Beyond Friendship is Magic Pt1

The first thing I heard was a high-pitched scream that reverberated throughout the entire Carousel Boutique. I was so startled, I fell right off the sofa and fell face-first onto the floor. I was still half asleep at the time, but the force of the impact only dazed me further. "Right… Eggs, flour, poison ivy leaves… Did I miss anything…?"

I heard the sound of hooves clopping as Rarity ran down the stairs and into my room. She ran over to me and spoke loudly in amazement, stammering all the while, "James! Where did… How did... It's beautiful! How did it get on my...?!" Her voice's pitch grew in excitement as she spoke.

My drowsy stupor prevented me from correctly interpreting Rarity's words as I sat up. "An order of chocolate drops with hot sauce and extra horseradish to go… Did you want fries with that?"

Rarity stared at me with a rather horrified expression. "Hot sauce and….what?!" She ran out of the room and into the kitchen across from it. A moment later, she came back in with a glass of water floating in front of her. She then dumped the water onto me to wake me up.

"Guh?! What…who…what was that for?!" I gagged and shook my head frantically as I was snapped out of my stupor.

"Finally! Now that I have your attention, maybe you can help me. Where did this come from?! I wasn't wearing it when I fell asleep last night!" Rarity asked as she extended her right foreleg. I looked down and found the bracelet I had placed on her before going to bed.

The pearls, opals, and jade blended well with the fused gold and silver wires that made up the bracelet. I looked up at Rarity and smiled, "You're welcome."

Rarity paused for a minute, seemingly trying to understand what I meant. Her panicked expression became one of shock as her mouth hung open. "You… You mean…YOU got this for me?"

I nodded, "Yup. Do you like it?"

Rarity began to stutter as she tried to find the right words to say. "But… This… James, I don't know what to say! This is… Do you have any idea how expensive this is?! I was saving up for it myself! I've had my eyes on this particular bracelet for months! But…why? Why did you give me something so precious?"

I explained honestly, "I felt I had to. You've given me so much. And I've only been here for four days. No one has ever given me so much in such little time. I couldn't just do nothing. My conscience wouldn't let me. So…I got you this. Something as precious as this surely amounts to everything you've ever given me as well as everything you've yet to give me. So please, hold onto that. I'd hate for you to lose it."

I watched as Rarity looked down at her new bracelet. "Darling… You… I… Nopony has ever… How do I…" I could see that she was tearing up while trembling.

"Rarity? Did I…do something wrong?" I asked, fearful that I may have hurt her.

"James…" Rarity sobbed just before she leaned forward and placed a tearful kiss right on my lips. I froze, having never received a kiss so intimate from a pony in my life. Once she broke the kiss, she whispered, "I have just the thing to thank you with. Meet me in my bedroom at 8 PM today. You won't be disappointed." I nodded slightly, still somewhat overwhelmed from the shock of being kissed so unexpectedly.

Now that I was wide-awake, I got dressed in the clothes that Rarity had made for me earlier. She also gave me a new pair of socks she had woven as well. "I forgot how nice it is to have clean clothes everyday." I muttered, grateful that Rarity took my dirty clothes to be cleaned each day.

The first thing I found upon stepping out into the main workroom was Opal batting around a small ball of yarn. A thought occurred to me as I asked, "Rarity, has Opal been fed this morning?"

Rarity's voice came from behind me, "Not just yet, but she will be soon! Opalescence! Time for your breakfast!" Opal responded with a purr as she left the ball of yarn alone and walked into the kitchen.

I peeked into the kitchen and found Rarity opening what seemed to be a can of tuna with a can opener by using magic. She then turned it upside-down, shaking the meat inside into a small bowl before setting it on the floor. As Opal started on her meal, I asked, "When should I feed Opal tonight?"

Rarity replied, "I would say somewhere between 7 and 8. Just make sure you are ready when 8 PM arrives tonight." I noticed her giggle with a faint blush, making me all the more curious of what she had planned for me.  

I turned towards the front door, but froze as I noticed the bottom half had been left open. "Rarity, did Spike just come in to visit?" I called, not knowing of many short enough to only have to use the bottom half of the door.

My landlord entered the main workroom to see what I was referring to. "Strange… I wasn't expecting any visitors this morning. And Spike always says hello once he comes in."

As we pondered what may have happened, Rarity suddenly yelped. I turned to face her and found Diamond Tiara trying to stand on her back. "I've got you nooowwowww! Whoa… I'm OK… I can do this…. Yah!" The filly seemed to be having great difficulty maintaining her balance just before she leapt at me. She climbed onto my shoulders and started lightly stomping her front hooves onto my head. "Does it hurt yet?! Are you gonna give my cutie mark back?!"

Despite the fact that hooves are quite hard, her stomps lacked impact and my thick hair absorbed most of it to begin with. I smirked as I crossed my arms. "That actually feels kinda good. Could you try rubbing it in a minute?"

Diamond Tiara growled loudly in frustration as she stomped faster. I looked at Rarity and asked, "Are you seeing this?" The unicorn laughed loudly, clearly amused by Diamond Tiara's futile attempts to harm me.

After a moment, I decided to make things tough for the bully. I walked over to a wall, turned around, and leaned against it with my head pressing Diamond Tiara against it. "Oof! Let me go! I can't breathe!" I smirked triumphantly as the filly squirmed behind me, not able to escape.

Rarity giggled as she listened to Diamond Tiara demand that I release her. "Darling, I think it's time you let the little imp be on her way." I shrugged and took a step forward, letting the filly drop to the floor as she landed on her rump.

"Ow! You jerk!" Diamond Tiara groaned as she regained her footing. "This isn't over! I'll just keep coming back until you give my cutie mark back! Got it?!"

