FSE

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I awoke groggily at the feel of fine hair brushing up against me on both sides. At first, I thought it was the feel of Fluttershy and Scootaloo lying next to me. But when I opened my eyes, I found that I was only half right. Fluttershy was asleep on my right, but a gray earth pony mare with a crimson mane and tail was on my left. I recognized her immediately. "Mitta..."

It was then that I remembered what had occurred the previous night. Seeing her sleeping soundly beside me with an obvious smile on her face filled me with a sense of relief. She was no longer bound to the curse of Sunny Town. She was free at last.

I wrapped my arms around her, holding her close to me. But a moment later, she began to stir in my grasp. She mumbled groggily before her big crimson eyes opened. "Ugh... Is someone there?"

I whispered, "It's just me, Mitta."

Mitta suddenly looked over her shoulder at me. Her face showed shock, just as it did when she looked herself over upon the curse's removal. "Where am I...? Is this Sunny Town?"

I chuckled lightly, "No, Mitta. You remember? Nightmare Moon removed the curse from you last night. You're forgiven."

Her face showed nothing but disbelief. But soon, tears began to stream down her face. "I do remember... James, you..." She then threw her forelegs around me as tightly as she could and whispered, "Thank you..."

I nuzzled her cheek, "It was no real trouble, Mitta. I'm just glad you're finally free."

Mitta whispered, holding back tears. "You don't know what you did for me... You brought me back to life... I was stuck in a permanent limbo out there... You... You really must be an angel..."

I shook my head, "I told you before, Mitta. I'm no angel. I'm just an ordinary guy who wanted to help my friend."

The two of us just cuddled for a moment longer. But we were interrupted by a tiny meek voice speaking from behind me. "Um... I hope I'm not interrupting anything."

Mitta and I froze before we both looked behind me. Fluttershy was sitting up in bed and looking right at me. That expression on her face seemed to show disappointment or lack of amusement. I felt my body temperature rise before I replied, "This really isn't what it looks like, honey..."

At my words, Fluttershy smiled brightly and giggled, "Oh, I know. I just thought it was very cute how you two were hugging when I woke up." She then gave me a kiss on the lips, "I missed waking up with you by me, James. I love you."

I replied with a smile and a kiss of my own. "I love you too, honey."

When Fluttershy and I embraced each other, Mitta let out a giggle, "You two look so cute together... Should I look away?"

Fluttershy and I looked at each other and laughed lightly. "It's OK, Mitta. You can watch if you want." Fluttershy spoke with a smile.

"Actually, I think we should all get out of bed. I don't want anyone coming in and thinking..." I spoke, but paused when I noticed there was someone standing at the doorway. All three of us stared ahead. Standing in the doorway was Celestia.

"Um... I hope I'm not interrupting anything." She spoke with a somewhat unnerved expression.

Fluttershy instantly blushed deeply. "Oh... Uh... No, it's OK, your highness. We were...uh...just about to get out of bed."

She smiled a very awkward smile, "That's fine, Fluttershy. If you three want to spend a little more time together, I won't stop you."

I facepalmed, "Its not what you think! I'm clothed under here, after all!"

Mitta nodded, "We haven't been doing anything like that, your highness. I only just woke up myself."

Celestia chuckled, apparently relieved by those words. "Ah, I see. Sorry for assuming. In any case, I came to inform you that all your other friends are already awake. Estoc and Shining Armor went to the local donut shop to get some breakfast for all of you. Come on down to the courtyard whenever you're ready. Oh, and your clothes are right there, James." She pointed to a stool. My clothes from the previous day were neatly folded in a pile with my shoes on top.

"Ah, OK. Thanks. Would you girls mind leaving me to get dressed then?" I replied.

"I don't have to leave, do I?" Fluttershy asked.

I looked at her and grinned, "Oh, right. Everyone but you." My friends chuckled together.

"In that case, let me show you to where the rest of your friends are, Mitta. Come with me." Celestia spoke.

Mitta nodded and hopped out of bed. "OK, your highness... Just please don't let Princess Luna curse me again."

As the two of them walked out of the room, Celestia replied, "Don't worry about her. She is quite all right with you now."

Once I was alone with Fluttershy, I climbed out of bed in nothing but my boxers. But as I was sliding my pants on, I felt Fluttershy hover up behind me and embrace me. I could tell because of her soft thin coat rubbing against my back. I smiled and spoke, "Love you, honey."

Fluttershy replied in her quiet tone, "I love you, James."

Seeing as how we were alone and were in no hurry to go anywhere, I decided to take advantage of the moment. I wiggled out of Fluttershy's grasp and turned around before holding her in an embrace of my own. The two of us looked into each other's eyes for a moment. Words were not necessary. We both know what the other wanted.

We closed our eyes and joined lips for a brief kiss before repeating it over and over. So serene a feeling... But after that, we parted lips and pressed into the kiss further. Our tongues touched, our lips closing every few seconds before parting again. Such an experience is hard to describe. The sheer love I was feeling for her as we kissed. So wonderful.

We very slowly parted when the kiss ended. Fluttershy had a very deep blush on her face, her eyes somewhat dazed. I too was slightly overwhelmed as well, only able to stare at the face of my beloved. Finally, she broke the silence and rested her head against me. But what she said surprised me. "James... I want you..."

I knew what she meant by that. And to be honest, I was very tempted to do so at the time as well. But doing such a thing in the royal palace with so many people around who could just pop in at any time? The risk was too high. Granted, I doubt there would be any consequences, but poor Fluttershy would surely be mortified if someone walked in on us.

I gently stroked my lover's face, "Tonight, honey. It's too risky to do it here."

Much to my surprise, I felt Fluttershy drag her long tail up my leg to my hips. "But... I really want to... I'm sorry, I know this isn't like me, but... I just love you so much, I can't stand it..."

I was genuinely touched by my girlfriend's words. And as much as I was fearful of us getting caught, I wanted to please her. However, I listened to my gut on this one. "Me too, honey. But let's wait until tonight when we have some alone time. We'll do it for as long as you want, I promise."

Fluttershy's face showed true disappointment at my words, but she seemed to understand what I was getting at. She sighed, "OK... I'll wait." But she then gave me an unexpected smirk and whispered, "But don't forget, OK? Mama wants some loving."

I felt my body temperature spike at those words. "Uh... Honey? Since when do you get that...assertive?"

Fluttershy giggled nervously, "Sorry... I guess it's because of how badly I want you. And because of how much I love you. I guess my inhibitions are very weak when I'm alone with you."

I nodded and gave her a kiss on the nose, "Perfectly understandable. But let's get outta here. Everyone's going to come looking for us if we stick around."

Fluttershy nodded and dropped down to the floor. "OK. I better go make sure Pinkie Pie doesn't get all of the donuts before we get there." However, as she approached the drop, Fluttershy looked at me over her shoulder while concealing her lower face behind her gorgeously long mane. I am pretty sure she was smirking at me. As she started to lift her tail, I facepalmed, "Honey... You know now isn't a good time for that..."

She probably blushed after that, lowering her tail in the process. "Sorry... I'll try to restrain myself until tonight..." She then opened the door and ran out of the room. I hope she did not think I was mad at her. With how prone to arousal she was being at the time, I would have suspected that she was in heat. That was impossible though since her previous heat cycle came and went back in early April.

I got dressed as quickly as I could and stepped out into the hall. But just before I could go anywhere, I heard what sounded like Shining Armor shouting from somewhere down the hall. Before long he came into view while pulling a cart with white paper boxes stacked on each other. "Estoc, hold her off! We mustn't let her get to the cargo!"

"Cargo?" I muttered as I watched him run by.

Right behind him was Estoc, who turned and drew his tuck while standing firm. "You shall not pass! Turn back now!"

Who in the world was he trying to... Oh no.

"Wait for me! I just want a tiny nibble, that's all!" Hopping down the hall like a skunk chasing a cat was Pinkie Pie. She was moving along surprisingly fast too. Why did I compare her to a skunk chasing a cat? Well... That is what comes to mind.

When Pinkie Pie came closer, Estoc shouted, "Didn't you hear me?! YOU SHALL NOT PA- OW!" Pinkie Pie surprised us both by hopping right onto Estoc's armored head before springing off of it. And considering how muscular earth ponies are, there must have been quite a bit of weight behind that stomp.

"Wait for me, Armor! I swear I just want a little taste!" Pinkie Pie shouted as she hopped down the hall.

"Ugh... Hold it right there, lass! I said HALT!" Estoc shouted once his eyes stopped spinning. I certainly did not want my share of the food to be devoured by Pinkie Pie, so I ran down the hall after Estoc.

I was actually rather annoyed by how slow I was moving compared to Estoc. Without the armor I had been wearing recently, I was much slower than before. I suppose I could have gone to the throne room to retrieve it, but by then it might be too late. So I just ran as fast as I could in the hopes of catching up to her.

I ran down the stairs into the grand hall, where Celestia and Luna took turns welcoming the guests to the Grand Galloping Gala last month. Shining Armor was backed up to a wall with the cart behind him... Wait a minute. He would have had to go down the stairs himself. That must have been difficult to do while pulling that cart. And surely he would have to go up some stairs to get to the hall I was just in. Did Pinkie Pie force them to take a detour?

"Stay back! These aren't for you!" Shining Armor shouted as Pinkie Pie inched closer like a lion that had cornered its prey.

"Oh, I just want a little taste. Now gimme some!" Pinkie Pie shouted as she lunged for the boxes on the cart with her mouth opened impossibly wide. Honestly, does her skin stretch like rubber and are her jaws able to become unlatched at will?

Fortunately, Estoc was prepared for her. He jumped in front of her and stuffed his entire golden helmet into her gaping mouth. Somehow, it fit just right. Pinkie Pie could not swallow it or spit it out. "That'll hold you." Estoc spoke with a sigh of relief.

"Nicely done, Estoc." Shining Armor spoke with a smile.

The royal guard nodded, "It was no trouble." Without his helmet, I could see that Estoc's mane was just as pale as his tail. I am not able to describe its appearance very well, but he is a rather handsome fellow.

Pinkie Pie groaned with her mouth stuck open. She was clearly upset that she could not even eat as she was then. I sighed, "Pinkie, don't forget what I warned you about. Six donuts. Stick with that."

She gave me a rather frightened glance before nodding. Knowing her, it is not surprising that she forgot about me warning her about diabetes. "I think you can ungag her now, Estoc. She knows better now."

Estoc rolled his eyes, "If you say so, but I don't like this idea." Using the levitation spell, he plucked the helmet from Pinkie Pie's mouth. I suppose it is worth mentioning that it stretched quite a bit before the helmet popped out of it.

Pinkie Pie gasped, apparently from having trouble breathing while that helmet was jammed in her mouth. "Phew... OK, I promise. Six donuts is my limit."

I nodded, "Good." I then faced Shining Armor, "Hey, where is everyone anyway?"

Shining Armor chuckled, "Well, we WERE going to have everyone gather in the throne room for this, but I ended up taking a detour due to...well...her." Pinkie Pie gave a sheepish grin, clearly knowing that her love of sweets had gotten the better of her again.

I began to approach him, "If that's the case, you think one of us should... Jeez, warn me next time!" I nearly fell backwards from how startled I was when a group of ponies seemed to just appear right in front of me in a flash of light.

Celestia, who was among them, smiled with blush, "Oh, sorry. I heard you had all gathered down here, so I saved us the trouble of having to walk all the way here." Standing among her was Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Luna, Mitta, and Nightmare Moon.

"Morning, James! How.... Pinkie, what are you doing?" Twilight spoke to me before glancing over at Pinkie Pie, who seemed to be sneaking up behind Shining Armor. She backed down upon being caught with a giggle.

"Some things never change, huh?" Rainbow Dash spoke with a chuckle.

I noticed Applejack pushing what seemed to be a cast iron cart holding a milk and coffee dispenser towards the wall Shining Armor was next to. "There we go. Now, whaddya say we get started on some good eats?"

Nightmare Moon nodded, "That's what we're all here for. Shining Armor, did you make certain to bring enough?"

He nodded, "Five dozen, as requested."

Rarity smiled as she and everyone else approached the carts, "Sixty sounds like more than enough for us all."

I decided to go last to make sure everyone got their fair share. However, Mitta stayed right by my side. "Um... Mitta? You should get in line."

She replied while looking up at me, "Um... Is it all right if I stay by you?"

I replied, "Why? No one here is going to hurt you."

She sighed, "I know... Everypony here seems very kind, but... This all feels so...alien to me. You're the only one here I am completely familiar with. So...please." She then leaned against me, "Let me stay close to you. At least until I become more adjusted to this place."

This was one of the oddest requests I had ever received. Does Mitta view me as some sort of security blanket? I suppose being stuck out in the Everfree Forest for over a thousand years can make the rest of the world seem very strange to someone. And with how big Canterlot is and everything else around her..... I guess it can be overwhelming to those who are not used to it.

I nodded with a smile, my hand caressing her crimson mane. "OK then. Just stay close to me and everything will be fine." Mitta gave me one of the brightest smiles I had ever seen from her when I said those words.

Once we reached the carts of donuts and coffee and milk, I grabbed a paper plate and placed four assorted frosted donuts on it. Mitta did the same, but was unable to do anything about the drinks. "Um...what exactly is 'coffee', James?"

I shrugged my shoulders, "It's a bit on the strong side. Unless you like that stuff, I don't recommend it. I personally never cared for it... Wait. Has Nightmare Moon ever had coffee?" I looked over to my left and stared in horror as Nightmare Moon chugged an entire pot of the stuff. "This doesn't bode well..."

Luna smirked, "So, sister. Do you still feel normal?"

Nightmare Moon shrugged her shoulders, much of her body still coated in bandages while her new crown rested atop her head. "Ugh... Well, that gunk certainly is bitter. I don't think I will be having that again."

You ever get that feeling where you know something unpleasant is about to happen? Well, that was what I was feeling. "I hope they give her a heaping load of decaf before all that caffeine kicks in..."

Mitta asked, "What's caffeine?"

I replied, "Hypes you up. Coffee in particular has a lot of it." When Mitta still looked puzzled, I added, "It turns you into Pinkie Pie."

We both looked at Pinkie Pie, who was being restrained from devouring the rest of the donuts by a small platoon of royal guards. "I'm guessing she's going through withdrawals..."

Mitta looked genuinely disturbed by that sight. "Um... No thanks. I'll stick with milk."

We took a seat on the staircase that led back upstairs. Mitta seemed to be really enjoying the donuts she had collected. "Mmmm... Is all of Equestria's food this yummy?"

I nodded, "Yup, though I can't say the same for the grass and flower dishes. But maybe that's just me."

She replied, "Grass and flowers aren't so bad. I like them."

We continued to enjoy our breakfast for a few more minutes, but then Rainbow Dash trotted up behind me. "Heya, guys. Mind if I have this seat?"

I glanced behind me and saw Rainbow Dash balancing a plate on her head with a few donuts on top. I nodded, "Sure, Rainbow."

Mitta smiled, "That's OK. Go ahead."

Rainbow Dash then flung the dish into the air and caught it in her mouth before catching the donuts on it. She then lowered it to the steps and sat down beside me.

Things were fairly simple from that point on. There was nothing that happened that I really feel is worth mentioning. Although at one point, I felt Rainbow Dash gently leaning against me. She was still eating her donuts, but... Somewhere inside me, I felt that this was deliberate.

In fact, Rainbow Dash seems to have been acting very out of character at times since yesterday. What is wrong with her? Did she suffer brain damage when Nightmare Moon zapped her a few nights ago? Finally, I decided to speak up. "OK, Rainbow. What's the matter?"

She seemed to not have expected me to confront her. "Huh? Whaddya mean? I'm OK."

Mitta nodded, "I don't see anything wrong with her either."

I replied, "It's subtle, but something's not quite right with you. You've been unusually clingy ever since I regained consciousness yesterday. And only towards me. What are you not telling me, Rainbow?"

She was clearly unnerved by my prying. Her eyes glanced around rapidly while looking scared. "Uh... I'm feeling fine, James. I mean...I saw you get hurt a few nights ago... I'm just worried about you."

I sighed, "I appreciate the sentiment, but I'm just fine. Seriously, all of the fatigue I was feeling yesterday is completely gone. So stop worrying about me."

She nodded with a grin, "Yeah, OK. Sorry if I creeped you out."

I then added, "But I'm still not convinced that's the whole reason. Why are you getting this clingy with me? What are you not telling me?"

That look on her face clearly showed that I had backed her into a corner. Her eyes seemed to look towards our friends for a moment before she directed her gaze back at me. She turned her gaze towards the ground and spoke uncharacteristically softly, "I can't tell you that..."

I was not expecting this response at all. "Excuse me?"

"I'm sorry... I can't tell you. Not yet." She replied, not looking at me at all.

I was starting to feel genuinely worried about my friend, but was also troubled by what she was hiding. "Rainbow, it's OK. You can tell me. If it's a secret, I can keep it."

She shook her head, "No... I can't tell you yet... But...next month. There's a special day coming up. I'll tell you everything then. So..." She then looked up at me with a pleading gaze while giving me an awkward smile, "Can you wait until then?"

I could tell she was clearly uncomfortable with the discussion, so I decided to just let it go. "OK. I'll wait."

Rainbow then surprised me with a hug, "Awesome. I promise I'll tell you everything then." However, she did not let go of me right away. Why? What was compelling her to hold onto me?

"Um... Rainbow?" I asked, my arms wrapping around her to hug her back. Her head was resting on my shoulder next to my head, so I could not see her face. I heard her let out a sigh though.

"James." Mitta whispered to me through the ear on the opposite side of my head. "Her eyes are closed. Is she feeling all right?"

Now that she mentioned it, Rainbow Dash had completely relaxed in my grasp. "Rainbow, are you just tired?"

That seemed to snap her back to her senses. She pulled away from me suddenly and chuckled, "Uh... Yeah, I'm fine. Guess I just didn't get much sleep last night."

I finally decided to spout how I really felt. I gave her a stern stare and spoke, "You're lying."

She could tell I knew she was up to something. She sighed and backed away from me, "S...sorry... I..."

I felt kind of bad that I had intimidated her like that. I sighed and pulled her close, "Sorry... I won't ask. If you want to hang with me, that's OK. I don't want you to stay away from me."

Rainbow Dash gave me a relieved smile, "OK... But let me go grab some more..." She then looked back at the donut cart and saw Pinkie Pie piling a tower of donuts onto just one plate. "Oh, come on, Pinkie! Save some for us!" I let out a laugh as she swooped back over to Pinkie Pie to stop her from taking the entire donut supply.

"Oh man, Pinkie Pie..." I muttered to myself with a chuckle. Hopefully she will finally overcome her sugar addiction. I would hate to see her come down with diabetes.

"Has she always had such an appetite?" Mitta asked while working on her last donut.

"Yeah, but only when it applies to sweets. It's like her belly is a black hole to anything with high sugar content." I replied while watching Fluttershy giving Pinkie Pie her infamous 'Stare'. I am not sure how, but that seemed to get Pinkie Pie to back off from the donuts with only three on her plate. "A meal with a show. Lucky for us."

Mitta giggled, "They're all so different, but their personalities come together in such a unique way. And you've been with them for a while?"

I nodded, "I'll have known them for a full year in a few months. And they're probably the best thing to ever happen to me."

My friend smiled slightly more brightly than she usually did. "Wow... You think I'll get to know them just as well?"

I smiled at her, "Definitely. Even if the others end up not caring for you that much, which I can guarantee won't happen, I know Pinkie Pie will do everything she can to be your friend. It's like a personal goal of hers."

Mitta smiled, but her smile then curved downward into a frown. "That sounds lovely..."

Just before I could ask anything, I heard someone speak from behind me. "Don't frown, Mitta. I know what you're thinking, but you've already been forgiven for that night. You have a clean slate now."

I looked over my shoulder and found Nightmare Moon resting on the stairs beside me. She smiled, "Trust me. You will be welcomed back into Equestria just like I have."

Mitta sighed with a faint smile while keeping her head bowed, "Thank you, your highness."

Nightmare Moon then inched closer, "You know, Mitta... You and I have a lot in common."

My friend looked up at the princess of the night, "We do?"

The dark alicorn nodded, "Yes. Two lonesome souls rescued from our sins." She then flashed a smirk at me, "By one man who happened to take the time to understand us."

