[Copied from https://pastebin.com/fM7D9wgK ] >you are Anon >it's about 11 pm, or later and you're walking the straight dark alley, making your way to the closest bus station so you can get home >and there's nothing you'd want more right now, than to already be there, it's damn cold out here >you can already see the light of the street lamps at the end of your dark shortcut >you're almost reaching the end and preparing to turn right. But, out of sudden: >something of skyblue color jumps from behind the corner and crashes directly into you, making you fall on your back pretty hard >as you vision clears from the shock, you can finally see what actualy happened >there's a blue pony with rainbow colored mane and tail laying on your chest >you also notice she has a strange, plastic-metal collar around her neck >“Sorry hoomie, i'm in a hurry.“ she mumbles a bit mockingly >then she gets up as fast as she can and continues running the way you came >another figure comes from around the corner >it's a rough looking man, dressed as if he just ran out of his house, grabbing only the first jacket he could find >he's furiously tapping on some sort of remote controller >“Fucking piece of shit thing, work! Work!“ >he noticed you, laying there >“Sorry for that cunt.“ he says as he runs past you >you turn around to see what the hell is happening >it's obvious he's chasing her >she has a good ten meters of lead, but of of nowhere, she collapses on the ground, screaming from pain >it's that thing in the man's hand, looks like it works now >he stops, still pushing the button, releasing always only when talking >“You like it?! Huh?! I'm gonna make you pay!“ >you stand up and get close to him „Hey! Stop it. You're torturing the poor thing.“ >“Yeah, I can see that and i'm enjoying every last bit of it. The unobedient bitch deserves it.“ >when people discovered this new specie called simply „ponies“, thanks to their peaceful and submissive nature, they started to use them as slaves for richer families >helping with house, hard work, things like that. But of course it's known, though not entirely socialy accepted, that there are also cases of people owning ponies for „different“ things „I don't know what she did, but that's enough. This is no punishment. You'll kill her!“ >“She can take it, just watch.“ „No! Just cut it out, I'm not gonna watch you doing that!“ >now it looks like you rustled his jimmies. He stops and turns at you >“If you don't like it, then just fucking turn around and go wherever you came from. This is personal bussines. I can do whatever the fuck I like with my property.“ >he pushes the button again >at this point, you had enough, so you grab the thing from his hands, smash it on the ground and stomp it with your boot >the flow of electricity from the collar stops, but she still lays on the ground, unable to stand up >“You have made a huge mistake buddy. Huge, huge mistake.“ says the guy with visible anger and delivers a punch to your face >it hurts like hell, you almost fell to the ground and blood is dripping from your torn brow >“I told you to stop bothering me, but you just had to interfere. Now you gonna pay as well.“ >guy seems to be pretty choleric >after two or three seconds of the his talking about how exactly you fucked up and how studid your decision was, the shock is gone and there's something else replacing the pain >your heart races and adrenaline flows like you're about to explode. What the fuck is this guy thinking? That he owns the damn world? That he can hurt or kill anyone he wants without consequences? >all this anger gives you strenght to do something you haven't done in a long time >you turn around quickly and without any response, you punch him back with all your might, just in the middle of his sentence >you're no fighter, but this was enough to stagger him for few short seconds >this is such a fucked up situation, you either beat him to unconsciousness, or he'll rip you apart when he'll recover >“You...“ >you have no choice but to to keep beating him, until he drops down >so you punch him again, this time to the side of his head >and again >and again >after few more consecutive punches, he's laying on the ground >Jesus fucking Christ, did you just fucking kill him? >you reach your bloodied hand to check his pulse, he's alive, only unconcious >phew >now, to the pony >she's still laying there, shaking >you come closer and notice her wings are tied together and her feathers clipped >you place your hand on her shoulder >she finches, turns her head at you and gives you the most terrified gaze, anyone ever gave you >she tries to say something, but it's hard to tell what „Calm down. Ok? Just calm down. Shhhh.“ >it's hard for you to look calming, because your hands are visibly shaking like an old man's >you haven't been in a fight like this in years >after some time spent trying to cradle her into calmness, you can understand what was she trying to say >“G-go away human. Pl-please, leave me be.“ >her voice is strange, it feels like it „crackles“ now and then >but for God's sake, couldn't she at least show some gratitude? „Look, I just almost killed the guy to save you. So you should tell me what the hell is going on.“ >“I-...“ „Go on?“ >“I bit him.“ „Bit?“ >“He forced me to stick it my mouth and I bit him.“ >oh >“W-we are proud specie, he won't tell me to do things like that for him.“ she continues, still shaking from the electric shock >looks like her will is stronger than her body >she's trying to stand up, but barely staying on her legs >“I need to go. Gotta get f-far away.“ „Far away? They'll catch you anyway if they'll see you walking around.“ >“Don't say things like that!“ „I'm just stating the truth. If he really owns you, he has the owning documents and police will bring you back to him.“ >“I ate them.“ „You what??“ >“I ate the documents before I ran away. I-I'm a free pony now. “ >you facepalm „Jesus. That just means they will bring you back to the auction and sell you to someone else.“ >“That isn't true! It can't be!“ „Have you ever seen such a thing as „free pony“ around here?“ >“That can' be true...You humans will never own me!“ „Hey, calm down. It's not my fault. I don't like the way this goes either.“ >she sniffs, as if about to cry, but too proud to show a tear >“I AM a free pony. I'd rather die than be a slave.“ „Well, technicaly you're free. At least for now. I won't stop you. What's your name anyway?“ >“Rainbow Dash.“ „Huh, did he name you like this?“ turn around at the unconciouss guy >“No. That is MY name. My real name, which is the only one I will bear proudly.“ „Ok, ok.“ you laugh „My name is Anon.“ >you offer her a hand >she doesn't follow, but looks at you with strange look >“You're different from the others...And I didn't even thank you for what you did.“ „Well, you're welcome I guess. I just did what I though is right.“ >“But you're bleeding pretty bad.“ „Nah, that's alright. At least i did my everyday good deed.“ you laugh painfully as it hurts like shit >then you place your hanky on the wound to stop it from bleeding „But i guess i should go now, I have a bus to catch.“ >“W-wait hum-I mean Anon.“ „Yes?“ >“I...I uhm wanted ask.“ it's visible she's forcing herself to say it: „If i could stay a night or two...and do the housework in return.“ >that's pretty much the last thing you would expect her to ask, after what she was saying before >it's basically what would a normal slave do in the typical rich family: do the housework for living „Really? Though it's demeaning for you to work for humans.