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Chapter 2

Scarlet Bonds and Bound Cuffs

The royal palace in Canterlot was home to the two princess sisters Celestia, and Luna. The two sisters worked together in harmony to bring out the sun and the moon each day and night. Without them, Equestria would be stuck at a standstill.

Celestia’s chamber was filled with red velvet furniture and lined with golden wall footers. The tile floor was waxed daily, insuring that the princess of the sun could see her reflection in it whenever she looked down.

The red bed cushion beneath Celestia rolled as she adjusted her position for the umpteenth time. It was only early morning, but just thinking of the strenuous day that awaited her left her exhausted. Right now, her body was free of her usual heavy armor. Sometimes she wished that raising the sun was enough for her subjects, but that was only a fantasy.

Open courts were held frequently, giving citizens from all over Equestria a chance to ask their princess for favors. Celestia enjoyed helping the less fortunate. But on most occasions it was a room filled with greed. Farmers would ask for more land so they could make a larger profit. Some even dared to ask for longer days and warmer nights. “Our crops will grow larger and healthier without the long cold nights!” They would plead.

Rubbing her temples wearily, Celestia tried to shoo the troublesome thoughts from her mind. Open court wouldn’t be for an hour or so. Maybe she could fit in an early morning flight before she was needed on her throne?

Jumping off her bed she headed towards her vanity mirror. The mirror was almost as tall as her, set up on a stand and angled upwards just slightly. The stainless glass was bordered with pure gold, and molded into swirling patterns. Staring into the glass could make anypony feel like royalty.

Celestia hid her chuckle as her reflection looked back at her. Her mane was a nest of messy stray rainbow curls, sticking out in every possible direction. Levitating a brush over with her sparkling yellow magic, she gently guided her untamed hair back into place.

Carefully, Celestia took the mascara from the table beside the mirror and guided it along the lines of her eyes. The makeup felt heavy and wet, but after wearing it for thousands of years, she was used to the way it stuck to her face and tickled her eyelids.

Finishing the last of her morning routine Celestia tucked her traditional golden body wear into place on her chest and rested her crown upon her head. Sometimes, Celestia hated the accursed thing. It was supposed to be not just a traditional object of of royalty, but a symbol of strength and compassion. And when she received the crown, she lacked those virtues. She had been ignorant and vain. Due to her thoughtless actions and the humility she had lacked, her sister had become Nightmare Moon.

All Luna had wanted was to be loved. And Celesta had taken that away without a thought in her mind. Luna had worked every night to make her belt of stars beautiful, and the moon she guided even more so. But ponies failed to see the her painting in the sky, and because of this, Luna grew angry. And Celestia, had done nothing but push her sister away.

The two regal sister’s fought with conflicting desires in their heads after that. Celestia, had tried so hard to save her lunar sister from the beast she had become, while Nightmare Moon only wanted the thrill of vengeance, and for the beauty of eternal night to envelope Equestria forever.

Eventually, with no other choice, Celestia had been forced to use her last resort. With pain, and guilt already heavy in her heart, she had locked her sister in the moon for a thousand years. All that had happened back then was because of her own selfish actions. She had believed she was the most beloved and regal pony in the land.

How could I have been so blind and thoughtless . . .

Even now, even while her sister was back and had forgiven her, Celestia still carried that same guilt. And it would forever sit like a canary in it’s cage.

CRRRRAAAAAAAACKKKKK!!!!!!

Pulsing magic penetrated the princess’s memories, pulling her back from the depths. The invisible force ripped through the silence and pulsed through Celestia’s head. It felt as if the earth had been shattered for a mere second, and then had reverted back to normal. Celestia raced out to the balcony and looked up into the sky. But there was nothing to be seen except for clouds and pegasi.

“Sister!?” The doors to Celesta’s chamber flew open as Luna raced into the room. Her blue coat was still ruffled from sleep. “My sister, did you feel the tremor?”

Celestia nodded and let her gaze rise into the sky. The great blue canvas stretched out for miles, and there was nopony who could say where it ended. But somewhere out there, something had just happened. Something had broken through the vast magical barrier that should not have. And Celestia feared nothing good would come of it.

“We have been too lax Luna. Something has entered our kingdom . . . no, our world, that should not have. Our home has been disturbed.” Celestia sighed. She put a wing over her sister’s shoulder and nudged her messy night blue mane with her muzzle. “Now go rest my sister. You only just lowered your moon.”

Luna stifled a yawn and shook her head.”No, you felt that tremor Celestia! It was close! We could be in danger!” Luna narrowed her eyes and scanned the land from the railing.

Celestia took a moment to calm herself before reaching out to Luna with a hoof. She carefully guided her sister away from the railing and met her eye to eye. “We must wait . . .”

“But sister-”

Celestia gently cut her younger sister off and continued, “I do not wish to disturb peace with something that might not be dangerous. We can’t jump to conclusions.” Thinking momentarily, she added, “I will send a letter to Twilight Sparkle.”

Luna looked down in confusion and tapped her bare hoof against the glass flooring. “But, why would you send a message to Twilight? We haven’t an idea what we’re dealing with!”