I am very sure I blushed at those words. "Nightmare Moon, you're gonna spoil me if you keep this up."

She then nuzzled me sweetly, "What? It's the truth. Mitta and I owe you much, my friend."

I could not think up an argument to counter that claim, so I remained silent with a sheepish grin. Nightmare Moon then asked, "She will be staying with you in Ponyville, right?"

I crossed my arms, "Come to think of it... Where will you be staying, Mitta?"

She replied promptly, "I just want to stay near you, James... Or at least somewhere close to where you live."

I smiled, "I live at the edge of Ponyville right next to the Everfree Forest. I think the closest residence where one of my friends live is Sweet Apple Acres. But I'm sure we can arrange for you to stay with one of our friends... Huh?" I noticed out of the corner of my eye that Rarity had walked up beside me.

"Oh, don't mind me. I was just curious of what you three were discussing. Please, do go on." My beautiful unicorn friend spoke.

Nightmare Moon chuckled, "Oh, we were merely discussing with Mitta how much our lives have turned around."

Mitta then asked, "Will you be taking me home to Ponyville with you?"

Rarity beamed at her, "Of course, darling! Ponyville is such a cozy little town that anypony can enjoy. Right, James?"

I smirked at Mitta, "In all honesty, I prefer it over Canterlot."

Nightmare Moon chuckled, "I'm sure I'll be able to relate once I've spent some time here."

The four of us engaged in friendly conversation for a while. Eventually though, Mitta asked, "James, do you live alone in Ponyville?"

I replied, "No, I live with Fluttershy and..." It was then I remembered something important. "Oh, crap! Scootaloo! I left last night without making sure someone will be at the house to keep an eye on her!"

Rarity winced, "Oh dear... Do you think she will be OK?"

Nightmare Moon replied, "Well, it is a weekend. She's probably having fun with her friends right now."

I nodded, "I guess so... I just hope she found some sort of way to feed herself without us being there to cook."

Mitta asked, "Um... Who is Scootaloo?"

I replied, "She's my little sister... Oh, wait. Adopted little sister. She's a friend of Apple Bloom. You know her, right?"

Mitta's eyes opened wide, "Apple Bloom... Yes, I know her. She lives in Ponyville?"

Rarity smiled, "Oh, yes. At Sweet Apple Acres. They also happen to be close friends with my little sister. Her name is Sweetie Belle. Chances are you will meet them today."

Mitta gave us a faint smile, "That sounds nice. I wonder if Apple Bloom will remember me..."

I replied, "Pretty hard to forget the face of someone who used to be a zombie by night."

The four of us continued to chat for a while, Rarity and I talking about all sorts of things about Ponyville. Eventually though, Twilight Sparkle came over to us. "Hey, everypony. I don't want to intrude, but it's almost time for us to go. We've been away from Ponyville for quite a while now."

My gaze turned back towards the cart of donuts. The whole thing had been polished off. "Huh... I guess breakfast is over then." I looked at Twilight and asked, "Did Pinkie Pie go overboard?"

Twilight smiled, "Surprisingly, no. Although we did have to restrain her a few times..."

Nightmare Moon rolled her eyes, "At least she didn't talk my ear off again."

I snickered, "At least your ears are better attached to your head than Mitta's are."

Rarity seemed to become very nervous at those words, "I'm terribly sorry about that, I really am! I was just scrubbing the best I could to remove all that grime and..."

I noticed Mitta wiggle her ears, apparently to test my words. "They seem just fine to me."

I replied, "OK, never mind then."

Minutes later, we were all gathered on the drawbridge of the Canterlot palace. I was with my friends facing into the palace with Mitta by my side. Twilight was approached by Shining Armor, who proceeded to embrace her. "Take care, Twily. Be sure to come see me and Cadence sometime."

Twilight smiled as she rested her head against her brother's neck, "I will. And tell her we all said hi."

Once the two siblings released each other, Shining Armor smirked at me. "James, I still owe you for that loss a few nights ago. Come back for a rematch anytime."

I sighed, not at all fond of the idea of fighting him again. "I'll pass." For whatever reason, everyone laughed. Perhaps they knew exactly how I would have reacted to those words.

Applejack then stepped forward, "Thank ya'll kindly, her highnesses. We all appreciated the stay."

Celestia smiled, "It was our pleasure. I sent word to the train station in town. You are all set to return to Ponyville."

Luna then spoke, "Mitta, just don't forget. You have a clean slate now. Use it well."

Mitta nodded with an uneasy smile, "I will. Thank you, your highness."

However, Nightmare Moon then stepped forward and stood before me. We were standing eye to eye without a word for a brief moment. She finally asked, "So... This is goodbye, isn't it?"

I nodded, "Yeah..."

She face showed a profound sadness. "We'll see each other again, won't we?"

Celestia seemed to know what was wrong. "Nightmare Moon, don't fret. As one of the rulers of Equestria, you are free to go where you wish, whenever you desire. Even if just for a visit."

Nightmare Moon's gaze brightened before she smirked, "In that case, I will be paying a visit very soon, my friend. At least, once I get out of these bandages. The doctor recommends I don't get around too much just yet."

Pinkie Pie hopped over to Nightmare Moon, "Ooh! You'll be coming to Ponyville soon! Oh, I have so much to show you! I've gotta show you Sweet Apple Acres! Oh, and the spa too! They give out the best massage sessions! And... Oh, I'm sure everypony will get to love you eventually! Then we can...mmph!"

Once again, Nightmare Moon had interrupted Pinkie Pie by stuffing her hoof into Pinkie's mouth. "Enough. I get the idea. Now stop. Like I said before, I am very prone to pain right now. I do NOT need a migraine."

I snickered, "Nightmare Moon. Equestria's finest chatter stopper." Everypony burst into laughter.

Nightmare Moon asked me, "Honestly though, how do you endure such constant noise?"

Twilight replied with a smirk, "You get used to it. She's just being Pinkie Pie, after all."

"Yeah? Well, I haven't!" Rainbow Dash spoke up. Once again, we all chuckled.

Before we could leave, Pinkie Pie stood between Luna and Nightmare Moon before motioning them to lower their heads to her. She then began to whisper something to them. A few seconds later, the two princesses of the night's teal eyes shot open wide in surprise. They then smirked at Pinkie Pie while Luna seemed to mutter, "We'll have to prepare a special gift then."

Pinkie Pie then hopped back over to the rest of our friends before Nightmare Moon and Luna approached me. I knew what they wanted and nodded. Luna stood on her hind legs and threw her forelegs around my neck while resting her head on my left shoulder. Nightmare Moon did the same, wrapping one foreleg around me while gently resting her head on my right shoulder. I sighed with a smile, my arms wrapped around their necks.

"Take care." Nightmare Moon spoke softly.

Luna added, "We'll be seeing you again very soon."

I nodded, "Can't wait. And take good care of your sister, Luna."

Luna chuckled as she and Nightmare Moon released their grips on me while she smiled, "Oh, I shall. We still have lots to talk about. I haven't even told her about the northern borealis yet."

Nightmare Moon chuckled, "Yes, I still have lots to catch up on."

Celestia stepped forward and smiled, "Take care, my little ponies. Oh, and you too, James."

I snickered, "We will. See ya." We all said our goodbyes and headed across the drawbridge with our new friend Mitta by our sides.

Once we were walking through Canterlot, Mitta seemed to be...slightly overwhelmed by the towering structures around her. She seemed to be slightly afraid or nervous. Applejack seemed to notice and asked, "What's the matter, Mitta? Somethin' catch yer eye?"

The crimson-eyed mare replied, "I... I've never seen a town like this... Everything is so...big. And the way everypony is staring... It's too much. I don't feel comfortable here."

Rarity replied, "Uncomfortable? Darling, whatever do you mean?! Canterlot is the capital of Equestria! It is THE place to live! Everypony who is anypony resides here. The living conditions are the best in the land, the fashion is the crème du la crème, and... Yes?" She paused when I tapped her on the head.

"Rarity, not everypony digs towns like Canterlot. I, for one, really don't care for places like this." I spoke, hoping to help her look at things from Mitta's perspective.

"Oh... I see. Well...to each their own, I suppose." She replied sheepishly.

"Well, there's somethin' I never thought I'd hear. I reckon ya'll could've known that way back when." Applejack spoke up with a smug smirk.

Rarity groaned, "There's a difference from doing things ones' own way and simply being uncouth and filthy!" I have no idea what they were getting at, but I strongly suspect Applejack and Rarity did not always see eye-to-eye.

In any case, we reached the train station without a hitch. Mitta still seemed to be drinking in her surroundings once we were on board. "I still can't believe I'm out here during the day..."

Fluttershy smiled, "Equestria is such a wonderful place, Mitta. You're going to love it here."

A faint smile crept across her face, "I hope so..."

I made sure Mitta was seated before the train could pull out of the station so she would not fall over. "It's all downhill from here, girls." Applejack spoke up, but she was likely directing that towards Mitta more than anyone else.

Mitta, like before, watched in awe as the scenery began to move us by just after the entire train suddenly lurched forward. She didn't seem to be paying much attention to me at all. I gently nudged her closer to the window while sitting next to her.

Pinkie Pie giggled, "She's easily pleased, isn't she?"

I replied, "More along the lines of easily impressed. I don't think she has seen much in the ways of modern technology with the exception of electrical lighting."

Before long, we were steadily moving down the mountain range with the train car tilting on an angle every time it made a dip. But when we eventually passed through one of the tunnels on the way down, the entire car became pitch black inside.

"Dark... Night... No!" I heard Mitta shout.

I suspect she feared that the curse of Sunny Town would take effect if she were plunged into darkness like then. However, I was quick to notice that the telltale crimson glow of her eyes was absent. "Mitta, the curse was removed last night. Remember?"

Seconds later, we exited the tunnel with the car filling with natural sunlight. Mitta glanced at herself, clearly surprised that she was still flesh and blood. "It was...? Oh, right. I remember. That was...Nightmare Moon, right?"

Applejack nodded, "Yup. Our new princess was the one who removed that creepy curse from ya."

Mitta sighed, "OK... I just need to get used to this."

Rarity then asked, "Mitta, exactly how long were you cursed until last night?"

Mitta replied, "Over a thousand years ago, but I don't remember exactly when anymore. It's too hard to remember."

Rarity winced, "Goodness, that long?! That would indeed be a hard thing to move on from!"

Twilight then smiled, "Don't worry, Mitta. We'll all be here for you to help you adapt to modern Equestria."

Our new friend gave us an unusually bright smile. "Thank you all. Although, would it be all right if I took a look around this...um...train?"

Applejack nodded, "Sure thing, Mitta. I'll stick with ya to make sure ya don't get lost."

Twilight smiled, "Me too. If you have any questions, I can answer them."

I watched from my seat as the three ponies walked through the end of the train car and into the next car. Fluttershy then took a seat between me and the window, "She's a very sweet girl, James. I hope she'll be OK in Ponyville with us." She said with a faint smile.

I nodded, "I'm sure she'll be fine. It's not like she's going to be living in a bustling metropolis like Manehatten."

The two of us watched the scenery go by, my hand resting on Fluttershy's shoulder. But suddenly, I was nudged towards her as I felt something slide up under my other arm. "Huh?"

Fluttershy also felt the sudden shift in my weight against her and turned to look. "Rainbow Dash?"

Our rowdy pegasus friend had my arm draped over her while looking up at me with a smile. "Heya, James. Got room for one more?"

Fluttershy asked, "Um... I think so. But why are you..." I think she too was starting to notice that Rainbow was being unusually affectionate towards me.

"Oh, this? I didn't sleep well last night, so...mind if I just nap here?" Rainbow Dash replied while letting out an obviously fake yawn.

I could tell Rainbow was up to something, seeing as how she just repeated the same lie from earlier, but it was likely harmless. "I guess that's OK. Just don't go drooling all over me in your sleep."

Rainbow grimaced, "Ew... Uh, don't worry about that. I've never had that kinda problem before." She then closed her eyes and rested her full weight onto me, which I might add was not very much at all.

"I hope she's OK. Rainbow Dash has been acting a little odd for the last few days." Fluttershy spoke softly while looking at her 'sleeping' friend. Of course, I knew there was no way she could be asleep that soon. She was probably wide-awake at that time.

"Yeah, I noticed too. Not sure what's wrong with her. You think she's just a bit traumatized from the whole experience a few nights ago?" I replied, feeling Rainbow Dash's right wing slowly reaching up and draping itself over my upper arm.

Fluttershy nodded with a frown, "I wouldn't be surprised. Just thinking about how you looked when we found you... Ugh, I get chills just thinking about it..." She then looked up at me and placed a kiss on my cheek. "I'm so glad you're OK after all that. I hope this is the last time we ever have such an awful crisis on our hooves."

I nodded, my arm draped across her. "Me too. Those are never much fun to deal with. Even though we got something very good out of it."

The two of us continued to watch the scenery go by in silence, just enjoying each other's company. Although I will admit it felt somewhat awkward with Rainbow Dash intruding on us. I could tell she was not really asleep by how she was slowly moving her wing across my arm. Seriously, what was going on in her head? Now I am beginning to fear that she is becoming just as hard to understand as Pinkie Pie. And that is an accomplishment!

After a while longer, Fluttershy stood up and walked out into the aisle. "Excuse me for a bit, honey. I need to use the restroom."

I nodded with a smile, "OK. Take your time." For whatever reason, Rainbow Dash seemed to have her left eye open a crack as Fluttershy walked away and out of sight. I did not pay much mind to it though.

Once I heard the door at the end of the car slide closed, I felt Rainbow Dash starting to straighten herself up against me. As if she was trying to find a more comfortable position. I could not help but feel apprehensive at this though. Almost felt as if something was about to fall on my head. I glanced over at Pinkie Pie to affirm this. Her tail was not twitching, so that risk was ruled out. But I still felt worried.

Bit by bit, Rainbow propped herself up against me more and more. It soon felt like her head was right next to mine. Curious of what she was doing, I turned my head to face her. What I saw right next to me surprised me. Rainbow Dash was indeed eyelevel to me. Eyes half-closed with a whimsical smirk on her face. Very slowly, she began to narrow the distance between our faces. What was she doing? And why could I not look away? It was as if I was bewitched.

Rainbow Dash's eyes opened fully the instant we heard the door at the far end of the train car open. A second later, I noticed Fluttershy approaching my seat. And for whatever reason, Rainbow Dash suddenly jumped away from me and into the aisle. "Oh, hey! Just remembered I gotta go do something. Be right back!" She spoke before galloping down the aisle and past Fluttershy. "Hi, Fluttershy!" She spoke in a slightly panicked tone when she passed my girlfriend.

Fluttershy came over to me and asked, "Rainbow Dash seemed to be in a hurry. Did something happen?"

I looked over at her and shrugged, "No idea. A minute ago, she seemed to be asleep. Claimed she was still tired, but she seemed pretty spry when she ran outta here."

Fluttershy looked back down the aisle to where Rainbow Dash had run off. "I hope she's all right. The events from a few nights ago must have been hard on her nerves."

I nodded as Fluttershy returned to her place next to the window, "Yeah... That's something I don't ever want to repeat."

She then asked, "You know... The way your faces were so close together. Do you think she was trying to kiss you?"

Kiss me? The thought had never occurred to me. Although... "I strongly doubt it. There is no way a wild woman like her could ever have that kind of interest in a laidback guy like me."

Fluttershy nodded, "I think you're right. You are almost nothing like her. She's loud, rowdy, and loves action. But you're quiet, reserved, and prefer to avoid situations that are dangerous. I think the only thing you do have in common with her is your loyalty to your friends."

I nodded while directing my gaze to the window. "Exactly. And one shared trait isn't enough to warrant romantic attraction."

Nothing of importance occurred during the rest of the ride. But by the time we had pulled into Ponyville's train station, Mitta had returned to the seat right in front of me. She sighed once the train had pulled to a stop. "Oh... Is it over?"

Pinkie Pie nodded, "Yeah, that's the problem with all trains. They always end at some point!"

Once we had all disembarked from the train, Mitta looked around at her surroundings. "This is Ponyville during the day? It's...pretty colorful."

Applejack smiled, "Just wait til ya take a closer look."

We all led her off the train platform and into town. As usual, plenty of ponies were going about their business. I, for one, was very glad to be back home. It felt much better to be in the humble and wide open streets of Ponyville than the narrow stuffy roads of Canterlot. I was about to voice how glad I was to be back home, but Mitta beat me to it. "I like it here more than Canterlot."

Rarity spoke up, "Whatever do you mean? Canterlot is THE place to be in Equestria. Anypony who is...mmph?!"

Pinkie Pie had stopped Rarity from talking by stuffing her hoof into our friend's mouth. "And ponies say I'm a broken record!"

Rainbow Dash snickered, "You learn that from Nightmare Moon?"

Our silly pink friend grinned, "Sure did! And it's very effective!" Rarity grumbled while rolling her eyes.

I spoke, "Rarity, everyone knows how much you love Canterlot. But you don't need to keep spouting it at every mention of the name."

When Pinkie Pie removed her hoof from her mouth, Rarity sighed, "Yes, I suppose I do have a problem containing my passion. I will try to reign in that urge more effectively from now on."

As we walked along, Mitta was constantly glancing around at her surroundings. She seemed to be just as curious as I was when I first entered Ponyville for the first time. I seemed to notice a smile spreading across her face after a short while. "Feeling OK?" Twilight asked as she walked up beside her.

Mitta nodded, "Yes. I'm just taking in the sights. And I... Are my cheeks sore?"

Pinkie Pie grinned, "That must be from not smiling enough! Come on! Smile a big one!"

Mitta let out a faint giggle, "Sorry. I haven't had much reason to smile in a very long time."

Fortunately for me, today is a Sunday. Therefore, I did not have to worry about getting fired from either of my jobs. That naturally meant I could spend the whole day with my friends.

Eventually, we came to the town square. The town hall was jutting up in the center like always with the prank parlor and spa being to our right. Rarity brought a hoof to her chin. "Now that I think about it... I do believe we could all use a good long soak after our most recent endeavors."

Fluttershy smiled, "Ooh, that sounds lovely. I know you'll love it too, Mitta."

Mitta asked, "A soak? Where?"

I pointed at the spa, "Right over there. They have excellent service and the spa workers are always friendly. I even work there on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, so drop on by if you want a massage."

At the mention of the word 'massage', Rarity's eyes brightened. "Oh, yes! You absolutely MUST come by when he is on duty! His fingers are like magic to your joints! I have never ever felt so limber after one of those sessions!"

Rarity had gotten right up in Mitta's face while saying that, which was clearly unnerving her. "Um... Wow. Sounds...uh...amazing."

Applejack chuckled, "Well, wanna find out fer yerself?"

Twilight nodded, "I think we all could use a little self-indulgence after all that's happened lately. Shall we?"

I shrugged, "OK. Just remember that I'm off-duty today, so no massages." Rarity let out a disappointed groan at those words. I swear I suspect she may be addicted to my touch. Assuming that is even possible, that is.

We all entered the spa at the same time. Seated at the front desk was Aloe, who seemed rather surprised to see us all come in together. She glanced up at me and spoke in her very distinct accent, "Mr. James, where have you been for the last few days? You missed two work days!"

Rarity spoke up for me, "Oh, we had some very important business to attend to in Canterlot and were not able to return home until not even thirty minutes ago! We are quite simply exhausted and absolutely need to relax for a while. The usual, please!

Aloe's eyes seemed to scan us over for a moment before nodding, "All right. This way, everypony." She stepped out from behind her desk and led us into the main chamber of the spa.

"She's very pretty." Mitta spoke softly to me.

I smiled, "Then you should see her sister. Some of the prettiest ponies in town."

Once we had entered the main chamber, I noticed Lotus tending to who was likely their only customer at the time. Lyra was relaxing on one of the massage tables while Lotus was rubbing her hooves into her back while standing at the side.

"Who's that?" Mitta asked, clearly having never seen her before.

I pointed, "The pony who looks just like Aloe is Lotus. And that pony with the harp cutie mark is Lyra. Some call her Heartstrings though."

At my words, Lyra turned her head in my direction and seemed to notice me right away. She motioned for me to approach her with a smile. As she did, Aloe spoke to my left. "Right this way, everypony."

All of my friends followed the spa sister, but I instead headed towards Lyra. But before I could speak to her, she spoke up first. "Hey there, James. Who's your friend?"