“ >“I'm not lazy to work. There's just a difference between work and slavery.“ „Sometimes.“ you chuckle. „You should see how it goes in some manufactures. Anyway, I can do housework by myself. I don't have a big house.“ >“But there must be something I can do...Except „that“ one thing. I won't do that with humans.“ „I can't think of anything right now.“ you raise your shoulders. „I'm just used to living alone.“ >... „Look, but if you promise to behave, i'll let you stay a few nights. And you'll help me with stuff sometimes.“ >“What stuff?“ she's asking suspiciously „Not the stuff you mean. I just can't think of anything I need help with right now, so by „stuff“ I mean situational things. Like washing dishes and shit like that.“ >“Great! I can help you with all sorts of things...But don't expect me to call you „master“. I won't do that.“ „Sure.“ you laugh „But first, there are two things I probably should do. Lemme get these things off you.“ >you reach for the rope over her wings, which is pretty easy to untie >then the collar „Hey, this thing is tricky. I can't get it off right now. I'll need some tools for that.“ >“Well, thanks for least taking those ropes away.“ „No problem. Now, for that ring of his.“ >“Ring?“ „Yes. You don't know? It's also part of the contract, just like the documents. All the slave owners have one. That's how you recognize them. You'd seriously leave and wouldn't even take it?“ >“I didn't know that.“ „Well, now you do. Also, i'm gonna take it, because the fucker torn my eyebrow with that thing.“ >“But if you'll keep it even after i'm gone, what's gonna happen?“ „Don't know. You can keep it when you'll go, but it probably won't help. They'll think you stole it.“ >you come closer to her ex owner and take the bloodied ring >it's silver-like, a bit robust, but not too much to hinder on your finger >you clean it with a hanky >there's a number imprinted on it, saying: „No. 483“ „Is this like your serial number?“ >“I'm not a machine to have a serial number...“ „Sadly, you do have one. Look.“ you show it to her >when she sees it, it's kinda like something broke inside of her >“Come to think,..if there really is so many others of my kind around...How..? How could they do this to us?! Enslave so many. Like a damn animals. Do you humans not have any mercy? No compassion?!“ >she's almost crying, but as before, she's holding it good. She would never cry in front of a human >you've never seen anything so pitiful before, still almost patheticaly trying to remain tall and proud >almost makes you feel bad for being a human for a while „Look, um Rainbow, I know you must feel horrible right now. But...“ >“What?!“ „I have no part in this, remember? I just freed you.“ >“But I-i,..Y-...you're right. I'm sorry. I just feel so angry and miserable right now.“ >her eyes are watery, but she still isn't crying „I know. But we should go, before someone finds us. And we have to catch that bus.“ >“R-right. You lead the way.“ >you nod and stand up >she follows you trough the empty streets to the lonely bus station nearby >you still feel pretty tense, your hands are not shaking anymore, but you still aren't completely alright >along the way, you walk past the general store >gives you an idea „Wait here in the shadow, I'll be right back.“ >“Wait, where are you going?“ „To that building over there. Just a few seconds.“ >you don't really give her choice, because you just run inside >after not even a minute you're back with a two glass bottles >you open both of them with your new ring „Here. It'll help you relax.“ you offer it to her >“You bought it for me? And what is it?“ „Nothing special, just beer, but it's something.“ >“And you say it helps to relax?“ >you nod and take a sip from your bottle >she takes one from hers to taste it >“It's bitter...“ >but after few seconds of thinking, she gulps it down whole and makes a disgusted face at the end, followed by a burp >you don't question her motives, just accept it. You partly understand anyway „Cheers.“ >“Hmpf. Thanks.“ >you continue on your road with your beer in right hand >you prefer to enjoy the bitterness sip by sip, especialy in situations like this >helps to calm down >you purposely arrive shortly before the bus actualy stops there, so you don't have to wait too long >while entering, you have your scarf over most of your face and are avoiding to look in driver's eyes >it would be better if nobody remebered you from this night, if you could be just another nameless person, walking trough shadows >but not all things can always be avoided >he would be blind if he wouldn't notice a skyblue pony with colorful mane and shock collar around her pretty neck >at least he couldn't connect your face with her if somebody ever asked him. He saw only the scarf >walking past him, there are three people sitting in the bus >an old lady with an old man, most likely her husband. Probably coming from a cinema or something because they still have some popcorn >they look happy together, reminding you of something you never really had >there's also some drunk guy who barely noticed you, or the pony >there were nights you ended up the same, you couldn't possibly judge him >you make your way to the back of the bus, so their company will be as far away from you as possible >although they all seem pretty harmless, you wouldn't want anyone around anyway >there, you sit on one of the chairs and silently wait >Dash is sitting next to you and stares in front of her with uncertain look >at first, you wanted to help her out because of your regular solidarity. Something you'd normaly do – even for an angry and maybe a bit ungrateful pony >but after the moment you showed her the number, you could understand her good enough to emphatize >something about her makes you feel so sad, it's the hopelessness in her eyes, followed by her proud posture, even while holding back tears >you kinda respect that „Are you alright? How you holding up?“ you whisper >“The beer thing you gave me, did it help you relax?“ „Sort of.“ >“I just keep getting stuck on thougts.“ „Then find a good one and stick on it.“ >“What's a good though in these times?“ „You're a pegasus. Think about flying.“ >“I can't remember the joy of flying anymore...“ „Yes you can. Close your eyes.“ >she does that, even though she looks a bit worried what is gonna happen next >you're not sure what exactly are you doing right now, but hope for the best >it worked when you tried it in your mind >you start narrating a scenery, very queitly and slowly whispering, to give her the time to imagine „One day, when your feathers grow back, you'll be strong and healthy again. Like the very earth itself. Imagine the land, so small under the few flaps of your wings. The blinding sun, so beautiful, like an eye of the God, caressing you with warm and loving embrace. Neverending seas of green trees with leaves, rustilng in the soft wind. Do you see it? Can you remember?“ >you're basically cooking from water, but for the first time, a very faint smile appears on her face >“I do.“ >for the rest of bus ride, you continue on narrating the scenery to the smallest details >you wish all of that could be true, but if she's actualy gonna leave, it's obvious she's gonna end up in hands of another human >and you'll be just a memory, just like she will once be yours >is that how it's gonna end? >it's a shame, seeing such a strong spirit being crushed, over and over again >will she evetualy subdue, or ends up taking her own life? >from the few minutes you know her, you're already sure that she'd rather choose the second option >you stop narrating when you realize you're in the place where you're supposed to leave the bus „Hey, we're here. Let's go.