>"Alright, do you have it now?" "I think so." >"Give it a try now." "Ok." >>Hello book. My name is Anon. I am writing to you with a quill Twilight provided me with. It isn't mine to keep but that's ok. I want one that compliments hers. >Your head goes foggy and you drop the quill >Twilight catches it in time, enveloping it with a gorgeous purple aura >You only managed to push the quill along while keeping it straight up >She really grasps it >"Well..." >My purple mentor appraises my work >"Oh geeze... I wrote better in magic kindergarten!" >That hurts >You hang your head with a sigh "Is it that bad... I'm sorry Twilight. I just can't... I wrap my head around it. And it feels like it's taking everything to focus. I don't know how you do it." >Twilight spins her quill around, letting it write what she speaks in the air >Trace amounts of purple form words that last for only a second but long enough to wow you >"Oh, don't you worry about me! I've been using magic since forever ago! And you're still really new to everything too..." >It's true >You really don't remember anything except that you've been Twilight's student for >For a while? >It can't have been that long >"By the way, Anon. Have you been having any dreams? Nightmares?" >Feeling your head start to clear up, you nod "A few. One where you bit me." >Twilight's quill stops in mid-air >"...b-bit you?" "Yeah. It was kinda weird." >Twilight gives you a funny sounding laugh >"Must've been those books you were reading!" >I nod >It sounds reasonable >You learned to read by reading books that Twilight, herself, wrote >Some of them are really wild but they're all great >You look down at yourself, idly scraping a hoof against the wooden floor "Hey Twilight... when you leave and go upstairs. Can I come with you this time?" >Twilight giggles, her quill again moving in the air to write her spoken words >It really has helped you to speak and read >"Why? Do you really miss me so?" >You feel a bit embarrassed but you don't hide it "W-well... of course I do... without you, I'm lonely. I can't speak to the books like I can with you." >You would know >You've tried speaking to a few >Twilight said they wouldn't answer but you felt like you had to at least try >She giggles and trots to you, leaning against your side >"Oh Anon... you can't just yet. But you know that I do love you. I would never let you be alone for too long." >Every time she said those words, you get a funny feeling in your chest >She said that those words are far more magical than any spell she could cast >You know for a fact that you couldn't cast such a spell so easily >Not when it has such a powerful effect on you "I know..." >"Listen.. how about I go upstairs, get us some food, and we can have a date dinner here?" >Your eyes widen >You can feel the tip of your horn spark with the faintest color of green "A... a date?" >Another strong word that you were told contained magic >She giggles and rubs her face against your neck >"That's right...! Just you and me..." >You couldn't say 'no' to her >Never >Especially not with something like this "In... in that case, I'll wait for as long as you need!" >After further nuzzling, she distances herself from you >"That sounds fantastic! Now practice reading some more and before you know it, I'll be back with the best dinner ever!" >Twilight explained cooking to you once >She's a master chef too "Alright! I'll get back to it!" >Twilight beams and trots away, up the staircase that quickly raises up and closes off the entrance to your room >With her gone, your room is dreadfully silent again >You have a nice bed, of course >And a lot of really nice candles set up that are bright enough to read by with no problem >The wood, walls, and ceiling are all really nice looking wood that smells pleasant >But no windows >You still don't really know what's outside of your room >You want to read, as she requested you do, but you want to wait for... at least another second >Just in case she forgets something >Eventually, she does come back down, a pair of large, shiny platters hovering above her >Held in place by her magic, of course >She smiles and looks a little surprised to see you >"Anon!" "Huh?" >"What's wrong?" "What? What do you mean, Twilight?" >She quickly sets the platters down on a wide table that forms from the wood that makes up the floor of your room >She rubs her face against yours >"You're crying. You didn't just sit there and wait for me again, did you?" "I... I was?" >You didn't even know you could cry >You read about what crying was, of course >In one of the books Twilight wrote >But you didn't know that you could do it >"Don't worry... I'll make it up to you. I just sometimes forget how much you need me." >She sounds like she's making fun of you >But you know she isn't "I'm sorry Twilight." >"Oh Anon... don't be. I'm here now. All you need is me. And all I need is you." >It takes a while before she stops soothing you but she does eventually finish >"Now then. Dinner date time, right?" "Yeah... yeah, it is!" >Eating was still a little difficult >But it's fun >And it tastes good too >The food, anyway >Eating is the process of... eating food >Twilight said it involves things like systems and multiple steps but it went over your head >She melts away the lids and reveals a wide array of colorful types of food >Some of it smells better than others >Some of it definitely tastes better than others >But it's all good "Oh wow... you really are amazing, Twilight." >"Anon, you're too much!" >Twilight covers her mouth with her hoof and giggles >"It's just... a little something I do. Cooking is one of my many talents, after all!" >Cooking, writing, reading, eating, and magic >Twilight has a lot of really great talents >"Now then... shall we?" "We shall!" >You watch her use her magic to eat like it's nothing >You kinda zone out for a second too >How does she manage to do everything at once? >After a few bites, she looks at you >With a funny smile she stops "S-sorry Twilight. I..." >"It's ok, Anon. I understand! Here, open up?" >Your jaw drops without second thought >A portion of food from your own platter slides into your mouth >Your mouth closes and you begin to eat >She sighs and looks at you >She looks happy >So you're happy >She focuses between eating, herself, and letting you eat >You're pretty sure you aren't using your own magic but you don't mind >Twilight laughed when you ate without using magic >It was a whole lot easier to eat that way but she said that it wasn't the right way >Before you know it, you're done >You haven't looked away from her for a moment >"There we are! Do you feel full?" >You open your mouth to speak but some food drops out >You feel frustration as you immediately focus on eating the rest of the food in your mouth and then speak "I do! It was great and hot too, so I feel warmer too." >"Good! That's my dear Anon!" >The platters poof into thin air, and the table itself seems to melt back into the floor >Twilight slides up to you and inhales hard >"Now then... do you know what comes after a dinner date?" >You do know >You want to shake your head >But you nod instead >She giggles, smiling wider >She glares at you >You feel afraid >"Want to... take me to bed, Anon?" >No >You kinda wanna go back to reading >You didn't read when you were supposed to >Legs shaking, you stand up and lead her to your bed >It's big enough for myself and Twilight >You stop at the edge of the bed >"My, what a big bed you have! What do you think we should do on it?" >Your lip trembles >You really want to say 'sleep' >The warmth of food in your stomach feels like it's being drained into an uncomfortable feeling of coldness >When you don't answer for long enough, Twilight climbs into it and lifts you up >Your vision goes hazy whenever her magic is around your head >When it clears up, Twilight is on her back >You're right above her >You can feel her magic... >Tugging >On part of you >By reflex or instinct, you snort and shake >"Come on, Anon... do you feel that? It's right where it's supposed to go... just push yourself forward. Don't be afraid to lose control, ok?" >You can't describe the feelings Twilight gives you >Especially now >You can't think >All you do is strain your body in accordance to Twilight's excited screams >>Hello book. My name is Anon. I am writing to you again with my own quill. It does not look like Twilight's at all. But I am proud to own it. I am writing very carefully this time so she won't laugh at me again. I >The quill drops >You've been trying to write in the book for a while now >The only issue is that after a few words, your vision blurs >Red leaks from your nose too >You aren't sure what that means but you know that Twilight will know >You feel lonely >You must have read over half of your books now >But you still feel lonely >Worse, you feel lonely because you read so many books >They all have so many characters and settings and situations >You''re jealous >You look down and watch your hooves >For some reason it feels so awkward to walk around >Of course, you could never walk any other way >You miss Twilight >You leave your writing table and trot to the area that usually becomes stairs when Twilight comes and goes "Please, open." >Nothing happens >But then again, why would it? >Twilight never has to speak to make them appear >She uses magic, you're willing to bet >You take a steady stance and point your horn at the ceiling ... ... ... >Nothing is happening >You really weren't sure what you were expecting >You were using magic, weren't you? >You know how to grab a quill and write >A bit >But you don't know how to just... make magic happen >Defeated, you take a seat >You've examined your room more times than you can count >You really can't do much more in here >You watch the ceiling for now >You want it to open really badly >You want to see Twilight again >You can't focus on writing anymore but you want her to read it >Maybe it'll lead to another big, warm dinner >You wince >Something feels off >Something's dripping off of your chin >Your tongue flickers out and tastes something unusual >You don't pay it any mind >You want to see Twilight >And the only way you can see Twilight is to leave your room >Not even blinking at the exact same spot, you start to feel faint >You attempt to steady yourself and focus on the ceiling >You can almost see the wood warp, on the exact spot you're looking >Then you see it >A tiny bump that's like the wood sank down just a little >You smile >You're that much closer to Twwwwwwwwwwwwwiiiiiiiiiiiiiilllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll >The room goes dark and you feel your right side hit the floor >"Oh dear Celestia, Anon?!" >"Anon, don't you dare!" >You can hear Twilight >She sounds so pleasant >She sounds concerned too >What could be the reason? >You want to ask her but your mouth can't move >You can't really see either >Your eyelids just feel too heavy >"Your heart... Anon, what have you done?! It's beating too fast!" >You don't know what that means >But it does mean that Twilight has finally come to see you >You feel what could only be Twilight nuzzling the side of your neck >"Anon, please calm down!" >You aren't that excited, are you? >You feel rather tired >"Please... I'm right here, ok? Twilight's right here Anon. You're going to be ok... it's just... it's just a minor setback. But please try to relax, ok?" >You could relax from her voice even if she were condemning you to death >Some books involved death >Sometimes y o u w o n d e r w h a t i t m u s t f e e l l i k e t o d i e >"Anon... Anon? Anon?! ANON!? Wake up! Please, not again! I promise I did it right this time! Anonymous, don't leave me!" >W h y >S a d >S o u n d s ? >T w i l i g h t >>Hello book, my name is Anonymous. Twilight calls me Anon. I don't really understand why my name sounds so funny but I trust that she knows best. I had another one of those bad dreams; I was dying. It was otherworldly to say the least. Twilight loaned me some of her books on words so I sound much smarter now. It still hurts to use magic but I'm dedicated to writing all of this in one go. I hope Twilight grades me well. >You finish and try to avert Twilight's eyes on you >She's been watching you write this entire time >She's been watching you a lot lately >Maybe she's starting to believe you when you say you've been having bad dreams "I... how did I do, Twilight?" >Her purple aura overcomes your green and she takes control of your quill that was patiently hovering over the page >She carefully reads it, glancing back at you >She looks worried about something >You're confident that you've been keeping your studies at a consistent pace so there hopefully aren't any spelling mistakes >She gives you a weary smile and hugs you >"Oh Anon... you've done brilliantly! You've kept concentration up and you look just fine!" >You smile at her words >Though she told you repeatedly that it wasn't a part of your dream, she did worry about nosebleeds you got >Evidently they're getting better now >After a lengthy hug, she dips her head down and presses it against your chest "I... Twilight...?" >"Shh Anon... just a second." >You pause and look around your room, as if expecting something to happen >After long enough, she raises her head up and beams >"Perfect! I knew you were alright!" >You're confused "I'm glad I am!" >You aren't sure you noticed before >Or if you even knew to notice it >But... "Twilight." >"Yes, Anon?" "You look... tired. Are you alright?" >That question makes her smile drop in an instant >"You... you noticed that, huh?" >You nod >"It's nothing, promise! I've just been studying a lot and... well, it's not important. What is important is that you're improving!" >You smile >But something tells you, in your chest, to ask again "Twilight?" >"Yes, my l... Anon?" "Are you ok?" >You ask more slowly >Deliberately >You believe that you aren't without empathy >You would be tired if you had to study a lot too >But something else demands that you do this >You can even hear a tinge of authority in your voice >You can tell it's authoritative because Twilight used to use the same tone to tell you it was time to sleep >Her lack of a smile worsens to a frown >A very sad frown >She nods >"I am, Anon. I... I'll be honest. You've been sick. I've tried a lot of medicines and not a lot of them have worked so far. I don't know what's helping you the most, and it scares me that I don't know. I don't want you to hurt." >You? >Hurt? >You laugh at her words >Laughing helps diffuse stressful situations, you've read "I haven't been hurting. I don't think I've ever felt pain when I'm around you." >As you say that, you feel >Or rather, hear >Twilight screaming >You furrow your brow at the instantaneous recollection >What was that supposed to mean? "Twilight. May I ask something?" >Twilight looks a little relieved >"Of course you may!" "Rather than..." >You feel a shiver go down your spine "Rather... than... playing..." >You don't know what else to describe it as >You've never played before so you can only guess that's what it was "...can you please sleep with me more often? I want to make sure that you're getting enough rest." >Twilight looks confused for a moment but she lets out a nervous laugh >She rubs one of her front hooves against the side of her neck >"W-well... I guess we have been b... playing... a lot... that could have had something to do with it, honestly..." >She looks you up and down, appraising you for something >"Maybe it's been too hard..." >You're not sure what she means by that "Would you like to sleep with me more often?" >You repeat yourself, smiling >She eagerly nods >"Yes, please! You're so considerate... honestly, it's why I love you. Helpful too... maybe..." >She trails off, mumbling to herself >She does that at times so you don't mind it >She trots to you, then sits down and leans against your side >"Anon?" "Yes, Twilight?" >"I'm going to close my eyes and listen to your heart. Can you stay like this until I'm done?" >You aren't particularly in any position to be against it >It feels nice that she's leaning against you too "Well, certainly, I don't mind it." >"Thank you. Please don't use magic for a while. I think there are still some issues." >You don't understand what she means by that >It's not like you know how to use magic outside of writing anyway "Of course, Twilight." >Some time passes >You look down at Twilight >She sounds like she's sleeping >She must not be that comfortable, having to duck her head down to keep it against your chest >Maybe... >You wrap a front leg around her and lean back until you're laying on your side >She follows, half-laying on your chest >This is much better >Though the wooden floor isn't comfortable, you close your eyes >With Twilight's breathing, the room feels so vibrant now >You don't know if you breath, since you've never had to try, but her breathing sounds beautiful >Maybe when she wakes up you can have a dinner >>Hello book, my name is Anonymous. I do not remember writing in you but it seems like I have multiple times before. I am sad that I do not remember you. Twilight is very happy today, she said that she's made some "grand advances" in something. I hope that next time I write in you, that I will remember. You are my friend. >You finish writing with your quill, smiling to yourself >Twilight said that she had great news for you >You have been passing every test she has set up >Magical writing >Breathing exercises >Heart rate >And even durability >You do not know how she tested those things >But you are still proud of yourself >You sit at your table, letting the quill fly around in the air >You have been noticing new things too >No doubt thanks to Twilight >One thing that has bothered you, however >There is a very large red stain on the floor >You do not know where it came from >But every time you look at it, you feel terror >Maybe it was from a >"Anon! I'm back!" >Your attention snaps immediately to Twilight >She looks excited but exhausted >She trots down the stairs that always seem to come for her but never for you >You greet her with a nuzzling hug "How have you been? I have missed you." >Twilight giggles, smiling >"Oh and I've missed you so much, Anon... I saw y..." >She interrupts herself >She looks distraught over something >But only for a second >"y... saw what I thought was you! And that made me think of you! So I had to rush home to see you." >She does not sound ok >But she shows you that she is with another concerned smile >"Anon... if you ever remember only one thing, remember that I love you. And only you. Ok?" >You smile >You are not sure if you can say the same to her though "Of course, Twilight. May I ask something?" >"Of course!" "What is that red stain on the floor?" >"W-what?" "That red stain. Over near the stairs up." >You lean to the side to look at it >It really is big >"Anon... don't... don't pay attention to that." "Why not? I would like to know what it is." >"That can wait until later! Listen, I-" "I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHY THE STAIN IS THERE, TWILIGHT." >Your voice raises >It raises far louder than you realized you could speak >It does not sound like you >It sounds terrified >But you do not feel scared >Twilight looks just as surprised "Please. It scares me. It speaks to me, in my head." >You hear your voice crumble to a whisper "It tells me I died." >Twilight looks even worse than before >It concerns you >"Anon... I... you..." >Her mouth twitches into a facsimile of a smile >"You got hurt... and... I fixed you." "Why did I hurt?" >"I don't know... I don't know, Anon. I thought you were stable. I celebrated too early and... and it hurt you." >You look down at the floor >Tears hit it, from both your face and hers "Twilight... am I sick?" >"No! No, I love you, you can't be sick. I'm just... I'm doing my best! I can't tell Celestia, she'll take you away, I just know it!" >Who