In My Own Words III

>Day Bright and Early on Earth

>Be Noteworthy

>You awake with a terrible headache to a golden sun shining through open blinds

>The spacious bed under you feels soft, if a little empty

>Anon's scent covers your body and blankets and you just know he was here last night

>You roll from the center until you feel the edge and slip off on to the carpeting

>A smell of food lifts through the air as you enter the bathroom

>You tidy up and try to rinse the taste of finely aged wine from your tongue

>Human oral care products, like toothpaste and mouthwash, should usually be avoided by ponies, so you just gargle some warm water

>It feels just refreshing enough and you decide this is as good as it gets!

>You stumble from the bedroom and into the kitchen to find Anon wearing a very silly hat and apron that reads, "Kiss the Cook."

>"Morning, you. How'd you sleep?"

"Like a foal!"

>"Great to hear, breakfast?"

>You look up to Anon and feel a little queasy

"No... Thank you."

>You hold a hoof to your head and sit at the table

>"Ah, hangover. I got a magic trick for that..."

>You look at Anon strangely

>What magic trick can he have when he doesn't even have a horn?

>Anon quickly grabs a piece of toast and butters it generously

>He adds a shot of some red sauce and a pinch of pepper

>"Here, eat this."

"How will this help?"

>"Would you just trust me on this?"

"What's the red stuff?"

>"Tabasco sauce, give it a bite."

>You shrug, giving in to Anon, and take a bite

>It takes a whole second to realize how horrible this idea was and your mouth burns out of control

>Here you thought Anon was your friend!

>"That should help take some edge off."

>He hands you a glass of water next and you quickly guzzle it down

>Your tongue stings a little longer, but it has helped you ignored the pain in your head

>Anon hands you another glass of water and you sip at it

>"Hot sauce and butter, I swear by it. If you want to, you can go back to bed. That'll help you recover a little faster."

>As if you would want to waste a glorious vacation sleeping!

"No, no, I'll be fine in a little."

>Anon just chuckles before laying some traditional pancakes on a plate

>He covers them in a gooey syrup and you feel your mouth getting wet

>A dab of yellow butter neatly lays on top of the small stack and you swallow hard as you watch him lay the plate in front of you

>"So, no more wine for you, right?"

>You barely register what Anon says as he takes a forkful of sloppy, drippy pancakes and chews through it

"E-excuse me..."

>You race from the table and to the outer deck of the boat

>With just seconds to spare, you lean over one side and lose the better half of your stomach

>Anon is fairly quick to react and is at your side in moments

>"Feeding the fish, I see."

>He wears a big, stupid grin as he rubs your shoulders

>Your throat and face hurt and you are absolutely in no mood for joking

>"Come on, you, lets get you in bed."

>Anon wipes your mouth with a napkin before lifting you in his strong arms

>You look at him with heavy eyes as you lay your neck on his shoulder

>The inside of the cabin is cooler than outside and the bed sheets feel nice on your body again

>Anon draws in the blinds and the room becomes comfortably dark

>You fall asleep shortly after

>It is about an hour or so later that you feel a human hand prodding into your flank and pushing at your shoulder

>You open your eyes to see the handsome Anonymous staring back at you

>"Hey, Note, we're back at the dock. How are you feeling?"

>A stretch and yawn escape you

"Not so bad, actually. A little hungry."

>Anon nods his head to you a few times before you stand up

>You wobble off the bed, still feeling a little woozy, and lightly step behind Anon

"So, what adventures do we have planned today?"

>A smile parts your features

>"To be honest? I ran out of things to do already. I'm so bad at planning... How about the zo-."

>Anon cuts himself off quickly and looks at you a little strangely

"What? Is there something in my teeth?"

>You smack your lips together and run your tongue along your pearly whites

>"No, no, it's nothing... How about the museum?"

"Museum? I am not sure, never had to do a story on a museum."

>"For vacation, I mean."

"I know, but I usually base my good times on where the action happens."

>A smile creeps slowly over Anon's face until it curls around his cheeks

>"I know a great place for -action-."

>Anon lets go a short, but truly diabolic laugh

>You just smile and begin walking

"OK, sounds fun!"

>"Wait, don't you want to know what I am laughing about?"

"Nope! I am sure we'll just end up doing whatever is you have in mind. I like your ideas, usually."

>You strut up to Anon's leg and rub your face against him quickly

>"Well, thanks, I think?"

>The hug lasts long enough for you to both enjoy Anon's warmth and balance yourself

>Hugs are great like that!

>Anon cleans up a little while as you begin to make your way above deck and back on solid ground

>The gentle swaying of the ocean leaves you soon enough and your wine buzz plays softly in your nose

>"Oh, you two back already? How was your trip?"

>You turn to the voice speaking to find the mechanic known as Buck

"It was great! Would have easily made for a great column."

>You nod sagely at your words

>"Heh, in which mag..."

>Buck smiles widely and turns his head as if trying to avoid you answering

>Anon steps off the boat and looks sternly across to Buck and yourself

>"Would you -kindly- stop harassing my guests?"

>Buck chuckles before nodding to Anon

>"Sure, sure! So, how's she riding?"

>"I thought we agreed no more innuendo?"

>Buck looks a little confused as a smile breaks over his muzzle

>"The boat, bro..."

>Anon blushes with a slightly frustrated grin

>"Excellently... I would definitely like the hull cleaned though."

>"Aye-aye!"

>Buck begins to call out a crew of some other humans and a few ponies as you walk away

>You think it would be interesting to interview a pony who works in the human world, but you push the thought aside

>Anon produces his car keys from some pocket and presses a button

>You see the car light up and hear a beeping sound

>Sometimes, you can't distinguish human technology from unicorn magic

>"So, ready for a little trip?"

"You know it! I love your boat, but I think being in a small space for so long has me anxious to get out."

>Anon smirks and opens your door

>"That is good to hear. I think you'll like where we're going."

>You hop up into your seat and buckle up as per procedure

>Anon gets in and starts the car

>The engine rumbles and you cringe at the loud sound, but Anon seems to smile at the sound

>"I love how this engine purrs."

"Like a manticore?"