I glanced down to my left and found that Mitta was still standing near me. "Huh? Mitta? Why didn't you go with the others?"

She replied softly while looking up at me, "Because I feel safe with you..."

I could only smile warmly at those words. I then looked back at Lyra and smiled, "This is Mitta. She's new in town, so she's a little nervous about this place."

Lyra could only chuckle before looking at my friend, "Oh, don't be scared! Ponyville is one of the nicest places in Equestria! You're gonna love it here. Anyway, I'm Heartstrings. But you can call me Lyra if you want."

She then looked back at me, "Where've you been the last few days? I haven't seen you in a while!"

I took a seat on one of the unused massage tables and replied, "Business in Canterlot. It's a long story."

Lyra smiled, "Ooh, spent time in Canterlot? You lucky guy. I almost never get to go there. Last time I went was to attend Princess Cadence and Shining Armor's wedding."

I nodded, but then something occurred to me. "Hang on. If Princess Cadence got married, doesn't that make her a queen? And if so, doesn't that mean she outranks Celestia and Luna now?"

At those words, I got the strangest feeling. As if everyone in the entire room had turned their gaze towards me with expressions that seemed to be ones someone would give if I had just pulled out an assault rifle and threatened to massacre everyone in town.

Lyra did not have an answer to my question, but there was a sudden flash next to us as Twilight Sparkle seemed to pop up with the use of the teleportation spell. Although her mane was wrapped up in a towel while her face was coated in that thick green facial cream with a cucumber slice over one eye. The other was covered in the cream. "Sorry, but I overheard. I think the reason why Cadence isn't a queen is because she has very little ruling power in Equestria. To be a queen, you need to have absolute rule over a nation, right?"

Mitta nodded, "I think that's right..."

I smiled, "Well, that answers that question. How'd you come up with that so fast?"

Twilight grinned, "I'm a fast thinker most of the time."

I smirked, "Most of the time indeed. I haven't forgotten when you literally turned your entire house upside-down to find that copy of Mythological Mysteries as opposed to looking in the M section of the library."

One massive flaw I have found with Twilight Sparkle is that while she is indeed smarter than me, she has an incredibly bad habit of overreacting to certain events that could easily be solved by asking one question. And tragically, she consistently fails to learn to not repeat them. Fortunately, these overreactions come of as funny instead of annoying more often than not.

In any case, I could tell Twilight knew what I was talking about. And judging by that sheepish grin, she was not very proud of herself for them. "Yeah... About that day... Um..." A second later, she vanished in a flash. On the other side of the hot tub that was in the center of the room, I heard a crash along with Twilight letting out a yelp.

"Uh... Twi? Ya know yer supposed ta lie on the middle of the table, not just on the very edge, right?" Applejack asked. It sounded like Twilight had teleported back over to where she had been resting a moment ago and ended up not being very centered on the platform where she was having her facial done. And as a result, toppled off of it.

"I can't see anything through this stuff on my face! What did you expect?!" Twilight groaned in response.

I looked at Mitta and smiled, "Don't worry about her. She's actually very precise in just about everything she does. Usually, anyway."

Mitta actually looked a bit intimidated at my words. "Um... Should I keep my distance from her?"

Lyra smiled, "Oh, don't worry about that. She's not dangerous."

I then looked around and eyed the hot tub. I did not particularly feel up for a facial, although a massage sounded good after that ordeal a few nights ago. But first, a dip in the hot tub sounded best. Only once again..... I forgot to bring swim trunks.

"Um... Could you girls look away for a bit? I need to undress for the hot tub." I asked while stepping up to the platform next to it.

Mitta nodded, "OK." She then turned away along with Lotus and Lyra.

I managed to get my shirt and pants off in no time. But just after I set my boxers aside, I heard Pinkie Pie call out from somewhere over the wall next to me. "Heads up, James! Peeping Dash is trying to sneak a peek!"

I replied while glancing around, "Peeping what now?! Whoa!" I ended up tumbling into the hot tub, creating quite a splash in the process. When I resurfaced (and let me remind you that the hot tub is quite shallow) I found Mitta, Lotus, and Lyra soaked with water. "Uh... Everyone OK?"

Lotus gave me a very unamused stare, "That was uncalled for." She then went over to the other side of the hot tub, presumably to scold Rainbow Dash.

"Well, I'd say I'm done here." Lyra spoke before jumping down from the massage table and shaking herself off. "Let's talk again later, James. OK?"

I nodded while resting my elbow on the side of the tub, "Sounds good, Lyra. See ya." Mitta also waved goodbye with a slight smile as Lyra headed for the exit.

Mitta then looked back up at me, her tail and mane drooping from how wet they were. "Um... So, do I join you?"

I nodded, "If you want. There's no one stopping you." Mitta faintly smiled before walking up to the side the tub and slowly immersing herself in it. "Whoa... I've never felt anything like this before."

I smiled, "That's how a hot tub feels. Steamy, right?"

Mitta then asked, "Is my ear going to fall off again while I'm in here?" I had to suppress a snicker at those words.

"Probably not. You're not cursed anymore. Remember?" Mitta could only flash me a happy smile in response.

Mitta tried to find a comfortable position in the tub, but ultimately resorted to taking a seat next to me near the side. I asked her, "Come to think of it, where are you going to stay in Ponyville?"

She looked at me with those big crimson eyes and smiled, "I'd like to live with you, if that's all right."

I was worried she would say that. Unfortunately, Fluttershy's cottage does not have another room that could be used as a guest room. And I was uncomfortable with the idea of letting her sleep in the same bed as Fluttershy and me. "Um... Sorry, but I don't think that's possible. We just don't have anywhere for you to stay over there."

Mitta sighed while her ears drooped, "Oh... Never mind then..."

I then asked, "Why live with me though?"

My friend sighed, "You're the only friend I've ever known outside of Sunny Town... I'm...afraid of being away from you..."

I sighed, "Oh, Mitta... You know I'm not your only friend anymore. You can have lots of friends and never weaken the bond you have with your first friend." I wrapped my arms around her for a gentle embrace and rested my head on top of hers.

Mitta spoke softly, "I know... I'm trying to be friends with the others, but...you're the one I feel closest to right now."

"Awww, ain't that sweet of ya, Mitta. Now I've got a case of the warm fuzzies." I heard Applejack speak. I opened my eyes and found that our six friends had already taken a dip in the hot tub too.

Rarity spoke, "Mitta, I understand you are very close with James. Trust me, we had an incident not that long ago where we were separated from our dear friend here. When we saw him return, we were just as hesitant as you to leave him alone for a while."

Pinkie Pie then beamed, "But don't worry! As long as you know where to find your friend the next day, you'll never be apart for long!"

I looked at Mitta while she looked at me and smiled, "I always go to Ponyville every single day. So you can just ask around for me. I'm pretty hard to overlook, seeing as how I'm the only human in town."

Fluttershy then smiled, "But anyway, Mitta... We would love to be friends with you. That is...if you're all right with it."

Mitta looked around at our six friends. She then smiled, a single tear trickling down her cheek. "I would like that too."

All six of our friends let out an aww before moving closer and embracing Mitta in a group hug. I joined in as well, wrapping my arms around as many ponies as I could. Mitta spoke quietly, "I don't think I've ever gotten so many hugs in so few days before."

Applejack chuckled, "Then ya better get used to it, girl. Because we Ponyville folk just love givin' hugs."

Mitta let out a faint giggle, "I don't think I'll have any trouble there."

The eight of us sat in the hot tub, just idly chatting together for a while. Fluttershy always stayed close to me though. However, I soon felt her long tail gently caressing me somewhere under the water. "Um... Fluttershy?" I muttered quietly to her.

Fluttershy replied with a blush, "Sorry. I can't help it..." I then felt her tail rub me between the legs, causing me to gain an erection in seconds. I was grateful that it was hard to tell with the rippling water covering me though.

"Honey, please. Tonight. I promise." I spoke softly, trying my best to convince my beautiful girlfriend to hold off on her advances for the rest of the day.

She paused for a moment, but then leaned against me with a smile. "OK. I'll wait." Fluttershy then looked up at me with a meek frown, "I'm sorry that I'm being so...bold today. I just..."

I placed a kiss on her forehead to silence her, "I understand, honey. And to be honest... I want you too." Fluttershy blushed very deeply at those words. Her eyes were wide open with nervousness, but I could also tell that she was excited.

Minutes went by with us just chatting before I finally decided to get out of the hot tub. "Excuse me." I spoke while crawling to the edge of the tub. There was a dry towel at the edge. As I stood up, I held it between me and my friends to block their view of my lower body before wrapping it around my waist. But not before I noticed something. "I see that look you're giving me, Rainbow!"

That brash pegasus mare jumped, her wings spread wide in a wingboner. "Huh?! What?! How'd you notice?!" All of our friends laughed. That little pervert just cannot keep her mind off of such things when they present themselves to her, can she?

I walked down to one of the massage tables and took a seat on one while waiting for my body to dry so I could put my clothes back on. I could have just used the towel itself, but doing so would leave my lower body exposed while rubbing it all over myself. But I then heard a voice speak next to me, "Would you care for a massage, James?"

To my left was Lotus. She was looking at me with a smile. "Would that be OK with you?" I asked, not entirely sure if she would do a good job on a creature she has never massaged before.

"Of course. I am very confident in my skills." Lotus replied with a grin.

I smiled before lying myself down on the table the best I could. My lower legs hung off the end since the table was a bit short for a human though. Lotus then propped herself up next to the table while I rested my chin on a pillow that rested atop my folded arms. "Just relax."

I felt Lotus gently press her hooves down into my back. For whatever reason, the touch of her hooves was perfectly smooth. Perhaps she and Aloe file their hooves down to make sure they are as smooth as glass. "Mmm... I never knew hooves could have such a soft touch."

"Miss Fluttershy prefers this type of massage over Quake's." Lotus replied while gently kneading the flesh on my back. While her wide hooves made massaging my joints difficult, they were working wonders on my muscles. Since I am no expert in describing massage experiences, I will not try going into detail on how it felt. But by the time Lotus had finished, I had very nearly fallen asleep. I was that relaxed.

"Um... James? I finished." Lotus spoke while poking my neck.

"Uh... Huh? It's over?" I replied, snapping back to my senses.

I brought myself to a sitting position, feeling very relaxed and limber. "Man, that really works. Thanks, Lotus."

My employer smiled at me before looking up at the hot tub. Rarity was seated next to the edge. "Miss Rarity. Would you care for a massage as well?"

Rarity looked down at us before smiling, "Oh, I appreciate the offer, Lotus. However, I would rather save myself for my personal masseuse. I just can't get enough of his magic fingers." She then flashed me a wink.

I stood up and walked over to the hot tub. "Fluttershy, when do you think you and Rarity will be stopping in for your weekly visit?"

She replied, "Um... How does Thursday sound?"

Rarity grinned, "Oh, sounds like a perfect time. I'll be sure to make some room in my schedule."

I then asked, "Sounds good. Oh, and Rarity? Could you hand me my clothes over there?"

The beautiful white unicorn nodded, "My pleasure, darling." Her horn was engulfed by a billowing azure aura, as was my clothes. They then floated over to me and into my hands.

"Thanks, Rarity. Oh, and..." I then whispered to her, "Keep an eye on Rainbow Dash while I'm changing."

Rarity winked at me once more, "Got it. You leave her to me."

As I began to walk behind the tub where the wall stood next to the platform that allowed the occupants to climb out, I noticed Rainbow Dash eyeing me. But as soon as I dropped my towel to put my pants on, I heard Rarity let out some sort of...battle cry? It was immediately followed by a splash. "All right, Rainbow Dash! You and me! Let's go!"

I froze at those words. Just what the hell was Rarity doing to keep Rainbow Dash preoccupied? Rainbow Dash replied, "Oh ho, water wrestling, huh? All right, bring it on!"

While I got dressed, there was a constant orchestra of grunts, groans, shouts, and splashes coming from just over the wall next to me. When I finally peeked over the side after getting dressed, I found Rainbow Dash leaning over the side while panting heavily. Rarity was in the center of the tub while taking a bow. Pinkie Pie then cheered, "And the winner is Rarity! What a stunning aquatic performance!"

Rarity beamed, "Thank you, thank you. It was all about the flexibility."

Rainbow Dash groaned weakly, "Can't believe she beat me..."

I snickered at her worn out expression, "That's life, Rainbow. You can't win them all. It's just not possible." I can only imagine what Rarity did to tire her out. Did she try to drown Rainbow Dash?

Throughout the rest of the visit, I just sat and watched my friends go through the various stages of the spa with Mitta. From the sauna to the mud bath to the massages. Mitta seemed to be enjoying herself quite thoroughly, often smiling. It was rather entertaining to listen to my friends chatting together about various things. It is like everything involving them never gets old.

We must have been there for a few hours by the time everyone was ready to leave. "Hoo wee! Been a while since I had a good time that relaxin'." Applejack spoke as she stretched.

Rainbow Dash also stretched, "Yeah. Really loosened me up!"

Mitta also sighed with a smile, "That was all so...nice. Maybe I'll come by again soon."

Rarity then spoke to her, "Be sure to come with Fluttershy and me on Thursday. We'll be attending too." At that moment though, I heard their bellies rumble. "But first... Why don't we all go get a bite to eat?"

Pinkie Pie hopped, "Sounds good to me! I'll make sure the cupcakes are fresh!"

However, Twilight spoke up, "Pinkie, she meant lunch, not dessert. Let's save Sugarcube Corner for afterward." Mitta seemed rather disheartened by that, her face showing a frown while her head was tilted downward.

Fluttershy seemed to notice and smiled, "Oh, don't worry, Mitta. I assure you the local café has a lovely variety of all sorts of delicious food to choose from."

Mitta gave us a slight smile, "OK. I'll wait and see what they have."

Rarity then smiled as she led us towards the lobby, "You should save the sweets for after the proper meal anyway, Mitta."

We were soon heading through Ponyville together. Mitta, as usual, was taking in her surroundings without saying a word. But before long, Pinkie Pie gasped. "Uh oh! Twitchy tail!" Sure enough, her tail was twitching madly.

This seemed to get Mitta's attention. She asked, "Twitchy tail? What's that for?"

Rainbow Dash was looking up with a wary expression, "That's just her Pinkie Sense. It's kinda like a warning system. And when her tail twitches, it means..."

I pointed upward, "Something's falling!" I held out my arms and braced my legs as something fell towards me. I managed to catch it without being knocked to the ground. But when I looked at what I had caught, I rolled my eyes. "Oh. Hey there, Derpy."

That goofy mailmare looked up at me and smiled, "Hey there, James! Nice catch!"

Applejack chuckled, "Howdy, Derpy. What brings ya down here?"

She replied as I set her down, "Just making my rounds! But then I had muffins on the brain and forgot to keep my wings flapping."

I nodded, "I can relate."

Pinkie Pie then put her foreleg around Mitta's neck and pulled her close. "Mitta, this is Derpy Hooves! She's the local mailmare. Say hi!"

Mitta waved meekly, "Um... Hi there."

Derpy smiled, "Oh, hello, Mitta! Let me see if I have anything for you..." She began to rummage through her mailbag, but soon looked back at her, "Huh... I don't have anything for you, Mitta. Are you vacationing here?"

Twilight spoke up, "Actually, Mitta only just showed up here today. She's moving in, but we're trying to find a place for her to stay."

Derpy grinned, "Oh! OK then! Well, let me know what your new address is once you decide on it! Anyway, I better get moving. I'm on break and I need my muffin fix! See ya!" She then trotted away in the direction of Sugarcube Corner.

"She's...interesting." Mitta spoke with an awkward smile.

I replied, "Derpy's a sweetheart, Mitta. You can't help but like her. She's essentially Ponyville's loveable little derp."

Rainbow Dash groaned, "Yeah? Well, you don't know how much of a klutz she can be. You weren't here when she wrecked the town hall."

I winced, "She... What?!"

Applejack replied, "Ya really don't wanna know."

I decided to drop the conversation right there and continued walking with my friends beside me. Eventually, the café did come into view. There were not many customers about, so we were free to choose a table. Only we found there was a problem. "Um... Is there enough room for eight people around one table?" I asked while observing the tables.

"Come to think of it, all seven of us barely fit at a table." Rainbow Dash replied.

Twilight then spoke up, "Then lets sit at two tables that are right next to each other... Oh! And let me go get Spike so he doesn't end up being left out! I'll be right back." She then ran off while we stayed behind.

"Two tables? Why didn't I think of that?" Rarity spoke before she used her magic to levitate another table over to ours. They were round, so they could not be placed right next to each other. Instead, they were placed a short distance apart with piles of hay set up around them to function as seats. Thankfully, Rarity made sure to place a stool next to one for me to use.

"Do we just wait for Twilight?" Mitta asked while she stood next to a table.

"Yes. Although I think it would be OK if we took our seats." Fluttershy replied as she sat on one of the hay piles next to the stool. We all sat down as well, though Mitta sat on the hay pile that was adjacent to mine.

"Now we just gotta wait fer... Ah, there they come now!" Applejack spoke up. Walking towards the café was Twilight with Spike riding on her back.

Twilight smiled at us, "Hey, everypony. I hope I wasn't gone too long." She then looked back at Spike. "Spike, you remember Mitta, don't you?"

The little dragon boy looked past Twilight's head at my friend. "Huh? Isn't she the zombie from last night?"

I replied, "Not anymore. Nightmare Moon lifted the curse from her."

"Nightmare Moon... Wait! You're serious?! Nightmare Moon is...mmph!" Spike spoke, but was cut off when Twilight stuffed her hoof into his mouth.

Spike's shouting had drawn some attention from the other customers around us. They were all looking in our directions. Rarity then slunk over to Spike and patted him on the head, "Oh, don't mind us! Poor little Spikey Wikey here just had a bad dream last about Nightmare Moon force-feeding him diamonds until he couldn't move!"

Spike raised a finger and spoke, "Actually.....that's exactly what I dreamed about last night. I almost couldn't eat my breakfast after I woke up." I could not help but snicker at just how cutely Rarity was treating Spike. Her little Spikey Wikey? What is she? An older sister to him?

Once all eyes were off of us, Twilight whispered, "Don't freak out like that in public, Spike. Yes, Nightmare Moon has returned. But she's a good person now. I swear, she's changed. It's all thanks to James here."

Spike seemed bewildered by those words. He looked at me and asked, "Wait... She a good pony now? Really?"

I smiled, "Yeah, a very sweet mare. She can be snide, but what do you expect?"

Spike grinned, "If that's the case, we gotta tell everypony about it! Let's..."

Twilight silenced Spike again by placing her hoof over his mouth. "I'm sorry, Spike. But please don't do that. Reintroducing Nightmare Moon to Equestria has to be handled very carefully."

Pinkie Pie nodded, "Yeah, if you thought Princess Luna had it rough when she first came back, just imagine how hard it must be for the REAL Nightmare Moon!"

Applejack added, "She's got her entire reputation on 'er back, Spike. It's probably gonna take a long time before she can show 'er face 'round these parts."

Fluttershy spoke softly, "I'm sure Princess Celestia and Princess Luna are working very hard to find a way to let Nightmare Moon see her subjects without frightening them off. But it probably will take lots of planning."

Spike nodded when Twilight removed her hoof from his mouth. "OK, I see what you mean. I'll keep my mouth shut about it." He then added some extra hay to one hay pile around one of our tables and hopped up onto it. "She sounds like an interesting pony from the way you put it. I think I'd like to meet the new Nightmare Moon next time she comes to Ponyville."

Rainbow Dash then smirked, "Yeah, but make sure you don't run for the hills at the first sight of her."

Before long, the waiter came by. All of my friends placed their orders, though I cannot remember what they were. My response was 'The Usual'. I had developed a love for the OBG pasta that had shrimp and scallops in it with tomatoes and spinach. However, Mitta could not seem to make up her mind.

"Um... Uh... What do I choose....." She muttered.

Rarity then spoke up, "Allow me, darling." She then spoke to the waiter, "A cold bottle of sparkling cider and the special of the day for our friend here." The waiter nodded and used the levitation spell to carry our menus away before disappearing into the café.

Mitta asked, "What IS the special you ordered for me?"

Rarity replied with a grin, "I don't know! But anything that ends up on the menu as a 'special' is bound to be fabulous."

