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Spoonlicker Anon Pt. 16

By: FgtWtKybrd on Apr 19th, 2014 | syntax: None | size: 23.20 KB | views: 8 | expires: Never

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Summary: Anonymous is a child that no one can understand, not even Flutters. Twilight has learned 3 pseudo-words, several signs/ gestures, and a greeting. As more and more becomes known about Anonymous, the more caution turns to sympathy. With her friends now all on board, the next big question is less about figuring out Anon, but how to help.
Last Chapter: Twilight dreams a duet of dreams concerning Anon’s future, before being abruptly awakened by Anonymous, who leads her to the house. After finding the place empty, she searches for something to entertain Anon with, and settles on a drawing book and crayons. She takes an interest in crossword puzzles before catching a glimpse of today’s news. A report on “The Ponyville Creature” has her giddy about taking Anon into town.
Twilight and Granny prepare dinner and discuss the impromptu farmhands, the situation in town, and a bit of Anonymous’ future. Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy arrive just before dinner is done, and Rainbow gets herself in trouble with Rarity about cleanliness. Twilight tries to feed Anon dog food by adding sugar. The results, expectable.
During dinner, Twilight informs everyone present of Anon's mannerisms and habits, as well as 'speech'. Small talk about flying lessons, firehoses, and Rainbow's weight take up the night until Granny lets out that she offered the living room to Twilight and Anon. Applejack and Big Mac are concerned about this sudden information, but eventually Granny Smith calms them down before Applebloom blurts out her own agenda. Granny settles the second surprise too, and silence returns until Pinkie takes a jab at Anon's hygiene and suggest they receive Rarity's help. The other's cannot help but join in.
Posted in Thread 959
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>The laughter winds down across the table and you settle further into your chair. With a full belly, good cheer, and hope for the future the day couldn’t have been better.
>An azure blue wraps around your plate and removes it from the spot. You catch the ufo land on the growing tower in front of Rarity.
“Ay’ll get it.”
>”I insist.”
>Another pile rises at the other end of the table; an elastic pink hoof collecting the dues. Equally weak objections come from Fluttershy and are similarly dismissed.
>Food still remains on Anon’s plate, yet the poking and prodding seems to indicate that it has had its fill. Rarity glances over before heading to the sink, leaving it within Pinkie’s domain.
>”Are you done?”
>The sugary voice draws Anonymous’ attention. Pinkie imitates shoveling food into her mouth, followed by covering her face with a hoof and turning her head away. She then pushes the imaginary tray away.
>Anonymous pursues the path of the outstretched hoof beyond its conclusion and ends on Fluttershy. Turning back to Pinkie, it waits.
>She could probably take the food away and see if Anon becomes upset. You go to offer the suggestion, but another flurry begins.
>After pointing at Anon she mimes eating again, and then points to the food. This time Anon bangs its arms together in cross.
>Clever girl.
“That means no.”
>The plate disappears towards the sink with the rest of the pink pony. Applejack and Fluttershy join Big Mac at the counter and get to work cleaning.
>Granny Smith rests against her seat with closed eyes and a modest smirk. Rainbow pops her joints with a stretch of hooves and wings. She too crashes into nap mode.
>Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo remain watching Anon. When it notices their stares more gestures direct themselves at the bunch.
>Your notions of wanting to assist cleaning disappear in the requirements of your study.
>Anonymous singles out Scootaloo, makes the chopping motion, points to Fluttershy, and then does both the banging of fists and arms.
>[Scootaloo]; (related); [Fluttershy]; [Yes/ Same] [No/ Different].
>Sweetie Belle and Applebloom look to Scootaloo without a word. Scootaloo’s face contorts in numerous ways.
“Anun is ashking if yuu and Fluttershy are related.”
>”What? No!”
>Scootaloo fiercely clangs her forelimbs repeatedly while the other two giggle.
>”It knows yer birds of a feather. One yella, the other yella bellied.”
>”Am not!”
>”Are too!”
>”Am not!”
>”Ya tried ta sell me out.”
>”It’s your fault we got caught in the first place.”
>”Not again. Applebloom was just a…victim of circumstance. Scootaloo, you should tell Anonymous that you’re not Dash’s sisters.”
>That may be a good idea. You call to Scootaloo, interrupting her back and forth with Applebloom, and carefully walk her through how to convey the message.
>[Me]; (related); [Rainbow Dash]; [No/ Different].
>Anonymous’ sits up straight and looks to the rest of the ponies. It then waves another set.
>[Scootaloo]; (related); [Twilight Sparkle]; [Yes/ Same] [No/ Different].
>[No]; [No]; [No].
>She doesn’t have to be so enthusiastic about it.
>Turning to you, Anon asks the reverse. You prepare to confirm that you are not, but stop. Scootaloo tries to answer for you and you hold up a hoof.
“Wait.”
>Related, Family, Like.
>If your original hunch is correct Anon means direct family or someone very important. However, you also used the symbol in the barn yesterday to convey species and similar body parts.
>There are too many definitions; the sign could end up completely useless. You have to fix this.
>Which to use? Going with Anonymous’ version sounds obvious, but then how will you explain the rest. On top of that Scootaloo and Dash’s relationship makes everything more complicated.
