House Guest Trixie (Part 1)

>Hello, Anonymous. It is I, the Great and Powerful Trixie.
>Trixie saw you in the pathetic excuse for a crowd today. I understand word spreads fast in Equestria, but this is just simply dreadful!
>Excuse me, Trixie is rambling.
>With that said, Trixie seems to have not enough bits to make rent, and...well, I officially am the Homeless and Poor Trixie.
>I won't bother you with the details, but Tri...I have no choice but to turn to you.
>I would try the other ponies in the "crowd" today but you heard their disapproval.
>So, what will it be?
>Please don't make me leave.

>"Alone and disliked, eh Trixie?
>I can relate, not having someone to turn to.
>How do I put this, your reputation is stained, as you saw.
>But if you are willing to do your best to help with the costs, then there is a place for you in my home.
>A warm bed, hot bath, food, shelter, and a friend.
>Yeah, you can stay with me, but only if you will help with the bills and maybe take some time to get to know me.
>I'll help you learn the meaning of friendship."

>Trixie blinked, surprised at Anon's willingness to readily take her in.
>He didn't even think it over or hesitate.
>"Really? You'll help me, even after what you saw in the crowd?"
>Anon nodded, shrugging.
>"Yeah. I'm not so soulless to leave a mare like you out hungry and cold.
>You don't deserve to be shunned, not when you are reaching for help.
>Just remember the deal."
>Trixie wrapped her hooves around Anon's waist, hugging him before releasing him quickly, looking somewhat embarrassed.
>"Thank you! Erm, I mean, the Great and Powerful Trixie thanks you, Anon.
>Please, let us head home then."
>Anon smirked and led the caped unicorn into town, arriving at a house that matched the others.
>"This is where you live, Anon?
>The Great and Powerful Trixie is use to better accommodations than this."
>Anon gave her a skeptical look.
>"You're free to back out if you still want to."
>"No! No, that's quite alright. The Homeless and Grateful Trixie shall make due."
>Chuckling silently to himself, Anon opened the door and lit some candles to light up the house.
>"Wow, the Impressed and Content Trixie is happy with your home.
>Much more cozy and befitting of us on the inside."
>"Yeah, that's how houses work.
>No need to pretty up the outside when the time inside is what is important."
>Closing the door, Anon glanced at Trixie as she walked around his living area.
>"Out of curiosity, are you going to do that third person thing this whole time?"
>"The Stubborn and Determined Trixie will use it, yes."
>'Oh boy,' Anon thought, 'This will be fun to work with.'
>"Right. Well the couch is open to you..."
>"You can't be serious."
>"Let me finish. Or you can take the bed upstairs and I use the couch."
>Trixie cocked her eyebrow at the human.
>"Why would you give up your bed for me?"
>"I mean, if you -want- the couch..."
>"No, the bed shall be fine for Trixie."

>Anon lead the way up stairs, showing Trixie where each of the rooms were.
>The last room he showed her was the bedroom.
>"This is the bedroom, you're welcome to stay in here for the time being."
>She walked around, testing his bed.
>"Well, this is far better than Trixie thought -you'd- have, Anon."
>"Yes well, I've been here long enough to get myself set pretty well.
>When you're done poking the bed, meet me in the kitchen."
>"Why?"
>"Because it's too early for bed and I'm guessing after your show you'd be hungry."
>Anon vanished into the hallway, leaving Trixie to stand there for a moment.
>She pulled her cape and hat off, setting them on the bed, smiling to herself.
>It had been a while since someone was this nice to her.
>Head downstairs, she found Anon preparing some hay for her, looking completely unperturbed with the situation.
>She pulled a chair out, it lighting up in her magic as she moved it, clambering up clumsily.
>It was higher than most chairs she was use to, must be Anon's since he was taller than ponies, Trixie thought to herself.
>Anon came over and sat the plate in front of her, moving off to prepare his own meal.
>"Anon, could Trixie have some seasoning?"
>"Yeah, second cupboard on the left."
>"You mean Trixie must retrieve it herself?"
>"In Big Mac's words: Eyup.
>I offered to share a house, not wait you."
>Trixie huffed and sat there for a moment, watching Anon get some meat out of an icebox.
>She found the cupboard and it glowed, opening with her magic, the seasoning she wanted floating over to her.
>Anon came back as his food was cooking over a flame on the stove.
>"So, those details from before?"
>Trixie avoided Anon's eyes.
>"The details are nothing of importance. Trixie is just in a bad spot."
>"I could tell that much.
>I rather enjoyed your magic tricks, shame the crowd didn't."
>"It's because... I am a dishonored from my past actions."
>"Yeah, I do remember the ponies in the crowd mentioning something happening before.

>But what's happened has happened and you can only go forward from there, right?"
>"Yes, but... My livelihood doesn't reign in bits anymore."
>Anon gets up to check his food, still talking to her.
>"So prove to them you are what you say.
>Get better and be the most magical unicorn in Equestria."
>Trixie munched at her hay while he spoke, speaking up with a partial mouthful to retort.
>"It's that Twilight Sparkle, she did this to me.
>Shamed Trixie and got Trixie in this predicament.
>She's the stronger unicorn."
>Anon took a breath through his teeth, about to drop a bit of news.
>"Weeeell, not quite, Trixie."
>Trixie turned and looked at Anon, her mouth too full to speak.
>"She is an Alicorn now, as you may or may not know, whether it hurt your pride or not.
>But -technically- she isn't a unicorn anymore.
>Which means..."
>He gestured with his free hand for her to continue the sentence, his other hand flipping the meat.
>Trixie thought for a moment, chewing slowly.
>Her eyes widened a bit from what that implied.
>With a swallow, she grinned at Anon, like he was a glorious messenger.
>"That means she's no longer the most magical unicorn in Equestria!"
>"Bingo. And that means the title is up for grabs."
>"Excellent! The Great and Powerful Trixie will prove she is the most magical unicorn in all of Equestria!"
>Anon grinned at Trixie's shouting, it meant she wasn't in a bad mood considering her situation, so this was a good start.
>"Yes, but I must remind you that you live here now.
>So if your shows aren't earning enough, I might have to get you to do some work around the house to make up for it."
>He walked back over with his steak as Trixie gasped.
>"The Great and Powerful Trixie? Doing housework? Surely you jest."
>Anon shook his head, sitting down at the table.
>"Not really. I don't know if you make enough to cover food expenses but if not, I'll have to find a way to make some extra bits to cover it.

>I ask you do housework because if I'm out doing that for your food, then I won't be able to do it myself.
>And that's only when I'm not here, otherwise we will both clean up."
>Trixie looked like she was giving it careful thought, but she knew she'd do it if she had to.
>Where else would she go?
>"Alright, Trixie shall do this, but Trixie is not a maid."
>Anon chuckled, cutting into his meal.
>"Of course not, otherwise you'd be wearing a cute maid outfit."
>He snickered at the red that crossed Trixie's cheeks.
>"Trixie shall not wear one of those!"
>"Never said you would.
>But you never know, you might look good in it, just between us."
>Trixie went on about eating her meal with a huff.
>They ate in awkward silence for a bit, allowing Trixie some time to think.
>Anon had always gone to her shows when she held them in Ponyville.
>He always seemed to be one of the few, if not the only one among the crowd, who legitimately enjoyed her performances.
>He'd pay her bits and on the few occasions they spoke, he appeared nice enough, if somewhat sarcastic.
>She glanced at him, the only human in Equestria, eating with her like this was no different than any other night.
>Their eyes met, Trixie quickly looking away, she wasn't ready for Anon to see her for who she really was.
>He grinned at her, trying to be as comforting as possible.
>"So, how will you go about improving your magic, Trixie?"
>She tapped a hoof, that was a good question.
>"The Great and Powerful Trixie will practice her magic and work to improve upon it to make it better than ever!
>Start with the tricks I know and make them better."
>"Sounds like a plan, will you need any help with that?"
>"Perhaps, Trixie could use an assistant every now and then."
>Anon nodded, he wasn't a fan of the term 'assistant' but he'd roll with it.
>The two finished their meal and headed into the living area, where Anon flopped on the couch.
>Trixie took a nearby soft back chair, glancing around the room.

>"So Trixie, why the theatrics?"
>"Excuse me?"
>Why the third person and constant bravado?"
>"Trixie speaks like this to remind everyone who is the best."
>Anon nodded, his eyes closed as he laid on the couch, far more relaxed than Trixie appeared to be.
>"You know you don't have to remind me, right? We already know you're the best."
>"You... what?"
>Anon opened his eyes to glance over at her with a smile.
>"Yeah, I know of what others say about you, but that doesn't mean you aren't the best to someone.
>I never miss one of your shows, I rather enjoy them.
>But I'd like it if you just be yourself."
>Trixie feigned looking offended, sticking her nose into the air.
>"This is how the Great and Powerful Trixie always is."
>"Sure, when you asked for help earlier, sure sounded like you were speaking in first person."
>"Trixie knows not what you speak of."
>"Right. Well when you feel you can relax, feel free to act casual around me."
>Trixie was happy Anon was so easy going, a welcome improvement from the disapproving and distasteful attitudes she endured for weeks now.
>"What do you normally do around this time, Anon?"
>"Normally? I'd be reading or something.
>Can't ignore the best unicorn in Equestria when she's a house guest though, can ya?"
>That did get a smile out of Trixie, at least Anon thought highly of her.
>"I'm glad to see someone appreciates me.
>Trixie may turn in soon though, it has been a long and unsuccessful day."
>"Fair enough. If you're to improve, you'll need it to get up early tomorrow."
>Trixie pulled herself from the chair and was passing Anon when he stopped her.
>"Hey Trixie."
>"Yes, what is it?"
>She felt herself pulled over by Anon, into a hug.
>"Relax some, Trixie.
>You're in good company.
>It could be a lot worse."
>Trixie stood there for a moment before draping a front leg over Anon, hugging back.

>Trixie headed upstairs, entering Anon's bedroom and climbing into the bed.
>It was soft, gently cradling her as she pulled the sheets on her.
>She looked around the room, it was a bit of a pigsty with clothes thrown in the corner, but she couldn't complain.
>The bed was large, it felt empty to Trixie, like there was too much room.
>Sparing a moment to blow out the candle, Trixie tried to get comfortable.
>Soon she was asleep, the scent of Anon on the pillow and small feelings of happiness lulling her into a gentle snooze.
>The first sound of the morning was from downstairs, Anon moving about as he prepared some breakfast.
>Tunes were playing from a small Radio that he had fashioned with some help from the local ponies, powered by a rechargeable enchanted gem.
>He was flipping some pancakes, moving with the beat of one of DJ-Pon3's tracks, when he heard sounds behind him.
>"Good morning, Anon."
>He spun on his heel with a grin to see a bleary eyed Trixie climbing into a chair.
>"Morning Trixie. How'd the bed treat you last night?"
>She grumbled, clearly not a morning person.
>"Trixie was content with your bedding."
>"Good, you eat pancakes, right?"
>She nodded as he spun back around, she couldn't understand how ponies (and Anon) were able to be up and moving so early.
>She closed her eyes, wanting to drift back to sleep, when a clack made her open her eyes again.
>Before her sat some pancakes, a tall stack on a plate in the middle of the table, with an empty plate in front of her and one for Anon.
>"Dig in, I'll grab some drinks."
>Trixie pulled a couple of pancakes from the stack, munching away while Anon brought back a couple of glasses of Apple juice.
>"These are good, Anon. Trixie is pleased with your ability to prepare food."
>"Thanks, glad you like them. Planning to hold your show today?"
>"Not exactly. The Great and Powerful Trixie must go and acquire books with which to improve."

> Something slid across the table towards Trixie, a small sack that jingled when she lifted it.
>"Take that with ya, Trixie.
> Just in case you need it for something."
>"The Great and Proud Trixie does not take handouts, Anon."
>"Then consider it payment for the show that would have been for the day."
>She smiled to herself as she placed the sack of bits beside her chair.
>"Alright, but only because you insist."
>A bit later, she dawned her cape and hat, placing the bits into a pouch inside her cloak.
>She couldn't believe Anon was willing just to give her money.
>Granted, she needed it, but she didn't want to appear needy.
>After all, she had a reputation to maintain or repair, rather.
>She went downstairs to find Anon preparing to set out as well.
>"Where are you going, Anon?"
>"To work, I help out Derpy and the mail ponies with delivering packages."
>"Trixie does not believe she has seen you in a mail pony uniform before."
>Anon laughed, straightening his tie on the suit he always wore.
>"They don't make them in my size. So I wear whatever I please and just deliver or work a shift in the post office."
>They went outside and walked together for a bit, the post office and book store being in the same general direction.
>The ponies saw Trixie murmured to each other, not even trying to hide their snide comments.
>"That show off is still here."
>"Didn't Twilight already run her off twice?"
>"Don't believe anything she says."
>"A waste of good bits, her show."
>Anon noted that Trixie's head had lowered a bit, though she kept the air of pompous about her.
>He heard another couple speaking up ahead of them, choosing to keep Trixie distracted.
>"Any books in particular that you're after, Trixie?"
>She glanced up at Anon, startled out of her ignore mode.
>"Particular? No, Trixie shall browse what is available and make d."
>"Fair enough, see what there is and get what you can."
>The couple ahead were now actively being rude.

>"What will you 'wow' us with today, Trixie?"
>"I wonder if we could talk Twilight into holding magic shows?"
>"Maybe. She'd be better than this pony."
>Anon waved his hand at the ponies.
>"Alright, fuck off, you've made your point."
>Both ponies gasped at Anon, he'd always been nice to them.
>"Anon, why would you say that?"
>"Um, because you and everyone else are giving another pony a hard time."
>"You -do- know who that is, right?"
>Anon grinned, turning as they walked passed them to keep facing the two.
>"You mean the Great and Powerful Trixie? Yeah, I know her.
>You treat her like you've never made a mistake before.
>Ease up, no one give -you- shit for losing your bits in a poker game. Repeatedly."
>The ponies scoffed at the outrage, but Anon just laughed, turning back to walk with Trixie.
>"You didn't have to do that for Trixie, Anon.
>...Thank you."
>"Not a problem, that's something a friend does."
>"What?"
>"Friends stand up for each other, friends won't turn their back on you and leave you hanging."
>Trixie looked at Anon for a minute before hiding her eyes with her hat, smiling to herself.
>They parted ways and Trixie headed for the book store while Anon went to work.
>She felt her spirits were higher, that was the first time someone defended her since Snips and Snails.
>With a smile playing on her lips, she entered the book store with a flutter of her cloak, addressing the clerk.
>"It is I, the Great and Powerful Trixie! The Great and Powerful Trixie requires spellbooks, do you have any?"
>Looking unamused by her loud voice, the clerk pointed to a corner of the store, which Trixie headed for without a second thought.
>Trixie soon matched the clerk's unamused attitude, finding the section he pointed her to was basic spells.
>"Really funny, book keeper. Trixie shall find the books she needs on her own."
>She started peering through the books, finding a few interesting book that might help her.

>She found some books on magic, but nothing too good on improving magic.
>She picked out what she thought she could use, taking the books to the counter.
>Pulling the bag from her cloak, she found inside more than enough for the bits.
>Inside also was a note with a key attached.
>She pulled the note out, it was from Anon, reading:
>'Dear Trixie,
>Remember how I said you'd learn about friendship from me?
>Here's lesson number three for you.
>Being kind to someone is always more accepted than boasting about how great you are.
>You and I know you're great, but try for me today to be kind as I have been kind to you.
>Even if it is a simple 'thank you' or what have you.
>People like that sort of thing.
>Signed;
>Anon.'
>"Number three? But he's only taught me one thing so far."
>"Miss Trixie!"
>The clerk's voice snapped her back to reality.
>"That will be one hundred and fifty bits, please."
>Trixie furrowed her brow and started to get loud in return, but the paper caught her eye again.
>"DO YOU..." She sighed, Anon was right, she needed to be kinder.
>"The Great and Sorrowful Trixie apologizes. Here's the bits."
>The clerk blinked and counted the money, nodding.
>"Everything seems to be in order. Sorry for yelling, you were just absorbed in the parchment there."
>"It's quite alright, Trixie simply did not expect it. Good day."
>The clerk offered a smile as Trixie left, who in turn smiled as well.
>That wasn't so bad, definitely outside of what she normally does.
>She tucked the books and note away walking outside.
>She went back around towards her new home, looking at the ponies shes passed.
>Some were, like before, muttering and cutting glances.
>But now that she took the time to look around, not just straight ahead to avoid eye contact, she noted that some ponies paid her no mind.
>Between being talked about and ignored, Trixie liked neither.
>But at least the clerk smiled.
>'Maybe Anon was onto something with this kindness thing' Trixie thought.

>"The Great and Powerful Trixie will learn of this friendship and be a better pony."
>"A better pony? Ya'll got a long way to go there, Trixie."
>Trixie looked over and saw Applejack, the Element of Honesty, at an apple stand.
>"Oh please, what are you going on about?"
>"Ya'll seem to forget that your braggin' is what people don't like."
>She bit back a retort, trying to do as asked.
>"Well, that doesn't matter. The Studious and Leaning Trixie is learning how to be a friend."
>Applejack raised an eyebrow, having a hard time thinking of anyone who'd willingly subject themselves to this.
>"And are ya learnin' it from them books?"
>"Actually, no.
>The Lucky and Thankful Trixie has befriended the human, Anonymous."
>"Ok, now I know yer pullin' my chain.
>Anon is a laid back guy, sure, but I don't seem him havin' endless patience for your attitude."
>"We'll see, Applejack. He's taught me more than anyone else has."
>With that, Trixie marched off, leaving Applejack to shake her head after her.
>Trixie wondered if Anon would get fed up with her boisterous personality, she might have to ask him.
>Speaking of the human, Trixie noticed Anon himself passing across the road ahead, holding the back end of a box.
>A Stallion was under the front of it, the two carrying it off for delivery.
>In truth, Anon had seen the exchange between Applejack and Trixie.
>Applejack wasn't overly rude like those ponies earlier, which Anon had hunted down and apologized to, explaining what he was doing.
>And surprisingly, Trixie handled it better than down right trying to belittle Applejack.
>The real test, Anon thought, would come when she was pushed to her limit.
>Trixie continued home and shut herself in, pulling the books out.
>They weren't all that good for advanced magics, but it was a start.
>She poured over them, looking for anything she could find to help her improve, though her attention was easily drawn to the noises outside.
>If felt so strange to not put on a show.

>Hours later, Anon returned to find the candles already lit, seeing Trixie's hat stick up over the couch.
>He tried not to laugh when he found she had passed out reading.
>"She's trying, I'll give her that."
>Setting down his own mail, he went and found some hay for Trixie, setting it beside her on the couch.
>He fixed himself a drink, and sat with one of her books in the nearby chair, looking to see what she had researched.
>'Spells and You, a Guide to Strengthening Your Magic.'
>Anon grinned, sounded like the right track.
>A snuffling alerted him to Trixie's waking.
>"Evening sleepy head. How'd today go?"
>Trixie sat up quickly, she wasn't expecting Anon to be right there.
>"The Sleepy and Powerful Trixie had a fine day."
>"Good good, did you find the note I left you?"
>"Trixie did."
>"And did you try?"
>"Yes, the book keeper at the store startled Trixie, but she remembered your words and tried to be nice."
>"Excellent. You'll get the hang of it.
>By the way, Carrot Top and Bon Bon send their support."
>Trixie had started nibbling at the hay, but stopped to look up.
>Anon already had a hand up to motion to let him finish.
>"They were extremely rude earlier and I may have overdone it in my retort.
>So I sought them out, apologized, and told them that you were learning how to be a friend.
>I asked them the same of you: Be kinder.
>With some explaining, they agree and will try to be more patient with you."
>Trixie inspected Anon, did he really?
>"Why did you do this for me?"
>"Talk to them? Because, I wasn't going to let you endure such hardship alone, so I sent them off.
>But I knew that it wasn't the right way to behave, so I went back and set them straight.
>I wasn't going to let you get discouraged just as you start, that'd be no fun."

>Trixie didn't know what to make of Anon right now.
>She couldn't help but smile, she didn't know why he was going to such lengths to help her, but she was happy he was willing to.
>"Thank you, Anon.
>You're doing more for me than anyone else has."
>"Not a problem. Everyone needs friends, they're the ones you can count on to help you out."
>Trixie noticed which book Anon was reading, a question coming to mind.
>"Anon, do you know any magic?"
>"Not a one, humans are not magical like unicorns.
>The closest I come to magic is how I weave words."
>"Weave words?"
>"Yeah, the gift of a silver tongue. I can be good with my words when I want.
>Earlier was an exception to get them to stop."
>"How does the silver tongue work?"
>"Like any tongue, really. It's not magic magic, it's just know how and exploitation."
>"Can you show this gift to Trixie one day?"
>Anon laughed, Trixie quickly picking up on that accidental double meaning.
>"I'll show you anytime you want."
>"Shut up! You know what I meant."
>"I do, but I couldn't resist."
>Trixie managed a smile, Anon's laugh was contagious.
>"You're already learning, but let's see how you've progressed with your magic."
>Trixie brought out her rope, Anon grinning at her.
>"Didn't know you were into that."
>The rope cracked at him, as he held up his arms to defend himself.
>"It's a joke! Come on, I'm trying to get you to have a giggle."
>Standing on the couch, Trixie performed her tricks, seeing if she could do more now.
>Sad to say, there wasn't much improvement that she could see.
>Anon, however, clapped all the same.
>"I saw some minor improvements.
>You'll get there eventually."
>Trixie flopped down, frowning, she had wanted immediate results.
>Anon walked over, sitting beside her.
>"Oh come on now, maybe instead of bettering your old tricks, you could use new ones?
>Why not practice and make an earth pony 'fly'?"
>Trixie thought about that, maybe new spells with more impressive results would do better.

>"New tricks could bring in more audience members and what better way to make friends than to hold a show then a meet n' greet?"
>"True, could Trixie make you fly?"
>"Probably, but it'd have less of an impact on the ponies who know little about humans in general than seeing an earth pony flying around."
>Trixie nodded, she knew how to make rope levitate, so it was simply increasing in size.
>She explained that thought to Anon, who nodded.
>"Sounds like simple logic to me. You can practice on me, but the final result will have to be an earth pony."
>"The Curious and Amused Trixie wonders if you can just so happen to transform into a pony."
>Anon laughed, shaking his head.
>"'Fraid not, that's a story over. I'm just me."
>Trixie raised her eyebrows at that comment, but didn't get a chance to comment as Anon stood up, presenting himself with his arms spread wide.
>"Alright, give it a whirl."
>Trixie stood up, her horn aglow as Anon was engulfed in her magical aura.
>"Oh god, it tickles!"
>Anon was much heavier than the rope, but Trixie used far too much magic as Anon rocketed up, banging off the ceiling.
>"Are you alright Anon!?"
>"Yeah, let's try to not give me a concussion, please.
>I'm not ready for a nap yet."
>Lifting Anon was one thing, it was another to move him and not let him dip.
>Trixie did find it easier to draw Anon close and 'lead' him around.
>Finally, she set him down after she broke a sweat from maintaining the spell.
>"Excellent work, that went rather well, despite bashing me into the ceiling."
>"Sorry about that. Trixie didn't know she could do that."
>"Did you ever try?"
>"...No?"
>"There you go then. Maybe you always had that and you never tried."
>Anon was rubbing the top of his head, prompting Trixie to walk over and push his hand out of the way.
>"Let the Apologetic and Tired Trixie have a look."
>She felt of his head with a hoof, feeling a bump that formed on him from the impact.
>"What's the diagnosis, Nurse Trixie?"

>"You have a nasty bump, nothing some ice shouldn't reduce."
>She went into the kitchen and came back with towel with ice in it.
>She placed it on Anon's head, frowning at the thought of hurting her only friend.
>"Thank you, Trixie."
>He reached over and placed a hand on her head, petting her lightly.
>Trixie looked up at him, batting his hand away with a hoof.
>"The Great and Powerful Trixie is not a pet."
>"Of course not, you're just out of reach for any other form of thanks like that."
>Trixie huffed with feigned annoyance, heading back to her plate.
>Anon sat back, closing his eyes.
>Trixie watched him, despite her act, she didn't want to hurt Anon.
>She remembered what Applejack was saying, about her attitude being an annoyance.
>"Anon?"
>"Hmm?"
>"Is Trixie's personality... annoying?"
>"I wouldn't say annoying. It does wear some some ponies' nerves after the first few minutes."
>"What do you think?"
>"I think that you do that to help build yourself up, but you don't mean to sound arrogant, you just come off as that when you get into the act."
>Trixie nodded slowly, Anon continuing to answer the unasked question.
>"No, you do not annoy me, Trixie.
>I do hope you'll warm up to me enough to go easier on the bravado, but I can deal with it."
>She looked over and saw Anon smiling, his eyes still closed.
>"Also, sorry if I pass out, I think that did jar me a bit."
>Trixie got up and moved Anon to the couch with her magic.
>"Rest up, Anon. And thank you for helping me."
>Anon smiled at Trixie as she headed upstairs, she was tired from making a human fly about the room.
>She hadn't been laying down long before Trixie decided she wasn't going to get to sleep easy.
>She walked back down and found Anon passed out on the couch.
>He was once more engulfed by her magic and carried up to his bedroom, snuggled up against him was Trixie.
>"Speak of this to no one, Anon."
>Anon was still out cold, and with him there to comfort her, Trixie eased into slumber.

>The next morning, Anon woke up to find himself in his own bed, much to his surprise.
>Thinking he hit his head harder than he thought, he started to turn over and felt something wrapped around him.
>He looked down and felt a smile growing on his face.
>Trixie was holding onto him, sound asleep.
>He could only guess she brought him up.
>Anon slid from her grip carefully, gently pulling her into the warm spot he left behind so she still felt he was there, started out when he heard her speak.
>"Mention this to no one, Anon."
>He grinned back at her, though she appeared still asleep.
>"Mention what?"
>With that, he walked out of the door.
>Anon headed into the shower to prepare for the day, even though it was a Saturday.
>Trixie climbed out of the bed, straightening her mane.
>She had just felt lonely last night was all, nothing big.
>Heading downstairs, she found her books and started looking over them.
>As much as she hated to say it, the books she really needed were in the fancy tree library that was ran by Twilight Sparkle, but she refused to go near it.
>Not until she had gotten better.
>She had her rope out, shaping it into complex designs while she read, losing focus easily as something caught her eye.
>A thumping announced Anon's decent into the living quarters.
>She looked up and saw he was wearing his trademark suit, something she's never seen him out of.
>"Do you always wear the suit, Anon?"
>"Normally. Why?"
>"Trixie just wonders if you wear anything casual."
>"Define Casual."
>"Not a suit."
>"Occasionally. I think the suit looks good."
>Trixie shrugged, going back to her book while Anon walked over and turned on the radio to some tunes.
>"So, what's the next big spell to work on, Trixie?"
>"I'm not sure. Any suggestions?"
>Anon shrugged, walking with a bounce in his step to the beat.
>"How about a disappearing trick? Make something vanish?"
>"That sounds like a good one."

>Anon brought the mare several items of varying sizes for her to practice on.
>Flipping through the books, Trixie couldn't find much on making objects disappear.
> It wasn't so much of strengthening her magic now as it was a new spell.
>Anon suggested teleportation, but that was just as difficult.
>Trixie did her best, turning one book a shade of brown that matched the table, but they could still see it.
>"That's an idea, at least.
>At least we know it blends."
>A bottle that Anon brought her turned all manner of colors, including clear but the bottle itself was still visible.
>"Dang, if I'd had left any liquid in that bottle, I could have said I drank the rainbow. Our LSD."
>Words can't even describe what happened to the hat, it just became a solid color, no details of the hat itself left.
>"Wasn't a fan of fedoras anyway."
>Trixie was frustrated with the lack of progress, finally tossing one of her books across the room.
>"These are proving useless to the Irritated and Frustrated Trixie!
>They speak of nothing regarding invisibility."
>Anon placed a hand on her shoulder, trying to sound comforting.
>"Let's take a break, you've been at this for a while.
>Why don't we go and grab lunch, my treat."
>Trixie looked at Anon.
>"Treating me to lunch?
>Trixie is surprised at your generosity Anon.
>Are you expecting compensation?"
>Anon chuckled, shaking his head.
>"Not really. That's just another part of being a friendly person."
>"Treating others to lunch?"
>"In a manner of speaking.
>A friend is generous with what they have if their friend is in need.
>Knowing the difference between going overboard with it and setting your limits is also important.
>You can't afford food, at the moment, or so I assumed.
>So as my friend, I'm treating you to lunch.
>Besides, who all can say they got to have lunch with the Great and Powerful Trixie?"

>Anon and Trixie left the house, strolling down the street.
>"Any particular place you'd fancy a bite?"
>Trixie shook her head, holding her head high as they passed ponies.
>"Trixie shall be fine with what you choose, since you're treating."
>She said that a bit loud, Anon wondered if she was trying to flaunt it.
>"Alright, well there is a little store down here that sells some nice hay."
>"Do you even know what hay tastes like?"
>"Not even the foggiest of ideas. But I've heard it's good."
>"I'll be the judge of that!"
>Nodding, Anon glanced at Trixie.
>"Fair enough. And if it's not, I'll treat you to someplace else."
>Trixie grinned, Anon was a very giving friend.
>He was carefree, easy to get along with, and even wants her to just be herself.
>Anon didn't mind being that friend for Trixie.
>She had approached him at her lowest point, a once proud unicorn pleading for a place to stay.
>Her words had rang with a note of sorrow, a note that could Anon felt tug at his heartstrings.
>As carefree as he might be, he didn't like the sight of seeing the magician reduced to that sad state.
>He hadn't hesitated because he had always amused the thought of getting to know Trixie.
>And right now, he felt she needed a friend more than anything in the world.
>So here he was.
>"What do you think?"
>The two had arrived while they had mused, a normal looking restaurant with a few ponies eating outside.
>"It's quaint and shall do.
>The Great and Powerful Trixie shall allow this."
>The two sat down, Anon holding a hand up for menus.
>"Order whatever you like."
>Trixie was looking over the menu while Anon was reclined back, relaxing, when a voice grabbed their attention.
>"Anon, darling, is that you? I thought I'd recognize that lovely hue of green anywhere."
>"What's up, Anon! Been a while."
>Anon smiled at the newcomers while Trixie remained behind her menu.
>"Heyo Rarity. Looking lovely today, as usual.
>And what's up, Rainbow."