Fluttershy then asked, "So, Mitta... How has Ponyville been to you so far?"

Our new friend looked back and forth at her surroundings. "It's..."

Pinkie Pie leaned towards her with an excited grin. "Yeeeees?"

Mitta looked around a moment more before looking at all of us with a reserved smile. "It's perfect."

Rarity asked, "Perfect?"

Mitta replied, "Nopony has been judgmental towards me and they seem so at peace with each other. Everypony I have interacted with today has been very hospitable even though I've only just arrived here today. The atmosphere... There's no spite or hate here." She then looked at me with an almost tearful smile. "I never want to leave this place."

I nodded with a smile of my own, "My thoughts exactly."

Twilight smiled, "I'm glad to hear that, Mitta. I know you'll love it here in Ponyville. And pretty soon, you'll have plenty of friends."

Spike spoke up, "Yeah, it really doesn't take long to make friends here! We made a whole bunch of friends on our first night in Ponyville!"

Twilight, for whatever reason, rolled her eyes at those words. "Oh please, Spike. Those were just a whole bunch of ponies who showed up uninvited to my welcoming party." However, she then noticed everyone staring at her. I too must admit that she sounded like she really did not care for anyone back then.

The purple unicorn mare grinned sheepishly, "Oh, don't think I don't care about my friends! It's just that I had no interest in friendship when I first came to Ponyville. I'm actually surprised by how quickly that changed in just two days."

I nodded, "You ponies bond very quickly, from what I can see. A lot faster than we humans do."

Before we could talk further, the waiter returned with a large platter of all of our orders on it. It was floating in the air with the use of the levitation spell. I am actually surprised he was able to levitate so many objects at once, but then again, Twilight and Rarity can do it too with ease.

"Wow... That's a lot of variety." Mitta spoke once the waiter departed.

Fluttershy smiled, "Ponyville has many different types of foods to choose from since it has such strong agriculture. Didn't Sunny Town have lots of different foods like these?"

Mitta sighed, "Actually...no. No one ever visited and the types of crops we grew were very limited..."

Pinkie Pie must have been trying to add emphasis to just how dull such a life must have been since she let out a yawn. "Boooooring. I would've hated to live there!"

Mitta surprised us by smiling and letting out a chuckle, "Exactly. I hated it there too."

Rarity then smiled, "Well, there's no sense in dwelling on the past. Let's focus on the present. Such as enjoying these fine treats."

Applejack nodded, "Sounds good ta me. Let's chow down!"

We all went to work on our meals. All of my friends had ordered entrees I had seen before, but Mitta's was different with it being a special and all. It seemed to be a type of veggie and fruit salad topped with raspberry vinaigrette. Right after she took the first bite, Mitta really went to town on it. "Easy there, Mitta. Eat too fast and you'll get the hiccups." I spoke up, knowing all too well what happens when that happens.

In mere minutes, Mitta had polished off her entire plate while the rest of us were only half done. She then sighed in satisfaction and looked at me. "That was amazing...hic..." She then blushed, "Wait... Did I...hic..."

I snickered, "Hey, I warned you." The rest of my friends started laughing, but then Spike started hiccupping as well. His plate of hay fries were gone, so he likely ate too fast as well.

Mitta did not speak while the rest of us worked on our meals. Probably hoping the hiccups would wear off by the time we finished. Fortunately, they did. "Man, that hit the spot." Rainbow Dash spoke before letting out a belch.

"Ugh, mind your manners, Rainbow Dash." Rarity spoke with a disgruntled expression.

Pinkie Pie giggled, "I think that means the food was excellent!"

Mitta smiled faintly, "Thank you for the meal. I really enjoyed it. Do I owe you anything?"

Applejack shook her head, "Nah, it's on us, Mitta. Don't worry about it."

My friend seemed genuinely surprised by this heartfelt act, but then smiled while looking a little guilty. "Thank you..." We then all placed a pile of bits on the table and walked away.

Mitta asked as we walked, "Well... What do we do now?"

We all stopped at these words. We had been away from home very frequently over the last few days due to the incident with Nightmare Moon and getting Mitta to Canterlot last night to have the curse removed from her.

Rarity gasped, "Oh dear! I just remembered I have half a dozen dresses to finish by tomorrow!" She then looked at us, "So sorry to have to leave on such short notice, but I really must return home to finish up my work. Shall we rendezvous tomorrow?"

Fluttershy smiled, "I guess so. I know how important your work is, Rarity."

All of my other friends nodded and smiled too. "Oh, thank you all. Well, I must be going. Ta ta!" Rarity said with a smile before running off.

"Come ta think of it... I reckon we're all a lil' behind schedule with some things." Applejack spoke.

Rainbow Dash turned her gaze to the sky, "Whoa, we've got a pretty bad cloudcover today. I guess I've been away from home for too long. I better get to work too!"

Fluttershy nodded, "And I'm sure all my little friends at home are all starving. I need to feed them right away."

Pinkie Pie grinned, "I guess I don't have much to do, but I gotta get to planning a special party for this month!"

Twilight then smiled, "Well, I guess I'm free today. What about you, Spike?"

Spike, who was still seated on Twilight's back, smiled, "Oh, I finished up all my morning chores before you got home. I'm free too."

"In that case, we'll see ya'll later." Applejack spoke before all of our friends went on their merry ways.

"So... It's just us now?" Mitta asked.

Twilight nodded, "Looks that way. You want us to show you around Ponyville, Mitta?"

I added, "Actually, I think we need to find her a place to live."

Spike smiled, "Oh! Why don't you stay with us?! I think we have enough room for one more housemate!"

Twilight smiled, "Great idea! I've had guests stay over a few times. There's enough room for you to live there full time."

Mitta smiled for a second, but then seemed to frown. "That sounds nice, but..." She then looked up at me, "I was hoping I could live with you, James."

Those words actually surprised me. I know Mitta and I are close, but still... "Um... I'm not sure that's possible, Mitta. They only room we have that could be used as a guest room is already being used by my little sister. I'm afraid there's just no room for you there."

Mitta sighed, clearly disappointed. But she then asked, "Well... What's the closest place to where you live?"

Twilight replied, "That would be Sweet Apple Acres. That's Applejack's home and it's very close to where James and Fluttershy live."

Mitta paused for a moment, probably to ponder the choice. She then nodded, "OK. I'll take a look at it."

Spike smiled, "If you like apples, you'll never be without them while you're there. You can just go outside and kick a tree if you're hungry!"

Twilight giggled, "I guess so, but you'd probably have to get permission from Applejack first before you can eat her property."

A short while later, we were standing just outside Sweet Apple Acres. "Well, here we are." Twilight spoke with a smile. I was looking down at Mitta, expecting her to be pleased by the sight of the humble orchard. However, her expression was surprisingly neutral.

"Come on, Mitta! You can at least act excited!" Spike spoke up, apparently noticing her lack of enthusiasm as well.

Mitta sighed, "Um... Don't worry about me. Let's go find Applejack."

As we walked forward, I asked, "Are you OK?"

She did not reply right away, but we soon found Applejack emerging from the barn. She was quick to notice us and trotted our way. "Howdy, ya'll! What bring ya over ta my place?"

Twilight smiled and motioned towards Mitta, "Hello again, Applejack. Mitta here was considering moving in with you. Do you have a spare room?"

Applejack seemed very excited at those words, "We sure do! And the Apple family would love havin' ya bunkin' with us, Mitta. Want me ta show ya 'round?"

For whatever reason, Mitta looked around for a moment. Was she eyeing the barn and the vast orchard of apple trees? Finally, she replied, "Thank you, Applejack. But...I don't want to live here."

Applejack seemed puzzled by those words, as was I. "Huh? No? But I though ya wanted to... Isn't that why yer out here?"

Mitta replied, "I wasn't sure of what to expect. But now that I've seen the place... I don't want to be here. The architecture here and the many trees reminds me too much of Sunny Town... And I don't want to be reminded of that place."

Applejack seemed surprisingly saddened by those words, but she nodded. "I get what yer sayin'. I'm pretty sure I wouldn't wanna see lotsa trees again after spendin' a thousand years around them. Maybe ya would be better off livin' somewhere closer ta town."

Mitta smiled faintly, "Thank you for understanding, Applejack."

However, a thought popped into my head. "Applejack, are the Cutie Mark Crusaders at their clubhouse right now?"

My farm pony friend nodded, "They sure are. Wanna go see 'em?"

I nodded, "Yes, but I would like Mitta to see them too."

Mitta asked, "The Cutie Mark Crusaders? Who are they?"

I replied with a smile, "Remember Apple Bloom? She's a member of the group."

Mitta's face brightened slightly at that name. "Apple Bloom? She's there?"

I nodded, "You remember her, right? Want to see her again?"

She nodded, "Yes... I'd like to meet her again."

Applejack then nudged her towards one area of the many apple trees on the farm, "Well, you'll find 'em in that direction. Just follow James. He knows the way."

Twilight smiled, "Spike and I will stick with Applejack until you two get back. OK?"

Mitta smiled, "OK. James, you lead please."

I nodded, "All right. This way." I then started walking, leading my friend into the forest of apple trees.

As we walked, I asked, "Do these apple trees really remind you of the Everfree Forest?"

She looked around and replied, "Not by themselves. They're too spread out to give the same feel of the Everfree Forest." She then asked, "Um... James? Who are the Cutie Mark Crusaders?"

I replied, "They're a club of kids who are trying to earn their cutie marks by figuring out their special talents." I then noticed her blank flank. "Actually, I think they would love to invite you to join. Seeing as how you don't have a cutie mark yet."

Mitta looked back at her flank and sighed, "I honestly don't have much interest in figuring out what I'm good at right now... I just want to finally relax here away from that awful town."

I nodded, "Perfectly understandable. Get settled in, then decide from there."

After some wandering around, I finally saw it. A cozy wooden tree house lodged in a tree. "Is that it?" Mitta asked, more than likely having never seen a house in a tree before.

"Yup. And they're probably inside." I replied with a smile.

I walked up the ramp with Mitta behind me and bent down before I knocked on the door. "Huh? Who's out there?" I heard a voice speak with a noticeable southern accent.

Mitta gasped, "Is that...her?"

A second later, the door opened to reveal Apple Bloom. "Huh?! Oh, James! Howdy! Where ya been?!"

Before I could answer, another little girl's voice shouted, "James?! Outta my way!" Apple Bloom was immediately pushed aside just before Scootaloo jumped into my arms. "Where were you, big brother?! I never saw you or Fluttershy this morning! I had to try to find leftovers to snack on at breakfast..."

I cuddled with the little pegasus and stroked her mane, "Very sorry about that, Scoot. I had to keep a promise yesterday that involved heading up to Canterlot for the night. And Fluttershy tagged along too."

Sweetie Belle then walked over to the entrance and smiled, "What kind of promise? Was it important?"

I set Scootaloo down and moved to my right, "See for yourself. I have somepony I want you to meet, girls."

Mitta was standing at the very edge of the balcony, not quite off of the ramp that led up to it. Scootaloo waved, "Hi! Who're you?"

Apple Bloom, on the other hand, gasped and stepped forward, "No way... Mitta? Is that really you? Mitta?!"

My friend smiled solemnly, "Yes... And...you're Apple Bloom?"

Apple Bloom beamed with a bright smile, "Long time no see! How'd ya get outta Sunny Town?! I thought ya'll were cursed!"

Sweetie Belle spoke up, "Sunny Town?! Wait... Isn't that the 'death trap' village in the Everfree Forest you told us about several months ago, James?"

I nodded, "The same. I made a promise to myself to get Mitta outta there a while ago. And last night, I was able to fulfill it. We had to go to Canterlot to get the curse removed."

Apple Bloom asked, "All the way up there? Did the princesses hafta do the job?"

I nodded again, "Princess Luna was the one to cast the curse in the first place, so only she knew how to remove it."

Mitta smiled, "I'm grateful they gave me another chance..."

Sweetie Belle grinned, "You don't seem like a bad pony, Mitta. I don't see why you were cursed in the first place."

Scootaloo then asked, "Huh? Wait a second! Where's your cutie mark, Mitta?! You're all grown up! You should have one by now!"

Mitta looked back at her blank flank and sighed, "I never really had the chance to earn one... Nor did it really matter to me."

Apple Bloom gasped, "Don't matter?! Ponyfeathers! A cutie mark shows who a are! We gotta get ya inta the Cutie Mark Crusaders!"

Mitta glanced at the little farm pony with a bemused expression. "Um... What exactly ARE the Cutie Mark Crusaders?"

Sweetie Belle explained, "We're a group of ponies whose goal is to find our special talents so we can get our cutie marks! You don't have one yet, so you're eligible to join! Even James is a member!"

Mitta looked at me and asked, "You? But...I thought you already have your cutie mark."

Scootaloo grinned, "Yeah, but he's still an honorary member. Once a Crusader, always a Crusader! Especially with that armor he was wearing yesterday!"

I snickered, "I would say I was more of a paladin than a crusader at that time."

Apple Bloom asked, "What's a paladin?"

Sweetie Belle grinned, "Oh, I know that one! It's a determined advocate or defender of a noble cause."

Scootaloo smirked, "You really are a dictionary sometimes."

Sweetie Belle frowned in response, "Oh, come on. I just looked in a dictionary to find that. Doesn't mean I AM a dictionary."

I smiled sheepishly, "I think that's the proper description of what I did last night."

Mitta nuzzled me sweetly, catching me by surprise. "It is. Thank you, James."

Apple Bloom then asked, "Anyway, Mitta... Wanna join? We've got plenty of room!"

Mitta seemed slightly baffled by the offer. "Um... I guess I can."

Scootaloo hopped in place, "Sweet! Then let's start the initiation!" Apple Bloom and Scootaloo pushed Mitta inside before I followed them.

I very nearly bumped my head on the ceiling again once I was inside the clubhouse. Mitta seemed to be taking in the sights; not saying anything while her eyes glanced around. She seemed to notice the four red capes hanging on the wall in particular, mine being exceptionally longer than the other three. "Are those capes?" She asked with a perplexed expression.

Sweetie Belle smiled, "Yeah! Every member of the Cutie Mark Crusaders gets one! James is the biggest out of all of us, so I had to make his a custom."

Mitta then asked, "You made them?" When Sweetie Belle nodded, Mitta smiled faintly. "They look great."

This praise seemed to surprise Sweetie Belle. The little unicorn filly jumped while looking absolutely ecstatic. "They're great?! Wow, I knew it! My talent must be in making stylish clothes!" However, when she looked down at her flank, she saw that it was still blank. She then sighed, "Or not."

I then whispered to Mitta, "Her talent is actually singing and coming up with lyrics. Just don't tell her. It'll be more satisfying for her to figure it out for herself." She let out a quiet giggle in response.

"Well, I better get started on your cape. Hold still for a second, Mitta." Sweetie Belle spoke while she used a tape measurer and checked the length and height of her body. "OK! I think I can do this!" She then went over to a sewing machine in the corner and began to snip off a big strip of red fabric.

"I could never figure out how to operate one of those." I spoke, eyeing the sewing machine.

Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed Scootaloo pulling over a pair of bongo drums while Apple Bloom was moving a podium towards the back of the room. "Drums and a podium?" Mitta asked, clearly puzzled by what she was seeing.

"Fer the initiation ceremony!" Apple Bloom replied with a smile.

"Ceremony? We really need one?" I asked, thinking they were taking this a bit too seriously.

"Yeah! Kinda like how those old nomadic tribes do it! But with a Ponyville twist!" Scootaloo replied with a grin as she lined up the bongos.

"Kids..." I snickered with a smirk.

In a short while, Sweetie Belle walked up behind Mitta and tossed what seemed to be her new cape over her back. "All done! And...wow, you look great in it, Mitta!"

Mitta's cape looked identical to those worn by the younger members of the Cutie Mark Crusaders, albeit being somewhat larger. The shade of red seemed to go well with her gray coat. Mitta looked herself over for a moment before giving Sweetie Belle one of the most sincere smiles I had ever seen on her face. "Thank you... I'll treasure this."

Sweetie Belle grinned, "It's no trouble at all! But now we gotta give you the initiation ceremony!" She then motioned me over to the podium, which seemed to hold a plaque of sorts. Or maybe it was just a sheet of paper. No, I remember. It was a very long sheet of paper. "James, would you like to speak the rites?"

In response, I asked, "Why didn't I go through the ceremony when you first took me in?"

Scootaloo replied, "I hadn't come up with it yet, but it's done now!"

Apple Bloom and Sweetie stood to the left of the podium while Scootaloo sat to the right with the bongos in front of her. When I took a seat behind the podium, Scootaloo began to play a slow beat on the drums in practically the same way a tribe of nomads would upon a tribe member completing some sort of trial. Mitta stood before the podium and slowly approached me while looking rather curious about this 'ceremony'.

Before I could say anything, Scootaloo suddenly went wild on the drums, beating out a fast beat. We all turned to face her, causing her to stop playing with a rather embarrassed look on her face. "Heheheh... Sorry." She then beat out three more slow beats before stopping.

Taking that as my cue, I began to read from the sheet before me. "We, the Cutie Mark Crusaders, elect enter name of newcomer..... Oh, Mitta to join us as a sister, friend, confidant...ally...bosom-buddy...gal pal........" The words were followed with more synonyms for 'friend' than I ever knew existed.

I looked up from the sheet with a very bemused expression on my face. "......What." I then looked at Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle.

Sweetie Belle looked past the podium and spoke, "Well, YOU wrote this." Scootaloo chuckled nervously at those words. I suppose it would have been wiser to let Sweetie Belle write it since she has a penchant for coming up with lyrics in songs.

With a sigh, I went back to reading through the sheet. Although I was quick to notice that Mitta seemed to be holding back laughter. I began to quickly scroll through the sheet to find the most important parts of the initiation speech. "Homegirl... Amiga... Ugh, blah blah blah yak yak yak stuff and fluff tarter sauce sizzling circuits.... What?!" Out of nowhere, Mitta burst into hysterical laughter and fell onto her side. The other three Cutie Mark Crusaders seemed just as surprised as I was.

"Whoa, what's wrong, Mitta?! James wasn't bein' THAT funny, was he?!" Apple Bloom spoke.

After a brief moment, Mitta calmed herself. "Sorry, sorry... It's just... His reaction to reading some of that... I couldn't contain myself."

That was the heartiest laughter I had ever seen out of Mitta up to that moment. I smiled, "Well, it was good to see you that happy. Anyway..." I went back to reading through the sheet. "Ah, finally. And fellow Cutie Mark Crusader. You are solemnly sworn in, here this day, in witness of your sisters, friends...confidants...bosom bud..."

By this point, I felt I needed to say something. I looked down at Scootaloo and raised my voice, "Scoot! Just how many synonyms of 'friend' do you even need?!" At those words, everyone else in the clubhouse cracked up laughing.

Scootaloo quickly snatched the sheet from the podium and smiled at Mitta, "Congratulations!" I then heard her mutter under her breath while rolling up the paper, "Gotta remember to revise this..."

I sighed, "Well, with that nonsense outta the way, welcome aboard, Mitta." I then extended my hand to her.

Mitta, once she had stopped laughing, reached out and placed her hoof in my hand, allowing me to grasp it. "Thank you..."

The three Cutie Mark Crusaders then ran up to Mitta and held her in a group hug. "It's great ta have ya with us, Mitta!" Apple Bloom spoke with a smile.

Sweetie Belle grinned, "Yeah! From now on, we'll always be your sisters, friends, confida..."

Before she could finish, I spoke up loudly. "Oh, don't you start that again!" At this point, all five of us burst into raucous laughter. Heh, things are never dull when those three fillies are around.

"Hoo... We're gonna have some fun times, Mitta." Scootaloo spoke with a grin once she stopped laughing.

Mitta smiled surprisingly brightly, "I hope so. I'm already liking being a Cutie Mark Crusader."

I stood up and stepped around the podium. "I hope so too. But we need to get back to finding you a place to stay."

Apple Bloom jumped, "Well, why didn't ya say so?! You know what this means, right?"

Scootaloo beamed, "Yeah! Another opportunity!"

Sweetie Belle spoke, "Cutie Mark Crusaders house hunters! ....Oh, wait. Is that really a talent?"

I replied, "Not unless you've got a career in real estate. But we really must be going. Mitta only just came to Ponyville today and she'll be staying with us fulltime now. But we need to find a place for her to stay first."