>"A what?"

"You know, a manticore? Big head, bat wings, scorpion tail, super extra loud?"

>"I... I really don't. Do you get a lot of them?"

"No, but hearing it once is more than enough."

>Anon presses on the peddle and the engines roars again

>"I bet."

>You feel the car move as Anon begins to drive to where ever it is he has deemed exciting

"Oh, hey! Can we listen to music?"

>"Sure thing, what would you like to hear?"

"Um, anything?"

>Anon presses a few buttons and you hear the sound of the radio pick up

>"This is DJ Baha in the morning, bringing you all the latest and greatest hits only on The Wire! Stay tuned for another 53 minute music block hour!"

>You think of 53 minutes of human music and it makes you smile

>Writing a column about human music would probably get you any number of awards, you think

>You pause for the moment as the song begins

>"I remember when we broke up the first time. Saying this is it, I've had enough, 'cause like..."

>This time the song is a woman singing and you like her enough as you listen

>Anon looks like he is in mild pain and you look to him curiously

>"This chick again..."

"Hmm? You know her?"

>"Taylor Swift, the queen of breakups."

>You let the thought rattle around as you listen to the song a bit more

>Apparently, this Taylor Swift is never -ever- getting back together with the other person in the song

>You wonder if humans find it easier to breakup through song as you think a few pony musicians have done the same in the past

"Well, it was a good song, I think. I mean, the message was good. I don't think that stallion will be bothering her anymore."

>Anon looks at you with sharp eyes that slowly soften and he laughs

>"Note, you're so great sometimes."

"What does -that- mean?"

>"The way you analyze things, it's almost refreshing."

>You slump in your seat as you try to figure out if Anon is complimenting you or not

>A tune starts playing on the radio and Anon smiles easily

>"You might like this song."

>Your ears ping to and fro as you prepare to soak in more human music

>A happy female voice comes out boldly with the rhythm

>"I used to think maybe you loved me, now baby, I'm sure! And I just can't wait 'til the day when you knock on the door!"

>The beat is so infectious that you find yourself humming along already

>Anon doesn't sing along with this song, but he does mouth the words

>"I'm walking on sunshine! Whoa~!"

>You hear a popping, slight snapping noise coming from Anon and you block the music momentarily

>His fingers are sliding past each other in time with the music, causing some kind of snapping sound

>It becomes hard to not watch his hands now as the motion seems to transfix you

>The first thing you remember when you saw Anonymous' picture, aside from his strange face and weird posture, was his hands

>Human hands are amazing because every human you've seen has at least two and they can do all sorts of things

>A thought crosses your mind as to why humans don't have hooves, but the music drowns you out

>"I'm on sunshine, baby, oh, oh yeah! I'm on sunshine baby, oh~!"

>The music fades out slowly and your whole body feels energized

>"So, how'd you like that one?"

"That singer sounds like she's in way over her head in love. Aren't these conflicting songs though?"

>"What do you mean?"

"What if the person that human loves heard the other song and thought that was for them?"

>Anon snorts a little and looks to you casually

>"These songs are not broadcasted in real time, Note. Is that how they do it in Equestria?"

"Well, sometimes, yeah. Radio doesn't spread too far and Ponyville is kind of small. We get a lot of live performances! Though, I suppose most of those are Canterlot or Manehattan musicians doing tours."

>"Hmm, interesting, but there is no need to fret about that. The song you just heard, the one called, 'Walking On Sunshine' is probably thirty-something years old now."

"Wow... That sounds really good for a thirty year old record."

>You nod a few times with your hoof on your chin

>"I... when we get home, I've got some things to show you."

"What kind of things?"

>You bounce your eyebrows at him in a suggestive, yet silly manner

>"Yeah, sure, we'll look at -that- too."

>He smiles in kind to your own silliness

>The drive continues on in this way and you get to hear a good chunk of human music

>You also learn that you need to control Anon's hand because he keeps flipping through radio stations like the console is on fire

>"That song's boring, Note. Lets find something fun!"

"I never heard it! Stop hogging the music!"

>You swat Anon's hand a few more times over the course of the drive until he gives in

>It's hard to learn about human things when Anon is trying to gloss over what is "boring"

>"You have the worst car etiquette I have ever seen. Don't you know that the driver is the one in charge of the radio?"

>Anon smirks as if he is triumphant

"Those rules shouldn't apply to me. Unless you want to teach me how to drive?"

>You smile wider at him with your most journalistic grin

>"Fine, I'll leave it alone. Just ten more minutes anyways."

>He snorts in a very pony-like manner and it makes you giggle

"How about this; I'll let you wildly flip through stations on the ride home?"

>Anon looks over to you with a sideways glare before dipping his face

>"You're going to make this a difficult ride, you are..."

>His usual smile returns to his face as he looks out onto the road

>The trip ends with only two more songs of varying degrees of interest passing

>You just can't get the tune of, "Walking On Sunshine" out of your head, however

>It is extremely catchy, you think as Anon parks

>The engine dies with a flick of a key and your friend springs from the car with a good bit of enthusiasm

>You follow suit and stare across the space you can see between the cars

>There are certainly a bunch of cars parked here and you wonder if this is some kind of lot for which to park in?

>They could certainly use a name for something like that!

>"We have arrived, my dear Noteworthy!"

"Huzzah!"

>You beam up to Anon before cocking your head to one side

"Where are we?"

>"This is one of my favourite theme parks; Great Adventures!"

>From the sound of it, you imagine that there are some grand exploits to be had

"So... how does it work? Are we suppose to run through the cars? Is it a maze?"

>"What? Oh, wait... Hehe, I forget how tall everything is sometimes. Come here..."

>You do as Anon commands, not really sure what his intentions are

>He wraps an arm under your body and lifts you off your hooves with his strong body

>The fleeting feeling of absolute bliss of being in Anon's arms subsides as your eyes behold a glorious rollercoaster park in the distance

>Structures reaching the sky dot the horizon and you are certain you hear the screams of happy ponies on the wind

"Oh my gosh! A rollercoaster! I love rollercoasters! Oh, and Coke! Do they have Coke?!"

>"On every corner..."