>Why couldn’t she have been born as Rainbow’s sister?
>Breath in, and out.
>In.
>And out.
>Alright.
>You told everypony that the gesture means family and those that are important. Applebloom used it to show that Big Mac and Granny Smith were her family too. Besides Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash, Anon’s definition fits. That is the easiest version to keep.
>So now onto how to explain species or likeness. If you knew what that high swinging motion meant you might be able to use that somehow, but this is not the time for coulds and shoulds.
>Not immediate family, but beyond family. Maybe…
>Knocking on the table you take the spotlight.
[Me]; (family); [Scootaloo]; [No/ Different]…ummm, [Me]; (family) (family); [Scootaloo]; [Yes/ Same].
>You immediately extend one of your wings and press on.
[Me]; [Wing]; [Scootaloo]; [Wing]; (family) (family); [Yes/ Same].
>And the counterpoint.
[Me]; (family) (family); [Sweetie Belle]; [Yes/ Same].
[Me]; [Wing]; [Sweetie Belle]; [Wing]; (family) (family); [No/ Different].
>Watching Anonymous for any reaction at all, your stomach forgets the comforting feeling of being full. The biped’s arms rise up; marking you then placing a closed hand with a single extended finger against its forehead. That emptiness inside you turns into butterflies.
>[Twilight Sparkle]; [Horn]; [Sweetie Belle]; [Horn]; (family) (family); [Yes/ Same] [No/ Different].
>The buzzing of your thoughts is near deafening and your every tendon goes lax. A sliver of glee slinks over your wide open mouth.
>You weren’t too complex at all! Not only did it understand, but it actually understood well enough to form a question!
>Catching yourself, you frantically search the room to see if anyone else caught that. Although the crusaders watch in wonder, the rest are pre-occupied.
>Anon innocently sits there, asking for little else than an answer. Your clopped reply is as loud as your internal joy.
[Yes/ Same].
>[Scootaloo]; (family); [Rainbow Dash]; [Yes/Same] [No/Different].
>The hole in your gut was gone, but the coming results of your next answer bite at your thoughts. You were hoping to enjoy your victory a little longer, but you have to commit here. You can no longer question if the sign is for family or someone special. Your actions here may determine the meaning forever.
[No/ Different].
>The subject falters slightly, and does not try another question. It appears to still be slightly confused; your objective not yet met.
>Defining importance will be the next challenge. How can you explain that? Maybe friendship would do?
>Anon likes to be in groups and relies on cooperation so it must have some sort of equivalent. However, you’ve exhausted your known gestures already.
>Let’s call in an expert.
“Fluttershy, can yuu khome here?”
>Rarity takes over for Fluttershy as she returns to the table.
>”What is it, Twilight?”
“How do yuu tell animuls you’re their friend?”
>”Very carefully. I approach them with a smile, and when they let me get close I say something nice about them. I try to nuzzle with them too, if they’ll let me.”
“How do yuu tell tell them; like when using words?”
>”Oh, sorry. I, uh, just say it.”
>She still doesn’t seem to grasp your intentions. Let’s be plain about it.
“Ay want to tell Anunymus that Scootaloo and I are friends. How whould yuu do that?”
>”Ummm...”
>Fluttershy stands there for a spell; hoof on her chin.
>”I never really had trouble with that, e-except that one time at the gala. They still won’t talk to me. And then there was Philo…Sorry, Twilight, I’m not much help.”
“Don’t worry about it, Fluttershy.”
>”Oh, oh, pick me! Pick me!”
>Unrestrained excitement rockets over to you with the biggest grin. Coming to a dead stop mere inches from you, she twangs in place before becoming as stiff as a board.
>You wait for her to continue. And wait…and wait.
Ugh “Peenkey.”
>”Yes, Twilight? Do you need something?”
>Sometimes…
“Ay want to explain friendship to Anun. How can we do that with the signs we have?”
>Hmmm “That is tricky, but I have an idea.”
>Your heavy lids grow heavier.
>”Just make something up.”
>And those heavy lids fly open.
“Wut?! That’s your idea?!”
>”Mmhmm. We don’t have a symbol for friend so let’s make one.”
“We can’t just make something up!”
>”Of course we can.”
>Your zeal enflames the sting of your throat but Pinkie’s abuse of logic will not pass this time.
“No, we can’t. We need to use established meanings or we might confuse it.”
>”Nony knows their name, they can learn this too.”
“It doesn’t work that way. Ay knew what it calls itself. That’s why Ay could teach it.”
>”But—“
“No buts.”
>”Okay, you win.”
>Her signature grin never leaves, and her peppy tone clashes with the admission of defeat. The triggered warning runs from your mane to your tail; joints locking up in preparation. A Pinkie-Pinkie sense if you will.
>”Twilight, could you stand up for a minute?”
“Wut are yuu up to?”
>”Just a test~”
>Despite your mistrust of those words you know there is only one way to find out what she is planning. You’ll have to play along.
>Standing from your chair you await your next instruction.
>”Now tell Anonymous about me and you.”
>Balancing on three legs you point to yourself.
>”And you can’t use your wings or horn.”
>You weren’t going to; not for general relation anyway. Resuming the message, you make two separate hacking motions, and point to Pinkie.
[Me]; (family) (family); [Pinkie Pie]; [Y--], [Ye-], [Ye-]
>In order to use your front hooves to clap you have to prop yourself into the air long enough to make the gesture. What was once so simple becomes more of a balancing act than a conversation; the clacking of your hooves against the floor ringing out with each failed attempt.
