“Nnn…Marcus?”

“Yeah?”

I lie peacefully in Rarity’s bed, having woken up earlier than expected and decided to wait until she wakes up. Now that she has, I feel her wearily squirm in my arms as she turns to face me. With a weak smile, the mare flickers her eyes open as she greets the human resting next to her.

“Good morning, darling.”

“Good morning, Rarity.”

Even as she rises on her back ever-so-slightly, she takes her time sitting up in bed and I easily follow afterward. Today might be a big day, all things considered, but it’s still morning; I have time to take it slow. As delicate as ever, Rarity’s hoof travels along my naked body and traces circles on my chest while speaking in a hushed whisper.

“Last night was simply divine, Marcus.”

“Well, I certainly hope for many more like it.”

Rarity blushes at my clear admittance of my own enjoyment of last night’s events. I still love teasing her to catch her cute reactions, even if she ends up making teasing remarks of her own.

“I’d like to get some work done every now and then, you know.”

“Hey, not today. You’ve been working practically all week. We’re going to relax and have fun, okay?”

She doesn’t respond, instead choosing to sidle closer to me and nuzzle her face against my neck. I know a sophisticated and talented mare like her must have a lot on her plate, but she should know when she needs to just take a break.

For now, I just want to enjoy this peaceful moment with her. This is one of those rare instances I want to remember fondly. Normally, it would be a damn shame if I was asked to leave all this behind like a forgotten memory. However, now that I know for a fact that I’m staying, I’m not gonna let anyone take it away from me.

In any case, I push my thoughts aside as I remember that we both have a party to attend today. Nudging her slightly, she seems to take the hint and releases me from her gentle caresses long enough for me to remove the blanket covering us and stand up from the bed. I spot the small pile of clothes I put aside for myself and make my way over to them. All the while, the presence of Rarity’s gaze on my back causes a pang of fear to hit me as I wonder about the cutie marks that were there.

What would she say if she saw them? Would she hate me again? I mean, it’s not like she’ll understand what they would’ve implied, but that doesn’t mean she wouldn’t grow curious about them.

Regardless, I decide to forget about those damned things. Neither Celestia’s stupid plan for me nor my own paranoid thinking is going to be of any benefit now. Getting changed as if nothing had happened, I wordlessly slip my shirt over my head and zip up my pants with memorized ease. Rarity chimes up behind me, followed by the strange sound of magic levitating something close by.

“You make it look so easy. Without my magic, I would never be able to dress myself like that.”

She does have a point there. I’ve seen ponies use their teeth to grip things, but imagining one putting on clothes by themselves, and with hooves at that, is a little difficult to picture. I simply smirk and turn back to her, watching as she carefully makes her bed neat and tidy after the previous night’s romp. Her own smile fades for a moment, however, before she speaks up in a quieter tone.

“My work isn’t too stress relieving, either. Dressmaking with magic ends up being rather exhausting.”

I nod in agreement, still looking at the beautiful mare taking time to clean up and prepare herself in her own effortless way. Turning back to gaze at me, Rarity’s eyes shimmer as she presumably gets an idea.

“Do you think you could help me later this week? That is to say, assuming you’re available.”

“I think I can make time in my busy schedule for you.”

I chuckle after making my statement in jest, and Rarity responds with an uncertain smile. Even through that, however, I can see that she still has something on her mind. That or she didn’t appreciate my joke as much as I thought she would. For a second or so of silence, I’m not sure what to say before Rarity questions me.

“Marcus…you said you aren’t going to leave me, right?”

I’m not even going to bother with some half-assed response that will only belittle my true feelings. Instead, I take a few steps toward her, staring down at the unicorn as she takes on a look of surprise at my boldness.

Once again, Rarity’s soft, pure white fur engulfs me as I wrap my arms around her neck and hug her close to me. Needless to say, she gasps as I shock her with this romantic gesture, with the utmost confidence, I assert to her in the strongest voice I can manage.

“I would never even dream of it.”

My words seem powerful enough to move the usually very composed mare. Without wasting a second, she grasps my head between her hooves and pulls me into another wonderful kiss. I may not be the most romantic guy around, but I say what I feel, and that’s good enough for the one I love.

Walking over to Sugarcube Corner wasn’t too much of a hassle, especially not so now that I had Rarity by my side. Resting my hand on her gently as we neared the entrance, I felt near-Pinkie Pie levels of joy fill me. Noticing the lack of noise pollution in the air around the bakery, I can tell that the party is far smaller than the one I attended a few days ago. Even considering the fact that Derpy told me about it beforehand, I still didn’t really know what her or Derpy’s definition of a “small party” was.

Now, having approached the stable door to the favorite party location of the one and only Pinkie Pie, I look to my side and see Rarity looking back at me with a kind smile. A tilt of the mare’s head is all it takes to urge me into knocking my balled-up hand against the entrance. Rather quickly, the door swings open and a bright flash of pink invades my sight as the energetic party-thrower smiles wide at me. Before even a “hello” is exchanged, she perks up considerably and announces in the most excited voice I’m not really expecting.

“Oh! You’re here! Come on in!”

Rarity and I eye her for a moment and follow her inside after she makes enough room for us to enter. I look past the chubby pink form in front of me to see the five other ponies (and Spike) I’ve gotten to know all around the room conversing happily with one another. Pinkie quickly turns to face the two of us when we’re inside and casually prods my side with her hoof.

“I’ll bet you two slept pretty well last night, eh? Eh?”