"Pinch me, I must be dreaming..."

>You feel a slight poke at your side and Anon chuckles

>"Glad to see you this excited. Lets walk to the ticket booth."

>Anon is about to place you down when you stop him

"Wait!"

>The sunshine in the background and being that close to Anon's beautiful face makes for an excellent snapshot

>"What's the matter?"

>You stare at Anon from this angle and lock the image away in your head

"There we go..."

>After getting the perfect picture, you hop down and walk alongside your amazing friend

"I can't believe you remembered that. It's so awesome! -You- are so awesome~!"

>You squeeze your face as you speak out of sheer excitement

>"Slow down, you. You're going to burn up your fun-matrix before you even get started!"

>As you head towards the ticket booth, you notice a lot of ponies are standing around outside

>Anon stops in his tracks and scowls quickly

>"Ah, bullshit!"

>He points to a larger, blue car that has the number six draw in red on the side and you notice some humans standing near it

>They seem to be wearing nicer clothing, like Anonymous, and carry some kind of video equipment

>It is not unlike equipment you have seen used for television news stories, albeit, much more sophisticated

>"We might not be coming here today..."

>Anon's voice barely registers in your head as you grow exceptionally curious

>You quickly make your way to the crowd of ponies with Anon in tow

>The first oddity, or possibly normal thing, you notice is that everyp0ny is au naturel

>A tall pony with a sign in his hoof calls out to you

>"Sister! Join us and help put an end to, like, this oppression!"

>Anon sighs loudly while muttering some slander

"Sister? Oppression? I'm gonna need some explanations here!"

>"My name's Autumn Wind..."

>A slightly shorter, slighter pudgier pony butts into the conversation quickly

>"I thought it was, 'Jerry'?"

>"That's my -human- name! The oppressive human regiment ends today! We are starting by picketing in front of this place!"

"May I ask why, sir?"

>You quickly pull out a pad and look for your quill

"Anon, you see a red feather laying around?"

>"Eh, not really... what's it for?"

"So I can take some notes..."

>"Do you want... a pen?"

"A what?"

>Anon reaches in his pocket and produces a small, black stick with a sharp tip

>You take it in your magic and size is up

>A few scratches on your notepad reveal that it does indeed write and you smile

"Now, Mr. Wind, please describe in your own words what your, 'plight' is with this establishment?"

>"Are you with Channel 99?"

"No, I am with the Ponyville Times. Number two paper in all of Equestria, but number one in hard hitting journalism!"

>Autumn Wind looks to the chubby pony and than another mare

>"Well, I suppose -you- can understand our cause, even if you can't, like, spread the word... Humans are horrible creatures who have plenty of land and food, yet don't believe that ponies should, like, share in the bounty."

"Alright, and this makes you feel slighted?"

>"That's an understatement! Ponies on Earth are treated with little to no respect and are constantly being, like, punished for being a pony! We're just as deserving as any human!"

>The herd around Autumn cheers and they stomp their hooves in celebration to his words

>The older mare steps up to you next and smiles a well-traveled smile

>"My name is Shimmering Moonbeams and my life partner, Autumn Wind, is trying to get humans to see that we ponies deserve to share in the wealth of Earth as much as we wish to share in Equestria. It's a perfect representation of harmony and our chi is brilliant and clear for all to see."

>You write down as much of this as you can clearly spell

>This "pen" thing is so smooth on the paper, you think, and it makes your writing extra tidy

"Alright, got it! So, what exactly has -this- place, this theme park, done to you?"

>The mare bows her head and walks backwards as Autumn Wind steps up

>"This so called, 'Great' Adventure theme park is, like, totally not! In fact, we've never even been inside before!"

>Anon starts laughing from the side lines

>"Why not? Afraid of heights?"

>His eyes bounce and his trademark grin that seems to irk the skin from under other humans plays sharply on his face

>"No! I love heights! Thing is, you need to have an accompanying -human- to let you in! That's, like, speciest or something!"

>The herd of ponies stamps their hooves in a defiant cheer

>Anon shrugs quickly

>"I had no idea, did they give you a good reason?"

>You've never seen Anon act journalistically before

>He's kind of sexy, or sexier, when he's interrogating somep0ny!

>You clutch your notepad closer to you as you blush

>"Some obvious lie about, like, safety and junk. Humans are always lying to us ponies!"

>Moonbeam steps up again and looks to Anon with a strong glare

>"It's obviously as safe for ponies as it is for humans, but the humans won't give us a chance. It's really messing up our zen and muddling our positive energy!"

>You continue writing before Anon asks his next question

>"Well, have you tried talking to the owner to lay your case?"

>Both Moonbeam and Autumn Wind look up at each other quickly and their eyes go wide

>Autumn is the first to respond as he prods the ground with a bashful hoof

>"Well, like... we were going to... but, uh, we ran a little suggesting box and, like, picketing came up to be the most favorable idea."

>Anon clutches his sides as if he was afraid to lose them and he belts out a nasty laugh

>"You fuckin' hippies! No matter which species you come from! I swear, you are all hopeless!"

>The herd looks angrily at Anon and you calm him down

"What my -assistant- here is trying to say is; if you make your peace with the proper authorities, you may just get to come in and enjoy the rides."

>A female human with a microphone and another human male with a camera come rushing to your group as the dust settles

>"Reporter Garcia, nice to meet you. We'd just like to get a few questions if you..."

>Anon quickly puts himself between you and the other humans

>"Nothin' to see here! Just a peaceful protest that's already going home!"

>"Sir, we will get to you in a moment, we want a word with that pony there."

>The human reporter points to you, but you know better!

"Look, miss, I already got the story and I'm not selling! Noteworthy, ace columnist, is already on this one."

>You smile as you wag the pen to and fro

>"What? You're a reporter? Stop rolling..."

>The camera beeps before the man takes it from his shoulder

>Reporter Garcia looks extremely upset

>"This was -my- story! Which agency are you with?"

>Anon jumps in before you can speak

>"We're with the Department of Get Bent. Now, kindly move along, you're too slow on this one."

>Anon smiles and says something you are sure is not very nice

>"Pack it up, Mark... I'm sure we'll get a good riot soon enough."

