<><><> 1st person, Hank, Cabin <><><>

Waking up from my slumber I open my eyes wide in the darkness hoping a little bit of light would hit my retinas letting me see around me. The pitch blackness not yielding I reach for my watch before hitting the light button. Clicking the small button I look around and rest my gaze on the zebra I was currently spooning with.

Slowly putting my hand on Zecora's side I pet her a few times before rolling away from her to where my pistols were. Taking the pistols in my left hand I scoot myself to the edge of the loft grabbing the edge with my right hand before slowly lowering myself to the bottom floor where a small amount of moonlight was leaking through the broken window.

Navigating my way around the furniture I gather my kit and start putting it on. Tightening all the various straps and velcro I put my pistols back where they go and turn to the gun closet.

Swear to god I feel like I’m going to end up liking bondage with all these damn straps and belts I put on everyday. I think while grabbing a box of .357, .45, and a can of .556 before sitting down on the couch.

Idly loading the empty mags I clear my throat expecting philm, none coming up I pause and sigh.

Oh right.

Remembering what had happened I start to focus on my body and notice that much like yesterday I felt great. Giving a half shrug I set down the full mags and lean back into the couch. Events from my past starting to fill my mind I focus on trying to push them away but just end up hearing the screams louder, smelling the scents of rotting flesh and gunpowder stronger, and seeing images of my friends dying around me flash against the backs of my locked together eyelids.

My breathing getting heavier and more rapid I open my eyes and slam my head onto the coffee table, a loud thump ringing through the cabin I hear Zecora snap awake and yip in surprise. Slowly taking my head away from the table I put a shaky hand to my forehead and sigh.

“Are you okay Hank?!” Zecora asks from the loft.

“Fine.” I answer.

“Than what was the loud sound?”

“I dropped my revolver on the floor.” I lie hoping she would buy it. Zecora not saying anything else we both sit in silence before a slight shuffling comes from the loft. “Can you um… help me down again Hank?”

Turning around I see Zecora looking down at the floor as if deciding as if it was okay to jump or not. “Yeah I got ya.” Jumping over the back of the couch I get to the loft before grabbing Zecora making her violently jump. “Whoa what’s the matter Z?” I ask slowly lowering the zebra to the floor. “I-I just can’t see in this darkness and when you grabbed me I got scared.”

“So ya can’t see nothin’ right now?” I ask as I watch the zebra look around trying to see something.

“N-no.” She wavers.

“Well let me get the lights then.” I make my way to the switch before flipping it. Squinting my eyes out of reflex I stand and rub my eyes, waiting for them to adjust.

My eyes done burning I look around the room and step to the fridge. Opening the door I grab a bottle of actual good brandy and set it down. Taking my flask from belt I open it and the bottle before slowly filling it.

Putting the flask on my belt I put the bottle away and go back to the couch, sitting down Zecora gets onto the couch next to me and leans on my arm.

“So you can see in the dark.” She asks while I rub my head.

“I mean yeah, jus’ ‘bout as good as any other human, maybe a bit better-” I look to the zebra. “ got real light sensitive eyes, that’s why I prefer cloudy days more than sunny ones.”

Yawning and shaking her head the zebra stops leaning on me and goes ‘cat mode’ next to me. “I...eugh… didn’t know that. I guess it is possible you have better eyes than ponies or zebra considering you are a predator.”

“Yeah that’d make sense I guess.”

Slapping myself in the cheek a few times I look to my watch and stand back up.

“Where are you going?” I turn and look to Zecora.

“Goin’ ta the Apple’s place ta hopefully finish their barn.” I say as I grab the M16 from yesterday along with the shotgun.

“Oh um. Anything you want me to do?”

Thinking for a second I shake my head. “Nah, nothin’ I can think of, jus’ have fun do, what ya want.” Looking down to my watch I see it’s 05:58. Looking out the window I see the sun start to peek over the trees before it comes into view.

Opening the door I take a step out before pausing. Staring at the orange sun I sigh. “Wow.” I admire the sun rise into the sky as it turns the high flying clouds above it a beautiful shade of yellow and orange as well.

Slow hoof steps coming up from behind me I feel Zecora stop next to me as she rubs into my leg. “That is beautiful.” She says.

“Yeah.” I take a deep breath and hum before starting to walk to the humvee. Opening the passenger door and setting the guns inside I close it, getting the attention of Zecora.

“I’ve been meaning to ask you, but what are those things?” She asks stopping next to the truck.

Getting my bag of tools and putting the car batteries in the bag as well I walk out of the shed and look to her. “These here are two ways humans made for fast transport A truck-” I nod my head to the humvee. “and a motorcycle.” I open the rear door and set the bag inside with a grunt.

“So these things move?”

“Oh yeah.” I open the drivers door and hold down the switch until the humvee roared to life causing Zecora to jump back. “W-what is it doing?”

Leaving the drivers door open I step around the front of the humvee and walk past her. “That’s jus’ the motor runnin’.” I step inside and grab my phone before slipping it into my pocket.

Cautiously looking to the humvee she turns her head when I walk past her again. “Did it change last night, I don’t remember it having all the paint on it.”

“Yeah I did that last night when ya were sleepin’.” I answer while going back into the shed and grabbing a pair of collapsible saw horses.

“Could I um get a ride sometime maybe?”

Closing the rear hatch after setting the saw horses in I rub my hands on my jeans. “Course Z, jus’ prolly not today.” Sitting down in the humvee Zecora comes around to the drivers side. “Well Hank have a… uh...great day.”

The Zebra slightly blushing I smile. “You too Z, I’ll see ya tonight.”

The zebra smiling I close the door and roll down the window. Slipping the humvee into reverse I let my foot off the break and apply some gas until I start to move backwards. Far enough away from the cabin I throw it into drive and whip it around so I’m facing toward the trail.

Stopping, the exit to the clearing I rev the engine and slowly push through the brush until I’m on the trail. “Well I wonder how ponies’ll react ta this thing.” I ponder while driving with my leg as I plug my phone in and scroll through my songs.

<><><>1st person, Hank, Makeshift Timberwolf Graveyard<><><>

Stopping next to the entrance of the orchard I put the humvee in park and turn it to auxiliary power so my radio would stay on. Selecting a song I tap my foot and nod before stepping out of the truck I grab my helmet that I placed inside and put it on.

Looking around me I smile at the sight of the dead wolves. Cracking my knuckles I pick up a timberwolf before dragging into the woods a ways and throwing it. Repeating this process for around three minutes I’m in the process of walking back to pick up another but I stop as I see three ponies looking at the humvee and still large amount of dead timberwolves with the look of surprise on their faces, along with disgust from the white one.

Walking my way out of the brush the rustling draws the attention of the trio. Stopping my advance the three ponies turn around and face me. Looking to the ponies the white one takes a step back and gasps. “Mornin’.” I say tipping my helmet and walking over to wolf that died stuck between the white boards of the fence.

“Hank what happened here?” Aj drawls looking around.

“Turning around I put my hand on my hip. “Well I was walkin’ down the road then one a these wolves asked my opinion on if her butt looked big in the dress she was wearin’. I’ve always considered myself a man of honesty so I said ‘Ma’am yer butt does look big but that ain’t bad.’.” I shrug. “Perently that ain’t what she wanted ta hear so she called her extended family over ta kill me outta spite, I fought back a course so there ya have it. Killed bout thirty of these bastards over a dress and an ass.” I rest my elbow on the fence and lean back.

Applejack looking to me with a raised eyebrow sighs “The truth please.”

“If ya ask a dumb question yer gonna get a dumb answer. It’s pretty damn obvious ta me what happened though.” I turn back to the wolf and pull it out of the fence before dragging it over to the woods.

“So ya mean ta tell me that ya killed thirty timberwolves last night?” She asks.

“Yes. I got jumped by a few of em at first then they jus’ kept comin’. Didn’t want none of ‘em gettin’ ta the house er the girls plus they pissed me off so I was gonna take as many of ‘em as I could.” I honestly answer while dragging two wolfs to the woods.

“A-and you’re not hurt?” I hear Fluttershy ask.

“Nope, only a bruise er two.”

Going back to the mess I pick up number fifteen and drag it to the side of the woods

“Barbaric.” I hear the white one mumble. Catching my attention I turn around.

“ ‘Cuse me, what was that?” I look to the white one who immediately closes her mouth and takes another step back as her eyes widen.

“Barbaric huh?” I take a step forward and stop. “I don’t remember ever formally meetin’ you so why don’t ya take a piece of advice and not judge a book by it’s cover. Okay?” I nod and walk back over to the dead timberwolves.

“You killed thirty of them though. How’s that not barbaric!?”

My thoughts replaying certain bad events from my past I was already on edge but the white one was just about to push me over.

Taking a deep breath and clenching my fists I pick up another wolf and start to walk toward the woods again.

“Rarity don’t make him mad, h-he’s really a nice pony when you get to know him.” I hear Fluttershy defend me, causing my blood to cool a bit.

“Darling I just can’t believe that. With all this...this carnage how could he possibly be a good pony?” My cooled blood immediately boiling over I regrip the dead wolf and chuck it at a tree before picking up one of the dead ones off the ground. Turning back around. My eyes locked onto the white one I advance toward her. Her pupils shrinking she stumbles back and whimpers.

“Barbaric? Barbaric? Ya wanna see barbaric?” I slam the dead wolf into the ground before placing my foot on its neck and cupping my hands under its jaw. Staring into her eyes I lift up and tear the wolfs head off before slamming it into the ground as well.

Scoffing I turn back around. “Barbaric? You ain’t seen shit.” I start to walk back to the remaining dead wolves on the Apple’s property before turning back around. “Ya know, one thing I’ve noticed bout you ponies is ya sure are judges. Somethin’ don’t match up ta yer likin’ ya jus’ see it as a monster or bad and don’t give it a second thought.” I take a deep breath.