>Rainbow and Anon high fived, which Anon always regretted afterwards when that hoof hit his bare hand.
>He gave Rarity a one armed hugged, they were all friends.
>"Have you been out running for the Running of the Leaves yet?"
>"Not really, you know me, I prefer to chill out."
>"Do I have to drag you out again this year?"
>"Maybe, just let me get pants this time, running in skivvies wasn't fun."
>"I think the mares who fancy you thought otherwise during that race, Anon."
>Anon chuckled with Rarity, "So you say, I haven't met one of them yet."
>"So what brings you out here today? A luncheon with your friend there?"
>The menu visibly flinched, Trixie was not keen on dealing with those two right now.
>"Kind of, I told her I'd treat her to lunch."
>Rarity and Rainbow smirked at each other.
>"Her?" "Her?"
>Ever since Anon had moved in, Rainbow and Rarity had been playfully conspiring to find a pony who matched up with Anon, but it appeared to them he was one step ahead.
>"So, who's hiding from us?"
>Rainbow whipped around the menu, her jaw dropping when she saw it was none other than "Trixie?"
>Trixie herself sat the menu down with a snap.
>"Yes, the Great and Powerful Trixie is having lunch with Anon.
>He's being a wonderful friend to me."
>Rainbow and Rarity both looked at Anon, who hadn't so much as moved.
>"You call this rude pony your friend?"
>"...Do you not?"
>"Oh hardly, I recall staggeringly well what she did to my mane."
>"Yeah, and she trapped me in a vortex of rainbows."
>"Naysayers, it was the challenge and Trixie came out victorious."
>Rainbow was in Trixie's face in a heartbeat.
>"You're nothing more than a HEY!"
>Anon had leaned up and pulled Rainbow back by her tail.
>"Easy killer, be nice.
>Let bygones be bygones."
>"Why should I?"
>"Because I'm teaching her how to be a better friend and you aren't helping."
>"By treating her to lunch, Anon?"
>"No, Rarity, by being there for her in her time of need.
>I'm her friend."

>"What do you mean 'time of need'?"
>"Well Rainbow, as you both demonstrated, people give her a hard time.
>A lot. She's not in the best spot right now, so I chose to help her out.
>She wasn't happy with it at first, but I'm convincing when I want to be."
>The two mares looked at each other, giving Anon the chance to wink at Trixie.
>He was trying to keep her pride from being wounded.
>"Just go easier on her, alright you two?
>She's trying to be nicer, but it's hard to do when everyone reacts like that to her."
>"But."
>"No buts, Rainbow, you wouldn't want someone giving you crap when you lose a race, all day, every day, would you?
>Or you, Rarity, with someone saying your dresses are bad when you have an off day."
>"No Anon."
>"N-no."
>"I know you take great care of your mane and you, your reputatoin, but please try to look past it, she does want to learn it just takes time."
>Rarity glanced at Trixie with one eye, huffing.
>"I.. suppose I can look past it for now, if at least for your diligence to help her."
>"Fine, I'll play nice for now.
>So why are you on a lunch date with her?"
>"Who said it was a lunch date?
>She was hungry and I decided I wanted to be -generous- and buy her a meal from wherever she liked."
>Anon had stressed that point with a glance at Rarity, a point to her element.
>"As well, you two are free to join us if you want, but do play nice.
>I'm not asking for much, just patience."
>Rarity sat down across from Anon, Rainbow flopping beside her.
>Trixie moved around so that she was next to Anon, thankful he was taking most of the heat.
>"Now then, did you decide on something that you wanted?"
>"Yes, Trixie has decided."
>She placed her order while Anon reclined back again.
>Rarity was trying to be polite, though a smile was no where to be found.
>"So... Trixie... What have you been doing since your last 'visit'?"
>"The Great and Powerful Trixie has been continuing her show, showing the world who is the most magical unicorn."

>"Riiight. Just that?"
>"Yes, and learning new tricks for the show."
>Rarity was looking about, half listening.
>"New tricks? Such as?"
>"Anon is helping Trixie practice to make an earth pony fly."
>That got Rainbow's attention, "A flying earth pony?
>Like, flying like a pegasus?"
>"That is correct, oh ye of little faith."
>Anon chimed in at that comment.
>"Lesson number five, Trixie dear.
>Ponies don't like being referred to as 'oh ye of little faith', it's demeaning to them.
>Once you perfect your art, you won't have to worry about if they have faith or not, because they'll be believers in the end.
>They are trying to be nice, so let's not call them of little faith.
>Alright?"
>"Fine, Anon. The Great and Apologetic Trixie apologizes to you, Rainbow Dash."
>There was a silence, prompted by Anon opening the eye closest to her and watching her with a one eyed stare.
>They all knew how she wanted to react, but Anon was her friend and he was invested in this, so she bit her tongue.
>"It's... fine, Trixie.
>At least you're trying to be better.
>That's more than can be said for Anon and his agreement to beat me in the race."
>"Hey, you're the fastest flier, there's no way in hell I can keep up."
>"Trixie will master this new trick and learn more by the next show."
>Anon bumped Trixie with his elbow, whispering to her.
>"Remember that bit about Generosity, here's your chance to be generous.
>Offer them free admission to your next show."
>Trixie nodded, she didn't like the thought of two less paying customers in the sad crowds, but she knew it'd be nice of her.
>"Hmm, Trixie feels she can do this. Rainbow Dash and Rarity, the Generous and Kind Trixie would like to invite you both to my next show.
>Free of charge."
>Neither of the ponies were expecting that one, looking at each other then to Anon, who was still reclining.
>"Well, my stars, I am grateful for the offer Trixie.
>I think I can clear out my schedule to appear at your show."
>"Sure, why not. I want to see you make an earth pony fly."

>Anon grinned, looking at Trixie.
>"That's very nice of you, Trixie. I'm glad you thought of that.
>Feels good to give and be kind, innit?"
>Trixie placed a hoof on her chest, she did feel a bit of warmth inside, a small smile appearing on her face.
>Anon took that moment to glance at Rainbow and Rarity, grinning.
>Both were smiling at the blue unicorn, this was a big change to their past experiences with her, in no small part thanks to Anon who was guiding her.
>"It does, yes. So Trixie can expect to see you both there?"
>"Of course, I'll free up my schedule and bring some ponies with me."
>"Yeah, I'll be there. I'll invite some pegasus ponies from Cloudsdale to come watch too."
>Trixie smiled wider, there'd be a bigger crowd this next time.
>Her food arrived as the two mares stood up.
>"We must be off, we were on our way to visit Applejack when we saw you."
>"Alright, we'll catch you two lovely mares at the show, alright?"
>"Of course, darling. Goodbye Anon, Trixie."
>"Catch you both later!"
>Rarity waved at Trixie and gave Anon a quick hug, Rainbow giving him a speeding high five.
>"Eventually I'm going to learn to not high five you, Rainbow."
>"Wimp."
>As the left, Anon smiled at Trixie.
>"See? Being a bit nicer, calmer, can bring you good things.
>In exchange for your generosity, they'll bring friends to your show.
>And they seemed like they were warming up to you."
>"Indeed. Do you think they'll will like me?"
>Anon patted her back, chuckling.
>"As long as you keep learning and being a nice person, then yes, I don't see why they wouldn't like you."
>Trixie felt like her heart rose a few degrees, a warm spark in her chest.
>She hadn't eaten breakfast, so she started eating when Anon requested a salad.
>"Considering how long I've been here, you'd think I would have learned that most restaurants don't sell steaks around here."
>"Trixie can not see what you enjoy about meat."
>"You kidding, a nice juicy steak with some barbecue sauce and a tall glass of tea, that's an awesome meal.
>I'll just wait till I'm home and make some there."

>The meal was soon over, the two taking a walk through town.
>"So, before we head back, do you feel like popping over to the library for spell books?"
>Trixie huffed, she knew who lived there.
>"No. Trixie does not want to see that purple pony Twilight."
>"Right. Do you want me to pop in?
>I can grab the books and be back while with what you need."
>Trixie knew the books at home would be useless.
>"That would be kind of you, Anon.
>... I'm not ready to see Twilight yet.
>Not after last time."
>Anon nodded, leaving her in a store so that she wouldn't be seen, before heading to the Library.
>He knocked on the door, the latest princess answering the door.
>"Oh! Hello Anon! What can I do for you?"
>"Heyo, I'm after some books, if you'd be so kind."
>"Of course! What kind are you looking for?"
>"Spell books regarding invisibility, levitation, and teleportation."
>Twilight blinked, it wasn't like Anon to ask for those books.
>"I didn't think you could do magic, Anon. But yeah, I have those. Come on in."
>"It's the darnedest thing, innit?"
>Trixie saw Anon go in, sighing.
>A part of her couldn't help but wonder if Anon was going to tell Twilight about everything.
>But the better part said he wouldn't.
>Trixie sat by the window, watching for him to return, thinking about the past couple of days.
>He's done more for her now than most have done in her whole life.
>She was starting to see why though, ponies were beginning to react differently to her.
>Slowly, she was learning of friendship.
>Being with Anon made her also feel comfortable.
>He had taken her in and done all of this for her and asked little in return.
>Trixie moved her tail back an forth in anticipation.
>She thought, 'Maybe... Anon would be ok with me living with him... for a while longer?'
>She saw the door open and Anon walked out with a stack of books, exchanging goodbyes with Twilight.
>As soon as the library doors shut, Trixie was out the door to Anon, he had come through once more.

>"Anon! Did you get the books!"
>"Yup, got them right here.
>Invisibility, Teleportation, levitation, conjuration, transfiguration, and replication."
>Trixie was impressed with the turn out, looking at the spines of the books.
>"Why did you grab so many and so wide a range?"
>"Because now you'll have all you need to put on a right good show.
>I know these will help."
>Trixie was beside herself, these would get her set for her show.
>She looked up at Anon as a thought came to her mind.
>"You didn't tell Twilight, did you?"
>"Nah, told her it's so funny, innit?
>Magic's always been interesting, just now getting around to looking into it.
>She seemed happy with the response and I just got them and sod off before she asked too much."
>The two headed home, Anon grinning to himself.
>He had not been honest with Twilight, but it was for the best.
>Trixie poked Anon with her horn as they walked.
>"Hey. Anon?"
>"Hmm?"
>"Trix... I wanted to ask something of you."
>"Shoot."
>"I was curious, once I am able to get back on my hooves with the show, are you going to make me leave?"
>To her surprise, Anon just laughed.
>This was a serious question to Trixie!
>"What makes you think I'd make you leave?
>I've enjoyed our time together so far.
>As far as I'm concerned, your house it mine.
>Might need another bed, unless last night becomes nightly."
>Trixie blushed, wishing she had her hat to hide her face, at least Anon didn't say it out loud.
>"Trixie would be ok with that."
>Anon raised his eyebrows in amusement and his own enjoyment.
>"As would I.
>You don't have to worry anymore, Trixie.
>You won't be alone anymore as long as I'm here."

>Trixie trotted along side Anon, glancing up at him.
>"Anon, what is it you do when you are not working or at Trixie' show?"
>"Well, if I'm not relaxing at home, I'm hanging out with one of the other ponies.
>Rainbow is dead set on racing me; I think it's because she knows she'll win.
>I also chill out with Lyra, Cloudkicker, or Doc, Dr. Hooves to be exact, to just talk.
>I just do whatever seems like fun at the time."
>Trixie nodded, Anon had a lot of friends.
>Trixie remembered that Anon had said something about relating to her.
>"Well, I appreciate you taking the time to escort the Great and Powerful Trixie through town."
>"It's no problem."
>"So... Why did that naysayer Rainbow Dash think it was a lunch date?"
>"What? Oh, she and Rarity have been trying playing match maker for me."
>"I wasn't aware you had personal match makers, you must be well connected for a non-pony."
>"Oh hardly, I just made friends with everyone and they chose to."
>Trixie swished her tail back and forth, thinking.
>This human had it pretty nice, a house his own, a stable income of bits, and a bunch of friends.
>So how did he feel he related to her?
>"How did that work out, the match making?"
>For the first time, Trixie saw his smile appear fixed. Faked.
>"Not as well as you might hope.
>There was a clash of personalities with me and their candidates that caused issues."
>"Issues? Like what?"
>"Well, the first mare they set me up with was this high octane earth pony.
>She made Rainbow look as lazy as me.
>And as you can guess, my choice of fun and hers caused friction.
>I decided to sod off, it wasn't worth the workout."
>"Were there others?"
>"Yeah, there was one who was so timid that it made me feel like a git every time I asked for her to do something.
>I think they mentioned she was in a bad relationship before, but I got the feeling she had been talked into the relationship.
>We both agreed it might be for the better to part, we're still on good terms, just not a thing."

>Trixie frowned softly, Anon apparently had dealt with a bit more than she thought.
>"It just didn't work out?"
>"Not really. I appreciate their attempts, but their picks didn't match up.
>It can be hard just to find ponies I can get along with for a while."
>Trixie nodded.
>"And me?"
>"You? I'd say we've gotten along well, better so than some of the ponies I've met."
>"Like who?"
>"Well, like Bulk Biceps. No offense to him, but I find him insufferable at times."
>"That's that overly muscular pegasus, correct?"
>"Yeah.
>But you and I've gotten along swimmingly.
>You can be loud at times, but it's not unbearable.
>I rather enjoy the sound of your voice."
>Trixie blushed, smiling at Anon.
>"Thank you.
>Trixie appreciates the kindness you've shown.
>Trixie enjoys your company as well, you've been very good to me."
>Anon smiled as Trixie went on.
>"But the Great and Powerful Trixie will find a way to repay you.
>You've been very kind, granting quarter to me, it's the least I can do."
>Anon chuckled, noting the house finally getting closer.
>"You don't have to. It's just nice to have someone else to talk to."
>Trixie pushed the door open for Anon, who dropped the books on the couch while Trixie struck a match to light the candles.
>Anon started towards the kitchen, not seeing Trixie as he collided with her, falling over.
>The mare let out a yelp, skittering away before Anon's weight hit her.
>"Jeez, sorry about that, I didn't see you there."
>Trixie came back, helping him up with a hoof.
>"Be more careful, you could have hurt the Great and Powerful Trixie."
>She grinned at Anon as he looked at her.
>"It's not a problem.
>Just an accident."
>Anon grinned, nodding. She was learning fast.

>Inspecting the books that Anon had retrieved for her, Trixie settled into the couch, using her magic to open the books.
>She saw now that these were indeed far more complicated than she imagined, some even required magic words or incantations.
>She decided that the disappearing act would be the first, pulling that book closer.
>The bottle from earlier was still sitting on the coffee table, still clear from her spell.
>She found the proper incantation, reading it out loud.
>"From the view of the world to the hidden plane.
>Cloaked in magic as the eye's bane.
>Make the formed formless and the colors bleed.
>The words of the caster means you're freed."
>It made sense to Trixie, so she pointed her horn at the bottle, reciting the spell.
>The bottle shined and glistened, then seemed to be wiped from existence.
>Trixie reached over with a hoof, finding the bottle was still there, just unseen.
>The sound of clapping made her smile.
>"Bravo, the Great and Powerful Trixie has done it again."
>Trixie stood on the couch and posed in victory.
>"Thank you, thank you. The most magical unicorn in Equestria had no doubt she could do it!"
>In truth, Trixie had been worried that she wouldn't be able to cast it, but she didn't want Anon to know that.
>"Neither did I, I knew you could do it."
>He joined her on the couch as she went about trying it on other items, making the hat and book vanish as well.
>"I've always been a bit jealous of unicorns, seeing real magic always takes the biscuit for me.
>Left me in awe when I first saw it."
> Trixie glanced up from the spell book.
>"Jealous of real magic?
>You say that like you hadn't seen magic before."
>"Until I arrived in Equestria, I'd hadn't.
>It blew my mind when I arrived that I was arse over elbow in a place that uses it.
>It's what brought me to your show to begin with."
>Trixie tilted her head.
>"What naysayers said didn't deter you from Trixie's show?"

>"Not at all, any magic was new to me, so I have been going ever since."
>Trixie smiled, she couldn't recall the first day she remember Anon appearing in the crowd.
>"I had hoped, maybe, that if you were willing you could teach me about magic.
>I can't preform it, but it'd be fun to learn."
>The mare blinked at Anon, the smile on his face sincere with contained excitement.
>She couldn't believe she was being asked to teach.
>"Me? You want to learn from me?"
>"Yeah. With your show coming up, we can learn the new spells together.
>And when not doing that, we can sit back, relax, and hang out.
>Maybe I can show you a few of the tricks I learned before coming."
>Trixie smiled widely, someone wanted to learn from her?
>"The Great and Powerful Trixie is more than ok with this.
>I will teach you what I know and we'll learn together."
>Trixie began explaining the basics, how their horns served as an outlet for their magic, and how each pony's magic was based on their cutie mark.
>"I didn't think magic worked quite like that."
>"How did you think it worked?"
>"A snap of the fingers and willing it and poof it's done."
>"That's not how it works at all."
>"Which is why I'll stick to human magic tricks and leave this magic to professionals like you."
>Trixie cocked an eyebrow at Anon, sizing him up.
>"Trixie thought you said you've never seen magic before."
>"I haven't. I said magic tricks. Tricks as in they're faked but appear to be real magic."
>He went on to explain how in the human world, they had people called magicians who would do tricks that appeared to use magic.
>Card tricks, sawing someone in half, vanishing and reappearing assistants, the whole nine yards.
>Trixie nodded, some of those sounded similar to what she did, but not exact because she used real magic.
>"Is this where you got the vanishing idea for Trixie's show?"
>"Yup."
>Trixie looked over the book regarding invisibility and the other books, thinking.
>"Could you show me these tricks as well?"

>"I would be happy to, I'll be your assistant and help you learn every trick I can recall."
>"Excellent! The show will go on! Let's start with one of your tricks, fairs fair since I explained unicorn magic."
>Anon laughed and gathered the required items.
>He held up a coin, showing it to Trixie.
>"So, see the quarter? Watch carefully."
>Trixie turned so that she was facing Anon, eyes on the coin.
>He placed it in his other hand, closing his fingers around the coin, Trixie's eyes watch.
>Anon hold the hand that he dropped the coin into.
>He took a breath and lightly blew on his hand, opening his fingers as he did, the coin was gone.
>Trixie blinked, eying his hand.
>"What? But I saw you place the coin your hand.
>Where did it go?"
>He reached up with the first hand, reaching up to Trixie's ear.
>"Why it's here, behind your ear."
>He scratched her gently as he seemed to pull the quarter back into her view from behind her ear.
>"Impossible! The Great and Powerful Trixie never felt a bit appear behind her ear!"
>"That's the magic trick."
>She placed a hoof on Anon's hand, covering the quarter.
>"Show Trixie this 'trick'."
>Anon laughed taking her hoof and turning it over so the coin sat in it.
>He guided her along through the steps, helping her to understand that the magic was all an illusion.
>Trixie saw how he had done it, hiding the coin in his free hand the whole time, it was a clever ruse.
>She was smiling at this new trick, she could use that for her smaller crowded shows.
>She also noticed how Anon touched her gently, not as if he was afraid to touch her, but a soft and caring touch.
>Trixie looked up at Anon when he finished, he was smiling, genuinely enjoying himself.
>His smile caused Trixie's heart to swell with joy, it made her happy to see him smile.
>She wanted him to smile more, to make him smile herself.
>"Anon."
>"Yes?"
>"What do you think of the Great and Powerful Trixie?
>And be honest, Trixie does not approve of being lied to."

>Anon sat back against the couch, smiling at the ceiling.
>Trixie sat beside him, watching his face.
>"What do I think about you? Honestly..."
>He looked at the mare, their eyes meeting, the glow of the candles dancing in Trixie's eyes.
>"I think you are a mare who has been down on her luck.
>That you've made mistakes in the past, just like everyone else, and has been treated unfairly for it.
>I use to think of you as an amazing magician and performer, but after spending time with you, I see you're more."
>Trixie tilted her head, waiting for him to go on.
>"I think of you now as someone who has been lonely.
>No pony to turn to, people showing up to your shows to disprove of you, it's not a happy thing to imagine.
>And when you asked me for help, I couldn't bear it, because you reminded me of my time before I came here."
>"I did?"
>"Yes. Before I came here, I felt pretty lonely myself.
>Romance was dead and left scars, family and I bickered whenever we spoke, I didn't want to make friends back then.
>Did think I needed them. That is, until I arrived here.
>The ponies showed me what friendship was all about, showing me how wrong I was.
>I still recall those times prior to being here. They were dark times, made me realize how much of a knobhead I was.
>I started acting more jolly once I made friends with the ponies, but I haven't really found someone I hit it off with.
>In a way, I was still lonely.
>Until now."
>He smiled and placed a hand on Trixie's shoulder.
>"When I saw you that night, asking for help, I remembered the dark times I went through and I wanted to help you.
>I wanted to pull you from that same dark path of loneliness and despair.
>And the more I've gotten to know you, it's been the bee's knees every day.
>I smile more now out of legitimate happiness to be doing good and hanging out with you than pulling a false smile.
>You and your shows always made me smile, and this has just made it better.

>I wanted to help you, originally, to help you learn to make your own friends.
>A sort of 'paying it forward' for the others teaching me.
>Now... I want to make you happy and Bob's your uncle."
>Trixie felt tears welling up in her eyes, she couldn't have guess this is how Anon had related to her.
>"To answer your question, now that I've gone around the world, I think I like you.
>I want to spend more time with you, help you make friends, but most of all, to be there for you."
>Trixie leaned against Anon, trying to hide her tears.
>It had been a long long time since someone had told her they wanted to make her happy.
>And yet, here was this human who, out of the kindness of his heart, wanted to do just that.
>He had suffered and didn't want her to suffer too.
>"The Humbled and Moved Trixie is touched, Anon.
>I have always been a proud and boastful pony on stage, but I always doubted myself.
>I made big claims to feel better.
>I didn't think anyone would like me if they found out."
>She felt Anon place his arm around her, pulling her closer.
>"It's alright, Trixie.
>To me, you've always been the Great and Powerful Trixie.
>That amazing mare with the wizard's hat, proud and confident.
>Even if you don't have confidence in yourself, I have all the faith in you, I know you can do anything."
>It felt like Trixie's heart might pop, as she sat there sniffing, looking up at Anon.
>She smiled at him, the first to truly reach out to her.
>A hand gently brushed the side of her face, wiping away some of the tears.
>"Trix... I want to make you happy as well, Anon.
>You've done so much for me, asked for very little in return.
>Can you allow the Thankful and Hopeful Trixie to bring you with her into happiness?"
>Anon smiled, she could see a battle of the past in his eyes, but it was quickly snuffed out as he spoke.
>"Yeah. I would be delighted to allow that."
>Trixie buried her head against his chest, wrapping her hooves around him happily.
>She felt him rub her back gently as she hiccuped against him.
>The Great and Powerful Trixie, in this moment, was just happy to be Trixie with Anon.

>The next day, with the sun shining brightly, Trixie and Anon opted to do their practice outside at the park.
>They laughed and chattered as Anon demonstrated some simple card tricks, making small objects vanish, and told her about some of the more daring tricks.
>Trixie had never considered such things like the sawing a person in half trick or escape artists.
>"You should join Trixie in her show as my wonderful Assistant Anon!"
>"Wouldn't that detract from your center stage?"
>"Of course not! The Great and Powerful Trixie is always center stage!"
>A few ponies did stop to say hello to Anon and were mildly surprised when they saw Trixie with him.
>And more so when she spoke to them in a calmer tone.
>"Howdy Anon. Enjoyin' the sun?"
>"Yup. A good day to practice tricks and hang out."
>Applejack glanced at Trixie who still had her eyes on the book.
>"So uh, how's that workin' out for ya? Dealin' with her?"
>"A lot better than you make it sound. She's actually a lot of fun once you get to know her."
>"Really? I thought she'd have drove ya insane by now."
>Trixie looked up, grinning smugly, but her town was polite.
>"Quite the opposite, Applejack. Anon and I get along perfectly, we just needed to get to know each other."
>Applejack had apparently been waiting for a snide remark, but was left waiting.
>"Huh. Well, maybe I was wrong.
>Looks like you're doin' a good job of teachin' her to be a friend, Anon."
>"Me? I'm just guiding her along.
>She's doing all the real work."
>Trixie smiled at Anon as Applejack nodded.
>"Well, whatever your doin', it's workin'."
>"Thanks. Say, want to come to the big show that Trixie and I are going to do?"
>"You're helpin' her put on a show?"
>"Yeah, we're going to show Ponyville who the most magical unicorn is."
>"Uh, ya know that's Twilight, Right?"
>"She is an Alicorn now, Applejack. The Great and Powerful Trixie has a chance to take the title for herself now."
>Trixie sat proudly as Applejack realized she wasn't wrong.
>"Fair 'nuff, I'll come to the show to see what you two put on."

>With that, Applejack was off, leaving Anon and Trixie to talk for a bit longer.
>About mid-day, a couple of ponies walked over, the smirks on their faces not boding well, Anon felt.
>Trixie recognized them though, a couple of stallions who heckled her at her shows.
>And judging from the looks on their faces, it looks like they needed their fill of heckling.
>"Whens your next show, Trixie? Been a few days since your last flop."
>"The next one is in a couple week's time. I take it you'll both be there?"
>"Oh yeah, we wouldn't miss a chance to see how small your next crowd is."
>"Speaking of small, I was wondering, how's your wallet bag holding up these days?
>Can't think you're doing too hot with all these turn outs."
>They were smirking at each other, they had something planned.
>Anon was silent, letting the exchange happen, watching Trixie closely.
>He saw this as the push to her limits test, but he was here, just in case things turned nasty.
>So far, so good.
>"The Great and Powerful Trixie is doing just fine, Thank you.
>Trixie has found a way to get by, for now."
>"Well, I can think of a few ways you can make some extra bits, if you're willing to put out."
>"Yeah, and you can earn even more if you do it for both of us."
>The stallions started snickering, so that's what they wanted.
>Trixie sneered, a tinge in her cheeks appearing, avoiding Anon's eyes.
>Anon was trying to let her stand up for herself first, but he wanted nothing more than to beat the stallions.
>"No, if Trixie has told you both once Trixie has told you a thousand times, The Great and Powerful Trixie is not a whore.
>Quit asking."
>"Aw come on, I'm sure you can use the bits.
>Heck, I'm certain Anon here wouldn't mind some favors as well for a few bits, Right Anon?"
>"You both can sod off, acting like cheeky tossers trying to chat up Trixie."
>"You're no fun, Anon, but suit yourself."
>"So what do you say, Trixie?"
>"For the last time, no! Now leave us be!"
>"'Us'? Oh man, are you two together or something?"
>"Nah, Anon wouldn't fall so low as for someone like Trixie."
>Anon had heard enough.

>The closest pony turned in time to see Anon's foot just in time before it impacted his face, knocking him clean into his buddy.
>"This! Trixie. Is how you deal with arseholes.
>If being nice doesn't work, your options are to leave or make your point.
>I choose the latter."
>The stallions were untangling themselves from each other, glaring at Anon.
>"Hey, what gives!? We're trying to get some action here!"
>"I told you lot to sod off. But no, you went and done insulted her one too many times.
>Now I'm right brassed off with your smart mouths."
>"If you want to have a go over her, fine."
>The larger of the two reared back kicking at Anon with his hooves.
>Anon stepped back, letting the stallion land before aiming a left hook at his face.
>With a thud, fist met cheek and shocked the stallion.
>His buddy tackled Anon, knocking him to the ground and stood over him, rearing back to drop his weight on Anon.
>Anon pulled his knees to his chest and kicked out with both feet, right into the pony's stomach.
>The pony backed up from the force, the wind knocked out of him.
>Anon was standing up just in time for the first pony's hoof to connect with his face.
>Stumbling back, Anon tasted copper as he prepared to step back in.
>The second stallion didn't give him a chance, running towards him, catching Anon by the shoulders with his hooves.
>Anon leaned his head back and bashed his head against the stallion's.
>That stunned the stallion just long enough for Anon to get his hands underneath and toss him towards his buddy.
>"On your bike then or fight, I swear on me mum."
>The second stallion got up and started running at Anon, but was tripped up, a bit of rope lashed around his ankles.
>"You touch my best friend again and I'll show you a disappearing act you'll never forget."
>Trixie entered the battle, She had leaned on Anon enough and here he was fighting for her honor.
>She wouldn't let him take all the blows.
>The first stallion looked like he wasn't quite as ready to fight now that his buddy was down.

>"You were talking all that good shite a minute ago.
>Still up for a fight, ya git?"
>The stallion took a running charge at Anon, fire in his eyes, Trixie moving to intercept him but the second stallion and gotten out of his bindings.
>She was forced back while Anon dealt with the first.
>Anon was getting ready to fight the one running at him when his back split in pain.
>The second stallion and kicked him from behind, now off balance, another hit to the head put him right into the ground.
>He rolled away from another stomp, but yelled as his leg was bitten by the second pony.
>Trixie watched as Anon kicked at the pony biting him, only to get stomped on by the other pony.
>They had him outnumbered two to one.
>She was no fighter, so she ran for help.
>She just hoped Anon would ok.
>Anon had managed to get off the ground in time to see Trixie's cloak whip around a corner.
>"Hey look, your girl up and left you."
>"Guess she saw how pathetic your fighting is."
>Anon tackled the closest Pony, trying to get him in a headlock and punch his teeth in.
>No sooner was his arm around the pony's neck was the other one throwing kicks.
>So Anon did the next best thing, pulled the pony in front of him to be his shield against his buddy's kicks.
>"OW! That's me!"
>"Sorry! Blasted human."
>The pony that was held by Anon thrashed until he broke Anon's grip, head butting him in the boys.
>That only made Anon madder, grabbing the pony and pile driving him into the ground.
>The first kicked Anon's knees, putting him on the ground once more, but now the pony sat on his back.
>He was taking swings at Anon's head, getting rolled off once Anon got his foot up.
>Hooves wrapped around him, pinning him to the pony he just threw off, the other one now punching him in the stomach.
>Anon couldn't get them off him, try as he might, they just had him out numbered.
>The sound of hoofsteps was getting louder, over the sounds of punching, a voice ringing out.
>"What the buck do you think you're doing!?"
>A blue shot into the one punching Anon, knocked clean off his hooves.
>There was a sound of something getting hit behind him, the hooves releasing him.
>Trixie was over him in seconds, helping up Anon gingerly.
>"Trixie doesn't leave her friend hanging."