“ >she opens her eyes and the smile vanishes as she sees the reality once again >“Alright...“ >out of the bus, you notice she's shivering >for few seconds you wonder, but then you decide to borrow her your jacket „Take this. You're cold. And it'll fit.“ >“No I'm not cold. I just need to move and I'll get warm again.“ „Take the jacket. This isn't a question. It's almost -11 celsius.“ you basically order her >she looks kinda surprised, but takes the jacket without any further protest >from here, it's not even a kilometer to your home, but still long enough for you to feel a difference >but you aren't nearly that cold she must be if she didn't have at least the jacket >you walk silently, avoiding as much light as possible. Don't want to draw any kind of attention „This is it.“ you point at your house as you're closing by >the key in a lock turns and the door open, revealing the dark rooms of your home >first thing you do is switch on the lights, so you can see while untying your boots „You should wash your hooves first. It's messy out there.“ you give her a floorcloth >“Sure.“ >when she's done, you continue to your living/dining room >there, you close all the curtains so no one can see inside „You can sleep on the couch, sheets and pillows are stored inside. But come to think of it, you should take a shower as well. How long is it since your last bath?“ >“Two weeks.“ „Well, you should definitely take a shower. It's those doors over there. I'll go second. Towels are in the cabinet, right next to the entrance.“ >she doesn't say a word, just tiredly goes the way you sent her >in the meanwhile, you check on your fridge >few joghurts you've been saving for later, some cheese, butter, 4 bottles of beer, blueberry marmelade, mustard, ketchup, eggs, few slices of ham and some fruit and vegetables >come to think of it, you're not even really hungry >but you bet she is >you slice some bread, put it in toaster, then put some butter and marmelade on it >leaving it on the table, along with two appless and glass of water, you grab another bottle of beer from the fridge and sit in your favourite chair >with your eyes closed and beer opened, you patienly wait till she's finished showering >when you're at half of the bottle, you hear the bathroom door finally open >eyes still closed, you murmur „Check the table. Eat up.“ >“Is this for?..Thanks Anon.„ >you can hear her biting a mouthful of apple >“ You know...You really aren't that bad.“ >you open only your right eye, leaving the left one still closed and make something between smile and grin „I guess.“ >“But you could stop ordering around. Why is it so typical for humans to give orders all the time?“ „I'm just too tired to be questioned. Wait for tommorow...“ >after finishing the bottle, you stand up so you can take a shower as well „When you're done, just put it in the sink. I'll clean it later.“ you announce, heading to bathroom >you turn the water heat to the almost maximum >some really hot shower after the cold day >after you're done, you brush your teeth and go to sleep >she's already sleeping around the time you walk trough the living room >when you finally get to bed, you still have to think >what's gonna happen next? You stupid just literally stole a pony >not like you'd think that you did something bad, the guy didn't look like a nice person to own a pony >but it could make you problems >on the other hand, not taking her with you would lay on your mind even heavier >what were you supposed to do? You couldn't just turn around and leave her there >though, what does it help if they just catch her week or two later anyway? >that's a stupid question, that week of freedom would probably mean to her more than you could imagine >If only it was at least pure freedom, without having to worry about being caught >that would make her happy >anyway, since you can't just throw her out now, because it would be against your perception of what is right, then what next? >you could basically officialy claim that she's your slave, in case someone catches her >documents don't exist and the ring is in your property now >but she wouldn't agree. For her, it would just mean she's slave a again >but one never knows, we'll see how it ends >it's too early for assumptions >now it's time to sleep, you can think later… >the sun shines trough the window, causing you to wake up >but it lasts only for a few seconds, before the clouds hide it again „Fucking hell.“ >with a loud yawn, you stand up and continue to your bathroom, almost forgetting Dash is on the couch in the living room >you're standing there, staring at her for a while before remembering about yesterday, and why your brow is torn >maybe you should get some clothes on you at least. You're just in your underwear and tshirt >but maybe you don't give a damn >it's your own house after all, you could walk around naked if you wanted to >at least you still have more clothing than she has >you do some morning hygiene, and now it's time for breakfast >what's it gonna be? >in the sink, there's the plate from yesterday and two apple cores in the trash >still half full glass of water is standing on the table next to the couch Dash is sleeping on >she lets out a little snore sound just when you look at her >makes you chuckle a bit, she looks like a big puppy right now >your stomach gurgles, interrupting you from your thoughts >need to eat something, something warm >you crack open few eggs and slice the rest of the bread >bread in egg it is for today >the sound of oil crackling wakes your sleepy companion up >first it's just a flinch of her ear, then she smells the food being prepared >at the first opening of her eyes, she yanks from confusion >almost immediately, in the „ready to run/kick something“ stance „What the hell?“ you mutter to yourself, not giving her that much attention >then she notices you, making the breakfast >„Oh.“ she exhales out „'Mornin. Slept well?“ >“I guess...Good morning.“ >gulping the rest of the water she readied by the couch, she comes closer to see what you're preparing >her mouth waters from the sight of the food and you can hear her gulping down the saliva >but she doesn't say anything >you put three fried slices of bread in egg on a plate, which you slide closer to her „Here. Mustard and ketchup and the rest is on the table already.“ >she gives you bit confused look >“I though you wanted me to do housework for letting me sleep here. Like making breakfast and stuff.“ „I already said I can manage by myself. I never needed any help, but you do.“ >“So you're saying that you're doing all of this just like that? What do you really want? Are you planning something?“ „Pfft, Jesus.“ you don't bother to answer, because you'd just have to repeat yourself >but she's still looking at you, awaiting you to say something >you put down the wooden spoon and turn your vision at the pony „Look, you needed help. Was I supposed to just leave you there?“ >“Well, you're not the first human to pretend he's all good and caring about others. Humans are cruel mindplayers. That's how I ended up being a slave in the first place.“ she says in arrogant-suspicious tone >normally, if someone talked to you this way, you'd probably get angry, but this is a bit different >although, she still rustles your jimmies a bit. But not enough for you to actualy flip, so you answer calmly: „You should have seen yourself yesterday night. Alone and weak. I took you with me, because otherwise I'd feel guilty, leaving you there to get caught again. Or freeze to death overnight. I could see behind that brave pose of yours. Strong, fearless...sarcastic. But not even that deep inside, you were so desperate.