>Be Fluttershy
>Be out in the hills and fields in the outskirts of Ponyville
>Having a peaceful walk in some fresh air after spending the day caretaking in your new animal shelter
>It's not that it was a chore, it was something you always loved
>But as you watched the waves of grass roll over the gentle slopes as they're blown by the gentle breeze, you also found the quiet moments of life to be equally as satisfying
> A bit further down the bare dirt trail, you found yourself trotting closer to the edge of the Everfree forest
>Your heart fluttered in your chest slightly, as it always did in the shadows of the intimidating dark trees, but your knowledge and love of the creatures within always comforted you
>But this time, a sudden noise startled you, freezing you in your tracks as a loud twig snap betrayed the fact you were not alone anymore
>And you knew instantly it wasn't a cute raccoon, or a harmless squirrel, nor did it make noises like a bear
>The nearby bushes at the foot of the forest began to rustle, as something larger than a pony began to move through them
>Lowering the front of your body down, crawling backwards at a snail's pace, you barred your teeth in fright
>"Um... H-hello? Who's there?"
>You wanted to move your wings, but they were clamped to your sides as a cold wave of fear shot up your spine
>The bushes stopped rustling for a moment, feeling the creature's eyes turn on you, betraying a silhouette of something completely alien looking hiding in the darkness
>Was it a timberwolf? A manticore? Or some other creature!? The fact you didn't know terrified you!
>"Don't eat me!"
>You cried, throwing your hooves over your head in desperation
>A brief moment passes, and you hear the creature step into the open, and out in front of you
>You wait for sharp fangs, or long claws, or a stinger to claim you
 
>But
>Nothing happens
>After a brief moment, you look up from under a hoof, and see what appear to be the base of some sort of robe
>Looking up, you see a strange, but concerned, wrinkled face, framed by a long, spiked silver beard, reminding you of some kind of monkey or ape
>"Do not worry, little one. I am of no threat to you."
>He put a hand on his chest. Was it some sort of carapace? Or armor!
>"In fact, I may need your help. I appear to be lost, and I hope that you might be willing to help me find my way back home."
>You felt your body relax and breathing return to normal as you begin to prop yourself back to a regular stand, your head still turned away
>You felt a sort of peace radiate from him, but you still felt slightly untrusting
>"Oh, um. Yeah, I-I think I might be able t-to help you."
>"Oh then that is good news indeed."
>He bared his teeth in a wide grin, stroking his beard
>"The Spirit World is as unpredictable as a storm in the sea. I thought I was on the road home, but I must have made a wrong turn."
>He scanned the horizon
>"Though even in wariness, it is always fascinating to see new sights even an old man like me has never seen before. I would even say this place feels much like the plains of the Southern Earth Kingdom!"
>He sighed, stretching his arms out and yawning
>"My journey has been so long, it may in fact be wise to rest here and enjoy this magnificent view with some tea. ...Would you care for some, my new friend?"
>You started feeling a little more comfortable around the stranger, and turned to face him more, a hint of a smile forming on your face
>"I... would love to."
>"Excellent! Now let me just..."
>His voice trailed off as he grabbed a bag from his waist
>You could see only sadness well up in his amber eyes as he stared at the massive hole torn into the cloth satchel
>"I guess I might not have tea to share after all."
 
>He said with defeat
>You began to feel sorry for him, and you quickly thought up a solution
>"If I may... sir... Um, I might have some tea at my place, if you don't mind."
>The sadness and defeat was immediately replaced with gratitude
>"The kindness of strangers always is one of the greatest hidden joys of life, it seems. I would be honored."
>You turn down the trail to lead him along, sighing as the cramping in your wings finally began to cease
>"It's just down this road."
>He walked beside you, stuffing the ruined satchel in his pack and sighing
>"Oh, and who can I thank for such a generous offer?"
>"My name's Fluttershy."
>He only responded with that wide, welcoming smile again
>"An honor to meet you, Fluttershy. You can call me Iroh."
 
