Two Sides of a Coin (Chapter 5 - Part 1)

“Since I was young, I have always known this: Life damages us, every one. We can’t escape that damage. But now, I am also learning this: We can be mended. We mend each other”
     - Veronica Roth

“Applejack, can we talk to you for a minute?”
>The hardworking farm pony wipes the sweat from her brow. Her blonde mane shimmers in the afternoon sun as she sighs.
>AJ beams a warm friendly smile at you. “Howdy Anon.” She glances at Fluttershy with slight contempt. “Fluttershy.”
>She turns her attention back to you. “What can I do for y’all?”
>You look down at Fluttershy and nudge her with your foot.
“I think you two have something to talk about?”
>AJ’s attitude turns into a sour apple. “I dun reckon there’s much to talk about. I thought you said you’d take care of her.”
“It’s not that simple, AJ. Come on, if you’re the Element of Honesty then you have to know when others are the same. Or am I wrong?”
>AJ looks between the two of you, almost as if this was a set up for a cruel prank. “Whatchu gettin’ at, Anon?”
“I know you and Fluttershy can work this out. Just listen to what she has to say.”
>”I ain’t interested, Anon. Now if you’ll excuse me, I got chores to do.” She begins to trot away, her head held up high in the air.
“I know you’re stubborn AJ, but you’re not an idiot.”
>She instantly stops and turns back to you. “Stubborn? Who the hay do you think you are callin’ me stubborn?”
“Listen, the safety of your world rests on Fluttershy mending what is broken between you and the others. If you’re too short-sighted to see that and not come to an agreement, you may as well say goodbye to everything and everyone you know.”
>Your words must’ve hit their mark. Applejack stands there fuming for a moment.
>Fluttershy looks worried, as she usually does.
>Finally she gives in to what you say. But she mutters in disdain. “Fine...”
“I’ll leave you two alone for a bit.”
>You saunter over to the barn where you lean against the wall and watch.
>Fluttershy and Applejack were still in sight but far enough away that you couldn’t hear them. They did seem to be talking, but AJ looked more furious than anything else.
>Fluttershy looked as though she could curl up and die, but she managed to stand up for herself and talk to AJ.
>They spoke for some time.
>You decide to meander around the farm for a while, where you run across Applebloom.
>She doesn’t look like a filly anymore, though not quite as grown up as her big sis AJ. “Are you that Anon fella muh sister’s been talkin’ about?”
“The very same, and you must be Applebloom.”
>She smiles proudly at the comment. “You look a lot like the one from before.”
“I’m told that on many occasions.”
>You were never that good making light conversation with little kids.
>Is it true what they say?”
“About what?”
>Applebloom looks down at the ground sheepishly. “That we’re all in danger?”
>Do you lie or be honest with this young pony?
“I’m sure your sister will make sure nothing bad happens. She’s a dependable pony after all.”
>Applebloom seems to ignore your question and probes further. “She says it has something ta do with that girl you’re with.”
“Hope? Not really. She’s more or less dragged into this as much as I am.”
>”What is she anyways? She kinda looks like ya, but she has funny legs.”
>At this point you felt she was just being a bit too nosy for her own good.
“Don’t you have chores to do?”
>”Well, yeah but-“
“I’m sure Big Mac or AJ will like to hear that you’re slacking off.”
>”Ahm sorry, mister! I’m just curious is all.”
>You groan and rub your forehead. “Look, just don’t worry about anything. Your sister is trying to help best she can.”
>Applebloom may not be a filly anymore, but she’s still young and probably wouldn’t understand these kinds of things.
>“I suppose you’re right...” Her ears flatten against her head.
“Don’t sweat it, just keep doing whatever it is you’re working on.”
>As she trots away, an idea comes across your mind.
“Hey, if you come across Hope, introduce yourself and your friends to her. I’m sure it’ll make her feel welcome.”
>Applebloom seems to cherish this idea and smiles empathetically. “I will!” She continues on her way and is soon out of sight.
>You walk around the barn and see AJ and Fluttershy are still talking, but they stop and walk back towards you.
>Both look as though they’ve eaten sour grapes.
>Applejack walks up to you first. “Can I speak with you in private?”
>AJ takes you to the other side of the barn. The look on her face was undeniable; it was akin to pride having to swallow its own words. “I can feel it in mah heart that she ain’t lying. But I... I just...”
“Can’t forgive?”
>She nods with a tearful look in her eyes.
“Here’s a bit of advice. My world is a mean and nasty place; if we never forgive one another, violence will only beget violence. I need you to remember what Fluttershy has done for you in the past. She’s helped you out on many occasions, hasn’t she?”
>Applejack frowns at the ground. Therein lies the internal conflict.
>But it wasn’t long before AJ spoke up, “Fine, but... I still want to have her do something.”
“What do you have in mind?”
>AJ decides that she wants Fluttershy to clear out the eastern orchard by sundown.
