Anon Williams (RGRE)

“I never pictured Aunt Megan pulling off what she did.”
>Train tracks bumped along as you sat with your dad and Pinkie Pie.
>”Given’ everything she taught you, you didn’t figure that out?”
>Dad laughs with a hint of mirth.
>After you arrived in equestria the rest of your family followed shortly afterwards.
>Some villain wanted to use the blood of an ancient hero to gain dark powers or some kind of junk.
>She got you instead.
>Aunt Megan was super pissed.
>Pinkie Pie, being the frizzle frazzle pony she is, quickly agreed with your dad.
>”Oh yeah, after Megan used her rainbow swoosh powers she ponytied her so good Applejack was taking notes.”
“The hogtying I understand. She’s done that plenty of times, but the whole rainbow magic junk was new.”
>”Believe me Anon, she was throwing around rainbows long before your time.”
>”It reminded me when my friends and I use the Elements of Harmony to stop the big meanie of the month.”
>”Funny how similar they both are. Pinkie, scoot closer to me.”
>”Can’t say no to that Mr. Williams!”
>”Please call me Danny. All my friends do.”
>Pinkie scooted closer, at a respectable marely hoof or so until dad reached his arm around her and brought Pinkie to his side.
“So what did you, Aunt Megan, and Aunt Molly all do in this pony world?”
>”All sorts of crazy stuff, not always fighting off monsters. Sometimes helping the ponies out was a full day. Kind of like back home on the ranch.”
>You watched give a thoughtful look, but there was something more going on here.
>It was at the victory celebration, dad had started to talk to Pinkie Pie.
>Though it was more like he was listening to her.
>The mare can go a mile a minute, fan girling and all.
>Megan noticed, and seemed a little sad.
>Dad’s hand was somewhere in Pinkie’s mane behind the ear.
>”Oooooh Danny, that feels really good.”
>”Same spot.”
“What?”
>Pinkie’s tongue was panting and her left back leg started to twitch a bit.
>”Just like a pony I knew, she had special spots where you scratch and just become like pudding in your hands.”
“No kidding. That explains why that one mint pony kept trying to do stuff for her.”
>”That’s just Lyra. She’s a silly pony.”
>”You have no right to call others a silly pony, Pinkie.”
>”I know silly because I am silly, and believe me she is one silly pony. As long she wasn’t trying take advantage of a cute human colt.”
“Young man please, not a child.”
>”And a very ‘cute’ one.”
>Dad has that shiteating grin again.
“Redheads don’t have souls.”
>”That’s why I borrow yours when I need one.”
>”Redheads don’t have souls! Oh no, did you lose it at a jazz concert? Or maybe you put too much in your soul food? Or maybe--”
>Dang, this pony just goes on tangents, yet dad is comfortable with this.
>You can’t recall if he was ever this chill.
“Where are we going?”
>”We’re also on a train, might have lost it he--We’re going to my home on the rock farm!”
“A mining community?”
>”No silly, a rock farm. We grow and harvest rocks of all kinds there. This is a season of geodes.”
>”Don’t you recall how to grow rocks son? I’m disappointed boy.”
“Funny man, pops. Seriously though, why?”
>”Yeah, I have to agree with Mr. Williams Jr.”
“Anon.”
>”It’s nice for you to come to my family’s home and all, but it seems rather out of the way when we can be going to all kinds of places. The princesses have a party going on with the rest of your family, but I bet that one will be booooring with all the stuffy ponies in suits. Danny Jr. would get bored.”
>”Ha! Danny Jr. that’s perfect.”
“Pinkie. I’m Anon. Please stop fueling my dad with terrible ideas.”
>Dad looked down at Pinkie, who looked up at him.
>”I think my boy needs to be nicer to you.”
>”Pisha, young colts like him are whimsical. They can’t help it.”
>Breaks are heard as the train lurches forward.
>You jump from your seat, standing straight up.
>Hopefully you can leave this awkward scene behind.
“Welp, time to greet an overhyped quarry!”
>Pinkie pops from her seat with an audible boing.
>”Silly Anon, getting excited for a rock farm. Only you.”
>Dad slowly gets up, lacking a pony in his arms once again.
>Grabs his hat, but doesn’t put it on.
>”Right, let’s go.”
>The other ponies in the other carts greet us as we get off, but none follow.
>You see why shortly.
“Not even a town here at this stop.”
>”Nope! Come on! Let’s go say hi to the folks.”
>She bounces all the way there.
>You don’t say anything, but that pony’s energy is unreal.
>Dad and you keep up just fine, though he did stop when we see a house on the horizon.
>”Was your family always rock farmers?”
>”The main family is, I think. But the family is large enough that we’ve branched off to do other things. I’m 100% positverificly sure that we are related to the Apples somewhere on the family tree.”
>”I can see that happening.”
“Didn’t you say you knew an Apple back when you arrived? That family is pretty old.”
>”You’re telling me. I was surprised when I saw Applejack. The near spitting image of our Applejack.”
>”You can always rely on them to be steady! Come on, I see one of my sisters already! Marble! Marble! Call the family out! We are visitors!”
>The oversized megaphone disappeared into Pinkie’s mane, you see her sister freeze in place before dashing off to get her family.
>Though you got the vibe she was running away to hide rather than get her family.
“I think you yelling will let them know we are here.”
>”Just so you know, Marble is the quiet one, Limestone is bossy, and my parents are reserved so we should have a fun time with you two here! If you touch that big rock over there Limestone will give you an earful.”
>”Think I see someone coming out of the house.”
>”Limestone! Hey Limestone! Over here!”
“She looks like she’s been chewing on a lime.”
>”Pinkie Pie, what the hay!? I just saw Marble run by figured something was going wrong again. Who are these weirdos.”
>”Well this is your sister Pinkie and my son Anon.”
>Limestone stops in her tracks, giving your dad a frustrated look.
>”You almost made me laugh.”
>”Nice one Danny. Sooooo Limey, this is Dan Williams, and you already know his son. I’ll give you a few moments to ponder those names.”
>”William, I don’t know what a William is? They look like they can work hard though. Even string bean right there.”
>Much to your surprise it was Pinkie’s turn to give an unimpressed look.
>”With how you talk to colts you wonder why you are still single.
>Ouch, time to rebound this train.
“And here I thought Megan was important. Guess Twilight was just hyping it up.”
>Limestone’s glaring contest with her sister stopped when she heard Aunt Megan’s name.
>”Wait, Megan the Ancient Hero? Oh...oh bedrock your Danny Williams the brother!”
>”You got it Limestone. Wish I had a better title.”
“Aunt Megan did most of the work.”
>”Wait, wait, wait hold on. So some great lacky of the hero--”
>You like this mare already.
>”-And his son just comes strolling up to our house because?”
>”Danny asked me!”
>Pinkie the ever so helpful one.
>”I was asking him.”
>”Daw, when have we ever turned away guests?”
>”Whenever I can.”
>”I’m sure you two sisters can keep going at this all day, but I want to speak with your parents.”
>Limestone huffed before looking back at the house.
>”Right, so it looks like dad and mom are already at the porch. Just go up to them and say whatever. Just don’t touch Holder’s Boulder!”
>”Limestone, they haven’t even seen it yet.”
>”Anon, stay here and talk with these lovely mares. I’ll be quick.”
>Dad strides past Limestone, his boots kick up dust with each heavy thud.
>Time to break the ice.
“Rock farming.”
>”What about it?”
“How does that work?”
>Limestone rolls her eyes before pointing to one of the fields.
>”We grow deposits and collect the minerals at certain times. Depending on what you want a plot can take decades to form. Then put in the neck work and break a few rocks to get the gems.”
>”It’s super boring.”
>”It’s hard honest work. One that isn’t appreciated enough.”
>Limestone looks at you, looks away briefly as she chews on her upper lip.
>”So, um, what do you do?”
“Ranching. Drive cows, work fields, raise horses. Probably not as lucrative as hauling gem stones, but it is a good life.”
>”Right, right. So what brings you here? Besides the whole intr-showing up to our home and other manure.”
>Pinkie is rubbing her forehead.
>Putting two and two together, Limestone casually saying ‘shit’ is not something you do around a colt.
“Got kidnap by some evil mare. She wanted to take over Equestria or some nonsense. She liked to grab my butt.
>Limestone’s face freezes stone cold.
“Got tied up really tight with this latex suit that restricts your movement, and was completely helpless.”
>She is clearly trying to avoid saying something.
“With how much she rubbed all over me I could call it molestation.”
>”Terrible.”
“Eh, I’ll live with it.”
>Pinkie is holding back mischievous laugh.
>”Boy! Get over here.”
>Looks like Dad is done talking.
“So what’s going on?”
>”Just talked with them, and I think my hunch is right. Limestone, I just got permission to go the family cemetery.”
>Limestone looks at her father at the house who gives her a nod.
>”What are you looking for? Right, I’ll lead the way. Pinkie go help start up dinner for our guests.”
>Your guide turns around and gives you a head tilt.
>”Follow me you two.”
>Dad has his right hand in his pocket, he is gripping something tightly.
“Right then. Let’s go.”
>The three of you walk, passing through a bland rocky terrain before coming across a open cave that leads below the earth.
>”So I’m guessing you don’t live in Equestria. How long you plan on sticking around?”
>”Well we do have work to do, so not too long I think.”
“Going to tell us what you are looking for?”
>”No. Not until I am completely sure.”
>”Stallions got to keep their secrets.”
“Let me guess. An old friend.”
>Dad is silent.
>”Can’t think of anypony in our family that new the old heroes, er, you and your family.”
“Getting dark in here, why do you have a cemetery down here?”
>”You’ll see why soon enough.”
>There is light up ahead, enough light to make some of the crystal glow.
>After walking through the cave tunnel you come to an opening.
>Light beams through the ceiling onto a large gemstone in the middle of the cavern.
>Greenery overflows in this underground oasis next to a cool underground water pond.
>”This was found a long time ago by one of my ancestors. The magical stone makes the ground super fertile. Over there is where we have the family cemetery.”
>“Anon.”
>You look at your Dad expecting him to continue.
>”Stay here.”
>He pull out a locket, one you haven’t seen before.
>Dad walks to the ancient tombs with purposeful steps, leaving behind with the rough mare.
>”He sure has a rough marely exterior. So you are thinking a friend huh?”
“Yeah, I was told stories about their adventures, has to be someone he once knew. It was what, a couple thousand years ago?”
>”I dunno. That was ancient history when Celestia was young. Some kind of Stallion intuition going on here. Just meeting Pinkie Pie and he has a crazy plan to drag his kid to buck middle of nowhere.”
“After what I’ve been through this week, this is relaxing.”
>“Yeah. If I was there I would have knocked that mare silly. Ain’t right kidnapping a colt.”
“My hero.”
>You smile as you scruff up Limestone’s mane.
>Limestone tenses up and blushes furiously before stepping away.
>”Only the right thing to do, don’t get all feely on me with those wiggly things.
>Adorable, but you decide not to push it.
>This mare is wound up tight.
>Dad is clearly looking at gravestones until he gets the farthest one in the back on an elevated hill.
>He has stopped and his starting at it.
>”I think he found your pony.”
>Danny gets up and doubles back to an earlier grave.
>He kneels down and wipes away some of the grit.
“He can read that? How? Those stones must be crazy old?”
>”Ptth, making rocks last is our speciality. Wouldn’t be much of a rock farmer if we couldn’t take care of a few old rocks.”
“Still though, ancient history we are talking here.”
>”All I know is that the land changes, but we ponies are always reliable and solid.
>You look down at her with an impressed look.
>”I mean, your family did teach our race how to survive. Got our morals from them.”
“Yeah, I guess they did.”
>Looking back up, you see Dad has taken off his hat and put it on the gravestone.
>Can’t see his face, but you can tell he is holding back tears.
>He gets up and moves back to the stone in the back.
>”Anon! Come here!”
>The deep voice echoes throughout the chamber.
>You pass rows beyond rows of old graves.
>Sections diverged off to other branches belonging to family many centuries old.
>How did you dad know where to look.
>Maybe stallion intuition is a real thing in pony land.
>Walking past until you reached him on the small hill.
>Not saying yet, you look at the tombstone.
>’Surprise’
>Dad has his hand over his mouth, eyes are watering.
>”I meet this mare when we came over the rainbow bridge. We became fast friends, went on adventures together, had a really good time. Surprise…”
>The locket in his hand is open, and you can see her.
“She’s a pegasus.”
>”Yeah. Pinkie Pie takes a lot from her. It’s how I suspected. Same mane, energy, friendliness. Family traits are strong in her.”
>”Come closer. I want you to hear this.”
>Dad gets on his knees in front of the grave, and you follow suit.
>”Surprise. It’s me. Your Dan. Sorry it took so long to get back. You know how bad I was with time. I wish we had more time. Wish we didn’t lose the road back to pony land, but here we are. I brought Anon. Anon, this is your mother.”
>Had you been standing you would have fallen over in shock.
>”Surprise and I knew each other for a long while. When I was eighteen we got married. Damn, I was so young. I can still remember holding her.”
“You said mom was lost in an accident.”
>”When the Rainbow Bridge was destroyed there was no way we can go back. Our ties to pony land was truly lost forever.”
“Mom. Was a pony. I. Just. What!?”
>”We had twins. A beautiful baby boy, and a darling little filly. She called you her biggest surprise.
>Leaning down on your hands, you take this all in.
>This was your mother.
>Looking over at the picture you see the bright smile of a blonde pegasus.
>Puffy mane, large grin, and energy leaking off the picture.
>”She was the world in my life. I’m sorry. I took you away from her. Her and your sister. I needed you to get checked by a human doctor, when we got back home. It was all gone.”
>The tombstone with that his hat on it, that must have been your sister.
“Cornerstone.”
>”That’s her. The most solid little filly I had ever held. Guessing the old human genes made for one tough pony. She was perfect, just like your mom. I’m sorry. I don’t have a picture of her.”
>Dad is gripping your shoulder tightly as he pulls you in.
>He doesn’t say anything else, just continues to cry quietly.
>There is nothing else for you to say.
>The strong brickhouse of a father, is holding you with such loving tightness.
>On the ground in front of Surprise’s resting place is the open pendant.
>There are tears forming in the corner of your eyes.
>Closing them you grip your father tightly.
>There are so many things you want to know, but for now you just want this moment.
>You feel feathered wings hugging you for some reason.

