[DE - 7] AiE : Contention

Continued from AiE : Avalon Burning
-------------------

>That overdose of healing magic really did the trick.
>You felt better than you've ever felt.
>You body was completely healed, internally and externally.
>Even improved a little.
>According to Luna, you wouldn't require as much protein as you previously did.
>Something like that anyway.
>Luna had just arrived to escort you to Canterlot, personally.
>She wanted to make sure nothing went wrong.
>Rainbow and Vinyl were with you and ready to go as well.
>They were tired, seeing as it was getting late.
>You, however, had managed to sleep away the better part of a week.
>That, and the overload of magic.
>Yeah, that probably had something to do with it too.
>You felt energized, fully recharged, ready to go --
>Yeah, we got it.  Moving on.
>Right.
>You, Rainbow, and Vinyl followed Princess Luna to the train station, where a midnight blue armored train was waiting.
>Luna was still in her armor too.
>Not exactly the friendliest of attitudes, but you've seen enough sci-fi movies to know that you should never trust aliens right off the bat.
>Then you thought of how Rainbow had taken you in within a couple weeks.
>
>That cyan pony had been acting strange since you'd been hospitalized for the second time.
>It was strange, but you appreciated her concern.
>She seemed much more touchy feely too.
>Was she always like this?
>
>Your thoughts were interrupted once you heard the train whistle.
>Right.
>Here we go.

-------------------

>You boarded the train behind Luna, followed by Vinyl and then Rainbow.
>Once you were all in the car and the door was shut, the train immediately began moving.
>Luna chose now to address you.
>"It is a day's journey to Canterlot.  I suggest you get some rest.  Due to the nature of this journey, my guards will be in every car."
>Makes sense.
>She's transporting a potentially hostile/volatile Alien to the capital city.
>No funny business.
>
>The train cars were anything, if not comfortable.
>Vinyl and Rainbow were sharing a car behind yours, and Luna occupied the one in front of yours.
>Upon exploration, you found a couch, a bed, and a mini-fridge.
>Wonder what goodies they'd stashed away in there?
>You open it up to find a couple of juices, and some chilled fruit salad.
>But there was something else that caught your eye.
>It was a sandwich.
>Not just any sandwich, but a HAM MOTHERFUCKING SANDWICH.
>It was gone in less than a minute.
>That minute was up there on your list of most enjoyable moments of your life.
>It had been too long since you'd consumed meat.
>The protein you'd gotten from the rice, beans, and eggs were good, but there was no substitute for glorious meat.

-------------------

>You wandered your car for a good hour or so before you became bored and sat down on the couch.
>Alright, brain, fire away.
>Really?
>Yeah.  Got nothing better to do anyway.
>Oh boy here we go
>
>Rainbow had been acting strange ever since you'd announced your interest in building a house.
>Why?
>Didn't she understand that living in a cloud made you a burden to her, and that you didn't want that?
>Why would she not want you to build a house?
>That'd mean you'd have to stay with her.
>Your cooking isn't that good.
>Maybe she was using you as a kind of trophy.
>It'd make for a good bar story.
>'Oh yeah?  Well I live with an Alien.'
>Yeah, for a crazy guy.
>
>You noticed the light level drop suddenly, and snapped out of your little internal debate.
>You were going through a mountain tunnel, from what you could tell.
>You felt around the walls, and used the now extremely dim light to find a nearby light switch.
>Ponies at least have some form of electricity.
>As soon as you turned on the light, you turned around to head back to your couch.
>Pretty uneventful train ride so far.
>You heard a door to your car open, and looked up to find Rainbow Dash.
"Hey Rainbow, whats up?"
>"Nothing much...  I was just talking with Vinyl about you..."
"Oh?  Am I a good conversation topic?"
>"Yeah..."
"Whats up Rainbow?  You know you can tell me."
>"It's just...  I'm worried about you Anon."
"What's there to worry about?  It's just a visit to a princess.  I've already met one, and she isn't so bad."
>"Thats just it.  I feel like I've just started to get to know you, and now you might not get to come back home..."

-------------------

>That struck you right in the feels.
>She felt like she was about to lose a friend she'd just made.
>Shit.
"Come here."
>You walk over and collect the cyan pony in one of your patented bear hugs.
>She hugs you back tightly.
>You hold the embrace for a moment, before letting her refill her lungs with air again.
"Don't worry Dashie, I'll be here to pester you when you wake up."
>The Dashie makes her turn the most adorable shade of Crimson you've seen yet.
"Now, try and get some sleep.  I'm not planning on going anywhere anytime soon."
>She forges a weak smile, and turns around to start heading back to her own section of the train.
>After you see her make her way back into her car, and the door shut behind her, you turn around to head back to that ever so cozy couch.
>Though you weren't tired, you tried to sleep.
>If you didn't now, you'd probably wind up fucking up your sleep cycle.
>
>When you woke up (still on your comfy as fuck couch), the train was no longer in a tunnel, and light was pouring through the windows.
>Damn it was bright.
>
>You shielded your eyes and rose from the couch.
>About that time, there was a knock at the door towards the front of the train.
>You opened the door to find a pony dressed in the midnight blue apparel, wielding a tray of food.
>"Breakfast, compliments of her majesty, Princess Luna."
>He gave the tray to you, and retreated back to the car he came from.
>You took the covered tray over to your couch, and opened it up.
>The sight was enough to make you cry.
>
>There were eggs, hash browns, some orange juice, toast, and the ultimate breakfast food.
>Thats right, bacon.
>MOTHERFUCKING BACON.