>With that, the two disappear into their large vehicle and drive away

>Your blood is racing from all this excitement and your notepad smells deliciously of ink and news

>You make a memo to yourself to keep this magic writing tool

>"Well, glad that's over. I honestly didn't know you needed a human to accompany you on rides."

>You nod and beam

"Good thing I got you then, huh?"

>"Right?!"

>Anon and you makes some silly faces as you walk towards the gate

>The ticket booth operator is a pony, which surprises you, but not really

>Anon lays his money down and puts a little necklace on you

>"That's your pop, try to hold onto it."

>You enter the park and finally get a chance to take in the scene

>In all directions, you see brightly colored tents and hear music from the streets

>Delicious foods dot the lanes with tempting treats like ice-cream and funnel cakes

>Monstrously tall rails suspend rollercoasters hundreds of feet above you and you cannot help but stare

>"Alright, what are we going to do first?"

"Roller... coaster..."

>What was that?"

"That one!"

>You point to a big, yellow coaster in the background

"I must ride that... I need to."

>"OK, lets go!"

>You and Anon rush through the place, only stopping to take in the smells now and then

>It doesn't take long to find yourself in a big line of both humans and ponies and you frown

>As if on queue, Anon and yourself speak in sync

"I really hate lines..."

>You look at each other for a moment with a bewildered sort of stare before he smiles

>"You're an easy one to love, you know that?"

>Blush begins to burn over your face as his eyes pin you down

"Y-you too..."

>The rest of the time in line finds you fidgeting about as your heart thumps much more loudly than you care for

>It must be about 30 minutes before you and Anon are finally seated, but it is a small price to pay for this ride

>You are buckled down in three directions and a metal bar holds you backwards

>Anon sits right beside you in the same type of harness and looks carefully to you

>"Ready for the rush?"

>You are always ready for this!

"You know it! Bring on the spins!"

>Anon cackles as the ride springs to life and you look out onto the whole of the world as the carts reach the top

>For one second, the world is a massive place of people and buildings and water

>The next, you are speeding down a track at a hundred miles an hour with your mane blowing wildly in the air

>Anonymous has some type of scared, but in control look on his face as you surely break the sound barrier on your descent

>You watch the blurs of colors pass you until you even out again and find the ride ending nearly as quickly as it began

"Wooh! That was great! By Celestia, I just have to go fast some days!"

>Anon nods and looks a little dizzy as he steps off the ride

>"Fun..."

>A sign catches your eye and you read it quickly

"Hey! That's another rollercoaster! Want to go?"

>Anon nods with a tired look already on his face

>"Oh, yes, one moment."

>He staggers about for a moment and you stand near his leg in case he falls

>You suddenly wonder if you could even hold Anon up

>"OK, lets get moving!"

>With the speed of a thousand stampeding buffalo, you race to the next coaster

>This one is fun, but not as fun as the next and even that one pales in comparison to the fourth and fifth rides

>As you exit the sixth rollercoaster, you happily trot in circles around Anon

"Oh, I love these things so much! I can't believe how good humans are at making rides! When I was a little filly, we only ever had one ride at the amusement park!"

>Anon is a little greener than usual and he stops to rest at a table

>He sits gently before flopping his upper half across the small, red boards

>"Glad... you're... happy..."

>You look him over and think you may have put him through enough rollercoasters for one afternoon

"Um... Hey, look! They got ice-cream! You want one?"

>"Think I'll pass for now..."

>You nod before looking at your hooves

"Y-yeah, you're right. It's too hot for ice-cream anyways."

>You poke at the dirt with your hoof a few times before Anon passes you his wallet

>"You can get some, Note. I just need to sit for a moment..."

"No, no, it's not the same if you're not eating one too."

>He chuckles sickly before rolling over

>You wait at Anon's side for the while as he recovers

"I didn't know rollercoasters were so rough on you. I wonder if it's because you are standing on two legs?"

>"I don't know... to be honest, I never liked them that much."

>It almost makes you stammer to find out Anon doesn't like fast rides after the way he drives

>You also think about how amazingly kind it is for him to take you on them

>He's really just trying to make you happy and you coo gleefully

"So, what do you like to do here?"

>"Anything you'd like..."

"No, no, I mean, what is -your- favorite thing to do here?"

>"Oh, I guess... I think I really like the games."

"Yeah, that's fun too! You feeling better yet?"

>Anon smiles weakly and stands up

>"Sure I am, lets go win some junk!"

>The two of you head down and find a nearby stall offering fabulously stuffed prized

>A human at the counter smiles to you ferociously before greeting you

>"Step right up, ladies and gents! Fillies and colts! Test your aim and accuracy here for just three dollars!"

>Anon quickly produces some human currency and hands it to the man

>"Fine, sir, very fine! All you need do is hit those bottles down there with this here baseball!"

>Something seems to change in Anon's expression as the ball enters his hands

>His face takes on a strong look of determination and he moves unnaturally smoothly

>"Pick one..."

"One what?"

>"A prize..."

>You look around at the stuffed toys and finally point to a small tiger

>"Hmm, a little small, but fine by me."

>Anon steps back and curls his body to the ball

>With an unblinking stare, Anon pivots from one leg and the ball releases his grip with a loud crack

>It soars at the bottles with a white-hot intensity and Anon's eyes grow wider

>The bottles burst from their resting place into any direction they can to escape the errant ball and Anon pumps his fist into the air in triumphant

>"Haha! That tiger is ours!"

"Wooh~!"

>You cheer alongside Anon with your front hooves in the air

>The stall owner has a disturbed look on his face as he hands Anon the toy and bids him farewell

>Anon's fist slams swiftly onto one side of the wooden board in front of him and he grins a wicked grin

>"I paid for three rounds... good sir."

>He seems rather intent on winning, you think, but at least he's having fun!

>Two more times Anon instructs you to choose your prize and two more times Anon wins easily

>Before long, you have three stuffed animals piling on your back and you wish you would have taken a saddlebag with you

"OK, I think you thoroughly destroyed all the bottles, Anon! What's next?"

