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Description

“Don’t leave me..!”
    As if a jolt of electricity was sent through his body, Singe jolted awake from his deep, yet restless sleep. Wide eyes, he stared at the ceiling before realizing that it was just a dream. Even now as he tried to gather bearings and calm his racing heart, the dream slipped through the cracks and faded away. Whatever had terrified him so badly was forgotten like dust in the wind. Singe let out a groan, knowing full well he wasn’t going to be able to get back to sleep. But when he tried to sit up, he felt a huge weight on his chest, as a form under the covers shifted and snuggled in tight.
    Singe blinked a few times before very gently pulling back the covers, seeing Daniel’s limbs wrapped around his torso, his head resting on Singe’s chest over his heart. Sometime during the night, the two stallions must have accidently started cuddling. His face burned bright red as he flopped his head back on the pillow, staring at the ceiling once more. It really wouldn’t be that much of an issue… if Singe was wearing more the just his boxers. He only hopes that Daniel won’t freak out when he wakes up. If Singe moves, he’ll wake Daniel up. If he doesn’t, Daniel will wake up on his own and either be completely chill with it or… likely freak out and throw him out. The stallion is hard to read.

  But besides that, Singe still likes him. A lot. And he can tell Daniel likes him too but… Singe isn’t too sure in what way. Are they really just friends? Or is Daniel interested in something more? Normally with his go-getter attitude, Singe would have already taken the plunge and asked the pretty stallion out, but with Daniel just having gone through a “break up”, Singe really didn’t want to be that guy. Some ponies need time to recover, he of all ponies knows that… His mind drifts to the last mare he tried dating. Singe had already deleted every photo he had of her but Destiny’s face was still as vivid in his memory as the day he first met her. His fists clenched the sheets as he tensed up again, only getting irritated just thinking about the back-stabbing bitch.
Singe: Tch.. *muttering under his breath* I should just give up…
Daniel: Give up on what….?
    Singe’s body jerked as his eyes went wide, heart racing wildly in his chest. Oh shit, He’s awake! How much of what Singe was thinking to himself did he say out loud?
Singe: Erk--! S-sorry.. I uh… didn’t mean to wake you… *his voice still dry and raspy*
Daniel: It’s alright… This is usually the time I wake up…. *yaaaaaawns*
Singe: *clears his throat, trying to calm down* Ahem.. hmmmm.. So uh.. how did you sleep?
Daniel: I slept good… *ear twitches against Singe’s chest* What about you… I was a little concerned..
Singe: *ears perk* Uh.. c-concerned? About what?
Daniel: *lifts his head to look at Singe, only one eye was open* Your heartbeat was really fast at some point.. Usually when somepony’s heart rate picks up during sleep, it is because of a bad dream..
Singe: … Oh… yeah. It must have just been a dream. *scratching his messy bed head* hmm… I can’t remember what it was for the life of me though.. Must have not been all that important, right? hehehe~
Daniel: *sits up and uses his claws to calm down his wild hair* It is best not to underestimate dreams, bad or good.. They can be very important and have deeper meanings than you can imagine..
Singe: *sits up and stretches* MMmmm~ I’ll try to remember that.. Either way, it’s forgotten now.
Daniel: *brings one of his wings to his front to start preening himself* Other than the dream, your sleep was good.. I hope being in the same bed was not a problem.. When I made the offer, you seemed very unsure about it…
Singe: Mmm? Oh no, I slept great actually. Your bed is super comfy and….. *deciding to take the plunge* ….. It was nice to sleep next to another warm body. It’s definitely something I could get use to on a regular basis~
Daniel: Hmm.. It was rather nice.. *gets out of the bed to stretch his wings and shake them out* More comfortable than holding onto a pillow..
Singe: *ear twitches* Uh-huh... Hmm.. *as he sat up on the edge of the bed and reached for his earlier discarded clothing*
Daniel: *walks to the corner of the room, petting the now sleeping Dewberry as she hung upside down* If you like, I could make the breakfast this time.. Since you did it last time..
Singe: *stands and pulls on his jeans* Sure! Hehehe, food sounds good. *as he pulls on his shirt taking time to get his wings through the proper holes*
Daniel: Make yourself comfortable, I won’t take too long.. *opens the door and looks around the living room* You could watch tv, or take part in the video games.. I’m not sure about the books…
Singe: *looks around the living room* Uh.. sure. *glances at the bookshelf, curious about what he meant by the books* …. Harry Trotter huh? I never read the series before. Is it any good? *picks up the first book and reads the back cover*
Daniel: *tail fluffs up* It is better than good.. It is my most favorite book series.. *tail wags*
Singe: Huh… Okay. *as he plops on the couch with the book and starts reading*
    With the exception of the noises coming from the small kitchen, it was fairly quiet in the apartment. While Singe read the book, Daniel took control of cooking. Remembering he had a vegetarian guest, he refrained from pulling out the extra meat from the fridge, only taking out enough for himself. Eventually he finished, but instead of putting it at the table, he decided to put Singe’s plate on the coffee table.
Daniel: Here you go.. I hope it is good..
Singe: *doesn’t answer right away, flipping onto the next page* …… uh huh…….
Daniel: ….. *reaches to tap on the book* Cinder..
Singe: *jumps a little and looks up at Daniel with big blue eyes* Huh? Oh..! heheh, sorry! You say something?