-------------------

>Ready to face the day after your glorious domination of breakfast, you cleaned yourself up in the small bathroom area of your car.
>It was a tad cramped, but you managed.
>Probably designed for a pony that was maybe two thirds your size, tops.
>Oh well.
>After you're cleaned and pressed, you retire to your couch once more.
>The waiting game.
>Your favorite game of all time.
>You were about to start your thinking about life routine, when the door towards the rear of your car opened.
>In came Rainbow and Vinyl.
>Vinyl promptly tackled you, while Rainbow flew in for the killer hug.
>After the ponies finally release you, you stand up, and reclaim your spot on your couch.
>Rainbow lands to your right, and Vinyl hops onto the couch to occupy the seat to your left.
>Neither of them speak.
>They both just cuddle up next to you.
"I take it neither of you are going to let me leave the couch then?"
>Vinyl answered with a "nope."
>Could be worse.
>
>Rainbow lays her head in your lap, while Vinyl has propped herself up against your arm.
>You sit there, contemplating what Canterlot is going to be like.
>Contemplating what banishment or imprisonment will be like.
>Why so negative?
>I'm either proved right, or pleasantly surprised.
>
>You sit there for hours, enjoying the simple company of your friends, and the rhythm of the train as it chugs along.

-------------------

>After a while, you decide to break the silence.
"So, what's princess Celestia like?"
>Both mares stayed quite for a minute, like they didn't want to talk about it.
>Rainbow eventually spoke up.
>"She's nice."
>"Yup."
>
>Whelp.
"Uhh...  You guys care to elaborate?"
>"Not really."
>Dammit Rainbow.
"Come on now, I need all the help I can get if I'm gonna make a good impression."
>Vinyl spoke up at this.
>"There's not really much I can tell you.  Like I said a while ago, she's not as enthusiastic about my music as Princess Luna."
"...So, she's a bit uptight then?"
>"What?  No!  Well...  Kind of...  she's very..."
>"Diplomatic."
>Wait a minute.
>That voice wasn't Rainbow's or Vinyl's.
>"Princess Luna!"
>You jumped a little at Rainbow's sudden outburst.
>Vinyl and Rainbow both hopped down from the couch to bow.
>You, being the classy fuck you were, did the little head bow and remain seated.
>She returned the nod gesture.
>"Loyalty, Vinyl, there's no need for that kind of formality here.  I apologize, I didn't mean to frighten you."
>Once again, Vinyl spoke up.
>"Sorry Princess, didn't mean to--"
>"No apologies necessary Vinyl.  Do you still plan on having your Lunar festival?"
>"Of course Princess!"
>"Excellent!  I thoroughly enjoyed the last one."
>Her attention turns to you.
>"I couldn't help but over hear, you were trying to get tips regarding meeting my sister?"
"....Well, yes.  I'll take all the help I can get."
>"I'd rather not give you any advice."
>Damn.
>"I don't want to bias your opinion of her before you meet her."
"I understand."
>"Though I do appreciate your honesty."

-------------------

>Rainbow took the silence as an opportunity to talk.
>"No offense Princess, but shouldn't you be sleeping right now?"
>"None taken Loyalty.  I should be yes, but I couldn't sleep."
"Something bothering you Princess?"
>"Yes and no."
>Wat?
>Vinyl chimed in, "What do you mean Princess?"
>"It's nothing of concern, dear Vinyl.  Besides, the story behind it is quite long, and our arrival is near."
>She gestured towards a window, and through it you could see a castle that had been built into a mountain.
>
>It was an impressive sight, but still.
>It had that morbid feel to it.
>Like it could possibly be your last visit.
>
>Great job staying positive, brain.
>
>You noticed a strange change in the lighting.
>The lights in the train dimmed themselves.
>Even the ones that weren't electric.
>Shits gettin weird.
>You looked over at Luna for some sort of description as to what was going on.
>"Don't worry, we're preparing our final approach.  It's supposed to happen."
>Reassuring.
>Sort of.
>Suddenly, it was pitch black again as the train entered another tunnel.
>This time, the darkness only lasted for a few seconds, before a deep purple glow illuminated things again.
>What's with the glow?
>You looked out the window, and from what it looked like, the train was glowing.
"Luna, is this trai--"
>"Yes."
"But ho--"
>"Magic."
>Right.
>Just roll with it.
>You're almost there anyway.
>The train was picking up speed now.
>It was no longer chugging along.
>It was thundering along.
>The tunnel was passing by quicker and quicker now.
>Why was the train accelerating?
>
>There was a loud boom.
>Not like something broke, but like something was charging and released.

-------------------

>The train stopped accelerating, and the purple glow was intensifying.
>Vinyl and Rainbow were looking worried, while Luna seemed to behave as though nothing strange had happened.
"Luna, whats going on?"
>"I told you Anon, we're going to Canterlot."
"But why--"
>"Do you not think that if there was something wrong, I would do something about it?"
>Good point.
>"Do not worry yourselves about the train.  You've got quite the visit ahead of you.  I assure you, if something were to go wrong, you would be among the first ones to know."
>With that, she returned to her car.
>Those words actually comforted you--
>Wait a minute.
>Aside from Luna, some guards, and the train staff, you three were the only ones on the train.
>
>Clever girl.
>
>The train was slowing down now, but the eerie purple glow was still there.
>And still intense.
>Suddenly, DAYLIGHT
>FUCK.
>Your eyes weren't ready for that.
>The train was slowing to a stop, and you could hear what sounded like a foghorn going off.
>Was that the sound the trains brakes made?
>
>This train is kinda cool.

