I'm rudely awoken by a hoof pushing against my head. Trying to ignore it I casually swat the hoof away as I roll onto my side presenting only my back to whoever is trying to wake me. I shouldn't have been surprised to figure out that my attempt at getting some peace and quiet failed. Instead of being prodded I find my clothes being thrown on top of my head causing me to rapidly sit up. Sitting I pull the trousers off of my face and look to Shadow as she looks towards me with a mild smirk.

"Wake up, John. You did say we had the morning shift today," She speaks in a hushed tone as I look to Twilight's bed to find her and Spike still sleeping.

Quietly groaning I lay back in the bed, "Why did I decide to do morning shifts? I never get to just sleep in anymore."

"How do you think I feel? I prefer the night, not 07:00 in the morning."

I just ignore her as I try to curl back into a ball underneath the covers. As I get comfortable I find the sheet being ripped away from me allowing the cold air to attack my bare skin, the only thing giving me modesty is the pair of boxer shorts I decided to sleep in. Rolling onto my back I stare straight at the ceiling, "Give me ten minutes. Can you make me a cup of tea as I get showered?"

Rolling her eyes she turn to head down the stairs, "How do you take it?"

Swinging my legs over the camping bed I stretch out my arms, "NATO," When I look to Shadow she's just staring at me with an expression of utter confusion, "Normal Army Tea Order. White, two sugars."

Shadow arches her eyebrow, "Like I was supposed to know what that meant."

I just sit there as I watch her head down the stairs. Letting out one final yawn I slowly get up and make my way to the bathroom to begin the usual routine, toilet, shower, shave and brushing my teeth. True to my word I'm done in about ten minutes, you get used to having to get ready in a short period of time when you're stuck on base when the CO decides to pay a visit. Leaving the bathroom I take a quick glance to the two sleeping forms to make sure they weren't woken up. I can hear spikes snoring a mile off, however Twilight is nowhere to be seen.

Stripping down I quickly put on a clean pair of pants before dressing in my MTP along with the beret, although it's not common dress here the beret is a part of everyone's uniform back home when they aren't away in combat operations. Once I have my uniform straightened out I clip on my utility belt with thigh holster and scabbard before making my way downstairs with boots in hand.

Reaching the kitchen I'm happy to find a warm brew waiting for me on the table. Sitting at the chair I slide my feet into the boots and fasten the quick release zip. Shadow looks to me as she sips her own coffee, "So what exactly is the plan then?"

Clasping my hands on the mug to warm my hands I look over to see Twilight making her own drink, "I want to get a feel for the Everfree and the general area. We will carry out reassurance patrols where we will engage with the general population. Other then that we shall survey the main entrances to the Everfree to try and determine any threats."

Shadow scoffs, "You won't find threats at the entrances, anything that is dangerous will be deeper within. At most you will come across the odd Timber Wolf if you draw too much attention to yourself."

"They're bastards, I've already had the one fight with them. They don't even stay dead when they should do, they just get back up as if nothing happened," Taking out my pistol I run a hand over the slide, "Let's see how they like a bullet to the head."

Twilight turns to focus on me, "You can't go around shooting the local wildlife! Yes, some of them may be dangerous, but going out to actively attack them will only make things worse."

"They're only animals, they aren't an organised military force. I highly doubt there will be any repercussions," Bringing the mug to my lips I enjoy the warm nectar. Smiling I look to Shadow, "Now that's a proper brew."

Twilight shakes her head as she joins us at the table, "I still don't think it's wise to go and engage with the creatures within the Everfree in combat."

Taking my pistol off the table I place it back into it's holster, "I'm not going to attack them on sight. If they come up to me and pose a threat though I'm gonna put them down."

The sound of a mug making contact with the table causes me to look away from Twilight. Looking to Shadow I find her licking her lips as an empty mug rests in front of her, "Are we going to get going then?"

"I guess we are," Bringing my own mug up I tilt my head back as I drain it's contents, since it was made when I was in the shower it isn't hot enough to burn my tongue. Getting up I place the empty mug next to the sink and look to Twilight, "What time does Rarity open her store?"

Twilight looks over her shoulder to me "About nine o'clock, why?"

"Well if we are going to be the local Guard then we need to get a uniform for everyone. You lot don't seem to have a uniform other then your combat armour. Wearing that all day isn't exactly going to be comfortable or encourage everyone to engage with us," Opening the door I hold it open as Shadow makes her way through, "I'm sure Rarity wouldn't mind at least considering it."

Twilight cocks an eyebrow as she looks over my uniform, "I don't think Rarity exactly approved of your camouflaged uniform. If you ask for more camouflage she would probably attempt to avoid it all together."