>He looks around before rushing to a large, metal pole with numbers on it

>A silly looking and oversized hammer rests nearby and the owner of this game looks at Anon with a bit of curiosity

>"Hey there! Ring the bell, win a prize. Just two bucks."

>You think about the term for the moment until Anon hands the owner two human dollars

>It's a silly term for money, you think

>"Note, you see anything you like?"

"You are serious about this, huh? Hmm, oh, they have pony saddles here?"

>The owner smiles at you before speaking to Anon

>"Sure do... think you got the arms to win one for your little girly over here?"

>Anonymous' forehead furrows at the term and he shrinks back a bit

>"I-is that what you want, N-Note?"

>A new saddle would be nice even if the quality of these saddles is questionable

"Sure, the black and grey one is nice. It kind of matches your suit."

>Anon nods quickly before grabbing the hammer

>His dangerous gaze returns to the hammer and you swear his teeth are a little sharper than usual

>With a mighty swing, Anon causes the metal bullet to fly up into the bell

>It responds with a great ding and you cheer Anon on for his excellent work

>This game kind of looks really fun and simple enough, you imagine

"Hey, Anon, can I have a try?"

>"Sure, just be careful now, alright?"

>He holds out the mallet and you take it in your magic

>Even though Anon can lift it in one hand, you find it rather straining in your magic

>You dig your hooves into the floor for traction and swing down hard

>The bullet barely jumps a few inches, stopping at the words, "Weenie" before falling back into place

"What? No fair!! How did you do it?"

>You put the hammer down and sulk a bit

>Sure, Anon was strong, but that's just mean

>You're not a weenie and you reassure yourself a few times that you're a big mare

>"Guess I'm just good at carnival games?"

>Anon smirks before giving you the saddle he won

>"So, like... what's the saddle for?"

"To wear, silly."

>"No, I mean, I get that. Why are you wearing it though?"

"Well, this particular saddle isn't very trendy, but you're suppose to dress silly at amusement parts, right?"

>"I... you know... do you know? OK, let me rephrase. Saddles go on a horse..."

"Right."

>"... So that a human can ride them easier."

"What? Who told you that?"

>"No body, it's just... that's... I know that is what they're used for!"

"Anon, you're just plain crazy sometimes."

>You trot off in long legged strides as you show off your silly saddle

>Anon simply shakes his head as he follows along

>A great rumbling of thunder suddenly bellows before you, stopping Anon in his tracks

"I think it's a great time to stop for some lunch!"

>You poke your side to show how empty your stomach is and are presented to another gurgling roar

"Hehe... excuse me."

>Light blush spreads across your face, but Anon doesn't seem to mind

>"Let's see what's good."

>Anon scopes around for a moment before pointing down a path

>"You in the mood for pizza?"

>Your head bobs in rapid succession

"Pizza works! Oh~, a Coke would be great too!"

>The sweet taste of the delicious, fizzy drink makes your mouth water and you can already imagine the cold glass in your hooves

>Anon leads you to a small box-like building where you see a rather thin human woman working

>"Hello and welcome to Pi's Pizzas! What can I get ya' today?"

>Your glorious friend looks to you quickly as you read the menu

>"See anything in particular?"

>You spot the word, "Salad" and a longing feeling comes over you

>Leafy greens and crisp roots haven't touched your pallet since you arrived and the taste would probably be perfect with a Coke

"I... I think I'll have the salad, actually! And a Coke, a big Coke."

>The woman quickly presses some buttons on her cash register and smiles before Anon's order

>"I'll just do a slice of jalapeño pizza and a Sprite."

>"Sprite" rings in a familiar way to you, but you are almost certain Anon isn't ordering those little balls of light that like to steal day old bread

>"OK, cool! That'll be eleven dollars."

>Anon passes his money to the clerk and smiles

>"A little something extra for you."

>The human woman looks at the money and smiles even wider

>"Oh, thanks, man!"

>Anon interacting kindly with another human makes you step back and watch carefully

>It is rare, you believe, that Anon is too pleasant to other people

>Perhaps, it is rare that other people so willingly display kindness towards Anon

>Your head hurts momentarily as you try to figure this out, but the smell of a fresh salad snaps you out of it

>Anon holds all the food in a great balancing act as he walks to one table

>"Oh, uh, miss!"

>The human woman calls out to you and it makes you a little nervous for some reason

"Yes?"

>"Here's your Coke. This is the biggest cup we got."

>You are passed a massive cup made of some type of white plastic and nearly cry

"Thank you so much!"

>"Sure thing! Sure thing! Come again, OK?"

>You nod and smile at the incredibly kind human

>No words now, only Coke

>The straw bends slightly down in an "L" shape and you sip promptly as you canter off to meet Anon

>"Hey, you. Want to try Sprite?"

"I don't know..."

>Anon slides the cup across the table to you with a casual grin

>You look over the tip of the straw and think how Anon just put that in his mouth

>His weird, flat, but not entirely uninviting mouth

>A giggle tries to come out, but nothing more than a squeak leaves your throat

>Slowly, you lean in and gently place the straw in your mouth

>Your tongue glides under the warmed plastic tip and you close your eyes

>A small suckle draws a cool, airy drink into your mouth and you swallow it in a journalistic way

>It is not unlike the Coke, you think, if a little sweeter and a lot more bubbly

>You catch Anon watching you with a strange look on his face

>"Are you going to make love to my cup all evening?"

>Blush plays across your face as you realize your teasing the straw with you tongue and sliding your hoof over the thick rim

"Um, that's not it! I was, uh... grading it? Yeah! Grading it!"

>"So, what's the verdict?"

"It's good, but I am sticking to my Coke."

>You lift Anon's cup in your magic and pass it to him

>Anon passes you the salad and a few utensils quickly and you open the clear plastic container

>The smell sends a shiver up your back at how fresh the lettuce is and how wonderful the tomatoes look

>You bury your muzzle in quickly and scarf your food like a starving beast

>It dawns on you that Anon might be watching and this is very unladylike, but he seems to be shoving his pizza slice in with as much enthusiasm

>He's a great human, maybe the best ever!

>Lunch ends almost as quickly as it began and you lay to one side of your seat with a full belly

"That hit the spot."