>Anon was seeing stars from getting hit so much by hooves, wobbling as he made it to his feet, forcing him to lean on Trixie.
>The pony on the ground that was holding him was being pinned himself by an orange pony, tying him up with Trixie's rope.
>The one that had been punching him out cold on the ground, the blur had turned out to be Rainbow Dash, floating above him.
>Trixie nudged Anon with a hoof, making him twinge and getting his attention.
>"Are you ok?"
>Anon nodded, looking at the other two ponies, who turned their attention to him.
>"Heya Anon. Looking pretty beat up there."
>"Went and got in a tussle over words again?
>You really got to think before you get into fights, sugarcube."
>"Yeah yeah, they gave me a run for my money.
>But the buggers were asking for it.
>Being right disrespectful to Trixie, treating her like a whore."
>"She mentioned that, we were surprised when Trixie came runnin' up, beggin' fer help."
>"Yeah, she was more concerned for you than her reputation.
>If we hadn't known that you get in fights like this over your friends, we'd have never believed her."
>Trixie looked up at Anon, tilting her head.
>"You get in fights like this?"
>"Yeah, he does. He's laid back, usually, but he get really defensive over his friends.
>But this is the one of the few times he was losing."
>"It wasn't losing, Rainbow. It was delaying."
>"The Inevitable?"
>Trixie looked at Applejack, taking a deep breath.
>"The Great and Powerful Trixie... Thanks you, Applejack and Rainbow Dash, for helping Anon."
>"It was nothin', Trixie. Ya'll are the one he should be thankin'."
>Anon agreed, grinning at Trixie.
>"Thank you, Trixie. I fit wasn't for you, I'd more than likely be beaten senseless."
>"After all you've done for me, it was the least Trixie could do."
>Trixie smiled, helping Anon back towards home while Applejack and Rainbow moved the ponies elsewhere.

>Anon smiled at Trixie, feeling a wave of relief washing over him.
>"Thanks for not leaving me back there, Trixie.
>Sorry if I over reacted."
>The mare shook her head, smiling up at him.
>"No, if anything, Trixie is touched that you would fight for her honor.
>I did not take you for an aggressive person."
>Anon gave a dry chuckle.
>"Yeah... Like Rainbow said, I've been known to be defensive of my friends.
>And hearing them degrade you like that just set me off."
>"It's not the first time they've done that, this was the first time someone else was around."
>"Guess they thought ole Anon wouldn't be buggered if they tried that, given my rep of being easy going."
>"Surprise for them, The Great and Powerful Trixie's Assistant is not so easy going when they are being vulgar."
>Anon laughed, wincing. It hurt to laugh.
>"Yeah, not one of my strong points, letting my friends get insulted.
>Not quite as perfect as I try to make myself be."
>Trixie tilted her head, giving Anon a curious look.
>"'Make yourself be'? What do you mean by that?"
>Anon sighed, grinning.
>"Well, Trixie, humans are known for their faults.
>A popular saying for humans is 'To err is human', meaning we naturally make a lot of mistakes and it's important to forgive when they do.
>When I got here, everyone seemed perfect, far different from humans.
>So I've tried to make myself like that and it's not as easy as it sounds.
>I've ended up perfecting my silver tongue and coming off as a laid back and chill guy."
>Trixie frowned.
>"So, have you been lying to Trixie this whole time?"
>"Lying? About what? Everything I've said has been true.
>I've just behaved in a way that I thought helped me fit in."
>Trixie raised an eyebrow, scrutinizing him.
>"Promise me you'll be yourself and all will be forgiven."
>Anon didn't even know he was in trouble.
>"Promise."

>Trixie couldn't blame Anon for much, she knew he hadn't been doing that to hurt her, just trying to fit in.
>"Anon, why do you try to act so perfect?"
>Anon lost focus on the road ahead, thinking.
>"It's because when I first got here, I was so different, that I stood out more than I should have.
>It made ponies nervous around me.
>I didn't want that, I came to seek a better life.
>So out of fear of not being liked and shunned, I bit my tongue and appeared prim and proper.
>Over time, everyone seemed happy with the lazy and carefree me, my words pleasing to them, so I stuck with it."
>He glanced down at the blue mare.
>"But I promised I'd be myself so I'll do just that.
>Speaking of which, I wasn't getting beaten too badly, was I?"
>Trixie gave a hearty laugh, grinning at Anon.
>"Honestly? You're pretty roughed up, but you are no push over.
>Taking on two full grown Stallions alone and not kicked into submission, Trixie would say you've proven you did well."
>Anon grinned, nodding.
>At least he hadn't made a complete fool of himself with that outburst.
>"Good. I was legitimately worried about that.
>Guess that was a bad end to practice and our outing."
>To his surprise, Trixie shook her head.
>"Not at all, The Positive and Certain Trixie says it was a good trip.
>Not because you got into a fight, but because now you and I can get to know each other better, honestly."
>Anon raised an eyebrow.
>"Are you actually mad that I was doing that?"
>Shaking her head again, Trixie cast a side glance up at Anon.
>"No. But if you'll be yourself, Trixie shall be herself."
>Anon nodded slowly, "Alright."
>"What was it that you changed about you that made you seem perfect?"
>"Botching up how or what I say to appear super friendly.
>There's a few ponies I'd like to say 'you can sod off and all' to, but I tried to appear polite."
>"Well, as long as one of those ponies isn't me, I'd say be yourself."
>"Oh no, there are other things I'd like to say to you."

>"What kind of things would you like to say to the Great and Powerful Trixie?"
>"That I'm truly honored to have a friend like you.
>That you are a skilled mare, powerful in your own right.
>That you are easily one of the most stunning mares I've seen.
>And that I do want to get to know you more."
>Trixie smiled, one of those was unlike the others.
>"Of course Trixie is skilled, was there ever any doubt?
>And stunning, huh? Enlighten the Great and Powerful Trixie in what way she is stunning."
>Anon smirked, watching her to see her reaction.
>"In the drop dead gorgeous way."
>Trixie's cheeks tinged brightly, a smile playing across her face.
>She was having trouble forming words, it seemed to Anon.
>"Well, I... Trixie... I'm flattered.
>The Great and Beautiful Trixie always enjoys being told that.
>But please, let's start slowly."
>Anon nodded, grinning, pink himself from saying it just out right.
>"Sure, we'll take it slowly.
>Don't want to go and cock this up."
>Trixie looked up at Anon.
>"Pardon?"
>"Oh, means the same thing as mess it up.
>Sorry, old habit die hard."
>"No no, just caught Trixie off guard.
>Not familiar with that type of terminology."
>"Oh trust me, you'll hear a lot of it now."
>Arriving in the town, ponies were talking about the two, but it was more at Anon's state.
>The two didn't care, they moved on towards the house to get out of the spotlight.
>"Anon! What happened to you?"
>"Oi, Cloudkicker. A bit of a tussle is all."
>"With who?"
>"Don't know, don't care.
>I'm off for a kip, I'll talk later."

>Pushing open the door to the house, Trixie led Anon inside, letting him walk on his own to the nearby chair.
>She went off to the kitchen, finding and filling a glass with water for Anon, bringing it back to him.
>"Thank you."
>Trixie climbed up on the couch, getting comfortable as she turned to face Anon.
>"So tell Trixie more about yourself, Anon.
>Let's get to know the man behind mask."
>Anon grinned, reclining.
>"Alright, what do you want to know?"
>"Whatever you'd like to tell the Great and Powerful Trixie."
>Typical answer for that question, Anon didn't know what he expected.
>"Let's see, I am from the far away land known as Earth.
>I normally am very lazy and don't feel bothered to do too much unless something has my interest.
>Why should I worry or care about things I can't effect?
>But when I do work, I work harder than you'd expect.
>What else? I'm a lover of a range of different genres of music, from Vinyl's dubstep to what seems to be a bit harder to find jazz.
>Of course, I also enjoy magic, but that was obvious I think."
>Anon went on, listing different things about him, all the while Trixie listening with a grin.
> Mid-conversation, there was a knock at the door.
>Trixie got up, pulling the door open to find Rainbow and Applejack at the door.
>"Heya Trixie. Didja bring Anon back here?"
>"Of course Trixie did. What did you need?"
>"We were lookin' to talk to him about this fightin' business of his."
>Anon spoke at the door, he hadn't bothered to get up when he saw Trixie get the door.
>"Here to preach or rub it in?"
>"A bit of both."
>Anon waved a hand, the two entering with Trixie shutting the door behind them.
>Anon pushed himself up and moved over to the couch, letting Applejack take his chair so he could side beside Trixie.
>Rainbow flopped on another chair, looking at Anon.
>"So, think you got some sense beaten into you about fighting?"
>"Not a one. Wasn't going to let them treat Trixie like that."

>The blue mare herself was climbing on the couch next to Anon, smiling to herself.
>"At least you were fighting for a noble cause, my faithful assistant."
>"I dunno if I'd call it noble there, Trixie.
>Yeah, he was fightin' for ya'll's reputation, but we generally discourage fighting."
>"Those two deserved it, the harassment was getting unbearable."
>"This is where we disagree.
>I think he shouldn't have fought, one of these days, he'll get into a fight that he's gonna lose.
>And ain't no one goin' to be there for him."
>"Yeah, and then what'll we do?
>Anon got beaten pretty badly this time because he was outnumbered.
>What'll happen if they come back with more?"
>Anon sighed in exasperation, tilting his head back.
>"I didn't get beaten that badly.
>It's not like this is an everyday occurrence."
>"Besides, he'll always have someone to rely on.
>The Great and Powerful Trixie will be there to help him."
>"Like you were this time, running for help?"
>Trixie glared at Rainbow, who just smirked back at the chance to rustle her jimmies.
>"No, next time, Trixie shall be prepared to aid him.
>No need to rely on a hot head to do what Trixie could do."
>Rainbow started to retort but Applejack popped her on the shoulder.
>"She's got a point, you can be hot headed."
>"At least I don't have to lie to get people to like me."
>Trixie glanced at Anon.
>"Can you beat this naysayer as well?"
>"Not when you say it publicly.
>So I'd just challenge her to a race and try to win."
>"Oh so you are going to race me this year?"
>"I didn't say..."
>"Of course he will and he'll beat you."
>Rainbow rubbed her hooves together while Applejack laughed.
>"Well Anon, looks like you got to get into running shape and prepare for a magic show."
>Nodding slowly, Anon looked at Trixie.
>"At least I'll have someone to keep me company."

>Trixie nodded with a smile.
>"Of course, what's an assistant with no one to assist?"
>Anon shrugged, smirking.
>Rainbow snickered, "Anon, are you really going to let her call you her assistant?"
>"Yeah, why not?
>It's her show, not mine.
>The Lazy and Carefree Anon doesn't have the same ring as the Great and Powerful Trixie."
>Trixie nodded, that sounded like a terribly dull show compared to hers.
>Rainbow and Applejack both stayed only for a bit longer, fulfilling their goals of both rubbing in Anon's fight and preaching that he needed to stop fighting.
>Soon, they were out the door, they couldn't stay long to give him a hard time.
>Anon waved goodbye from the couch, Trixie still next to him, shutting the door with her magic.
>"Well, that was fun.
>Lasted only half as long as the last one."
>"Why did that one last longer than this time?"
>"Because I won that one."
>Trixie chuckled, she understood.
>"So Trixie, I do think it's time for you to tell me a bit about you."
>Trixie looked at Anon, nodding.
>"Fair's fair.
>Let's see, Trixie enjoys peanut butter crackers.
>Trixie can not turn down a challenge and enjoys the challenges, but hates losing.
>Trixie use to live in a gypsy caravan."
>"What happened to that caravan?"
>Trixie drew on the couch with a hoof, avoid his eyes.
>"It was taken from Trixie, when the bits weren't enough to cover it anymore."
>Anon nodded slowly, cringing.
>Smooth move, guy.
>"Sorry about that."
>"It's not your fault, it happened and Trixie can only move on.
>Continuing, Trixie is, of course, the Great and Powerful.
>And according to you, Trixie is one of the most stunning mares."
>She smiled at Anon at that one, who smiled back.

>"Yes, you are."
>"Let's see, contrary to what Trixie's infamous visits might suggest, Trixie is not a cruel mare.
>Trixie is actually a very nice pony, once you get to know her."
>Anon nodded, that's what he was doing now.
>"Let's see, Trixie looks for confidence in stallions along with dependability."
>Anon snickered silently, he couldn't help but feel she put that out there purposely to tease him.
>"Trixie enjoys music with a good beat, what you've played so far has been really good.
>Trixie does believe that is good enough for now."
>"Fair enough, a pleasure to know more about you.
>But I do feel compelled to ask:
>Do you have any activities that you enjoy?"
>Trixie tapped her hoof as she thought.
>"Trixie does enjoy occasionally going and enjoying live music, when the chance was available.
>It can be very relaxing."
>"I can agree with that completely.
>Maybe if one comes through town, we can catch it for some fun."
>Trixie smiled at Anon, she liked that idea.
>"That would be wonderful, been a while since Trixie has been to a live concert."
>Anon made a mental note about finding out when the next came through town, opting to press on with another question.
>"I want to make sure, am I correct in assuming you like to cuddle and snuggle, given the past couple of nights?"
>Trixie harrumphed but it was theatric at best.
>"Trixie thought we agreed to not speak of that to anyone else."
>"We did, but you and I aren't anyone else."
>"Fine. Yes, Trixie does like cuddling.
>It can get lonely after so long alone in a caravan, so it means little."
>In honesty, it meant a lot to her, simply because it meant someone was there for her.
>Holding her and made her feel wanted.
>"Well, if you want to stop, we can if you'd prefer that."
>"No! Erm, that's ok, Trixie would not want her assistant to feel rejected."
>Anon nodded slowly, smirking to himself.
>"Alright, I'm not going to say no."

>Anon reached over, turning on the radio, get playing the usual station.
>When he turned back, he found a hairbrush floating in front of his face.
>Trixie was grinning at him.
>"Since there isn't a mirror down here, mind doing the Great and Powerful Trixie a favor?
>Trixie's mane needs brushing, mind lending a hand?"
>Anon took the brush, leaning back so that he could see the her mane fully.
>"Nah, I don't mind."
>He started brushing her mane slowly as the conversation started to pick up again.
>Trixie closed her eyes, it was relaxing to have someone else brush her hair.
>"How long will it take you to recover?"
>"Long enough, I still get to go into work and that'll be a whole new kettle of fish."
>Trixie's ear flicked, Anon was brushing too hard for her tastes.
>"A bit gentler on the brushing, please.
>You won't be allowed time off to heal up?"
>Anon eased back on the brushing, taking long and slow strokes through her mane.
>"Nope, they have me a full delivery schedule tomorrow.
>Couldn't even if I wanted to."
>Trixie flicked her tail into his lap, getting it in place for him to brush.
>"So you intend to work hurt?"
>"That's the plan."
>"And if you further injure yourself?"
>"I'll get over it."
>Anon took her tail and began brushing it in the same long slow pulls.
>"The world doesn't stop for me, sadly, so I still have to work.
>Which means most of the day you'll be here by yourself unless you decide to venture out on your own."
>Trixie nodded, agreeing.
>"Trixie shall be fine here, practice a few new spells and continue preparing for the big show."
>"You know, if we can pull it off, you should catch a bullet with your teeth."
>"Trixie should what now?"
>"Catch a bullet with your teeth.
>It's one of the big death defying tricks from the human world that's sure to get ponies' attention."

>Trixie tilted her head, glancing back at Anon.
>"Explain to Trixie in detail."
>"Well, simply enough, the bullet is a small projectile made of metal that flies at a high speed.
>The trick is to catch it with your teeth as a magic trick of speed, timing, and death defying nerves of steel."
>He went into the finer details, explaining about how fast the bullet travels as well as the risks of it.
>The trick did sound amazing to Trixie, but the dangers sounded deterring.
>"So one slip and that would be it?"
>"Yeah, if you mess it up, it would be your last show.
>But I have a few ideas on how we can practice and get it just right."
>Trixie pulled her tail free of Anon's grip, turning to face him.
>"Front of my mane, please?"
>With a grin, Anon gently started brushing the bit of her mane he had missed.
>"What ideas do you have for Trixie in practicing?"
>"Well, we can start with a slingshot and instead of firing at you, I aim near you and you use your magic to practice stopping the projectile.
>Once you feel comfortable with it, we can move up to a faster item until we reach a bullet's speed.
>And when we go it to where you could stop the bullet dead in it's tracks;
>We can carefully begin firing close and closer until you manage to 'catch' it with your teeth."
>Trixie nodded slowly, not wanting to pull her mane.
>"Sounds simple enough.
>Do you think Trixie can pull it off?"
>"I don't have a doubt in my mind.
>But for safety reasons, I'm sure you understand my unwillingness to just start shooting at you."
>She understood completely.
>"Hang on, you got a leaf in your mane, there we go."
>She sat upright, smiling.
>"Thank you, that was enjoyable.
>You should brush Trixie's mane more often."
>"You say that like I'd decline."
>With a laugh, Anon carefully got up, moving to the stairs.
>"It's late, sadly, so I can't remain awake longer if I'm to get up in the morning."
>"Yes, work is important. Trixie will be right behind you."

>Trixie climbed into the bed, her cloak and hat floating over to a chair, settling while Anon prepared for sleep.
>"Trixie does not see the point of 'jammies'.
>Trixie thinks they'd be uncomfortable to wear to sleep."
>"Well considering the alternative, we'll save that for another time.
>You -did- want to take it slow."
>He laughed as he joined her in the bed, stretching out as he laid back.
>"Trixie does, yes.
>But you're the one who has to deal with it, so it's no concern to Trixie."
>"Sure it is, what if you get your hoof caught?"
>"Then Trixie will free herself."
>"I don't know what I was expecting from that question, really."
>Trixie smirked as she turned and laid a hoof across Anon's chest, laying her head on his shoulder.
>"Something inappropriate Trixie's sure."
>Anon grinned, offering a smartass reply.
>"No, I said 'what I expected', not 'what I hoped'."
>Trixie gazed at him with one eye as he laughed, grinning at him.
>"Go to sleep, Anon. Trixie thinks those two earlier knocked a few screws loose."
>They laughed themselves sleep, the morning coming too soon for either of them.
>Trixie stretched out here legs, yawning at the early morning.
>She found Anon already missing from the bed, assuming he's downstairs.
>She stood up on the bed, popping her back before hopping down from the bed.
>She could hear tunes playing somewhere in the house, sounded like it was downstairs.
>Trixie pushed her way into the bathroom, realizing as she got halfway across that it was steaming inside.
>It was then she also realized the music was coming from the bathroom, the radio having been brought upstairs.
>Looking up, her drowsy and blurry vision was clear enough after waking up to see Anon in the shower.
>He hadn't noticed her yet, looking away at the moment, off in his own little world with the music as the soundtrack.
>Trixie felt her face grow hot and she knew it wasn't from the steam.
>Backing out slowly, She bumped the bin next to the door, alerting Anon to his guest.

>He spun around, slipping in the water and falling in the tub.
>"Wha? Bollocks!"
>Trixie ran over to the tub without thinking.
>"Is Trixie's assistant alright?"
>"Yeah, I'm peachy.
>Wasn't expecting you in here."
>The mare was only half listening, looking over Anon; This was the first time she's seen him without any clothes.
>Trixie's eyes lingered only on Anon's naked form for a moment before averting her eyes, cheeks as red as they could be.
>"Trixie was not aware you were in here.
>Trixie was just leaving."
>Quickly galloping out of the room, Trixie shut the door behind her, trying to walk downstairs like nothing happened.
>'So that's what he looked without his suit and other assortment of clothing.
>Not quite what Trixie was expecting.' She thought to herself.
>She walked into the kitchen, looking for where Anon stored the hay, distracted with her newest 'view'.
>She spoke to herself out loud.
>"He's not as... big as Trixie had imagined."
>The reply she got set her heart to palpitating.
>"Well, considering my competition are horses, you could say I'm out of my league size wise."
>Anon had come downstairs, he couldn't shower now that he had been walked in on, but he wished he hadn't walked in on that comment.
>"Trixie means no insult.
>Sorry about walking in on you, the Great and Sleepy Trixie should have knocked first."
>"Eh, it's no biggie.
>Let's not go spreading it, if you please, that you saw that."
>"Agreed."
>There was an awkward silence for a bit as Anon fixed him some breakfast, pointing out where Trixie could find some food.
>She wouldn't meet his eyes, glancing away.
>After fifteen minutes of silence, save chewing, Trixie managed to stammer out something to ease the silence.
>"S-so, how are you feeling?
>Still sore?"
>Anon nodded, looking up at her.
>"Yeah, a bit sore, but not too worse for the wear.
>As long as I'm not carrying anything retardedly heavy, I'll be alright."

>Trixie tapped her hoof on the table, a thought coming to mind.
>"Anon, how -did- you end up working for Pony Postal?"
>He shrugged, "It was something I could do and not want to kill myself over.
>I did give a few other places a consideration, but hey, at least I meet ponies now and get to chatter as I work."
>"Manual labor though? Trixie's assistant seems way too smart for that kind of job."
>"Eh, it pays for the house, so I can't complain too much.
>I mean, I can, but it wouldn't do any good."
>Trixie understood that feeling.
>"What time will you be back?"
>"Some time this afternoon, around five or so, me thinks."
>That meant Trixie had the whole day to herself, to work on spells and to adventure around town.
>"Do I need to pick up anything while I'm out today, Trixie?"
>"No, Trixie is fine.
>...Well...
>Maybe some peanut butter crackers?"
>Anon grinned, winking at her.
>"Sure thing, I'll grab some on my way back.
>I'll also see about a concert for us to go see, but when I get back we need to see about getting your show set up."
>"Of course! You must show the Great and Powerful Trixie this bullet catching trick."
>Anon laughed dryly.
>"'Show' is a strong word, I'll help you by firing some marbles or something away from you so that you can practice catching them."
>"You can't do the trick yourself?"
>"Ha ha ha. No.
>It's going to take legit magic, like yours, to catch it.
>Human teeth are not capable of catching one."
>"How do you know?"
>"The Mythbusters proved it impossible."
>"The who?"
>"A couple of science guys back on Earth who test things like that.
>But they disproved it, so you'll need your magic to catch it.
>But that's ok, I know the Great and Powerful Trixie can do it."
>Trixie puffed out her chest with pride, she could do it.
>She hoped.

>Anon was sitting in the living area, putting on his shoes when Trixie walked in with another of her books with her.
>"What'll you work on while I'm away?"
>"Trixie was thinking about the teleportation and vanishing trick.
>Didn't you say humans did it without magic?"
>"Yeah, magicians made small items like watches to even other people or themselves vanish.
>It was all smoke and mirrors, why do you ask?"
>"Trixie wanted to replicate the human magic tricks in her show.
>They'd make excellent diversity to the show and stump certain magical ponies to make Trixie the best unicorn.
>How do we do them?"
>Anon thought for a moment, he wasn't entirely sure.
>"That's the kicker in that a magician never reveals their secrets.
>I'm sure with some thought we could replicate them well enough to pull off the tricks.
>It'll take some construction for the bigger tricks like a vanishing box or one for sawing someone in half.
>I wonder if the infirmary in town has spare straight jackets, if they do, we could do an escape artist trick."
>"Isn't that the kind of trick the magician you were telling Trixie about, Houdini, would preform?"
>"Yup. I'll tell you more about him once I get back.
>For now, I've got to get going."
>Trixie saw Anon to the door, saying goodbye as he left.
>Once he was gone, she shut the door, returning to her book.
>She still had the bottle from the last practice, planning to reuse it.
>Flipping through the pages, she knew she only needed a short range teleportation spell.
>She found it midway through the book, having skipped the theoretical portion before it.
>"From here to there and back again,
>moving in the blink of an eye.
>Be wary of any constrain
>to prevent a result wry."
>Trixie tilted her head, this one came with a warning in it's wording.
> She looked at the bottle and cast her magic on it, wanting to move it to the nearby chair.
>Repeating the spell her in head, she cast it and was rewarded with a terrifying grating sound, like nails on a chalk board.

>She squeezed her eyes shut, holding her hooves over her ears until the sound ended.
>Opening one eye, she saw the bottle was still there, or at least part of it was.
>It looked like it was cleanly cut, the top appearing to sit on the table, until she tried to lift it with her magic.
>She had somehow teleported the bottle and it was now stuck in the table itself.
>"Uh oh, that's not good."
>Flipping through the book, Trixie looked for reversal of the spell, with less than spectacular results.
>"You've got to be joking, Trixie's book of magic doesn't have a reverse teleporting spell?"
>She kept flipping through the pages for a few more minutes before making a realization.
>She covered her face with her hoof as she realized a 'reverse' teleportation was just another teleportation.
>"Right, Trixie knew that."
>She looked back at the bottle that was fused to the table, her magic enveloping the bottle parts she could see.
>She recast the spell and watched as the bottle appeared above the table like it was before.
>Only this time, with a sizable piece of wood still attached around it.
>Looking back at the book, she wasn't sure what she was doing wrong.
>Casting the spell once more, she tried to remove the wood from the bottle only to contain all of the removed wood inside of the bottle with a creaking sound.
>She grimaced, looking and seeing the removed wood left a hole that was about a nine inches across.
>Trixie didn't know how to fix this one, if it was just the bottle she could hide it, but now there was a hole in the table.
>She got up and walked around, thinking about what could be done to fix this.
>"Ok, the wood is inside the bottle, so if Trixie can get it out, she could go from there."
>Focusing only on the wood inside the glass, she tried to teleport it out, the creaking announcing that something was happening.
>She stomped her hoof, frowning, she had simply reversed the order.
>"How has Trixie sealed glass inside a wooden bottle!?"

>She technically didn't fail that casting, it did pull the wood out, but put the glass inside of it.
>"Now Trixie knows what the spell meant by being wary of constraints."
>Her book didn't say anything about this and much to her aggravation, she might have to turn to outside help.
>"Who could Trixie get to help with this spell that isn't Twilight..."
>Sadly, there wasn't anyone else in Ponyville that she was aware of who knew much about magic like this.
>Her options were either to wound her pride and go to Twilight Sparkle for help.
>Or continue to flounder about and hope for the best.
>She had already managed to make a wooden bottle from the table and trap the glass inside of it just trying to teleport the bottle.
>What was the Great and Powerful Trixie to do?

>Trixie huffed and stood on her hind legs, tossing her cape out for a display to no one.
>"The Great and Powerful Trixie doesn't need the help of that wannabe.
>Trixie shall fix this herself!"
>After hours of trying, she finally flopped onto the couch, drenched in sweat.
>Her mane hung in her face as she gazed at the results of her hard work.
>The table now had several parts missing from it, looking like swiss cheese, from where the bottle had sat on different parts of the table when she cast the spell.
>The bottle itself, the glass, was showing on the outside again, but only just.
>Some of the wood was sticking through the glass like spikes, the two fused as if they were made like that.
>"Teleporting is harder to do than Trixie thought."
>She levitated the product of her work from the table, looking at the damage that was done.
>"Well, the table is still standing, so that's something.
>Anon's going to be mad at me for this."
>Trixie's ear's flattened as she imagined Anon's reaction, shuttering as she tried to imagine him yelling at her.
>Would he kick her out for destroying his property?
>Surely he wouldn't, right?
>She didn't have long to think about it as the door opened behind her, causing her to jump and look, her hat tumbling off her head.
>It was Anon walking in with some paper bags, grinning at her.
>"Well hello there, how was your day?"
>Trixie quickly placed the bottle away, jumping over the couch to by some time to think.
>"It was good, Trixie learned several things from practice."
>Nodding, Anon glanced at the book on the arm of the couch, before being pushed by Trixie to the kitchen.
>"Now, let's get those put away, don't want them ruining."
>"Trixie, hang on, it's just hay and some snacks for you.
>It's not like I bought anything frozen today."
>He stumbled to a stop, setting the bags on the table.
>"Is something wrong, Trix?"
>"No, why would something be wrong?"
>"Because you're soaked, even your mane is sticking to you."

>"And because you are acting differently."
>"Trixie is acting normally, Anonymous.
>Trixie doesn't know what you're talking about."
>She had to figure out how she was going to explain that she ruined his table.
>Trixie didn't want Anon to lose faith in her, he was one of the few people, if not the only person left that believes in her talent.
>Anon chuckled, shaking his head.
>"Ok, you're just messing with me, aren't you?
>Come on, let's chill out and you can show me what you've learned."
>Anon walked around her, heading for the living area, with a nervous Trixie in tow.
>"Did you ever manage to teleport somethi...
>What happened to the coffee table?"
>Trixie walked around Anon as he kneeled down and felt of the hole's edges, her ears laying flat in suspense of his reaction.
>"Trixie, did you practice the sawing a person in two trick on the table?
>If so, your cuts are too round, but bloody hell are they clean cuts."
>She shook her head, "No."
>Anon looked puzzled and he inspected the various sized holes.
>"Then what happened?"
>"Well..."
>Anon turned and saw she was looking at the ground, eyes locked on something out of sight on the other side of the table.
>He noticed her ears and expression, following her gaze and investigating.
>Trixie cringed as Anon found and sat back against the couch on the floor, holding the fused parts.
>"Ok, I don't know how you did this..."
>Trixie blurted out, not letting him finish.
>"Anon, I'm sorry, the spell was too much and no matter what I tried I couldn't fix it.
>Please don't..."
>She felt Anon's hand on her head, causing her to stop and look at him, to discover he didn't look angry.
>In fact, he didn't seem too bothered at all.
>"Trixie, it's alright.
>Accidents happen, I can't be mad at you for it.
>Let's see a smile, come on now."
>Trixie hesitantly smiled, getting a smile back.
>"There we are, there's that lovely smile.
>No worries, I can think of a few things for the holes to make use of them."

>Trixie arched an eyebrow as she watched Anon head back into the kitchen.
>Trotting over to the door, she saw Anon digging in the cabinet, pulling out a bowl.
>He placed some of her hay in it, as well as filled up a couple of glasses with cider.
>Anon jerked his head as he walked by her, motioning for her to follow him.
>He slid the bowl along the table, cringing slightly as the bowl clattered loudly as it fell into the biggest hole, but it sat snug at it's middle.
>The smaller holes were big enough to serve as cup holders, as he sat the drinks in them.
>Trixie looked at Anon with confusion, this was his idea?
>It seemed so simple, but the table wasn't fixed.
>Anon laughed at her expression.
>"What? Got to make the best of things.
>I can get a new table in a bit.
>Besides, this wood bottle spike club thing you made is really cool."
>He hefted the result of her magical practice as he sat on the couch, patting the spot next to him.
>Trixie climbed up beside him, eyes downcast, wondering why he was ok with this.
>She felt his hand on her chin, gently lifting so she was looking at him.
>"Come on, don't look down in the gutters.
>So you made some mistakes, we all do.
>Yes, even the Great and Powerful Trixie has to make a mistake every now and then."
>Trixie tilted her head as he released her.
>"You really aren't even bothered?"
>"Bothered? Ha, over what?
>The table? Trixie, you're my friend.
>I can't be mad for a mistake.
>Well, I can, but I'd be stupid to be mad."
>Trixie smiled, but had to ask.
>"Anon?"
>"Sup?"
>"Do you still think of Trixie as the Great and Powerful Trixie?"
>"Yeah, an accident doesn't make you weak or worthless.
>It means you're human.
>Err, sorry, Pony.
>Whatever, either way, it's ok."

