[Satyr/FR] Two Sides of a Coin (Chapter 1)

Authors Note: This is a continuation of my trilogy (Lyra's Misery, Fatal Fluttershy, Love Unwhole). The story is primarily a Satyr story but the subplot will have FlutterRape elements.

This story takes place a month after the events of Love Unwhole where a new Anon finds himself stranded in Equestria.






>Having a hangover and being unconscious is a rather unpleasant experience.
>Firstly, it’s the nasty physical sensations you hate the most.
>Then you start to hear the voices.
>But these voices were real.
>”Is it him...?”
>The unrelenting pain of your eyes rolling up into your brain was aggravating enough, but all these voices in your head didn’t help.
>”It can’t be. It’s impossible...”
>”Somepony bring him some water...”
>Somepony?
>Maybe your binge really did you in this time.
>As you felt your arms and legs come back under your control, you try to move.
>Your hand instinctively grabs at the ground, but instead of feeling carpet or bed sheets, you feel dust and gravel.
>”He’s waking up...”
>Their words pierced your brain. You winced with great pain.
>This was a toxic mix of migraine and tequila.
>Your lungs open up and you suck in that sweet fresh air. It was rather chilly.
>As you open your eyes, everything around you was a blur but you could tell that you were outside.
>You could’ve sworn you were in your apartment a moment ago.
>As your vision began to clear, you realized something was wrong.
>Peering down back at you were large round eyes. In fact, many eyes were staring down at you.
>”Are you sure it’s not him?“ one of them whispered to another.
>As their features became clearer, you recognized them instantly.
>They were ponies.
>Not the kind you would expect to find on a farm, but cartoon ponies.
>These looked exactly like the ones from that show you use to watch on TV.
>Quickly you sat up, but the throbbing pain in your head sent you reeling and growling in pain. The ponies around you step back in fear.
>”This one might be dangerous, don’t let him get close!”
>None of this was real.
>It was probably an alcohol induced dream and nothing more.
>You were going to close your eyes, and when you open them, you will be back in your home.
>Just take a deep breath. Try to wake yourself up.
>You slowly open your eyes.
>Nope, still surrounded by scared ponies.
>This was impossible.
>Nothing made sense at all about any of this.
>One of the ponies approached you cautiously, “ ‘Scuse me, uh, sir?”
“What?”
>Your voice was still raspy from your listless state.
>”Is it really you, Anon? We thought you were.... dead.” He asks while quivering in fear.
“What? Dead? How did you know my name? What’s going on?”
>You stumble to your feet, but not far from where you were.
>Did you spot a faint light from a saloon type building?
>The buildings remind you of the old west that you remember seeing in films.
>Almost out of instinct, you follow the light while trying to keep your balance.
>The ponies keep talking amongst themselves as you stagger towards the tavern. If there was one thing you knew about saloons, they had plenty of booze.
>Something that can help you think straight.
>You hear the faint melody of a piano as you approach.
>As you breach the doors, the few patrons that were sitting inside turn to look at you.
>The music stops.
>You pause briefly, but you lurch your way to the bar. Murmurs among the ponies quietly fill the air.
>At the bar you spy a peculiar female pony with a creamy white coat who’s sporting a large crimson beehive and several cherries on her butt.
>She seemed familiar somehow.
>As she turns to look at you, her expression changes to one of shock and disbelief.
>Tears began to fill her eyes, “Anon, is that really you?”
>This was going nowhere.
>You haphazardly jump over the bar and grab the closest bottle of liquor you could find.
>Your sudden actions raise a commotion as the red-haired pony yelps and backs away from you.
>With clumsy, yet deliberate movements, you uncap the bottle and drink deeply.
>As you finish off the precious liquid, your head goes fuzzy once more and you fall to the ground, out cold.
>The sound of voices become more distant as you drift off.
>This was probably the first time you had a decent night’s rest in over a year.
>As you came to, you realized you were still on the ground behind the bar. However, there was a pillow behind your head and a light blanket covering you.
>As you stretch and stir from your slumber, you see several ponies looking down at you from over the counter.
>The mare with the deep red hair spoke out, “Well, glad to see you’re up and running, Sug.” Next to her was a stallion wearing a hat and silver badge over his coat.
>”You caused quite a stir last night. Are you feeling better now, son?”
>There was a spring in your step that you haven’t felt in quite a long time. You literally jump to your feet and stretch out to the ceiling.
“This is real…?”
>”As real as that whole bottle of moonshine you drank last night.” The mare responds.
>You look down to see a large empty bottle next to where you were sleeping.
“My apologies, but can you please tell me where I am and how I got here? “
>The two of them look at each other in disbelief that you would even ask them that kind of question. The stallion answers your first question, “Well, you’re in Oatasis. A small community out here in the desert.”
>You never heard of that place, but because you recognized the distinct features of these ponies, you had to ask them another question.
“I suppose this is Equestria then, right?”
>The stallion nods his head, “That’s right. But if you don’t mind me asking, are you Anon? The late Anon?” The red-headed mare looks up to you with a certain kind of longing in her eyes.
“My name is Anon, yes. But what do you mean by late Anon?”
>Both of them figured by now you weren’t who they thought you were.
>”Oh, where are my manners? I’m Cherry Jubilee and this here is the good sheriff of the town, Silver Star.”
>You thought she looked familiar; she was the pony that gave AJ a job back in season 2.
>Now that you were all introduced to each other, the sheriff and Ms. Jubilee began to ask you how you got here.
“I honestly don’t know how I got here. I was in my apartment last night drinking...”
>You recall stumbling through the door to your home late last night. As your feet drag behind you, the sound of glass clinking and cans clattering filled the room.
>The only thought on your mind was drinking and maybe trying to get some sleep.
“I recall looking through my fridge for stuff. The next thing I knew was...”
>As you made your way through the dark apartment, a bright light burns your retinas and you felt as though you were being pulled into that same light.
>After that, you woke up outside of the saloon.
>”Yeah, folks here heard a loud sound last night and found you lying outside. No one saw anything though.”
>You could only hope you didn’t leave something running in your home before you ended up here.
>There was your pet goldfish ‘Doubloon’ which you need to feed once a day.
>You mutter a curse to yourself.
>Cherry Jubilee placed her hoof on your hand, “You must forgive me for how I reacted when you came in. It’s just that, I was certain you were the old Anon.”
“Did he look like me?”
>”Well, you both share many similarities, but now that I look closer at you...” she leans in closer, squinting her eyes at you.
“Who was this other Anon fellow? There have been others here before me?”
>The sheriff shrugs his shoulders, “As far as we knew he was the only one.”
“Where is he now?”
>The two of them gave each other a grim look as Jubilee looks down to the floor.
>Next thing you knew, you were standing in front of a cemetery gravestone with the word Anon carved in it.
>This stone was quite a bit bigger than most of the others, and was adorned with lavish details and fresh flowers.
>”Of course, this isn’t where he lies now. His body was taken to Canterlot to be given a proper burial as a hero.” The sheriff said.
“What happened to him?”
>Again, they walk you over to a huge pile of rubble at the end of a small valley filled with hoodoos. “Devils Spike use to stand tall and proud here. Anon somehow discovered Queen Chrysalis trying to restart her hive inside.”
>Jubilee interjected, “But not before she brainwashed the poor fellow and made him her personal slave. The hive was almost ready to hatch, but not before AppleJack and her friends came back to knock some sense into him.”
>All you could think about was how cross species breeding seems possible in this world. A rather queer thought.
>”When Anon realized what was going on he... he...” she couldn’t finish her statement. You figured that meant he died somehow.
>The sheriff took over, “Anon made some explosives, destroyed the nest and the queen. But he sustained serious injuries on his way out. He never made it...” his voice grew grimmer.
>One question stood out in your mind.
“What was he doing all the way out here?”