>"Oh yeah, it did. This spot is nice and shady too."

>You yawn once and stretch yourself

>"Getting sleepy?"

"What? No, of course not! I'm just full and the suns a little high and the air feels nice and..."

>Anon eyes you up quickly before chuckling

>"We can hang out here a little longer if you want to. We rode damn near every rollercoaster in this place already. All that's left is maybe some arcade games, if you're into that sort of thing."

>Video games are fairly new in Equestria and you have only seen one or two actual game cabinets

>Right now, you don't feel incredibly interested in anything aside from a soft bed to take a nap in

>Maybe even snuggled up closely to some-person, you daydream

>"So, what's it like in Equestria?"

>Anon leans back in his chair as he looks to you

>From this angle, he mane looks really cute and you smile as you close your eyes

"It's beautiful. Lots of flowers and miles of green grass. At night, you can see all the stars and Princess Luna always makes a beautiful moon."

>"That sounds lovely."

"It is a little rustic for some ponies, but I like it all the same. It has a lot of charm, you know?"

>"Could I visit your home in Equestria?"

"Oh, yeah, sure! It'd be great to have you over. I'd get to show you all around town and we could take the train to Canterlot and..."

>You stop for a moment as your mind replays all the wondrous times you've had in Equestria

>A feeling of homesickness wells in your gut as you continue

>"Note? You OK?"

>You open your eyes as you feel a warm tear run down to your nose and you sniffle

"Yeah, I'm fine."

>"What's the matter?"

"Nothing... it's nothing! I just got a little journalistic is all."

>"A little what?"

"You know, journalistic? It's like... when you are writing a story and all these memories rush back to you and you think, 'Yeah, that's a good thing to write, ponies will like that'. It's kind of hard to explain."

>Anon seems to understand as well as he usually does

>A warm hand rests on your right hoof and you stare at it thoughtfully

>"Your home sounds lovely. I'm going to make it my business to visit you."

"That would be nice. Yeah, I'd like that a lot. I, um... I don't own as much nice stuff as you do though."

>"As if I'd need anything other than you to make my trip fun."

>Your breathing slows at the comment and you turn your eye up to look at your flattering friend

"Anon...?"

>"Yes, Note?"

"Carry me to the car?"

>He laughs quickly before standing up

>"Just this once..."

>You feel the strong, safe embrace of Anonymous as he holds you close to his body

>How you ever found such a great friend is beyond you, you think

>It is a shorter trip than you would have hoped as Anon sets you down to open the car door

>You enter in your usual manner and think about listening to music on the way

>The car is really hot inside when you enter, but Anon does something to get cool air blowing on you

>Anon asks you something, but you're a little sleepier than you thought

>With a mumble and a sigh, you lay against the soft cushions and slip off into the darkness of your own eyelids

>Zzz

 

>Be Anonymous the Chauffeur

>You turn the dial on the radio to lower the music before it wakes Note

>The day was fun thus far and you smile at her sleeping form

>Sometimes, it feels more like spending time with a child you've never had

>Her hair shines brilliantly in the fading sunlight as you begin your trip

>At this time of day, traffic should be thinned out enough to make it back with daylight to spare

>For the first time in a while, the car feels unnaturally quiet without Note asking questions or giving you her philosophy on music

>It is the strange sort of quiet that allows you to reflect on things and you think up the last few days with your friend

>She's a pony, you remind yourself, but then she is so much more to you and your heart grows fonder still

>Her air is just different than other people and ponies you've met

>She is wonderful to be around and makes you feel so alive

>It dawns on you that Noteworthy doesn't realize exactly who you are and you begin to think that is half the reason you feel this way

>You never told her you were the heir to a fortune and she never comments on your money or toys

>Others have come and gone and you knew they were in it for your wealth

>A small sigh snaps you to attention and you look over to your friend

>Her little mouth moves around until a sound finally breaks

>"A-non... I..."

>You focus in and listen closely

>"I... love..."

>The beating in your chest pounds in your ears as Note dreams on

>"I love... Coke..."

>A smile parts her dry lips as she rolls to one side and nestles her pleased face into the seat

>You hold back a laugh for the moment as you consider your feelings

>Love is a bad word, you think, because love asks too much of another person... or in this case, pony

>You look back to the sleeping form of your dear friend

>Her face looks stunning to you and you picture her bright, pink eyes staring towards you

>You whisper to yourself as you drive

"Note... I wonder if you feel the same?"

>A concerned expression crosses your features

>What if Noteworthy just wants to be friends, you fear?

>What if she's really conservative and thinks pony and human relationships are taboo?

>You get a sinking feeling in your chest as you think up terrible scenarios

>It takes you a moment, but you push the impossible ideas away and press the volume buttons behind your steering wheel

>The music comes up just slightly and you listen

>"Could you whisper in my ear, the things you wanna feel?"

>You look over to the screen on the stereo and realize your music playlist is running

>Noteworthy stirs rather quickly with a silent yawn

>A smile creeps lazily up her face and her voice squeaks dryly

>"Oh, I like this song... would you turn it up?"

>You press the button a few more times until the radio is lively

>Note looks at you quickly and her sparkling eyes shine on their own in the fading twilight

>"Sorry I fell asleep on you."

"No, no, it's fine..."

>"Hey, can you sing along?"

"W-what?"

>"You know the words, right?"

>She gives you a look that nearly melts your heart and you just sigh and grin

>"I wanna wake up where you are... I won't say anything at all. Yes! And I'll do anything you ever dreamed to be complete! Little pieces of the nothing that fall~!"

>You watch your little friend's eyes light up and her smile grow even wider

>Your natural showmanship works its way into the next few lines and you watch Note's eyes fixate on you

>She sometimes just blankly stares at you and you're not sure why

>You turn your head just enough to see her brilliant eyes and you flash her a smile

>She shutters quickly as the music fades before whispering

>"... Got it..."

>It's taken a few days, but you're pretty used to that look by now

>If it means seeing her shining eyes and happy face, you'd let her stare into nothingness all the time

>The drive ends shortly thereafter as you pull up the drive and into the garage

"Home, sweet home!"