>As you traced your steps back home down the path, you and Iroh walk in silence for most of it, enjoying the peace
>Unusually, you notice he didn't stare at you as many other species of sentient creatures like Griffons, Yaks, or Minotaurs do
>And every time you looked up at him, you find him content in gazing over Equestria's mountains in interest
>You weren't too far from your cottage, and in a matter of minutes, you find yourself in view
>As you approach the path leading in, you gesture a visibly impressed Iroh ahead
>"This is my home. I'm sorry it's not much."
>He was unfazed by your humility
>"Don't be so hard on yourself, Fluttershy. This is a lovely home that I can already tell flourishes with life and love, and is one with the world around it. One of the most beautiful I've ever seen."
>You blushed slightly at his words
>"That is... One of the kindest things anypony has said to me. Thank you."
>He smiled back as he continued onwards towards the cottage
>"Everyone deserves a kind compliment once in a while."
>Once inside, Iroh found a sofa to sit on, which creaked slightly under his weight
>"I apologize." He laughed slightly with an embarrassed grin, "This furniture is obviously built for a smaller man than me."
>You flash him a small smile back and turn towards the kitchen
>"Oh don't worry. It's held larger critters than you before."
>"Now I'm the one feeling humble. Ha ha!"
>He slapped his belly as he let out a loud laugh that made you flinch
>He immediately seemed to notice and control himself quickly
>You grabbed your tea supplies and began setting them up
>"Angel, would you start a fire for me please?"
>Angel's white furry ears poked out of a small hole in the wall nearby, followed by his head
>Angel crawled out of his hiding spot and hopped slowly towards Iroh, who looked at the bunny in interest
>"And you are a very cute creature, my little friend."
>Iroh reached towards Angel, who almost immediately tried to bite him with a loud growl
>Iroh's eyes widened in surprise, as he pulled his hand away and Angel moved to the fireplace to set up the kettle
>"Although sometimes, cuteness is just as enjoyable from a distance."
>He looked at you for a moment, then towards Iroh, narrowing his eyes
>You could tell he was suspicious
 
>The fire was quickly lit, and as the kettle began to heat up, you sat yourself on the chair opposite of Iroh
>"Again Fluttershy, I have to thank you. You know, for spirits, you have been very kind to me. They tend to not like to associate with humans like me."
>You tilt your head in confusion
" Spirits? I'm a... Um, Pony. I don't know what this Spirit World is but is that where you came from?"
>Iroh looked up in thought, stroking his beard
>"This land did strike me as being more like my earthly home, now you mention it... But no. The Spirit World is not my home. Not yet, at least. But if we aren't there, then may I ask where I am?"
>Iroh's words concerned you. What else was in this Spirit World? Was there more things like him? Were they just as kind?
"We're in a place called Equestria, where ponies like me live in harmony with each other. Nearby is a small town, called Ponyville. I... don't know about any spirit world around here..."
>Iroh looked down, visibly looking sorrowful
>It made you hurt inside to see such sadness
>"B-but I think one of my friends might know!"
>You stammered out
>He nodded back with a gentle grin
>"Then we may yet have hope. While I am not the man to turn down the opportunity to have new experiences and meet new friends, I simply miss my family and would like to see them again soon."
>The tea kettle began to whistle as the water began to boil
>As you grabbed the not as hot handle with your teeth and set it on the coffee table nearby, you reach for your rather large collection of teas
>"What kind of tea can I get you, Mr. Iroh?"
>"Do you perhaps have Jasmine?"
>You grin as you pull out a small jar of tea leaves and place it in front of him
>"I hope you don't mind loose leaves. I can't get it bagged."
>He opened the lid and smelled the contents, letting out a hearty, satisfied sigh
>"Ah, even in a place as far from home like this, there are still things that are always the same."
 