Daniel: Breakfast is ready.. *looks at the book* Enjoying it so far.?
Singe: *looks down at the book and memorizes what page he’s one before closing it and setting it to the side* Yes, very much so actually. The main character is very relatable, I already want to pummel his cousin into the ground, hehehe~
Daniel: You and every other die hard fan.. *sees the empty bowl that used to have strawberries in it before taking it to the kitchen* If you like, you can borrow the book. I do not mind.
Singe: *starts eating his breakfast* Hmm? Really? I mean…*swallows* I’m not going to be staying in Canterlot for very much longer. You might not get it back for another three months..
Daniel: Apart from my night shifts, I have the flexibility to travel during the day.. I could just fly to where you are when you’re done..
Singe: *ears perk* Oh.. That must be nice, hehehe. Sure, if it’s okay with you, I’d like to see how the story ends.
Daniel: *eyes open a bit wider* The story is far from over from this one book. *points to the others on his shelf* It continues as the character gets older..
Singe: *eyes go wide and lets out a low whistle* …. So this is a long term type of investment, huh? … *thinks about it* …. Yeah, I think I’m ready for that kind of commitment.
Daniel: If you like, I could bring the next book when your done with this one.. You’ll want to jump into it once you’re done. Trust me..
Singe: *raises one finger* Only if you allow me to take you out for lunch for your troubles~
Daniel: *ears perk up* Lunch..? Uhm, alright.. I don’t see why not.
Singe: Or dinner… either or is fine. I don’t want you to just fly all the way across Equestria and then turn around and leave, hehehe!
Daniel: Hmm.. Having to commute comes with the job.. But I wouldn’t mind flying a great distance for a nice lunch or dinner with you..
Singe: *ears perk as he stopped eating* …. Heh, I’d offer to do the same but it might take longer to go by train. *takes the apple and bites into it*
Daniel: *tilts his head* Why the train..? Why not just fly.?
Singe: *takes his time chewing before swallowing* … I can’t. I uh…. can’t fly. *looking down at his food as he continued eating*
    Daniel paused and glanced to Singe’s wings. Even if he was still a bit drowsy from not having his morning coffee yet, he remembered seeing burn scars on Singe’s back before going to sleep. Putting two and two together, he figured perhaps the burns had something to do with it.
Daniel: I see.. I’m sorry, I did not mean to pry..
Singe: *doesn’t look up from his plate* It’s fine. But yeah, that’s probably why I don’t really bother preening my wings all that often… They don’t really get used, hehe... *cracking a smile to disperse the awkwardness*
Daniel: … Even so, they are still very nice.. *pets Singe’s wings gently*
Singe: *finishing off his plate* Hehe, I think you’ve mentioned that before~ Thanks.. I’m……. Heh, I’m rather “attached” to them myself~
Daniel: *stops petting and lets out a snort* SNRK!
Singe: *ear perk straight up as he looks up at Daniel* ……. *gets a biiig grin on his face* Hehe, you like that? I could probably take the joke “feather” if you want..
Daniel: *plumage fluffs up, like he’s trying not to laugh*
Singe: But I’m just “flying” by the seat of my pants.. You’ll have to tell me if they get too… “fowl”.. For your liking..?
Daniel: *covers his muzzle and turns away, tail wagging*
Singe: *waves his hand* Okay, okay, “Owl” stop while I’m “a-hen” of myself. I just hate “robin” all the spotlight for myself~ *eyebrow waggles at Daniel*
Daniel: *puts his hand to Singe’s face* Your humor greatly matches your skill in the carnival tent.. I surrender to the puns before I combust from laughter..
Singe: *snorts, before dryly responding* Heh.. I’m glad you got a “hoot” out of that~
Daniel: Mmm! *shoulders tremble as both hands cover his mouth, muffled chuckles coming from him*
Singe: *grins as he gently pulls Daniel’s hands away from his mouth* Hehe, what’s wrong, little robin? Your laughs are cute.They are a songbird’s melody to my ears~ *grinning smugly*
Daniel: *keeps his head turned to the side, but his cheeks are red, and he is chuckling… yet still not smiling* M-my apologies, those puns were just really funny, heh.. I really like them. You tell puns better than my uncle..
Singe: *without missing a beat* I found them on “Tweet-er”, hehehe~ And there is no need to apologize. It’s part of my job to make my audience laugh and smile! *kisses Daniel’s hand* Thank you for being such a wonderful audience~
Daniel: *fluffs up a little* Mm… My pleasure, heh..
Singe: *grins* I have plenty more puns where that came from, but I’ll save them for another time. I don’t want to use them all in one fell “swoop”. That would be a “cheep” shot~
Daniel: *raises an eyebrow* Maybe when you introduce me to your carnival friends.. I am curious about them, especially the small contortionist.. She seemed really nice when I looked into backstage..
Singe: … *his ear twitches* Hmm.. You mean Mari? Hehehe, yeah she’s a sweetie alright, when she isn’t trying to constantly mother-hen the rest of the carnies…. Uh.. pun not intended that time, hehe.
Daniel: I’m sure she does.. It will be a pleasure to meet her… Perhaps, I can meet her later tonight?
Singe: Uh.. yeah sure! I can bring you back stage to meet her....
