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Impossibly Possible

by Brony19

Chapters

New Beginings

'Sometimes, life sucks.' David thought to himself after another tiring day of high school. He walked upstairs to his room to escape into the bliss of sleep when his thoughts were interrupted by a concerned voice.

"Is everything alright honey?" his mom asked.

'Of course.' He sighed and put on his most nonchalant voice,"Yeah mom, just a long day." He hurried upstairs before she could reply. He let his backpack slide to the floor and was about to fall on his bed and forget today when he saw his laptop was open. 'I could have sworn I closed it this morning...' He thought suspiciously. He sat down and pressed the spacebar to lite the black screen. "What the..." he muttered as his email screen popped up. After scanning the screen a few seconds, he noticed he had a new email. Perplexed, he opened the letter. No sender, no subject, nothing. What the hell is going on?' He thought. A flashing neon green text appeared on the screen saying 'Click Here!’ Hoping for some answers as to the odd email, he did just that.

'See you soon :)' is all that came up. 'That was anti-climactic' He thought disappointed. Now completely defeated, David slumped on his bed and drifted off to sleep to escape this wretched day. The dream that followed, he would not soon forget. It started at the beginning of today, at homeroom. Sitting in the back of the classroom with his best friend Rob they are able to look like their paying attention while not doing anything. The bell rang and they put their backpacks on and went for the door.

"Dude, I need to ask ya something." Rob said with his slightly southern accent.

"It's still weird hearing you say 'dude'. What do you need?" David liked helping people with their problems. If he liked them.

"My sister is still mad at me for the whole 'I hid a frog in your bed' joke I did last week. What can I do to settle her down a bit and stop avoiding me?"

David looked at his friend and the smallest hint of a smile on his face. "You know she hates frogs, snakes, and anything slimy, right?"

Rob grinned ear to ear. "I do. Why else would she have screamed like a startled horse?"

"That’s why she is so pissed at you. Just tell her you’re sorry."

Rob was going to reply when a yell cut through the crowd,"Hey faggots!"

"Great. Just what I need." David muttered under his breath. The jock walked towards them followed by three of the basketball team.

"How much Brokeback mountain have you retards been doin' huh?" The others chuckled in agreement.

"Leave us asshole. We're not gay." David and Rob had earned the continued abuse of Brokeback Mountain jokes because being friends with a southerner in north California is not extremely common. Or excepted where they lived.

"Yeah, get back to us when you have girlfriends, homos." A wave of 'Ooooooo's followed and abruptly stopped when Rob pushed him. David put a hand or his friend's shoulder to stop him when he ducked and then David caught a mean right hook to the face and was startled awake.


***

"C'mon, get yer ass up! NOW!"

David groaned and waved his hand at him. "Five more minutes." David was not what you would call a morning person. And the throb in his cheek didn't help either. David slowly opened his eyes and stared at his friend's face, or should we say, snout. "What the hell!?" David struggled back and stared at the tan pony with his friends’ voice.

"Yer damn right 'What the hell'! What’s happened to us!?" David was at a loss for words. He merely gawked at Rob, not believing it was truly him. But the ache in his mouth reminded him this was very much real. His friend was now an earth pony, with a tan body and mane brown as his eyes. Aside from the fact he is now a pony, it looked just like him.

"Wait, if you’re a pony then..." David looked down at where his new body rest on his back. He had a pale semi-white body and a black mane that looked bedraggled. Also looking just like his human self.

"Are you going to get up, or do I need to hit you in the face again?"

David struggled to stand up and after a few falls was able to walk. "How long was I out?" David asked, rubbing the lump on his cheek.

"Long enough fer me to learn how to walk. Now why in the Sam hell are we here?"

David’s mind was reeling from the shock of being in Equestria, but he remembered the dream he had. "Well, I don't know how we got here, but we are in Equestria, just outside Ponyville by the looks of-"

"How do ya know all that??" Rob stared at his friend, confusion plain on his face. 'Oh God. I totally forgot. He doesn’t know that I'm a closet brony.' David was mortified that he just revealed this to his friend Rob, who didn't care for t.v. in general, let alone My Little Pony.

"Uh, well... you see..." David struggled to find the right words.

"Oh Lord. You're... you're a brony." His friend backed away a few steps.

"Yes. I'm a brony. What doesn’t make sense is how you know that term."

Now Rob looked slightly sheepish. "I have a computer like everyone else." Rob looked away at the ground.

"But that doesn’t explain how you know that term." David looked at Rob, waiting for an answer.

"I... may have looked through yer history. Once er twice." Rob explained slowly.

"That's just weird Rob. How much did you see?" David asked, afraid to find out.

"I clicked on a 'fan fiction' site of yers and read a tinsy, tiny bit before I closed the window."

David was again, mortified. What he read was a story he had been working on for a long time. No one was supposed to read that before he published it. "Well, I guess that's going to come in handy know, isn't it? What we should do is head to town and find out what time it is in the show. From there, we will talk to Princess Celestia and see if she can send us home somehow." David looked at his friend, who gave him a blank look. "Ugh, let me give you some pointers, and let me do all the talking." The duo headed of in the direction of Ponyville, David explaining how everyone needs to be changed to everypony, the coins called bits, and so on. Rob walked in silence listening to everything his friend said. As David was explaining Cutie Marks, Rob glanced at his rear.

"Uh, what if we don't have one?" Rob asked.

"What do you mean we don't have-" David checked his flank and saw nothing but hide. "That's..."

"That's what?" Rob asked, growing concerned.

"...Explainable." David finished. "Ponies get Cutie Marks when they discover their special talent. All we need to do is find out what we're good at."

Rob still stared at his hind leg. "Well... I'm good at farm work..." Rob said not sounding too sure of himself.

"Don't worry; it'll come naturally to you. While we are on this subject, let’s get our story straight. We are traveling Equestria from Neighvada and we ran out of money here. So we need to find a place to stay. Also, we need new names."

Rob seemed confused at the mention of new names. "Why in tarnation do we need new names? I like mine just fine." Rob winced at the rhyme he unintentionally said.

"Because ponies don't have names like humans. They have names like Rainbow Dash and Applejack and Scootaloo. Names that fit their personalities and looks." David saw the gears turning in his friends head as he processed the new information.

"So what do you think are good names fer us?" Rob asked.

"Well... I could be called Paladin and you...hmm. What could you be?" David thought aloud.

"I don't have the darndest clue." Rob responded.

"Well, glad you could be of help." David said.

"Sure thing Sargent Sarcasm." Rob replied.

"How about Dusk?" David knew Rob enjoyed the morning, so he was always up a solid hour before school began. Why, David would never know.

"Huh. I kinda like that. 'Dusk'. Has a nice ring ta it." Rob was enjoying his new name when he bumped into a pony. "Oh, pardon me miss." The pony looked at the two of them with large blue eyes and gasped. Then she sprinted away towards Ponyville. David stared after her with his jaw open and Rob looked the direction she ran. "Uh, who was that?" Rob asked.

"Hope you like parties Rob. That..." David gulped. "...was Pinkie Pie."

The Welcome Wagon

"Pinkie who?" Rob asked.

David snapped back from his terror. "Pinkie Pie. She is the most hyperactive pony you will ever meet."

"Well a party doesn’t sound bad. At least something good happening." At that, Rob trotted off with David close behind. Rob looked behind him to ask for Pinkie Pie's name again, he noticed his friend was slightly flying. David bumped into something and looked down to see what it was. He saw Rob with is jaw dropped and surprise clear on his face and his shadow not touching the ground. "How... how are ya doin' that?" Rob managed to ask.

David, still in shock from running into Pinkie and the huge party sure to come, noticed he was flapping his wings he hadn't noticed yet. "I guess I became a Pegasus." David said inspecting his newfound wings.

"And ya decided to wait to tell me somethin' important like that because?" Rob prompted. He never liked being left out of the loop when it came to family and friends.

"Well, I didn't notice that I had wings?" David offered meekly.

"Ya don't just 'not notice' that ya have wings David! How can ya?!" Rob said more surprised than angry. David is usually very attentive to the small things. Rob became scared that his friend failed to mention that he 'didn't notice' something clearly important.

"Hold your horses." David said, exploding in laughs as he remembered what they are.

Rob glared at his friend. "Is now the best time ta be crackin' jokes?" Rob said.

"Ha ha... I guess not." David said calming down. "Anyway, there are four kinds of ponies. Earth, like you, pegasi, like me, and unicorns. They can use magic. Those are the most common three. Alicorns have wings and a horn, so they can fly and use magic. They are also very rare." David explained to his friend who seemed to understand.

"So, what kind of power do I get?" Rob asked excitedly.

"Rob, there not 'powers'. Just natural things for ponies to have. But to answer you, earth ponies are often very strong and friendly." David noticed Rob get slightly disappointed.

"Oh. Well, we still have a party to go ta. Let's get a move on." Rob said resuming their walk to Ponyville.

"Right, the... party..." David mumbled off and flew next to his friend.


***

David’s best companion in the world was his computer. It never got angry at him, never failed him, and most importantly, never made him meet new people. Being socially awkward at school was enough of a pain, but a party, no a Pinkie Pie party that would undoubtedly have half the population of Ponyville in attendance or, God forbid, more was one of David’s worst dreams. He enjoyed the company of one or two people at a time that he knew, not huge gatherings of people were he was the person of honor. 'Ok, calm down David. You can do this. You're blowing this out of proportion. It will be a good way to find a place to sleep tonight at least. And to meet the Mane 6. Except maybe Fluttershy.' David's thoughts were interrupted by the hustle and bustle of the market area.

"Now, if I was a pink party pony, where would I make the party...?” Rob thought aloud.

"Pinkie Pie works at Sugercube Corner so let’s try there first." David offered.

"Sugar what?" Rob asked.

David sighed. "Sugercube Corner is a bakery that looks like a gigantic gingerbread house." David told his friend. "Hey, are you paying attention? This is important." David said. Rob nodded and pointed to David’s left.

"Do ya mean that huge gingerbread house?" Rob asked. David looked where he was pointing and saw that they were right outside. There was a sign next to the door that said 'New ponies welcome!'

"That would be the place." David said, remembering his fear. "Before we go in, you need to have our story straight. Where are we from?" David asked.

"Neighvada?" Rob responded.

"Yes, good. Why don't we have any money or Cutie Marks?" David asked.

"We ran out of bits and don't know our special talents." Rob said.

"Good, you remembered what the currency is called. Finally, what are our names?" David asked, hoping he would not forget to use them.

"Uh... yer Paladin and I'm Dusk?" Rob said without confidence.

David sighed in relief. "Alright, good, you remember. Don't forget to change people to pony and stuff like that ok?"

"Sure thing David. Let’s go." Rob walked to the door like nothing was wrong. David summoned what bravado he had and walked to the door. Nodding to each other, they opened the door.

***


"SURPRISE!" And the two were indeed at the large amount of ponies in the store. A pony with pink body and curly pink mane bounced to them. "Welcome to Ponyville! We're always happy to see new ponies in town! What are your names, where are you from? Oh, I'm Pinkie Pie!" She said in her high pitched voice.

"Hi, I-I'm Paladin and this i-is..." David stammered.

"I'm Dusk. Nice ta meet ya Pinkie Pie." Rob finished for him.

"Well come in and say hi to everyone!" Pinkie said.

"What are ya waiting fer, Paladin? Let’s go meet some ponies." Rob said as he nudged his friend.

David scanned the room and saw Twilight Sparkle and decided to start with her. "Hi, I'm Paladin." David managed not to stutter this time.

"It's nice to meet you. I'm Twilight Sparkle." The purple unicorn responded warmly. "Where are you from?"

"My friend and I are from Neighvada. We are traveling around but ran out of bits on the way here." David said.

"I'm not from around here either. I just came from Canterlot to make sure the Summer Sun celebration goes smoothly." Twilight explained.

'Crap, I need to find out when that is. Twilights here so it can't be far off.' David remembered. "That sounds like fun. When is it?" David asked.

"It’s in two days. You should come! Celestia will be here." Twilight added.

"Sure, I'll go talk to Dusk about it. See you later." David said walking off. 'Wait, TWO days? This has to be some kind of alternate timeline. That doesn't make sense. Then again, we're here. Actually, where is he?' David thought looking for Rob. Then he saw him talking to a familiar tan pony with a blond mane.

Rob had no idea where to start. Actually, he hoped David would introduce him to someone or name someone at least. 'Guess I'm on my own.' Rob thought to himself. He saw a pony with a Stetson hat. 'Seems like a good place to start' He walked over to her. "Hi, I'm Dusk. Nice to meet ya." Rob said.

"Well howdy there. I'm Applejack, owner of Sweet Apple Acres." Applejack said.

"Ya have an orchard?" Rob asked with more interest now that farms had become the topic.

"Ah sure do. Finest apples in all Equestria." Applejack said proudly. Rob liked this pony. A southern cowpony just like him. 'Did I really just say 'cowpony'? This place is getting to me already.' "My friend and I are from Neighvada and don't have any bits or a place ta stay..." Rob began to explain.

"Well, why don't ya stay in the barn fer a night or two? We got plenty ah room. And it's almost apple buckin' season. We sure could use the help." Applejack smiled.

"That's mighty kind of ya." Rob said.

"Hey Dusk. Who's this?" David asked.

"Hey there Paladin. This here is Applejack. She's offered us a place to stay and me a job." Rob said proudly.

"Wow. Thanks Applejack." David said impressed at his friends’ gains. "If it’s alright, I need to talk to Dusk. Alone." David said.

"Sure thing. See ya'll at the barn." Applejack smiled and walked off.

"So here’s the plan: we'll stay at the barn for a while, two days to be exact, and we'll talk to Celestia to see how we can get home. Sound good?" David asked.

"Sure, Da- uh Paladin." Rob said catching himself.

"Good. Let’s get some food and head to the barn. I'll show you where everything is." David said. The rest of the party was fun for the two; they had some cake, talked to a few ponies and then head out for Sweet Apple Acres.

New Jobs and Hard Work

As the sun rose slowly over the distant mountains, David and Rob snored softly on their piles of hay. Applejack was already up from a combination of work and her family spending the Summer Sun Celebration at Sweet Apple Acres. 'Not to mention the two new ponies. Ah should go check on them.' She thought. Opening the barn door, she noticed they were very much still asleep. They did have a good amount of Pinkie Pies cake, and with them being new to town, she doubted they expected the punch it packed in the sugar department. "Rise an' shine, ya'll! It's a brand new day, ready fer work!" She said approaching the makeshift bedding.

Rob opened his eyes and slowly but surely rose from the pile of hay he called his bed. "Haven't done that in a while..." Rob groaned. Between waking up early and large amounts of farm work, he would nap on hay every now and again, but only for 30 minutes to an hour. He wasn't use to sleeping a good eight hours in one setting. He wondered how David had faired and was answered by a childlike groan from his right.

