Rebels in Equestria 10

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g9hwjQBQFIo

> You open the window and poke your head out like a dog in a car
> The way the wind blows through your hair feels amazing!
> The train speeds past various towns and farms
> You wave at the p0ny folk that you pass
> Celestia's intense sun is beaming down on you in a cloudless sky
> The wind does an excellent job a keeping you cool

> The Equestrian landscape is beautiful
> It's more majestic than anything you've ever seen on Earth
> Soft rolling hills that stretch as far as the eye can see
> Crystal clear rivers that gently carve their way into the horizon
> You take note of the towns you pass by
> You didn't see a single building taller than two stories high
> Many of them looked to be made of simple materials such as stone and wood
> You marveled at the simplicity of their architecture

> "Anon! Close the window! The wind! It's ruining my mane!"
> You chuckle to yourself
> Ignoring her, you open the window even more
> “Anon!”
“What?! I can’t hear youuu!” You yell as you stick your head out the window
> Suddenly a force pulls you pick inside
> It was Rarity’s magic. She has already closed the window and has begun tending to her frizzled mane
> "Please be more considerate to everyp0ny else Anon! Honestly, I spent all morning getting my mane just right and I'd appreciate it if you didn't ruin my efforts!"
>You cross your arms and look at her in disbelief
"...Really?"
> Apple Jack nudges you a bit
> "Shucks' There ain't a day where we don't go through this! Hehe, you better get used to it Anonymous!"
“What do you mean?”
> “Ya’ll gonna be staying at Rarity’s! Don ya’ remember?”
"And I’m going have to put up with this everydaay? How can one even possibly put up with this?" You exclaim sarcastically
> "Sugar cube, don’t even get me started. Why, I remember once I got caught in a rainstorm with her one afternoon. We had to stay inside Twilight's for the entire night. It was just something awful, I even had to share a bed with her!"
> You kneel down and pat Apple Jack on the back
"My sympathies, Applejack."
> Applejack lets out a hearty laugh
> Rarity jabs you in the kidneys
> “If I were you, I’d be much kinder to the p0ny whose taking you in!”
> [spoiler]Her punch felt like being hit by an oversized marshmallow. [/spoiler]
"Calm yourself. I'm only joking Rarity."
> "Ughh. Well I'm not!”
> She runs to the nearest mirror
> “Just look! You've absolutely ruined my mane!"
> She frantically returns to brushing her purple hair
“You know, it honestly doesn’t look that bad Rarity.”

> She laughs for a bit before responding “You expect me to take grooming advice from you?”
“Wha…What is that supposed to mean?”
> Rarity points to your hair
> It’s long, unkempt and unruly. In fact, it almost looks barbaric
> But it’s not your fault though
> There was no time to visit a barber in the middle of a war, so it’s been months since your last haircut
> She punches you again in the side
> “I’m only joking Anon.”
"Hmph."
> "I'll tell you what Anon, when we get back to P0nyville I'll show you how to properly take care of your mane. Then just maybe, you will have a mane as magnific as mine!"
> She finished her statement by bouncing her mane around. You have to admit. It did look nice.
"Heh, I guess I'll just have to take you up on that offer."

--

> "Geeze! Just how long is this train ride going to take? I’ve got stuff to do!"  Rainbow Dash asks while pacing back and forth the aisle
> Everyone else simply watched as she frantically paced to and fro
> Your party had been accommodated with a private sleeper car
> Each p0ny would have their own bunk
> It was really was nice compared to the trains you had back at home
> In fact, you remember how one had gotten mugged once as you disembarked a train
> You shudder at the thought
> Looking around, you doubt any p0ny would even try to take you on
> Oh how the tables have turned

> You look towards your bunk. Instead of you in it, your belongings lay on the bed
> Unfortunately, you were much too tall for the p0ny sized bed, you'd have to sleep on the floor or something

> "Rainbow, you know we won't arrive in P0nyville until tomorrow morning at the very least." Twilight responds without looking up from her book
> "God! Can somep0ny please tell me why we can't just fly back? I mean we flew on the way to Canterlot! And it only took like what, an hour?"
> "That was different. It was an 'emergency'. Besides you can't just have the Royal Guard fly you around all day, they're not your personal taxi service you know."
> "Yeah, but you'd think they'd be able to fly us home in a jiffy. It would be no problem! I mean, what else do they do all day!"
> “Uhh, how about guard Canterlot and the Royal Family?”
> “From what?”
> “Did you forget about the Changelings already?”
> She blushes in embarrassment