“Maybe if ya took the time and actually thought about why certain people are different or ‘barbaric’ ya wouldn’t be keen ta callin’ them a monster. I got reasons why I’m the way I am, maybe if more a y’all actually took the time to evaluate things ya would find you ponies ain’t always right.” I rub my head and sigh. “But what the fuck would I know? I’m jus’ some ruthless monster that kills fer sport and rapes, it’s not like I care bout’ anyone, Naw. It’s not like I stood here and fought my ass off to protect the ponies in the house down the lane because they’re the only ones who've shown me understanding when I could of easily ran away. Nope still a monster. Even when I saved that entire fuckin’ town and that flower girl I was still looked at like less than person. Still a monster.”

I throw my hands up before letting them fall to my sides. “Honestly I wish I was back on my old world where I was gettin’ shot at, stabbed, almost eaten cause at least real monsters don't judge ya fer doin’ somethin’ that don't line up ta their ways, all they do is try ta kill ya, I understand killin’ but I sure as hell don't understand you sheltered bastards.”

I spit on the ground and go back to picking up the dead wolves. A few minutes of silence passing the white one opens her mouth “I-I had no idea-” I stop and cut her off. “Well when I first saw you I kinda assumed ya looked like a prissy bitch who ain’t never done a day a hard work in her life but I didn’t jus’ say that, ‘cause I don’t know you and I don’t like assumin’ things, ya know when ya assume it make an ass outta you and me.” Throwing another dead wolf into the trees I continue. “But god damn seems like I assumed right this time.”

“I-I-”

“ Ya know what? See me as a monster I don’t care, cause really that’s all I am.” I sigh and go back to picking up the dead wolves.

“I’m sorry.” The white one says as I ignore her. “It was wrong of me to judge you on your appearance and your actions without getting to know why you did them. It wouldn’t be generous of me to not offer you the same amount of open mindedness just because you’re not a pony.” She pauses for a short while. “I should be thanking you for not only saving my little sister and her friends not once but twice, along with the town and Applejack’s family.”

Throwing wolf twenty five into the woods I turn back around. “I would much rather get to know the polite and hardworking stallion Fluttershy and Applejack keep talking about than dismissing him as a monster.” Hearing her words I stop and look to the white pony.

“So ya wanna start over?”

“Yes.” She nods and takes a step forward. “My name is Rarity. I am the sole proprietor of carousel boutique, home of everything chic and fantastique!” She nervously smiles raises her hoof.

Wiping of my hand I firmly grasp her hoof and gently shake it. “Names Hank, Doc, Doc Harmacy, or whatever ya wanna call me. I’m a former medic and a jack of all trades. Pleasure meeting you.” I stand back up and walk back to the five wolves, picking up three.

“Well Hank it is a pleasure meeting you as well and I’m sorry for calling you what I did.”

“And I didn’t mean what I said bout you, runnin’ a business by yerself is hard work, and ya don’t seem like a bitch.” I pick up the last two wolves before throwing them away as well. "Plus y'all don't seem like ya see a lot of action 'round here so I understand why you had such a reaction ta... This." I motion to all the area around me.

Thirty it is.

"Thank you." The marshmallow smiles.

“So uh now that we’re all acquainted can Ah ask what that is?” Applejack points to the humvee behind me.

“It’s a vehicle humans came up with ta move people and items called a truck. It’s kinda like a motorized wagon.” I explain leaning on the humvees hood.

“W-why does it look so angry.” Fluttershy squeaks.

“Well as the paint on the side and camo suggests this is a vehicle for war.”

Rarity and Applejack looking to me they both walk around to the side of the humvee. Applejack frowning Rarity gasps “War Whorse! How uncouth!”

“Why ya sayin’ it with that W in the front of it? It says horse kinda like what y’all are-”

“We are not whorses!” Rarity yells while Applejack looks to me mad and Fluttershy starts to tear up.

“Again with that W, why? it says H-O-R-S-E. Hard H, horse, ya know a horse? Member of the equine variety of animals.” I look to the three and shrug “I ain’t got a clue what a whorse is.”

“Ya don’t know what a whorse is?” Applejack narrows her eyes at me.

“No, I ain’t from ‘round here, don’t know the mannerisms and such.” I wave my hand.

“Oh so ya ain’t callin’ us sluts.” My eyes open wide at the statement.

“Whoawhoawhoa…..Whoa. No I would never call a lady a slut, unless she was one, but no I ain't callin’ any of y’all sluts, I was raised better than that.”

“So what did you call us then hummmm!?” Rarity takes a step forward.

Looking to the livid mare I frown to her. “Calm yer jets there Marshmallow.” I say causing the white mare to look down to herself and blush. “By HORSE I mean a animal, native ta my home world, that was a equine. I jus’ kinda thought y’all were equines so the first time I saw any of yer kind I immediately thought ‘Oh tiny horses!’.” I explain getting Fluttershy to approach me.

“Y-you aren’t from this world?” She whispers.

“No don’t think so. Ain’t seen any infected runnin’ round and I know fer a fact there weren't no talking small equines on my planet.” I jump up onto the hood where I sit down.

“You’re an alien?” Rarity asks, finally calming her blush down.

“Yeah guess so.” I nod starting to remember how far from home I was, a small amount of panic setting in before I forced it down.

“Is he lying Aj?” She looks to the orange pony beside her.

“N-nope.”

“Oh.”

The three staring at me I start to get uncomfortable. “What?”

“Well you just look a bit more normal than, I at least, thought a alien would look like, less tentacles.” Rarity shivers in disgust.

“Hey whatever ya wanna do in yer bedroom is fine by me, I ain’t gonna judge, I’m too weird ta judge.” I snort causing Rarity to sputter and start blushing again.

“I-I don’t want to get rutted by t-tentacles!”

“Whatever ya say ta convince yerself. I didn’t even imply that so...” I shrug before sliding off the hood and opening the door.

Looking behind me I clap snapping Rarity out of her blushing fit. “I’m drivin’ this ta the barn y’all need a ride somewhere? Flutters?”

“We a-actually were going to go to Applejack’s place and talk about y- you.” Fluttershy admits getting looks from the other girls.

“Well I can give ya a ride and maybe address some a yer concerns.”

Looking in between each other they all three shrug.

“Sounds ight’ ta me.”
“Why not.”
“Um….sure.”

Nodding I open the back drivers side door and motions with my hand. “Jus’ hop in. Cause a y’alls small size I bet all three of ya will have extra room.” I chuckle while Aj and Rarity jump in while Fluttershy hesitates.

“Somethin’ wrong?”

Looking over to me she nervously smiles. “I-I don’t know if I can jump up.”

“C’mon Flutters ya can do it.” Aj encourages from inside.

“U-um.” She puts her front hooves up on the bottom frame of the door and pushes off with her back hooves and wings. Getting up she slips as she transitions her front hooves from the frame to the seat. ‘Eeeping’ she locks up and falls backwards.

Immediately catching her I lift her up. “Ya good?” I ask setting her into the seat.

“Yes um thank you.” Her wings fold back down to her sides.

“Okay watch yerselves this door don’t like ta latch so I'm gonna have ta close it pretty hard.” The ponies back up and I slam the door.

Getting in the driver seat and closing the door myself I go to turn over the humvee before a hoof pokes me on the shoulder. “Humm?”

Turning around I see it was Rarity that poked me. “Yeah?”

“Sorry to ask but being the fashionista I am I’m always the first to notice stains and I just have to ask. What that big dark brown stain is in the metal and middle carpet… platform?” She points down and I follow her hoof.

“Oh that’s blood.” I say before turning back around.

“W-who’s blood? There’s a lot of it darling.” I hear point out making my hand tighten on the wheel.

“Mine.” I don’t wait for a reply and hold down the lever getting the humvee to start, startling the ponies in the back. “I-is it supposed t-to v-vibrate.”

I look behind me again and see Fluttershy with a nervous look on her face. “Yeah it vibrates a bit but it ain’t too bad.” I turn back around and pop it into drive before starting down the road and turning onto the Apple’s land. “So what were y’all gonna talk ta each other ‘bout me?” I drive slowly not to kick up too much dust.

“Rarity was wantin’ ta know what made you uh….you.” Aj says.

“Ya talkin’ the killin’ er my dashin’ good looks.” I chuckle.

“I was more leaning toward your skill in death….n-not that you’re not a handsome stallion.” She immediately backtracks getting me to smile.

“Ya can say it, I know I’m ugly.” I admit as I look down the path. “Fer the killin’ though it’s jus’ as I told Aj last night. Killin’ ta me is jus’ like apple buckin’ ta her, dress makin’ fer you, and takin’ care of animals ta Flutters. I was forced ta do what I had ta to survive and after over two years of it I got good at it and eventually I started ta like it, for a coping mechanism maybe? I don't know, call me crazy if ya want, I prolly am at this point.”

“Thank you for your honesty.” Rarity thanks before Fluttershy steps in. “You aren’t ugly Hank, you’re actually quite good looking.”

Sighing I rub my face. “I don’t like liars.”

“I-I’m not lying, y-you-”

Turning around I look to Fluttershy. “I know I look like someone set my face on fire and tried ta put it out with a fork, and I’ve come ta terms with it, don’t try ta convince me otherwise.”

Silence ringing in the cab I finally speak up. “Anythin’ else ya wanted ta ask?” I look behind me and see all the girls with red faces and their front hooves pressed closed into their bodies while their tails are wrapped around them.

Weird.

Clearing her throat Rarity rubs pushes her hair out of her eyes. “When I was hearing Aj, Fluttershy tell things about you last night I c-couldn’t help but wonder your age.”