"Five more minutes..." David whimpered.

"Come on D- uh Paladin. We got work ta do." Rob said, hoping Applejack hadn't caught his stutter.

"Maybe we should give him a little bit ta freshen up." Applejack said noticing David’s wild bedraggled mane.

"Thanks..." David managed.

"Well, Ah got apple trees to buck. Them apples ain't gunna harvest themselves!" Applejack said walking out. "Oh, and come meet me in the orchard if ya want ta help out with the buckin'." she added. Once he was sure she was out of earshot, David groaned and feel back on his hay.

"Oh, get yer ass up." Rob sighed.

"Coming from you? You're always up in time to see the sunrise." David said with a heavy sigh at the end. "I guess you’re right. There is just one, tiny problem." David said.

"What now, ya big crybaby?" Rob asked stretching.

"It's just... farm work is kinda not my thing..." David tried to find the best way to say 'I'm blowing you off because I don't want to work' without sounding like an ass.

Rob sighed. "Ya don't want ta work on the orchard, do ya?" Rob asked, knowing the answer.

"Mind reader." David mumbled. "Yeah. I was thinking of working somewhere else though. I'm not gunna make you do all the work." David said wondering how a shower would work in Equestria.

"Fine, jus'... get yerself cleaned up. Ya look like a mess." Rob said, too groggy to argue.

It was then David looked in a discarded mirror. His hair was all over the place, almost comically out of control, with straws of hay here and there. "Yeah, that would be a good idea." David said.  After walking the grounds for a minute or two, David found a pond he could use to get his mane wet and therefor under control. 'Cold water will wake me up at least.' David thought with the slightest twinge of regret. He jumped in and was met with the shock of cold water all around him. He washed all the loose hair out of his mane and was relieved to climb out and shake all the water off. His mane now hay-free and sopping wet, he walked around in the small forest between Sweet Apple Acres and Ponyville letting it dry. After checking to see that his mane was more or less dry in a puddle, he trotted into town, wondering where the best place to get a job would be. 'I'm not the best cook, so Sugercube Corner is out. I'm also horrible with clothes, so not at Rarity's shop.' David thought looking around the market square.

"No Spike, these books go over there, not here." He heard somepony complain. Thinking the library would be an easy job; David poked his head in the open door to see what Twilight Sparkle was upset about.

"Sorry Twilight. I just thought these ones went over here." Spike said.

Twilight groaned and noticed David. "Oh, hello Paladin. What do you need?" she asked.

David was a little confused, thinking that Twilight moved in after the Nightmare Moon incident sure to come. "Well, I was wondering around town looking for a good place to get a job when I heard the commotion." David said.

"You heard that?" Twilight asked looking sheepish.

"Yeah. But I was wondering if I could help out here, given my lack of a job, money, and a bed to sleep on." David explained.

"Well, I'm just going to be in town for a little bit, but sure, you can help out." Twilight said. 'All according to plan...' David thought. "Well... where do I start?" He asked.

30 Minutes Earlier at Sweet Apple Acres

Rob took only a few minutes to find Applejack. "Howdy." he said approaching her.

"Hey there Dusk. Where's Paladin?" She asked.

"He isn't into good ol' farm work. I'm more than ready fer whatever ya want ta do." Rob said, wondering what exactly he would be doing.

Applejack walked to the nearest tree explaining as she went. "I guess ya must not have harvested apples before. It’s easy. Just buck a tree like this-" she kicked the tree and several apples fell down "- and put the apples in yer basket. Ah got one fer you an' Paladin, but Ah guess ya can take both of em'." Applejack motioned to the empty baskets to her left.

"Seems simple enough." Rob said grabbing a basket in his mouth. He walked over to the nearest tree and set the basket down. He turned around and kicked the tree with all he had, much to his surprise. When his hooves made contact with the tree, he heard a loud crack and turned around... just in time to see the tree fall backwards.

"What in the hay was..." Applejack started and stared at where the tree stood only seconds ago. She looked at Rob and then the fallen tree, then Rob again. Rob could feel his body getting warm and his cheeks turn red with embarrassment.

"Uh... woops?" Rob offered weakly. Applejack was still staring with her mouth open.

"How... wha..." Applejack said still shocked at the earth pony's incredible strength. "Have ya always been that strong?" Applejack managed after a few more stutters.

Rob was just as surprised as Applejack at what happened. "I... suppose..." Rob started. He knew he was stronger than your average Joe, but he just fell a full grown tree.

"Well, Ah suppose accidents do happen... just, promise to replant a new tree, ya hear?" Applejack said.

Rob was silent for a minute. "Oh, uh, yeah. Sure thing Applejack. Yer, uh... not mad, are ya?" Rob asked, not wanting to have lost a job the day he got it, but more importantly, not to get on Applejacks bad side. She was his only source of shelter at the time.

"Naw, its fine Dusk. There's plenty more trees on the orchard." Applejack said, smiling. 'Oh thank God she isn't pissed. She has a pretty smile to.' Rob thought. Picking the apples of the tree was much simpler with the branches on the ground. For the remainder of the day Rob was able to perfect his buck with the perfect combination of restraint and force to get almost all the apples out of a tree. As the sun hung low in the sky, the pair headed back to the barn to store their gathered goods.

"Well, that was a great harvest day of apples, Dusk." Applejack said. "It was nice to spend some time with ya to." she said slightly blushing.

"It was a fun day, huh?" Rob said. He noticed her slight blush and blushed a little himself.

"Maybe ya would like to make some apple pies with me? The Summer Sun celebration is tomorrow, and Ah sure could use the help." Applejack said. Robs smile disappeared at the mention of baking, something he was not good at. He was lucky he knew how to use the microwave, and that did all the cooking. Applejack saw he didn't like the idea and looked around for a new subject to talk about when she saw Paladin approaching. "Well hey there, Paladin." she said. Rob looked over to the gate and saw his friend carrying a large bag on his back.

"Hello Applejack. Hey Dusk. How are you two?" David asked as he walked up to the pair.

"We're jus' fine. Uh, what’s in the bag?" Rob asked.

David smirked. "Oh nothing special, just this." he said dropping the bag and opening it, revealing the golden bits that filled the bag.

"Holy- how'd ya get all that?!" Rob asked.

"I told you I won't make you do all the work. Twilight Sparkle paid me to help out in the library. Also, I found an apartment that we can stay at instead of a barn, no offense Applejack. It was very kind of you to have us." David explained.

"Ya'll welcome here anytime Paladin. It was great to have Dusk here help out at apple buckin'." She said.

"We'll see you tomorrow Applejack. I'm sure you need your rest for the Summer Sun celebration tomorrow." David said.

"Oh yeah. Goodnight you two." Applejack said and headed off for the farmhouse. The pair walked to the apartment complex just south of the market square. It was nothing fancy, just a three story brick building with the vibrant colors of Ponyville. David unlocked the door to show Rob their new home.

"Here's the living room, there are two bedrooms down the hall that way and the bathroom just down that way, with the kitchen over there." David said walking around. However, after a long day of farm work, all Rob heard was "bedrooms down the hall" and chose the door on the left, flopped onto the bed and was fast asleep. "And the rent is-" David looked around for Rob and was greeted by loud snores coming from down the hall. "Oh. Guess I'll tell him about how I am super-fast tomorrow." David said to no pony in particular. He headed off to his room and closed the door to block out the loud snores Rob was emitting.

Summer Solace: Sundown

Rob felt much better having rested on a bed rather than hay. After passing out as soon as Paladin mentioned where the beds are, he could rise early enough to see the sun rise. 'Didn't Paladin, err David, say something about a princess pushing it or something?' Rob thought watching the ball of flaming gases rise slowly over the distant horizon. He was startled to here David rise from his bed at this hour. "Well, good morning sleepin' beauty." Rob said laughing silently. David’s main was, once again, frizzled like a feral cat.

"Shut the hell up." was David’s weak comeback. "The only reason I'm up so early is to get ready for the Summer Sun Celebration with Twilight." David heard his stomach rumble in protest of his lack of dinner last night. Or lunch. Or anything since the party Pinkie Pie had for the two when they came into town. He stood up and walked to the kitchen with Rob close behind who also was hungry from the last night of burning the midnight oil of his hunger.

"So... any idea as ta what ta make fer breakfast?" Rob asked. "I haven't seen head or tail of a meat product anywhere here." Rob was a man who loved his meat. There was nothing better in the world than his father’s tri-tip every Friday night. And that was all the reason to worry as his friend stayed silent at his question. "Uh, David...?" Rob asked letting his worry show.

"From what I've watched, there is no meat in Equestria, at least for eating." David said grabbing bread to make breakfast sandwiches. He looked at Rob who seemed like someone told him that a dear family member had just passed away. Too tired to care, and hungry, he continued to make a sandwich as Rob remained silent. After making four sandwiches, Rob finally cracked.

"WHAAAAAAAT?!?!" Rob yelled so loud David flew across the room crashing into the opposite wall. "How can there be no meat?!?! What hell have I been forced ta live in!?!?" Rob wailed as tears ran down his face. David rubbed the spot on his head that no doubt will form a lump when he noticed Rob lying in the middle of the living room, forelegs over his face, sobbing quietly. Remembering the crash, he looked at the wall that stopped him. With the exception of a few cracks, the wall was mostly intact. Sighing, David turned his attention to Rob, who was still sobbing quietly.

"Good God, get over it. It's not like you could eat it anyway. No canines." David said walking back to the kitchen half of the room. Rob continued to mutter incoherently to the floor as David put the sandwiches on two plates, put one down in front of Rob, and then returned to the other two for himself. Sniffling, Rob nibbled at them, too hungry to complain that it was just flowers and lettuce. David had eaten his two as Rob finished his first, no longer crying. "Glad to see you got over it." David said dryly.

"Whatever..." Rob mumbled. “Didn’t you say somethin' 'bout being fast last night?" Rob asked, desperate to change the subject. David thought for a moment before remembering the events at Twilights library yesterday.

"Oh yeah! It was awesome! This is what happened..."

Yesterday, at Twilights (Soon to be) Library

"Well, you can start by moving those boxes of books over there and unpacking them for Spike." Twilight said. She was glad Paladin had decided to stop by to help. Between having Spike still be a baby dragon and Twilight's strain on her horn from when she used too much magic, having an extra pair of hooves was a nice change of pace. Paladin grunted lifting the box Twilight asked to move.

"What in the name of Celestia, how many books are in here??" Paladin asked walking with the box resting on his back and outstretched wings.

Twilight blushed slightly. “Oh, I don't know... 30? Or so?" Twilight said with a sheepish smile. Paladin set the box down next to a table and began to unpack, counting in his head as he went.'There is no way in hell that was 30 books' Paladin thought to himself. Twilight shuffled uncomfterbly in an attempt to get Paladins attention, to no avail. 'Calm down Twilight, don’t panic. Just think of something to talk about. Easy' Twilight thought to herself. "So... what did you do in Neighvada?" Twilight asked awkwardly.

'Shit, what would be believable? Think damnit!' Paladin thought for a moment. "I, uh... had my own library. Small, not as many books you have. This must be all the Royal Archive." Paladin said after a moment. He noticed Twilights eyes lit up at the mentioning of 'his' library. It wasn't all a lie, David had a LOT of books back on Earth. He wasn't as much of a bookworm as Twilight, but he loved books nonetheless.

"Really? That’s great! And you're right, this is all the Archives. I copied or had copies made and brought them with me. I am staying in a library after all." Twilight said smiling. Paladin was about halfway done with the box when he lost count.

"Dang it." Paladin muttered and started over. Spike, who had been MIA since Twilight told him to move the books elsewhere, went up to Paladin. He looked over the large pile of books on the table, eager to help, but afraid of all the books he would have to carry.

"So, uh, how many books do you want me to take?" Spike asked, not having really talked to Paladin. When he kept on counting he remained silent and looked to Twilight and shrugged.

"HA! 42! I knew that wasn't 30 books!" Paladin said triumphantly. Twilight rolled her eyes.

"Ok, you got me." She said half kidding. She smiled as Paladin turned a light shade of red. Desperate to get the topic of conversation off him and his outburst, he noticed Spike.

"Oh, hey there Spike. What do you need?" Paladin asked. Glad to finally be noticed, Spike asked what he had about how many books to take. "Oh, uh, take as many as you can, I guess. I'm just unpacking them." Paladin said. Spike took an armful of books and walked upstairs to place them in their respective shelves. "Was that the only box? Or are there more with 42 books?" Paladin asked with a smile.

Twilight giggled. "There is one more box. That will be all the unpacking." Twilight said. She watched Paladin walk over and lift the large box with more ease than last time. 'Funny and strong...not to mention not bad to look at' Twilight thought to herself. Paladin noticed her staring and cleared his throat. Twilight looked at him and blushed.

"Like what you see?" Paladin asked with a smirk. He thought she couldn't get any more red. Twilight laughed nervously and started stammering. “I was just kidding." Paladin said, much to Twilights relief. He was about to talk about what kind of books were her favorite when he heard a scream outside. Instinctively, Paladin ran outside and saw Spike hanging from a branch high in the tree. 'What the hell?' Paladin thought as Spike fell. After a blur and intense feeling of speed, Paladin saw he caught Spike and flew to the door in a matter of half a second. Spike was still yelling until he opened one eye and noticed he wasn't falling anymore.

"Thank you so much Paladin!" Spike said hugging the somewhat surprised stallion. Passerby ponies cheered at Paladins incredible speed. Paladin looked around and realized it was for him. Not the most social of ponies, Paladin put on his best fake smile and ran inside, slamming the door.

"That was incredible!" Twilight yelled, hugging Paladin.

Paladin hugged her back and said, “Well, I, uh... knew I was that fast. Besides, I couldn't let him fall. But... why was he up there?" Paladin asked, wanting to change the subject. Spike looked at the ground as he explained.

"Well, after having to work so much, I thought I would take a nap. You know the rest..." Spike trailed off. Twilight just smiled.

"Spike, if you’re feeling tired just tell me. You've earned a break."

Spike yawned in response. "In that case, I'm going to take a nap." He then went up to his bed.

Real Time, Back in the Apartment

"...And the rest was just putting books back, getting paid, and finding you." David concluded. Rob had finished his other sandwich by now and found David’s tale somewhat unbelievable. David saw his friend doubted him. "How can I prove it to you?" David asked unamused. Rob thought for a moment.

"I got it. Ya can fly out that there window; ta Twilights place and back again as fast as ya can." Rob said. David looked at the window.

'I guess that it's big enough.' He thought. "Challenge accepted." David opened the window and fluttered out. Rob then poked his head out. In a white and black flash, David had flown to the tree down the road and back in three seconds. Rob sat with his mouth agape. 'Aaaaand, cue gloating' David thought smugly. "I'd like to see you do that in three seconds, land roamer." David said. Rob glared at him.