> "It could be worse Rainbow, if anything you should be thankful the Princesses were able to get us a private car on such short notice."
> "Yeah, I guess." Rainbow sulks back into her bed
"Does sitting in a train really bother you that much?" You ask
> "It's not that it bothers me. It's just sitting in this one car all day? It's so boring. So lame. So...uncool."
> She buries her face under her pillow
> "Theres nothing to doooo!"  Her muffled voice barely audible

> With a coy grin Twilight pulls out a book from her saddlebag
> "Are you sure about that? I mean, it just so happens that I've got the newest Daring Doo novel right here. If you’d like, I’ll let you read it, but we’d have to work out an agreement first. How about in exchange for this book you come over and help me with my stu-“
> Before she can finish that sentence, she is tackled to the ground
> You see a flurry of colors zoom by you as Rainbow snatches the book out of Twilight's grip
> The sounds of magic spells going off fill the cart as the two frantically wrestle for the book
> “Gimme Twilight!”
> “No! Hand off! It’s mine! We have to make a deal first!”
> “Like I’d ever agree to anything you’d say!”
> The entire train car erupts in laughter once again

> It's astounding how the p0nies have come to accept you
> They've warmed up to you in a few days time
> You, a completely alien species, have earned the trust of these 6 p0nies
> This makes you p0nder on how different your species really are
> Where are the p0nies are caring and open hearted, you are cold and prone for conflict.
> Hell, mankind has always waged war with itself, competing for resources with itself, always struggling to survive
> Humans descended from the trees three and a half million years ago and cut a bloody swath across the land
> Creating immense civilizations and conquering an entire planet with stone axes and a will to power
> These p0nies on the other hand?
> They're like kindergarteners
> They're too trusting
> They don't know the things you do
> You delve deeper into the subject
> Losing yourselves in your own thoughts

--

> "Anonymous!"
"Huh...wha-What?"
> "Sugarcube, Where ya'll even paying attention to a single thing I said?" Applejack asks melancholically
"Huh? Uhh? Well of course! Obviously!"
> "Then what did I just ask you?"
> Shit.
"Uhh...You...wanted...to...know...how...life...is...like...on...my...home town?"
> She glares at you, unimpressed
> "Not even close honey."
> You wince in embarrassment

"Sorry. So what’s up?"
> "Well, I noticed you looked a little hungry there."
> She's right, you haven't eaten since breakfast.
> Your stomach grumbles loudly as if it where confirming this
> "Anyhow, I was wondering if I could interest you in any of the snacks I packed. It should keep us full until dinner."
> She pulls out a few morsels of food from her saddlebag
> A few slices of pie, a piece of cobbler, caramel apples and a thermos filled with what seems to be warm apple cider
> Your mouth waters at the sight
> "Help yourself Anonymous."
> You pour yourself a cup of cider, the aroma of apples gently wafts in your nose
> It's hard to decide what to try first! They all look so good!
> Ultimately, you decide on a piece of the apple pie
> You sink your teeth into the slice
"...Oh mah gawhd." You mutter, your mouth still full of food
> "What? Does it taste bad? Do you not like it? Is something wrong with it?" Apple Jack asks nervously
"No. It's just..."
> You cram the rest of the pie in your mouth, savoring the sweet flavor
> It's definitely one of the tastiest experiences you've had in your entire life
> You finish off the pie with the rest of the warm cider
"Apple Jack, this food! It's amazing! Where'd you buy it?"
> Before you can answer; Pinkie Pie pops up in front of your view, only inches from your face
> "Ooh! I made those yummy treats!"
> You're a bit taken back from her sudden outburst, but you manage to stay cool
"Pinkie Pie, I didn't know you could bake."
> "Well duhh! Oh course I can bake! Otherwise how else would I be able to work in a bakery!?"
> You nod your head in agreement and take another bite of the apple pie
> The rest of the p0nies join you in eating the snacks

> The meal was going along smoothly
> All the p0nies where conversing amongst each other
> Again, you only sit back and listen in on their conversations
> Apple Jack talks of how her family business is struggling in the current economy.
>Rarity on the other hand tells of a large order of dresses for a very important client
> Twilight spends a large chunk of time rambling on about her upcoming Magical Exams
> She explains on how she is “totally unprepared for the test, and is doomed to a life of failure and humiliation” if she fails the upcoming exams
> Every p0ny around is only able to offer her moral support at this point
> Except for Pinkie Pie
> She only offers Twilight more food

> However, you’ve been in this sort of situation before. And you definitely know how it feels to be blindsided by final exams.
> It’s not a pleasant experience
“Hey, Twilight. I think I may be able to help you out.”
> “I really don’t think you’d be able to-“
“No really! During my years in my University I-
> “You went to a University?!” She interrupts
“Well, yeah. Doesn’t everyone?”