Apple Bloom spoke, "Well, the barn on the farm has plenty of space in it."

Sweetie Belle smiled, "Maybe Rarity would take her in. She let you live with her for a while, James. Remember?"

Scootaloo, on the other hand, frowned. "I don't think we have anymore room in our house though... Fluttershy's cottage isn't all that big."

Mitta nodded and smiled at our little friends. "That's OK. I'm sure I'll find a place to stay tonight." She then looked up at me and smiled, "I'm in good hands, after all."

I nodded with a smile of my own. "Yes, you are." I then looked back at the Cutie Mark Crusaders and spoke, "Let's catch up on things tomorrow. OK?"

Sweetie Belle nodded, "OK! See you tomorrow, James!"

Scootaloo added, "I'll see you this evening, big brother. And I'll be sure to revise that thing for next time."

Apple Bloom then waved at Mitta, "Come by and visit anytime, Mitta. Yer always welcome in Sweet Apple Acres."

Mitta smiled and nodded, "Thank you all." We then turned and left the clubhouse. After walking down the ramp, we headed east towards the main area of Sweet Apple Acres.

As we walked through the forest of apple trees, I asked, "So, what's it like being a Cutie Mark Crusader?"

Mitta looked up at me and smiled, "It felt wonderful being a part of a group of genuinely good people. I hope I'll see them again soon."

I smiled in return, "Oh, you will. I see them almost every day. Especially Scootaloo since she lives with me."

My friend looked ahead as we walked, "They're all good kids. But...do you think I'll ever get my cutie mark?"

I shrugged my shoulders, "No idea, really. But I'll always recognize you thanks to the combination of your crimson hair and gray coat. Just take it as it comes. You'll figure out what you're best at someday."

Mitta sighed with a faint smile, "I guess so. It's never bothered me until now... I guess it's because I've never seen so many ponies in one day with those marks on their flanks."

Once we made our way back over to the main area of Sweet Apple Acres, we found Twilight and Spike still engaged in conversation with Applejack. Spike soon noticed and waved in our direction. "Hey, they're back!"

Twilight and Applejack looked in our direction and smiled, but Applejack then asked, "Whoa, where'd ya get the cape, Mitta? Did the Cutie Mark Crusaders take ya in?"

Mitta nodded, "They did. And I'm happy to have friends like them."

Twilight smiled, "I'm glad you bonded so quickly with them. They tend to be very caring towards anypony who is like them."

Spike then asked, "So... You still need a place to stay?"

Mitta nodded with a faint smile, "Yes... Though I don't know where to look."

I then asked, "Hey, does Rainbow Dash have spare room at her place for Mitta?"

Twilight looked at me with a bemused expression, "I'm sure she can easily add a second bedroom, but unless Mitta is a pegasus, I don't think she'll be able to even stay there for longer than a second."

I asked, "Why's that?"

Spike answered with a snide smirk, "Because she sleeps with her head in the clouds, if you know what I mean."

I pondered this for a moment before asking, "Wait... Her house...is made out of clouds?"

Applejack chuckled, "Ain't it obvious? I'm surprised ya'll haven't seen it yet!"

I groaned, "Now there's a pegasus who spends too much time with her head in the clouds." We all had a good chuckle at that.

Applejack then spoke, "Well, that leaves ya with Pinkie Pie, Twilight, and Rarity. Plenty ta choose from."

I then spoke, "If I might make a recommendation, I used to live with Rarity. She's an excellent landlord and is a good choice for a housemate."

Mitta smiled and looked up at me. "That sounds like a nice choice. Does she live close to you?"

Spike spoke up, "Uh... Not really. She lives pretty much on the other side of town from where Fluttershy lives."

Those words seemed to immediately dampen Mitta's spirits. "Oh... I'm not so sure I..."

It was actually rather endearing to see how dependant on me Mitta had become. Or is dependant even the right word? I too wanted to be there for her, but I could not be there all the time. "Mitta, at least give her a chance. It's not like Rarity lives THAT far away from me. You could easily visit at any time." I spoke, my hand stroking her mane.

Mitta seemed to pause for a minute before sighing, "OK... I'll at least check it out."

I asked, "Would you like me to take you there now? Rarity's my best friend, so I can put a good word in with her."

Mitta nodded, "OK. Should we go now?"

I looked over at my three other friends. Applejack nodded, "Ya'll go right ahead. We'll catch up later."

Twilight added, "I hope you find a good home for Mitta, James... Wait, that sounds like something you would say to an orphan. Sorry!"

Spike then spoke, "If all else fails, you can bunk with us!"

I smiled, "I'll keep that in mind. Shall we, Mitta?"

My friend nodded, "Yes. Let's go find Rarity." We said our goodbyes and headed back towards Ponyville.

Once we had entered Ponyville again, Mitta stayed close by my side while gazing around at her surroundings. She certainly was a curious girl. I did not say anything, allowing her to take in her new home the best she could. But after a while, I felt the need to speak up. "So, you liking Ponyville so far?"

I did not get a response. "Mitta?" I asked before looking down at my side. To my surprise, she was no longer there. When I raised my head, I saw her running away from me towards... I lifted my head further to see the cupcake spire on top of Sugarcube Corner over the rooftops. "Oh, come on!" I groaned before running after her.

When I finally caught up to her, I noticed a small crowd gathered outside Sugarcube Corner. I noticed Lyra in the crowd and asked, "Excuse me, Lyra. Have you seen a gray earth pony mare with crimson hair around?"

Lyra pointed upwards, "Uh... She's closer than you think." When I looked up... Oh good lord... Mitta was on the roof of the building while trying to eat the roof shingles. Only the roof looks like gingerbread, so I understand where she got the idea.

Mr. Cake was in the crowd too and shouted, "Get down from there, missy! I know our establishment looks delicious, but it isn't edible! Pinkie Pie tried to eat the roof on her first day to work and had to get her stomach pumped afterwards!"

Mitta seemed to listen and asked, "It's not edible?"

I called out, "No, it's not! And you'll end up hurting yourself if you eat any. Just how did you even get up there anyway?!"

Mitta opened her mouth to speak with her hoof raised, but then held her hoof to her chin as if to think hard about something. "Um... How did I get up here again?" Everyone in the crowd burst into laughter while I facepalmed.

Mitta started to inch her way down the sloped roof. How she managed to keep from sliding off with next to no traction on her hooves, I will never know. At the edge of the roof, she paused while looking very edgy. "Oh my... That's quite a long drop."

Lyra spoke up, "I got it!" Her horn was coated in what I believe was a turquoise aura, as was Mitta. Mitta gasped in surprise as she floated off the roof before being gently lowered to the ground. "There you go. Are you OK?"

Mitta breathed a sigh of relief while the crowd around us began to disperse. "Thanks... I don't know what came over me. I saw that giant cupcake on top and just..."

Lyra giggled, "I don't blame you! It looks so real!"

Mitta smiled faintly and replied, "Thank you, Lyra. Um... I forgot. Do you know James?"

Lyra beamed before glancing up at me, "I sure do! I love hearing stories from him. Researching humans is my hobby, so we became good friends."

I smiled, "She's new in town, Lyra. We're trying to find a new home for her before nightfall."

My unicorn friend nodded, "Oh, then I better not keep you. Take care, James! And you too, Mitta." She waved goodbye and trotted away.

"She seemed nice." Mitta spoke with a smile.

"Just about everypony in town is nice. I can't imagine living anywhere else." I replied. But when I glanced at Sugarcube Corner, I asked, "Well, since we're here, you wanna pick up some goodies?"

Mitta beamed at me with an excited grin, "Oh, yes please." I snickered at her enthusiasm and opened the door for her.

Mitta trotted inside, her eyes opened wide in wonder. "It looks even better than before..."

Mrs. Cake just happened to be standing at the counter and smiled, "Well, hello there, dear. Can I help you?"

I stepped through the door and smiled, "Hey there, Mrs. Cake. Sorry that I haven't been in for a few days."

My boss smiled, "Oh, I heard the news from Pinkie Pie, dearie. Don't worry about it. Just be sure to come in tomorrow on time." She then looked at Mitta, "But who's this? I don't think I've ever seen her before."

Mitta's smile became one a bit more reserved. I stepped forward and smiled, "This is Mitta. She's new in town and a good friend of mine."

Mrs. Cake smiled with her usual motherly air, "Well, it's good to have you with us, Mitta. I hope we'll be seeing you some more."

Mitta smiled slightly brighter, but soon frowned again. Mrs. Cake then asked, "Now then, is there anything I can get you two?"

I winced and held onto my pocket. Knowing how much Mitta loved the sweets Pinkie Pie gave her the previous night, I was sure she was going to bleed my wallet dry. Much to my surprise though, Mitta replied with a melancholy tone. "I'm not sure."

I asked, "Do you have any recommendations, Mrs. Cake?"

Mrs. Cake replied, "Hmmm.... Well, how about one of our milkshakes? The best in town!"

Mitta perked up just slightly at those words. "That sounds nice. Um... Make mine chocolate please."

I spoke up, "Strawberry banana for me."

Mrs. Cake nodded, "Excellent choice, James. And I know you'll love yours, Mitta. I'll have Pinkie bring them out when they're ready."

Mitta and I waited at a table that was not far from the main counter. The same table where Fluttershy and I first met. My friend sighed as she rested her chin on her forelegs. I asked, "Are you OK?"

Mitta sighed again, "I don't know... Maybe it's some lingering guilt of mine... But it's also just how...different this place is compared to Sunny Town."

I nodded, "Yeah. A much nicer place, right?"

Mitta nodded, "But...it's also the ponies here... They're so open... So accepting... I'm not sure I deserve it..."

I replied, "I think you're just not used to it yet. I know I wasn't when I first came here. But trust me, your friends will make the transition bearable."

Mitta raised her head until she was looking at me with a somber smile. "Why do you think I've been staying close to you all day?" I chuckled at that response.

Mitta then asked, "What was it like for you when you first came here, James?"

I sighed, "Traumatizing at first. I was lost and scared. I had never seen anything like this world before or the people who live here." I then smiled, "Those six mares... I don't know what I would do without them."

Mitta clearly knew who I was talking about. "They are very lovely, aren't they?"

I nodded, "They have their pros and cons. But they all value friendship. And making friends too. I'm glad they were there for me."

Just before we could talk further, a voice spoke from beside us. "Hello! Somepony order some milkshakes?"

Pinkie Pie was standing beside the table with our milkshakes resting on her upturned hooves. Mitta's was a light brown while mine was a shade of pink. Each was topped off with a plume of whipped cream and a cherry with a straw sticking out of the cream. Mitta stared wide-eyed, "That looks amazing..."

Pinkie Pie giggled, "You bet they are! I made them myself!"

I took a sip. The strawberry and banana flavors blended together perfectly. "Mmm... Better than expected, Pinkie."

My silly pink pony friend grinned, "That's what they all say! Anyway, I gotta get back to work. See ya!" Pinkie Pie then trotted back into the kitchen.

"Good stuff?" I asked Mitta while she sipped away at her milkshake.

She nodded with a smile, "Yes, very good. Pinkie really knows how to make a good milkshake."

However, before we could converse further, I heard Mrs. Cake speak up from inside the kitchen. "Pinkie, did you do something with one of the bottles of my milk?"

Pinkie responded, "Huh? YOUR milk?"

My boss replied, "Yes, I keep some of it in the refrigerator for Pound Cake and Pumpkin Cake. You didn't happen to use any, did you?"

Mitta asked, "Who's Pound Cake and Pumpkin Cake?"

I replied, "They're the children of Mr. and Mrs. Cake. They're still just babies, so....."

Mitta and I stared at each other with unnerved expressions. Our eyes slowly gazed downward at our milkshakes. We... Well, what do you think we were thinking about?!

We soon looked back up at each other. Very slowly, we closed our lips around our straws and took another sip. "Never knew pony milk made for such amazing milk shakes." I spoke softly.

"Mmhm." Mitta muttered with a nod.

Mitta did not speak much while she drank her milkshake, so neither did I. Although I was quick to notice Pinkie Pie trot upstairs. She seemed to be in a slight hurry too. I asked, "Mitta, can you wait a minute? I want to ask Pinkie something."

She nodded, "Mmhm." I suppose she was too busy enjoying her milkshake to mind where I went. Those milkshakes certainly were impressive. I nodded at her with a smile before walking up the stairs.

When I peeked over the top of the stairs, I found Pinkie Pie hard at work setting up what seemed to be a party. She was carrying a large cake on her back before making a little hop to 'toss' it off of herself and onto a table. I was about to speak up to ask her what was going on, but then I remembered what happened on MY first day in Ponyville. I knew who that party was for. With a smirk, I slunk back down the stairs without being noticed.

Mitta noticed me approaching our table and looked up at me with a faint smile. "Is everything OK up there?" She asked.

I nodded, "Yeah, she's fine. A bit busy, but fine." I then sat myself down opposite from her and went back to enjoying my milkshake.

The two of us finished our milkshakes roughly within the same minute. Mitta let out a satisfied sigh, "Phew... That was delicious. And very filling."

I nodded, "Yup... Good stuff." I then reached into my pocket and placed some bits on the table.

Before we could leave, Mrs. Cake approached us to retrieve our empty glasses. "I trust everything turned out as amazing as you hoped?"

Mitta nodded with a smile, "Oh, very amazing. It was all wonderful."

I added with a slight smirk, "The best milkshake I ever had. I don't know what kinda milk that was, but I hope it becomes the norm if it isn't already."

My words clearly unnerved Mrs. Cake since she instantly became nervous with a blush. "Oh... That type of milk? Um... That's not our usual stock..."

I shrugged, "That's a shame. You should consider using it all the time."

Mrs. Cake grinned sheepishly, "Yes... Well, you two dears have a great day. Bye!" She then snatched up our glasses, placed them on a tray on her back, and rushed back into the kitchen.

I chuckled, "You think she knows we know?"

Mitta giggled faintly, "Maybe."

The two of us then stepped outside Sugarcube Corner and glanced around. "Where do we go next?" Mitta asked while looking up at me.

I replied, "We were going to Rarity's place to see if she would let you stay with her, right?"

Mitta nodded, "Oh, right..." I then turned and started heading southeast again with my friend by my side.

The walk there was fairly uneventful. Once we did arrive, Mitta gazed up at the Carousel Boutique. "It looks even lovelier in the light."

I explained, "Rarity has always had fancy tastes. Not sure where she picked that up though since I know she comes from a family of commoners."

Mitta smiled as she approached the door, "Maybe she's just living her guilty pleasure."

My friend was startled by the bell that hung over the doorway, causing her to take a step back. A familiar voice then spoke, "Commming! Welcome to Carousel Bou... Oh, hello! What brings you two over here?'

Rarity trotted right over to us with a smile. Mitta spoke shyly, "Hello, Rarity... Um... Nice place you have here." Perhaps Mitta was nervous about asking Rarity to allow her to stay with her.

I smiled, "Everything OK here, Rarity?"

My beautiful friend smiled, "Oh, most wonderful. I only JUST got caught up on all of the commissions I had not finished."

I nodded, "Glad to hear. And...well..." Mitta ducked behind me, apparently just as nervous to ask for a place to stay as I was.

"Darling, why so uptight? Is something wrong?" Rarity asked me with a puzzled expression.

I replied, "Well, Mitta wants to stay in Ponyville, but we're not sure where she sound stay..."

Rarity's expression brightened immediately at my words. "I see what it is you mean. Well, ask no further! Mitta is welcome to stay!"

I admit I was rather surprised by just how quickly Rarity had agreed. Mitta poked her head out from behind me and asked, "Re... Really?"

Rarity beamed at her, "Of course! I would love to have such a lady of subtle sophistication as my housemate."

I looked down at Mitta, who looked back up at me with a surprised expression. When she looked back at Rarity, she smiled tearfully. "Thank you, Miss Rarity..."

My friend and former landlord reached out and wiped Mitta's tears away. "Oh, darling... There's no need for such tears. They mar your beauty." She then smiled, "And I can hardly wait to get started on your new ensembles. Trust me, your self-esteem will skyrocket after only a week of living here!"

We did not get much more time to talk. There was a knock at the door before we could converse further. "Hm? Who could that be?" Rarity asked while approaching the door.

Just before she could reach it, the door flung open. "Hey there, everypony!"

Mitta asked, "Pinkie Pie?"

Pinkie Pie was maintaining a pose while standing on just her hindquarters with her forelegs held out to her sides, almost as if awaiting a hug. Her eyes glanced back and forth before she dropped back down onto all fours. "Phew! I got the address right. Sorry for popping in like this. I've been going from Sweet Apple Acres to the library to Fluttershy's cottage looking for you, James!"

I asked, "Why me?"

She replied with a smile, "I really really REALLY need your help with something. Something only someone as tall as you can do! Do you have time?"

I shrugged my shoulders, "Sure, I've got nothing better to do right now. What's up?"

Pinkie replied, "Great! I need you over at Sugarcube Corner with me. I'll explain along the way."

Mitta then stepped forward, "May I come too?"

Pinkie Pie seemed somewhat nervous by that request. "Um... Nope, sorry! All I need is James! But I'll bring him back as soon as possible, OK?"

Rarity then patted Mitta on the shoulder, "Don't you worry, Mitta. I'll keep you company in the meantime. Why don't I show you around my home?"

Mitta sighed, but then smiled. "OK... Please don't be long, Pinkie."

She nodded, "No problem! Let's go, James!" We waved goodbye and headed out the door. Pinkie led the way while performing her signature springy hop.

As we walked along, I asked, "So, whatcha need help with?"

Pinkie Pie stopped hopping and began to trot along beside me. "Take a wild guess! Come on! Guess!"

I crossed my arms while I walked, trying to think of a possible reason why she needed my help. "Um... Hint?"

She giggled, "It happened the first day you came into Ponyville!"

I tried thinking back further before it finally occurred to me. "You're throwing Mitta a party?"

Pinkie Pie hopped once, "Bingo! But since I got started a bit late, I need your help to finish up in time."

I smiled, remembering how welcome I felt when I attended my own welcoming party. "Yeah... She's gonna love that."

Pinkie Pie grinned, "You know it! Come on, let's go!" She broke into a faster trot, forcing me to jog in order to keep up.

We did not stop to chat with anyone along the way, so we reached Sugarcube Corner in fairly little time. Once we popped inside, we were greeted by Mr. Cake. "Welcome back, James! You helping out with the decorations upstairs?"

I nodded, "That's what I'm here for. You don't mind, do you?"

He smiled, "Oh, of course not! Go right ahead. We'll be closing up in a little while anyway, so feel free to use the kitchen whenever you need to."

Pinkie Pie smiled, "Thanks, Mr. Cake! OK, James. Let's get started!" I nodded and followed my cheery friend upstairs. When we reached the top of the stairs, I found that Pinkie had already done quite a bit of work. There was a table with a large punch bowl and a towering cake on it that looked pretty much identical to the one she used for my party. There were bundles of colorful balloons tied to various parts of the room and confetti scattered along the floor. I noticed Pinkie's phonograph in a corner, so there would be plenty of music for the party.

"Looks like you've already got the place almost finished... Wait a second." I noticed one little decoration that seemed oddly familiar. A string of paper lanterns hanging along the wall. "Aren't these a bit out of place?"

Pinkie Pie giggled, "Nope! I used them at your party, so I'm using them again!"

However, as I observed it, a memory flashed through my mind. I remembered when I visited Sunny Town for the first time and found strings of decorative lanterns hanging throughout the village to provide light. I sighed while I searched for where they were being held to the wall. "Sorry, Pinkie. These need to go."

She clearly did not agree with my opinion. "Awwww, why?!"

I replied, "These look almost identical to the lanterns that were hanging around Sunny Town and I don't want Mitta to be reminded of that place."

Pinkie surprised me with a giggle, "James, don't be silly! She's not THAT sensitive, is she?"

I glared at her, silencing her in an instant. "We stopped by Sweet Apple Acres today to see if Applejack wouldn't mind Mitta moving in there. But Mitta chose not to live there because the area reminds her of Sunny Town. I don't think she's somepony who wants to see anything that would remind her of that place."