"Ya know, back on Earth, ya walk on the ground right?" Rob asked, irritated. David ignored him and his reality reminder. After all, They were in Equestria, not Earth. David remembered what he had to talk about with his friend last night but was too tired to remember.

"Rob we need to talk. It’s important." Rob saw that his friend was serious.

"Sure thing. Whatcha need?" Rob asked.

"We need to talk about tonight. We have two options as I see it. Option 1: we follow the Mane 6 as they discover what Elements of Harmony they are. Or Option 2: We follow the Mane 6 without them know and when they get close to where Nightmare Moon and Princess Celestia are and go ahead of them. I think we should go with Option 1." David said. Rob seemed slightly puzzled, but was able to follow along with the ideas.

"Well, why not shadow them? It seems simpler." Rob said. David bit his lip. He was thought it would come to this.

"That’s just the thing. If we go ahead, somehow defeat Nightmare Moon and rescue Celestia without the Mane 6, we would take the whole story and buck it." David explained.

"First of all, wouldn't we be messing with the story anyway? And second, why the hell did you say 'buck'?" Rob asked.

"That is a good point. But with Option 1, we would mess with the story less if we didn't interfere too much. And buck is the same as... you know." David said. "I have no idea what would happen if we kept the Mane 6 from discovering their Elements of Harmony. The would could implode for all I know. It would be like high-fiving the guy who was about to invent the high-five. The whole world. Poof. Gone." David explained.

Rob sighed. "Fine, we'll go with Option 1." Rob said. David felt a large weight lift of his chest.

"Good." He said. "All we have to do now is help out with setting up and wait for the shit to hit the fan." David said. David went to the library to help out Twilight and Rob went to Sweet Apple Acres to help the Apple family set up shops to sell their apple goods and treats. As the festival began and the sun set, David gulped. He found Rob and gave him one last run-through of what was going to happen. "The curtain will open, Celestia won't be there, and Nightmare Moon will appear. Just stay quiet and submissive and let me do the talking, got it?" David asked.

"Sure thing David." Rob said. The mayor finished her introduction and the curtains swept to either side revealing an empty balcony. Everypony gasped and the two braced themselves.

Summer Solace: The Long Night

Nightmare Moon made her intimidating entrance as all the ponies cowered in fright. Rob got wide eyed at the disturbing show of magical power. David felt excited and terrified at the sight of the mighty goddess. As the banter between Nightmare Moon and her subjects began, David whispered to Rob, “Look, the Mane 6 are going to head to Twilights library, find out where the Elements of Harmony are located, head there and all we have to do is follow along." Rob nodded and the two watched as Twilight's voice steadily lost its bravado. As Nightmare Moon dissipated into a glamorous cloud of stardust and burst through the door, David saw Twilight gallop out of the town hall they were in. "Let’s go." David said running off after her.

In Twilights (Well, Almost Hers) Library


Paladin and Dusk came in at the same time as Applejack held Rainbow Dash from further assaulting Twilight from her accusations. "Simmer down, Sally." Applejack said. Twilight confessed what little she knew about the Elements when Pinkie Pie perked up.

"The Elements of Harmony: A Reference Guide!" Pinkie said with her normal grin painted on her face.

"How did you find that?!" Twilight asked, taking the book in her magical grip.

"It was under E!" Pinkie almost squealed.

Dusk sighed. He was never one to get over small mistakes, unless he made them of course. After Twilight read that the Elements were in the old castle in the Everfree forest, the group made off for the entrance, stopped at the tree line. After gathering their confidence, they entered; ready for whatever Nightmare Moon saw fit to throw at them. At least until they slipped and fell down the hills loose soil and quickly to the massive cliff. Paladin was able to stop Dusk from sliding too far with his wings and noticed Applejack catch Twilight. He flew down with Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy, ready to catch her when she let go of Applejacks hooves. Sure enough, the unicorn soon began screaming as she fell. Paladin caught her on his back as Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy got her sides.

"Got ya!" Paladin huffed as they began their descent. He looked at Twilight with a smile on his face.

"Th-thanks, Paladin." Twilight said with a mild blush. She looked back at Applejack, nimbly making her way down the cliff. When it came to the next test, the mighty joining of lion, scorpion, and bat, Dusk charged forward, ready to deliver a punch, until he remembered he no longer had hands. He was beat back, sliding a few feet to the group. After Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Twilight Sparkle failed in their charges, the four were about to charge when Fluttershy yelled, “STOP!"

Not accustomed to Fluttershy barely being able to talk, let alone yell, Dusk was very surprised and did as she commanded. As Fluttershy removed the thorn in his paw and started cooing the now soothed beast, Dusk rolled his eyes. "This really is a kid’s show..." he muttered. Paladin glared at him.

"Yeah, just wait until Pinkies song." Paladin trotted after the others. Dusk thought about what he said and when it hit him, he grimaced and followed the others. He didn't want to piss off that huge lion, bat, thing, after all. As the group continued make to make their way through the forbidding Everfree Forest, it began to get harder and harder to see, until they were surrounded in darkness and trees. After the girls yelled, Dusk noticed the trees had the most evil faces and then became confused when he heard laughter in the screams. Looking for the source of the laughs, he noticed Pinkie Pie was the pony laughing.

"Oh, crap." Dusk said, remembering what Paladin said. As the song began with no way of stopping it, Dusk simply watched, playing a different song in his head in an attempt to drown out the childlike tune of Pinkie Pie. Once the song reached its conclusion, Dusk followed them as they came across a violent river current. When a massive water drake burst out of the water, Dusk prepared to fight when he heard wails come from him rather than a roar. Surprised and confused, he watched as he went on and on about his mustache.

""Thought you would like this part too." Paladin said, seeing his friend moan at the unmanly griping of the drake.

"How ya put up with that, I'll never know." Dusk said, shaking his head. Paladin laughed at his friends’ expense.

As Rarity cut off her tail and tied it to the water drake, Dusk quickly made his way across the river, glad the test was over. When Twilight almost fell off a cliff, Dusk laughed at Rainbows comment of what’s with her and cliffs today. Rainbow Dash gave him a quick brohoof and flew across the canyon to repair the bridge. After a minute, Dusk began to wonder what was taking so long. It wasn't rocket science to tie a rope. Apparently, Twilight was thinking the same thing as she called out to the mare. After returning Rainbow smiled. "I couldn't leave my friends hangin'!" She said. Finally the group managed to reach the ruin of a castle that was their destination. As they entered the huge room that held the Elements, Twilight ran forward.

"The Elements!" Twilight exclaimed. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy brought them down and stepped back to let Twilight use her magic to... well, Dusk didn't know what. Something about a spark causing the sixth Element to appear. As her horn began to glow, Dusk watched in fascination until there was a bright flash and Twilight and the Elements disappeared.

"Where'd she go!?" Applejack asked, looking about franticly.

"I think I heard something upstairs!" Paladin said, remembering that’s where she goes to face Nightmare Moon.

"What are we waitn' for then? Let's go!" Applejack said, bolting for the staircase. When they reached the top, Paladin held Dusk back.

"Hold up, dude. We can't interfere anymore than we have. They need to find out what Elements they are." Paladin said quietly. Dusk nodded and watched with his friend as the Mane 6 defeated Nightmare Moon and saved the two Alicorns. When Princess Celestia made her blinding entrance, Paladin nudged his friend. "Bow, jackass. That's Princess Celestia, the Goddess of the Sun. We do NOT want to piss her off." Paladin explained as he bent his forelegs to her. Dusk bowed in turn and looked on as the two sisters finally reunited.

Back at Ponyville


After declaring that Twilight Sparkle shall study friendship at Ponyville, everypony began to mingle and celebrate the longest day of the year. Knowing that Celestia would not stay for long, David found his friend and told him to follow him. As they approached Celestia, she turned to meet them.

"Ah, you must be the two stallions who helped Twilight and her friends rescue me." Celestia said smiling down on them. "Thank you very much for your service and help."

"I would do it for anypony, Princess." David said. "But, I'm afraid that is not why we approached you. We have dire business that needs discussing." David said, keeping his tone even.

Celestia looked at the pony in surprise. It was not often that her subjects talked to her as this one did. "Well, if you make an appointment at Canter-"

"I'm sorry, but this can't wait. I will be happy to tell you why once we are alone." David said cutting of the princess quickly. Celestia was astonished that a pony would interrupt her in the middle of a sentence. This pony was either very foolish or did require her immediate audience.

"What did you say your name was again?" Celestia asked more quietly so as not to draw unwanted attention. The white colt looked her dead in the eye.

"David." He responded.

Revelations

The Throne room for Celestia was as magnificent as David always thought it would be. From the towering stained glass windows to Celestias seat of power, he was awe struck at its beauty. Rob was also amazed at how ponies created something that would astound human architects. Their viewing pleasure was cut short as the two Alicorns, Celestia and Luna, gazed on the two. Celestias face was void of emotion, save caution. Luna, however, was full of wonder and gratitude at the two... whatever they are. After a moment of silence, Celestia had composed her thoughts.

"You two have aided in the saving of my dear sister Luna. For that, I am grateful. However, you are also not what you appear to be. If you could explain what you are and why you are here, and have me believe your tale, you will not be imprisoned." Celestia said, eyeing the two carefully. David thought for a long moment as to the best way to explain to the princesses what the situation is... and avoid punishment of being imprisoned. While he had never seen what a Canterlot dungeon looked like, he had no intention to find out firsthand.

"Well, Princess, that may be difficult to answer. What I can say for certain is that we are not, nor ever will be, hostile to you or your subjects. As to how we got here, we don't know." David said slowly at first, gaining a small amount more confidence as he went. Celestia showed no sign of emotion as to reveal her thoughts. She was satisfied to learn that the... creatures had no hostile intentions.

"Why can you not explain your presence here in this world?" she asked, truly curious.

David hesitated. He knew that there are no computers in Equestria, so explanation would be hard to... well, explain. "We... got a letter that was mysterious to us. When we read it, nothing happened. That night, we fell asleep and woke up here, as ponies instead of humans." David said slowly, knowing that is was more or less true. Celestias eyes widened a little at the saying of 'humans'. 'Aww, crap-tastic.' David thought to himself.

"You say that you are human?" Celestia asked, adding emphasis on the word 'human'. While she had never meet humans, she had seen parts of humanities history; not much of it good. World War II came to mind, in particular, during the blitzkrieg on London.

"Yes, but like I said, we have no intention on harming you or your subjects." David said quickly, hoping to quell the sudden show of emotion across her face. "Rob and I are only teenagers, I'm 16 and he is 17. We are also-" David said until being cut off by Celestia.

"If you are human and truly are not going to cause any harm as you say you are, then you will not be imprisoned." Celestia said, huge relief flowing in her. Besides, what harm could adolescents cause?

'Oh, thank God.' David thought sighing. "Thank you for your kindness, Princess." David said.

"However..."

'Shit.' David thought.

"What little amount of humanity that I have witnessed is dark. You are to remain here in Canterlot under watch for a short time while I determine that you are indeed truthful in your promise of peace. Should you prove to be hostile; the dungeons are empty and dark." Celestia said. She let the hint of a smile cross her face as the two humans winced at the end of her statement.

"But, Tia, they did help the Elements rescue you and I rather than try to stop them." Luna said. "Maybe they should stay in Ponyville with their friends then here. What if they came asking for their friends? We can't tell them they are alien." Luna said.

"Luna is right. If we stay here too long, Twilight Sparkle and her - our - friends will get curious. And if they found out that we're alien, it could start a panic." David added, hoping to be able to stay with Twilight and the others. The thought of not being able to see Twilight was... unnerving. David was unsure as to why. 'Note to self: inspect feelings to ponies later. Possible creeper status.' David thought. His thoughts were interrupted by Celestia resuming her analysis of the humans.

"I... suppose that you two are right." Celestia said. "It seems as though you are earnest in your promises. But I will still keep an eye on you. You are to return here weekly and we will further discuss this... predicament we are in. And there is no changing my mind on these conditions." she said firmly.

David and Rob sighed in unison that they would not have to stay in Canterlot. "Thank you once again, Princess. We both agree to your terms." David said. "What should we tell the others about our visit? The closer to the truth, the better." David asked. It would be best to have Celestias support in the lie, rather than arouse suspicion in the Mane 6, should they get two answers from one question.

"You will tell them that you received a more personal thank you due to the fact that you are not one of the six Elements but aided them in rescuing the two of us despite this fact." Celestia said. "I will see to it that you receive a reward of 1,000 bits from the royal funds as to reinforce the lie, and as a thank you." Celestia said, smiling at the end.

"Thank you so much, Celestia!" David said, surprised at the reward.

"Yes, thank ya kindly, Princess." Rob said, not wanting to be left out or seem rude.

Celestia smiled at the two. "Now, off to the train station with you. You have friends waiting after all." she said. As the two hurried off, Luna looked after them in wonder.

"They seem nice, Tia." she said.

Celestia smiled at her little sister. "So they do, Luna. Let’s hope they stay that way."

On the Train to Ponyville


"Thank God we got off the way we did." David said, happy to be headed back to Ponyville. Rob nodded.

"I hear that, brother." he said, sighing. The thought of almost getting thrown in a dungeon was hard on the two. They never really got in trouble, but when they did, they solemnly held their cool as long as they did with the Princesses. They rode in silence for most of the trip. The two thought about the events of the pass two days; how they saved the Princesses and narrowly avoided punishment. Compared to their normal day-today activity, it was a lot to take in.

"...How are we gunna get home?" Rob asked after a while. David looked over at him and looked back out the window. In truth, David had been wondering the same thing. He had faith that Celestia would know some sort of spell to send them home, but even trans-universal spells were surely difficult for even a goddess, right?

"I... I'm sure Celestia will know how." David said without conviction.

Rob was unconvinced at his friends’ response but he nodded all the same. "Alright." Rob said. It had been a long day, and they just wanted to get home.

At Ponyville, David and Robs Apartment


The pair walked upstairs slowly, still dazed at the events of the day. When they reached their apartment and opened the door, a loud ball of pink fuzz tackled them back into the hallway causing the two to yelp in surprise. "Welcome back!!!" An all too familiar pony shouted.

"What the- Pinkie?! How did you get in our apartment?!?!" Paladin asked.

"The door pony unlocked it for us because he knew that we are friends of yours! We did save the Princesses after all!" Pinkie said at a million miles an hour, as always.

Paladin thought for a moment on what the pink party pony said. "Wait, what do you mean 'us'?" Paladin asked. When he peered inside he saw the Mane 6 assembled in the living room. His eyes feel on Twilight who smiled at him. He shrugged Pinkie Pie off and walked to her. "Uh... hey." Paladin said weakly. Twilight giggled at his awkwardness witch was met with a blush by Paladin. He began stammering when Rainbow Dash flew over.