“And a princess never does. This can be Twilight’s first true task as a princess of Equestria. But if need be, we will step in and help.”

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“Lisbon?”

A strange void of emptiness had seemed to have drowned Lisbon. And as she floated in silence, she felt free and at peace. It was a strange feeling really. Something she thought she could never truly have was flowing everywhere around her. She could feel something tickling her skin and brushing against her cheek. But for now, she ignored those feelings and let herself stay weightlessly in the middle of nowhere.

“Lisbon?

With closed eyes and a thoughtless mind, Lisbon felt safer than she had for a long while. She didn’t have anything to think about. She didn’t even need to think. Actually, when she tried to think, everything just felt hazy and unclear. A nervous tingle started to settle in her stomach, and Lisbon started to wonder if she should in fact, open her eyes.

“Lisbon?”

Lisbon struggled to pull her eyes open, but they wouldn’t budge. When she tried to move her arms, they wouldn’t listen to her either. The nervousness in her stomach quickly grew into a panic that burned throughout her entire body, and she suddenly wished she hadn’t let herself sink so far into the silent ocean. Am I drowning?

“Lisbon!?”

Lisbon’s eyes jerked open. The first thing she noticed was that she was warm. As her ability to process things returned, she noticed that she wasn’t just warm, but that she was being held by someone. And that someone, she knew, was Jane. His arms were wrapped tightly around her, and her head was against his. All she could see was his golden hair. Warmth spread through her cheeks as she realized that the only reason he would be holding her so tightly was because he was worried.

“Jane, you’re squishing me.” She muttered, trying to keep her usual reluctant attitude in her voice. But the strange heat in her cheeks didn’t go away.

Jane quickly loosened his grip and let her draw her head back. But what she expected to see wasn’t there. Instead, she was greeted with strange light orange, blond maned horse. The creature was staring back at her as if it was expecting her to say something. But at the moment, her jaw was hanging open in wonder. It’s eyes . . . were so big.

“Lisbon? I know what you’re thinking. But don’t panic. Just take a look at yourself.” it said, carrying Jane’s voice.

Alright . . . so Jane’s a horse . . . Lisbon just stared at him for a moment, in a daze. Then, she looked down at her arms. But they weren’t there. Instead they had been replaced by thick gray hooves. What disturbed her more was her lack of clothes. All that she wore now was short gray fur, and thankfully, her cross necklace. Nervously, she moved her hooves and batted the hair that hung down past her shoulders. It felt more course than it had before.

Lisbon shrieked and struggled out of Jane’s grip. Taking in her surroundings, she almost fainted. Everywhere she looked there were horses walking around with a disturbing aura of casualty. Many of the creatures bore coats of pink or purple. Some of them even had a pair of wings or a horn. Lisbon stared dumbfounded, before swallowing the saliva that had puddled in her throat.

“Lisbon? Just listen, okay?”

Lisbon stared back at the light orange horse that was Jane, and cracked a smile. “You’re kidding . . . You’re kidding, right?” When Jane shook his head, she went silent. Her green eyes sharpened as her mind went into overdrive. “How do we get back home? Why are we here? Why do we look like animals from some kind of little kids show? Is this a sick joke!?”

Tapping his hoof against his chin, Jane thought, “Maybe. But I think Red John wants to do more than just have fun watching us panic. I say we stay calm and collective.” As he spoke, he noticed Lisbon’s eyes slowly trailing up his head. She had completely zoned out. “What are you looking at?”

“You . . . have a horn.” Lisbon murmured.

Jane stiffened. Tentatively, his front hoof traveled across the top of his head and through his curly yellow mane. And sure enough, there was a horn. His eyes widened and he before he could do anything he’d regret, he took a long and deep breath.

“Do I have a horn?”

Jane opened his eyes and stared back at her. Her dark mane was the same colour as her hair used to be. Yet, it was somehow styled to look like she had bangs sweeping across the top of her face. He found it adorable that even as a horse, she could carry them so well.

“No, I don’t see one.” Jane said. He walked over to her and stuck his hooves into her hair, moving it to the side. He felt strangely proud that he was able to find an excuse to touch her hair. It was surprisingly soft and still carried a small trace of the smell of shampoo. “No, definitely not. But your hair is-”

“Excuse me?”

Jane and Lisbon jerked around at the sound of the new voice. Standing in front of them was a slightly tall mare with a lavender coat. She wore a small crown atop her head and carried both wings and a horn. Behind her was a paparazzi of five other ponies. As Lisbon melted under the expecting twelve eyes, Jane narrowed his own.

“Welcome to Ponyville. Are you planning on staying? I’ve never seen you before, so I assume you’re new to town.” Jane narrowed his eyes with intrigue. The mare’s voice, though happy and welcoming, was forced. What was she playing at? “My name is Twilight Sparkle, and these are my friends Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rainbowdash, and Rarity. what are your names? If you don’t mind me asking.”

The pure white unicorn that Twilight had called Rarity audibly scoffed before pushing up closer to her friend. “Twilight, you’re a princess now. You don’t have to ask for their names. They should be bowing and telling you them anyways.” Rarity batted at her rich purple mane and sighed. “If I were a princess, I would make sure everyone knew my name.”