Pinkie Pie's ears drooped at my words. "Oh... OK then. Yeah, then those lanterns really need to go." She then grabbed one with her teeth and dragged the entire string of lanterns down with one yank. "You leave these to me. And I'll be right back with the decorations I need help with." I nodded with a smile before going around and observing the decorations.

A minute later, I heard Pinkie Pie trotting back up the stairs. When she reached the top of the stairs, I noticed a large cardboard box on her back. "Is that all we need?"

She nodded, "Yep! Now, could you please..." She then dropped the box off to her side before reaching into it and pulling out a light blue paper ribbon with her mouth, "Hang this right up there?" She pointed to a spot just under the walkway that encircled the entire upper area of the room.

"Oh, sure." I replied before grabbing the ribbon and holding it up. The spot I was reaching for was definitely too high for the average earth pony to reach without a stepladder, so I could see why I was needed. I was able to see a small nail sticking loosely out of the wall, so I removed it before placing the end of the ribbon over the hole in the wall. I noticed a hole in the ribbon too, probably because Pinkie had used it before, so I aligned the hole in the ribbon with the hole in the wall before sliding the nail through it. "OK, where does the other end go?"

Pinkie Pie pointed up, "Right up there! In the middle!"

I looked straight up, seeing a simple wooden chandelier hanging from the center of the ceiling. Despite me being taller than the majority of Equestria's pony population, this one was still out of reach.

"I think I might need a hand with this one." I muttered out loud.

Pinkie Pie trotted to the middle of the room and stood in the center. "Oki doki loki! Climb aboard!"

I looked at Pinkie Pie, seeing her standing perfectly still with her back raised as high as she could. "Pinkie... What're you doing?"

"Giving you a boost! We don't have any stepladders up here, so you'll just have to use me!" She replied with a grin.

Due to Pinkie Pie's back not being completely flat; I was very hesitant to actually stand on her. I was not even sure if she could support my full weight. Although she is an earth pony, so she probably can. And it was not like I could reach that part of the ceiling from the walkway above us since it was too far out. "Well, I don't have any better ideas, but I don't like this either." I grumbled before I climbed onto her.

"OK! Now, just... Whoaohoooo!" Pinkie Pie yelped as she started to stagger from just how top-heavy she had become now that I was standing on her. I will never understand how I managed to keep myself from falling off.

"Pinkie, quit it! I can't stand straight up with you wobbling! And I don't wanna fall in the cake!" I yelled, doing my best to keep balance without tearing the ribbon.

"I can't help it! You're too tall and heavy!" Pinkie replied. She honestly did not seem to be straining under my weight though, so the issue was clearly just her trying to keep my weight centered.

I kept trying to reach for the ceiling, but still found it to be several inches out of reach. Although I did see the hooks on it that would hold the ribbon. "Darn it! Still can't reach!"

Pinkie Pie groaned, "Oh, OK! Now just... Eek!" She suddenly lurched forward, causing me to lean back dangerously far.

"Pinkie, you better not drop... Huh?" I yelped as I prepared myself for a fall. However, I suddenly felt myself being pushed back up to a full standing position. I could feel something pushing against my upper back. "Someone there?"

A familiar meek voice replied, "That was close. I almost thought I wouldn't reach you in time. Are you OK, James?"

Pinkie Pie grinned, "Fluttershy! Great timing! You can help us with the decorations!"

I managed to hop down from Pinkie Pie before turning around. Sure enough, hovering before me was my girlfriend. "Phew... Thanks for the save, honey."

Fluttershy smiled sweetly before placing a kiss on my cheek. "You're welcome, James. But what were you doing?"

Pinkie Pie replied, "Wait, how'd you know we were setting up Mitta's welcoming party? I haven't sent out invitations yet!"

Fluttershy gave Pinkie Pie a bemused look. "You are? Oh... I just went looking for James. When I went to Rarity's house, she told me you had come by and asked him for help with something. So, I came over here to check if you two were here."

I then held out the end of the ribbon to her, "Well, while you're here, could you please help us put these ribbons up?" I then pointed upwards at the ceiling.

Fluttershy looked up before looking back to me before nodding with a smile. "I'd be happy to." She then took the end of the ribbon in her mouth and flew up to the circle of hooks. Once she had hung it, she came back down and asked, "All done. Are there more?"

Pinkie Pie giggled, "Oh, just a few! I'll let you two lovebirds handle the ribbons while I go get the tub for the apples." She then trotted back down the stairs.

I started looking around the walls just under the walkway above me for the rest of the nails that were meant to hold the ribbons. Once I found one, I stuck the nail through the hole in that end of the ribbon before handing the other end to Fluttershy. She would then fly up to the hooks on the ceiling and hang the other end on the hook that was aligned with the nail I had just used. We repeated the process over and over until every last hook on the ceiling was in use.

"I think that's all of them." Fluttershy spoke while we surveyed the results of our work.

"Yup. Looks good too." I said with a smile. The ribbons really did add some flair to the room.

"Everypony doing OK up here?" I heard Pinkie Pie groan from the stairs. When we turned to face her, she was standing at the top with a wooden tub on her back filled with water and apples.

"That looks awfully heavy... Do you need some help with that?" Fluttershy asked with a look of concern.

Pinkie Pie slowly carried the tub over to the side of the table that held the punch and cake. "Nope... I got it..." Her legs then slid out from under her until all four were stretched out with her lying on her belly.

I honestly thought she was in trouble. "Pinkie, are you all right?"

Pinkie Pie looked at me and grinned, "I'm fine! This is just how I get it off of me!" She leaned to the side slightly before quickly pulling herself away. The tub slid off of her without any trouble. And with it being so low to the ground, the water could not spill on such a shallow angle.

"I was wondering how you even got that up here in the first place... Wait, couldn't you use your bathtub instead? It's on this floor, right?" I asked, remembering that the bobbing for apples tub was used at my welcoming party too.

Pinkie Pie was silent for a moment before grinning sheepishly, "Uh... Oops. Guess I should remember that. I just used the kitchen since that's where the apples are stored."

Fluttershy nodded, "That's understandable. But wasn't it tiring?"

Her response surprised me. "Nah! I just had to be careful how I moved so I wouldn't dump the whole thing!"

I shrugged, "Well, whatever works. Anyway, what's left to do? It looks like the decorations are already pretty much done."

Pinkie Pie held a hoof to her chin while glancing around the room. "Now that you mention it... I guess we ARE done!"

I smiled, "Should we go get Mitta then?"

Pinkie grinned, "Leave that to me! Gotta be subtle about it so she doesn't know until she finally gets here."

Fluttershy smiled, "I'll go get Rainbow Dash and Applejack. James, would you like to get Twilight and Spike?"

I nodded, "Sounds good. We'll meet up here, right?"

Pinkie Pie grinned, "Yep! Let's go!" We all headed downstairs and out the front door before separating and heading out to find our friends.

I headed directly to the library, hoping that Twilight and Spike were still home. Nothing of importance occurred on my way there, but I made sure to peek in the window to make certain no one was approaching the door. Yes, I have been slammed in the face and against the library's outer wall a few times since I last mentioned it happening.

To my relief, Spike was rearranging books while Twilight was reading something on the table in the center of the room. I hurried over to the door and gave a light knock. A moment later, Spike opened the door and peeked outside. "Oh, hey there! What's up?"

I replied, "Hey, Spike. I just wanted to know if you and Twilight would like to attend Mitta's welcoming party."

Twilight apparently heard me since she came over to the doorway. "Pinkie Pie's throwing her a party? Just like old times. I'd love to go!"

Spike nodded, "Sure! Count me in too!"

Twilight walked outside her home before letting Spike climb onto her back. She then asked, "Is it being held at Sugarcube Corner?"

I nodded as we began to walk. "Yep. Pinkie and Fluttershy went to fetch our other friends too. They'll probably get there before us."

While we walked, Spike spoke up. "How's Mitta been doing? Did you find her a home?"

I nodded, "Rarity took her in. Mitta wasn't too fond of living that far away from me, but I think Rarity's hospitality won her over."

Twilight smiled at me, "Knowing how good she was to you during your stay there, I'm sure Mitta will love it."

It did not take us long to reach Sugarcube Corner. Our walking pace must have slowed us down quite a bit since I saw Pinkie Pie going inside with Rarity right behind her. "Guess they're all here by now."

Once we stepped inside, we found all five of our friends there. With the exception of Mitta, of course. Applejack waved, "Howdy, ya'll. That makes all of us, right?"

I asked, "Hang on. Was Mitta OK when you left, Rarity?"

My beautiful friend smiled, "Oh, she was a little unwilling to be left alone, but I assured that I would return shortly."

Rainbow Dash nodded, "Yeah, she really seems to hate being alone. I mean, she's almost always sticking to you like glue whenever I see her!" I bowed my head, slightly embarrassed from that praise.

Fluttershy then spoke up, "Maybe it's because he was the first real friend she ever had. I think it's that since she's finally tasted friendship, she's terrified of letting it go."

Twilight smiled, "That's a very poetic take on it, Fluttershy. And I think you might be right."

Pinkie Pie then asked, "In that case, you wanna go get her now, James? We'll put on the finishing touches upstairs while you're gone."

I nodded, "Sounds good. I'll hurry back. Just don't start without us, OK?"

Spike smirked, "Don't worry, I'll make sure they don't." I am not sure why he was giving me that look, but he must have had something pretty devious in mind. Regardless, I hurried out the front door and made my way southeast towards the Carousel Boutique while maintaining a brisk pace.

I waved at a few ponies as I walked, but had no time for conversation. I was especially worried about how Mitta was faring on her own now that there was no one with her. Well, no one sentient, to be precise. I know Opal was probably in the Carousel Boutique at the time, but I know she is not always sociable.

Once I had reached the Carousel Boutique, I approached the door slowly. I honestly did not know what to expect upon opening it, so I nudged it open very slowly to avoid setting off the bell that hung above it on the inside. What I found on the inside surprised me. Mitta was in the very middle of the room, lying on her back with her legs curled up. Almost like a dog playing dead. "Uh... Mitta?" I asked as I drew near.

At the sound of my voice, Mitta sprang to life and clambered to her feet. She then galloped towards me and practically tackled me before wrapping her forelegs around me. It was then I noticed that she had removed the cape she had received from the Cutie Mark Crusaders. It was draped over a stool nearby. "Uh... Mitta?!"

She spoke softly, "I missed you... And...I was lonely."

I smiled warmly, my hand stroking her crimson mane. "Sorry that Rarity was called away. It was for something important."

Mitta smiled while looking up at me, "But you're here now. May I just stay with you until Rarity comes back?"

I was tickled that Mitta was so reliant on companionship, not that I could blame her after spending so much time trapped with the zombified ponies of Sunny Town for a millennium. But I still had to get her to the party at Sugarcube Corner. What would have been a subtle way of getting her to follow me without hinting that something might be in store for her?

"Say, Mitta? You wanna head over to Sugarcube Corner for some goodies? I think they're still open." I spoke while looking down at her.

Mitta's crimson eyes lit up at those words. "Yes, please! Do they have more of those...um...chocolate drops?"

I nodded, "Sure do. Shall we go?"

Mitta jumped out of my grasp and ran to the door. "Yes! Come on!" I smirked at her, utterly enjoying her enthusiasm. I approached the door and opened it to let her out. Once we were both outside, I closed the door behind me and headed northeast with Mitta by my side.

The sun was just starting to get low in the sky since it was the late afternoon by then. Plenty of ponies were still going about their business. Of course, since we had a party to attend, we did not stop to speak to anyone. That, and I doubt Mitta was settled in enough to have the courage to speak to anyone at this point.

As expected, Mitta made a dash to Sugarcube Corner once it came into view. "Oh lord, not again..." I muttered as I broke into a run to catch up to her. Much to my surprise, she went to the flowerbed just to the left of the doorway and seemed to survey them before eating one.

"Hey, Mitta! No eating the...architecture?" I felt like I was scolding a dog. Although I relented when I saw it was indeed real flowers she was eating and not part of the building's decorations.

Mitta looked back at me with a bemused expression, a pink flower still in her mouth. "These don't taste very sweet... Still tasty though." She gulped it down, though still looked rather disappointed that it was not as sweet as she had hoped.

"Well, unless they're honeysuckles, I don't imagine that they would be very sweet. But since we're here, why don't we get to some real sweet stuff?" I replied, hoping to get Mitta inside so we could get started on her party.

She gave me a soft smile, "Yes, please." We then both entered Sugarcube Corner, though I made certain to block her view of the 'Closed for private party' sign on the door so she would not suspect anything.

Once we were inside, Mitta immediately glanced around. Mr. and Mrs. Cake were nowhere to be seen. Mitta frowned as she looked around, "Who do I ask for some of the pastries here?"

I replied, "I'll go see if Pinkie Pie's around. She'll help you." I went behind the counter and walked upstairs. But before I went out of sight, I looked back at Mitta and smiled, "I'll be right back. OK?"

She nodded with a faint smile, "OK. I'll wait."

I walked up the stairs at a modest speed to avoid raising suspicion. Once I was at the top, I found my seven friends waiting for me. "Hey girls. Everything ready?" I spoke softly to avoid letting Mitta know downstairs that something was going on.

Rainbow Dash nodded with a grin and replied quietly, "Yeah. Everything's good to go."

Twilight then whispered, "All that's left is the guest of honor."

I looked around the room. It seemed that nothing had been altered from before, but there was now an extra table displaying various other sweet treats that Mitta would surely like. I then went to the top of the stairwell and called down it, "Mitta, could you come up here for a minute?"

I heard her reply, "Up there? Um...OK!" I jumped back and stood next to my friends. "OK, she's coming. Ready?"

Spike gave me a salute, "Ready!"

The clopping of Mitta's hooves steadily became louder as she trotted up the wooden stairs. As soon as she became visible to us, all eight of us called out together. "SURPRISE!!!"

Mitta jumped back and nearly fell down the stairs. We clearly got her good. She glanced around frantically before slowly regaining her composure. "Huh? A...surprise?"

Pinkie Pie trotted over to our friend and grinned, "Yeah! Surprise! We threw this party just for you! Did we surprise you?"

Mitta glanced around at her surroundings before replying, "Very..."

Fluttershy smiled, "I know this is on such short notice, but this is how Pinkie Pie welcomes everypony who comes to Ponyville. I hope it's OK with you."

We all watched in silence as Mitta looked around the room. She peered into the apple tub. She sniffed the cake. She even picked up a party blower that was on the floor and gave it a blow. The rolled up paper on the end furled out while making a comical toot like a kazoo.

Once Mitta had set down the party blower, she turned to face us with a somber expression. "And this... It's all for me?"

I nodded, "All for you, Mitta."

Mitta glanced around at her surroundings again. Very slowly, a modest smile crept over her face as big wet tears trickled down her cheeks. Rainbow Dash held out her hoof, "Hey, easy there. Nopony cries at a party. Especially when it was thrown just for them."

Our friend smiled at us, her face still soaked with tears. "I can't help it... I've... You don't know what this means for me... I wish I could put it into words..."

Pinkie Pie hopped forward and gave Mitta a very tight hug. "That's OK! Just as long as you get settled in as our newest friend, everything will be just fine!"

Mitta seemed to relax greatly in Pinkie's grasp. She then threw her forelegs around the pink party pony and sighed, "Thank you, Pinkie Pie..."

Applejack then spoke up, "Hold on, there. When Rainbow Dash came ta get me over at Sweet Apple Acres, we made sure ta bring 'long a few more friends of yers. And they should be here any..." Right at those words, we heard hooves clopping as someone came up the stairs.

"More friends?" Mitta asked with a perplexed expression, releasing her grip on Pinkie Pie and looking towards the stairs.

A moment later, a little yellow earth pony filly with a large pink bow on her head stuck her head past the stair post at the top. "Hello!"

Then an orange pegasus filly stuck her head out from behind the post just above the earth pony filly and spoke in a slightly higher pitch, "Hello!"

Then a white unicorn filly did the same above the pegasus filly and spoke in the highest tone of voice out of the three, "Hello!"

I grinned, noticing a familiar pattern in their greetings. But just before anyone could say anything else, a fourth filly stuck her head out from above the unicorn and spoke in a normal tone, "Hello."

Her appearance clearly caught them by surprise. All three let out a shout of surprise before the earth pony filly on the bottom fell forward, causing the entire filly tower to topple. And in case you have not figured it out by now, the three of them were the Cutie Mark Crusaders. However, the fourth filly did not seem to be part of the group. She had a gray coat and a magnifying glass cutie mark. Her eyes were closed as she giggled, apparently having enjoyed catching my three little friends by surprise.

Rainbow Dash spoke up, "Who're you?! Sorry, squirt. This is a private party. Only friends of Mitta's are allowed to be here."

However, Mitta stepped forward with a surprisingly happy expression on her face. "But she IS my friend!"

I nodded with my arms crossed, "Yup. You two go back quite a ways. Right, Ruby?"

The little gray earth pony opened her glowing yellow eyes and smiled. "We sure do. And sorry for popping up uninvited. I just wanted to see how Mitta was doing."

However, all seven of my other friends, as well as Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo, were staring in bewilderment at Ruby. "James... That filly's eyes are glowing..." Rarity spoke with a clearly unnerved tone in her voice.

Twilight then asked, "Wait... Her name is Ruby? You don't mean.....THAT Ruby, do you?!"

Mitta could clearly detect their apprehension. She nodded with an awkward smile, "Uh huh..."

Fluttershy then shrieked, "That means... SHE'S A GHOST!!!"

However, Pinkie Pie then giggled. "A real ghost? Well, you know what this calls for, right?"

Sweetie Belle asked, "We...uh...go suck her up with a vacuum cleaner?"

Pinkie Pie grinned, "Nopey dopey! Let me show you!" She then began to trot towards Ruby, who was looking up at her with a puzzled expression.

"Wait... She's not going to..." Twilight spoke with a frown.

Pinkie Pie then began to.....sing? "When I was a little filly and the sun was going down..." She lengthened the 'ow' sound to make the word last much longer than just saying it.

Rainbow Dash suddenly flew over to Pinkie and stuffed her hoof in her mouth. "Pinkie, I really don't think giggling at this ghostie is gonna make it go away."

I asked, "Giggling at a ghostie?"

Pinkie Pie looked at me and giggled, "It's something my Granny Pie taught me! Giggling at the Ghosties!"

Ruby then asked while looking up at us, "Do you really want me to go away?"

Mitta stepped forward, "Please, no. Let her stay."

Applejack then spoke up, "Ya know, Mitta... I don't think ya'll ever told us Ruby was still hangin' around as a ghost."

Fluttershy retorted, "Wait! James, you mentioned somepony named Ruby to me when you came home from the Everfree Forest several months ago. You meant THIS Ruby?"

I nodded, "Yeah, this is her. Cute, isn't she?" Ruby giggled with a smile at my words.

Twilight approached her and smiled too, "Actually, yes. She is very cute."

Apple Bloom then stood next to Ruby and placed her foreleg across her back in the same fashion one would do the same with one's arm across a friend's shoulders. "I've met 'er before. I can tell ya'll right now Ruby's a good pony! Can she stay, Applejack? Pleeeease?"

Applejack chuckled, "Well... I think that's really up ta the guest of honor. What's yer call, Mitta?"

Our friend did not show much hesitation. She walked over to Ruby and smiled sincerely, "Ruby. Would you like to attend this party?"

The little ghost filly beamed, "I'd love to! Um... Only if there are no lost gemstones for me to find." No one really had a retort to that, since we did not understand what she meant by that.

Off to the sides, Pinkie Pie nudged the needle of a phonograph onto the record that was resting in the middle. "No more waiting, girls! Time to party!"

Everything got underway without a hitch. Apple Bloom wasted no time in introducing Ruby to the rest of the Cutie Mark Crusaders while Mitta was being shown around by Pinkie Pie. "Here, we've got cake, punch, and a whole bunch of other goodies I just knew you would love!"

Mitta was glancing back and forth at the long list of treats that Pinkie had set out. I too was eager to grab a plate and help myself. She spoke, "Can't...decide...where to start..."

Pinkie replied, "Then how about you just go for all at once?" She then started to gather up a bit of...well...everything. "One of these, one of those, a couple of these, ooh! A whole bunch of these! And a slice of cake on top!" Do not even ask me how to describe the monstrosity that Pinkie Pie made. It kind of looked like a pastry version of a towering Dagwood sandwich that stood about as tall as my leg.