>This is all too unreal.
>Stretching your fingers out before balling them back up.
>Repeat this over and over.
>Nothing is wrong, but shouldn’t there be?
>Just like every other person you know.
>So how?
>”Anon.”
>A magical pony mom.
>Not just a pony, a pegasus.
>”Ponyland to Anon.”
>”Equestria Danny!”
>”Ponyland was a fine name.”
>Not just that, a twin sister.
>What similarities did you two have?
>Why were you a human?
>Pretty sure you are human.
>What is a man, but a pony hiding in human skin.
>Oh no, what if you are a pony and you’re going to alien your way out of this chest?
>Something hard cracks across the back of your head, and now you are softly resting your mug in rock soup.
>Pulling yourself up, you see a blimey Limey.
>”Nice work. Welcome back to the waking world.”
>Dad is giving you that raised eyebrow look from across the table.
>The ‘son you gonna embarrass me again’ look.
>You look to your hosts, and their reaction is not what you expect.
>Both Marble and Pinkie are glaring at their sister, and their parents don’t seem all that pleased.
>”Limestone, my daughter, while it was at the request of our guest. You Will Not Do That Again.”
>The mare turns to almost protest, but dies when her mother’s glare shuts her down.
>”I thought you were raised to not do that to a colt.”
>”Missus, please. My boy ain’t some child. If a little filly can hurt him than he’s been slaking. He’s been knocked off horses plenty of times when trying to break them.”
>”Little!?”
>Limestone protests quickly.
>”Hard work is one thing sir, but physical abuse is beyond the pale.”
>Danny sighs as he shifts in his tiny seat.
“Why am I a human?”
>Whatever response dad was going to give stops cold when you finally speak up.
“I’ve been rolling it around in my head and I really don’t get it.”
>”Son, I’m not even going to pretend to make sense of magic. In this world, anything goes.”
>You gesture towards the ponies.
“If they are also my kin, shouldn’t I, I don’t know, maybe have some kind of connection with them? I can fit in just fine back home, but what am I here? Heck, does it even matter anymore? If mom lived ages ago these ponies probably don’t even resemble what they like back then right?”
>Dad’s jaw tightens as you word vomit over dinner.
>”I mean no disrespect, but is what you say true? You are our progenitor, Mr. Williams.”
>You or dad hadn’t said much after returning from mom’s resting place, but it wasn’t too hard to guess.
>Dad picks up his hat he had left hanging off the back of his chair.
>He opens up the flap on the inside of the brim and pulls out a large, unbent feather.
>The feather appears to be without blemish and still very much alive.
>”I don’t know if the tradition holds up today, but when we got married Surprise gave me one of her primaries. A pegasus feather keeps their magic forever, one of the many reasons why unicorns sometimes used them in spells. I can stuff it in any tight cramp places, but it always springs back uncrumpled.”
>Igneous Rock nods slowly.
>”It is indeed still a tradition.”
>Igneous and Quartz glance at each other before Quartz speaks up with respect.
>”We believe you. The stories passed down in this family run as long and deep as the earth we rest on. The ancient heroes were said to give blessings to our family, a cornerstone so it will shepherd the fertile lands. We have been fruitful and multiplied across the lands.”
>Does make you wonder how many ponies could trace all the way back to Surprise and dad, might like an Attila the hun situation.
>”So that’s how Equestria was made.”
>Limestone gives her sister the ‘shut up now’ look.
>For the first time, you hear Marble say something instead of hiding behind her bowl of soup.
>”You’re family?”
>Father smiles as he puts the feather down.
>”Goes back a long ways, but yes little lady.”
>The volcano eruption known as Pinkie Pie stopped holding back.
>”Woohoo! We need to celebrate! Party! Family Reunion! Another one after recognizing the old heroes return! Oh, oh, oh! We need to invite great aunt Megan and great aunt Molly. All of the candles in Equestria can’t fit on this cake.”
>Brush off the confetti out of your hair.
>Limestone blows some confetti off her muzzle.
>”Pinkie, tone it way back. They came here to find out what happened to their immediate family. At this point, they might just want to go back home?”
>What do you want to do?
>Regardless, what you are about to say the head of the household speaks up.
>”They are welcomed to stay here for the night. Pinkie respect their decision please.”
>Pinkie pouts.
>”Anon, you haven’t touched your soup.”
“I don’t feel hungry.”
>Can you even eat a rock?
>Igneous walks around the table and makes sure to have your attention.
>”Young stallion, please do not consider this to be a burden. While it may take time to understand your situation, please know that this family is now your family.”
>His eyes are full of sympathy, but sternness.
“Thank you.”
>Not sure what else to do.
“I’m. I’m going outside for a bit.”
>Your father nods, but stays put.
>You get up and head to the door.
>Quartz leans down to Limestone and whispers in her ear.
>”Escort him. After your rudeness you need to make sure he is safe.”
>She frowns, but does not protest.
>Pinkie Pie bounces behind her with a sing songy voice.
>”I’m coming too!”
>Leaving Marble behind to pick up the dishes.
>She sighs.
---
>This is a completely different world, so the stars are probably completely different.
>”Princess Luna controls the stars.”
“What!?”
>Pinkie smiles as she bounces along side of you.
>”You were looking up at the sky so I kind of figured you were thinking about the night sky.”
>Freaking mind reader.
“Right. Here out away from cities and towns I figured we get a clear picture.”
>”Clear picture? What is it different from where you come from?”
>The rough voice from Limestone reminds you of her presence.
“Light pollution from cities and towns can prevent you from seeing the stars. I get to work in open remote places like this so often it isn’t a problem.”
>”Is it pretty? Back home.”
>You look down at Limestone, her features had soften up.
“It can be, yeah.”
>”We should go and visit! I’d be so much fun.”
“Probably not, Pinkie. We don’t have talking ponies.”
“So how does all this make you feel?”
>”I dunno. Crazy stuff seems to be kind of the norm for me!”
>Pinkie must live one crazy life to not be phased by anything.
>Limestone on the other hand seems to let everything get under her skin.
>”Only because you live in Ponyville where manure goes down on a daily basis. Tartarus I bet you sometimes cause it.”
>”Hey, that only happened once. Maybe twice.”
>”Meh, getting off topic. Anon, it’s weird, but I dunno. Doesn’t feel wrong. You aren’t all that awkward to be around. Granted, I’ve only known you for half a day if I’m being generous.”
“I’m glad you are ok with it. I look nothing like you guys, but somehow I have a pegasus for a mom.”
>”Well it’s kind of like what your dad said, magic does do weird things. Hay, I keep a few personal magical stones that does funky stuff. Then we have a sister, Maud, who is a genealogist, I read her papers once and there are some magical rocks that can help take over Equestria. That’s just the stuff we have here. From what remember from school, magic use to be wilder back in the day.”
>Much to your surprise, she is holding a newspaper.
>Where she got it from you don’t know, but you guess all Pies have some kind of secret hammer space.
>”Your Aunt saved the day by throwing around a giant rainbow. That kind of magic is usually princess level stuff.”
“She’s had thing when she first arrived to ‘Ponyland’. Beat up a goat demon called Tirek.”
>Limestone stops in her tracks, and gaps.
>”Tirek!? As in Tirek Tirek? The red freak that ate magic? The dude showed up one day and just drained the entire family dry. And your aunt took him down.”
“Pretty much. Sounds like a big deal. When I listened to it when I was little I thought it was a silly story.”
>Limestone shakes her head.
>”Your family is crazy.”
>Can’t but give her a wry grin
“Your family too.”
>She actually laughs.
>”That’s hardly fair when we have Pinkie Pie in our family. But I guess we all have our weird quirks. Might blame your dad for that.”
>Can’t help but shrug at that.
“It’s what I do when something goes wrong.”
>Limestone stops and looks around.
>”Speaking of things going wrong, we’re down one pony. Pinkie! Where did you go?”
>For being so pink you would think it would be impossible to lose her.
>Thankfully, it didn’t take much looking to find her before she pops up next to you two.
>She is panting hard.
>”That is so much harder than I thought it would be. Dashie makes it look like a breeze.”
>Limestone passes around you with barely the concerned look.
>”What did you do this time?”
>Pinkie holds up her hoof as she catches her breath.
>”Well, Anon’s mom was a pegasus. So I thought, why not see if he do pegasus stuff.”
>That’s sweet of her, she’s trying.
“I don’t have wings. That’s a pretty large feature to be missing.”
>Pinkie shifts through her mane before pulling out a jar.
>”Pegasus can also control the weather. See if you can hold this cloud.”
>She pops open the jar and a cloud floats out of it.
>Weather control?
>Like some kind of supervillain?
>Well, not in this world.
>Your hand reaches out and grabs it.
>The cloud is in your hand.
>It folds and squishies like a physical object.
“So what are clouds supposed to do in this world.”
>Limestone pats you on your back, while standing on Pinkie.
>”Well congrats Anon. You got the touch. Got some pegasus magic in you somewhere. Probably the rectum.”
>Limestone cries out in shock as Pinkie unceremoniously drops her.
>”Well looks like my huncharoo was correctamoono. You got your momma’s touch in ya.”
>The cloud is soft, crazy so.
>Like the childish softness you imagine when you were young if you were asked what a cloud felt like.
>Something in you says you can get on this cloud, like a good idea to do it.
>Push the cloud down so you can easily board it.