Freezing up I think start to think if to tell them the truth or not. Should I tell them my actual age? No. I couldn’t, they'd look down to me. Um… twenty two? Eh twenty one…. Yeah twenty one.

“I’m uh twenty one I turn around and answer getting Aj to stare at me and Rarity to gasp.

“Darling you’re so young!”

You have no idea.

“And you’ve been through so much!”

“Ah don’t believe you.” I hear Aj say from behind me.

Stopping the humvee at the barn I turn around. “Why’s that?”

“Somethin’ jus’ seems offa yer age bein’ twenty one Ah mean heck Flutters is nineteen and me an’ Rarity are twenty two, well Ah’m twenty one actually. Ah jus’ feel like yer lyin’.” She frowns before Rarity butts in.

“I kind of agree with Applejack, you look much older than early twenties.”

Curious I look to the white pony. “How old I look then?”

Rubbing her chin he hums. “I say you at least look thirty.”

The revelation gets me to slowly turn around and heavily exhale. “Ah’d agree with Rares there Hank. Whatta ya think Flutters?”

“W-well I mean he does look older than his twenties and he certainly acts older but if he says he’s twenty one I believe him.” Fluttershy says as I turn off the humvee and open the drivers door before walking to the door behind me and opening it as well.

“Well girls I don’t know what ta say ‘bout my age but I hope y’all have a good chat.” I close the door after they get out and walk around to the back hatch and open it.

Hearing the door open I look over and see Granny, Mac and the girls walk out staring at the truck.

“Mornin’ y’all. Hey Granny ya got that ruler from yesterday still.”

Pulling her eyes from the truck looks to me. “Yeah an’ I’ll let ya have it after ya tell me what in the world that thing is.” She points a shaky hoof to the humvee.

“Igh’t.” I set up the saw horses and put down the bag of tools.

“Listen up everybody cuz’ I’m only gonna explain this once. This here is a vehicle that humans made ta transport people and supplies, an’ well I can mount a gun on top that turns people inta chili, an’ people liquidification is always a plus.”

<><><> 1st person, Hank, Five hours later.<><><>

“Oh yeah take ‘em of sonny!” I hear Granny heckle from the porch. Chuckling I slip off my plate carrier and set it next to my belt and suspenders.

“Ya like what ya see?” I hold out my arms horizontal to my body and ask the old pony.

“Sure do” She smiles and brings her glass of tea to her mouth “but I got jus’ one question.”

“Yeah?”

“Ya are a stallion ain’t cha?”

“Um yeah I’m of the male sex, what makes ya be uncertain?

Don’t you say it. Don't you say what I think you’re gonna say.

“Well with all that gear on ya can’t really tell but without it and those pants it really shows off yer thighs and flank.”

For fucks sake. I rub my face and sigh.

“I know. I got a big ass and thunder thighs, I've heard it alllllllll before. Don’t know why, haven't an idea how, but I don’t wanna get inta it.” I walk over to the belt and take the canteen off before drinking it all.

“Well it certainly shows through those pants.”

Sighing and groaning I bring my gaze up to the elderly pony. “Look Granny not ta be rude but I really don’t like talking ‘bout my body, especially my legs, and I’d prefer we stop now.”

“Alright I didn’t know ya were self conscious, not that ya need ta be” She whispers the last part before clearing her throat. “but if it’s a sensitive subject I’ll stop messin’ with ya, a little, I’m gonna do what I want.” She laughs and starts to walk toward me.

“I appreciate that.”

Putting back on the chest holster and slipping the 1911 into my actual pants waistband granny slowly makes her way to me. “ ‘bout time fer you ta take a break ain’t it?” She asks as she walks past me and to the barn.

“Nah’ I’m good.” I reply and pick up the board I just got done cutting before walking over to where I was nailing up the new boards.

“Ya jus’ don’t stop do ya?”

“Nope.” I pound the nail into place securing the board.

“Well everypony is goin’ inta town ta eat at the Cake’s bakery, somethin’ the girls proposed, so I thought I’d ask ya if ya wanted ta go.”

“No.” I immediately say before realizing how rude that may have sounded. “Sorry I uh jus’ think it’d be better if I don’t stir the hornet's nest more than I have ta.”

Looking unpleased Granny turns from the barn and to me. “Well what ya gonna do for dinner then?”

“I brought food, I don’t expect ta be fed as well as paid.” I pick up another board and start a new row.

“We’ll it ain’t a problem ta feed ya I always make too much anyways, but if ya don’t want ta go inta town I ain’t gonna make ya.” After I put the new board up I hear granny turn. “You’ll have then barn done today won’t cha?”

Stopping for a second I drop the board I was holding and look at the barn. “Huh, I guess so.” I stand back and really look at what I had been doing for the last five hours for the first time. “Well maybe not the paintin’.”

“You might actually be worse than Aj when it comes ta workin’ too much.” Granny laughs and shakes her head. “Well ya what anythin’ brought back fer ya at least?”

Surprised at the question and what these ponies would do for me I stand quiet. “Ya alright Hank?”

“Huh? What?” I snap out of my thoughts and look down to where Granny looking up to me worried look. “Ya were jus’ starin’ off with a pained look in yer eyes. Need ta talk about somethin’?”

“N-No, No. I’m fine, and I’ll have ta decline yer offer as well.” I say in a emotionless tone before picking up another board.

“Alright...well we’re gonna get goin’ so see ya later Hank.” The elderly pony replies in a questioning tone before walking back to the house.

Stopping what I was doing I let out a shaky breath and slap my cheek a few times.

Stop thinking about it Hank, just stop it.

Leaning against the barn I hit my head on the newly put up wall before just resting my head there. Picking my head up and turning around I frown and start my way to where I parked the humvee. Opening the door I peek inside in search of a new shirt, tired of how wet my current one was with sweat

Closing the front door I go to the back and start to search through the back. Thought I had a back up shirt in here. I think as I reach under the seat before pulling my arm back, a blood stained white tee shirt in my grip. Holy shit is this the shirt I was shot in?. Looking at the right shoulder I see three holes. Huh, sure is. Oh and there's the knife slash that’s across my left peck, and ruined my tattoo. I laugh and place the shirt down I put a hand under my other before pulling off chest holster and sweat soaked shirt.

Using the door to make sure nobody saw my scar crossed torso I put on the blood stained shirt finding it was a tad tight. “Fuck I can barely fit my arms in the sleeves, guess that means I got muscle but fuck this is uncomfortable.” I mumble while flexing and unflexing my arms, the fabric constricting my movement.

“Yup fuck this.” I walk out from behind the humvee and grab ahold of the left sleeve before ripping it off. Throwing it to the ground with a grunt I rip off the right sleeve and flex both my arms a few times before moving them around.

“Oh yeah much better.” I sigh.

“Now this is what I’m talkin’ about. Why are ya self conscious when ya got arms that look like that?” I hear the shaky but joyful tone of Granny ask from behind me. Jumping a bit I slowly turn around to see the blushing faces of Fluttershy, Rarity, who was fanning herself, Applejack, who had a gobsmacked look on her face, and Mac?

Oooh that’s interesting.

“I jus’ am.”

“Well it’s a shame. Ya cover yerself with those clothes. Don’t know what you’d cover a body like yer’s up. I wouldn’t mind gettin’ a peek-”

“Granny!” Applejack interrupts. “Ya can’t jus’ say that!”

“Filly I’m a hundred and three years old. I’ll say what I want ta.” She laughs. “And I’m sayin’ Hank has a real nice body and that he shouldn’t cover himself up like he does.” She looks to me.

“I got my reasons.” I respond crossing my arms ignoring the fact that Granny was apparently a century old.

“Well they ain't good.” Granny smiles and turns “Now ya sure ya don’t want to go with us?”

“Yeah! It’d be totally awesome to have you come along Hank! I bet you have tons of cool stories!” Scootaloo jumps and buzzes her wings.

“Yeah!” Applebloom agrees.

“All the stories I got folk are better of not hearin’. Better I’m the only one fucked up.”

“Language!” Rarity huffs. “We have fillies in company!”

“Sorry.” I sarcastically apologize, rolling my eyes.

“Surely ya got some good tales ta tell.” Granny says smiling.

Frowning I sigh. “Nope.”

“Ah C’mon Doc.” Aj pushes.

“No one needs ta hear of the things I’ve experienced, that’s a task left ta me ta bare and fer me ta bare alone.” I say picking up the sleeve pieces and throwing them on the top of the humvee.

“Darling you must have a few good stories, everypony has at least one-.”

“Well I don’t, I’ve seen all y’all starin’ at my scars, those are my stories.”

“W-what?” Rarity says clearly not picking up what I was laying down.

“Here I’ll explain it fer ya.” I walk over to Rarity and kneel down on one knee. “Ya see the half circle of skin where it’s all smooth and dented in?” I point to my recent bite wound that had just healed, with help from the bacteria bullshit.

“Um y-yes.”

“Well the story behind that one is when I was clearin’ a buildin’ a infected bit down on my arm and pulled a chunk of meat off. Ya can still see some of the teeth marks.” I point to the few small spots around the scar.

“Oh heavens.” She starts to waver while the other ponies come closer to get a look. “My body is covered in ‘stories’ an’ frankly I ain't ta fond of most of em.” I stand up and go back to the boards not having anything else to say before bending over and picking up a board.

“That’s expected, but everyone has at least one good story.”

Turning around I pause at the baffled and questioning looks of the ponies minus the three fillies.

These ponies sure do like to stare at me. I don’t like it.

“Well I’m hard pressed ta find one, but enough of this talk y’all got sweets ta eat so ya best get goin’.” I clap my hands and granny smiles that knowing smile she has.

“Yer right, let’s get goin’ everypony.” She starts down the path while the ponies snap out of whatever they were fixated on, Mac taking the longest.

Watching the ponies make it down the path I wave farewell before looking to the boards at my feet and then to the barn. “Yeah, I can get this done today.”