> Her eyes widen and she pulls you close with her magic
> “Really? What do you know? Will it really help? Tell me! Tell me! Tell me!”
> You can hear the desperation in her voice, at this point she seems to be grasping at straws
> Luna told you about Twilight being Celestia’s protégé
> It is a title that definitely carries pressure one to maintain a perfect academic record
> Albeit vaguely, you’re able to relate to her position
> Although, making the Dean’s List at your University doesn’t compare to becoming the personal apprentice to the goddess of the sun herself
> She has it tough, no doubt
“Cool.” You say helpfully
> First you discuss the topics at hand that are to be tested
> Mathematics, Science, Equestrian history and Magic Performance
> Since mathematics and science are the only two subjects you have a decent grasp on, you offer to tutor her with them
> As for history and Magic, you only offer her various study methods that you thought would help
> You also recommended some small changes in her life style in order to benefit herself as a student
> You explain the ideologies and concepts of various topics such as metacognition, memory association and other elements
> Taking the time and effort, you explain each concept meticulously and refer to various studies as proof

> Despite all of this, she takes your advice with a grain of salt
> “Alright Anonymous, it’s official. You’re crazy.”
“Wh-What?”
> “Absolutely none of that made any sense!”
“What the hell? Of course it makes sense!”
> “No it doesn’t! I bet half you just made half that stuff up on the spot!”
“Of course not! I told you already, I took a few courses while-”
> “And that’s another thing! Just what kind of university would offer this sort of mumbo-jumbo? None that I ever heard of!”
“Well no shi-“
> “Did you really study this in a university? It’s so irrelevant. So inane!....Or maybe you didn’t study this at all…”
“What the hell are you getting at?”
> “Maybe you didn’t even attend a University! Maybe you just made all of that up! Did ya’? Huh?”
“What kind of question is th-“
“Did you just make that up? Just tell me! Did you do it to impress me? You know, you’re not impressing anyp0ny here.”
“What the hell? Of course I attended!”
> “Then prove it!”
“And how the hell do you expect me to do that?”
> “Show me some sort of document! I want to see it in writing.”
> You give Twilight a cold stare
“After all I’ve been through in the past few days, do you honestly expect me to have that sort of thing with me? I mean seriously! Who the hell carries that sort of shit with them?”
> “I do!” She exclaims excitedly
> She rustles through her saddlebag and pulls out various scrolls and books
> She literally shoves them in your face. All while maintaining a cocky smile
“Really?”
> She nods excitedly
> You grab a scroll and unravel it, it’s her entire academic record

> You carefully read over some of her more recent transcripts
> Advanced Mathematics – A+
> Advanced Spell casting – A-
> Advanced Pre-Celestial History – A+
> Advanced Alchemy – A+
> Advanced Transmutation – A+
> Advanced Lunar Theory – A-
> Much of her transcript followed a similar pattern
> She managed to maintain a near flawless academic record her entire life
> At this point Twilight has that smug look on her face
> Her expression just screams “I told you so.”
> God, you just want to slap that grin of her face
> You begin to wonder whether or not her ultimate goal was to show you her transcript
> You chuckle at the thought
> You did have to admit, this was impressive

> However, there was one course that caught your attention.
> Guided Friendship Theory – INCOMPLETE
> The “INCOMPLETE” stood out like a sore thumb in the sea of A’s
> You just stood there baffled by what you read. You even rubbed your eyes and checked the paper twice to make sure you weren’t mistaken
> “What? Is something wrong?” Twilight nervously asks

> [spoiler]Friendship theory? Fucking really? Is she really giving me flack about my own god damned education when she can’t even complete a fucking course on “friendship theory”?[/spoiler]