"Hey Paladin. Thanks for the help with saving the Princesses." Rainbow said.

"Th-thanks, uh, I mean you’re welcome, Rainbow." Paladin said, thankful the cyan colored pegasus helped him out (kinda). Dusk walked over to try to help him out a little more.

"It was mighty kind of ya'll ta show up, but we had one hay of a day (wince). We really should be off ta bed." Dusk said. As the last of the ponies left, Paladin sighed.

"Thanks for saving me there, bro." Paladin said.

"No problem. Let’s just get ta bed." Dusk said yawning.

Summer Heat

David had been having a wonderful time. He and Twilight had been studying pony history for hours, having a great time, even flirting a little. He was leaning in to kiss her when she punched him in the face and shouted in Rob’s voice, “WAKE UP!" Completely disturbed and feeling a little violated, David shot up looking around before the burning heat and throbbing pain in his jaw caused him to focus on reality. "Ooowwww..." David groaned before turning on his aggressor. "Rob, what the hell was tha-"

"Dude, all the mares outside are goin' apeshit!" Rob said, panic in his voice. "What the hell is goin' on!?!?" David blinked. He thought about what he had said when it dawned on him.

"Crap, I thought we had more time." David said, jumping out of bed. Rob stared at him.

"What do ya mean 'thought'?! How long have ya known this was gunna happen?!" Rob asked, now more angry than surprised. David walked to the window looking out.

"Well, in the Brony community, it is hypothesized that in the extreme heat of summer, combined with the desire to mate, mares lose all sane control of themselves and hunt down any stallion they can find and try to... uh... you know..." David said, embarrassed to finish the sentence.

Rob gave him a horrified look. "I thought this was a kid’s show." he said caught off guard at what David said.

David shrugged. "Reality is a fickle mare my friend." David said still looking out the window. 'A fickle mare indeed...' David thought looking at the massive amounts of mares roaming the street. David knew most of Ponyville was females, but... he had never seen this many ponies at one time. He saw a brave or stupid stallion make a run for it to the edge of town, but was covered by heat-crazed mares in seconds.

"Well, what are we gunna do?" Rob asked. David thought for a long time. On one hand, they could stay in the apartment, hiding and hoping for the best. Food was low, however. David planed on buying more today, but that wasn't going to happen now. Another thought was to make a mad dash for Canterlot and hope that the castle would be unaffected. Right now, option one was looking like a good idea. "David? What are we gunna do?" Rob asked again, growing impatient.

"From what I can think of, we have two options. We can A.) hide out here and wait for this to blow over or B.) run like hell for Canterlot and hope the castle has some sort of protection from this madness." David said, thinking about the movie 300. Rob looked out the window now as well.

"Starve or get swarmed by horny mares. Nice choices." Rob said dryly. David ignored him; he was devising a plan on how to escape. It would be easy for him, he could outrun-err, fly Rainbow Dash (in theory) but Rob was another matter. He was fast, sure, but so are the insane ponies waiting for them. He also controlled incredible strength, even for an Earth pony, but he couldn't (or shouldn't) hurt anypony.

"I have a plan, but you may object." David said.

"I'm listenin'..." Rob said.

"Assuming that I can carry you and fly as fast as I normally can, we can fly out of here to Canterlot and wait for the heat to die down."

"What's the catch?"

"I may or may not be able to do as I said."

"I say screw it, let's go."

"If we get caught, I just want you to know, you’re my best friend."

"Same here, let's do it."

The two went over to the bedroom window and opened it and slowly, ever so slowly David climbed out and held Rob by the torso, just below him. "Sweet Celestia, you're heavy." David huffed, but held on.

"Shut up and fly." Rob whispered. David gave himself a quick mental pep-talk, prayed to God for safe passage to Canterlot, and flew as fast as his wings could carry the two.

"There are some!" Somepony shouted from down below. David kept flying, not looking behind him to prevent panic setting in. Rob, however, didn't show such restraint.

"There right on us!" Rob yelled. Rainbow Dash (of all ponies) and two other pegasi were chasing the two stallions, and gaining fast.

"Rob, if one gets too close, knock them out, and try not to hurt them." David said.

"No promises!" Rob said bucking a cream colored pegasi on the head, sending her down to the ground.

'My wings are aching, too much more of this and we are going to crash.' David thought. 'Best not to tell Rob.' He added as another pegasi was sent spiraling to the ground.

"You're allll mine." Rainbow Dash said, accelerating. David found this funny and terrifying at the same time. She was about to catch them when David went into a kamikaze dive for the ground.

"What the fuuuuuuu!" Rob yelled as the ground rushed up to meet them. At the last moment, David turned level to the ground and shot forward as Rainbow Dash crashed into the hard dirt. "Warn me next time!" Rob shouted after a few pants.

"If I had, she would've heard me." David said smirking. Canterlot was only a few seconds flight away, and David dropped Rob somewhat heavily on the steps to the castle and landed on his stomach a few feet away, breathing heavy. "That... was one... hell of a... adventure." David said between breathes.

Rob panted for a moment before speaking up, "Yeah, let’s do it again." he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm.

In the Throne Room


Celestia had been enjoying her morning after returning from raising her sun. It was her favorite part of the day, the time between duty and ruling, a time nopony disturbed her. At least until two breathless stallions burst in the door, causing the peace to flutter away. "What in Equestria is the meaning of this interruption??" Celestia boomed at the two intruders. She knew none of the royal staff would be foolish enough to enter as these two did.

"Our apologies, Princess. We didn't know where else to go." the white stallion managed between gasps. White stallion with jet-black mane and no cutie mark... one of the humans? David, right? And the tan one with a brown mane was... was... Rob? Yes, Rob! "I thought our next meeting wasn't until tomorrow. What haste has brought you early?" Celestia asked, returning to her normal speaking volume.

"Well, Princess, David here 'forgot' ta mention that all the mares in Ponyville would lose it in summer." Rob said, glaring at David who was returning to a normal breathing rate.

"Sorry to intrude like this, but it is mare heat season..." David said, standing up. Celestia now knew what the two meant by, ‘didn’t know where else to go'. A smile spread on her as she pictured the two running as fast as they could with most of Ponyville behind them.

"Well, did you get caught?" Celestia asked coyly. Even a Princess/Goddess had a dirty thought or two cross their mind every now and again.

"No, but almost. Now if we could focus on business here, please." David asked, unsure what to make of Celestia's tone.

"Right, the matter of getting you home. I still have my best scribes working on finding a stable spell. Even the vast royal Archives don’t contain all the knowledge in Equestria." Celestia said, banishing all immature thoughts.

Rob sighed. Between the two, he missed home the most. "Thank ya fer trying, at least." Rob said, looking at the ground, yet not quite seeing it.

"Yes, thank you for your help." David added, looking at a wall in the same manner as Rob.

'Perhaps I was wrong about these two.' Celestia thought, a twinge of sorrow and pity striking her heart. 'Facing the worst of conditions and they show respect.' "My scribes have found material on trans-dimensional spells, but they are extremely complex and volatile. They are searching for more spells to try and perfect the one they have found, but it will take a long time before anything safe is made." Celestia said, hoping to make them feel better. David looked at her with a small amount of hope in his eyes.

"Thank you. It must not be easy for them." he said.

Rob looked at her as well. "I didn't quite catch allah that, but, thanks." Rob added. Celestia smiled at the two.

"You are welcome. Now, until the weather goes down to normal levels, feel free to stay in Canterlot. I will have two rooms prepared for you to stay when you come here." Celestia said. "And breakfast is in the dining hall." She added, hearing their stomachs growl. Upon the news of food, the two rushed after saying one final thank you to her. 'Perhaps I was wrong about humanity itself...' Celestia thought. She laid the thought firmly in the back of her head as the first of her appointments began to enter. She did have a kingdom to rule after all.

The Start of Something Beautifull

Dusk was happy to be back on Sweet Apple Acres, doing some good, old fashioned farm work. It had been a week or so after the Mare Heat season fiasco, all that time spent working on the farm and relaxing, respectively. He and Big Mac had started becoming good friends. The two would get into hoofwreastling matches, and Dusk was starting to beat Big Mac more often than he lost, but it was still a challenge. The two stallions were on round three of a miniature championship they had started when Applejack trotted on up, exhausted from a full day of apple bucking.

Dusk had just started to gain the upper hand-err, hoof when he cast a sidelong glance at Applejack and lost his concentration a little. Big Mac saw his chance and slammed Dusks hoof on the table. "Ha, two outta' three. Ah win." Big Mac said a grin on his face.

Dusk rubbed his hoof with a sly smile. "Ya were about ta lose until-" Dusk said, closing his mouth before he finished the sentence. He swore Big Macs grin got a little wider.

"Until what?" the red stallion asked, knowing the answer.

"Until somethin' caught my eye." Dusk said, avoiding what exactly caught his eye.

"Well, it don't matter what caught yer eye, it's time fer dinner." Applejack said heading inside. Dusk and Big Mac followed and sat down at the table, waiting for their food. Apple Bloom came down the stairs and plopped down next to her big brother.

"Hey there, Dusk! How ya been?" Apple Bloom asked.

"I've been just fine, sweetie. How 'bout yerself?" Dusk asked. As the little filly started on about her day spent trying to find out what her special ability is, Dusk smiled and listened to her story with interest, asking questions and making comments about her story here and there. In truth, she reminded him of his own little sister. He had grown close to the Apple family; they were what reminded him of home the most.

"And then Scootaloo crashed inta Sweetie Belle, and Ah was rollin' round laughin'! It was awesome!" Apple Bloom concluded as plates were set down in front of them.

"That sounds like a lotta fun; maybe I can come help ya sometime." Dusk said smiling. As the fillies eyes lit up, Applejack cut in.

"Now don't give her too many ideas, Dusk. She's a crazy little filly." Applejack said tussling her little sisters’ mane before sitting down next to Dusk. Apple Bloom was about to object when she remembered there was food in front of her. Dusk began eating himself; he was hungrier than he thought. Dinner was eaten mostly in silence because the four wanted to eat a little more than they thought. After dinner was concluded and dessert consumed, Dusk began to make his way for the door.

"Thanks again fer dinner Applejack. It was really good." Dusk said rubbing his belly for effect.

"Sure thing Dusk. You and Paladin are welcome here anytime." Applejack said smiling warmly. Dusk looked at the almost set sun and decided it was time to head out.

"I better start headin' on over ta Ponyville. Wouldn't wanna get lost again." Dusk said, remembering a few nights ago.

"How 'bout I walk ya home?" Applejack offered.

Not wanting to seem rude, or turn down alone time with Applejack, Dusk quickly said, "Sure. Let’s get goin'."

The two began to walk down the trail to the small forest that leads to Ponyville. Dusk would look over at Applejack, admiring her mane, her physical fitness, her increasingly distracting flank, and would look away when she looked over at him. He was sure she was doing the same, glancing away whenever he turned his head back her way. After feeling more confident, he decided to attempt small talk. "So, how was yer day apple buckin'?" he began. 'Subtle, but can lead to many things.' He thought, sounding eerily like Paladin.

"Ah had a good days harvest today." Applejack said. "No thanks ta you and Big Mac. Hoof wreastlin' all day." Applejack smiled, knocking Dusk on the shoulder playfully.

Dusk chuckled. "I almost had him beat." Dusk offered meekly. "I bet I could beat ya at a Mach or two." Dusk said with a slight smirk. Applejack chuckled now.

"Ah'm gunna hold ya to that." Applejack said. "Maybe ya can try ta prove yerself tomorrow. Ah could use a little help with the apples." Applejack said, looking at Dusk. Dusk looked over and was lost in her emerald eyes for a moment before remembering he needed to reply.

"Oh, uh, yeah, sure AJ." Dusk said, feeling red creep into his cheeks. Applejack giggled and blushed a little herself.

"Looks like we're here." She said.

Dusk looked around and saw the two were right outside the apartment. Slightly disappointed at how fast time went by, Dusk sighed in his mind. "I guess I'll see ya tomorrow?" Dusk asked. 'Smooth, Rob...' He thought to himself.

Applejack smiled. "Sure thing, Dusk." She said. She gave him a quick kiss on the cheek and ran off back home. Dusk absent mindedly brought a hoof up to his face and touched where Applejack kissed him. He walked inside and was surprised, mostly from being brought out of the bliss he was in, by Twilight Sparkle bumping into him in the lobby.

"Pardon me mi- Twilight? What’re ya doin here?" Dusk asked. Twilight smiled awkwardly.

"Oh, hello Dusk. I had dropped by to give Paladin a book on the history of magic, and I guess I lost track of the time." Twilight said. "Anyway, I had best be going back to the library. Spike must have fallen asleep by now." Twilight said, slipping past him and out the door before he could add anything else. Confused at least a little, Dusk headed upstairs to their room.

"Hey there. Nice to see you again." David said upon his friend entering. "I hope your day was good?" He asked, still talking like he did when he was around Twilight.

"Yeah, had an awesome day on the orchard. Did ya have a good time with Twilight?" Rob asked a small smirk on his face. David glared at him.

"Now that you ask, yes." David said, remembering his awesome afternoon.

"Well, well, well, David, are ya fallen for a pony?" Rob asked, more than a touch of smugness in his voice.

"Don't you get started with me. I know you want a special kind of apple pie." David said chuckling at the cleverness of his joke, not expecting the uppercut that sent him sprawling across the room.

"Keep talkn' like that, and I'll break yer ribs." Rob said coldly. David lay on the floor moaning. Knowing it wasn't enough to knock him out; he trotted off to his bedroom. "Guess ya'll have ta tell me how yer day was tomorrow. Goodnight." Rob said as he walked past David. The latter grumbled angrily at Rob as he walked past.

In the Void

Discord awoke yawning, stretched, and scratched an itch on his back that was driving him wild. 'Another wonderful day in nothingness.' He thought looking about the endless stretch of white space that dominated everywhere. After milling about trying to find something, anything to use his Chaos on, he decided to check on the events in Equestria. 'Boring, boring, boring, bor- wait, what is this? It can't be...' Discord thought delighted at the sight of two ponies appearing in the middle of a clearing. His joy increased exponentially as he listened to the two humans evaluate what was happening. "Oh, this is too good!" he said to nopony in particular. Too weak to do anything as of yet, Discord began to form his plan. He believed it was the start of something beautiful.

An Afternoon with Twilight

Paladins’ day had been pretty normal so far. He hadn't been surprised to wake up and see that Dusk had left for Sweet Apple Acres already. Yawning, he lay in bed, wondering if he should get up or not. After a few minutes of deliberation, his stomach ended the debate by growling loudly. A stretch and walk to the kitchen later, Paladin was eating a wonderful rose and hay sandwich, a combination he found delicious. It would never replace the succulent taste of God-given bacon, but it would do. Paladin finished his breakfast and began to think about what to do today. It was Tuesday, and the library was usually slow today. Looking outside to make sure nothing was happening out of the ordinary (as something did every week) and seeing the day commence as normal, he decided to stay home today.