<><><>3rd person, Sugar Cube Corner, Granny and the gang<><><>

After arriving at the bakery and all the gang getting milkshakes and some cupcakes the three young mares with Mac and Granny were sitting around a round table in the corner while the three fillies sat at the counter talking to the new colt from Trottingham.

“So I’m not the only one that saw Hank's thighs through those jeans am I?” Rarity whispers getting the attention and embarrassment of the other two while Mac gulped and Granny faintly smiled. The ponies all having different reactions to the image of Hank’s large figure.

“N-no I saw his f-flank too.” Fluttershy stutters and hides behind her mane when the other turn their attention to her.

In all honesty all the ponies had seen Hank’s rear end and while the fillies were too young to be see it more than just a part of a body the other, more mature, ponies that has seen his ass were surprised to say the least.

“So what do you think about Hank’s...erm...derriere.” Rarity asks Fluttershy in lewd curiosity getting a squeak in response.

“Well he h-has a big rear end.” Fluttershy states getting Rarity to roll her eyes.

“We all saw that darling, but what are your thoughts about it.” Rarity leans in closer and stresses making Fluttershy shrink back into her seat.

“Oh you’re no fun.” Rarity waves a hoof and looks to Applejack.

“What are your thoughts then Applejack?”

“Ah don’t know why we’re talkin’ ‘bout Doc’s rear end honestly, it ain’t that important.” Applejack responds before taking a sip of her milkshake hoping Rarity wouldn’t pursue the question farther.

“It is of utmost importance! The big bad ‘Monster of the Everfree’ has thighs better than any of the male models that are big right now, and even some of the mares. Imagine the fashion possibilities!” Rarity says a bit too loud getting the attention of the other patrons.

“Heh sorry….” She smiles and apologizes to the ponies looking at her before turning around and looking back to her friends at the table. “Think of the possibilities....”

“Ah don’t see what yer gettin’ so worked up about. So Doc has a really muscular body, big strong flank and thighs and… smells really good.” Applejack sighs and Rarity slyly smiles. “B-but that don’t mean n-nothin’.” Applejack tries to deflect but fails.

“Ooooooo has the rustic survivalist caught the eye of our southern belle? Hmmm?” Rarity asks and bats her eyes.

“W-what! N-no course not. It’s simply an’ o-observation… yeah an observation!” The madly reddening apple farmer declines while her pupils shrink not fooling anypony and getting Granny to snicker.

Snickering behind a hoof Rarity hums. “Darling it’s fine we all watched him work through the kitchen window like fillies through the glass window of a candy store, and I must admit he certainly does have a dangerous and exotic feel about him. It’s exciting, whenever he looks at you with those wild gray eyes of his it almost makes you feel like like he could pounce any second.” The fashionista says while leaning on the table.

“Ah think ya’ve been readin’ too many of them romance novels again.” Applejack says, recovered from her blushing episode. “Ah thought ya didn’t even like Doc.”

“No darling I don’t dislike Hank I just don't like him either. I’m what you’d call ‘on the fence’, I was just pointing out things about him. You and Fluttershy however seem to have warmed up to him quite quickly, why is that?”

Surprisingly Fluttershy is the first to answer getting the unexpected attention all of the others at the table. “ Well He’s super nice, g-great at fixing things, a-and never asks for anything in return. Plus I feel really safe when I’m around him.” The timid pegasus shyly smiles and rubs her front leg with her other.

Taking a moment to let what Fluttershy had said sink in everypony pauses. “Wow Flutters, ya must really like Doc huh?” Applejack points out, a small feeling of jealousy seeping into her stomach.

“Oh um… yes. While I at first felt scared being around him as he further explained what his old world was like I started to understand why he tends to violence.” This new revelation only makes Applejack’s jealousy to grow that Doc had told Fluttershy more about him than to her.

“Oh really? What did he tell you!?” Rarity says leaning in.

Backing back up into her seat fluttershy sputters. “W- well I’m sure I’d be better to ask him b-but he told me, Mac, and the fillies how he got the scar on his face.”

“You mean the one that runs from under his left eye and past his chin?” Fluttershy nods. “Must of been bad considering some of his upper and lower lip didn’t grow back.”

“Eeeeeyup.” Mac agrees before wrapping his lips back around the straw in his milkshake.

Possibly under the influence of too many, utterly garbo, romance novels Rarity leans back and sighs. “I bet he got it fighting for a young damsel.”

“Um...n-no. He said he got it when a old metal staircase broke and he fell onto a old guardrail. He also said he felt really dumb stitching himself up that night.” Fluttershy corrects.

“O-oh.” Rarity stops dreamily gazing off. “That’s not romantic at all."

“Yeah ya’ve definitely been readin’ too many of them romance novels.” Applejack deadpans.

Taken aback The white unicorn gasps “There is no such thing as too many romance novels!”

“Whatever ya say.” Applejack rolls her eyes

“Humpf.” Rarity crosses her front legs. “Well too many romance novels or not you can’t deny Hank would fit the roll of white knight almost perfectly… minus the swearing… and strange accent… and the overall feeling he gives off. Well he really isn’t a white knight at all, but you can’t deny that he isn’t appealing in his own ways.”

While the three continued to talk about the strange person who was currently working on the Apple family’s barn Granny’s smile only continued to grow until she started to chuckle at the young mares antics.

Hearing the quiet chuckling coming from his grandmother Mac is snapped out of his own thoughts and instead turns his attention to the old mare beside him.

“What’s so funny Granny?” His baritone voice, only to be rivaled by the exact same person his sister and her friends were talking about, asks getting the attention of the others as well.

“Oh I told Hank that he was gonna drive the mares wild an’ well, seems to be that way.” She laughs while the other three mares in question stopped their bickering and start to blush.

The action of her granddaughter and her friends only making the situation more amusing Granny shook her head and laughed getting the attention of a certain pink party pony who was wiping down the counter.

Pinkie being a pony who lives to make others happy so whenever she hears somepony laughing, especially her friends, she has to find out why. If it were any other pony ponies may find it nosey but Pinkie was an exception.

Bouncing away from the counter and over to the table where Granny was still chuckling and other three were still blushing Pinkie stops and widely smiles.

“Whatcha laughing about Granny?” The bubbly pony asks while tilting her head.

“Oh I’m jus’ laughin’ at these three fillies’ antics.” she points her hoof toward the three done laughing.

“Oh what they do?”

“Nothin’! we‘ve done nothin’! ” Applejack cuts in and nervously smiling

“Okay?” Pinkie says curious but not curious enough to pry into something one of her friends is definitely trying to hide.

“Then what have you guys been doing today? Other than getting milkshakes… they are good right?” She asks the last part with worry in her voice.

“Yes, they’re great, why are you so worried dear?”

“The cakes switched sugar brands and I’ve been asking everypony today if their deserts are yummy and not nasty. Nopony wants nasty deserts.” Pinkie says sticking out her tongue as if reacting to a bad taste

“Well darling I can say that mine is absolutely fabulous, I can’t even notice the difference.” Rarity reassures before taking the last sip of her shake. “Yes absolutely great.”

“Goody!” Pinkie returns to her regular self, the worries of the treats not being up to par finally off her mind. “So have my favorite ponies been doing today?”

The three mares in question not wanting to possibly incriminate themselves they all wait for one or another to speak but soon realize that one of them was going to have to bite the bullet. Clearing her throat Rarity is the one to step up.

“Well earlier we all went to Applejack’s to talk and we were there until we came here.”

Pausing for a second and turning her head as a few new ponies walked into the door Pinkie smiles and greets them telling them that she would be right with them before turning her attention from the smiling ponies and back to her friends. “Sorry guys, busy day.”

“Not a problem at all.” Applejack dismissively waves.

“Thanks, so what were you guys talking about?” She asks curious.

“W-well we talked about current events a-and Hank possibly helping Rarity fix a few t-things around her boutique.” Fluttershy answers not mentioning the part about them staring at Hank work through the kitchen window as they had the same conversation.

Pinkie’s smile falling into a straight face with the mention of Hank the rest of her face soon follows. “Why would you ask that big meanie to work on your boutique Rarity?” She nearly whispers, catching the others of guard with her switch in moods.

Not knowing that just the mention of Hank would upset Pinkie so much Rarity hesitates before slowly answering. “W-well darling Applejack and Fluttershy both have told me of how good of a job and how fast he works, and I just considered asking him instead of hiring an overpriced builder.”

“But he killed a pony.” Pinkie’s expression falls along with some of her hair volume. “How could you talk to pony that killed another pony? Don’t you think that’s wrong?”

“Y-yes I do of course.” Rarity says off put, not expecting this reaction out of Pinkie of all ponies. “But after talking to Applejack about how if he wouldn’t have done what he did Roseluck would of died instead of that terrible stallion and talking to Fluttershy about how violent his old world was and how it was his job to… kill the ones opposing him and save the lives of his own I can see that if it weren't for him many ponies could have died. Plus while he isn’t a eloquent speaker he is quite the gentle stallion.”

“He killed a pony though, how could you look past that?” Pinkie says looking directly to Rarity.

“I can’t and I don't think anypony should. What he did was drastic and quite…” Rarity gains a slight tint of green before pushing it back down. “gory, but his actions saved not only Roseluck's life but possibly the entire town’s. To look over what he did to another pony would be wrong and to see that ending a few uninnocent lives in trade for innocent ones is stomach turning and it makes me wish it could have ended without bloodshed for sure. I don’t think that I stand alone in the fact that I had never seen something so violent before. Right everypony.”

All the ponies agree in one way or another. “I don’t think anypony was ready for the events that happened and that’s where we are different from Hank, ponies are rather peaceful and live in a usually peaceful environment, minus the occasional forest creature, but Hank is from a very hostile environment and in turn had to adapt to his surroundings. It’s clear to see that a pony and Hank are quite different but it would be wrong to not give him a equal chance and respect him, especially with what he’s done.”

