Chapter 3
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“The show must go on. The show must go on. Inside my heart is breaking; my make-up may be flaking, but my smile still stays on.” – Queen, The Show Must go On (Innuendo)
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Celestia looked at Surestrike’s expression and chuckled again. “Sorry. It’s an occupational hazard.” Her expression sobered. “There are more places than Equestria, Surestrike. Many, many more. Some would be called fiction, but they’re very real to those living there. Michael told me about a few he’s been to, and it’s hard to accept the first time you hear about it. It’s still hard to believe we’re fiction to others. Do you feel as though someone’s making your mind up for you?”
“Of course not. If that’s true, does free will mean anything?” the Guard replied.
“Exactly. It can make you question your whole existence. That’s why he’s the way he is. He’s been to those places, and sometimes it hits him hard.” She closed her eyes, and a tear fell to the floor. “It also makes you wonder about the beings who write truly unpleasant stories, how they could find what they do to their characters enjoyable.” She shook her head sadly. “After a while you get used to it, but you have to push it aside and ignore it. Forget it, hopefully.”
“And Verdigris?”
“It won’t affect him. I doubt Michael would do that to him.” She threw off the somber mood. “But that’s for another day. It’s time to sleep. The job doesn’t wait, and we can’t do anything but try to keep up.” The Princess nodded to him. “Good night, Surestrike.”
“Good night, Celestia. Pleasant dreams.”
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Verdigris woke early, intending to get a jump on the day. His parents had given him a few spending bits, and he wanted to get to the store early. Uncle Mike had brought some candied ginger back once, and he’d loved it. He had enough for a pound, which should keep him for a week, perhaps two if he stretched it out. He left a note telling where he was going, grabbed his saddlebags and trotted out into the morning light.
He hummed a light, airy tune Michael had taught him; it seemed to fit the time of day. He occasionally leaped up, spreading his wings and gliding a few dozen yards at a time to get the feel of his bags. They didn’t change his balance as he’d thought they would. Good. I might want to carry something, like the ginger.
As he reached Oceanside’s outlying buildings, he became aware of watching eyes. Some of the older colts were out. Shouldn’t they be in school? he wondered. Where I should be. He knew why they didn’t want him there; some nonsense about his illness being catching. Are they serious, or is it just an excuse? Hay with it. I’m doing all right, I’ve got time to learn other things, and that’s fine with me.
He reached and entered the store to find Greylock behind the counter. The stallion looked surprised. “Verdigris? What are you doing here?” the Unicorn asked, his namesake grey lock of mane drooping over his left eye. “Why aren’t you in school?”
“Are you serious?” the colt asked. “The word was all over town in a day. Nopony wanted me near their foals, ‘cause they thought what I had was catching. So mom’s teaching me,” he said as he approached the counter. “Got any more candied ginger?”
Greylock smiled. “Oh, you liked it, eh? Plenty over there,” he said, pointing to the big jar with his horn. “Not everypony likes it; it’s an acquired taste. But once you get to like it, it’ll never let you go.”
Verdigris chuckled as he made his way over and filled the small bag. “It’s great. Not too sweet, just enough to take off the edge.” He weighed the bag with his magic before checking it on the scale. Not bad, a little low. I’ll get better, he thought as he added a few more pieces. He trotted over and let Greylock ring him up. “Why’s that part of your mane grey, instead of red? If you don’t mind.”
“Ah, I took a hard fall when I was about your age, and it left a scar. See?” the Unicorn replied, bending forward. “It looks worse than it was,” he added as Verdigris hissed in a breath. “There. Twelve bits, as advertised.” Verdigris counted it out as he watched. “Thanks, lad. Good to do business with you. Take care.”
“Same to you, Greylock. Thanks.” Verdigris put his purchase into his saddlebags and smiled as he opened the door.
The Unicorn walked to the front window, and noticed the other colts moving. Uh, oh. Bluestreak’s at it again. He took a quill and parchment, writing out two messages, and used the Fire Sending spell to send one each to Hawkfeather and Breakwater. I hope I’m not too late. Blasted vicious, thieving donkeys, he thought as he watched the colts corner and surround Verdigris, his eyes hooded as he stepped out onto the walkway, where he settled in to watch. Just in case.
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“Well, look who’s here,” the two-year-old sneered from among his sycophants. “The freak came to town. Just for that, hoof it over. You’re going to pay for dirtying up our town.”
“Stuff it where it hurts the most,” Verdigris replied, his eyes narrowing. He lowered his head and lifted his wings slightly. About a third of the group near the back saw that and left the area. Now he was only outnumbered five-to-one.
Bluestreak’s eyes widened in surprise. Nopony had ever refused or told him off before, and now the freak was doing both. “I said hoof it over, or else.”
“Talk is cheap; candy costs bits. Any dummy can talk,” the Alicorn countered calmly. A few colts noticed, and edged away. Something about his eyes bothered them, and made them nervous. “You got more bits than you know what to do with. You can buy your own store, for Celestia’s sake.”
“I said – ”
“I heard you the first time!” Verdigris barked. “I said no. What part of that didn’t you get?”
Bluestreak looked at his two seconds and hissed, “Get him.” They trotted over casually, giving him mean smiles. The Pegasus suddenly charged, ready to spring when Verdigris counter-charged, then extended and shifted his wings as he twisted his body. He “dug” into the air, and his back hooves seemed to fly, crashing into his opponent’s head as he spun on his front hooves.
When his hooves touched down, he raised his head and his horn glowed. The other Pegasus tripped over nothing but a grey-green glow, crashing face-first into the dirt lane. He laid there for a moment, stunned, then got to his hooves, his eyes hard. He jerked back as Verdigris’ horn seemed to appear right in his face, and tripped over his own hooves. He got up and ran, his eyes wide with fear, as his companion lay in the road, dead to the world.