>You take Fluttershy and a basket over to the very first tree. AJ follows closely behind. “Fluttershy, I just want you to know what hard work means. I want to see you sweat and those muscles better be screaming by the time you’re finished.”
>You set the basket down under the tree, Fluttershy looks up to you as if you’ll offer her a hand.
“You better get started. Got quite a lot of apples to pick.”
>Fluttershy gives you an uneasy look, lifting her back legs into the air she slams them against the trunk of the tree with a soft thud.
>The apples shake and one manages to fall off the branch and land into the basket.
>It was a start.
“I’ll bring the cart for you.”
>You head off to the farm, but you glance behind and see Fluttershy taking another go at it. This time with more drive behind it.
>Just as you get back, Fluttershy manages to buck the last apple out of the first tree. Gasping for breath, she looks up to you, beads of sweat trickling down her face.
>”How did... I do...?”
“Not bad, but you’re never going to get it all done if you don’t pick up the pace.”
>She looks down the eastern orchard, and you could see the dread set upon her face. You merely shrug your shoulders.
“If it doesn’t mean anything to you, then don’t do it.”
>She frowns at you. “It does mean something, and I’m not giving up yet.”
>Hovering to an empty basket, she places it under the next tree and bucks the tree much harder this time. More apples begin to fall off the branches.
>Now she was getting the hang of it.
>While Fluttershy continues working on the harvest, AJ invites you inside for a refreshing beverage.
>As you recall from the show, the Apple Family’s cider really does live up to its reputation as being the best. Too bad the chairs are a tad bit small for your liking.
>”Ya know, I guess yer a man of yer word.” AJ walks over to the kitchen window and watches over Fluttershy. “I can see she’s putting her heart into it.”
“What if she can’t finish in time? You know she’s not strong like you.”
>”I’m well aware of that, which is why I’ve already forgiven her.” She winks at you.
“Wait, then why is she out there busting her hump?”
>”Did you already forget what I said to her? If you want to open her eyes, then she needs to know what she took away from us.”
>Makes sense in a weird way.
“Then you’ll help me with the others?”
>”Whatchu going on about, Anon?”
“I’m not sure if the others will listen to me as easily as you have done. If I need help, will you be willing?”
>AJ smiles warmly at you. “Well shucks, it’s no easy task what y’all are doing for us. I’d be glad to.”
>She gives you another glass of cider to enjoy. A thought crosses your mind about Fluttershy who continues to toil under the hot sun.
“I better get her some water. Can’t have her passing out on us.”
>AJ nods, seeing that this is more than fair.
>Carrying out a large pitcher of water and a cup, you approach the exhausted yellow pegasus. She was so focused on her work she didn’t even bother to look at you.
“Drink up.”
>After a moment she stops to catch her breath. “Just... put it there...”
>You place the cup and pitcher on the ground and start to head back. She’s already made progress since she started earlier this afternoon, but she had a way to go.
>The hours pass as you and AJ watch her carry load after load of apples back to the farm where Big Mac and Applebloom took care of the harvest.
“Say AJ, you got any of that... hard cider?”
>”Depends, but don’tcha think it’s a tad bit early for a drink?”
“Applejack my dear, back where I’m from I’m considered a connoisseur of fine drinks such as this. Just a wee taste is all I ask.”
>Against her better judgement, she pours you a small drink.
>Now some may think AJ should be able to tell if someone is telling a fib.
>But in truth, you do feel a certain pride in your ability to love all drinks. So you did not speak entirely in falsehood at all.
>The fermented apple cider was bliss.
“Full bodied... good bouquet...”
>”I suppose that fancy talk means it’s good, right?”
“Without question. I could live on this stuff if it were possible.”
>Applejack gives you an uneasy look. “I’d love to give you more, but I heard certain things...”
“Like what?”
>”Well, promise not to tell Twilight, but she told me what happened to you a few nights ago.”
>Yes, the night you got hammered to the point you almost died.
“Well, it was a slight exaggeration. You know how Twilight is.”
>”As a matter of fact, I do. Been friends with her for many years and I believe every word she says. What happened that night?”
>You become slightly annoyed, but you weren’t about to explode on her either.
“I just got carried away drinking. I’m sure we’ve all done it here and there.”
>AJ chuckles softly. “Carried away... right. Do you mind if I ask you something?”
“I’m all ears.”
>”Just what happened, Anon? Why did you start doing it?”
>AJ was either a more perceptive pony than you thought, or just too nosy for her own good.
“What are you referring to?”
>”I’ve seen this thing before, Anon. Something happened and it made you turn to... this.” She gestures to the bottle and your person.
“You don’t need to worry about it. I’m just here to make sure everything is peachy keen between you and your friends.”
>Applejack frowns at the notion. “Fer a fella that preaches forgiveness, you sure ain’t practicing it.”
>This was worse than getting nagged at by a bellyaching housewife.
>You push the empty glass away from you, your appetite for booze gone.
“Thanks for the drink.”
>You get up from the chair and head towards the door.