>Trixie felt relieved by that, retrieving her glass with her hooves, taking a sip.
>"You don't have to stress over it, Trixie, you're still perfect to me.
>Speaking of perfect, that look looks pretty good on you."
>Trixie's ear twitched, glancing sidelong at Anon.
>"What look?"
>"The wet look, you look pretty hot."
>He laughed, flinching as Trixie hit his leg with a hoof, albeit playfully.
>She was grinning, despite his bad pun.
>"But no, in seriousness, it looks really good on you."
>"Yes, well the Great and Powerful Trixie prefers her mane to have it's usual look.
>But..."
>"But...?"
>"Trixie might could be talked into doing it again for you at some point."
>Anon grinned as she set her drink down, getting off the couch.
>"Trixie shall return in a moment.
>Trixie is going to get cleaned up and will return."
>She had a bit of a swing to her walk as she walked past Anon, her mood high after his praises and reaction.
>Anon leaned forward a bit, watching her go, admiring her shapely rear as she climbed the stairs.
>No shame in that, who could keep from looking when they had the chance?
>Anon put his feet up on the table, noticing it wobble a bit.
>"I'll have to stick something under whichever leg is loose."
>He wasn't really bothered by the destruction of his table, it was just furniture.
>He can get another one, why get mad over it?
>Twenty minutes pass and Trixie returned downstairs, still somewhat damp with her mane in a towel, crawling up beside Anon again.
>He could feel the warmth from the bath on her coat, it felt nice.
>Glancing at her mane, he reached over for her hairbrush.
>"Shall I?"
>"If you'd please, my assistant."
>He took her tail and started brushing it, stopping only when he needed to dry it some.
>She watched him with a grin, he remembered just how she liked it brushed.
>"You're enjoying this, aren't you Anon?"
>"Well yeah, why wouldn't I?"

>"Trixie can not see brushing somepony else's mane as being enjoyable, but you already asking if you may."
>"Yes, I have already started asking.
>That is because I want you to relax and you sure seemed relaxed when I brushed it last night.
>And if you enjoy it, I'm happy to provide it."
>He hit a snag in her tail, stopping to work the knot out.
>"You'd be correct with that observation, Anon.
>It puts Trixie at ease, feeling her hair brushed.
>Even more so when someone else does it.
>It's a pleasure Trixie has not had in a while."
>Anon took part of her mane and brushed, grinning as she closed her eyes.
>"Having someone else brush your hair?
>Glad to play the part.
>I do like the fact your hair is so soft, it feels really nice."
>"Thank you, Anon, Trixie makes sure she looks as glorious as she feels."
>"You definitely have that down pat, not a hair out of place."
>Anon took a quick swig of his cider, his pause earning a glance from Trixie.
>"I meant to ask, Trixie, mind if I keep the cool bottle mace you made?"
>"The bottle? Trixie doesn't see why not, but why would you want to?"
>"It's both unique and you made it, even if it was by accident.
>It makes me think of a morning star weapon that humans use to use a long time ago."
>"Trixie is surprised you are not mad at her for messing up your table then trying to hide it."
>"Nah, I'll get another, like I said.
>If this happened because of teleportation, then I take it you were trying to get that for the vanishing act?"
>"Yes, but it didn't work nearly as well as the Frustrated and Humiliated Trixie had wanted."
>"It just takes practice. But let's try this, I'll show you the human way to make something vanish."
>Anon set the hairbrush aside and grabbing a nearby handkerchief and his watch, showing Trixie the steps to this trick.
>He showed her how some items could be slipped down his sleeve to hide them and how others could be fitted into a special pocket on the cloth.
>He suggested to her the pocket, using her magic to slip it into the cloth pouch and pick it up without letting the item fall out.
>"Now, make sure your magic is pinning the pocket closed, you need to have it yanked off for best effect.
>However, you don't want to lose the item hidden inside."

>With a nod, Trixie slid the watch into the pocket, giving the cloth a good yank.
>Her hoof was left empty, but the watch slipped out as she yanked, flying across the room.
>"Oops, didn't have the opening sealed."
>Anon got up and retrieved the watch, listening for a ticking sound.
>"Stick ticking away, so it's all good. Give it another whirl, it's an easy trick."
>He tossed her the watch, sitting beside her as she reset the trick.
>With a yank, she pulled the cloth, the watch gone and remaining in the cloth this time.
>"There you go. Now, normally you want to show the crowd the back and front of the cloth to show them the watch isn't still there.
>With your magic, if you hold the cloth taut, the opening should be hidden they'll never notice a thing."
>Trixie grinned, holding it up and posing to an imaginary crowd, flipping it back and forth.
>Anon imitated a crowd 'ooing' and 'awing' at the disappearance of the watch.
>"Now, to make it return, you just place the cloth back in your hoof and let the watch slide out."
>Trixie easily did that part, grinning at how easy this was.
>"That was much easier compared to the teleporting.
>Making you, Trixie's Glorious Assistant, vanish won't be so easy."
>"You're going to make me disappear? Well then, since I don't want to risk becoming part wood, maybe we can look into a trapdoor system instead?"
>"A trapdoor?"
>"Yeah, that way I just slip out unseen and I still appear to vanish. Unless you had a different type of disappearing trick in mind."
>"Trixie thinks that would work really well. How would you get back into place, crawl back through the trapdoor?"
>"That's the idea. You'll still be seen as the Great and Powerful Trixie and since they won't see you casting magic, they won't know how you did it."
>Trixie nodded, taking some of the hay from the bowl left on the table earlier.
>"A fine trick for Trixie's Repertoire. But we'll need to make a stage for the show if you want a trap door."
>Anon shrugged, casually running a hand along her mane.
>"Guess that means we have a project to do before the show can go on."

>Anon and Trixie discussed what all their stage would need but neither of them knew what went into making a stage and it would take a long time to do it themselves.
>"Do you know how to make a good stage?"
>"Trixie had no reason to know until now, Trixie assumed you did."
>"I don't know, but in the morning, lets see how much it would cost to have one built."
>Trixie nodded, she thought it best to leave to the professionals.
>She looked at Anon, curious.
>"Did you ever find out about any concerts?"
>Anon grinned, nodding.
>"As a matter of fact, I did. Turns out that DJ-Pon3 will be coming through town in a few days on her tour.
>I've always wanted to see her live and this is the perfect chance to go out and have some fun."
>"Trixie likes this idea, can we still get tickets?"
>"Yup, I'll grab us a couple tomorrow before they're sold out."
>"No, the Great and Powerful Trixie shall go buy them.
>You have work in the morning."
>"True true, though I figured you'd be working on more magic tricks."
>Trixie grinned, trying to not look at the Coffee table.
>"Trixie thinks a break between practice days will be good, keep the mind relaxed for learning the next day."
>Anon nodded, it was her choice to practice or not.
>"Alright then, then it's settled. I'll get some bits together and send them with you.
>It's kind of exciting, isn't it?"
>"Yes, it is. Trixie is looking forward to this.
>The Great and Powerful Trixie shall make an appearance at DJ-Pon3's concert and dazzle everyone."
>"You know it."
>Anon finished off his drink as Trixie helped herself to some more of the food that had been provided for her.
>Trixie enjoyed the idea of going with Anon to the concert, a chance to just be around others without worry.
>It wasn't too long before the two found themselves heading to bed for the night.
>Anon stretched and popped his joints, finding the blue unicorn scooting up against him.

>It had just become nightly now that they shared the bed, it had given Trixie a sense of security at night, even if Anon didn't know it.
>She was facing away from Anon as she scooted closer, so it was surprising when his arms wrapped around her, pulling her close to him.
>"Well, someone seems snuggly tonight."
>"I thought you might enjoy it, since I always wake up with your hooves around me."
>"Trixie does no such thing, you're just imagining things, Anon."
>Anon shrugged and started to pull his hands back.
>"If you say so."
>His hands didn't get too far as her hooves clamped onto them, pulling them back.
>Anon smirked and replaced her in his embrace, holding her tight against his chest.
>Trixie did want him to hold her, it's a feeling she long missed, holding his hands to her chest in an unconscious effort to keep him there.
>Anon felt her get comfy next to him, resting her head beneath his chin, her horn almost hitting him she glanced up.
>"Trixie shall allow this snuggling, for now. But don't make it a habit."
>"I'll try to contain myself when the urge comes around again."
>Anon chuckled as Trixie rested her head again, smiling to herself.
>She felt him rest his chin on her head, it was rather cozy to be snuggled up to Anon, he was like a big teddy bear.
>They were soon asleep, The Great and Powerful Trixie and her Glorious Assistant only thinking of the warmth the other was giving.
>Anon and Trixie left in the morning, heading off to work and get tickets respectively.
>Anon passed Trixie a sack of bits, which she took and placed inside her hat.
>"That should be more than enough for tickets.
>And maybe see if you can find a place to get a stage built for us?"
>"Trixie shall look around for someone worthy enough to build the stage, don't worry."
>"I won't, just making sure before I veer off to work."
>With that, Anon parted ways from Trixie, heading to the post office, while she continued onward towards the other side of town.

>Trixie smiled to herself, cape billowing as she trotted with a quick pace, it'd be a snap getting the tickets.
>She turned the corner and found the line for the tickets, getting in line behind a couple of ponies.
>The line didn't seem that bad, until the ponies directly in front of her turned to see who had come up, it was Bon Bon and Lyra.
>Trixie immediately recognized Bon Bon from a few days before, having bad mouthed her in front of Anon.
>"Well well, look who it is Lyra. It's the Great and Powerful Trixie."
>"Yes, tis I, the Great and Powerful Trixie."
>The other mare turned and gave her a genuine smile, contrary to the condescending one that Bon Bon had.
>"Oh, hello there. Bon Bon was telling me about you."
>Trixie lifted an eyebrow, ignoring the creme mare for now.
>"And what was she saying about the Great and Powerful Trixie?"
>"She was saying some rather mean things about you, but she also mentioned you were living with Anon now.
>Honestly I've seen your shows, you aren't that bad at your magic."
>Trixie blinked, maybe Anon's bright outlook was rubbing off on her, she use to get made over saying her magic wasn't 'that bad'.
>She quickly regained her composure, laughing loudly.
>"Bad? The Great and Powerful Trixie is anything but bad at magic.
>The upcoming show Trixie is planning will prove that."
>Lyra smirked at Bon Bon.
>"See, I told you you were over reacting, she isn't that bad."
>"That's because Anon has been teaching her to be friendlier."
>Lyra looked back at the cloaked mare, tilting her head.
>"Is Anon doing that? That would explain why I haven't seen him in a while.
>How are those lessons going?"
>"They go well, he is quite the teacher, not quite what Trixie was expecting."
>"That's good. So, why are you living with Anon?
>Did Rarity and Rainbow rope you into his life like those other mares?"
>"No, Lyra, neither Rainbow Dash nor Rarity are that cruel."

>Trixie wanted nothing more than to silence Bon Bon, and she had half a mind to do it, but chose to behave for now.
>If in the very least for the tickets that they were waiting on.
>"No, the Great and Powerful Trixie doesn't let naysayers matchmake her with someone else.
>Trixie is just rooming with Anonymous while she prepares for her big show.
>He has been very kind to Trixie and Trixie shall return the favor."
>"Is that why you are in line for tickets to the DJ-PON3 concert?"
>"Yes, Trixie knows Anon is a fan of DJ-PON3 and would like to go."
>The line had been slowly moving as they talked, the booth getting ever closer.
>Lyra was walking backwards to talk with Trixie, much to Bon Bon's annoyance, she had been hoping for a different reaction.
>"So, are you planning to stop being Anon's roommate when your big show is finished?"
>"I can't imagine the joy he'd feel from having her leave."
>"Bon Bon, be nice, you've been ruder than she has."
>Trixie thought to herself, hesitating on the answer, that was the original plan back when she first asked.
>No, she was finding it difficult to say yes in full confidence, she found that she was wanting to remain with Anon.
>"...No. Trixie has no intentions of leaving right after the show, that would be a rude way to say thank you."
>"That's nice, do you two get along well?"
>"Trixie and Anon get along so well that the Great and Powerful Trixie will have him as her Glorious Assistant for her big show."
>Lyra and Bon Bon glanced at one another. Trixie sharing a stage?
>"Your assistant? Must be a huge show if you are bringing in help."
>"It'll be the biggest show Trixie has ever done.
>You two should come, it'll be the best show you've ever seen."
>Lyra grinned at Bon Bon, who looked less than enthusiastic.
>"No Ly..."
>"Please? It'll be fun and we're being invited by Trixie herself.
>That's the same as if Vinyl Scratch came out here and personally invited us to her concert."
>Bon Bon stubbornly didn't answer until after she had bought two tickets for her and Lyra.
>"Fine, Lyra, we'll go. I expect a good show."

>"And that is what you will get from the Great and Powerful Trixie!"
>Lyra and Bon Bon stepped out of the line once they got their tickets.
>Trixie stepped up, asking for her two tickets, passing over the bits as asked.
>She smirked as the two were offered to her, putting them into the sack with the extra bits, placing it back into her hat.
>As she excited the line, she found that Lyra had waited for her, smiling and missing a certain pony.
>"Hey Trixie, I wanted to apologize for Bon Bon's behavior.
>She kept telling me you were some loud mouth that always talked about how great you were and that you were really rude.
>But you didn't strike me that way."
>Trixie raised her eyebrows, but kept the smile from falling off her face.
>"And how does the Great and Powerful Trixie strike you?"
>"To me, you don't sound like you are talking about how great you are if you are just using a title.
>It's like Princess Celestia calling herself 'Princess Celestia'. And you aren't a loud mouth from what I can tell from meeting you today.
>You speak loudly, but that's different. I'm Lyra Heartstrings, by the way, nice to meet you!"
>"It's good to meet you as well, Lyra. I am the Great and Powerful Trixie!"
>Trixie stood on her back legs, shooting off magical fireworks in a display over them, her front legs held out wide.
>Lyra clapped, grinning ear to ear.
>"See, that's the thing that Bon Bon would call 'being self centered' but it's your act, right? I think it's fun."
>Trixie lowered herself onto her front hooves again, grinning.
>"Trixie is who Trixie is, simple as that."
>"I can't wait to see your performance at the big show, I'll bring who I can."
>When Lyra mentioned the big show, it rang a bell in Trixie's mind.
>"Speaking of the big show, Trixie was wondering, do you know anypony Trixie could talk to about getting a stage built?"
>Across town, Anon was moving some packages with Derpy, she always got lost so he was sent to keep her on track.

>"Anon, can I snack on this muffin?"
>"Is it from the package being delivered to Swifts from the Cakes?"
>"...maybe?"
>"No Derpy, you remember the last time you did that, the Postmaster Pony got mad."
>"Ok..."
>"Look, there's a bakery between here and there so we'll stop on the way."
>"Really!? Thanks Anon! You're nicer than the other ponies I get sent with."
>"They're just serious about their jobs. Too serious. I'm ok with making stops and stuff, these items will get there eventually."
>"But don't ponies get mad in delays?"
>"Yeah, but they have to understand that you're a pony too, you have to chow down as well."
>"Yeah! And eat too!"
>Anon chuckled, "And eat too.
>We have a couple of places before we pass the bakery, what's next on your list?"
>Derpy pulled out the strangest kind of list Anon had even seen.
>The words were off kilter, making it hard for him to read, but was perfect for Derpy.
>"It says we have some mail for your house. I thought you said you got your own mail now."
>"I do, that must be for Trixie."
>"Trixie? Yeah, that's the name on the list. Trixie Lulamoon.
>Since when did you become a Trixie?"
>"What? I didn't. Trixie is staying with me."
>"You got a roommate? Not making enough bits?"
>"Oh no, she's in a bad spot and I'm helping her out."
>"What's she like? Have I met her?"
>"Maybe, she's the Great and Powerful Trixie."
>Derpy gasped, squeeing and causing Anon to flinch, he wasn't ready for it.
>"You're friends with the Great and Powerful Trixie!?
>I love her shows!!"
>Anon couldn't help but smile.
>"Do you now? What about the fall out that happened when she was last in town?"
>"With the bear thing? She wasn't enough alone, but with Twilight's help, the town was saved."
>"You think Trixie saved the town?"
>"Both of them."
>Anon smirked, a fan was a fan, right?
>"Can I meet her, Anon? Please! I won't break anything in your house, I promise. Please?"
>"Alright alright, we'll see after we get these delivered."
>"Yay! Thanks Anon!"

>Derpy was giggling excitedly, flying beside Anon as he made sure she didn't fly into poles and other ponies.
>"I get to meet the Great and Powerful Trixie!"
>"If she is up to it."
>"What do you mean?"
>"She's off buying tickets to a concert right now and more than likely having to deal with other ponies.
>Depending on if she has put up with enough ponies or not, she may not want a guest today."
>Derpy looked a little downcast with that information.
>"Oh, ok."
>"Hey, I didn't say she would be like that, just that it was a possibility.
>We'll still see, just be ready just in case."
>Derpy nodded, rushing to the next delivery at a pace that forced Anon to break out in run to keep up.
>Trixie found herself outside of a rather dingy looking building, the sound of ponies and manual labor abound in the air.
>She opened the door with her magic, walking in to find it rather nice inside, a big burly stallion approaching the counter.
>"Heya, miss. What can I do for ya?"
>"Hello. The Great and Powerful Trixie requires a stage built for her show."
>"Alright. Does ya have any plans or drawin's for how you want it done?"
>Trixie pulled a drawing from the bag of bits, passing it to the foreman.
>"Hmm, I think we can build this. Should be about five weeks until it's done."
>Two weeks? That was much further along than Trixie was hoping.
>"Is there any way to speed up the process?"
>"Not unless yer plannin' to help."
>Trixie huffed, closing her eyes for a moment.
>It'd be a lot longer until her show than she had wanted, but she'd argued with this type before, he wouldn't budge.
>But on the bright side, she got to stay with Anon longer.
>"Fine, Trixie can live with this. Will this cover it?"
>She set the bits on the counter, counting it out.
>The foreman nodded, scooping the bits into a catcher, as he looked at Trixie.
>"Very good, we'll send a runner to you with updates.
>If you wouldn't mind writing your address down, please."

>Trixie left a few minutes later, her little bag of bits a great deal lighter when she started this morning.
>She left, heading into town glancing at the receipt.
>Everything seemed to be in order.
>Trixie didn't know what to do now except return home.
>She started that way, casually trotting along, hearing a familiar voice calling out.
>"... stop pulling my arm, Derpy, I can only move so fast."
>"But I want to get done soon Anon! I really want this to happen!"
>"If you pull anymore, you're gonna HEY!"
>Trixie turned around in time to see Anon getting dragged across the ground by Derpy, from one side of the street to the other before vanishing out of sight.
>Trixie shook her head, heading on towards the house.
>"Trixie wonders what has her excited."
>Pushing her way into the house, Trixie fixed her a glass of cider before relaxing on the couch, the cool house being a much better feeling than outside.
>She stretched out her rear legs, all that standing left her stiff, lying on her stomach as she drink of her cider.
>Maybe she could talk Anon into working the kinks out of her legs, he seemed like he'd be okay with it from what Trixie could tell.
>Her thoughts were interrupted by voices outside of the door.
>"...bollocks, Derpy, stop pulling. We're here."
>"EEee, I'm excited!"
>Trixie looked up at the door, head tilted, why was Anon bringing Derpy home?
>The door opened and Anon peeked in, smiling when he saw Trixie.
>"Oh good, you are home. Feel up to speaking to a fan of yours?"
>"A fan? Sure, Trixie has time for a fan."
>Anon started to nod but the gray pegasus outside dashed in when she heard the yes, colliding with Anon's head.
>"Jeez, bloody hell Derpy. At least let me move next time.
>Anyway, Trixie, this is Derpy Hooves.
>Derpy, this is the Great and Powerful Trixie."
>Derpy was prancing on the spot, grinning.
>"Hi Trixie! I'm Derpy! It's an honor to meet you."

>Trixie smiled, while she didn't know how long she'd be able to put up with it, it was nice to see someone was excited to see her.
>"Hello Derpy, What can the Great and Powerful Trixie do for you today?"
>Derpy grinned widely.
>"I can't believe I get to meet the Great and Powerful Trixie!
>I'm a big fan of yours!"
>Anon smiled as he walked around and sat in the nearby chair, letting Trixie be the only thing Derpy saw for a bit.
>"Well thank you, Derpy. It's nice to meet someone that's excited to see Trixie."
>"Who wouldn't be excited? You're the most magical mare in Equestria."
>Trixie smiled to herself, it was good to hear that again.
>"But of course."
>Derpy scrunched, looking like she was holding something back.
>"Yes, Derpy? Is there something you'd like to say?"
>"I was wondering... If I could have an autograph?"
>Trixie smiled, glancing around for something to write with.
>Anon got a quill and some ink for her, holding it out for her magic to take.
>"Thank you, Anon. Now then."
>Her hat lifted off her head and a picture of her floated out, holding itself in front of her.
>She dipped the tip into the ink, reading aloud as she wrote.
>"To my biggest fan, with love, the Great and Powerful Trixie."
>Her magic held up the photo for her to reread before placing it in Derpy's outstretched hooves.
>"There you are."
>Derpy's smile widened, gazing at the picture.
>She stood up and quickly hugged Trixie, throwing Trixie off for a moment, but Derpy released her before she could complain.
>"Thank you so much, Great and Powerful Trixie!
>I'll take good care of this picture!"
>"You're welcome, Derpy. The Great and Powerful Trixie was happy to grant your wish."
>Derpy and Trixie spoke for a bit, Derpy was beside herself with the chance.
>Before long, however, Trixie was growing tired of all the attention.
>And Anon picked it up in her voice before Derpy did.
>"Hey Derpy, maybe it's time to let Trixie rest for a bit."
>"Huh?"
>"She had a busy day, remember?"

>"Oh yeah. I'll head home then. Thanks again, Great and Powerful Trixie!
>I'm going to cherish this autograph."
>With that Derpy flew over to the door and Anon saw her out.
>Trixie smiled to herself and sighed.
>It had been a long time since someone that excited, at least since Snips and Snails.
>Anon came back around and sat beside her, pacing a hand on her mane.
>"I figured you might enjoy that."
>"Trixie did, you don't know how long it's been since anyone has been that excited about Trixie."
>"I guess I don't. I'm glad you enjoyed it."
>"Yes, but Trixie can only handle it so long."
>"Yeah, that's normal, there is only so much you can put up with before you wish to be alone.
>Do you want to be alone for a bit?"
>"Alone with you."
>"That is already arranged. I wanted to ask about your day anyway."
>Trixie smiled as her hat lifted up and revealed the tickets she had gotten.
>"As requested, Trixie has acquired the tickets."
>"Excellent."
>"And..."
>"And...?"
>"Trixie has made a new friend."
>"Really? I knew you could do it."
>He gave her a one armed, friendly hug.
>"Who'd you make friends with?"
>"With Lyra Heartstrings."
>"Very nice, tell me about it."
>"She and her friend Bon Bon, you remember Bon Bon, correct?"
>"Of course."
>"Well, they were in line ahead of Trixie and Bon Bon thought she'd get to be rude to Trixie again.
>Much to her irritation and Trixie's pleasure, Lyra was more than friendly and spoke with Trixie at length about the show and the tickets.
>She even talked a reluctant Bon Bon into going with her to the big show."
>"Bloody Brilliant. See, I knew you could make friends. What about the stage?"
>"Lyra told Trixie of a small manual labor company who would build a good one for us."
>"Perfect. Did they give you a time table?"
>"Indeed, they told Trixie five weeks."
>"Alright, so you have plenty of time to practice before the big show."

>Trixie looked up at Anon, remembering how she didn't want to leave Anon when she was asked earlier if she'd leave after the big show.
>She enjoyed his company and found she wasn't quite yet ready to leave his company, Lyra made her question that.
>"Anon. Will you allow Trixie remain here until the big show?"
>"Of course, your home is my home."
>"...And maybe after?"
>Anon smirked, glancing at her.
>"After as well? You might not be able to put up with me anymore by that time.
>But if you really want to stay with me, I think we can arrange that."
>Trixie returned his smile, while not an outright yes, it was better than nothing.
>Anon hadn't really given thought to Trixie leaving, though her asking made him think about it.
>Thinking about it, he had come to appreciate the smiling face whenever he came home, it was a highlight to his day.
>Someone was happy to see him come home and he was happy to take care of her in her time of need.
>'No,' he thought, 'I think I could get use to her living her for a while.'
>He noticed Trixie was still watching him, tapping his knee with her hoof.
>"Hello? Anon, you did -not- just zone out while Trixie was talking to you, did you?"
>"What? Of course not, I was listening."
>"Then what did Trixie say?"
>Damn...
>"Um... That you were happy Derpy came by?"
>Trixie lifted an eyebrow and gave Anon a hard look.
>"..."
>"Ok, I did zone out, but if it's any consolation I was thinking further on the arrangements of you living here longer."
>"The Great and Forgiving Trixie will allow it to slide this time, since you were thinking more about my living here.
>Trixie was asking if you could do her a favor."
>"Perhaps, what kind of favor?"
>"Standing all day in the heat of the sun has made Trixie rigid and aching.
>Don't read too far into it, but would you mind helping Trixie with a hoof massage?"

>Anon couldn't stop the grin from sliding onto his face.
>"Well, I don't know, I've never given one before. I guess you'll be the first pony I give a hoof massage to."
>"Excellent, Trixie shall meet you in here in a moment then, a bath calls for full relaxation."
>"Take your time, I'm not going far."
>Trixie smirks and steps off the couch, flicking her tail at Anon playfully as she walked towards the stairs.
>"Hey Trixie?"
>"Yes?"
>"Think this would be one of those time I could talk you into leaving your mane now?"
>"Are you going to talk Trixie into it?"
>"What would you want to hear?"
>"You decide."
>Anon didn't know what he was expecting when he asked that.
>"That with all the work you put into it, why fix it before the massage when you can do it after and it'll look nicer."
>Trixie smirked at Anon, continuing up the stairs.
>"A weak argument, but they can't all be winners."
>Anon shrugged and went to the kitchen, it was worth a shot.
>He couldn't lie to himself, Trixie was really good looking, the let down mane just added to it.
>But next time he'll have to be ready to talk her into it.
>A quick snack later and he returned back to the living area, laying back on the couch.
>"So she wants' to stay longer than the big show?
>Huh, I just kind of assumed the big show would make her enough to be able to go on her own again."
>Stretching out his arms, Anon could hear his back pop.
>"I think I'd be ok with her staying here, a lot nicer to come home and see someone smiling."
>"I'm glad you think so, Anon."
>Anon jumped, he hadn't heard her come downstairs and definitely didn't hear her trot up beside him.
>These ponies were sneaky little devils.
>Trixie laughed when she saw his reaction.
>"Did Trixie scare you? Trixie knew you said she was stunning, but not that stunning."
>Anon laughed with her, "Just wasn't expecting it. Just thinking aloud then suddenly Trixie."

>Anon sat up, making room for Trixie, who hopped onto the couch and laid on her stomach, facing away from Anon.
>She presented one of her hooves with a smile, prompting Anon to reach out and gently take her hoof in his hands.
>Anon touched the bottom of her hoof, applying light pressure to the sole, glancing up to see her reaction.
>She was smirking at how gingerly he was handling her hoof, he clearly hadn't done this before, but that's what these tests are for.
>"A little harder."
>With a nod, Anon used his thumbs to apply pressure to the sole and frog of her hoof, seeing her close her eyes in comfort in his peripheral.
>Trixie smiled, it was an interesting experience, feeling Anon's fingers rub against her hoof.
>She had had massages before, but they didn't compare to the dexterity Anon showed with his fingers, playing across the bottom of her hoof like dancers.
>Tilting her head back, Trixie received a mild surprise when Anon started working his way slowly up her leg.
>She glanced back, opening one eye, to see where his focus was.
>Anon lifted her leg just enough to get his fingers underneath and let it rest on them as he gave her leg some attention.
>'Well,' he thought to himself 'If I'm going to give her a massage, might as well give her the whole deal.'
>Seeing her looking at him, Anon winked at her as he ever so slowly inched his way up her leg, his thumbs and fingers working the knots out.
>Every now and then, he'd stop when he found a kink of a tighten muscle and work at it until it felt relaxed, soon finding his hands bumping her plot.
>She pulled that leg back gently, smiling at him as she presented the other back leg.
>"You're doing excellently for your first time, those fingers of yours work their own kind of magic."
>"They make up for a lack of literal magic, so I guess that would mean I've got a magic touch."

>The corny joke fell to the crickets, continuing the same routine with her other back hoof and leg, taking time to insure he got every kink he could find.
>Trixie was enjoying herself, eyes closed as Anon tended to her, his touch both tickling and relaxing.
>Soon her felt his hand bump against her plot again, smiling to herself.
>She had the sneaking feeling he may or may not be doing that on purpose.
>Pulling that leg free of his grip, she turned around so that she faced him now, smiling up at him.
>"If you'd be so kind, my front hooves could use the same treatment."
>"Alright, let's see what I can do."
>Anon had, much to her assumption, bumped her plot on purpose the second time.
>The first was an accident, just not paying attention, but the second was out of curiosity.
>It was jiggly and lovely, but Anon chanced no more than a bump, Trixie might be onto him.
>Trixie was now watching him with a smile, watching as her assistant put her soreness to rest, easing her from standing all day.
>She soon found him almost leaning his head against hers as he worked his way along her front leg.
>Trixie hadn't seen his face this close and clearly before, taking in what she could see and breathing in his scent.
>She had smelled him before when they snuggled, but it smelled nicer now that she was facing him directly.
>As he hands reached her body proper, her cheeks were flushed, his face really close to hers.
>On the other end of the spectrum, Anon was flushed as well, the closeness of their faces was more than he had anticipated with that move.
>He started to work on the last hoof, moving closer to her as he worked his way along the last leg, feeling her lean her head against his chest.
>Trixie's legs were feeling better after that rub down, so much so she was kind of interested in having him work on her back some.
>She felt cozy next to him, feeling the warmth from him and his fingers gentle rubbing along her, it was enough to almost lull her to sleep.

>She felt a hand on her head, picking her head up to find Anon had finished and was now petting her head with a grin.
>"You were passing out there for a moment, I take it you enjoyed it?"
>Trixie cleared her throat, trying to look more dignified, but the flush remained in her cheeks.
>"Yes, that was quite enjoyable, thank you. The Relaxed and Content Trixie is pleased with your skill in massages."
>"Well thank you, that was my first time to give a pony a massage, so I'm glad you enjoyed it so much.
>But this only means I'll get better over time with more practice."
>"You have a point, Trixie's Glorious Assistant. Trixie shall come to you first for relief and relaxation."
>Anon smiled, sliding his hand down to her withers and back, rubbing along her back as they spoke.
>"You always know where to find me. And if not, a quick call is all it'd take."
>Trixie nodded, the lids of her eyes drooping as she arched her back slightly, lifting her rear into the air in pleasure of the petting.
>Anon noticed this, his smile widening, petting her a bit harder to see if she'd arch more or like it more.
>And she did, as she smiled in enjoyment, it wasn't up to par with his massaging, but it felt really good.
>"I didn't know you enjoyed being petted, Trixie. If I had known that, I could of obliged you."
>"Trixie is not some pet, but it does feel nice."
>Her mouth hung open slightly as Anon petted her harder and faster.
>She suddenly started forward, Anons view suddenly being filled with blue mare and white hair.
>What happened next, Anon had not expected, but he let it happen.
>Their lips met in a kiss, light and simple, a spur of the moment that seemed to stop time for both Trixie and Anon.
>Something ignited in them, like a jolt of lightning leaping between them, warming up on the inside.
>It was brief, but held in that moment in time, it was wonderful.
>It could have been days, months, or years, but after a minute Trixie pulled back from Anon.
>Their eyes met, staring at each other for only a moment before Trixie quickly backed off Anon, sitting on the couch looking away.
>Both of their cheeks were bright red, the jolt fading, but not leaving completely.
>"Speak of this to no one, Anonymous."
>"Yeah."
>They sat still for a moment before Trixie flashed a smile at Anon.
>"We need to get sleep before tomorrow."

