Starring Stripes - 6

“Buddy, we need to talk.”

Time Tuner peers up from beneath chest height. It was your usual routine of hanging out with your good friend on a Saturday. Something had felt off recently, but you just couldn’t put your finger on what it was.

“…Is this about my crippling fur stroking addiction.”

“That’s kind of weird, but no. It’s about something else.”

You scratch the back of your head, “So what is it?” Your ears flick as they pick up the subtle sounds of the town outside. Turner had asked you to drop by his house first before you did anything else. Every wall is covered top to bottom with clocks and watches that he’s been working on for his clients. He glances up at your head and scowls.

“Okay, seriously. That Zecora mare has done something to you.”

“Like what?”

“Come on man! Look at yourself in the mirror for Celestia’s sake, you have zebra ears, and stripy hair!”

“Is there something wrong with trying a new look every now and then?”

He slams his hooves onto the kitchen table, “Getting a haircut is trying a new look, having your body changed through witchcraft is certainly not.”

“It’s not witchcraft, you’re being judgemental.”

“Then what is it?”

“She’s just really good with plants and chemicals and shit. And for that matter – we’re living in a world where your average pony has the ability to levitate things, what the hell do you mean witchcraft?”

Time Turner ignores you and pulls out a hand mirror, shoving it into your palms, “Look. Please.”

“I don’t see the problem.”

“You didn’t have zebra ears a few days ago.”

Suddenly it clicks, “…Oh.” But short of revulsion or anger, the only emotion you feel is… apathy. Like this is the way things have always been. But at the same time you’re now aware that Zecora has done something to your body. “I guess that’s why people keep mentioning that huh.”

“Oh thank goodness, finally.”

You put the mirror back down and shrug, “Alright. Maybe I do need to go have a chat with her.”

“What if she throws you into a cauldron and boils the skin off your bones?”

“…You really don’t know much about Zecora. Do you? You know that kind of rumour mongering really upsets her.”

Time Turner’s ear flatten, “Oh, I suppose you’re right. I’m sure you’ll be able to smooth things out with her.”