“Why you – ” Bluestreak sent in a big, hulking Earth pony, who smiled viciously. “I’m gonna hurt you, freak.”
“Yeah, yeah, yeah,” the Alicorn sneered. “Big and dumb. Just how I like ‘em.”
The pony’s face went red, and he charged straight in. Verdigris readied himself, and the colt reared, ready to bash his smaller opponent into the dirt. Instead, he was rudely surprised when he was bucked in the face. He felt his jaw crack, and the lights went out.
The other Unicorn used telekinesis, trying to wrap him in a rope. Verdigris countered by rushing straight in, horn first. His opponent panicked, tried to jump aside and fell hard when Verdigris’ chest slammed into his side. As he tried to get up, a hoof smashed into his horn, stunning him.
Verdigris heard running hooves, and saw Bluestreak charging, his head down, horn glittering. He didn’t have time to think, but leapt up and hovered. He was tempted to use the crippling fore-hoof strike to the back of the head, but waited a few seconds as the Unicorn passed below, then applied a vicious buck to Bluestreak’s flank, sending him spinning and tumbling, hocks over withers.
Verdigris landed and scooped up a large clump of mud, then grabbed it with telekinesis. “Hey, Bluestreak!” The Unicorn turned to look as he got up and trotted away. “Catch!” The mud ball shot away, slamming into Bluestreak’s head, knocking him off balance to sprawl in the street. “Get lost!” Bluestreak jumped up and galloped away.
Greylock blinked in amazement. Nopony had ever taken on, let alone beaten Bluestreak’s gang, but the Alicorn nopony thought would live had, and did it well. Verdigris panted with fatigue and reaction, but was fine otherwise. He hadn’t even lost his saddlebags. Wow, Hawk, you did a good job, was all he could think.
Within a few minutes, Magistrate Breakwater arrived with several ponies in tow. All but two had their colts with them, and they all had angry and anxious expressions. Greylock half-expected Verdigris to turn tail and run, but he only stood there resolutely. The sires of the downed ponies checked their colts, then approached threateningly, their expressions stormy. They stopped when Verdigris said derisively, “Oh, so the grown-ups are gonna finish the job? Over a few bits of candy? Yeah, that’s just great,” he finished as Hawkfeather and a few Patrol ponies arrived. The stallions backed off, their eyes glittering.
“Why isn’t that colt in school?” Breakwater demanded sharply.
“Oh, let’s see, you and this bunch among others didn’t want him there, remember?” Hawkfeather sneered. “Contagious, or something like that. You clods. You didn’t want him there before, and now you do?”
Breakwater glared at him. “All right, you’ve got a point. Your colt attacked these – ”
“Horse apples!” Verdigris’ shout startled everypony. “I came in to get some candy, not start a fight. I was on my way home when they started on me near the bakery. Bluestreak said something about me dirtying this town, and I had to pay for it, so hand over my stuff. I said ‘hay no’, and that’s when he started the fight. Do I look dumb enough to take on seven ponies all by myself?”
“That’s exactly how it went,” Greylock said, startling them all. “Verdigris didn’t start it, but he sure finished it. Blackrock’s probably got a broken jaw; I heard it. Marl’s gonna have a nasty headache when he comes to.” He looked on as the Unicorn was helped to his hooves. “That hit’s going to sting a little,” he added.
“What about Bluestreak? He was hit in the head with a big rock.”
“Horse apples,” Verdigris repeated. “But since he said it, how big a rock?” Breakwater held his hooves about six inches apart. “Yeah, right. I used a big lump of mud, not a rock.”
“You bucking liar!” Bluestreak yelled.
“My colt’s no liar!” Hawkfeather bellowed in return. Bluestreak cringed back, his eyes wide.
“Greylock, do you have a board you don’t need?” Verdigris searched around until he found a rock the same size as the mud ball. “This about right?” Breakwater nodded suspiciously as the storekeeper brought out a light fence post. “Okay, just stand it up. I’m gonna hit it as hard as I did him,” the Alicorn said, tossing his head toward Bluestreak. “Now watch.”
He held the stone in his telekinesis, then his head jerked forward. The rock shot away, striking the post in the middle, breaking it in half. “I think everypony knows what that woulda’ done to a pony’s head.” Verdigris sat down hard, panting as Gemstone moved to his side, standing between him and the other ponies. Her proudly shining eyes dared them to move.
Hawkfeather looked at Breakwater stoically. “Well? Who are you going to believe?” His tone made it plain he was sure the Magistrate would side with his son. Again. As usual.
Breakwater looked at the post, the injured colts and Verdigris. He nodded. “I think you’ll see soon enough.” He suddenly rounded on his son, smacking him on the head. “How dare you! The other stuff wasn’t enough? Now you have to have to tell a lie a blind-worm could see through! Go home, right now! Move it!” Bluestreak wilted, then ran away, sobbing. “Will that do?”
“You didn’t need to do that,” Verdigris said. “If you were trying to stop it, you just blew it. He’s gonna hate me even worse after you shamed him that way, in front of me and his ‘friends’. Thanks a lot.” He stood up, swayed a little and shook off his mother’s support. “Why the hay do you want me in school, anyway?”
“Well, it’s because you’re doing so well, we had to have you there.” Breakwater’s eyes twitched slightly.
Verdigris’ expression of cynicism surprised everypony. “Oh, I get it. Mom’s teaching me, not Slate, and I’m really learning something, and you want my scores to make everypony look good, too. Right?” He didn’t wait for an answer. “You didn’t want me then, but you do now.” He gave the Magistrate a look of disgust. “No thanks.” He turned, and without another word trotted home. His head drooped as he passed out of sight.
