Disclaimer: All MLP:FiM characters belong to Hasbro and DHX Media. I do not own any of them except my OC.

I was standing at the door when a pony named "Professor Fossil" came in and talked to Twilight. Apparently, she lives in Rockhoof's old village. Haven't seen him around that much since the defeat of the Pony of Shadows. She said "So you see why Rockhoof isn't an ideal fit for my team." I see. After hearing what she said was going on over there, it didn't sound too good. "Perhaps you could use his, uh, unusual talents?" I'm not sure why she came here. I don't know. Maybe this was the first place she thought of. Who knows? Twilight said "Of course Professor Fossil! We'd be honored to have a Pillar of Equestria on our staff." Oh dear. This is going to be interesting. Professor Fossil said "Thank Celestia." Dang, why are you so crazy? Sheesh. I closed the doors and went to one of the stairwells that Rockhoof was at. He saw the fruit bowl sitting there and he craved it for some reason. He took one of the apples and bit into it. He spitted it out and said "Blech! That apple's made of wood! What a horrible trick to play!" You're not supposed to eat it, you dimwit! It's for decoration. He picked up his shovel and yeeted the decorations out the window before walking away. Rarity came down the stairs while Twilight and the professor came around the corner. Rarity said "Hmm. Has anypony seen my decorative centerpieces? They were right here."

I said "To answer your question, Rockhoof made it disappear. He saw them and thought they looked delicious. So he decided to eat them but realized it was made of wood and he thought he was getting scammed. Angry, he picked up his shovel and yeeted those pieces right out the window and walked away just before you reached the bottom of the stairs." Rarity was horrified and she looked peeved. The professor said "Good Luck!" and quickly made her exit before things began to escalate. Twilight looked at me confused and I just shrugged. Anyways, we decided to introduce Rockhoof to the school. Everyone was all gathered in there and I guarded the doors because well, that's my job as Prince of Equestria. No stupid Chancellor Neighsay can stop me from doing that. Twilight said "So join me in welcoming Professor Rockhoof to our faculty!" I've already met him, so I don't need to do the introductions. Moving on. The students cheered and Rockhoof said "Thank you, Thank you all. I know I'm new to your world, but there's one thing I learned when I saved my village from a rushing river of hot lava…" You aren't exactly new to this world, but you've been gone throughout most of it's evolution. He's been gone along with the rest of the Pillars for probably eight or nine thousand years at this point, so a lot has changed between then and now. But I understand what he's saying. "There's nothing you can't do with hard work and a shovel!"

Rockhoof flipped it around and slammed it into the ground. Unfortunately, he didn't quite understand the laws of physics and he fell through the stage after that crack had gotten bigger and gave out. Ouch. That's embarrassing for first impressions. Smolder just had to say "Except maybe stand on stage." I turned to look at her and gave her my death glare to which she gulped nervously. Don't mess with me boi. Spike tried pulling him out, but he was way too heavy. It was basically like a human trying to lift a car. It's practically impossible. However, Twilight was able to pull him up with her magic and set him down on the stage. Twilight said "So, um, everycreature dismissed!" Well, that was quick. "We'll… see you in class!" This is going to be fun. I watched as the students filed into the classroom and I heard Smolder say "You think that new pony is gonna be the weirdest teacher at school?" Probably. But he's the fun kind of weird. Not the really cringey one. You know what I'm talking about. "Or just one of the weirdest?" Both probably. Yona said "Yona like new teacher! He big, like yak!" Of course. That makes sense. He kinda represents yak culture. Gallus said with annoyance in his voice "And he smashes things like a yak. He smells like a yak…" before getting shoved by Yona who said "Yes! He perfect." I think you may be exaggerating a little bit, but I'll let you dream.

Sandbar said "Guys, he's one of the Pillars!" It makes it even more special because he helped plant the Tree of Harmony which is the thing that I guard and it's guardian. Yes. I am the guardian of the Tree of Harmony. It assigned me as the guardian. I watch it, I protect it, and I speak for it. "He's like… pony history!" Of course he is. He's been gone for eight or nine thousand years along with the other Pillars so it definitely fits the history category. Rockhoof said "Hello class!" He smashed through the entrance and created a hole in the wall. Oh dear. Twilight better not make me replace that because I ain't spending my bits on damages caused by other ponies. Nope, nope, nope. That ain't my thing. "Well, um… I'm your new "Theory and Defense of Friendship" teacher." Now that is an interesting title. That is in my wheelhouse. I would teach that, but as you can tell, I have a crime over my head, so I can't do that. I can't break my part of the deal. Otherwise, the EEA will come bother Twilight again and I don't want that happening. Anyways, moving on. He tried leaning against the desk but it started to bend, so he stopped. Please don't break it. You already broke the entrance to the door. I don't need more furniture getting broken. "But I haven't had a chance to look at Headmare Twilight's notes yet." Good grief. That's a lot of notes. When she defines notes, it's basically a college level essay pretty much. That's how crazy it is.