Done with her speal Rarity smiles to her friend Pinkie but frowns when she realizes that everypony was staring at her. “What?”

Shaking her head Applejack scratches behind her ear. “Ah guess we weren't ready for ya ta go full shrink on us. How’d you figure all that?”

“Well just by listening to Hank and what you guys have said, I don’t just read romance by the way, I quite like myself a mystery story as well.” Rarity slyly smiles getting AJ to roll her eyes.

“I-I guess, he just seems so mean and scary.” Pinkie says rubbing her legs.

“I think if Hank was as mean and scary as you think he is Fluttershy would never of made friends with him, and she’s the element of kindness for Celestia’s sake!”

“It’s true he is actually quite nice, but he is a bit scary sometimes.” The shy pony adds.

“How so? Ya said that he made ya feel safe. How could he scare ya and make ya feel safe at the same time?”

“O-oh well I don’t that he tries to scare me at all. I-it’s just that he’s so big and sometimes with the way he moves and looks around it scares me. I think it’s just the way he is though.” She clarifies not wanting to make it sound like Hank purposefully scared her.

“Ah can agree ta that, he does have kinda twitchy movements and eyes that never stop moving, plus they’re so small. I’ve never seen such small eyes on such a big pony-er-hooman as he called himself” Applejack drawls out moving her hoof in a circular motion in the air. “It makes him almost impossible ta know what he’s thinkin’.”

“Applejack I don’t think you’re helping convince dear Pinkie that Hank really isn’t that bad.” Rarity gives Applejack the ‘really?’ look that moms have used everywhere.

“Oh, he he, sorry” She rubs her leg with her other hoof. “But he really is a pretty nice hooman, an’ if ya ain't gonna take our words take Big Mac’s.” She waves a hoof in her brothers direction making him snap his head up from where he was looking at the table

“Huh?”

“Ah’ve never seen Big Mac trust nopony at the drop of a hat but that bein’ said Mac said that he trusts Doc. Ain't that right?”

“Eeeeyup.” Mac honestly answers.

“There ya have it. If Mac trusts him Ah trust him too.” Applejack says making Pinkie’s face lighten a bit.

“Well I don’t know I’ve heard some pretty terrible things around town about him.”

“Like what?”

“Well I heard that at night he drags ponies off of the path into Ponyville and eats them, And I heard that a mare went missing and when she returned he had raped and beaten her.” She whispers.

“Those are some pretty drastic accusations Pinkie. Do you believe them?” Rarity asks very skeptical of the rumors.

“No… Well maybe a little, I mean he has killed before and -”

“Pinkie you’re needed in the kitchen!” The source of the voice, a lanky orange stallion known as Mr. Cake peeks out of the door behind the counter. “Oh sorry guys I gotta get back to work!” Pinkie rushes off and disappears behind into the back room.

“Why would anypony start rumors like that?” Rarity says after watching Pinkiepie bounce back into the kitchen behind the glass counter.

“Ah don’t know, but those are some real serious topics ponies shouldn’t be throwin’ left an’ right like that.” Applejack says, a sour taste in her mouth.

“Ponies have always been fast ta judge outsiders AJ and they’re even better at makin’ rumors ta justify their reasonin’.” The elderly mare who had been quiet the whole time they had been talking to Pinkie says leaning back into the padded seat. “Ya’d be surprised at how intolerant ponies have gotten over the years, compared ta how it was before at least.”

Sensing the incoming questions Granny beat them to the punch. “And why did ya not jus’ say ya were talking bout Hank when Pinkie asked ya Aj? It ain't like ya ta lie.”

Not expecting Granny to call her out on that Applejack doesn’t know how to respond. “Ah guess I jus’ didn’t want ta, Ah dunno.” She adverts her eyes from Granny’s and looks down to the table.

“Are ya ashamed of havin’ Hank on the farm?”

“What? No, no!” She snaps her gaze back up to Granny before looking back down to the table. “It’s not that it’s jus’... Ah dunno.”

Giving a small smile nopony else saw Granny shaker her head “Well I think it’s bout time we head back and see how Hank is comin’ along whatta think?”

“Eeeyup.” Mac gets up, have wanting to get back to the farm an hour ago.

“Well I guess this is where I bid you two adieu, me and Sweetie need to get back to the boutique so I can get her back on her schedule for school, with it starting next Monday and all.”

“Yeah I need ta get AB back inta her’s too, can’t believe it went so fast.” Applejack says nodding her head. “Wait, ya still got that dress to make fer the Grand Gallopin’ Gala too Rares?”

“Oh yes, don't take me wrong I’m proud to have such an honor asked of me, but my goodness this dress is a absolute monster! I’ve never had to do so much in so little time!” exasperated she sighs. “Well I really must be going now.”

“See ya Rarity.”

“Bye darling, Oh wait! Are we still good for out spa date Fluttershy?”

“Um yes, I believe so.”

“Fabulous, see you dears later, ta ta.” Rarity turns and walks over to where the three fillies were sitting and tells Sweetie Belle it was time to leave, a large collective ‘awwwwwww’ coming from the three fillies and their new friend.

“Bye guys.” Sweetie pouts following Rarity out of the bakery while Rarity waves a final time to her friends.

Waving back before putting her hoof down Applejack looks to Fluttershy. “So are ya walking back with us Flutters or are ya stayin’ in town a tad longer?”

“Oh I’ll walk with you, I’ve already done my shopping for the week.”

“Alright I’ll go get Applebloom.” Applejack gets up and walks over to the counter putting down a few bits before telling AB that it was time to leave.

<><><> 1st person, Hank, the Barn <><><>

Taking a step back and looking at the newly built and painted wall I sigh and smile. A cool breeze blowing over my sweat soaked shirt as it clung to my body I take a surprised inhale

Hoo that was a tad chilly.

A roll my shoulders and walk over to the three empty paint cans before setting the forth one down. “Literally had jus’ enough.” I shake my head and stand back up straight before stretching my arms.

Shaking myself free from the stretch I start to walk around the side of the barn to the front wondering how it looked on the inside.

Stepping inside of the dim barn I walk through the rays of light coming from the windows as I inspect the newly finished wall. Humming a tune as I went along, happy with the results so far I come across a heavily slanted ladder of sorts leading up to attic area.

“Eh best ta be thorough.” I shrug and pull out my revolver before slowly making my way up the half ladder half staircase.

Scanning the mostly dark room with my pistol ready I holster it and make my way all the way up into the attic area. Crouching down slightly to not hit my head I walk along the new wall and hit it periodically to make sure everything was holding well.

“Fer this bein’ the first big project I’ve done by myself in a few years I don’t think I coulda done a better job.” Talking to myself I scan around the room before snapping to three cases on top of a old steamer trunk.

The floorboards groaning under my weight I slowly make my way to the three cases before stopping. Staring at the black cases I rub my hand down the largest and closest.

Grabbing the case gently I crouch down and set it on the floor. Unsnapping the two brass claps I open the case, the old hinges squeaking as I slowly open it. “Holy tit fuck.” I mumble while looking down to the absolutely beautiful walnut guitar.

Wrapping my left hand around the neck I slowly pull it from the case. “I prolly shouldnt be touchin’ this but I haven’t touched a guitar in over a year and boy does this feel right.” Going to a knee I set it on my leg before gently strumming it, the strings having a extra bit of twang but not so it was too offensive. “Not even that far outta of tune.” I strum a few chords. “I can fix that.”

Starting from the bottom of the fret board to the top I get all the strings tuned properly, making sure with I play a short sequence of chords going from G to E to D to A. Repeating the pattern in varying ways I stop playing and take a deep breath “Damn does this guitar sound good.” I drag a thumb across the strings slowly listening to each of them ring out. “That does raise a question though. How would a pony play a guitar or a fiddle or a banjo for that matter? They don’t got fingers.” I wonder aloud looking to the dusty fiddle and banjo cases. “Eh whatever I don’t care, all I care bout is takin’ this girl for a spin.” I grin and pick up the guitar before setting back on my knee. “Although it is a tad hot up here so maybe I’ll go outside.”

Walking outside into the cool breeze and warm sun I put the strap of the guitar on my shoulders while walking to the hood of the humvee. Jumping up onto it I take a seat and pop my neck. “Been a long time since I’ve played or sang anythin’ so this may be a bit rough.” I talk to myself and clear my throat before my right and left hand start to play through the chords.

Looping through a few times to make sure I had the hang of it I open my mouth.

Here goes nothing. I take a deep breath and close my eyes.

I am a man of constant sorrow
I've seen trouble all my days.
I bid farewell ta old Kentucky
The place where I was born an’ raised.
The place where he was born and raised. I decide to sing the chorus as well since I don’t have another person to back me up.

For six long years I've been in trouble
No pleasures here on earth I found
For in this world I'm bound ta ramble
I have no friends ta help me now.
He’s got no friends ta help him now. I hear a slight sound that sounds like hoof steps but write it off as the wind and strum harder.

It's fare thee well my old true lover
I never expect ta see you again
For I'm bound ta ride that northern railroad
Perhaps I'll die upon this train.
Perhaps he'll die upon this train.
You can bury me in some deep valley.
For many years where I may lay
Then you may learn ta love another
While I am sleeping in my grave.
While he is sleeping in his grave. I slip off the hood of the humvee and land on my feet as I start to play the guitar with all my conviction.

Maybe your friends think I'm just a stranger
My face you'll never see no more.
But there is one promise that is given
I'll meet you on God's golden shore.
He'll meet you on God's golden shore. I strum out the last part of the sound before ending it with a strong downstroke, letting the strings ring out before they die.