He had been wondering about how unicorns are able to use magic and had borrowed a book on magic use from Twilight, who was extremely excited to have somepony who enjoyed books and learning like she did. And enjoy it Paladin did, from learning of how long it takes for a foal to use and control magic to the varying types of magic known to pony kind. He retrieved the book from the shelf it was resting on and opened to where his bookmark was, two pages from the end. 'Guess I won't be staying home after all.' Paladin thought, finishing the final two pages quickly. Closing the book, he walked out of his apartment and walked downstairs only to bump into somepony.

"I'm sorry, I- oh, hey Twilight. What brings you here?" Paladin said to the surprised unicorn.

"Oh, hi Paladin. I was just coming over to give you volume 3 of Magic and its History. And it’s almost noon and nopony said they saw you, so I thought I would check up on you. You know, in case something was wrong." Twilight explained, growing slightly red towards the end.

Paladin chuckled. "Well, I was just going to head to the library to borrow that, but I guess I don't have to now. Come on upstairs." Paladin said turning tail and walking back to the apartment. "Well, it’s nothing fancy, but we call it home." Paladin said walking through the door. He sat down on the couch and motioned to Twilight to come sit next to him. She walked over and used her lavender magic to pull a thick tome out of her saddlebag that read Magic and its History: Volume III and placed it on the table.

"You sure are going through these quickly. I've never seen anypony read these as quickly as you do. It reminds me of me." Twilight said adding a laugh at the end.

Paladin laughed a little too. "Well, I can be quite the bookworm when I want to." Paladin said, handing Twilight volume 2. While handing the book to her, Paladin and Twilight looked into each other’s eyes and looked for what felt like hours before the two turned and looked away embarrassed. "You, uh... have pretty eyes." Paladin said a touch of embarrassment still present in his voice. 'You, UH? Nice burn, David.' Paladin thought to himself until Twilight giggled her amazingly cute giggle.

"Thank you. I like your eyes as well." Twilight said with a smile and slight red in her cheeks. Twilight’s stomach growling interrupted what was starting to be a good moment. Twilight smiled sheepishly. "Sorry, I haven't had anything aside from breakfast."

"Don't worry, I can make you something. Anything special that you want?" Paladin asked walking to the kitchen.

"I would love a rose sandwich right now." Twilight said.

Paladin started gathering what he would need to fill Twilights order. "One rose sandwich, coming right up." Paladin said, earning a laugh from Twilight. "I would have one too, but I had breakfa- err lunch just a little while ago." Paladin explained. While finishing up the sandwich, Paladin hummed a few notes from Talking to the Moon, one of his favorite songs, when Twilight heard a little.

"What song is that?" she asked, surprising Paladin a little.

"Oh, uh, I don't think you've heard it before. They were a local star." Paladin said quickly, handing Twilight her lunch.

"Well, why not sing a little, see if I have heard of it." Twilight asked, taking a bite from her sandwich. Paladin was mortified. He loved music, and would sing to himself every now and then when he was alone, but couldn't dance and was terrified of preforming for any audience, even one pony. Twilight must have figured that out from the blank stare he was giving her and said, "Or if you're not use to singing for ponies, that's alright." Twilight said, smiling as Paladin stammered to find something to say.

"Uh, no, it's, uh, it's ok, I mean, if you want to hear a little..." Paladin said before hanging his head and sighing in frustration at his stupidity.

"Come on, Paladin, I'm sure you'll do fine." Twilight said earnestly. Paladin looked up and got all the confidence he needed from her. Paladin took a deep breath, and began at the start of the song, sounding extremely close to how it actually was. As he sang, Twilight listened in awe, her lunch and hunger forgotten for the time being. Paladin thought he would only do the opening and the first chorus but seeing how much Twilight was enjoying the music, he decided to sing a little more, and a little more, until he had sang the whole song.

"Thank you mares and gentlecolts. I'll be here all week." Paladin said at the end. Twilight was smiling at Paladin.

"That was incredible, Paladin! Are you sure singing isn't your special talent?" Twilight said. Paladin checked his flank, and noticed it was still blank. He was about to say something when he noticed Twilight was also checking his flank, but in a different manner.

After a moment, he said, "Guess singing isn't my special talent." grinning as Twilight brought her attention back to Paladins face.

"Ha ha, I, uh, I guess not." Twilight said nervously, growing rather red. Paladin just smiled and took the now cleared plate and headed to the kitchen to clean it and put it away.

"The name is Talking to the Moon, in case you couldn't tell." Paladin said to start conversation again.

Twilight rolled her eyes, "I never would have guessed." she said playfully.

"I knew it." Paladin said with a grin on his face as he sat down next to Twilight.

"Any other talents you have that nopony knows about?" Twilight asked still playfully.

"Hmm... not that..." Paladin said in mock thought, getting a laugh from Twilight, "... nothing special about THAT... no, I think that was it." Paladin said smiling.

"I never knew you were such a comedian." Twilight said looking at him.

"Well, only when I want to be." Paladin said looking at her. He looked into her lavender eyes, at how large they were, how the sun glittered off them softly, how warm and inviting they were. He felt like he could look at them forever, forgetting that he was trapped in an alien world, away from friends and family, feeling safe, feeling like he mattered. It had been a long time since he felt like this, longer than he cared to admit. He was only half-aware as he slowly moved closer to her, as she did the same and felt the warm touch of her lips on his.

It felt like forever, being lost in the moment with Twilight, feeling like he had felt for someone long, long ago. Eventually, he pulled back, slowly, not wanting to ruin the bliss he felt, but having to know if Twilight was feeling the same way. He opened his eyes as Twilight opened hers, and simply looked at her, satisfied that she seemed to have the same stupid, love-struck look in her eyes as he must have. "Do you, uh... want to get dinner sometime?" Paladin asked after a while. Twilight smiled.

"Yes, I would like to have dinner with you. Does tomorrow work?" Twilight asked with an amazing smile on her face.

"Yeah, tomorrow works." Paladin said, smiling a dazzling smile of his own.

Twilight gave another giggle and looked out the window. "Wow, time really flies when you're having fun." She said noticing the setting sun, "I had better get back to the library." Twilight said looking back to Paladin. "I'll see you tomorrow?" She asked standing and gathering the book Paladin was returning.

"Yeah, I'll come by at 6 or so." Paladin said. Twilight walked over to the door with Paladin close behind.

"See you then." Twilight said before giving Paladin a surprise kiss goodbye and heading downstairs.

"See ya then..." Paladin said to nopony in particular.

Present Day


"And that was my day." David concluded. Rob seemed confused at how his friend had fallen so hard for someone. It had been a while for him, Rob knew.

"Wow, David. Sorry I knocked ya right in the grill like that." Rob said. David had rubbed his jaw several times throughout the story, taking a break when needed.

"It's fine. I kinda deserved it." David said and chuckled slightly. "Anyway, I should start to find a good place to take Twilight. I don't know a whole lot of restaurants in Ponyville." David thought out loud. "

Why not that Sugercube Corner place we went ta when we first came here? I'm sure Pinkie could set it up real nice for ya."

David thought about it for a moment. "That's not a bad idea. I'm sure she would be happy to help two friends on a date." David said. "Guess I'm off to Sugercube Corner. Have fun on Sweet Apple Acres." David added heading out.

Progress

David woke slowly, peacefully, in the soft glow of Celestias sun. Rob had already woken up, David could tell, because the smell of death and burnt food mixed with anger was floating in the tranquil morning air. "Not looking forward to this." David sighed before rising and walking down the hall to the source of the atrocity. Rob was standing behind the counter, frying pan handle in mouth, smoke rising from it.

"Oh, mornin' David! Just makin' some grub." Rob said from between clenched teeth.

"Murdering it, more like it. Take that off the heat and open a window for Celestias sake." David said, sitting on the couch and promptly yawning. Rob muttered under his breath and did as he was told. David noticed todays paper already on the table and, with some difficulty, picked it up and began to read. At least until he noticed the date. "Shit, we need to get to Canterlot! We have a weekly meeting with the Princess today!" David said with a slight tone of panic in his voice.

"Calm down, David. I'm sure we got time." Rob said walking to the door. David managed to get it together and followed Rob down the stairs and to the train station. They had almost reached the station when Rainbow Dash fluttered down from a cloud she had been napping on.

"Hey guys, what's up?" Rainbow said, walking in step with them.

'Fantastic.' David thought. "Oh, hey Rainbow. We were just headed for Canterlot. We have some business with the Princess." David said, avoiding what 'business' they had to discuss.

"Cool, is it alright if I come with you?" Rainbow asked.

'Here we go...' David thought. "Uh, its kinda personal, to remain with the Princess, Dusk, and I. Sorry, maybe you can come next time." David said, stepping onto the train and closing the door before Rainbow could respond.

'Huh, that was weird. Maybe Twi knows something about it.' Rainbow thought to herself as the train pulled out of the station. She flew over to Twilight's library to see if she did know anything about this meeting. She was the Princesses’ faithful student after all.

Golden Oaks Library, In Twilight's Bedroom


Twilight was dreaming of yesterday, the most amazing, wonderful, incredible time she had. Yesterday was undoubtedly one of the happiest days of her life. A smile formed on her face in her sleep as she dreamed about it. Until she was woken up by Rainbow Dash fluttering inches above her. The two ponies stared at each other for a moment before Twilight decided to break the silence. "Uh... can I help you, Rainbow?" Twilight asked. Rainbow took a moment to formulate her thoughts.

"Yeah, do you know what Paladin and Dusk are doing heading to Canterlot today to meet with the Princess?" The cyan pegasi asked her. This caught Twilight off guard. She didn't know about Paladin and Dusk even going to Canterlot again after the personalized thank you from the Princesses.

"Uh, no, I didn't know that they were headed for Canterlot. Why?" Twilight asked. "And can I get up now?" She added, and Rainbow floated over to the floor and looked at Twilight.

"Well, you're Celestias student, so I thought that you would heard of something at least. Don't they go every week and the same time?" Rainbow asked, recalling the past month or so. Twilight thought about that as well. It did seem odd that they would go every week to meet the Princess.

"I'm sure it’s nothing, Rainbow. I'll talk about it in my next friendship report, ok?" Twilight said, stretching and walking downstairs.

"Alright. But I still want to know what's up. See ya later, Egghead!" Rainbow said bursting through the door. Twilight just stared after her, confused at what exactly just happened. 'Oh, maybe I should have told her Paladin is my coltfriend. Oh well, maybe next time.' Twilight thought as Spike walked in rubbing his eyes.

"Ugh, why are you up so early, Twi?" Spike said followed by a yawn.

"It was just a visit from Rainbow Dash. Let's get ready for the day, shall we?"

Canterlot, In the Throne Room


"Hello Princess. How are you today?" David asked the monarch.

"I am well, David. Though I am afraid I have some bad news for the two of you." Celestia said with a concerned expression on her face.

"Whoa, whoa, hold up. Ya said the scribes would be done within a month. It's almost been a month." Rob said, impatient and concerned. Just because life had been going well here in Equestria didn't mean Rob didn't miss his home more and more every day. Celestia looked at the two with a mixture of pity and sadness.

"We have identified the spell that brought you here. There are two problems, however." David and Rob exchanged concerned glances. The Princess continued. "It is a Chaos spell. Chaos magic is normally not usable by ponies, and we will have to find somepony that can use it. Problem two is the nature of the spell itself. There is a link, weak, that holds the summoned creatures to their point of origin." Celestia paused as the two humans continued to look saddened at the increasingly bad news that was given. She felt tears begin to gather in her eyes. "The link disintegrates after a maximum of five minutes post-summoning." Celestia closed her eyes as a single tear feel to the floor.

David looked at her in disbelief. Rob looked at her with confusion and sadness, unsure of what that meant. "What- what do ya mean 'disintegrates'?" Rob asked after a moment. Celestia opened her eyes and looked at Rob.

"It means that we will have to find a way to re-establish the connection with your home world before we can send you back." Celestia said with sadness layered throughout her voice.

"But... but... no. No. NO!" Rob yelled and ran out of the throne room, off to the Stone Garden. David continued to look at the floor in shock.

Celestia felt more tears roll on her cheeks as she looked upon the utter despair they must have felt. "I am so sorry, David." She said with as much sincerity and compassion she could muster. David muttered something that Celestia did not quiet hear. "What was that?" She asked.

"We are never going home, are we?" David said just above a whisper, looking up at Celestia with tears welling in his eyes as well. Celestias heart sank down into the floor as she simply looked at the crushed human, words escaping her.

A member of the royal guard entered the room. "Sorry to interrupt Princess, but there is a stallion going mad in the Stone Garden."  He said.

"Is he destroying anything?" Celestia asked.

"No ma’am." He replied.

"Leave him be than. Ensure nopony disturbs him. He has received some very sad news."

"As you say, Princess." He responded slightly confused, but loyal to the monarch without question. He rushed out of the room to secure the Stone Garden with his comrades. David continued to stare a hole in the floor, tears rolling down his cheeks.

In the Stone Garden


Rob ran as fast as he ever had, not knowing where he was going. He found an area devoid of ponies and proceeded with losing his shit. He stomped on the ground, bucked wildly, cursed everything and anything he could think of, ran the Garden however he could, until eventually he slumped down in defeat and began to sob. His thoughts raced through his mind at a million miles an hour, his siblings, his mom and dad, his home, his farm duties, everything about his life, all shattering in his mind. His body shuddered from the force of his sobs, his throat aching from his groans of pain and helplessness.

He hadn't noticed that a cyan colored pony had alighted next to him until she put her wing around him and he turned to sob into her shoulder. The pair sat there for a long time, all the despair and sadness leaving him in great heaves of tears. Eventually, he calmed down enough to realize that he was crying into somepony. He looked up to see Rainbow Dash looking at him with a sad look of concern. "S... sorry, Rainbow." Rob said quietly.

"It's ok. I don't mind Dusk. Really." Rainbow said, attempting a weak, sad smile. "I can't stand to see friends upset." She said, pulling him closer. Rob remembered that David had said for her not to come, yet, he she was.

"Wait... what are ya doin' here, Rainbow? Didn't Paladin say not ta come?" Rob asked. Rainbow looked surprised and remembered that he had, in fact, told her not to come with them.

"Oh, uh, well, I... uh... dang it." She sighed. "I followed you guys because I thought you had been acting weird. I was looking all over for you when I saw you run here." Rainbow explained. Rob stood up, breaking the embrace, thinking about Applejack.

"Thanks fer bein' here, but I should go get Paladin." Rob began to walk the direction he came from. "Oh, and, uh... let us tell everypony else what happened here... alright?" Rob asked, stopping and looking over his shoulder.