>One foot, other foot.
>This is it, you are sitting on a cloud.
“Goku, eat your heart out with your pure heart nonsense.”
>”Goku some kind of friend back home? Sounds like a dork.”
>You are not wrong Limestone.
>The cloud floats higher.
>Then you will it back down to the ground.
>Tips left and right.
>Everything just works.
>You try to go higher, high enough until you can see for hundreds of miles in every direction.
>The moon has supplanted the sun, and the stars sprinkle the sky now.
>Sinking back into the cloud, it feels natural.
>Must have been a rain cloud because it started to get water in your face.
“Mom...thank you.”
>“Anon! If you are ok please scream! If not, scream for help!”
>You are not currently Anon at the moment, nor are you an airhead.
>Therefore, you are Limestone.
>”You should try and make him your coltfriend.”
>Pinkie must have lost her everloving mind.
>”What?! Are you off your gord? We just meet the guy and you want me to sweep him off his boots?”
>Pinkie is trying to do that stupid serious face.
>”I don't know if you haven't noticed, but he hasn't galloped away screaming from you.”
>Oh that horse.
>”My date life is not your concern.”
>Pinkie physically grabs your head and makes sure eye contact is made.
>Which is really gross.
>”I am talking about the son of a legendary hero right at your hooves. If you get all clover hooves somepony else will snatch him.”
>Despite your best efforts to oral away from your sister, her grip remains like a vise.
>”Oh yeah? Why don't you stable up with him Ms. Save Equestria every month. You got the prestige.”
>Sister pokes you in the stomach with a sharp hoof.
>”Would you want to date somepony like your dad? Actually don't answer that.”
>Vision became red as you bodily pick up your sister and slam her into the ground.
>”Never say anything like that ever again.”
>She rubs her tush with only a grumble.
>”My point still stands. The only reason they're out here is because I reminded Danny of his mare. So dating is no bueno.”
>However you want to swing this filly, she is right.
>A stallion is still a stallion, so they're more receptive when emotional like now.
>He is floating down.
“What's that giant boulder over there?”
>”Don't you bucking touch Holder’s boulder!”
>Anon was actually started by your outburst.
>”Nice Limey.”
>Ok, ok, just smooth your ears forward and don't bristle your coat!
>This is still salvageable.
“I just saw it glowing and thought it was weird. Wasn't going to touch it.”
> Tilt your head to the side as you look at Holder’s boulder.
>”Holder’s boulder doesn't glow. It is a normal...normal.”
>Thankfully, Pinkie finishes your words.
>”That is one normal glowing rock.”
>Anon hops off his cloud and stuffs it under his arm.
“Is this how one of your super villains show up? Cause that's what it feels like.”
>This is not something you need in your life right now.
>Thankfully, Pinkie steps up with a determined grin.
>”Don't worry your pony feathers. I'm a professional. If something mean comes out I'll give it a taste of pastries.”
>Unfortunately, this is your sister.
>”Ok, let's reel this back before cantering off to conclusions. We’ll take this slow, and figure out what's going on.”
“All right. I'll follow your lead.”
>That right there makes your chest filled with pride.
>Oh yeah, time to stick out my chest tuff and show him what a real mare does.
>Still though, ominous glowing rock.
>It looks like it is covered in runes.
>Kind of wish Maud was here, this is right up her fissure.
“So you called this Holder’s Boulder? Who’s Holder?”
>Keep looking at the runes hoping to make mane or tail of it.
>”He founded the Pie family, and he found this rock in a dragon’s nest.”
“That seems like a really bad idea to take.”
>Given something horrible is about to happen, the stallion isn’t wrong.
>This only means that Pinkie is going to make it worse.
>”I found something.”
>Being right is overrated.
>Anon and you walk around to the other side to find Pinkie pointing at something.
>Lines seem to lead this familiar picture with what looks like small ponies dancing around it.
“Well, that is most definitely a hand outline.”
>Huh, it does look like his little wigglers.
>”Touch it.”
>Pinkie stop.
>”Pinkie, stop.”
“Touching glowing rocks is not the best idea.”
>”It is asking you nicely. Look, blink on, blink off.”
>You quickly pull Pinkie back to stop her from poking it.
>”Don’t touch it. Don’t touch it. Don’t touch it.”
>Thankfully, Anon is not an idiot and listens.
“Should we go get your parents? They probably know what this is about?”
>A quick nod and you point towards the house.
>”You two go get them, I’ll keep an eye on it just in case it decides to do something.”
>Pinkie squeezes out of your grasp and pops up next Anon.
>”Race you there! 1, 2, 3, Goowoooooooaah!”
>An earthquake throws you off your hooves, allowing you to make a nice soft landing spot for your sister.
>Cracks spider web away from the boulder making the terrain hazardous.
>You watched Anon try to keep his balance until he trips over your traitorous limbs.
>Good thing he was able to keep himself up right by throwing his hand onto a large rock to steady himself.
>Bad thing was it being the very rock you didn’t want to touch.
>Straight on the imprint.
>Anon has a nonplussed glare.
“This world is stupid and contrived.”
>Holder’s Boulder was once a precious family heirloom that you vowed to protect after dad told you the story.
>And you blew it.
>”Anon, I feel like this is all your fault.”
>That’s it, blame it on somepony else.
>Blame it all on a stallion.
>Buck, you deserve to be alone.
>The boulder is split down the middle, but hasn’t fallen aside yet.
“I’d say we ignore it until tomorrow.”
>Ignoring his advice, the boulder finishes splitting around the circumference and falls into two pieces with a thud shaking all of you.
>Inside of it is a pony.
>You feel Pinkie slide off of you and proceeds to tiptoe towards it.
>”It looks like a pony mare statue.”
>Dusting yourself off, you see Anon’s hand slowly go down to that thing on his belt and unclick it.
>”What are you doing with that?”
“I honestly don’t know, but having a weapon will make me feel better.”
>Pinkie chirps up, practically on top of the statue.
>”Don’t worry! I think it is safe.”
>The ‘statue’s’ eyes open.
>Pinkie screams, she would later tell the family it was the family war cry of mareliness.
>You on the other hoof stand in front of Anon, determined to actually do what you mom told you to do.
>Legs are wide, hooves are planted, shoulders hunched.
>”All right you stoney freak. You are on our land so you better think twice what your next move is.”
>The statue gets up, and up, and up.
>Stop it wobbly legs.
“She’s actually pony sized.”
>Great, and now the stallion is calling you short.
>The golem thing rolls her neck before setting her sight on you all.
>It attempts to speak, but it comes out all garbled.
>She looks frustrated before breathing in deeply.
>”I AM COMPLETE!”
>You may have peed a little.
>”Buuuuck.”
>Anon points at the creature.
“Yeah? What do you want?”
>”I have waited a thousands years to be released once more upon the land!”
“Do you have to yell?”
>The golem taps her barrel.
>”Yes! I still have gravel stuck in my throat! Need to clear it out before I can speak normally! Regardless, human and ponies thank you for opening my seal at long last! Please tell me the name of my deliverers!”
>Pinkie willingly shares her name.
>”I’m Pinkie Pie, this is my sister Limestone, and this is Anon.”
>Golem steps down off her platform.
>”Anon you say? Are you Anonymous Williams? Son of Surprise and Danny Williams?”
>He doesn’t look nearly as tense as he was before, just curious.
>Can’t say the same for yourself.
“Unless you are some kind of mind reader, yeah that’s me.”
>Grinning from ear to ear, the golem actually starts to prance in place.
>”Holder’s spell worked then! I am your sister, Cornerstone!”
“Wat?”
>This sounds like some deep manure.
>”This requires an explanation then! Houlder made a spell so that I can put a part of my soul in an empty vessel, on the chance that I may find my other family once more!”
>Cornerstone frolics around you two before stopping in front of Anon.
>”My brother! You’ve found a way back into this realm! I wished it was when mother was still alive, but to actually see you again. Makes it all worth it.”
>You noticed that Cornerstone hasn’t actually forced herself on Anon.
>”I will admit. For a long time I thought what this moment will be like, please believe me. For my long life when I had a normal body I wished to see you. Hold you. Be a big sister. When sight abandoned me, frailness claimed my hooves, and my mane was just withered strains I still hoped to know you, Anon. One of my great great grandcolts found a way to preserve a part of me in a shell. Most of my children argued against it, that I wasn’t of sound mind. Human stubbornness was strong in me though. Please. Please believe me. Please. Please.”
>Anon seems to have that look again after you left the family grave.
>Somehow you can read the reserved hopefulness from Cornerstone.
“I...I only just found out about my mother and you. We found your gravestone.”
>Shaky hands reach out before gently holding Cornerstone’s head.
>His voice is barely holding together.
“I thought I had no more tears to cry today. Damn. I wish I could say something more meaningful.”
>Cornerstone pulls him in for a full body hug, makes you recall when Danny and Anon hugged in front of Surprise’s grave.
>”I can’t cry in this body, but if I could I would be watering the earth.”
>You feel like you are intruding on a scene, but you can’t leave.
>Pinkie passes you a tissue.
>This whole thing is going to replay over again once Danny finds his filly once again.
>Ancient heroes, long passed on ancestors, dusty stories, at the end of it all it was all about family.
>A big sister and her little brother.
>Buck, and you were going to try and hit on him.
>You are so dead if she finds out.