“God Damn! This guitar is amazin’!” I give a wide smile genuinely for the first time since I could remember my eyes still closed.

“I’d say it was the pony behind the guitar, not the guitar.” My eyes shoot open and I jump back hitting the hood of the humvee with a thud.

Looking to the four apple ponies in front of me I feel my face start to heat up. “H-how mucha that did y’all hear?”

“Well I’d say we heard it bout halfway down the path leadin’ ta the house but we started to really hear it when we broke through the tree line there, so bout half of it.” Granny explains pointing to the path.

“Oh.” I start to heat up. “Well I’ll jus’ go put this away now.” I nervously chuckle and slip the strap off from around my neck and start to walk back to the barn, avoiding all eye contact.

“Now wait jus’ a second there.”

Ah fuck me. I slowly turn and look at Granny. “Where’d ya find that guitar?”

“Uh up in the attic area of the barn when I was checking ta make sure everything looked snug.” I rub my arm.

“So that’s where it went.” She mumbles and looks to the ground.

“Where’d ya learn ta play guitar like that?” Applejack asks looking impressed.

“My Grandpa taught me everytin’ I know ‘bout playin’ guitar. Ya thought I played… Good?” I nervously ask.

“Good? Good!? Do Ah think ya played good? Ah ain’t never heard guitar like that.” I feel myself start ta blush and heat up again.

“Whatta ‘bout my singin’?” I nervously ask, hoping she’d say it was at least decent.

“Well all I can say is Ah didn’t expect ya ta have pipes like that, were ya in a band before ya become a medic?” Applejack asks obviously intrigued by how well I played the guitar and sang apparently.

Feeling less embarrassed I feel my face start to cool down. “No I wasn’t a performer or nothin’ I was jus’ a jack of all trades with my dad.”

“C’mon ya had ta at least perform sometimes, that was amazin’!” Apple Bloom's always cheerful voice says bringing a small smile to my face.

“No I never played for nobody but myself an’ sometimes my family.” I honestly answer. “Grandpa did say I shoulda become a musician, but that uh… that never happened.”

“Well yer grandpa sounds like a wise man.” Granny smiles and points to the guitar. “That there guitar was my husbands. Boy could he play.” She looks up to the sky and takes a deep breath through her nose.

“Shit, Granny I’m sorry, I shouldn’t a been snoopin’ around and touchin’ things that ain’t mine. I’ll go an’ put this up right away.” Afraid that she’d be mad with me for touching her husband's, dead husband’s, guitar I apologize and quickly start to walk back to the barn.

“Now wait a second there boy.” I immediately freeze in my tracks and slowly turn around.
“Whatta apologin’ fer again?”

“I’m apologizing for playin’ your husband’s guitar without permission.”

Smiling and shaking her head I look to Granny confused. “Ya think I’m mad? Red would be mad if somepony didn’t play his guitar, especially that good.” She laughs and shakes her head again.

“So ya ain’t mad?”

“Mad? Heck no, I’m glad. Thought I’d never hear that guitar again. Tell ya what if ya ain't convinced that I ain’t mad at ya play another song fer us.”

Immediately freezing up I start to feel nervous looking at the four ponies in front of me. “I… Uh can’t.”

“Whatta mean ya can’t ya jus’ did.” Granny smiles.

“Well I didn’t know I was bein’ watched then, and I can’t play or sing when I know I am.” I scratch the back of my neck in a nervous habit.

“Oh c’mon Hank, ya think we’re gonna judge ya on how ya can play? How could we? None of us can play guitar like that, except maybe AJ but I haven’t heard her play in a long time anyway.” Granny looks to Aj making her look to the ground

AppleJack mumbling something about being busy I look to her “Ya can play?”

“Yeah but not half as good as you, plus I stopped playin’ bout’ three years ago.” She says Looking to me and then to the guitar in my hand.

Trying to figure out why she stopped playing I pull myself out of musings and look back to Granny “Alright I’ll play somethin’ fer y’all but not on guitar, I saw a banjo case and a fiddle case up and I’d rather play the fiddle. Is that alright?”

“Ya mean ta tell me that ya can play the fiddle too?”

“Yeah I can play three instruments, the guitar, the banjo, and the fiddle.” Inspecting the guitar closer I hear Granny whisper ‘damn’ under her breath. “So I’ll jus’ go get it tuned up and I’ll bring it out.” I turn one last time and finally make it to the barn without getting stopped.

Walking back up into the attic I crouch down and gently put the guitar back into the case and close it before I hear the sound of footsteps coming up the ladder.

Turning to the ladder I see a brown stetson appear from below the floor of the attic before the rest of Applejack comes into view.

“Oh Howdy Aj.” I nod before picking up the case and setting back where it was. “Ya need somethin’?”

“Um no Ah’m good I jus’ wanted ta really thank ya fer everythin’ ya’ve done fer us.”

“Hey it’s nothin’.” I wave it off and take the fiddle case down.

“Yes it is. Ya have no idea how long we’ve been lookin’ fer somepony ta fix the barn, it’s a big load off.” She explains walking next to me and sitting down.

“Well I’m glad I could help, I hate seein’ honest hard workin’ folk have ta go through such tribulations.” Opening the fiddle case I whistle “Look at that beaute.”

“Ah’m glad ya feel that way cuz ya sure helped us out” She quietly chuckles. “and I need ta give a proper thanks fer what ya did last night.”

“Eh I didn’t do anythin’ special I jus’ did what anyone would of done in my place.”

“Well Ah don't know what kinda ponies yer thinkin’ of but Ah don't know too many that would or could do what you did.” I see her incredulous look in the corner of my eye and just shrug to which she just snorts.

“Well Granny also tol’ me ta tell you that yer pay is in the house.” Aj stands back up and groans.

“Tell her that she can keep it, I don’t need no money.” Picking up the fiddle I say before picking up the bow.

“Heh naw yer gettin’ paid, Apples always pay their debts.”

“Well ya ain't in debt ta me none so go tell Granny she can keep her money, y’all don’t owe me a damn thing.” I set the fiddle on my lap and look to Aj hoping she’d just do as I said.

“Yer gettin’ paid.” She says as she starts to walk away.

“No I ain’t.” Applejack turns around with her mouth open to fire back but immediately closes it when she sees the look I was sending her way.

“Alright alright geez.” I smile and turn my attention back to the fiddle. “Ah don’t know what kinda strange pony don’t like bein’ paid though.” She whispers under her breath.

“The kinda strange person who knows money ain’t shit in the grand scheme of things.” I answer not looking up from the fiddle.

Slowly looking over to Applejack I saw that she had her head down and her front legs crossed. “Sorry ya weren't supposed ta hear that.”

“It’s fine jus’ go tell Granny that I’ll be down in a bit ta play another song, after I tune this girl first though of course.” I answer putting the fiddle in the crook of my neck as Aj walks back down the steps.

With the fiddle tuned, finally, I walk outside with the fiddle and box held together in my left hand.

Stopping I look through the trees at the setting sun. Letting the warm orange glow fall onto me I stand in front of the barn and the house until I hear the front door open behind me and the slow hoof steps of Granny walk down the front porch.

Paying the sounds no mind I stand stock still as the almost fall breeze blows across my wet skin sending chills through my arms as I don’t dare look away from the setting sun, letting remembrances of old push themselves into my mind.

“What cha lookin’ at?” I hear Granny ask as she stops beside me, my eyes starting to feel the burn of on coming tears before I beat them back down with a wince. Feeling Granny’s gaze on my side I hear her hum. “Ah memories.”

“Hey Granny ya found Doc ye… Oh.” Me and Granny ignore Aj’s outburst turned silent as we stand side by side in the warm glow of the setting sun.

Hearing the sound of rapid and small hoof steps from inside the house the front door opens and quickly shuts. “Is Hank gonna play fer us ye-.”

Snapping out of my premonitions I glance behind me and see Applejack nervously smiling at me while she covers a unamused Applebloom’s mouth with her hoof. Giving a small smile back I look back to the sun before letting out a shaky breath I didn’t know I was holding.

“Bad memories?” I look down and see Granny knowingly looking up to me.

“No… great ones.” I say in a quiet voice surprising Granny.

“Then why did ya have that look on your face?”

“Because I know that I’ll never see the places an’ people that were in them ever again.” I fell a solemn smile work its way onto my face before it turns into a scowl. “Plus I know what happened ta em’.”

Shaking my head I smile. “but let’s get song played fer y’all.” I start to walk to the front porch before realising that I hadn’t see a certain large red pony. “Hey where’s Mac?”

“He’s inside last I checked. Applebloom go get your brother please.”

“Okay Granny.” She happily chirps slipping out from behind Applejack’s hoof and rushing back inside.

Applebloom followed by her brother walking out of the door. Telling the ponies to set down on the front porch I take a deep breath and do a full body shake.

Raising the fiddle I place the bow on the strings and start to do some scales to get my fingers warmed up to the difficult instrument. Running through about five at different speeds I look up to the ponies and blush again.

Looking away from the ponies as they smile I inhale and exhale before closing my eyes and putting the bow to the strings.

Slowly pulling the bow back I start the beginning of the song as I swear I hear drums being played alongside me. Playing through the song a tad sloppily but getting all the builds and releases at the right times I get lost in the music but am forced to end it as it comes to an end.

Really making sure the last few notes ring out loud I end on a strong note and open my eyes and look directly at the ponies before slowly lowering the fiddle. The members of my audience on the front porch all with gobsmacked looks on their faces Ab is the first to recover.

“That was amazin’! How can ya play like that!? It was so fast!” She looks down to her hooves and somehow flexes it a little bit before looking back up to me. “Can ya do another one!?”

“Now Applebloom Hank doesn’t have ta if he don’t wanna, but I wouldn’t disapprove of another show like that.” Granny says with a smile.