"What have you all been learning?" Really? You're going to ask the class? Bruh. But, to be fair, this is your first day on the job and you didn't have the chance to look at the notes yet, so I'll let it slide. Also, this is a good test for the students to see if they have been paying attention in class. Ocellus said "We just studied all about how Princess Celestia and Luna used a spell to trap Discord in stone sleep for hundreds of moons." Technically, the Elements just blasted him into stone and it was for 2,000 years. I say that because he made a return in season two. So it makes more sense to say he was banished 2,000 years ago instead of the typical 1,000. They said that for everything and while it is a cartoon, it isn't very realistic on a timeline, so that's why I spaced things out by saying how long ago they were banished based on when they made a return in which season. Although, I'm not exactly sure why you would go over the banishment of Discord in a friendship school. It makes sense with the Elements of Harmony, but that would fit more in magic school because chaos magic can be just as destructive as dark magic sometimes. But, it is what it is. I didn't make up the curriculum, so I ain't gonna fuss about it.

Rockhoof got excited and said "Oh, hohoho… so it's a class about stories, is it?" Not quite like that, but in a way, yes you could say that. The banishment of Discord is a story that can be told. Gallus said "Stories, yeah! And we never, ever, get homework." Dang, someone doesn't want homework. I guess they will fail their final exam at the end of the semester. I understand it though. I have done it before. It was well worth it though. Rockhoof said "Good! The best way to teach colts and fillies is by experience." That's part of it. But that's not the whole story. It's not just about experience. It's other things as well. But, you can learn a lot from experiences. They say you learn more when you make mistakes than when you are right. "Like the time I was in the woods and ran across an Ursa Major?" Oh, that kind of story eh? I have one of my own that I can tell. Silverstream asked with excitement "Really?" Probably. It definitely sounds very interesting. Sandbar said "We're not doing that, right?" Sorry buddy. We are. Too bad if you don't like that. Yona said "You fight Ursa Major? All alone?" Apparently so. Rockhoof said "Aye! And I defeated her too!" Now there's something you don't hear everyday. Most bears usually kill humans with relative ease, but a pony somehow defeated an Ursa Major which is one of the biggest creatures in Equestria. That thing is terrifying and you don't wanna mess with one. That had gotten Smolder's attention and now she is on board with this one. She said "Now this, I'm interested in."

Of course. It makes sense. She has dragon blood. Dragons always love hearing stories about fighting and dominance over another creature and seeing them weak and stuff like that. It fits her. Yona asked "How Professor Rockhoof win?" I believe I know the story, but I'll let the legend himself tell the story. It will be much more interesting. Rockhoof said "Well, that's quite a tale." Unfortunately, he began to demonstrate in a way that you know, you really shouldn't do. He didn't do anything inappropriate, he just demonstrated a little too excessively. You'll see in a second. I heard Twilight say "From what Professor Fossil said, it sounds like Rockhoof just hasn't settled into modern times yet." I understand. Being gone for eight or nine thousand years really does put you out of the loop. Some ponies adapt quickly, while others not so much. They take time to adapt. "Our school is the perfect place for that." Um, are you sure about that? "Plus, we get a new teacher." I guess that's a nice bonus. Applejack said "This may be the fastest friendship problem you ever solved." I wouldn't be so sure about that. Suddenly, there was a crash noise and Twilight and Applejack came rushing down the hall. They came up and saw what happened. I said to Twilight "I am not paying for this." Twilight rolled her eyes and looked over at the damage.

Rockhoof said "Dodge! Thrust! Shovel Leap! Shovel Throw! Shovel Whack!" Dang, he's really using that onomatopoeia with passion. In other words, 1966 Batman words. "Now you lot be the Ursa Major. Lotsa growling, mind." He's definitely got that Scottish accent. I come from there. I wasn't born there, but my ancestors did. So, basically, I'm part Scottish and also part Dutch. I haven't done the full DNA test yet, but I know my ancestors came from those two countries. The students did some growling noises for demonstration, and it was kinda cringe, not gonna lie, but they're enjoying this story, so I'll give them a pass for this one. "Ha ha ha ha!" The thing on the blackboard fell and Applejack said "Maybe classrooms were less breakable in the old days?" I said "Hmm. Perhaps. But most teachers back then would never do something like this. Heh, you should have seen classrooms during the Civil War era in the 1860's. It was priceless. Man, were those boring." Both of them stared at me blankly and I rolled my eyes. Good ahead. Make me look dumb as usual. Yona asked Rockhoof "Ooh ooh ooh! What happened next?" Probably something very exciting, that's for sure.