Rarity’s face takes on a hint of red at Pinkie’s comment and I end up nervously rubbing my neck as I laugh the comment off. Both of us know that she’s fairly accurate in her assumption. Lacking a response to neither confirm nor deny her suspicion, I settle and eke out a passing note.

“Ehh, you could say that.”

Rarity catches on and attempts to change the conversation on her own.

“Well, I’m just happy to be back from Canterlot in time for another of your most enjoyable parties.”

“Then, what are you waiting over here for? Go say hi!”

In a flash, I make my way to the nearest side of the room where the party favors are in an attempt to mingle like Pinkie Pie wants me to. With Rarity in tow, we approach the table with a certain shy pegasus standing and looking over the many party favors that lie out before her. Slide whistles, noisemakers, and even a few bottles for bubble-blowing are scattered about, even though I doubt she will ever actually use any of them. She looks like she’s considering them, at least.

I don’t really want to surprise her, seeing as she hasn’t noticed our presence as of yet, but Rarity quickly chimes up for me.

“Fluttershy, darling!”

Visibly shaken, Fluttershy looks as if she’s ready to jump out of her skin right here and now. Her fur stands on edge as her muscles tense, perhaps frightened by the suddenness of Rarity’s greeting. When she turns around and sees just who it was the surprised her, however, her face quickly relaxes and she breathes out a sigh of relief to accost her friend.

“Oh, hi Rarity. It’s good to see you again. It’s been a while.”

“Likewise, of course!”

Rarity trots forward and kisses the air beside each of Fluttershy’s cheeks in a gesture that seems entirely natural for her. The bashful pegasus notices my presence soon after and smiles as she warmly addresses me.

“Hello to you too, Marcus.”

“Heh. Hello, Fluttershy. Nice to see you, and at a party of all places.”

“I missed Derpy’s a few days ago, but after hearing what happened and also seeing you that day, I’m…kind of glad I didn’t get the invitation after all.”

Rarity and I exchange glances and laugh nervously, both of us happy to put that chapter of the past behind us. Regaining my composure, I nod to Fluttershy and honestly respond.

“I can understand that. Today’s a better day for all of us to celebrate, anyway.”

“You’re absolutely right, Marcus. Now, Fluttershy, what have you been up to in my absence? I know we missed a spa day, which simply will not do.”

“Oh, well, you know, the usual…”

Fluttershy trails off as she speaks to Rarity, now having focused their attention on each other instead of me. I end up looking around at the other guests and decide that I probably shouldn’t linger too long if I want to get a chance to talk to everybody here. Finding an opening in Fluttershy’s mumblings, I let the two know of my cause.

“I’m gonna go ahead and see everyone else, but it was nice talking to you, Fluttershy. Err, Rarity, you don’t mind if I go-“

“Not at all. I’m not so greedy as to keep you all to myself on a day such as this. Go on, darling. I’ll catch up later.”

I smile back as I hear her soothing voice calm me and send me on my way. She turns back to pick up on her side of the conversation and leaves me free to converse with the other ponies scattered around the room. As I walk away, I can’t help but think about Fluttershy and the time we’ve spent together.

Twilight utilizing the shy mare’s wings on me, the less than stellar reintroduction, being comforted in her home, to finally coming to rely in her simple, yet very sound, advice. Fluttershy might be one of the most unconventional friends I’ve ever had, but I’m certainly appreciative of her efforts to help me out. She’s really the kindest pony I’ve ever met, and I don’t intend to lose such a valuable friend any time soon.

To my left, I spy another unicorn and pegasus pair standing near a bowl of fruit punch and happily chatting with one another. One, a noticeably more relaxed Twilight Sparkle, and the other a happy-go-lucky Derpy Hooves, who flares out her wings and lets out a joyful giggle. Walking across the room to the two mares, I easily overhear their conversation.

“So, you mean to tell me that you were the first pony he met?”

“Yep! At least, that’s what it seemed like. Heck, when I saw him, all I could say was like whaaaaaat is that thing? But then, I got to have fun with him more and more and- Oh, hi Marcus!”

Derpy notices me nearing closer rather fast, and I chuckle at the goofy wave she gestures my way. Twilight turns to face me and smiles in that same delightful way I’ve come to expect from her as she speaks up.

“Hi, Marcus! How was Cloudsdale?”

“Really impressive. I had no idea there was so much up there.”

“There are a lot of cool places in Equestria!”

Derpy chirps up from beside us and draws my attention toward her as she smiles very wide at me. I attempt to return a wide smile of my own, but it pales in comparison, as usual. Suddenly, however, her face takes on a blushing hue while her hoof nervously shies away as she continues.

“You know, if you have the time…maybe we could go…”

Is she okay? Unafraid to call her out on the sudden change in behavior, I lean down to face the pegasus and question her.

“Is something on your mind, Derpy?”

She looks back in my direction, then over to Twilight who simply holds back a laugh and motions her hoof back towards me. Okay, I know I’m missing something here. In an effort to get the blushing pegasus to tell me what exactly she’s holding back, I honestly speak up.

“Derpy, you know you can tell me anything and I would never think any less of-“

…Eh? Did Derpy just…kiss me on the cheek? She moved so fast just now that I barely saw her lean in and peck me with her lips. Being interrupted like that by such a surprising action, I feel my own face start to heat up in response to hers. I find it difficult to say anything, now, and can only mutter as she turns her gaze away, seemingly very embarrassed.

“You…uhh…”

Twilight giggles from beside us, pointing her hoof at Derpy and gleefully noting aloud.