-------------------

>After your temporary blindness subsides, you look out the window again.
>You were approaching a station, by the looks of it.
>There were guards waiting outside.
>They wore armor similar to Luna's guards, but the colors were different.
>Their armor was gold and white, with suns where moons would be on the Lunar guards armor.
>One pony stood out.
>It was a white unicorn with blue hair.
>His armor was gold and purple.
>And his flank.
>He had a picture that beard striking resemblance to Twilight's.
>
>One day you'll ask somepony about their flanks.
>
>Maybe.
>
>And maybe, after they finish beating you up for staring at their ass, you'll get a couple answers.
>
>Nice positive thinking, brain.
>Focus.
>FOCUS DAMMIT.
>You've got a trial to attend.
>Yeah, your own.
>
>God dammit.
>
>The train finally slows to a stop.
>You look over, and both Rainbow and Vinyl are looking out the windows.
"You girls ready?"
>You get a nod and a nervous look from Vinyl.
>"You kidding me?  I was born ready."
>That cyan pony.
>The door to your car opens, and Luna is waiting for you.
>"Anon, are you ready?"
"As I'll ever be."
>"Then let us proceed."
>You follow Luna through her car, Vinyl and Rainbow hot on your tail, and into the bright sunlight.
>Were you ready?
>Probably not.
>Did you care?
>Nope.

-------------------

>The moment you stepped off the train, you were approached by the guards waiting at the station.
>"Princess Luna, ponies, please step away from the alien.  He is to be taken into custody."
>The lunar guards were escorting you off of the train, and took a defensive stance around you when the purple and gold guard said that.
>"What do you mean Shining Armor?  I was told that my guards were to escort him to Celestia."
>"Princess Celestia changed a few plans while you were away.  Will you please step away from the Alien?"
>Luna seemed upset, but didn't fight.
>She nodded to her guards, who fell back from their positions.
>"I will have to talk to my sister about this.  Anon, please accompany the guards.  I assure you they will give you the same respect mine have."
>While she may be sure, you weren't.
>"Hey!  I'm not leaving him until after he sees Princess Celestia!"
>Rainbow's little outburst was treated with an unsettling look from Shining Armor.
>Before he could do anything though, she was already in front of you.
>Vinyl wasn't far behind her.
>"Miss Rainbow Dash, please allow us to do our duty.  Princess Celestia was clear: no non-guard ponies are to accompany the alien."
>"No!  I don't like this one bit!  You take us both, or not at all!"
>"Miss Rainbow, please don't do this.  We have no need for violence."

------------------

>"Oh yeah?!  Well--"
>You cut her off.
"Rainbow.  He's right.  Just let him do his job.  I'll be ok."
>"But--"
"No buts.  Vinyl, make sure she stays out of trouble, will you?"
>"Hey now, I don't need a foal sitter--"
>"You got it, Anon.  We'll see you later."
"Thanks Vinyl.  Rainbow, trust me on this."
>Rainbow wasn't happy with your decision, you could see it in her eyes.
>She was upset.
>You'd seen that look before.
>It was a worried look.
>It didn't appear on her often.
>You'd seen it maybe once or twice before.
>The look quickly changed when Shining Armor spoke up.
>"Thank you.  Rainbow, Vinyl, please step away."
>Rainbow growled, her eyes giving away her strong desire for action.
>Before she could do anything though, Vinyl had her tail in her mouth, and was dragging her away.
>"Hay!  What's the big idea!"
>"Mmmmphgfthg, mmfmmphm."
>"I will visit you once I speak with my sister, Anon.  I apologize for all this."
>You nod your head towards Luna, and approach the pony you've come to identify as Shining Armor.
"I suppose you'll be taking me somewhere then?"
>"Yes.  I'd suppose so."
>With that, the other guards fall in around you.
"Lead the way."
>He turns, and starts heading down the street.
>You follow, the guards keeping a set distance from you, but never straying too far.
>Rainbow was right, this wasn't right.
>Not much you could do now though.

------------------

>A short and eerily silent walk later, and you've arrived at your destination.
>Theres a metal door of some sort, and a sun was embossed onto its features.
>Friendly looking place.
>Shining Armor opens the door using magic, and continues inside.
>There are several metal doors here, but it's not quite like a prison.
>No, prison doesn't accurately describe it.
>The walls were brightly colored.
>There were no windows, on the doors or otherwise.
>The doors, aside from being windowless, did not share the same design as the first metal door.
>No, these doors were featureless.
>Asylum would be more fitting a description.
>
>Shining led you to a door at the far end of the hall, and opened it using magic.
>From what you could tell, the door itself was easily two to three inches thick.
>That, re-enforced with the huge locking bolts, reminded you exactly why you're here.
>You're an alien, and not many of the locals know you very well.
>Just go with the flow, and try not to start anything, and you -should- be fine.
>You entered your cell, and it wasn't AS bad as you were anticipating.
>The furniture, limited to a bed and a sofa, was bolted to the ground.
>There was another door in the corner, presumably the bathroom.
>The walls were padded, and the floor was carpeted.
>You turned around to face Shining Armor.
"How long am I staying?"
>"I don't know.  I wish you luck."
>With that, he shut the door and locked it.
>Great, more waiting.

------------------

>A couple hours pass, and you spend them pondering your fate on the couch provided.
>You're still not sure if this is some sort of maximum security area, or just a really nice prison cell.
>You know next to nothing about Princess Celestia, but based on her actions...
>Well, you might say she was suspicious of you.
>
>Just a little.
>
>Can you say your people would react any differently though?
>Yeah, there is a distinct possibility that if you were an alien back home, you'd be dead by now.
>Or at least locked away in a lab instead of a jail cell.
>
>There's a knock at your door, and a familiar voice asks you to step away from the door.
>Shining Armor opens the door, and address you.
>"You have a visitor."
>Princess Luna walks in.
>She was wearing her armor.
>Those feels you were getting, they weren't good.
>After she enters, the door is shut behind her.
"Princess Luna!  What can I do for you?"
>"I apologize for my foreboding appearance, but it was the only way I could see you without a guard present."
"I'm just happy to see a familiar face."
>That got a smile out of her.
>You smooth motherfucker.
>"At any rate, my visit is not entirely social.  I've spoken with my sister about her... changes."
"And?"
>"She feels that until she evaluates you herself--"
"I should be considered a prisoner, right?"
>She nods.
"I figured.  Oh well.  Do you know when my trial will be?"
>"In the next couple of hours.  It will be after the sun sets."
"Will Vinyl and Rainbow be there?"