>Ms. Jubilee filled you in on the details as the three of you walk back into town.
>Anon use to live in Ponyville for a short time before ending up here.
“What caused him to come all the way out here?”
>Jubilee was reluctant at first, but she told you everything that the old Anon told her. “Anon came out here because he made a promise to Pinkie Pie, one of the Elements of Harmony.”
>You definitely knew who that was; the laughing, bouncy pink pony with the curly mane.
“He promised her to live out here as a doctor? Why?”
>”Anon said he did it to preserve her memory after she died.” Her words hit you like a solid brick wall. One of the main characters actually died?
>The last time you recall, Pinkie was still on TV.
>But whatever was going on here did not seem to abide by what was going on back home.
“What happened to her?”
>By this time, the three of you were back at the saloon sitting down at the bar. Cherry Jubilee sits herself behind the counter and briefly stops to fix her mane. “Anon and I were somewhat close, Sug. I could tell he wouldn’t lie, but I was shocked to hear when he said it was Fluttershy that killed Pinkie.”
>You knew now that something was not right.
>This kind of stuff only exists in someone’s sick, twisted fantasy.
“You’re telling me that Fluttershy, the Element of Kindness, killed another pony?”
>She nods her head, “I’m just telling you what he and his friends told me. He was such a sweet and gentle soul until that queen brainwashed him.”
“What did he do during that time?”
>Jubilee seemingly became more distant at that point, so the sheriff had to interject for the time being. “Anon became more aggressive, forgot why he was here and murdered the old sheriff of this town. The two of them were like father and son.”
>You didn’t think that Chrysalis had the power to do that kind of stuff to anyone.
>Feeling as though you’ve overstayed your welcome, it was time you thought of a way of getting back home.
>Perhaps if you went to Ponyville, Twilight might be able to help you.
“Well, thanks for indulging me. But I think it’s time for me to leave.”
>Jubilee looks up to you, rather surprised at your haste, “Are you sure you don’t want to stay and rest up? I’m sure you can bunk here for the night.”
“That’s a kind offer, but I don’t really think...”
>She starts to give you those ‘puppy dog eyes’. You guess that must be part of her southern hospitality for newcomers.
“Well, I don’t want to waste too much time. As long as I am up and gone in the morning, than fine.”
>Jubilee perks up with a smile and trots off to the back. “I’ll go and start preparing dinner for us and some of my friends.”
>As soon as she was gone, you look over to the sheriff with a certain kind of bewilderment.
“Is she always like that?”
>”Like I said, Anon and her were close at one point. There’s probably something about you that she finds comforting.”
“When did all of this transpire anyways?”
>The sheriff looks down to the floor and mumbles to himself. “About... a month ago, I reckon. Most of the folks here thought you were the old Anon for sure, others are beginning to think you’re kind is starting to invade.”
“Believe me, I have no idea how I got here. I’d rather just go home right now... if I knew how.”
>The stallion chuckles light heartedly, “Nah, don’tchu worry ‘bout it. Some folks here are somewhat skittish to begin with. Why don’t you tour the town and meet the good pony folk here?”
>As much as you wanted to lie down and sleep, you figure there couldn’t any harm in saying hello.
>The mid-afternoon sun was beating down on you harshly, but the heat was never a problem for you. Most folks were rather interested in meeting you throughout the day.
>By the time Ms. Jubilee had dinner ready, you were already surrounded by the fillies of the town who had taken you for a playground and were crawling all over you, giggling and laughing as they did so.
>They would hang onto your legs and arm as you walk down the dusty road towards the saloon. Their giggles would intensify as you began to playfully shake them off.
“Alright kiddos, the ride stops here.”
>They groan in unison, but being the good fillies that they are, they comply.
>As the lot of them run away, they continue to giggle and laugh from the fun they were having.
>As you made your way into the tavern you could already smell the heavenly aroma of food. Jubilee had set up several of the tables together and a big spread was laid out before you.
>There you were introduced to the mayor of the city, the other deputies and the new doctor {of the city}. And of course, there was Cherry Jubilee and Silver Star who hosted the dinner.
“Thank you very much; you didn’t really have to go through all this.”
>”I’ll say...” one of the deputies scoff. The other sitting next to him immediately jabs his elbow into his ribs.
>You pause to look at the deputy. He glares back at you.
>”Now boys,” Silver Star interrupts, “No need to spoil this good food.”
>”I think I lost my appetite.” The deputy spoke once more before excusing himself.
>There was an awkward tension filling the air.
“Did I say something inappropriate?”
>Jubilee puts on her friendly demeanor once again. “No Sug, it’s not your fault. It’s just that, you remember how I said Anon killed our old sheriff? That deputy was his nephew.”
>You can imagine it must’ve left a bad taste in his mouth seeing his uncle die in front of him.
>”Even though Anon apologized for his actions, Deputy Quick Draw still hasn’t forgiven Anon.” Silver Star said. “I wouldn’t take it personally.” He takes a drink from his mug of cider.
>As the evening went on, you were rather quiet throughout the ordeal. While the others ate and conversed, you sat there not doing much of either.
>The food wasn’t terrible, even though there was a disturbing lack of meat. You couldn’t help but think of how long it would take to get back home.
>When would someone notice you were missing?
>As dinner was coming to an end, Jubilee pulled out bottles of wine as you and the others talk more about your plan of action.
>If there was anything you really enjoyed, it was alcohol.
>Though wine was more than enough for your taste buds, you were not the kind of person to refuse their generous offer.
>”So, me and the sheriff were talking earlier and we’ve pooled enough money to hopefully get you to Appleloosa. There you will have to transfer to get onto the next train to Ponyville.” Jubilee took another sip of her white cherry wine.
“Don’t you think there’s a more discrete way for me to travel?”
>”I wouldn’t worry too much about it, Sug. Just mind yourself and you’ll be fine.”
>As the time continues to flow, so did the booze. The saloon was filled with laughter as you all began to open up and share funny stories.
>You were a little more drunk than you should’ve been, but it couldn’t hurt to have another glass.
>Eventually you’ll stop.
>Soon it was time for the sheriff and the others to make their way home. As you and Jubilee said your goodnight, she showed you the way to your room.
>It was funny seeing a pony like her intoxicated. The way she was walking you could’ve sworn she might’ve been as drunk as you.
>”Here you are, Sugar.” She opens the door for you.
>As you were about to step through the threshold, you felt her hoof grab onto your pant leg.
>It might’ve been the alcohol, but you could see this rosy blush upon her face. “Y’know, seeing as how this will be the last time we see each other. I was wondering if...”
>She was biting her lower lip as you look down at her. She was giving you those noticeable bedroom eyes.
>There was a brief pause between both of you.
>Next thing you knew, you were holding Ms. Jubilee in your arms while her tongue explores the inside of your mouth as you try to get the both of you to bed.
>Her distinct flavour of cherry and wine fills your mouth and nostrils as she moans louder.
>You manage to reach the bed, but not before you fall off-balance and land on the mattress with Jubilee on top of you.
>She wastes no time and begins to tug away at your pants to get to the prize.
>Whether this was a dream or not, you couldn’t pass up free sex.
>In your drunken haze, you clumsily unbuckle your belt and undo your pants. Jubilee struggles to pull them down; you quickly rectify the problem by lending her a hand. She sets to work lubricating your stiffened member with her mouth.
>She must’ve done this many times before; she was going to town like a pro.
>Her smooth velvety lips and tongue circled around the head of your penis as more of her hot saliva coated you.
>You hear the audible sound of her wet mouth working the shaft as she lightly rubs your two boys with her hoof.
>Although alcohol usually desensitizes you, you could most definitely feel what she was doing to your goods.
>Her crimson hair was becoming more undone as she continues to bob her head up and down.