>”Where y’all going?”
“Stretch my legs and get some fresh air.”
>As you walk the orchard grounds, you try to ignore her words, but they continue to resonate within your mind.
>Over and over you continue to remind yourself that you’re here to help them, get the orb and go home.
>Nothing more, nothing less.
>Dusk was approaching.
>Poor Fluttershy must be having a heart attack if she wasn’t done with her work, let alone the stress of bucking all those trees by herself.
>You are pleasantly surprised to see that the eastern orchard looked like it was finished, but somewhere Fluttershy was still toiling away.
>Coming across Fluttershy, you see her bucking a tree with the same vigor from before.
>There were many trees left, and no way was she going to finish them all.
>The sun was beginning its final descent into the earth below.
>Ignoring your presence altogether, she glances to the sunset. Almost struck with fear, she begins to kick the tree harder to make the rest of the apples fall.
>Her breathing becomes harsh and loud as she desperately kicks the tree; tears begin to build up in her eyes.
>If she couldn’t finish, then Applejack would not forgive her.
>Right on cue, AJ approaches the two of you.
>Fluttershy stops at this point, her cries become voiceless. She was too tired to even beg AJ for more time, instead she collapses to the ground, out of breath.
>”Time’s up, Fluttershy. I see you didn’t quite finish getting the rest of the apples.”
>If Fluttershy started a couple hours earlier, she might’ve gotten it done on time.
>Applejack approaches Fluttershy with a condescending look on her face. “And you remember what I said about finishing before sundown, right?”
>Fluttershy takes a hard gulp. “Please, I know I can do it.”
>AJ frowns. “It’s hard work ain’t it?”
>The yellow pegasus nods.
>”That’s what Pinkie was like. Behind her playful attitude, she worked hard to remember things about everypony and to make them smile. She put so much work into her parties, how to make others laugh...” AJ starts to become teary eyed.
>”I saw the way you were putting your all into the task I gave you. And I believe you now know what it’s like.”
>Fluttershy looks up to AJ with slight confusion.
>”Which is why I forgive you....” Tears begin to flow down AJ’s cheeks, as well as Fluttershy’s.
>AJ offers a hoof to her friend to help her up.
>They both embrace each other in a tearful hug, Fluttershy was at a loss for words.
>You begin to saunter off so they can have their moment.
>Quietly, you wait by the front gate of Sweet Apple Acres. Behind you hear the sound of hooves. It was AJ and Fluttershy.
>Fluttershy had her arm around the back of AJ, who in turn was supporting her as they walk.
>Poor thing was dead tired.
>”I trust you’ll get her home safe and sound, Anon?” The yellow pegasus collapses into your waiting arms.
“Been doing that since day one.”
>With your final goodbye for the day, you carry Fluttershy back to her house.
>In the seemingly eternal twilight of dusk, Fluttershy smiles at you. “It hurts...”
“Relax, we’ll get you in bed and you can rest. We still got work to do.”
>”Thank you, Anon.”
“For what?”
>”For believing in me...” Her eyes close as she falls asleep in your arms.
>It’s true.
>The moment you saw her put her all into her task, you had a strong feeling she was well on her way to reclaiming her title as the Element of Kindness.
>But you still had three more ponies to convince.
>As soon as you tuck Fluttershy into bed, you quickly make your way out the door and back to your own house.
>Hope was there to greet you. She wraps her arms around your midsection and gives a tight squeeze; you couldn’t help but smile at this kind gesture.
>You look down and could see her amber eyes shimmering, as if she was on the verge of crying.
“Something wrong, kiddo?”
>”I just... Why are they...” She begins to sniffle quietly.
>You lead her inside and sit her on the couch. With a reassuring rub on her shoulder she holds herself together.
“Did something happen today?”
>”Earlier, I was in Ponyville and I thought I’d try to meet the locals, you know? It was going fine until, someone started to call me a freak. Others joined in and I... I couldn’t...” Her voice begins to crack again.
“Hey, it’s alright...”
>You lean in and wrap your arms around her. She didn’t cry, but she happily accepted the hug.
“Is that what you are?”
>”That’s what they were saying...” Her tone becomes bitter.
>In a way, she was like your little sister.
>Because of the way Annette would have her outbursts and panic attacks, the other kids would tease her. Told her she was dangerous and might hurt someone.
>She was a sweet and smiling kid, but there were times when she needed you for emotional support.
>You speak as if you were talking to your sister again.
“It doesn’t matter what they think. They don’t know the real you.”
>”I don’t understand why...” She whimpers.
“I could beat the snot out of them if it makes you feel better.”
>You jokingly say while smiling.
>Hope lets out a soft chuckle. “My mother told me once why she gave me my name.”
“Why is that?”
>You continue to rub her back gently. “She told me... I am what all should aspire to be. My birth to her was a sign.”
>Stroking her hair, she sighs contently. “One day, everyone will be happy. She knows that the world is hurting, but she hopes to bring that to an end.”