“Hey Twilight.”
> “Y-Yes?”
“What’s this about a course Friendship Theory? You literally took a course in friendship?”
> “Well I wouldn’t call it a course. More like a lifelong exper –“
“It’s listed as a course right here.”
> You point at the header of the scroll where it states “Course Listings”
“What I want to know is why you’d have to take a course in friendship in the first place.”
> “Well you see-“
“I mean shouldn’t making friends just come naturally? I mean if you’re not a social outcast you should be fine right?”
> “That’s not tru-“
“Hell, what I want to know is why you’d even bother taking such an irrelevant course.”
> She remains silent

> You aren’t a scraper by nature, but you’ve played just enough Phoenix Wright games to know how to effectively corner someone in an argument

“It’s just so irrelevant…So elementary…So inane.”
> “It’s not like that!”
“It seems exactly like that. I mean, it’s right here in writing.”
> She’s drawing at straws. You’re clearly winning this argument
> “You still have no idea what you’re talking about! At least I have a transcript! You still have no proof!”
> She softly jabs your chest
> “Hah!”

> Oh no she didn’t

> Rainbow Dash idly munches on popcorn as she watches your spectacle from across the train car
> She leans over and whispers to the other p0nies
> “Heh, I’ve never seen Twilight get so frustrated with someone. You know it’s about time Twilight met someone as nutty as herself”
> “Uhm. Shouldn’t we stop them? Or at the very least say something? I mean, what if somep0ny says something they’ll regret? Or What if they hurt each other’s feelings? Oh I just can’t stand to watch anymore!”
> Fluttershy uses her hooves to blind herself
> “Hurting their feelings? Nonsense! I say let them! I do believe Anon is more than capable of holding his own against our Twilight.”
> “Wow! They sure can argue! You know, they argue more than Mr. and Mrs. Cake! And I never thought I’d met a pair of p0nies argue more than those two!” Pinkie Pie exclaims. “Just how long do you think they’ll keep this up?”
> “I reckon they’ll be bumping heads the entire ride home.”
> Rainbow Dash finishes her popcorn and picks up the newest Daring Doo novel. “You know, I think I like this Anonymous guy. He seems cool enough.”
> Fluttershy finally unblinds herself. “I’ll say! Never in my life did I ever think I’d be able to come meet a real live human! Oh my, I hope we get along. I’ve never made friends with anything so interesting! I mean, just look at him!”
> All the p0nies look you over
> Rarity pulls out a notebook and pencil. She begins to draw a sketch of you in vivid detail.
> “What I would like to know is why Anon would ever wear such dreadful clothing. I mean, just look at them! They’re nothing more than rags! It’s an insult to fashion everywhere! I just don’t understand! He was dressed so eloquently as last night’s dinner!”
> “Now calm down sugar cube. I’m sure he has his reasons. You know, they’re probably just more comfortable for him is all.”
> “Well whatever the reason, it doesn’t change the fact that it just looks absolutely horrible!”
> Rarity finishes her sketch
> She is able to capture almost every detail of you. She jotted several notes on your choice of clothing. She also notices the large amount of wounds along your body and takes count. In her sketch, she even was able to make out your tattoo.
> “Just what is that anyways?” Pinkie Pie points to your tattoo.
> “Is that his cutie mark?” Fluttershy asks
> “I reckon so. What else could it be?”
> “I highly doubt it. I’ve never seen anyp0ny with a cutie mark like that! It’s not a picture or symbol. It doesn’t look like it represents anything related to a special talent.”
> “It actually looks like letters formin’ some sort of word.”
> “Whatever it is, I gotta give Anonymous props. It looks wicked cool.”
> “Since it’s not in Equestrian I reckon it’s in Anonymous’ native tounge. Some sort of human language I suppose.”
> “What do you think it means?” Fluttershy boldly asks
> The rest of the p0nies just shrug in unison