“Your face is so red, Derpy! Mhmhm!”

Not one to lie, Twilight brings further attention to Derpy Hooves as the color on her face deepens. I rub my cheek, wondering just why exactly that gray pegasus kissed me in the first place. After a brief moment of no response, Twilight nudges me and motions to speak a bit more quietly.

“Anyway, Marcus, can I say something for a second?”

Both of us turn away from Derpy and leave her to her own devices as Twilight continues.

“I’m really sorry I got so out-of-hoof with my ‘research.’ I took it too far for the wrong reasons and I feel terrible.”

I can’t argue with that. She had me between her hooves, in her mouth, and even being forced to bend her over and basically fuck her into a coma. After knowing what I know now and seeing Twilight back to the way she was when I first saw her, however, I’m more than happy to assume that all of that behavior was because of some ridiculous spell. I don’t think I’ll ever forget about that, but now I can at least rest easy knowing that it won’t happen again.

Hearing Twilight’s further apologies just reminds me of the worried and easily ashamed mare’s real personality, behind all that lust from before. It’s pretty cute, and I chuckle a bit as she patiently waits for my answer, all the while wearing a guilty frown.

“It’s fine, Twilight. Listen…”

I kneel down to face Twilight and meet her at eye level, putting more strength into my words to make sure she pays close attention.

“Maybe we can work together to do some simpler research. You know, combine our brainpower a bit? Maybe read a book together or something so that we don’t end up getting any mixed messages. You know what I mean?”

The previously crestfallen unicorn looks at me with unabashed joy, but settles for a mild response as her twinkling violet eyes stare into my own.

“I’d like that.”

Twilight turns and trots back to Derpy, who seems to have buried her head in the punch bowl while we were talking to cool her face, which was no doubt very warm with embarrassment. I never knew she’d react like that, considering she was the one who kissed me. Feeling as I’ve said all that needed to be said, I return my glance to the rest of the party as I think about what spending the past few days with Twilight has been like.

Escorting me to the princesses, waking me up in the oddest of ways, regrettably making me satisfy her wild desire, and all of it leading up to a tear-filled reunion. No matter what happens with Twilight, whether she is under some ridiculous spell or not, I still feel like I can see that there is something there for me to stick through the worst with her. We have a very give and take relationship. I try to look out for her as she cares for me, and I wouldn’t have even noticed the cutie marks on my back if it weren’t for her over attentiveness. Through all the magical experiences I’ve been subjected to, I’m happy to have someone on my side.

Speaking of having someone on my side, I notice Spike and Pinkie Pie across the room doing a dance resembling a chicken flapping its wings. Resting my arm on a nearby table, I watch with a smile as the playful pair flail about without a care in the world.

Spike’s one of those rare- uhh…dragons, I guess- who is a lot more outgoing and relatable than he might seem. I never expected us to bond so well the other day, especially since I’m sure he’s far younger than me. Nevertheless, I really enjoyed his company, and seeing him shake his tail about as he joyfully partakes in the silly dance is quite a testament to his true, youthful nature.

Pinkie, on the other hand…well, she’s just Pinkie. From her coming on a little too strong in the beginning to outright depressing herself when she felt alone, Pinkie Pie is really difficult for me to pin down. However, I can’t say she hasn’t taught me a lesson about taking things a little less seriously and appreciating being there when I’m needed. Her unpredictability may catch me off-guard quite a bit, but if there’s anything I put stock into when it comes to Pinkie Pie, it’s that she lives her life with the utmost joy and care for her friends above all else. Besides, everyone can use a good laugh every now and then.

I decide that it’s best not to bother them when they’re in the middle of dancing like that. I’ve got plenty of time to chat with them later, after all. Lifting my arm back up and stretching it out a bit, I turn to look over to the far corner of the room-

“Hey.”

Ah! Oh, it’s just Rainbow Dash. She’s kind of flying a little too close to my face for my liking, though. Even after all that’s happened this week, I still like to think that I have a personal bubble that I don’t really like others to infiltrate too often.

Leaving it at that and trying not to act like her sudden appearance scared me, I greet her openly.

“Oh. Hey Rainbow Da- Mmph!?”

What the? She-…She’s kissing me! The incredibly soft lips that I only had the pleasure of feeling graze mine before are now pressing into me with full-force, not unlike how a desperate lover would. The way she does it is a little rough for my taste, however…

“Ugh…Okay, there.”

Thankfully, she pulls away, but not without a quick slip of her tongue inside my mouth. While brief, that was a little much for such a sudden occurrence. I hear some other sound emanate from behind Rainbow, however, and look behind her to see Applejack stifling giggles. What? What was I just used for?

Rainbow Dash simply blushes deeper as she looks at me before her clearly annoyed frown quivers a bit. She sighs and turns back to face Applejack, leaving me with a view of her privates yet again. Quickly, I step away and to her side so I can face Applejack as well while the two of them converse.

“Happy now? I did it.”
“Heh. And? How was it? Better?”
“Oh, shut up. You owe me twenty-five bits, and don’t forget it.”
“Now hold on there, Rainbow. Ah said if it weren’t no good, ah’d pay ya, but I’m lookin at yer face right now, and…ah think I see a blush on those cheeks uh yers, RD.”
“That’s just- you know-…I still don’t like him.”
“Yeah, yeah, git along so ah can calm him down a bit. Don’t want ‘im to get to thinkin yer all hot for ‘im, now…unless that’s wut you want.”