------------------

>"Of course!  They were asked to attend after all."
"How are they, by the way?  Rainbow didn't cause any trouble, did she?"
>"Loyalty has calmed down quite a bit.  She's still upset, but Vinyl is keeping her promise to you and keeping her out of trouble."
"Good to know.  Will you be at my trial?"
>"I will, but not immediately.  I have royal business I cannot disregard."
"I understand.  I'm glad you'll be there though."
>"And why is that?  You have no reason to believe that I will influence my sister's decision for your benefit."
"You've been fair to me so far, so I think I can trust you."
>She bats her eyes a couple of times before responding.
>"I'm afraid I have to leave now.  Shining Armor will escort you from your cell to your trial location in a few hours."
"Thanks for visiting me personally."
>She nods, then opens the door with her magic and leaves.
>The door is shut again, but it doesn't have that incredibly lonely feeling it did the first time.
>You're feeling much better about your impending trial now.
>It's still imposing, but you're not fearing it like you were earlier.
>Whatever happens, happens.
>
>Right?

------------------

>A couple hours later, Shining Armor opens your door and escorts you out.
>Just as Luna promised.
>You follow him out of the facility, and upon exiting, are accompanied by four more guards.
>A short walk later, and you're entering a part of the actual castle.
>It seems like the city was built into the mountain, and the castle was built into a part of the mountain so that it could overlook the city.
>How ponies built it is beyond yo--
>Magic.
>
>After you enter the castle, you follow Shining through a series of twisting and turning hallways.
>
>That are completely empty.
"Hey Shining, where is everypony?"
>"They've been asked to stay indoors until your trial is over."
"Oh."
>Great.
>Now they have reason to be absolutely fucking terrified of you.
>
>You're led through a large doorway, and into a room where a white pegasus unicorn is seated.
>This pony has a sun on her flank.
>She must be the princess Ce--
>"Greetings, Anon.  I am Princess Celestia."
>Yup.
>"I trust your journey was comfortable?"
"Yes, thank you."
>You give her a bow similar to the one you gave Luna on the train.
>"Please take a seat to your left."
>You look over, and a chair behind a desk is waiting.
>"Shining, will you please show Rainbow Dash and Vinyl Scratch in?"
>"Yes, your highness."
>Shining Armor and two of his guards leave.
>The remaining guards escort you over to your seat.
>About the time you're seated, the main doors open again, and Vinyl and Rainbow are escorted into the room.
>They're ushered over to a pair of chairs behind a desk similar to yours, but on the other side of the room.
>Vinyl looks tired, and Rainbow looks like she's stressed the fuck out.
>"Let us proceed."

------------------

>"You are aware of why you are here, Anon?"
"I have a rough idea."
>"Let me smooth it out for you.  You are here because no pony has ever seen anything like you."
>"You are the first of your kind in Equestria, and consequently, no pony knows anything about you or your species."
>"Had it not been for the insistence of not one but TWO elements of Harmony, I would have proceeded with this trial much earlier."
"What do you mean?"
>"Twilight Sparkle mentioned you in a letter to me some time ago.  She insisted that I let you adapt before putting you on trial."
>"Rainbow Dash had already met you, and despite my warnings, took you in.  She also insisted that you were not a threat."
>"HOWEVER.  I make the final choice.  Though their opinions of you I hold in high regard, I must evaluate you myself."
"I understand."
>"Good.  Now then, lets start with your entrance.  It wasn't exactly graceful or peaceful.  As a matter of fact, your entry, weather by intention or not, injured Rainbow Dash."
"Yes, and I apologize for that; but I have no idea how I arrived here.  I can assure you though, that I have no intention of causing Rainbow Dash harm."
>"Really?  And how can I be certain of that?"
"If I did, why would I wait?  I've been living with her for quite some time now, with plenty of opportunities to injure her."
>"You make a valid point.  Rainbow Dash, do you have anything to say on the matter?"
>Rainbow didn't react well to being put on the spot like that, but she didn't disappoint.

------------------

>"Yes Princess, I do.  I've lived with Anon for a while now.  I think he's one of the best friends I've ever had."
>"If I were to go back in time, knowing all that was going to happen, I'd do it all over again."
>Princess Celestia seemed...  well, she had a good poker face.
>"Thank you Rainbow Dash.  You speak highly of your friend here, but you don't know all there is to know about him."
>"He's my friend, and I'm his.  That's all I need to know."
>"You're very protective for him to just be a friend to you.  Is he something more?  Is there something you're not revealing?"
>Rainbow was turning that lovely shade of red again.
>"I... Uhhh... Well..."
>Celestia turned her attention to you.
>"Anon, do you have a relationship with Rainbow Dash?"
"She's my friend.  In fact, I'd say she's one of my best friends.  That's my relationship with her."
>"I see.  So you're 'just friends' with Rainbow Dash?  You don't view her as somepony special to you?"
"That's right."
>She turned her gaze onto Rainbow again.
>"Do you have feelings of more than mere friendship towards Anon, Rainbow?"
>"I...  Well...  Ya see..."
>"I see.  So you have more intimate feelings towards him, and haven't told him?  That's not your nature, Rainbow Dash."
>Rainbow was turning an impossible shade of red now.
>Vinyl piped in when Rainbow stopped talking.
>"I don't think that matters here, Princess."
>"Doesn't it though?  If this creature can cause an element of harmony to act against her nature, then it is of extreme relevance."
>"I disagree!"
>Everyone in the room looked for the origin of the new voice.
>It was princess Luna.