"Sure thing, Dusk." Rainbow said and took to the sky. Rob wondered into the throne room after a few moments and found David staring at the floor, a small puddle of tears at his feet, the silence of the room broken occasionally by the soft *plop* of tears dropping down. Celestia had been looking at him the entire time, trying to find the right words to say. Rob walked over to his friend and sat down.

"Look... I know how ya get when shit like this happens... but, we gotta head back ta Ponyville. Back ta Twilight." David looked up at him when he mentioned Twilight.

"I... I guess you’re right, bro. We need to explain what has us so down, huh?" David said.

"And Rainbow let me cry with her in the Garden. She followed us but didn't hear our little talk or where we even were." Rob said, feeling warmth crawl into his cheeks. David looked back at the ground.

"Uh, good, I guess." David said. "Anyway, let’s go. Princess, while today was... dark; I still have faith that you can find a way home for us." David said looking up to her. Celestia managed a sad smile.

"Thank you, David. I will personally make sure we find a way home for you."

In the Void


Discord was as giddy as a schoolfoal. The spell he cast had finally, FINALLY sent something into that world. He had cast that spell ages ago, at least it felt like ages, time was a touchy subject in his current place of habitation. And being the spirit of Chaos and Disharmony didn't help either. Regardless of the concept of time, his plan was starting to come to fruition. The humans had caused not as much chaos as he had hoped, but did get a good amount. Discord had been collecting the small amount of Chaos energy that Equestria had to offer, and it was miserable. It was like trying to fill a bucket with a dripping hose.

And he had used a lot to get these sorry chaps here in the first place. But no matter, the 'bucket' was almost at where it was when they came here, and Discord was having so much fun tracking their progress. The relationships would come in handy in the next phase of the plan. Yawning, Discord decided to take a nap. He had a lot more to plan for when he escaped this miserable expanse of nothingness. The thought of causing chaos freely once more filled his head with flying pigs and chocolate rain from cotton candy clouds.

First Contact (Again)

Discord checked his Chaos 'bucket' to see if he had enough magic to do what he had planned. It was his only shot for a long while and, if done correctly, would refill it quickly. He checked his 'bucket' one more time, unsure of himself (strangely). He checked on his targets to see if they had been expecting anything out of the ordinary, aside from the fact that they are ponies. Content that they had no idea what was about to happen to them, he cast his spell, and waited patiently for his 'guests' to arrive. They wouldn't want to keep the spirit of Chaos and Disharmony waiting; it wouldn't be good for them.

The Apartment


"That was a fun night." David said, concluding the story he reminded Rob of, back on Earth.

Rob chuckled and looked at his friend. "Yeah, that was pretty crazy," Rob agreed. He was about to ask about the part when the cop saw a chicken in his cruiser when he felt a strange light headedness. "Uh, David? I'm not feelin' to hot..." Rob said, dizziness now setting in. David didn't look too good either (well, sight wasn't too up-to-par right now).

"Uh, no, I'm not feeling goo..." Was all David had to say before passing out. Not that Rob would have noticed; he was out when David said 'no'.

The Void... Again


David was... well, he didn't know. He was fine; no injuries, but something felt... off. He couldn't put his hoof on it though. He felt lighter, not hungry or sleepy, and emotions were good because he had a date with Twilight tonight. Other than that, something was nagging him. But what was it? He noticed that his eyes were closed and his memory of today a little foggy, so he did what any rational being would do: open his eyes. And what greeted him was... nothing. Blank, white, endless expanse. Forever. And ever.

Thinking that now would be a good time not to panic; he stood up and looked around. Rob was right next to him, talking in his sleep a little bit. Fearful of what might escape his friends’ inner workings, he quickly woke him up with a swift kick in the ass. "Snuuu, uh, wha, where am I?" Rob said, startled from his sleep. He looked about and the frown on his face grew deeper. "David, where is this and how did we get here?" Rob asked a bit more clear of his surroundings now.

"Nice of you to join us. And I don't know. We should figure out where we are though. If I didn't know better, or have read all those fan fics, I would say this is-"

"The Void, home of Discord, the spirit of Chaos and Disharmony, you are correct my human friend!" Discord shouted happily, now that his plan was one step closer to completion. Rob jumped and backed away from the sudden appearance of the dragon-bear-what-the-hell-ever thing. "Given the look on your face, you must be wondering who I am. Well, if you think back two seconds ago, you might recall that I am Discord. Now, if I could talk to you fine gentelcolts for a moment, I'm sure we can figure a way out of both our current predicaments." Discord said, slowing himself down forcibly, so as not to blow his chance.

David looked at Discord carefully. He knew exactly what he was capable of, and knew they were at his mercy in here... where ever 'here' was. "We might have a moment to spare, what do you want to talk about?" David asked, interested yet fearful of the god.

"Uh, not ta interrupt but, what in the Sam hell is goin' on here?" Rob asked, looking from Discord to David and back again.

Discord smiled with his single tooth sticking out and leveled his mismatched eyes with Rob. "I am glad you asked! As you know, you don't belong in this universe; in fact, you don't belong to the souls you currently inhabit. You have your own bodies, your own souls to be concerned over, but where are they? Listen and I will explain everything." Discord said, spawning a pink cloud and lounging in it as he began his speech. "A few weeks ago, three, right? You woke up in these strange bodies and strange world. With no idea what was going on, you assumed false identities and headed to town to see if you could find a way back. After befriending some of the townsfolk, you helped defeat Nightmare Moon, good job by the way, and then enlisted Princess Celestias' help to get you back home. Also you developed relationships with certain someponies, you cruel creatures you." Discord finished with a slight snarl and turned his back to the two shocked and confused humans.

David was the first to speak up, "Uh, first off, what the hell, how do you know all that?!" David yelled.

Discord peeked over his shoulder to see witch human spoke up. Noticing it was the white pegasus, he allowed him a response, while still facing away. "Well, I am the spirit of Chaos and Disharmony; I do have some awesome powers. And second, well, we can get to that later. Next question." Discord said with a wave of his paw.

David was slightly confused again and decided to move on with his line of questions. "Uh, ok. And how are we cruel, we haven't harmed anypony." David asked.

Discord spun around to look at the human/pegasus like he was stupid. "You haven't harmed anypony, YET. What was your plan when you were able to go home, hmm? What would you have done, just lie through your teeth some more and break their hearts? Go home to your universe without a care in the world, while these two sit here and suffer in heartache and pain?" Discord asked, honestly shocked at how naive this creature was. David looked baffled and saddened at this point. It was 100% true, when they left, they would crush Twilight and Applejack.

Now Rob decided to talk. "And what about you? Ya don't look like a romantic kinda guy... thing. Why do ya care what happens ta the ponies?" Rob asked, kicking himself for sounding so cruel. "Uh, wait, lemme re-word that." Rob said before Discord cut him off.

"Oh, I know what you mean. You have no need to worry, Spirit of Valor. I know that you have no hard feelings to those you care about." Rob and David looked at Discord in confusion.

"Who is Spirit of Valor?" Rob asked, well past confusion at this point.

Discord blinked before continuing. 'Well, well, well. They don't know yet.' Discord thought. "Hmm? Oh, it's nothing. You just remind me of somepony I used to know. But let me get to the good part: the deal." Discord looked between the two humans, and they looked right back. "No questions? Good. Well, here it is. Neither of you can use magic and therefor at completely at my mercy. I have been trapped in this beautiful expanse of white for close to a few hundred years now. I say, we can help each other out. I let you go and in exchange, you two cause chaos and let me free. Once free, I will have all my power back and be able to send you home. So, sound good to you?" Discord asked, looking from one to the other.

David was the first to answer, "Hell no. I don't trust you at all. And I won't betray Twilight or Celestia."

Rob spoke up too, "I don't know who ya are or what ya did, but if you can send us home..."

David cut his friend off. "What are you saying? That you’re going to just give up? Just like that?"

"No, but think about what's best fer Twilight an' Applejack. Maybe if we don't pain them with goodbyes, don't explain ourselves, they could just... move on, ya know?"

"I see you need a moment to debate the situation. I'll be back once you've made up your minds." Discord said, snapping his fingers and disappearing.

David stared long and hard at his friend. "You and I both know that isn't an option. Discord might be right, we may have really screwed up here, but when you make a bad decision, you live with it. You don't run from it." David said slowly, his voice dripping with disappointment.

"But I... I just... it's..." Rob sighed, "You're right. Ya always are." Rob said, hanging his head in disappointment and defeat. "But, we can finally go home. Home, David. Ta our families, our friends, our LIVES." Rob said. "How can we pass this up?" Rob asked, looking at his friend.

David calmed down and looked at his friend with a look of determination. "I'm sorry, but we can't trust him. All he's going to do is use us to escape. He won't actually send us home. He doesn’t care about anything but himself and defeating Celestia and the Elements." David said.

Rob thought about what could happen if they did actually free him. In light of this new information, he saw how stupid it would be to take the word of a god of chaos. "Well, shit." Rob said after a moment. "What do we do then?" Rob looked at David.

David thought for a second before answering. "We stick to the plan. Celestia said it would be hard for her to find and preform the spell, not impossible."

Discord appeared once more; growing bored not talking to somebody and spawned a yellow cloud to lie on. 'I know I'm the spirit of Chaos, but the cloud doesn’t always have to be pink.' He thought to himself. "So, have we agreed upon an answer?" Discord already knew the answer; he went invisible, not away.

David looked at him with a new fire in his eyes. "No, we will not help you." David said, resolve in his voice.

"Very well, portal's over there." Discord said with a wave of his paw. That caught David and Rob off guard.

"So... we're free to go? Just like that?" David asked, still unsure of the change of events.

Discord gave him another 'are you stupid' look. "Well, it’s obvious that I can't persuade you to help me, so what's the point? Go; leave me, its nice having some peace and quiet every now and again." Discord said, growing cross with the human. After what felt like several minutes of waiting, he thought they had left. He opened his eyes to find the two human/ponies still looking at the portal, unsure of Discord's word. "Oh, for the love of Chaos, just go already!" Discord yelled.

The two jumped, looked at each other, and headed through the portal at the same time. "About time! Not that this was a huge waste." Discord said to nopony in particular; and he was right. No matter if they said yes or no, Celestia would be concerned that he could transport them whenever he wanted. Chaos would be close behind them, no matter what they did.

The Apartment


David felt hungry. Glad they aren't in the Void anymore, David looked around to find themselves in the living room again. 'Well, that was different.' David thought standing up on weak legs and heading for the kitchen. 'I feel like I could eat a horse.' David thought, then facehoofed at the realization of what he thought. After making and consuming several sandwiches, Rob began to stir from his transport-induced slumber.

"Ugghhh... where are we now...?" Rob asked, looking around.

"We're back in the apartment, retard." David said, slightly disappointed in his friends lack of composure. As Rob continued to regain conciseness, David looked out the window to see how much time had passed. It was around noon when they left; the sun was almost about to set now. "Shit! I got to get ready! I need to head over to Twilight's to get her for dinner!"

What Matters Most

Paladin gulped. While taking girls on dates was nothing new to him, he had never taken a girl on a date that mattered this much to him. Cliché as it is, it was true. He really, REALLY didn't want to mess this up. After a quick mental prep talk, he rose a slightly shaky hoof and knock softly on her door. After a moment, Twilight answers and smiles at him. "Well, good evening, Paladin. Please come in." She said, standing aside to give him room to enter.

Upon Twilights smile, Paladins nerves melt away and he smiles warmly at her. "Well, fancy seeing you here." Paladin said, Twilight giggling her ridiculously cute giggle.

"I only come here every now and again." Twilight responded, playful and happy at the same time. Paladin sat down on the couch and Twilight took the spot next to him.

"Where do you want to go for dinner?" Paladin asked, throwing a foreleg around Twilight, bringing her closer.

'You cruel creature you.' Hisses in his head.

'Wait, what the fire truck was that?' Paladin thought to himself, a scowl crossing his face for a split second. He looks at Twilight, hoping she didn't notice, and metaling sighing that she hadn't.

"Hmm... maybe Sugercube Corner?" Twilight said, looking at Paladin.

He smiled at the thought of Pinkie Pie freaking out at seeing two of her friends going out to dinner. "Yeah, that sounds good. When do you want to go?" Paladin asked, losing himself in those beautiful lavender eyes.

"Right after this." Twilight said locking lips with Paladin with intense passion.

'Heartache and pain.' Echoes about his head throughout the kiss.

'Damnit, that needs to stop.' Paladin noticeably sours and Twilight pulls back puzzled.

"Is everything all right, Paladin?" Twilight asks, concern clear on her face.

Paladin stutters, trying to catch himself, "Uh, yeah. Everything’s fine, just, weird thought. It's nothing." Paladin put on his best smile and Twilight looked relieved.

"Okay. Let's get going!" The purple mare said happily, trotting for the door. Paladin looked after her with a mix of emotions.

'No, stop it. She is too important to get hung up on some dragon-bear asshole.'Paladin thought, quickly following her. The walk to Sugercube Corner was more enjoyable, the cool summer night adding to Paladin's happiness. The stars were bright and welcoming of those under them, the tempeture was perfect, not too cold, but not hot. Crickets chirped their songs hidden in the brush, and ponies finished what business they had to attend to before the night grew too late. Pinkie was cleaning a counter when she heard the customary bell announcing the presence of guests. She bounded to the main counter, ready to help whoever needed it.

"Welcome to Sugercube Corner, how can I- OHMYGOSH, TWILIGHTANDPALADIN, AREYOUHEREONADATE?!?!!" Pinkie exploded onto the two ponies.

Paladin and Twilight both chuckled at her predicted reaction. "Yes, we would like a table for two please." Paladin said, smiling at Pinkie who was still squealing over the two.

"Yeah, one sec!" Pinkie said, disappearing and reappearing in the way only she could. After blinking a few times, the two noticed that the restaurant had dimmed romantically, a lone table in the middle of the room with a candle flickering lazily in the center. Soft music playing from a radio far in the corner, completing the sudden change quite nicely.

"Pinkie, how did you-' Twilight begins to ask when Pinkie interrupts.

"Right this way." Pinkie said with surprising calmness. Twilight turns to Paladin looking for an answer. Paladin just shrugs as he offers his hoof to her. Rolling her eyes and smiling, Twilight takes his hoof in her own and they make their way to the table, taking in the romantic setting. Sitting down across from each other, Pinkie asks, "What will you have tonight?" Still caught off guard from her calm tone, Twilight orders a slice of cheesecake while Paladin asks for a bowl of assorted fruits. "I will be back shortly." Pinkie said, winking at Paladin as she walked away.

"Any good books lately, Twi?" Paladin asked, knowing that something good would come up from his question.