“I hope you’re proud of yourselves,” Lieutenant Birchbark snapped. “The lad was minding his own business, and you had to let colts be colts. It wasn’t his fault, and you have nopony to blame it on.” He made a noise of disgust. “Get your colts home, or to the hospital. You aren’t acting any better.”
The ponies filtered away, some shame-faced, stone-faced or just plain angry. The rest just looked after Verdigris with unreadable expressions. Surprisingly, the Earth pony colt wanted to apologize. “He beat me fair and square, and he was right,” he said as he limped away.
“I just love hollow victories,” Hawkfeather groused. “Great. Just when we thought things might work out okay after all.”
Birchbark looked in the direction Verdigris took and sighed heavily. “I’m sorry, Hawk,” the Pegasus said. “We all know what Oceanside was and will always be. It’s a shame. Your colt has a lot of spirit, and he can think. It’s not his fault.”
“I know, but that doesn’t matter to those sons-of-nags. It’s not going to get any easier, maybe not any better, either. I don’t want him fighting every day he’s at school; he might never see the inside of the place, and I don’t know if I care. He’s one, maybe two grades above them, and that’s another strike.” He lowered his head as Gemstone joined them. “Can’t we catch a break?”
“I know, Hawk. Life’s not fair, and we have to get used to that.” Birchbark looked down the lane again. “He’s going to have a hard time with that idea.”
“Maybe, but he’ll get through it,” Gemstone replied softly. “Verdigris could have beaten them to a pulp if he’d really wanted to, but he didn’t. I think he understands, even if he doesn’t like it. He won’t quit, either. He’s been a fighter since he first drew breath.”
“And you saw that at the hospital, I’ll bet.” Birchbark shook his head. “Well, if it helps, I hope your colt doesn’t let this sour him. He’s better than that. I think we all saw it.”
“I’d say that was a fair statement,” Greylock agreed. “You’ve got a good one, you two. Don’t let him go south. That would be a terrible waste.”
Hawkfeather nodded. “We’ll see. Let’s go; back to work.” He and his comrades walked away, back to their barracks.
Gemstone stood there, uncertain of what to do. “It’ll be all right,” Greylock said. “You’re right, Verdigris is a fighter, but he’s a smart one, Gemstone. He could have really hurt those colts. Who’s been training him?”
The mare smiled despite herself. “Hawk, half the Patrol, and Blackwolf, while he was here. He’s been practicing, and I guess it shows.” Her smile faded. “I don’t want him to have to fight, and I don’t want him to be alone. What do I do?”
“I wish I knew.” Greylock looked down the lane. “I really wish I knew.”
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Verdigris lay on his bed, clutching his pillow to his chest, trying not to cry. He’d known there’d be problems, but he never thought just going into town would end this way. Why can’t I fit in? Is that too much to ask for? It’s not my fault. He put his muzzle down and let the tears fall. I just want to fit in. Why won’t they let me?
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Celestia and Surestrike stood on the Great Hall’s balcony, watching as Canterlot woke up. Raising the sun meant an early start, but it had its compensations. Seeing and hearing the world wake up was only one of them. Celestia wished she could do as well with the night sky as she did the day’s, but only Luna had the proper touch and temperament, and so the stars remained where the Night Princess had left them. Luna would return and take up her tasks again, but for now, Celestia left the night sky alone, in tribute to her.
“What’s on for today?” Surestrike asked. The past few weeks had changed him, and for the better, Celestia thought. He was as efficient as ever, but he’d become better because he’d learned not only what she wanted, but other things he couldn’t have without loosening up.
“Nothing, other than the usual. Court breakfast. Daytime Court. A few visits. Nothing I can’t put off, if necessary.” The Princess sighed. “I wish I didn’t have to foal-sit the nobles. Honestly, I think they consider me a figurehead rather than a monarch, as though they’re the real power.”
“I’d suggest you show them how wrong they are, but I know you won’t. Rubbing their noses in it won’t help. Honestly, some of what you put up with would make me snap,” he said. “They’re jockeying for position and don’t get that it doesn’t matter. Nothing significant will change.”
“And I used to wonder if humans were any different. They weren’t, considering how much of their culture, tools and so forth we use.” She smiled. “It would scandalize everypony, and that’s why it’s a closely-guarded secret.”
The Pegasus blinked in surprise. “Were they a threat?”
“No, not really. They were all but gone when we imprisoned Discord,” Celestia replied sadly. “They had so much potential, and it all seemed to go to waste.” She sighed. “Maybe there are more, in other places, and they managed to live up to it.”
Surestrike noticed the wistful smile. “I’d say so. You shouldn’t smile that way.”
Celestia chuckled. “Am I that transparent? You’re right, there are and they have. But I can’t take the chance they’re as bad as they were here, so no humans will ever appear in Equestria. At least not as humans. They’ll have to be very special, as well. I know they’re not all the same, so I have a few safeguards in place to let the good ones through. Just not all at once.”
“I don’t need to know any more.” He noticed her twitch slightly, and her face went rigid for a moment. “What is it?”
“It’s Verdigris. He just got a rude awakening,” she replied sadly. “I should go comfort him, but I can’t.”
“If I may, Princess, horse apples.” She turned to him with a startled jerk. “You said your highest task was your ponies’ happiness and safety. I’d say you can leave to take care of this, as it’s within your prerogatives. I know how much you care about him. It was in your voice, and the light in your eyes, that day you left suddenly.” He sipped his tea and looked across the rooftops. “You set the tone, you set policy and you have to go for that reason. So go. The castle won’t disappear while you’re gone.”
Celestia smiled tearfully and nuzzled him. “Yes. Thank you. I’ll be back shortly.” She stood straight and vanished.
“About time, Celestia,” he said. “Sometimes you have to do something, even if it doesn’t really help. It’s called showing the flag, and that’s important, too.”