>Finally you manage to hold your bruised body up long enough for two successful bangs.
[Yes].
>Snickering comes from across the way, and you notice that the collection of nearby stares have landed on you. Spotting your blue friend’s mischievous gaze you simply roll your eyes. Pinkie’s wide brimmed smile is par for the course, but she’s thankfully quiet about it. At the other end, Granny Smith is also observing, though in a more muted manner.
>Sweetie Belle and Applebloom share a mix of Pinkie’s eagerness and Granny’s self-control. Scootaloo was the same until she caught Rainbow’s reaction and joined her. Birds of a feather alright.
>At least Fluttershy is more understanding, her form a neutral witness. Big Mac, Applejack, and Rarity ignore the commotion and stick to their duties.
>So that’s why Pinkie said no wings or horn. Well it’s no big deal; you can sit on your hind legs when you need to ‘talk’ with Anon.
>Actually, if you were trying to take Anonymous somewhere, such as into town, that would be highly impractical.
“Okay, I see your point. And wut ehxactuly are yuu suggesting we do?”
>”I already told you silly. Do what you did before.”
“But—“
>”Give Nony some credit, Twilight.”
>She…what?! You were the one who was telling them how smart it was!
>The nerve of that poofy maned, irrational, oblivious, inattentive mare!
“Now lhisten here, Pinkie. It’s nhot about wut Anun knows; it’s about wut whe know concerning it.”
>Your slightly defensive argument breaks the attention of those still cleaning, but it totally wasn’t an outburst no matter how much your throat has started hurting.
>The clatter of porcelain abandons the sink, and Rarity enters the budding circle. Clearing her throat, she quite literally pushes herself into the conversation.
>”I believe what Pinkie is suggesting, in her own special way, is to let Anonymous share some of the work. Isn’t that right?”
>”I’m saying Nony would know more if Twi—“
>A white hoof swiftly seals the sputtering pink lips. Fluttershy tentatively moves to provide some additional cover.
>”I-I wouldn’t go that far, bbut it would be nice if we could talk to Anon easier. I-I mean that wouldn’t be so bad, right?”
>Were they even listening? Don’t they realize the weight of each change? Every action has an opposite and equal reaction! Fluttershy, of all ponies, should understand the problems you face.
>A strange yet familiar warmth travels down your spine.
>”One sec Big Mac.”
>Applejack quickly jogs over and parks next to you.
>”Easy there, sugarcube. No one’s doubtin’ ya or sayin’ it’d be easy. Let’s start simple and see how it goes.”
>”Aww, I wanted to see if she’d burst into flames again.”
>You cast a glare at Dash.
>”I’m just rustling your feathers.”
>Hmph! You weren’t really about to blow up, figuratively and literally speaking. Those embers were some little hot spots.
>Alright, you are a little mad, and rightly so. Pinkie needs to think before she speaks!
>Mentally reorganizing Pinkie’s words in a less offensive manner, you let the bad feelings flow out with a heavy puff of air. The idea is worth a shot. Celestia always told you it was good to at least try.
“Fine.”
>Start simple. You were able to teach Anonymous its name in equestrian with one word. The problem signs are only yes and no, and there is already a pony equivalent perfect for them.
>Resting your flank on the floor you calmly begin.
[Me]; (family) (family); [Pinkie Pie],
>Single-minded in your approach, you decisively nod your head,
[Yes].
>Everypony studies your motions and then turns to watch Anon. Its sight has never left you, and the lack of an immediate response stirs your pessimism.
>Again.
[Me]; (family) (family); [Pinkie Pie],
>Nodding your head, you also go to make the Yes/ Same signal. As you raise your front hooves Anon’s head and arms move in tandem with yours. Still focused solely on the process, your body practically finishes the action on its own. An echoing bang matching yours tingles inside your ears.
[Yes].
>[Yes].
>Your brain logs the data, but shuts down all emotion. There may very well be progress, but you cannot celebrate yet. There is still much to do, and the results need to be verified.
>Another try at the same sentence with only nodding and Anonymous does both forms of yes. Whether it uses both does not matter; the important thing is that it recognizes the nod. From here on out you will not use any other yes answer.
>A new and previously undefined sentence.
[Table]; (family) (family); [Chair]; [Yes].
>And to verify.
[Table]; (family) (family); [Chair]; [Yes] [No].
>Although you have to use the crossing of forelimbs for ‘No/ Different’ Anonymous chooses yes despite the more familiar sign. This clinches it!
>Pressing onwards, you repeat the process to establish shaking your head as ‘no’. It takes an extra repeat of the sentence for Anonymous to grasp the translation and it continues to do both versions. Things have just been made a bit easier for everybody.
>For being filies, the smiles on the crusaders faces show that even they are aware of what is happening. Rarity wears a small smirk and her eyes wave away. Rainbow maintains her semi-aloof ploy, but you can see the niggling interest in her stare. Applejack’s expression gently flickers.
>”Well Ah’ll be.”
>Your left ear twitches and catches a jolly grunt from Granny. Big Mac turns his head around for a short peek.
>Fluttershy rubs against Anon while the smuggest of grins worms its way on Pinkie’s face.
>”That’s very good.”
>”Go on, Twilight. You can do it.”
>That wasn’t too bad, but next you need to tackle conveying friends. What body language do ponies already use that Anonymous may be familiar with? What have you used previously?