>Hard to believe, but it made it seem that Lyra was not a heartless monster.
>”Everyone should be brought together. That’s what she said once.”
>After some time, you tuck Hope into bed and you turn yourself in for the night.
>By morning, there was another note from her. She’s gone to see Twilight again.
>You’re glad she was out and about, but as for what she’s doing exactly you’re not sure.

>You are now Hope.
>On the day Anon and Fluttershy went to Sweet Apple Acres, you were with Twilight Sparkle.
>The two of you have become very close.
>She would tell you about the adventures that she and the others had. From the time they defeated Nightmare Moon to the destruction of Sombra.
>Now that Pinkie was gone, the Elements of Harmony are broken and without power.
>”Hope, did you have the same dream again?”
>You merely shake your head.
“No, and the idea of living up to my father’s legacy still floats through my mind. I’m not sure if I can do it.”
>”Well, take it as you will, but when I first arrived here in Ponyville I was so wound up about the threat of Nightmare Moon, I completely ignored what Princess Celestia sent me here to do.”
“And what was that?”
>Twilight smiles. “As silly as it sounded back then, she told me to make friends.”
>You had to agree with her.
“There was a threat and she told you to go make friends? I would’ve taken the challenge head on.”
>”I did too, but I failed to see that the Elements of Harmony were the only thing that could stop her. Nothing was going to prevent her from kidnapping Celestia, but by the time the final confrontation came, I felt this spark in my heart.”
>You could feel your skin crawl just by her mentioning it.
“What was that like?”
>”Indescribable. When I heard the others calling out for me, I knew they cared about me and that I needed them. That’s when I realized that friendship was the key to the Elements of Harmony. We all had our roles to play and it saved Equestria from Nightmare Moon.”
“So Pinkie was the Element of Laughter, right? Is that what my father became later after she passed away?”
>”Not quite. From what I gathered and what the locals told me, he wanted to make others happy by being their doctor. The townsfolk appreciated his help and I believe he carried out his promise to Pinkie.”
“So what can I do?”
>Twilight stops for a moment. “I’m sure the ponies here will like you. Just be yourself and others will like you for who you are.”
>Feeling a little frustrated, you decided maybe it was time to go out into town.
>A sickly feeling wretched at your gut.
“Alright, I’ll try my best.”
>Getting up from the chair you head out to go meet the locals.
>After you left, your mind couldn’t help but think back to your dream.
>Ever since then you would pray that you can see your father again, but you never got an answer.
>You can still remember feeling his warm embrace, his gentle words and soft voice.
>If he was able to make other happy, then maybe you could do the same.
>Couldn’t be that bad.
>Ponies everywhere, and yet you still feel apprehensive about talking to them.
>What do you say?
>How would they respond?
>You bite your lower lip without realizing it.
>Some of the ponies begin to look at you, like a monstrosity walking among the mundane.
>Others would look and carry on with their business.
>Most got a look at you the first time you arrived here, but they knew nothing about you or where you came from.
>You spot three mares standing close around a flower stall, all of them bearing a flower type cutie mark.
>Here goes nothing.
>Tempering yourself, you just concentrate on being happy and pleasant.
>The three mares chatter away about their latest exploits.
>You stood off to the side, exchanging looks between them and the flowers.
>How are you suppose to start a conversation? Just barge in or wait until they-
>”Oh, and who might you be young, uh... lady.” One of the mares finally speaks up to you. Her mane was different shades of red and her coat was light cream in colour.
“I’m Hope...”
>The other two mares turn to look at you. Both stare at you with shock and surprise.
>You felt like you’re on the spot now.
>”I’m Rose Luck. Is there something I can help you with?” She smiles awkwardly, as if your presence was making her uncomfortable.
“I uh...”
>You look around for something, anything to take the focus off of you.
>Your eyes fall onto the flower stand and notice all the different types. Ever since you came back to Equestria with your mother, you took the time to learn all about the healing properties of such plants.
>A purple flower catches your eye.
“Is that a geranium?”
>”I see you have an eye for flowers. Would you like some?”
>You didn’t really need any. You just needed a common thread for light conversation.
“Did you know the oil from it has antiseptic properties and it’s good for your skin as well?”
>She seems impressed. “Why yes, that’s why I grew most of these flowers. But not many know that, what did you say your name was again?”
“Hope, ma’am.”
>She smiles warmly. “Here, take a few on the house.” She grabs a few flowers with her mouth and passes them to you.
>You’re not familiar with the expression she used.
“Oh, I don’t have any money.”
>She giggles. “No dear, these ones you can have. I love it when another knows a thing or two about the humble flower.”
>In the bunch you were also given Evening Primrose, Sunflowers and a Calendula.
“Thank you.”
>You smile back at her. In your giddy state, you take off with the flowers.
>That wasn’t so bad.
>Picking at the petals, you munch on them gingerly. They taste even better than some of the wild ones you’ve had.
>You find a water fountain in the middle of town and sit on the concrete edge.