is Celestia? >So much of this registers with you but you still do not understand it "Twilight..." >You realize that you can control your tone >It changes from a sad whisper to a more controlled tone "Please... take me with you next time you leave." >Twilight looks like she could break into two >"I-I promise! I will, soon! And... and we'll show them! We'll show them all that you were made for me! And I was made for you! And I..." >She curls up against you >You are not sure how to process this >You sit there, and watch over her as she cries >You can tell that she needs help >But you do not know how to help >You wait until she calms down "Twilight... you told me that you had great news for me. Can I hear it?" >Twilight does not perk up immediately >"Oh... oh yes. I almost forgot... silly me." >Something poofs onto the table from a cloud of purple magic >It's a lump of wood with other things in it >It makes a tic >Tock >Tic >Tock >You shake your head, easily caught up in the rhythm >"It's a clock! Starting today... we're going to have a schedule now!" >A schedule? "What does that mean?" >She wipes her face with her hoof and sniffles >"Well. I like schedules. And schedules help..." >She gives a tired sigh >"Schedules help." "How does a clock work?" >"Well, let me show you!" >She sits in front of you, though her head leans back against your chest >"Do you see the longer stick in the circle?" "Yes." >"That shows the minute we're at." "What's a minute?" >"It's sixty seconds." "What's a second?" >"It's a really small measurement of time." >You blink a few times >You never kept track of time before "So... what is the shorter stick in the circle for?" >"That tells us what hour it is! And I know what you want to know: an hour is sixty minutes." "Which is sixty measurements of sixty seconds." >"Yup!" >You do not know why they have to go to sixty >You frown "There is a third stick that is moving fast." >"That counts the seconds." >You nod "I see..." >You watch minutes tick by "Twilight?" >"Yes, Anon?" "What will my schedule include?" >"Plenty! An appropriate sleep schedule... for both of us, honestly... an eating schedule too! I want us to spend more time together. The world outside is... it doesn't concern me anymore. " >She sounds like she's far more relaxed now >"You will be strong... with my help, you will beat any pony in anything. You will change the face of Equestria. When we have foals... they will be able to do anything in the world at all." >Why does it sound like you have heard these words before? "One thing at a time, please. I said that there's no rush." >Twilight's head twists in an instant >She looks at you with an unreadable expression >"W... what did you say?" >You look at her, a little unfocused "I-I'm sorry? I don't know what I just said, Twilight." >You frown "I feel like.. we have known each other for a long time now." >Her expression turns to a smile again >But not the one she normally has >"We've... we've known each other for a long time now, Anon. Maybe you've just heard me say it before." >You frown >You feel uncomfortable "How long have I been here, Twilight? How much time has passed?" >"Too long... I want to show you to everypony. To my..." >She hesitates >"M-my friends." >She sounds like saying those words have given her a revelation of some sort "Friends?" >"That's right! That's right, Anon! That's what we need!" "Friends?" >"Yes! Oh, Anon... you know exactly what to say sometimes." >You are not sure what she means >She cuddles up to you again, sighing like a weight had been taken off of her >"Soon... soon everything will be all better." >You hope so >You want to ask another question but the sound of Twilight breathing nearly hypnotizes you then and there >The ticking and tocking of the clock doesn't help either >You bring your face down and stroke her mane with your chin >Perfectly in tune with the clock >You feel content doing this, so there is no reason to stop it >You want to ask a lot of things >But you can ask them later >Twilight needs her sleep again >You know she sleeps if she stays with you, sooner or later >>Hello book, this is Anonymous again. I have great news: I am going to a party! Twilight is hosting a party. I think I am invited. She said that she had a lot of really good friends and that it might be time to introduce me to them. I am starting to feel embarrassed again when Twilight reads this. I feel confident in my writing ability but I feel odd about her reading my thoughts like this. >You bring down your quill and sigh >You've gotten better about getting used to the clock >You've even tried matching some movements and gestures to the ticking and tocking >The stairs from above come down and Twilight trots down them as soon as they're formed >"Anon, it's almost time!" >She comes to a skidding halt, nearly bumping into your side >She looks so happy >Still tired >But happier >"I have so many friends to show you to! There's Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Spike, App..." >Her smile melts off >What replaces it is a more bitter frown >"Apples..." "Apples?" >"Anon, do you like apples?" >You're not sure how to respond "I don't know. Have I had apples before?" >Her frown reverts back to a more mellow smile >"Yes, you silly stallion! I've included a few with our dinners!" "Oh! Oh yes, I do love them then." >Your eyes widen and you nod, now that you think about it >You're really not sure what part of your dinners were an apple >But it all does taste good so you can only agree >As you nod, you look around your room >The red stain is finally gone >Twilight used magic to get rid of it >That really has helped you feel better "Is this room big enough for so many of us?" >Twilight looks at you >Kinda like how she used to look at you when you first tried writing >"We aren't gonna have a party here, Anon! It's... upstairs..." >She slows her words as she speaks, as if she's realizing something >"Upstairs... listen, Anon!" >You sit to attention "Yes, Twilight?" >"Let's go upstairs! That's where we'll have our party! And we gotta get you used to things because otherwise it'll be kinda silly and I want you to really feel at home!" "Feel at home..." >You've read about 'homes' >But you didn't think you had one >Maybe your room was your home >"Anon, hurry up!" >You snap out of your thoughts "Yes, coming Twilight!" >You quickly trot up behind her >Sometimes you forget how much larger than her you are >When you reach the stairs, you hesitate >You've never climbed them before >Halfway up the stairs Twilight stops and looks back at you >"It's ok, Anon. Just one hoof in front of the other, ok? Watch how I do." >You take your first steps >It's a weird feeling, to go higher than the floor >Seven steps in, you start to feel dizzy "Twilight, I..." >"Anon, look at me!" >Your focus pinpoints on her >She's already at the top of the stairs >"Keep your eyes on me and just walk, ok?" "Y... yeah. Ok, Twilight." >She's nice to look at >She has such a nice smile >She's growing too >No, she's just getting closer >"That's it! Just focus on me and it'll be ok." >She starts backing up >You pick up your pace to keep her in your sight >After more steps, you're on level ground again >"You did it! I'm so proud of you, Anon!" "...huh?" >You look around >You feel faint at the explosion of colors, light and items >The wood is almost pink now >There are so many books >More stairs on the right >And giant blue holes in the walls "Wh... where am I?!" >She beams at you >"This is my... our home!" "What? But what is all of this? How did this all get here?" >Your room had a bed, a table, dozens of books piled up, and even a clock >Obviously, Twilight made the table and the clock and the bed >And she wrote the books >How in the world did she make all of this? >"Oh, well... this also doubles as a library! All of the books down there don't hold a candle to everything here!" >The sensory overload is enough to make you need to sit down >So you do >Twilight picks up on this instantly and hugs up to your side >"Anon! What's wrong?" "I..." >You shake your head "This is... this is a big room." >She laughs but it doesn't sound like it was funny >"Well... yeah... it is. It's not the only room here too." >You close your eyes, steadying your breathing >Twilight taught you that if you were ever feeling too excited or scared, to close your eyes and focus on breathing >You can feel her head pressing against your chest >"That's ok, Anon... you're going to be ok. I'm right here. There's no need to shake." >It takes a lot of time, going off of the little ticking and tocking that you keep in the back of your mind to help keep track of time >But you do eventually open your eyes "Alright... thank you, Twilight." >"Anytime, for you Anon." >You stand up again, stamping down to test the floor >You can't even tell that your room is below "So what do you do in this room?" >"Well I read, study, research, explore, and hypothesize!" >She smiles at you with a squee >You can't help but nod "This looks like the right room to do those things in..." >Twilight trots over to the stairs leading ever upward >They have interesting little heart shapes carved into them >"And up here... is my room. With my bed." >The look she gives you and the inflection of her words create a now-familiar hunger in your gut >She sees your physical reaction and giggles >"Not right now, silly!" "Huh?" >You look below yourself and frown "Oh... s-" >"Anon, you never need to apologize for that! Just... we have to learn that sometimes it has to wait. But only until it can't any longer. Ok?" >She winks at you >You don't understand >You think "Of course, Twilight." >She spends a lot of time exploring the library with you, going over every shelf, every book, everywhere >She introduces you to the wooden pony head statue at the table in the center of the room >You were a little worried to bring it up but now that you've felt it, you're pleased to meet it >She mentions how awkward the ladder is, how the windows are nice to let natural reading light in, that the giant sun image on the ceiling actually produces light during the day, that scrolls are different than books >And the front door >When she gets to that, she hesitates >"And that... that leads outside of our home." >You watch the door as if it were some looming threat "...what's outside, Twilight? Is it like the books?" >"Sometimes, Anon. It can be dangerous outside. But a lot of good things are out there too. There's a whole lot of ponies out there like us. And worse things too." >You can feel a lump in your throat "I-I see..." >Twilight watches your face with a stoic expression >"Would you like to go outside, Anon? I can't promise it would be safe." >A growing fear bubbles in your stomach "N-no, Twilight. That's ok." >"Are you sure? There are mares out there, like me. But some of them are really dangerous too." >You take a step back >The tone of her voice is frightening "N-no, that's ok Twilight. I don't feel the need to go out there." >Twilight watches you more with the most expressionless mask you've ever seen >What happened to her? >In an instant, her cheerful demeanor comes back >"Alright! Would you like to see if we can find you a favorite book?" >You aren't able to pull your attention to a new topic so easily but you feel relief "Yes, please! Thank you, Twilight." >You check through dozens upon dozens of books, examining not just the contents of their pages but their spines and covers >Twilight seems to judge what you look at, going by how she'll smile or grumble something if you take a liking to it >A book on pony anatomy was one of those books that warranted a grumble >You eventually decide on a scroll that doubles as a map >Though her reaction wasn't overly positive, she helps spread the scroll out >You sit on the floor together and view it "Wow..." >You see a map had dozens of small colors and shapes on it, along with drawings of sigils, emblems and creatures "It's really like those adventures..." >"It is! We live in a really big world, Anon." >You nod and squint >You can't see where you are "Twilight... where are we?" >"Where?" "Yeah. I don't see our names anywhere." >Twilight giggles and produces a long purple aura that seems to double as a pointer >"We are right here, in a place called Ponyville. In Equestria." >You've never heard those names before "What's Ponyville like?" >"Well... that's where we are! And it's pretty comfy here, wouldn't you say?" >You feel a little dumb for asking that >You want to ask more things but you're not really sure if you want to sound dumb in front of her again >You randomly point to the map with a hoof "What is... here?" >"Oh, the Everfree Forest?" "Yeah! Forests are neat. They're full of trees like this one, right?" >"Actually..." >Twilight's tone changes to something far more wary >"Timberwolves live there... a zebra does too... they hate unicorns. Which is what you and I are. There are also a lot of creepy crawly things like spiders." >All of that does sound scary >But you have no clue what those could look like "I-I see..." >You shiver from your head down to your flank "So what about..." >You point to another spot on the map "Here?" >"Oh, that's Applewood!" "And here?" >"Las Pegasus!" "Here?" >"Neighagra Falls!" "This big thing here?" >"Mount Everhoof!" >You spurt out and laugh >You can't help yourself "All of these places sound so silly!" >"The world is a big place, Anon, that's for sure." "Is it really so dangerous everywhere? Is there really nowhere we can go?" >At the word 'we', Twilight cuddles up against you "Well... I think as long as we go, and stay, together, it'll be just fine!" >You smile, content with that "Twilight. Let's visit these places one day." >You speak confidently about it >"You aren't scared?" "Not if I'm with you. And wouldn't it be an adventure just like our books?" >"Yeah... it really would." "Then let's go!" >Twilight giggles >"Right now?" "Huh?" >You look at her, away from the map >"You want to go right now?" >You feel another shiver go down your spine "Well... no, not right now... but..." >You falter "But... eventually. Once it stops being dangerous outside." >"And... what if it doesn't?" >You frown at that idea >It means you would never get to see any of those silly-sounding places "Then... I'm still with you at least. So we can read about them." >She seems pleased about it and kisses the side of your neck >"That's right. No matter where we'll be, we'll be together." >You spend the day with Twilight, in the massive room >There's no shortage of books to look at >No shortage of questions to ask >The only thing that genuinely worries you is when the windows start to dim >Even the sun on the ceiling starts to fade out >Twilight doesn't show any fear so you try your best to mirror her >From the way your tail flickers over, you don't think you're doing a good job "Twilight..." >"Yes, Anon?" "...is it weird that things are getting darker?" >You do your best to look unimpressed but she must be able to see some emotion in your eyes >It takes her a second before she smiles >"Oh! Oh, yes. Celestia raises the sun every morning. At night, Princess Luna raises the moon." >You stare at her >Is she serious? >You read that the sun was a giant ball of fire and light in the sky and that it just... is a thing >She giggles >"Don't worry about it. When it gets dark, that just means that a lot of ponies go to sleep. But some stay up and prefer the night too. Along with certain insects, animals and other things." >The 'other things' make a cold bolt go down your spine >You haven't yet forgotten about what's outside and out to get you "Right... a day is a full twenty four hour cycle, isn't it?" >"That's right! You must've learned that." >You smile at her but your realization concerns you "Twilight... I have a question I really want to ask." >Twilight crosses her front legs and watches you >You've been studying her face so much that you think she looks interested in you >She has such an expressive face >"Anon?" >You blink a few times and stutter "O-oh, sorry. I was... I got distracted." >You lick your lips and force yourself to speak "Twilight. How many days has it been?" >"Has it been since when?" >You shrug "I don't know. How many days has it been since... I've known you? Since you've known me?" >The smile she has starts to fade >"Well... I suppose I forgot." >Something about the way she said that rubs you the wrong way "Please tell me, Twilight. It's important to me." >She tries to smile but it's gone in a second >"It's been two hundred and thirty two days... two hundred and thirty three by tomorrow." >You don't even know how to quantify that >You don't have two hundred and thirty two journal entries >You have less than ten >But you've been writing in it nearly every day that you remember >How do you not remember all of those days? >Twilight says something to you but you can't hear her >You can see her mouth moving though >The look on her face is getting less and less happy >Wait >She's made that face before >"Anon?!" >Your attention snaps back to her hard enough to make you feel dizzy "Yes Twilight?" >She looks distraught by something >"A-are you alright? You look... I thought you were..." >You shake your head a few times "I'm... I'm ok. I just don't... how has it been so many days? I don't understand?" >Twilight watches you before speaking >"Well... I've... known you for much longer than that time. But... you haven't known me for as long a time. You were..." >She taps one of her front hooves on the wooden floor like she's trying to think of what to say >"Sick. For the longest time... you just couldn't walk. Or talk. Or... anything. So. For a lot of time, I just took care of you. I kept a close eye on you, I did everything that I could for you." >This doesn't give you any sense of clarity >It just confuses you more "What was wrong with me? Why couldn't I do any of those things?" >"You just couldn't. I promise you that I've done everything possible to help you. To see you grow into the fine stallion you are today." >If she didn't want to, surely she wouldn't have helped you so much "So... was you and I doing..." >Twilight giggles again, drawing a circle on the floor with her hoof >"Well... that was just because I love you, Anon. And I know you love me too. So there's nothing wrong with expressing that love." >She has a point >You do love her >Without her, who knows where you would have been >If you were really in such a bad situation, or a bad condition, maybe you needed her far more than you realize "I... I understand." >You do understand >You think >You and her remain silent as the room dims >Soon you can barely see her >A number of purple candles poof into the air, giving the room a comfortably dark ambient light that matches your room below >"Anon?" >She finally speaks up >You don't answer >You've been trying to think but you don't know if you have the ability >"Anon?" >You blink a few times and nod "Yes, Twilight?" >"You know I love you." "I do know that." >"Tomorrow we have the party." "We do." >"You're gonna have fun, I just know it." "Twilight?" >"Yes, Anon?" "Can I go to my room?" >Twilight looks like you said something bad >"Oh... would you really like to? I could show you my bed and we could enjoy the night together?" >You shift uncomfortably >Obviously part of you likes the sound of that "I... I would like that." >Twilight smiles "But I would like to go to my room more, please." >Her smile fades >"Oh... ok." >She looks at a portion of the floor and it melts down in a purple glow >She must be very strong to be able to do that without trying >You drag yourself up and look down at her >She isn't moving "Will you come to see me in the morning? I would like to help prepare for the party." >She nods >"Oh, of course. I think it might be a little too late for dinner. So tomorrow morning we'll have a nice, big breakfast." >You can hear her voice wavering "I love you