“ >what you said leaves her kinda shocked >first you see the anger in her expression, then sadness >maybe you overdid it, but all you did was say the truth >“You haven't been trough things I was. You have no idea...“ >a moment of silence, just the sounds of oil on the hot frying pan „True I haven't...I also never said that I'm judging you. I'm just telling you why I'm helping.“ >saying that, makes her expression change, while reasurring herself again >“So...you're really doing this just because you'd care about random pony's messed up life? No side intentions?“ „Basically. Not all humans are bad to the bone you know.“ >with a grin you add: „Some just on the outside layer.“ „Anyway, you weren't so suspicious about me yesterday.“ >“That was because I was weak. You were right, I wasn't really strong, I was just desperate. Clinging on any kind of hope I could get...Though, it didn't get me in even worse trouble this time. Hopefuly.“ „As always? Did anything like that happened before?“ >“I don't wanna talk about it...Sorry Anon. I ain't gonna just spill my feelings to someone I barely know...“ „Okay then. You already said enough for a conlusion anyway. It's because someone promised you better life, but you ended up like this, right?“ >she looks at you seriously. As she talks, you can see the anger building up inside of her. But as if combined with sorrow. None of it pointed at you though >“It's not that simple...I would never think someone could possibly be so rotten inside to do such a thing just like that. He even smiled like nothing is happening, as they dragged me away!“ >as she calms again in upcoming few seconds, she continues with a bitter grin >“You really know how to get anwers out of someone. Always strumming on the right strings...You humans are good at these things, are you?“ „No...You're just bad at not telling.“ you laugh „But seriously. I've been trough some shit as well. Not as hard as you, but I know all these scenarios. You give your trust, your secrets to someone, one day realizing you made a terrible mistake. That happens once, twice, maybe even thrice. So next time you want to keep it all to yourself, because it makes you feel too fragile when you don't.“ >“Well, but your mistakes didn't get you into literal slavery.“ she grins >“You know, part of me wants to beleive you right in an instant. It would be nice to see a decent human being, but it's hard to really beleive in such things after what I've met.“ „Well, if you want to, you're free to go. I already said I'm not holding you. No side intentions. But you should eat some breakfast at least.“ you bring the plate even closer >she looks trough the window, seeing it's snowing pretty bad outside >“I kinda think I'll stay a bit longer...“ she takes the plate and continues with it to the table >you hear a loud sigh >“Well, considering you're still letting me...I guess I'm not being very nice, am I?“ „Sort of.“ >few moments of silence, just you, frying the rest of the bread and her, sitting on the chair and staring at the table with a scrunch on her muzzle >“I-...Y'know, I still remember what you said in that bus. And I um, just want you to know I...I appreciate it. It really did help.“ „Glad to know.“ you smirk >“You really did quite a lot for me, but so far I weren't really giving you any reasons to keep helping. To be honest, I'm kinda surprised you're not even a little bit angry at me.“ „Heh, maybe I was few times.. But anger is not the solution to anything.“ >“I guess…I'll at least do the houserwork as I promised. Just tell me things you need done and I'll do it. I'm no freeloader.“ „I can't think of anything right now, maybe later. Now you should finally eat something.“ >she hasn't eaten a bit so far >at this time you're done with frying, so you continue to the table >putting some mustard and ketchup on your bread and placing a slice of ham over it, you watch as she silently copies you >“What's this thing?“ „Ham.“ >“Ham?“ „...It's made of meat.“ >she almost flips, putting the slice away like a vampire touching a garlic >“Meat?! Eating meat is so barbaric, you know...“ >you take a bite and smile smugly >“How can you eat that? It used to be alive.“ „It's just the way it is.“ >“It's gross. AND hypocratic.“ „How is it hypocratic?“ >“You have enough compassion to help me, but don't care about the thing that ended up in that ham of yours?“ „I can't change the fact it's already dead. But i can make difference when you're still alive.“ >“It's still wrong...No matter how you excuse it, when you don't necessarily need it.“ >you chew slowly, looking at her upset pout „Ok then, you won.“ you say, throwing the rest of the ham into the trashbin, after few seconds of her watching you chew with that judgemental look „Happy?“ >“Well, you already paid for it. Eating it doesn't change that much, if you gonna buy it again.“ „You're hard to please, you know that?“ you gotta smile, it feels so tragi-comic >“You're not doing it for me. You should be doing it for yourself you know. For a good conciousness when you go to sleep?“ „Whatever.“ you replace the ham with a slice of eidam „You don't mind diary, do you?“ >“You don't have to kill for it. And considering I'm eating this,“ she points at her bread in egg with cheese „guess these are not as bad as meat...“ „Uhh, what do you even normaly eat?“ >“Fruit, veggies, normal stuff. And humans should too, you don't need to kill even when you need to eat.“ „Humans need to eat meat at least sometimes. To stay strong.“ >“That's total nonsense. He didn't have to, either.“ >she puts her hoof over her mouth, as if she said something she regrets >“Anyway,*cough* the point is, that you don't need it. The end.“ „Ok, we should change the topic...But what to start with? You don't even want to talk about your past, I know nothing about you.“ >“Maybe it's better that way...But you could tell me something about humans from the view of another human.“ „Thought you know us good enough to make your own opinions.“ you grin sarcasticaly >she doesn't like when someone points out her mistakes, you can see that >“Well, it never hurts to know more, eh?“ „Fair enough. But i'm not really gonna be changing your view anyway with what I have to say. People are consumers and sheeps. They just accept anything that flow gives them. Even slavery of other kind, as you see. There are always few rebels, who don't go with the flow of consuming, but not that many. And they never matter enough to change anything. The succesful ones in society just take advantage of others most of the time. Society is fucked from the inside here.“ >“That was...ice cold. Considering you're a human as well. It almost sounds you um...don't like it?“ „Heh, sometimes maybe. I even felt pretty ashamed for being a human, just yesterday. But really, it just makes me sad, watching human kind falling so low.“ >“Well, if people are really sheeps, you'd have to be a black one with that attitude.“ she laughs „I'll take it as a compliment.“ >“You should. But there still are some things you could improve on yourself.“ „So you're my „master“ now? Is there something else i might do?“ you laugh >“Don't be silly, I abhor the whole concept of slavery, you know?“ „I was just joking.“ >“Oh.“ „Anyway, I've got some work to do.