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There was a flash, and Verdigris’ eyes snapped open. He rubbed the tears away and looked to see his god-Dam standing near the foot of his bed, looking at him with tear-filled, understanding eyes. “God-Dam Celestia. It’s good to see you.”
She moved with her usual grace to the side of the bed, knelt down and wrapped him in the softness of her wings as she nuzzled him. As soon as she touched him, he began to cry again. Heavy, wracking sobs shook him as he returned the hug, holding on as though for dear life. “I’m sorry. I felt what you felt, and now that I’ve seen you, I know what happened. I’m sorry, Verdigris.” She soothed him and hummed an old tune, as she had for Luna on more than one occasion. “I know it hurts. Just let it out.” He tried but couldn’t speak; she shushed him quietly. “I know. You have to take it a day at a time, god-son. There’s no other way. You don’t have it so bad; this happens everywhere. I’m not trivializing your problems, but I have to live with banishing my sister to the moon, and I deal with it day by day.”
“I only want to fit in,” he sobbed. “I know you couldn’t change that, but it just hurts so much. They won’t give me a chance. All I wanted was some candy.” He bawled into her neck, and her heart ached for him.
Celestia, Princess of the Day, ignored her schedule and comforted her god-son, rocking him like any mother would, silently telling him it would get better, even if it took years. As she lent him strength, she drew solace from comforting him, knowing she’d do it again when Luna returned. She still needed to prepare, but there was time for this. Some things were too important.
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Gemstone walked home, thinking about what she’d seen and heard. She barely held back the tears; she’d let them out at home. All he wanted was some candy, but they wouldn’t even let him have that. I hate to even think it, but Nightmare take you, Bluestreak. That was uncalled-for, even for you, she thought. She didn’t want to think about what he’d be like as he got older. Some ponies got better, but she didn’t think he would. He liked being top colt.
She sighed as she opened the door, wondering what Verdigris was going through, and how he was feeling. He didn’t show it, but she knew he was nearly heart-broken. It was like all his hopes had been shattered today, and it wasn’t even half-done. I knew this would happen, and I can’t think of any way it could have gone differently. He’d have gone into town for something, some time, and it would have happened. I wonder if Celestia really helped us, she thought disconsolately.
How could you ever think that, Gemstone? Celestia’s voice asked her. She stopped dead in the entryway, her eyes wide. Verdigris’ room. He needs us both.
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Celestia held her god-son gently, letting him cry it out. It’s never easy, is it? she thought. Everypony goes through something like this. She closed her eyes and lowered her head. Even Luna did, and I still can’t believe missed it. All the signs were there. She smiled sadly. Hindsight is always perfect.
Verdigris held onto his god-mother, taking comfort from her presence, but the pain wouldn’t just go away. “I don’t know if I can take it. Maybe you should have let me die.”
“Verdigris.” Her voice didn’t rise, and her tone was only slightly sharpened, but it still had enough force to make him cringe. “Let me tell you something you need to know. It’s okay to feel sorry for yourself, but not like that. Nopony has a good day every day, but wallowing in self-pity doesn’t help. Your ‘uncle Mike’ doesn’t have any patience with that. He won’t do it, and he doesn’t respect anypony who does. He thinks anypony who makes what he calls a production of their problems isn’t looking for sympathy; they’re trying to manipulate others. He hates that. Giving up isn’t something you can do. I won’t let you.”
Time to tell him, as least part of it. “What you went through seven months ago wasn’t the first time it happened, Sunblur.” He looked up at her in shocked surprise. “Yes, that’s right. That was you back then, and I promised you a second chance after I bucked it up so badly. I’ve had to live with that ever since, just as I have when I banished my sister.” Celestia smiled briefly. “I guess that makes you her nephew, and I think she’ll like that. Anyway, I had to fix what I did, and I’m sorry it worked out this way.” She leaned down and touched horns with him. What he saw and felt hit her like a hammer, but she endured it. “Oh, dear, I didn’t know.”
“I didn’t want to fight, but I could tell they – well, Bluestreak did. I don’t get it. What’s his problem with me? Anypony else is sorta okay, but he outright hates me.”
“I don’t know, but I’m sure we’ll find out.” Celestia looked into his eyes. “Now I want you to promise me something. If this or something like it happens again, don’t wallow. Deal with it and get it out of your system. I told you you’d be strong, but you’d be gentle; you’d learn hard lessons, but you wouldn’t be bitter; you’re different, but you’ll be tolerant. I didn’t want you to be an example, but I can’t control that.” She closed her eyes. And I hope you can forgive me, god-son. I never meant for things to go the way they did, either time, she told him silently.
She felt him smile. I forgive you, god-mother. You didn’t and couldn’t know. It may or may not be your fault, but I don’t blame you. You really care for us; I can feel that.
“Thank you,” she whispered as they broke contact. She sighed. “Now all I have left is Luna. I think you two will have a lot to talk about, and could help each other.” Another sigh. “That’s a few years away, though.”
“I’ll get by. Do I have a choice?” They shared a chuckle. “I guess not.”
Celestia “overheard” Gemstone’s thoughts, and said silently, How could you ever think that, Gemstone? Verdigris’ room. He needs us both. The door opened and her former student walked in. “It’s okay, I think. He needs some company.”
Gemstone nodded and sat beside Verdigris, hugging him as Celestia’s wings wrapped them both. They remained there, taking and giving comfort in each other’s presence.
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When Celestia reappeared, Surestrike noticed she appeared calmer than before, as though she was not only more at peace, but that she’d somehow unburdened herself; he’d seen it before, among the Guards. He thought for a moment, then nodded to himself. “You told him.”