Daniel: Great..! I look forward to it.. *hears the coffee maker go off and gets up to get a cup*
    Stepping away from the couch, Daniel’s ears perked as he heard a voice coming from his bedroom. It sounded muffled, but the words “Danny” kept repeating, among other things. Oh boy… Setting his cup down he trotted to his room quickly and opened the drawer of his nightstand, his guard badge flashing as the very familiar voice of a comrade spoke from it. Once the drawer was open, the voice only got louder, being able to be heard from the other room.
???: Danny! Dasher, I swear to Luna’s fat ass, you better pick up!
Daniel: *grunts, picking up the badge and touching it* What is it, Bates..?!
Bates: It’s about damn time! You didn’t answer your phone!
Daniel: It’s on silent, and for good reason.. Now what, did something happen?
Bates: You got watch tonight, just letting you know. The schedules changed yesterday.
Daniel: And it took you til now to tell me that..?
Bates: Well excuse me Sleeping Beauty, but you’re the one who gets pissy when I wake you up earlier than 5 in the am!
Daniel: *snorts* Whatever… I’ll be there.. I have to go somewhere today so-
Bates: I swear to goddess if you’re late, I will come get you myself.
Daniel: I don’t need a babysitter…!
Bates: Clearly you do, you baby-faced pretty boy!
The badge stopped flashing and Bates had left. Daniel rolled his eyes as he took his badge and snapped it back into the inside of his wallet like he always did before leaving his apartment in the day. Setting it on the nightstand he fixed his messy mane. As if his brother wasn’t enough trouble, Damion was still very crude to Daniel and his squad. While he proved to be an unusual secret friend to them, he was still a jerk when in the presence of other ponies.
Daniel: *stomping his hooves a little as he heads back for the coffee* Up tight, muscle-headed, bat-shit crazy dick…. *pours himself coffee, grumbling, his tail frizzed up completely*
Singe: *stares at Daniel as he stomps around the apartment with wide eyes* ……… *sluuuuuuurps his coffee* …. So uh…. I take it you have to uh.. go to work?
Daniel: *ears perk up, realizing Singe was still there* Oh.. I don’t, not until tonight.. The shifts were changed, I must have been swapped out with someone else..
Singe: Ah I see. Sorry to hear about that… *glances to the side*
Daniel: *looks over his shoulder* I apologize you heard my outburst.. The ponies I work with are a pain sometimes.. *walks over with a full cup of coffee* But I probably should have expected that when I enlisted in the guard.
Singe: *ears perk* You are in the guard..?!
Daniel: *nods as he sips coffee* The Lunar Guard to be more specific.. I entered last year, not long after my birthday..
Singe: Woooah! Talk about an exciting career choice! No wonder you did so well on that Strong Pony Challenge game, hehehe~
Daniel: *neck fluffs a bit* Th-thank you.. I do not mean to boast, but I’d have to be to be a swordsman specialist..
Singe: *grins* No shit? That’s pretty wicked though. Makes a lot more sense why a sensible pony like you is living in a crummy place like Canterlot, hahaha~
Daniel: Makes the commute easy enough.. I don’t know about sensible though, I have been told my choice in career wasn’t the best… If not the worst thing I could have done..
Singe: *grimaces* I wouldn’t go as far as say the Worst career choice… I mean, I’m pretty sure being a garbage pony is far worse, hehehe~ Or hell, you could be a carnival performer! *with a playful wink* I’d say being a guard is pretty damn respectable. Nothing is better than fighting for your country, right?
Daniel: *looks at Singe, his neck fluffing more* Mm… That’s kind of you to say.. Granted a carnival performer sounds more fun… But, well- *grabs a picture off the wall* -when you look like this before basic training, you tend to scare family members with your life choices..
In a small picture frame Daniel held out, there was a photo of him when he was younger, thinner and much smaller looking. It wasn’t too hard to see why it was hard to think a pegasus his size could make it in the Night Guard.
Daniel: They thought I was so fragile I’d break the first day..
Singe: *squints his eyes to look at the photo* ….. Geez, you’re nothin’ but skin and bones here. *looks up at Daniel and compares* ….. Filled out pretty nicely, I’d say~ Nothing but a healthy hearty diet and a regular work out regimen can’t fix. *nods*
Daniel: *sets the picture down* It took a lot to get through the training, but I passed.. I’m content with this choice, even if others in my family think differently of it… *eyebrows twitch a little* But they can’t argue with the reason why I did it..
Singe: And why’s that?
Daniel: *sits down* Last year, a very close friend was caught in a dangerous situation.. I tried to help when they were attacked by a larger opponent, but I was too weak.. Too small to handle it.. *ears droop* I blacked out after I was thrown down, but we got out of it safely in one piece.. But after I woke up, and I saw my friend again, I felt so bad… I failed to protect them like I promised I would when needed… I wanted to get stronger.. For me, and my family..
Singe: *ears fold back flat to his head* ……. That does seem like a pretty good reason, doesn’t it? *smiles sincerely at Daniel* Well, I’m happy for you~ I think you’ll make a damn fine guard! Heaven’s know I’d feel a lot safer walking around know there were guards like you out there keeping Equestria safe~
Daniel: ……. Now you’re just buttering me up… *cheeks turn a little pink*
Singe: *grins* I mean it! I know I could never do what you do. You are, like, in a whole other league then me, heheh~ *as he gets up to put his empty mug in the sink*
Daniel: Hmm.. I wouldn’t be so sure about that.. If started much earlier in life, I can see you passing as a guard from the look of how your muscles form with your metabolism.. *sluuuuuuuuuurps coffee, thinking, “Why did I say that, I sound like I was ogling!” *
Singe: *snorts as he rinses out his mug* Snrk! Hehehe, well I have to keep in good shape for my job.. I mean, I doubt you’d want to watch a flabby, fat and saggy shirtless firedancer flip torches. If I caught myself on fire then, I’d probably smell like bacon!