Rather than be intimidated, I was looking forward to whatever new futile antics Diamond Tiara had in store for me. "Yeah, yeah, whatever. Now get outta here, blank flank. Or do I have to introduce your flanks to my boot?" The filly needed no further encouragement as she dashed out the door. I closed the lower half of the door once she was gone. "She's actually proving to be fairly entertaining, isn't she?"

Rarity grinned, "I suppose even lowly bullies can be good for something. But now that you mention it, I should make a pair of boots for you sometime!" I chuckled, knowing that I was not really wearing boots when I made my threat to Diamond Tiara.

Remembering my daily job, I was on the verge of walking out the front door to head to Sugarcube Corner, but remembered at the last second that they close at noon on Sundays. And as they are not open long and that Sundays are known to be quiet, it would be unnecessary for me to go in. It was then that I remembered that I was supposed to meet up with Fluttershy in the afternoon to help her with an official…..bunny census? I could not quite recall what she called it at the time, but I was certain it involved working with baby rabbits.

When I turned around, I saw that Rarity was wearing a very exotic hat with a fluffy light blue brim and long peacock feathers. "Whoa, where are you going dressed like that?" I asked, finding the hat's appearance to be like something from a fashion show.

Rarity replied with a giggle, "Oh, I only wear this on occasion. In any case, I'm off to rendezvous with Fluttershy at the local spa. It's that time of the week again."

I nodded, "OK then. Say hi to Fluttershy for me." I waved goodbye as my landlord headed out the front door.

With only Opal to keep me company, I just decided to look around to help pass the time. I found various unfinished dresses and vests hidden behind curtains that were draped over mannequins. Even though they were not complete, I could tell that they were still of high caliber and was curious of how they would look when finished.

I watched Opal play with a stuffed toy mouse, but soon began to find myself becoming bored. "It's not so fun in Carousel Boutique if you have nothing to do, I guess." I remember muttering out loud. More than anything, I just wanted to go outside and wander around Ponyville. However, I could not leave Rarity's home as there was the possibility of customers arriving at any given time.

"Ugh… What is there to do around here if you can't sew?" I grumbled, just wandering back and forth across the main workroom. Feeling there would be no harm in just going right outside the Carousel Boutique, I shrugged and opened the front door for some fresh air.

Much to my surprise, I found a small wooden sign hanging from the upper doorknob on the outside. "Out to lunch. Be back soon?" I shook my head, knowing that Rarity had not left to get lunch. But in hindsight, I doubt stores sold signs that say 'Gone to beauty salon' very often if at all. Even so, if any customers were presented with that sign at the door, they would likely return in a few hours. Certain that it would be fine for me to leave for a while; I closed the door behind me and headed into town.

As I entered Ponyville proper, I found that fairly few ponies were walking the streets compared to other days of the week. Some businesses were still open, but it seemed that Sundays in Equestria were generally days of rest like Sundays on Earth. Due to this, I was mildly surprised to see Applejack carting a load of apples to market. "There's no rest during Applebuck Season until every last apple is picked, I guess." I chuckled as I watched the farm pony hauling her produce through the streets.

I decided to say hi and walked over to Applejack, who seemed a bit too tired to notice my approach. "Morning, AJ. How's the applebucking coming along?"

Applejack let out a yawn as she turned to face me, "Oh… Howdy, James. The applebucking's coming along just fine. Although…I reckon I didn't sleep enough last night… But I'll manage with Big Macintosh covering me."

I patted Applejack on the shoulder, but then examined the cart she was pulling. Thinking I could use some exercise, I attempted to ask if I could pull the cart for her. However, I stopped as I noticed it was too low as it was only as tall as Applejack herself. If I were to try to pull it from the front, it would tilt backwards on an angle and spill some of the apples. Even though I restrained myself from speaking, it seemed that Applejack had noticed me looking at the cart. "What's the matter? Y'all wanna help pull this?"

I nodded, "Yeah… But I realize that I'm too tall. If I pull, the cart will tilt and spill some of the cargo."

Applejack's expression became one of someone thinking deeply. A moment later, she asked, "Well, once I unload all these apples at market, would ya like to pull it back over to Sweet Apple Acres fer me?"

Knowing I would not have to worry about spilling anything while pulling an empty cart, I nodded readily, "Sounds like a plan to me."

The farm pony grinned, "Then it's settled. I'll leave the cart at the market fer ya. It'll probably be ready in about, say, twenty minutes. You know where the market is, right?" I nodded, having visited it two days ago. With the time decided, I saw Applejack off and began to look around some more.

The first thing I did was trying asking around for the location of the local spa as I had no knowledge it even existed until this day. Eventually, I noticed a familiar gray pegasus pony going from door to door with a mail satchel over her shoulder. "If she goes to each address everyday, she must know exactly where the spa is."

I walked over to the pegasus and tapped her on the shoulder. "Excuse me, Derpy. I could use some directions." She turned to face me after placing some letters in a mailbox. Once again, her eyes were crossed.

"Oh, hey there! I didn't see you yesterday! Where've you been?" Derpy Hooves asked, clearly happy to see me.

"Oh….. I've been around. But in any case, could you point me towards the spa?" I replied, certain a professional mailmare knew the location of every building in Ponyville by heart. Even someone like Derpy.

The walleyed pegasus grinned and pointed, "All you gotta do is head over to the town square. You'll find it right next door to the prank parlor."

I thanked Derpy and was about to leave. However, I asked, "Um… Derpy? Just what exactly are you doing?"

She moved over to the next house and deposited a few letters into the mailbox. "Just doing my job. These letters don't deliver themselves, you know."