>Anon was brushing his teeth, thinking about what just happened, watching himself in the mirror.
>He was well aware what just happened, no doubting that he and Trixie shared a kiss.
>No, what got him what that jolt he felt, he had felt a connection to her when their lips had met.
>He hadn't wanted the feeling to end, the kiss to end, but he could understand why.
>Suddenly finding yourself kissing someone was shocking if neither person expected it.
>But he had enjoyed it, he just wondered if Trixie did.
>In the bedroom, lying under the blankets, Trixie was thinking about the same thing.
>She wondered if it was just the massage and then the petting or if it was something more.
>She recalled how she had hesitated about wanting to leave Anon's presence, his house, once her big show was done.
>There was no way she had feelings for him, was there?
>Placing a hoof on her chest, she could still feel the faded spark of the earlier jolt, brought to life by their kiss.
>She couldn't explain why she had kissed Anon, she was so relaxed, so happy, she had been trying to find a way to convey it to Anon.
>Trixie smirked, she had succeeded in that goal, at least.
>Whether Anon knew it or not, Trixie had enjoyed the kiss, that spark in her chest made her feel cared for. Loved.
>She wondered if Anon enjoyed it, debating about asking him, when he walked into the room.
>She turned over to face him as he dressed down to his 'jammies', she had no idea why he called them that, and joined her beneath the covers.
>Settling in, the two's eyes met once more, a tinge appearing in their cheeks.
>"Anon?"
>"Yeah?"
>"About earlier."
>"Regarding the kiss?"
>"Yeah."
>"It surprised me too. But I can't say I didn't like it."
>"Trixie won't deny that either."
>Anon slide and arm under her and pulled her close, just like the night before.
>"Would you be mad if I made a thing of it tonight? The snuggling?"
>Trixie pretended to huff in annoyance, watching him with one eye.
>"Trixie supposes it'll be fine. Trixie wasn't going to ask anyway."
>Anon chuckled, feeling her place her hooves around him as well.
>"If you say so."
>"Sleep well, Anon."
>"You too, Trixie."
>Anon had a thought, leaning his head forward and placing a quick kiss on Trixie's horn, grinning.
>To him, that made them even.
>To Trixie, her eyes had flown open immediately, face burning red with embarrassment.
>She felt him settle back in, starting to smile widely to herself, nuzzling him as they drifted off to sleep with their chests still a buzz from a electrifying kiss.

>Trixie avoided the bathroom the next morning, smiling to herself as she headed downstairs.
>She didn't want to walk in on him again, finding some food for herself while Anon showered.
>She wondered if she could join Anon today, at least walk around with him to talk some.
>Munching away on her food, Anon walked in with a towel around his waist, fixing his own food.
>"Hay again, Trixie? I thought you would have gotten into something else by now."
>"Trixie does not eat meat, just like other ponies."
>"I didn't mean that, I meant the other food items.
>Like the jam, the bread, the sugarcubes, peanut butter, the..."
>Trixie's ear flicked, her looking up at Anon with a look of curiosity.
>"Peanut butter?"
>Anon nodded, moving to a cabinet and pulling out a jar of something.
>"Yeah, it's really tasty and creamy. I also have some peanut butter crackers."
>"Peanut butter crackers? Trixie would like some of those."
>Anon pulled out a few packs of crackers, opening them and placing them next to her.
>"There you are."
>Anon turned back and finished fixing his cereal, the returning milk to the icebox, and returning to the table.
>As he sat down, he saw Trixie had already finished her peanut butter crackers.
>She was grinning at Anon.
>"Anon, the Great and Powerful Trixie requires more Peanut Butter Crackers!"
>Anon chuckled, pushing back from table.
>"Bloody hell, that was fast. You must like those."
>"Trixie loves Peanut Butter Crackers."
>Anon pulled out several packs now, setting them on the table for her.
>"If you eat them at that rate, we'll have to go get more."
>"Trixie is ok with getting more. But Trixie does have a request."
>"And what might that be? A jumbo sized pack of peanut butter crackers?"
>"No. Wait, yes! But also Trixie wanted to know if she could join you walking around town."

>"Join me in walking around town?
>I don't see why not. It's going to be me and Derpy for a few days on deliveries if you want to go."
>"That would be enjoyable, Trixie thinks.
>We sleep more than really talk throughout the day."
>"True, that's the problem with a job, it takes up so much time.
>But if you think you can tolerate Derpy all day, then I think it should be fine, as long as we get the job done."
>Trixie nodded, pulling open one of the packs of crackers.
>"Trixie will try, but Trixie will also bring one of her spell books, just in case."
>"Right. So why the interest? Just to talk?"
>"Well, yes. Like Trixie said, we spend most of our days apart and Trixie would like to get to know you more.
>After all, if The Great and Powerful Trixie is to live with her Glorious Assistant, then they should get to know each other, right?"
>Anon stirred his cereal with his spoon, nodding.
>"Yeah, that makes sense. I did kind of feel bad about leaving you alone all day anyway.
>This will just give me an excuse to hang out with you more, as long as the job gets done."
>Trixie nodded, munching on her crackers.
>In honesty, she wanted to explore the feeling from last night more, that jolt that sparked between them.
>And talking to Anon might do it, Trixie felt.
>Anon was of the same mind, he was curious as well about that, but he did felt bad about just leaving her home alone.
>The Postmaster wouldn't care as long as the job got done and Derpy would love to see Trixie again so soon.

>Anon and Trixie left the house soon after that, it hadn't taken them too long to get dressed and leave, Trixie's cap blowing in the morning wind.
>"So, exactly what do you do, Anon?"
>"I deliver mail, as I said. They normally stick me with a chap named Dusty winds for taking the bigger packages."
>"Why would they make you do that in particular? Plenty of stallions could do it."
>"Because someone would have to be under it to carry it or stay behind the cart to keep it from falling off depending on the size.
>It's just easier for someone with hands to keep a hold of it than a pony with hooves."
>"Makes sense to Trixie. Your hands are very useful, despite your lack of magic."
>Anon nodded, turning his hands over to show her.
>"That they are, got to use what you have to work with. But for now, they've stuck me with Derpy since that fight until the Postmaster is certain I am better."
>"This postmaster sounds nice."
>"Eh, he can be bullheaded at times, but he's ok. Not someone I'd want to get rat arsed with."
>"Excuse Trixie?"
>"Drunk."
>"Trixie swears, Anon, you have some of the weirdest terms she's ever heard."
>Anon laughed, "It's not the first time I've been told that, first few times I really dropped a clanger, nearly got me in trouble."
>"How did Trixie's Glorious Assistant do that?"
>"The term 'taking the biscuit' made the Cakes think I was literally nicking a biscuit.
>And the male ponies weren't a big fan of me calling them 'mates' which means friends or chum."
>Trixie shook her head, these were very different than she was use to hearing, but this just added an exotic element to Anon.
>Well, more so than usual.
>"Trixie could see those getting you in trouble. What about the post?"
>"The mail ponies give me very little trouble over my choice of terms, they see it as me just pissing around.
>But because ponies think I'm barmy when I speak with this type of slang, I've gotten into the habit of not using them sometimes."

>The two had gotten close to the post office now, a few mail ponies already taking off to the outlying houses, as a Derpy waited for Anon.
>Derpy had a cup of steaming coffee, she was always sleepy in the morning, so Anon would have to carry her for the first part until she woke up until she had found the coffee.
>"Hi Anon! Hi Trixie!"
>"Heyo Derpy, ready to get to work?"
>"You betcha, buddy! What are you doing here, Trixie?"
>"The Great and Powerful Trixie wanted to accompany Anon on his rounds today, spend some time with him as Trixie might be living with him longer than anticipated.
>It helps to know your housemates and understand them."
>Derpy's eyes just derped out, those were a lot of big words in one breath.
>"Do you want a mailbag too?"
>Trixie shook her head.
>"No, thank you Derpy. The Great and Powerful Trixie is the most magical unicorn in Equestria, not a mail pony."
>"Ok. Before we go, you want a drink of my coffee, Anon?"
>Anon chuckled, shaking his head.
>"No, I don't want any. Muffin flavored coffee isn't my cup of tea. But thank you, dear."
>"Of course not, it's coffee, not tea."
>"No, I mean I'm not a fan of it."
>Trixie was still stuck on a comment, speaking up.
>"Go back a few sentences, Muffin flavored coffee?
>Trixie doesn't think that would be too good."
>She also was a little leery of Anon's choice of wording, 'dear' in regards to Derpy, it made her feel weird.
>"Oh no, it's really good, Trixie! You want to try some?"
>Derpy offered her cup, but Trixie declined.
>"No, thank you again, but Trixie will let you drink it."
>"Ok. Going to grab your stuff, Anon?"
>"Already on it. Don't you two wander too far."
>With a grin, Anon stepped inside to get his mailbag, leaving Trixie and Derpy outside.
>Trixie glanced at Derpy as she was taking a drink.
>"So Derpy."
>"Yes, Great and Powerful Trixie?"
>"Does Anon call you Dear often?"

>Derpy nodded, smiling.
>"Yup! All the time."
>Trixie could feel a burning inside as she listened to Derpy continue.
>"He's very sweet to me, most other ponies treat me like I'm stupid, but he treats me like anyone else.
>That's why we're buddies! Anon doesn't act like I'm clumsy, even though I am, or like I'm different.
>He even complimented my eyes, no pony has done that before."
>The burning subsided a bit, but Trixie kept questioning while she had time.
>"What are your thoughts on Anon?"
>"I like him, he's silly. Says silly things like calling coffee a cup of tea or being chuffed.
>He's a good friend, even spoke up for me on one of our mail routes when some foals were making fun of my eyes.
>You're so lucky to get to call him a housemate, I bet he takes really really good care of you."
>Trixie nodded, smirking at Derpy as she puffed out her chest pridefully, Derpy knew who lived with him.
>"Trixie is indeed lucky, and he is lucky to get to call the Great and Powerful Trixie a housemate."
>Anon came back outside, adjusting the bag's sling on his shoulder.
>"Alright, all set. Ready you two?"
>"Yup!"
>"Of course, let's proceed."
>The three set off on what would be a long day of mail delivery.
>Trixie noticed Derpy had landed on Anon's shoulders and was riding along while she finished her coffee.
>"Anon, do you let her do that often?"
>"Yeah, the alternative is either she tries to fly with her drink, which never works out.
>Or she has to be carried for the first leg because she didn't have her coffee and won't wake up for another hour or so."
>Trixie nodded slowly, she noted that he wasn't being nearly as attentive to Derpy as he was with her, close but not the same.
>"And if Trixie got tired of walking on the your mail route, would you carry Trixie?"
>"You ask that like I'd say no. You might have to ride on my shoulders like Derpy is right now for a bit, so I have my hands to work with, but I wouldn't say no."

>Derpy nodded hard enough to make Anon shake from the force.
>"Yeah, it's fun riding up here! Anon makes a good table for coffee."
>"Did you just call me flat headed, ya cheeky twit?"
>"I'm sorry, I didn't mean it like..."
>"Derpy, I'm kidding. You don't have to be so worried about bothering me. I'm just yanking your chain."
>Derpy hugged Anon head gently and continued her coffee.
>"This is what I meant, Trixie. See, he's silly."
>Trixie nodded, smirking, as they arrived at the first stop.
>Waiting while they pulled out the right letters, Trixie watched how Anon interacted with Derpy.
>She saw how quick Derpy was to apologize, guessing from what Trixie knew that Derpy was a bit timid.
>So Anon was gentle with her, but also having fun with her, showing kindness to Derpy.
>Soon enough, the Trio were hitting each house with some form of letter, the sun rising and the town becoming more active.
>Derpy was now flying on her own, much to the approval of Trixie.
>Trixie was familiar with this emotion, it was jealousy, something she had felt before seeing Twilight.
>By why she was jealous of Derpy, of all ponies, was beyond her.
>What she did know what that it was only when she saw Anon interact with her and call her dear.
>"Trixie, you awake?"
>"Hmm, what was that, Trixie's Glorious Assistant?"
>"I was saying that you've been quiet over there. Something on your mind?"
>"A few things, yes."
>"You're her glorious assistant, Anon? You're lucky, I've never heard of Trixie having an assistant before."
>"Yup, she calls me that since I'll be helping her with the big show. What's on your mind, Trixie?"
>Trixie eyed the pegasus and human, determining if it'd be rude to say it plainly.
>"Trixie was just watching how you act and talk with Derpy. It seems gentle rather than the usual air of carefree."

>"That's because Derpy needs a friend to be a touch gentle, we can't all be twats and be mean friends.
>She likes it and if she's happy, then it's a good day."
>He reached out and pulled Derpy by a hoof, yanking her out of the way of a mailbox.
>"And someone has to look out for her so she doesn't hurt herself."
>"Anon's good at that."
>Anon nodded, continuing on.
>"She just needs a person to lean on, like a certain lovely mare I know."
>Anon smiled at Trixie, bringing a light tinge to her cheeks, though Derpy missed the obvious hint.
>"Lovely mare? Am I a lovely mare, Anon?"
>Trixie raised an eyebrow, watching the two from the corner of her eye.
>Anon was on the fence, he didn't want to hurt Derpy's feelings but didn't want Trixie to feel inadequate.
>He decided to go with the lesser of the two evils.
>"Of course, Derpy, you are lovely as well.
>This other mare is also lovely, you could say we have a bond."
>"We have a bond, silly. It's called friendship."
>Anon started to reply but stopped.
>"Well, technically you aren't wrong. Well played Derpy, well played."
>Derpy squee'd and flew off to deliver to a couple of houses, leaving Anon with Trixie for the moment.
>"Anon."
>"Mmmyes?"
>"Do you like Derpy?"
>"I feel like this is a trick question."
>"Trixie would like an answer."
>Anon nodded, picking out his words.
>"I do like her, she is a good friend. She really needed a friend, so I was there for her.
>Just like you did, but if I had to choose a housemate, my decision would be the same.
>Derpy's nice but she's no Trixie."

>Trixie smirked, she liked that answer.
>Derpy returned with a grin, flying once around the two.
>"Ok! Next stop!"
>"Alright, next is a package. What does the list say?"
>Derpy pulled her list out, that strange warped list that was written just for her.
>"Next stop is... ǝlʞɹɐds ʇɥƃılıʍʇ."
>Trixie tilted her head, confusion almost leaping off her face.
>"What on earth did you just say, Derpy?"
>Derpy looked at Trixie, repeating herself. "ǝlʞɹɐds ʇɥƃılıʍʇ"
>Trixie looked at Anon now, shaking her head.
>"Trixie is confused, what is she saying?"
>She blinked, seeing Anon was laughing.
>"Oh jeez, my sides. She's reading it upside down."
>Anon reached up and took the list from Derpy, flipping it over for her.
>They all waited a moment, watching Derpy's eyes slowly flip, before she smiled.
>"That's better! Next package is to Twilight Sparkle."
>Both Anon and Trixie look worried, but for two different reasons.
>Trixie really didn't want to deal with Twilight, especially not while she was walking around with the mail service.
>Anon instead reached into Derpy's bag, his concern just as valid.
>"Yeah... if it's going to Twilight, I think I'll just hold onto the package.
>We don't want a repeat of last time where it broke."
>Anon placed the package into his own bag while Derpy popped her hooves together.
>"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to break the last package."
>"It's alright, I just don't want to risk it. Trixie, you want to hang back for this one?"
>"Yes, Trixie would prefer that."
>"I can hang back with her, Anon."
>"Alright, I'll deliver it when we get there, you two just hang back and relax."
>The three of them continued on, Trixie keeping an eye on Derpy, trying to figure out how she felt about Anon.
>Derpy flew close to Anon for the most part, close enough that if she wanted to land on him, she could.
>She'd grin to him every now and then, but she'd also grin at Trixie.

>Trixie walked closer to Anon, her mane brushing his hand as she tried to coax him into placing his hand on her.
>Whether Derpy was vying for Anon's attention or not, Trixie would not be out done.
>With a bit of nudging, Trixie managed to get a chuckle from Anon and his hand on her head, resting on the rim of her hat.
>"You're awfully affectionate today, Trixie."
>"Trixie doesn't know what you speak of, Anon. You chose to place your hand on Trixie's hat."
>"Maybe."
>Derpy leaned around Anon and looked at his hand on Trixie's hat.
>He didn't put his hand on her hat, but then again she didn't wear a hat.
>She noticed both of them smiling, it made her smile too.
>It made her want to hug something, but a jerk on her hoof disrupted her thoughts.
>"That was a close one, Derpy. Almost flew into another pegasus."
>"I did?"
>"Yup, that's alright though, I'm watching over you."
>"Thank you, Anon. I don't want to run into anyone."
>"Don't stress over it, Derpy."
>With a smile, Derpy felt warm and fuzzy on the inside, while Trixie felt more burning.
>Anon wasn't aware of the feelings being exchanged between the two, the jealousy of Trixie at this moment and the fuzzy warmth of Derpy.
>The trio arrived at Tree, Anon pulling out the package, turning to Derpy and Trixie.
>"Alright you two, hang out here while I deliver this, I'll be right back."
>Derpy landed next to Trixie, nodding as Trixie grinned.
>"The Great and Powerful Trixie shall wait with the derped pegasus. Be quick, it's getting hot out here."
>"Ok Anon, I'll wait here with Trixie. Say hi to Twilight for me!"
>"Will do, Derpy."
>Anon walked off towards the tree, leaving the two mares behind, which Trixie took immediate advantage of.
>"Tell me Derpy, do you like Anon?"
>"Like Anon? I like him, he's silly."
>"No, Trixie means do you -like- him."
>"You mean like like him?"
>"Yes, Trixie will go with that. Do you like like him?"

>Anon knocked on the door, shuffling for a moment before a little purple dragon opened the door.
>"Oh hey Anon. What brings you by?"
>"I've got a package for Twilight. Can she sign?"
>"Am I able to sign for her?"
>"Are you Twilght?"
>"I'll go get her."
>"Thanks little man. Oh hey, before you get too far, did those tips I tell you about help you with Rarity?"
>Spike shook his head, frowning.
>"Nah, I'm not so good with my words like you are."
>"Keep at it, you'll win her heart."
>Spike nodded, leaving to go get Twilight, who was soon at the door.
>"Hello again, Anon. Spike said I needed to sign for a package?"
>"Yeah, put your John Hancock here, please."
>Twilight produces a quill and scratches her name down, the box levitating from Anon's grip.
>"I wanted to ask, Anon, how are those books you borrowed?"
>"Huh, oh they are very good reads. I didn't think magic would work like that."
>Twilight tilted her head, "Still, I thought you said you couldn't do magic."
>"I can't, but that doesn't mean I can't learn about it."
>"Hmm, well, if you are interested I have some books coming in soon from the Royal Canterlot Library on different magics of Equestria tomorrow if you want to come by and see if any of those catch your interest."
>"Oh sure, that sounds like a plan. Might be able to find something on divination.
>I'll have to come by tomorrow and take a look, for now I need to get back on the job before I lose Derpy to the smell of muffins again.
>Oh, and Derpy says hi, by the way."
>Twilight nodded, smiling. She always approved of others reading and that particular topic of divination was an interesting one for studious minds.
>"Tell her I said hello in return. I'll see if a divination book is coming in, so I'll let you know by tomorrow, alright?"
>"Alright, thanks Twilight. Catch you later."
>"Bye Anon."

>Derpy thought long and hard about the answer to the question while Anon delivered the package, looking at him.
>She smiled at Trixie, cheeks pink from the thought.
>"Yeah, but Anon wouldn't settle on a mare like me. He's sweet, but we're friends and co-workers.
>I wouldn't want to ruin that with him, but it makes me warm in side to think about."
>Trixie nodded, Derpy was at least honest, and it meant that she wouldn't have to quarrel with her biggest fan.
>Derpy did add one last bit to her sentence.
>"If you haven't yet, you should try riding him, it's fun."
>That really got Trixie's attention, making her blink at the gray mare.
>"Trixie should What?"
>"Ride him, on his shoulders like I was earlier, it's fun."
>Trixie slowly nodded, her mind had been elsewhere on that sentence.
>"Ah, Trixie misunderstood for a moment there.
>So you are an affectionate friend of Anon's, nothing more?"
>"Yes, sounds right to me. Rarity and Rainbow Dash tried to get me to date him, but we like it better as friends."
>Trixie nodded, looking at the library where she could see Anon and Twilight talking about something.
>She couldn't hear what was being said, but there was a tilt to Twilight's head that she could see, wondering what was being said.
>Trixie moved so that Derpy was between her and Twilight, grinning at her new body shield.
>Derpy asked the same question in return to Trixie now.
>"Do -you- like Anon, Trixie?"
>Trixie thought about it, was that exactly what it was?
>She wanted Anon's attention, she knew that much and she didn't want to share that attention.
>The more she thought about it, it sounded to her like she liked Anon.
>But she wasn't going to tell Derpy that, oh no, she wanted to fully explore this feeling before telling anyone.
>After all, they had only met and needed to know so much more about each other before such a statement could be made.
>"Trixie wants to make sure her Glorious Assistant is too distracted in preparations for the big show, is all.
>We can't have him missing out on practice and such, so Trixie is making sure."
>Derpy tilted her head now, since Trixie avoided the question, but Anon's return brought both of them to looking at him.

>"Twilight says hello, Derpy. And Trixie, Twilight mentioned getting some new books in tomorrow, want me to drop by and see if I can dig up something useful?"
>Derpy clapped her hooves at getting a hello back, meanwhile Trixie was nodding at Anon.
>"Yes, that would be helpful. Did you hear of any good ones?"
>"I asked about divination, mind reading is always good for a few tricks."
>Trixie nodded, that did sound useful.
>"That would be a good trick, perhaps."
>"Yeah, I thought it might be."
>"Anon, we need to keep moving, or the post master will be mad."
>Anon nodded at Derpy, adjusting the mail bag.
>Trixie scoffed, placing a hoof on Anon's leg, looking up at him.
>"The Great and Tired Trixie does not wish to walk further."
>She pretended to huff in annoyance at the thought, watching Anon.
>After Derpy's comment about riding on Anon's shoulders and seeing her do it herself, Trixie wanted to see if Anon would do the same for her.
>Anon smirked, scratching behind her ear.
>"Well, do you want to head home for now?"
>"No, Trixie wanted to go the whole day with you, so Trixie will."
>"Well, if you don't want to walk, I can't carry you if I am to deliver mail."
>Derpy flew around Anon, playing right into Trixie's hints.
>"Maybe you can give her a ride, Anon."
>Anon smirked, nodding.
>"There's an idea, Derpy. Want to go for a ride, Trixie?"
>Trixie acted like it wasn't a big deal, but she felt her cheeks warm a bit, the way he worded it echoed Derpy's earlier mistake.
>"Trixie will allow you to carry her, yes."
>Anon bent down and placed his hands underneath Trixie's front legs, lifting her from behind into the air.
>"Be gentle, Anon. Trixie is to not be manhandled."
>"Gentle is my middle name."
>Derpy placed a hoof to her mouth, thinking.
>"I didn't know that was your middle name."
>"It's not, it's just a saying."
>"Your sayings are weird."

>Anon set Trixie on his shoulders, letting her sit fully rather than perched like Derpy had been.
>Her back legs draped down onto his chest as he set her down fully, feeling her thighs on either side of his head.
>She leaned against his head as he let her front hooves rest on top of is head, letting her adjust to get comfortable.
>"Comfy, Trixie?"
>"It'll do, not the best of chairs, but most chairs don't move do they?"
>"Not on their own. Just hold on, not too tight though, and let's move on."
>Derpy took to the air and the trio set off.
>Anon could feel Trixie holding on with her thighs, her front legs wrapped around his head, bouncing gently with each step.
>"How are you holding up, Trixie dear?"
>"Well enough, could you walk more evenly though?"
>"Why?"
>"You're bouncing Trixie."
>"I'll try, but promise nothing."
>Trixie had to admit, the world looked a bit different from up here, seeing the world from Anon's height.
>She towered over ponies, only the pegasus ponies reaching her level.
>She felt Anon touch her leg, securing her to him.
>"Easy now, Trixie, I do need to breathe."
>As they walked, Derpy and Anon dropped off mail at different houses, Anon being forced to squat to deliver his packages to not fall over with Trixie.
>Anon and Trixie were getting odd looks, but it wasn't a common thing to see Anon give a pony a ride, most were asleep when Derpy rode around.
>Trixie didn't mind, they saw how special she was, being granted carriage by her Glorious Assistant.
>To Anon, he didn't mind the looks or Trixie getting a piggy back ride.
>He could feel her tail moving back and forth across his back, enjoying the ride.
>Placing his hand higher on Trixie's leg, he adjusted his bag.
>"Trixie, mind doing something for me tomorrow?"
>"What do you wish of Trixie, Anon?"
>"Tomorrow, mind doing some chores around the house?
>I know you need to practice and wanted to go with me today, but it's only fair, right?"

>"Trixie supposes so. She is a mare of her word."
>Derpy flew nearby, looking at Trixie.
>"Are you going to be his house keeper?"
>Trixie huffed, turning her nose in the air.
>"No, Trixie is no one's house keeper. Anon's agreement with Trixie living with him was she would clean up in the house if it needed it.
>Nothing more or less."
>"So... A house keeper?"
>"No!"
>Anon patted Trixie's leg, getting her attention.
>"Easy up there, twisting like that might cause you to fall."
>Trixie hadn't realized she had been leaning and waving a hoof around.
>"Sorry about that, Anon. Trixie does -not- want to be known as a house keeper."
>"Nah, the Great and Powerful House Keeping Trixie doesn't have the same ring to it.
>It's just a job I need done and since your last show hadn't gone so well, it's a way you can help."
>"Yes, as you and Trixie agreed."
>Derpy flew around so she could see Anon.
>"Is she going to wear a maid outfit?"
>"I wish, but I doubt it."
>"The Great and Powerful Trixie will not wear a maid outfit."
>Anon leaned his head back, holding onto Trixie's hooves so she didn't fall, so that their eye's met.
>"You wouldn't wear it?"
>Anon mouthed to Trixie without sound, 'Not even for me?'
>Derpy tilted her head, looking at Anon.
>"Anon, I think your voice broke."
>"Herm, did it? No no, there it is."
>Trixie tapped Anon with her hoof, eyelids lowered with a soft smirk.
>"You'll have to talk me into it."
>Time for round two.

>The route was coming to an end, Anon and Trixie starting to say their goodbyes.
>"It was fun hanging out with you today, Trixie!"
>"Indeed, it was enjoyable, Derpy. Trixie does not regret this outing today."
>Derpy flew around and regarded Anon.
>"Another good day. Want me to take your bag back to the post office?"
>"That'd be awesome, Derpy. Thank you."
>Trixie adjusted enough for Anon to remove the bag from his shoulder, handing it to Derpy.
>She wrapped it around her until it wouldn't interfere with her wings.
>Anon could feel Trixie's warmth really well now that she had moved and resettled.
>Derpy hugged Anon's middle before landing for the moment.
>"Are you two heading home after this?"
>"Yeah, I think so. I'm not a fan of this heat and I doubt Trixie is."
>"No, Trixie yearns for the cool darkness of home."
>"Well, there you have it. Same time tomorrow, Derpy?"
>"Yup! I'll see you tomorrow, Anon! Bye Trixie!"
>Derpy flipped and flew away towards the nearby houses.
>"Derpy! The other way."
>Derpy blushed and flew back towards the post office.
>Trixie patted Anon's head with her hoof, pointing in a direction.
>"Now. Onward, Trixie's Glorious Assistant! We are homeward bound!"
>Anon laughed and started heading towards the house, placing his hands on her legs again.
>"Right away, Great and Powerful Trixie."
>Trixie could feel Anon was still walking in a way that made her bounce, she thought he was doing it on purpose.
>With her hooves wrapped around his head, she was enjoying the ride, keeping a good grip on Anon.
>Anon and Trixie made it hope in good time, right about the time Anon would normally come home.
>"Trixie, this is normally where I'd walk in and see you smiling or something after a day's hard work.
>I think this will be the first that you haven't greeted me when I come home."
>As Anon entered, Trixie threw her hooves into the air, causing Anon to catch her legs so she didn't fall.
>"Welcome home, Anon!"
>Laughing, Anon pulled her from his shoulders.
>"I stand corrected."

>Trixie walked off while Anon sat on the couch, heading upstairs to relieve herself of her cloak and hat.
>Anon's neck felt cold, no longer having Trixie resting against him, but the mare herself returned downstairs and joined him.
>"Well, that was an interesting day. What do you normally talk about with Derpy?"
>"Just whatever comes up. We talked about you when I found out she was a fan of yours, the concert, about her, about me, things that have happened in Ponyville, just anything really. You seem really interested in my relationship with Derpy today."
>"Trixie just wants to know her Glorious Assistant's day to day is like."
>Anon slowly nodded. "Alright..."
>Trixie brought her tail around, brushing Anon with it as she spoke.
>"So, about tomorrow. That work you wanted Trixie to do."
>Anon smirked, he noticed her change the subject, but he wouldn't push it. For now.
>"Yes, while the house isn't in complete shambles, I wanted you to maybe clean up some in here. Dust some, pick up any trash, clean up the bathroom, that sort of thing."
>"You want Trixie to clean the house? Completely?"
>"That's not too much to ask since it is the first I've asked you to do, is it?"
>Trixie really didn't want to be anyone's servant, but she did owe Anon a lot right now.
>"No, it's not too much. But Trixie is still waiting to be convinced to wear the maid outfit. What's your take?"
>Anon tapped his chin with a finger, last time he tried to convince her of something was when he tried to get her to leave her mane down.
>That didn't end in his favor, so he had to argue better this time.
>"Let see, cleaning the house can be dirty work, if you wore the outfit you wouldn't get anything on you. You won't be seen by anyone else except me, unless you let them in. Hmm..."
>What else could he say to justify Trixie wearing the maid outfit.
>"Is that all, Anon?"
>"No no. I'm thinking of all the reasons and picking out the best. Needless to say, you'd look amazing in it."