Rockhoof said "The huge beastie jumped out of the moonlit mist, her fearsome fangs at my throat!" Ouch. That sounds painful. "But I rolled clear. *bangs into wall*" Okay, Rockhoof. I think we get the point. You don't need to demonstrate that and get yourself hurt. Silverstream asked "Then what?" Probably a staring contest. Rockhoof shook his head to stop spinning and said "She backed me up against a wall, ready to pounce." The students gasped and I rolled my eyes. Honestly, it's not that terrifying. I've faced much worse before. "I looked at her… she looked at me. And I say-" before Twilight came and said "Uh Professor Rockhoof?" Here comes the funny part. Rockhoof said "Nope, guess again! Ahem. Oops." I couldn't take it anymore and just started laughing hysterically. Everyone looked at me strangely, but I didn't care. They couldn't do anything to stop me. I said "HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! That's so funny! And I say- "Uh Professor Rockhoof?" Nope, guess again! OH HAHAHAHA! HILARIOUS! HAHAHAHA!" I just couldn't stop laughing. It was so dang funny.

5 minutes later…

I finally stopped laughing and everyone's expression was different. Most of the class was confused, Rockhoof was absolutely clueless, and Twilight gave me a deadpan stare. I said "Ahem. Sorry. I just had to get it out." It was dead silent, that you could hear crickets. "I think I'll take my leave now before someone decides to slap me. See ya!" I disappeared into my shadow form and took off. However, I did want to hear the conversation before I left. Twilight said "Anyways, sorry to interrupt. Class, why don't we go ahead and have lunch early today?" Hey. No fair. "Rockhoof, can we take a walk outside?" Oh dear. He looks scared. He looks like the kid that knows he got into trouble and is afraid to see what his punishment is. You know who I'm talking about. We've all seen that kid before. They walked outside and I watched from above. "Our school is about finding your own special way to teach." Yeah, and as long I have this crime over my head, I plan to keep to it that way. Rockhoof kept walking through leaves and he didn't exactly like it. Must you always have beef with the decorations? How would you like it if I was disgusted with the decorations and always tried to take my anger out on it? You wouldn't like that, would you? I didn't think so.

Applejack said "And we can already tell you're a smash with the class!" That was a good pun, but a really bad time to bring it up. Twilight said "But maybe you could do a little less smashing in the classroom?" You can't really blame him. Rockhoof said "Sorry about that. I did get a bit carried away." That's a bit of an understatement, but whatever. "The students were so interested in my tale!" Yeah, that was pretty heartwarming to watch. Rockhoof went through another pile of leaves and walked off still mad at it. Twilight said "I know it's a big change, but I think you're gonna fit in just-" before getting off by flames coming out the window. Rockhoof saw it and immediately was reminded of the volcano back home that he had to stop. He still has that reminder. I could see the volcano erupting in his eyes. Good job on that one Hasbro. He said "Fire!" We see that. Twilight said "Rockhoof, wait!" But, he was already gone before she could do anything about it. He was taking off and running towards the school. He said "No time! The building's ablaze! We have to get everypony out!" Oh dear. This isn't a fire drill. I've had to deal with that in school, but I never experienced a real fire, and to be honest, I'm glad I didn't. Otherwise, I might have gotten PTSD from that.

I heard Yona say "Professor Rockhoof best teacher ever!" I think you may be biased. "Day cannot get better!" Your wish is my command! Also, you'll find out that won't be the case. Rockhoof busted through the walls and said "Let's get you outside, wee ones!" I know Rockhoof shouldn't be doing this, but it's actually quite entertaining to watch. Rockhoof put his shovel under Yona and she said "Day just got better!" as she got yeeted outside along with the other students. They all went outside and Applejack said "Rockhoof?" Oh dear. Twilight said "What are you doing?" What does it look like he's doing, Twilight? Rockhoof said "Saving the school!" See, what did I tell you? He jumped over to the water fountain and busted it with his shovel before he aimed it at the fire and put it out. "Just like fighting a volcano in the good old days!" Eh, not quite, but I see the connection you are making here. Unfortunately, Rarity came over soaking wet and was furious and said "Would somepony kindly explain what is the meaning of all this water?!" Why don't you look at the broken fountain? Pinkie said "I'm not sure, but I think it's "Surf's up!" Pinkie broke the fourth wall once again. How you may ask? She brought up a reference about a movie called Surf's Up. I'm sure you've heard of it. If you haven't, you've been living under a rock and are missing out.

Pinkie got out the surfboard and dashed past Rockhoof who said "Sorry, Rarity. But I had to put out the raging inferno!" Spike and Smolder came out and they were soaking wet as well. Spike asked "Inferno? Where?" Rockhoof said annoyed "Did you not see the smoke and flame?" I think we did, Rockhoof. Smolder said "Yeah, that was us. Y'know, dragons? Having a firebreathing competition?" I don't think he knows that, Smolder. Probably back in his day, dragons were considered enemies and nothing but dangerous greedy creatures who only cared about themselves and their precious gems. Rockhoof said "You… what?" Oh dear. Well, this is embarrassing if your name is Rockhoof. Twilight said "They do it all the time." Really? How come I haven't noticed until now? Odd. "That's what we were trying to tell you." I'm not sure about that. Applejack said "We know you're used to being a hero, Rockhoof. Only… what we need here is a teacher." Ouch. That one hurt. Rarity said "One who doesn't ruin an entire class's friendship quilts!" What are you even going to use that for, Rarity? "Do you know how hard it is to stitch a pineapple pattern?!" You're not helping here Rarity. I said "Here. I have the fix for that." I lit up my scepter and quickly dried all of the quilts she had and there were no more wet spots. Rarity was amazed. She thanked me for that and said she'll pay me back later for it.