Daniel: *snorts and chokes on his coffee* KAAA!
Singe: *snickers as he leans against the doorframe* You okay there?.... But yeah, jokes aside, I’d probably be a pretty shitty guard. I’m not very good at following orders, hehehe.. I actually thought about joining after I ran away from home… but I was only 16 at the time soooo yeaaaah that wasn’t an option..
Daniel: *rubs his throat* Ahem!... I can understand that… *coughs in his fist* To be completely honest with you, my squad and I aren’t all that good at following orders either..
Singe: *grins* Oh really? I for some reason can’t really picture you being much of a rebel~
Daniel: There have been occasions where I was possibly part of a few…. Pranks, slight robbery from the mess hall and jokes in the training area I was dragged into… I was lucky to only get a slap on the wrist from the General themselves when caught..
Singe: *raises an eyebrow* Wow…. Scandalous…
Daniel: And then there was the time I gave a few of the Lieutenants hot-tails…
Singe: “Hot-tails”...? I’m.. not even going to ask… I’d hate to break it to you Danny, but your idea of being “rebellious” is kind of adorable if not on the sweet side~
Daniel: *plumage and wings ruffle* Hrmmm… I never got into a lot of trouble as a child.. The highest my “rebellious teen phase” ever got me was a punch in the face and a missing tooth from my uncle when I pissed him off..
Singe: ….. Uh-huh. Well, there is nothing wrong with that, hehehe. Some ponies are just more innocent then others I suppose. Plus, I’m sure with how strict the rules are with the guard, you probably can’t have as much fun playing around.
Daniel: *sighs* It’s not like I do much “exciting” things outside of work anyway..
Singe:.. Well, I guess we just need to fix that then!
Daniel: Oh.? How so..?
Singe: *cheshire cat like grin* Let’s be a little rebellious tonight! It will be my last night in Canterlot before the carnival moves to the next town, lets make the most of it!
Daniel: *looks back at Singe* .. What are you suggesting.?
Singe: A night on the town! You, me, and the night to ourselves. We can go club hopping and dance the night away~
Daniel: T-tonight..? I can’t do that, I have to go on post..!
Singe: *without missing a beat* Then play hookie!
Daniel: I can’t play the hookie, I’ll get in trouble..!
Singe: ….. *facepalms* That’s the whole point of being rebellious, Daniel..
Daniel: *ears droop* Oh sweet Luna…
Singe: Oh come on, what’s the worst that can happen?
Daniel: *looks up* A lot..
Singe: *waves his hand* You are just over reacting! If nothing else, they can find someone to take your place, right? Come on, where is your sense of adventure?
Daniel: *mumbles quietly to himself* Shriveled up and dying in the corner of my closet… *shakes his head* Hmph…. *taps his hoof as he thinks it over* ……. Alright.. But, just this once..!
Singe: *ears perk* Wait, really? I.. I was kind of just joking, hehehe!
Daniel: *fluffs up a little at Singe, his pupils turning to slits* Make up your bloody mind you fire dancing cute--! *pauses* …… I mean…. C-c-..... You’re just weird… and crazy… you know that, right…?
Singe: Hehehe! I get that alot, actually~ And you somehow find that endearing otherwise you wouldn’t still be with me, am I right?
Daniel: *ear twitches* …… *gets up and goes to his room, closing the door*
Singe: Uh.. ummmm………. Hey! *fluffs up and pouts a little* You know I’m right, Danny! *grumbles to himself* So what if I’m crazy… I’m also cute so it counterbalances it, right? *grumble grumble*
Daniel: *opens the door after a few minutes, fully dressed and strapping a belt on him* That’s a bit debatable, maybe.. But I will admit, you are nice company to have around..
Singe: Well….. I guess I’ll take what I can get? Hehehe~ If we are going to hang out today, I’d like to shower and get a fresh change of clothes first.
Daniel: *nods his head* Of course.. *makes his muzzle scrunch a little* You did have a rather thick scent on you last night… Like kerosene and burnt fur..
Singe: *scrunches his muzzle a little before sniffing his own arm* ……… hmmm, I don’t smell it, but I wouldn’t be surprised, especially with my line of work. I’d have to go back to my trailer, then we can do whatever you want for the rest of the day~
Daniel: Sounds like a plan.. *takes a second to check on the sleeping Dewberry, giving her a gentle pat on the head.* I’ll be back later, okay..?

Dewberry: *lets out a squeaky yawn*
Daniel: Hm.. *grabs his keys and heads for the door* I will say one more thing though, Cinderplume… I do like the scent of fire and smoke.. It’s very alluring, so I suppose it’s not too bad waking up to…~
Singe: *ears perk before grabbing the book before heading towards the door* Oh…. Heh, I suppose I’ll have to keep that in mind~
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Hehe, nothing like a good dose of puns to start off your day! After BronyCon, the birbs are right back at it again! Catch up on what you missed by going to or checking out the discord server! --> discord.gg/sd3AgGT

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Description

“Don’t leave me..!”