>Ponies keep walking by, some occasionally taking quick glances at you.
>You hear shouting and laughter as a small group of fillies and colts run by, probably in a game of tag.
>They gallop around the fountain and when they cross your path, the one in front stops as he gets caught off guard by your presence.
>The others crash into him and they all fall into one heap and complain about the young one stopping short.
>Staring up at you, they all gaze at you.
>”Who are you?” One of the young fillies asks.
“I’m Hope.”
>”What are you?” A colt enquires.
>You know Anon uses the term satyr for you, but you weren’t the one for labels.
“I’m.... just Hope.”
>You chuckle.
>Some of them begin to look you over. “She’s so cool you guys!”
>Others start to pelt you with questions about where you came from or what you are.
>”Are you married to that human thing?” One finally asks with as much innocence as you could imagine.
>You laugh at the notion. “No, but he is a friend. He’s not quite as graceful as me.”
>Without thinking, you jump onto the top of the fountain in a single leap. The young ponies watch in amazement.
>”How’d you do that?!”
“This? It’s easy. Watch.”
>You perform a backflip and land on your right hand on top of the fountain. They continue to watch in awe.
>With another flip, you land on the ground on your hooves, then transition into a handstand.
>The other fillies and colts start to laugh and mimic you, but most just tumble over.
>You break off into a continuous back handspring followed by quick swift movements like a break dancer.
>Soon, a small crowd gathers to marvel at your dexterity and flexibility.
>As they begin to cheer and stomp their hooves, you feel more exhilarated.
>They were enjoying your performance.
>One of the young fillies runs in too close as they try to copy your moves. It catches you off guard and you quickly try to stop before you risk hitting her.
>You stumble backwards and trip over the ledge of the fountain and fall backwards into the water.
>There was dead silence.
>You quickly get up, expecting them to start mocking you.
>Already you can feel your heart begin to sink.
>Instead of chastising you however, they begin to roar with laughter. The young and old all join in the amusement you’ve provided them.
>Taking it in stride, you couldn’t help but giggle at how silly you must’ve looked, but you bow to them and soon they break into applause.
>A couple ponies even come to lend you a hoof out of the fountain.
>Others begin to ask for your name.
“The name is Hope. I’m happy to see you all enjoyed that.”
>They continue to stomp and cheer your name.
>This feeling of making others cheerful... No wonder your father wanted you to do it.
>It was one of the best feelings you ever had.
>Through the crowd sails a single tomato that hits the side of your head and explodes into a mushy red mess.
>The cheering stops.
>You reach up and wipe the side of your face. The red mush covers your hand and you look around for the perpetrator.
>Another piece of produce smacks you in the back of the head.
>The ponies begin to laugh again, but it was different.
>This felt... cynical.
>The last time it was an accident, but they were laughing at you.
>”Freak!” Another tomato hits you, and soon a barrage of produce hits you.
>You shield yourself and you manage to catch a glimpse of who was causing all the trouble.
>Several young male pegasi holding armfuls of vegetables are dotted throughout the crowd.
>You were too busy to notice that some of the other ponies were not laughing, but neither did they help you.
>It was also like your mother said.
>The reason you had to avoid populated areas is because of this.
>You stood there in the middle of a large room, preparing to go and hunt down the human that killed your father.
>”Remember, do not go to any cities there and back. They’re not ready for something as wonderful as you.”
>You merely nodded and took her words to heart.
>And yet everything was going well up to this point.
>So what do you do now?
>Getting angry and attacking them would undo everything you just accomplished.
>”Ha! It won’t even fight back!” One of them yells at you.
>It...
>Not even the common courtesy of calling you a girl.
>That’s when you remember your dream and your father.
>They had to run out of vegetables soon, and that’s when you got the idea of how to win this without resorting to violence.
>Wiping your eyes, you quickly jump out of the way onto the top of the fountain.
>With a few flips and twirls you manage to dodge the last of the produce, save for a few.
>To the crowd, you were toying with the would-be bullies.
>You manage to grab the last few pieces of vegetables and begin to juggle them.
“I carrot believe you boys would do this!”
>You grin back to the crowd and you could hear them laughing again, this time they were back on your side.
>One of the pegasus boys hovers into the air and flies straight at you with the intent of knocking you over.
>With a simple toss of the produce and a jump, you dodge him easily.
“Hey, if you got any good jokes, peas lettuce know...”
>The other two pegasus fly in at the same time.
>This time, you jump onto one and use him to kick yourself off onto the other one.
>Again you land gracefully while the two of them lose their stability in the air and almost crash.
“You guys are like peaches, just pit-iful!”
>With a quick juggle, you toss the rest of the fruits and vegetable out to the crowd and take another bow.
>The three pegasi regroup and scowl at you from a distance.
>As much as you enjoyed seeing them being laughed at, you decide it wouldn’t be fair for them to feel like they’re the butt of the joke.
>Jumping down to a nearby flower pot, you pick out three and dash over to the three irate pegasi.