> Fluttershy flies over to you
> She reluctantly taps at your shoulder. In the heat or arguing, you fail to notice her
> She tries again, but again you fail to notice
> “Uhm..excuse me. Mr. Anonymous?”  She asks, her voice draining to nothing more than a squeak.
> Apple Jack doesn’t take to this kindly
> She runs up to you and punches you in the shoulder
> The force of the blow nearly knocks you to your knees
“What the hell!?”
> “Now excuse me Anonymous. But I reckon that Fluttershy here has something to say!”
> You look over to Fluttershy who is cowering behind Applejack
> “Uhhm. Well, I just wanted to know what that thing on your meant? I mean, is it your cutie mark?”
“My cutie mark? What the hell?”
> “You know, you’re cutie mark!” Twilight exclaims “The symbol that p0nies get once they discover their unique talent.”
“What the hell? Seriously? Those exist?”
> “Well of course darling! We all gotten ours!” She notions to the three diamonds on her flank
“Is that what those are? I’ve been meaning to ask you about those.”
> “Well darling, essentially, when a young filly learns their one true talent in life a cutie mark appears on their flank. Each p0ny has a unique cutie mark. No two are ever alike.”
“Well, then what does yours represent?”
> “Mine? Well if you must know, mine represent my love for jewels and fashion! It truly is fitting for me don’t you think?”
> You take a moment to think it over
> When suddenly it hits you
> You remember the cutie marks on Celestia and Luna, a sun and moon respectively. You then recall their abilities to manipulate the sun and stars. Then you realize their names literally translate to “Sun and Moon” respectively.
> You face palm
> Why didn’t you figure this out before?
> It’s so obvious!
> You chuckle at your own ignorance
“Haha, well yeah. Well I guess that answers my questions.”


> Twilight steps forward.
> “What, you humans don’t have cutie marks? Then what’s that on your arm?”  Twilight points at the tattoo on your arm
“This? It’s just a tattoo.”
> “A ‘tattoo’? What’s that?” Her tone of voice is much friendlier now. It’s as if she completely forgot you two were just in a heated argument.
“It’s exactly what it looks like. It’s a drawing that’s embedded in my skin.”
> “Embedded? How can you do that?”
“Essentially with an ink tipped needle. They stab it in and out rael quick.”
> “Shucks, I reckon that would be mighty painful.”
“Trust me. It is.”
> “What special talent does yours represent then?” Fluttershy timidly asks
“Talent? This isn’t connected to any one of my various awesome talents.” You look over to Twilight, who only rolls her eyes in response. “I guess it’s not ‘earned’ like your cutie marks. It’s actually done completely voluntarily. On my home if you wanted one, you’d just go to a parlor that specializes in making them. They’d draw whatever you want and set you on your way”
> “Did you go to a special parlor?”
“Well, no not exactly.”
> “Well then where did you get yours?”
> You scour your mind for memories of that night you got your tattoo
> That same night you got shit faced drunk and woke up with half of your shit stolen
> Not one of your proudest moments
“My friend kinda gave it to me.”
> “He ‘gave’ it to you?” Twilight asks, while raising an eyebrow
“Well, I didn’t exactly ask for it. I actually didn’t even want it.”
> “Then how was he able to do it to you? To me this whole procedure sounds very painful and time consuming. Surely you must have been able to deny his offer”
“Well, I was sorta drunk at the time.”
> “Drunk? Seriously?”
“Yeah.”
> “The big and might Anonymous? Now I find that mighty hard to believe.”
“Well it does happens from time to time. You know how it is.”
> “Sugarcube I saw you down more than 2 bottles of wine yesterday without even getting close to tipsy.”
“Well that was different.”
> “Yeah? Well how so? The way I see it, drinkin’ is drinkin’. Aint’ nothing to it!”
“Well, it’s just the alcohol over here is kinda weak.”
> “Really now? I find that REAL hard to believe.”
“Yeah, that wine yesterday tasted more like juice than anything.”

> Sugarcube, if that’s the case why don’t you try something with a little bit more kick?”
> Apple Jack pulls out a bottle from her saddlebag
> “I made this little batch ‘ere the other day. I figured I might as well pack some for the trip. Ya never know.”
> Pinkie Pie’s eyes widen at the sight
> She swoops in and snatches the bottle from Apple Jack’s hooves
“Alright! Time to partay!”


--

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xtf3VvRKOEg

> Luna’s night has settled over the landscape
> The train is still chugging towards its destination
> At this rate, you figure it will arrive in P0nyville before schedule
> It’s late, and most p0nies have fallen asleep.
> All the train cars have their lights out; All except for yours that is.
> A small oil lamp gives off a soft light. Just enough to illuminate your surroundings, but not bright enough to disturb the others

> You enjoy this silence. It’s calming.
> After Apple Jack cracked open her brew the p0nies turned into party animals
> Pinkie Pie was notably more chipper and outgoing than usual
> That p0ny sure knows how to throw a party
> Amazingly, the p0nies managed to finish Apple Jack’s entire bottle
> You had a couple drinks yourself. You still sober, the alchohol barely effecting you
> It actually tasted like hard apple cider. It had a slight burn going down, but it was a satisfying sensation. This brew faltered in comparison to the hard drinks you’ve had before

> You look over to Rainbow Dash and Apple Jack who are snoring softly in their bunks
> After the way they were drinking there’s no doubt they’re going to wake up with a hangover tomorrow.
> You chuckle softly.