"I'm not after combats, just a general uniform which makes us identifiable. Every service back home has a distinct uniform allowing you to identify them. Military, Fire service, Police and paramedics had their own unique uniform, you could easily tell who they were a mile off."

I'm about to leave the room when Twilight calls to me, "What time are you finishing?"

"16:00 today. I will likely be heading meeting up with the others later at the end of my shift, why?"

"I was wondering if you would assist me in the experiment we discussed in Canterlot?" I just stare at her blankly in response, I never was any good at processing information after just waking up, "The transfiguration spell."

Groaning I rub my hands across my face, "Do I have to?"

"You said you would. Everypony is curious to see if it will work," Getting up Twilight moves to her fridge and gets out a number of ingredients to start her breakfast.

I glance through the door to see Shadow waiting patiently, "You absolutely sure that you can change me back?"

Twilight nods, "I can, yes. Though I would like to see how you adapt to your new form over a period of time."

Tapping my fingers over the door I consider my options. I really don't want to be a pony, how will I survive without my thumbs? I suppose I am kinda curious though, however I don't want to be a centre of attention for her and all her friends. "I will do it on one condition."

Twilight seems to practically beam from this. Giving a little hop she moves closer to me, "Yes?"

"You only get a maximum of two hours, if I want to be changed back earlier then you will do it."

Twilight's smile drops a little at this, "Two hours? How do you expect me to complete a thorough study in such a short period of time."

I just fold my arms as I shrug, "Two hours. Take it or leave it."

Twilight stammers as she tried to argue her point, finally giving an irritated sigh she looks up to me, "Two hours."

Smirking at my victory I leave the room, "See you then, Twilight."

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Myself and shadow spent the first few hours making our way around the market as the various stores set up for the day. I decided it would have been good to engage with the stall owners so they knew they could come to us if they had any issues. Many seemed to welcome the Guard having a presence within the town, although we aren't exactly required on a daily basis it is still good to have us in case of emergencies.

Leaving the market we take a small bridge over a stream leading towards the towns outskirts. I never took the opportunity in the past to really explore the town. I always spent most of my days training Chaser and Sunny for combat at the rear of the library, other then that I've only been to Applejack's farm, Rarity's store, the town hall, the tavern and the spa on the one occasion. I actually find Ponyville to be rather quaint, you would never really find many towns like this back home. I never really got the chance to live in or visit a small town like this. My whole life was spent growing up in the suburbs outside of Birmingham, I never really saw much need to go elsewhere apart from holidays.

Coming to the end of the path I halt as I scan my eyes over the mouth leading into the Everfree forest. Having only been in there once, when I initially woke up in this world, I have no idea if I should listen to the fears everyone has about this forest or whether to just ignore them. The idea of nature fending for itself seems so alien to the Equestrians, it actually makes me feel more relaxed.

Shadow steps past me keeping her eyes on the forest, "You're wanting to enter, aren't you?"

Resting my hand on the scabbard attached to my hip I stroll casually towards the entrance, "Yeah, it's only a forest. Nothing bad is gonna happen, even if it does we can take care of ourselves."

Shadow quickly matches my speed as she walks alongside me, "Only a forest? You seem a lot more relaxed then everypony else who comes cross it."

"This is normal for back home. Weirdly we don't have Pegasi moving the clouds around for us."

"And what about the creatures within? They don't scare you?"

I let out a short cackle, "Scare me? I've seen war and have been fired at with mortars and automatic rifles, not to mention been a few inches away from highly volatile explosives, a few animals won't be an issue," As we enter the natural sunlight is obscured by the crooked trees overhead. Squinting my eyes in an attempt to see more clearly I glance to Shadow, "I take it you can see?"

Shadow just nods as she swivels her head around in an attempt to constantly monitor her surroundings, "Thestral's have exceptional night eye."

"Sounds pretty handy," Reaching into my pocket I take out my phone and switch on the flash light app on my phone which keeps the camera flash constantly on. Thanks to my phone I find it much easier to navigate the path which is overrun with old roots and potholes. As we move I listen out in an attempt to try and determine the various animals within and the noises they make for future reference.

As we reach a small opening the trees overhead allow the sun to once again seep into the forest. Pocketing my phone I halt when I see the figure of some sort of creature moving within a bush. Raising my left hand I signal for Shadow to halt alongside me. As I rest my hand on my pistol I try to move around the trees to get a better angle.