Rainbow Dash turns back to me quickly, showing a shocked and embarrassed face as if she’d been caught red-hooved before looking back at AJ and sighing. Gently flapping her wings, she sulks her way over to the other side of the room with a groan. Did these two really just make some kind of bet? I mean, I knew they were competitive but…yeesh.

Applejack spends no time in finishing off her giggles and approaching me to hopefully attempt to explain what just happened.

“Ah was jus’ messin’ around with Rainbow back there. Sorry fer that, Marcus. Though, I don’t think you mind terribly much, do ya?”

“Well, I guess not. Although, I think a heads-up beforehand is better than an apology afterward.”

She takes my quip in stride and chuckles, releasing that endearing laugh back into the air before agreeing with me.

“Ah reckon ya got a point there, pardner.”

Taking a moment to snag a treat from the table beside us, I watch as Dash lands next to Pinkie Pie and tries not to be embarrassed after what she just pulled. Chuckling inward, I think back to how things have worked out between Rainbow Dash and I.

Looking back, Rainbow Dash is another one of those odd ponies I could never quite figure out. She was rather upfront about her cocky attitude and flying skills, and later on, pretty blatant about showing me that she isn’t quite straight as an arrow, so to speak. However, what struck me particularly strong about her was when she defended Pinkie Pie along with Derpy the other day. Not only is she very ambitious and stays true to herself, she’s also very loyal to her friends. There’s definitely something good to be seen in Rainbow Dash, that’s for sure.

When I turn to look back and keep my eyes focused on AJ in front of me, I see that she’s also enjoying a delectable-looking treat from the table. Specifically an apple tart, which she happily munched with her mouth falling open and her eyes closed happily. No need for table manners when she’s having a good time.

I take a bite of my own treat, allowing the sweet taste of baked goods to smoothly roll through my taste buds. Of course, this brief pause as we chew now gives me an opportunity to think about how this simple, farming pony has affected me.

Unlike any other pony I’ve met so far, Applejack has been the most straightforward with me. After I was introduced to her “down to earth” personality at Sweet Apple Acres and ending up having a few chats with her, I can’t even begin to express my thanks just for having this orange-coated mare as my friend. Using her true words and natural ability to knock some common sense into me, I have to admit I’m impressed. She’s an honest and very dependable pony, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

“Uhh, Marcus? Y’all alright?”

Huh? I see a hoof waving back and forth in front of my face before I realize that I’ve been staring at AJ for just a little too long as I was lost in my thoughts. I nervously rub my neck and speak out to cover up my previously long gaze.

“Uhh, yeah, sorry. What were you saying?”

“Ah said that Rarity’s over there callin for ya. Ah’m gonna assume ya don’t wanna be starin off into space when yer marefriend’s a callin’, hehe.”

Looking back towards the front of the room, I spot Rarity’s hoof waving in mid-air and quickly agree with AJ’s assumption. Turning heel and heading off towards my marefriend, apparently, I call back to Applejack.

“Crap! Thanks, AJ! We’ll talk later!”

“Count on it!”

She calls back and I hear another soft chuckle escape her lips as I make my way over towards the nearby table where Rarity sits. I always thought it was weird when I see ponies sitting down like that, but damn if it doesn’t at least impress me quite a bit.

Arriving next to her and ignoring my lack of breath for a moment, I apologize to Rarity before taking a seat in the chair directly next to her.

“Hey, sorry about that.”

“Oh, it’s quite alright. I just wanted to ask you about something.”

She dismisses my apology with a wave of her hoof and makes me a bit curious as to what it is she wants. I don’t bother asking a question, instead letting her take the moment of silence as a pause.

“Darling…did you happen to see Sweetie Belle the other day?”

“Yeah, why?”

“Well, after she returned from whatever she was out doing with her little friends, she came to my abode and asked what I meant when I…err…called you out on ‘chasing tails’ a few days ago.”

Oh, right…that. Yeah, those little fillies are a curious bunch, that’s for sure. Rarity continues, asking me in her own curious tone.

“What, exactly, was she out doing? If you know, that is.”

“Haha. Her and her friends were literally chasing each other. They would’ve ran head-first into a tree if it wasn’t for their helmets.”

“Mhmhm, hahaha! Oh my, those three get into all sorts of trouble. It’s almost cute.”

That laugh of hers…For the first time, I think I just heard Rarity laugh genuinely and openly. Completely carefree, she lets it spill out of her mouth and closes her eyes with relieved glee. Seeing her like this is just too irresistible for me, and I find the tiniest bit of playfulness inside me to speak up.

“Not as cute as you, though.”

Naturally, she blushes wildly at my compliment and nervously brushes her mane out of her eyes as she looks at me. Nothing she could do could make her look any less attractive to me at this point, and I immediately know what to do, with no regrets involved. I lean in and bring my lips to hers, surprising her with my boldness yet again.

I wrap an arm over her shoulder and she presses her hoof gently into my chest as she reciprocates the kiss with as much affection as always. Our tongues mingle in that familiar feeling that I never want to let go, and I hug her closer to me as the outside world fades into the background once more.

“Hey! You two lovebirds! We’re about to cut the cake over here!”

Pinkie Pie interrupts us at another perfect opportunity, but I don’t let it bother me. I’m in no rush, and Rarity doesn’t seem to be budging, either. Her stylized mane rubs itself against my face and I let it tickle my cheeks as the kiss goes on for longer than either of us probably expected. What can I say? In a moment like this where both of us are so satisfied having one another, I don’t want to give this up for the world.