>Jubilee wasn’t the kind of mare to wait for you to orgasm. With a distinct popping sound, she takes her mouth off your well-lubricated member and positions herself over top of it.
>You continue to lay back and let her go at her own pace for now. With one hoof, she awkwardly holds your penis in place as she drops herself down onto your rod.
>You could instantly feel that she was wet and ready to ride you.
>You felt the soft inner walls of her mare pussy envelope you as her moans grow louder. Her vagina starts to grip you and squeeze tighter than you expect.
>You could feel yourself getting closer to climax as she kept on slamming her hips into you.
>Through your drunken, sleepy haze, you can still recall the incredible orgasm that you both shared.
>Her libido was impressive, as her hips continue to grind on your shaft. You were still rock solid, even after ejaculating all your seed into her.
>For the longest time, she kept herself close to you smiling and breathing hard. You could feel her burning passion, as if she wanted this moment to last forever.
>It was hard to tell when you fell asleep after that point.
>All you remember was how good it felt.
>And the taste of cherries.
>Your sleep was interrupted by sunlight shining onto your face. It was as if you were back home again.
>With a yawn and a stretch you open your eyes to see that you were still in the room, and there nuzzled up against you was Cherry Jubilee still sound asleep.
>Strands of her brilliant red mane were scattered over her face. Even when she was asleep, she had such a content look upon her face.
>Perhaps you were a bit of a sexual deviant, but that didn’t bother you much.
>As you quietly try to get out of bed, you notice that all your clothes were neatly folded on a chair in the corner of the room.
>You hear Jubilee moan, and her tired little eyes slowly open.
>Sleepy ponies were always the cutest things.
>”Mornin’ Sug. Or should I say, stud?” she bats an eye at you.
>You chuckle softly as you grab your clothing off the chair. As you put on your briefs, pants, and shirt, you check your pockets to make sure everything was there.
>And thankfully your silver herringbone necklace with half a pendant was still secure on your person.
>As Cherry Jubilee got herself out of bed, she smacks you on the bottom, “C’mon stud, I’ll fix you up a big breakfast before you head on out.” She trots out the room with a huge smile on her face.
“Oh, just a piece of toast and coffee will do.”
>Not that you were trying to be modest or refuse a free meal, but you don’t stomach breakfast like most folks.
>By the time you washed up and went downstairs, you could see a big spread out on the table.
>Fluffy flapjacks and crispy waffles, eggs both scrambled and sunny side up, fresh cut fruit, pastries, and a small pile of buttered toast.
>How did she get it all done so quickly?
>You chalk it up to cartoon logic as you sit yourself down at the table.
>”Here’s your coffee!” she chirps as she places the steaming brew in front of you.
“Thank you.”
>As you pick up the cup and gaze at the black concoction, you take in a deep breath of the aroma and confirm it was coffee.
>It smells pretty damn good.
>One sip and already this was easily the best cup of joe you ever had.
>Jubilee smiles proudly to herself, seeing the expression on your face. “Just help yourself to whatever you like; oh, and the sheriff will be joining us shortly.” She walks off to what you assume is the kitchen.
>Reaching across the table, you grab a single piece of toast and sink your teeth into the crunchy, buttery goodness.
>You chew with deliberate movements as you reminisce about last night.
>The light that you saw in your apartment.
>What if all of this is just a dream? You’ve had some dreams before where everything felt somewhat real.
>Maybe you were really blitzed beyond compare last night.
>You take the time to make sure what you're tasting is real. The texture is indistinguishable from the real stuff.
>Squeezing a bit of skin between your fingers, you pinch yourself and felt the light sting.
>You haven’t woken up yet.
>Maybe it was time to give it another test.
>If this was a dream, you usually wake yourself by trying to think really hard about something or to push the boundaries of the dream.
>As your brain tries to rationalize a thought, you also think of trying to shoot lasers out of your finger tips.
>You quickly gesture a gun and point to random objects around the room.
>Suddenly you hear someone enter the saloon and you quickly stop your game of pretend.
>It was Sheriff Silver Star and his distinct moustache. “Howdy Anon, see you’re already up bright and early and ready to go. How did you sleep last night?”
>In the corner of your mind, all you can remember was the moaning and cries of Jubilee as she rode your pogo stick for God knows how long.
>You take a sip of your coffee.
“I slept pretty well, all things considered.”
>The sheriff smirks as he takes a seat adjacent to where you are. “I’ve known Jubilee for quite some time, but she’s a mighty fine gal. But it ain’t a secret that she and Anon had a thing for a while.”
“You don’t say...”
>He nods, as if he was proud of his knowledge. “Yessir, she was always a wild card, that one. Anon was a good feller too, it was a shame that his life ended so abruptly.”
“You said he was the town doctor for the three years that he was here, yeah?”
>Silver Star nods his head while he begins to take miscellaneous breakfast items onto his plate. “The poor fella did his work for free and lived on donations. The town was generous enough to give him a place to stay while he worked and helped to pay for medical supplies.”
>The part you were having trouble coming to terms with was the idea that Pinkie Pie was actually dead.
>But that sparks an interesting question.
“So, has anything changed in Equestria ever since the Element of Laughter passed on?”
>As the stallion chews up his breakfast of pancakes and eggs, he rubs his chin with a hoof. “Hmmm... yeah, it was a tragic incident. Luckily there was no catastrophic event during the three years. Except of course the time when Queen Chrysalis and her hive almost got started up again.”
>That did like a close call.
>But it was amazing how Equestria has survived for this long without one of its most important means of defense.
“Did they find someone else to take up the Element of Laughter?”
>Silver Star shakes his head, “Afraid not. They haven’t found a single soul who can take up the element.”
>You stare at your coffee which is starting to cool off by now.
>Jubilee enters the room, “Well howdy there, Sheriff. Glad you could make it.”
>”Just here to get some good food and make sure Anon is well on his way.” He smiles back to her.
>While the two of them converse, you couldn’t help but wonder who was really responsible for the death of Pinkie Pie.
>Within the hour, you were given a train ticket to take you to Appleloosa.
>Once there, you should be able to get Twilight to help you get home somehow.
>”And here’s the extra bits to buy the train ticket once you get there.” Jubilee holds a small bag of bits in her mouth and waits for you to take it.
>It was uncomfortable for you to accept this much generosity, especially from cartoon ponies that barely knew you.
>If anything, people usually try to force you to give them something.
>It would happen late at night after your shift. You’d be walking home alone and some punks would jump you.
>As much as you like to say that you walk away victorious from all the fights, there were a few times you had your ass handed to you.
>As you put the small bag of coins in your pocket, the sheriff tips his hat to you. “Well Anon, it was nice to make your acquaintance, but this town ain’t gonna protect itself. The first Anon was a real inspiration to us folks to defend ourselves from hoodlums.”
“It was nice meeting you too, sir. Take care of yourself...”
>You glance down to Cherry who was at your side.
“And Ms. Jubilee as well.”
>Silver Star nods his head to you one last time before walking off back to town. Jubilee looks up to you, but you could tell she was disheartened by your departure. “Well, I guess this is goodbye. At least this time I know I’ve said my goodbyes before you go...” The tears begin to well up in her green eyes.
>You weren’t good at handling someone who was about to cry.
>”I don’t suppose there’s anything I can say or do that’ll change your mind?” She shields her eyes to avoid the humiliation of being seen crying.
“I uh...”
>You hear the train conductor yelling for passengers to board. You didn’t have time to wait much longer.
“I’m really sorry; I mean you’re great and all. And I thank you for what you’ve done, but I don’t belong here.”
>You felt that was the best thing you could tell her.
>Through her watery eyes, she manages to smile and nod to show that she understands. You kneel down before her and give her a quick hug while she gives you a peck on the cheek.
>The conductor yells one last time for boarding, which was your cue to get going. With your ticket, money, and a few supplies in tow, you quickly run over to the conductor and present him with your ticket.