> You watch as all the p0nies sleep soundly in their beds
> Rainbow Dash’s wings twitches while she sleeps
> She’s probably dreaming that’s she flying
> You also take note of how they are all sleeping so peacefully
> Even though you’ve only known them for a few days, they are able to sleep soundly at night, having full trust in you.
> You envy them
> After so many nights of constant attacks from the enemy you lost your ability to sleep soundly
> Each night you only managed to sleep a few measly hours. And even then, it barely provided you with any rest


> You were stuck sleeping on the floor
> You’re much to tall to fit in the small p0ny sized bunks
> It was alright though. Compared to sleeping in sewers, a wooden floor seemed like a god send.
> Fluttershy had offered to give you her pillows to make it more comfortable for you. It was a nice offer, but you humbly declined.
> It was a nice offer, but you can’t bear to make someone compromise their comfort for your own
> You managed to sleep for only 2 hours.
> The rest of the time you idly stood by the door
> The rifle sits firmly in your grip. The weapon is loaded.
> You even took the time to clean and sharpen your bayonet
> You did this all autonomously
> After so much time of night guard duty, this all became second nature to you
> You don’t understand why you did this though
> There’s no danger here
> No one’s going to try to kill you in your sleep

> For what seems like the first time in months, you can finally be at ease
> But why aren’t you?

> You look outside the window
> The shining stars dance high in the sky
> A full moon hangs proudly above the land. Bathing it in a soft light
> The night sky always has a way of captivating you
“Damn Luna, you’ve really outdone yourself tonight.”
> You open the window once more
> The cool air blows into the car
> You stick your hand out
> The way the wind curves around your hand feels amazing

> It was about then when you heard a noise from behind you

> Instincts kick in
> In a split second you turn to face the source of the sound
> You bring up your rifle to firing position and remove the safety

> You were only moments from pulling the trigger before you realized what your were aiming at
> Rarity stood at the end of your weapon, completely petrified
> The bayonet was only inches from her face
> “A-Anon!”
> You let out a sigh of relief
> Instantly you lower your weapon and engage the safety
> You walk over to her and get down to eye level
“Rarity!” You whisper. “What the hell! I could have killed you!”
> “K-Killed me? Anon have you lost your mind! How dare you go off point that..that thing at me! What is that thing anyways?!”
“I’m sorry! Y-You shouldn’t sneak up on me like that!”
> “I’ll say! But don’t try to change the subject! What do you mean ‘You could have killed me?’ Just what in Celestia’s name is that contraption?”
> You wince
> There’s no way getting around it now
> “Anon!”
> Ignoring her, you try to walk away as if nothing happened
> She pulls you back with her magic and rips the rifle from her grip
> “Anonymous! You will tell what is this thing! And you’re going to tell me NOW.”
“Shhh! What the hell? Are you trying to wake everybody up?”
> “Anon!”
“Fine! Fine! But…But on one condition! You can’t tell anyone!”
> Rarity thinks it over for a moment
> She releases her grip on you
> “Alright, I suppose I can agree to that.”
“Well, this? It’s a gun.”
> “A ‘gun’? I’ve never heard of such a thing.”
“Good. You’re better off not having to.”
> “Alright, but what does it do?”
“It’s…It’s a weapon.”
> “A weapon? Well I suppose that would explain the blade at the end. But even then, it’s much to small to be useful in any scenario.”
“That’s because it’s not meant for close range fighting.”
> “Then how does it work? Show me!”

> You grab the rifle and remove the magazine
“Have you ever heard of a bow and arrow, or even a sling shot?”
> “Well of course.”
“This is the same concept. This is a weapon that fires a high velocity projectile at a target.”
> You pull out a bullet from the magazine
“When I pull this trigger, this round is fired from this weapon. It travels down this barrel until it leaves from this end over here. At that point it will reach incredible speeds.”
> As you explain, she just watches in abject horror
“This bullet will then travel to whatever I aim at with extreme precision. I’ve been able to accurately hit peo-…targets from distances of about 100 meters. This is hollow point round, when it hits a fleshy target it expands on impact. Completely tearing through whatever is in it’s way.”
> You explain this all so melancholically
> Her horror turns into anger
> “And you pointed that thing at me!? How…How dare you!”
> She slaps you across the face
> Hard.