“Yes, but not all of it. He heard some on his own, but there’s no way he could have heard everything. Only I know the full truth.” Her expression darkened briefly as she remembered. “He’s not ready to know I accidentally killed his whole family. He’s only ten months old, though he looks almost eighteen, because of his size. That’s too great a burden, Surestrike.”
The Guard nodded. “Yes, it is.” He sighed. “Michael didn’t pull his bucks in that message, either. Verdigris could go either way. I don’t think so, and that’s because of his parents and you, but it’ll be close. Push a pony too far, and they’ll hit back, eventually.”
“I know. I’ve watched the Candidates and Cadets practice. I’m surprised nopony’s crippled.”
“Ah,” Surestrike replied, smiling grimly. “We tell them if they go too far, we get to play with them. Haven’t had one accept for a few years, so the word got out.”
“Colts will always be colts.”
“Of course. We don’t need saints; they make lousy Guards.”
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“This is for all the lonely people thinking that life has passed them by. Don't give up until you drink from the silver cup and ride that highway in the sky.
This is for all the single people thinking that love has left them dry. Don't give up until you drink from the silver cup; you never know until you try.” – America, Lonely People (Holiday)
Midnight. The only things moving were a few banners that waved in the breeze. Only the Constables or Patrol were up and about.
Verdigris walked down the empty lane in what passed for Oceanside’s downtown, his horn supplementing the fitful moonlight caused by passing clouds. The stores and Post Office were dark, empty and silent. He'd come to learn his way around so he could avoid another confrontation by taking different routes. He wasn’t afraid; he’d proved that to everypony. He didn’t want to get in any unnecessary fights. One of the colts he’d taken down was still in the hospital.
He reached the other side of town, and saw the Patrol barracks. Why not? I think I’ve got some friends there. He continued on, his hooves barely making any noise until he reached the cobbled parade area. A Unicorn poked his head out the door. “Who’s there?”
“Verdigris. Like some company?” He received a nod, and gratefully walked inside and took the chair. “Thanks, Thunderstorm.”
“Not your best day, was it, lad?”
“No. I’d like to think it won’t happen again, but this is Oceanside,” the Alicorn replied as he took a mug the Unicorn offered. He sniffed at it, cocking his head to one side. “What’s this?”
“Tea. The blend the Princess supposedly likes.” He watched as Verdigris sipped. “Want to talk about it?”
“I don’t know. I can’t change anything, and I don’t think they’ll let anypony try,” he said, obviously referring to Breakwater and the Council. “They didn’t say it, but I got the message. I didn’t think I’d have trouble just going to the store.” He sighed. “I thought if I left them alone, they’d let me alone. Bluestreak showed me I was wrong.”
Thunderstorm listened carefully, and heard the slight bitterness in the Alicorn’s voice. “That’s how most of the sea-side towns and villages are, Verdigris. Cape Colt isn’t any better, either. From what I’ve heard, some parts of Filly or Manehattan are just as bad, or worse. If you’re different, they don’t want you, even if you were born there.” He shrugged helplessly. “It is, as they say, what it is.”
“That’s just stupid, and really unfair. They act like I did it just to pull their tails, like it was my fault. If it’s anypony’s fault, they can take it up with Princess Celestia.”
“Hmm, I thought that was a little too ‘out there’ to be just a rumor,” Thunderstorm replied after a minute. “So, she really did save your life.”
“Yeah. I’m grateful, but I don’t know if she did us any favors. I shouldn’t feel like this, but I can’t help it.”
“Well, if you’re planning to off yourself, you might want to think about the sister you have on the way. What do you think she’ll have to put up with if you do? Can you imagine the lies she’ll have to listen to? ‘Your brother killed himself; he was out of his mind, and so are you’.”
“Horse apples.”
“Foals will make up and believe anything, and I don’t know how, but they can keep the grown-ups from hearing about it. They’d have her in tears, and she’d never say a word to your parents. Mares don’t matter.” He shrugged again. “It’s that kind of town. You could ask my cousin Surestrike, if you ever visit Canterlot. He’s one of the Princess’ personal Guards.”
Verdigris gave him a cynical look. “That’s convenient.”
“Hey, stranger things happen on or near the sea. We’re still trying to figure out why the Carroll Deer washed up miles from where she was supposed to be, with everypony aboard missing. Most of the rest can be explained, but some still can’t. So, me having a cousin in the Guard isn’t that big a mystery,” he finished with a grin.
Verdigris nodded, and there was a long silence as they stared at the fire. “Look, I’m not saying to just let it go, but don’t let it gnaw at you, lad. It’s not worth it. They sure aren’t,” Thunderstorm said derisively. “Half aren’t going to be any better than their folks; they’ll stay here and go nowhere. Literally and figuratively. The only ponies I’ve seen born in any of these towns that didn’t fall into that trap are in the Patrol. We don’t let dummies in. There’s too much at stake.”
Verdigris nodded again. “Yeah, I get it, but it doesn’t have to be like that. Why does change get looked on as wrong or bad? If that was really true, why do we have a hospital? They took their chances when they took that boat, right?”
The Unicorn smiled sagely. “Yep, that’s true. Some change is okay, but it was needed for it to come. The rest? ‘We don’t need that. What daddy and his daddy did is perfectly fine for me.’ Not true, but well...” He finished, shrugging helplessly. “Attitudes are hard to change, and there are a few superstitions that won’t die.”
“Yeah, like mixed marriages are the Nightmare’s punishment waiting to happen,” Verdigris sneered, his ears turning back with irritation.
“Well, there’s a good reason for that, but the myth overtook it. I’m the Patrol doctor, if you didn’t already know, and I know the real reason. Some pairings just don’t work because of genetics. Just let that go; you’ll learn more later. What you get from your parents, okay?” The colt nodded. “Okay, sometimes something is missing or broken, for lack of better terms. What’s different could cause green eyes instead of blue, but it’s not always bad. In your case, though, it was something you had to have to survive, and it wasn’t all there.” Thunderstorm watched as Verdigris thought it through. He saw the light go on. “Right. That’s why no mixes. Stick with your own species.”