At that Twilight blushed and shuffled her wings. Adjusting her crown so that it fit snugly around her horn. She then cleared her throat nervously. “So . . . your names?”

“My name is Patrick Jane, and this is my assistant Teresa Lisbon.” He shot her a wicked smirk, knowing she would have punched him if it weren’t for the restraints around her hooves. But the metal contraption didn’t stop Lisbon from giving Jane a terrifying scowl that said, “I’m going to kill you later.”

Pinkie Pie threw herself in front of Twilight and smiled widely. Jane visibly winced at her bright pink coat and curly mane. “Hi! I’m Pinkie Pie! I can’t wait to throw a super duper awesome fun ‘Welcome To Ponyville’ party for you!” The mare bounced up and down excitedly. “But first we have to get those hoofcuffs off you Teesa! You can’t party with those on.”

“Teesa?” Lisbon raised an eyebrow and jumped as Jane erupted into a fit of crying laughter.

“That’s a cute nickname! Much better than Mother Teresa!”

“Shut it Jane!” Lisbon retorted. She turned to Pinkie Pie and tried to smile as casually as she could. “I’m sorry, but we really don’t need a party. We just want some quiet.” The pink pony shrugged without a trace of disappointment.

While Jane continued to chuckle and snort, Twilight stepped up to Lisbon and inspected the cuffs. “Why on earth are you strapped into these? Only criminals wear hoofcuffs.” Shooting Lisbon a hard stare, Twilight said, “You aren’t criminals are you?”

Narrowing her eyes, Lisbon growled. “No, actually, I’m not!” How dare this strange purple mare accuse her of being a law breaker!? She enforced the law!

Jane quickly stepped in before Lisbon could do react. Swiftly, he wiped the tears from his eyes before giving the ‘princess’ an apologetic smile. “As I said, she is my assistant. We were practicing a magic trick and . . . I lost the key to the lock.”

Twilight still looked suspicious, but she seemed to accept what Jane said as the truth. Her horn began to glow with a purple aura, and suddenly the cuffs around Lisbon’s hooves snapped off.

Jane stared in wonder. Biting curiosity arose in his mind and he held his lip in his teeth to hold back his questions, for he feared the answer he might get. How did she do that? What kind of world is this?

Twilight smiled on as if nothing strange had even occurred, but Lisbon shared Jane’s dumbstruck face. Only she wasn’t afraid to ask questions when she wanted answers. “What did you just do!?” She demanded. Her green eyes blazing. Lisbon wasn’t sure how to feel at that point. Every emotion seemed to be coursing through her at once. The blazing curiosity of not knowing. The dark creeping of dread and fear. And the racing adrenaline of excitement buzzing through her veins. She felt like she would explode without answers, without some kind of reassurance. She wanted it so badly it was dizzying!

Twilight seemed taken aback by their lack of knowledge, but a cyan pegasus with a rainbow mane fluttered over her head and playfully messed with her once neat bangs. “C’mon Twi! Not all ponies are egg heads like you!”

Twilight merely swatted Rainbow away and tidied her hair before she started her explanation. “I simply used a strength spell. It breaks down the metal in one location, utterly weakening it, and then finally snapping it.”

“But isn’t that unsafe? Couldn’t a unicorn put into han- I mean, hoofcuffs just break out of them?” Lisbon said. She was rubbing her hooves where the confining locks had been just seconds ago, relishing the feeling of air touching her fur.

“The unicorns are put into magic restraints so that they are unable to call on their magic to use against the police, and further more, only the princesses or high up agents in law enforcement can use the spell correctly. In other words. Even if you know how to cast the spell, it won’t have effect unless you are qualified to use it.” Twilight finished, looking quite proud of herself.

“So ‘magic’ is really important here in Ponyville isn’t it?” Jane said, deciding to speak up.

“Not just in Ponyville, but in all of Equestria.” Twilight pointed out. She couldn’t stop her smile from stretching all the way across her face. But her proud expression twisted into one of confusion. “But, shouldn’t you know this already? We learn about Equestrian society in public school.”

Lisbon and Jane blushed in unison. Considering we don’t know anything about these ponies, we probably shouldn’t go telling them we came here from another world . . . Lisbon thought. The nervous face Jane had taken on informed her that he was thinking the same thing.

“Hey! Where are your cutiemarks??? Rainbowdash blurted out.

Rarity gave a dignified hmmph before turning towards Jane and Lisbon. “Don’t worry dears. I’m sure you will find your special talent some time. It’s different for everypony.”

Jane and Lisbon felt completely lost. What was a cutiemark? Was it the reason why everyone had tattoos on their flanks? If that was the reason, Lisbon didn’t want one anyways.

“Well, since you’re new to Ponyville, you probably don’t have a place to stay.” The voice came from an orange pony with a tied up blond mane. She lacked wings or a horn but she didn’t seem to mind, for she carried herself confidently without a hint of self pity. She adjusted the brown cowboy hat that rested on her head and snickered a little. “I’m Applejack by the way. It’s nice to meet yah.” Her country accent shone through her friendly tone, and Lisbon couldn’t help but smile at her hospitality.