    As if a jolt of electricity was sent through his body, Singe jolted awake from his deep, yet restless sleep. Wide eyes, he stared at the ceiling before realizing that it was just a dream. Even now as he tried to gather bearings and calm his racing heart, the dream slipped through the cracks and faded away. Whatever had terrified him so badly was forgotten like dust in the wind. Singe let out a groan, knowing full well he wasn’t going to be able to get back to sleep. But when he tried to sit up, he felt a huge weight on his chest, as a form under the covers shifted and snuggled in tight.
    Singe blinked a few times before very gently pulling back the covers, seeing Daniel’s limbs wrapped around his torso, his head resting on Singe’s chest over his heart. Sometime during the night, the two stallions must have accidently started cuddling. His face burned bright red as he flopped his head back on the pillow, staring at the ceiling once more. It really wouldn’t be that much of an issue… if Singe was wearing more the just his boxers. He only hopes that Daniel won’t freak out when he wakes up. If Singe moves, he’ll wake Daniel up. If he doesn’t, Daniel will wake up on his own and either be completely chill with it or… likely freak out and throw him out. The stallion is hard to read.

  But besides that, Singe still likes him. A lot. And he can tell Daniel likes him too but… Singe isn’t too sure in what way. Are they really just friends? Or is Daniel interested in something more? Normally with his go-getter attitude, Singe would have already taken the plunge and asked the pretty stallion out, but with Daniel just having gone through a “break up”, Singe really didn’t want to be that guy. Some ponies need time to recover, he of all ponies knows that… His mind drifts to the last mare he tried dating. Singe had already deleted every photo he had of her but Destiny’s face was still as vivid in his memory as the day he first met her. His fists clenched the sheets as he tensed up again, only getting irritated just thinking about the back-stabbing bitch.
Singe: Tch.. *muttering under his breath* I should just give up…
Daniel: Give up on what….?
    Singe’s body jerked as his eyes went wide, heart racing wildly in his chest. Oh shit, He’s awake! How much of what Singe was thinking to himself did he say out loud?
Singe: Erk--! S-sorry.. I uh… didn’t mean to wake you… *his voice still dry and raspy*
Daniel: It’s alright… This is usually the time I wake up…. *yaaaaaawns*
Singe: *clears his throat, trying to calm down* Ahem.. hmmmm.. So uh.. how did you sleep?
Daniel: I slept good… *ear twitches against Singe’s chest* What about you… I was a little concerned..
Singe: *ears perk* Uh.. c-concerned? About what?
Daniel: *lifts his head to look at Singe, only one eye was open* Your heartbeat was really fast at some point.. Usually when somepony’s heart rate picks up during sleep, it is because of a bad dream..
Singe: … Oh… yeah. It must have just been a dream. *scratching his messy bed head* hmm… I can’t remember what it was for the life of me though.. Must have not been all that important, right? hehehe~
Daniel: *sits up and uses his claws to calm down his wild hair* It is best not to underestimate dreams, bad or good.. They can be very important and have deeper meanings than you can imagine..
Singe: *sits up and stretches* MMmmm~ I’ll try to remember that.. Either way, it’s forgotten now.
Daniel: *brings one of his wings to his front to start preening himself* Other than the dream, your sleep was good.. I hope being in the same bed was not a problem.. When I made the offer, you seemed very unsure about it…
Singe: Mmm? Oh no, I slept great actually. Your bed is super comfy and….. *deciding to take the plunge* ….. It was nice to sleep next to another warm body. It’s definitely something I could get use to on a regular basis~
Daniel: Hmm.. It was rather nice.. *gets out of the bed to stretch his wings and shake them out* More comfortable than holding onto a pillow..
Singe: *ear twitches* Uh-huh... Hmm.. *as he sat up on the edge of the bed and reached for his earlier discarded clothing*
Daniel: *walks to the corner of the room, petting the now sleeping Dewberry as she hung upside down* If you like, I could make the breakfast this time.. Since you did it last time..
Singe: *stands and pulls on his jeans* Sure! Hehehe, food sounds good. *as he pulls on his shirt taking time to get his wings through the proper holes*
Daniel: Make yourself comfortable, I won’t take too long.. *opens the door and looks around the living room* You could watch tv, or take part in the video games.. I’m not sure about the books…
Singe: *looks around the living room* Uh.. sure. *glances at the bookshelf, curious about what he meant by the books* …. Harry Trotter huh? I never read the series before. Is it any good? *picks up the first book and reads the back cover*
Daniel: *tail fluffs up* It is better than good.. It is my most favorite book series.. *tail wags*
Singe: Huh… Okay. *as he plops on the couch with the book and starts reading*
    With the exception of the noises coming from the small kitchen, it was fairly quiet in the apartment. While Singe read the book, Daniel took control of cooking. Remembering he had a vegetarian guest, he refrained from pulling out the extra meat from the fridge, only taking out enough for himself. Eventually he finished, but instead of putting it at the table, he decided to put Singe’s plate on the coffee table.
Daniel: Here you go.. I hope it is good..
Singe: *doesn’t answer right away, flipping onto the next page* …… uh huh…….
Daniel: ….. *reaches to tap on the book* Cinder..
Singe: *jumps a little and looks up at Daniel with big blue eyes* Huh? Oh..! heheh, sorry! You say something?