>With nearly expert care, he grabbed just the right amount of dried leaves from the jar and settled them in his cup, followed swiftly by the steaming hot water
>You set up your own cup of a more herbal blend, and you both wait a moment for them to steep before adding sugar to yours
>You found he liked his plain
>He took a small sip, and an expression of relief crosses his face
>"A great cup of tea is always the best blessing one can have in trying times such as these. This is excellent tea, my friend."
>"Thank you. I... grew it myself."
>"One with a passion alongside my heart as well. I feel we may just get along."
>He raised his tea cup and winked at you, causing you to blush again to his flattery
 
>When you both were done with a couple cups each, you gather the kettle and cups and take them to the sink to be washed later
>"I can introduce you to my friends if you'd like now, Mr. Iroh. One of them is named Twilight Sparkle, and she's very smart when it comes to magical portal things."
>Rubbing his belly whilst taking in the soothing effects of the tea, he nodded
>"Only if they are as hospitable as you are."
>He stood up with his trademark laughter, this time coaxing a giggle out of you as well
>"This was nothing, really."
>"I disagree." He chuckled as you both walk out the door, "Where I come from, common courtesy and respect for your fellow man is a lost art. And it is a shame, for it only brings out the best in people."
>"It sounds like you come from a horrible place!"
>You gasp, fearing what kind of monsters wouldn't have tea with each other and be friends
>Iroh looks up in a sort of longing gaze
>"It is not a bad place, and deep inside all our hearts is a desire to do good. But it is unbalanced, and the disharmony leads people to not trust one another like they once did, across nations and oceans alike. I only hope one day, we will learn and grow from our mistakes."
>You fall quiet and you both walk in almost solemn thought for the rest of the journey into Ponyville
>It was the mid afternoon, and ponies were finishing up their shifts or bustling about the marketplace
>Until Iroh came into view of them, that is
>You stop as the town immediately quiets down to where you could hear a butterfly's wings flap
>They were all staring at the new alien creature in shock and maybe fear
>Iroh didn't seem to mind, and he raised a hand
>"Hello there, little ponies!"
>He was only greeted with silence and stares
>You decide to step in front of him, raising a hoof
>"Don't worry everypony! He's just a friend of mine."
 
>After a while the ponies started to resume what they were doing, albeit at a more hushed tone, keeping their eyes on the new visitor whenever they could
>As you led him through the market towards Twilight's Castle, you shook your head
>"I'm sorry Iroh, Ponies here... Still aren't very used to new visitors passing through."
>"It is perfectly fine, Fluttershy. I have my own experience in quaint towns like this. Often times, when you know everyone, strangers are even more strange and ominous."
>Raising a finger, he winked again
>"But the reward of being the stranger to win their trust is very worth the effort."
>"DID YOU SAY THERE'S A NEW GUY IN PONYVILLE AND NOPONY TOLD ME?!?!"
>The screeching, high-pitched voice echoed over the straw rooftops
>"Oh no."
>You braced yourself as a pink blur zoomed past you and stopped in front of Iroh
>"Oooooh! Hello there tall person! What's your name?"
>Pinkie was practically levitating with how rapidly she was hopping on the ground in excitement
>Iroh blinked in surprise, then resumed smiling
>"My, you are certainly... energetic. You can call me Iroh."
>Pinkie scratched her chin. "You seem more like an 'Uncle' type. Can I call you Uncle Iroh?! Or just Uncle for short?"
>Iroh's grin faded
>"Pinkie, let's not bother him too much. He just got here, and he's lost. I'm taking him to Twilight's so we can help him find his way back home-"
>"Usually only my nephew refers to me as such... But I would love it if you called me that."
>Iroh relaxed and resumed walking, Pinkie doing her hopping bound on his opposite side
>"Sooo, where do you come from, big guy?"
>Iroh chuckled, "Apparently a place far from here. Getting to the Spirit World from my home is already an ordeal, but I seem to be past there now. At least here, even so far from home, there is company here willing to help me back."
 