“We never really thought of that.” Jane replied. He rubbed the back of his head guiltily before adding, “Do you know anywhere we could stay? If only for a few days or so?”

Before the country mare could answer, she was thrown aside by a yellow pegasus with a light pink mane. The pegasus had been sitting quietly in the back, watching with wonder just moments ago. But now, she was up in Jane’s face and smiling wildly. “You can stay with me!” She cried out! Her voice carried through the town. Several ponies that had been walking by turned to stare them.

“That’s nice Fluttershy. But I don’t think they want to stay somewhere with a bunch of animals.” Rainbowdash cut in. She flew over to Lisbon and snatched her up off the ground by her stomach. Lisbon yelped and thrashed her legs helplessly as she dangled in the air. “And I’m pretty sure you can’t stay in a cloud house. Neither of you are a pegasus.” Rainbow shrugged and dropped Lisbon to the ground with a thud.

“I hate to say it, but my barn is in quite the shape, and I don’t think you would want to stay in there right now. Our house is a little small as well . . . I don’t really have room.” Applejack tapped the ground guiltily with her hoof, and Jane and Lisbon’s eyes roamed towards Rarity, who looked at them with surprise.

“Me!?” She gasped. Lisbon narrowed her eyes and the pristine unicorn gave a smug grin. “I can’t possibly let strangers into my home. I have my dear sister there. Who knows what could happen to her!”

Twilight rolled her eyes and the rest of the gang did their own exasperated actions. Eventually Twilight said, “I would love to have guests, but right now I’m . . . taking care of Spike! He’s not feeling well and really needs his bed rest!”

The other ponies shot daggers at Twilight, but Fluttershy simply bounded with glee. “You can stay with me! You can!”

“There’s a spare room in the basement of Sugarcube Corner! You could stay there!” Pinkie Pie took Jane by the hoof and yanked him along with her as she trotted across the town, not even waiting for a reply. Hurrying to her hooves, Lisbon followed clumsily. She was often klutzy on two legs, but four was more than she could handle.

“Come on slowpoke!” Rainbowdash pestered.

“I’m trying! Stop nagging me!” Lisbon snapped. She focused on the rhythm her somewhat steady hooves had created and picked up her pace. Soon she was able to keep up with the herd.

As they passed house after house, Lisbon noticed that this world was much like her own. She shouldn't have been so surprised. After all, this world does have magic. On their way to Sugarcube Corner, she spotted markets, hospitals, clothing stores, and even a dentist! This place really manages to surprise you doesn’t it?

Worry wormed it’s way through her newborn curiosity as she remembered what she had to lose. What if people are looking for us back in Sacramento? What if I get fired from CBI when I get back? That brought on another thought, and she stopped mid gallop. Deep inside her chest she could feel something drop like a rock. What if we never get back?

“Teesa! Hurry up! We’re almost there!”

At Pinkie’s excited call, Lisbon threw the thoughts away and raced after the bright pink mare. Everything would work out! After all, she had Patrick Jane with her! Even if that man had a way of getting into trouble, he also had a way of getting out of it.

“Stop calling me Teesa!”

Sugarcube Corner was what Jane had thought it might be. Of course it wasn’t the exact image, but it was close enough. The exterior of the building was bright pink, and it looked to be covered with sprinkles galore. Attached to the vibrant bakery were cupcakes and giant candy canes. None of which were edible.

Pinkie Pie had left to talk with Mr. and Mrs. Cake, leaving Lisbon and Jane alone with Twilight. The rest of the gang had left to go about their own business for the day. But Twilight, for some reason they couldn’t think of, had decided to stay with them. No, she hadn’t decided. She had insisted that she stayed with them, and wouldn’t take no for an answer.

Right now the lavender mare was staring at them both with hungry eyes. Like she wanted to know something. Jane watched as Lisbon shuffled farther away from the mare’s prying pupils.

After what seemed to take a year, Pinkie Pie bounced back to them and smiled. “I, Pinkie Pie, shall escort thee Teesa, and Patrick, to thees room!” she declared.

Lisbon cracked a smile and whispered cheekily into Jane’s ear. “I’m pretty sure that isn’t Shakespearian.” she said.

“Maybe it’s Pinkamenian.” Jane answered.

As the boss and her consultant followed the pink pony down the steps, they fell into a comfortable vibe. Lisbon couldn’t stop herself from holding onto a soft smile, and Jane was happy that he had actually managed to make the stubborn lady break out of her shell. Even if it was just for a few moments. But everything changed the moment they got to the bottom of the steps.

“Here’s your new room!” Pinkie Pie shouted! Streamers twirled down from the ceiling out of nowhere and the lights flashed on in an instant. Magenta walls surrounded the small group of four. The room was moderately sized, and certainly big enough for two ponies to share. To the side of the room there was door with a fresh coat of white paint that brightened the room substantially. Jane guessed that it hid a bathroom behind it. Sunshine flooded through the stainless windows, bringing a homely warmth to the foreign surroundings. There was only one thing that caught both Jane and Lisbon’s attention. There was one bed in the room, and two of them.

“And you only have to one thousand bits to stay!” Pinkie hollered!