"Hey, save some for the rest of us!" Rainbow Dash grumbled from nearby while hovering in the air, hooves on her hips. Mitta looked her way and grinned sheepishly.

"Thanks, Pinkie. I think this will be enough." Mitta spoke before balancing her plate on top of her head. She then trotted over to me with the towering stack of treats on her head swaying, but miraculously never falling over.

I asked once she came closer, "Just how are you going to get that off your head without the whole thing falling off?"

Mitta's eyes glanced up before looking back at me. "I have no idea."

"Allow me, dears." I heard Rarity speak from next to us. The entire tower of treats levitated off of Mitta's head before resting on the floor. "All done! So much easier to deal with now, don't you think?"

I looked at Rarity and smiled, "Yeah, much easier. Thanks, Rarity."

As Mitta observed the stack of sweets before her, she turned to me and smiled, "I don't think I can finish this by myself. Would you like to help me with that?"

I nodded with a faint smile, "Thank you, I'd love to. But...uh...let me grab a plate first." The only plate she had with her was the one the 'sandwich' was resting on.

I approached the table that held the cake and grabbed a pair of plates. But before I could walk away, I noticed Ruby talking to the Cutie Mark Crusaders. They seemed to be enjoying her company, smiles constantly adorning their faces. Ruby soon turned sideways, showing the three fillies her cutie mark. They were clearly impressed, each of them drawing closer to get a better look. I smiled to myself, "Kids..."

"They certainly can be entertaining, huh?" A voice spoke up next to me. I looked down and found Twilight Sparkle smiling up at me.

I nodded, "Yup. Never gets dull with them around."

Twilight nodded before looking at the four fillies. Her gaze seemed to be directed at Ruby in particular. However, she soon frowned. "The poor dear's been through so much... I'm amazed that she's this cheerful." She then looked up at me again, "James... Do you think we should tell her that we know what happened?"

I did not think long before I replied, "I don't think it's relevant at this point. She's finally as far away from that place as she's ever gonna get. There's no point in bringing up the past now."

Twilight nodded with a faint smile, "Sounds like a good idea. I'll be sure to pass the word along to the other girls."

I then brought the plates back over to Mitta. "Here we go. Um... Do we have forks?"

Mitta shrugged her shoulders, "I'm not sure... But it looks like Spike has one."

I looked at where she pointed and saw Spike standing off to the sidelines. He was holding a plate of cake in one hand while eating it with a fork that was being held in the other. His eyes seemed to be focused on Applejack, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie. They were dancing in the middle of the entire room. While I still cannot describe equine dancing very well, Pinkie Pie was still the liveliest dancer of the three. She sometimes performed handstands and even seemed to moonwalk a few times. Or is the correct term for her 'moontrot'? Mooncanter? Moongallop? Whatever, I will end up hurting myself if I think too hard about it. Regardless, I went over to Spike and kneeled next to him.

"Hey, Spike? Where'd you get that fork?" I asked.

He looked up at me, clearly not noticing me next to him until I spoke. "Huh? Oh, this? I grabbed it from the kitchen downstairs. Most ponies can't even use these, but unicorns can."

I gently patted him on the head, "Thanks. You enjoying yourself?"

His eyes turned back towards the center of the room. "Me? I can enjoy myself through anything...as long as she's around."

His expression became rather love struck. I tried to figure out exactly which of the three ponies he was looking at and found that his gaze was tracking Rarity.

I glanced down at him before glancing back at Rarity. I honestly cannot say I blame him. Despite Fluttershy being my girlfriend, I cannot deny that Rarity is ungodly beautiful. So much so, I actually found myself rather...mesmerized by her graceful gyrations. And whenever she ended up turning away from us... I am ashamed to admit this, but I could not stop myself from staring at her white hindquarters.

I had to slap myself to knock me back to my senses. "Uh... Yeah. Her. I don't blame you. She's gorgeous."

Spike smiled, "I know, right?"

I honestly cannot see Spike getting involved with Rarity, since she must be at least several years older than him. That, and he is still just a child. Although I can possibly see him and Sweetie Belle becoming an item at some point. She is just as sweet as Rarity, as her name would imply. And for a little filly, she is also quite beautiful. Maybe I should recommend her to Spike someday. Anyway, I digress.

I stood up and made my way back over to Mitta. "They don't have forks up here, so I'll go grab one from the kitchen. I'll be right back, OK?"

She nodded at me, "OK. And I'll try to keep my eyes off of these." I am sure she was trying to restrain herself from devouring the stack of treats Pinkie Pie had given her.

"Yeah, you do that. See you in a minute." I replied before heading back downstairs.

I went straight into the kitchen and started searching through the drawers, trying to find a utensil to eat with. Most were filled with an assorted mishmash of cooking tools, from mixers to rolling pins to stuff I do not even know the names of. And this is coming from someone who has actually worked in a restaurant. But I did eventually find a drawer filled with neatly sorted silverware. "Finally."

Before I could grab a fork though, I noticed the spoons. Thinking back to what was available upstairs, I knew there were things I could eat with just my hands without making a mess and cake in itself is usually soft. I decided then to go with a spoon instead of a fork.

I ran back upstairs to find the party moving along just fine. Although I noticed that Ruby had now joined in the dancing. However, I soon noticed that she was moving dangerously close to Pinkie Pie. "Oh crap..."

My gut feeling was right. Pinkie Pie suddenly moved her rump towards Ruby with surprising speed. She ended up decking Ruby right in the face. And thanks to that earth pony strength, she sent the filly sailing towards a wall. "Weeeeeeheeee!!!" Ruby squealed, clearly having felt no pain and even seemed to enjoy being launched through the air.

Before anyone could say anything, Ruby reached the wall and...went...right through it. As in...phased through it like...like...the ghost she is. This event was so unexpected and so random that I just could not stop myself from cracking up into laughter.

"What in the hay just happened there?!" Applejack shouted, clearly just as bewildered as everyone else in the room. But a moment later, there was a knock on the window.

Rainbow Dash trotted over to the window and pushed it open. "Huh? Oh, hey! What's up, Der..." Rainbow Dash spoke before she snickered. From what I could see, Derpy was hovering just outside the window with Ruby on her head.

"Hiya, Rainbow Dash! Did you throw your hat out the window?" Derpy asked with her silly walleyed expression.

Ruby giggled, "This funny-looking pegasus caught me before I could even hit the ground. She thinks I'm a talking hat."

Rainbow rolled her eyes, "Yeah... My hat... Can I have her back, please?"

Derpy reached out with her head, allowing Ruby to hop back inside the room. "Sure! Just let me know if you lose your hat again. See ya around!" She then flew off, leaving us with Ruby.

Before anything else could happen, Pinkie Pie hurried over to Ruby. "I'm so sorry! I just don't know my own strength! And I got so caught up in the music that I just didn't notice you! Are you OK?"

Ruby beamed happily, "Don't be sorry! That was fun! Can we go again?"

Rainbow Dash then stepped forward, "Hang on a minute. Just how did you even do that back there?! Ponies don't go through walls like that! At least not without leaving a pony-shaped hole behind them!"

Ruby seemed puzzled. "Huh? You mean...this?" She then reached out and... Oh lord. She pushed her foreleg right into Rainbow Dash's side. By which I mean pushing it THROUGH her side.

"Gah! That's creepy! And it tickles! Get your hoof outta my ribs!" The rowdy pegasus mare yelped, backing away with one foreleg raised while an unnerved expression adorned her face.

Ruby giggled, "I've been able to do that for a looooooong time. I honestly don't remember how long by this point."

Scootaloo laughed, "That's totally awesome! Can you tickle my ribs too?"

Ruby grinned, "OK! Just hold still." One by one, each of the Cutie Mark Crusaders burst into laughter as the ghost filly quite literally took turns tickling their ribs. It was both entertaining to watch...yet also a little creepy.

I took a seat by Mitta and moved a slice of cake to my plate. "She ever do that back in Sunny Town?"

Mitta shook her head as she moved a chocolate drop and cupcake to her plate, "Sometimes, whenever she got caught by the other ponies in town, she would run right through a tree so they would crash into it while chasing her." She giggled slightly afterward, "It was one of the few things back then that could make me smile."

I smiled before I took a bite of my cake, "At least she's... Mmm, that's good. Anyway, at least she's out of there now. Who knows what antics she'll get into before long."

Mitta nodded, taking a bite of a chocolate drop resting on her upturned hoof. "I'm not sure. She's not a mischievous filly. But she is curious. I think that quality is what led her to Apple Bloom in the first place."

I looked over at the fillies again and snickered. Ruby had her head sticking out of Scootaloo's shoulder. She smiled, "Look, Scootaloo! Now I'm your Siamese twin!"

Scootaloo looked a little blue in the face before running towards me, "Oh man... No! James, help! I can't get her... Huh?" As soon as Scootaloo ran from her spot, Ruby's head left her body. It turned out that Ruby had been standing 'inside' Scootaloo with her head moved to the side.

I grinned, "You don't need my help. You're fine!"

Scootaloo looked at her shoulder and breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank goodness. I was worried that extra head would throw off my balance on my scooter!"

Ruby asked, "What's a scooter?"

Sweetie Belle replied, "You don't know what a scooter is?! Scootaloo's only the best scooter rider in Ponyville!"

Apple Bloom then spoke, "How 'bout she shows ya some of 'er tricks tamorrow? I can promise you'll like it."

Ruby grinned, "Sounds fun! But...what exactly IS a scooter?"

Scootaloo trotted over to Ruby with a proud smile, "Well, let me tell you all about it! I know more about scooter tricks than anypony!"

While those four fillies went about their business, I went back to enjoying my food with Mitta. But before we could converse much more, Rarity approached us. "I do hope you dears are enjoying yourselves today. Is the party to your liking, Mitta?"

My friend nodded with a sincere smile, "It's more than I could've ever hoped for. Thank you."

Rarity then looked back and forth at us. "Would you dears care for anything to drink?"

It was then that I noticed neither of us had picked up any beverages. Mitta smiled, "Yes please. I'd love to try the punch."

Rarity then looked at me, "And you, James?"

I replied, "Not right now. Unless you happen to have some milk available."

Rarity cocked her head to one side slightly, "Milk? Truly?"

I nodded, "Yeah, it goes very well with pastries and chocolate. The creamy fluid really washes it all down."

My elegant friend smiled, "I know exactly what you mean. Wait right here and I will fetch you your beverages." She then trotted away and headed downstairs.

"She's very generous." Mitta spoke softly.

I nodded with a soft smile of my own. "Very. I think generosity is her defining trait..." It was then that I remembered when I had witnessed the Elements of Harmony for the first time several days ago. Rarity is the bearer of the Element of Generosity. "Yeah. All about generosity."

Moments later, Rarity came trotting back up the stairs with a milkshake glass filled to the brim with milk. It was floating next to her as it and her horn were coated in a billowing light blue aura. The glass seemed to be very cold with a layer of frost coating it. Rarity then trotted over to the food table and levitated a ladle that was resting in the punchbowl. She did the same with a wide-brimmed cup before filling it with the punch. The cup seemed to share characteristics with wine glasses since it stood on a leg that was wide at the bottom, but narrow up the middle. It had engravings around the sides that brought to mind ivy, but I am unsure what the cup was made of. Pewter? Tin? Hard to say, really. Regardless, Rarity approached us with both beverage holders floating beside her.

"Here you are, darlings." Rarity spoke as she set Mitta's cup beside her before placing a bendy straw in it while also giving me my drink.

"Thanks, Rari... Whoa, this is cold. Right out of the freezer?" I asked, finding that my glass of milk was indeed frosted over.

She nodded with a grin before sweetly nuzzling the side of my face. "Of course! Milkshake glasses are kept cold to insure the milkshakes stay cold longer. And milk is best served cold, is it not?"

I smiled before throwing my arm around her neck and also nuzzling her back, "It most certainly is, m'lady. Many thanks."

Rarity giggled, "You're too sweet, James. But when you're ready, do feel free to join in the festivities." She then turned and walked away, although I made certain to avert my eyes to avoid being rude.

Mitta smiled at me, "Rarity really seems to like you, James."

I smiled, feeling very lucky that she and I had become so close. "She's my best friend, Mitta. She was also the first person to ever give me anything after I ended up in Equestria."

My friend smiled warmly, "She is very sweet. And very beautiful."

Moments later, Fluttershy approached us. "How are you liking your party, Mitta? We worked very hard to make sure everything was perfect for you."

Mitta nodded with a smile, "It is perfect, Fluttershy. And thank you."

Fluttershy then looked back and forth at us. "Um... Aren't you going to take part in some of the activities? You both look bored."

I am not much of a partier, preferring to do things at my own pace. I replied, "Don't worry, honey. We may not look it, but we are enjoying ourselves. Right, Mitta?"

Our friend nodded, "I am. Sorry if I don't seem that...enthusiastic right now. It's just how I am."

To my surprise, Fluttershy asked, "Well... May I join you? I'm the same way."

That actually did not surprise me too much, considering how long I have known her. I nodded, "Sure, honey. Have a seat." Fluttershy grinned and sat down to my left with Mitta on my right. We just sat there, enjoying Sugarcube Corner's delicious treats, at the side of the room while watching everyone else having fun. It may not sound like a very enjoyable way to have fun at a party, but that is just the way I roll. And apparently it is also how Mitta and Fluttershy roll.

As we chatted, Fluttershy asked, "James, are there zombie ponies where you're from too?"

I snorted, "No, there are no zombie ponies there. But zombies are a popular subject in fiction."

Mitta seemed slightly unnerved by my words. "You mean...there are zombies there too?"

I shook my head after swallowing a bite of a cupcake. "No, not at all. Zombies are completely fictional. At least...on Earth, they are. The last thing I ever expected seeing in Equestria was real zombies, let alone zombified ponies."

Fluttershy breathed a sigh of relief, "That's good... I can't imagine a world where zombies could be all over the place."

I nodded, but then smiled, "Although it is very satisfying to kill them."

Fluttershy winced, "Fun to...kill?"

I paused before waving my hand, "Oh, wait. That came out wrong. I mean... Zombies bring nothing but bad things to the living, right? So it's very satisfying to know that you are both ridding the world of those monsters while also freeing their souls from their undead limbo. Makes sense, right?"

Mitta nodded with a hoof on her chin, "That actually makes a lot of sense..."

Fluttershy also nodded, "That really does sound like a good deed. And I think Rainbow Dash might enjoy it."

"Assuming she could take them down while making sure they don't bite her, that is." I replied.

As we glanced around, I noticed Applejack and Rainbow Dash once again bobbing for apples together. "Anyone up for bobbing for apples?"

Mitta looked at where I was pointing and asked, "How do you bob for apples?"

Fluttershy stood up and smiled at Mitta, "It's very easy. Let us show you." The two of us then stood up and followed my girlfriend over to the tub.

As usual, Applejack was doing a fine job of grabbing the apples. And like before, she would chomp them down with a single bite. "Top that, Rainbow."

Rainbow Dash smirked, "My pleasure." But just as she was opening her mouth to try to grab an apple, Rainbow paused and looked at us. "Oh, hey! What's up, guys?"

Fluttershy smiled, "Mitta wanted to try bobbing for apples. Can she?"

Applejack took a step back, "Go right ahead!"

Mitta looked down into the tub, probably eyeing the apples that were floating around in it. "How do I do this?"

I stepped forward, "I'll demonstrate." But once I had removed my glasses and was about to dunk my head in the tub, a thought occurred to me. "Just a second." I then reached over and grabbed Pinkie Pie, who just happened to be standing nearby.

"Woo! What's up? We bobbing for apples?" Pinkie Pie asked when I yanked her over to the tub.

"Pinkie, is your Pinkie Sense acting up right now?" I knew for a fact that the wooden container that held the apples and water was indeed a tub of sorts, and when Pinkie's shoulder gets achy, it means there is an alligator in a tub nearby. And I was not in the mood to have Gummy bite my face again.

Pinkie Pie looked at herself and shrugged her shoulders, "Nope! Everything's clear!"

I smiled, "OK then. Guess it's safe."

Just as I dunked my face into the tub with my mouth open, Mitta asked, "Safe from what?"

I tried feeling around, waiting for an apple to drift between my jaws. But all of a sudden, I felt something soft and slightly squishy clamp over my face. I instantly pulled my head out of the water. Fluttershy and Mitta let out a gasp, clearly startled by what they were seeing. I could not see anything. It was pitch black in front of me. I tried feeling what was on my face. It felt wet, yet somewhat rough. Like an alligator's hide. "NOT AGAIN!!!" I tried to yell, though it came out heavily muffled. Like before, I could not breathe.

"Darn it! Let go! That's not funny anymore, Gummy!" Rainbow Dash yelled. I then felt my head suddenly jerk back before feeling myself...rise off the ground? I tried to feel for the floor under me, but the tips of my shoes met no resistance.

"Easy there, Rainbow! Don't wanna tear the poor thing in two!" Applejack called out. Seconds later, light returned to my vision as I dropped straight down. I managed to land without falling over and saw Rainbow Dash hovering above me with Gummy dangling from her mouth by his tail.

I panted for a moment, trying to relax after nearly suffocating again. I then glared at Pinkie Pie and raised my voice, "Why didn't your Pinkie Sense act up?! There was CLEARLY an alligator in that tub!"

Pinkie Pie giggled, "Oh, James! When I say my shoulder's achy, it means there's an alligator in a BATHTUB."

I paused for a second before hunching over with my head hanging low while I sighed. I then looked at her, extremely annoyed by this point, and asked, "NOW you tell me?!"

Rainbow Dash dropped Gummy nearby and also glared at Pinkie Pie, "Actually, I don't think you ever told any of us that! A tub's a tub, so why didn't you clear that up?!"

Pinkie's response made me facepalm. "Because you never asked!" She then trotted away, humming a merry tune.

Fluttershy hovered up next to me and gently held her hoof to my cheek, "You had me worried for a moment, dear. Are you OK?"

I nodded, smiling just slightly. "Yea, I'm good. Gummy's bites don't hurt. Gave me a heck of a scare though."

Applejack then looked at Mitta and smiled, "Well, the coast is clear now, Mitta. Wanna take a shot at it?"

Mitta actually looked more hesitant than before. "I'm not sure I want to after that."

I sighed, "OK, let's try this again. I'll show you it's safe." I then kneeled next to the tub again and closed my eyes before I dunked my head into it. In seconds, I felt something drift into my gaping jaws. I bit down to secure the object and pulled myself out. I grabbed whatever was between my teeth and found it to be a yellow apple. "See? It's safe." I then took a bite, enjoying my prize.

Mitta smiled slightly, "OK... I'll give it a try too." She approached the tub before taking a deep breath. She then dunked her head into the tub. A few seconds later, she emerged with a red apple in her teeth.

"Nice one, Mitta!" Rainbow spoke with a smile.

Mitta looked at us without removing the apple from her mouth, apparently cracking a smile of sorts before chomping the apple down. "Mmm... Are these Sweet Apple Acres apples?"

Applejack nodded, "Sure are! Most of Ponyville's apple supplies comes from my farm durin' the warmer seasons."

Fluttershy then tried her hoof at the tub. I watched as she submerged her face in the water, curious of what she would get. But when she pulled her head back up, I took a step back as I saw Spike hanging from her mouth by his tail. "What the... Spike?!"

He shrugged with a nervous grin, "Uh... Heya, James. Scootaloo told me she thought there was a gemstone in the tub, so I tried to find it."

Fluttershy gently set him down and spoke, "I never saw anything that looked like a gemstone down there. I think she may have been joking with you."

Spike sighed, "Yeah, mayb...gwah?!"

Before he could finish speaking, Ruby stuck her head out of his belly. "Hello! Did I miss anything?"

I snickered, "Oh man... Chest burster!"

Spike looked down at the filly head protruding from his body and let out a yell. "Help! There's something inside me and it's gonna rip me apart!" He started running around in a panic, Ruby trotting along to make sure her head stayed in the same spot in front of his belly at all times. Everyone present was laughing. Except for Spike, that is. Ghosts certainly can be impish.

The party continued on and on. Truth be told, I ended up losing track of time. Before we even knew it, the sun had set. I looked at the window, seeing that the sky had turned dark. "Wow. How long have we been here?" Rainbow Dash asked, clearly noticing how late it had gotten.