Scratching the back of my neck I nervously smile. “I think I’m gonna be done fer the day, but I’m glad y’all liked it. Ya did like it right?”

“No offence to ya but when ya said that ya could play the fiddle too I jus’ thought ya could play row row row your boat, I wasn’t prepared fer whatever that was.” Granny waves a hoof in my direction. “What’s the name of that song?”

Happy that at least two of the four liked it my usual feeling of dread I get when playing in front of people starts to subside. “It’s called Tam Lin, one of my favorite songs ta play on fiddle really.”

“It sounded like it came from the thestral mountains.” Granny says rubbing her chin.

“Well I don't know where or what those are but I can tell ya that it is a Celtic tune.”

“Cel-tic?” Granny butchers “What in the world is Celtic?”

“Well it ain’t from this world so ya wouldn’t know but “Celtic” is just a term used for the, languages, cultures, bla bla of the Celtic people, like my mom’s side of the family or my dad’s side. They were Scottish and Irish.” I nod my head after I finish explaining.

“Do the Scottish and Irish have accents?”

“Pfft. Do they have accents?” I break out laughing and slap myself in the chest a few times before it calms down. “Yeah I guess ya could say that.”

“Well you don't got an accent.” Applejack observes.

“Oh yeah I do, it jus’ comes out when I’m real mad or jus’ talkin’ ta myself fer a while.” I explain noticing that darkness was slowly creeping in. “An’ really I can do it whenever I want ta but people jus’ end up lookin’ at me weird so I don’t.”

“Do it, Ah want to hear what a Scottish or Irish accent sounds like.”

“Maybe tomorrow, I got ta get goin’” I hold the fiddle up. “and put this girl away.”

“Naw jus’ give me the fiddle and I’ll bring ‘er inside, need to get it cleaned up anyway.” Granny says while standing up.

Shrugging I walk my way over to the family and hand Granny the instrument, that she then puts on her back and balances. “Now how about ya show us that accent, you’ve really peaked my curiosity.” With an innocent smile she adds.

Course she’d pull that,

“Will it make y’all stop buggin’ me in the future?”

“Yep.” They all answer in unison.

“Oh alright.” I clear my throat and cough.

Channeling my inner Scotsman I open my mouth and let my other voice have spin. “Now since ya wouldn't stop askin’ me ta do this feckin’ accent now I’m up here doin’ it. This is more Scottish than anythin' due ta me being around more Scottish people, but this is what my mom and Grandpa and Grandma and my mom's sisters sounded like.” I stop doing the accent and clear my throat. “I hope you’re all happy.”

“That was interestin’.” Applejack mumbles as Granny shakes her head.

“I think thestral’s and Scottish or Irish may be the same thing.”

“Hm?” I look to Granny

“Yeah that sounded almost spot on ta what a thestral sounds like, jus’ a bit muddy.” She explains while I nod with my chin resting in my hand.

“Yeah I agree but when ya have Irish, Scottish, and live an area where strange accents are all over yer bound ta get a tad scrambled.”

“Ponyville is the same way, lots of accents from all around.”

“Huh guess I wouldn’t know, only time I’ve been in town is well… ya know.” I chuckle. “Now I really gotta get goin so I’ll see y’all later.”

Turning around from the porch I walk over to where I left my bike yesterday and pick it up, caring it to the back of the humvee and putting it in the still open trunk area before closing it. Walking over to the drivers side I lean inside and start the humvee before heading back over to where my kit was lying.

Packed up and re-kitted I wave to the living room window where Applebloom was watching me and jump into the truck after she smiles and waves back.

Turning the lights on I turn the truck around and head down the path back home.

<><><> 1st person, Hank, Home <><><>

Pulling the humvee up to the entrance of the shed I turn it off and shut the lights off before leaning back into my seat and taking a deep breath. “I’ll carry the tools in tomorrow, I’m too tired ta do it tonight.” With a grunt I sit up and slide out of the seat, my boots hitting the grass with quiet thumps as I walk my way to the shed.

The darkness hindering my eyesight I don’t notice the skin I was drying and my foot gets caught under it almost making fall face first. Regaining my footing I kneel down and feel the pelt discovering it was dry and ready to be brought in. “Sweet.” I mumble taking the stakes out of the pelt before lifting it and resting it over my shoulder. “Now I only got one more wolf ta skin… but where is it?” Looking Around in circles I see no dead wolf. “Uhhhh well I guess the cats got it, oh well it was gonna start smellin’ anyways.” I shrug and walk into the dark cabin, switching on the lights that flash to life as I do.

Squinting my eyes I see Zecora on the couch with a plate of flowers and other assorted greens on the plate. “Howdy Z.”

“Oh hello Hank, how was your day?”

“Ight.” I throw the pelt over the back of the old chair opposite the couch. “Yours?”

“It was okay, just kinda lonely.”

“Sorry ‘bout that but I had ta get the work done.” My suspenders click as I unsnap them and set them on the table. “We’ll get ta gettin’ you back in yer house tomorrow.”

“Oh...okay.” I look to the zebra strangely at her tone before getting a good look at the plate of greens. “Whatcha eatin’?”

“This is a mix of daisies and some herbs from the surrounding area.” Her face suddenly lights up. “Did you know that there are at least twenty different rare herbs in the Everfree just around here!?”

“No I guess I didn’t.” With a smile I chuckle at the zebra’s excitement.

“Well I didn’t either but there are so many things I can make now!”

“Then I’m glad fer ya.” I plop down in the squeaky chair and rip open one of the MREs while taking out my canteen

“Yes it is quite interesting.” She says before lowering her face to the plate and taking one of the flowers into her mouth.

My meal ready to eat heating up in it’s bag while it emits it oh so wonderful scent a series of three knocks comes from the door startling me and Zecora equally.

“Who could that be?” Z asks, a small amount of fear in her voice.

“I have an idea.” I stand and walk to the sink before dumping the water in the MRE.

“Who?”

“ A pony who’s hair likes ta wave around like stray leaf in a windstorm and who has a dark blue coat.” I take out my revolver and cock back the hammer before leveling it at my waist.

“Annndddddd iiiiitttttttttt’ssssssss-” I open the door and see the blue eyes of Luna looking up at me. “Just as expected. Howdy there Moon pie, come on in, we’re just eatin’ supper.” I decock the revolver before sliding back into the holster.

“Thank you sir Hank.” Luna steps in and closes the door.

“Ah no need for the ‘sir’ stuff, ain’t no formalities in this household.” I grab my Mre and rip open the pouch to find spaghetti and meat sauce. “Fuckin’ score.”

“I-is that P-princess Luna.” Zecora points to Luna.

“Oh! Yeah, uhhh. Moonpie that’s Z, formally known as Zecora and Z that’s Moonpie formally known as Luna.” I introduce the two and walk over to my chair before sitting down.

“P-pleasure to be in your presence Princess.” Zecora goes into a bow.

“Hey! Cut that shit out no bowing in my hovel!” I stomp my foot on the ground getting Z to look up at me.

“W-why? You have to bow to the princesses, you need to bow too!”

“No I don't, I don’t bow ta nobody, and ain’t nobody gonna bow in house. So stand up.”

“B-but-”

“We… I would rather you don't bow, I would much rather like if you just treated us like a normal pony.”

I um. Okay.” Zecora gets backup and jumps up onto the couch before setting her plate back in front of her, still glancing to Luna every few seconds.

“You gonna sit Luna or are ya jus’ gonna stand there all creepy like.” I ask from around a mouth full of spaghetti.

“Oh we were just wondering what you were eating. It smells quite good.”

“This is some genuine U.S. spaghetti.” Holding the bag out to Luna she takes a deep wiff.

“Mmm, may I have some?” She asks.

“On any other occasion I’d say yes without hesitation but this has meat in it so unless you’re cool with eating meat than no.” I pull the bag back to me and take another bite.

“We don’t mind.”

“Hmm-.” I look to Luna and swallow. “Whatever, jus don’t cut yourself.” I hold out the knife I was eating with out to luna with some spaghetti on it.

Wrapping her lips around the knife she takes the spaghetti off the blade before chewing and humming. “What meat is this?” she asks before swallowing.

“Beef… I think, could be pork, or a mixture of both.” I take a bite of the jalapeno snack bread.

Squinting her eyes at me Luna frowns. “Beef as in meat from a cow?”

“No I mean meat from a butterfly.” I look to her and scoff. “Yeah dipshit meat from a cow.”

“You can’t call the princess a...a dipshit!” Zecora freaks out.

“Yeah I can. I jus’ did.” With a shrug I finish off the last bit of spaghetti before setting the empty pouch on the table. “She ain’t no better than me, and I ain’t no better than her, we’re equals.”

Ripping open the rip off jalapeno cheese-its I pop one into my mouth. “Although I guess I didn’t have ta call you a dipshit Luna, don’t take it personally, it’s jus’ how I talk ta people I’m comfortable with.”

“We appreciate that, lot’s of thestrals are like that as well. We..I am just off put with how you can eat beef so casually.”

“Ya forgetting that on my world only humans are sentient, that would mean cows are just animals too.” I wave my hand in a circular motion before putting another hand full of crackers into my mouth.

“Oh….Right, we forgot that.”

“Yeah see not that bad.”

“Well may we try the other food as well, it’s so interesting .” Taking a step closer she leans in to the bread and crackers.

“Fuckin’ hell don’t ya get fed enough bein’ a princess an’ all?” I kid making Luna blush and back up

“If you don’t want to give any we u-understand.” She stutters with a nervous smile.

“No, get over here.” I wrap a arm around her neck and pull her closer. “Here try some of this bread and these crackers and I’ll get the tabasco sauce and blueberry-cherry cobbler out. If you want some too Z ya can have some.” I get up to get two glasses to make the lemonade in after putting some of the tabasco sauce on the snack bread and in the spaghetti.