>Day of reckoning in Equestria, of the lesser reckoning variety not the end of the world kind.
>Sun hasn’t even risen over the horizon and you are already up with the rest of the household.
>Dad is throwing what little belongings he brought in a bag.
>He is a little careless doing so, but clearly he is a bit pensive.
“So what’s eating at you?”
>”Well, I got a letter in the mail from Molly. Some smart ponies back in the capital have been asking questions and figured out what we were doing.”
>Doesn’t seem like a big deal.
>Cornerstone is trying very hard to read the letter, but she seems to be struggling.
>”What is with this hoof scribble? These letters don’t make any sense. What was wrong with our alphabet that needed it to be changed? How can you even read this dad?”
>Dad scratches her ears as he peels the letter away from her grasp.
>”Sorry kiddo, but Princess Twilight cast a translation spell for us when we arrived. So the big deal is that Megan probably said that I was looking for my family.”
>He tries to let up on rubbing sis, but she keeps pushing her head into his palm.
>”Cornerstone, does this even do anything for you?”
>She stares at him between his fingers.
>”Maybe not like a flesh and blood pony, but I want to be close to you.”
>Danny sighs as he resumes rubbing her muzzle.
>”Seems like you are a bigger deal than you realize, Anon. I was able to have children with a pony. Nobles will most likely want the House of Williams formed, the princesses have expressed interest with Megan on opening relations with earth, and you will be the center of attention.”