Rockhoof put his head down a bit and said "Oh. My deepest apologies." It's okay. "I'm not used to living with dragons." That's only been something that has been added recently, not over the last several thousand years. It's pretty much been the same for almost the entire time you have been gone until Season 6. That's when it began to change. "Or much else in this modern time." Yeah, a lot has changed over eight or nine thousand years. "Professor Fossil made it clear I'm not welcome back in my old village. Seems I don't belong here either." I totally feel you man. I have empathy for him. I've been in the same situation before. Not being ancient, but just the overall feeling about not being useful anywhere and just being some useless tool that needs to be locked away in the back of the shed never to be used again. It's a metaphor. Don't take it literal. He walked away and we all watched him leave. Twilight looked down in sadness and leaned against me for comfort. When I look at Rockhoof, I see myself in there. I won't tell you the whole story, but it wasn't pretty.

We all met back in the throne room and Twilight said "So apparently, finding Rockhoof a new job is a lot harder than we thought." You think? I believe it's quite obvious. "Has anypony had any luck?" Probably not. Everypony else said nope and I shook my head no. Applejack said "I thought you were gonna try him out at the post office." Oh dear. Not this one. Twilight told me all about it and it sounded really embarrassing. Twilight said "We did." I said "It didn't turn out that well." He basically shouted why Cranky needed medicine which was super embarrassing. Spike shuddered at that and said "I did not need to hear that." Sorry. It was part of the story. You wanted to know how it went, that's what you get. Too bad if you don't like that. Rarity said "Yep. Rockhoof's time as a spa masseuse didn't work out either." I remember that story all too well. Poor Bulk Biceps. I thought he was the strong one. But compared to Rockhoof, he's quite weak. I'm not trying to insult him, I'm just saying Bulk is nothing compared to Rockhoof when it comes to strength. Rockhoof's strength basically shames Bulk's by a lot. Rainbow said "Well, at least Rockhoof's really strong." Well, judging by that spa story, I think that was made quite clear. "Maybe we could find him a job carrying heavy stuff?" I have a feeling that's been attempted as well.

Pinkie said "I tried that already." See? What did I tell you? Ponies are just reading my mind left and right these days. Good grief. "Zecora needed somepony to help her get supplies, but…" Really Rockhoof? Did you have to get the whole tree? And why didn't you check for bees first before you gave to her? Good grief man. Rarity said "Oh. How horrid." Indeed. Fluttershy said "None of the other Pillars seem to be having trouble fitting into the modern world." I said "Uh, I wouldn't quite say that. Starswirl still has a lot to learn about friendship. So Rockhoof isn't quite a lone ranger on that one." Applejack said "Then maybe they can show Rockhoof how they did it. Get him used to livin' in this time." I said "Hmm. Not a bad idea." Twilight said "I agree. Great idea, Applejack! Rockhoof's old friends would be happy to help! And I bet he'd love to visit them." I can agree on that one. We went to Canterlot and Rockhoof said "Hmph. Even Canterlot looks different from the old days." I said "I'm not sure if it even existed back then. From all the history books I read, I didn't find anything about Canterlot existing eight or nine thousand years ago." Applejack said "Aw, I'm sure once you see your ol' pal Flash Magnus, you'll feel right at home." Eh, not really. I believe Flash lived most of his life in the military barracks and never left the base until he had to go into an active combat situation with his fellow comrades.

Suddenly, we heard Flash's voice and he said "Trot, 2, 3, 4! Trot, 2, 3, 4!" Yep, definitely, sounds like a drill sergeant. "Keep it lively, rookies!" Yep, that is without a doubt how drill sergeants talk in training camp. "Visitors on site! Company, halt!" It's kinda cringe, but that's just part of the routine they have to follow. The guards gave a salute and stayed there. "Rockhoof, you old ditch-digger you!" Well, that was interesting. Rockhoof said "Flash Magnus, as I live and breathe!" What the hay is that supposed to mean? "Is this your squadron?" Sure does look like it to me. "After we got out of limbo, I went looking for work for a pony with experience in the Royal Legion. Once a soldier, always a soldier." Now that definitely sounds like the ultimate military motto. Twilight said "Princess Celestia was happy to find a new drill sergeant for her Guard!" I said "Didn't your brother used to do that though, Twilight?" Twilight nodded and said "He did, but since he's ruling in the Crystal Empire now along with Cadence, there was no need anymore because it was a very long trip from there to here in Canterlot." I said "Oh, okay. That makes sense." Rockhoof said "That's great." I can see the heartbreak in his voice. "She really put you in a job that big… so soon?" Yeah, pretty much.