Unfortunately, the world comes with the need to breathe, and I reluctantly bring my face back and open my eyes to see the beautiful, pristine white unicorn just as out of breath as I am. I can’t help but smirk at her as she smiles back at me before brushing her mane out of the way a second time.

Slowly, I stand up from the seat and briefly remove my hand from Rarity’s side so she can bring herself to her hooves. Returning my hand to its position, resting on her side and holding her close to me, we both make our way over to the table where the other ponies have gathered.

As we approach, I spot the rather large apple-themed cake that Pinkie Pie seems to be eyeing with intent. Innocently, I question the bouncing form of sugar and joy about the massive dessert.

“Pinkie, why exactly is there a cake for this party, anyway? It’s not anyone’s birthday, is it?”

Pinkie turns and looks back at me with the most disapproving glare I’d ever seen her put on. As if I’d shocked and insulted her, she calls out to me and hops around the cake with her springy hooves.

“There’s never an excuse to not have a cake! They’re perfect for all celebrations! What’s a party without a cake? I mean, duh!”

My smirk only widens as I giggle at the pink earth pony’s defensive attitude regarding cake. I guess there really isn’t an excuse, so long as the dessert is fully shared between all the ponies and their non-pony friends like Spike and I. Right away, I see Applejack dexterously hold a dull pastry cutter to separate pieces and lift them onto plates for her friends, reminding me of just how capable she is, even at a party seemingly for herself.

As the pieces of cake are passed down a line of hungry ponies (and Spike), I hug Rarity closer against my side and look down at her, smiling as wide as I ever have. Having her by my side, after all this…I can’t help but think back to my first day here, right before I was tasked with this ‘trial stay.’

Rarity left such an impression on me from the very moment I saw her. Everything struck me as beautiful: her appearance, the way she spoke, even the clear generosity she had shown when she offered to make clothing for me regardless of barely knowing me. Then again, that could be because I ended up getting hurt right in front of her beforehand. Out of the true kindness of her heart, despite what happened later, she made me several pairs of clothes, asking nothing in return.

Her ability to forgive me after I outright betrayed her love and trust just managed to get the message of her importance through to me. Tears were shed on both our parts, but for now I’m just so happy to be with her. Rarity is exactly how she seems: a one-of-a-kind pony that helped me realize that experiencing love with anyone, even if they happen to be a pony here, is more important than my own selfish wants. I know that I love her, and I’ll stay here for the rest of my life to make sure that she knows it, too.

A plate finally makes its way over to me and I snap out of my deep thoughts once again to look around at the eight partygoers surrounding me. All of them quietly stare, seemingly waiting for me to take a bite with happy smiles. I’m not sure if all of them know that today is supposed to be my last day here. However, for their sake, I’m going to see to it that it isn’t.

Reaching for the plastic fork beside me, I slice off a piece of the small slice in front of me and lift it up to my mouth. Even the scent is particularly sweet , and I slowly open my mouth and stick the piece of cake inside.

It instantly puts a smile on my face. Feeling the need to tell the other ponies, as well as kind of wanting them to stop staring at me so expectantly, I speak up with my mouth currently full.

“It’s really good!”

Pinkie Pie pulls a quick jump into the air before landing on her rump and making an audible squeak sound as she does so. Naturally, I don’t question it, and she responds with her usual energetic voice as the other ponies try their own pieces of the decidedly apple-based cake.

“We can thank ol’ AJ here for that! She worked really hard this season!”

I look over to Applejack while I chew and see her let out a happy, prideful laugh at Pinkie’s announcement to the rest of the guests.

“Aww shucks. Ah’m jus’ doin what ah can for mah fam’ly…and mah friends.”

Her eyes look around the room at her friends that are attending the party her friend Pinkie Pie set up. Straight away, I remember something. This party isn’t about me…it’s for Applejack. I can take what I can from it and enjoy myself today, but I should really let her enjoy her moment. Like me, I know she earned it.

So what if the princess thinks she can kick me out just like that? I’m a human and I’ve proved myself capable of living with these ponies just fine, and even finding love while I was at it. I’ll enjoy this and savor it like I know I want to.

I decided to get to Canterlot in the more traditional way, instead choosing to take the train. Twilight loaned me the bits I needed to purchase a ticket, and after that, it was smooth sailing.

Now, I find myself sitting alone in an empty car that’s supposedly the faster way to get to Canterlot anyway. Probably because the ponies who run it aren’t carrying it and the weight of its passengers tied to them, but I digress.

While I miss the company that I was previously embraced with less than an hour ago, I know I have to visit the princess on my own. That means no Twilight, no Applejack, just me and Princess Celestia. This is something I have to do alone, so I can prove to Celestia just how much I’ve personally benefitted from being here.

Now that I get to thinking, though, I stare outside the nearby window and watch as the trees and wide open fields pass me by. The view is nice, all things considered, and the silence is at least a tiny bit refreshing, but it still only encourages me to think more to fill the gap.

When I think back to Celestia, I remind myself of our previous meeting. Just because she decided to tell me the truth the other day doesn’t mean that I find her particularly trustworthy. What if I am just some game to her? She only wanted someone to toy with and watch from above as he…makes friends and cherishes his new loved ones.

I sigh openly. I need to think positive. She asked me to tell her what I learned. That’s simple enough; not difficult at all, really. Hell, if I can reiterate bits of my letters, it should be pretty easy to tell her what I’ve learned so far. I can do this no problem.

What is there left for me to tell, honestly? I’ve said what’s needed to be said, and she knows that I care about this place. I love it and its inhabitants far too much to just leave.