I stared in silence for a moment before frowning, "Derpy. I don't know if you've looked at a calendar today, but this is SUNDAY. Postal services don't run on Sundays!"

The pegasus stared at me with her goofy eyes for a moment in silence. She then asked, "They don't?" All I could do was facepalm at her response. Once again, I am not certain if that is a real word, but it matches what I did accurately.

Once Derpy went back to work, I headed towards the town square. I had no trouble locating it as I usually pass right through it just after leaving the Carousel Boutique. I first located the prank parlor, its floppy jester hat roof making it easy to spot. I suspected the building on the left was the spa. It had a light fuchsia roof that almost looked like a curtain draped over it. Three needle-like spires jutted up from the roof as well. Two large windows were at the sides of the front door, one of them being open a crack. A mostly sea green banner hung above the door depicting an image of a pony with a flowing golden mane and tail. However, I froze as I noticed Pinkie Pie heading my way. When she noticed me, the pink pony waved at me.

I approached her cautiously, fearing that her 'Pinkie Sense' would soon detect something about to happen. She seemed to notice my wariness as she asked, "What's wrong, James? You sprain your ankle or something?"

Once I was right next to Pinkie Pie, I replied, "No. I'm just minding my step in case your tail starts twitching. Wouldn't want an anvil to crush my skull and send my brains oozing all over the ground while scaring the living daylights out of everyone who sees it."

Pinkie Pie giggled, "My tail's not twitching, silly! Though my shoulder is a bit achy… That means there's an alligator in the tub!"

I stared at Pinkie Pie after hearing the most absurd prediction I had ever heard in my life. "An alligator? In a bathtub? And just where are you going to find that?! Who would be taking a bath outside?!" As if to answer my question, a scream was heard from the open window of the spa behind me.

"Was that…Rarity?" I asked. Fearing for my landlord's safety, I rushed through the spa's front door. Upon entering, I found an earth pony seated at what was likely the front desk. Her coat was cyan while her mane was a bright pink. I could not see her tail from my location, but I assumed it was also pink. She was also wearing a white headband and a white collar with a pink button keeping it in place. I asked, "Excuse me, but is a Miss Rarity here?"

The receptionist replied with a very strong accent that seemed to be European. Possibly Scandinavian or Greek, I could not honestly say. "Why yes, she and Miss Fluttershy are resting in the hot tub. Are you here to make an appointment?"

I did not reply as I rushed into the spa. I found a large hot tub in the center of the main room, Rarity splashing about while shrieking in panic. The tub was fairly tall for ponies, but I found it to be just below my shoulders in height. Rather than run up the stairs, I reached out to Rarity and asked, "What's wrong? Is there a gator in the tub?"

The panicking unicorn replied, "I don't know! Something has my tail and it won't let go!" I reached down into the tub and felt around. Sure enough, I soon felt something bumpy and slick. I grabbed hold and yanked it out of the tub.

"I'll be darned… There WAS an alligator in the tub." Gummy was dangling from my hand by his tail, his big purple eyes staring at nothing in particular. I made him face me before raising my finger to his face. "Listen, Gumball. You really shouldn't go swimming in other pony's bathtubs. Besides, hot tubs are too hot for cold-blooded critters like you. You could've ended up…" I stopped as Gummy snapped his jaws over my hand. The baby alligator was now dangling from the end of my arm.

"You're like a bear trap without barbs." I grumbled, doubting Gummy was going to release his grip anytime soon. I turned to leave, but suddenly felt Rarity lean against me over the side of the tub. "Um…Rarity? It wasn't that big of a deal. Gummy's practically harmless to begin with."

My landlord replied, "Oh, I know. It's just… I'm glad that you're here." I looked out of the corner of my eye, seeing Fluttershy giggle at me from the opposite side of the tub. Rarity began to nuzzle me gently, something that she did not often do to me. Not thinking much of the situation, I stroked Rarity's face and left the spa with Gummy still clamped onto my hand.

I did not have to go far to find Pinkie Pie as she was browsing a food stall right outside the spa. "Looks like your 'Pinkie Sense' proved correct again, Pinkie Pie. The only alligator in Ponyville was munching on Rarity's tail in a hot tub." I spoke as I held her pet out to her.

When Pinkie Pie turned to face me, she giggled, "Wow, this is the first time he ended up in a bathtub that isn't mine! I wonder how he got this far away from me." She then approached Gummy and shook her poofy mane at him. Gummy responded by suddenly letting go of my hand and clamping his jaws onto Pinkie Pie's mane. "He won't be letting go anytime soon! Thanks again for finding him for me, James! See ya around!" I watched with a bemused smirk while shaking my head as Pinkie Pie trotted away while singing a casual song. Mostly just la la la and the like.

It was then that I remembered I had promised to pull Applejack's cart home and started to head towards the market. When I arrived, only a handful of stalls lined the streets. My eyes scanned the area, looking for any apple stalls. I soon spotted what I was looking for. An apple stall filled to the brim with red and yellowish apples with an empty cart next to it. An earth pony with a cutie mark depicting three wrapped candies who I had come to know as Bon Bon was standing near the stall while waving at me, probably to get my attention.

I approached the apple stall while weaving around other wandering ponies. "Applejack told me everything. I'm leaving the cart to you." Bon Bon said with a smile. I stood between the two handles and gripped them both firmly. I then thanked Bon Bon and headed on my way.

As I pulled the cart, I noticed that it seemed unusually heavy for something so small. I looked over my shoulder and found the harness Applejack had been wearing resting in the cart's empty body. I did not mind much. The extra weight would make for a harsher workout.

The trek to Sweet Apple Acres took longer than usual due to being careful to not let the cart tip over. When I arrived, I found Big Macintosh hauling a pair of bushels of apples towards the barn. I approached the burly red stallion and asked, "Just returning the cart. Where do you want it?"