> You fall backwards and land on your rear
> “I can’t even believe this!”
“Rarity, I can ex-“
> “Explain? Tell me! How can you possibly justify carrying this thing around?!”
> With her magic, she pulls the rifle away from you
> “This is barbaric! This is insane! What in Celestia’s name could you possibly use this for?”
“Please Rarity just liste-“
> “No! Why would I listen to you! You’re probably nothing more than a murderer!“
> Murderer
> Upon hearing that word you blood comes to a boil
> You’ve had enough

> You grab her by her shoulder and pin her against the wall
> “A-A-Anon. W-What are you- Unhand me you-“
“NO!”
> You press her harder against the wall
> “Anon? What are you doing? Please! Don’t hurt m-”

“No! Just shut the fuck up! Just shut up for one second and listen to me!”
> You press her harder against the wall, lifting her off her feet
> You feel a rush similar to a combat high
> [spoiler]It feels…..good. [/spoiler]
> She remains silent
“Don’t you get it? Can’t you fucking see? I needed that gun! I’d be fucked without it! Do you know what they’d do to me?”
> You stare angrily into Rarity’s eyes
“I’m fucking useless without that! What the fuck was I gonna to do if they start shooting at us?! Huh? What the fuck am I supposed to do? I can’t let them! I couldn’t let them kill me! I didn’t want to die Rarity! I didn’t want to die”
> You leave a small puddle of tears on the floor
> Beyond the tears you can just barely see Rarity
> You can see the fear in her eyes
> It’s the same fear you had once
> You release your grip and sob in her shoulder
“I….I’m sorry. It’s just…”
> You slide down against the wall and bury your face in your knees
“Those fuckers! Those fuckers killed my family! They killed my friends! They took everything from me! Why can’t anyone see that?!”

> It’s a miracle the other p0nies haven’t awoken by now
> You can probably thank the alcohol

> You’re in full blown hysterics now
> Your sadness transform into anger
> You curse yourself out
“Why me? What the fuck did I do to deserve it? W-Why?”
> In all that time, Rarity just watches you in your broken state

> It then clicks in Rarity’s mind
> She’s this sort of behavior before
> She knows this all too well
> It wasn’t long ago when she treated herself like this
> She was lost and misguided
> It was only when Twilight came to her for support that she was able to recover from her depression
> “Oh my.” She whispers softly

> Rarity slowly walks back to you
> “Anon? Are you alright?”
> You look up. Your vision heavily obscured by your tears. You can just barely make Rarity’s silhouette against the light
> You look away in shame
> “Anon?”
> You try to ignore her as best as you can
> “Listen Anon. I’m sorry…Listen, why don’t we just talk it out? Just you and I.”
> You can the sympathy in her eyes.
> You can hear the trust in your voice
> “You can be confident that whatever you tell me now, I won’t share with anyp0ny. Ever.”
> She wraps her arm around your shoulder in a sort of hug.
> At first, you shudder at her touch.
> But then you relax and return the hug.
“I’m…I’m sorry. I just. I just don’t know what to do!”
> “Let’s just talk Anon. Just tell me what’s on your mind.

> You stare at her, and she to you
> You avert your gaze and look off out the window into the night sky
“You want the truth?”
> She nods her head up and down

“It…It all started about ten months ago…”

--

> “Oh my gosh! Wake up guys! We’re here!” Pinkie Pie exclaims as she bounces around the car
“Wh-What?”
> You groggily rubs the morning sand from your eyes
> Rarity, who had fallen asleep on your lap, does the same.
> Telling by her eye smeared eye liner, she had been crying heavily
> However, she quickly wipes it off before anyone notices
“What do you mean where here?”
> “Anonymous! Just look! See? It’s P0nyville!”
> She hops off the train car before saying anything
> Rarity gets off your lap and stretches for a bit
> “Good morning Anon. Sleep well?”
“Listen. I just want to apo-“
> She places her hoof over your lips
> “Let’s discuss that in private shall we?”
“Ah..Alright.”
> “Now come, gather your things. We need to show you around town.”
> You do as your told and scurry around the train car trying to gather all your belongings
> Just as you expected Rainbow Dash has woken up with a massive hangover
> Apple Jack seems unaffected. Apparently she can hold her own in drinks
> You put on your massive backpack and wheel off a large trunk.
> Luna and Celestia had gotten you this trunk as a welcome gift
> Luna’s voice still echoes in your mind “Anonymous! You are not to open this until you get settled in P0nyville. Do we make ourselves clear?”
> You chuckle for a bit
> As you reach for your rifle, Rarity pulls it away from you with her magic
“Hey!”
> She looks at your worriedly
> “Just promise me you’ll be careful.”
> You give her a warm and genuine smile
“You have my word.”
> She hands it back to you
“Thanks.”