>Snort in amusement as you put on your house shoes.
“Open up relations with home? Right, I hope Megan told them what kind of nut house earth is.”
>Cornerstone softly hums before she pulls back from Dad to look at you.
>”Anon, this magical world has produced many terrors and dark forces that I’ve witnessed. How can your world really be all that different?”
>You point with one finger as you start to count.
“Well for one we have a terrorist organization that is constantly trying to take over the world. We also have these giant alien robots that constantly fighting each other. That’s just the tip of the iceberg I’m sure. Point is, home is nuts.”
>”What’s a robot?”
“Think something like you, only made of metal. And it is an entire race of them. The nice ones seem like decent folks, meet one while I was herding along the highway, he was asking for directions before it turned into a motorcycle and drove off.”
>Cornerstone has been really fascinated with any stories you’ve been telling her of home.
>Dad clears his throat as he closes his bag.
>”Enough about that. Anon, we are going back to Canterlot, that name is so stupid, and most likely do some really boring important stuff. You will probably be staying in Equestria for the time being.”
>Ok, sure just say that casually without asking what you want.
“Thanks dad for running that by me like I wasn’t going to protest. Did you get hit in the head by that rock soup last night, because that is the dumbest thing I’ve heard.”
>Sister snorts in your face with furrowed eyebrows.
>”Don’t talk to dad like that. If you were my foal I would have disciplined you for that rudeness.”