“ you put the empty dish away and move to your computer >there, you open browser and start surfing net >“This is your work?“ „No...“ >“Then why would you even say you got work to do?“ „Jeez, why you keep asking about things?“ >“Because you're talking nonsense...What's this about?“ she takes the closest chair she can find and puts it next to yours, so she can see the monitor as well „It's called internet.“ >“And this is what you do all day?“ >you just sigh instead of answering >“Is your life really so boring?“ „Yeah, I guess so.“ >“You know,..that's actualy pretty sad… Don't you have some better things to do?“ „Look, I didn't take you with me to hear you criticizing my life. I know it sucks. If you're so good at quality time spending, tell me what you'd do.“ >“Well,..If I had my wings intact and it wasn't so cold outside, I'd go flying.“ „That doesn't count for several obvious reasons. Next?“ >“I don't know. It's hard when it's such a stupid weather outside.“ „See? There you have it.“ >“But come on, there must be something better than this.“ „Then tell me. I'd gladly accept some magical change that turns my life upside down.“ >“Ummm….It's cold outside...“ „Yeah, and?“ >“...But not too much for a little stroll.“ „You'd seriously go out to that shitty weather?“ >“Still better than sitting on your butt all day.“ >you just smirk and continue browsing >“Come on!“ „If you want to go outside so bad, why don't you go?“ >“Because I can't be seen by myself without a human. You're acting like you weren't the one pointing that out yesterday.“ „Gah, fine. Be it then.“ you stand up from your PC and go get some clothes >she comes closer >“I was wondering...Maybe if you had a spare jacket or something like yesterday? Winters in your world are a lot colder than equestrian ones.“ >you hand her one, along with a scarf, without saying anything >when she's putting it on, you add: „That's pretty much all human clothing a pony can fit in as well. Your head and ass is too big.“ >“Hey!“ „Don't act like it's not true.“ >“I'm not fat!“ „I didn't say that. I said it's too big for human clothing.“ >“...right. It's just the way you said it.“ „Come on, I'm just playing with you.“ you chuckle >she gives you this half smile, half angry expression as if she wasn't sure which one to pick and it makes you chuckle even more >when you finally open the door, you feel that it's not as cold as it was yesterday >mostly because it isn't late night, obviously >there isn't a lot of people in your part of city most of the time, especialy early morning, so you're not worrying about being suspicious or something >you can just say you bought her cheaply if someone asks >walking silently down the street, you're slowly making your way trough the city >“Where are we going?“ „I don't know. Just walking.“ >“Well, you gotta have some sort of direction or plan, no?“ „We are walking a circle which takes us back to my house, but from other direction. Happy?“ >“I guess. Is it long?“ „Why? About normal.“ >“I don't know what normal means, according to you. I like long walks. Especialy when I don't have to worry about being catched, for now. This place sucks though. Are all human cities like this?“ „Maybe even worse.“ >“Phew. Where's the nature?“ „Far away.“ >“I see that.“ „Then why are you asking?“ >“I was asking just rhetorically. Not expecting the answer.“ „Well, there you have it.“ >for few minutes, there's silence >but only few >“How can you live like that?“ she breaks it „With very, very miserable mood. Everyday...You talk a lot.“ >“Well excuse me. Imagine you have no one to talk to for a whole year.“ „...I don't really talk a lot even without being held, so i can imagine.“ >“You need some help in your life Anon.“ „And you're the one to provide it?“ you snicker >“No, just a little inspiration. I'll be gone soon.“ „Yeah, and what'll you do?“ >“Run somewhere far away from your civilization. It's insane here.“ „Good luck with that. I wish I'd do the same one day, but i'm not feeling suicidal enough.“ >“You're saying you can't live without it?“ „We're all dependant on society. Even if we hate it. I need food and electricity.“ >“Bah. There's always a way.“ „But not always an easy one.“ >“Then stop being lazy.“ „Hell, this whole conversation. What are you, a motivational speaker?“ >“No...Not really. Never been good at motivation.“ „I can see that because it's not working. You got pretty different from that sad, broken soul you were yesterday.“ >“Can't stay always miserable.“ „You were a lot more pleasant that way.“ >“….You really mean it like that?“ she says a more quiet, sadder way >is she trying you or did it really just hit her like that? >oh man it's painful to look at that sad face of hers, no matter which option „...Nah, sorry I overdid it.“ >“It's alright...“ >funny, you still can't tell what she's like deep inside >or what exactly she feels >but for some reason she looks like she craves/hates your attention >seems pretty damaged >and you're not a good fixer, so she should probably find someone else >but somehow you doubt there would be anyone else willing >hell, even you never said that you ARE >this just is where your sense of justice got you >and you have to deal with it „...What was it like in Equestria? Was it a great place to live?“ you ask >“Oh you wouldn't beleive! It was the most awesome place ever. I wish i could go back...“ „And what exactly happened?“ >“You mean, before they took so many of us and then left?“ „Probably. Nobody really knows how and why did you ponies get into our world. Except for the rich ones who financed it.“ >“I'm not gonna tell you the painful details, but I can tell you. Basicaly, there was a portal, opened for a limited time. Enough for you, humans, to kidnap hundreds of our kind, as it seems. Then our princess probably managed to close it. But it was too late anyway.“ >there's a desperation in her voice and anger as well >must have brought her some flashbacks „Well, at least it's closed and the rest of your world is safe, eh?“ >“The only comforting thing about it...But before yesterday, I thought the number would be a lot smaller. That they only took few...“ she almost whimpers „At least it isn't even bigger...Hopefuly. You don't see a pony in every human family, that says something. You're still pretty rare.“ >“Yeah, hopefully. I couldn't bear, knowing there's even more, living in slavery.“ „You're pretty patriotic, eh?“ >“I should be loyal to my kind. And I should be the one to save them, but I'm just running instead. I'm,..I'm worthless.“ „Come on, it's not your fault. Chin up.“ >“And what if it is?? Then what?“ „What do you mean?“ >“Nothing, forget it...This weather sucks. I wish I could fly and move those stupid clouds away so I could see the sun.“ „Yeah that would be nice if it was so easy.“ >“It would be easy if I had my feathers intact.“ „What are you talking about? You can't just control the weather.“ >“Yes I can. I used to be a weather mare. The best one even.“ „Weather mare? That sounds funny.“ >“Hey, this is no joke. It was my life. I could fly so fast, the sky would explode in the explosion of colours.“ „Seriously, what drugs are you on?“ you laugh >“Why am I even trying, it's like talking to a rock. But some rocks at least listen, unlike you.“ „Ok, ok I'm sorry. Guess your world was a lot more um...magical than this one.“ >“Ya bet.“ sme smirks sadly „This one is just one big machine.“ „That sums it up pretty well.“ >“You know, if humans didn't do this to us, maybe I'd even pity you.“ „Ok, I get it you don't like us. You don't have to repeat it constanly.