like one.”

“Ooh that sounds splendid!” Zecora cheered, clapping her hands together. “Perhaps we should dress him in the traditional garb of our honored warriors?”

‘Please say no! Please say no!’ I pleaded in my thoughts repeatedly.

“Sounds like a plan, Zecora!” He smirked, starting to tickle me.

I couldn’t help but giggle, my baby pony body being very ticklish. But I did make an attempt to squirm out of his grasp to escape my fate.

‘Why is this happening to me?’ I thought between giggles.

“Should we include the traditional lip markings?” Zecora asked, pinching my cheek.

“Let’s go all the way Zecora.”

“Of course, let’s get started!” she cheered as she stood up. Jason smirked, standing up and cradling me close. He followed after Zecora, bouncing me gently.