She can’t just up and kick me out…can she?

Leaning out the window and staring forward, I see the castle off in the distance. Almost like a symbol of impending doom, only far more colorful. I’m sure I’m just getting worried for nothing. I’ll be fine, right?

…Right?

The royal castle…not like I haven’t been here before. It took a while to get over here from the train station, but I managed to avoid any contact from the few ponies that glanced my way and wore faces of sheer befuddlement. Now, though, I’m focused on the entrance which is guarded by two members of the royal guard entrusted with defending the castle and the princesses, no doubt.

They all kind of look the same to me, what with their uniforms and all, so I’m not sure if these ones have seen me before or if they’re the same ones that even flew me here in the past. I try not to be too concerned with it as I walk up to the two doors and glance at each of the guards in turn. Neither of them return my glance, instead staring straight forward with a look of total focus.

Shrugging it off and giving their intimidating faces a slight nod, I take a few steps forward to reach for the door when I’m suddenly stopped in my tracks by a strong obstacle nudging directly into my chest.

Looking down, I see the guards have extending their respective wings in order to block my path to the large doors in front of me. Naturally, I’m taken aback by their sudden movement, considering they were so stoic before, and ask them.

“Uhh, can I help you?”

“Halt! Nopony sees the princess without a royal decree or an approved escort.”

Oh, crap! That’s right. Every time I was here before, I had someone with me. Here on my own, however, I don’t think a single pony, or human in this case, has any right to just walk on in of their own free will. Without anything much to argue here besides my own reason to visit the princess, I start off with a nervous tone.

“Oh…whoops, heh.”

“Please leave the premises and return when you have either a royal-“

“It’s alright. The human is with us.”

I hear the voice echo from behind and turn to look for the source. Knowing that tone and archaic language to belong to Princess Luna, I’m still surprised to see her, and at such perfect timing, too. As she approaches, the guards fold their wings back and bow before the royal second-in-command out of respect and acknowledgement that she had indeed been expecting me.

She continues as she arrives in front of me, and instead of nodding or doing any kind of regal gesture, the mare nuzzles her face against mine and smiles widely. I’m not sure why she felt the need to do so, but I allow her to, and she quickly remarks back to the guards in her royal voice.

“Marcus Rook is always a welcome guest, and shall henceforth be treated as such!”

The guards behind me seem to be…uhh, shaking for some reason as one of them speaks softly, almost with a hint of fear in his voice.

“M- My apologies, Princess! I did not realize! P-P-Please don’t fire me!”

I look back at Luna in time to catch her rolling her eyes and groaning at the guard’s weak voice. Motioning her hoof, they follow it and move aside to allow us both entrance into the castle. Luna’s horn glows and the huge doors open in front of us. Even as she starts to walk inside, I’m still in awe of the raw size of the doorway itself. Why would they ever need to make it this big, anyway?

I break free from my distracting thoughts for long enough to notice that Luna has gotten farther into the castle and is leaving me behind. I follow after her, not wanting to linger too long next to the unreasonably frightened guards. I catch up to the princess of the night and hear her begrudgingly remark back to me.

“It appears that some ponies still fear us…even our own guards on occasion.”

I question her as she turns a corner on the seemingly familiar path.

“Any idea why?”

“It is kind of a long story. We shall save it for another time.”

I nod, understandably, before the two of us reach the door that leads to Princess Celestia’s throne. There’s not a doubt in my mind that she’s waiting in there for me.

“Our sister is in the throne room. For what it’s worth…we wish thou luck in dealing with her alone.”

“Thanks, Luna. I’ll be fine.”

I respond with any trace of confidence that I can muster up, but as I watch the deep sapphire coated princess trot away, I can only hope that Celestia will at least hear me out like her sister has.

“For thine sake, we hope so.”

Her final words, though quiet, still manage to echo through the hall behind me. I take a deep breath as I stand here, facing the doors to the final task that will decide my fate. It’s a bit dramatic for my tastes, but unfortunately, I have to go through with it.

Even through the door, it’s like I can almost feel her eyes peering past it and directly at me. The words ‘piercing gaze’ just doesn’t cover it. It’s just the princess of Equestria, and I’ve talked to her twice already. I can even recall her voice from when we last spoke.

“Are you going to come in, Marcus? I’ve been expecting you, so the least you could do is face me.”

Wait a minute…that is her voice speaking to me. She knows I’ve been standing here?...Somehow. I’m not surprised.

Reluctantly, I open the significantly smaller doors to reveal the throne room, only to find Celestia’s eyes staring directly into mine as soon as I do. She may be standing almost thirty feet away, but that stare of hers makes it feel like mere centimeters.

As I close the distance between us, I notice the rows of guards lining the sides of the room, all staring forward with unbreakable focus. I’m sure some of them are watching me in my hesitant steps, even though I don’t dare break eye contact with the princess. What only serves to make me more nervous, however, is the dead silence besides the sound of me walking.

Finally, I find myself just a few feet away from the regal figure, who looks at me with quite the welcoming smile. That doesn’t stop her from speaking in a sarcastically curious tone after only a few seconds pass.

“Marcus, what is it that you want?”

I breathe out a lengthy sigh. I should’ve expected her latest welcome to be some kind of light-hearted joke.

“Luna already told me that you wanted to see me. Something about-“

“Oh, yes. Right.”

She cuts me off to acknowledge where the point lies, and quickly clears her throat, hopefully in an effort to get serious once more. She knows as much as I do what this is about, and I’m sure I can handle it.