>You boop her in the nose, making her go cross eyed.
“He might call me a kid, but I am my own man. He can’t just decide what I’m going to do.”
>”That might be true normally, Anon. However this is a good opportunity to see your homeland. It might not be Ponyland, but it is close. Don't worry about the ranch, the pony leadership has investigated interest in our wellbeing.”
>Dad seems to be running off some kind of goodwill if he has this much faith in ponies.
“Let's cross that bridge when we get back. Aunt Molly and Megan probably have some insight. I'm ready to go.”
>Cornerstone turns sideways and points to her back.
>”Put your belongings on me. I can take them until we reach the train.”
“Thanks little sis.”
>Her ears flicks towards you.
>”I’m the eldest, young Anon. You are the little brother.”
“Just because you are as old as dirt does not make me the little brother. Besides you were just born again. Double dipping doesn’t count.”
>”Mother can confirm I was born first.”
“I’m sure. Dad? I think you said I was born first.”
>Dan kicks open the door and marches out.
>”Don’t want anything to do with this discussion. Oh, hello Pinkie Pie. What brings you to our room, also why are you flat against the door?”
>Pancake Pinkie pops off the door after being flattened.
>”Breakfast is ready. Owie. Rocks and gravy.”
“You probably shouldn’t be eavesdropping on guests.”
>Pinkie raspberries and poofs her mane back up.
>”Wasn’t sneaking. Anyway, toodles!”
>Cornerstone watches her vanish, one eyebrow raised.
>”She sort of acts like a mother, but lacks elegance.”
>Dad only chuckles.
>”Surprise was also klutzy, but hide it better as she got older.”

>Day totally not sneaking and listening in on friends.
>Also be Pinkie Pie the Third!
>Actually not, but it might be true.
>Anyway, short story segment with me, weeee!
>Anonymously prod your stately mother figure.
“Mom. Mooooom. Pssst, mom.”
>She also not reacting as she brushes her mane.
“Fiiiiiine. Mother dearest, may we speak.”
>Cloudy Quartz sighs and puts down the brush.
>”Yes, my sweet Diana? Your everlasting ability to test the virtue of patience can never be understated.”
>Wow, wake up on the wrong side of the bed.
“They’re leaving this morning after breakfast.”
>Mother nods sagely.
>”You are free to leave with them child.”
“Yes, but maybe we should encourage a certain other pony to join them.”
>Your leading question merely gets an eyebrow raise.
“Like a certain lonely mare. Grey coat, sharp personality, grumpy pants. It’s Limestone. Tell Limestone to go.”
>Pearl necklace go around Cloudy’s neck.
>”Limestone doesn’t wear pants, dear.”
>A facehoof loudly smacks as you groan.
>Her sly grin lets you know she is teasing you.
>”If Limestone has the gumption to follow that young stallion that is up to her.”
“Mom. I’m going to be frank. Not like Frank, he’s a nice donkey, but frank as in no nonsense. Limestone can’t give a cardboard cutout pickup lines, she knows this. She’s just going to make excuses to stay and let Anon just walk out those doors. Tell her to pull up her hooves and follow him. Before some pretty Canterlot mare throws her charm around and swoops him up.”
>Mom puts on her glasses after putting her mane in a bun.
>”The sister might put a stop to that, besides he strikes me as a young man devoted to home. He’s not planning on staying in Equestria.”

>”Unless there is something that you are not telling me. Pinkie.”
>She’s got the tone.
“Well, I do have an itty bitty hoofy Pinkie feeling that Anon might be leaving anytime soon. Just a hunch. And I’ll be bouldered if I don’t help one of my sisters get a coltfriend. Limey might be rough as sandstone, graceful as sediment, and thick as peridotite, but she deserves to be happy. And Anon is one tartarus of a catch.”
>Limestone grumbles.
>”Thanks jerk.”
>You smile at your sister.
“No problem...wait. Limestone! When did you get here!?”
>Her eye twitches.
>”You pushed me aside to talk to mom first at the door! Work on your situational awareness.”
>Mom overshadows you both rather suddenly with that aura of authority.
>”Daughters. Be silent. Pinkie, thank you for your concern. Limestone, you’ve heard your sister’s schemes. Do you believe you have a chance of wooing Anon in courtship? It is the greatest challenge the Pies face every generation, and Anon is not going to be an easy mate. His attention will be divided by many ponies who have their own goals. Ponies who’s status and physical process will outstrip your own. Say nothing of his family; the everlasting Cornerstone, Sire of this very household Danny Williams, the youthful Molly Williams, and the legendary Megan Williams.”
>Geez mom, lay it on thick
>Limestone can’t seem to keep eye contact, ears folded back hard and lips glued tight.
>”I don’t know. Just. Breakfast is ready.”
>She zips out the door tail tucked.
“So much for that.”
>”She hasn’t decided yet, daughter. She may yet surprise us.”
>Mom trots out the room.
“Well if Limestone doesn’t want him, maybe some other lonely pony. How does Princess Cadence do this shipping stuff?”

>Back to being not a bright eyed pony, the one and only Anon.
>They were not kidding with rocks for breakfast.
>Gravy is good at least.
“So thank you for your hospitality, Mr. and Mrs. Pie.”
>Igneous nods graciously.
>”It was an honor to meet you son of Dan. We pray that your travels across your newly discovered homeland will be fruitful.”
>This does feel like a big family reunion setting.
>The Pies sit on one side with Cornerstone towering over them in the middle.
>Cornerstone is very pleased it seems.
>”Indeed, my little ponies. This land that I once roamed is once again new. I look forward to seeing how ponies have progressed in my absence.”
>Hopefully they have food that doesn’t include rocks.
>You want to keep your teeth.
>Dad finishes up his bowl rather quickly.
>”Like Anon said, thank you for tolerating our sudden intrusion. We need to head to the castle on the mountain to talk to all the important ponies. Megan and Molly probably have plenty to share since we’ve been gone. It has been a pleasure meeting you folks.”
>Pinkie has been awfully quiet, shifting her gaze from parents to her sisters.
“You coming with us, Pinkie? I’m sure you have to get back to work as well.”
>She straightens up like pole with a rather forced laugh.
>”Oh yeah, yeah. I’m heading out with you all. The Cakes have a bunch of orders to be worked on after all.”
>With a nod and a quick drink of water to rinse, you rise with a slight spring with your step.
“Mrs. Quartz, Mr. Igneous, Marble, Limestone it has been very good to meet you all. I’m sure I’ll come back here again to see my mom. Take care of yourselves.”