“I still call bull-puck.”
“Well, that doesn’t change the facts, Verdigris. It’s one in a thousand, and somepony always loses.”
Verdigris looked at the floor, scowling. “Hmp!” he said with amusement. “Reminds me of a song uncle Wolf sang once: ‘Why does it happen? Because it happens. Roll the bones.’ I guess he knows.” He stood up and shook his mane. “Thanks, Thunderstorm. That actually helped. See you.”
“Going to the bluff to stare at the moon for a while?” The colt stopped, turned and looked back quizzically. “Not hard to figure out. Night’s a wonderful time. It’s quiet. No ponies rushing around, causing trouble. Less bustle. You can think, maybe day-dream a little. Nopony but you, and the sea is a bigger mystery. Lots to lose yourself in, if you need to.”
Verdigris smiled. “Yeah, all that. Guess I don’t need to ask how you know,” he said with a chuckle. Thunderstorm nodded sagely again. “Okay. Thanks again. See you.”
The Unicorn watched as the colt trotted out. “Oh, come on, lad. You act like you invented it,” he said with a smile.
(((())))
A lone figure sat on its haunches, looking up and out to sea. The figure barely moved, other than to flick an ear toward a sound that wasn’t the crashing surf. The moon was nearing the full, and Verdigris watched as it passed through the sky, turning the sea to silver and the sky to slightly polished steel. He sighed. Yeah, it’s just like he said. He knows.
He wondered if what was said about Luna was really true, or if it had gotten blown out of proportion over the years and centuries. He figured it was somewhere in-between; he doubted Luna really roasted and ate foals by the cart-load, or – well, that was an image I didn’t need, he thought.
His ears pricked up and he turned to see a Pegasus – no, two Pegasai walking along the cliff-line. Who’s that? he wondered. After a few minutes, he saw it was Sea Grass and Honey Bunch, and he wondered what they were doing out here. The fillies lived in town, and were best friends. He stayed completely still, hoping they wouldn’t see him and spoil his solitude. He just wanted time to himself to enjoy the sea and sky.
Ah, horse apples, he thought. Here they come. What kind of crap do I have to listen to now? He was surprised when, instead of turning away, they continued toward his position. Am I gonna have to leave? Yep, I guess so. He didn’t want to, not just because he thought of this spot at his, but he also wanted somepony to talk to besides the grown-ups; they just didn’t understand. He’d also seen the fillies around, and wanted to get to know them. Like that could happen. They probably think I’m a freak, too. Just like everypony else. He stood and shook his mane, and started for the path to his house when Sea Grass said, “Wait, Verdigris.”
He stopped and looked at them. “Why? So you can start in on me, too?” He heard how harsh his tone was, but wasn’t sure he cared. They’re still towns-ponies, after all. They’re all the same.
They stopped dead in surprise. “No, we wanted to keep you company and see of you’re all right,” Sea Grass replied. “I mean, it’s not like we didn’t hear what happened. It wasn’t right.”
They could see he was trying to keep a straight face and not scowl or sneer. “How do I know this isn’t some kind of trick?”
“Because if we didn’t mean it, we wouldn’t have bothered,” Honey Bunch replied crossly. “Do you think we like what Bluestreak did? He makes us all look bad.”
“It crossed my mind,” he replied stubbornly.
“Well, give that thought a good, hard buck. Come back here. We’re not chasing you away. We’re really interested in you.”
He stood there, thinking. Okay, they could be serious, but it’s hard to tell, and I still can’t be sure I can trust them. He paused, thinking. Hay with it, I can’t find out if I don’t try. He nodded, and returned to his spot. “Okay. The ball’s in your court.”
Honey Bunch gave an impatient huff and sat down on his right while Sea Grass took his left. “There, was that so hard?”
“You don’t want to know,” he said, lowering his head to stare at the surf, his voice betraying his anger and some uncertainty. “This morning was a real wake-up. They don’t want me unless they can get something. They’re not interested in me.”
“You can’t be serious,” Honey Bunch protested.
“Yes, he can,” Sea Grass contradicted. “You didn’t hear everything. I was in town when it happened.” She gave a satisfied snort. “I saw Bluestreak running home, both times.”
“Oh, great,” Verdigris said, keeping his head down. “So who do you want me to beat up?” He recoiled in surprise when she rapped his horn with a hoof, and stared at her.
“How can you say that?” the slate grey-blue mare snapped.
His expression soured. “Try being me for today, and the last seven months.”
“Stop it, Verdigris. It’s nopony’s fault, except maybe Celestia’s for saving your life. That’s if you can say she did something wrong,” Sea Grass replied. “Can you?”
Honey Bunch looked at him as he stared at the surf. “I tried. She let me know I shouldn’t.” He looked up as the moon vanished behind a cloud briefly. “She told me some of the story of the last time this happened, but not all of it. Something that really hurt her, too. She called me Sunblur, and that’s kinda familiar, but I don’t know how or why.”
“She was here?” Sea Grass asked in surprise. He nodded. “Wow.”
“That does sound familiar,” Honey Bunch said distractedly. “My Great-Dam told a story with that name, but I don’t remember it too well.” She tilted her head to one side. “Maybe we could find it at the library.”
“It’ll have to be you two. I’m not going into town again unless I have to,” Verdigris said. “They’re not getting another chance.” He thought he saw the Mare in the Moon move, but it might have been a trick of the light.
“You can’t let them chase you out,” Sea Grass said. “That means they won.”