Description

Wonderful background vector by - dipi11.deviantart.com

Chapter 2

Scarlet Bonds and Bound Cuffs

The royal palace in Canterlot was home to the two princess sisters Celestia, and Luna. The two sisters worked together in harmony to bring out the sun and the moon each day and night. Without them, Equestria would be stuck at a standstill.

Celestia’s chamber was filled with red velvet furniture and lined with golden wall footers. The tile floor was waxed daily, insuring that the princess of the sun could see her reflection in it whenever she looked down.

The red bed cushion beneath Celestia rolled as she adjusted her position for the umpteenth time. It was only early morning, but just thinking of the strenuous day that awaited her left her exhausted. Right now, her body was free of her usual heavy armor. Sometimes she wished that raising the sun was enough for her subjects, but that was only a fantasy.

Open courts were held frequently, giving citizens from all over Equestria a chance to ask their princess for favors. Celestia enjoyed helping the less fortunate. But on most occasions it was a room filled with greed. Farmers would ask for more land so they could make a larger profit. Some even dared to ask for longer days and warmer nights. “Our crops will grow larger and healthier without the long cold nights!” They would plead.

Rubbing her temples wearily, Celestia tried to shoo the troublesome thoughts from her mind. Open court wouldn’t be for an hour or so. Maybe she could fit in an early morning flight before she was needed on her throne?

Jumping off her bed she headed towards her vanity mirror. The mirror was almost as tall as her, set up on a stand and angled upwards just slightly. The stainless glass was bordered with pure gold, and molded into swirling patterns. Staring into the glass could make anypony feel like royalty.

Celestia hid her chuckle as her reflection looked back at her. Her mane was a nest of messy stray rainbow curls, sticking out in every possible direction. Levitating a brush over with her sparkling yellow magic, she gently guided her untamed hair back into place.

Carefully, Celestia took the mascara from the table beside the mirror and guided it along the lines of her eyes. The makeup felt heavy and wet, but after wearing it for thousands of years, she was used to the way it stuck to her face and tickled her eyelids.

Finishing the last of her morning routine Celestia tucked her traditional golden body wear into place on her chest and rested her crown upon her head. Sometimes, Celestia hated the accursed thing. It was supposed to be not just a traditional object of of royalty, but a symbol of strength and compassion. And when she received the crown, she lacked those virtues. She had been ignorant and vain. Due to her thoughtless actions and the humility she had lacked, her sister had become Nightmare Moon.

All Luna had wanted was to be loved. And Celesta had taken that away without a thought in her mind. Luna had worked every night to make her belt of stars beautiful, and the moon she guided even more so. But ponies failed to see the her painting in the sky, and because of this, Luna grew angry. And Celestia, had done nothing but push her sister away.

The two regal sister’s fought with conflicting desires in their heads after that. Celestia, had tried so hard to save her lunar sister from the beast she had become, while Nightmare Moon only wanted the thrill of vengeance, and for the beauty of eternal night to envelope Equestria forever.

Eventually, with no other choice, Celestia had been forced to use her last resort. With pain, and guilt already heavy in her heart, she had locked her sister in the moon for a thousand years. All that had happened back then was because of her own selfish actions. She had believed she was the most beloved and regal pony in the land.

How could I have been so blind and thoughtless . . .

Even now, even while her sister was back and had forgiven her, Celestia still carried that same guilt. And it would forever sit like a canary in it’s cage.

CRRRRAAAAAAAACKKKKK!!!!!!

Pulsing magic penetrated the princess’s memories, pulling her back from the depths. The invisible force ripped through the silence and pulsed through Celestia’s head. It felt as if the earth had been shattered for a mere second, and then had reverted back to normal. Celestia raced out to the balcony and looked up into the sky. But there was nothing to be seen except for clouds and pegasi.

“Sister!?” The doors to Celesta’s chamber flew open as Luna raced into the room. Her blue coat was still ruffled from sleep. “My sister, did you feel the tremor?”

Celestia nodded and let her gaze rise into the sky. The great blue canvas stretched out for miles, and there was nopony who could say where it ended. But somewhere out there, something had just happened. Something had broken through the vast magical barrier that should not have. And Celestia feared nothing good would come of it.

“We have been too lax Luna. Something has entered our kingdom . . . no, our world, that should not have. Our home has been disturbed.” Celestia sighed. She put a wing over her sister’s shoulder and nudged her messy night blue mane with her muzzle. “Now go rest my sister. You only just lowered your moon.”

Luna stifled a yawn and shook her head.”No, you felt that tremor Celestia! It was close! We could be in danger!” Luna narrowed her eyes and scanned the land from the railing.

Celestia took a moment to calm herself before reaching out to Luna with a hoof. She carefully guided her sister away from the railing and met her eye to eye. “We must wait . . .”

“But sister-”

Celestia gently cut her younger sister off and continued, “I do not wish to disturb peace with something that might not be dangerous. We can’t jump to conclusions.” Thinking momentarily, she added, “I will send a letter to Twilight Sparkle.”

Luna looked down in confusion and tapped her bare hoof against the glass flooring. “But, why would you send a message to Twilight? We haven’t an idea what we’re dealing with!”