>As you watch Fluttershy brush against Anon a spark of an idea emerges. Recalling your own previous experiments provides fuel, and soon you have a glowing light bulb.
>Before the two of you first developed an understanding your soft nudges to steer it along were playfully countered. In order to try and make up for your mistake you used your snout to push the cinnamon bun to Anonymous in a show of affection. Shortly thereafter you guided its hand along your mane with the tip of your nose, and then had Fluttershy and Pinkie do the same.
>You’ve already been trying to express the message.
“Pinkie, are yuu thinking wut Ay’m thinking?”
>”I think so, but balancing a family and a career ... oooh, it's all too much for me.”
>This mare.
>Ignoring her oddities, you march right up to her. Being sure to have Anon’s attention, you raise a hoof and boop Pinkie on the nose.
“Peenkey.”
>She stands there as happy as can be, unflinching from your touch. Removing your hoof, you boop your own nose.
“My.”
>You smile back at her goofy face. She may lack tact, but she is the best cheerleader you’ve ever had.
>Nuzzling against her, you rest your head as your necks cross.
“Fhriend.”
>You can no longer see Anonymous, but you feel Pinkie nod.
>After the short lull, you break away and look to Anon. It has a hand planted on Fluttershy’s mane, though keeps its focus towards you.
“Did it wurk?”
>There is a mumble here or there, but no pony speaks up. Expecting a definitive result from a single example may be a touch unrealistic.
>That’s okay; you have found a tool to work with. Time to establish a definition!
>You first aim at Pinkie, and then yourself. Next, you mimic nuzzling by rolling your head in the air. Finally, you give a nod.
[Pinkie]; [Me]; (friend/ important pony); [Yes].
>Drumming up from your deep well of knowledge, you pick out the three ponies you think would best express the concept to Anon.
[Applebloom]; [Sweetie Belle]; [Scootaloo]; (friend/ important pony); [Yes].
>Anonymous bites its lip and it removes its hand from Fluttershy in order to physically follow along.
>You’re not done yet. You can clear up those earlier misconceptions.
[Applebloom]; (family); [Applejack]; [Yes].
[Applebloom]; [Applejack]; (friend/ important pony); [Yes].
[Scootaloo]; (family); [Rainbow Dash]; [No].
[Scootaloo]; [RainbowDash]; (friend/ important pony); [Yes].
[Me]; [Anonymous]; (friend/ important pony); [Yes] [No].
>You dare, oh how you dare.
>Anonymous is right behind you for the whole of the explanatory path. Its comprehension is questionable, but you have mixed old with new and provided a hopefully steady pattern.
>You hold out for an imaginary buzzer, anxiously waiting to be judged. Will you be the winner or loser of this round?
>A solution forms on Anon’s face; its contemplative features leaving to make way for a grin, and most importantly a nod.
>Thud, thud.
>[Yes].
>The mental blockage of your emotions relents, and absolutely pours happiness. It’s like there’s a sonic rainboom firing off in your head.
>You cling to the nearest pony and squeeze, who happens to be the initial instigator.
>The top half of Pinkie inflates like a balloon as you give the hug everything your bandaged body can. A lone festive note squeaks out of her along with the rest of the air in her body.
>You’re in the clear, Anon’s not upset with you! You have to reply immediately!
>Relenting in your grip, the bulbous end of Pinkie drops and switches places with the other until evening out.
[Anonymous]; [Me]; (friend/ important pony); [Yes].
>Overwhelmed by the flood of your triumph, you then giggle into your hoof.
“It really is like ah ghame of…noh…”
>With that same smug smirk the blue eyes framed by poof nods.
“Now?”
>”You pROMised~”
>Rainbow Dash starts laughing while Rarity whispers to Applejack.
>”Aw, horseapples. We did, didn’t we?”
>Fluttershy becomes a statue of realization. You’d feel more sympathetic if you weren’t stuck in as well.
>Scootaloo pokes Rainbow Dash.
>”What’s so funny?”
>”Just a game of charades.”
>Applebloom and Sweetie combine adorable pleading powers.
>“Can we play?”
>The manipulative mastermind keeps her harmless disguise.
>”Of course, games are always fun with more ponies. Big Mac and Granny can play too.”
>”That’s quite awright, you youngin’s have your fun. Ol’ Granny will finish with the dishes then watch from her rocker. Big Mac’ll join.”
>The red stallion missteps and the current plate plunks back into the water.
>”Are you going to play Big Mac?”
>”Eee—“
>Applebloom jumps down from her seat and zips to her brother.
>“Please, please, please? It’s been ayges.”
>”—yup.”
>The party leader stands on her hind legs and waves a forelimb through the air towards the door.
>”To the living room!”
“Hold it.”
>She may be sneaky, but you always pay attention to the details.
“Anunymuus nhever prhomised.”
>”Hehe, you’re right. How silly of me. Hey Nony, do you wanna—“
“Pinkie.”
>Your voice was firm and resolute; stern and authoritative. Your tone cuts her shenanigans down to size, and makes it clear you are the one to make that call.
>You visually circle the room, examining the collected weary and eager faces. Anonymous appears too caught up in Pinkie’s bounciness to be falling asleep soon. With a long breath, you come to your decision.
>Oh, she’ll get her game alright, but she’s not getting it for free.
“Anunymuus can play,”
>Several squees strikes your ears
“IF yuu help around the farm for the wheek.”
>Pinkie mulls over the idea with many different ‘hmmms.’ She sits down to think to the point you almost swear she is purposefully drawing it out. She then blindly snaps out of it.
>“Okay.”
>To the living room it is then.