>"Do you really think so? The Great and Powerful Trixie makes any outfit look good!"
>"Yeah, I really think so. What do you say?"
>Trixie thought about it, it still wasn't too overly convincing, though she did like being complimented.
>"Sorry, Glorious Assistant, not this time."
>"Too bad, I hoped you'd wear it for me."
>"Better luck next time."
>Anon shrugged, glancing at Trixie's tail since it still sat next to him.
>He reached out and touched it, feeling the softness of the hair.
>"Do you like the feeling of Trixie's tail?"
>Anon looked up at her, she was eying him.
>"Yeah, it's very soft. Do you let others touch it?"
>"No, Trixie is usually the only one that may touch her Mane or Tail."
>Anon lifted an eyebrow, waiting for Trixie to go on, his hand frozen on her tail.
>"What? You are allowed to, Anon. You are Trixie's Glorious Assistant and have already brushed her mane and tail before. You are an exception to that rule."
>"I guessed as much, but was waiting to see what you'd say."
>Placing his hand on her back, Anon smirked at Trixie.
>"So tell me, did today live up to your expectations?"
>Trixie adjusted, allowing him to lightly pet her again, shrugging as she did so.
>"Not as exciting as Trixie had imagined, but She did learn many things today. About Derpy and about you."
>"Oh? I wasn't aware that I had been a subject of research. What findings did you turn up?"
>"Just tidbits about you. You're gentle and caring for your friends, you live up to your silver tongue, and you give amazing rubs."
>Anon laughed, taking that last bit as she wanted him to pet her.
>"Well then. I could say I learned you are inquisitive and that you enjoy said rubs."
>"Yes, Trixie does. Now rub."

>Anon obliged her, rubbing on her back as she stretched out beside him.
>"You should give massages as your job, Anonymous. This is rather pleasing to feel."
>'Then again,' Trixie thought to herself, 'Since he doesn't, I get them all to myself.'
>"Maybe, but I can't just up and quit now. Besides, I have another job to work on already. The big show doesn't plan itself."
>"Fair enough, Anon. Did you want to work on something now?"
>"I did. Wait here."
>Anon stopped rubbing Trixie, much to her disappointment, as he went upstairs for a moment.
>He returned a moment later with a slingshot and some small rubber pellets, holding them up for Trixie to see.
>"Since we don't want to start immediately with a gun, why don't we practice this tonight?"
>Trixie sat up straight, using her magic to bring one of the rubber pellets over to inspect it.
>"Are you suggesting firing these at Trixie right off the bat? If so, pray she catches them or you will be dealing with the Livid and Vengeful Trixie."
>Anon chuckled, pulling a cushion from the chair and tossing it near the wall.
>"Oh no, i thought ahead for that, I'll be firing at that cushion. Remember, you'll want to catch it with your magic first, you need to be able to stop it completely at full speed before we move up to a real gun. You sit beside the cushion and catch the pellets as I fire them faster and faster. Simple right?"
>Trixie nodded, returning the pellet before stepping off the couch and sitting herself beside the cushion.
>Anon sat on the couch and took aim at the cushion, pulling the pellet back at only a third of the full stretching length.
>"Alright Trixie, on your mark."
>There was a moment's hesitation, Trixie watching the pellet before speaking. "Mark."
>Anon released the ball, flinging it across the room before it came to a halt in front of the cushion, wrapped in a magenta aura.

>"Simple enough, Trixie does not see why you think it'd be so hard to catch one of these. Nothing is too hard for the Great and Powerful Trixie."
>Anon smiled, loading up another pellet.
>"But of course, that's why you're the Great and Powerful Trixie. Let's see how you do at a faster speed."
>He pulled back the second shot, two thirds of it's maximum pull length, waiting for Trixie.
>Trixie had her eyes closed in confidence, smirking as she opened them partially and said, "Mark."
>The second pellet was fired from the slingshot, flying across the room and a whump was heard as the pellet was caught a bit too late.
>Trixie opened her eyes, looking at the pellet.
>"Trixie... did not catch that one."
>"You've got to focus on the pellets, they're quick little buggers. Ready when you are."
>Trixie dropped the pellet she had, now focusing on the little ball. "Mark."
>Anon put the round into the air, letting it fly before it came to a halt within a few inches of the cushion, glowing just like the first.
>Trixie smirked, she knew she could do it, holding it up for Anon to see.
>"See, easy as pie, Anon. Go for full speed."
>"Alright, on your mark."
>Anon loads the new pellet and pulls it back all the way, aiming for the cushion.
>Trixie watched the pellet carefully, horn aglow when she said "Mark."
>The pellet zipped pat her, whizzing as it smacked into the cushion, leaving Trixie blinking.
>"Where did?"
>"Fast little devil, isn't it? Got to be ready for it, this is the fastest it can fire, but a gun fires much faster.
>Let's try again, keep your eye on the birdie and on your mark."
>Trixie stood up, watching the pellet closely. "Mark!"
>With a 'fttp', the pellet did light up as it flew, but the resounding pop told them she didn't catch it.
>They continued firing the rubber pellets from the slingshot, Trixie either just missing or catching them too late.

>She was getting frustrated, so much so that she already had the pellet in her magical grip before Anon even released it a few times.
>"Trixie, maybe we need to take a break. You're getting very steamed."
>"You're right Trixie's mad! Now mark!"
>Anon launched the pellet, Trixie leaning her head back and bringing it down as she cast the spell, still to no effect.
>"Mark!"
>"Trixie, don't throw your head like that, you'll..."
>"MARK!"
>Anon fired and Trixie brought her head down and there was a thump as the pellet hit her below the horn, stunning her.
>"Ow! Son of a..."
>Anon jumped up and moved to her side, in time for him to get yanked down so he was face to face with Trixie, her hoof over the spot he hit.
>Her eyes were droopy, that was a hard enough hit to rattle her a good bit, but not enough to keep her from pulling Anon close enough that their noses touched.
>"You shot Trixie!"
>"I'm sorry, I tried to warn you."
>Anon hadn't wanted to hit her, aiming further and further away from her so that it wouldn't hit her.
>He felt terrible, but his chest was caught between feeling bad and wondering if Trixie was going to try and kick him.
>Trixie was hurt that Anon had hit her, frustrated that she couldn't catch the pellet, and deep down, felt guilty because it was her fault she got hit for leaning in front of the cushion.
>"Trixie doesn't appreciate that one bit, Anon."
>"I said I'm sorry. Let me have a look."
>Anon felt the magic pulling him so close to Trixie's face release him as the mare turned her face away from him.
>"Trixie will look herself. You've done enough."
>She walked upstairs, leaving Anon still kneeling where he was left.
>Trixie went to the bathroom, leaping up onto the counter, inspecting the spot.
>A decent sized whelp was already apparent on her temple and the swelling hadn't stopped yet.
>Glancing around, Trixie realized she didn't know where Anon's medkit was or if he even had one.
>There was a knock at the bathroom door.

>"Trixie? Mind if I come in?"
>"Yes. Trixie is rather irritated that you shot her. What kind of assistant does that?"
>The door cracked open, Anon sticking his head in.
>"One that didn't mean to, I told you it was an accident."
>Trixie turned to look at Anon, frowning, opening her mouth to retort when she saw Anon cringe.
>"Bloody hell, I did wallop you pretty hard, didn't I?"
>"Yes, you did. And the Angry and somewhat Dizzy Trixie doesn't take being hit kindly."
>Despite Trixie having said she did mind if Anon came in, he stepped inside with a bundled towel, approaching Trixie.
>"Here, this should help."
>Anon held out the towel, reaching up to place it against Trixie's head when she knocked it from his hand.
>The towel clattered on the ground as ice spilled from it, the mare trying to regain her footing before speaking.
>She wasn't thinking, speaking out of reflex.
>"Trixie said you've done enough, Anon. First you shoot her then you want to baby her? No, get out!"
>Anon looked at the ice that was strewn across the floor, slowly returning his gaze to Trixie.
>The look on his face was solemn, his already guilt ladened heart now injured and just a bit angry.
>"I was only trying to help you, Trixie. It was a bloody accident; why are you so mad?"
>"You should know why Trixie is upset! Trixie does not wish to discuss this right now, begone from her presence."
>"I said I was sorry, Trixie."
>Anon started forward again, only to meet the plunger with his head.
>They were both stunned for a moment, Trixie hadn't realized she had picked up the plunger with her magic, while Anon was stunned she had hit him.
>Anon straightened up and frowned, turning to walk out, stopping only long enough to offer a retort before leaving.
>"Well then, Great and Powerful Trixie, I hope as you heal soon. I'll keep this in mind the next time I feel the urge to assist you."
>The door snapped shut, leaving Trixie standing on the counter, staring after him.

>"Fine! Trixie doesn't need your help anyway!"
>She looked at the ice on the floor, already making small puddles, to the plunger that was shrouded in her magic.
>Trixie hadn't meant to hit Anon, she had only wanted to be alone for a bit to cool down.
>The mare lifted some of the ice cubes up to her, Anon had only wanted to help her as he always had, bringing her ice to reduce the swelling.
>She felt something on her cheek, looking in the mirror that she had a tears on her cheeks, hanging on her fur like ornaments.
>Trixie lowered her head, interrogating herself; Why? Why did she react so badly?
>She knew it was an accident, so why did she want to get away so badly that she hit Anon?
>She hadn't reacted like that since... A loud thump broke her train of thought, but not before she made the connection.
>Trixie looked at the door, trying to quell her tears, taking deep breaths.
>She needed to talk to Anon.
>Anon was lying on the bed now, rubbing his knuckles.
>He was frustrated, he didn't mean to hurt Trixie, how could she think he'd do that?
>Not only that, but she hit him in return for trying to help and fix what he broke.
>Anon knew women thought different than him, but it still angered him that she wasn't making sense to him.
>He had returned to his room to calm himself down, eventually taking some of his anger out on the wall.
>Now he was just trying to chill out and not think about the fact that he just shot his friend.
>There was a knock at the door, oh how the tides turned, Trixie's voice now calling through the door.
>"Anonymous? Are you in there?"
>Anon tried to keep his voice even, responding.
>"Yeah, I am."
>"May Trixie come in?"
>Anon took a moment to reply, finally saying "Yeah."
>He noticed her eyes were red around the edges, the sparkle normally in her magenta eyes was missing and they were downcast.
>She pushed the door closed with her hooves, not looking at Anon as she walked over to the side of the bed he was lying on to sit beside him.

>They sat in silence for a few minutes, both waiting for the other to make the first move.
>"Anon?"
>"Hmm?"
>"Are you mad at me?"
>Anon noticed her use of first person, but wasn't going to be so easily reigned in.
>"Yes, but I'll get over it."
>"Was that you thumping earlier against the wall?"
>"Yeah."
>He pointed at the wall where he punched, having left a mark on it.
>Trixie cringed, still not looking at Anon as she returned her gaze to the ground.
>There was a few more minutes of silence before Anon heard sniffling.
>He finally looked down at the mare, here eyes were closed and was fighting back tears.
>He felt a tug at his heart, but he wasn't to be so easily pulled, he'd dealt with enough females to know that they would sometimes fake crying to get their way.
>But the longer he watched, the heavier his heart got.
>Trixie hadn't done him wrong before, could he really treat her the same as she had treated him?
>Trixie was trying to not break down in front of Anon, she felt terrible that she had hit him.
>Had this been anyone else, she wouldn't have cared nearly as much, but this was the man that went out of his way to help her.
>Opened his home, his food, and his heart to her, all to make her happy.
>And here she was, hitting him.
>Trixie didn't want to lose Anon, he was all she had left to turn to.
>Sitting up, Anon reached down and placed his hand on her head, opposite side of the welt.
>"Hey."
>Trixie started as she felt his hand touch her, but it was gentle. Caressing.
>She looked up to see him peering sadly back at her.
>"I can't stand to see a beautiful mare cry. Come 'ere."
>Sliding his hands under her, Anon lifted Trixie and set her in his lap, resting his back against the head board.
>"I'm sorry, Anon. I don't know what happened. I didn't mean to hit you."
>Anon listened, stroking her mane slowly.
>"I just... reacted. You've been sweet so far, you'd have no reason to hit me like that."
>"It was an accident, I didn't mean to hit you."
>Trixie nodded, wondering why he thought she deserved the petting right now.
>"Why did you hit me, Trixie? Was it just knee jerk?"
>She nodded, still not meeting Anon's eyes.
>"Yeah, from when I was still homeless."
>"What happened?"
>Trixie looked up, recalling the tale, explaining to Anon what she thought was the source of the knee-jerk reaction.

>Trixie had been homeless for a while now, having run from Ponyville after that fateful day.
>Her shows were still earning her some bits, enough to get by, but not near as much as before.
>She had tried to return to a normal life after her encounter with the Alicorn Amulet.
>Problem was, word of her actions were spreading far and wide.
>It was becoming slowly harder to make the usual amount of bits, made clearer on one night after a show in Manehatten.
>Trixie had just finished a show, her fireworks lighting up the sky as she turned, her cape billowing as she left the stage area.
>Prancing through the back stage area, she had been looking forward to this particular show for a while, it'd have her set for a while if everything went well.
>The janitor pony was cleaning up, pushing a broom around with his hooves.
>Trixie walked past without regarding him, until she heard him speak.
>"Miss Trixie, went ahead and put your earnings in your room."
>"The Great and Powerful Trixie thanks you. Trixie's room had better be in tip top shape after her show."
>"To your request."
>"Excellent."
>Trixie spun and left, entering her room to find a considerably smaller bag of bits than she expected sitting on the little table.
>She quickly count through it all find that she had made less here than she had in Appaloosa!
>Also in her bag was the bill for using the avenue for her magic show that evening.
>"Five thousand bits!? Trixie doesn't have that much!"
>As if the ever increasing hagglers weren't enough with the insults she was starting to take, now she was making less in a big city than she was in smaller towns.
>She had hoped that this would be her big breakthrough on the bad luck train, but it proved to be her worst yet.
>This was enough to get her food for a few days or a meal and a hotel room for one night, since she no longer had a caravan to stay in.
>She crumpled the bill with her magic, keeping her voice low as she glanced at the door.

>"No. Trixie shall not go hungry again. Trixie'll just leave before they notice."
>She didn't want to cheat the Stallion who had agreed to let her pay after, but she simply didn't have enough in total to make five thousand bits.
>Gathered up everything she owned in the room and a few things she didn't own that wouldn't be missed, she was no thief, but desperate times call for desperate measures.
>She pulled out her black cloak she had used when she had the amulet and wrapped it around her in place of her cloak and hat.
>Easing the door open, Trixie looked outside for the Janitor.
>Seeing him with his back to her, hanging a sign that read 'No Fun Allowed', Trixie slipped out quietly.
>She made it to the back door and outside, carefully pushing it closed with her magic, before galloping away into the night.
>Trixie didn't let herself slow down, running until she reached a small restaurant, ducking in long enough to get herself some food.
>A few minutes later, she exited the building, taking off again as she headed for a small park nearby.
>Panting, Trixie sat on a bench, munching her less than filling food.
>She felt dirty on the inside, is this what the Great and Powerful Trixie had been reduced to?
>"The once Great and Powerful Trixie... Now reduced to thieving and eating cheap food."
>How had she fallen this far? She had a bright future. High hopes. Sure, she was a bit lonely at times, but everything was ok for a while.
>And then, that trip to Ponyville had changed everything.
>Trixie grit her teeth and sneered as she remembered, the day that purple poser ruined everything for her.
>"So Trixie had done some boasting, that's part of show business."
>Maybe Trixie had begun to believe her own boasts, but who would expect those two idiots to willingly go out and look for an Ursa Major to have her defeat?
>No one, simple as that. And then that goodie goodie, Twilight Sparkle, made her look like a cheap trick.

>The favored student of the princess, in everyone's hearts, friends with everyone, friends so close that they could be family...
>Trixie felt her eyes stinging as she continued to eat, if only to quell her stomach while she loathed that pony.
>"Why does she get everything while I've had nothing? Everything was given to her on a silver platter."
>Between Twilight and that amulet, things had gone significantly south for Trixie.
>She originally picked up that amulet to try and get better, use it's supposed power to prepare new tricks and spells to regain her lost legacy.
>Instead, the item was cursed and corrupted her. only darkening her already tarnished reputation.
>She had only wanted to improve, that was the only way she could think of how at the time, the need to do shows prevented studying.
>And it had all come down to this, homeless, stealing just to be able to eat, while that bitch got to live high on the hog as an Alicorn.
>Her food was becoming soggy, as tears dripped onto the food she was wrapping up.
>Better to tighten her belt and have some for later than eat it all now and become hungry later.
>She laid down on the bench, pulling her cloak closer around her.
>She could feel her tears rolling off her snout as a cool breeze helped lull her to sleep.
>With a start, Trixie awoke on the bench, her tears long dried.
>The sun wasn't up yet, it was someone touching her that woke her.
>Trixie leapt up, spinning around to find three stallions had been gathered around her plot, looking rather shocked that she was awake.
>"Oh, um... Hi."
>The two in the back started muttering, something about her being asleep.
>Trixie could smell cider on them, the strong kind that would put a normal pony under after one mug.
>"What do you three want?"
>The closest stallion swaggered towards her, grinning.
>"We're just looking for some fun. Saw you on this bench and thought why not help ourselves to the sleeping beauty."

>Trixie narrowed her eyes, now she saw what it was that had been touching her, the stallion at full mast.
>"Well you can find your entertainment elsewhere, you couldn't afford this mare if you tried."
>The Stallion's smile slipped, looking more malicious.
>"It wasn't a request."
>Trixie noticed the other two moving around to surround her, prompting her to start backing up as well.
>"Aw, now where are you going? We haven't had our fun yet."
>"Nor will you be."
>The stallion suddenly galloped up, grabbing Trixie as she tried to run by the cloak.
>"Oh no, we will be. Keep your voice low and let us have our way and we'll be on our way."
>"No! Unhand Trixie!"
>The stallion's smile was gone completely now, his hoof connecting with the side of Trixie's head.
>She fell to the ground, slowly pushing herself up to see the the standing over her.
>"Trixie huh? A cute name, I'll remember it while we fuck."
>Trixie immediately tried to bolt, only to get pulled back by her cloak once more, undoing it's clasp to free herself.
>As she ran, Trixie felt something grab her tail, looking back in pain to see one of the others had caught her.
>She saw a trash can nearby and used her magic to grab the first thing from it.
>As the colt tried to mount her, a bottle crashed into his head, shattering on impact.
>The pony stumbled back as Trixie brandished the bottle at him.
>"Leave Trixie alone or you'll regret it."
>In truth, she was scared to death, but she would not let this happen to her.
>She might not be given everything like Twilight, she might not have anyone she can call friend nor a stallion to love, but she would -not- allow three drunken ponies rape her.
>The others were catching up as the one she hit lurched at her, catching a face full of of the broken bottle.
>The colt screamed as she jammed it into his face, forcing him back.
>His buddies stopped, watching their friend scream, while Trixie backed up slowly.
>Her legs were trembling, heart beating so fast that she no longer felt a pulse, brain focused all on one thought: I just stabbed a pony.
>The colt fell over, writhing, his buddies leaping to him as Trixie.
>One of them gave chase, but he also got the bottle, him in the legs.
>Trixie finally managed to give her pursuer the slip, hiding in an Alleyway.
>She broke down into silent tears, to not let her sound lead him back to her, collapsing by the trash in exhaustion, hunger, and fear.

>Trixie awoke the next morning soaked, it had started to lightly drizzle after she passed out.
>She didn't remember falling asleep, but after that scare, she was so tired that it wasn't surprising.
>Standing up, Trixie realized several things were missing from her possession.
>Looking all around her, her heart dropped like a lead balloon as she found that she had lost her cloak.
>She was also missing her food that she had been trying to save.
>"At least Trixie still had her sack of bits, right?"
>Even that was gone, having been abandoned on the bench when she had been awoken by those drunks.
>Trixie scrambled around where she had laid, looking for the bits in case she dropped them.
>"No. No! I couldn't have lost those bits! That's all I had!
>My food! My bits! My..."
>Trixie started back out of the alleyway, passing a pile of fluff that had drowned in a puddle, returning to where she had been the night before.
>She found her way back, the food and bits gone, finding her normal cloak and hat tossed nearby into some bushes.
>After inspecting the clothes to insure they weren't defiled, she wrapped herself in her cloak and donned her hat.
>"I thought you might come back for those."
>Trixie spun around, right into a hoof that knocked her off her hooves.
>She rubbed the side of her head, her eye tearing up from being hit, the leader from last night standing over her.
>"So, thought it was a fun idea to stab my friend in the face with a broken bottle, huh?
>He can't see now, thanks to you. So I promised him a little payback to the cunt who did that to him."
>Trixie opened her mouth to retort only to get kicked in the jaw, her jaw aching as her teeth clacked back together.
>She might have had a sliver of pity for the stallion she blinded, but any chance of that happening was gone now.
>Trixie tried to get up but the stallion did what he could to keep knocking her back down.
>Her horn lit up, her magic enveloping her cloak and yanking it from her.
>"Get! Away! From! Me!"

>She leapt up and jammed her horn into one of his front legs, whipping her cloak around his head.
>"What are you trying to do-ack!"
>She tried to blind him with her cloak, using that chance to get up, her legs burning from the kicking he did.
>Kicking out with her back hooves, she managed to force the stallion back a few steps, giving her some breathing room.
>But her cloak didn't hold long as the stallion started biting at the cloth, tearing a hole for his head.
>Straining against her magic and her cloak, he kicked and bit at her, catching her one of her legs in his mouth.
>She was yanked towards him, yelping as his hooves connected with her back.
>"So, you think you can fight? Bring it, bitch."
>Trixie turned and bit at the stallion when his hoof blacked her eye, giving him time to ram into her and knock her over.
>Once more on the ground, he wouldn't let her get back up, stomping and biting her until she was covering in bruises and bleeding.
>When he had his fill of beating her, her pulled her cloak from his neck and spit it on her, leaving her curled up under it.
>"That'll teach you to be a bitch. By the way, thanks for the bits you left, it'll cover his needs and still get us more cider."
>Trixie glared at him with her good eye and was rewarded with another kick for her insolence.
>"See you later, if you make it."
>The stallion left, leaving Trixie lying in a slowly growing pool of her own blood, her vision fluttering as she tried to stand.
>Now she knew why her cloak and hat had been thrown in the bushes, it had been a trap.
>She tried to call out for help, but it was all she could muster to whimper, a swift kick in the throat had silenced her.
>Trixie tried to force herself to stand up, but darkness closed in as she passed out from exertion.
>The mare was only out for twenty minutes before coming to her senses again, successfully pushing herself up onto her hooves and staggering away.

>Her hat was pulled low, hiding her eyes from any passersby, her torn cloak draped around where she was bleeding.
>She had no money for medical help, she didn't have anyone to ask for help, her pride too great to ask a stranger, and there was still the chance of the owner of the venue she performed at coming for her.
>No, she couldn't remain in Manehatten, not with that stallion out there and the chance of trouble over not paying her dues to the venue.
>She winced, her whole body ached, burning in protest of her choice to move.
>This was a new low for Trixie, how did everything go so wrong, from the world renown "Most Magical Unicorn" to a thief being beaten for not putting out for drunk stallions.
>She muttered to herself, lost in the depths of her own sorrow and thoughts, the ponies giving her odd looks going unnoticed by her.
>"What did I ever do to deserve this? I was a star, had it all, so why did this happen to me?
>Over a bit of bragging? The Ursa Major thing? Or the part where I tried to take over Ponyville?
>I never wanted to hurt anyone, I had only wanted that Amulet to prove I'm not just a big talker."
>As she walked, Trixie noticed that she would jump and flinch when sudden moves caught her attention as she walked.
>Somepony suddenly stepping in front of her, a quick lifting of a hoof near her, it was worrying.
>Her hooves, despite their objection to her choice to walk, took Trixie out of the city and walking into the outer area.
>She finally came to a halt, her legs giving out, as she tumbled down and could walk no longer.
>Parts of her cloak were now stained red, the vision in her blacked eye was almost nonexistent, and her body was shaking from the pain.
>She gazed upon the city, tears stinging her face, she didn't know where to turn.
>How was this her life?
>Trixie had grown silent in her retelling of that story, not wanting to go on.
>Anon and her sat in silence for a moment, Anon gazing over her body.

>If he looked closely enough, he could see the faintest of bruises on her.
>A few on her legs and and back, scars from the bites barely showing.
>"That's why I think I reacted the way I did, I didn't mean to hurt you Anon.
>But please don't make me leave, I don't have anywhere to go."
>Anon reached over, placing his hand on her back, feeling her flinch ever so slightly at his touch.
>Her ears were pinned back, worried at how Anon will react to that story.
>He could see tears in her eyes, it wasn't easy for her to recount the tale.
>Anon pulled Trixie closer to him, sitting her next to him.
>"I didn't know that happened to you, Trixie."
>"It's not something I'm proud of. Please, don't send me away Anon or think less of me."
>Trixie looked up at Anon, tears streaming down her cheeks, eyes red from her crying.
>Anon felt his heartstrings tug, picking her up and setting her in his lap facing him.
>"I won't send you away, Trixie. While I am still hurt that you hit me with a plunger, I can understand your reaction and why it happened, even if I don't like it."
>Trixie smiled, her ears easing up, but she kept watching him as she wanted the other half.
>"Do you think less of me? I'm sure this isn't what you expected when you allowed me to live with you..."
>Anon smiled softly, petting her head lightly as he tried to ease her worry.
>"No, I don't think differently of you. I've been through hard times in the past as well, I know you had to make rough decisions.
>You wouldn't have done those things if you been in a better situation."
>"You mean that, Anon?"
>"I do. No matter what you've done in the past, you're still the Great and Powerful Trixie to me."
>Trixie smiled, her tears flowing anew, despite her past someone liked her. Cared for her enough to not turn her away.
>She wrapped her hooves around Anon, burying her head against him, feeling his arms wrap around her in return.

>Anon kissed the tip of Trixie's horn lightly, cooing to her.
>"You don't have to be alone anymore, Trixie. I'm here for you until the end."
>Was this the magic of friendship that that stupid Twilight and her friends always talked about?
>Trixie pulled back from Anon, gazing up at him, just who is this kind soul that cares so much where no pony had.
>She felt Anon lift a hand from her back and brushing a tear from her cheek, smiling softly at her.
>Leaning her head to the side, Trixie rested her cheek in Anon's palm.
>"Anon? You've spoken three times now about you dealing with troubles in your past as well."
>"Have I? Whoops, not quite living up to my name of Anon.
>Yes, I did face problems in the past. A lot of them, more than I can recall within a week."
>Trixie blinked, putting her hoof on the back of the hand that her cheek rested on, watching Anon.
>"What plagued you? You seem too nice to suffer troubles."
>Anon took a sighed, he didn't want to recall.
>But Trixie was giving him an imploring look.
>"I don't really want to remember, but if you really want to know, I'll tell you.
>Fair's fair, since you told me some of your own unflattering history."
>Trixie nodded, leaning against him as he began to recall the tales.
>"Where to begin..."
>"Long ago, in a distant land?"
>"Nah, too epic for me. Some of it is foggy in places, so I might skip specifics."
>"That's fine, just tell Trixie what you are comfortable with."
>Anon nodded, pressing on.
>"Well, I was born in a city in a far away land, where there are more humans than ponies.
>My parents weren't the best, though Dad at least tried to be good.
>Mom was rather abusive, always going on and on about some new bullshit that she heard of from her friends, more concerned with herself and her "preferences" than Dad or me.
>Addictions was more like it... degenerate. I hoped things would get better as things went on, but that's not the way the dice of fate rolled for me.
>I was nicer back then than I am now."

>Trixie raised her eyebrows. Nicer than he was now? That was hard to imagine, he had been so good to her so far.
>"Making fair weather friends was easy, till they decided I wasn't of use to them, tossing me away like a tissue.
>I was too trusting, honestly, eager to make friends and find someone that just liked me for me. It was never the case, true friends are a rare thing among humans.
>If anything, I was tolerated until I was convenient. A scapegoat. A puppet. I started learning a new lesson as I made my way through life; the lesson of being jaded.
>But I remained hopeful, even falling for some girls and trying to date them. This turned out to be a bad choice for me, one played me for what money I did have, always wanting something.
>When I could buy no more or refused to, she left for her next victim. I eventually tried again, I thought this one might work, but she was toying with me.
>A plaything tied to her fingers and whims, cutting the strings and dashing my heart quite expertly. Shirty twat."
>Trixie watched Anon's face, the emotions that passed over his face with each sentence conveying even more than his words.
>A scowl and narrowed eyes in irritation, deepening to bared teeth and a furrowed brow in anger, a rolling wave of hurt and regret as he recalled everything so far.
>"I started to resent people, their existence, my existence. But, I did meet a couple of guys I could and still honestly call friends."
>Anon's expression softened, recalling them eased the thoughts somewhat, but Trixie could still feel him shaking slightly.
>They were understood why I was slowly becoming more withdrawn, they didn't want to use me, wanted to chill and hang out.
>It was good when I was with them, they stood with me, kept me from becoming jaded. I held out, trying to push through the shit with the two gems I had found, it'd all get better as I went on, right?"

>"School was shit anyway, hormones running rampant and such. Wasn't any better after, if anything it got worse as I went.
>One of my buddies moved away, but me and the other still hung out. Wasn't too keen on the idea of dating at the time, not after being driven out of money and toyed with.
>Where school had ended and the tossers there had left, what replaced them was the lowest of the society.
>Gangs and thugs, all thinking they are hot shite. Always starting shit, always making life unnecessarily harder for others."
>Trixie frowned, listening carefully.
>"They started showing up more and more in the more civilized areas, but we never let them get to us.
>We weren't dumb enough to actively oppose them, avoiding was easier until they started harassing the business where me and my buddy worked.
>Thought it'd be funny, watching the people squirm as they paraded through like they owned the place.
>One day, they decided to step it up a notch. Demanded money from the register at gun point.
>I was the one at the register at the time, but my buddy spoke first, telling them no and to fuck off or the cops would be called."
>Anon laughed dryly once as he recalled his friend.
>"He always was forward when it came to confrontations, that's why he was made a manager so fast..."
>Trixie didn't like the way he worded that sentence. "Was?"
>Anon nodded slowly, eyes glazed over as he stared into the memory, it staring back at him in his mind's eye.
>"I didn't even get a chance to move, the bastard turned and shot him, killed him with a round through the head. One of these "Call of Duty" types.
>I moved to my friend's side while they raided the register, I was concerned for his wellbeing, but even I knew that he was gone.
>He was the friend that had always been there for me. And I could do nothing to help him. But I made sure his killer regretted it.
>I grabbed the bat from behind the counter, our boss was too cheap for any alarms, and bashed him right in the head."