“ >“But I mean it with the pity. It must suck for you to live here.“ „...You know it.“ you grin again, this time only faintly as it hurts as well >then there's another time of silence, which gives you some time to think >now that you recapitulate, you actualy realize that you maybe even enjoyed this conversation >it's funny, but you kinda wish she would say something so you could argue again >but right now, she looks buried in thoughts as well >wonder what she's thinking about >most likely something that one of you just brought up >maybe the number on the ring again? >or the collar? >oh right >she still has the thing around her neck „...Sorry i forgot about the collar.“ >“Huh?“ „I'll put it off you, once we get home.“ >“Oh,.. yeah. Thanks.“ >... >“...If I were to go outside, I'll have to wear it again, right?“ „Well, it would be suspicious if you didn't.“ >she just sighs >“...I hate this. It reminds me of the real happening around me. Every time I can feel it around my neck. It stings.“ „I can get you some more comfortable one if it helps.“ >“I don't think so.“ she smiles bitterly „This doesn't hurt my body, but my soul...But thanks for the effort.“ >… >… >… >“What's this big ugly house for?“ >she's pointing at the old warehouse, few blocks away >is she really interested in what is this shitty building for, or is she trying to start a conversation? „They used to store some stuff from factories inside. But not anymore.“ >“How come?“ „They made a bigger one, an uglier one.“ you smirk >she can't help herself but to let out a little chuckle >“I guess it would be pointless to ask why, eh?“ „Guess you're right. Anyway, it's abandoned now. Just standing there for some reason.“ >“Have you ever been inside?“ „Why? Do I look like an adventurous boyscout?“ >“Certainly not adventurous enough. Let's take a look, come on.“ >she instanly changes direction without asking about your opinion, relying you'll come with her >this could be a contest of will, which you'd win >but fuck it >you'll just tag along >it's not so bad, being outside after all >soon, you're standing at the rusty gates of the empty complex „So, this is it. A real shithole.“ >“Why you have to be so vulgar so often?“ „Humans are rude fuckers you know.“ >“You just can't help yourself, can you?“ >she enters though a hole in the fence >big enough for you as well, but you have to crouch pretty low, resulting in your knees getting wet from snowy slush „Goddammit.“ >“Come on, slowpoke!“ she calls for you, already standing by the building >the main gate is shut, but there are some old ladders to the metal balconies that used to function as a spot for smokers >and a fire exit as well >but the point is, you can get trough this way inside >though you'll have to jump – the ladders are about two meters from the ground >she's already climbing up, so you're running to catch up „Hey! Wait!“ >she actualy stops in the middle of a climb, surprising >“Come on, slowpoke!“ >so you start climbing up the ladder, but the position gives you a clean view on her rump and not only that >jesus christ, this feels weird and lewd >you face down so you don't have to look „You should wear something down there! Don't you have a little decency?“ >“I am decent enough.“ she flicks her tail „Yeah, that's nice, but you're in a human world. Remember? We have some rules. Coming to think of it, if you should stay in my house, you gonna wear something.“ >“What's wrong? Scared you might lose your mind over me?“ she laughs „Af if. Goddammit, you're a horse, remember? I'm not a zoophile.“ >“Good thing I'm not into humans either.“ „Damn ponies…Are they all stubborn like this?“ you mutter to yourself and continue climbing >up on the balcony, there's a door and a broken window >there are still some sharp shards inside „Carefull, I'll get rid of-“ >in the middle of your sentence, she jumps trough it, missing the shards with her belly and legs by only few milimetres „Are you crazy?! You could have gut yourself! Don't you do that again, understand?“ >“Why so protective?“ she grins „What kind of question is that? I already put so much effort into rescuing you and you'd throw it all away in one whim.“ >“Don't worry. I got that. I'm not as clumsy as you'd think.“ „I'd just appreciate if you weren't so reckless, alright?“ >“Alright, I'll try.“ she snickers >you just sigh as you're removing the shards so you can continue trough as well >inside, it's just as you expected: mostly dark, almost empty, only some old stuff, maybe a bit smelly as well „See? It's nothing interesing here.“ >“What are you talking about? It's perfect. Ugly, but exciting!“ „Dunno what's so exciting about it, but oh well...“ >she's already smashing trough some old door >then, kicking some old CRT computer screen that they left there >she's basically destroying everything she can lay a hoof on and laughs while doing it >not like there was much left to actualy destroy anyway >“Come on!“ she yells with a laugh „Don't be shy, you said it's abandoned.“ „It is,.. but why destroy it? It's already pretty miserable.“ you raise your shoulders >“Becaaaaause...“ she's preparing to kick a fragmented wall >*Bang* and the sound of bricks falling down on the ground >“...Because it fun. Try it!“ >man, how's she suddenly so happy? „Alright then...“ >you find a window with most of glass still instact and not too high for you >first, you think about it a bit, then you raise your leg and smash trough >carefuly, just with your shoe, to not cut yourself >glass shatters and the shards shatter even more when they hit the ground >it feels… somehow liberating >like you can just do what you want and nobody is gonna bitch about it >you destroy the rest of the window with another kick >oh man, this is actualy fun! >you turn to Rainbow Dash, she's watching you with this expression of expectation about what you gonna say „You know,.. you're actualy right! It feels good.“ >“See? I told you! You just let it all out.“ >you grin as you pick up a brick and throw it against another CRT monitor >“That's what I'm talking about!“ >she takes one as well and does the same with the same monitor >you spend some time destroying things and giggling all around the building, when she says in the heat of fun: >“This reminds me of when I was asked to destroy an old barn for my friend. Another friend of mine thought I'm doing it because I'm angry or something and was all: „Sit down, let's talk about it.“ By Celestia! Hahaha, what an egghead!“ >then she frows and lowers her head sadly >„….But I miss her. I miss all of them so much.“ >few seconds of total silence >you feel like you should say something, but suddenly she jumps up and kicks a nearby window with all her might >“Dammit!“ >sitting on the ground, she sobs quietly, but only once >then raises her head again, trying to fake a smile „Hey,..Dash...“ you're trying to sound as soothing as possible >but you notice a trail of blood escaping from her leg, interrupting you from whatever you were about to say „…For fuck's sake, you're bleeding!“ >“What a lovely thing to sa-, Wait, what? No, I-...Oh, hay, I am...“ >she tries to stand up so she can take a look from better angle, but the pain finally kicks in and she almost collapses back again >but you catch her „Oh no, I knew something bad is gonna happen.“ >seeing the wound, it's mildly long but kinda deep >it'll definitely need some stitches >and there's quite a bit of blood >“It's just a- oww… scratch.“ „Maybe a scratch, but a bad looking one. Don't try to play tough, this must hurt as shit.