Big Macintosh tilted his head towards the front of the barn, "Right over there's fine." I nodded and released the cart where instructed.

I glanced around, expecting to see Applejack carrying a few bushels of apples as well. But there was no sign of the mare. I turned to big Macintosh and asked, "Where's Applejack? Taking a nap somewhere?"

He replied with one word. "Eyup." I was hardly surprised, remembering how sleepy she seemed that morning.

I chuckled, "You don't say much if a simple 'yes' will suffice, do you?"

"Eyup." Big Macintosh replied once again. I found his brevity to be rather likeable. He was probably quite popular with the fillies in Ponyville.

"Well, I'm just gonna take a look around. Is that OK with you, Mac?" I asked, curious of what I would find out in the vast forest of apple trees.

"Eyup." Big Macintosh said again. I had to restrain myself from laughing, as it was the third time he had said that in a row. Wanting to get out of earshot so as to not offend him, I ran off in one direction before allowing myself to laugh.

I wandered fairly far from the main area of Sweet Apple Acres. No matter where I looked, every single tree was an apple tree. "I'm amazed they don't get sick of apples. I'd probably be unable to stomach them if I had to live around them all year round." I muttered out loud. And as you may have noticed by now, I do have a habit of talking to myself when no one is around me.

After a good deal of wandering, I came to a secluded spot on the orchard that caught my eye. In a rather stout apple tree ahead of me was what seemed to be a tree house. It was rather small as the ponies who constructed it are smaller than humans. The design was more like that of a real house complete with a slanted roof. A ramp led up to it with a small deck extending out to the side. A single window was on the side with two shutters open. As I rarely saw tree houses back home, I was naturally curious about it.

I carefully walked up the ramp, worried that it would not support my weight. The door to the house was shut, so I went around to the side to look through the window. I found that it was open and bent down low to peek inside. Inside were three familiar fillies chatting with each other while looking over what seemed to be a book of activities.

"OK then. What should we try out next? One of these is bound to lead to one of us finding our talents!" The small pegasus pony spoke up. I immediately recognized her as Scootaloo.

"We've tried comedy, scuba diving, mountain climbing, making taffy, hairdressing, psychic training, pig slopping, being librarians… What else can we try?" The earth pony filly with a large pink bow on her mane asked. The southern accent made me remember her as being Apple Bloom. She then gasped, "Ooh! I know! We can try skydiving!"

The unicorn filly, who I recognized as Sweetie Belle, seemed hesitant about Apple Bloom's suggestion. "Um… That sounds kinda dangerous… How about us trying painting or hula hoops?" I understood Sweetie Belle's unwillingness to try skydiving. That sport is too extreme for any kind of children.

After listening to the Cutie Mark Crusaders discuss other professions they could try out, I finally spoke up, "Sounds to me like you crusaders have been busy lately. I'm surprised that brainstorming doesn't qualify as a talent."

The three fillies turned to face me abruptly, apparently not expecting someone to be eavesdropping on them. But their expressions of surprise turned into gazes of glee. "Hey, James! It's great to see you!" Scootaloo shouted as she ran out the door, looped around the deck, and leapt into my arms. It was then I recalled from the previous day on how she commented that I was almost like a big brother to her.

"Howdy, James! Whatcha doing out here?" Apple Bloom asked as she came to the window.

"Oh, just looking around." I replied while stroking Scootaloo's mane.

Sweetie Belle walked over to the window as well and asked, "How'd you find this place? Only Applejack and Big Macintosh know where our clubhouse is."

In response, I asked, "Clubhouse? This place belongs to you three?"

Scootaloo giggled, "It's more than just our clubhouse. You could say that it's the Cutie Mark Crusaders headquarters!" Curious, I peeked in through the window. Pink curtains with a reddish floral pattern hung over the window itself. I could see a small table holding a vase of flowers with a couple of framed pictures hanging near it. On another wall was what seemed to be a hand drawn map showing some familiar locations in Ponyville. There also seemed to be a small sewing machine with a rolled up sheet of dark red fabric near it. Aside from a box that seemed to contain a variety of snacks in a far corner and a desk against the far wall, the rest of the tree house was relatively bare.

"Pretty sweet pad you girls have here. And this is your base of operations?" I spoke with a smile.

Apple Bloom grinned brightly, "Yup! This is where we come up with new things to try to find our hidden talents!"

I reached out and stroked the farm filly's head, "Sounds like things are never dull with you three. Are there other members in your club?"

Sweetie Belle replied, "Um… Not right now. It's just us. But we're always accepting new members! Anyone without a cutie mark can join!" However, she then began to gaze at me while circling me after climbing out the window. "Mr. James, don't you have a cutie mark too? Why are you keeping your flanks covered?"

I winced at the thought of dropping my pants. "Girls, humans don't have 'flanks', per se. Besides, it's considered indecent for humans to walk around in public without anything covering the lower body." The three fillies only stared at me with blank expressions, clearly not understanding what I was getting at. With a sigh, I grumbled, "OK, I admit I don't have a cutie mark."

The three fillies gasped loudly in unison. Apple Bloom frowned, "You don't have one?! But yer all grown up! Don't all adults have one?!"

Scootaloo stomped her hoof, "Well, if you don't have one yet, we'll just have to help you figure out what your special talent is! Come on, James! You're more than welcome to join!"

I was flattered to be invited to join the Cutie Mark Crusaders, even though I would normally be considered to be well over the age limit. "Girls… From what I know, humans DON'T get cutie marks. I'm not sure if we would…"

I was interrupted as Scootaloo ran up to me, reared up on her hind legs, and planted her forelegs against my chest while gazing up at me with her big adorable purple eyes. "Come on! It'll be fun! Whaddya say, big brother? Huh? Huh? Huh?"