>You press a button on your key ring to start the coffee maker

>A cup would be great to pick up your tired head\

"So, Note... did you have fun?"

>"Did I ever! Humans make the best rollercoasters, no doubt! I wonder if there's a story about engineering in this somewhere."

>You chuckle as you open the front door and disable your alarm

>A clock on the wall chimes as you enter

>Seven at night, you think, still fairly early

"Are you hungry, Note?"

>The little mare bounces around the foyer with a clopping sound

>"A little, are you?"

"A bit, yeah."

>You enter the kitchen and watch the pot filling with delicious, café-grade French Vanilla

>Noteworthy stops to sniff the air before letting go a curious groan

>"Did you make coffee?"

"Yes, you drink?"

>"Oh yeah! Especially when I have to burn the midnight oil! Speaking of which... how do you light this kitchen without lanterns?"

"I went with a mixture of recess and track lighting. Haven't used the track in a while though."

>You slide a button on the wall to see if the dimmer even works anymore

>Sure enough, the tracks by the island light up and give a nice spotlight effect on your pots and pans

>"That's awesome! How'd you do it?"

"This lever controls the lights over there."

>"Hmm, didn't you tell me earlier you wanted to show me something?"

>You stop to think for the moment before you remember

"Oh, right! Come with me."

>You leave the coffee for the moment and head towards you study with Note in tow

>"Whoa, look at the size of this office!"

"You like it?"

>"Like it? It's nearly as big as my whole apartment! I could write and edit stories for months before cleaning off the walls!"

>You smirk and approach your computer

"You ever see one of these?"

>Note squints her eyes and rubs her chin

>"Is it another TV? You have a lot of them, you know?"

"No, no, this is a computer. It's much better than a TV."

>"What's it do?"

"It gives you access to the whole world and then some."

>"I... don't get it."

>You jiggle the mouse until the screen comes to life and Note watches intently

>Opening up your browser, you ready the search engine and look to your friend

"So, name a topic, any topic, you want to know about."

>"Um... uh... the latest mane styles?"

>You shrug and type it into the search bar

>In seconds, you are presented thousands of web pages and even more imagines of ponies from Vogue and Trot Magazine

>"What the... Look at all these ponies! How did you do that?"

"The internet is a magical thing, my friend."

>"So, I can tell this, 'Internet' to find me something I want to look at and it'll just do it?"

>You figure that's a good way to explain such technology and nod

>"Internet! Show me where I left my red quill!"

>You cover your face in your palm quickly and laugh

"Not quite. You can search for information -on- the internet, but you can't use it like some kind of magic divining rod."

>"I see... so, what would happen if I ask for a red quill?"

>You type it in and are presented with everything from the history of quill pens to where to buy them now

>"Oh, neat! Why does this say, 'But it now'?"

"Well, you can make a purchase and have the quills delivered to the house here."

>"That is so convenient! Why don't we have this in Ponyville?!"

>Note seems overly excited and you imagine that Equestria is a bit more behind in the technologic department than you first assumed

>You show note a few more things, like YouTube and a few free radio stations, before leaving her to her own devices

"I'm going to get some coffee, you want anything?"

>"No... no... I'm fine..."

>You see her mesmerized face as she watches the cat bat the yarn around a little while longer

>Slipping out into the kitchen, you find the night to be comfortably cool

>A warm cup of coffee fills one hand and you take a can of Coke back with you

>You know how much Note adores this soda, she'll be happy

>Entering your study, you find Noteworthy scowling and your keyboard flipped over

"Hmm, what happened?"

>"I... I tried to type something... like you did..."

"And then?"

>"I, um... it was an accident."

>Note levitates a good fistful of keys from your keyboard and you look at her with a puzzled glare

>You turn your keyboard over to see a hoof shaped impression where half the letters of a keyboard should be

"No big... Coke?"

>She looks at you with shimmering eyes as if she's about to cry any moment

"They come off, it's fine..."

>A sniffle sounds out as Note nods

>"O... K. I'm really sorry, Anon. Please believe me that it was an accident!"

>You squat down to her level and place your hands on her shoulders

"I know... don't worry! Everything is fine, it's just a keyboard."

>Another item suddenly floats up before you

>It is your mouse, or at least, what is left of your mouse

>The left finger and first thumb button is crushed in and you almost don't understand how that happened

>"I'm sorry, I didn't know how fragile it was! I... I just wanted to press the button again."

>You shrug and pull Note into you

"This stuff wasn't really made with ponies in mind. Don't worry, I'll get a new one."

>You hold her tightly to you and assure her you are not angry

>"I have some bits with me, I'll pay for the damages."

"Note... Noteworthy..."

>She sniffles and looks at you

"Stop being a baby and drink your soda!"

>You grin at her before pushing the can against her body

>She giggles slightly in between her sobs and you pop the can open for her

>"Thank you, Anon..."

"Don't worry about little things like that."

>"But, it's your magic machine?"

"I'll get a new mouse and keyboard."

>You dangle the crushed mouse before her

"In fact, we can make a trip out of that tomorrow..."

>Your pocket vibrates for the first time in days and you reach for your phone

>The number is unfamiliar and being this late makes you wonder who could be calling

>Note watches you carefully as you lift the device to your ear

"Hello, this is Anonymous..."

>A familiar voice echoes through the phone and your blood chills in seconds

>"Good, just the person I wanted to speak to. This is Helen, I am sure you remember me."

>That political wench has been a thorn in your side since ponies first crossed over to Earth

"Yes, I do... what a -pleasure- it is to hear from you... again."

>"Likewise, I have a conference coming up and I want you to be there."

"What? Why? I am on vacation."

>"I don't care. Be at the Marriott on Broadway this Friday at 3:00 pm and dress like an adult."

"And if I refuse?"

>"Cute... If you refuse to show up and be my guest speaker, you may have trouble finding the other board members looking in your favor."

"You can't sway them over one conference. They love my project and realize how important it is."

>"Yes, they do, but you aren't the most well-received person when it comes to the law. Remember that little malpractice suit, 'The State vs. Dr. Fetlock'?"

"I hate you..."