“I know you boys are just shy, but there’s no reason to act like that.”
>They turn bright red with embarrassment as you wink at them and giggle.
>They fume at your words and storm off,
>A mix of laughter and applause fills the air.
>Just when you felt defeated and that you had to resort to violence, you quickly turned it around and got everyone back on your side.
>Soon everypony wants to know your name and where you came from.
>The town square was hustling and bustling as you shook the hooves of the many residents.
>They say this was the best entertainment they’ve had in years.
>Minutes turn to hours as you continue to acquaint yourself with the others. Even the three troublemakers thought you were pretty cool for pulling off those jumps and stunts.
>Of course, you didn’t want to indulge them of where you came from or who your mother was.
>As the sun begins to set for the day, you decide it’s time to head back home.
>You were getting kind of hungry to boot.
>Walking home, you still couldn’t shrug off that feeling when they started to laugh at you.
>The word ‘freak’ still lingers in your mind.
>They say walk it off, but it was hard. It’s true you’re neither human or pony, just a half breed.
>For some, you will either be accepted or seen as an object of taboo.
>A product of rape...
>Your stomach continues to growl.
>Being the first home, you scrounge the place for food and manage to satisfy your hunger.
>It was still a while before Anon would show up, but even prior you decide to not tell him about them throwing stuff at you.
>You knew he was prone to anger.
>You were there to greet him with open arms; it was good to have someone like your father there for you.
>You tell him what happened earlier and even though he didn’t get upset, it was nice just having someone that listens to you.
>After getting tucked in for the night, you decide to meet up with the other Elements of Harmony.
>Maybe they have something to offer in your search to better understand what your father was trying to accomplish.

>You are now Anon.
>As expected, Hope was gone when you woke up late that morning.
>Warm rays of sunlight dance on your face through the window, keeping you from sleeping.
>With a frustrated groan you get up, head to the bathroom and perform your usual ritual.
>It was hard to describe, but you felt.... angry.
>Not at Fluttershy, not at Lyra or anyone.
>You just felt it inside, chewing away.
>Heading down to the kitchen you look for something to munch on before heading to Fluttershys house.
>Walking past the table, your knee bumps into one of the chairs.
>The next thing you realize you grab it and begin to slam it into the wall and floor of the kitchen yelling incoherently.
>In your blurred vision you see bits of splintered wood and timber everywhere.
>Gotta drink something...
>You scramble around the cupboards and shelves, looking for anything that could be used as a drink.
>Nothing. No liquor, beer or anything.
>Your eyes fall onto a small plastic bottle sitting in the far corner of the counter.
>It’s sanitizer, one of the active ingredients being ethanol.
>Without hesitating you unscrew the cap and squeeze the clear gel into your mouth.
>God , the taste is horrifying but you drink it all down.
>You felt the jitters subside as you slowly flop to the ground.
>Better chase it down with something...
>Before you could even move, your stomach starts to heave.
>It felt as if it was on fire.
>You move onto your hands and knees and begin to gag.
>In a final push your stomach rejects the sanitizer gel and anything else your stomach was holding.
>You roll over to your side; your insides were still on fire.
>For a short while you continue to lay there waiting for the pain to subside, but you did feel a slight inebriated sensation from the ethanol your stomach did manage to absorb.
>Slowly the sting goes away and you begin to think about why you even did that in the first place.
>Fluttershy was probably waiting for you.
>You eat a little bit of food before you leave and made sure you were at least able to keep yourself together.
>At least you didn’t feel angry.
>But you still didn’t know why you felt that way in the first place.
>Approaching Fluttershys house, you finally see birds making themselves at home outside the property.
>Small furry creatures are seen running around, playing with each other.
>And there was Fluttershy, tending to them with bags of food.
“Glad to see you’re up and about.”
>”Oh, good morning Anon. I’m just giving them some food.” She smiles as she continues to go about her task.
>Probably be best to head out and see Rarity next.
>Her being a generous pony, she might be easy to work with.
“You ready to go see Rarity?”
>”I guess, but I thought we could spend the day feeding and taking care of these animals.” She giggles softly with a tone of uneasiness.
“Let’s go...”
>You begin to head off to Raritys shop; soon Fluttershy is walking next to you.
>Her movements appear a tad bit stiff.
“Does it still hurt?”
>”Only a little, but you couldn’t believe how scared I was when the sun was beginning to set.”
>Poor thing looked as though she was going to die of fright if not exhaustion yesterday.
>Yes, you felt badly for not telling her right away, but then what would she have learned?
>You didn’t say much to her, mostly because you were still trying to figure out what caused your outburst.
>Is it possible it had something to do with what Applejack said yesterday?
>She had the nerve to ask you nosy questions, as if she had any idea what you went through.
>Your business was none of their concerns.
>Raritys Carousel Boutique was in view.
>Upon entering the premises, there were several other ponies looking around at the clothes.