Once again, I felt myself blush as Scootaloo compared me to being a big brother…no. She did not just compare me to one. She actually called me 'big brother' out loud. I lowered my glasses to look over them and asked, "Scootaloo… What did you call me?"

Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle also seemed to be looking on in anticipation. However, Scootaloo continued to smile up at me, "I called you 'big brother'. Um… Is that OK with you? I'll stop if you want…" Her excited grin dissolved into an ashamed frown as she tried to avoid eye contact with me.

I closed my eyes for a moment as I thought it over. In actuality, having such an adorable pegasus filly for a little sister sounded like a likeable position to me. I snatched up Scootaloo in my arms and embraced her with her head against my cheek. "I've never had a little sister before. Especially one so cute and cool." I can remember Scootaloo giggle excitedly as she threw her forelegs around my neck.

The other two fillies cheered loudly, apparently shouting their approval of me as a big brother figure. Sweetie Belle then asked, "So, will you join?"

I began to fluster while stroking Scootaloo's mane. "Well…I'm not… I think I'm too… Is it really OK for… Ah, what the heck. Sure, I'll sign up to be a 'crusader' with you girls." The three fillies cheered in unison, ecstatic that they had a new member.

"All right! Our first human member!" Scootaloo jumped out of my grasp and started hopping around the deck. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle cheered loudly too.

"Now that you're a member of the Cutie Mark Crusader's, you get your own cape!" Sweetie Belle smiled as she ran back inside the clubhouse. I cocked my head to one side as I watched her through the window, wondering why I would need a cape. The unicorn filly reached into the desk and pulled out a cape that was made of the same dark red fabric leaning against the sewing machine. On each side near the corners was a blue emblem sewn into the fabric that depicted a rearing caped foal. Sweetie Belle then trotted out to me with it hanging from her mouth. But as she looked up at me, she glanced down at the cape. "Um… I think I need to make you a custom one…" I chuckled, the cape being several sizes too small for me.

As Sweetie Belle ran over to the sewing machine, Apple Bloom tugged on my pants leg. "Come on, Mr. James! Let's get to work on thinking of what to try next!"

I followed her and Scootaloo into the clubhouse while ducking through the surprisingly low door. "You don't have to use honorifics with me. I'm not your boss or a stranger." But as I stood up once inside, I bashed the top of my head against the ceiling. "Ow! Dang it!" I grumbled loudly while rubbing my scalp. The ceiling was so low; I could not even stand up straight.

Scootaloo stayed by my side as I took a seat in the middle of the floor. "Are you OK, James? I guess the clubhouse is a bit small for humans."

I grumbled, "Hopefully this will make me remember to mind my head. In any case, what do you have so far on the list of stuff to try?"

Apple Bloom dragged over a notebook with a list of activities to try out. Around three dozen had been crossed out. One activity made me wince. "What the… Hydra wrestling? Are you outta your minds?!" The very thought of hydras existing in Equestria made me feel that this land was not nearly as safe as I had originally suspected.

Scootaloo chuckled nervously, "Uh…yeah. That one didn't even make it off the ground. None of us had the guts to go into Everfree Forest. That's the closest place we know of where a hydra lives."

Until then, I had never heard of the Everfree Forest before. "Everfree? Never heard of it."

Apple Bloom explained, "It's that big forest to the west of Ponyville. It's kinda creepy, so most ponies never go there. But Miss Zecora lives there, so it can't be all that bad."

I have hiked through forests a few times in my life and not one of them struck me as creepy. Although I am sure any heavily forested area can be frightening at night. "Doesn't sound like a place I'd want to steer clear of…unless that hydra wanders it."

Scootaloo chuckled, "Oh, you'll only find that hydra around Froggy Bottom Bog. If you stay away from there, I don't think it'll bother you. But anyway, whatcha think we should try next on the list?"

I turned my gaze to the notebook on the floor and read through the list of activities that had not yet been crossed out. "Um… How about trying out selling food at the local market?"

Apple Bloom gulped, "Um… Just as long as it's not apples. Last time I tried that, Applejack had to give away freebies." I felt it was wise not to ask for the details of what she was talking about.

"I didn't mean just one product. It might be best if you try selling a variety of goods. That way, you'll end up selling at least one product." I explained to the fillies.

Scootaloo grinned, "Ooh! I never thought of that! Sounds like a good idea too!" But before we could discuss it further, Sweetie Belle trotted over to us while dragging what seemed to be a large cape.

"I finished your cape, James. Is it the right size?" She asked as I took the cape in hand. It was then that I realized that she had never measured my height. When I asked her about it, the unicorn filly replied, "I just measured the distance between the floor and ceiling! Since you hit your head on the ceiling, the cape just had to be a little shorter than that." The overall design of the cape was the same as the smaller ones, but there was only a single large emblem on the backside right in the middle. I stood up to put it on, but ended up bumping my head on the ceiling again.

"For the love of…" I growled as I made my way to the door, the fillies laughing behind me. Once outside, I tied the cape around my neck. The cape reached fairly low, stopping just above my ankles. A breeze began to blow; lifting my cape and making it wave in the air.

"Whoa… You look much better in a cape than we do! Kinda like a superhero!" Scootaloo exclaimed as she came outside. I suspected that Equestria publishes comic books if 'superhero' was in a pony's vocabulary.

"It's that good?" I asked, not really thinking I looked all that impressive.

"Yeah! You look awesome standing tall with that cape waving behind ya!" Apple Bloom exclaimed.