Twilight." >You hear something like a whimper >"I... I love you too Anon." >After waiting for a moment to see if anything else would happen, you trot down the stairs into your room >Your stomach turns as you step down but you focus hard on staring straight ahead >You step onto solid ground and immediately collapse >You didn't think your legs would be so shaky >How could you have possibly been here for so long? >What could have happened to you? >You notice that as you lay to recuperate, the stairs haven't melted back up into the ceiling, separating you from Twilight >Does this mean that it will stay open? >You stare at it until you don't feel nearly as sick >You half-crawl to the table, just to see if it's worth doing >It isn't >You hardly have anything to grip onto, the wood is so smooth >When you reach your table and your diary, you grab your quill with your own magic >It looks greener than it did before >You haven't yet forgotten anything but you really don't want to forget things now >Dragging yourself to a sitting position, you focus on your journal >Is it a diary more than a journal? >It's still a good book >>Hello book, this is Anonymous. It is day >You shake your head >How could it be such a number? >>It is day two hundred and thirty two, at night. Night means the moon came up. Twilight told me that I have been here for two hundred and thirty two days. How many times have I written inside of you? What if I had another book but didn't know about it? Maybe I should mark this. Let's call this Official Entry Number One. At day two hundred and thirty two, at night, which means the sun has gone down and that the moon has risen. >What do you write next? >What could you possibly write? >>Twilight is sad. We have a party tomorrow but I don't know how it will go. I've never had a party. >Your mind can't escape from Twilight's whimpering >Have you been making her sad? >Are you ungrateful? >>Ok, book. Let's think of what we can do. We need to find a way to make Twilight feel better tomorrow. I promise you that we will figure something out. Maybe something >Something with magic >You stare at the quill that's being held >It's held in place with magic >Your magic >Twilight can do anything with magic >Maybe you just need to figure out a way to use it for her >Something feels wrong >This isn't your bed >You open your eyes and see that you aren't even near your bed >You're at the table >How did this happen? >Your eyes are slow to scan the table but lock onto your quill >Wait >The quill! >The magic trick! >Using your own magic! >You stumble into a standing position, stretching your back legs >Today is time for the party, too! >You see that the stairs haven't vanished and you want to see Twilight >But before you do, you sit back down at your table, quill in greenish aura >>Good morning book! This is day >The number still seems off to you, but you write it anyway >>This is day two hundred and thirty three, at >You look at your clock >>at eight hours and twenty three minutes. And twenty seconds. Twenty two. Twenty four. >You shake your head to refocus >>Enough about time, today is a party for Twilight! Parties, I've read, are meant to make ponies feel happier about their lives. She has many friends that will be here, and she will have me there, and I will impress her with my trick! I am afraid that I may worry her about something. But now, I will try to wake her because the stairs are here and have not gone away. I am going to do my best! >You close your book and slide your quill into your mane >You don't think the ink will really be enough to bother you, and you never know when you might need it >As excited as you are to see Twilight, you stop before your one true enemy >The stairs >If Twilight is up there and still sad, you may be her only hope >Many heroes in your books face tests of courage, wisdom, and strength >You need all three for this >Furrowing your brow, you stare straight ahead until you have tunnel vision >With a shaky hoof, you start to ascend >As long as you focus on Twilight, you're fine >You don't even notice that you're basically leaving the ground >You aren't even aware of how the walls are moving down as you move up, giving you a growing sense of vertigo >The sight of the floor above doesn't scare you about falling for a moment >After reaching the bright, brilliant library, you take a moment to sit down >You were almost worried that you might not make it, or that the stairs might crumble away >A quick look around the room and you feel like your achievement was for nothing >Twilight isn't in here >Where could she be? >There are the stairs that go even higher >Except those don't have a wooden ledge above them to help stop from falling over >And the heart patterns worry you for some reason >They could be a trap >You've read about heroes encountering traps >Or maybe Twilight is still sleeping and you're just afraid to ascend more stairs >Even for her, the challenge is too great "Twilight... wake up..." >Almost as if your voice reached her, the door to outside burst open! >"TWILIGHT, WAAAAAAKE UUUUUUUUUP!" >From the blinding brightness of outside, a shrill voice screeches loud enough to make you dizzy >What was that?! >A pink pony-shaped creature bounds in, holding a dazzling green and yellow thing between its hooves >"IT'S PARTY TIIIIIIIIIIIIIME!" >It squeezes it and it goes off with a disorienting BANG >As if the sensory overload wasn't enough, seeing a pink pony that didn't even have a horn terrified you beyond your capacity "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAH, TWILIGHT HELP ME!" >The pony sets its bright blue eyes on you and lets out a scream to match yours >The crazy look in it's eye makes you scream even harder >For some reason it matches your screams but with a smile >Your voice raises higher than you thought possible >This is it >This is death >This creature from outside is going to kill you, and then Twilight >Why did you leave the room, Anon?! >"Pinkie, shut up already! Do you know what time it is? For once, just come in like a normal po-" >You can hear Twilight, and even see her descend her stairs, but your eyes are trapped on the screaming monster who's face seems to extend longer and wider beyond what should be possible >In a fit of animal panic, your horn grows bright green >The quill in your mane twirls in the air twice and shoots out at the pink monster, tip first >To your sheer horror, it catches your quill in it's mouth?! >It spins on the floor and poses, poking her tongue out >The quill is balancing perfectly on it >"TAAAAAAAA-LAAAAAAAAAA!" >You screech again, your sorrow renewed >"Anon, shut up it's just Pinkie Pie!" "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA--wait, who?" >Her words snap you back to sanity, but you can't stop your pulse from racing >That name is familiar >Wasn't that the name of one of her friends? >Was this... hornless thing a friend of Twilight? >"Twilight,today'sapartyday,youknowthatIcan'tjustholdoffonwaitingwhenthere'sanentiredaytoprepareandgetthingsjustrightespeciallysinceyou'vebeengoneforsolongwewereworriedaboutyou,allexceptApplejack,butstill!" >You switch your gaze between Pinkie Pie and Twilight >What did she just say? >She spoke far too quickly for you to keep up >She then sets her eyes on you again >You freeze on the spot, unable to help but get the urge to scream again >"OooooooooohhIknewyouweregettingbusybutthisis..." >Her eyelids droop down >She's leering at you >The smile she has changes into something that makes your stomach feel worse than empty >But it only lasts a second >"W h o i s t h i s . . . ?" >"Pinkie, this is Anon..." >Pinkie looks at Twilight >Then at you >Then at Twilight again >And back and forth until her head becomes a pink and blue blur >It stops on you again, causing you to uncomfortably tense up >"Well that's awesome!" >Pinkie squats down and somehow slides toward you from a considerable distance away making a long 'swooooooooce' noise >She stops a few inches from your face >That leer and that smile returns >"It's nice to meet you, Anon." >She speaks very slowly >You get the idea that she's looking down at you >For some reason you can't explain, you blurt out some words "I... if I pull t-the mask off. Will you... die?" >Those words don't mean anything to you but it makes her eyes light up >The energy in those eyes sap your ability to breath >She leans forward again, as if she's examining your face >She whispers, eyes shining and trained on you to the point that she could see right through you >"Do you like wrestling, Anon?" >You stumble away from Pinkie Pie >Something inside of you hurts just from that word alone >But something else reacts to the word >Positively >Out of nowhere, Twilight comes between you two >"Ok Pinkie, remember the personal bubble?" >"Oh, I do! The better friends you are, the smaller the bubble becomes!" >"That's right! And... well, he's a new friend so scoot back. Back!" >The scent of a new pony is a curious thing >It's completely not like Twilight >It's not even like anything that you've smelled before >Twilight turns back to you >She looks like she's about to say something but she looks beyond shocked at something >"A-anon?! Behave yourself!" "W-what?" >You can't imagine what's wrong >Until you feel something hit the underside of your stomach >It's... >You >You idly blink, trying to understand everything from the smell of Twilight's friend, to the weird looks she gives you while Twilight tries to shield you from her view >"Wow, I bet you're really fun at parties!" >"By Celestia, Pinkie, stop goofing around. Anon, please not now!" >She sounds really mad >Was getting mad at friends normal for her? >You sit down and awkwardly try to... not make it obvious of how much you like Twilight's friend >After watching the two bicker and wrestle, the excitement dies down >"Ok Pinkie, STOP already!" >Pinkie giggles again and sighs >"Awww... ok... so what's the party plans? Is Anon a party favor?" >"A party fa-no! Of course not! He's-" >Twilight stops herself >"He's a guest here. And I've been helping him from being sick." >You don't know how to interact between the two so you sit there >"Well that's neat! But why is his name Anon too?" >She pokes her head back over Twilight's shoulder and looks at you >"Is he his brother? Where's his cutie mark?" >"I'll explain later. Can we please focus on the party at hoof?" >"Well... alright. So, first, the games! What I got planned is..." >You sit in silence as Pinkie Pie discusses all sorts of weird things >Not surprisingly, Twilight not only understands it, but speaks in the colorful jargon >For a moment, you wondered if it was even the same language >It had to be >You understood Twilight's words, and that they were indeed words >But you had no clue what all of those things were >After enough conversation, Twilight turns to look at you >You can't help but flinch again >At least you aren't as excited as you were before >"Anon... can you come here and sit next to me for a moment?" "Y-yes, Twilight!" >You get up and immediately trot to her side before taking a seat again >"Now Anon... this is Pinkie Pie." >You blink at the pony pony "Nice to meet you, Pinkie Pie." >Pinkie Pie giggles and gives you an impressively wide smile >It's still a little scary >"And I am super duper happy to meet you too!" >You expect her to try to attack you but she doesn't >Without thinking, you say the first thing that comes to mind "Where's your horn?" >That comment takes Pinkie Pie by surprise for a second but she bursts out laughing >"I don't have one, silly!" >You glance at Twilight as if the pink pony is... wrong >Twilight nods >"Now Pinkie, please be nice to Anon. He's never seen an earth pony before... or a pegasus. His lack of cutie mark is... well, to be honest, it's a mystery to me too. But that's why I've been doing my very best to help him. And, in the process, he's become a really good friend." >Pinkie giggles again >"With how excited he got before, I bet he's a super special friend too!" >Twilight's purple face starts to turn red >You smile at the compliment "I am proud to be Twilight's friend! And a friend of Twilight is a friend of mine." >Twilight gave you a book on friends and how to make them, back when you were still learning how to read >This is definitely one of the most important aspects of introducing yourself >Pinkie Pie giggles even more >"Oh, I would be too if I were you!" >"Ok Pinkie, that's..." >Twilight clears her throat >"Y-yes, Anon and I are... closer than normal friends are." >You push your chest out with pride and nod "It's true. I love Twilight. And she loves me." >You speak with purpose >You're proud to say this to a friend of Twilight >You look at Twilight, smiling as if she told you that for the first time again >She looks... >Well she looks a little more blue than purple now >And she looks like something's really worrying her >"Ohhhhh! Is that how that is! Well why didn't you say that you finally found a coltfriend! Yay Twilight!" >Twilight mumbles something while avoiding direct eye contact "W-what was that, Twilight?" >She's never spoken so softly before >Twilight speaks but it sounds like a mix of quiet whimpers "T-Twilight... are you ok?" >"I'm FiNe!" >Her voice cracks as she tries to speak >"Awwwwww Twilight's shy! No wonder you want to have a party for today, you've finally done it! Honestly, I thought that you'd never get over Anon! We sure had fun back then but now look at you! That's worthy of TWO parties, one for each of you!" >She lets out the biggest gasp, as if her goal was to breath everything at once >"WE SHOULD THROW TWO PARTIES AT THE SAME TIME!!!" >Twilight sinks down, putting her hooves over her head "Two parties... Twilight, does that sound good?" >You look down at her and nudge her shoulder with your hoof "Twi... Twilight?" >"Anon, tell me! Do you reaaaaaaaaaaaaally love Twilight?" >Pinkie Pie grins as she asks >Twilight whimpers "Well, of course I do. Without her, I wouldn't be here today. I love Twilight more each day." >Twilight lets out a loud whinny and tries to slap at you with one of her hooves >"Anon, don't just go saying that to anypony!" "But it's true! I love you!" >The more you say it, the more confident you feel in saying it >Pinkie Pie bursts out laughing >Twilight lets out another distressed noise >"Say it again!" "I love Twilight!" >"Anon, stop it!" >"One more time, with feeling!" "I love you, Twilight!" "So... a party is a gathering of friends to eat and drink sweet things and to have fun." >"Exactly! I'm surprised you've never had one before!" >You can't help but shrug >If you did have a party before, you wouldn't have known it >While Twilight was still curled up and trying to deny your declaration, Pinkie Pie pulled you aside and started asking you questions >She seems really friendly >If you look past that weird look in her eye "So..." >You look down at the wooden floor "What can you tell me about Twilight?" >"Twilight?! What CAN'T I tell you about her!" >You look at her excited smile "I... don't know?" >You feel discomfort around her >"Weeeeeeeeeell, did you know that her favorite party favor is streamers? And that she doesn't like hot sauce? I like hot sauce! She's also a big worry wort and when she likes someone she really likes to go all out! Don't think now but I think she likes you too, didyouknowthatshelikedsomeonealsonamedAnonIbetyoudidn'tknowthatIbetyouhaveasupercloseconnectionlikeyouguysarebrothersorsomethingbutheisn'taponyhowfunnywoulditbeifyoutwowererelatedyouknowwhatelseisfunnyis..." >The more she speaks the faster she goes >The faster she goes, the more difficult it is to focus >Her mouth is moving so fast >How is she moving so fast? >Before you know it, her head lowers >"And ooooooooooooooooOOOOooooohhh! Party favors!" >She boops the tip of her nose against your crotch, making you jump back "T-Twilight!?" >Twilight, roused from her embarrassed, finally looks up at you >Her face bright red, she lets out an uneasy laugh >"Oh right! I forgot, Pinkie Pie, why don't you go upstairs real quick! I wrote a book on parties and I think that it might really help with today!" >"Oh, okey dokey loki!" >Pinkie Pie hops off without a second thought up the stairs without hesitation >You sigh as she goes out of sight >Only to feel a leg wrap around your neck >It's Twilight's >"Anon... you can't just say something like that and not expect consequences..." >The look on her face is enough to make a chill go down your spine >But not a bad chill >You're not really sure on what you should say >But you did mean it "I-is it bad that I said that-" >She stops you by pushing her face into yours >Almost like she's trying to kiss you but her lips don't move >She inhales hard and shakes >"Tonight... dear Celestia, tonight..." >She slithers her tongue between her lips before pulling away >You really aren't sure what is going on but you've been reacting very positively to it >"TWILIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIGHT I FOUND IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIT" >Twilight creates distance and pats down her mane >"Compose yourself, you can handle one day of normal friends, don't answer any questions, don't ask anything, be prepared to..." >She's talking to herself like she's going down a checklist >Pinkie Pie comes bouncing back down the stairs >A massive book is bouncing off of her head yet, somehow, it doesn't fall onto the ground >"Ok Pinkie Pie. Let's go read the fifth chapter, third paragraph. That's where I started with the idea of a dual party. But it was mostly for ponies sharing birthdays." >"Oh, is it Anon's birthday too!?" >You sit, like a statue, as they talk back and forth about utterly alien things >Whenever either of them asks you something, you simply nod or shake your head >Before your eyes, Pinkie Pie produces a truly extravagant amount of items from behind her back, or inside of her pink mane or tail >It looks like magic to you >Bowls, cups, plates, liquids, colorful solids that smell sweet, and more are set up astonishingly quick >Whenever you feel concerned or scared, you give Twilight a look >Every time, she smiles and nods, as if she's aware of what you're thinking >When Pinkie Pie finishes, strands and papers and more decorate the books, the table, the pony head, the stairs, even the door! >"Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaand boop!" >You flinch but she puts something on your head >"One for the party prince!" >"Pinkie Pie, you really don't have to-" >"AND ONE FOR PARTY PRINCESS YAAAAAAAY!" >Pinkie flips into the air and bounces off of Twilight's head >She put something on her head too >A bright yellow thing >It looks like her horn but it's in the wrong spot >How silly would it be if Twilight had two horns? "Pfft." >You just find that funny >Pinkie Pie lands on her tail of all things and cheers >"Ta-DAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA! Partified ponies a plenty!" >Twilight looks at her >Then at me >"Pinkie... is this really necessary?" >Her tail deflates until she's on her hooves again >"Not really. I mean, when's the last time we've even seen each other? You've been away from us all for so long!" >Pinkie Pie gives Twilight a smile >It's not as happy as the other manic, crazed expressions she's given so far >"We're still friends. Aren't we?" >Twilight looks down >"Well... of course we are... but I... had to help Anon. He needed me. He needs me still." >"Then why not have us help too! If we did, we would all still-" >"No, Pinkie. Only I can help him." >The sudden sharp tone in Twilight's voice causes both you and Pinkie Pie to recoil >"He's my friend. He needs me to help him... not any other pony. He wouldn't be ok with you, or Rarity, or Fluttershy, or Rainbow Dash, or..." >Pinkie Pie glances at you >Kinda like how you glance at Twilight >She's looking for an answer >Why is she asking you? >You shrug >All of this is new