>You hear Rarity talking to a client. “Well of course I can make an alteration like that; it’ll be ready for pickup within the hour.”
>After that was said and done, you and Fluttershy approach the fashionista unicorn.
“Hey Rarity, got a minute to talk?”
>A piece of clothing floats in front of her as she closely examines it. “I am a bit tied up at the moment, maybe later we ca-“ She glances over her shoulder and spots Fluttershy standing next to you.
>”Fluttershy.” She simply states. Her attention comes back to you. “I suppose you really need me then? Very well....”
>Turning to her customers she politely requests that they leave. “We’ll be open in five, no, ten minutes. I promise!” She smiles to them.
>Closing the door she takes in a deep breath. “I suppose it’s only fair to assume you’re here for a specific reason.”
“We need you two to work things out.”
>Rarity raises a brow. “And you do understand if I feel... apprehensive about it. What she did is simply monstrous.”
“I’m not arguing about that, but AJ and I see that Fluttershy is truly remorseful about what she did.”
>Rarity simply scoffs. “Leave it to a farm pony to be a judge of character.”
“She’s the element of honesty. AJ even told me that she could feel her honesty about what happened.”
>Rarity looks off to the side, as if she wasn’t interested.
>You hope that would it at least make her reconsider.
>”I would like to talk to Fluttershy alone, if you don’t mind.”
“Fine.”
>You storm out of the shop and wait outside.
>Even though you couldn’t make out much what they were saying, it was a lot of yelling.
>Shortly afterwards, you hear them approach the door.
>Rarity still carried a frown on her face while Fluttershy looks as though she cried her eyes out.
>The white unicorn sighs and looks up to you. “Alright, but she has one chance at this.”
“What’s the plan?”
>She turns to sight to Fluttershy. “To be frank, I want her to give all her things away.”
>The shy pegasus face contorts with fear. “E-everything? Even the house?”
>Rarity shakes her head. “I don’t want you to be homeless, dear.”
>”What about the food? Photos?” Fluttershy asks.
>”That too, but not the food for your animals. They don’t deserve that. And keep your photos.” Rarity adds.
>You could see some sense of relief wash over her, but that was a hefty order in itself. “Oh, and when you’re giving your stuff away, please make sure to give everypony an apology. If somepony were to ask why, then you tell them why.”
“And that will make you happy?”
>”It’ll be a start, but we’ll see. I’ll be sure to check up on you later.”
>With a flick of her tail, she reopens her shop and leaves you two alone.
“Let’s get your stuff. Got a cart you can use?”
>She just meekly replies. “No...”
“Fine, I’ll borrow one from AJ. You go home and putting your stuff outside the house.”
>The two of you split up.
>You head to AJs farm and pick up a spare cart.
>Filling her in on the details you tell AJ what Rarity wants Fluttershy to do.
>Even she felt that it was a bit much.
>It was the only way, unfortunately.
>With much haste you make it back to Fluttershys cottage, there you can already see stuff piling up on the front yard.
>”Oh Angel Bunny, I’m really sorry, but we need to get rid of your bed.” You heard her soft voice coming from within the house.
>You enter and saw the amusing spectacle of Fluttershy trying to pry a wicker basket bed out of Angels grip.
“Let him have it, let’s just focus on your other stuff.”
>Piece by piece you carry out heavy furniture. There wasn’t a whole lot to take all thing considered.
>Slowly the cart gets filled up.
>Next were the photos. You carefully pull them out of the frames, load them in a box and place it on the cart.
>After an hour or so, you check the house again for anything else you might’ve missed.
>The fridge was left for last. You’ll come back and bring the food to local homeless shelter.
>Without any hesitation, Fluttershy harnesses herself into the cart and begins to pull.
>Her weak legs, still sore from yesterday barely pull the heavy wagon. She lets out a small yelp in pain.
>Getting behind the cart, you give it a push to get her started.
>Slowly but surely, Fluttershy is heaving the heavy cart back to Ponyville.
>After a short while you both make it to the market square and set up.
>You start to lay out the heavier stuff while Fluttershy works with the smaller pieces of cargo.
>Already the activity has caught the eyes of several ponies that come looking at the stuff.
>”Having a yard sale are you?” A moustache pony inquires.
“Kind of. See something you like, talk to her and it’s yours.”
>Unpacking the rest of the stuff, you overhear Fluttershy talking to the other ponies.
>”Y-yes, it’s free. Just take it if you like.”
>Without saying another word, two ponies walk away with a free doormat in their possession.
>You remember the other thing Rarity requested from her.
>Tapping her on the shoulder she turns around quickly. “Yes Anon?”
“Don’t forget to tell them why you’re doing this.”
>She whispers harshly back at you. “I just can’t.... Maybe someo f them forgot already. Can’t we just say I did?”
“Fluttershy, I’m not going to lie to Rarity. What’s the worst that can happen?”
>And as you were about to find out, quite a bit.
>As the day drags on, most ponies taking items usually do so in an gauche silence when Fluttershy spoke up about her crime.