>There he grants you access and you make your way into the booth.
>The ceiling inside the train was a little shorter than you thought. Then again, nothing was really made for someone of your height.
>With your head down, you find your seat by the window and not a moment too soon. You could hear the train whistle blow as the locomotive jostles to life and begins to slowly crawl along the track.
>Looking out the window to your left, you see Jubilee standing outside on the platform. You quickly pull down the window as she begins to trot alongside the train.
>”Just remember, Anon. If you have nowhere else to go, you’re always welcome back here.”
>You hope it didn’t have to come down to that. The train begins to pick up the pace and so did Jubilee.
“Thanks again for everything. Take care of yourself!”
>You wave goodbye to her for the last time as the platform ended abruptly and Jubilee had to stop running ...the platform ends and Jubliee has to stop. The train gives one last mighty shrill from its whistle as the small town of Oatasis disappears in the distance behind you.
>Closing the window, you settle into your seat and prepare to take a nap. Hopefully that’ll make the trip not seem so long.
>However, you notice out of the corner of your eye a little filly standing in the aisle that was staring at you.
>At first you just kept looking ahead and hoped she would walk away.
>But after a moment, it was clear she was not going to leave anytime soon.
>This little pony sported a short red mane which reminded you of bacon for some reason. She also had green eyes with a few freckles on her face and a burnt orange coat.
>You could’ve sworn you’d seen her on the show before.
>Whoever she was, she seemed reluctant about something. Was she suppose to sit next to you?
“Is this uh, your seat?”
>Her mouth was hanging partially open and she nods her head slowly.
“I was about to take a nap, so please don’t mind me.”
>You hear someone a few rows behind you quietly scolding the filly, “Get in your seat right now, missy!”
>The little filly quickly jumps into the seat and was clearly red in the face. It wasn’t your business to judge a parent on how they want their kid to behave in public.
>Now that the matter was taken care of, you can finally get some rest.
>But as you close your eyes, you notice that she was still staring at you. This was getting a tad bit unnerving for you.
>You know you’re not something from around here, but they don’t have to gawk at you.
>You calmly assert to yourself that she’s just a kid and doesn’t know any better. Maybe if you talk to her then she’ll stop staring at you.
“So uh, is this your first time riding a train?”
>She shakes her head and doesn’t reply.
>Awkward.
“Ok, I was just asking because you seem scared.”
>”I ain’t afraid of nuthin’!” she quickly stands tall and puffs out her chest.  Her heavy accent reminds you of your aunt and uncle that live in east Brooklyn.
>Well that was easy. You couldn’t help but smirk at her remark.
“Easy there, tiger. What’s your name?”
>She sits back down in her seat. “Babs. I’m on my way home to Manehatten.” You knew she was familiar, she’s AppleBloom’s cousin that was acting like a bully in that one episode.
“Travelling with your parents?”
>She nods her head, “Yeah, we was visiting some family der in Oatasis.”
“That’s nice, I hope you had a good time at least.”
>”I did. But uh, what’s your name, mistah?” she asks.
“Anon. It’s nice to meet you, Babs.”
>Her eyes grew wider and she became more excited. “Wait, you’re Anon? As in THE Anon?” She literally jumps up in her seat.
“I think you have me confused with someone else...”
>”Oh mah gosh! I can’t believe you’re actually here. Everyone thought you was dead.” Her eyes seem to glimmer in admiration.
“First off kiddo, I’m not THAT Anon. He was some other guy that was here before me. And second, you shouldn’t be standing in your seat.”
>Babs kept eyeing you up and down, “Well, ya look like him. No one else has ever seen more than one of ya before. I heard yous took down Chrysalis and her hive with explosions but ya died! How did ya even survive?”
>Oh boy...
>Instinctively you sharpen your tone towards her.
“I know you’re excited but I’m not who you think I am. I just showed up here yesterday and I’m on my way to Ponyville to get help to find my way back home.”
>Her little ears flatten against her head.
“Don’t take it personally, I’m just a little tired.”
>You close your eyes and rub your temples gently. She instantly perks right back up after hearing your apology.
>”Fugget about it. And don’tchu worry, your secret is safe with me.” She proudly places her hoof against her chest.
>You didn’t imagine Babs would be this naive. “I’ll tells ya a secret too if ya promise not to snitch.” She dons a somewhat threatening look on her face.
“And what’s that?”
>After checking around to see if anyone else was listening, she motions you to lean in closer to her.
>You bring your ear right next to her and she whispers, “I’m part of a secret society called da Cutie Mark Crusaders!”
>Leaning away, you see Babs wearing the biggest grin on her face followed with the iconic ‘squee’ sound.
>Now you remember how that episode ended.
“You don’t say...”
>”Yeah! It’s for us fillies who don’t got a cutie mark to find our talent.” You could practically hear the fanfare playing in the background.
>As you and Babs continue to discuss how she came about becoming a part of this secret society, you also learn that she was given a hard time back home by the other kids for not having a cutie mark.
>Her ears droop once more, “Sometimes dey even gang up on me and push me around. I just don’t know why dey hate me...”
“Do you still care what they think?”
>”Well... kinda.” Her head hangs low.
“If they give you a hard time and expect you to justify why you don’t have a cutie mark, than you’re dealing with the wrong crowd.”
>Babs still had the expression of uncertainty.
“I’ve been in tough scraps before, kid. It’s not something you’re facing alone.”
>She looks up to you in genuine interest. “Really? Who would pick a fight with ya? All da stories we hear make ya sound really tough.”
>You realize she is still under the impression that you are the first Anon. It didn’t mean you couldn’t teach her a thing or two.
>”Babs, you’re going to learn that life can be tough, but you need to be tougher. Stop worrying about having to justify something and learn to keep going forward no matter what.”
>Her eyes were looking down as if she was deep in thought. “I think I getcha...”
>She pauses for a moment. “So I should beat them up then?”
>This kid....
”Well, when push comes to shove, just be ready to defend yourself. That’s all I can say.”
>You adjust yourself in your seat to get comfy. The train wasn’t due to arrive till late afternoon.
“I’m just going to close my eyes for a while.”
>Babs nods her head in agreement as you start to doze off.
>After some time, you woke up to see that the train has arrived at Appleloosa.
>Strange, considering no one bothered to wake you up. Babs was not in her seat anymore.
>As a matter of fact, everyone in the train was gone.
>Looking out the window, you can see that the sun was beginning to sink below the horizon.
>Making your way off the train, there was no one in sight. The platform was deserted and the whole town was quiet.
“Did I miss something?”
>You look down the street towards town and saw someone standing at the far end.
>As you focus your eyes, you could see it was another person.
>You hear rumbling in the distance as the desert wind picks up speed.
>Out of instinct, you run towards that person. You begin to feel as though your heart was being torn. Not in a physical way, but one that is emotional.
>The path before you kept stretching beneath your feet, preventing you from reaching her. You ran faster to try and catch up.
>A cloud of dust kicks up and conceals her from sight. You try to yell out but found your throat dry and parched.
>Finally you reach the place where she was standing but in the thick dust you couldn’t see much of anything.
>As the wind pushes the dirt and debris away, you could see that she was gone.
>You were alone again.
>Again you hear another rumble in the distance. There you see a dark cloud approaching from the north and the sound becomes louder as the darkness spreads across the red sky.
>The rumbling became louder and produces a deafening metal screech.
>You squeeze your eyes shut.
>Everything stops for a moment and you open your eyes.
>You were back on the train. Babs was still sitting next to you reading a book quietly. The train was at a full stop.
>The sound you heard was probably just the train applying its brakes.
>”You look worried there, bub.” Babs spoke up. She places a bookmark in-between the pages and closes the thick book.
“Just couldn’t sleep well, but it’s better than nothing. Are we at Appleloosa?”