>Mrs. Pie smiles, it is small and humble, but rather genuine.
>”Our home is your home. You are all welcome back with open hooves.”
>You and your family bid them farewell.
>Walking out on the front deck you see the morning sun shining brightly over the dreary landscape.
“You know, it doesn’t look like much, but this place is hiding some real beauty to it.”
>Dad slaps you on the back.
>”Come on, let’s go to the train station. I think we have 30 minutes before it arrives.”
>”Never been on a train, but with you two I think I’ll be fine.”
>Walking from the house you remember just a little ways away mom rested.
>Yeah, you will be back again.
“I think we’re missing one.”
>You glance back at the house, and see a pink pony stumble out carrying a pillar of luggage.
>Pretty sure she didn’t bring any luggage.
>”I’m coming! Just needed to grab a few things for my sister Maud!”
>Well that explains that.
>You would double back to help her, but she is fast approaching.
>Earth pony strength is no joke.
>”I’m coming too!”
>A shrill scream echoes almost making you jump.
>Limestone throws out one large luggage out the door.
>You can see dust fly up when it lands.
>Probably has rocks in it.
>Dad cups his hand and yells.
>”Hurry your tails, we can’t wait all day at the station loading luggage.”
>Cornerstone gives a horsey snort, not missing a step.
>”This trip is going to be interesting.”
>Rolling your eyes, you give your sister a playful nudge.
“Pinkie Pie was always going to make this interesting. Not sure what you’re getting at.”
>”Was mostly referring to the other one.”
>The grumpy one?
>The sisters pop up next to the group.

>”Never fear! The Pies are here. Got your frosted key lime pie and your tasty cream pie.”
>It’s not a double entendre.
>You hope it isn’t.
>”Pinkie!”
>Limestone is blushing, well there goes that hope.
>Cornerstone crackles loudly.
>”Indeed. Well Pinkie Pie welcome back. Though I am curious to see you, Limestone. What brings you with us?”
>Limestone looks between you, her, and Pinkie.
>Eyes scanning rapidly for reactions.
>”Well, um, it’s a little complicated. With Holder’s Boulder now gone I feel responsible for what happens to you. I’ve also been living on the farm since I was born, and it might be good to go out and see the world. Kind of like you, Anon.”
>Rather an odd statement.
“Not quite like me, but I understand what you are trying to do.”
>She looks away like she is still unsure about something.
>The whistle of the train can be heard, sure enough it is waiting at the station.
>”Race you to the train 1, 2, 3, go!”
>Dad runs ahead trying to keep his hat on.
“Is he really doing that with three ponies here?”
>”Stop talking, Anon! You’re way behind.”
>Cornerstone has already charged ahead.
>With all the luggage on her back, which is starting to teeter.
>No time for an expletive, you dash behind the group as one suitcase falls.
>Swiftly you swipe it up with one arm, before you are already outstretched to catch another from Pinkie’s set.
>Speaking of, Pinkie Pie makes it to the train first, followed by Cornerstone, than Limestone, finishing off with Dad by a hair.
>Each carrying one piece of luggage, the rest you’ve been catching.
>They turn around ready to egg you for being so slow.
>”Anon, got to put some effort into--oh.”
“Please help. This is heavy.”

>”D-don’t worry sir! I got your luggage.”
>A string bean stallion’s voice cracks as he bounds next to you.
>Well he offered, so you slide all the luggage onto his back except your backpack.
>His legs wobble as he tries to hold everything.
>”G-glad to be of assistance sir.”
>Earth ponies make no sense.
>He hobbles off barely holding it together.
“Got my ticket. You ladies ready?”
>Dad takes out two and gives one to Cornerstone.
>She glances over to the bellhop with the luggage.
>”I must admit, Anon. You didn’t look like you can carry that kind of weight. I’m very impressed.”
>Is she making fun of you?”
“Oye, I’ll have you know I can break horses bigger than you.”
>Limestone and Pinkie tilt their heads, guess you can explain.
“A horse that needs to be tamed for riding needs to be broken. So I usually get on a horse's back and force them to obey me by tiring them out. Most of the time anyway.”
>Blush colors Limestone cheeks as she gulps.
“Yeah, yeah. I’m not going to do that here obviously. That’d be weird.”
>Pinkie’s cheeks are bulging, think you hear something called ‘dom’.
>”Oh really? I dare you try and break me in little brother.”
>Cornerstone smug smirk tells you everything you need to know.
“I already see some cracks in your polished form. Might get that chip off your shoulder if go in too hard on you.”
>”I would buck you so hard, you’d be kissing dirt in seconds.”
>A heavy hand plops down on you both.
>”Kids, I love you, but I’m going to say reign it in. Get on the train.”
>I see what he did there.
>Pies are being very quiet right now.
“Yeah, yeah. To Canterlot we go.”

>The train ride has some quiet chatter between everyone.
>You sit by the window so you can watch the countryside go by.
>”Hey, Anon.”
>Limestone across from you nibbles on her lip.
>”So, you don’t want to see Equestria?”
“Limestone, I’m happy I got to come here. But lately everything has been going a mile a minute and I feel like I haven’t gotten any chance to decide things for myself. I was kidnapped in the middle of the night from my bed. Then not even a day after being rescued dad whisks me away to your place. It’s just all been crazy.”
>She nods, as she glances over to her sister.
>”Um, I’m sure things will slow down now. Bucking better. Just boring ponies talking now. Not your aunts! Megan is not boring. Oh hay bells, I hope Megan likes me.”
>Dad opens his eyes from his light nap.
>”Don’t worry little missy. Megan loves all ponies. She will think you are adorable. Molly might braid your hair if you stay around her long enough. She does that with our equines.”
>Cornerstone smiles warmly between you two.
>”So Anon, what do you like to do with the ponies back home?”
“I’m the best groomer in the family. A horse turns to pudding under my palpitations. Just rub the muscles between the ribs, they love that. I could show you right now. Well, maybe not on you. Being a rock and all. Limestone or Pinkie could work.”
>Pinkie shakes her head rapidly.
>”That’s fine. You should totally work your jazz hooves on Limestone though. She needs a good rubbing.”
>You wave your head like brushing something off.
“I’m kidding. I’m not going to do that to a little lady.”

>”Yeah, that would be awkward.”
>Limestone is glaring at her sister.
>Speaking of sister, you slightly lean against Cornerstone.
“I'm a little surprised you don't act like a matriarch that has seen several generations.”
>In turn, she pushes up next to you.
>”Well if you think of it this way. I feel young again. The giddiness of youth returns. Besides, I've always been mischievous.”
>A frown creases her muzzle.
>”I hope Aunt Molly and Aunt Megan like me.”
“Overjoyed more like it. If what dad said is true, they also loved Surprise. They’ll probably remember when you could fit in their hands”
>You wiggle your fingers into her mane.
>Despite being a rock golem, she minds you of old sculptors that looked soft and lifelike.
>Whoever gave her this body would have been lauded as an artistic genius back home.
>Can even see that little magical glimmer in her eyes that all ponies seem to have.
>”Oh! Is that Canterlot? The golden sun city on the mountain.”
>Sure enough, you see the final destination.
>Dad opens his eyes with a yawn.
>”That's the place all right.”
“Time to face the music and smell the ashes.”
>Pinkie scrunches her face.
>”Who would want to smell ashes? Well a dragon maybe.”
“I’d rather not deal with a dragon.”
>You get up, when a bright purple flash blinds the group.
>”There you all are!? We can’t wait any longer. Pinkie meet us at the castle, Limestone...why are you here? Nevermind, Danny and Anon we need to go now!”
>Princess Twilight Sparkle must have gone mad because she is currently screaming in your face.
“Whoa, whoa, whoa there filly!”
>You push Twilight down hoping her maniac energy will dissipate.