“ >“It does, but I can take it you know?“ >she tries to stand up again, only to fall back into your arms „Stop it, you need a doctor.“ >“A doctor? No no no. I don't want no human doctor, you hear me? I am not going.“ „Yes you fucking do and now cut this bullshit. This is no damn game.“ you say firmly >as you say it, her ears go flat and her eyes water a bit >just like when you shout at a child >“...okay.“ she squeals silently and obediently >… „Look, I'm sorry for the words, but this is serious. I'm gonna help you regardless you like it or not.“ >you take your scarf and wrap it around the wound to stop the bleeding at least a bit >picking her up, you carry her to the balconies >she's silent all this time „Do you think you can climb that down?“ >“...I'll try. I have to.“ >you put her down as close to the ladder as you can „I'll go first and catch you if you slip.“ >using only three legs, she actualy manages to climb it down >but she has to jump the rest anyway, so you're there to catch her >“I don't feel too good about this...“ „Me neither, but jump.“ >“If only I had my wings intact.“ she laments and then lets go >you catch her in your arms, holding her like a bride >“Ow, my leg! That hurt.“ „Sorry… We should go.“ >“Where?“ „To get some doctor of course. How's your head, are you feeling dizzy?“ >“A bit dizzy...and sleepy.“ „Then try to not pass out, alright?“ you scratch her mane, trying to calm her bit and yourself as well >she's not as heavy as a human, probably about 50 kilograms >but that's not light enough for you to carry her across the town >so, when back on the road, you call a first taxi you see >when the car stops, you open it's door, push her in and sit next to her „Get us to the hospital, quick!“ >>“Hospital? With an animal?“ the driver turns around >“Hey, I'm no animal...“ she mumbles, trying to stay concious >>“They won't help you there with him, pal.“ >“Who you callin „him“?“ her mumbling continues, but the driver either can't hear or understand what is she saying „...Then take me to the veterinary. But, godspeed.“ >>“Sure...“ >soon, he drops you off before the building you sometimes passed by, but never entered >picking the almost unconcious pony up, you bring her inside >in the waiting room, there's some old lady with her small dog that starts barking just as it see's you, but that's all „Sorry, this is urgency.“ you tell the old lady before almost kicking in the door into the surgery room because your hands are full >there's a veterinary doctor and his helping hurse, having a coffee >do they even know that there's this granny waiting? „Hello doc, sorry but this is urgent.“ you pant >both of them give you a surprised look >not sure if because of how you stormed in, or because of the rainbow colored creature in your arms >probably both >>“Uh,..alright, what happened?“ the doctor asks >he's bald, short, friendly looking old man with a white mustache and round head „She hurt her leg badly.“ you answer and put her on the table and start removing the scarf >at this point, she's just squinting with her eyes around room, not even mumbling anymore >now it's almost convenient for her to pass out, because she wouldn't have to feel the needle >but she won't, she's still concious >even though just barely >as the nurse pours disinfection at the wound, you can see her clenching her teeth „Hey, it's alright. I'm here, see?“ you're caressing her front hoof in your arms >>“I never had an animal like this here. Only saw once. What even happened?“ >now knowing what to say, in panic you tell the truth „She kicked a window.“ >>“A window? Why?“ >come on, you have to lie now „By umm, accident of course. I brought her home just a few days ago and she has a hard time settling in.“ >>“… I see. You want a registration here?“ „No, that won't be needed.“ >>“But I still should at least add her and yours name into the archives. What is her name?“ >Jesus, should you tell the truth or try to fake it? >just like before, out of panic you tell the truth again >about both of you >dammit >>“So,.. Rainbow Dash... I can see why you named her like that. A cute name.“ he giggles and pats her head „It'll be alright girl, just a few stiches and you're good to go.“ >she's giving him this look, like a mix of arrogance and fear „Can you give her something to stop the pain?“ >>“Sure I can. But she'll pass out any moment anyway. She just needs to embrace it.“ „I can guarantee you she won't.“ >>“Okay then.“ he brings a syringe with a numbing effect „It'll just sting a little.“ >“Don't...“ she mumbles incoherently >but it's too late anyway >did he even hear her? >>“Now for the stitches, little girl.“ >wonder if the vet realizes she's about the same intelligent as a human >but he treats her like a child or an animal >and it's pissing her off >after few minutes he's done and you're about to pay for the service >he gave you a smaller price than you expected, that's good >but you don't have enough cash with you anyway >fuck „Excuse me, but… I don't have enough money here. I was in a rush when it happened. But if you could wait, I'll just stop by my home and bring it. I can leave you my ID card here as a proof that I'd come back.“ >>“Well, I can understand that situation.“ „So,.. is it ok?“ >>“Of course.“ he smiles >and now you're leaving, carrying her just like before >there's a trash can nearby, so you reach to throw inside the bloodied scarf >but then you decide not to >don't know why, maybe it'll be of use someday >welp, time to call another taxi >you still have some coins and change, just not enough for the vet >and soon, you're home again >what a stroll >that's why you don't go out a lot >though it's still not ending for you, you decide to rest for at few tens of minutes >sitting on your couch just next to Rainbow Dash, you turn on the TV >such a long time since you last watched it >not like you've been missing something >“Uh...Anon...“ she mumbles slowly after some time she looked like sleeping „You sure are a troublemaker, you know that?“ you smile >“I feel...weird and I can't feel my leg.“ „Of course. That's the numbing syringe. It stops the pain.“ >“Why?“ „What kind of question is that? You won't have to suffer.“ >“But,.. why you keep doing all this for me?“ „Honestly?“ >“Honestly only.“ „I don't really know. Maybe it's this feeling like I'm responsible for this. Maybe I just enjoy arguing with you.“ >“That's stupid.“ she smiles „Yeah, I guess.“ >“But hey, thanks,.. again.“ „No problem. Some adventure once in while doesn't hurt me that much. Only my wallet.“ you smirk >“Did it cost a lot?“ „Let's say I can live without that money.“ >“… Sorry. You were right.“ „What do you mean?….You mean when you jumped trough that broken window?“ >“Yeah...“ she closes her eyes again „Hmm…“ >… >… >“I-I was wondering, how old are you even? Are you like adult or like still a… how are child horses called?“ >she opens her left eye to look at you and grins >“You thought I'm still a foal?“ „No, just-. I don't know almost anything about your specie so I can't tell. Sometimes you act so childish and sometimes so mature.“ >“Well, I'm adult enough, I can assure you.“ she laughs gently „You too act childish sometimes, you know that?“ „I guess everyone does… Hey, you'll manage here, right? I still have some business out there.“ >“What kind of bussines?“ „Well, about the money for the doctor. I didn't have enough cash, so I told him I'll bring it later… You don't remember me telling him about it?“ >“Don't know.“ „Anyway, I'll be back in a hour or less.“ >“Alright then.“ „Should I let the TV play?