Flash said "Oh, this is nothing. You should see what Mistmane is up to." We flew over to the Crystal Empire and woah! This is amazing. Rockhoof asked "They made you the Royal Landscape Artist for the Crystal Empire?" Apparently so. That's an even bigger job compared to being a drill sergeant in the military for the Royal Guard. Applejack said "Wow." I know right? Twilight said "Your work is beautiful." Indeed. Mistmane said "Thank you. I've never worked with crystal before, but in my heart, I know I'm where I belong." Rockhoof looked sad and said "You always could find the beauty in things." I don't know how some people do it, but whatever. "But there's not much demand for shovel ponies like me nowadays." Unfortunately, no. Mistmane said "Don't give up hope." Who does that sound like? "See Somnambula. She'll help you find your purpose." Please tell me it's not through magic balls and rituals like she's some psychic or something. Scumbags. We traveled to Southern Equestria in the village of Somnambula and everypony was on pillows. Well, except for me that is. I didn't want to take part in that. Instead, I watched from a distance, so I didn't disturb the peace. Twilight said "Somnambula's a motivational speaker. Bet they didn't even have those back in your time." It probably wasn't necessary then.

Rockhoof said "Because we didn't need them. Ponies knew what to do with their lives." Gee, doesn't that sound familiar? It seems like these days, people have no idea what to do with their lives or even self-identity, so they'll just go to the LGBTQ+ route, which is a bunch of bullcrap, but whatever. (AN: I am NOT trying to make fun of LGBTQ+ community, I'm just stating what I've seen over the years. I don't support it at all, but if you are part of that community, I still respect you as a person. Just wanted to clear that up.) Times really have changed. But I wish this part of humanity didn't change where people don't know what to do in their lives. Somnambula said "Focus on my voice, and feel yourself unlock your potential. *breathes in and out several times* Imagine everything that troubles you as one big cloud. Now let it float away. You are relaxed. Free to do anything you wish." Rockhoof fell down and fell asleep. I guess for him, that's sleeping. I felt something weird, so I looked at myself and I saw that my eyes had turned green with red irises, and purple mist coming out of it. What is going on?! I immediately banished it and went back to my normal self. I have no idea what that was about. Applejack said "Guess he wished he could take a nap?" That's a very odd thing, but eh. Dream on. No pun intended. We then traveled to Hayseed Swamp and Rockhoof said "Mage Meadowbrook! Your home looks just the same as the old days." Definitely so. No more dust bunnies and cobweb infestation, and creepy rocking chairs. Looks much better now.

"Wish I could say the same for mine." It is, but you are no longer welcome there. Meadowbrook said "Well, I've had to expand my clinic a bit. Many creatures need healing in this modern world." Yes, thankfully, we have advanced technology and medicine to get through the modern age. Back in the old days, you got lucky if you survived an illness. "Oh! Looks like you could use some too. What's got you heartsick, Rockhoof?" Feeling useless in this modern age. Rockhoof sat down and said "Thing is, I can't do my old job like Flash. Or adapt like Mistmane. Or succeed at something new like Somnambula. Or go home, like you." You aren't the only one, Rockhoof. And I'm not talking about myself, so don't jump to that conclusion. Meadowbrook said "Give it time. Even Starswirl's still learning about friendship." You see, Rockhoof? You're not alone in this. Applejack said "Yeah. And I bet Stygian took plenty of time to fit in." Twilight came over and said "Hey, look what I found! "Me and My Shadow," the third hit novel by former villain Stygian. I'm impressed! He's really thriving!" I said "Uh Twilight? I don't think that helped." Twilight looked at me confused and I pointed towards Rockhoof. Twilight realized it and watched him leave.

Twilight asked him "Rockhoof? Where are you going?" I have no idea. Rockhoof said "I'm not sure. Maybe I just don't belong in this modern world." Ouch. That one probably hurt. We all met back in the throne room and Applejack said "Now this here is a right mash of apples. 'Stead of solving Rockhoof's problem, we made him feel even worse." It was unintentional though. Rainbow said "I'll tell you the real problem here!" Oh, and what would that might be? "We haven't given Rockhoof the chance to be who he really is." Uhhh, okay. Moving on. Pinkie asked "A pony with a metal shovel and a heart of gold?" That is true. Rainbow said "A hero!" Uh, what do you mean by that? "What we need to do is find him a job that's as epic as he is!" Good luck with that. Twilight looked at the map and said "Hm. I might know just the thing…" Mount Aris? I hope you know what you're doing Twilight. We traveled to Mount Aris and went on one of the naval ships for the Hippogriff navy. Rockhoof said "I'm honored to serve in the Hippogriff Navy. General Seaspray." Well, that was an interesting introduction. "I promise I'll prove my worth." I hope so. Seaspray said "Think nothing of it." Well, that's nice to hear. "I know how hard it is to adapt to a new home." Heh, tell me about it.