------------------

>"Ah, sister!  You've decided to join us!"
>"You know very well why I was not present during the beginning.  That IS why you scheduled it at this time, is it not?"
>Celestia remained silent.
>"As I was saying, to say that Loyalty is acting against her nature is a stretch."
>"But--"
>"A BIG stretch.  Are ponies no longer allowed to have relationships with who they want?"
>"Of course they are--"
>"Then why would Loyalty's relationship with Anon be of concern here?"
>"If the alien can so easily corrupt an element of harmony--"
>"Corrupt?  How is she corrupt?  If she likes him, that is of her concern, not yours or this trial, or anypony else.  You fear what you do not understand, Celestia.  Don't punish Anon for your fear, he has done nothing wrong."
>Celestia looked pissed.
>Her sister had just destroyed her entire argument.
>"Very well then, let us move on."
>"How about not?  You and I both know that your whole purpose for this trial is to keep Anon locked up because you're afraid of him and what he may or may not be capable of doing."
>"SISTER!"
>"NO!  I suffered a thousand years because of your fear and rash judgment, I will not let another pony, or anything else, go through what I had to!"
>Celestia was silent.
>The room was dead silent.
>You could hear the rage building between the two demigods.
>"Very well then, sister."
>Uh oh.
>Celestia had that look.
>You knew that look from back home.
>It wasn't a good look.
>"I shall let Anon return to Ponyville, and continue his life there."
>"I'm glad you've come to your sense--"
>"HOWEVER.  He will be YOUR responsibility."

------------------

>"I accept your terms."
>Celestia turned her gaze upon you once more.
>"Anon, do you accept these terms?"
"Yes.  I think I ca--"
>"Very well then, it is settled.  Until further notice, Anon will be the responsibility of Princess Luna.  This trial is over."
>With that, Celestia vanished in a bright flash of light.
>Damn.
>
>She was kind of a bitch.
>
>Rainbow and Vinyl were dangerously close to becoming appendages if they managed to hug you any harder.
>Luna turned to address the three of you.
>"I think we should get you back to Ponyville now, Anon."
"I couldn't agree more, Princess."
>"Then let us depart.  My train is at the station and waiting."
"Lead the way.  Guys?  Can I have my limbs back now?"
>Vinyl reluctantly let go of your leg.
"Rainbow, you too.  I need that leg."
>She sighed, before getting an idea.
>She relinquished your leg, in place of becoming a growth on your back.
>Seeing this, Vinyl quickly attached herself to your leg once more.
>You sighed.
"Fine.  Lets go."
>You began your slow shuffle through the castle, following Luna as best you could.
>They both held on the entire trip though.
>It was night time once more, and Luna's train was ready to go at the station, just as she said.
>You could see it glowing now.
>It reminded you of something from Tron, but with a slightly more medieval feel to it.
>Yeah, it was still pretty badass.
>Shining Armor was waiting for you at the station, but he was alone this time.
>The only other guards there were the Lunar guards.

------------------

>You approach the train, and Shining gives you a look of bewilderment.
>Could easily be the ponies that have made themselves bodily attachments to you.
>Yeah, probably that.
"Hello, Shining Armor.  You're not going to take me back to the cell are you?"
>"What?  Ha, no.  Listen, about earlier..."
"Just following orders.  Don't worry about it."
>"I--  thanks.  If you don't mind my asking, is that Vinyl Scratch on your leg?"
"Long story short: yes.  And the cyan one on my back is Rainbow Dash."
>"Rainbow?  From the wedding?"
>Rainbow pipes up hearing her name mentioned.
>"Thats me!"
>She didn't relinquish your back though.
>"Say, it's been a while.  How're you and your friends?"
>"Pretty good!  I went and found myself an alien."
>"I can see that.  I'll bet Twilight hasn't left you alone, has she Anon?"
"You know Twilight?"
>"I'd hope so, she's my little sister."
"Oh.  I didn't know.  But to answer your question, she's actually kept mostly to herself.  I've only seen her the few times I've been to the library."
>"Really?  That's odd.  I'd think she'd be learning everything she could about you."
"After this whole ordeal, I'd say I've got some learning to do myself."
>Princess Luna let you chat it up with Shining for long enough.
>"Anon, we should go."
"Oh, right.  I suppose I'll see you around, Shining Armor."
>"Hopefully on less... professional terms."
>You nod, and continue your shuffle towards the train.

-------------------

>As soon as your ensemble is boarded, the doors to the cars shut, and the train begins moving.
>You need to focus on sleep and removing these mares from yourself.
>Sleep should be the easier part.
>Removing the mares may prove difficult.
>You manage to shuffle through Luna's car and into yours.
"Ok ladies, we're here."
>"Thanks for the ride Anon," Vinyl says as she releases your leg.
"Your turn Rainbow."
>You do a little shake to make your point sink in.
>She only clutches tighter.
"Um, Vinyl?"
>"Yeah?"
"A little help?"
>She sighs, but walks over to you.
>She bites down on Rainbow's tail, and pulls.
>Hard.
>Nothing.
"Hmmm...  Vinyl, come here.  I've got an idea."
>She walks back in front of you, and perks her ears up.
>You whisper your devious idea in her ear, and she giggles.
>"What'd you say?"
>Rainbow was getting nervous now.
"Let me go, and you won't have to find out."
>"Never!"
>She clutches you harder.
"Alright then, the hard way.  Vinyl?"
>"With pleasure!"
>Her horn lights up, and grips a quill that was lying on a counter top with it.
>She begins to tickle Rainbow.
>Great success!
>Rainbow can't hold on, and starts laughing like there's no tomorrow.
>Her grip is destroyed, and she's on the ground now, trying desperately to crawl away from the possessed quill.
"Finally!"
>Vinyl walks over to her, and grips her tail in her mouth.
>The quill has been placed back on the counter now.
"Now please, go get some sleep.  We'll have plenty of time once we're back in Ponyville to catch up, ok?"
>Rainbow sighs.
>"Fine.  You win.  Lemme just--"
>Vinyl keeps her grip on Rainbow's tail.
>"Hey!  Lemme go!"
>"Mmmmpp mmfffmm."
>"Don't you sass me!"
>"Mmmmppp mmhhmmpm."