Flattered by the fillies and their admiration, I crossed my arms to take a more heroic stance with two fingers gripping the rim surrounding one of my glasses' lenses. Sweetie Belle giggled, "That looks beyond amazing! I wish Rarity could see this!"

At the mention of my landlord's name, I remembered that she was likely still at the spa. In an attempt to dazzle my fellow crusaders, I jumped the railing on the deck and dropped down to the ground below. I could hear the three fillies cheer at my stunt. As they looked down at me, I grinned, "Thanks again for allowing me to join and for making this awesome cape. But I have some things to do with Rarity in town. Could we meet up again sometime soon?"

Sweetie Belle giggled, "With Rarity? Are you asking her out to a candlelight dinner today? Or are you going to…um…"

Scootaloo interrupted the unicorn filly's train of thought, "Ewww! Don't bring up mushy stuff like that! You know I don't like that kind of thing!" I snickered at Scootaloo's response, realizing that she was more of a tomboy than even Rainbow Dash.

"Oh, sorry. It's just that I got kinda excited when I thought about that." Sweetie Belle spoke apologetically.

"Thought about what?" Apple Bloom asked. I gazed up at the fillies, as I was also curious of what Sweetie Belle was referring to.

"It's just that… If Mr. James and Rarity were to get married, he would be my uncle!" Sweetie Belle explained as she hopped in place a few times with an excited grin.

I felt myself become hot as I heard Sweetie Belle's words. A human and a unicorn pony? Getting MARRIED? The idea sounded impossible, but at the same time, I could feel a slight smile creep across my face. "Well…uh… That's a very tender thought, Sweetie Belle… But I really should be going now. Later!" I waved and ran off as quickly as I could. Before I was out of earshot, the fillies called out as they watched my cape wave in the wind as I ran.

Once I felt I was out of sight, I slowed to a walk. "Uncle James….. Why does that name sound…nice?" I asked myself out loud as I walked through the great apple orchard. I did indeed find Sweetie Belle to be adorable and likeable, and the thought of having her as a niece made me chuckle under my breath. But then my thoughts trailed back to Rarity, her big sister.

It was strange. I had never thought it was possible for a human and an Equestrian pony to fall in love. And yet… As I thought about the beautiful unicorn, I could feel a sense of longing building up inside of me. I was new to the concept of romance, but it was difficult for me to not feel calm when I thought of Rarity. She had done more for me than anyone else and had received very little from me in return. She had even insisted that I give her nothing. How could she be so generous to someone she had never met before?

I came to a stop under an apple tree as the feeling of longing in my heart became more intense. Was I in love? And with a unicorn? I did not want to believe it. Rarity would surely reject a lowly human like me. Her standards were high, I knew that much about her. I had even heard rumors that the man of her dreams is a prince. A prince! How could a commoner like me ever hope to match those kinds of expectations?! But no matter how much I told myself this fact, I still could not forget about her. Even though I had developed a strong bond with the other five mares, namely Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Twilight Sparkle, I felt a type of want whenever I thought of Rarity that I did not feel for the others.

The image of the beautiful unicorn would not leave my mind. Those gorgeous azure eyes. Her silky white coat. That slender lithe body and curled indigo tail and mane. I could feel myself heating up and sweating as I thought of her. Was I really becoming attracted to a unicorn? The memories of her voice were calming, that refined accent fitting her well. It was then that I realized what I wanted. "I want to see her." I remember speaking out loud. Even if a romance with Rarity would never work, I felt I could at least settle for her friendship and care. And for the time being, that was enough for me.

As I approached the main area of Sweet Apple Acres, I noticed Applejack leaving the barn. I suppose she had just woken up from her nap and had delivered a few bushels to the barn. I called out, "Hey there, AJ! Just woke up?"

The farm pony turned to face me and opened her mouth to speak, but she froze as she stared at me. "What in tarnation… Where'd ya get that?!"

I glanced at my cape. "Oh, this? Sweetie Belle made it for me. I was told all members of the Cutie Mark Crusaders get one."

Applejack laughed, "Member?! Aren't you a little old fer being part of a kids' gang?!"

I blushed at Applejack's remark. "Well… I'm a special case. I don't have a cutie mark, so they insisted that I join. Although I doubt I'll ever get one…"

The farm pony managed to stop herself from laughing any further. "Heheh… Well, that's all fine and dandy to me. Might do the fillies some good to have a man in their ranks."

I chuckled, "Yeah, I'm surprised all the other members are girls. You'd think that there would be a few colts mixed in."

Applejack grinned, "Ya got a point there, pardner. But in any case, I need to get back to applebucking. See y'all later!" I waved goodbye as Applejack hauled a pair of empty bushels out into the forest of apple trees.

As I headed back into Ponyville, I noticed that quite a few ponies were staring in my direction. More than likely 'admiring' my new cape. However, I hardly paid them any mind as I shuffled about while thinking to myself. A part of me was still telling me that I should go with Rarity. To escalate our bond. Yet at the same time, another part of me was holding back. Afraid that her standards were too high. But more than anything, we were vastly different. Would such a relationship even work?

I eventually passed by the library. Looking at it, a feeling of hope built up inside me. Twilight Sparkle was a very knowledgeable sort and could surely provide me with sound advice. Hoping she could help put my fears to rest, I walked inside. But not before making certain Spike was not about to slam the front door into me again.

Much to my surprise, I found that Spike was nowhere to be seen. On the other side of the first floor was Twilight with her back turned. She seemed to be reading a book that was resting on a podium. "Excuse me, Twilight… Do you have a moment?"

The unicorn looked over her shoulder at me and smiled, "Oh, hello! Good afternoon, James!" As she approached me, she grinned, "I saw the bracelet you got for Rarity. Very nice choice in jewelry. She's been showing it off to everyone today."