>"So you're lost huh? Well, maybe when we throw you a "Welcome to Ponyville, Let Us Help You Out" PARTY, it'll help jog your memory!"
>Iroh laughed, then shook his head, "There is no need for celebrations yet, little one. I am still tired from traveling, but maybe once we find out where I need to go, then perhaps, I shall share my joy with you."
>"Are you KIDDING?! Everypony needs a party! It's the best thing, like, ever!"
>Pinkie hopped up on two legs and pawed at his chest with her forehooves, making Iroh raise his hands, but he didn't seem scared, but instead shrugged
>"Well, if you insist, I won't turn an invitation down. But I would rather not embarrass you with my terrible dancing."
>You laugh alongside him as you reached the clearing next to Carousel Boutique, Pinkie jumping off and giggling along.
>A bell chimed in a nearby clock tower, Pinkie's smile disappearing immediately
>"Oh no! I'm late for my shift! But, uh, how about I have a party for you later tonight then? I swear we'll help you find your way home by then! And-"
>Pinkie hesitated as she noticed you glaring at her, making her visibly uncomfortable
>"... And I'll try and keep it quieter for you if you'd like, Uncle Iroh."
>"I shall be looking forward to it."
>The old man grinned as Pinkie bounded away with a smile
>Iroh immediately leaned in when the pink pony was out of sight, his expression losing its contentment, as he raised one hand to his mouth and pointed at where Pinkie left with another
>"She's certainly a handful."
>You roll your eyes slightly with a smile
"She's like that with everypony. She get's overly excited with every newcomer."
>"I can see that." Iroh stood back up as he stared upwards and patted the bald patch of his head.
>"I also see that I must have lost my hat in the forest on the way here, that's rather unfortunate. I would ask if there's a shop nearby, but I don't have any money."
 
>You glance over to the Boutique nearby and give him an optimistic smile
>"My friend Rarity lives just right here. She's a seamstress and I'm sure she'd be willing to help you out. ...Also, she's a bit more civilized than Pinkie, and likes tea even more than me."
>"Does she now?" Iroh smiled with a tad excitement in her voice
>You found yourselves already at her door, which you knocked with your hoof a couple times
>"Come in, Darling!"
>You open the door and are greeted with the usual colorful displays of dresses and gowns Rarity was known for
>The air itself was just as inviting with a warm, floral scent wafting through the air
>"Rarity? It's Fluttershy. I have a friend with me who needs a bit of help."
>The dressmaker pony was in another room
>By the sound of it, in the middle of rummaging through some supplies
>"Oh for sure, darling! Any friend of Fluttershy's is a friend of mine! Now just give me a moment, and I'll be right with you!"
>Iroh walked past a couple of clothes racks, inspecting the craftsmanship of the clothing with an amused expression
>"She sounds lovely." He whispered to you.
>"Oh she is. She's one of the fairest, most generous ponies I know."
>After a few moments, Rarity shuffled out of whatever chore she was in the middle of and stepped into the main lobby area
>"Now then, Fluttershy. Who is this wonderful friend of you- EGAD WHAT IS THAT?!"
>Rarity's screeching stung your ears, making you wince
>You look back up to see Rarity pointing a hoof at Iroh in abject horror
>"Now let's not make hasty judgements here." Iroh wagged a finger, before patting his belly
>"At my age, this is but a symbol of a satisfied life."
 