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Summary: Anonymous is a child that no one can understand, not even Flutters. Twilight has learned 3 pseudo-words, several signs/ gestures, and a greeting. As more and more becomes known about Anonymous, the more caution turns to sympathy. With her friends now all on board, the next big question is less about figuring out Anon, but how to help.
 
Last Chapter: Twilight dreams a duet of dreams concerning Anon’s future, before being abruptly awakened by Anonymous, who leads her to the house. After finding the place empty, she searches for something to entertain Anon with, and settles on a drawing book and crayons. She takes an interest in crossword puzzles before catching a glimpse of today’s news. A report on “The Ponyville Creature” has her giddy about taking Anon into town.

Twilight and Granny prepare dinner and discuss the impromptu farmhands, the situation in town, and a bit of Anonymous’ future. Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy arrive just before dinner is done, and Rainbow gets herself in trouble with Rarity about cleanliness. Twilight tries to feed Anon dog food by adding sugar. The results, expectable.
 
During dinner, Twilight informs everyone present of Anon's mannerisms and habits, as well as 'speech'. Small talk about flying lessons, firehoses, and Rainbow's weight take up the night until Granny lets out that she offered the living room to Twilight and Anon. Applejack and Big Mac are concerned about this sudden information, but eventually Granny Smith calms them down before Applebloom blurts out her own agenda. Granny settles the second surprise too, and silence returns until Pinkie takes a jab at Anon's hygiene and suggest they receive Rarity's help. The other's cannot help but join in.

Posted in Thread 959
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>The laughter winds down across the table and you settle further into your chair. With a full belly, good cheer, and hope for the future the day couldn’t have been better.
>An azure blue wraps around your plate and removes it from the spot. You catch the ufo land on the growing tower in front of Rarity.
“Ay’ll get it.”
>”I insist.”
>Another pile rises at the other end of the table; an elastic pink hoof collecting the dues. Equally weak objections come from Fluttershy and are similarly dismissed.
>Food still remains on Anon’s plate, yet the poking and prodding seems to indicate that it has had its fill. Rarity glances over before heading to the sink, leaving it within Pinkie’s domain.

>”Are you done?”
>The sugary voice draws Anonymous’ attention. Pinkie imitates shoveling food into her mouth, followed by covering her face with a hoof and turning her head away. She then pushes the imaginary tray away.
>Anonymous pursues the path of the outstretched hoof beyond its conclusion and ends on Fluttershy. Turning back to Pinkie, it waits.
>She could probably take the food away and see if Anon becomes upset. You go to offer the suggestion, but another flurry begins.
>After pointing at Anon she mimes eating again, and then points to the food. This time Anon bangs its arms together in cross.
>Clever girl.
“That means no.”

>The plate disappears towards the sink with the rest of the pink pony. Applejack and Fluttershy join Big Mac at the counter and get to work cleaning.
>Granny Smith rests against her seat with closed eyes and a modest smirk. Rainbow pops her joints with a stretch of hooves and wings. She too crashes into nap mode.
>Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo remain watching Anon. When it notices their stares more gestures direct themselves at the bunch.
>Your notions of wanting to assist cleaning disappear in the requirements of your study.


>Anonymous singles out Scootaloo, makes the chopping motion, points to Fluttershy, and then does both the banging of fists and arms.
>[Scootaloo]; (related); [Fluttershy]; [Yes/ Same] [No/ Different].
>Sweetie Belle and Applebloom look to Scootaloo without a word. Scootaloo’s face contorts in numerous ways.
“Anun is ashking if yuu and Fluttershy are related.”
>”What? No!”
>Scootaloo fiercely clangs her forelimbs repeatedly while the other two giggle.
>”It knows yer birds of a feather. One yella, the other yella bellied.”
>”Am not!”
>”Are too!”
>”Am not!”
>”Ya tried ta sell me out.”
>”It’s your fault we got caught in the first place.”
>”Not again. Applebloom was just a…victim of circumstance. Scootaloo, you should tell Anonymous that you’re not Dash’s sisters.”

>That may be a good idea. You call to Scootaloo, interrupting her back and forth with Applebloom, and carefully walk her through how to convey the message.
>[Me]; (related); [Rainbow Dash]; [No/ Different].
>Anonymous’ sits up straight and looks to the rest of the ponies. It then waves another set.
>[Scootaloo]; (related); [Twilight Sparkle]; [Yes/ Same] [No/ Different].
>[No]; [No]; [No].
>She doesn’t have to be so enthusiastic about it.

>Turning to you, Anon asks the reverse. You prepare to confirm that you are not, but stop. Scootaloo tries to answer for you and you hold up a hoof.
“Wait.”
>Related, Family, Like.
>If your original hunch is correct Anon means direct family or someone very important. However, you also used the symbol in the barn yesterday to convey species and similar body parts.
>There are too many definitions; the sign could end up completely useless. You have to fix this.
>Which to use? Going with Anonymous’ version sounds obvious, but then how will you explain the rest. On top of that Scootaloo and Dash’s relationship makes everything more complicated.
>Why couldn’t she have been born as Rainbow’s sister?