I blushed as I chuckled; surprised that my landlord would show off a gift from me to anyone she met. "I didn't think it would be that big a deal. But seriously, I came here to ask you for some advice." I took a seat on a stool as Twilight followed me. "I…need some advice regarding…..romance."

It seemed that my request surprised Twilight, as she seemed mildly shocked. "Romance…? Well…I can't say I'm an expert on that subject… But I'll do anything I can to help. What exactly do you need to know?" My friend took a seat before me, waiting for my question.

I took a moment to find the right words. "Well… How do I put this… Do you think it's possible for a human and a pony to develop a true lasting bond? Even though they are vastly different? And even if they can, would the rest of Equestria respect that bond?"

Twilight seemed to take a moment to think over her response. "Um… Well, love is a difficult thing to describe. It's not really something you can learn about from research. But…in my honest opinion…I do think that such a bond is possible. As for the rest of Equestria… I don't think that needs explaining. We've already accepted you as a resident here. I'm sure other ponies would respect it if you fell in love with a pony."

Twilight's words helped soothe some of my worries. But I still had a few questions left to ask. "OK… Next question… If such a bond was formed…" I began to sweat as my body temperature spiked.

"What's wrong? You can ask me. I don't mind giving advice." Twilight asked, apparently noticing my distress.

With some hesitation, I muttered, "This is a difficult question to ask… But do you think…a human and a pony could…" I covered my face with one hand as I spoke quietly, "Re…reproduce…"

When Twilight did not offer an immediate reply, I peeked between my fingers. Her face was frozen in surprise, a very deep blush on her face. Eventually, she muttered, "You mean…..having children together? Starting a family?" I am not sure why, but I am certain I heard a hint of excitement in her voice. In any case, I nodded. She then replied, "Well… I honestly don't know about that. Humans and ponies can certainly bond, but I don't know if their genetic code would be compatible. I mean…we both have the same level of intellect, but as for the rest…" She then sighed, "I'm sorry… I can't really answer that question. There has never been an attempt like that, so no information has ever been recorded that could explain this…"

I sighed in disappointment, not really surprised that even Twilight could not answer my question. "It's OK, Twilight… I wasn't expecting a real answer. Humans have never existed in Equestria before me, so I'm not surprised at all."

Before I could stand up, I noticed that Twilight was blushing once more. "James… May I ask you something?"

There was a nagging feeling in my gut telling me to be cautious as I nodded. Twilight then asked, "Um… Why were you curious about those subjects in the first place? Is there…somepony you like?"

As I stated earlier, I had developed an attraction towards Rarity. So I would be lying if I denied that I did. "Well… They were only hypothetical questions I've had on my mind for a while."

The unicorn nodded with a smile, "All right then. If you have anymore questions on your mind, I'd be glad to provide you with advice. Oh, and one more thing?" She blushed slightly as she spoke, "Don't worry too much about bonding with ponies, James. Who knows? Somepony right here in Ponyville just might have their eyes on you."

I saw the wisdom in Twilight's words. There was no sense in worrying about developing a romantic bond with someone. Such things only occur gradually over time and should not be rushed. I could only be patient and wait for the time to arrive. "Thank you, Twilight. I'll be sure and stop by if I need advice about something."

I said my goodbyes and headed out the front door. But before I could close the door, I heard Twilight say, "And one last thing. Nice cape." All I could do was chuckle lightly as I closed the door behind me.

I immediately headed towards the spa to check on Rarity and Fluttershy. Along the way, quite a few ponies continued to gawk and stare at me. The only explanation I could think of was my cape. (What's next? They gonna expect me to go airborne and fly?) I thought to myself, starting to become more annoyed than nervous from the unwanted attention.

Before I could reach the town square, I noticed a shadow pass over me. When I glanced up, I saw the soaring form of Rainbow Dash curving back towards me. She swooped down before me and landed with a clop. "What's up, James?" Before I could reply, she noticed my cape. "Whoa, love the cape! Makes ya look pretty heroic!"

I smiled, "I guess so… Sweetie Belle made it for me." I had stopped paying attention now that I was in the company of a familiar face.

Rainbow Dash walked behind me to examine the cape up close. "Isn't that the Cutie Mark Crusaders' emblem? Did they actually let you join?"

With a snicker, I explained, "They kinda talked me into it. Since I don't have a cutie mark, they said I was eligible to be recruited. Although it was really Scootaloo who convinced me to join."

The pegasus laughed, "Man, Scootaloo sure does seem to like you after what you did to Diamond Tiara that day! I wonder what she's gonna tell me next time I see her?"

At the mention of Rainbow Dash knowing Scootaloo personally, I took a closer look at my friend. Her mane and tail's styling was somewhat reminiscent of Scootaloo's, even though the coloration was completely different. "Rainbow Dash, I need to ask you something. Is Scootaloo your sister?"

I was not expecting Rainbow's reaction. She laughed loudly, "You're not the first to guess that!" I waited for her to catch her breath. "Phew… Man, that always cracks me up. But seriously, no. Scootaloo isn't related to me at all. She's just kinda… How do I say this… She just looks up to me. Ya know, like a role model! So we hang out every now and then."

I crossed my arms as I replied, "Hero worship, huh? Can't say I blame her. You two have a lot in common, it seems."

"Yep, you can say that again. I can't wait for her wings to grow so we can go flying together. But in any case, whatcha up to today?" Rainbow Dash asked as she hovered before me.

"Well, I was on my way over to the spa to check up on Fluttershy and Rarity. Gummy got into the hot tub and gave Rarity a good scare, so I just want to see if she's feeling better by now." I explained, still wondering if Rarity was truly fine after that incident.