>”Yeah, but this train is gonna head down to Manehatten.”
“And that’s my cue to get off and wait for the next train.” You get up from your seat and carefully scoot past Babs.
>”I can’t wait to tell my friends dat I met Anon!” You could see that glimmer in her eyes again. “If only I had a picture or somethin’.”
“Got a pen?”
>”Sure.” She reaches into her knapsack and pulls out a bunch of writing utensils.
>You select a thin tip black marker. Grabbing the book that she was reading out of her hooves, you quickly scribble in a few words and your signature.
>You toss the book and marker down next to her and make sure you have all your stuff.
“Take care, kiddo. Good luck with your crusading business.”
>Babs was almost ecstatic from what you did for her, you could hear her giggle as she went over to her parents to show off your signature.
>You must’ve been asleep for some time as it was clearly evening. The night sky was a beautiful mix of orange, pink, and shades of purple as the sun descended below the horizon in the west.
>The whole town of Appleloosa was a bustling city alive with all kinds of pony, and even a few of those buffalos.
>Heading to the booth where train tickets are purchased, you knock on the glass and catch the attention of a grey coloured stallion wearing rather thick glasses.
>He stares at you for a moment, removes his glasses to give them a quick wipe, and puts them back on. “Well, can’t say I’ve ever seen your kind ‘round these parts.”
“When does the next train for Ponyville depart?”
>The stallion pulls out a thick binder from under his desk and drops it on top. It hits with a loud thud as he begins to flip through the pages like a machine gun.
>”Let’s see here...” he mumbles to himself as he licks his lips and finally stops on a page. “Won’t be for a while yet, it’ll be here by... 8:51 pm tonight.”
>You look to the giant clock that stood at the center of the platform and saw it was 7:33 pm, so you had time to relax and buy your next ticket.
“Thank you, sir.”
>Unfortunately, sitting down for too long makes you antsy. Might as well take in the sights while you had the opportunity.
>As you made your way down the busy street, your presence was catching the eyes of many. Most of them would stop what they were doing to catch a good glimpse of you.
>Just avoid eye contact...
>You could hear some of them whisper to each other as you walk past. You expect as much from them. Probably talking about whether or not you were the old Anon or not.
>What worried you the most was the fact that the town looked exactly the same as the one in your dream, just with ponies in it this time.
>It wasn’t the first time you had that kind of dream.
>The scenario is the same but the location changes. It was like a curse that you had to deal with for the rest of your life.
>As you continue your way down the dusty road, you notice a large saloon off to the side, The Salt Block.
>Perhaps you could get a drink while you wait.
>You pull out the small bag of bits Jubilee gave you. She said it should be enough to get you home.
>It would be just one drink.
>One teeny tiny measly drop of alcohol...
>...
>The whole saloon was cheering you on as you down another shot of the most potent moonshine that ever passed your lips. “Drink! Drink! Drink Drink!” You firmly place the shot glass upside down to your pile of 15 so far.
>Who would’ve thought you could make money by drinking alcohol?
>Some foolish stallion thought he could hold his liquor better than you and that’s when the bets were placed.
>The crowd goes silent as the stallion picks up his 15th shot glass. You could see he was barely keeping his balance as well.
>He places the edge of the glass to his lips but he stops.
>As if he has gone stiff, the glass of alcohol falls out of his hoof and he falls to the floor out cold.
>Bits start to fly through the air as the crowd begins to exchange money and profanities.
>Then a large bag of bits falls in front of you; your payment for exceeding all expectations.
>You pour yourself another shot of the moonshine and down it with a quick gulp.
>Grabbing the bag of coins, you stumble over to the bar.
“Letsh get everyone a round of drinksh here on me!”
>As the booze and good times flow, so did time. Before you knew it, the time was already 8:30pm. You order yourself a bottle of beer before you head out.
>Most of the pony folk were nice enough to not bug you, but soon you felt a hoof tap you on the shoulder. You turn around on your stool to see who it was.
>Your face was met with a swift punch to the cheek. The whole bar goes silent as the music stops playing.
>The bartender looks to see who was causing trouble; it was a mangy old pony with missing teeth and a mean streak. “Dammit Skeeter, why’d you go do that?”
>The drunken stallion stumbles in place while you held your head in position from his punch, “This... freak broke mah teeth all dem years ago. I is just repaying the favour!”
>The entire crowd stood back as you slowly turn your head towards the unwise mangy pony. It would appear that this jackass was accosted by Anon a few years ago and is now taking his ‘revenge’ out on you.
>Time to oblige him for his mistake.
>You stood up and stare him down; he didn’t look as if he was going to back down. “I dun care if ya break my-“
>He was interrupted by you picking him up by his throat. Surprisingly light for being full of shit.
>The crowd gasps as they wait to see how you were going to deliver retribution upon this old stallion.
>Carrying him by the throat he gasps for air as you slowly carry him back to the bar.
“Barkeep, one salt block.”
>Skeeter began to struggle harder in your grip. You drop him onto a stool.
“Sit.”
>He was petrified beyond belief at this point as he shook like he was experiencing a seizure.
>The barkeep takes out a salt block and places it in front of you. “Here you go, sir.” The barkeep seems oddly unfazed.
>You deadpan stare at the pony as he looks onward at the salt block as if it was going to kill him. The saloon was so silent you could hear a pin drop.
“Barkeep, one bottle of your finest scotch. And a glass with some ice.”
>Granting your request, he places a large bottle filled with an amber coloured liquid before you along with a cup.
>You lean in closer towards Skeeter who raises his arms to cover his face as he continues to shake in fear.
“Learn how to throw a punch next time.”
>The stallion stops shaking and looks at you with bewilderment.
“Accept this scotch and salt block as a parting gift. Try to control your anger before you go mouthing off strangers.”
>You uncork the bottle and pour a glass of scotch for him.
“The next one might just kill you.”
>Grabbing your bag of money you stumble to your feet and walk a ways before looking back to the stallion who still wore an expression of hesitation.
>You grab a handful of bits and slam them on the counter in front of Skeeter.
“Get your teeth fixed.”
>The crowd resumes the normal festivities and the piano starts to play again.
>You lean in towards the barkeep.
“Thank you, you’ll inform this old fool won’t ya?”
>”Of course, sir.”
“Good man.”
>Why not just beat the tar out of the drunken old fool?
>Simple.
>Moments before, the barkeep told you about how a human like you was in the very same place three years ago.
>Anon apparently had a nasty temper to boot. Skeeter mouthed him off and ended up getting some of his teeth smashed in.
>You could hardly blame the poor creature for being upset. Of course you heard about how Skeeter was a thug, but that was before Anon broke his teeth.
>He was just a miserable old bum with not much left to his name.
>As you lurch down the dark road, you could see how the activity has died outside. Nary a soul in sight except for a few ponies here and there.
>There was more than enough money to buy yourself a ticket to get to Ponyville and back if you want.
>You hear the sound of galloping behind you but in your drunken state you’re slow to react in time. Something hits you behind the right leg and causes you to fall to your knee.
>A group of ponies descend upon you and start to kick and stomp you with their hooves. “Someone grab his money!” You hear one of the assailants bark out.
>You try your best to fend them off but the flurry of hooves was keeps you down. These guys know how to sucker punch.
>Flipping over to expose your back, you try to push yourself off the ground but you find yourself being pinned down by the whole group.
>The side of your face was being crushed into the gravel as you look up to see a stallion holding your bag of cash. “So, this here be the little monkey that killed my brother back in Oatasis.”
>You could see his stallion had a southern drawl to him, as if he was straight from Kentucky. With a thrash, you try to knock the ponies off but they kept you held to the ground.
“I’m not that Anon. Just let me go and I’ll be on my way.”
>The southern pony chuckles, “You must take me for a fool, my boy. I find it’s only fitting if we drag you through the streets for a while and see where that takes us.”