>"His mates saw I was gutted and tried to get their pistols out as well. Broke one's hands and the other ended face first into the shelves.
>I got the gun that had killed my friend as the killer was coming too, only to find me standing over him.
>He pleaded for his life, wanting to live, and for a moment I wanted to deny him. But thinking of my friend reminded me that he wouldn't want me to stoop to their level.
>The killer lived, but I refused to let him leave until cops dealt with him. A shot in each leg was enough to keep him from leaving.
>I swore to defend any friends I had left or would make until my death if it meant they wouldn't leave me. But it did nothing to ease the guilt, I could have done something, but I didn't."
>Trixie hugged Anon, wanting to ease the pain she heard in his voice, her words failing her.
>Anon hugged back, broken from his trance by her touch.
>"Sorry. I had trouble continuing after that day. Couldn't reach my former friend who moved, managed to avoid jail thanks to a good lawyer but lost my job in the process.
>Now I had to deal with even more of the thugs, their stupid arse friends wanting to throw down but ran off when I started carrying a piece of my own for safety.
>My mom wanted nothing to do with me after that, said I was not worth anything to her anymore, letting my friend die.
>She didn't want to hear that I was already feeling guilty enough, only making it worse. Dad did what he could to ease it, but he was so beta that it was only hindering his attempts.
>I didn't want to remain anymore. I didn't want to hear her voice telling me I failed my friend. I didn't want to wake up to see a world without those two who had made it more bearable.
>I started sleeping more, I couldn't find the desire to get up. No one wanted to hire me out of fear of the gangs, no one wanted to befriend me, thinking they'd be marked or I'd hurt them.

>It had become very lonely without their smiling faces, fat lot of good it did me to try and be kind if no one trusted me.
>It wasn't for me, those feelings. I wanted to be kind and happy, and for a bit I was content in my place in life, but ended that day.
>I tried all manners of escapism. Drugs. Games. Drinking. Writing. Reading. Cartoons. It wasn't enough.
>I decided , two years after he was gone and two years of misery from trying to climb back out and failing, that it was time to call gee gee and bow out."
>Trixie held a hoof to her mouth, eyes watering. Anon had indeed suffered, suffered long and hard. She couldn't tell from the way he acted.
>"What do you mean, bow out?"
>"Might not be a thing here, I haven't heard of it happening in my time here, but I ended it. Game over. Do not pass go. Do not collect two hundred dollars."
>Trixie took a moment to realize what Anon was implying, but how can that be?
>"But... You're here. And you aren't dead, you're living and breathing, how did that happen if you died?"
>Anon placed a hand to his head, thinking.
>"This is where things get fuzzy, I don't really remember how I got here. I -thought- I had died, expecting to see only darkness before me, instead it felt like a short nap.
>I could still think, and my only thought was "I just wanted to be happy." Next thing I knew, I woke up in the meadows outside Ponyville.
>I can't explain it, but I had this feeling of renewal. It was a chance, given to me by someone or something capable of empathy, to achieve what was denied to me.
>To be happy and to make friends."
>Trixie stared at Anon, that was a very strange way to appear here.
>"Do you regret your choice? And has being here worked?"
>"The weight of that burden of guilt was too much, I do not regret it since I have found ponies here are much less likely to just use someone for their own devices.
>And it has, I've done all I could to bury those memories. Leave it behind and start anew as the feeling compelled."

>"I've made myself be happy and distracted myself from thinking about the past until it was nothing more than the occasional nightmare.
>The reason I've not shown it before is because no one wants to befriend a depressed sack of shite, so I've hidden it.
>But now I've found something that has made me legitimately happy."
>Trixie tilted her head, "What did you find?"
>Anon smiled, he hadn't been aware that tears were stinging his eyes as well as hers.
>"You, Trixie. You came to me in your lowest point and I knew exactly how you felt.
>It helped to somewhat heal my heart, helping you climb back from the brink that I fell from.
>To see you smile, those true smiles of happiness and joy, it tells me I found what I sought.
>Making you happy is what I want to do, and I don't plan on stopping anytime soon."
>Trixie smiled, leaning her forehead against Anon's, two different souls who had been drug down so far building each other back up.
>Closing her eyes for a moment, Trixie wept with Anon for his losses and her own, before pressing her lips to his.
>The spark reignited between them, warming the cockles of their hearts, easing the pain that ached them throughout the stories.
>Trixie felt Anon's hand slide through her mane, both of them wishing the kiss, the spark of warmth, of companionship to never end.
>The two parted and gazed at each other, Trixie being the first to speak.
>"You are too kind, Anonymous. Thank you, you really do make me happy. And I won't hesitate to do the same for you."

>Anon smiled, this only confirmed his feelings on coming to Equestria.
>Trixie nuzzled against Anon's neck, cuddling close to him.
>Trixie didn't feel any need for acting high and mighty, no one could see them nor did she care.
>She smiled as she felt Anon wrap his arms around her, pulling her into a tight embrace, his cheek pressed against her head.
>"Anon? Thank you. For everything. I'm sorry about what happened to your friend."
>"You're welcome and thank you. I'm sorry for what you've been through, but now that we've both been to the bottom, there is only one way to go. Up."
>Trixie nodded, tilting her head back to kiss Anon's cheek, placing a hoof against his chest.
>"Yes, it is. And the Great and Powerful Trixie and her Glorious Assistant will rise to the top and show all of Equestria who is number one!"
>"You can bet your arse we will, together."
>Trixie smiled up at Anon, she liked the sound of that.
>She stood up so that her could touch her nose to his, smiling softly.
>"Let's keep tonight between us, Anon. Our little secret."
>"Will this secret turn into a naughty secret?"
>"Depends on your definition of naughty."
>Their lips met once more, Trixie's placing her hooves around his neck, holding tight as their tongues met for the first time.
>Their tongues twisted and danced with each other, a passionate kiss far deeper than the light kisses and pecks before.
>Neither one objected, quite content and happy to just have this time together, wanting nothing more than to be happy and to be happy together.
>Anon ran a hand through Trixie's mane, gently sliding his fingertips along her neck, feeling her quiver at his touch.
>She ran a hoof lightly against Anon's cheek, pulling back from the kiss to breathe, smiling at him with bedroom eyes.
>"We need to sleep, you've got to work in the morning."
>"Oh, yeah, I do. But it's just us until that time."
>"Oh yes, my Glorious Assistant, I'll be with you."

>The next day peeked in on the two, laying wrapped in each other's embrace.
>The night hadn't progressed much farther, as they were both questioning the definitive and firmness of their feelings for one another.
>What they did know and agree on is that both of them had suffered, two peas in a pod, and now they were going to build each other back up.
>Trixie stretched, yawning as she woke up, nudging the human awake.
>"Anon, wake up, it's sunrise."
>He grumbled sleepily, pulling Trixie into a snuggle as he fell asleep again.
>She giggled, settling into his grasp for a moment before having an idea.
>Trixie pulled herself free carefully, cautious to not wake Anon, before heading downstairs.
>She went to the kitchen, looking through the cabinets and drawers until she found a cook book and some utensils that she'd need.
>She hadn't cook food for a human before, but this was the perfect time to try.
>Anon woke up, stretching his arms, looking around for Trixie.
>There was a smell in the air, but Anon couldn't identify it, sniffing several times.
>He shrugged and got up, dressing as he remembered last night.
>They had relived some of their darkest moments last night, it had brought them closer however, smiling to himself as fixed his jacket.
>Heading downstairs, the smell was getting stronger as he went along, leading him into the kitchen.
>The smell was a delightful smell, though a hint of something burning as well, just enough to worry Anon.
>Sticking his head into the kitchen, he had to bite his tongue to not snicker.
>Trixie was wearing an Apron, cooking at his stove while standing on a stool to see, pouring over the instructions.
>Anon could see her cooking eggs, bacon, and strangely, waffles that were being coated with peanut butter.
>He stepped into the living area, smiling, letting her have a moment before walking loudly towards the kitchen.
>"Morning Trixie. What's that smell?"
>Trixie turned on the stool, smirking embarrassingly.

>In truth, she was having trouble with some of the food, never having cooked bacon before and was burning it.
>She had been hoping for a bit more time, but the smell of burning would have awoken him eventually.
>"Good morning Anon. You're up earlier than Trixie had thought."
>"Yeah, had to get up anyway, but then the smell caught my attention."
>As predicted, the smell had led him down here, Trixie thought it would be that.
>"Yes well, after last night, Trixie thought it would be nice to wake up to something to eat."
>"Yeah, it is nice to wake up to it, it smells good. What are you making?"
>"Eggs, Bacon, and waffles."
>"What's the peanut butter for?"
>"Those are Trixie's. Trixie wanted to try some peanut butter cracker waffles, but without the crackers. They smell funny but Trixie will be the judge of their taste."
>Anon smirked and fixed them some applejuice, didn't want applejack getting after him again for bringing in oranges.
>Trixie turned around, moving the bacon off the the burner and sending it over to the table as Anon sat down.
>The bacon was burned in places and the smell of cooked peanut butter wasn't helping either.
>Slowly the table filled with the assortment of foods, Trixie finally joining Anon at the table after removing her apron.
>"Well, Trixie hopes it's good."
>Anon took a bit of the eggs and bacon, nodding his approval.
>They weren't the best he'd had but he told her "They taste really good, love them."
>Trixie smiled as she tried her peanut butter waffles, loving how it turned out.
>"These are better than Trixie anticipated."
>"Mind if I try a bit?"
>"Only a bit, more than a bit and you'll lose a hand."
>Trixie smirked as Anon chuckled, using his fork to cut off a small bit for himself.
>"I get to keep my hand only taking that much, right?"
>"Trixie shall allow it, yes."
>Anon tried the bite and held back a shutter, that was -not- what he was expecting, but he didn't want to insult her cooking (Could be fatal for him).

>Anon smiled at Trixie, nodding at the waffles she had.
>"It's pretty good, I've never tried to make those before. Was the recipe in the cook book?"
>"No, Trixie just had the thought of Peanut Butter Crackers while making yours and thought why not combine them?"
>Anon nodded in understanding, "It's an idea, do you like them?"
>Trixie nodded, smiling as she lifted her fork with her magic, slicing off another piece for herself.
>"Yes, Trixie rather enjoys these waffles. She's glad she made them."
>They ate in silence for a bit before Trixie glanced at Anon, swallowing her food.
>"So. Anon."
>"Yes?"
>"About those books you're going to look at, could you find one for Trixie?"
>"Sure, that's why I'm going. Anything in particular?"
>"Yes, perhaps you could find one on the effects of emotions on magic?"
>"Erm, sure I can ask about it, why that particular topic?"
>Trixie thought back to when she started cooking earlier, she had been smiling to herself when she had started, smirking at the idea of impressing Anon.
>She started up the stove and had noticed she had it way too hot. Likewise, her magic had felt a bit stronger when moving things around.
>A bit more power to the lifting and moving of the pans, the spatula nearly flipping the eggs and bacon clean out of the skillet.
>Emotional boost was all she could think of that might effect her magic.
>"Trixie wants to look and see if the fear she had felt when the Ursa Minor came to Ponyville was the reason she couldn't defeat it."
>Anon nodded, smiling.
>"Ah, that might be. Then again I don't know shite about magic so I'll definitely ask when I get there."
>"Thank you, Anon."

>Anon left the house a bit later, heading for the library, leaving Trixie at home to clean as per her agreement.
>He wanted to get to the Library fast, deciding that he could miss one day of work and wanted to see what he could dig up.
>Trixie, on the other hand, was looking at a list she had been left.
>It wasn't a long list, but it was a list none the less.
>"Let's see... Dust the rooms, toss out the bad food for compost, clean the tub, well Trixie has her work cut out for her."
>She checked in the closet beneath the stairs and found a feather duster, starting to clean up around the room.
>It wasn't too bad, but she had to move the chair over so that she could stand on it to peer at the higher spots to make sure they were clean.
>Moving the chair over to the fireplace, she climbed up in the chair and started dusting.
>The dust was thicker up here, visibly stirring up in the air, passing around her head and the items on the mantle.
>Trixie felt her nose start to tingle and tickle, scrunching up her snout as she felt a sneeze coming on.
>She tried to stop it but she couldn't, "Wa-choo!"
>Her eyes snapped open as the sound of shattering glass followed her sneeze.
>Anon knocked on the door at the Library, waiting for someone.
>"Hello? Spike? Twilight?"
>The door opened and Spike was standing in the doorway, smiling.
>"Oh hey Anon. What're you doing here?"
>"Hey Spike, I came by because a purple birdie told me about new books come in."
>"Oh yeah, they came in a few hours ago. Come on in, I'll show them you to them."
>"Excellent. Speaking of the bird, where is Twilight?"
>Anon followed Spike inside and into the upper part of the library.
>"She's been going through the books and sorting them. Now I know why she had some set aside."
>"Set aside?"
>"Yeah, not sorting them as usual."

>Anon nodded, Twilight must be setting aside books that would interest Anon that he mentioned yesterday.
>He found Twilight laying among stacks of books, several floating in front of her at a time and sorting onto different shelves, save a stack next to her of several books.
>Anon stopped Spike from speaking and held a finger to his lips, sneaking up on Twilight.
>He knelt next to her, watching her for a moment before silently taking one of the books that was floating towards her from the air.
>She turned to find that book and found herself looking at Anon.
>"Hey Twilight."
>"Sweet Celestia, Anon, when did you get here?"
>"Just a second ago, but this was too good. How's the new books?"
>Twilight grinned at the books, sorting a couple more.
>"They're wonderful, a few in poor condition but with a bit of refurbishment they can be good as new.
>I also have some books here for you to look through."
>"Excellent, let's take a peek."
>Anon set the book he took from her magic aside and leaned over her, picking up the stack and setting them in front of him.
>"Divination... Runic... Elemental... What's this one? Can't read it's title."
>"That's a new reference spell book on Chaos magic."
>"Really? Huh, didn't think you'd have anything on this type. Does it teach plagues?"
>"No, it's only a reference, no one can cast those spells yet. Why a plague?"
>"No reason, just remembering an grandfather and the term 'chaos'.
>That reminds me, do you have a book on the effects of emotion on magic?"
>Twilight nodded and one of the books floated from the shelves and set itself on the stack, a tome bound in red leather.
>"Yes, this one should serve your needs. Which I wanted to ask, Anon, why the interest?"
>Anon looked at Twilight to find she had gotten up to turn and face him.

>"Well I've been here this long and still haven't learned anything about this place. Magic isn't native to my old home and I thought it might be helpful to start learning."
>Twilight nodded, looking over the book he held in his hands.
>"Understandable, but that particular book is advanced and more for reference at the higher tiers of magic. Why not start simple?"
>"What would you suggest?"
>One of the books from the pile Twilight had set aside lit up, floating over to Anon.
>"I would suggest something like this to start. It explains what our magic is and how it works."
>Anon scratched his chin, this would be too low for Trixie.
>Twilight tapped the book with her hoof.
>"I know it might seem like this is simple stuff, but if you don't know the basics then you will never understand the more advanced magic."
>"That makes sense, looks like I have more than I thought ahead of me. Not quite hobby material, is it?"
>"If you plan to go into the higher end then no, but it can be a hobby if you treat it as such."
>Anon nodded, looking over the stack she had selected for him and thinking of the ones already back home with Trixie.
>"Oh man, I do have a bunch ahead of me. What's the fastest way to learn magic?"
>"Practice, study, and lessons."
>"Well I lack any skill in magic to apply practice. And assuming I'm treating this as a hobby, I don't plan to study all hours of the day. Which just leaves lessons."
>"That's correct."
>"Is there a place I could sign up for lessons?"
>Maybe Trixie could join in some of those, depending on who taught it.
>"Well, if you are willing to put in the time for it, I would be willing to teach you, Anon."
>And into the trash with that idea.
>"You'd be willing to teach me about magic, Twilight?"
>"Of course, I teach some of the fillies and try to help them obtain their cutie marks, so I would welcome some intelligent discussion of magic if you're interested."

>Anon thought about it, that would make it easier if he went to the lessons than trying to convince Trixie to attend them.
>And he could give Trixie the notes that he took to see if he could help her improve.
>"I am interested, what times are you willing to teach?"
>Spike, who had been placing books away in Twilight's stead while she talked, pulled out a piece of parchment and looked it over.
>"It looks like you'd be free every other day or so, Twilight."
>"Thank you Spike. What do you say, Anon? Think you would be interested in lessons every other day?"
>"I think I would be alright with that."
>Twilight clapped her hooves together, looking very pleased.
>"Wonderful! We will hold our first lesson later this afternoon. It'll be so nice to have someone to talk to about magic."
>Anon nodded with a smile, this should be interesting and give Trixie an edge in her show.
>He wasn't against the idea of hanging out with Twilight, the two just never had time or anything to discuss.
>The book worm was always talking about something she had read or studied about, making it really hard for him to add anything to the conversations.
>This might be his best chance to finally get to know Twilight, these lessons giving them something to discuss.
>"Do I need to bring anything for the lesson?"
>Twilight stood up, grinning as she imagined the chance to teach someone about magic.
>"Parchment and a quill would be quite helpful for notes, I'll provide anything else you might need."
>Anon followed suit and stood as well, collecting the different books she had laid aside for him.
>Twilight, however, used her magic to pull one from his hands.
>"Sorry Anon, but the Book of Chaos is not available for anyone to check out. It's one of a kind and I can't afford to lose it."
>Anon frowned, but nodded.
>Despite his own curiosity, it might be for the best that Trixie doesn't acquire that book, not with her actions while using the Alicorn Amulet still fresh in everyone's mind.

>The three of them headed into the stairwell, the passage was just narrow enough to prevent them from walking side by side.
>Anon could hear Spike following behind him as he followed Twilight downstairs.
>"Anon, do you still have those books you borrowed from me?"
>"Yes, I do. They're at home."
>"Have you read the one on transfiguration? I've been meaning to look over it again to practice some of those spells."
>"Not yet. I've had company over recently and haven't had any time to start reading."
>Twilight looked back at him as they entered a well-lit, round room, books covering every inch of the walls with a door and window squeezed in between the shelves.
>There was a table in the center of the room with parchment and books scattered across it, accompanied by several empty glasses.
>"Not even once? Well, it is good to have company from time to time. Who have you been visiting with"
>Anon set the books down on the table, offering a smile to Twilight.
>"Just a friend of mine. They needed some help and I've been working with them to help out."
>Twilight tilted her head as Spike stood next to her, both regarding Anon.
>"Is your friend having trouble? We could lend him a hand, right Twilight?"
>"Of course, Spike. That is, if Anon would like some help."
>Anon reacted a little faster than he needed to, speaking just a bit too quick.
>"No no, that's alright, the issues at hand are the type that are best left under the radar, if you catch my drift."
>Twilight nodded, smiling. "That's very kind of you to help someone with those issues."
>"It's a pleasure to help, but it just takes time."
>"How has your guest been?"
>Anon thought about it, Trixie had been recovering from what he could tell from her low point.
>"A lot better than before, as far as I can tell. A bit rough here and there, but nothing too bad."

>Twilight nodded, trotting over to one of the shelves to look for a book.
>"I'm sure there's a book here that could tell you more on how to help your friend."
>Anon chuckled, a book was the first place she turned, but he spoke up before she could find the one she was looking for.
>"That's alright, Twilight. I like to approach my problems personally, I find it more comfortable that way."
>Twilight kept scanning the shelves, looking for the right book.
>"That's a good way to approach it Anon, but I think knowing where a book about it is located is just as important. Just in case."
>Anon shrugged at Spike, who just rolled his eyes in reply.
>"She always does this, Anon. Everything is by the book if there is a book on it."
>Twilight turned, her hoof steps echoing loudly on the wooden floor.
>"Yes, Spike, by the book. It's been tried, tested, and documented for others to later use to their benefit."
>"That's fine, Twilight. I'd like to continue to try without the book for a while."
>Twilight started, one of the books lighting up with her magic and leaving it's snug perch.
>"Here it is. At least we know of where it is should you want to borrow it."
>She set the book on the table next to the rest of Anon's books, smiling at him expectantly.
>He got the distinct feeling she wanted him to take the book anyway.
>"Thank you, Twilight. I'll put it to good use if I need it."
>"You're welcome, Anon. Helping friends is important for friendship to grow."
>Anon nodded, common sense really, but he humored her input.
>"I'll keep that in mind. I've enjoyed helping so far and I'm sure it's put my friend at ease."

>Trixie shook herself after her sneezed, looking down at the light gray carpet for the source of the sound.
>The mare hopped off the cushioned chair to find that she had shattered a picture frame that had been on the mantle.
>"Well, why was this in the way? I didn't even see it there."
>She went back to the closet and found a broom and dustpan, her magic starting to sweep up the glass while she lifted the picture from the ground to inspect it.
>It was a photo of Anon at the office of Mayor Mare with the Mayor herself, receiving a document from her with a smile.
>He was kneeling on his left leg on her tiled floor, shaking her hoof as they looked at the camera, the mayor's desk behind the two of them.
>Trixie looked down at the carpet once more to see there was a newspaper clipping laying on the ground amongst the glass.
>With her magic, she lifted it up and read it aloud to herself.
>"Earlier today, a wonderful ceremony was held in Ponyville, a never before seen celebration for the agreement between Princess Celestia and Mayor Mare regarding the newest member of the Ponyville family.
>A biped known as a human called Anonymous is the first of his kind ever witnessed in Equestria and is now a proud resident of Ponyville.
>Despite his predator-like appearance and strange attire that covers ninety percent of his body, he has displayed friendliness, logic, and intelligence that possibly could rival our own Twilight Sparkle.
>We asked him for his reaction to being accepted as a member of Ponyville and he had this to say:
>'I'm happy to be here. It's already so much better than I anticipated and I look forward to meeting everyone.'
>The local party planner, Pinkie Pie, jumped in at this point and took Anonymous away to meet everyone. The Mayor has granted Anon a home in the middle of town, near Sugarcube Corner. Continued on page seven."

>Trixie turned over the clipping and saw nothing of interest, something about a lavender blur seen flying through the air, turning her attention back to the photo.
>"So this was the day Anon was accepted into Ponyville? He doesn't look too different than he does now."
>She looked closely at the image and noticed that Anon's face had changed some since the day of the picture.
>His eyes had dark circles beneath them like he had not slept in a while, worry lines on his forehead were more prominent than they were now, and his cheeks appeared almost gaunt compared to the Anon she knew.
>Trixie glanced at the carpet as she insured that all of the glass had be collected.
>"Anon almost looked terrifyingly sick in this picture, if the Anon I know is a healthy human."
>She recalled the story that Anon had told her, how it had been two years before he had come here. Two years of carrying the burden of guilt over his friend's death.
>Trixie nodded to herself, that would be enough to cause someone to look like that, in her opinion.
>She looked around the room, gazing at the Light blue walls, taking in for the first time the lack of pictures.
>There was a bit of ornamentation here and there; A coat of arms with a strange clover adorning it resting on the wall, a small black object that was mounted on a plaque, and the glass/wood bottle thing she had accidentally made from his coffee table.
>Trixie looked back at the image and clipping before setting them onto the coffee table, making a note to tell Anon about it when he got back.
>"It's so dull in here, it falls to me to add a mare's touch to it."
>The light from her horn brightened as her magic brought out more cleaning supplies and set to work.
>Going through her possessions, Trixie found a picture of herself from one of her shows that was unsigned.
>Framing it, she hung her picture on the wall so that it brought some life to the room; It was all she had or knew of in the house so it would have to do.

>Trixie found herself smiling as she turned to check up on her progress; She didn't like to being the one cleaning, but the thought of surprising Anon made it hard to not smile.
>The more she thought about Anon, the more she started to wonder: Where was he? It surely didn't take this long to retrieve something, did it?
>"More time to finish and prepare, before I look over that book on alteration to see if I can transform something into a dove. I think Anon said it was a dove."
>Checking over the room and seeing most of the dust gone and the glass had been cleaned up, Trixie gathered up the cleaning supplies and headed upstairs.
>Next on her list was to clean the bathroom.
>Her hooves produced soft thumps as she walked up the carpeted stairs, the supplies floating up behind her, as she pushed open the oak door to the dark bathroom.
>She set down the supplies she brought and put them to work in the tiled bathroom, walking over to the tub to peer in it; the dim light in the bathroom was just enough to see by despite it being the darkest room in the house.
>"I have no clue why Anon doesn't place more candles in here. I can understand a bit of mood lighting, but it seems odd that it's in the bathroom and not the bedroom or living room."
>A line of grime was starting to show where the water level stopped from multiple baths, causing Trixie to scrunch her nose.
>"If Anon would light up this room, he'd be able to see this better. And to think I've bathed in here with it like this."
>Taking a rag in her hoof, she started scrubbing at the grime while the broom and toilet brush continued their work behind her.
>She leaned into the tub, the grime slowly coming off, before deciding to let her magic handle the work but couldn't leave it's side to make sure it came off.
>"How does Anon live like this? My caravan never would have gotten this filthy."

>'Then again,' she thought to herself, 'I didn't have a bath in my caravan. Anon doesn't know just how well he has it here.'
>Looking about the room, making sure she wasn't missing a spot, she remembered that Anon had said this was her home too.
>Which meant that she had all of this as well, in a way, as long as she lived here.
>A smile played on her lips as she toyed with the idea of being able to stay here with Anon, not having to pull her own caravan around anymore and live with someone she enjoyed.
>Thinking about staying here, however, reminded her of her show she had to do and how it was not yet determined if she could stay after.
>"Well then, I'll just have to make sure Anon knows the benefit of living with the Great and Powerful Trixie."
>Trixie thought about all the things she could do for Anon, making a list of things to display later.
>"I can clean, I can cook, I can use my magic to help him and amazing him, what can't I do for him?"
>She chortled, finding the radio Anon always played and turning it on, hearing the bouncing music Anon loved to listen to in the mornings.
>Checking on the rag and nodding in approval at how the grime was coming up, Trixie found herself bouncing gently to the beat of the music.
>She had been indifferent to Anon's taste of music before, but it grew on her the more she had heard it.
>Trixie grinned as she walked over and leapt up to inspect the sink, noticing that her step now had a spring in it similar to Anon's that kept the beat going.
>"I think I understand why Anon likes this music, just makes you want to dance."
>Glancing at the bathroom door, Trixie started dancing softly as she cleaned the rag in the sink before returning it to it's fight with the grime.
>She jumped off the counter and her hooves rang out through the bathroom as they hit the tiles; Trixie paid no mind as she let the music take her and danced her way into the hall.

>Her magic would keep working a room away as Trixie was enjoying herself as she ran the feather duster along the door frame and crossed into the bedroom.
>The room was big enough for them both to walk around in and fit a queen size bed along with the dresser.
>The Mayor had been really kind to give Anon this house, it was a higher class home than some of the others.
>Hopping up onto the bed, Trixie was in full swing as she danced to the tunes that were pumping into the room from the Radio.
>Anon's dirty laundry was gathered into a single hamper and sent downstairs as the room found itself under assault from her feather duster.
>This time she was careful to not break anymore of Anon's possessions, lifting each item so she could clean beneath it.
>Leaping down, Trixie headed back into the bathroom and found everything had been swept up, putting the broom next to the door.
>She checked on the bath and frowned, cleaning the rag once more to start on another round of scrubbing on the grime.
>Turning her horn to the radio, Trixie turned up the volume and continued to dance around the bathroom, keeping an eye on the rag.
>"Where Anon found this kind of music, I don't know, but it's really good."
>A floor below, Anon let himself in and looked around the living room.
>"Well, I can tell she cleaned up a bit."
>Anon set the new books onto the couch and noticed the picture and clipping on the swiss cheesed coffee table, glancing up at the mantle where it normally would be in a frame.
>He glanced up at the ceiling, hearing the music dully from his radio.
>"She'd definitely cleaning. And I think I know where I can find her."
>He straightened up and walked upstairs, slowing as he neared the bathroom where the music was coming from.
>Anon peeked into the bathroom to see Trixie facing away from the door, dancing to the music.
>He couldn't help but grin, watching her shake and swing her plot, both amused and entranced by her.

>Anon knew the song, it was one of his favorites to listen to when he needed a pick-me-up.
>And judging from Trixie's enthusiastic dancing, he guessed it had become one of hers as well.
>He leaned on the door frame, blocking out some of the light filtering into the room without thinking.
>Trixie, however, noticed the sudden drop in ambient light and spun around to see Anon standing there.
>"Anon! When did you get back!?"
>Anon chuckled, adopting a joking pouty face as he pushed himself from the door.
>"Why did you stop dancing, Trixie? I was enjoying it."
>Trixie glanced at the floor, seeing her reflection in the cleaned tiles before she looked back up at Anon, cheeks tinged red at being caught mid dance.
>"You shouldn't sneak up on me like that! What if I had been using this room!?"
>"I would hope that you'd shut the door. But it was open and I heard the music, so I decided just to peek in. If you were doing something I shouldn't see, I would have ducked out."
>Trixie huffed, the rag she had been cleaning with floated over to the sink and cleaned itself with water, before her magic wringed out the excess water.
>"At least knock next time, this is a bathroom after all."
>Anon smirked and walked inside the room with her, examining her handy work.
>"I'll try to remember that. It looks really good in here, Trixie. You did a great job from what I can tell."
>The blue mare cast a side glance at Anon as she turned to finish the last part of the tub.
>"If you would actually light up the bathroom, you'd be able to see more. Why do you keep it dark in here, anyway?"
>Anon shrugged as he leaned over Trixie to look into the tub where she was working.
>"I just do. It's relaxing when you take a hot bath and just relax; I feel the darkness and candles add to it."
>Trixie looked back over her shoulder, an eyebrow lifted as pushed Anon gently with her tail.

>"Why not one of the other rooms? Like the living room or the bedroom? Mood lighting would be much better in one of those, I think."
>Anon grinned at Trixie, his eyes meeting hers and catching Anon off guard as the flames from the candles in the room shimmered in her eyes.
>"I didn't anticipate the chance to use it for anyone, any time soon with the dating streak Rarity and Rainbow were attempting."
>Trixie held her gaze on Anon, letting the rag work on it's own as she waited for Anon to continue.
>"Look at it like this, Trixie, I didn't expect to have you as a house guest, so it's not like I've had the chance to think about it recently."
>Anon stopped as the next song flipped on, smiling as he heard it start up, turning that smile to Trixie.
>"Well, since it would be a shame to waste the opportunity, could I tempt you for a dance? I really did enjoy your earlier dancing."
>Trixie hadn't been expecting that one, turning around with her cheeks tinging again to face Anon.
>"I don't think so, I don't normally dance."
>Anon smirked, offering a hand to her. "Come on, it'll be fun."
>Trixie looked around the Bathroom, shaking her head.
>"There's not enough room in here for that, Anon."
>"I can fix that." "What are you HEY!"
>Anon picked Trixie up and walked over to the radio, picking it up and carrying both her and the radio into the living room.
>"Put me down, Anon! I am not a pet you can just pick up like this!"
>Pushing the couch back with his foot and setting the radio on the swiss cheesed coffee table, Anon put Trixie down and re-offered his hand for the dance.
>"Plenty of room in here and there's still half the song to go. Show me how well you dance."
>"Fine. I'll show you how well the Great and Powerful Trixie can dance."
>Trixie smirked and placed her hoof in his hand, standing on her back legs with his help as he guided her through the dance.