I only make it a few steps before I inhale a horrendous stench through my nostrils, I could only describe it as decaying or rotten flesh. The creature crawls from the bush as it moves onto a nearby slope raising its elevation. Fucking Timber Wolf. This one seems fairly familiar though, looking to it's chest I notice a large gash in the side on its chest from where I previously attacked it with an axe. Keeping my eyes on it I slowly back up to make my way back to Shadow's position.

Inevitably I find some way to draw attention to me as my foot crushes a stick underneath my boot. Pausing I look back to the wolf as it shifts it's gaze to me, slowly advancing it releases a low pitched growl as it approaches. One wolf? This will be a piece of piss. Drawing my pistol I slowly stand as I load a round into the chamber, taking aim I rest the sights on its head.

As I slowly ease the trigger the volume of the growling intensifies immensely, however it's not coming from the wolf standing in front of me. One by one more wolves climb up from the other side of the slope announcing their presence, scanning them from left to right I count a total of seven including the one directly in front of me.

Fuck, I'm not going to be able to take them all on. Back peddling rapidly I move to Shadow who has her own sword drawn. Leaning close to her I speak calmly to her, "When I shoot get ready to run."

"Wh-"

PHAT PHAT

Before she could finish I unload two rounds directly into the head of the nearest wolf, the first round merely pierces the wood before the second round caves in the surrounding area causing the wolf to collapse into multiple pieces where it stands. Turning my back I start to sprint after Shadow as we make our escape, thankfully we only followed the one path in order to reach the opening. As we run I look back over my shoulder to find the others in hot pursuit, raising my pistol once again I fire blindly behind me to try and keep them at bay.

PHAT PHAT PHAT PHAT PHAT

Only the last round makes contact as it catches the paw on the nearest target sending it rolling across the floor before breaking apart. Surveying the surroundings two have broken off onto either side of us running on the other side of the tree line in an attempt to cut us off. Over the constant growls and howls I shout out to Shadow, "Fly out of here, I'll lose them!"

"Are you crazy!? You can't lose them all!"

"Just trust me!" Reluctantly I see her take to the air and fly high above the trees out of sight leaving me with five wolves trying to rip me limb from limb. Pushing myself I manage to reach my top speed as I hurdle over fallen trees and various pieces of debris as I leave the main path, this only slows my pursuers down a little giving me some more distance.

Or at least I though it did, one of the flankers manages to pounce on my from the right sending me rolling across the floor with in on top of me. Coming to a rest on my back the wolf pushes its full weight on my chest as it leans closer to try and bite me, with each lunge I'm barely able to move my head to the side avoiding it's teeth. When it attempts another bite I wrap my hand around it's throat stopping it teeth from making contact with my face. Bringing the pistol up I push the barrel against the bottom of its jaw and pull the trigger.

PHAT PHAT PHAT

The three rounds burrow deep into it's head causing it to shatter on top of me, with the body cluttering around me I throw the head at the nearest wolf causing it to stumble backwards. Pushing myself to my feet I slowly back away from the four advancing wolves as I switch my weapon between them waiting for one to attack.

From the tree above me a loud screech rains down on us. Looking up I can see some sort of large bird standing tall within its nest with both wings stretched fully out, It's main body and head are a dark royal purple where as it's neck, tail and outer wings are a lighter shade of purple. Jumping from it's perch the bird ignites setting itself fully aflame with a indigo hue.

Stepping backwards I watch as the bird starts attacking the various wolves, with each pass the magical flame easily burns through their wooden bodies causing them to recoil in pain. The attacks are unrelenting, every time the wolves try to focus on myself the bird once again attacks them regaining their attention.

With one final swoop I watch as the central wolf is reduced to nothing but ashes, a pained howl escaping the muzzle of the others as they watch. That attack seemed to demoralise them as one by one they all flee back into the forest. Standing up I holster my pistol as I watch the bird circle overhead, moving back to the central branch of it's tree it leaves it's wings outstretched as it releases another screech following it's victory.

When it looks down to me I freeze as I expect it to attack, jumping off the tree it swoops low towards me and begins to hover in front of me. Not really knowing what to do I hold my arm out to the side as I rest left hand on the sword just in case. To my surprise the flames vanish from the creature as it lands on my upper arm releasing a pleased coo.

Bringing my other hand slowly to it I start to lightly run my finger underneath it's neck, "Thank you," This earns another coo as it starts to run its feathers over my hand. As it uses me as a perch I step off and make my way towards the forest path to make my to the pathway in order to find my way out. Through the entire walk I'm surprised that the bird even remains with me, I occasionally pet it as I admire it's plumage from up close.