> Applejack pokes her head in the car. “Well come one y’all! We haven’t got all day!”
“Jeeze, just give me a second will ya? I don’t see you helping carry all this!”
> “Well that’s the thing sugar cube, that’s all your stuff. Not mine. I ain’t gotta carry none of it!” She trots off laughing
“Asshole...” You mutter under your breath

> “Come darling. I’ll help you.”  She levitates your things with her magic

> As you head outside you take note of the town’s lively atmosphere
> As you cut through the town square you take note of the busy market place
> Many p0nies are selling farm foods and other handmade artisan crafts
> Applejack waves to a small yellow p0ny working an apple stand
“Do you know her?” You ask
> “Know her? Why, that’s my little sis’ Applebloom!”
“I didn’t know you had a sister!”
> “Yeah! Ya know, I’ve got an older brother too! You should meet him! He’s a gentle giant he is! I’m sure ya’ll would get along just fine!”
“Oh yeah. Definitely!”
> One thing has certainly been bothering you
> The sheer lack of males in Equestria’s population
> Like seriously!
> Out of all the p0nies you’ve met, only like a handful have been guys
> It’s not that you don’t mind, it’s just that you need to have a few bro’s around
> You juggle the though in your head for a while

> “Ooh! Ohh! Anonymous. Look other there!” Exclaims Pinkie Pie
> She’s pointing at what seems to be a ginger bread house
> Literally, a fucking ginger bread house
“What the hell is that?”
> “That’s Sugarcube Corner silly filly! I live there!” Ain’t it just great!?”
“Hah, I’ll say! It sounds great!”
> In the back of your mind you question the structural integrity of a cookie bread house
> Regardless, you don’t let this ruin Pinkie’s glee

> As you traverse the town, several p0nies come up to you
> Curiosity gets the best of them you suppose
> You met several new faces that day
> The Mayor greeted you with a warm smile
> Derpy Hooves handed you a muffin when you first met
> It’s was delicious!
> You met Lyra and Bonbon as well
> Their introduction was strange to say the least
> Most of the time, Lyra spent admiring your hands
> The way she caressed them creep you out, but it’s something to be expected. She was a big fan of them apparently.
> It definitely was in interesting experience

> Much of the rest of the day felt like a blur to you
> So many new people and so many new places
> You’ve never had this many people want to meet you before
> It’s an exciting experience, but you’re not one for meet and greet

> As you continue your journey, you start to remember certain landmarks around town
> You’re in a part of town you know of
> You finally arrive at your destination
> Twilight’s Library

--

> Twilight strut’s inside every so casually
> “Spiiike! We’re back home!”
> A voice comes from another room. “Oh great! Hey listen. While you were out, a bunch of mail came out for someone named ‘Anonymous’. I mean it’s got to be a mistake right?”
> The little purple and green dragon walk into the room
> “What the heck Twilight? I thought you got rid of this thing!”
> “Spike! Show some manners! This person here is Anonymous. He’s going to be staying in town.”
“How’s it going?”
> “Woah. It talks now?”
> You’re not digging this little guy’s attitude
> You decide to let it slide…for now.

> After a quick snack in the kitchen Twilight leads the group downstairs into what seems like a basement
> How a giant tree house is even capable of having a basement is just beyond you

> “So Twilight. Are ya gonna tell us why you just HAD to get here so quickly? I mean, what in tarnation could have been so important?”
> “Seriously Twilight! I could be practicing my flight maneuvers right now! This better be good!”
> Twilight leads you to a room you’ve never been in before
> Opening the door reveals a plethora of different machines and components
> It looks like a mad scientist’s laboratory
> You get a sinking feeling in your gut
> “To study our newest guest of course!” Twilight exclaims excitedly

> Oh boy.