“Get the fuck off me! I’m not the one you want.”
>The stallion leans in closer, “If only there was something more personal of yours I could destroy; maybe a brother or a sister perhaps. If you had a sister, I could let my boys take turns using her and slit her throat when they be done. Then I think that would make us even.”
>Now they crossed the line.
>Like an explosion, you jab your elbow out and bust one of the ponies in the muzzle. This was the chance you needed.
>You kick the other two off and headlock the final pony. There were just four of them, excluding the leader.
>The pony that was in the headlock struggles; you quickly throw him into the other three and turn your focus to the stallion leader.
“Last chance, motherfucker. Just give me the money.”
>Of course, he turns and gallops off down the road. You give chase but one of the thugs grabs you by the leg and you fall to the ground again.
>You instantly kick him in the face with your other foot but the other three were upon you.
>Knocking them back, you manage to pick one up and throw him like a ragdoll into a wooden post. But you were promptly tackled by two of the others.
>”Keep him still!” The third thug jumps into the air and you could see his hoof was aiming to land square on your face.
>You brace for impact and cover your face with your arms. “Git off him!” You hear a familiar voice yell out.
>As you lower your arms you see Skeeter tackle the pony that was about to stomp down on your face.
>Quickly, you get up and proceed to deliver punches to the other two ponies that were still there.
>Skeeter was somehow managing to keep the other one busy. But soon their survival instincts kick in and all four of them run down the road with their tails between their legs.
>The fourth one you threw into the post gets up and manages to run away with the others.
>You stop for a moment to catch your breath and wipe the blood that was trickling out your nose. Your legs turn into jelly from the surge of adrenaline and you fall flat on your ass.
>Skeeter walks up to you, “This old pony still knows how to fight.”
>You slam your fist into the ground; those fuckers took all your money.
>You felt a smooth round object under your hand. Picking it up you see it was a bit. On the ground around you there were several more.
>Quickly you pick them up, but it wasn’t enough to buy a ticket.
>“I see you caught yerself the wrath of an old friend of mine.”
>You spit out a gob of blood, saliva and dirt.
“You know him?”
>”Use ta. Him and I were pardners once. We hads a falling out due to a conflict in interests. Where I stole what I needs ta survive and help da unfortunate, he became greedy.”
“I guess the first Anon killed his brother some time ago. Now I got no way to get to Ponyville.”
>Skeeter taps you on the shoulder and holds up a pile of bits in his hoof. “I know you was wanting to help me, but I dun need any fancy teeth. You better git, your train gonna leave any second now.”
>Reluctantly, you grab the coins from him and place them in your pocket.
“Thanks...”
>”I should be thankin’ you if anything. I was ready to die in dat saloon thinking you was going to beat the living tar out of me. But what you did fer me was real kind of ya, I’ll be sure to repay the debt somehow.”
“Don’t worry about it.”
>Getting up to your feet, you stumble down the road to the train station and walk up to the booth where the same grey colour pony was sitting.
“I have this much.”
>You spill the coins out onto the counter.
“Where will that take me?”
>”You’re the one trying to get to Ponyville?”
>You nod your head but you felt a stiff pain in your neck. You guess those ponies did a number on you back there. The grey pony takes out the same thick binder and scans through the pages.
>”Well, it’s not enough to get to Ponyville, but this train will take you to Mustangia which is a bit up north here. From there it’s a straight trip up north to Ponyville.”
“I’ll get one ticket then.”
>With the purchased ticket, you made your way to the car where you fell into your seat. The mix of booze and pain in your body was an unpleasant experience.
>Not surprisingly, most of the ponies on the train were giving you strange looks as always.
>Let them keep staring.
>You close your eyes and almost instantly fall asleep. You’ll just have to walk from Mustangia to Ponyville.
>Time slips past you and before you knew it, the train comes to a stop. The train conductor makes the call for Mustangia.
>You groan as you feel like complete shit trying to wake up.
>As you get up from your seat, you walk up to the conductor.
“What time is it?”
>”Just shy of midnight. Welcome to Mustangia, uh, sir.”
>With some of your stuff in tow, you depart the train and step onto the platform.
>In the dead of the night you can see that Mustangia was a much smaller desert town than AppleLoosa.
>The trains engine comes to life as it begins to chug its way down the track and disappears into the night.
>The platform was completely deserted. Most folks must be in bed by now.
>You’re pretty sure you’re not dreaming this time, you never felt this sick or sore in a dream before. In your stupor you walk through town, but seeing as you had no money, there wasn’t much chance you were going to sleep in a bed tonight.
>It mystified you that you could be so thirsty.
>Just some water will do.
>From now on, no more booze. You mean it this time.
>You gaze to the stars above. With no city lights the sky was a gorgeous dark navy blue with a plethora of sparkling bodies.
>You couldn’t recognize any of the constellations.
>Your balance was still wonky as you almost trip and fall. The exhaustion was setting in quickly.
>Over by a building you see a large water trough.
>Fuck it.
>With a stagger, you make your way to the trough and fall to your knees. You dunk your head into the cool liquid and drink in the refreshing water.
>You felt as though you could sleep in the water forever, if not for the fact you can’t breathe.
>Pulling your head out, you gasp for air and fall on your back.
>The ground wasn’t so bad; there was a time when you had to sleep in the streets.
>You’ll get a good night’s rest and continue in the morning.
>You could’ve sworn you were being dragged down the road at one point in your sleep.
>”C’mon let’s get these clothes off...” you hear a female voice.
>Your vision is blurry, but you remember seeing a green mane and someone applying bandages to you.
>Wherever you are, it’s soft and warm. Were you back home?
>You black out again.
>You feel the world coming back to you. Slowly you open your eyes and see that you were in a bed, but it wasn’t your home.
>The room was almost a pure white with a floral pattern curtain covering the window.
>There was no dried blood under your nose; in fact, you were clean as if someone gave you a bath.
>Plus you are stark naked to boot, aside from the fact that you still had your necklace.
>Your head was pounding slightly, but not as bad as you thought it would.
>The doorknob creaks and slowly opens.
>There standing in the doorway was a mare sporting a tied-up curly green mane. Her coat was a light yellow colour and she was wearing a pink shirt as well as thick rimmed red glasses.
>This one was a familiar pony as well. You just couldn’t quite recall who she was.
>Balanced on her head was a tray covered in food and on her back were your clothes all clean and folded.
>”Well ain’t that the cat’s meow?  Look who’s up. Did you sleep well?” Her heavy southern accent was easily recognizable. She was that claustrophobic pony from the Olympic game episode.
>You rub your head with a tired yawn.
“Where am I and why am I naked?”
>The mare just smiles as she places the tray gracefully on the bed beside you and with a buck your clothes fly off her back and land at the edge of the bed in a perfect pile. “The name’s Peachbottom. And don’t worry, you ain’t got nothing little ol’ me hasn’t seen before.” She giggles.
>On the tray you see a glass of orange juice, toast, and eggs.
“What happened?”
>”Well, I was just out early this morning for a walk when who do I see but this poor feller laying in the street. I took ya home, cleaned ya up and washed your clothes.”
“But I’m still in Mustangia, right?”
>”Oh but of course. I only live up the street where I found y’all. Now you get dressed and eat up, Anon.”
“How did you...”
>”You think folks don’t know who you are? I couldn’t believe it when they said you died, but everyone has heard how you saved all of Equestria from Queen Chrysalis and her hive.”
>As she trots out of the room, you couldn’t help but wonder if she tried anything funny while you were out cold.
>Either way, you hoist yourself out of bed and quickly snatch your undergarments from the pile followed by the rest of your clothes.
>Once fully dressed, you grab the glass of orange juice and chug down the sweet liquid. You couldn’t remember the last time you ate so you scarf down the toast and eggs.