Exiting the forest I find Shadow pacing nervously with her back to me, "Miss me? I'm so flattered."

She rapidly pivots to look at me with a relieved smile, "Thank Celestia you're alright."

I cock an eyebrow, "Celestia? I'd rather thank this bird," I run my hand over it's head petting it softly.

Shadow steps up to me and examines it closely, "John, that's a Phoenix."

"It is?" I look to it as the Phoenix locks eyes with me, "That explains why it set on fire."

"It actually saved you?"

"Yeah it did. So if it's a Phoenix does that mean it will turn to ash when it dies to be reborn?"

Shadow looks surprised as she steps up to me, "You have them in your world?"

I shake my head, "Nah, they're just mythological creatures which are often portrayed in films and books," Smirking I run a finger through it soft plumage, "From their dying embers, they shall rise one again," At that the phoenix releases another screech as it leaps from my arms with a heavy beat of its wings. Stepping alongside Shadow we watch as the bird takes to the air and glides back into the Everfree, "So is it true their tears contain healing properties?"

Shadow snorts, "No. Where did you hear such nonsense?"

"Just a film I saw when I was younger," Harry Potter lied to me. With one last look to the forest I step off to head back into town, "Come on, I need to see Rarity."

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Pushing open the door rings a bell announcing our presence within the store, "Coming," Rarity's voice calls out in a sing song fashion. As I wait for her to come to the main room myself and Shadow start to look idly over the various designs scattered throughout the room, "Welcome to Carousel Bo- Oh, good morning, John. What brings you here today?"

Turning from the display I look to Rarity finding a pair of red frames glasses resting on her muzzle along with a tape measure wrapped over her neck, "Morning, Rarity. I was hoping to discuss a business proposition with you."

"A business proposition?" Rarity's eyes scan over the Thestral alongside me, "What is this about, John?"

"Before I continue, Rarity this is Shadow, Shadow this is Rarity," I gesture to them with my hand as I speak, "Shadow is a new edition to the Ponyville Guard as of yesterday."

Rarity smiles softly to Shadow, "A pleasure to make your acquaintance."

Shadow bows her head to the fashionista, "Likewise."

Clapping my hands together I approach Rarity, "Right, onto business then. I was hoping you could potentially design and create some uniforms for the Ponyville Guard, I will cover for any costs. I'd like something that would be presentable yet practical for general duties within the town, nothing like my MTP and not too smart like the officers uniform you created for me."

Rarity looks to me with a hoof resting against her jaw, "I don't know, John. Making military uniforms isn't exactly my forte. Your officers dress was not exactly one of my finest pieces of work, I based it off of the photo I saw of you in uniform with your marefriend and the royal guards colours."

Marefriend? What a horrible expression, not to mention she's been my ex for months before I even came here. Looking to Rarity I can't help but smirk as I devise a plot to get her on board. Standing straight I try to put on my posh voice which I reserved for speaking in at the officers table back home, "As a business woman I'm sure you are always happy for some promotion of your exemplary work."

"But of course. B-"

"-Creating a uniform for the newest and reformed unit within the Equestrian military is such a rare occasion. Think about it, the woman who designed and created the uniform for the only military officer in a millennia to receive the Lunar Cross. That is quite the honour, not to mention the amount of publicity it would receive at social and public events," Running my hand over my shirt I smile knowingly to her, "Surely you wouldn't stand to see someone with a status such as mine having to present himself in this garish uniform."

Initially Rarity stammers as she tries to think of a logical argument. Giving up she releases a shallow sigh, "I suppose you are correct. Very well, I shall make you your uniform. If you would wait a moment so that I can gather some supplies from the other room."

As Rarity leaves the room I look to Shadow as I grin, "Am I a master negotiator, or what?"

Shaking her head she idly plays with a roll of thread sitting on top of a circular table, "I believe the term Chaser told me you loved to use for over entitled officers was 'Rupert'. I'd say that was a prime example of you being one."

"Blasphemy," I raise a hand to point to her, "I am not a Rupert."

"You just used your rank and achievements to get what you wanted, all while placing yourself high on a pedestal making yourself appear better then everypony else. How are you not a Rupert?" A slight smirk is evident on the corners of her lips.

Stammering I fail to think of a sufficient argument, "Not a word about this to anyone."

With a light chuckle Shadow steps up to me as she raise and eyebrow, "What's in it for me?"

"You can have the rest of the day off."

"Sweet," Jumping up I'm hardly able to see her as she flies with speed out the door and far into the distance.

Rarity steps back into the room as the door closes behind Shadow. Resting a number of supplies on the table she points towards a small step likely wanting me to stand on it to take some measurements, "Where did Shadow go?"