>Breath in, and out.
>In.
>And out.
>Alright.
>You told everypony that the gesture means family and those that are important. Applebloom used it to show that Big Mac and Granny Smith were her family too. Besides Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash, Anon’s definition fits. That is the easiest version to keep.
>So now onto how to explain species or likeness. If you knew what that high swinging motion meant you might be able to use that somehow, but this is not the time for coulds and shoulds.
>Not immediate family, but beyond family. Maybe…
>Knocking on the table you take the spotlight.
[Me]; (family); [Scootaloo]; [No/ Different]…ummm, [Me];  (family)  (family); [Scootaloo]; [Yes/ Same].

>You immediately extend one of your wings and press on.
[Me]; [Wing]; [Scootaloo]; [Wing]; (family) (family); [Yes/ Same].
>And the counterpoint.
[Me]; (family) (family); [Sweetie Belle]; [Yes/ Same].
[Me]; [Wing]; [Sweetie Belle]; [Wing]; (family) (family); [No/ Different].
>Watching Anonymous for any reaction at all, your stomach forgets the comforting feeling of being full. The biped’s arms rise up; marking you then placing a closed hand with a single extended finger against its forehead. That emptiness inside you turns into butterflies.

>[Twilight Sparkle]; [Horn]; [Sweetie Belle]; [Horn]; (family) (family); [Yes/ Same] [No/ Different].
>The buzzing of your thoughts is near deafening and your every tendon goes lax. A sliver of glee slinks over your wide open mouth.
>You weren’t too complex at all! Not only did it understand, but it actually understood well enough to form a question!
>Catching yourself, you frantically search the room to see if anyone else caught that. Although the crusaders watch in wonder, the rest are pre-occupied.
>Anon innocently sits there, asking for little else than an answer. Your clopped reply is as loud as your internal joy.
[Yes/ Same].


>[Scootaloo]; (family); [Rainbow Dash]; [Yes/Same] [No/Different].
>The hole in your gut was gone, but the coming results of your next answer bite at your thoughts. You were hoping to enjoy your victory a little longer, but you have to commit here. You can no longer question if the sign is for family or someone special. Your actions here may determine the meaning forever.
[No/ Different].
>The subject falters slightly, and does not try another question. It appears to still be slightly confused; your objective not yet met.
>Defining importance will be the next challenge. How can you explain that? Maybe friendship would do?
>Anon likes to be in groups and relies on cooperation so it must have some sort of equivalent. However, you’ve exhausted your known gestures already.
>Let’s call in an expert.

“Fluttershy, can yuu khome here?”
>Rarity takes over for Fluttershy as she returns to the table.
>”What is it, Twilight?”
“How do yuu tell animuls you’re their friend?”
>”Very carefully. I approach them with a smile, and when they let me get close I say something nice about them. I try to nuzzle with them too, if they’ll let me.”
“How do yuu tell tell them; like when using words?”
>”Oh, sorry. I, uh, just say it.”
>She still doesn’t seem to grasp your intentions. Let’s be plain about it.
“Ay want to tell Anunymus that Scootaloo and I are friends. How whould yuu do that?”
>”Ummm...”
>Fluttershy stands there for a spell; hoof on her chin.

>”I never really had trouble with that, e-except that one time at the gala. They still won’t talk to me. And then there was Philo…Sorry, Twilight, I’m not much help.”
“Don’t worry about it, Fluttershy.”
>”Oh, oh, pick me! Pick me!”
>Unrestrained excitement rockets over to you with the biggest grin. Coming to a dead stop mere inches from you, she twangs in place before becoming as stiff as a board.
>You wait for her to continue. And wait…and wait.


Ugh “Peenkey.”
>”Yes, Twilight? Do you need something?”
>Sometimes…
“Ay want to explain friendship to Anun. How can we do that with the signs we have?”
>Hmmm “That is tricky, but I have an idea.”
>Your heavy lids grow heavier.

>”Just make something up.”
>And those heavy lids fly open.
“Wut?! That’s your idea?!”
>”Mmhmm. We don’t have a symbol for friend so let’s make one.”
“We can’t just make something up!”
>”Of course we can.”
>Your zeal enflames the sting of your throat but Pinkie’s abuse of logic will not pass this time.
“No, we can’t. We need to use established meanings or we might confuse it.”
>”Nony knows their name, they can learn this too.”
“It doesn’t work that way. Ay knew what it calls itself. That’s why Ay could teach it.”
>”But—“
“No buts.”
>”Okay, you win.”
>Her signature grin never leaves, and her peppy tone clashes with the admission of defeat. The triggered warning runs from your mane to your tail; joints locking up in preparation. A Pinkie-Pinkie sense if you will.

>”Twilight, could you stand up for a minute?”
“Wut are yuu up to?”
>”Just a test~”
>Despite your mistrust of those words you know there is only one way to find out what she is planning. You’ll have to play along.
>Standing from your chair you await your next instruction.
>”Now tell Anonymous about me and you.”
>Balancing on three legs you point to yourself.
>”And you can’t use your wings or horn.”
>You weren’t going to; not for general relation anyway. Resuming the message, you make two separate hacking motions, and point to Pinkie.
[Me]; (family) (family); [Pinkie Pie]; [Y--], [Ye-], [Ye-]
>In order to use your front hooves to clap you have to prop yourself into the air long enough to make the gesture. What was once so simple becomes more of a balancing act than a conversation; the clacking of your hooves against the floor ringing out with each failed attempt.