'Haven't hurt anypony, YET.' Rolls around his head, painfully loud.

Paladin winces at the unexpected boom of guilt shooting through his head. Twilight had been explaining a wonderful novel about cross-dimensional, interspecies romance she had read when she saw the wince. "Hey, are you sure everything's okay?" Twilight asked determined to find out what caused his wince.

Paladin looked everywhere but her and stammered out his weak response, "Uh, yeah, everything's fine."

Twilight looked at him with much more care. "Paladin, I know something’s bothering you. You can tell me anything." Twilight said with the warmest smile Paladin had ever seen. He sighed in defeat and looked at his bowl, which Pinkie had just set down along with Twilights cheesecake.

"Yeah. Something’s bothering me. But..." Paladin trailed off, wondering how he could word his problems. Twilight waited patiently for him to formulate his thoughts. "It's... well..." Paladin looked for the best way to talk to her about his dilemma, "...it's...hard to explain..." he said slowly, avoiding her eyes.

Twilight smiled, "It's okay. You can tell me." she said in a voice so warm that Paladin felt much better.

"Well... when Dusk and I left our home in Neighvada... it wasn't on the best of terms. We had a bit of a falling out, you could say." Paladin said. "The reason I'm so bummed is that somepony from our hometown stopped by, and... I guess we aren't missed as much as I thought... it just kinda hurt, is all." Paladin said, wishing he could explain more clearly, wanting to yell out what was really wrong, knowing he couldn’t.

"Oh, I'm so sorry Paladin. I didn't know." Twilight said saddened that she had brought up a painful memory.

Paladin smiled at her. "You didn't know. It's okay." He offered. "Besides, our food looks really good." Paladin said, now content he got some of his guilt off his chest.

Twilight smiled at him, "Yeah, it does look good. Let's eat!"

Author's Note: Well, interesting start, eh? Let's head over to Sweet Apple Acres before we finish up here.

"Nice ta see ya again AJ." Dusk said as he walked up to the farmhouse.

Applejack, who had been bored out of her mind from having finished work early, almost jumped out of her chair at the sight of Dusk. "Hey there Sugercube! How ya been?" Applejack said, hugging Dusk as he approached.

Dusk hugged her back, "Today was a little weird, other than that, better since I saw you."

Applejack blushed slightly at his complement. "Thanks. What made yer day weird, if it's alright ta ask?" Applejack said, sounding close to Fluttershy status.

"It doesn’t matter. Just one of those days." Dusk said with a big smile. Applejack seemed to let it drop for the time being.

"Well, Ah've had those days. Any resone ya came on over here?" Applejack asked playfully.

"Well, I was in the neighborhood and thought I would stop by." Dusk said with a teasing smile.

Applejack chuckled at him. "If Ah recall correct, Ah owe ya a hoofwreastling match." Applejack said, sitting down in the same chair Big Mac had beat Dusk only yesterday.

A grin crossed Dusks face as he sat in the chair opposite her. "May the best pony win." He said.

"Oh, she will." Applejack said, her competiveness setting in.

"Best out of three?" Dusk asked, taking her hoof in his.

"Sure thing, Sugercube." Applejack said.

"Ready... GO!" Dusk said with a grunt. Applejack was much stronger than Dusk thought; she was putting up one hell of a fight. Applejack stared at Dusk with a mischievous grin and gave him a wink and blew a kiss at him. Dusk promptly lost his nerve and faltered just enough for her to gain the advantage and slam his hoof on the table. "Ha, that’s one - nothin'." Applejack said with a smirk.

"So, that’s how it's gunna be, huh?" Dusk said with a sly smile and placed his hoof in the starting position. Applejack placed her hoof in his again.

"Aaaaand... GO!" She said. Dusk noticeably flexed his muscles more than was needed and smiled in delight as Applejacks eyes, along with her focus, trailed up and down his foreleg rather than his hoof. Dusk than slammed her hoof on the table, wearing the largest grin anypony could imagine on his face. "One - one. How about a fair round ta see who's the best?" Dusk said, his grain never fading.

Applejack smiled sheepishly as she set her foreleg once more on the table. "Fine, Ah can do that." She said. Dusk took her hoof in his and readied himself. Applejack lowered her head and Dusk followed suit.

"Ready... set..." And then Applejack kissed him, loosening the tenseness in her foreleg, motioning with her hoof for Dusk to do the same. Dusk happily complied, letting his hoof rest on the table with hers, enjoying every blissful moment they shared. In the dim light of the setting sun, Dusk felt as close to anyone he ever had, reveling in the passion of Applejack and her lips against his.

After what felt like a long time (well, long enough for the sun to have set), they finally broke apart, panting slightly from their efforts. Dusk smiled warmly and Applejack returned his smile with her own.

"Would ya like ta come in fer dinner?" Applejack asked.

"I sure would... Sugercube." Dusk said, earning a laugh from Applejack as they headed inside.

Sugercube Corner


After Paladin's little confession, dinner had proceeded well. Twilight enjoyed her slice of cheesecake while Paladin his fruit and the evening passed surprisingly fast. Pinkie had taken their plates back to the kitchen soon after they had finished their food and when Paladin had asked for the check she smiled and said, "Dinner is on the house tonight."

Content and very thankful of Pinkie's generosity, the two left the gigantic sweethouse and began to walk back to the library. The walk was mostly in silence, both enjoying the company of the other and Ponyville at night, until Twilight spoke up.

"Uh, listen; I'm sorry about earlier tonight, when I asked what was wrong. I just-" Paladin put a gentle hoof to her lips.

"It's ok, Twi. You didn't know, and don't have to worry. I feel better having just talked to somepony about it. And even better that it was you." Paladin said with a smile that caused Twilight to blush.

"Thanks, Paladin." Twilight said. The two walked to the library in the peaceful silence once again, until they had reached the library. Paladin looked over to Twilight and leaned in to kiss her, as Twilight gladly returned.

After another moment that felt like forever, Paladin pulled back. "Goodnight." Paladin said, turning to walk back to his apartment.

"Goodnight." Twilight called after him. The walk back was another silent, peaceful journey, allowing Paladin to clear his head and enjoy the stars and reflect on tonight. He had felt guilty about having made such a strong connection with Twilight, and the unfortunate end that would eventually come about, but having talk to her about it made him feel better. And besides, tomorrow was another meeting with Celestia. And he had something important to tell her.

And the Plot Thickens...

Celestias’ normal calm had been cracked with panic. What David had just said wasn't possible. It just plain wasn't. The magical seal was too strong to let him do that; at least, she thought it was too strong. "Are you absolutely sure that this wasn't a dream?" Celestia asked to make sure she heard him right. It almost sounded like he said Discord summoned them to the Void and offered them a way home that they refused, thank goodness. If he had used his Chaos magic to gain influence over the two...

"I'm absolutely sure that it wasn't a dream. Rob was there with me." David said to clarify.

Rob looked up to Celestia with a serious face. "I'm afraid he's right. It was... different, but not a dream." Rob said, causing the crack in Celestias’ calm to grow a little. Celestia processed what she had just been told. Discord, her immortal enemy and Spirit of Chaos and Disharmony, the soul being that opposed her every whim, had made contact with these two creatures, and followed their progress. Discord had cast a spell that reached outside the Void.

Discord's power was growing, against her best efforts.

Discord made contact with the humans.

Discord.

Could.

Try.

To.

Escape.

And could sway the humans to help him.

Sun and Stars, he could sway the humans!!!

"I am very glad that you resisted him, and I must tell you to refuse him under any circumstances. Am I perfectly clear? You must NEVER help him, understand?" Celestia said quickly, unable to suppress the panic in her voice any longer. The pair looked at her with slight worry, but nodded in agreement. They had resisted him once; they could do it again, right? Celestia managed to regain some of her composure. "Good, very good. I must ask that we continue this meeting later. I must reflect on what you have told me. I will summon you when I am ready to continue. And don't leave Canterlot." Celestia told the humans.

David and Rob shared a confused glance, but obeyed the goddess nonetheless. After they left the throne room, they wandered down to the town, someplace they hadn't really visited in all their trips here. After all, it was with the Princess they had their business, not the townsponies. After wondering about the town for a while, they realized they had no idea what to do. Most of the time they had spent together was done at one another’s house or at school. Eventually they stumbled upon a courtyard of sorts and sat down on a bench and watched the ponies go about their business, bored and out of ideas on what to do.

"Hey, want to guess what their like as they walk by?" David asked, looking to his friend.

"Don't see why not. How 'bout that guy, orange coat, black mane?" Rob asked.

David studied their target for a time. He had a saddlebag, so that must mean he had a lot to do. He visited some toy shops, his bag fuller when he left each store. "My guess, buying his kid presents for their birthday."

Rob nodded in agreement. "Seems 'bout right. What 'bout- wait, don't we know her?" Rob asked motioning over to a cyan colored pegasus by the fountain in the center of the plaza.

***


Rainbow Dash has had better days. After seeing Paladin and Twilight's kiss last night, she felt... down. She wasn't sure why, but it just irked her. She decided to go to Canterlot to try to take her mind off the strange feeling of sadness that washed over her. Usually Canterlot was great for distractions. Big town, lots of ponies, cool stores selling anything under Celestias’ sun and more, even the Wonderbolts, her childhood heroes, have failed to distract her. Well, that's not entirely true; she was psyched to have seen a Wonderbolts performance and awed at their flying prowess.

But after the performance, spent wandering the town for something else to distract her, she ended up sitting down by this fountain and looking at her reflection in the water. 'What's up with you? This isn't the super-awesome, super-cool Rainbow Dash I know' She thought to herself. She was so lost in thought; she jumped straight up and yelped when somepony tapped her on her shoulder. After recovering from her mini-panic attack, she noticed the shocked pony that had disturbed her. 'No way...' she thought looking at Paladin and Dusk.

"Uh, sorry Dash. Everything ok?" Paladin asked.

She stared in disbelief at who, of all ponies, she had run into. After a few moments she remembered she hadn't responded. "Oh, uh, yeah, everything’s totally cool!" She said forcing a smile and trying her best to repel a blush.

"Okay. Well, fancy seeing you here. What are you doing in town?" Paladin asked.

"I was just wandering around; saw a Wonderbolts performance, which was awesome! And just some shopping around. What are you doing here?" Rainbow asked, trying to shift the conversation from her.

"We were here on our weekly trip to see Celestia. We're taking a small break though." Paladin said. Rainbow was going to ask what they were doing in this courtyard when her stomach rumbled followed by Paladin's and Dusk's. "Heh, sounds like we're all hungry. Wanna get lunch?" Paladin asked with a smile.

Rainbow forced herself to suppress a wave of 'oh my gosh's and said, "Yeah, sure."

"Great! Do you know anyplace good around here?" Paladin asked rubbing the back of his head. "We, uh, we don't go to the city often." He said with a sheepish smile.

Rainbow thought for a moment. "I can't think of anywhere." She said after a while.

"Huh. Hey Dusk, do you see any- Dusk?" Paladin asked looking around. 'Aw, that son of a-' He thought looking for his friend. Dusk was nowhere to be found. He had an ability to disappear at will like that. Paladin had to ask him how he did that someday.

"Hey, I see a place. It looks decent enough." Rainbow said, pointing to a brick building with the sign 'Canterlot Cuisine' above the door in cursive writing.

Paladin looked up and back to Rainbow. "Uh, are you sure? Looks kinda... fancy." Paladin said.

Rainbow gave him a happy nod, "Yup! Let's go!" Rainbow said and began trotting off towards the door before Paladin could respond. Paladin sighed and followed after her, vowing to find some way to get back at Dusk for abandoning him.

Down the Street, In the Farmer's Market


Dusk wandered over to the local Farmer's Market after his stomach rumbled, realizing he was really hungry from not eating breakfast today. What caught his eye, however, was the tan mare selling apples amongst the several other stands. Walking over without her noticing, he stands behind her for a moment before leaning in behind her ear and whispering, "Boo." Applejack jumped up in the air with a small scream. When she turned around to see who scared the living daylights out of her and saw Dusk rolling on his back laughing and waving his legs in the air.

Applejack glared at him and waited for his laughing fit to end before she eventually got a smile of her own. "Ya think yer really funny, huh?" Applejack asked once Dusk stood up and got his laughter under control.

"Heh heh, I don't think I'm funny, I know." Dusk replied with a few chuckles, wiping a tear from his eye.

Applejack laughed a little herself. "Well, ya did get me pretty good..." She said. "But, what are ya doin' here?" Applejack asked.

Dusk was still chuckling at how Applejack, one of the toughest ponies he know, jumping up like she did. "Wha- oh, we have one of our meetings with the Princess today. I see ya are sellin' some apples." Dusk said motioning to her small stand.

"What gave me away?" Applejack said playfully.

Dusk laughed, "Well, the apples made it kinda obvious."

Applejack smiled once more; she just couldn't help but smile when she was around him. "Come here, Ah got somethin' ta show ya." Applejack said, walking behind the counter. Dusk followed close behind her, curious as to what she would have. After pretending to look around under the counter for a moment, she turned back to Dusk and kissed him. Dusk wasn't expecting this, but was more than happy to accept it. Applejack pulled back and smiled at him. "It's nice ta see ya, Dusk." She said.

"It's nice ta see ya too, Sugercube." Dusk said with a laugh from Applejack.

"Ya ain't gunna take that away from me now, are ya?" Applejack said with a small chuckle.

Dusk smiled, "'Course not AJ." he said with another kiss. Applejack was beginning to get lost in the moment when she remembered they were still in the Farmer's Market.

Applejack pulled back again, "Uh, we can continue this later, somewhere a little more privet." she said with a wink at the end.

Dusk felt his heart skip a beat. "Alright. Want any help with the stand?" He asked.

Applejack smiled. "Well, truth be told, Ah'm gettin' kinda hungry. Would ya mind taking a mare ta lunch?" Applejack asked.

"Right this way Miss Applejack." Dusk said offering his hoof.

The Void


Discord was taking a small nap when he was woken up by a *plush* sound come from his bucket. He looked inside and saw the level of Chaos had risen just a tad. 'Well, they must have told Celestia about our little meeting.' He thought to himself happily. Time seemed to pass a little faster after that meeting; he could feel his power slowly crawling back from its long dormancy. 'Soon... soon glorious chaos will rein once again.' He thought to himself, lying on his yellow cloud to resume his nap.

Lunch and a Show

Paladin was glad the restaurant was at least well lit. It would have been odd to be in a romantic setting with Rainbow Dash when he was Twilight's coltfriend. Walking in, he noticed an official looking stallion behind a podium with a guestbook wearing a black bow tie. Hearing Paladin and Rainbow enter, he looked up from the guestbook changing his attitude from bored to professional, as any good maître d’hôtel* should. "Welcome to Canterlot Cuisine. How may I be of service?" He asked the approaching ponies.