-------------------

>After Vinyl dragged the unwilling cyan pegasus back to their cars, you could finally focus on what really mattered.
>Glorious sleep, on that ever so enticing bed.
>
>The trial must have stressed you out more than you knew.
>You remember falling down onto the bed.
>Then blissful, dreamless, uninterrupted sleep was all there was.
>
>And it was good.
>
>When you woke up the next morning, the sun wasn't in your eyes like it was last time.
>Probably because it was on the other side of the train now.
>Considering you were heading the opposite direction.
>
>Duh.
>
>The train was thundering along again.
>Damn, you'd slept through that neat boom.
>Oh well.
>You get up and look around, and sure enough there's a covered silver plater on the counter.
>
>You decide to clean yourself up first.
>After you exit your bathroom and get dressed, you head back over to the silver platter.
>You open it up, and the sight made your mouth water.
>Pancakes.
>Eggs.
>MOTHERFUCKING BACON.
>
>After you unceremoniously scarf down the breakfast you'd been given, you look out one of the windows to see how far along the journey you were.
>A couple of familiar looking landmarks go by, and you'd wager you're at the halfway point.
>Back to the glorious couch to resume thinking about the trial and what was said.
>Dash never did directly answer Princess Celestia about liking you.
>Don't bring it up, whatever you do.
>You don't want to awkward up your friendship with Dash by telling her you're not interested in dating ponies.
>
>You're not, right?
>No!  Of course not!
>Yeah.
>Yup.
>Right.
>
>You know that I know your poker face exactly, right?
>
>God dammit.

-------------------

>So, do you like ponies or not?
So, do you like ponies or not?
>Well...  I guess...  No.  No I don't.
>Don't lie to me.  I'm you, remember?
>...Right.
>So... you like her?
>I... Don't want to think about that right now.
>Well you're not calling the shots on what to think about, now are you?
>...Fuck you brain.
>You've got to make a decision sooner or later.
>She's a pony, I'm a human.
>And?
>And what?  That's all there is!  We physically, aren't compatible.
>Says who?
>My morals!  I'm no zoophile!
>And she's no normal pony!  She's sentient.
>Does that make a difference?  She's still a different species.
>Does that really matter?  You're the only human in Equestria.
>True.
>And you're not going anywhere anytime soon.
>Also true.
>So.  You like her or what?
>...
>Well?
>Fuck.  I think so?  Maybe?  I don't know.
>No need to rush the decision, but you've got to make it at some point.
>
>The couch was not good to you today.
>Throwing all these philosophy and psychology things at you.
>But there's not much you can do other than think while you're on a train.
>
>It's a terrible, terrible trap.
>Making you think about such things as these.
>But it was bound to happen sooner or later.
>And you still managed to not make a decision.

-------------------

>During your debate with yourself, you failed to notice Vinyl sneak into your car.
>Not only that, but she managed to find a spot on the couch next to you.
>You didn't notice her until she spoke.
>You jumped, but when you realized who was speaking, you calmed down.
"Vinyl!  Jeeze, you snuck up on me."
>"Sorry, didn't mean to sneak.  I knocked a couple times, but you never answered.  Something wrong?"
"Oh, sorry...  Just been thinking..."
>"What about?"
"...the trial.  Everything that was said."
>"Oh?  You wanna talk about it?"
"...not really."
>"Oh..."
"But I think I should."
>"I'm all ears!"
>Who would've guessed?
>"So, what all has you so deep in thought that you don't hear a pony come in?"
"Lots of things...  All really stemming from the trial."
>"Care to be just a bit more specific?"
"For starters, Celestia was right.  I feel like I barely know Rainbow, yet I've been living with her since I left the hospital."
>"Nothing wrong with that.  She trusts you."
"But I've done nothing to repay her!  What have I done to earn her trust?  Nothing!  I've done nothing to benefit her in any way!"
>"You and I both know thats not true."
"Is that so?"
>"Yes it is.  Did she ever ask you to repay her?  No.  Does she want you to repay her?  No.  You've saved her life just as many times as she saved yours."
"And what makes you so sure of all that?"
>"What do you think the two of us have been doing while you were locked up?  She was stressin out, Anon.  About you.  She told me everything."

-------------------

"Oh."
>"Yeah.  She couldn't stop talking about you.  She doesn't want you to repay her in any way, other than being her friend.  You listened when she needed somepo--one to talk to."
>"You're by far one of her closest friends."
"But why?  It doesn't make any sense!"
>"Does it really need to?  Why does it need to?"
"I...  I just feel like she's throwing caution to the wind."
>"You've lived with her long enough to know that's what she does."
"I suppo--"
>"Besides, don't you consider her one of your friends?"
"Of course--"
>"Then what else is there?"
"I...  I don't know.  I feel like I owe her so much."
>"She doesn't want repayment!  How many times do I have to tell you that?"
"It...  It just feels like somethings... off.  Something she's not telling me."
>"Boy, you really nailed that on the head."
"I don't suppose you're going to tell me what she won't, will you?"
>"If I did, she'd kill me."
"I didn't think so."
>"She likes you Anon."
"I like her too--"
>"No no, she LIKES you."
"You mean-"
>"Yeah."
"Oh."
>"You seriously couldn't tell?"
"I had a feeling, but I never brought it up...  I just didn't want to make the situation awkward."
>"She likes you, you like her.  What's awkward about it?  You do like her, don't you?"
"I...  I...  I don't know."
>"You don't know?  What don't you know about it?  It's a simple question!  Do you like her or don't you?"
"I just don't know."
>"Is it because she's not a human like you?"
"That's a big part of it, yeah."
>"Anon, that doesn't matter.  She likes you for who you are, not just because you're an alien."
"But--"
>"But nothing!  Do you have something against ponies?"
"No!"
>"Then what's the big deal?"