to you too >"Alright... well... at least we're together again now, right?" >She pats Twilight's shoulder >"I'm gonna be right back, ok?" >She waits for Twilight to answer but she doesn't >Her smile fades more >"I'm gonna go get our friends... and then we can have our party." >Uncharacteristic for her, as little as you know her, Pinkie Pie walks back into the outside world "...Twilight? Is everything ok?" >Now that it's just you and her, you feel a weight lift off your shoulders >"No... I mean, yeah. Yeah, it is, Anon. It will be." >You don't understand >You go to her side, sitting by >You kinda feel like you should just stay at her side, no matter what's going on >Things make more sense when she's there to help interpret it all "Is it... bad that it's been two hundred and thirty three days?" >"Well... no. Not at all, because it's been spent on you. But I guess I miss my friends too..." >She looks at you >"Anonymous, I need to tell you something important about my friends." >Expecting good news, you perk up and smile "Of course, Twilight! Your friends are my friends!" >Twilight smiles at that >But it looks bitter >"Anon... no matter what. Remember that they don't love you. Only I love you." >What? "What?" >"They... they aren't capable of loving you. Only I can. No matter how friendly they act, they will never love you. Do you understand? You need to understand." >You don't really get it >Why wouldn't they love you? >From how Pinkie Pie was acting, wasn't that love right there? >You love Twilight but you could never do what the pink pony did in a million days, even if you tried! "I... I don't..." >Twilight puts her hooves on the side of your face >"THEY CAN'T LOVE YOU, ANON. ONLY I CAN. I UNDERSTAND YOU." >What's going on? >"I LOVE YOU. ONLY ME. ONLY TWILIGHT. DO YOU UNDERSTAND ME?" >Twilight, please stop being scary >"YOU NEED TO TELL ME THAT YOU UNDERSTAND, I DON'T HAVE TIME TO EXPLAIN RIGHT NOW." >You feel a painful fire burn in your chest >And behind your eyes "Y-yes, I understand! Twilight, I understand! Please stop!" >The growing aggression in her voice is truly terrifying to you >She can't possibly be so mad at you >You didn't do anything wrong >Right? "Please stop, I understand now!" >You feel hot droplets go down the side of your face >Everything's been so confusing >You thought everything was going well >You thought that it was good to say that you loved Twilight, and that there was a dual-party set up, and that there were going to be friends of Twilight to meet and be friends with >You thought that she was happy because Pinkie Pie was happy >None of this makes any sense to you! >You try to say that to Twilight but it comes out in heavy, deep sobs >You don't know any of Twilight's friends beyond Pinkie Pie but it hurts so much to hear that they would never love you >"Oh Anon... shh... it's ok..." >Her hooves, which had been pressing into the sides of your head, slide down and wrap around your neck into a hug >"It's ok Anon... I'll love you. I'll always love you. They'll still be your friends... our friends. I just need you to understand... I don't want them to hurt you..." >For some reason that just makes your sobbing turn that much more aggressive >How could friends of Twilight be so hateful toward you? >They don't even know you! >You don't even know them! >After Twilight's warning, you ended up curled up against a wall >You found your quill on the floor and reclaimed it >Since your journal were down a set of stairs, you resigned yourself to writing your thoughts against the wood >Of course, you didn't have ink available >The wood is also pretty hard too so it's not like you can carve into it >>Hello floor. This is Anonymous. I was prepared for a party with Twilight's friends. I thought that they would be my friends too. Twilight told me that they won't be my friends. >You already ran out of the emotion to cry >Now you just feel empty >>I guess that's not right, floor. Twilight said that they could be my friends. But they would never love me. I guess it makes sense. But it still doesn't sound good. I want to be friends but I don't think being a friend means loving them. It's not the same thing, right? >You hear Twilight talking to herself and trotting over all of the room >It sounds like she's talking to someone >Or more like she's talking to herself >"Why yes, his name is Anon but it's completely not related to Anon... you know what I mean. Applejack? No... no no, of course we're still friends. BFFs forever, right?" >She gulped down half of a large bowl of pink liquid already in the middle of her conversations >You want to ask her what she's talking about but you can't really bring yourself to talk to her >You can't bring yourself to talk at all >You're unlovable >Except to Twilight >You tap the quill on the floor >You don't know what else you want to say to the floor >It isn't great for conversation >You prefer your journal much more >You would never write in one of Twilight's books, but maybe she wouldn't notice if one went missing >Your musings are cut off with the opening of the door that separates you from the outside world >"PARTY TIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIME!" >The shrill screaming is easy to remember >You only know of three voices anyway >"Finally, party at Twilight's! I thought this place was empty or something!" >You don't recognize that voice >It sounds... scratchy >"Nonsense, our Twilight Sparkle wouldn't leave Ponyville for anything. Not without letting us know, in any case." >A new voice, kinda something you would imagine a princess having >"I hope she would... but we would help even if you didn't! I'm just happy that you're ok!" >A really soft voice >It sounds soothing >Quiet, too >Almost like your voice >From your seat, you look at a truly dizzying sight >Pinkie is back >Twilight is there >But there's... a white Twilight? >And two more that have wings but no horn!? >They're all in such a dizzying array of colors >They all huddle together and talk all at once to each other >The new voices are hard to tell apart >You even can't hear Twilight's voice through all of the noise >But she looks so happy >"OH I FORGOT OUR OTHER PARTY PONY!" >Pinkie's screech makes your stomach feel terrible >Your eyes widen at the five ponies that focus on you >"Oh my..." >"You can't exactly join a party way over there, darling..." >"Woah... a guy in Twilight's place..." >Watching them speak, you can connect the new voices to their bodies >"Girls, this is..." >"His name's Anon too!" >Just like that, you feel like everything died then and there >You watch all of them, stand there >Studying you >Studying Twilight too >Say something >Say something! >You need to say something! "H... hi... I'm." >You need to say this right "I'm Anon. This... this is my quill." >Your green-coated quill floats up to your face and out toward them >You can't help but think that something might be wrong >"...Anon? As in Anonymous, by chance?" >The white one speaks up and steps toward you >You slowly nod >"...have we met before, Anon?" >How could you? >You would recognize a white Twilight >The purple of her hair is too different from Twilight >It's too dark a purple >"It's not kind to stare at a lady." >You avert your eyes "S-sorry. No... no, I don't think we have." >The unicorn isn't impressed >But she nods and gives you a warm smile >"Then I'm pleased to meet you. Very fashionable quill, I like it." >That makes you smile >You casually twirl it in the air but the pointed tip pokes the side of your face >The yellow winged party guest approaches from White's side >"Oh... it is a really nice quill! That feather looks really rare, too... is it from a phoenix?" >What's a phoenix? >So she's the one with the calm voice "I... I don't know." >You go from looking at the quill, to Yellow, to the floor >The nice look in her eyes makes you feel sad >It's like she can understand your concern >Your sadness >"Girls now don't crowd. He's... he's not all that social. He's really timid sometimes." >"I understand. Well, Anonymous, I am pleased to meet you. My name is Rarity and I am open if you would ever like to talk." >The so called Rarity walks off, leaving you feeling a little more... confident? >Yellow nods and smiles >"And I'm Fluttershy! I'm very happy to meet you, Anon. I hope we get to be the best of friends!" >You can't help but smile at her energy >It's difficult to explain but you believe her words fully >You watch her follow Rarity >Twilight enters your view with a quizzical look >Your smile immediately drops >"Are you doing better now?" "Y... yes, Twilight... I'm sorry for how I was acting." >You can't help but apologize >She smiles and nuzzles her face against yours >"It's ok. It's our party today, right? Let's enjoy it!" >She has a point >She helps you up and you twirl the quill into your mane >Rarity, Fluttershy and the blue one are talking to each other >Pinkie is bouncing around, and stops in front of the stairs leading further up >Out of nowhere she pulls out a large black box and pokes it >It starts... singing? >"Every pony needs music for a party!" >She says that to... no one in particular "Twilight...?" >"Yes, Anon?" "Is... is Pinkie magic?" >Twilight giggles with a sigh at the end >"No... at least, she isn't any sort of magic I'm familiar with. She's just... well, she's Pinkie Pie." >That really doesn't bring you any comfort >But it almost makes sense >Almost >With the so-claimed music playing, Twilight trots off to join the bigger conversations >By the look of how they all react to her, they must really like her >It's not shocking >Anyone would like Twilight >She looks so happy >You haven't ever made her so happy >Though you were smiling before >Or trying to >It's gone now >"Are you alright, Anon?" >You flinch at the voice >Of course it's Pinkie's >When did she end up at your side? "I'm... yeah... yeah, I'm ok." >She used to be scary before but she sounds kinda nicer now >"Why no smile? Parties are really great for smiling!" >You have no reason to hide anything from her >You've always been open with Twilight >You can be open to friends like Pinkie too "I'm... I don't know. Twilight looks happy." >Your eyes lose focus as you gleam everything going on at once "I... I don't think I've ever made her that happy." >Pinkie laughs but it sounds hollow >From her other laughing, this time it doesn't sound nearly as good >"She's happy to see her friends again! I don't think anyone except her friends could make her smile so much!" "Yeah... I guess." >"Twilight's a little busy. How about we talk for a little while?" >That sounds good >You know now that she's a good friend who brought more friends, so she is trustworthy "Sure, yeah!" >You nod to yourself for a few moments >What is there to talk about? >Your nodding stops "Uh... I... I like writing?" >In an instant, Pinkie bounces from your side to in front of you >Her eyes are huge >"That's awesome? What sort of things do you write? Are you an author? You know that would make since that Twilight would like you then, IonecreadabookwhenIwasalittlefillyanditputmetosleepfordaysanddaysandwhenIwasfinishedIthoughtIturnedintoabookbecauseIrememberedallthewordsbutwhenmysistersbroughtinarockandtrippedithitmeandI-" >Her words become a noisy mess that makes you see double >She giggles >"No need to go cross-eyed, Anon! I'm just an author with words instead of words!" >You have no clue what she just said but you think you understood it >That passing thought confuses you too much >You need to think of something more solid "I... I have a journal. I write in that. I enjoy it." >Her energy raises and lowers without rhyme or reason >"Would you like me to read it? I'm always good for a good read!" >She doesn't seem like the type who would read for fun >You don't mean to be rude but she seems too hyper to sit down and read so much "S-sure, I guess... but it's down stairs." >"Twilight has a downstairs?" >She looks around and spies the stairs that lead to your things >"Let's go!" >You want to ask Twilight if it's ok but she seems like she's having so much fun >Even if the blue on is poking her with a really snide look >You want to ask Pinkie about it but she's already bouncing down the stairs >You trot to chase her and stop at the stairs >The stairs... >Pinkie's handling the stairs so gracefully >Though there are a lot of steps, it looks like she's actually jumping from one step to the next >"Last one down's a stale cupcake!" >You don't know what that means but her gleeful tone is infectious! >You hop in place as a test >You don't hop nearly as high as Pinkie does >Thinking it's still a good idea, you hop forward onto the first step >You land >But immediately slip >You try to stop yourself but you end up losing your footing worse! >"Tw-TWILI-" >You start to cry out for Twilight but your chin meets one of the stair steps >Everything becomes a blur as your body flails down >Every part of you that you're aware of hurts >Including even more parts of you that hurt that you didn't even know could hurt >When the world comes to a stop, you whimper enough to know that you're still alive >You open your mouth to croak out a cry for Twilight >But something's blocking your mouth >Or more like it's mashed up right against it >"Anon... watch out for that first step. It's a doozy...! O-ouchie..." >Pinkie? >Your vision clears and you see that Pinkie is with you >In fact, she's right in front of you >On her back >Her head lifts up and she smirks at you >"Was this a trick just to get a taste of Pinkie's Pie?" >What does that mean? >You look down at where you are >You're between her legs >You're familiar with what's there >You're very familiar with what's there with Twilight >You blink at her a few times >She giggles and watches you >"Well don't just stare at me like you need permission!" >You're suddenly reminded that you have legs >And other things >A particularly vigorous heartbeat leads to you scrambling up to your legs "I-I'm sorry! I didn't mean to! I, I saw you hopping and I'm not good with stairs and I, I wanted to have fun and you were having fun and I..." >Your panicked explanation drops off when you see... >Her >A whole lot more of her than what you saw before >"Oh no, you're looking at me like I'm a snack... are you going to eat me up?" >Pinkie's tone almost sounds like Twilight's >It's low >Quiet >In the far more quiet room, you can even hear her exhale "I..." >"Don't you worry, Anon... ol' Pinkie Pie is good at keeping secrets... you should know that by now though." >She reminds you of Twilight >Obviously it isn't her >But so much of her looks the same >So much of her looks inviting >You've been taught what to do in this situation >Before you show Pinkie Pie what you've been taught, you hear a scream that freezes your blood >You recognize that shriek >It's Twilight >You freeze and look dead ahead, hoping that she won't see you >"PINKIE PIE, WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!" >Pinkie Pie looks at you with one last knowing grin before she explodes in a puff of purple >"I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU, WHAT DID YOU DO TO ANON?!" >"I didn't do anything, Twilight! Sheesh, you're acting like I just broke into a hidden treasure room or something!" >She's giggling >"Twilight, darling, c-calm down." >"I WILL NOT CALM DOWN! I THOUGHT YOU WERE MY FRIENDS AND THE FIRST THING YOU DO IS TRY TO STEAL ANON!" >"Excuse me? Twilight, I've hardly spoken to the boy." >"Oh my... Twilight, please calm down. I'm sure Pinkie Pie-" >"PINKIE PIE KNOWS BETTER!" >Your energy depletes and you deflate in a matter of seconds >She's been irritated at you maybe once or twice >She's never once screamed like this before >Even you can tell that she's really mad >Really, seriously mad >You drag yourself from your spot into the furthest corner from the stairs up, unable to stop yourself from listening to the anger upstairs >You listen to Fluttershy being scared off >Rarity getting upset and leaving after giving an apology that you don't think is genuine >The winged pony you don't remember scoffing and calling Twilight a 'nerd' >It's down to just Twilight and Pinkie Pie >"I don't understand, why are you so angry? We both liked Anon, didn't we?" >"That was DIFFERENT, Pinkie Pie!" >"No it isn't! It's Anon, I can tell!" >"No it isn't!" >"Yes it is!" >"Pinkie, get out!" >"No! Twilight, you're acting silly, you've been cooped up in here for who knows how long-" >"I said GET OUT!" >"FRIENDS DON'T LET FRIENDS DO THIS!" >"THEN YOU AREN'T MY FRIEND!" >The conversation dies right there >You huddle into yourself as hard as you can >You caused this >You just know it >"T-Twilight..." >"Don't make me repeat myself, Pinkie..." >"You can't mean it... let's start over, ok? I can pretend like I never met him before! And, and we can keep going like normal!" >The stone cold tone of Twilight mixed with the desperate pleading of Pinkie is enough to shred your heart >You bury your head straight down, trying to think of any way to block out the arguing >The crying >Whether or not it was either of them up there crying or you, you couldn't tell >You didn't mean to do any of this >Why did you ruin the party like that? >Why couldn't you have just been better? >You feel something nudge against your shoulder >It takes a moment for you to wake up >You didn't know you were even sleeping >It takes a minute for your eyes to focus, but you recognize the shape well, even in the barely lit room "Twilight..." >Your voice trembles "I'm sorry... please don't be mad at your friends." >Twilight sits down in front of you >Staring down >"Anon... don't apologize. It was Pinkie that was in the wrong. I know what you were going to do to her..." >The stern, emotionless tone in her voice makes it impossible for you to speak >"And... I know that she's a very attractive pony. I should have known that there would still be a connection between you and her. Maybe it's just your personality." >She sighs >It's a sigh like she's been holding it back >"You know... even back then, I suspected things. She was too happy to watch over you. Far too eager to help you out." >What does she even mean? >She sighs again >"Anon... can I do something? Do you trust me?" >That question gives you the strength to speak of "Of course I do." >"Good... I love you, Anon" "I love you too, Tw-" >Purple fills your vision >You aren't able to speak >It feels like that one time when you tried to drink and speak at the same time >You don't feel the need to be concerned but you realize you can't breath either >Twilight doesn't let you loose >She knows what she's doing >She loves you >You know this >You know this for sure, which is why you aren't scared >But you need to breath >Twilight will let you breath, you know that for a fact >Maybe this will make her feel better >You would >be ok with that >You just need >To >Wait >Patiently >... >You come to, bolting upright >You're in bed >Wait >In bed? >You hear humming >Like it's a song or something >You look around but don't see anyone >"Oh, Anon! You're awake! Silly me, I forgot you were sleeping?" "Twilight?! Where are you?" >"Up here!" >Up where? >You look up, expecting it to be a joke >Instead, you see Twilight >Clinging to the ceiling with her legs >All... hundred of them? >Your body goes ice cold >She doesn't have that many legs >She makes her way down to you, her dozens of legs dancing wildly >But she's not making any noise >Before you can ask her what's going on, she grabs onto you with two long, jagged legs >The hooves at the end are narrow, and angled >They squeeze into you, to the point that they're inside of you >Twilight looks at you with a smile >The smile goes so wide that the edge of her lips go behind her head >Her head silently opens into a gaping maw >"Now we'MM ʙe toGetHeR ғoReveR." >Her voice doesn't match the gnashing and the twitching of the top of her head >You want to say something to her but it's Twilight >You can't say 'no' to her >She brings you close into a multi-legged embrace >Her mouth extends and engulfs your head "TWILIGHT NO!" >You bolt upright >You're in bed >Twilight is nowhere to be seen >Heart beating in your chest so hard you're uneven, you wrench your head upward >No Twilight >Of course >Of course you wouldn't see Twilight on the roof >Why would that ever happen? "Twilight? Where are you?" >You stumble to your hooves, half-asleep >You stop at the base of the stairs, siting down >There are no lights on though >That's weird >Wasn't there supposed to be a party today? "Oh no..." >The realization hits you >Did you sleep through the entire party?! >You hurry to your journal >Your quill is resting right nearby, which is comforting >You're not quite sure you left it there though "Good morning, day two hundred thirty three..." >You mumble your entry to yourself >You do remember writing this >But you don't remember much else >It couldn't possibly be morning >You check your clock >It's past midnight! >Or past noon? "Oh no..." >You let your head drop onto the table "I slept through it..." >You swoop up your quill in a glow of green >Something about it stands out to you "...what's a phoenix?" >You really aren't sure >But for some reason your quill says 'phoenix' to you >>Good morning, journal. It's me, Anon. It is day two hundred and seventy one. I am happy to write in you again. My quill is as eager as I am, it moves like it is an extension of myself. Twilight has been taking good care of me. I was very sad to sleep through Twilight's party and wanted to make it up to her but instead, I got sick. Very sick. Twilight was very scared for me. I got better, though it took many days. I wasn't able to write in you during that time, or even use magic! I felt like I was leaving. I couldn't leave Twilight behind. She loves me. And I love her. >You nod to yourself >You are satisfied with writing this in your book >Ever since you had gotten sick, you were moved from your room down below and into the library >The sunlight had bothered you for many days, but you were too sick to care >Your clock and your books are still downstairs >But... >You do not trust the stairs >You lean away from the center table, admiring the horse head decoration that seems almost real enough to talk to >Even if you did talk to it, it wouldn't talk back >You may have tried to make sure >Twilight usually stays outside the library >She only really goes upstairs if she's going to sleep and wants to sleep alone >Maybe it's just you but she looks worried about something >Every time you try to ask, she smiles and tells you that everything is ok >You really don't have any reason to doubt her >As you've done more than enough reading over the last four days, you find yourself... bored >Before, you could wait and sit in silence for days without concern >Between the clock always ticking and tocking, and the books that have taught you so much about Equestria, you can't just sit there anymore >You want to talk to Twilight >Ask her things >See places with her >You want to leave the library! >Maybe >You aren't so sure you want to leave without her >But she isn't here either >Maybe she's outside >You find yourself standing in front of the door leading to the outside world >The lit candle image on the wood seems to glow >It is bright outside, thanks to the sun >But the glow from the candle's visage of a flame seems different "Maybe... Twilight is outside." >You expect an answer but you don't know how you could respond to yourself >Maybe this is a test >Maybe she's busy >Maybe she needs help! >Maybe she's having parties... >You still feel guilty for having slept through the party >With so little to focus on, it stings the back of your mind whenever you relax >You hope that she has forgiven you >You've been almost too afraid to ask her about it "Twilight is outside... and she needs me. I can't help her if I'm stuck in here." >You speak in a slow, calm tone >You aren't trying to convince yourself at all >You're merely stating what has to be the obvious >Your front hoof rests on the door "This is the only way you can make it up to her..." >You have to do it >Despite your urge to close your eyes, you squint and prepare yourself >You push through the door and rush outside in three quick trots! >You see >Colors >So many bright colors! >Green on the ground >Blue in the sky >Bright yellow circle th- "AH!" >You quickly avert your eyes >That yellow thing must be the sun >Even for that quick instance, gazing upon it led to the most painful sensation >You whirl around back to the entrance to your home and >And... >It's massive >The tree you exited is massive! >It's huge! >It goes beyond your sight, straight up and over like some... big, blossoming thing >"IIIIIIINCOMIIIIIIIIIING!" >Incoming? >Why does that voice not sound familiar? >Before you can ponder such a thing, you collapse from something that slammed into you hard enough to leave you dazed >Sore, you persevere and look at what collided into you >A grey pony with yellow hair >And wings! "A pegasus!" >The pony slides her head up and shakes it hard enough to make her face blur >She stops and gives you the widest smile you've ever seen >She's looking right at you >Sorta >One eye is, anyway >The other one is... looking to your right? >You glance over to the right, just in case >Nothing >"Thaaaaat's right! Mail delivery as quick as the wind blows!" >You hold your hoof up >You don't feel any breeze "Wind's not blowing..." >She rubs the back of her head with one of her hooves >"Well it sure is windy while flying!" >She probably has a point >"Hey, you're new! What's your name, anyway? I take care of allllllllllll of the most important things around Ponyville and beyond!" >Her voice is kinda funny "I'm... uh. I'm Anon." >That name makes the mare's eyes cross again >So much so that they almost both look at you >For some reason you feel uneasy >As soon as the glare started, it gave way to another squee of a smile >"So YOU'RE him! I got a letter for you that's been sitting around for days now!" "A letter?" >As in a personalized note? >"That's right! Mr. Anon, you sure are hard to find sometimes!" >She ruffles around in some sling carried over her shoulders >She produces a pink rectangle length of paper that has been folded over a few times >And some fluffy-looking brown thing >"And for me delivering your first letter, a muffin to celebrate!" >A muffin? >She plops it down in front of you >Smells fresh >And you are hungry... >"I'll be sure to find you again, Mr. Anon! Get ready for more letters soo, ok?!" >Before you can ask more questions, she flaps off >The muffin seems self-explanatory >But why was there a letter addressed to you? >Who would even write you a later? >Twilight would just tell you, wouldn't she? >You examine the letter as well as you can >It's pink >And it's really just a piece of paper that's been folded enough times to stay closed on it's own >... >You aren't too sure what else you could learn from it >The pink is kinda weird, though >Twilight wouldn't use that sort of paper "Wait! Twilight wouldn't use that sort of paper!" >A breakthrough! >You float the letter up to your face and glare at it >If it wasn't from Twilight... who else would know you? >It's close enough to your face that you can tell that it has... >A particular scent to it >Flowery >Strong enough to make you snort and crinkle your nose at it "Alright... so..." >Focusing singularly on the paper, you carefully unfold it >The penmanship is actually really something >>Applejack and Anonymous, >>This is mostly for Anon, but I know you will read this before he will, dear. >>I hope you are both doing well! I know that pregnancy can be tough on any pony. >>Anon, your new clothing is coming along beautifully! Even you will look like quite the handsome beast in them. >>I also appreciate your donations to my boutique. The clothing you brought from your homeland is quite unique. >>To Applejack specifically, you-know-who had a party a little while back. >>Please speak with Anon. I think she has been up to something and I am concerned. >>Not just for you, and not just for Anon. But for her too. She is still our, your, friend. >>Friends don't leave friends behind. Even if they sometimes... act out. >>BFFs forever and always >>Rarity >Rarity... >RARITY?! >White Twilight! "I knew it! I know who she is!" >But didn't that happen during the party? >You... >You weren't awake during the party >Were you? >You reread the letter a number of times >You don't know who Applejack is >But you're with her? >You have clothing? >SHE'S PREGNANT?! >A grave sinking feeling starts from your head and goes at least steps below the ground >If Twilight reads this, she'll... who knows what! >You don't know any Applejack! >Out of reflex, you fold the letter as many times as you magically can and tuck it in your mane, behind your ear >You can put your quill there and it stays so that should stay too >You aren't even sure where to begin >Who's you-know-who? >Is it Twilight? >Twilight had a party >Do other people have parties too that you would know? >You gravitate the muffin toward your mouth and take a bite >It tastes good, actually >Really good >You finish it sooner than you realize, mind stuck on the letter >Obviously you and Applejack are... >It makes you deeply uncomfortable to even finish that thought >You only love Twilight >If you could... >You shake your head and distract yourself from finishing that thought too >Focus, Anon >Applejack and Anon >Not you, of course >You're Anon >But not the Anon in the letter >Obviously >The circular logic loop breaks free when a pony comes up to you >"Well good afternoon, stranger! I haven't seen you in Ponyville before." >You jump at the sudden social interaction, unable to contain your surprise >"W-whoa now! Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you! Let me start over, I'm Flim, and let me tell you that I have quite th-" "I'm sorry. Do you know where Applejack is?" >The male pony stops his spiel and frowns >"...oh. Are you a fan of Applejack's goods? Don't tell me you came here through word of mouth... or advertisement?!" >You shake your head >None of what he's saying makes sense >It's distressing "Applejack is pregnant but it wasn't me. I love Twilight! Twilight! I have to find her and figure out what's going on!" >The pony's jaw drops >In an instant, his demeanor shifts to something completely different >"I... uh... wow, kid. That's kinda serious, isn't it." >The distress is rising in your voice >Twilight can't ever read that letter, or else she'll think that you don't love her >It would kill you if she didn't love you anymore "I need to find Applejack. Do you know where she is? Please help me." >Flim looks visibly uncomfortable but he pats your shoulder with his front hoof >"Hey, don't worry about it. Yeah, uh... listen. I kinda got stuff to do but let me head you over there real quick. Would you like that? My brother and I got a busy day but you look like you could use the help." >You aren't sure of what his tone is supposed to mean, but you're distraught and unable to do anything about it "Yes, please. I need to prove to Twilight that it wasn't me." >"Sure it wasn't, kid... sure. Let's, uh, let's go." >He starts walking off >You quickly follow, nearly tripping over yourself >You barely pay attention to your surroundings "I don't get it... who's Applejack? Twilight never brought her up before... is Anon a common name? It's my name." >You keep asking the same questions and bringing up the same details, like they're supposed to comfort you against the impossibility of it all >Flim makes a few comments and asks at least one question but you can't bring yourself to pay attention >You're surprised you've been able to walk so far, too >You eventually stop on a dirt road >In front of a big white arch that forms into a big white fence >A sign is hanging from the arch with the image of an apple on it "I've never been here before. Applejack is here?" >Flim sighs and nods >He seems to have accepted your unusual ways by now >"Sure is... I'll be honest, she's pretty good competition. Keeps us on our tips." >You don't respond and look forward, to the series of buildings and... what you could only guess were animals >"Listen, kid. You said your name was Anon, right?" >You nod >"If... uh, if you gotta skip town. You come find me and my brother. We could use some help and maybe you could use an escape, see?" >You nod again "I need to prove to Twilight that it wasn't me." >"Sure, kid... sure. Good luck to you." >The clearly awkward pony gives you a nod and trots off >With nothing left to do, you cross the arch into the new territory >There are a lot of buildings, big and small >You feel a little dizzy, it's all so open and massive >The library is really small in comparison >Your room is tiny in comparison >You wish you brought your quill >And your journal >You should really write about this as soon as you can >Except the letter part >Twilight can't ever read that >After enough wandering around, you see a red pony in the distance >A really big one >Not a unicorn either "Hey! Excuse me!" >You rush up to him as fast as your legs can carry you >He looks a little surprised but doesn't budge >"Eeyup?" "Listen, Applejack is..." >Maybe you really shouldn't say what she is >You don't want Twilight to learn it "I... uh... do you know where Anon is?" >Obviously this will prove that the letter is a prank >Because you're Anon >The pony gives a warm smile >"Eeeeeyup." >He turns to the right and points toward a large red building >"Over there." >...what? >How can you be over there? >You feel a terrific rush of fear and excitement >The mystery is soon to be solved! "Thank you!" >You gallop toward the red structure and charge in without thinking or knocking >You stop as soon as you see a towering figure >A tanned biped that's working on a big wheel >The clothing it is wearing has a few apple symbols sewn in >He looks at you with a look of dull surprise >"...hey there, little fella." "Are... are you Anon?" >His expression doesn't change >"Yeeeaah...? Who are you?" "I'M Anon!" >"...what?" >You stare at the biped >You can't help but think that he sounds kinda like you too "I'm... I'm Anon. Not you." >"Nnnnooo...? I'm pretty sure my name's Anon too. You're a... pony, right? Don't you guys always have goofy names? Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Big Mac..." "Twilight Sparkle too!" >The name makes his face go pale >"Yeah... her... her too." >Speaking of Twilight, you remember what you were doing here! >The purple letter, enveloped in your green magic, flies up to his face "Read this! If Twilight finds out about this and thinks I got Applejack pregnant, who knows how she'll react! I have to let her know that I wouldn't do that!" >The other Anon plucks the letter out of the green ether and reads through it >"Oh wow, new stuff is on the way. And... 'up to something', huh..." >He glances at you for a moment before returning to the letter >With a sigh, he moves to sit down on the dirt floor >"Alright... Anon. So wanna tell me what's going on?" >He puts the palm of his hand on his knee >He looks like he's appraising you for something >You return the gesture and sit down >You can't imitate his motions though "Well... my name is Anon. And... it has been two hundred and seventy one days since I first met Twilight. Or so she's told me. I used to be really sick. She taught me how to speak, how to read and write. And even how to use magic! I can't do nearly as much as her, but I have learned a whole lot. She loves me, and I love her." >You speak with pride, unable to stop yourself from smiling >The other Anon looks >Confused? >"...right. Where... where did you come from? What were you sick with?" "I don't know." >You shrug with your answer >You've asked that at least once before, surely "I don't have the, what is it, 'cutie mark' that she does. Or any other pony has I suppose. I don't know why." >"Yeah, you kinda are a bit of an oddity there, aren't you..." >It almost feels like you're talking to yourself >"So. You said... Twilight? Who are you to her? Who is she to you?" >You smile "I'm her...!" >You frown "I'm her..." >You're not sure you know what you are in relation to her "I'm her... apprentice...?" >"Are you saying or asking that?" >The curtness cuts into your confidence "Well, she has taught me how to use magic. I guess... she's my best friend. And I hope I'm still her best friend. Without her I probably wouldn't be alive today. She even gave me a-" >You reach up... but you didn't bring your quill "...ah... well, she gave me a quill. I really like it. I can write with it too." >"Sure, writing is fun..." "Yeah. And. I guess..." >You look around the interior of the structure >It looks a lot neater on the inside >It looks almost like a bedroom "I guess she's just... a really important pony to me. I don't know what else I can say. I'm sorry." >He waves his hand and shakes his head as an answer >"Nah, it's alright. I guess... well. I guess we'll just have to figure something out." >He scratches the back of his head >He clearly looks bothered >It bothers you in turn >"I guess... you hungry? Applejack's gotten a little temperamental due to how she's progressing, but she's really breaking out all the stops for family recipes. If our names are the same, then you'll love her stuff!" >The mere mention of food makes your stomach growl >The muffin was nice but you're only really able to eat when Twilight gives you food "Would that be ok? I don't think I can return it. And I don't have anything to give." >You did read how sharing dinners were also good for making friends >But better to keep that a secret, just in case he soon tries to change his mind >"Nah, don't worry about it. So... what brings you here, exactly? This letter?" >He gives you a weary look >"Is... Twilight around? Is she coming here?" >You feel yourself deflate "I wish.. I was at home and she's been out. So I started worrying. Because what if she needed help, right? So I left and couldn't see her outside, and then I got led here after a pony with wings gave me that letter and a muffin. So I ate the muffin, read the letter, and had to find you. Applejack knows that I didn't get her pregnant, right?" >Anon laughs and nods >"No... no, safe to say that wasn't you, it was me." >He chuckles again, half-amused by some thought in his head >"And boy, was she relentless... you know, I sometimes think that she would have gone berserk if that little whiskey trick didn't work on me." "Whiskey trick?" >"Yeah, where it invo...lves... you know what, nevermind. Not a big deal. So, that's a pretty unique name. Really cool too, trust me on that. Did Twilight name you?" "I think so. The oldest memory I have is of her calling me Anon. It used to hurt but I've gotten better for most other things." >He doesn't look happy with that information >But he doesn't look sad or mad "I really do love her, you know... have you seen her around here? Maybe I got the name from you?" >He gives an awkward laugh >"Twilight, coming here? I suppose anything is possible. But she and Applejack have really been kinda bitter at each other for a while. I think they'll get over it... maybe. But I just don't know. It's been a really long time since she was here. And it was only for what was effectively a few days. Christ, what a few days those were..." >The sound of fatigue and weight in his voice tells you it was serious "What happened?" >"Ah... stuff. Anyway, you said you were at home? Do you live with her?" "Yeah, in a library!" >Anon looks nervous "Everything's made of wood, I saw from outside and it's a huge tree!" >"Cool... good place for reading, I take it. Listen, mind if I get up real quick? Let me grab some snacks and stuff." >Between the promise of being fed and the pleasant conversation, it has done a lot to boost your morale "Yeah, sure! I'll