"Uh, table for two, please." Paladin asked uncertain as to how to act in a restaurant like this.

"Very well sir, follow me." The maître d’hôtel said grabbing two menus and walking to the main dining area. Following him to their table, Paladin looked around the restaurant. The walls were a bright white, interrupted by expensive-looking paintings framed in decorative patterns. Two large windows offered a beautiful view of the plaza to his right, with matching windows across the room for a view of a small courtyard with a single massive oak tree surrounded by colorful flowers. The floor was a royal blue to match the walls with their regal look and the tables had plain black tablecloths to allow the rest of the room to pop out rather than mix with one another.

After a moment the maître d’hôtel motioned his hoof to the table next to him and Paladin and Rainbow sat down across from another. Handing both ponies a menu, the maître d’hôtel said, "Your server will be here shortly." And with that, he left the way he came, leaving the two to enjoy their lunch. Paladin decides to try his hoof at small talk to try to break the silence.

"Wow, this place looks incredible." He said with slightly forced enthusiasm, rich wasn't his preferred style of... anything really. Rainbow looked around the restaurant herself, taking in what Paladin had seen earlier.

"Yeah, it does look pretty cool." Rainbow commented a little awkwardly, not used to extravagant herself. "But why would they have an empty stage during lunch hours?" Rainbow asked. Paladin looked over to where Rainbow was looking and saw that behind the wall where the maître d’hôtel was behind the podium was a small stage rather than the kitchen, like he thought.

"Huh. I don't know... maybe they're on break?" Paladin offered.

"I think you might be wrong." Rainbow said with a smile.

"Wha-" Paladin said looking back over to the stage as ponies with instruments began walking on stage. 'Cool, lunch and a show... kinda.' Paladin thought to himself as they began to unpack their instruments. One gray pony with a pitch black mane and red bowtie began to take out a cello. 'No way, Octavia plays here?!' Paladin thought excitedly. Of all the background ponies, Octavia was his favorite. All through middle school, David was in band. He loved to play and compose music, even though he wasn't taking it in high school because his mom couldn't afford to put him through it after his dad passed away. He made his own music on his laptop though, using an Adobe program he bought. He had made a song that was classical cello with more modern dubstep mixing in flawless harmony. He had named it 'Octavian Symphony' in honor of the cellist.

"Hey, do you know somepony up there?" Rainbow asked. Paladin was dragged back to reality by her question.

"Huh? Oh, yeah. That pony with the cello is kinda popular." Paladin said looking back to Rainbow, who looked a little irritated. "Uh, you ok Dash?" Paladin asked.

Rainbow calmed back down, "Yeah, I'm totally fine." she said with a small smile.

Paladin knew something was bothering her. That was the same way she acted at the fountain, minus the jump and scream. "Dash, are you sure everything’s okay? You seem... different today." Paladin said careful not to try to upset her.

Rainbow looked everywhere but him as she responded, "Yeah. I'm sure."

'Bull. You will tell me what's wrong before lunch ends.' Paladin thought to himself. He disliked it when friends were down about something; it made him feel like it was his job to cheer them up somehow. He was going to try to press one more time when a red unicorn with a bleach white mane wearing a black bowtie walked up.

"Hello, I am Red Dawn and I will be your server today. Are you ready to order?" He asked, looking from Paladin to Rainbow. Paladin looked down at his menu and saw they had a fruit salad that was somewhat cheap... kinda.

"I'll have the fruit salad." He said. Red Dawn wrote down on the notepad in a soft red glow.

Rainbow looked down at her menu with a thoughtful look. "I'll have the grilled eggplant sandwich." She said. Red Dawn scribbles down on his notepad once more.

"Very well. Your food will be out shortly." He said and cantered off to attend to another table. Paladin decided to attempt goading Rainbow to speak her mind when soft classical music slowly and gracefully began to fill the room, pleasing Paladins ears and soul as the notes flawlessly fill the air.

After a silent minute of listening to music, he remembered his goal. He looked at Rainbow and opened his mouth to speak... until he noticed she had looked out the window deep in thought. Off put by her very out-of-character behavior, he sat and watched her, looking for any body language that would give away what was running through her head. Her face balanced on her hoof showed she was upset about something. Her thousand-yard stare meant she was thinking of what could be that she could change. At least, that's what he gathered. His body-to-thought ratio was not something to brag about.

"Hey, Rainbow." Paladin said softly. She was startled out of her thoughts and took a moment to focus on Paladin. "Look, I know something’s wrong. You can tell me." Paladin said with a smile at the end.

"Nothing’s wrong, really." Rainbow said quickly. Paladin gave her a 'don't bullshit me' look until she eventually gave in. "I... uh...ugggghh!" Rainbow said in frustration and looked down at the table. "Fine. I... like... somepony." She said looking away at saying 'somepony', "But... he's in a relationship already. And... it just... irks me when I see him and her together. What can I do?" Rainbow looked at him in confusion and defeat, at a complete lost as to what she could do.

"Well... it would help if you could tell me if I know him." Paladin offered to help him make a better judgment. Rainbow looked flustered at this, and couldn't help but let some red creep into her cheeks.

"Uh..." Rainbow stammered off, rubbing the back of her neck while avoiding eye contact. Paladin thought for a moment: in a relationship? Now that he thought back on it, he hadn't seen Rainbow sense his afternoon with Twilight... does she... no, she couldn't... did she?

Paladin looked at her for a moment. "Rainbow... am I the pony you like...?" Paladin asked.

Rainbow looked at him with a sheepish grin. "Yes?" She offered weakly. Paladin knew in the back of his head that this was a possibility but was still surprised that it had come to light.

"Well..." He started, remembering what he had planned in case this situation ever came (he has a LOT of free time),"I think he would be glad she had the courage and trust to tell him, and I would try my best to be happy that he's happy, and continue to be a great friend with him." Paladin finished with a warm smile.

Rainbow smiled, "Thanks." she said.

Paladin grinned. "Sure thing, Dashie." He said. At that moment, Red Dawn walked over carrying their food in his telepathic grip. After that, Paladin and Rainbow Dash were able to enjoy lunch together as though nothing had changed, glad that they were able to have something like this not stand in the way of their friendship, as classical music floated gracefully through the air.

West Canterlot Plaza


Dusk and Applejack had found a nice, tasty fast food stand to have lunch, on account that Dusk was buying and didn't bring a whole lot of money with him. As they munched down on their veggie burgers (and Dusk felt a small part of him die inside from the lack of glorious, heavenly meat), Dusk felt a small amount of shame come across him. "Sorry I couldn't take ya ta a more... romantic... restaurant." Dusk said.

Applejack giggled, "Shucks Sugercube, lunch with ya is enough fer me." she said giving Dusk a warm smile.

Dusk smiled. "Thanks AJ. Means a lot." The two finished their lunch quickly, sharing some laughs at how Dusk had scared Applejack like he did at the stall. Once lunch was concluded they walked around town for a bit, doing what most couples do: walk around enjoying each other’s company. After a while the two had eventually wandered to a park near devoid of ponies. They had sat down on a bench, hoof in hoof, enjoying the settings of one of Equestrias' richest cities.

Applejack turned to Dusk, "Ya know, I believe we have unfinished business." Applejack said with a sly smile.

Dusk looked over to her with the same sly smile. "Where did we leave off? I think ya need ta remind me." Dusk said leaning in. Applejack leaned in too, meeting his lips with a soft touch. Slowly, Dusk advanced the passion, moving their lips in time to their raising heart rates. Applejack felt Dusks tongue softly brush her lips, pleading for entrance. Applejack spread her lips and explored as much of Dusk as she could while he did the same. Dusk put a foreleg around her waist, sliding her in closer, their bodies pressing against each other. Applejack breathed a moan of pleasure into Dusk, and Dusk pulled back slightly to look into Applejacks deep green eyes. He could feel butterflies fly free in his stomach and Applejacks’ heart beat rapidly in time with his own.

"AJ?" Dusk said, not looking away.

"Yeah, Sugercube?" Applejack asked a little dreamy.

"I love you." Dusk said.

Applejacks cheeks turned bright red, "Ah love you too." She replied, kissing him again.

Dusk closed his eyes and lost himself in Applejack once more.

Chaos! Chaos Everywhere!

The Void

Discord was startled from his nap again. 'Hmm. Confound these ponies, they would drive me to drink if I wasn't chaotic enough already...' Discord thought to himself as he looked about the vast expanse of white that he had come to still hate after the past few hundred years. Because his yellow cloud and his Chaos bucket were the only change in the bleach white, he looked inside. 'My, my, that is quite the increase. My little humans are doing a splendid job of creating chaos. Not that I doubted them, they are, in technicality, extensions of me, and I never doubt myself.' Discord thought happily. His only regret is that he would never know what caused the Chaos in the first place. Well, you got to give a little to get a little, Discord reasoned.

The Front of Canterlot Cuisine

'Aside from the whole "I'm in Equestria" thing, that's never happened before...' Paladin thought to himself as he quickly walked away from the eatery after a not-so-kind forcible ejection from the restaurant. Rainbow Dash trotted alongside him, snickering every now and again as time went by. Given how well his attempt at small talk went last time, Paladin figured he would give it a shot again. "Has that ever happened to you before?" Paladin asked, slowing his pace to a walk as the two put sufficient distance from the surely angered staff.

Rainbow was about to respond, but as soon as her mouth opened, laughter exploded out as she fell onto her back and waved her legs in the air, struggling to breathe while she laughed. Paladin rolled his eyes and let her finish her burst before she stood up, wiped a tear from her eye, and regained her breath. "No, I can't say I have. Ha ha... did you see that guys face? That was awesome!" Rainbow exclaimed between little pants.

"The waiter or the stallion covered in salad?" Paladin asked, a smile forming on his lips despite his best efforts.

"No, no, the colt with spaghetti in his mane!" Rainbow said, another burst of laughs escaping.

"Oh, that guy. HA ha, I did. He was sooo pissed!" Paladin chuckled as he recalled how the colt’s eyes seemed to burn right through Paladins soul with anger.'Ha, maybe going home isn't the best idea...'  Paladin thought. It wouldn't be the first time this idea crossed his mind. In fact, he had been thinking about it from the get-go. At first he thought it was a terrible idea. This isn't Earth, this isn't where he belongs. He should go back, finish school, get a job, and raise a family. Take responsibility for once. But the more and more he thought about it... the less and less he wanted to go back. He glanced over to his side, marveled in how he was able to not watch or read about the rainbow pegasus next to him, but have real, fun, awesome adventures with her and somepony who was more important to him then he even knew.

The more he realized Equestria held a better future for him, the more he knew that he was going to stay. He was in a great relationship, had the Princess as a friend, hell, he had friends period. Well, there was always Rob, but still. Aside from him, he didn't have many. But here... he didn't call it "Equestria" anymore. He called it "Home". 'I wonder how Rob is gonna take it...'

"Hey, there they are!" Rainbow's exclamation dragged him back to reality; Dusk and Applejack were sitting together on a park bench.

"R- Dusk! About time we found you!" Paladin called out. 'That was close...'

Dusk looked around at the sound of his name and spotted the two. "Well howdy there. Did'ja have fun?" Dusk said with a slight grin.'Oh, your ass is gonna pay...'  Paladin thought with a subtle glare at Dusk, much to the latter’s amusement.

"Hey AJ. Did you two have fun too?" Rainbow asked with a grin and eyebrow wiggle.

"We had a good time." Applejack replied with a slight blush and smile.

'Is that so?' Paladin chuckled inwardly. "Hey, when do you think Princess Celestia is gon-"


The Throne Room


"-na trans... port... us..." David trailed off after the blinding light and Throne Room filled his vision.

"Right about now." Rob said dryly.

"Sorry to bring you back in such haste, but I'm afraid we may have a problem." Celestia said with a slight undertone of worry.

David raised an eyebrow. "And that would be?"

A small light flashed and everypony in the room (being David, Rob, and Celestia) turned to look at it.

"Why, none other than me!" Discord happily said with a small bowl. Celestia charged a spell and fired it at Discord in a fraction of a second. "Ah ah ah! Mind your temper, Celestia." Discord practically flicked the spell back at her, her body going stiff and then falling onto its side. "Tsk, tsk. I'm glad to see you too." Discored shook his head before turning his attention to the humans. "You two have done wonderful jobs! Truly fantastic! Have an Oscar, both of you!" Discord snapped his fingers and twin gold statues appeared next to them respectively.

"If it were anyone else in this position, I would be laughing right now." David almost muttered.

"Right, so, this is the freaky bear, dragon thing that ISN'T supposed ta be here, right?" Rob asked, glancing at the small figure holding a globe above his head.

"Yup."

"And the Princess is out for tha count?"

"Affirmative."

"So we got to take this guy on alone?"

"More or less."

"... Shit."

Discord sighed. "Now you two as well? I suppose I shouldn't be surprised. I just have one thing to say before we begin..." David and Rob both raised an eyebrow. "... Think fast!" Discord said as he hurled a ball of Chaos magic at the two. David quickly flew up to avoid the harmful magic and Rob dived out of the way, both magic balls blackening the floor where they hit. David flew right for the demigod trying to hit him a few times before he inevitably hit back, but a small *pop* and he flew right passed where Discord had been, right into the wall behind him. Letting out a hearty laugh, Discord failed to notice the almost steaming mad Earth pony charge him and give him a buck to the abdomen that sent him flying.

"Pull that again, and Ah'll kick tha crap outta you!" Rob yelled at him.

"Thanks for gettin' my back, bro..." David mumbled from the floor.

"Don't mention it." Rob grunted. "Now get up."

David rose, brushed the dust of his shoulder, and hovered, ready for the next move. Discord seemed to not even care, lounging on his yellow cloud and sipping at a colorful drink. He glanced over to the two and let out another small sigh. "It's about time you two are ready again." Discord hurled his glass at the two, the drink exploding at their feet and generally startling them.

"Did he just-"

"Throw an explosive glass? Yeah. He does that." David finished.

"You know this because...?" Rob asked.

David deadpanned him.

"... Right."

Discord, being the impatient creature he is, threw two more magical blasts at them. Unlike the last times, both hit their mark, send the two flying. Discord let a smirk spread over him. To say he was shocked at how the two not only recovered from the blast like it was nothing but seemed to be empowered by it would be an understatement.

David no longer was a simple pegasus, but now an anthromorphed pony, jet black fur glimmering as though light was coming from it, wingspan reaching six feet across. His hair resembled that of when he was on Earth, short, but not long. His eyes shone a brilliant emerald green and had a newfound courage behind them. Rob was also changed, the same way as David but with a muscular frame that would put the Govenator to shame. His eyes had the same emerald hue.

"I am the Voice of Justice." David boomed.

"And I am the Spirit of Valor." Rob thundered.

"And I am completely confused." Discord said.

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