>"Likewise... 3:00 pm sharp tomorrow. Oh, and Anonymous? We'll expect your -house guest- to be there with you."

>You hang up the phone and clench your fist angrily

>"Anon? Is everything alright? Who were you talking with?"

>A burst of anger spills out in your sigh before you begin

"Well, Note, how does a new outfit sound to you?"

>"I don't mind more clothes, but that doesn't answer..."

"Great! Shopping tomorrow!"

>"I can tell when you're lying, Anon. Your eye gets all twitchy and you start flexing you right hand a lot. Tell me what's going on."

"Fine, if you want to know. We are going on a business meeting tomorrow. All you have to do is smile and wave. I will be talking to some other people about a few laws."

>"And?"

"And... hopefully, they bite."

>"And that's a good thing?"

"Yes, it is. Currently, ponies aren't allowed to get health insurance unless they work and their employer offers them a veterinary insurance policy. I am trying to make it so vets can take human coverage for Equestrians and that Equestrians have a right to medical care."

>Note seems a little frazzled by all this information

>"I had no idea... what have ponies been doing if they are hurt or sick?"

"To be honest? I have no idea. I know there is currently a bunch of unregistered Equestrian physicians, which is illegal in this country, who will see any pony for free. I hear that quite a few go back home for treatment... if they can."

>"Healthcare in Equestria is free, as far as I know, nop0ny can be turned away if they're in need."

"The laws on Earth haven't been as favourable to Equestrians as we would hope. But, enough about that. I am sure it'll be over as fast as we begin."

>"Don't worry, Anon! As an ace journalist, I will be sure to take a ton of notes, watch the crowds and get the scoop on anything I can!"

"Don't make too much of a scene... last thing we need is a bunch of paparazzi following us around town. Also, if anyone asks, you are solely in my care."

>Note seems to laugh at the last few words

>A knot ties up your stomach and you find it impossible to even drink your coffee

"I'm going to take a shower, actually. Kitchen is all yours if you want a snack."

>Note nods to you before smiling

>"You, um, you want to watch a movie tonight?"

"Sure, you remember how to work the TV?"

>"You bet I do! I'll find something to relax after so much excitement today."

>A smile crosses your face, even if it is a little hollow

>It takes no time to shower and you relax under the hot water

>The rollercoasters really took it out of you and your back feels twisted and tight

>Stepping from the bathroom, you meet Note halfway in the hall with a towel on her head and her clothing somewhere other

>"Hey, you! I found a movie that looked interesting. It's about journalism!"

>You rub your chin and wonder which movie that could be

>Note trots along the carpet with soft thuds in her wake and you follow her down the steps

>She insists that you sit down first before she climbs up and lays against you

>Her fur is very warm and she smells like the faintest bit of lilac shampoo

>"OK, starting the movie up."

>The little mare holds the remote in her magic and you watch the buttons press under invisible force

>The movie begins and you wait until the title appears

"The Notebook? I don't this movie is about journalism, Note."

>"How sure are you?"

"Pretty sure..."

>"Well then, we better watch it to make sure."

>Reclining back, you lay an arm across Note's back to rest your muscles

>You stroke her idly as the movie begins and reserve yourself to watching whatever it may be

>You know it's some kind of romance, but, "Chick Flicks" are fine on occasion

>The story, you find, is actually quite good and the emotions are real enough from the actors

>Note finds her way closer and closer to you as the movie progresses'

>Somewhere along the lines, you and your wide eyed mare friend are laying side by side

>Her mane nestles under your chin and your arms hold Note about her waist

>Note whispers up to you as if trying not to interrupt the movie

>"Allie is a little bit crazy, but I like her."

"Noah seems like an alright guy."

>"They look happy though. That's all that counts in love, right?"

"I suppose so..."

>Note looks up to you and smiles a little

>"I didn't realize they would have so many love making scene. Humans do it -way- differently."

>She giggles quietly with her hoof in front of her muzzle

"It's not a romance movie unless two people end up wrapped up in each other."

>"I know, right? Same for romance movies in Equestria!"

>Note looks around for a minute and then back up to you

>"We're kind of wrapped..."

"Yes, yes, that lampshade was hung."

>She smiles to you and you can't help but smile back

>Her eyes are mystifying in the TVs glare

>"Hey, Anon?"

"Yes?"

>"You're really comfy."

>You run your fingers in straight lines down the smooth fur on her belly

>Noteworthy sighs contently with your casual petting

>The movie ends with the credits rolling and you let go a yawn

"Ready to turn in?"

>Note looks up at you with a skeptical gaze

>"To what?"

>You mess her mane with one hand and she giggles

"That's what I like that about you, Note. You listen."

>She laughs and you run your fingers through her silky mane

>"Could we... you know, stay here on the couch? Just for tonight, I mean."

>You don't mind the idea, but professionalism nags at your mind

"We could, sure. Are you comfortable like that."

>"Oh, so comfortable."

>You feel a tail work its way around your leg

"Hey, Note... what's your opinion on cross species relationships?"

>Her neck turns at an odd angle as she looks up at you

>"In my professional opinion?"

>Note's mouth darts to your own and steals a kiss from your lips

>You look at her as she quickly resumes her lounging position

>"It's definitely a good topic to write about. There's a lot of -benefits- to weigh and consequences to take into consideration. On the whole, I think that happiness is what counts."

>You feel powerful hind muscles draw closer to you until you are forcibly spooning with the lovely mare

>"Why, what do -you- think about the idea?"

"I think it's fine... like you said, happiness and all that."

>A feeling of heat radiates from your face and you bury your head in a pillow to cool off

"Good night, Note..."

>"Night, Anon."

>You hold her a little tighter now as you close your eyes

>It would be a shame to wake up and find this all was nothing but a lovely dream

>As you lie, you can't shake the feeling of another presence in the room tonight

>You open your eyes and look to Note to see she is already asleep

>A large shadow plays across the floor from you kitchen and into the foyer

>It looks not unlike moonlight, but a bit more substantial

>You push the feeling aside for now and gently squeeze your little pony

"See you in the AM, darling..."

>You kiss her forehead gently before laying down and finally falling asleep