>The dance started off slow, Trixie was not used to moving around on two legs; Standing was one thing, actually walking was something else entirely.
>Standing in the middle of the living room with the furniture pushed back, Trixie did her best to mirror Anon's movements.
>Trixie's heart fluttered as she imitated Anon, both from embarrassment at her sloppy dancing and from Anon taking both of her front hooves to help her stand.
>Before too long, however, the song had come to an end before Trixie could really get into the groove.
>Anon held onto her hooves, not letting her sit, smiling.
>"Hang on, let's see what the next song is."
>The next tune started up with a similar beat, prompting Anon to continue with the dancing.
>Trixie was picking up the pace now, finding the beat once more and was now keeping up with Anon.
>Anon smiled, "Now you've got it."
>"Was there ever any doubt, Anon?"
>"None at all."
>With a wink, Anon spun Trixie around once by her hoof, releasing her once she stopped spinning.
>Trixie took a second to collect herself, she had not been prepared for the spin, but picked back up with her own dancing.
>Anon saw a smile spread on Trixie's face and couldn't stop himself from smiling as well.
>Trixie was a really good dancer now that she was back on all four hooves, even turning a few times during the song to shake her plot at Anon.
>It wasn't long before the song came to an end, the two grinning at each other.
>"That was fun, Anon. I'm glad we did that."
>"See, I told you it'd be fun."

>Trixie, having cleaned all morning, walked over and hopped onto the couch while Anon pushed the the furniture back into place.
>"So you've done a bit already, haven't you?"
>"Yes, I cleaned the living room, the bedroom, and the bathroom."
>Anon pushed the couch with Trixie on it back into place, before moving to set the coffee table back in front of her.
>Trixie noticed the picture and clipping that she had accidentally broken the frame for as he walked over.
>"Anon, I did break something earlier. A picture frame. I cleaned up the mess, but I left the picture on the table."
>She saw him nod as he pushed the table back into place.
>"I saw that when I came in. But it's alright, I'm glad this one didn't have you panicking like the bottle mace."
>"The... Yeah, it wasn't nearly as bad as that."
>It took her a second to understand what he meant, that was the first time Trixie heard him refer to the thing she created as the 'bottle mace'.
>"Anon, did you get those books from Twilight?"
>"I did, the books are on the couch there next to you."
>Trixie looked to the stack and picked up the top book.
>Anon sat down next to her, looking at the book with her.
>"I am actually going back to see her again this afternoon."
>Trixie looked up at Anon, curious.
>"Going back to see Twilight? Why are you going to see her again?"
>"She's offering to teach me about magic. I thought it would be helpful to you if I took those lessons and relayed the information to you."
>Trixie frowned, "And that's the only reason you're going?"
>"Well yeah. I didn't think that you'd want to go and take lessons from her yourself."
>"Hay no!"
>"Alright then."

>Anon chuckled, looking at the book again.
>"She had a lot of books to choose from, these were just the ones she set aside for me."
>Trixie turned back to the book, thinking to herself.
>"She set these out for us? Did she have that book on emotions?"
>Anon reached over to the pile of books, picking up the red leather book that sat in the middle.
>"Yeah, she said this was an advance topic and suggested something much easier. But I think you can handle it, so I brought it anyway."
>Trixie let her eyes drift across the tome, it was older than the others and bound in leather complete with a clasp.
>Taking the book with her magic, she opens the cover to revealed yellowed pages, marked and torn near the edges.
>Anon leaned over Trixie, the two looking at the tome's pages with interest.
>"Now I'm not a professional on magical items, but out of all the books I've seen since I've been here, this one looks more like a spell book than any other."
>Trixie nodded, this was a different kind of book. Most books were written in a manner that any pony could read.
>This one however, was written with looping cursive letters in a manner that made it seem more like a research log instead of a textbook.
>"Trixie has to agree. Tri... Sorry, I have to agree, it strikes me as being more of a log instead of a normal library book."
>"Think it will help you answer your questions?"
>"Of course. I will find the answers, there's no doubt. This will be a grand aid to me."
>Anon nodded, reading over a few words; He still had the impression that it was a legitimate spell book, like the kind of book you'd find in the possession of Merlin.
>Trixie looked over the pages, turning them as she finished them. She understood why Twilight had said this was for advanced unicorns, most wouldn't understand what the book was talking about.
>Of course she understood it, despite having to read a line two or three times to grasp it every now and then.

>She looked back at Anon when she felt his hand brush her mane as he stood up.
>"I'm going to make some lunch. I want to get something to eat before I head back to start those lessons. How does Peanut Butter and Jelly sound?"
>"That sounds fine, Anon."
>"Excellent. Don't go anywhere."
>As Anon walked into the kitchen, Trixie looked back at the book, inspecting the prologue.
>Muttering aloud some of the words, she could hear their tone ringing strong in her ears.
>"Magic is something that is embeded in all ponies, be it subtle or forthright, to the extent that we can not imagine life without it.
>It is not only through our horns or wings or hooves that we manipulate this force of mystical arcana, magic can be made manifest through other means.
>Among the most notable would be the Royal Canterlot Voice utilized by our gracious Princesses, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna.
>But what this book will investigate is another source that could conjure and manifest magic, the emotions that we share and all bear.
>Emotions are one of the strong driving points of our every day lives and here is the documentation of how those emotions can effect our magic."
>Trixie noted that the book mentioned both of the princesses, which meant that it was indeed an old book since Princess Luna had been gone for a thousand years.
>The author was also familiar with the Royal Canterlot Voice, which had only been heard in recent times at the first Nightmare Night after Princess Luna returned.
>Wondering who wrote this book, she turned back to the front cover, finding the same looped writing on the inside of the cover.
>Trixie's mouth fell open, the book quivering as her magic shook with her awe and wonder, her eyes glued to the words.
>She couldn't believe her eyes, did Twilight really give Anon this book? Was it the original or a written copy?
>Should she really be so surprised, after all the magic he had made? But there was no denying the words written on the book.
>"S... Star Swirl the Bearded?"

>Trixie got up and walked into the kitchen, where Anon was just about to exit with the sandwiches, the book still illuminated by her magic.
>"Anon, you didn't tell me this book was written by Star Swirl the Bearded."
>"Who?"
>Trixie balked at the human, she couldn't understand why he looked confused.
>"What do you mean 'who'?"
>"I mean 'who is that'? Is he important?"
>Trixie pointed the tome at Anon like she intended to smack him with it.
>"Star Swirl the Bearded! He's only the most important unicorn in the history of Equestria! He's the most powerful unicorn in all of history!"
>Anon took a step back, so that the tome wasn't in his face, watching as she took a step after him as she continued.
>"He created over two hundred different spells including rumors of time magic and was easily known for his role as a prominent advisor and aid to the princesses themselves!"
>Anon tried not to smirk, Trixie was very passionate about this as she continued on and on.
>"He is very important to the history of Equestria! He was most recognized by his cloak and wide brimmed pointed hat, with bells attached to them, and his long white beard!"
>"He sounds like Merlin the Wizard."
>"Except Star Swirl actually existed! Everyone who knows anything about anything regarding magic knows about Star Swirl the Bearded!"
>"Merlin existed."
>Trixie simply pointed the tome at him again, this time coming dangerously close to hitting him.
>"But he's no Star Swirl! Even that goodie goodie Twilight knows how amazing Star Swirl the Bearded is, though she could never compare to my admiration for him!"
>Anon held up a free hand, the other one holding onto the plate of sandwiches.
>"Ok, take it easy Trixie. Let's go sit down and you can tell me all about him."

>Anon walked into the living room, taking a seat on the couch as an excitable Trixie jumped up beside him, pushing the signature in his face.
>"Do you know what this means, Anon?"
>"No, what does it mean?"
>"It means that I'm holding a book written by Star Swirl the Beard himself, I could learn so much from this! I ca... Mmmph!"
>Anon had taken one of the sandwiches and stuck it in Trixie's mouth as she was talking with a grin.
>Trixie glared at him for a moment, taking a bite from the sandwich and taking the rest with her magic.
>"You need to eat some lunch, Trixie. Besides, I didn't think you idolized anyone."
>"Twiphie doth not idolwise anywone. Star phwirl is the gweatest."
>Anon laughed at Trixie, causing her to glare at him again.
>"I think you have some peanut butter stuck in your mouth. It sounds cute."
>Trixie tried to clear her mouth of peanut butter out, liking at the top of her mouth.
>Anon started to laugh again, but a quick thump from the tome put an end to it.
>"Ow, what? I think it's cute."
>"I am not cute!"
>"I beg to differ."
>Trixie huffed at Anon, playfully sticking her nose up in the air.
>"Flattery will get you no where."
>She smirked at him as she looked back at the book.
>"I'm glad you're excited about that tome, Trixie."

>Across town, Twilight was putting away the last of her books when she heard knocking.
>Turning, she waved a hoof to Spike, motioning for him to stop.
>"I'll get it Spike, I'm closer to the door anyway."
>Opening the door, Twilight smiled at the two mares waiting outside.
>"Hello Twilight." "Hey Twilight!"
>"Hello Pinkie, Fluttershy. What brings you two here?"
>The pink pony bounced inside, giggling.
>"I'm here because I wanted to hang out and some fun. You know I like to talk and you're always a fun pony to talk to. Then again, all of my friends are fun to talk to, especially you guys. I saw Fluttershy heading this way and invited her to come along and hang out too, she barely ever talks but when she does it's so nice. Don't you think so Twilight?"
>Fluttershy walked in while Pinkie had been rambling, closing the door behind her; Twilight had turned her attention to the bouncing pony.
>"Of course, Fluttershy is a pleasure to talk to."
>Fluttershy muttered out her thanks before Pinkie spoke up again.
>"So what's been happening, Twilight? Anything fun?"
>"Well, I'm going to start giving magic lessons starting today."
>Fluttershy managed to get a word in early this time, enough to prevent Pinkie from cutting her off.
>"Again? Are you going to be teaching Sweetie Belle or a different filly?"
>Twilight chuckled as she walked over to the nearby table, the two following as they pulled up purple cushions to sit on.
>"No, I won't be teaching a filly this time."
>"OOO, let me guess! Is it a colt? No wait! It's Lyra! She wanted to learn odd magic." Pinkie gasped. "No! It couldn't be one of the princesses, is it!?"
>Twilight let out a sigh, Fluttershy giggling quietly to herself.
>"No, Pinkie, I'm not teaching a colt, Lyra, or one of the Princesses. I'm teaching Anon."
>"Nonny? He can use magic?"
>"Oh my, I didn't know humans could learn magic."
>"No no, it's purely academical lessons. He can't use magic, he said he couldn't at least."

>"Aca-what now?"
>"She means just for studying, Pinkie."
>"Oooh. I didn't know he wanted to learn about magic."
>Twilight nodded in agreement, "I didn't know either. He hadn't said anything about magic before."
>Fluttershy shook her head, making it three for three.
>"Would there be any reason for Anon to find interest or is it spur of the moment?"
>Twilight shrugged at Fluttershy, Pinkie's mouth running full steam ahead.
>"If he can't use magic, maybe he is planning a surprise for someone. WAIT!"
>Pinkie threw out both arms, her shouting caused both Fluttershy and Twilight to jump, the former squeaking out of fear.
>"What is it Pinkie?"
>"What if Nonny is doing it to spend time with you and is trying to get to know you, Twilight?"
>"Well, he could just come by for tea like everyone else, why take lessons on magic?"
>Pinkie leaned onto the table, pointing a hoof at Twilight like she had solved a big mystery.
>"Because, if you remember, weren't Rarity and Rainbow trying to set him up with different mares?"
>"Yeah..."
>"What if he is taking those lessons because he's trying to put the moves on you?"
>Twilight blinked slowly, at a loss for words, leaving Fluttershy to step up and speak.
>Fluttershy was covering her mouth with her hooves, blushing at the thought.
>"Oh my. Are you suggesting Anon wants to court Twilight? Do you think Rarity or Rainbow dash told him to do it?"
>"Maybe or maybe he's always wanted to ask Twilight but had trouble approaching because she's royalty and all."
>Twilight held her hooves out to stop the two, looking thoroughly confused.
>"Ok, hold up, this came out of left field. What makes you think Anon would be interested in me?"
>"Do you have any better reasons?"
>"Curiosity? The desire to learn?"
>"No, silly, you're the only one that likes to study obsessively."
>"I do not study obsessively, Pinkie."
>"She's right, you know. You -do- study and read a lot, Twilight."

>"But I do not obsess about it."
>"How many times do we hear about how you read this or read that?"
>"Look, we're getting off topic. What does Anon agreeing to lessons about magic have to do with the idea that he wants to build a relationship with me?"
>"Well duh, it means everything. Stallions do that sort of thing all the time."
>Twilight tilted her head. "They do?"
>Spike walked over to the table with a book, setting it next to Twilight.
>"Yeah, even I knew that, Twilight. You really need to get out more often. This should explain some of it to you."
>The book was cloaked in Twilight's magic, lifting it so she could read the title aloud.
>"'Romance and You; a guide into the mind of the Stallion or Mare of your dreams.' Spike... Why do you have this?"
>"N-no reason. It was part of the library. I just had it for some... light reading."
>Twilight narrowed her eyes and looked at the book's cover.
>Fluttershy was giggling to her self while Pinkie was talking at Spike.
>"So cute..."
>"You see, even Spike knows it, Twilight! You watch, during your lessons today, Nonny will make some moves on you."
>Twilight opened the book and glanced at the first page.
>"I don't know, Pinkie. Are you sure?"
>Pinkie waves a hoof, chuckling.
>"Of course, I have a sense for these things, remember."
>"Oh yes... I remember..."
>Fluttershy leaned over to look at the book with Twilight.
>"Look at it like this, Twilight, Anon is a really sweet guy. Why not give it a chance if he is interested?"
>"Well... I'll look and see if he shows any interest and decide then."

>"What do you think about him, Twilight?"
>"About Anon? I don't know, Fluttershy, I haven't really taken the time to get to know him. He's very polite and intelligent."
>Pinkie was basically laying on the table at this point, shaking her tail as she grinned at Twilight.
>"I'm so excited for you, Twilight! I should throw a party for you two! I wonder what your wedding will be like?"
>Twilight dropped the book, waving both of her hooves at Pinkie while Fluttershy and Spike chuckled.
>"NO! No, Pinkie, you are thinking -way- too far ahead. There's no guarantee that he even has interest in me."
>"Do you want a chocolate cake for your reception?"
>"No Pinkie! Stop! This isn't helping!"
>"But..." "No!" "A party..." "Save it, Pinkie! Instead, why don't you tell me what to look for?"
>Pinkie propped her head up on her hooves, laughing.
>"Lets see, he's a human so it might be different, but putting his arm around you, getting close, smiling a lot, signs of affection."
>Twilight recalled when Anon was here earlier.
>"Well, when he was here earlier, he was being playful. And smiling a lot."
>Fluttershy smiled and leaned forward so she could look at Twilight.
>"It sounds like he likes you some already."
>"Yeah, but is it just friend like or love like?"
>"See, that's for YOU to find out, silly! He's going to be your coltfriend so you have to find out."
>"Pinkie!"
>The trio laughed again while Twilight flushed from the idea.
>"This is just so sudden, I don't now what to... STOP LAUGHING!"
>Pinkie booped her nose, still giggling.
>"It's all in fun, Twilight. Laugh with us! Nonny would want you to smile and laugh."

>Anon himself was still at home, getting ready to leave; Trixie saw him to the door.
>"Alright, I should head back for those lessons."
>"Don't stay too long, Anon. I want you back here as soon as the lesson is done."
>Anon chuckled, raising an eyebrow at the mare.
>"As soon as its over? Not a minute after?"
>"No, I want you to come back and help me with another trick."
>"What's the rush?"
>"There's no rush, I just want your help with the spell after your lesson."
>Anon leaned against the door, giving Trixie a lopsided grin as he looked at her quizzically.
>"So you want me back here immediately but there's no rush? Are you afraid she's going to steal me away?"
>Trixie's cheeks flushed as she pointed at him.
>"No! You know how I feel about her!"
>"I know, I know. Relax Trixie, I'll be back once the lesson is over. Take it easy, I'm just yanking your chain."
>"My chain doesn't need yanking."
>Anon kneeled down, putting his hand on her head.
>"Then why all the worry? I'll be back, it's just lessons. I know you don't like her, but she's willing to teach me. And then I can try to help you perfect your magic for your show."
>Trixie frowned at Anon, she really didn't want him spending time with Twilight.
>They had cut it close already, she didn't want Twilight to know just how far she had fallen, forced to live with Anon.
>She already had to suffer the indignity of living with someone else and her boasts, last thing she wanted to deal with is Twilight and her 'friendship'.
>Anon must have read her face, responding to her silence.
>"Look, I'm not going to go and just forget about you or that you don't want Twilight to know you needed assistance. I promised I wouldn't say anything, so I won't."
>"Still, I want you back here to help me. You are my Glorious Assistant after all."
>Anon laughed, petting her neck as he did.
>"I am, so don't worry, I'll be back when I can. Do I get a hug before I leave?"

>Trixie turned her head away for a moment before standing up on her hind legs, draping her front hooves around Anon's neck.
>"Only because you made peanut butter sandwiches for lunch."
>Anon smirked and place his hands on her back and flank, squeezing gently. "Fair enough."
>Trixie smiled to herself, nuzzling her cheek against Anon's for a moment.
>She felt his hands release her, much too soon for her but she released him as well and stepped back.
>"I'll be back in a little bit, Trixie. Relax for a while, you've worked hard this morning and danced even harder."
>Trixie smirked playfully, tossing her mane from her face.
>"I told you I'd show you how well I danced."
>"And so you did. Alright, I'll be back in a bit."
>"Bye Anon. Remember! Immediately after!"
>Anon smiled and closed the door behind him, setting off towards the library once more.
>"That Trixie..."
>He could understand she didn't like Twilight, but he thought she might be a bit paranoid about Twilight.
>Anon chuckled to himself as he waved at passing ponies.
>Ponies passed him on the path as he walked, talking among themselves or smiling back at him with exchanged hellos.
>Off in the distance, between him and the tree library, Anon could see fillies and young colts running about and playing.
>Walking around their game, playing tag as they ran and screamed, Anon found himself at the tree.
>He was happy to be in the shade of the tree's branches; Despite his normal outfit, it did get hot outside after a while.
>'The ponies are lucky they don't wear clothes all the time, makes it much cooler for them.'
>He could hear voices inside, talking back and forth, though he couldn't make out the words.
>The voices came to a halt as he knocked on the door, dead silent behind the door before hoofsteps alerted him to someone coming to let him in.
>Anon expected to see Spike or Twilight open the door with a 'welcome back'.

>What he didn't expect was for only a second of seeing pink and yellow before a blob of pink tackled him.
>"Nonny! It's good to see you again! I mean, I see you every day, but we talk so little, and I love to talk. Why are you lying in the dirt, silly? Come in, come in!"
>Anon felt his breath catch in his chest when he hit the ground, in no small thanks to Pinkie landing on him.
>She bounced off him, pulling him up by his jacket, before taking his hand gently in her mouth to lead Anon inside.
>Fluttershy flew around him once, dusting him off once she got the door closed.
>"You aren't hurt, are you Anon? I didn't expect Pinkie to rush you like that. I'm sorry, I should have said something..."
>"It's fine, Fluttershy. I'm not hurt, just had the wind knocked out of me."
>Pinkie tried to talk with Anon's hand still in her mouth, resulting in muffled words and her tongue flailing all over his hand.
>Anon smirked at her, "Pinkie, don't talk with your mouth full. It's rude you know."
>She released his hand, grinning.
>"Your hand tastes like cereal, I was enjoying it."
>Anon looked at his hand, what did she mean it tasted like cereal?
>Giving himself a shake, Anon looked at the table in the center of the room and saw several books had been set out for him, but Twilight nor Spike was no where in sight.
>"Have either of you seen Twilight? I was suppose to come back for some lessons on magic."
>The mares giggled at each other, prompting Anon to quirk an eyebrow.
>"S-she's upstairs at the moment, she'll be down shortly. Pinkie and I were just leaving."
>Pinkie bounced around Anon, still giggling the whole time.
>"Yup! Didn't want to interrupt your time with Twilight and Magic."
>Anon nodded, though her wording was a bit off putting.
>"Right, I take it neither of you are interested in magic then?"
>"Oh no, its not that. Twilight offered you lessons, not us."
>"Yeah! Its just you and her! Catch you later, Nonny Bear!"
>Pinkie bounced out the door with Fluttershy in tow, offering a small wave before closing the door between them.

>"That was weird."
>Anon walked over to the table and took a seat on the purple cushion, glancing around.
>He found it strange that neither Twilight nor Spike was here to greet him.
>Pinkie and Fluttershy were acting somewhat odd as well; Well, Fluttershy was, Pinkie is always odd.
>Upstairs, Twilight was talking with Spike, her nose still buried in the book Spike gave her.
>"What's the matter, Twilight? You've had your nose in that book since I showed it to you."
>"Nothings the matter, Spike. I am just reading over what I need to look for."
>Spike spoke with an air of patience, it took a lot to put up with Twilight as much as he did.
>"Twilight, you're over thinking it. Just go and be yourself, you'll know what to look for."
>Twilight sighed in exasperation, her eyes never leaving the pages.
>"Spike, that never works, I've learned about friendship but romance is a completely different subject. I'm completely ill prepared for this."
>The dragon started to leave when Twilight finally looked up.
>"If you're about to go down, can you see if you can find out if he actually has interest in me? You and him talk a lot about Rarity, just be subtle."
>Spike rolled his eyes and left the bookworm to her research to head downstairs, finding Anon leaning on his hand in boredom.
>"Hey Anon, sorry about the wait."
>Anon leaned up, nodding at Spike.
>"Hey ladykiller, been wondering where you were. I was about to search the library to make sure I wasn't the only one here."
>Spike chuckled at the irony of Anon calling him that, the human never missed a chance to poke fun at his crush on Rarity.
>"No, Twilight and I are here. She's just upstairs, caught in a book. I tried to get her to come down, but once she gets into her book, there's no stopping her."
>"Do I need to come back later?"
>"No, I mean, you and I can talk some. Its not often I get to have guy talk. If you're ok with that."
>Anon shrugged, it was better than sitting here by himself.
>"Sure, what's on your mind?"

>Spike wouldn't meet Anon's eyes as he fidgeted.
>"Well, you've helped me a lot on with Rarity..."
>Anon chuckled, 'guy talk' normally equated to relationship advice for Spike.
>"How's that going?"
>"Not as well as I'd like. Do you think if Twilight gave me a beard it would impress her?"
>"No... I don't think that would impress her. She seems like a lady of class."
>"Well, what about gifts? Maybe some sweets from Sugarcube Corner?"
>Anon shook his head, thinking of a good gift idea.
>"Why not try a bouquet of gems, she likes those and that would definitely hit if off with her.
>Spike nodded in excitement, he had a stash of gems just upstairs under his bed.
>"Yeah, Rarity does like gems! That's a great idea!"
>"Well there you go."
>Spike started to think about the gems when he remembered what Twilight had asked him to try to get from Anon.
>"Um Anon. I wanted to ask you another question."
>"Shoot."
>"Do you have a mare that you've got your eyes on?"
>Anon gave a breathy laugh, smirking at the dragon.
>"Why do you ask?"
>"Uh w-well, you've helped me with... er Rarity, so I want to help you return. Yeah, it's only fair."
>Anon started to tell Spike there wasn't a mare he held interest in, but stopped mid-thought as Trixie resurfaced in his thoughts.
>He could see her confident smile and felt a warm glow build in his chest, a smile unknowingly spreading across his face.
>Spike smirked, it was his turn to get some revenge on Anon.
>"So there is a mare you're eying. Who is it? Someone I know?"

>"Maybe."
>"What's her name?"
>"That'd be telling."
>"...ok? Well, what's she like?"
>Anon grinned as he gave only the barest of info to Spike, he didn't want to give away Trixie after all.
>"This is between you, me, and the floorboards, she's an intelligent and beautiful unicorn mare, capable and strong in the ways of her magic."
>Spike nodded, to him, that sounded like Twilight.
>"How long have you known her?"
>"I've known of her for a while, but only started to get to know her recently."
>"Sounds like you've got a way to go. Anything I can do to help get you two together?"
>"Maybe. You and I both have mares to impress."
>Upstairs, Twilight snapped the book shut, going over in her head what she needed to look for.
>She had been waiting for Spike to return with any news, but she was growing impatient.
>Walking to the door, she yelled downstairs for Spike, wanting his input before she went to teach Anon.
>Her voice recognized her impatience, but she paid it no mind.
>"SPIIIKE! COME UP HERE A MINUTE!"
>Silence answered her for a moment before the soft thumping of scaly feet told her Spike was coming.
>"What is it, Twilight? You know Anon is waiting for you, right?"
>She pushed the door to, turning to the baby dragon, the two now safe in their room from prying ears.
>"I'm aware of that, Spike, but I was waiting for you to tell come back and tell me if he is interested."
>"Well, he wasn't specific, but it sounded a lot like you. I think you have a shot."
>"What do I do, Spike? I was just going to teach him, not date him."
>"Do what you normally do and keep your eyes and mind open."

>Anon found himself alone downstairs once more, looking around the main library room.
>Twilight's yelling had made the two guys jump clean off their cushions, thinking something had happened.
>Spike had motioned for Anon to sit back down and went to tend to the winged librarian, leaving Anon in his current situation.
>Hoofsteps on the wooden stairs caught his attention, peering over to see Twilight finally revealing herself, smiling at him.
>"Hello Anon, sorry about the wait. I was caught up in a book."
>"Heya Twilight, yeah Spike told me you were. I was beginning to wonder if I'd being seeing you today."
>Twilight walked over and took a seat next to Anon, a teal book floating from one of the nearby shelves to them.
>"It was just addicting to read, that's all. Are you ready to learn?"
>"Yup, what did you have in mind to start?"
>The book landed with a soft thump in front of him, the cover opening on it's own as Twilight placed an over-stuffed pink cushion next to him.
>"The basic spell of levitation, a simple spell that every unicorn knows and uses."
>Anon nodded, glancing at the writing on the yellowed parchment, skimming the words while Twilight spoke.
>The words in this book wasn't like the loopy writing in the book he had delivered to Trixie, this writing was simpler; a standard textbook.
>Twilight watched Anon as his eyes skims the book, looking over his face.
>She blinked when he suddenly turned and they're eyes locked.
>"Think this will help me understand magic, even if I can't use it?"
>"What? Oh, yes. You'd have a better understanding if you could use it, but yes this should help you understand our magic."
>Anon nodded, thinking about how this might help Trixie.
>Without thinking, he smirked as he remember the earlier exchange with her; if he didn't know better, he'd have though she was just a bit jealous.
>Twilight turned her head to the book, having seen him smile.

>'Was that one of those signs? No, it's too early to determine anything. What will I do if he does like me?'
>Giving herself a shake, Twilight pointed with her hoof to the first paragraph, happy to cover her confusion over him with the lesson at hand.

>Trixie had watched Anon from the window as he left, waiting until he was out of sight before turning back to the living room.
>Glancing around the light blue room, she trotted over to the radio, turning it on softly.
>Dancing with Anon had been a lot of fun, but it had ended too quickly for her.
>His form of dancing was strange, very different to what she was use to; standing on two legs rather than four.
>Turning away from the radio, she started towards the couch, only stopping when she noticed one of the pellets that's they had been practicing with next to the chair that sat next to the mantle.
>Wrapped in the glow of Trixie's magic, the pellet was lifted of the ground and brought before the mare, now the victim of an inquisitive stare.
>Trixie wasn't sure if this was the one she was hit with or not, but upon inspection she realized just how small the projectile was.
>She recalled Anon saying that the actual bullets flew faster than these did, her lips pursing.
>"I don't want Anon to think I can't catch one of these. I don't know what I did wrong."
>She looked over towards the books Anon brought her, sitting on the couch where they were left, her eyes resting on the leather-bound tome that had belonged to Star Swirl.
>"If my magic was stronger, I might be able to catch it. Maybe Star Swirl the Bearded can help me, the Great and Powerful Trixie's reputation is on the line."
>Setting the pellet aside on the swiss cheesed coffee table, Trixie climbed into the chair to listen to the radio play in the background while she read.
>The tome lifted off the couch and floated over to her, the pages bristling with her magic as Trixie flipped through them.

>She remembered reading that emotions do affect a unicorn's ability to use magic, now she just needed to find out how.
>As she read one of the pages, the irony of her studying magic to impress Anon while Anon was away studying magic to help her teased Trixie into smiling.
> Her smile soon became fixed as she remembered who Anon was learning from.
>Twilight had been nothing but trouble for Trixie since day one, first ruining her reputation and then again with the Alicorn Amulet; Trixie did not trust Twilight with her Anon.
>She frowned, the thought of Twilight talking bad about her to Anon made her blood boil, Twilight had everything; she wouldn't have Anon.
>Blinking, Trixie realized she had read the same page several times and not actually retained any of it.
>The blue mare sighed, setting the book aside on the arm of the chair, stretching her front legs.
>"After cleaning and dancing, I agree with Anon and am going to relax. A hot bath sounds nice right now."
>Slipping out of the chair, Trixie walked upstairs wondering if Anon was thinking about her.

>Trixie entered the darkened bathroom, her hooves clacking on the tiles she worked to clean.
>With a glow of her horn, the knobs turned and water began to fill the tub.
>Trixie leapt up onto the sink, carefully avoiding the sink bowl to peer in the mirror, smirking at the beautiful mare that smirked back.
>"Well well well. If it isn't the Great and Powerful Trixie. Looking as fantastic as always."
>Turning carefully, she examined her plot and flank, giving an alluring gaze to her reflection.
>"Oh yes, looking very good today. No mare can compete with you."
>Giving her rear a shake, she carefully turned once more to face the mirror, eyeing the reflection of the bath water.
> She shut off the water, happily noting the steam raising from the tub, before returning to her self appraisal.
>Trixie loved hot baths, this would be the first she's had in a long time.
>Spreading her legs, she inspected her underside, smiling at her figure from her soft bosom to her teats.
>Happy with her inspection, she hopped off the sink and strutted to her waiting bath.
>Stepping carefully into the bath, Trixie issued a sharp intake of breath as her first leg entered the water; It was warmer than she expected, but not to much.
>Settling into the water, she's leaned against the side of the tub and sighed happily, the water's embrace reminding her of Anon's.