"I gave her the rest of the day off," Removing my utility belt I rest it on the table alongside Rarity's supplies before stepping onto the step. As Rarity begins to take my measurements she quietly starts humming to herself as she works. I let her finish off all of her measurements before interrupting her with a question, "So how much should this all cost? To make uniforms for myself and the rest of the unit?"

"John I couldn't ask you to pay for this. Think of it as a gift from myself."

"Like the last uniform you made me?" Rarity nods as she starts comparing her materials to one another, "I can't let you do that. The tunic was a gift after all for when I was going away. I can't allow you to make twelve uniforms and not give you a penny, this is your job."

Rarity looks back to me, tilting her head forward she peeks over the glasses, "Though you are all to be working within Ponyville if I remember correctly. This is my way of welcoming you all to town."

Jumping off the stool I step up to her, "Rarity I can't let you do it. If you've got to give me some sort of discount then I can accept that, however I will not let you take up this work if it's going to distract you from your regular jobs interrupting your regular income."

"Very well, John. That's very kind of you to think of my own well being. We shall discuss your payment at a later date though, for now we must create a suitable ensemble for the Guard," Pausing she levitates small segments of materials to me to try them over my shirt, "What is your 'unit' to be called? Surely you won't just go by Ponyville Guard."

Thinking I look over the various materials as they rest against my body, "The Everfree Rangers, seeing as we are responsible for the Everfree then I think rangers would be suitable."

"It would certainly let everypony know what your duties are."

When I look to the table I notice one material which Rarity seems to have neglected, "Whats wrong with that one?"

"Hmm?" Turing her head she looks to the cloth, "Oh, well it's simply one I don't particularly like working with. It is fairly good as an under layer but not for a whole segment of clothing."

Stepping up to it I lift up the fabric and run my palms over it. Very lightweight, yet seems fairly durable aswell as being smooth. Opening my shirt I compare it to the material on my T-shirt and find it to be nearly identical, "This will do great for a shirt."

"A shirt?" Rarity lifts the cloths from my grasp and looks between myself and the fabric, "Are you sure?"

"Yeah, it's exactly like we would use for TDU assault tops back home," Rarity looks to me with a confused expression. Cycling through my phone I find a photo from when I was in Afghanistan resting alongside a makeshift football pitch following a game where I was wearing the shirt in question. Showing the photo to her I allow her to study it, the main torso was tan with the sleeves and collar being MTP, the chest had a small zip which would reach from the neck to the bottom of the sternum along with the arms having angled pockets which displayed my regiment.

"I suppose I can make that for you. But does it have to be that colour scheme?" She raises a hoof to press it against my MTP shirt.

"Well we are part of the Lunar Guard, so how about something black or resembling those colours?"

Rarity studies the photo again as she occasionally glance to me, "I suppose I could make the sleeves and collar black with the main chest being the Lunar Guard royal purple. I take it you would also like those angled pockets on each arm?"

"If you could. Ranks would be on the right with the units insignia on the left side."

Rarity passes my phone back to me in her magic, "Your insignia? Have you designed one?"

I never really gave it any thought, I try to run some ideas through my head. Something with a Lion and Unicorn similar to pound coins back home? Its kinda fitting since there are Unicorns here... nah then it would also need Pegasi and Earth Ponies. The eye of the Lunar gurad between two Everfree trees? Maybe, it would identify our roles and which Guard we are associated with. My mind keeps going back to what happened earlier in the Everfree. The purple Phoenix resting at the centre of the tree, it's wings fully extended in the colours similar to the Lunar guard. What was it I said? 'From their dying embers, they shall rise one again'. I'd have to change that but the idea seems to stick in my head.

"Have you got some paper and some colours so I can draft one out?"

Rarity moves to a desk and brings me some crayons along with sheets of papers, "Whilst you do that I shall begin making your shirt. What would you like about your trousers?"

Taking the paper and crayons I sit at the table and rest them out in front of me, "If you could make them the same as you did for my parade uniform, except make the red stripe on the outer leg the same shade of purple as the top. Can you also create some more black berets for everyone else when they come for their uniforms?"

"Of course I can," Rarity starts to carry all the materials alongside her as she makes her way towards the sewing machine, "I shall let you know when it is finished."