“And a princess never does. This can be Twilight’s first true task as a princess of Equestria. But if need be, we will step in and help.”

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“Lisbon?”

A strange void of emptiness had seemed to have drowned Lisbon. And as she floated in silence, she felt free and at peace. It was a strange feeling really. Something she thought she could never truly have was flowing everywhere around her. She could feel something tickling her skin and brushing against her cheek. But for now, she ignored those feelings and let herself stay weightlessly in the middle of nowhere.

“Lisbon?

With closed eyes and a thoughtless mind, Lisbon felt safer than she had for a long while. She didn’t have anything to think about. She didn’t even need to think. Actually, when she tried to think, everything just felt hazy and unclear. A nervous tingle started to settle in her stomach, and Lisbon started to wonder if she should in fact, open her eyes.

“Lisbon?”

Lisbon struggled to pull her eyes open, but they wouldn’t budge. When she tried to move her arms, they wouldn’t listen to her either. The nervousness in her stomach quickly grew into a panic that burned throughout her entire body, and she suddenly wished she hadn’t let herself sink so far into the silent ocean. Am I drowning?

“Lisbon!?”

Lisbon’s eyes jerked open. The first thing she noticed was that she was warm. As her ability to process things returned, she noticed that she wasn’t just warm, but that she was being held by someone. And that someone, she knew, was Jane. His arms were wrapped tightly around her, and her head was against his. All she could see was his golden hair. Warmth spread through her cheeks as she realized that the only reason he would be holding her so tightly was because he was worried.

“Jane, you’re squishing me.” She muttered, trying to keep her usual reluctant attitude in her voice. But the strange heat in her cheeks didn’t go away.

Jane quickly loosened his grip and let her draw her head back. But what she expected to see wasn’t there. Instead, she was greeted with strange light orange, blond maned horse. The creature was staring back at her as if it was expecting her to say something. But at the moment, her jaw was hanging open in wonder. It’s eyes . . . were so big.

“Lisbon? I know what you’re thinking. But don’t panic. Just take a look at yourself.” it said, carrying Jane’s voice.

Alright . . . so Jane’s a horse . . . Lisbon just stared at him for a moment, in a daze. Then, she looked down at her arms. But they weren’t there. Instead they had been replaced by thick gray hooves. What disturbed her more was her lack of clothes. All that she wore now was short gray fur, and thankfully, her cross necklace. Nervously, she moved her hooves and batted the hair that hung down past her shoulders. It felt more course than it had before.

Lisbon shrieked and struggled out of Jane’s grip. Taking in her surroundings, she almost fainted. Everywhere she looked there were horses walking around with a disturbing aura of casualty. Many of the creatures bore coats of pink or purple. Some of them even had a pair of wings or a horn. Lisbon stared dumbfounded, before swallowing the saliva that had puddled in her throat.

“Lisbon? Just listen, okay?”

Lisbon stared back at the light orange horse that was Jane, and cracked a smile. “You’re kidding . . . You’re kidding, right?” When Jane shook his head, she went silent. Her green eyes sharpened as her mind went into overdrive. “How do we get back home? Why are we here? Why do we look like animals from some kind of little kids show? Is this a sick joke!?”

Tapping his hoof against his chin, Jane thought, “Maybe. But I think Red John wants to do more than just have fun watching us panic. I say we stay calm and collective.” As he spoke, he noticed Lisbon’s eyes slowly trailing up his head. She had completely zoned out. “What are you looking at?”

“You . . . have a horn.” Lisbon murmured.

Jane stiffened. Tentatively, his front hoof traveled across the top of his head and through his curly yellow mane. And sure enough, there was a horn. His eyes widened and he before he could do anything he’d regret, he took a long and deep breath.

“Do I have a horn?”

Jane opened his eyes and stared back at her. Her dark mane was the same colour as her hair used to be. Yet, it was somehow styled to look like she had bangs sweeping across the top of her face. He found it adorable that even as a horse, she could carry them so well.

“No, I don’t see one.” Jane said. He walked over to her and stuck his hooves into her hair, moving it to the side. He felt strangely proud that he was able to find an excuse to touch her hair. It was surprisingly soft and still carried a small trace of the smell of shampoo. “No, definitely not. But your hair is-”

“Excuse me?”

Jane and Lisbon jerked around at the sound of the new voice. Standing in front of them was a slightly tall mare with a lavender coat. She wore a small crown atop her head and carried both wings and a horn. Behind her was a paparazzi of five other ponies. As Lisbon melted under the expecting twelve eyes, Jane narrowed his own.

“Welcome to Ponyville. Are you planning on staying? I’ve never seen you before, so I assume you’re new to town.” Jane narrowed his eyes with intrigue. The mare’s voice, though happy and welcoming, was forced. What was she playing at? “My name is Twilight Sparkle, and these are my friends Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rainbowdash, and Rarity. what are your names? If you don’t mind me asking.”

The pure white unicorn that Twilight had called Rarity audibly scoffed before pushing up closer to her friend. “Twilight, you’re a princess now. You don’t have to ask for their names. They should be bowing and telling you them anyways.” Rarity batted at her rich purple mane and sighed. “If I were a princess, I would make sure everyone knew my name.”

