Mud the Kelpie

by Topazzia

Pinkie's Way

Often times I was alone, and I would feel like I was the only Kelpie in the swamp. I hated that feeling, because I knew the monsters would have only one target.

The pony creatures here helped me so much, and I know they mean well. I guess I’m so used to being alone, I just needed some space.

I can’t help but remember how things used to be, and everyone that isn’t here anymore. It’s weird, but I like it, I think.

Mud sat reclined against her bed, staring blankly at the wall. Deep in thought, she barely noticed time passing. But the pony approaching up the hall knew that something was wrong, and decided to seek out her dark furred companion.

Bouncing along, the translator necklace rattled as she went. Pinkie stuck to the floor right outside, pressing her ear against the door first, before calling out.
“Mu-uud?” She sang gently, listening for a response. But there was nothing, so she let herself in. Pushing through the door she took a few quick strides in and stopped in the middle of the room, scanning amongst the toys and pillows scattered everywhere. The room was a mess, but this was normal, as Mud had never had a room to clean up before.

Pinkie slid onto the bed and peeked down at the sulking creature, noticing the distant gaze.
“Heya Muddy-Mud.”

Still no answer, Pinkie stepped down and sat beside the Kelpie. “Haven’t seen ya in a bit, it got really boring.”

Mud understood her words, but only took a deep breath.
Pinkie kept a smile, although a look of knowing came on.
“Hey, I know that look.”
She leans close to the Kelpie. “You’re thinking.”

Mud glances at her, letting a sound emanate in her throat. But she crossed her arms, answering in a low hum.
“Yeah… thinking.”

Pinkie smiled encouragingly, “About what?”
Mud hesitated, but straightened up. “Home. Well, my old home.”
“Do ya miss it?”
Mud turns a stern gaze to the pink pony, “No, in fact I’m just remembering how awful it was.”
Pinkie’s smile faded to one of hurtful understanding.
“It wasn’t a home… it was a maggot pit.” The Kelpie went on, her muzzle wrinkling to reveal spiteful fangs.

But it wasn’t enough to discourage Pinkie’s efforts, so she raised a hoof, setting it firmly over her shoulder. “Hey, I’m sure it wasn’t perfect.”

Mud looked surprised at the gesture, making eye contact with the pony.

Pinkie continued, gaze distant, she remembered her own home. Every day was the same gray, and nothing brought joy to her life.
“I never really considered change to actually happen, but then I saw my rainbow. It was enough for me to see that not everything had to be all frowns and not expecting anything from life.”

Mud sat quietly, listening to every word.
Noticing her attention, Pinkie smiled and went on. “I guess we were your rainbow huh? By the sound of it you found us just in time, and I’m glad we found you.”
She reached her other arm over and around the Kelpie, pulling her close in a warm hug.

Mud was taken aback by the pony’s words, and the gesture of kindness. But she felt a kind of joy beginning to shine, deep within her chest. She wanted to believe Pinkie, but something pulled at the back of her mind. Though it was comforting, Mud knew this hug wouldn’t last forever.

The swamp didn’t last, why should this place…

But the pony’s voice brought her back.
“No matter what shadow you come to, there’s always the other side.”

As if the pony read her mind, Mud stared in surprise. But Pinkies smile, and warm embrace, banished all the lingering thoughts of being alone again.

The kelpie hesitated, and smiled, letting her head rest on Pinkie’s chest, just under her chin.
“Thanks Pinkie” Mud purred as her mood began to rise, slowly, but it was a start she liked.

Author's Note:

a really really realy realy rely ralely yllaer reayly really short story...

I aint good at writing.