>Finally you manage to hold your bruised body up long enough for two successful bangs.
[Yes].
>Snickering comes from across the way, and you notice that the collection of nearby stares have landed on you. Spotting your blue friend’s mischievous gaze you simply roll your eyes. Pinkie’s wide brimmed smile is par for the course, but she’s thankfully quiet about it. At the other end, Granny Smith is also observing, though in a more muted manner.
>Sweetie Belle and Applebloom share a mix of Pinkie’s eagerness and Granny’s self-control. Scootaloo was the same until she caught Rainbow’s reaction and joined her. Birds of a feather alright. 
>At least Fluttershy is more understanding, her form a neutral witness. Big Mac, Applejack, and Rarity ignore the commotion and stick to their duties.

>So that’s why Pinkie said no wings or horn. Well it’s no big deal; you can sit on your hind legs when you need to ‘talk’ with Anon.
>Actually, if you were trying to take Anonymous somewhere, such as into town, that would be highly impractical.
“Okay, I see your point. And wut ehxactuly are yuu suggesting we do?”
>”I already told you silly. Do what you did before.”
“But—“
>”Give Nony some credit, Twilight.”

>She…what?! You were the one who was telling them how smart it was!
>The nerve of that poofy maned, irrational, oblivious, inattentive mare!
“Now lhisten here, Pinkie. It’s nhot about wut Anun knows; it’s about wut whe know concerning it.”
>Your slightly defensive argument breaks the attention of those still cleaning, but it totally wasn’t an outburst no matter how much your throat has started hurting.
>The clatter of porcelain abandons the sink, and Rarity enters the budding circle. Clearing her throat, she quite literally pushes herself into the conversation.
>”I believe what Pinkie is suggesting, in her own special way, is to let Anonymous share some of the work. Isn’t that right?”


>”I’m saying Nony would know more if Twi—“
>A white hoof swiftly seals the sputtering pink lips. Fluttershy tentatively moves to provide some additional cover.
>”I-I wouldn’t go that far, bbut it would be nice if we could talk to Anon easier. I-I mean that wouldn’t be so bad, right?”

>Were they even listening? Don’t they realize the weight of each change? Every action has an opposite and equal reaction! Fluttershy, of all ponies, should understand the problems you face.
>A strange yet familiar warmth travels down your spine.
>”One sec Big Mac.”
>Applejack quickly jogs over and parks next to you.
>”Easy there, sugarcube. No one’s doubtin’ ya or sayin’ it’d be easy. Let’s start simple and see how it goes.”
>”Aww, I wanted to see if she’d burst into flames again.”
>You cast a glare at Dash.
>”I’m just rustling your feathers.”
>Hmph! You weren’t really about to blow up, figuratively and literally speaking. Those embers were some little hot spots.
>Alright, you are a little mad, and rightly so. Pinkie needs to think before she speaks!

>Mentally reorganizing Pinkie’s words in a less offensive manner, you let the bad feelings flow out with a heavy puff of air. The idea is worth a shot. Celestia always told you it was good to at least try.
“Fine.”
>Start simple. You were able to teach Anonymous its name in equestrian with one word. The problem signs are only yes and no, and there is already a pony equivalent perfect for them.
>Resting your flank on the floor you calmly begin. 
[Me]; (family) (family); [Pinkie Pie],
>Single-minded in your approach, you decisively nod your head,
[Yes].
>Everypony studies your motions and then turns to watch Anon. Its sight has never left you, and the lack of an immediate response stirs your pessimism.
>Again.


[Me]; (family) (family); [Pinkie Pie],
>Nodding your head, you also go to make the Yes/ Same signal. As you raise your front hooves Anon’s head and arms move in tandem with yours. Still focused solely on the process, your body practically finishes the action on its own. An echoing bang matching yours tingles inside your ears.
[Yes].
>[Yes].

>Your brain logs the data, but shuts down all emotion. There may very well be progress, but you cannot celebrate yet. There is still much to do, and the results need to be verified.
>Another try at the same sentence with only nodding and Anonymous does both forms of yes. Whether it uses both does not matter; the important thing is that it recognizes the nod. From here on out you will not use any other yes answer.
>A new and previously undefined sentence.
[Table]; (family) (family); [Chair]; [Yes].
>And to verify.
[Table]; (family) (family); [Chair]; [Yes] [No].
>Although you have to use the crossing of forelimbs for ‘No/ Different’ Anonymous chooses yes despite the more familiar sign. This clinches it!

>Pressing onwards, you repeat the process to establish shaking your head as ‘no’.  It takes an extra repeat of the sentence for Anonymous to grasp the translation and it continues to do both versions. Things have just been made a bit easier for everybody.
>For being filies, the smiles on the crusaders faces show that even they are aware of what is happening. Rarity wears a small smirk and her eyes wave away. Rainbow maintains her semi-aloof ploy, but you can see the niggling interest in her stare. Applejack’s expression gently flickers.
>”Well Ah’ll be.”
>Your left ear twitches and catches a jolly grunt from Granny. Big Mac turns his head around for a short peek.
>Fluttershy rubs against Anon while the smuggest of grins worms its way on Pinkie’s face.
>”That’s very good.”
>”Go on, Twilight. You can do it.”