"After our many years below the waves, land customs seemed strange." Eh, not really, but since you were basically bird versions of mermaids, it makes sense. It seemed strange walking on four legs when I first came here, but I've gotten used to it. Rockhoof said "Like you didn't fit in, no matter how hard you tried?" Eh, not quite like that. Seaspray said "As though the world moved on without us." That's how it's been for thousands of years my dude. Back home, the world would go through something terrible, but after a day or so, the world moved on like it never even happened. Sad, really, but it's true. "Never fear, Rockhoof. We shall be as brothers in this bright future above the waves." Um, ok. Applejack asked "Uh, why do the Hippogriffs need ships if they can turn into seaponies?" I said "It's a defense tactic." Applejack looked at me and said "Come again?" I said "Basically, it's a thing the military does as part of defense and protection of their country. Back home, my country was a major world power so it had to have a strong navy along with the other armed forces to keep the country safe from terrorists. That's all." Applejack said "Ah. That makes sense now." I know this kind of thing.

Both from studying in history class and being the Prince of Defense myself. You kinda have to know military tactics in order to live out your duty as a military royal prince. Suddenly, another Hippogriff said "General! The fog's too thick to see our way out of the harbor!" Hmm. I looked out into the ocean and saw how dense that fog was. Whew wee. That's some thicc bois right there. The General saw it as well and said "Heave to, swabbies! Halt the ship and hold her til the fog passes." Uh, you might be waiting a long time for that. Fog doesn't go away in like 5 minutes. It can usually last the entire night most of the time. Rockhoof said "Wait, General! We can navigate the same way my Coltic ancestors traveled through the Selkie Mists!" The what now? "We'll look to the stars!" Oh, well that seems easy enough. But why do I have a feeling something bad is going to happen? "There in the northwest sky is the constellation for O'Bridle's Pelt!" What the hay is that supposed to mean? If any of you know anything about astronomy, please let me know in the reviews section about what this stuff means after this chapter is posted. I would greatly appreciate it. "Steer the ship towards that!" Are you sure about that?

Seaspray said "You heard the pony, crew! Make full sail!" The crew got to work and we sailed through rocks. Applejack said "Yeehaw! Rockhoof did it!" I wouldn't hold your breath on that just yet. Suddenly, the ship crashed into a giant rock. No pun intended. Rockhoof said in confusion "But… I don't understand! The stars have always steered me true!" I said "Stars can actually move over thousands of years, but unfortunately, it's very hard to tell because you can't really see them move." Twilight nodded in agreement and the General said "It was an honor serving with you, Rockhoof. But it seems our paths lie in different directions." Ouch that was a really bad illustration there. Poor guy. He really tried his hardest, but unfortunately didn't realize that stars could move over long periods of time. Twilight said "Hey, mistakes happen." It doesn't really help the situation though. Saying that doesn't exactly make the pain go away. Trust me. I've been where he is now. "We'll think of something else for you to do!" I don't think we have much left, Twilight. Rockhoof said "Oh, there's no need, lass. I already know what I want to do next." Oh dear. This doesn't sound very good.

Applejack asked "Really? What?" I don't think you are going to like the answer. Rockhoof said "I heard there's a statue spell that sends creatures into stone sleep." Didn't you get that from Ocellus though? "I want you to cast it. On me." She pointed to Twilight and my eyes went wide. Okay, I understand you feel bad and you hate yourself, but that's a little extreme if you ask me. Next thing I know, both Twilight and Rockhoof are arguing in the library and I didn't want any part of it. So I put on my sunglasses, put in some earplugs, sat on the couch, and read my newspaper. Spike came in and asked "Hey guys. Need me to help decide on something?" You don't want to know. Twilight said "Rockhoof wants me to cast a spell to turn him into a statue. The answer is no!" I said "At least he didn't ask me to do it. I have the power to, but only if he really wants me to." Twilight looked at me completely annoyed as she could not believe what I just said. I didn't say I would, I said I would if Rockhoof really wants this fate. Rockhoof said "Well, it should be aye, because I wouldn't even be here to be turned into a statue if Twilight hadn't cast a spell in the first place!" WHOA THERE BUDDY! Calm down! I understand you are upset, but there was no need for that. Spike said "Whoa. I thought you were arguing over ice cream flavors." Now, why the heck would they argue about that?

Twilight said "The answer is still no! Why would you want to be turned into stone?" I think you know the answer to that, Twilight. Rockhoof said "Because I'm a relic of a bygone age. I belong in a museum." Why is that? "Safe. Preserved. Untouched." Ouch the words of Professor Fossil herself. "I don't belong in this time. It's up to you to make that right. Otherwise, I'll have to turn to him to make things right." Ouch. Twilight said "But there has to be a better way!" Unfortunately, there isn't really any ideas. Rockhoof said "Twilight, please understand. I want to be remembered as the hero I was. Not the disappointment I've become." Man, that's just brutal. Twilight said "But you're not!" I beg to differ on that one for right now. "Rockhoof, wait!" It was already too late because Rockhoof went out the door. "Spike, can you teach my class today?" I'm sure he would. Spike asked "You're not really going to turn him to stone, are you?" It's the only option left.