Returning with the two glasses I had to track down I pour the water into them only to turn around to see most of my bread and crackers gone. “Damn you too, leave some for me.”

“Sorry.” They both say in unison with their mouths full.

“Well here try this.” I set down the glasses and go back over to my chair before sitting down.

“What is this? It’s has a… strange pigment.”

“It’s lemonade, and yes it’s fine to drink, trust me.” I encourage getting Luna to stop looking at the glass like it’s full of poison.

Opening the cobbler pouch I hear Zecora recoil. “Oh my….eugh.” She shakes her head back and forth with her eyes closed.

“What?”

“It’s so strong.”

“I don’t think it’s too bad.”

“Well you also drink the pony equivalent to kerosene.” I hear Luna comment from my side.

“Hey it’s not my fault y’all are lightweights.”

“We are not a lightweight! Thou had to see us back in our military days, We could out drink any stallion.” She says putting her nose into the air.

Shaking my head I sigh. “That may be true but I also saw you sputtering like ten year old with his first drink right on that couch a few days ago.” I wave my hand toward the couch the Zecora was now sitting on for emphasis. ”Good job on soundin’ more modern by the way.”

“Thank you” Slightly taken aback from my compliment she says. “and no fair.”

“Pft.” I snort taking a bite of the cobbler. “Now do ya want ta try desert?”

“Yes!” Immediately done pouting she jumps up.

“Yes what?”

“Yes we would like some desert.” Her eyes keep locked on the bag.

“Remember your manners Moon Pie.” I grin.

“Are you seriously going to make us say please?”

“Damn straight I am, nobody’s too good fer manners.” I flick her on the nose making her sneeze as she inches closer to the treat.

“Fine. Fine. Can We please have cobbler?”

“Yes you may.” I smile and ruffle the hair on the top of her head. “Ya can have some too Z.” Zecora scrambles off the couch and stops in front of me.

Someone's eager

“Well uh I only got this one spoon so I guess I’ll jus’ feed it to y’all cuz I don’t even know where Z got that plate... Damn I need to get some silverware.” I get a liberal amount onto the spoon and point it over to Luna.

“You don't have to treat us like a filly, we can feed ourselves.” Luna deadpans.

“I never said that but yer magic don’t work and if ya held this in yer hooves it’d turn sideways and spill it, so either suck it up buttercup, or get no desert.” I awkwardly cross my arms. “You don't mind Z, do ya?”

“Nope.”

“See.” I point the spoon in Zecora’s direction and feel it tug before I hear Zecora moan. “Oh yea thaths good.” She slurs still chewing.

“Fine. Okay, We’ll let our dignity go for some lowly cobbler.” She huffs.

“For one I feel like that’s not the first time you’ve said that, in a different context perhaps…” I wink.

“We do not get what you mean.”

“C’mon really!? You let yer dignity go for a lowly shoe maker? Get it? Because yer from old times….No?

“No.”

“Ah fuck you, every time I make a witty joke someone's gotta take the piss outta me.” I sigh and put some of the gooey treat on the spoon before directing it to Luna. “Here.”

Feeling the spoon get tugged I pull in back and put it back in the bag. “The other thing I was gonna say about that whole dignity thing is that yer not the only one to lose it to cobbler.”

“I wouldn’t be?” She looks at me kind of amused

“No.” I laugh. “Hell no, I’d kill fer this stuff… I actually have before honestly now that I think about it.” I rub my chin before waving my hand. “That’s a story fer another time though.”

Taking a bite myself I groan. “But as the old saying goes, ‘I’m not gay but cobbler is cobbler’.”

I hear Luna snort beside me. “I could see you as a coltcuddler.”

“A what?” I look to her confused.

“A coltcuddler, homosexual.” She explains waving her hoof in a circular motion.

“Oh my, I could too!” I whip my head around to see Zecora trying to hide a smile behind her arm.

“Fuck you guys.”

“You should see his flank.” Zecora starts to snicker louder as I glare at her.

“Is it big? I haven’t gotten much time to look at his rear yet.”

“Don’t you answer that.” I point to the zebra.

“No it’s not.”

I smile.

“It’s huge!”

“For fuck’s sake.” I face palm and sigh.

“Really? I wouldn’t have thought somepony so masculine would have such opposite traits.”

"It ain't opposite! I just got a lot of muscle and fat there, everyone has a different part of their body that is more responsive!"

“Me neither! But you should see him when he walks.” Zecora explains getting Luna to giggle ignoring my defense

Something give me strength not to rip these two’s heads off.

“Why’s this?”

“It’s how it moves, I’ve never a flank move like that, so much motion and power.”

Both, pony and zebra, laughing I just shake my head and sigh again.

“Now I must know.” Luna pauses and laughs again. “Is it mostly fluff or is it muscular like the rest of him?”

“It’s amazing really, extremely muscular but with a thin layer of cushion, he’s like the most expensive bed ever. Always warm, firm but with the just right amount of cushion, and best of all... He smells really good.” She tries to whisper but fails making me look up and stare straight ahead.

“I’m right here ya know. Right here… in between you two.” I look to both of them and see that they are ignoring me. “Whatever.” I put my hands on the chairs arm rests and push myself up. Walking to the fridge I hear a gasp, about to turn around I feel a hoof press onto my ass.

Freezing I hear who turned out to be Luna hum. “Wow, that is…. Really firm. Is it like this all over?” Her hoof starts to poke and prod my rear in different places. “Oh jeez. I wonder how hard he can kick.”

“Really, Reaaaly fuckin’ hard.” I growl before turning around to Luna “Do you want first hand experience? Cuz’ I’ll kick ya right back up to the moon.”

“Heh sorry.” She laughs and backs up.

“Touch my ass again and you’ll be more than sorry.”

Putting the empty MRE and empty pouches in the sink before turning back around and sitting back down, on the couch this time.

Sitting down and slumping into the couch I rub my face.

“We are sorry if we hit a raw nerve, we had no intention to upset our host, shall we leave?” Luna says upset.

“What? No don't, there’s no need fer that. I should apologize ta you, I shouldn’t be so sensitive.”

“No Hank, If I were tormented for as long as you were, like you were, I would be sensitive too so I say you have every right to be sensitive to that subject.” Zecora says to me before jumping up onto the couch and rubbing up against me.

“You were bullied for your legs?” Luna looks to me surprised.

“I was bullied fer plenty o things but my thighswere definitely a main point yeah.” I remark as I pet Zecora on her head.

“How could anyone bully you? I mean you are quite large and threatening.”

“Thank you for the compliment but I wasn’t always in shape and tall, that took work and time, so for most of my school career I was just a chubby average sized kid with slightly larger than than normal rear and that gets you plenty of attention.” I roll my eyes. “But I don't like reminiscing on the past so, jus’ go back to talkin’ bout my ass.”

Damn I’m a fucking limerick master up in dis bitch.

“We won’t talk about what you don’t want us to but we will say this, I think that you should feel good about your figure. It’s looks good on you and at least it is unique, there are so many stallions that are just rectangles with no curves, and We for one are a mare that likes her stallions to have some flesh on their bones.” She flicks her hoof and smiles. “So look at your figure as a blessing not a curse.”

“Yeah I guess.” I freeze and feel a wicked smile spread across my face. “Wait. Did you jus’ say you find me attractive?”

“What? No W-We said no such thing.” She nervously chuckles and blushes. “We do not find you particularly attractive or unattractive.”

Looking to Zecora we share a grin before we both look back to the flustered princess. “I think we’re even now.”

“Wa-Even!?” She exasperatedly replies.

“Yeah even, I got ya back fer fondling my ass.” I give a shit eating grin while she huffs and turns her head away from me. “We are going to make you be our pillow for a whole night.”

“Uh huh sure ya are, just a warning though” The lunar princess turns her head back to me. “I get a tad grabby in my sleep.”

“I wouldn't mind.” I barely hear her whisper as she turns away from me again. “Well it was fun and We will be back again soon, but We really must get going.” She stands and walks to the door before stopping. “Can you open this for me?”

“Ha, sure.” I get up from my spot on the couch much to Zecora’s displeasure and open the door.

‘Thank you once again Hank for talking to us” I nod my head “and it was a pleasure making your acquaintance Zecora.”

Zecora blushes and nods back. “You as well princess.”

“Goodnight Hank have a good day tomorrow.”

“Same ta you Moon Pie, see ya aroun’.” I pat her on the head as she walks outside and wave a final time as she takes off into the night sky.

Closing the door and locking it I sigh. Slowly turning around I see Z sitting up on the couch.

“I can’t believe you’re on nickname status with a princess of Equestria.” She tiredly states as I pick her up from the couch and walk over to the loft.

“I’m on nickname status with everybody, whether they like it or not.” I laugh and pull myself up into the loft.

“What she said was true though, you should be proud of your figure.”

“Hmm I’ll think about it, but let’s go to sleep now okay? We got a long day ahead of us.”

“Oh?”

“Yeah tomorrow we start on getting you back home.” I close my eyes and feel Zecora snuggle up to me particularly close.

“Well I may still come over to sleep with you sometimes.”

“Be my guest.” I smile and wrap a arm around her.

{dunzo}

Ha! Look at that a chapter around 15,000, neato. I Hope you liked reading this chapter because I liked writing it.

And now I think I can start putting in more time jumps, now that we're past the setting the scene phase, so good. But don't worry when I say time jumps I mean like a week or a few days, not twenty years like The Last of Us pulled. By the way who's exited for part 2? I know that I am.

Now I'm to the part where I say see you next time, leave constructive comments (you guys have been absolutely great at this), and PM me with anything you think needs changed or added, or taken out.

See you guys in a another month or so probably... man do I wish I didn't have real life responsibilities.

Also Happy late Labor Day.