stay right here." >The mammoth creature gets up in one motion and leaves >Rather than watch him go, you sit there and just... look at everything >None of it looks familiar to you >Do all of these things belong to him? >There were a ton of trees too >Could any of them become big enough to live in? >There were other animals that you saw too >A stray thought comes to mind >If Applejack and Twilight are friends, why haven't you heard that name before? >If they're friends, then are Anon and Twilight friends? >Obviously, you're Anon and you're friends with Twilight >So he has to be, too >But he kept looking... sad? >Worried? >Does he have any concerns? >It's difficult to understand what he means by his expressions alone >You hear a set of hooves and heavy steps and turn around with a slide >It's Anon! >And an orange pony with a really long mane and tail >Your eyes nearly pop out of your head "Y-you're huge?!" >She's nearly two or three times the width of Twilight! >At least around the center of her body >Her first reaction is a burst of laughter >"Well shucks, that's what a pregnant mare looks like! But I suppose I ain't just carryin' any ol' stallion's appleseed..." >She rocks to the side, rubbing against Anon's leg >The both of them make you feel so small >"S-so... yeah." >Anon clears his throat, adopting a pose that seems to ignore her rubbing her belly against his leg >"Applejack. This is... uh, Anon." >Applejack's affectionate rubbing freezes >She looks at you suspiciously >It makes you uncomfortable >"...come again?" >"Yeah." "Y-yeah..." >You try to speak up, as if it could help >She shakes her head >"Anon in stereo... did you know that you two fellers sound around the same or is it my imagination?" >"Yeah..." "We do?" >He sounds so much deeper than you >It's difficult to believe that she could think that, but you don't think she would lie >She distances herself from Anon >And has to re-adjust her steps to stop from falling over >She really does look like she ate an entire tree >Maybe you shouldn't say that >She steps up to you >Uncomfortably close >She smells nice though >Not as nice as Twilight, obviously >But it's... comforting >She gives you an indescribable leer >You feel like she's examining you, as if you're some old, low-quality book cover >"So... Anon's your name, huh?" >Her voice is far more quiet now >You nod >There's no other name you could have >"And... my man here told me that you live with Twilight? That sound right?" >You nod again, unable to help a smile creeping up >The eye contact from her stare makes it drop >"...you telling me that you came here on account of her being gone and you wanted to look for her?" "A-and... letter. I got-ANON got-letter. Rarity." >You can hardly articulate yourself >Her leer fades >Before you can do anything, she wraps one of her front legs around your neck >You're astonished that she can still move so fast or hold onto you so strongly! >"Well it sure as chutes looks like we got a guest for dinner!" >You try to cheer with approval but you can hardly speak >"Oops, sorry there." >She releases you and ruffles your mane >"Well don't you worry none, we'll feed you until you pop and head you on back home!" >"We will?" >Anon sounds surprised >Applejack leers at Anon >Not you, but the giant >"Yes we will... because we gotta talk with Twilight too. Don't we?" >For being such a large creature, he looks less than happy >"Do we have to? After t-" >"WE sure do! Now enough of that, keep yourself occupied and I'll get an early start on our grub." >She trots off just like that >It leaves you with a sorta sore neck, a ruffled mane, and one nervous looking Anon "Are you not looking forward to Twilight?" >Anon scratches the side of his head and walks back past you to where he was sitting before >He plops down again and you rotate to face him >"She and I are... have..." >He sighs and holds up his hands >They slap down on his knees and grip >"She's the reason why I'm here. She's ultimately the reason why I have the life I do. Which I like. I mean, I kinda miss the internet and stuff but with Applejack and with our first two on the way..." >You gawk at him "She's pregnant with two?!" >He grins, nodding with a tilt in his head >"Yeah... yeah. Guess our dreams came true there. And to be honest, we haven't even begun to get started. Not with the plans we have, anyhow." >You start to feel awkward and flustered from that intimate detail "So! What about Twilight...?" >He shrugs >"Yeah... her. Well... I... ah crap..." >He looks like it physically makes him ill to speak of it >"After I was here and Applejack and I decided to... well, I'll be completely honest with you, guy." >He points to himself, then outside >"We still haven't been... together... for much time at all. Chick freaking licked my neck when I slept for God's sake! And she still does!" >That tidbit makes it feel like your eyes couldn't burst out of your head harder "W-what?! Why?!" >"You got me, bro. There's some other things that she does but..." >The fingers on his right hand dances on his knee >"I mean... I don't hate it. I don't dislike it at all. It kinda seems like if I take a stand on an issue, she falls in line immediately. Otherwise, she has a really strong idea on what things should be like and I kinda agree on it. It certainly ain't something that would ever realistically end well from where I came from. But I'm not there. And she isn't from there. So I think it'll actually turn out really well. You know?" >If he isn't here, where is he from? "I have no idea what you mean." >"Yeah... fair point. I guess you wouldn't." >You watch him in silence >He fidgets in place for a while before speaking up >"So... you said you loved Twilight, eh? Are you two a... couple?" >The thought of it makes you smile and puff your chest out "Well... I mean..." >Your confidence shoots up >Only to plummet "I mean... I hope so? I think. She takes care of me a lot. And we've done other things. I used to be sick a lot. And when I couldn't do much, she would help me with everything. She would sleep with me, we would do other stuff... some of it actually kinda hurt, now that I think about it. Some of it felt really good too." >Your boldness wavers every sentence >You don't have the best memories >So much of your time has been spent alone that all of your experiences with Twilight sort of muddle together >You sure could go for a short nap with her >That would be nice >Anon looks concerned >"Guess she kinda would be the sort who can get overzealous, huh... you sure you're ok with that?" >That doesn't make sense to you "Why wouldn't I be?" >That seems to be the right answer because he doesn't press further "Oh yeah! What does Applejack make for dinner?" >"Finally, a topic we can both enjoy. Ah man, you're gonna love it. After my mom stopped freaking out, which took a... well, she got over it a little too quickly. But anyway, they got to talking and exchanging ideas and..." >Between personal stories and staggeringly bold tales of what he and Applejack did, he lists off dozens of dishes, snacks, desserts, breakfasts, lunches and more >You can start to see why they're a real couple >It's so warm outside, too >And bright >But not too bright >It feels better than the room you've been in for so long >You're a little jealous "So where are we going, anyway?" >"Well... we usually eat dinner together. That is to say, Applejack, her siblings, Granny Smith, and myself. But sometimes we kinda just do our own thing. We have a little spot that we go to." "Are we heading there now?" >"Sure am, my guy." >You've spent the entirety of the day with Anon >For being a massive human, he's really nice >None of your books have ever mentioned humans >You pass by so many big trees, including one that looks like its held up by a complex array of ropes "So... are you and Applejack honestly happy? You talk about her so much... you remind me of Twilight." >"You tend to go on about Twilight a lot too." "Well of course, I love her!" >You go through the rows and layers of trees and over a hill >And downward >You follow Anon down a series of wood steps and logs laid into the ground until you reach the bottom >You both stop at a really new-looking dock >"Ah man... let me tell you, I'm so happy that it's all built up now. You know, this spot used to be just a little pond at the bottom of these hills." >You step in place >The dock really does feel sturdy >It smells like fresh wood, too >Sorta like the library "This really is great...." >You sit down and watch the pond >It looks like you could get lost in it easily >Anon sits down as well, shifting until he's sitting just right >Maybe it's his assigned spot >"It sure it... sun is still out, but it's setting just enough to there's a nice orange hue. And shade for days unless it's noon or so." >He sounds really happy >Content, even "Can we talk about Twilight?" >That's the only real thing on your mind >You would want to share this view with her >You want to have dinner with her >You've never had that sort of thing >"I... yeah, alright. What about her?" "Do you think I'll be able to get her pregnant and start a family with her, too?" >You don't at all try to hide how happy the thought makes you >"Well... I suppose I don't see why not. You just gotta keep at it." "Ha ha ha, yeah!" >You feel lightheaded at the notion "That would be awesome..." >You wonder where she is now "...do you think Twilight misses me?" >"Sure. If she loves you, she does." "Ah hah... I know she does..." >You know she loves you >You just know it >Anon doesn't seem bothered by your fawning >"Does Twilight... well, it's none of my business. But does she treat you alright?" "Of course! She gave me a ton of books that are awesome stories. She gave me a book to write in, a quill. I think it's a... a... well I forget what type of quill it is. But I think it's a really good one. She takes care of me... she..." >You feel like you can be honest "She... sometimes she doesn't see me for days. I still get food, it kinda just appears on my table. But I miss her sometimes. Today, she was missing and I was lonely so I just had to find a way to find her. I've never been outside before so I just had to... try. She said I wouldn't ever, EVER find friends. But I met you. And Applejack! You two are my friends, you don't mind feeding me, and you're going to take me back to Twilight. I hope she won't be mad at me for leaving." >"Are you telling me that she doesn't let you outside?" >Anon sounds shocked "Well... I didn't know if I would be safe outside. And Twilight said that it wasn't, and she wouldn't lie." >You furrow your brow >As if for the first time, you notice that your ears have been twitching to the ambient sounds all over the place >Your tail has been swishing at the thought of meeting Twilight >You're outside right now and you're fine "She... she hasn't lied. But maybe she just didn't know how safe it could be?" >You aren't sure what to do or say about this inconsistency >She can't be wrong >Maybe she just didn't know >Maybe you could surprise her by showing her how great outside could be! >"Well shucks, don't you two just look comfy as can be! Don't mind me none, it ain't like I'm eatin' for three!" >Applejack is already halfway down the hill, carrying a pair of saddlebags on her >Goodness is she large >"Yeah, sorry AJ. Anon and I... gah, Anon and Anon..." >The human mumbles something >"We were discussing... well, you'll find out." >Despite her size, the big orange mare moves faster than you >Anon grabs the saddlebags and lays out the items while she huffs and sits down >Very close to him >They look like they're really stuck together >Maybe that's why Anon sat exactly where he did >You watch the saddlebags get emptied >It's a ton of really colorful looking stuff >It smells amazing >"Now you go on and eat up, Anon. You had a mighty long trip from..." >"Twilight's basement, it sounds like." >"Sheesh... no kidding?" >You recognize that they're saying words but food in front of you looks almost too good to eat >"Do you think he's..." >"Don't even mention that." >"I'm just saying, yer Anon, he's Anon..." >"Mother's intuition is all I'm saying..." >"Oh sh'yeah, as if. "E-excuse me... the food is hot. Can we eat now please?" >Anon and Applejack look at you with more than a little surprise >"...er, sure, sugarcube. I ain't gonna be crossed if you get started." >"Go for it, guy. As long as they aren't especially made for..." >Their voices go quiet >"Now you shush, I ain't gonna give some buck that young any of that... where's it gonna go anyhow?" >"Well with all of his talk with Twilight..." >You choose to ignore their conversation and go for the closest thing: a fluffy, apple-scented triangle that looks slick and shiny with some sort of layer on top >Your chosen snack glows green and hovers up to your face >You take one solid chomp out of it >It... >It still feels hot >But it tastes so... >Sweet >Flaky >Solid but it practically melts in your mouth >Applejack giggles when she sees your face >"Y'alright, sugarcube? Caramel apple danish ain't part of your normal diet, is it?" >You stare into the fading sunlight >You feel as if you've tasted the prize that lies at the end of the world >Like that one book went, this would be a megalixir >"...Anon, you alright?" >The deeper human voice causes you to snap out of it >You didn't realize that your mouth was left open long enough to drool >Before you can answer, you shove the rest of it into your face >Half-struggling to choke it all down, you breath in as soon as you can "This is AWESOME! I've NEVER had anything like this!" >You can feel your pulse quickening, and your vision sharpening >A second one flies off of the bright red cloth they were set out on and down your mouth >And then a third one >You feel tears going down your face >You've never, ever, once tasted something so good >On such a beautiful day >In such a wonderful place >All you're missing is Twilight >Anon and Applejack watch you chew and swallow in between frantic heaves and... tears >You're crying >All of this feels far too good >Too good to the point that you feel guilty >What if Twilight never had one of these before? >What do you tell her? >You lean back, feeling suddenly drained from the whirlwind of emotions "I... I wish Twilight made these..." >You feel even more guilty >Twilight doesn't cook >The library doesn't even have a kitchen or spot to make caramel apple danishes >But you love her >You aren't criticizing her, you would never >But these... "Twilight..." >As soon as you've tasted bliss, you feel yourself sink into despair >Anon and Applejack watch you >No doubt they must be judging you for being so emotional >But they have each other >And you're alone >You eventually calm down >It takes some kind words from both Anon and Applejack to help sooth you though >Both of them seem so understanding, they haven't asked any questions at all >Anon just patted your back and Applejack said that everything was going to be alright >You feel so small compared to them >They hardly even ate anything to begin with >"Hey, bud... I don't know about you but I'm really stuffed. Do you want the rest of these?" >For being a big human, he only ate one! >Applejack only ate one too >You ended up eating five "Are you guys sure? Isn't this your dinner?" >Applejack smirks >"Well I thought that I might make some more stuff later too. But go on, sugarcube. You can take the rest with you. Don't worry none about carrying them, you can use the smaller saddlebag." >Now that you're paying attention to them, one is significantly bigger than the other "You mean it? Really?" >"Sure do! In fact, let's get you all loaded up and then we can walk off those sweets by paying Twilight a visit. Sound good?" >You can't help but smile >Anon can't help but give an awkward smile >"Yeah... that... that sounds like a plan, doesn't it." "Alright! Yeah, thank you!" >Applejack really makes you feel safe >She doesn't talk down to you >But she helps you understand things >Apparently the saddlebag was her big brother's when he was a lot smaller >You really get the vibe that she's able to stand up to anything >And not because she's the size of a wagon >Not that you would ever say that to her >Anon also seems confident in his words >Sorta >Something is worrying him but he isn't saying what >All the same, you're loaded up with a satchel absolutely full of the treats! >You haven't said it but you really want to share some of these with Twilight >You follow the pair, watching the outside world as it comes up >"...are you sure we should be talking to her?" >"We ain't gonna avoid her forever. Especially now with... him." >"Well, what I told you is what I know." >"I'm worried..." >"For what?" >"For him. For her too." >"Seriously?" >"She's still... I still see her as my friend." >You can only hear a fraction of what they're talking about >There are far too many distractions to pay keen attention to them >There are other ponies of all sorts and sizes >Birds >Buildings >A ton of things you've only ever read about >Before you know it, you're back where you started >Twilight's library >You would recognize that door with the candle anywhere >Anon keeps his distance from the door >A good few steps away from either you and Applejack >"...so do we know for sure that she's not in there?" "Well... she wasn't in there when I left. She wasn't in my room, she wasn't in the main rooms." >You sound sure of that "...but I didn't check upstairs." >"You didn't check upstairs?" "...well the stairs are kinda..." >"Seriously?" >Applejack turns her head to look at Anon >Whatever she did, it was enough for him to quiet himself >"If the stairs are tough, the stairs are tough." >She winks at you >"I don't care for them none much these days either." >That makes you feel a lot better >"Now why don't you go and knock? If she is here, she'll hear ya." >That makes sense >You trot up to the door and knock your hoof against it a few times >And wait >... >Nothing >You look back at Applejack >She squints at the upper windows >"TWAH-LIGHT SPARKLE, GET YOUR BUNS DOWN HERE OR SO HELP ME I WILL BAKE YOU INTO A PIE AND FEED YOU TO THE NEAREST TIMBERWOLF SO THAT WHEN I USE IT FOR FIREWOOD I CAN SMELL YOU." >You shrink back, your eyes wide >Why in the world did she say that?! >"Jesus, AJ..." >You glance around >What few ponies that are still around are watching "A-Applejack, I promise, it's ok, you don't have to..." >"WHAT MORE, I WILL PERSONALLY SEE TO IT THAT THOSE ASHES BE FORMED INTO A TINY VERSION OF YOU SO MY FOALS WILL HAVE A DOLL TO PLAY WITH SO THEY-" >"Enough lady, Christ!" >Even Anon is scared >A worryingly long time passes with no one saying anything else >You don't dare say anything >You don't dare move an inch >After some time, the door actually opens! >A teary-eyed, wreck of a Twilight bursts out >"Enough, Applejack! What?! What is it?! What could you possibly have that I would wa--ANON!" >You almost expect her to mean the human >You look back at him >He looks outright terrified >Before you can ask why he looks so scared, you feel a hard grip enclose around your neck >Your eyes bug out from Twilight hugging you so hard you swore she was another pony entirely >"Where were you?! I thought you were gone! You didn't even take your quill and your books, I was so worried, don't you EVER do that again, I swear I would turn Equestria inside out to find you! I tried to find you but I could only find-" >"Ah-hem? Twilight, we're right here." >She stops rubbing her face against yours, but the unicorn doesn't release you >Applejack still sounds agitated >Twilight pulls you away from them >"You! What do you think you were doing, stealing Anon away from me?! Once isn't enough for you!? ONCE ISN'T ENOUGH?!" >What does she mean? >"I ain't stolen nothing that belonged to you to begin with! Now listen here, Lil' Anon there ended up on MY-" >Applejack looks back at Anon >You look