Daniel: Breakfast is ready.. *looks at the book* Enjoying it so far.?
Singe: *looks down at the book and memorizes what page he’s one before closing it and setting it to the side* Yes, very much so actually. The main character is very relatable, I already want to pummel his cousin into the ground, hehehe~
Daniel: You and every other die hard fan.. *sees the empty bowl that used to have strawberries in it before taking it to the kitchen* If you like, you can borrow the book. I do not mind.
Singe: *starts eating his breakfast* Hmm? Really? I mean…*swallows* I’m not going to be staying in Canterlot for very much longer. You might not get it back for another three months..
Daniel: Apart from my night shifts, I have the flexibility to travel during the day.. I could just fly to where you are when you’re done..
Singe: *ears perk* Oh.. That must be nice, hehehe. Sure, if it’s okay with you, I’d like to see how the story ends.
Daniel: *eyes open a bit wider* The story is far from over from this one book. *points to the others on his shelf* It continues as the character gets older..
Singe: *eyes go wide and lets out a low whistle* …. So this is a long term type of investment, huh? … *thinks about it* …. Yeah, I think I’m ready for that kind of commitment.
Daniel: If you like, I could bring the next book when your done with this one.. You’ll want to jump into it once you’re done. Trust me..
Singe: *raises one finger* Only if you allow me to take you out for lunch for your troubles~
Daniel: *ears perk up* Lunch..? Uhm, alright.. I don’t see why not.
Singe: Or dinner… either or is fine. I don’t want you to just fly all the way across Equestria and then turn around and leave, hehehe!
Daniel: Hmm.. Having to commute comes with the job.. But I wouldn’t mind flying a great distance for a nice lunch or dinner with you..
Singe: *ears perk as he stopped eating* …. Heh, I’d offer to do the same but it might take longer to go by train. *takes the apple and bites into it*
Daniel: *tilts his head* Why the train..? Why not just fly.?
Singe: *takes his time chewing before swallowing* … I can’t. I uh…. can’t fly. *looking down at his food as he continued eating*
    Daniel paused and glanced to Singe’s wings. Even if he was still a bit drowsy from not having his morning coffee yet, he remembered seeing burn scars on Singe’s back before going to sleep. Putting two and two together, he figured perhaps the burns had something to do with it.
Daniel: I see.. I’m sorry, I did not mean to pry..
Singe: *doesn’t look up from his plate* It’s fine. But yeah, that’s probably why I don’t really bother preening my wings all that often… They don’t really get used, hehe... *cracking a smile to disperse the awkwardness*
Daniel: … Even so, they are still very nice.. *pets Singe’s wings gently*
Singe: *finishing off his plate* Hehe, I think you’ve mentioned that before~ Thanks.. I’m……. Heh, I’m rather “attached” to them myself~
Daniel: *stops petting and lets out a snort* SNRK!
Singe: *ear perk straight up as he looks up at Daniel* ……. *gets a biiig grin on his face* Hehe, you like that? I could probably take the joke “feather” if you want..
Daniel: *plumage fluffs up, like he’s trying not to laugh*
Singe: But I’m just “flying” by the seat of my pants.. You’ll have to tell me if they get too… “fowl”.. For your liking..?
Daniel: *covers his muzzle and turns away, tail wagging*
Singe: *waves his hand* Okay, okay, “Owl” stop while I’m “a-hen” of myself. I just hate “robin” all the spotlight for myself~ *eyebrow waggles at Daniel*
Daniel: *puts his hand to Singe’s face* Your humor greatly matches your skill in the carnival tent.. I surrender to the puns before I combust from laughter..
Singe: *snorts, before dryly responding* Heh.. I’m glad you got a “hoot” out of that~
Daniel: Mmm! *shoulders tremble as both hands cover his mouth, muffled chuckles coming from him*
Singe: *grins as he gently pulls Daniel’s hands away from his mouth* Hehe, what’s wrong, little robin? Your laughs are cute.They are a songbird’s melody to my ears~ *grinning smugly*
Daniel: *keeps his head turned to the side, but his cheeks are red, and he is chuckling… yet still not smiling* M-my apologies, those puns were just really funny, heh.. I really like them. You tell puns better than my uncle..
Singe: *without missing a beat* I found them on “Tweet-er”, hehehe~ And there is no need to apologize. It’s part of my job to make my audience laugh and smile! *kisses Daniel’s hand* Thank you for being such a wonderful audience~
Daniel: *fluffs up a little* Mm… My pleasure, heh..
Singe: *grins* I have plenty more puns where that came from, but I’ll save them for another time. I don’t want to use them all in one fell “swoop”. That would be a “cheep” shot~
Daniel: *raises an eyebrow* Maybe when you introduce me to your carnival friends.. I am curious about them, especially the small contortionist.. She seemed really nice when I looked into backstage..
Singe: … *his ear twitches* Hmm.. You mean Mari? Hehehe, yeah she’s a sweetie alright, when she isn’t trying to constantly mother-hen the rest of the carnies…. Uh.. pun not intended that time, hehe.
Daniel: I’m sure she does.. It will be a pleasure to meet her… Perhaps, I can meet her later tonight?
Singe: Uh.. yeah sure! I can bring you back stage to meet her....