Applejack glanced at an alarm clock that was resting next to Pinkie Pie's bed. Yes, the main room on the second floor of Sugarcube Corner is mostly Pinkie's bedroom. "Looks like it's 8 pm, girls. We've been here awhile."

Mitta let out a yawn, "I was wondering why I was feeling so tired..."

Ruby smiled, "You're not used to being like this at night, aren't you?"

Mitta smiled a bit groggily, "No. It's refreshing."

Rarity let out a yawn herself, "Well, I certainly did enjoy myself. Though I do believe we should all be returning home soon?"

Twilight nodded, "That may be a good idea. What do you think, Spike? ......Spike?" As it turned out, Spike had already fallen on Pinkie Pie's bed. Twilight then rolled her eyes with a smile, "I guess that's a yes."

Pinkie Pie giggled, "I better watch out when I climb in bed tonight. I don't wanna prick myself on any Spikes in there!" Most of my friends laughed, though I merely smiled.

Apple Bloom let out a yawn too. "I'm a might beat myself... And I got school tamorrow..."

Sweetie Belle nodded a bit groggily, "Me too. We should probably get going..."

However, Scootaloo seemed just fine. "What're you talking about? I'm not tired at all! Come on, let's party some more!"

I smirked and looked at Applejack, "AJ, would you mind escorting the kids home? I still need to see Mitta home."

Applejack nodded, "Sure thing. Come 'long now, youngin's. I'll getcha home."

Apple Bloom nodded and followed Applejack towards the stairs, "Sure thing, sis... Ooh, wait!" She then stopped and looked at Ruby. "Ruby, we'll see each other again, won't we?"

The little ghost filly nodded with a smile, "Of course! I'll be around. And I'll be sure to say hi if I see you."

Sweetie Belle nodded and waved goodbye, "You're welcome over at our clubhouse anytime! See you tomorrow! Come on, Scootaloo."

As Applejack and the rest of the Cutie Mark Crusaders trotted down the stairs, Scootaloo once again groaned. "But I just told you I'm NOT tired!"

Fluttershy smiled as she approached me, "You think she'll still be awake by the time we get home?"

I shook my head, "Doubt it."

Rainbow Dash then yawned, "Man, I'm beat. Parties sure take a lot outta ya, don't they?"

I nodded, "They really do. No idea why either."

Mitta then approached me, "But it was still a great party. Best party I've ever attended."

Pinkie Pie nuzzled Mitta with a smile, "Awww, you have no idea how happy I am to hear that! I wanted your first party in Ponyville to be perfect!"

Rarity smiled and spoke, "And you most certainly succeeded. Just like the last one."

Twilight then smiled, "You can leave the cleaning up to me and Pinkie. Together, we should have everything cleaned up in no time. We'll see you tomorrow, OK?"

Mitta nodded and smiled, "Yes. Good night, Twilight and Pinkie. And thank you again." We all said our goodbyes and went downstairs and out the front door. Rainbow Dash gave me a hug before flying off that I will admit I did not expect. Was she feeling all right? Regardless, we all followed Rarity back towards Carousel Boutique to see Mitta settled in at home.

"Fabulous party, was it not?" Rarity asked as we walked along.

Mitta nodded with a smile, "Very. Best party I've ever attended. And I've attended lots of parties."

Fluttershy asked, "You have? But...wasn't it awful in Sunny Town?"

I replied, "Would you have enjoyed attending a party where everyone else was a murderer?"

Fluttershy winced, "Oh... I see now."

The sky was filled with stars and a beautiful crescent moon as we walked along. Few ponies were outside, giving me a feeling of great freedom. It almost felt like we had the place to ourselves. A cool spring breeze blew through the quiet air. I cherish times like those and always have.

We did not take very long to reach Rarity's home. "Well, here we are, Mitta. Your new home." Rarity spoke while opening the door for Mitta.

Mitta nodded at Rarity with a smile before turning to face me. She then asked, "We'll see each other tomorrow, right?"

I nodded, "You'll see me everyday, if you want. I'm not that hard to find."

Mitta then stood up on her hind legs and embraced me tightly with her forelegs. I heard her whisper, "Thank you for everything..."

I whispered back while gently stroking her crimson mane, "You're very welcome, Mitta."

In a moment, Mitta released her grip on me and dropped back down to the ground. "I'm really sure I'll love staying here in Ponyville. Thank you for taking me in, everypony."

Fluttershy smiled at her, "I know you'll love it here, Mitta. And we can see each other everyday."

Rarity then spoke up, "As much as I would love to keep chatting with all of you, I do believe we must prepare for bed. And don't you have one particularly rambunctious filly to see to back home?"

I winced, "Oh, right. Scootaloo. You're right, we should get back home to make sure she's not getting into trouble."

Fluttershy nodded at her two friends, "Let's talk again tomorrow. Goodnight, Rarity. Goodnight, Mitta."

"Goodnight...and thank you again." Mitta spoke with a somber smile. We then turned and headed on back home. I did pause to look over my shoulder on the way and found Mitta looking at me over hers. We both smiled and shared one last wave before turning away and going back to our business.

The walk home was fairly uneventful, though I cherished the cool night wind blowing through my hair. The lampposts shone a gentle glow over the areas they were positioned in. Few ponies could be seen, giving me a great sense of freedom.

"It's a lovely evening, isn't it?" Fluttershy asked while looking up at me.

I nodded with a faint smile, my gaze turning towards the distant Canterlot to the northeast. Surely then, Luna and Nightmare Moon were at work settling Equestria in for the night. "It is. Probably because we now have two princesses of the night doing the job twice as well."

Fluttershy giggled faintly, "I'm sure they are. I hope Nightmare Moon is doing well now that she's finally home."

I felt even more at ease once we were trekking across the meadow that separated our cottage from Ponyville. The air was especially calm and quiet now that we were in a more natural environment. I think I may have even seen a few bats fly by. "It's good to be home."

Our cottage slowly came into view in the moonlight, a single light shining from the closest window. "It looks like Scootaloo made it home." Fluttershy spoke as we drew near. Upon crossing the bridge that spanned the brook in front of it, I opened the door and peeked inside.

"Scoot? Are you... Oh." I noticed right away that the light source was a simple lantern near the doorway. And sound asleep on the sofa across the room was Scootaloo.

"But I thought she said she wasn't tired?" Fluttershy asked when we stepped into the room.

I smirked, "The rambunctious ones always tire out the fastest." I then gently cradled Scootaloo in my arms and placed a kiss on her forehead. "Sweet dreams, sis."

A moment later, I had tucked her into bed with her head adorably poking up out of the covers. Fluttershy smiled, "For such a tomboy, she's so cute when she's asleep." I nodded, agreeing with her in silence. She then looked up at me and asked, "It's a bit early to get ready for bed. Would you like to take a walk around the house, honey?"

I looked down at her and smiled, "That sounds lovely. Lead the way, Fluttershy."

The two of us went outside and began to slowly circle the cottage. We did not say much at first, mostly because I was busy taking in the sights and sounds of the night. But after a brief moment, Fluttershy asked, "James? Do you miss your old home?"

This question seemed to come right out of nowhere. I asked, "Huh? My old home? Why do you ask?"

Fluttershy averted her gaze, as if embarrassed for asking. "Um... I'm sorry. I've just been wondering at times and..."

I smiled, "Don't be ashamed. I don't mind telling you." When Fluttershy looked back up at me, I explained, "Well... I guess there are times when I do long for some of the things back on Earth. I do miss my family and old friends at times. But it's OK because I know they're just fine. And no matter what, I would never trade my life in Equestria for any other world."

Fluttershy smiled, "It does sound like you had a lot of good things back home... Oh, do you think your family would accept us being together? Since...you know...we're not the same species?"

I stopped in my tracks and crossed my arms. "Hmmm... It might take some explaining, but my folks might understand once they met you."

My girlfriend then asked, "What about your brother? Would he?"

This actually got a chuckle out of me. "Oh, I can guarantee he would not accept us being together."

Fluttershy seemed rather surprised by my response. "He wouldn't? Why?!"

I replied, "Do you know what a video game is?"

Fluttershy nodded, "Uh huh. I've seen them around. Those blocky things with screens on them with buttons and joysticks?"

I was honestly surprised that Equestria does have video games, even if they are only in arcade-style cabinets. Perhaps I will try them out sometime. Though I doubt they have classics like Donkey Kong, Dig Dug, and Super Mario Bros. like back on Earth. In any case, I explained, "There was this one game he was playing that had a massive world with many races. One race that caught my eye was a feline race. But not animals. They were built like humans. You know, two arms, two legs, and walking around like this?"

Fluttershy nodded, "I think I can picture them. They sound very elegant."

I nodded, "Yes, they are. Very exotic. In any case, you could actually get married in the game... Wait, it's not what you think. You don't get married, but the character you control gets married. I asked my brother if the marriage concept went as far as to allow interspecies relationships."

My girlfriend then asked, "And his response?"

I sighed and shook my head, "He told me I was going to become a crazy cat person someday. Someone who marries his pet cat."

Fluttershy was clearly unnerved by my brother's words. "He...what?! Who would marry an ordinary cat?! That's just...creepy! They're just animals, not people!"

I nodded, "Exactly. My brother is younger than me, but is incredibly close-minded and old-fashioned in his way of thinking. And this is coming from someone who got into an inter-species relationship in another sci-fi game. He would've been better off born fifty years ago if that's how he thinks."

Fluttershy nodded, "I'm honestly worried about what he would do if he ever came to Equestria. Would he view us as animals just because we aren't human?"

I sighed, "More than likely. He can't seem to tell the difference between animals and sentient beings. I honestly pity him for that."

Fluttershy then asked, "But...how did you learn how to tell the difference between animals and people?"

I smiled, "Not too sure, really. If I had to guess though, I would say through video games, comic books, and other mediums of fiction. It's really not too hard to tell the difference between animals and creatures with sentient thought. I guess seeing enough of them in fiction taught me to keep an open mind."

Fluttershy seemed to blush at my words, "No wonder you were so open to us ponies when you first came here. You could tell we were not animals."

I kneeled down and caressed my girlfriend's face, "Yeah. I could tell when I first entered Ponyville that you ponies were way too intelligent to be mere beasts. The way your faces showed expression, the movements of your lips to show speech, the movements of your hooves to show emphasis to your actions, and these big...beautiful...expressive eyes."

As I spoke that, Fluttershy gazed at me with her large shimmering eyes. They looked so beautiful in the moonlight. "James... You're a marvel. I'm amazed by how wise you are by that."

I think I may have blushed at those words. "Oh... I'm not that wise. I just do my best to keep an open mind and not let anyone tell me otherwise."

My girlfriend suddenly embraced me. "I'm grateful for that..." I too wrapped my arms around her for a tender embrace. But I then heard her ask, "Do you want to show me just how open-minded you are?"

I noticed Fluttershy's tail was partially raised. It was then I remembered how needy she had been much earlier that day. It must have been very tiring for her to keep her urges restrained for so long. "Was that an innuendo?"

Fluttershy blushed while looking a bit flustered, "Oh...uh... Maybe? I mean...if you want to..."

It was so endearing how Fluttershy tried to be ever so slightly seductive towards me, but always ended up going back to her meek timid self at the drop of a hat. I smiled and whispered into her ear, "I'd love to, honey."

I suspect my whispering may have turned Fluttershy on a bit. Her hindquarters shuddered, possibly in anticipation. "I... I want to experiment this time... To see just what we can do..."

I smiled, "Shall we get started then?" Fluttershy let go of me and nodded with a look of excitement before trotting back around our home to the front door. I too was excited to spend some.....personal time with my girlfriend. I followed without a word and hurried inside with her.

After making certain that the door to Scootaloo's room was shut tight, Fluttershy and I hurried upstairs to our own bedroom. In all, I was rather nervous. But I could tell Fluttershy was too. My girlfriend took a seat on the bed. She was blushing constantly and moving in a slightly jittery fashion. "So... Um...how should we do this...honey?"

I actually felt a little sorry for her. I could tell Fluttershy truly wanted me, but was also too reserved and timid to really seize what she desired. I spoke softly, "Let's just take it slow..."

Hoping to help Fluttershy relax, I slowly pulled my shirt off. "Is this helping?" I asked, dropping my shirt to the ground. Eight months of healthy Equestrian cuisine had really helped trim down my waistline and occasionally helping out at Sweet Apple Acres had added a healthy dose of muscle to my body.

Fluttershy nodded with an even deeper blush, her wings spreading open. "Uh huh..." She seemed to have relaxed just slightly by then.

I calmly took a seat beside her and slowly draped my arm over her shoulders. "Are you feeling relaxed, Fluttershy?"

She bowed her head just slightly, showing that she was enjoying my touch. "Y...yes..." She then gently leaned against me, letting out a sigh.

I slowly moved behind her, my hands caressing her sides and wings. She felt so delicate in my grasp, as if made of eggshells. But it only made me love her more. Her coat was soft and thin, tickling my fingers as I dragged them along. She shuddered in my grasp, a labored gasp escaping her lips. "James..."

I replied with a whispered, "Yes, honey?"

She smiled with a blush, her eyes closed. "Could you...reach my underside too?"

I smiled warmly, feeling myself becoming more relaxed and more amorous. I wanted to please her however I could, which she clearly also wanted. My hands reached under her, gently caressing her chest. At this point, she melted in my grasp. Fluttershy leaned backwards against me, allowing me to do whatever I wish. I began to kiss her on the ears, causing them to flick every now and then.

My hands slid up and down against her underside, moving lower with every movement. I reached her just between the legs, my hands caressing her two teats. They felt soft at the touch, her coat only making them even plusher. I could feel her shudder in my grasp, her hind legs twitching harshly. Despite this, a delighted smile crept across her face. When I felt my fingers caress her nipples, I found them to be surprisingly hard by then. She was completely overwhelmed with pleasure. I too was becoming increasingly aroused, my body preparing for our imminent lovemaking.

I continued to gently grope my lover's teats for a moment, my hands slowly squeezing and rubbing them. At last, Fluttershy looked up at me with a remarkably amorous gaze and whispered, "That's enough, James. I'm all ready for you now."

I smiled warmly at her, "What would you like me to do?"

Fluttershy responded by gently wiggling out of my grasp before lying on her back. Her forelegs were curled up in a very cute way while her hind legs were spread, giving me a perfect view of her teats. "Do whatever you want with me. I trust you."

As I looked at her teats, I felt a certain urge. I lowered myself further to the bed before bringing my face to her teats. They were remarkably large for an equine. I recalled Fluttershy once telling me that Rainbow Dash had been jealous of their size. I still do not know how she got a good look at them, nor do I want to know why she looked, but I can understand her jealousy. If they were breasts on a human woman, they would be nearly B cup in size. It felt very awkward since they were very close to her vulva, but I did my best to focus on what was right in front of me. "James? What are you... Ooh!" Fluttershy gasped as I began to gently lick her hardened nipples.

Her areola was dark and quite large, almost as large as those on a pregnant woman. I began to gently suck on one, Fluttershy moaning softly at the sensation. But after a moment, I started to get more into it. I began to tease her further with my tongue before clamping my lips over it and sucking harder. Fluttershy gasped loudly at this sudden change, but clearly enjoyed every second of it. Her moans continued to turn me on more, the erection in my pants starting to become almost painful.

After a moment of suckling from her other teat, Fluttershy gasped, "James... I... I want to try something now..."

I pulled my head away from her teats and asked, "OK. What is... Hm?!" Fluttershy moved surprisingly swiftly, standing up and gently pushing me down to the bed. "Honey?"

Fluttershy looked at me with a tender smile and blushed, "OK... Here I go."

Her teeth gripped the waistline of my pants before she started to step backwards to pull it down. Once my pants were below my hips, she did the same with my boxers. The instant my boxers had been lowered enough, my erection sprang up for her to see.

"Honey... You don't have to do this if you don't want to." I spoke, not wanting her to feel pressured into pleasing me.

She did indeed seem a bit embarrassed by the sight of my erection, but she soon smiled with a very deep blush. "But I do want to."

She lowered her head towards my crotch and began to slowly lick my length. I shuddered, having not felt such a thing in a while. Fluttershy has always been...well...shy about trying unorthodox lovemaking methods, but she has started to become a bit more open in her explorations. I said nothing as she licked me, but I could not help letting out a gasp when she took the whole thing into her mouth.

"Honey... Whoa..." I moaned, not expecting her to be this bold. She moved her head up and down my length. I could feel her tongue rubbing me, even wrapping around my length partially. As she continued to...well...suck me, her beautiful strong cyan eyes opened partially and gazed up at me. I could tell that, even though her mouth was preoccupied, she was smiling at me. I returned the favor with a smile of my own. "I love you, honey."

A few minutes passed, silence occasionally broken by quiet moans from each of us. Suddenly, Fluttershy sped up her head's movements. This intensified my pleasure and even caught me by surprise. I was expecting Fluttershy to stop so we could mate normally. However, she continued to suck me as hard as she could. "Honey...?" I asked, wondering if she was even aware of what she was doing anymore.

Fluttershy was moaning loudly as she sucked me, (my apologies if that sounds vulgar, but I cannot think of a better term to describe it) her movements becoming steadily faster. She almost looked as if she was in a trance. I groaned, an orgasm starting to build inside me. "Honey... I'm almost there..."

My words only seemed to make her speed up, as if an orgasm was what she wanted from me. Sure enough, when my length began to twitch and throb on the verge of orgasm, she ceased her movements and took my entire length into her mouth and waited. I groaned loudly, moaning her name and speaking my love for her as my thick sperm burst from my length. Fluttershy moaned as she seemed to drink it all down, her blush becoming deeper than I had ever seen before.

"Fluh... Fluttershy? Honey?" I asked with a bit of a wheeze in my voice. She slowly raised her head from my exhausted member and gazed at me with an almost intoxicated expression. Her mouth, which was hanging open just slightly, curved upward into a faint smile.

I waited for a response, not sure if I should have let her go through with what she did. Fortunately, I did not wait long. She collapsed forward in my arms, nuzzling my chest lovingly. "I love how you taste, James..."

I smiled with relief before I kissed her on the forehead. "I'm glad you did. Now it's my turn."

My hands reached further down until I felt her vulva between her legs, which was absolutely soaked from her arousal. "J...James!" Fluttershy squeaked in surprise, but she quickly dissolved into pleasure and relaxed against me.

"Shh... It's only fair after what you gave me, honey." I spoke softly, trying to pleasure my lover to an orgasm too. My other hand rubbed her cutie mark on her left flank, knowing that it functions as a pleasure point.

Fluttershy did not say anything at my touch, but she soon looked up at me with a loving gaze. I knew what she wanted. I closed my eyes and leaned towards her, sealing lips with my beautiful girlfriend. Our kiss was brief, but we then kissed again and again, enthralled with each other.

When she began to moan in the kiss, I parted my lips and reached out to her with my tongue while she did the same. I became lost in that kiss, losing all track of time and of what my hands were doing. However, Fluttershy suddenly moaned loudly in the kiss, her body shuddering harshly against me. I could feel my hand becoming soaked with...something.

Very slowly, we broke the kiss and stared into each other's eyes. Fluttershy now looked absolutely tipsy from pleasure. She was slowly swaying before me. "That was..." She whispered, but soon smiled with tears streaming down her face. "Amazing..." She then leaned forward and embraced me tightly.

I returned the favor and embraced her with one arm, but was careful to not touch her with my other hand. It seemed to be coated with a clear fluid with a rather...alluring smell to it. "I love you so much, Fluttershy..."

My girlfriend whispered, "I love you too, James... So much... Please, don't ever leave me... I swear I'll never leave you like your last love did..."

I felt so happy to hear those words. Even if she did not need to say them since I already knew that, I was still touched. "I'll never leave you either, honey..."

I am now writing this from bed with Fluttershy sleeping soundly beside me. We took a shower together once we were done and then went straight to bed. It is actually hard to wrap my head around all that has happened over these last few days. Nightmare Moon is finally home in Canterlot and now my new dear friend Mitta is living with us in Ponyville. It is very uplifting to know how well things have turned out.

Fluttershy looks so beautiful when asleep... I cannot help kissing her.

So tired... I will end this entry here. I know not what lies in store for me or my two newest friends, but I know I have nothing to worry about. Good times lie ahead, I am sure of that much. Sweet dreams, Fluttershy. And sweet dreams, Mitta. I know you will love your new life here.