back at Anon >He looks at least four shades more pale than he did before >"Er, OUR land and didn't know which way was up if he was falling!" >"A LIKELY STORY YOU THIEF! YOU, I SHOULD HAVE CELESTIA SEND YOU TO THE MOON!" >"YEAH WELL I WANNA SEE YOU TRY, I'LL BUCK YOU STRAIGHT TO CANTERLOT SO YOU CAN ASK HER YOURSELF!" >The heated screaming is terrifying >It's enough to make your eyes feel hot with confusion, irritation, and seeing your friends screaming with her "Both of you, stop already!" >In a quick blast of green, Twilight is knocked away from you >Applejack shifts her attention and her footing "I was the one who was missing you because you weren't here, I was the one who went outside even though I know I'm not supposed to, I got a letter saying that I impregnated Rarity and I knew I didn't but if you thought I did I knew that you would be mad so I asked someone to help me find Applejack and there I met Anon and then I met Applejack and then I saw that he made her pregnant and we just share the same name and they fed me and gave me a bag and they're my friends and friends don't fight and threaten and hate each other so stop!" >You say all of that in one breath, audibly straining until your lungs are near their limit >You stumbled backward, huffing and breathing as hard as you can >You actually feel a little lightheaded >But no one is screaming anymore >They're just watching you speak "Applejack's my friend, Twilight... Anon is too." >You look at the pair "...right? Aren't you guys my friends?" >Applejack nods with a stern look on her face >"Sure am." >Anon keeps his distance but he's still easy to listen to >"Darn straight we are! But... I'll be the first one to admit it. I'm confused here. I'm very confused. And to be honest, a little scared." >He kinda has a good point >You're confused too, but for different reasons >No one says anything for another stretch of time >You back away from the two mares, and toward Anon >They look at each other, and toward you >After a few seconds, Twilight wipes her face with her hoof >"...do you two want to come inside to talk?" >"Bet your bottom bit we do. Come on Anon, we're heading in." >"Now wait just a second, I'm not-" >"GO INSIDE, ANON." >Twilight AND Applejack scream at the same time >You and Anon jump >He looks at you and you at him "...I can show you some books. I have a lot." >"...is one of them about a pair of ponies in a city full of monsters?" "Yeah! You've read it?" >"I know it pretty well... sorta. Well... shit, lead the way." >"So... this is your room, huh?" "Yeah! It's pretty awesome, isn't it?" >"...that's one word for it, sure." >You thought you would have trouble going down the stairs but Anon picked you up and went down them for you >Only after sitting with him around your table area did you realize that your room wasn't built for him >He can't actually stand up in the space >You shook off your saddlebag and brought over a few of your favorite books >After seeing how Applejack moved around, you feel more confident in your own movements "Check these out! Twilight said that they were just for me. Resident Pony, Lord Ponetree, Kung Pao: Enter the Hoof and that one is all sorts of funny!" >He takes one of them, the green aura fading from his choice >"Enter the Hoof... right. Real subtle, Twilight..." >He sounds amused >You think? "Have you read that one Anon?" >"Well yeah, of course. Or I guess I saw it. This wasn't originally a book, you know. It was a movie." "A what now?" >Anon flaps the book back and forth >"A... ah crap, are there even movies here? I'm sure there are. Well nevermind that, movies are things that are acted out. Kinda like a play." >A play >You think you read up on those "So ponies acting out stuff in real time and speaking so there's no reading involved?" >"Bingo. And there's also music to go with it, sound effects, and special effects like explosions and flying pyramids." >Most of that sounds cool >You have no idea what a flying pyramid is >"Best of all? M'yeah! It has BET-TEA. M'yeah ha ha!" >He voice raises up to some overly nasally accent >You stare at him without reaction >"M'yeah! M'yeah haha! Master Betty has evil plans!" >Nothing >You really don't know what he's referencing >Anon goes from smiling to slowing down >"M'yeah... ha..." >He clears his throat >"I uh... yeah. I guess you'd have to see it to get it. Can't imagine the book translates well." >He nods, resuming a more neutral face "That's... not how the book went, I don't think." >"Yeah well Twilight was working off of half-accurate memories as is." >What does that mean? >"Listen, Anon... alright, I can't do that. I'm gonna call you something else." >You feel a little defensive "What, you don't like my name? It's your name too you know." >"No, your name is fine. I like it. It's just that... I can't help but wonder if..." >He keeps trying to start up a sentence, only to let it flounder >"Do you remember anything like, say, parents? I know what you said before that it was just you and Twilight but. This creeps me out, man. I don't think this is all kosher." >He looks concerned >He hasn't stopped looking concerned since he entered Twilight's library >Except for maybe during that Bet-Tea impression "I don't... know what you're talking about. I love Twilight." >"I get that. But where is your mom and dad?" "I... I love Twilight though?" >This question bothers you deeply >You feel like you can only give one answer to that >"Anonymous... where is your family?" "I. I have family." >"Twilight isn't your family though." "Yes she is. I love her. And she loves me." >"No, you aren't listening." >His voice is turning stern >"Where is your family? Your siblings? Your parents? Your friends? You showed me how happy you were to be outside. Why weren't you allowed outside before?" >You can feel your eyes watering >You try to return the stern tone but it isn't working "Twi-Twilight IS my family! I love her and she loves me! She cares for me, ok?!" >"Anon listen, I'm asking because I care." "No! You don't! Twilight loves me and I love Twilight, that's all there is! There is no family, ok?! I'm her family, she's mine!" >You can feel your heart start to pound in your ears >You know for a fact that he's your friend >You know for a fact that he's asking you a real question >But you lack the capacity to think about it >You can't >You can't >You can't >You can't >You CAN NOT >Almost everything you learned and experienced outside drains from your head >That ultimately didn't matter >But Twilight did >She's the only reason why you left the dim, safety of your room for the stupid outside anyway >Her missing was the only reason why you had that delicious food and saw so many things and met other ponies >"Hey... hey, I'm sorry if I struck a nerve. Alright? I'm sorry buddy. Don't worry, I believe you. I just wanna watch out for you. You know?" >How did you end up in his arms? >You feel some alien sensation that... tells you you're safe >You keep repeating something but his words cut through them >Maybe its due to how deep his voice is compared to yours >"You're alright, buddy. It's ok. I promise that it's ok." >What are you even saying? >Is this really you? >All at once, you feel like you've been slammed back into your own body >Why does it feel like you were drifting away into some unknown space >Anon keeps patting your shoulder, his hug tightening >"It's alright. Trust me, I know how it can feel. You're ok. Calm down and breath." >After a few moments of letting those words sink into your head, you do breath >Were you not before? >You feel so ashamed of yourself >"It's alright, buddy. I'm here for you." >Is he choking up? >You look up at him through post-cry eyes >He's crying too >He looks like he's in pain >"Nothing bad's gonna happen. You can trust me." >You want to speak but the patting keeps you from doing anything but melting against his chest >By the time you wake up, you can see that Anon is still holding you >Applejack is there too >And Twilight! >It feels so nice to see her again "Twilight..." >This feels like a dream >"See what I mean?" >Applejack sounds distressed >"You're being a monster. This isn't right." >"You don't understand, Applejack..." >Twilight sounds defeated >What's going on? >The mental fatigue is keeping you from focusing >"Anon is... he's happy here. He's happy with me. I make him happy, I promise I do." >"In this dingy little prison you call a room? The boy ain't even seen birds." >"It's not... he just doesn't remember." >Anon speaks up >You can hear his voice so clearly against them >It's quiet though >Hushed >"Twilight, this is fucking insane. You can't keep him down here. This name... what are you thinking?" >"No, you both don't get it!" >Twilight speaks with a whine >"I... I found him! I found him like this and brought him back." >"And you gave him my name?" >"He... reminds me of you! Ok? I'm sorry, I had to." >"And he just so happens to sound like a younger Anon too? Ain't that all the luck." >"I can't just control what ponies sound like, Applejack...!" >Are they arguing? >Why would they argue? >He's still patting your shoulder >You feel so drained >Your mind clings to every noise Twilight makes >But Anon's words feel like they are more important >You don't even know how that can be >You don't love Anon >You love Twilight >"...we're gonna come by here and see him again." >Anon >He's gonna see you again? >That's cool >"If we find out you kidnapped some poor pony..." >"Anon, please enough! I would never do that. I will admit, I... I've done some bad before. But I'm doing everything I can now for what's best for everyone!" >"Who exactly is everyone? I ain't buyin' it. Especially once I lay out Anon's appleseeds, I ain't gonna let you-" >"Applejack for Celestia's sake, stop! I would never foalnap anyone! I promise, I'll start looking for his family tomorrow." >Twilight sounds nervous >"I... I promise on the Elements of Harmony. I promise on Celestia's name. I would never do what you think I would. I'm not some monster." >Everything goes silent >The patting continues >You find yourself in your bed >It takes a minute but you will yourself to wake up more >Where's Anon? >Applejack? "Twilight?" >She's there >She's at the table, her back turned to you >Though you feel spongy and fatigued, you slip out of bed and carefully step over to her >You sit beside her >She's staring at the clock she gave you as a gift >She looks... >You don't know how she looks >She's wearing a face you've never seen before >"Anonymous..." >You smile >You love it when she says your name >Something deep inside of you resonates like a bell being struck "Twilight... I'm so happy to see you again." >She turns her neck to face you >Your smile drops >You get an intense chill down your entire back, down to your tail >Something deep inside of you tells you to run >Why would you need to run? >"Even after everything... you're still drawn to her." "W-what...?" >"We can't start over... not again. Not anymore. They know too much, they would get even more suspicious." >The low tone of her voice is unlike anything you've ever heard before >You feel like you want to throw up "T... Twilight. I..." >You say the only thing that comes to mind "I... I love you...?" >The corners of her mouth curl downward >"Prove it." >Those two words twist your heart so hard you feel like you might puke >"Prove you love me, Anonymous. You left me. You brought them to our home... you R U I N E D my plan." >You can't breath >A soul-shaped lump catches in your throat >She disdain she has in her eyes is almost enough to kill you "I..." >What do you do? >What did you do? >WHAT DID YOU DO?! "I... I'm sorry... you were gone for... for days." >"I was doing things that will change this world and you can't wait for days?! What is a day?" "Twilight, I was hungry!" >"I was PREPARING for our future and you put it in CRISIS!" >You feel your body shutting down >You can't even bring yourself to cry >Her tone >Her stare >Her coldness >It's killing you "I... I was just so lonely..." >Your vision starts to go purple >"You? Lonely? What do Y O U know about loneliness?!" >You feel like you're going to be torn apart >This empathic wave of venom is enough to make you want to die >You love Twilight >But you hurt her >You failed her >You ruined what she was doing >You got into the way >You monster >You abomination >Are these your thoughts? >Monsters don't have thoughts >Purple fills your eyes until nothing remains >You can't see anything >But you can still feel Twilight's disdain >You will never forget what you've done >You will never deserve her love >You will atone >You will thank her >When she is >Done with you >>Hello new book! My name is Anon. Twilight promised me that things would be better. She said that this would be a "new start". Because of me having a new start, she wants me to put side my old book and keep it but not write in it anymore. She said that we came to an agreement on it, and that I can keep my quill. I do not actually remember agreeing with her. The last thing I remember was talking to Anon about movies. The rest of it just feels like a blur. Twilight said that it was ok that I didn't remember. I trust her. I will call today Day One of New Start! Maybe I'll figure something out better to call it. Twilight said to stop writing the days but I like doing it. Maybe It's ok if I just do it some other way. >"Anon! Breakfast time!" "Alright, coming!" >You blow on the ink a few times and close the book >The cover of it isn't normal brown >It's purple >It reminds you of Twilight >You actually really like it >Twilight said to not bring your books all over the place since they're special >This one is definitely special >You get up and trot over to the... stairs... >You gulp >You saw Anon go down stairs while carrying you >You can do that, easy, without even carrying yourself >You just need to do it... the opposite way >Focusing on the promise of breakfast, you take your first step on the stairs >Then another >Then another >The jagged upward slope is solid >Another >Another >Another >Was it really this easy? >You pick up the pace and immediately trip >Oh crap >You recover just in time for your head to poke up into the base floor >Twilight is sitting on a big red and white blanket >In front of her are a few pairs of big... triangles? >They smell good >They almost look familiar too >"Good morning Anonymous! I hope you slept well. I went and made us some breakfast!" >You give your biggest smile and quickly take your place opposite of her >Without thinking, you cover one in green magic and devour it >You sigh, nodding "This is really great." >"I'm glad you like them. I had a feeling you would love something like this." >It's sweet, and still warm and fluffy too >It looked slick and shiny "It tastes just like I remember... when was the last time you made these, anyway?" >"Oh... you know." >She gives you a silly sounding laugh >"I guess I just haven't been keeping track... but I promise to get back into the groove of making more!" "New book, new cooking." >You sigh and lean to the side >You close your eyes >You can almost smell something >Like... dirt and wood >Where have you been that had dirt? "I feel like things are gonna get only better..." >"I sure hope so. I love you Anon." >You open your eyes >For a moment you thought that she wasn't smiling "I love you Twilight. I really do." >"Well, let's eat! After that, we gotta go somewhere important that I think you would like." >Going outside? >Into the real outside world? >Your everything perks up at the news "Where are we going?!" >"It's a seeeecret. But it's gonna be fun, don't you worry!" "Awesome! I'll pack my saddlebag an-" >"Where did you get a saddlebag from?" "I..." >You furrow your brow >She's kidding, right? >...didn't you have one? "I... I had one. Didn't I? I was given one?" >Twilight looks amused >"Oh! Did you have a dream of it?" >A dream? >That couldn't have been a dream >Whatever 'that' is "I... huh? I'm confused." >Twilight giggles and levitates up another breakfast triangle toward you >"You need to lay off the books, Anon, you're starting to think funny things." "I...no, I promise I'm not joking. I remember having a bag and..." >Twilight rolls her eyes at you with a smirk >"Oh boy... I guess I was caught." "H-huh...? Caught?" >A cloud of purple poofs out beside you >You gawk at a really fancy, really well-made saddlebag >It looks a whole lot better than the one you remember, it looks new even >The front flap has Twilight's cutie mark >Except its green >"I think you may have overheard me about getting you something and... well, ta-da!" >You're at a loss of words "Whoa... are you serious? It's for me?" >"Well of course it is you silly! It's a gift so you can carry stuff without worrying about it when we go out!" >You aren't really sure what to think >It looks really nice >Your magic grabs hold of it >You fit it on yourself while sitting >It seems to go over your neck and fit itself well to your shoulders >"It's something to have on your front rather than your back. It's easier to sort through and means that even when you're sitting or something, it is easy to look through and organize!" >The one you were thinking of was a lot different "That's handy... I can't even imagine what I can put in it!" >Something keeps nagging at you "...are you sure I was just having a dream? I promise, I remember having a saddlebag tha-" >"It was a DREAM, Anon. You know that." >She sounds agitated "O-oh. Alright. I guess so... sorry for worrying you." >You aren't sure how you were worrying her but you probably needed to apologize anyway >"Don't even worry about it! Finish up, we have a tight schedule to keep and you're gonna help me out with it!" >A schedule! >Exactly what you need! >You've read that you need a schedule, anyway >Twilight's old self-authored study guides were full of rules on how to study and keep to schedules >You never actually thought you would have to start abiding by them too >Maybe you'll be able to impress her if you do the right things! >"Alright Anon, are your eyes still closed?" "Yes Twilight, of course." >"Mmm... I hope so. I would hate to have to blindfold you." >She doesn't sound like she would hate doing that >The saddlebag she gave you feels really good, like it was custom-fitted for you >Your new book is also in it >Your quill is behind your ear, partially in your mane >You feel prepared for anything >In an instance, you inhale and smell... >Fresh air? >This smells different >You fight the instinct to open your eyes "Can I... see now?" >"No, not yet." >She sounds excited about something >Is it something she's seeing but you aren't? >You take a few steps around, sniffing more >You think you can smell trees >Grass >You know that this has to be outside "How about now?" >"Nooooope. But almost." "Oh come on!" >You take more steps >You bonk into something >You inhale hard >"Oh my! Even without seeing you can find me!" >You can smell Twilight >It sounded like she was... not in front of you not moments before >Were you wrong? "Twilight, I can't see anything... can I open my eyes now?" >You feel something ruffle your mane >"Oh alright. You can open your eyes. "Thank you." >You open your eyes >What you see is... >You can't adequately describe it >You can see trees >A mountain! >Multiple mountains! >A castle so far away that it looks like a toy to you >A long, flowing river too >Your legs lose all strength and lead to you plopping your butt down on the grass >You don't even notice that Twilight is beaming at you "Wha..." >What happened? >Where did you go? >"Welcome to Canterlot! Our new home!" >Canterlot? >You've read about the place! >It's where the most important ponies in the world live, and some of the richest too >Along with the two princesses that rule and protect the world >Honestly you thought it was all just another fantasy book >But Twilight would never put fiction with history "I..." >You