Twilight said "Only because it's temporary. I'll have Zach cast it since he seems to know the spell and I can't really bring myself to do that." Who says I wouldn't do the same thing? Oh well. "As soon as I think of a solution, we'll wake Rockhoof up. I know he has more to offer the world as a pony than a statue." If you say so. I went into the school to see how the students would react to this news. Spike just walked in tired and said "Hey class." and some other crap that I don't feel like repeating. Gallus said "Another sub? Let me start by telling you we don't get homework, and we only do field trips." Nice try there, Gallus, but that ain't gonna fly. Spike said "Yeah, nice try. Twilight sent me to tell you she won't be in today 'cause she has to cast a stone sleep spell on Rockhoof." The students gasped and Ocellus asked "Like Discord?" Kinda. "But why?" I'll tell ya. "Rockhoof isn't a bad guy." I came in and said "It's because Rockhoof feels bad about himself. He believes that he does not belong in this modern age and needs to be locked away so that he can be remembered by his heroics, and not his failures. I can empathize with him because unfortunately, I have suffered the same feeling before, so I know what it feels like."

"However, as much it breaks my heart, I have no other choice but to cast him to stone for right now. Speaking of which, I have to get going now so I can prepare that spell. I'll miss the guy, but it's what has to be done." I walked out of the classroom and headed back to the castle to prepare the spell. I was finally able to get it after a couple of hours and went downstairs to meet up Rockhoof. He was doing weird poses because he was trying to find the best one so it's not too incredibly boring. I said "Are you sure you really want to do this, Rockhoof? There's no turning back after this. I have my spell ready, but I won't do it unless this is something you absolutely want." Rockhoof said "Ah yes. This is really what I want and what's best. Go ahead and cast it." I sighed and began to cast the spell. My eyes went white and the scepter's magic began to shoot into the sky. Once it came back falling down, it hit Rockhoof like it did with Discord when the mane six defeated him. After a few seconds, I was done. However, I didn't notice Yona was standing right there. Oh dear. I said "I'm sorry Yona. I didn't see you there until just now. When you came in, I was busy casting the spell and unfortunately, I couldn't cut it off because it was already too far into the process for me to do anything about it. If you want, I can try and release him." Yona said "Yona love that. Yona want Professor Rockhoof to come back." I said "Well, I guess I can do that for ya. You might want to stand back though."

Yona nodded and stepped back a bit. Thankfully, I knew the spell to reverse the effects off of the top of my head, so that wasn't an issue. I casted it again and this time, my eyes went white and the scepter started breaking the stone just like the Mane Six did with Discord in Season 3. After a few seconds, Rockhoof was free again and he asked "What? Why the hay did you release me? I told you this is what's best." I said "I believe a certain yak wanted to see you." Rockhoof looked over and Yona told her class report to Rockhoof and it made him happy. He followed Yona and she said "Yona tell whole school Rockhoof is best. Now all want to hear story." She opened the door and every student was there plus my friends as well. Rockhoof felt happy and got emotional. Twilight came over and said "Okay. Zach has the spell ready, but will you please reconsider. Rockhoof?" I said "I initially did, but a certain yak had a different idea." Twilight smiled and observed. Rockhoof said "The Ursa Major tried to grab me by the Gullet! But I ducked her claws!" Impressive. "She had me cornered. So I look at her… she looks at me. And I say "Sorry you won't be having any dinner tonight, lass! Guess you'll just have to grin and bear it!" Ha. That was pretty funny. "And then I tossed her away with my shovel, high into the sky." He got some strength there. "And she's been a constellation up there ever since." Dang, that's a pretty long time. Maybe Lightning Dust will have some nice company over there. She was banished to the moon, so the stars aren't that far away. Hopefully, Luna doesn't get mad that a pony is on the moon. "Or so I'm told." What do you mean? "And that's the end of my story." Well, that was a really good one in my opinion.

The crowd chanted "One more story!" but Rockhoof said "No no. Thank you for listening. But it's time to say good-bye." I'm not sure about that. Twilight said "Wait. You said there wasn't anything in this time you were good at. What about telling stories?" She brings up a good point. Rockhoof said "It was just a tall tale…" Oh poo. That's sad because my story of defeating 10 timberwolves by myself without any serious injuries or magic would be considered a tall tale to most creatures or even my own kind. I definitely know they wouldn't believe it. Except for the people that read this story, then they'll believe it because they read about me doing it. Twilight said "One that captures the hearts and imagination of everycreature here." She's got another good point. Yona said "Plus pony story super fun!" It definitely was. Definitely something that could rival my own experiences. The crowd cheered and Twilight said "As the Princess of Friendship, I'd like to appoint you as Equestria's official Keeper of Tales." Now there's a new one. Spike asked "Can you do that?" I said "Yes, she is allowed to do that. According to section 26, paragraph 27, of Equestria's constitution here, it says that "Rulers can create any position or anoint those to one whenever they desire within reason." Also, I have created positions before, so it's nothing new."