“I want you to tell me what you have learned from staying in Ponyville the past week under my order. Don’t even think about lying to me, either.”

I decide not to entertain her intimidating, yet relatively soft, accusation and instead respond with the utmost sincerity.

“I don’t have to lie, Princess. I'll mean absolutely everything I say.”

Her eyes narrow as she accepts my bold statement, clearly realizing I’m perfectly capable of standing up to her by now. Losing the smile she was wearing before, she now speaks with total neutrality as she commands me.

“Well then…begin.”

Princess Celestia,
Over the course of the past seven days, I learned many important lessons about the different relationships a human can have with ponies. Luckily for me, not all of them had to involve sex, which I hear you weren’t too pleased with. Well, that’s simply because I’ve realized that I’m not defined by my role as a human here, and neither are the wonderful ponies that I’ve gotten to know. The marks on my back did a good job of disheartening me for a while, as did you, but now I see that they mean nothing to me, so I willed them away. At least, I think I did. The point is that you basically tasked me with an objective that revolved entirely around ‘becoming one’ with ponies…but that wasn’t the real intention behind it. You really wanted me to look past my inhibitions as well as take chances with entirely new and strange situations. Thanks to that, I can finally say that I feel contented having friendships (and even love) like these. So, I guess all I can say is…thank you. From the bottom of my heart, Princess Celestia, I thank you.

For a few brief moments, there is only silence. I’m not really one for speeches, so I’m not sure if that was good or not, but nevertheless, the wait to hear what she thinks is killing me. Man, I should’ve planned this out better. I had time; I guess I just got too caught up with-

What is that? That sound of her hooves as she stamps them each in place…It’s kind of like she’s simulating the sound of applause. Did she like it? While she speaks, I notice her mouth curl up into a wide smile and her eyes shut in what appears to be jubilation.

“Splendid! I’m so proud of you, Marcus.”

“Eh? Proud?”

I have to admit, I put on quite the dumbfounded face when I see the princess of a kingdom act like this, but wouldn’t anybody? Opening her eyes and looking at me warmly, she slowly brings her light stomping to a stop and clarifies after giggling once.

“I’m happy that you’ve overcome your obstacles to become the perfect example of a human truly relating to ponies, in every way that I can conceive. It is decided, then. Step forth.”

With a nod, I obey her command and bring myself a little closer to her, only to be addressed yet again.

“Kneel before me so that I may bestow your reward.”

I follow her instruction as I consider the stark contrast between her regal-sounding commands and her usual, jovial tone. She still seems quite happy as she does this, only making me feel all the better for it. I think I’ve finally won her over!

“Marcus Rook…”

Briefly, I feel a small pat on each of my shoulders in turn, and assume it to be not a hoof, but her horn. I think she’s trying to knight me, of all things.

“You are hereby granted permission to stay as long as you’d like.”

Really!? Just like that? Ha! Unable to contain my excitement, I decide to drop my serious exterior for just a moment and jump for joy before grabbing Celestia around her longer neck and hugging her. Right now, she’s my savior, I have to be appreciative.

“Thank you so much!”

“Err, yes, well…you’re welcome.”

Judging by the strained way her voice comes out, I can tell that it’s a little uncomfortable for her and quickly release her. In a small, quick motion, I see her give a dismissive wave of her hoof to one of the guards beside me and instantly I knew what that meant. After all, I basically lunged and captured her between my arms in a room full of her guards. She called them off before I could get in trouble for the action that I am now quickly regretting.

“I do have something that I’d like to share with you, however. Let us retreat to my personal quarters.”

What? Is there something else? I thought I could just head back to Ponyville and tell my friends that I’m staying no matter what, but apparently there’s something Celestia needs to say. Unsure of why she can’t just say it here, I ask her as I notice her start off eastbound, towards the door that leads to her bedroom, if I recall correctly.

“Wait, what are you planning on doing?”

“I’m going to tell you of a matter that has plagued me for days in a place where nopony can overhear it.”

She speaks in a very matter-of-factly tone, as if I was automatically supposed to know. Well, to be fair, I never know what to expect with Celestia, so at least I can rest assured that she’s entirely serious this time.

“Why? What did you think I was going to do? Suck you off where my guards cannot see us? Hmhm.”

…Or she’s still capable of saying rather inappropriate things and I should learn to just keep my mouth shut around her. I notice, off to my side, however, a few of the guards twitching, having heard what Celestia just said and most likely being embarrassed about it like I am. Deciding not to let it bother me for too long, I follow after her and try to appear nonchalant to the many guards most likely eyeing me on my way.

Once I’m inside, I gently close the door behind me, respecting the privacy that Celestia wants. I feel happy now that I know that she approves of me staying, but my curiosity over what she’s going to tell me is holding me back from doing anything more than standing in silence as she turns and moves in front of me.

Instead of resting on the bed, she’s standing and staring at me with the most serious look on her face I’ve seen in…ever, actually. Not really knowing what to say as her visage becomes a lot more imposing, I wait with bated breath before I finally hear her start to speak.

“Listen closely, Marcus. This is…somewhat difficult for me to explain.”

I try not to gulp nervously after that warning. What could it possibly be at this point that she hasn’t told me?

“In order to bring you here, my magic had to reach out to your world and it ended up getting you as a result. I don’t regret it, of course. I think I was very lucky to have found a human like you.”

“I’m glad you did, too.”

She raises a hoof as she interjects quickly, trying to get a point across to me that I’m not quite sure of yet.