At that Twilight blushed and shuffled her wings. Adjusting her crown so that it fit snugly around her horn. She then cleared her throat nervously. “So . . . your names?”

“My name is Patrick Jane, and this is my assistant Teresa Lisbon.” He shot her a wicked smirk, knowing she would have punched him if it weren’t for the restraints around her hooves. But the metal contraption didn’t stop Lisbon from giving Jane a terrifying scowl that said, “I’m going to kill you later.”

Pinkie Pie threw herself in front of Twilight and smiled widely. Jane visibly winced at her bright pink coat and curly mane. “Hi! I’m Pinkie Pie! I can’t wait to throw a super duper awesome fun ‘Welcome To Ponyville’ party for you!” The mare bounced up and down excitedly. “But first we have to get those hoofcuffs off you Teesa! You can’t party with those on.”

“Teesa?” Lisbon raised an eyebrow and jumped as Jane erupted into a fit of crying laughter.

“That’s a cute nickname! Much better than Mother Teresa!”

“Shut it Jane!” Lisbon retorted. She turned to Pinkie Pie and tried to smile as casually as she could. “I’m sorry, but we really don’t need a party. We just want some quiet.” The pink pony shrugged without a trace of disappointment.

While Jane continued to chuckle and snort, Twilight stepped up to Lisbon and inspected the cuffs. “Why on earth are you strapped into these? Only criminals wear hoofcuffs.” Shooting Lisbon a hard stare, Twilight said, “You aren’t criminals are you?”

Narrowing her eyes, Lisbon growled. “No, actually, I’m not!” How dare this strange purple mare accuse her of being a law breaker!? She enforced the law!

Jane quickly stepped in before Lisbon could do react. Swiftly, he wiped the tears from his eyes before giving the ‘princess’ an apologetic smile. “As I said, she is my assistant. We were practicing a magic trick and . . . I lost the key to the lock.”

Twilight still looked suspicious, but she seemed to accept what Jane said as the truth. Her horn began to glow with a purple aura, and suddenly the cuffs around Lisbon’s hooves snapped off.

Jane stared in wonder. Biting curiosity arose in his mind and he held his lip in his teeth to hold back his questions, for he feared the answer he might get. How did she do that? What kind of world is this?

Twilight smiled on as if nothing strange had even occurred, but Lisbon shared Jane’s dumbstruck face. Only she wasn’t afraid to ask questions when she wanted answers. “What did you just do!?” She demanded. Her green eyes blazing. Lisbon wasn’t sure how to feel at that point. Every emotion seemed to be coursing through her at once. The blazing curiosity of not knowing. The dark creeping of dread and fear. And the racing adrenaline of excitement buzzing through her veins. She felt like she would explode without answers, without some kind of reassurance. She wanted it so badly it was dizzying!

Twilight seemed taken aback by their lack of knowledge, but a cyan pegasus with a rainbow mane fluttered over her head and playfully messed with her once neat bangs. “C’mon Twi! Not all ponies are egg heads like you!”

Twilight merely swatted Rainbow away and tidied her hair before she started her explanation. “I simply used a strength spell. It breaks down the metal in one location, utterly weakening it, and then finally snapping it.”

“But isn’t that unsafe? Couldn’t a unicorn put into han- I mean, hoofcuffs just break out of them?” Lisbon said. She was rubbing her hooves where the confining locks had been just seconds ago, relishing the feeling of air touching her fur.

“The unicorns are put into magic restraints so that they are unable to call on their magic to use against the police, and further more, only the princesses or high up agents in law enforcement can use the spell correctly. In other words. Even if you know how to cast the spell, it won’t have effect unless you are qualified to use it.” Twilight finished, looking quite proud of herself.

“So ‘magic’ is really important here in Ponyville isn’t it?” Jane said, deciding to speak up.

“Not just in Ponyville, but in all of Equestria.” Twilight pointed out. She couldn’t stop her smile from stretching all the way across her face. But her proud expression twisted into one of confusion. “But, shouldn’t you know this already? We learn about Equestrian society in public school.”

Lisbon and Jane blushed in unison. Considering we don’t know anything about these ponies, we probably shouldn’t go telling them we came here from another world . . . Lisbon thought. The nervous face Jane had taken on informed her that he was thinking the same thing.

“Hey! Where are your cutiemarks??? Rainbowdash blurted out.

Rarity gave a dignified hmmph before turning towards Jane and Lisbon. “Don’t worry dears. I’m sure you will find your special talent some time. It’s different for everypony.”

Jane and Lisbon felt completely lost. What was a cutiemark? Was it the reason why everyone had tattoos on their flanks? If that was the reason, Lisbon didn’t want one anyways.

“Well, since you’re new to Ponyville, you probably don’t have a place to stay.” The voice came from an orange pony with a tied up blond mane. She lacked wings or a horn but she didn’t seem to mind, for she carried herself confidently without a hint of self pity. She adjusted the brown cowboy hat that rested on her head and snickered a little. “I’m Applejack by the way. It’s nice to meet yah.” Her country accent shone through her friendly tone, and Lisbon couldn’t help but smile at her hospitality.