“ >“I don't know. What's even up with this thing? I've seen few before, one of those asshole guards was constanly watching one. But what's it good for?“ „Hah, what's with the words?“ >“This one was deserved.“ „Alright, anyway: You can watch films there, like a storybooks, except like um...real?“ >“Storybooks about cleaning products and chocolate bars? What's the point?“ „Nah, those are just commercials. You've never seen any film?“ >“Only the ones about how you should buy some stuff. He was watching it all the time.“ „Was he like nonstop watching just teleshopping?“ >“If it means commercials all the time, then I guess yes.“ „What a sad being.“ you snicker „Anyway, I can show you some real film to entertain you while I'm gone.“ >“Well, whatever.“ >you bring your laptop and open the film folder >but what should you pick for her? „I guess you'd prefer something without humans eh?“ >she gives you a smirk >so you search for something animated „Hey, I found something you might like. I think you'll like it.“ >pic related >you press play and throw a blanket you brought along next to her on the couch >“What is it about?“ „Don't wanna ruin it by telling you. You can turn it off with this button on the controler if you won't like it. Yeah and try to not walk. It may not hurt now, but it will.“ >you stand up to get your jacket >she gives you a nod, turning her eyes on the TV screen >just as you open the door, she turns back at you again >“I...nevermind.“ „What?“ >“Nothing, forget it.“ „Come on.“ >“Nothing, really.“ >you lower your right brown and raise your chin a bit, looking at her „...Oookay then. Bye?“ >“Bye.“ >and you're on your way >it doesn't take you a long time to get there by taxi >but on the way back, you decide to have a walk >partly because you're a cheapskate, partly because you wanna clear your head a bit before returning back to her >you did act like it was nothing, but you kinda miss that money >but at least you spent it on doing a good thing >hopefuly >... >but why do you even try so hard? >if she's really gonna leave one day and get herself caugh again? >though, sure as hell she won't leave now >at least not in upcoming week >maybe if she left after her feathers grow back as well, maybe she could actualy have a chance out there >we'll see that in the future >but now that you think of it, maybe going all the way back by foot wasn't the best idea >you're getting cold >should have at least get more clothing >but it's not that far from this point, you can do it >soon you're back at your door again and stepping inside >just as you open the door, you can hear her changing positions fast „Hey!.. is everything alright?“ >the movie is paused on a transitions of two frames somewhere at the start >“H-hi! Sure, everything's alright, I just… fell asleep out of nowhere and woke up just now.“ >she's smiling awkwardly as if she's hiding something „You know, you're bad at lying. What's really up?“ >“Nothing, really…“ >you sit down on the couch next to her >as you get closer, she gets even more nervous and presses the blanket on herself even tighter „You're hiding something.“ >“N-no I'm not. C-can you just leave for like a minute or two?“ she's blushing awkwardly >now you finally get it „...Oook then, now I get it, just hope you didn't left any mess on my couch in the process.“ you stand up to go to some other room >“How do you- I mean: I wasn't doing what you think!“ >you're already standing in the kitchen, not hearing what she's saying >while at it, you look around for something to eat, so you grab an apple and take a bite „Done?“ you open the door again and ask after you finish the apple >“Did you seriously think I was going to continue now?“ „I dunno. Why even start?“ >“I have my needs. Didn't have time or mood for things like that the days before. And I didn't know when will be the next time I'll have enough privacy.“ „So you took the iniciative, alright… Just hope it wasn't the film that got you into the mood.“ you grin >“No...honestly, I didn't even watch it, only the start. And I wasn't expecting you'll be back so soon.“ „Well, soon may not be the right term. It took me almost a whole hour.“ >“It didn't feel like that long. I mean,.. not the you know thingy, but the time you were gone… Like overally.“ >you just snicker >it's funny how she's trying to dodge the topic, but accidentaly keeps getting back to it „I know how you meant it. Let's just say I'll act like nothing happened, ok?“ >“Yeah,.. that would be great.“ „Anyway, since I'm back and the movie hasn't even started properly, I guess I'll have a seat too.“ >“Like, you're going to watch it too?“ „Sure, why not. It's quite a time since I've seen it.“ >“Aaaand are you sure it's exactly the right thing you wanna do?“ „Yup.“ you continue closer to the couch >as you get closer and see her expression, you stop before sitting next to her „...You actualy did leave a mess on the couch, did you?“ >she looks away, raises her chin and puckers her mouth a bit as if she's forcing herself to speak >“...Maybe a bit...But it happened because of you! I mean, not like because of you like that but because you sat next to me and I had to act like nothing is happening and when I was sitting like that, I accidentaly rubbed a bit onto the couch, but that's all I swear!“ >you let out a snort of laugh and facepalm while she's looking at you with worried expression „Come to think I though this would be a normal day when I woke up...“ >she's still silent, holding her shame inside „Look, I'll clean it, but if there is some other surprise you're planning for me, just tell me now.“ you continue in more normal voice >“No, there isn't...“ „Good.“ you hand her a cleaning tissue „I'll get a cleaning rag for the couch in the meanwhile.“ >before you close the bathroom door behind you, you add: „I'll knock when I find it.“ >you purposely take your time in the bathroom, mainly to give her some time because you don't want to catch her off guard again >on the way back you knock and after hearing „Come inside.“, you enter >she's sitting on the other side of the couch >and there's a small wet spot on the place she sat before >“...I tried to clean it with the tissues, while you were in the bathroom.“ she mumbles, almost whispering, still full of shame „That's ok, hope it'll come off.“ you start with cleaning >it goes pretty well, since it didn't soak deep into the couch, but rather stayed mostly on the surface „There. Guess now we can finally act like nothing happened, right?“ >“Right...“ >you leave with the rag to the bathroom again to wash it >as you close the door behind you and continue to the sink, you look at the rag in your hand >you can't help your curiosity, but to smell it >and even though you were expecting some animal stench, it smells pretty normal >if you used some of your imagination, you could even say it slightly resembles some candy >wait what? „What the fuck am I even doing? I'm sniffing a damn horsejuice, goddammit pull yourself together Anon.“ you say to yourself silently and throw the rag into the sink before turning around >walking out of the bathroom door, you think about if you still want to see the movie with her >on one hand, you have no other plans for today and you wouldn't mind seeing the movie, but on the other hand… >what is on the other hand though? >pretty much nothing >because nothing happened after all >you did say that both of you will act like nothing happened >so you take your place next to her on the couch „So um, do you mind if I play it from the start again?“ >“Nah, that's okay.“