“Did they?” Verdigris chuckled evilly. “Are you sure about that? I nearly broke Blackrock’s jaw, and I think he’s on my side, now. Marl’s having problems standing up, too, and Bluestreak didn’t get hurt. He’s going to need to get a new herd together, I think. That bunch isn’t going to do his fighting any more. He’ll have to find some more brainless donkeys.”
“Hey, don’t go insulting donkeys,” Sea Grass countered. “They’re not dumb. They’re just not like us.”
“Right. So that means I’m not a freak.”
This time Honey Bunch smacked his head. “Stop that right now.”
Verdigris rubbed his face. “Ow. Use your wings. You can get more force into them, and it doesn’t hurt as much.”
“Only if you want to go swimming,” Sea Grass replied with a nasty smile as she glanced at the edge of the bluff.
Verdigris looked down at the surf. “Hmm, I’ll have to learn how, first. Nothing says ‘stay away’ like drowning somepony.” He chuckled as Honey Bunch rolled her eyes. Sea Grass raised her hoof threateningly. “Well, it’s true.”
“Okay, I’ll stop if you do.” She looked around at the ocean near the horizon. “Why did you come out here? I’d want to talk to my parents.”
“We did, a few hours ago. I’m here to clear my head and do some thinking. I can’t really do that at home, ‘cause mom keeps looking in and asking if I’m okay. I can’t say I’m fine, but I’m over it. There’s no point for me carrying a grudge. They already are, and it works out the same.” He looked out near the horizon; one patch of sea below the moon seemed darker, and he guessed it was the light again. “I just need to work this out, and figure what to do next time.”
“Wait, what? You’re saying it’ll happen again?” Honey Bunch asked incredulously.
“Is Bluestreak a jerk? I’ll bet I’m not the only one he’s working on. He doesn’t need a reason.” That shut the fillies up for a few minutes, and Verdigris resumed looking at the moon. “Sorry. It’s okay, sorta. They know I won’t put up with any more, and that’s fine. Maybe they’ll back off a little and let me be. I don’t want trouble. I just want to get along, and fit in.”
Honey Bunch sniffled as he spoke, and he looked to see tears in her eyes. He looked to see the same for Sea Grass. “It’s really that bad,” she said.
“Yeah, it’s tough being alone, but I can handle it. It don’t like it, but I’ll get through.”
“Well, you’re not going to be alone any more. We’ll be your friends, Verdigris. We’ll meet out here at sunset, okay? We can watch the surf together and talk.” Honey Bunch’s eyes sparkled when he looked at her.
His smile was quick and genuine. “I’d like that.”
“Good. We’ve got to go, but we’ll be here tomorrow. See you then?” Honey Bunch asked softly.
Verdigris nodded and said, “I’ll be here.”
“Okay. Good night.” They surprised him with a hug each before they departed. He watched them as they left, wondering what brought that on. The mares trotted back, not saying much until they were out of hearing. “Wow. I thought I had it bad,” Sea Grass said.
“There’s always somepony worse off than you are, but it’s nothing to be proud of.” Honey Bunch glanced back; Verdigris had faded into the background to the point of disappearing. “There’s no point feeling good if you’re better off, either. If you can’t share it with anypony else, who’ll know or care?”
“Are you talking about yourself or him?”
Honey Bunch thought as they walked. “I don’t know. I’ve got bits running out my ears, but it’s not going to make me happy. Verdigris, though, has all the real advantages, but it doesn’t make him happy, either.”
Sea Grass looked at her friend curiously. “He does?”
“He’s an Alicorn. He’s got the magic of Unicorns, Pegasai, and I wouldn’t be surprised to find Earth ponies, too. He’s Celestia’s god-son, and his parents are really supportive. He’s got a lot of potential. But he’s lonely. Couldn’t you feel it?” the honey-gold Pegasus said. “Then there was today. He said all he wants is to fit in, but I don’t think that can happen. Bluestreak won’t let it happen.”
“What’s his problem?” Sea Grass clicked her tongue. “I’ll bet Verdigris asked that a few times.” She paused, then continued, “Bluestreak really seems to have it in for him, more than anypony else. He hates Verdigris, and I don’t think anypony knows why.”
“I don’t think Bluestreak even knows. It seems instinctive to me,” Honey Bunch replied.
Her companion sighed. “Then we may never know.”
“Maybe. We’ll worry about that when we have to.” Honey Bunch looked to see Sea Grass watching her. “What?”
“If I didn’t know better, I’d say you were sweet on him.”
Honey Bunch smiled. “What makes you think you do?”
(((())))
Two weeks had passed, and Verdigris was walking along the shoreline, checking various piles of debris for something of interest. Sometimes useful items washed up from ships that had either sunk some time ago, or had to jettison cargo to lighten them. The other day he’d found a portable chess set with a beautiful blue and green coral inlay board, with matching pieces. Every now and then there were bottles just barely floating, and the contents were still good. He discovered he didn’t like hard spirits, but passed them on to off-duty Patrol ponies.
Today he wasn’t interested in artifacts, but was looking for a calm area of water. Not knowing how to swim wasn’t a problem, usually, but he’d seen other ponies swimming, and it looked like fun. Probably is, when you’ve got friends to swim with, he thought. He continued on, noticing a large mass of … something on the beach at the high tide line. Swimming first, other stuff later.
A dozen more yards down the beach was what he’d been looking for. A spur of rock created a calm zone, but it was still open to the sea, with enough wave action to keep the water moving. He looked, and it seemed to be about ten feet deep. Almost perfect. All it needs is a snack bar nearby. He chuckled.