“We never really thought of that.” Jane replied. He rubbed the back of his head guiltily before adding, “Do you know anywhere we could stay? If only for a few days or so?”

Before the country mare could answer, she was thrown aside by a yellow pegasus with a light pink mane. The pegasus had been sitting quietly in the back, watching with wonder just moments ago. But now, she was up in Jane’s face and smiling wildly. “You can stay with me!” She cried out! Her voice carried through the town. Several ponies that had been walking by turned to stare them.

“That’s nice Fluttershy. But I don’t think they want to stay somewhere with a bunch of animals.” Rainbowdash cut in. She flew over to Lisbon and snatched her up off the ground by her stomach. Lisbon yelped and thrashed her legs helplessly as she dangled in the air. “And I’m pretty sure you can’t stay in a cloud house. Neither of you are a pegasus.” Rainbow shrugged and dropped Lisbon to the ground with a thud.

“I hate to say it, but my barn is in quite the shape, and I don’t think you would want to stay in there right now. Our house is a little small as well . . . I don’t really have room.” Applejack tapped the ground guiltily with her hoof, and Jane and Lisbon’s eyes roamed towards Rarity, who looked at them with surprise.

“Me!?” She gasped. Lisbon narrowed her eyes and the pristine unicorn gave a smug grin. “I can’t possibly let strangers into my home. I have my dear sister there. Who knows what could happen to her!”

Twilight rolled her eyes and the rest of the gang did their own exasperated actions. Eventually Twilight said, “I would love to have guests, but right now I’m . . . taking care of Spike! He’s not feeling well and really needs his bed rest!”

The other ponies shot daggers at Twilight, but Fluttershy simply bounded with glee. “You can stay with me! You can!”

“There’s a spare room in the basement of Sugarcube Corner! You could stay there!” Pinkie Pie took Jane by the hoof and yanked him along with her as she trotted across the town, not even waiting for a reply. Hurrying to her hooves, Lisbon followed clumsily. She was often klutzy on two legs, but four was more than she could handle.

“Come on slowpoke!” Rainbowdash pestered.

“I’m trying! Stop nagging me!” Lisbon snapped. She focused on the rhythm her somewhat steady hooves had created and picked up her pace. Soon she was able to keep up with the herd.

As they passed house after house, Lisbon noticed that this world was much like her own. She shouldn't have been so surprised. After all, this world does have magic. On their way to Sugarcube Corner, she spotted markets, hospitals, clothing stores, and even a dentist! This place really manages to surprise you doesn’t it?

Worry wormed it’s way through her newborn curiosity as she remembered what she had to lose. What if people are looking for us back in Sacramento? What if I get fired from CBI when I get back? That brought on another thought, and she stopped mid gallop. Deep inside her chest she could feel something drop like a rock. What if we never get back?

“Teesa! Hurry up! We’re almost there!”

At Pinkie’s excited call, Lisbon threw the thoughts away and raced after the bright pink mare. Everything would work out! After all, she had Patrick Jane with her! Even if that man had a way of getting into trouble, he also had a way of getting out of it.

“Stop calling me Teesa!”

Sugarcube Corner was what Jane had thought it might be. Of course it wasn’t the exact image, but it was close enough. The exterior of the building was bright pink, and it looked to be covered with sprinkles galore. Attached to the vibrant bakery were cupcakes and giant candy canes. None of which were edible.

Pinkie Pie had left to talk with Mr. and Mrs. Cake, leaving Lisbon and Jane alone with Twilight. The rest of the gang had left to go about their own business for the day. But Twilight, for some reason they couldn’t think of, had decided to stay with them. No, she hadn’t decided. She had insisted that she stayed with them, and wouldn’t take no for an answer.

Right now the lavender mare was staring at them both with hungry eyes. Like she wanted to know something. Jane watched as Lisbon shuffled farther away from the mare’s prying pupils.

After what seemed to take a year, Pinkie Pie bounced back to them and smiled. “I, Pinkie Pie, shall escort thee Teesa, and Patrick, to thees room!” she declared.

Lisbon cracked a smile and whispered cheekily into Jane’s ear. “I’m pretty sure that isn’t Shakespearian.” she said.

“Maybe it’s Pinkamenian.” Jane answered.

As the boss and her consultant followed the pink pony down the steps, they fell into a comfortable vibe. Lisbon couldn’t stop herself from holding onto a soft smile, and Jane was happy that he had actually managed to make the stubborn lady break out of her shell. Even if it was just for a few moments. But everything changed the moment they got to the bottom of the steps.

“Here’s your new room!” Pinkie Pie shouted! Streamers twirled down from the ceiling out of nowhere and the lights flashed on in an instant. Magenta walls surrounded the small group of four. The room was moderately sized, and certainly big enough for two ponies to share. To the side of the room there was door with a fresh coat of white paint that brightened the room substantially. Jane guessed that it hid a bathroom behind it. Sunshine flooded through the stainless windows, bringing a homely warmth to the foreign surroundings. There was only one thing that caught both Jane and Lisbon’s attention. There was one bed in the room, and two of them.

“And you only have to one thousand bits to stay!” Pinkie hollered!