>Rarity changed tone on a turn of a dime as she walked around him, "Oh I didn't mean your weight, darling. I'm talking about these!"
>She grabbed the hem of his reddish-gray robe near his feet
>"This is pure embroidered silk! And a very high thread count at that! But look! It's tattered, torn, and extremely filthy! Oh, Mister, this won't do at all! Not at all!"
>Iroh smiled, shaking his head. "Please, my friend, there is no need to worry. This is an old uniform I have travelled many miles in, and I have more at home. I merely ask for a hat to shade this bald head from the sun."
>"A hat. You're walking around in this fashion nightmare and you ask. for. a. hat." Rarity sighed incredulously. "But what if you were invited to a formal event? A get together? A friendly afternoon picnic!? You may travel in these clothes, but so help me, you will not be walking around this town enjoying yourself in them!"
>Mid-rant, she gathered tape measures that snaked around Iroh's form and began jotting down her measurements on a notepad at the same time
>Iroh fell silent this time, his eyes widening as he watched several objects levitate around him in dizzying speed
>After a few moments, he resumed in an even, albeit slightly more rapid tone of voice that didn't quite match his confused expression
>"Well if you insist, I feel like something green and yellow is a lovely color for this season, but please keep it simple."
>"Rarity, please."
>"Oh don't worry a single bit. You will be treated properly here, and I guarantee you will like the results. There. Now it should only take a few moments and I'll whip something right up!"
>"Um, Rarity..."
>"Yes, Fluttershy?"
>"Could he just have a hat in the meantime?"
>"And perhaps some tea?" Iroh interjected
 
>Rarity blinked. "Oh my goodness, I completely forgot my manners in my fluster! Oh silly me!"
>She ushered you and Iroh into the nearest lounging area and sat you down.
>"Now I already had a kettle heating up, so we can enjoy some tea quite shortly, heh... Now," Rarity sat herself on an opposite lounging couch, bringing a sketchpad with her to draw out her ideas "First of all, I do hope you'll forgive me, sir. You must understand I tend to get a bit riled up in these sorts of things."
>Iroh seemed to relax slightly, but was still curiously looking at the floating pad of paper that was being scribbled on "I hold no grudge to a lady that enjoys her passion, and may I say, bolsters it with talent. I'm no real judge of your kind's fashion choice, but I find many works here to be stunning and inspiring."
>"Oh my, thank you, you're such a gentlemen." Rarity chuckled, blushing much like you did when he complimented you and raising a hoof to her mouth.
>"And you are very generous, yourself," Iroh laughed, " You need not put such time and effort to clothe an old, tired traveler who you barely even know."
>Rarity grinned back, "But that's the thing, darling, you don't know me." She punctuated by pointing her charcoal stick at Iroh "Fluttershy here would tell you all about the lengths I will go to make sure everyone around me is both presentable and comfortable in their own skin."
>"Then you have my respect." Iroh grinned
>A distant whistle could be heard, causing Rarity to jump up,
>"Oh! That's the kettle!"
>Her horn flickered again and the kettle levitated its way into the room
>"That is a mighty skill, you have."
>The kettle paused in mid air, "I beg your pardon?"
>"To levitate an object with such skill and finesse. You must be a master."
>"Oh psh ffk tsh, it's nothing. All us unicorns have this ability... Though, some are able to do it more gracefully than others." She flashed a toothy smile as the cups and tea soon followed into the room.
 
>"Now what may I get you?"
>"Actually, what would you recommend?" Iroh stroked his beard
>Rarity looked intrigued, "Oh you must try this. A mint infused Oolong with my own special blend of spices. It's sophisticated, strong, and keeps the mind sharp and ready for a long day."
>"That sounds wonderful."
>"Fluttershy?"
>"I'll pass." You smiled back.
>To be honest, you weren't paying much attention to the conversation, and instead, looking around the selection of hats that Rarity had around the shop
>A wide brimmed one looked nice, causing you to slip off the couch to look at it closer while the conversation continued
>"So what is your name, my very well-mannered guest of mine?" Rarity chimed
>"You may call me Iroh. And what is the name of such a generous and might I say beautiful lady such as yourself?"
>"Oh darling, you're making me blush, hehehe. I'm Rarity, and it's an absolute pleasure to meet you, Iroh."