>Very few ponies commemorate her on her willingness to ask for forgiveness and reform.
>But a few of them.... let’s say things could’ve gotten nasty.
>”Ponies like you need to be hung by the neck! I ought to put you out of your misery right now.” An angry stallion begins to make a scene.
>Fluttershy fought back her tears and tries to remain calm. “I’m really sorry, sir. I’m trying to make things right...”
>”As if we haven’t heard that sob story before. You’re sick and deserve worse!” He hocks a gob of spit into Fluttershys face.
>She merely sits there taking the full brunt of it in silence.
>You stand not too far off listening and watching carefully, but you were right to trust your gut feeling.
>He grabs her violently, his other hoof raised. Other members in the crowd begin to either shout at the stallion or at Fluttershy.
“Hey!”
>You storm towards the pony, he halts his actions.
“You can take something and leave or you can fuck off.”
>”Mind your business, monkey. Why don’t you go and fornicate with our women while you’re at it? Maybe make another one of those abominations.”
>Must’ve been a ‘friend’ of Hope from yesterday.
>He was asking for it.
>And he got it.
>In one swift movement you grab him by the scruff and shove him off Fluttershy.
“You need to leave before this gets really ugly.”
>He growls at the both of you and spits on the ground. “Go rot in hell you dirty...” He mumbles to himself as he walks off.
>You watch him until he was out of sight. Other ponies continue to stare and talk amongst themselves.
>Fluttershy begins to cry softly, mostly scared that someone was going to beat the living tar out of her.
>You kneel down at her side and wipe of the spit from her face.
>She looks up to you with her shimmering blue eyes, like a child that needed the comfort of a loving parent.
“I won’t let them hurt you. Come on, we still got more stuff to get rid of.”
>After that point, more sympathetic ears and hearts came forward. But it was still slow trying to give all the stuff away.
>On occasion you had to load up the cart with heavy stuff and bring it to their house.
>The people who left with something and talked to Fluttershy seem to really appreciate the effort she was putting forward.
>Once everything was gone, it was time to bring the food.
>One short trip later, Fluttershy hauls the cart down to the local soup kitchen.
>An older mare with long white hair comes out and sees the load you brought. “Well, bless your soul and your generosity.” She beams with much joy.
>Fluttershy begins to explain why she brought the food in the first place and what’s been happening.
>The old pony was a rather sweet thing. “I know what you did ain’t a pretty thing, but your heart is in the right place. I’m sure the others will forgive you, but I hope one day you’ll forgive yourself. That’s the most important kind of clemency we all need.”
>Helping to unload all the food you congratulate Fluttershy on a job well done.
“Do you feel any better?”
>”Well, not when I was threatened. But seeing them happy with my stuff is a great feeling.”
>”I concur.” A familiar voice calls out from around the corner of the soup kitchen.
>A white unicorn walks into view. “I’m proud of you, Fluttershy. I’ve been watching you the whole time, and I thought I would faint when I saw that brute about to harm you. Thankfully your charming friend was there to help.”
>She bats her eyes playfully at you; you could feel yourself smile at her remark.
>Rarity continues. “I know giving your stuff away was harsh, but I wanted to see if you were serious about forgiveness, and I see that you are. Pinkie was a good friend. Every day she would wake up ready to give herself to others to make them smile and laugh. While I might make nice dresses and such, she lived by others happiness through genuine spirit and their smile. She is probably the prime example of what it means to be generous.”
>She pauses slightly at the end, as if she was lost in thought.
>With tears welling up she smiles at Fluttershy. “That is why I too forgive you. I just hope we find a way to make this work out.”
>Both, being filled with joyful tears hug each other.
>Great, another hug-fest.
>After some talk, you confide in Rarity that you can ask for her help if you need to convince the last two ponies.
>Before you and Fluttershy leave for the day, Rarity takes out several large gems and passes them to her. “Go get yourself a bit of food and a blanket, dear. Once this is all said and done, I’ll help you get everything back together.”
>You done your deed for the day and it was getting late.
>Saying for goodbyes you head home for some sleep. The warm evening air was a nice change from the usual cold air back home.
>As you got through the front door, Hope wasn’t there to greet you.
>Instead, you see her passed out sound asleep on the couch.
>Your little sister would often do that.
>So tuckered out from her exciting day of playing outside, she wouldn’t even bother taking off her jacket.
>Just like your sister, you gingerly pick her up.
>You’re still surprised at how light she is for her size. Hope stirs out of her sleep a little and moans. “Hey Anon...” She cuddles a little closer to your chest.
>For the first time ever since your sister went missing, you felt something thump in your chest.
>Without realizing it, you’ve grown close to Hope.
>Just two misfits trying to find answers.
>Tucking her into bed you pat her on the head goodnight.
>A part of you wanted to give her a parting kiss on the forehead, but maybe it was too soon.
>Getting yourself ready for sleep, you still couldn’t help but worry if Twilight was ready like the others.