Looking to the paper I slowly start to sketch out my ideas, I never was any good at art but I suppose it would be better then describing every little detail for someone else to draw from. I draw a number of ideas before my mind goes back once again to the image of the Phoenix. Etching an outer circle a use it as a border as another circle rests within, the top displaying the text 'Everfree' where as the bottom presents the text 'Rangers'. Inside I traced the outline of one of the many trees I had come across within the Forrest, on each side is a wing with a purple base with outer layer being a lighter shade to draw attention to the wings as a whole. Below hanging from the wings rests a plaque with the moto 'From the dying embers, we shall rise'.

Leaning back I admire my handiwork as a set of clothing lands softly on the table alongside me, looking to the clock I find that at least two hours had passed since I arrived. Lifting the clothing I examine it as I smile softly, the clothing is set out exactly as I had requested. Getting up from the chair I smile to Rarity, "Thank you. On that sheet is the possible insignia's I could come up with. Could you pick one out to etch onto the shirt for me?"

Taking the shirt and paper Rarity saunters back to her work station. It only take about twenty minutes for her to come back with the shirt, "It's only a first attempt but I think it turned out fairly well."

Taking the shirt I pull the left sleeve to the side and find the emblem etched over the pocket, I even find a small Union flag inserted above it for me.

Grinning I take all the clothing and get up from my seat, leaning closer to Rarity I pull her into a light hug, "Thanks, Rarity."

My smile seems to spread to her as she happily returns it, "Of course, darling. Now go ahead and try it on, fitting room is just through those doors."

After a few minutes I resurface with the new uniform on, the left sleeve contains the new insignia along with the British flag. The right arm now has the Captain rank sewn over the pocket which now holds my phone. The shirt fits loosely to my chest so when I tuck it into my trouser it appears straight yet allows me to keep cool, the black and royal purple compliment each other fairly well in my opinion. The trousers have a stripe of royal purple along the entire outer length reaching up the the purple of the shirt. Taking my utility belt I fit it around the waist line, eventually I will have to make armour and a new utility belt which also fits well with the uniform.

Rarity practically beams when she sees me in it, "I must admit I had my doubts as to how it turned out, but on you it looks simply stunning."

Grinning I take my old MTP and hold it underneath my arm, "I can't thank you enough, Rarity. I take it you will be at Twilight's this afternoon?"

"But of course, I wouldn't miss the opportunity to see how you looked as a pony, I'm sure you will look quite the dashing stallion. Now run along, John. I will see you this afternoon," With that I leave the store to continue the rest of my shift.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The rest of my shift is spent engaging with residents of Ponyville, many were still a little reluctant based on my actions from the Ponyville day festival, slowly but surely they were warming up to me. It was good to let everyone know that they could come to the Everfree Rangers for any concerns they had within the town, lets just say a small town has lots of problems but they are all really petty issues, somehow I felt we would operate more like a safer neighbourhood team then an actual police service when it came to these issues.

By the time 16:00 rolled around I figured it would be best to get Twilight's experiment out of the way. Despite wanting to get it over and done with I still took my sweet time strolling back to the library. As I walked I considered what was left to do for establishing the town Guard. We would need to begin construction of the barracks fairly soon, however Luna said she would recruit members of the construction unit within the Guard to build our facilities, all I had to do was tell them what I wanted and they'd build from my suggestions.

I also needed to have some armour constructed to go with this new uniform, maybe something along the lines of a stab vest which the Police are equipped with back home. Realising that may be a bit to advanced to construct I figured for the time being the prototype armour myself and Dawnstar created would suffice. We just need to make more Kevlar then I need to find a blacksmith or armourer who can make a breastplate which would fit me.

That only created another problem though as I would need a way to carry my ammunition should I use my rifle whilst on patrol. I suppose I could just ask Rarity to also design a set of webbing to fit over the armour once it was completed, maybe along the lines of an American or British webbing used in World War Two.

Reaching the door to the library I throw that thought to the back of my head. Pushing the door open I make my way in to find the girls along with Chaser all looking to me. Letting out a sigh I step forward and remove my utility belt placing it on the central table, "Lets get this over with."

"You could sound a little more enthusiastic," Chaser smirks as he takes a seat on the stairs.

"Why are you even here?"

Chaser shrugs, "I'm curious, also I need to make things as uncomfortable for you as possible."

"You're an arse," Turning to Twilight I fold my arms, "So what do I need to do?"

Looking through some scrolls Twilight steps up to me, "You won't be required to do anything, it would probably be best if you were to strip down though."

Cocking an eyebrow I lean closer, "Come again?"

She looks to me with a blank expression, "Strip. You know, remove your clothing."

"I wear my clothing for a reason, Twilight."

Pinkie chimes in, "Yeah, Twilight, John practically lives in clothing."