>There was a dresser with a mirror on the other side of the room. You carefully inspect your face and see that you have a bit of a shiner under your right eye.
>Picking up the empty tray, you bring it with you as you head downstairs. You could hear music playing. There on a small table was an old record player with the needle down on a black disc.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qo-FXt8Zhq0 )
>You could see that the sun was shining through the bay window of the living room. “I’m in the kitchen.”
>Navigating through the house, you make your way to the kitchen where Ms. Peachbottom was cleaning some dishes. “Oh, just put the tray down on the counter.”
>There on the table were some of the supplies that Ms. Jubilee gave you. A couple empty bottles and a bag of trail mix.
>”Y’all mind telling what you were doing out there all passed out?”
“It’s a long story, but you should know that I’m not who you think I am.”
>Ms. Peachbottom pauses briefly to take a gander at you. ”Oh? Then who are you exactly?”
“My name is Anon, but I’m not the one that stopped Chrysalis. I somehow ended up here in Oatasis a couple days ago. Now I’m trying to get to Ponyville to get some help.”
>Ms. Peachbottom has a slight frown upon her face and pulls up her glasses to her eyes.
>She trots up to you and inspects your face carefully. You could tell by her expression that she was indeed mistaken.
>”And here I thought I would be the envy of all my friends for helping out a legendary hero.” She sighs heavily.
“I’m sorry, but it was really kind of you to take me into your home. I’ll be leaving now.”
>”Well wait a darn tootin’ second. How do you plan on gettin’ to Ponyville?”
>You begin to fill the two empty bottles with water from the sink.
“Walk. Some pony back at AppleLoosa told me it’s just north of here.”
>”Just north of here? Do you have any idea what’s between here and Ponyville?”
“A length of distance I need to walk?”
>”Try the EverFree Forest, Anon. It’s an unnatural place filled with wicked creatures.”
>You take the two bottles, cap them and place them into the small knapsack.
“Can’t be any worse than what I’ve been through.”
>Ms. Peachbottom storms off to the other room without another word. She better not be getting you any money.
>You almost squandered Jubilee’s bits on booze but the rest ended up getting stolen by that prick.
>Speaking of pricks, you wonder if your boss back home has noticed you were not at work for the past couple of days.
>The mare comes back into the room with a backpack in her mouth and drops it on the table. “Well if ya reckon you’re tough enough to go through that forest, you’ll need this.”
“What’s in it?”
>She unzips the pack and out spills miscellaneous items. It looks like a survival bug-out bag.
>Among the items are water purifying tablets, fire starting kits, a compass, first-aid kit, map, a small flashlight, and a knife. “This used to be my husband’s, but I think it’d be better if you used it.”
>You look up at the wall and saw several photos of her standing next to a stallion.
“I’m sorry...”
>”Oh don’t worry about it. It’s just a part of life, right?”
>You begin to place all the items into the backpack, making sure everything would fit properly.
“Would you have helped me even if you didn’t know me?”
>Ms. Peachbottom playfully nudges you on the leg, “Well of course I would. You seem like a decent fella, and not too bad looking.” She giggles playfully.
>”Ever since he passed away, I realized that part of his job was to help out other ponies no matter what. Figure I do the same in his memory.”
>That story sounds familiar.
>Ms. Peachbottom walks to the front door. “I’ll walk you through town, and Anon?”
“Yes?”
>”You don’t suppose we could just... pretend that you’re the other Anon, do you? Just until we get to the edge of town is all.”
>Hoisting the backpack over one shoulder and adjusting the strap, you give her a quick nod.
“Sure, why not?”
>As you walk through the door, the bright sun burns into your retinas for a moment as your eyes adjust. There before you was the town of Mustangia alive and active with ponies.
>The skies were clear and the air has never smelt any cleaner. This was a community that was really thriving.
>”Shall we?” Ms. Peachbottom looks up to you. With that, you both step off the front porch and walk down the main street.
“I’m surprised no one else found my sorry ass before you did.”
>”Well, I am an early bird type of pony.” She proudly confesses. “I gotta stretch these legs, ya know. I was a born runner.”
>You remember a part of that episode where she became stressed from being inside and ran amok outside.
>Soon enough, other mares and stallions join the two of you as you continue your walk to the north end of town. The mares were chatting it up with Peachbottom.
>”Ms. Peachbottom, you scandalous pony! You didn’t tell us that you were housing Anon.” One of them giggles with a blush. “But wasn’t he dead from that encounter down in Oatasis?”
>”Well, you know how it could all be rumours. For all we know, Anon faked his own death so his enemies would not try to hunt him down.” Ms. Peachbottom was acting like your spokesperson.
“I’m standing right here, you know.”
>She instantly blushes, realizing that she was putting words in your mouth. “Oh, how rude of me. Please, why don’t you tell all my good friends what really happened?”
>You look to the faces of all the mares and stallions that were following you. They really believed that you were a saviour.
“I’d rather not talk about it.”
>A stallion quickly walks up next to you, “So why is it that you’re showing up now? Is something wrong in Equestria?”
“You could say that.”
>The crowd breaks out in a hushed discussion. “What kind of problem?” one of them asks.
“Don’t worry about it. Just forget I was ever here.”
>By the time you reach the edge of town, a lot of the town folk were there to watch your departure. As Peachbottom took a few more steps with you out towards the north, you decide to indulge her about the first Anon.
>Kneeling down to her, you look her straight in the eyes.
“You know, they told me Anon was out in Oatasis because he wanted to help ponies as a memoir to Pinkie. I think he would be happy to know that others are trying to spread happiness.”
>She starts to blush uncontrollably. “Oh Anon, you are too kind. Will I ever see you again?”
“Doubt it. But I’m glad you helped me out. I really appreciate it.”
>Ms. Peachbottom instantly wraps her forelegs around your neck and hugs you.
>You couldn’t remember the last time you got one of these.
>She lets you free from her embrace. ”Feel free to come back any time.” She winks at you. “I personally think you look better without all those clothes on...”
>You couldn’t but chuckle at her comment. She must’ve checked you out thoroughly when you were out cold.
“Oh you cheeky little...”
>She gives you a firm pat on the rear. “C’mon now. You need to git going!” And with that, you wave to her and the crowd of ponies as you head north towards Ponyville.
>But first you would have to get through the Everfree Forest. You should make it to the forest by late afternoon if you keep up a good pace.
>The dry desert heat wasn’t so bad up here but you would still have to be careful with how much water you drink.
>Walking by yourself through the desert gave you time to think. What if there was no way to get home?
>Would Celestia be able to help?
>Who or what brought you here exactly?
>You never desired a strong inclination to be here. It was a thought that crossed your mind occasionally, but now you’re actually here.
>But in this world, Pinkie Pie is dead.
>Then you thought about her. That girl you saw in your dream.
>No.
>You need to move on.
>No point in thinking about it now.
>But that dream you had when you arrived in Appleloosa was so real.
>Alright, time to change channels.
>Maybe some music will get your mind off things.
>Of course you didn’t have your MP3 player on you. Time to use the power of recall and beat boxing.
(http://youtu.be/k1uUIJPD0Nk?t=17s )
>You lightly hum the tune to yourself as you continue to walk. You would try to beat box if you could but you weren’t as good as you fancied yourself.
>The sun crawls its way across the blue sky all day as you continue your pilgrimage to Ponyville. Would you stop and make camp in the EverFree Forest or just keep going?
>You could only imagine the reception you might receive when you finally arrive.
>It would be cool to meet the main characters of My Little Pony, but that raises an interesting question.
>What would happen if you told them that their existence was nothing but a cartoon show that grown men like to watch when even though it was intended for little kids?
>In one of those Back to the Future movies they said something about tearing the fabric of the space time continuum, or something like that.
>But this wasn’t exactly a time travelling paradox kind of problem.
>You come to a sudden realization and you stop dead in your tracks.