-------------------

"Where I'm from, inter-species relationships aren't looked highly upon."
>"But we're not where you're from.  In Equestria, these things can happen.  You don't have to be the same species to like each other."
"Really?  Ponies just get involved with whatever they please?"
>"Really really.  It doesn't matter what species you are, so long as you're happy.  It happens all the time!"
"It just feels... out of place, I guess.  Not to mention how different humans are from ponies."
>"Being different will probably make it work more than you think.  She loves the idea of living with a potential predator."
"Really?  She never told me that."
>"Sheesh, you two really need to sit down and talk.  You'd be surprised just how much I talked with Rainbow about you."
"I doubt it."
>She gave you a deadpan look.
>"I've been talking to Rainbow about you for the better part of three or four days.  I know some things about her feelings towards you that I can't un-know."
"Thats... more than a little unsettling."
>"You have no idea.  Point is, you're both just worrying about how each other will react, and not actually doing anything.  Forget the rules of your society, you're here now.  Just do what feels right."
>You're silent for a bit.
>"Hey, you ok lover boy?"
"I-- yeah.  Just letting your words sink in a bit."
>"Well, I'm getting hungry, got anything to eat in here?"
>You jump on the opportunity to change the subject.
"You know, I don't really know.  Lemme take a look."
>You walk over to the fridge, and open it up to examine it's contents.
>There were cold cut sandwiches, a fruit salad, some more punch, all the delicious things you craved.

-------------------

"Yeah, got some things you might want in here.  Up for some fruit salad?"
>"Absolutely!  What else you got?"
"I don't think you'd like anything else in here besides the punch."
>"Why is that?"
"Because it's meat sandwiches."
>"Oh.  Yeah, good call."
>You take out the fruit salad, and place it on the counter where there are a couple of stools.
>She hops up on a stool, and eyes the salad hungrily.
>She almost dives in, when she notices you didn't take anything out for yourself.
>"Aren't you going to eat?"
"Yeah, but I don't want to spoil your appetite.  I'd be eating the meat."
>"Spoil my appetite?  I've held concerts in Gryphus before.  You do know that Griffons eat meat, don't you?"
"Can't say that I did.  Never met one before."
>"Well, I'm sure you'll meet one sooner or later.  Stay clear of the northern Griffons though."
"Why is that?  Griffons not friendly?"
>"Oh no, they're plenty friendly.  The northern Griffons have... well they have a reputation."
"Really?  What is it?"
>"There was a war, well before Celestia's rule, that was between the Griffons of the northern territories and a rather large Earth pony army."
"So what happened?"
>"There was a huge battle.  The Griffons reported several hundred dead, and a couple hundred missing."
"And the ponies?"
>"...They reported over 3,000 dead, and more than a thousand missing."
>Kind of a difference there.
>"Moral of the story is, don't buck with Eagleland."
"Eagleland?"
>"The northern Griffon territory."
"Right.  Point taken."

-------------------

"So, have you ever met a Griffon from Eagleland?"
>"Nope.  My concerts for the Griffons have all been in Gryphus, the countries capital."
"Ah.  So, what you're saying, is that I should just shut up and eat my sandwich?"
>"Yeah."
>You take out a ham sandwich, and sit down next to Vinyl.
>After the two of you finished your lunch, you headed over to your couch to occupy it once more.
>"You're really digging that couch, aren't you?"
"Probably more than is healthy for me, but yeah."
>"Then imma try your bed."
>She hopped up onto your bed, and curled up in the center of it.
>"Oooooohhhh, fluffy..."
"So, anything you can tell me about Rainbow that I should know?"
>"Oh, plenty."
"Great!"
>"But I'm not going to tell you everything."
>Rats.
>"I'll tell you a little though."
"You have my utmost attention."
>"She's quick to judge, impulsive, daring, and generally not afraid of much."
"Well, you didn't tell me anything I didn't already figure out."
>"Good!  Only other tidbit about Rainbow that you'll get from me is that she's protective."
"Protective?  What makes you say that?"
>"Ask her about your time in the hospital.  If she doesn't tell you, ask Apple Jack or Nurse Red Heart."
"Did I miss that much?"
>"Plenty.  Rainbow wouldn't tell me all the little details when I asked her at the hospital; I had to get Apple Jack to tell me."
"Was it really that big of a deal?"
>"Anon, if you knew what went on while you were unconscious, you probably wouldn't be so worried about a relationship between you and Rainbow."
>"By the way, I'm totally throwing a concert when we get back.  It's time for some music."

-------------------

>Vinyl headed back to her car after a bit of silence, and the realization that she was beginning to doze off on your bed.
>The sun was starting to set now, which meant you were getting ever closer to Ponyville.
>
>Almost on cue, you hear the familiar boom of the engine.
>You looked out the window and saw the intense purple glow illuminating the scenery.
>The train had topped out speed wise now.
>You could faintly see what looked like Ponyville in the distance.
>It'd probably be close to the middle of the night once you arrived.
>
>Odd that Rainbow hasn't come to see you all day.
>Though, given what Vinyl had told you, you couldn't really blame Rainbow for not being chatty.
>She was probably nervous as hell.
>
>And you should probably stop assuming everything.
>Yeah, probably.
>
>Might as well sleep the rest of the ride off.
>And so you do.
>The bed was extremely comfortable.
>But it was nothing like the cloud bed that awaited you in Ponyville.
>
>You hadn't realized it, but you'd come to know Ponyville as your home now.
>Not as a strange alien place, filled with talking ponies.
>No, this was home, and it was filled with some very friendly ponies.
>And your time in Canterlot made you realize just how much you missed it.
>
>The place kind of grew on you, without you intending to let it do that.
>Eh.
>
>You were ok with this.
>
>You could live in Ponyville.