lack the wit to say anything >How did you travel here so quickly? "W..." >She beams wider at you >She's really happy >Genuinely happy "T.. Twilight?" >She gives a squee "How... did we get here?" >"Oh, that. Teleportation! It's a really simple spell to be honest. But it takes a lot of concentration so I thought you shouldn't learn it to make sure you don't teleport yourself into a mountain or under the sea... not that it happens but it totally could if you aren't prepared!" >There are so many complex concepts there that you can only stare at her "...huh?" >She shakes her head and giggles >"Don't sweat the small stuff, I got us breakfast! Lunch! Brunch, even!" >She trots to your side >Sure enough, there is a massive red and white blanket laid out with a ton of food on it >Far more food than she could have made on such short notice >You follow her, eyes unable to decide if the food or unicorn rear is more appetizing >How long did she spend preparing this? >You sit opposite of her >You don't exactly remember the last time she's been so happy >You don't even know where to start "What about our home? Isn't... home our home? What about all of your books? My books? And my clock?" >She shrugs like none of those even matter >"Oh don't worry, we'll move those over too. And we can have multiple copies of books too! Hayburger?" >The hayburger looks... >Familiar >But the center looks like it is only flowers and dried grass "I'm... good?" >She shrugs and devours it with joy "Why are we moving to Canterlot? What about Ponyville?" >She stops in mid-chew >She rolls her eyes >A purple-coated muffin flies up to your face >"Ponyville is just... too small. You aren't going to learn a lot there. There aren't good ponies in Ponyville. Not like Canterlot." >This doesn't sound correct but the muffin is too tempting >The purple magic aura blends into green "But... what about your friends?" >She finishes her burger before speaking up >"They'll know where I am. Friends don't always need to be around each other all the time. A little distance can do us some good." >Well that makes sense >The muffin tastes good >After a few more chews something starts to worry you "Twilight?" >"Yes, Anon?" "Would distance do us some good?" >She glares at you >It's a glare so cold it freezes your core >But it only lasts a second >"Well of course not! I mean, we're far, FAR closer than merely friends. Right?" "I-I hope so..." >"Well we are. And that's why we don't need distance at all! With both of us moving here, I can continue my studies, you can learn more things, and we'll have a lot of new friends that won't get in the way of things." >You like the idea of new friends "What are you studying?" >She stops in mid-chew of a long, flat floral thing >She frowns... and chews extra hard a few times >"Anonymous... I need to be honest." "Ok. Can I still be Anon?" >You smile >You found out about that joke through one of your books >After a few seconds she smiles back >"This is a really good reason why I love you Anon." >Compliments like that just make you melt >"You see... you know how you like wings. Right?" >You nearly choke on your food "I-I never said that!" >"Oh don't worry, I know you do. But don't worry about that, I..." >She takes a massive chomp out of her food >She gulps it down as quickly as she can >"I am... studying. To do something. And it is going to... give me wings!" "You can just do that!?" >Magic can teleport and give wings?! >What can't it do? >Will you ever be able to do something like that? >"N... no. You see, it's..." >She sighs >"It's just complicated. And it's going to really be hard on me. So I need someone to help me through it. I need you, Anon. But you can't tell anypony this." "When did this start?" >You want to ask her a thousand things, and at least a thousand more about this new development >"Before we met." >That was curt "Oh... alright. What happens once you get wings? I mean, you can fly then, right? Without magic? And... uh... other things too. Probably." >"Well..." "You'll still be you. Just with... wings, I guess. How is that going to work, anyway?" >"Now that you mention that, it shouldn't-" "Can I get wings too? Or is this a thing that requires strong magic? Can you carry me while flying around like Super Mare or is this kinda... different?" >"That story didn't come from here, it came from A-" "Are those hayburgers any good?" >Your quest for knowledge led to the final straw for her >She bursts out laughing >You're a little lost >"Oh Anon... I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner. I guess I was just concerned." "That I might not like hayburgers?" >"No, silly. That you may leave me. I don't think I could handle losing you yet again. You're too valuable. I won't be able to do this without you." >This isn't the first time she has said this >You... think? "I... d..." >You feel so confused, like she's having a conversation you've only just now entered "You mean... when I was sick before, right?" >After an uncomfortable length of time she finally nods >"Yes, Anon. You used to be very... sick. Very unstable. It took an awful lot of magic and medicine to help your body. I'll admit, I got... distracted at times. I'm very physically attracted to you, so of course sometimes I just... you know..." >The mention of that makes you realize that you haven't actually had that much fun with Twilight >Not lately >Drawn by her words, you lift your journal out and start writing >All you're writing is what she says >She seems proud of your quill going to paper "Can you tell me what I was sick with, Twilight?" >"Yes. You had... a broken heart. It wasn't whole. I didn't understand it. I had no clue of what you could possibly need to stay alive, given the state you were in. All I could do was love you." >Her smile falters >At first >But it rises with every word >"And... thank Celestia, it was enough. I gave you as much as I could. And more, if I can be honest. Thankfully it was enough." >Something pokes the back of your head >Your own voice >Where is your family? "T... Twilight? Can I ask one more thing?" >"Of course, Anon. Anything for you. Everything, for you." >She looks at you like you're everything she could want >Can you ask her this? >She is your family >Obviously >But... "I... uh..." >You clear your throat >Your quill doesn't bother to keep track of your own words >You know what you say >But you want to be able to re-read proof that she loves you "W. Where..." >"Where did I get those hayburgers? I know you're eying them... just one bite and I promise you'll be hooked." >She smirks at you >"In Canterlot, there is actually a really great place th-" "Do I have a family? Where did you find me?" >Twilight doesn't respond "Where is my... uh. Mark thing? Cutie mark? The thing that says I'm good at something. >She keeps smiling like it doesn't phase her "Is Anon really that common a name?" >No reaction "...Twilight?" >"You're thinking 'why me', right?" >Her smile mellows "I... I guess so." >"I am too." >She reseats herself, getting comfortable >"I wish I knew. There's still so much I don't know about you. But with my studying, maybe I can make you perfect. I can make myself perfect for you, in turn." "You are perfect for me, Twilight. I love you." >She closes her eyes >Her smile continues to mellow, to fade, until only the corner of her mouth is raised "Thank you Anon. Our new home, we'll be able to start a new chapter of our lives together. I'll be able to... finally move forward. So much is ahead of us. It might not make sense at first. Others may try to tear you away from me. But I will win in the end. We will win. And everyone will be happier because of it..." >She trails off >You aren't sure >You can almost hear her say 'I hope' after a moment of silence "Hi there! I'm Anon!" "Hi there! My name is Anon! Here's my quill!" "Hi there! I'm Anon, Twilight's boyfriend! This quill looks cool, doesn't it?" "Hi there! I'm Anon, I've never been to Canterlot before. Have you met Twilight?" "Hi there! I'm An-wait, don't run! It's just my journal! I promise it isn't weird!" >"Anon... maybe you should relax?" >Ever since you walked into Canterlot proper you've introduced yourself to every pony that you could outpace "Hi there! I'm Anon! Wanna see my quill?" >You green magic-covered quill spins in the air in front of a stern looking stallion wearing armor so thick it could probably withstand a meteor "It's pretty cool, isn't it? I write with it." >The stallion stares straight ahead "...are you stuck or are you just really focused? I forgot how to look once too." >No response "That stuff looks heavy... does it hurt to move around that all day?" >Twilight scampers up to you, trying to tug you away with one of her front legs >"Anon, this guy's on guard duty! You can't just-" >"Eh, you get used to it kid. 'Course, when I was your size, I couldn't even buck a helmet an inch." >The guard finally spoke up! "Woah... awesome! I'm gonna train and get buff until I can buck a helme-" >Twilight rips you away from your position, blurting out some rushed apology >"Anon, calm down! You can't just bother guards all day long, they have important business!" >You keep your pace with Twilight, trying to focus on her despite your senses straining to pick up every new sight, sound and smell all around "That guy has something that smells spicy..." >"Anon!" >Her sudden bark makes you jump >Eyes ahead, Anon >Like the guard >You puff out your chest and jut your jaw forward "Aye, sir." >Your performance causes a giggle >"Please try to pay attention! We're walking instead of teleporting because I want you to get used to the streets. You remember our path so far right?" "Right, it was a right, two lefts, another right and... we're heading straight. Right?" >"Right." "R... uh... r-right." >You have no idea where you are going >That spicy something the guy has is blue, too! "When can I explore?" >"Later. Presumably... once you stop chasing down ponies to tell them your name." "But if they don't know me, wouldn't that be bad?" >"Not exactly. I mean I used to live here before Ponyville and plenty of ponies never once met me!" >A random walking mare stops and gasps >She waves >"Oh hey, it's you Twilight! Tell Princess Celestia I'm looking forward to next year's Gala!" >You leer at Twilight >She shrinks and smiles as wide as she can >"I-I'm... don't worry about her, that was a random thing, she probably remembers everypony." >"Hey Twilight Sparkle! Tell that apple mogul that she's late on her shipment!" >Some tough sounding stallion calls out from some sort of big warehouse >"Ugh, I'm not her correspondent, tell her yourself!" >You leer at her harder >She's just not being fair right now >She tries to laugh it off again >"I'm... well maybe I'm a little famous here...?" "Man... not even letting me talk to anyone..." >You sigh and give her the cold shoulder >You can't walk in front of her because you have no clue where you're going >"Oh, don't be that way... if you promise to forgive me, I'll let you talk to a guard at the palace!" >You scrunch your face and refuse to answer her >"I promise I'll find you one who wants to learn about your quill...?" "...alright." >You resume a more casual pace, focusing more on her than the environment >You've had fantasies of going out on some sort of real date with her but it hasn't felt like a date at all >After the picnic, she told you that your new room would be in the palace >You still haven't been told why >Palaces are usually where princes, princesses, kings and queens lived >Or really important visitors >You eventually find yourself at the entrance of Canterlot's... >It is seriously big >Massive >You stop in your tracks, eyes going up as high as the highest tower >By the time you reach the top you realize that you've been sitting and leaning back >A sudden pat from Twilight nearly causes you to fall back >"Are you ok?" "Yeah. That's... that's a really big palace. Castle. Wait, which one is it?" >"They're effectively the same thing." "Seriously?" >"Yes. Now come on, we don't have all day." "We're not going to go all the way up, are we?!" >"No, not today. Now let's go." >She tries to tug you up but your legs just won't go >You went up exactly one set of stairs and that took all of your willpower >How many sets of stairs are there? >If you fell, how long would you be falling?! >You can feel yourself falling right now >"ANON!?" >Twilight shakes you long enough for you to feel ill >"Focus! We're going to see Princess Celestia, you can't just space out like this with her." >You want to tell her that you're alright but if you open your mouth to speak you might get sick >"Are you ready?" >It takes another shake before you can tear your eyes away from the sky scraping towers >You nod and swallow hard >"Good. Don't show her your quill, she's seen ones like it before. Same with your saddlebag and journal, just follow my lead and stay quiet." >You follow her into the palace and through... far too many doors >It really is all a blur to you >So many pictures, so many ponies, so many new things and smells >It's overwhelming >Twilight leads you into a great, massive hall with... >Your stomach turns itself into a knot >You're hesitant to move forward but you keep pace with Twilight's hooves >When she stops, you stop >Before you is not just one, but two sets of stairs >A long, white leg steps on the bottom step, causing you to flinch >You follow the leg up and see a truly massive pony with a long horn and a strong... kind... smile? >"Princess Celestia, I'm glad to be back. For good, this time." >"You've made up your mind then?" >The authority in the tall pony's voice is unmistakable >"Yes I have. It is for the best that I remain here until after the transformation." >"I'm glad that you are embracing your destiny... but do not forget that your responsibilities extend beyond yourself." >The apparent Princess Celestia rests her gaze on you >You can't help but freeze >Don't say something stupid >Don't mention the quill >"How are your friends?" >Twilight pauses >"They... they are fine. I miss them already but they have their lives and I have mine." >"Indeed they do... I will trust your judgement. It is important that a princess learn directly the consequences of her actions." >Wait, what? >Twilight nods >Wait, she's bowing? >When was she bowing? >Do you bow? >Do you show her your quill? >No, Twilight said not to! >What do you do?! >"Of course. Thank you for allowing me the time to try to prepare better. I hope you understand why." >"Of course I do. You can only prepare once in life." >She's still looking at you, man >DO SOMETHING >You hesitantly jerk your head down repeatedly, testing variable angles that strain your neck >"...speaking of, are you going to introduce me to this fine young gentlecolt?" >"Of course, Princess Celestia. This is... this is Anonymous." >Celestia is still looking at you >The stare she's giving you is starting to hurt your chest >She doesn't look angry but you can feel such an extreme amount of pressure >"Well then. I am pleased to meet you, Anonymous. This is the first time we have met. Isn't it?" >She stands proud, her wings expanding fully >By all that is holy she is massive >"I am Princess Celestia. Ruler of Equestria and riser of the sun." >She's too massive for you >Panic >PANIC "I... I'm... a.." >You try to stammer out anything >You weren't prepared for this >You have no sense of calm or confidence >A growing voice is now booming, telling you to stop jerking your head up and down and to actually bow! >Except you have no clue how! >In a feeble attempt to gather your wits, you do the only thing you possibly can "I... quill...?" >"Quill?" >Celestia's eyebrow raises >You can see Twilight's head turn toward you >She has absolute horror in her eye >She said not to bring it up! >AND YOU JUST BROUGHT IT UP! >The strain in your chest is enough to make you explode >"May I see it?" >...she wants to see it? >You pluck the quill from your mane and hold it out to her >"Oh my. I can tell it gets a lot of use. It's from a matured phoenix, isn't it?" >You have no clue "I... I think so? Twilight gave it to me. It's my favorite." >Celestia takes a seat before you >She doesn't look nearly as big now >"Is that so?" >Her eyes focus on Twilight >Twilight retreats from her bow >She doesn't say anything >"Twilight Sparkle... if I recall. I gave you this quill, as a gift." >Twilight perks up >"Y-you did, Princess." >Oh crap >"And you gave it to Anonymous?" >Do you say something? >Celestia's magic envelopes the quill >"Anonymous... would you like to know the history of this quill?" >The quill has a history? "Of course! I, uh, mean... yes, Princess." >The Princess smiles >"Three hundred years ago... or was it five? Philomena was molting. This one particular feather fell into one of my books. It was a journal. Though by now it may be better to say that it is a book on Equestria's history." >Just how old is she? >"For some reason, out of all of the feathers I had seen... I knew that this one would be a feather of love. It would be used to bind two souls together. When my little pony Twilight Sparkle became my student, it was what I gifted to her. And she treated it like the most holy of treasures!" >Twilight looks as enraptured as you >"Princess Celestia... is this true?" "It has to be, she said it. Right?" >Celestia looks between you and her >And giggles >"Well it is a feather of love now, isn't it? And it seems like the both of you are fated to be together. No matter the cost. I think it will serve you well, Anonymous. Twilight gave it to you, instead of giving you some common goose quill. Never forget that her love for you is what powers this quill." >...isn't that what ink is used for? "Yes Princess." >"Carry this with you, wherever you go. I believe it will help you remember, at your lowest points, that Twilight does indeed love you. Even if she gets in a bit of a pouty mood and doesn't show it." >She squishes her lips together, almost like she's making fun of Twilight >"P-please! I do not get pouty!" >You laugh at the two "Well there was that one ti..." >A quick glare from Twilight drains the color from your face "N-nevermind." >The quill finds itself back in your mane >"Do not fear, Anonymous. Twilight does not yet know how to love you. A mare's heart is a complex thing. Be there for her, when you can, and I give you my word that they will write ballads of your still budding love." >The Princess rises once more, reminding you just how physically imposing she is despite her kind words >"My time here is up, sadly. Twilight will be able to show you to her room, and yours. While you are in Canterlot, you are safe and will be provided for. Twilight, remember our next appointment." >"Of course, Princess!" >Celestia looks down at you, who must be so insignificant to such a high figure >She smiles again >"Alone, this time. Private matters for only Princesses. I hope you understand." "Ye-sure. Yes." >You remain still until you can no longer hear her steps >Only then do you finally relax and sigh "I'm sorry Twilight. I panicked. I didn't know what to do." >Twilight scoots until she's rubbing against your side >She rubs her face against yours >"When I am Princess... I will make you stronger. You will beat any pony in anything. You will change the face of Equestria with me. When we have foals, they will be able to do anything in the world at all." >She sounds... serene >She sounds beautiful >She sounds like the Twilight that would speak to you when you were sick >"I will not be the Princess of Love, but our love will be told for generations. Just as our discoveries." >You lean against her, closing your eyes >Her tone and her words make you feel like nothing could ever go wrong. >"I will make sure my body is ready, for you. They will all see our family. Our advancements. Our achievements. Our discoveries." >Twilight giggles >"And she will see that our love is just."