>This was the first time that you ever thought about these weird little things.
>It was a weird sense of clarity that was foreign to you. Before the only thing you could think of was work and alcohol.
>Some cold beer would be nice right now.
>You visualize that scene from your dream.
>That’s why you didn’t try think.
>You didn’t want to think of her. But it was so hard at times.
>Then your mind goes back to alcohol. The only stuff that helps you bury the past.
>It better not take much longer to get to Ponyville. You hate talking to yourself.
>Time drags on but eventually everything comes to pass. You could see the edge of the forest in the distant horizon. There was the temptation to run, but you had to preserve your strength should you need it.
>You were doing well for water so far, you only took a few sips today.
>By late afternoon you were there at the edge of the forest. This so called EverFree Forest that was ‘unnatural’ and filled with monsters.
>The worst you recall it being filled with was timber wolves made of branches.
>Nothing a heavy stick and a torch can’t fix.
>It felt good to be walking on grass instead of gravel and sand but as you stood at the edge of the forest you gaze into the darkness.
>A light mist was covering the forest floor and you could hear sounds coming from within.
>You take off your bug-out bag and pull out the compass. Holding it up, you wait until the arrow points straight north.
>Just a straight hike through the forest.
>With your first step, you enter the forest and disappear through the thick undergrowth.
>The sun was still up in the sky, the scattered sunlight was able to illuminate a path before you.
>It would still take some time to navigate the forest. Probably won’t make it till sometime tomorrow if you don’t stop.
>As the sun begins to set, the canopies dark top was contrasted by the fiery red sky. You hear an owl hooting not too far away.
>You walk out into a small clearing. Now was as good a time as any for a quick snack.
>Opening the backpack, you pull out the bag of trail mix and pop a small handful of the mixture into your mouth.
>You kept an ever-watchful eye out for anything. You weren’t sure for what exactly, but you didn’t want to be unprepared.
>As the forest became darker, you felt more on edge. There was sulphuric smell in the air.
>The answer became clear as you almost step in a bog. The gaseous bubbly concoction produces a foul smell the closer you get.
>The trees that border around the swamp looked a lot like weeping willows, and on their low-hanging branches a moss-like plant was growing.
>This should work fine.
>Grabbing a short branch off the ground, you take a bunch of the dry hanging moss and wrap it around one end of the stick. But it needs a fuel, something that will burn for a while.
>The smell from the bog would indicate it might be flammable. You stick the end of the stick into the water and found it was rather quite thick.
>The moss does a nice job of absorbing the foul liquid.
>You grab the fire-starting kit from the bag and strike the two pieces together over the bundle.
>A shower of sparks fall onto the moss and you can see it begin to smoulder. You gingerly blow into it and soon a small flame ignites.
>The torch holds the flame nicely, although you couldn’t say the same for the smell. Perhaps the smoke and smell will keep any bugs or pests from annoying you.
>You continue your hike north. You weren’t sure for how long you were walking for, but the night seems to have been dragging on forever.
>As the fire lights up the surrounding area, you could see there was something ahead. It looks like an old building of some sort.
>The fog was starting to build up around you but you would not be deterred. As you break through the trees, you see what looks like the ruins of an old castle.
>The full moon illuminates the old stone, and the vines sway ever so slightly over the castle it has claimed.
( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wXU6u4KfNS4 )
>Perhaps you could go through these ruins and continue your way on the other side.
>As you approach closer, you hear a sound from the forest behind you.
>You quickly turn around but nothing was there. Probably just some little critter scurrying around.
>These old ruins look familiar, but when were they in the show?
>As you walk up the stony stair path you look up to the full moon and realized this was from the two part episode where Twilight understood the magic of friendship and blasted Nightmare Moon with that Element of Harmony.
>The crumbling walls of the old castle were still able to echo back your footsteps as you made your way through the ancient ruins.
>Before you was a large wooden door shut tight. You give it a push and it swings open with a loud creak.
>Peering inside, you see it was a large room with the ceiling gone. There are large windows all around the border of the room and in the center was large stone pedestal of some sort. The area was coated with a generous layer of dust and cobwebs.
>This was the room where Twilight and the others found the five elements.
>You hear footsteps down the hall you just came from. Your body freezes. There was no way you were imagining this.
>Slowly you sneak back towards the door you came through; you could feel your heart beat faster. Standing at the side of the doorframe, you ready yourself.
>You hear a few more steps and they sound closer this time. It actually sounds more like hooves clopping.
>With your torch in one hand, you tighten your fist. You burst through the door, ready to take out whoever was there.
>But you stop dead in your tracks when you see there’s absolutely nothing.
>You scan around the area, but you were sure there was something just outside those doors.
>Get a grip, you’re probably just tired.
>Heading back through the doors, you walk past the pedestal in the large room and see another set of large doors leading outside.
>These ones were heavier and required that you push them with more force.
>The glow of the moon shines down upon you and you see a small bridge not too far from the entrance.
>The thick fog rises up from the canyon below and spills out to the forest floor on both sides.
>You freeze up yet again.
>If there was one thing you hated, it was heights.
>Especially rickety old bridges that hang up high. Looking around, you found there was no other way to get across.
>You felt yourself begin to shake. You need alcohol to calm down, but you had none.
>Your throat felt dry.
“Fuck...”
>Get a hold of yourself.
>Just take it slowly and breathe.
>The bridge wasn’t long and you couldn’t see how far it was to the bottom. That bit of uncertainty was driving you crazy.
>The fog continues to gurgle forth and thicken the air around the bridge, obscuring your vision of the other end.
>Don’t rush it, if you run then the bridgewillsnapandyou’llfalltoyourdeath.
>Your mind was racing and you begin to panic.
>Just go!
>But...
>DO IT!
>You held your head up high and began to cross the bridge slowly.
>It might’ve been your imagination but it felt as though the bridge was way longer than you thought.
>You stop walking and pause to look behind you. The fog was so thick you couldn’t see the end of either side, not even with your torch.
>There was a thump on the bridge. Your blood ran cold as you felt something stepping onto the crossing.
>Shit shit shit shit.
>You rush to the other side and there you fell onto the grass. Sweet solid ground!
>Reaching into your bug-out bag you pull out the knife and begin to saw away at the rope that was tied to the wooden posts that kept the suspension bridge up.
>You weren’t sure what was louder, the footstep as they came closer or your heart pounding in your chest.
>As soon as you cut the rope, the entire bridge gives way and falls into the foggy abyss.
>The forest was seemingly silent again.
>You catch your breath and put the knife away. You look towards the clearing and see that even more forest lay before you.
>As you walk through the clearing, you hear something rustling through the bushes in front of you.
>This couldn’t be some wild animal stalking you; it had to be a pony or something.
“I don’t know who you are, but this needs to stop!”
>It goes silent yet again.
>You stood still for a moment waving your torch back and forth to see if you could spot anything amongst the dark trees.
>Yelling at the trees, oh how foolish you must look.
>Cautiously you approach the trees as the fog behind you thickens.
>A twig snaps.
>Your eyes dart but all you saw was something running into the fog. You try to follow but it seems like it was everywhere.
>The torch was beginning to diminish.
>As your eyes begin to adjust to the darkness, you manage to catch a glimpse of a figure moving quickly among the trees.
>Backing away from the trees, you could only move so far back into the fog without risking falling over the edge.
>You felt something run past you in the fog. Quickly turning around, you try to swipe at the perpetrator.
>Whatever it was, it was incredibly fast.
>It was back in the trees again.
>You could hear it moving through the branches quickly. Your eyes begin to follow its movement through the sound of the rustling tree branches.
>As you follow it to the top of the canopy, you see something leap out high above the top of the trees.
>With the full moon behind it, you saw it was wearing a cloak.
>Whatever it was, it was armed with a bow and arrow and it was pointing it right at you.