Daniel: Great..! I look forward to it.. *hears the coffee maker go off and gets up to get a cup*
    Stepping away from the couch, Daniel’s ears perked as he heard a voice coming from his bedroom. It sounded muffled, but the words “Danny” kept repeating, among other things. Oh boy… Setting his cup down he trotted to his room quickly and opened the drawer of his nightstand, his guard badge flashing as the very familiar voice of a comrade spoke from it. Once the drawer was open, the voice only got louder, being able to be heard from the other room.
???: Danny! Dasher, I swear to Luna’s fat ass, you better pick up!
Daniel: *grunts, picking up the badge and touching it* What is it, Bates..?!
Bates: It’s about damn time! You didn’t answer your phone!
Daniel: It’s on silent, and for good reason.. Now what, did something happen?
Bates: You got watch tonight, just letting you know. The schedules changed yesterday.
Daniel: And it took you til now to tell me that..?
Bates: Well excuse me Sleeping Beauty, but you’re the one who gets pissy when I wake you up earlier than 5 in the am!
Daniel: *snorts* Whatever… I’ll be there.. I have to go somewhere today so-
Bates: I swear to goddess if you’re late, I will come get you myself.
Daniel: I don’t need a babysitter…!
Bates: Clearly you do, you baby-faced pretty boy!
The badge stopped flashing and Bates had left. Daniel rolled his eyes as he took his badge and snapped it back into the inside of his wallet like he always did before leaving his apartment in the day. Setting it on the nightstand he fixed his messy mane. As if his brother wasn’t enough trouble, Damion was still very crude to Daniel and his squad. While he proved to be an unusual secret friend to them, he was still a jerk when in the presence of other ponies.
Daniel: *stomping his hooves a little as he heads back for the coffee* Up tight, muscle-headed, bat-shit crazy dick…. *pours himself coffee, grumbling, his tail frizzed up completely*
Singe: *stares at Daniel as he stomps around the apartment with wide eyes* ……… *sluuuuuuurps his coffee* …. So uh…. I take it you have to uh.. go to work?
Daniel: *ears perk up, realizing Singe was still there* Oh.. I don’t, not until tonight.. The shifts were changed, I must have been swapped out with someone else..
Singe: Ah I see. Sorry to hear about that… *glances to the side*
Daniel: *looks over his shoulder* I apologize you heard my outburst.. The ponies I work with are a pain sometimes.. *walks over with a full cup of coffee* But I probably should have expected that when I enlisted in the guard.
Singe: *ears perk* You are in the guard..?!
Daniel: *nods as he sips coffee* The Lunar Guard to be more specific.. I entered last year, not long after my birthday..
Singe: Woooah! Talk about an exciting career choice! No wonder you did so well on that Strong Pony Challenge game, hehehe~
Daniel: *neck fluffs a bit* Th-thank you.. I do not mean to boast, but I’d have to be to be a swordsman specialist..
Singe: *grins* No shit? That’s pretty wicked though. Makes a lot more sense why a sensible pony like you is living in a crummy place like Canterlot, hahaha~
Daniel: Makes the commute easy enough.. I don’t know about sensible though, I have been told my choice in career wasn’t the best… If not the worst thing I could have done..
Singe: *grimaces* I wouldn’t go as far as say the Worst career choice… I mean, I’m pretty sure being a garbage pony is far worse, hehehe~ Or hell, you could be a carnival performer! *with a playful wink* I’d say being a guard is pretty damn respectable. Nothing is better than fighting for your country, right?
Daniel: *looks at Singe, his neck fluffing more* Mm… That’s kind of you to say.. Granted a carnival performer sounds more fun… But, well- *grabs a picture off the wall* -when you look like this before basic training, you tend to scare family members with your life choices..
In a small picture frame Daniel held out, there was a photo of him when he was younger, thinner and much smaller looking. It wasn’t too hard to see why it was hard to think a pegasus his size could make it in the Night Guard.
Daniel: They thought I was so fragile I’d break the first day..
Singe: *squints his eyes to look at the photo* ….. Geez, you’re nothin’ but skin and bones here. *looks up at Daniel and compares* ….. Filled out pretty nicely, I’d say~ Nothing but a healthy hearty diet and a regular work out regimen can’t fix. *nods*
Daniel: *sets the picture down* It took a lot to get through the training, but I passed.. I’m content with this choice, even if others in my family think differently of it… *eyebrows twitch a little* But they can’t argue with the reason why I did it..
Singe: And why’s that?
Daniel: *sits down* Last year, a very close friend was caught in a dangerous situation.. I tried to help when they were attacked by a larger opponent, but I was too weak.. Too small to handle it.. *ears droop* I blacked out after I was thrown down, but we got out of it safely in one piece.. But after I woke up, and I saw my friend again, I felt so bad… I failed to protect them like I promised I would when needed… I wanted to get stronger.. For me, and my family..
Singe: *ears fold back flat to his head* ……. That does seem like a pretty good reason, doesn’t it? *smiles sincerely at Daniel* Well, I’m happy for you~ I think you’ll make a damn fine guard! Heaven’s know I’d feel a lot safer walking around know there were guards like you out there keeping Equestria safe~
Daniel: ……. Now you’re just buttering me up… *cheeks turn a little pink*
Singe: *grins* I mean it! I know I could never do what you do. You are, like, in a whole other league then me, heheh~ *as he gets up to put his empty mug in the sink*
Daniel: Hmm.. I wouldn’t be so sure about that.. If started much earlier in life, I can see you passing as a guard from the look of how your muscles form with your metabolism.. *sluuuuuuuuuurps coffee, thinking, “Why did I say that, I sound like I was ogling!” *
Singe: *snorts as he rinses out his mug* Snrk! Hehehe, well I have to keep in good shape for my job.. I mean, I doubt you’d want to watch a flabby, fat and saggy shirtless firedancer flip torches. If I caught myself on fire then, I’d probably smell like bacon!