Rockhoof said "I uh, that's very kind of you. But I still think these old bones are more suited to a museum display." I beg to differ on that one. Twilight said "You are a living record of our history. Your stories can inspire and teach generations to come. If you're a statue, that's all lost." Well, he's eventually gonna die at some point. Rockhoof said "But will I ever really belong in your world?" Maybe. Maybe not. But it doesn't really matter. Yona said "Rockhoof Yona's friend. So Rockhoof belongs." I said "Listen, Rockhoof. I know how you feel about not belonging in this world. I used to have that feeling. You might belong here, you might not. We all suffer from finding our identity at some point in our lives. Some take longer than others. But at the end of the day, it doesn't matter if you do or not. As long as you have friends who care about you, that's all that matters." Twilight nodded in agreement and Rockhoof said "You know, that reminds me of another story... " Oh, this should be interesting. "Once there was a small Yak that knew more than a great hero." Smolder said "Hey, don't forget the dragons in this one!" I said "And the lions too. You can't have a good story without the King of all Beasts in there." Rockhoof said "Aye, there were dragons. And ponies. And lions. And plenty of hippogriffs. Plus a changeling and a griffon that flew…" He went on until he finished the story and once it wrapped up, everyone went home.

I went up to the balcony just to see Ponyville at night and make sure nothing fishy happened. Back home, night time was the time of day when crime was at its highest. I don't know how it is here. Suddenly, Twilight came out and asked me "What are you doing out here?" I said "Just looking out in Ponyville. I don't know why, but I just like doing it for some reason." There were a few moments of silence when Twilight said "Um, Zach, can I ask you something?" I said "Sure. What is it?" Twilight asked "Is it true that you felt like you never belonged and felt useless?" I sighed and said "Yes. I have felt that way in the past and I still partially do feel that way. I still feel like an outcast. I still feel like I don't belong. I still feel like I can be useless at times. I don't struggle with it as much now as I did then, but it still lingers within me." Twilight said "You are not useless. You can be very helpful when the time comes and you're also not an outcast. Sure, you might be a different species, but we already have that in place. Why, students from different cultures attend the School of Friendship." I guess that's true.

"Lastly, you do belong. No one has ever achieved such greatness like you have. You defeated 10 timberwolves by yourself, you escaped Chrysalis twice, you defeated King Sombra using his own strategy, and you helped our friends solve friendship problems. Plus, you've always been there for me when I needed it and never once turned your back on me." What she said was absolutely true. "Even though you've made mistakes, you always came back to redeem yourself by doing something crazy. Nothing makes me more proud. And if you can tell others that they belong in this world, I can say you belong as well." She does have a point. I smiled and wrapped one of my eagle wings around her. I said "As long as you say I belong in this world, that's all that matters." We both smiled at one another and we both leaned in for a passionate kiss. It was nice doing it under the moonlight of Luna's night sky. After a few minutes, we pulled away and stared into each other's eyes. Those beautiful violet orbs always shine so bright and it reminds me of the stars that I look up at every night. "You know, it was pretty nice having romance like this under the moonlight like this." Twilight said "I think so as well. This is beautiful." I said while smirking "Just like how you are?" Twilight went red a bit and hit me lightly.

She said "You are the cheesiest human I've ever met sometimes." I said "I know, but you still like me anyway." Twilight sighed and said "That is true. Nothing makes me more happy than to be with you." I said "And nothing makes me happier than to be with you." We smiled to one another once more and leaned in for another passionate kiss because why the heck not? I could do this all night with the mare I care about the most. Even if the rest of the world says I don't belong, I know Twilight will say I do.

AN: What another interesting chapter to write! We are getting close to the end of the season and I have big plans for this fanfiction coming up pretty soon. Anyways, it was very disappointing to have the Baltimore Ravens lose to the Buffalo Bills last night, but congrats for Buffalo. I'm happy for them. On the plus side, the defending Super Bowl champ Kansas City Chiefs are heading to the AFC Championship game for the third straight year which makes them the first team in the AFC to ever do that. It's only happened once in the NFC. Also, I hope Patrick Mahomes will be okay and be able to play next week against Buffalo, or else they are in trouble. But we'll see. Hope you enjoyed the chapter.

Next Chapter: The underground caves! After Cozy Glow offends the student six, they somehow stumble themselves into the underground caves beneath the school in the library. The Spirit of Harmony appears to them and gives them a test to see if they truly are capable of friendship. However, they are personal fears they must overcome. Will the student six be able to conquer their fears and pass the test, or will fear win and leave them stuck down there forever?

Until then, my fellow readers