>Dad doesn’t seem as concerned as he folds his arms.
>”What’s the matter little lady?”
>Twilight’s ears fold back as she presses her hooves together.
>”Nothing per say, but big important stuff is happening.”
“Oh dear God. What happened?”
>She takes deep breaths, closes her eyes, and whispers a small proverb to herself.
>”The Equestrian government has decided it wants to make first contact with Earth. Megan will be an ambassador for us.”
>Well we are all kinds of screwed.
>Something large seems to rise up behind you.
>”And who are you small pony? I don’t appreciate you throttling my little brother.”
>She’s never going to let it go.
>Cornerstone get’s Twilight attention rather quickly.
>”Who? What are you? Little brother?”
“Twilight, this is my little sister, Cornerstone.”
>With the best fish impersonation you’ve seen a pony perform, Twilight seems to be lost for words.
>Limestone grumbles loud enough to answer a few questions.
>”Turns out Holder’s Boulder was some kind of…”
>Pinkie whispers in her ear.”
>”Right. Some kind of incubator. Holder made a spell that would revive Cornerstone when her brother showed up. So you know, that happened.”
>Twilight points to Cornerstone, to Danny, then back to you.
>”You mean, she’s from back then. All the way back then. Before Equestria was ever a thing. That’s impossible!”
>Dan clears his throat.
>”Ok maybe not that impossible. Given that you are all here as well. That’s really old magic at play, you look like a living rock golem.”
>”Look Twilight, my daughter here is living her mother’s wishes. I want you to respect her like you would the rest of my family.”
>Twilight waves her hooves rapidly in front of her.
>”Of course! Of course! Just makes things a little more complicated.”

>”Anyway, I still need to take you all now. Everypony wants to meet you Anon.”
>Glance outside to see the same bellhop struggling with your luggage.
“Guess it can’t wait. So is this some kind of evaluation?”
>Twilight nods with an unusual cheerful grin.
>”Exactly, it is like a pop quiz for a really tough subject. Those were always my favorite.”
>That sounds terrible, this all sounds terrible.
“I think I want to go back to the farm, Limestone.”
>Purple magic glows, putting any hope of escape out of mind.
>Teleporting is weird, your dad and aunts don’t seem to like it but you don’t feel as uneased.
>The world winks away for just a moment before it winks back in place.
>Ponies everywhere are talking nonstop, horses wearing suits will never not be funny.
>Too bad you really don’t feel like laughing right now.
>Dad is quickly look around until his eyes rest on his sister.
>Megan, your aunt, is standing next to Princess Celestia talk to her.
>She still looks like she hasn’t left the ranch.
>Heavy boots with shiny spurs, the dusty hat granddad gave her, and striking blue eyes.
>They are also looking straight at you.
>You see the heart shaped pendant hanging around her neck.
>”Danny! Anon!”
>Silence rushes the room like a popup summer thunderstorm.
>Twilight sucks in her breath, before using what she would later describe as the royal canterlot voice.
>”Presenting to the court, Danny Williams, Anon Williams, and Cornerstone daughter of Surprise and Danny Williams.”
>Your heartbeat is deafening, all these eyes are on you.
>Well you aren’t yellow-bellied, no time like the present to man it up.
>”I, Princess Celestia of Equestria, recognize their presence. If I may I wish to evaluate the children.”

>Cornerstone whispers quietly enough for just you and dad to hear.
>”All this pomp and circumstance seems forced.”
>Celestia’s voice breaks the conversation short.
>”Cornerstone, I am going to use ancient magic on you. Will you conceded?”
>Your sister raises an eyebrow.
>”What spell, if I may ask?”
>”Stone to Flesh. It will only last temporarily, but I wish to see you as flesh and blood.”
>Eyes widen everywhere, seems like whatever this spell is is unheard of.
>Cornerstone can almost look Celestia eye to eye.
>Can’t even imagine what is running through their minds.
>”Very well. I accept.”
>Celestia doesn’t nod, she simply lights her horn.
>Like a second sun, the tip of her horn is too much to look at directly.
>Shadows seem to flee as pure magic envelops your sister.
>Don’t hear any cries of distress.
>Magic dims as is slowly pulls back into the tip of Celestia’s radiant horn.
>Hooves clop on the ground, real hooves.
>A long vibrant white mane flourishes as Cornerstone shakes her head.
>Like life renewed, you can actually see what she is, reddish brown splotches over a white coat.
>She reminds you of an American Paint Horse.
>”I’m not stone anymore. I’m just like everypony here.”
>Celestia smiles brightly.
>”You are indeed. Had you not been who you claimed to be the spell would have failed. Cornerstone of Ponyland, matriarch of most likely every pony in this room, welcome to Equestria.”
>You glance past Celestia.
>Megan has taken off her hat, and seems to be shocked.
>Molly has covered her mouth, they both recognize Cornerstone.
>”She’s gotten so big.”
>”Anon.”
>Vision is completely taken over by an alicorn.
>Celestia is looking deeply into your eyes.
>What is she doing?

>”I see it. The same spark that all ponies have. Since you’ve been here magic has slowly revealed your hidden nature. When I first saw you, your eyes were just like your fathers. Now, I see magic in them.”
>Whispers among ponies, can be heard.
>Doubters are mixed in with them.
>”I demand proof. Princess Celestia, I may only be a counselor for our education system, but I believe that the best way to prove that pony is in his veins is that he demonstrates it. For the sake of every doubter here that will question the legitimacy. I mean no disrespect your highness, but you suggest can change the course of history if we do intend to open relations to a whole new world.”
>Celestia briefly looks miffed to be questioned, but seems to take it in stride.
>”Chancellor Neighsay, what do you intend?”
“Don’t bother.”
>Ears perk up as you speak for the first time in front of everyone here.
>You pull the backpack off your back and open it.
>The cloud you gathered back on the Pie farm floats out.
>Before it can escape you jump on it.
>Dad’s jaw drops.
>Megan and Molly whisper some kind of expletive to themselves.
>The court is deathly quiet in shock.
>Celestia is waiting.
“As you can see.”
>You sit cross legged on the cloud and smirk a little.
“I got a little of my mom in me.”
>You look down at your sister, who couldn’t help but return your grin.
“I am Anon Williams.”
>”I am Cornerstone Williams.”
“We are children of Danny and Surprise Williams. Man and pony.”
>The crowd roars in approval.
>Celestia opens up her wings to full mast, every jewel seems to glem.
>”Anon. Cornerstone. Welcome to Equestria.”