-------------------

>You slept the rest of the journey off.
>Wasn't long, but it was some of the best sleep you'd had in a while.
>
>When you woke up, Luna was the one standing next to your bed, trying to wake you.
>"Anon!  Wake up!  We're here!"
"Mmmfffffssllffrg..."
>"What?"
"Mmmmfffssfff..."
>The pillow and the overwhelming urge to not get up weren't helping your communication issues.
>Luna took matters into her own hooves.
>
>So to speak.
>
>Her horn glowed, and the lights seemed to dim out of your car.
>Her eyes and mouth were emitting a white light, and her armor had appeared on her, and was glowing that ever so familiar midnight purple.
>"ANON.  TIME TO GET UP.  WE HAVE ARRIVED."
>You opened your eyes, and no longer required sleep.
>You may require a change of undergarments though.
>"Anon, come down from there.  I apologize for frightening you, but you weren't exactly waking up..."
>As you made your way down from one of the light fixtures you'd managed to cling to, the lights returned and her armor disappeared.
>"Now then, please get your things together.  You're home."
>Those words sounded so inviting.
>Home.
>Were you home?
>
>You collected the few belongings you'd brought with you, and a couple of sandwiches left over in the fridge.
>You stepped out of the car, and were greeted by a tired looking Rainbow and Vinyl.
>You gave your thanks to Princess Luna for everything she did.
>Vinyl was escorted home by a couple of her guards.
>Rainbow flew you to her house, and you both politely crashed to your respective rooms.
>The cool, crisp night air on the way here; the starry, cloudless sky; the amazing full moon.
>
>Yes.
>You were home.

-------------------

>You finished out your sleep in your ever so comfortable cloud bed.
>When you woke up the next morning, you got yourself cleaned up and headed down to the kitchen.
>Rainbow was already there, working on breakfast.
"Morning, Dashie."
>She blushed a little at the pet name.
>"Morning, Anon."
"So, whats the plan for today?"
>"I've got to make up some hours at work, so thats what I'll be doing.  You?"
"I suppose I'll resume my second job hunt, after I meet up with Vinyl to find out my schedule."
>She nodded, and continued making toast for the two of you.
"So, I guess we've got some things to talk about."
>She stopped buttering the toast, and sighed.
>"Vinyl talk to you too?"
"Yup."
>"I vote we wait until tomorrow, so we have the whole weekend to talk.  No work to worry about."
"I agree."
>"That reminds me, you need to make sure you have the two weeks after next week completely free."
"What?  Why?"
>"Trust me.  I'll tell you all about it tomorrow."
"Well, ok then."
>With that, she finished preparing your toast, and you both ate in silence.
>After that, she dropped you off at the square and the two of you decided to meet back here around sundown.
>Ah, the square.
>Bustling with ponies buying and selling goods.
>You spotted Apple Bloom at her apple stand, with another pony.
>This pony was orange with blond hair, and was wearing a cowboy hat.
>Interesting looking character.

-------------------

>You approach the stand with hopes that maybe this pony is the sister that Apple Bloom had spoken of.
>As you approach, Apple Bloom waves you down.
>"Howdy there Anon!"
"And a good morning to you Apple Bloom."
>"Where've you been?  I haven't seen you in forever!"
"I was... well, lets just say I had some business to attend to in Canterlot."
>"Canterlot?  Must've been SOME business!  Did it all go alright?"
"Yeah, I think you could say that.  But enough about me, how're you feeling?  Last I saw of you, you were being taken away by some medics."
>"I never did get ta thank ya for that...  Why'd you do that, anyhow?"
"Why wouldn't I?"
>"Cause it's dangerous!"
"I'm not just gonna stand by and let the best apple sales pony I know get all messed up in a fire."
>"Awww, c'mon.  Ya really think so?"
"Apple Bloom, I know so.  Speaking of the fire, how's the farm?"
>"I think you'd better ask mah sister about that.  Oh!  Where are my manners!  Apple Jack, this is Anon!"
>The orange pony tipped her hat to you.
>"Howdy."
"Pleasure.  So you're Apple Bloom's sister?"
>"Thats me.  Pleasure to meet my little sisters savior.  If'n there's anything I can do for you, you let me know."
"Actually, I'd been talking to Apple Bloom here about trying to get a second job.  She said you might have an opening."
>"You save my sister, and instead of wanting money or free apples, you ask for a job?"
>You nod your head.
>"You're a might strange Anon.  But yes, I think we could use some extra help around the farm."

-------------------

>"Right now we're mostly focusing on rebuilding what burnt down, which, thank Celestia, wasn't as much as I thought."
"I'd be happy to help in any way I can!"
>Rainbow's warning snaps to mind.
>"When can ya start?"
"Actually, I've got to wait another three weeks before I start."
>"Why is that?"
"Honestly, I don't know.  My roomie told me to make sure I kept those weeks clear though."
>"Huh.  Well, why don't ya just show up when you can, and we'll go from there?"
"Sounds like a plan.  Thanks again!"
>"No no, thank YOU Anon.  You saved my sister from a mighty long hospital visit."
"I would've done it for anypony."
>"Well I'm glad ya did it for her."
"Me too.  I'd love to stay and chat, but I've got to get going.  I'll see you around, boss."
>"I'll see ya 'round, Anon."
>"See ya later mister Anon!"
>You give the two apple ponies a wave as you head away from the square, and towards the auditorium.
>
>Time to visit the rave pony.

###Last Edit: 7/19/2012 1810