>That wasn’t too bad, but next you need to tackle conveying friends. What body language do ponies already use that Anonymous may be familiar with? What have you used previously?
>As you watch Fluttershy brush against Anon a spark of an idea emerges. Recalling your own previous experiments provides fuel, and soon you have a glowing light bulb.
>Before the two of you first developed an understanding your soft nudges to steer it along were playfully countered. In order to try and make up for your mistake you used your snout to push the cinnamon bun to Anonymous in a show of affection. Shortly thereafter you guided its hand along your mane with the tip of your nose, and then had Fluttershy and Pinkie do the same.
>You’ve already been trying to express the message. 
“Pinkie, are yuu thinking wut Ay’m thinking?”
>”I think so, but balancing a family and a career ... oooh, it's all too much for me.”
>This mare.

>Ignoring her oddities, you march right up to her. Being sure to have Anon’s attention, you raise a hoof and boop Pinkie on the nose.
“Peenkey.”
>She stands there as happy as can be, unflinching from your touch. Removing your hoof, you boop your own nose.
“My.”
>You smile back at her goofy face. She may lack tact, but she is the best cheerleader you’ve ever had.
>Nuzzling against her, you rest your head as your necks cross.
“Fhriend.”
>You can no longer see Anonymous, but you feel Pinkie nod.

>After the short lull, you break away and look to Anon. It has a hand planted on Fluttershy’s mane, though keeps its focus towards you. 
“Did it wurk?”
>There is a mumble here or there, but no pony speaks up. Expecting a definitive result from a single example may be a touch unrealistic.
>That’s okay; you have found a tool to work with. Time to establish a definition!


>You first aim at Pinkie, and then yourself. Next, you mimic nuzzling by rolling your head in the air. Finally, you give a nod.
[Pinkie]; [Me]; (friend/ important pony); [Yes].
>Drumming up from your deep well of knowledge, you pick out the three ponies you think would best express the concept to Anon.
[Applebloom]; [Sweetie Belle]; [Scootaloo]; (friend/ important pony); [Yes].

>Anonymous bites its lip and it removes its hand from Fluttershy in order to physically follow along.
>You’re not done yet. You can clear up those earlier misconceptions.
[Applebloom]; (family); [Applejack]; [Yes].
[Applebloom]; [Applejack]; (friend/ important pony); [Yes].
[Scootaloo]; (family); [Rainbow Dash]; [No].
[Scootaloo]; [RainbowDash]; (friend/ important pony); [Yes].
[Me]; [Anonymous]; (friend/ important pony); [Yes] [No].
>You dare, oh how you dare.

>Anonymous is right behind you for the whole of the explanatory path. Its comprehension is questionable, but you have mixed old with new and provided a hopefully steady pattern.
>You hold out for an imaginary buzzer, anxiously waiting to be judged. Will you be the winner or loser of this round?
>A solution forms on Anon’s face; its contemplative features leaving to make way for a grin, and most importantly a nod.
>Thud, thud.
>[Yes].

>The mental blockage of your emotions relents, and absolutely pours happiness. It’s like there’s a sonic rainboom firing off in your head.
>You cling to the nearest pony and squeeze, who happens to be the initial instigator.
>The top half of Pinkie inflates like a balloon as you give the hug everything your bandaged body can. A lone festive note squeaks out of her along with the rest of the air in her body.
>You’re in the clear, Anon’s not upset with you! You have to reply immediately!
>Relenting in your grip, the bulbous end of Pinkie drops and switches places with the other until evening out.
[Anonymous]; [Me]; (friend/ important pony); [Yes].


>Overwhelmed by the flood of your triumph, you then giggle into your hoof.
“It really is like ah ghame of…noh…”
>With that same smug smirk the blue eyes framed by poof nods.
“Now?”
>”You pROMised~”

>Rainbow Dash starts laughing while Rarity whispers to Applejack.
>”Aw, horseapples. We did, didn’t we?”
>Fluttershy becomes a statue of realization. You’d feel more sympathetic if you weren’t stuck in as well.
>Scootaloo pokes Rainbow Dash.
>”What’s so funny?”
>”Just a game of charades.”
>Applebloom and Sweetie combine adorable pleading powers.
>“Can we play?”
>The manipulative mastermind keeps her harmless disguise.
>”Of course, games are always fun with more ponies. Big Mac and Granny can play too.”
>”That’s quite awright, you youngin’s have your fun. Ol’ Granny will finish with the dishes then watch from her rocker. Big Mac’ll join.”
>The red stallion missteps and the current plate plunks back into the water.
>”Are you going to play Big Mac?”
>”Eee—“
>Applebloom jumps down from her seat and zips to her brother.
>“Please, please, please? It’s been ayges.”
>”—yup.”
>The party leader stands on her hind legs and waves a forelimb through the air towards the door.
>”To the living room!”

“Hold it.”
>She may be sneaky, but you always pay attention to the details.
“Anunymuus nhever prhomised.”
>”Hehe, you’re right. How silly of me. Hey Nony, do you wanna—“
“Pinkie.”
>Your voice was firm and resolute; stern and authoritative. Your tone cuts her shenanigans down to size, and makes it clear you are the one to make that call.
>You visually circle the room, examining the collected weary and eager faces. Anonymous appears too caught up in Pinkie’s bounciness to be falling asleep soon. With a long breath, you come to your decision.
>Oh, she’ll get her game alright, but she’s not getting it for free.


“Anunymuus can play,”
>Several squees strikes your ears
“IF yuu help around the farm for the wheek.”
>Pinkie mulls over the idea with many different ‘hmmms.’ She sits down to think to the point you almost swear she is purposefully drawing it out. She then blindly snaps out of it.
>“Okay.”
>To the living room it is then.

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