“But, while my magic was grasping around for anything at all in the human world, I…I can swear that I felt something else come through.”

‘Something else?’ I’m trying to picture what it is she could have meant, imagining her description of magic as some kind of hand grabbing at straws, but I don’t think the analogy is close to what she actually may have “felt.” I inquire her, not wanting to be kept in suspense like this.

“What do you mean?”

“My magic brought something else to Equestria. I don’t know what, and I certainly don’t know where. Unlike you, I was never able to pinpoint where it must have been summoned, and after my attention called to you that fateful day, I simply let it go.”

“So…if you never found out, then why tell me about it?”

She breaks into an earnest smile, even though I’m still somewhat confused at this discovery at there being some kind of remnant of the human world somewhere in Equestria. It’s a big place, after all.

“Because, since you are now staying, I want you to let me know if you ever find anything that might be familiar to you. If you see anything of particular interest that cannot also be found in Equestria, then you absolutely must report it to me. That is all I ask of you.”

Well, it looks like I’ll have to try and keep up with my letters, then. I smile back at her and nod, accepting my task but not sure of what exactly I might be looking for. A thought pops into my head, however, and I feel the need to ask Celestia one more question. Keeping my composure and letting that newfound discovery get pushed to the back of my mind, I speak up to the princess.

“Speaking of me staying, though, I’d like to ask a favor.”

“Yes?”

“Now that I’m not here on a trial basis anymore, and since I think it’d be better for me if I wasn’t living with another pony and got my own place. Do you know of anywhere I can live by myself?”

I’m still relatively new to Ponyville, and I think it’d be nice to take a break from living with Twilight and finally have a place to call my own. I figure that Celestia might be able to manage that much. She laughs softly, a reaction that doesn’t approve or refuse my request, before answering me with a more relaxed smile.

“I understand, Marcus, and there just so happens to be an abandoned home I’ve been saving for just such an occasion.”

“Huh? Why is it abandoned?”

“I had it built for an immigrant to Ponyville as a sign of good faith some time ago. She politely declined my offer, and chose to build her own hut inside the forest. She claimed that it was her ‘tradition,’ so I let her do so with no questions asked. I left the home where it stands, untouched, in case I would ever need it again for another newcomer.”

She giggles, yet again, and makes a final remark to me with the utmost confidence.

“Marcus, I feel that you have earned this home more than anypony. Please accept it.”

“Heh, I’m very lucky to have it, then. Thanks, ‘Tia.”

I’m not sure what thought in my mind gave me the idea to call her that, but in an effort to make things end on a less awkward note, I give a simple nod and turn to open the door behind me. As I walk out, I hear her laugh once more, only this time with a hint of embarrassment.

“Ohoho…I haven’t heard that nickname in quite some time.”

Huh. It doesn’t actually look all that bad. For a completely abandoned house, it looks untouched, even from the nearby wildlife. Maybe Fluttershy knew about this place, considering it’s also surrounding the Everfree Forest. Then again, I doubt she’s much of an explorer, and it is kind of tucked away on the other side, so she probably just never bothered to find it.

It’s a bit of a walk to get back into Ponyville from here, but honestly, I can’t say I mind too much. The area is beautiful, and the large field and lake that I remember visiting are both much closer now. If anything, I’m at least guaranteed some peace and quiet.

Looking at the house in closer detail, I notice all the windows curtained off, so it’s definitely got a finished interior. If it was for an immigrant like Celestia said, than it must have been built to royal standards, or at least the assumed standard for common living. While quiet, it has a nice, inviting feel to it, so I can’t complain.

Good thing too, because I know I wouldn’t want to move into a new house, or in this case, cottage just to have to work on it myself. Decorating won’t be too much of a problem, considering I don’t really have anything to my name besides my clothes. After I check out this place, I’ll have to buy some groceries, that’s for sure.

I approach the door, and instead of pushing it open, I instinctively knock on the door. Guh. If that’s my first instinct, then maybe I should stop being so overly polite. Remembering the fact that I own this house now, I enjoy the following silence, reassuring myself that no one is actually here. I press my hand up against the stable door and-

“Hello?”

…Eh? That was…a voice. Did someone actually move in while Celestia left it here? Oh crap. Do I have to tell them to leave or something? I hope not, I don’t wanna look like the bad guy just because I was told to move here.

That was a mare’s voice, too. She’d probably take it a lot harder than a stallion would, most likely already having made a nice home for herself. Maybe it’s the immigrant. Maybe she moved back in after seeing that living in a forest in modern day society isn’t exactly a bright idea. I respond with my own greeting, sounding just as confused as the cottage’s occupant.

“…Hello?”

For a few moments of silence, nothing happens. I take my hand off the door and instead place my ear to it, trying to hear the sound of hooves on ground or something…Damn, nothing. Just who’s in there? And why? Honestly, she probably just doesn’t want to be disturbed, and I should go back and tell Celestia that I can’t- Wait! The door’s moving!

It’s…not a pony…It’s not a pony at all.

Long amber hair, eyes like deep sapphires, and soft features adorning her fur-less face…

She’s a human.

“…Hi.”

“Uhh…hey. I’m Marcus.”

She stares at me and I return the gaze, both of us looking with eyes full of shock and surprise. Who is she? How did she get here?...Am I hallucinating?

“Sara. Did you wanna…come inside?”

“…Yeah, I do.”

Author's Notes:

Original posting date: 11/6/2012

And that is where "A Week in Ponyville" ends! I thank you all for reading and urge you to read the followup sequel when it releases!