Rainbow Dash snickered, "Gators in the tub again, huh? I'm glad I never have to worry about that." She then asked, "I'm gonna go check on Scootaloo. Do you know where she might be?"

I replied, "If memory serves, she and the other crusaders are going to try their hands….er…hooves at being produce merchants. They'll probably be set up in the market soon."

The pegasus nodded, "Thanks for the tip. Oh, and would you like to meet me at the café for lunch in an hour? It'll be on me."

Remembering what had happened the previous day during my lunch break, I gave her a stern glare. "Under the condition that you do not pull any pranks on me, sure."

Rainbow Dash gulped as she seemed rather nervous, "You don't forget stuff like that, huh? I know you were mad about that. And I promised to never prank you again. Don't worry. But anyway, see ya there, James!" I watched as the pegasus took off at her trademark speed, making me wonder if she was capable of breaking the sound barrier.

I entered the spa as soon as I returned to the town square. Seated at the desk was the same cyan and pink pony I had met before. She seemed to remember me as she asked, "Oh, welcome back, sir. Can I help you?"

I replied, "I'm here to see Miss Rarity. Has she left yet?" I was hoping that I had not missed her after returning Gummy to Pinkie Pie.

"Oh, yes. She's currently getting the facial treatment and a horn filing. Right this way." I followed the pony into the main chamber. Along the way, I saw that her cutie mark was a blooming lotus flower with a pinkish hue to it. She then led me over to a pair of risen platforms where Rarity and Fluttershy were relaxing while another pony was using a file on the unicorn's horn. She had the same eyes as my escort, but the rest of her colors were swapped with hers. Where my escort had a cyan coat and a pink mane and tail, the one who was tending to Rarity had a pink coat and a cyan mane and tail. Her cutie mark was identical too, being a blooming lotus flower. However, it had a faint bluish hue to it as opposed to pink. As their eyes, bodies, hairstyles, and clothing were identical to each other's, I assumed that the two 'spa ponies' were twin sisters.

I was about to speak up, but paused as I saw Rarity's face. It had been covered with a thick pale green goop while two cucumber slices were placed over her eyes. I was literally at a loss for words as I could only stare at the bizarre state of her face. My escort spoke, "Miss Rarity, this gentleman wishes to see you."

My landlord replied, "Ah yes, Hoity Toity. I have not forgotten our appointment today, but you are a few hours early. Can we rendezvous at 3 PM as scheduled?"

I had no knowledge of who this 'Hoity Toity' could be, but I explained, "Actually…it's me, Rarity." Fluttershy giggled at the case of mistaken identity.

"J-James?! Oh dear, I'm sorry! I could not see you through these slices!" Rarity gasped as she realized that she had mistook me for someone else.

"It's OK, Rarity. I didn't think you could see me through those pickles anyway." I replied.

"Pickles?! I thought these were fresh cucumber slices! Aloe, please replace these with cucumber slices!" Rarity pleaded. I shook my head, not expecting her to take what I said literally.

The pink spa pony spoke through the file she grasped in her teeth, "Miss Rarity, those ARE fresh cucumber slices. We never use pickled cucumbers." Her voice had the same accent I had heard from the other pony.

"Really…? Oh… Never mind then…" Rarity sighed, probably blushing under the cream on her face.

As Rarity remained quiet for the duration of her…hornicure or whatever you call the trimming of a unicorn's horn, I noticed that Fluttershy only had two spots of the green goop on her face right under the eyes. She also did not have any pillows under her forelegs while Rarity had two. Judging by the expression of her face, she seemed rather disappointed by the lesser treatment. I turned to the pony who has escorted me in and asked, "Excuse me, Miss…um…"

The spa pony smiled, "Lotus, sir. I am Lotus and my sister is Aloe."

I nodded, "OK. Miss Lotus, would you mind applying more of that facial cream to Fluttershy's face? The amount you've used so far seems…..inadequate."

Lotus looked over at Fluttershy, "Oh, I see. So sorry, Miss Fluttershy. I will get to you right away." As she went over to a cabinet to fetch the cream, I slid a pair of pillows under Fluttershy's forelegs.

Fluttershy whispered, "Thank you, James. I almost never get the full treatment since they tend to focus on Rarity more than me."

I attempted to stroke her mane, but found that it was wrapped up in a towel. "No problem, Fluttershy. They shouldn't skimp on quality for someone as beautiful as you."

My words seemed to unnerve Fluttershy somewhat as she let out an adorable squeak as a very deep blush shone through her yellow coat. She stared at me constantly until Lotus returned and covered her face in the pale green cream. She did not look away until Lotus placed two cucumber slices over her eyes. "Um… Sorry?"

As Aloe continued to file away at Rarity's horn, I took a seat near my landlord. I then noticed she was still wearing the bracelet I had purchased for her the previous day. "I hear you've been showing that off to just about everyone today." I spoke as I patted her on the back. She was clad in a white bathrobe with golden yellow frills around the collar, cuffs, and bottom. Fluttershy was wearing the same thing with the only difference being that the frills were purple.

Rarity giggled despite being unable to see me at the time. "Oh, how could I not? This is the most precious gift I have ever received. I only take it off to bathe so I don't tarnish its brilliance." I could hear Lotus and Fluttershy giggling behind me, making me uneasy. Once again, I was very curious of what Rarity had planned for me at 8 PM.

As we chatted, I felt very relaxed in the presence of my beautiful landlord. But once again, I found myself pondering just how I really felt towards Rarity. Here she was right in front of me. And I felt completely at peace. However, I knew full well that her standards were beyond me. I had to make certain to not overstep my boundaries as a friend. (Friends… That's all we can be.)