Twilight glances back to me, "If I was to do the spell whilst you are clothed it may cause damage to them as your frame changes. I'm pretty certain that Rarity wouldn't appreciate us ruining her work."

"I certainly would not," Says Rarity, "I spent hours on those, I will not seen them damaged so shortly after I just completed them."

Groaning I take off my top and beret before throwing them over to Chaser. Lifting the shirt he looks to the insignia, "Everfree Rangers? Is that our Company name then?"

As I reach for the zips of my boots I glance to him, "It is now."

"I like it, kinda unique compared to most the other units," My boots land alongside him causing him to jump slightly at the surprise.

Removing my trouser belt I let the trousers fall to the floor before kicking them to the side, finally I lean down to pull off my socks dropping them on top of my trouser. Standing in front of everyone in only my pants I hold out my arms as I look to Twilight, "Come on then, let's get this over with."

Twilight raises her hoof to point to my pants, "John you need to remove those as well."

I look down to my pants then back to Twilight, "We've been over this, do you really want me to rock out with my cock out?"

As Twilight, Rarity and Fluttershy blush Rainbow, Chaser and Pinkie all let out a loud guffaw. Grinning Chaser get up from his seat, "I don't exactly want to see that again," Pausing everyone all looks to him demanding some sort of explanation, "He kinda answered the door naked after spending the night with S-"

"-Chaser!" I shout out cutting him off, "What did I say back at the castle?"

Smiling Sheepishly he steps back, "Right... forget I said anything."

I hold out my hand, "Get me a towel then so I can at least cover up."

As Fluttershy makes her way upstairs Rainbow gives a sly smirk as she steps closer, "So who did you spend the night with?"

"None of your business."

"Oh come on! You've got to tell us now that Chaser spilled the beans."

"I don't go around asking who you've fucked," Lowering myself to her level I look into her eyes, "So tell me who was the last person you slept with, then I'll tell you who I was with."

Stepping back she pouts, "No fair."

Grinning I stand up again as Fluttershy returns with a towel, "Since when did I say I played fair?" Stepping around the table to obscure everyone's view I wrap the towel around my waist as I drop my pants and kick them on to the pile with my trousers and socks. Stepping back to everyone I secure the towel as I stand before Twilight, "Is this going to hurt?"

"It shouldn't do," She replies, "There were no side effects when I cast the spell on us to become Breezies, however based on the change of anatomy you will experience it is hard to tell."

Before I can offer an argument Twilight horn illuminates with a magenta aura, the energy quickly covers my body. As weird as it sounds I swear I can feel it pass through my skin as it caresses my bones and internal organs. Initially it doesn't seem to be too bad, that is until a sharp pain shoots through both of my hands. Lifting my hand I watch as my fingers develop a mind of their own, moving on their own accord their position shifts as resounding cracks emanate from the bones.

Groaning in pain the same sensation courses through my legs and feet, the agony become too much for me as I fall to my knees. Looking at my skin I watch as small dark hairs start to emerge from my flesh. Soon I can feel the magic take effect on my face, focusing on my nose I can physically see the shape and size change before my very eyes. Not wanting to watch it I close my eyes as the pain continues moving across my entire body.

After a minute the pain seems to fade as I fall to my side resting on the floor. Keeping my eyes closed for a few seconds I slowly open them to try and view any changes. Immediately looking down with my eyes I crawl backwards as they lock onto a muzzle where my mouth and nose should be. Resting my head back down I quietly groan, "One day, is it so hard to ask for a normal day."

I can hear a set of hooves moving directly in front of me, "Y'all okay, John?" Opening my eyes I glance up to Applejack looking to me with concern. Nodding slowly I hold out my hoof... I have a fucking hoof! Jumping back at the sight I move it around slowly in front of my eyes, I seem to have a grey coat with black fetlocks.

Gulping I move my hoof back in front of Applejack, "Can you help me up, please?" Smiling she moves her body down allowing me to wrap my hoof around her neck, as she hoists me up I move my hindlegs allowing me to stand as I use her for support causing the towel to fall to the floor. Not like I need it anymore. Standing alongside her I remove my hoof from her neck and shakily stand on all fours, "So much for 'it shouldn't hurt', Twilight."

Twilight lowers her eyes as she steps up to me ,"I'm sorry, I thought based on our experience it would be the same for you. I didn't think about your extra appendages, I should have been able to figure it out."

Looking back to my hoofs I already miss my fingers and toes more then I thought was physically possible, "It's okay, Twilight," I raise my head to look to everyone else, "So am I a Unicorn or Pegasus?"

Pinkie jumps alongside me and pokes my back drawing my attention to the lack of wings, "Neither, you're a good old Earth pony."