Daniel: *snorts and chokes on his coffee* KAAA!
Singe: *snickers as he leans against the doorframe* You okay there?.... But yeah, jokes aside, I’d probably be a pretty shitty guard. I’m not very good at following orders, hehehe.. I actually thought about joining after I ran away from home… but I was only 16 at the time soooo yeaaaah that wasn’t an option..
Daniel: *rubs his throat* Ahem!... I can understand that… *coughs in his fist* To be completely honest with you, my squad and I aren’t all that good at following orders either..
Singe: *grins* Oh really? I for some reason can’t really picture you being much of a rebel~
Daniel: There have been occasions where I was possibly part of a few…. Pranks, slight robbery from the mess hall and jokes in the training area I was dragged into… I was lucky to only get a slap on the wrist from the General themselves when caught..
Singe: *raises an eyebrow* Wow…. Scandalous…
Daniel: And then there was the time I gave a few of the Lieutenants hot-tails…
Singe: “Hot-tails”...? I’m.. not even going to ask… I’d hate to break it to you Danny, but your idea of being “rebellious” is kind of adorable if not on the sweet side~
Daniel: *plumage and wings ruffle* Hrmmm… I never got into a lot of trouble as a child.. The highest my “rebellious teen phase” ever got me was a punch in the face and a missing tooth from my uncle when I pissed him off..
Singe: ….. Uh-huh. Well, there is nothing wrong with that, hehehe. Some ponies are just more innocent then others I suppose. Plus, I’m sure with how strict the rules are with the guard, you probably can’t have as much fun playing around.
Daniel: *sighs* It’s not like I do much “exciting” things outside of work anyway..
Singe:.. Well, I guess we just need to fix that then!
Daniel: Oh.? How so..?
Singe: *cheshire cat like grin* Let’s be a little rebellious tonight! It will be my last night in Canterlot before the carnival moves to the next town, lets make the most of it!
Daniel: *looks back at Singe* .. What are you suggesting.?
Singe: A night on the town! You, me, and the night to ourselves. We can go club hopping and dance the night away~
Daniel: T-tonight..? I can’t do that, I have to go on post..!
Singe: *without missing a beat* Then play hookie!
Daniel: I can’t play the hookie, I’ll get in trouble..!
Singe: ….. *facepalms* That’s the whole point of being rebellious, Daniel..
Daniel: *ears droop* Oh sweet Luna…
Singe: Oh come on, what’s the worst that can happen?
Daniel: *looks up* A lot..
Singe: *waves his hand* You are just over reacting! If nothing else, they can find someone to take your place, right? Come on, where is your sense of adventure?
Daniel: *mumbles quietly to himself* Shriveled up and dying in the corner of my closet… *shakes his head* Hmph…. *taps his hoof as he thinks it over* ……. Alright.. But, just this once..!
Singe: *ears perk* Wait, really? I.. I was kind of just joking, hehehe!
Daniel: *fluffs up a little at Singe, his pupils turning to slits* Make up your bloody mind you fire dancing cute--! *pauses* …… I mean…. C-c-..... You’re just weird… and crazy… you know that, right…?
Singe: Hehehe! I get that alot, actually~ And you somehow find that endearing otherwise you wouldn’t still be with me, am I right?
Daniel: *ear twitches* …… *gets up and goes to his room, closing the door*
Singe: Uh.. ummmm………. Hey! *fluffs up and pouts a little* You know I’m right, Danny! *grumbles to himself* So what if I’m crazy… I’m also cute so it counterbalances it, right? *grumble grumble*
Daniel: *opens the door after a few minutes, fully dressed and strapping a belt on him* That’s a bit debatable, maybe.. But I will admit, you are nice company to have around..
Singe: Well….. I guess I’ll take what I can get? Hehehe~ If we are going to hang out today, I’d like to shower and get a fresh change of clothes first.
Daniel: *nods his head* Of course.. *makes his muzzle scrunch a little* You did have a rather thick scent on you last night… Like kerosene and burnt fur..
Singe: *scrunches his muzzle a little before sniffing his own arm* ……… hmmm, I don’t smell it, but I wouldn’t be surprised, especially with my line of work. I’d have to go back to my trailer, then we can do whatever you want for the rest of the day~
Daniel: Sounds like a plan.. *takes a second to check on the sleeping Dewberry, giving her a gentle pat on the head.* I’ll be back later, okay..?

Dewberry: *lets out a squeaky yawn*
Daniel: Hm.. *grabs his keys and heads for the door* I will say one more thing though, Cinderplume… I do like the scent of fire and smoke.. It’s very alluring, so I suppose it’s not too bad waking up to…~
Singe: *ears perk before grabbing the book before heading towards the door* Oh…. Heh, I suppose I’ll have to keep that in mind~
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Hehe, nothing like a good dose of puns to start off your day! After BronyCon, the birbs are right back at it again! Catch up on what you missed by going to or checking out the discord server! --> discord.gg/sd3AgGT

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