Yay! The blandest race there is. Looking to Twilight I shuffle on my hooves, "You got a mirror down here?"

Nodding she points to a small one at the base of the staircase. Looking down to my hooves I try to figure out how to move. This can't be too hard. Baby steps, one foot... hoof in front of the other. I begin by moving my front left hoof, looking back I shuffle my rear right hoof forward before repeating the same with the front right then rear left. This is gonna take forever, I feel like Bambi right now.

Chuckling Applejack slowly walks alongside me, "Like this, John," As she steps forward I watch her movement, glancing down to my hooves I copy hers and slowly get to pick up speed.

From the side I can hear Fluttershy whispering to Rarity, "So cute, he's like a foal."

Turning my head to her I frown, "I heard that," Fluttershy smiles sheepishly in response as I continue to walk. My hearing seems to be a fair bit more sensitive. As I walk I find my ears twitching uncontrollably to the odd sound, it takes me a few seconds of concentration to stop them from flicking to everything that makes a noise.

Reaching the mirror the first thing I am met with is a pair of pale red eyes, certainly a change from my blue eyes. My mane is still black at least, however the entire outline seems to be scarlet red with an additional stripe just off the centre to the right. Turning my body to the side I can see that my tail is also fairly short reaching only halfway down my hind legs. My general frame is bigger then the average stallion as well, I seem to be about the same size as Shining Armor. My eyes finally lock on my cutie mark. To my surprise it's not related to my profession as an ATO, instead it seems to be a SUSAT optical point aimed at a light blue target board, likely due to having the highest shooting scores when I was in the army cadets and during training at Sandhurst.

Turning back to everyone I stand at an angle allowing them to see the mark, "Do any of you know what this means?" Although I do know I just want to see if they realise if it's related to the army.

Moving closer they all examine it. Chaser points to the SUSAT post, "Well that's what can be seen through the scope on your rifle, and the other part is a board, so I'm gonna guess it's to do with shooting."

"Great. So I look like some sort of thug with this mark."

"To be honest most ponies won't know what it means," Fluttershy adds, "I'm sure you could always think of another meaning for it."

Looking out to the side I think of potential cover stories, "I'll just stick to the fact I'm an ATO, I'll just claim I'm an inventor or designer for the Guard."

Applejack shrugs, "I suppose that'll work."

Twilight had been fairly quiet, looking to her I can see various scrolls floating around her as she observes the changes to my body, "John, have any of your perceptions been effected by the transformation."

My ear twitches once again despite my efforts to control it, "My hearing is better then normal," Inhaling I take in the local scent to find it's much more stronger, "My sense of smell is also stronger. Other then that Everything seems the sa-"

"Sunny!" Turning my head to the side I can see Chaser trying to cover Rainbows mouth as she blurted the name out loud, a blush and grin evident on his face.

Glaring daggers to him I step closer, "Did you just do what I think you did?"

Backing up he tries to remain stoic, "Of course not."

Rainbow however blows his cover as she locks eyes with me, "You hooked up with Sunny!?"

Chaser takes this opportunity to try and run up the stairs as I push off from my position. Despite only just learning to walk I seem to be able to run, however due to my inexperience I fail to keep up with his pace. Making our way upstairs he forces the balcony doors open and takes to the air flying off. As I slide across the balcony I shout after him, "Get back here you coward!"

Ignoring me he flies straight to the tavern where the unit is staying. Making my way downstairs I find everyone all around Rainbow likely trying to find out what she just learnt. When they look up to me they try to act nonchalant as they move away from each other. Rarity however ruins their attempt when she decided to address the topic, "So is Sunny your special somepony?"

Grinding my teeth in frustration I look to the door, "No, it was a one time fling. Nothing more, nothing less. And before you have a go at me she came on to me and we agreed that nothing would develop from it. Now if you'll all excuse me I have a certain Pegasus I need to castrate."

Marching to the door Twilight's magic wraps around it blocking my exit, "But you said I could study the changes for two hours."

Looking back to her I can see a range of various medical tools and numerous scrolls, the girls alongside her can't help but smirk at her enthusiasm. Groaning I step back to her, "Two hours, then there is a certain Pegasus I need to beat the shit out of."

Time for two hours of joyful prodding and questioning.

Author's Notes:

Thanks to everyone who made suggestions for the insignia, unit name and motto.
Special thanks to Zintenka who created the Insignia based on your suggestions.

I am also looking for additional proof-readers for upcoming chapters, if you are interested then feel free to send me a message.

Thanks for reading, and as always I hope you enjoyed it.