Verdigris walked into the open pool, surprised at how warm the water was. He’d expected it to be cold. He spread his wings and used them to steady himself as he moved out from the easy footing, then began “running” in the water. That was how Sea Grass had explained it. After a few false-starts he began to move with more confidence. One large wave reached inside the cove, but with less force than it would have normally, and he stopped until it passed. Huh. How am I floating? he thought before noticing the glow from his horn. Oh, yeah, that’s good. Maybe...
Verdigris concentrated, and found himself moving forward. “Oh, hay yeah!” he half-shouted. After a few minutes, he decided to dive. He thought he saw something shiny. As he reached seven feet, an unseen current pushed him toward the cove’s mouth. Ohh, horse-apples! He struggled against the flow, feeling his lungs burn, then stopped. Okay, don’t panic. Go across, not against. He twisted around and kicked his back hooves, using his front hooves to assist, and the flow lost its grip as he passed behind an underwater outcrop. He shot to the surface, and gasped in the sweetest air he’d ever had. He calmed down and just floated for a few minutes, enjoying the feel of the water.
After a few more minutes, he dove again, and this time went straight down to the bottom, then moved toward the item that originally grabbed his attention. It was a white gold chain with a stone that resembled his coat. He grabbed it, put it around his neck and looked around. Nothing else was on the bottom.
Verdigris shrugged, then used his magic to move again, enjoying how much easier it was than kicking. I wonder if I can do this for flying. It’s about the same, isn’t it? A flicker from above caught his attention, and he looked up to see an older grey-brown Earth pony stallion looking down at him with what appeared to be panic. Why?
Verdigris rose to the surface, and upon breaking, he heard the pony shout at somepony else, “Hurry! We don’t know how long he’s been down there!”
“Hey! I’m fine,” he called as he walked ashore. The pony started, then sagged with relief. “What’s the matter?”
The stallion put a hoof over his shoulder. “I thought ya’d fallen in and drowned, lad,” he replied in a gruff yet soft voice. “Name’s Driftwood.”
“I’m Verdigris.” They shook hooves.
“Ah, Hawk’s colt.” He stared as Verdigris shook water from his mane. “Ya shouldn’ be here, lad. Not even two, an’ swimmin’ by yer lonesome?”
“Oh, uh, I didn’t even think about that.” Verdigris felt his face burning. “I was just looking for a calm place to learn, and got carried away. Almost for real.”
“Ah, ya found that current. Not everypony that gets caught gets loose. Lucky.” Driftwood then glared and barked, “Don’ ever do that again, lad. Don’ wanna be tellin’ yer ma, savvy?”
Verdigris ducked his head. “I won’t,” he replied softly. “I just wanted to learn. What good’s living near the sea if you don’t know how to swim?”
Driftwood nodded, but kept his scowl. “Got a point, but shouldn’ ever go in the water without anypony to watch. An’ you’d have to be crazy goin’ in the first time alone. Nopony’s that lucky, or not more than once, lad.”
“Okay, I won’t do it again.” Not here, anyway. “What’s going on? I didn’t think anypony walked the beach.”
“Oh, well, we’re lookin’ for somethin’ ya find washed up. It’s called – ” Driftwood stopped and looked at the colt. “Verdigris, due to its color.” He smiled. “Well, found some, but not what I was lookin’ for. Anyway, it’s used in perfumes and such, to put and keep scents in them,” he explained as they walked back onto the beach proper.
“What’s it look like?” Driftwood explained, and Verdigris said, “Oh, there’s some up here.” He led the stallion to the strange mass he’d seen earlier. “Doesn’t look greenish-grey, though.”
Driftwood looked, and his eyes went wide. “Wow. The biggest find this year, and it’s fresh.”
“What is it?” Verdigris asked, looking at the waxy mass.
“Whale puke.” The colt looked at him as though he’d gone mad. “What’s left o’ what they eat that they can’t digest. Giant squid. What’s left is what we use.”
“Is it worth anything?”
It was Driftwood’s turn to look at somepony as though they’d gone off the deep end. “Perfumeries pay top bit for it, the cleaner and fresher the better.” He looked at the colt, who watched and listened with interest. “An’ since ya found it, it’s all yours.”
“I can’t take anything. I didn’t know what it was.”
“Doesn’ matter. Ya found it fair and square, lad. Bettin’ ya could use the bits fer somethin’ more’n candy,” he said with a smile.
Verdigris shook his head stubbornly. “Halvesies. No more.”
Driftwood chuckled at the colt as he sat on his haunches, folded his forelegs and made a comically serious face. “Okay, ya drive a hard bargain, lad. But, next time, what ya find is yours. Now ya know. Deal?”
Verdigris stood up, took Driftwood’s hoof and smiled. “Deal.”
As they shook, shouts and clattering came from above as more ponies and the Patrol arrived. “Oh, yeah. Might wanna tell ‘em you’re okay, lad.” Driftwood blinked at the chain and stone the colt wore. “Found that in the pool?” Verdigris nodded. “Looks like ya found yer callin’ lad,” he added as the colt’s flank glowed. When it faded, there was an image of a breaching whale inside a round-cut gem outline.
Verdigris looked at his cutie mark for a few seconds, then smiled. “Yep. Looks like.”
“Verdigris!” They looked to see Hawkfeather brake hard and drop to the sand. “What’s going on? They said – ”
“I’m okay, dad. I just scared everypony, and didn’t mean to.”
Hawkfeather nodded, then moved to one side. “You got your cutie mark. For what?”
“Finding verdigris,” the colt replied with a smug grin. “I guess I found myself, too.”
Hawk looked at him and smiled. “All right. You get home. Your mother’s probably frantic.” Verdigris nodded and trotted away. “Thanks, Driftwood.”
“I didn’ have a thing to do with it, Hawk. That colt o’ yours is gonna be a force to reckon with, I think. Oh, b’fore I forget.” The Earth Pony took out a quill and a slip of parchment and wrote on it. “Gotta make sure he gets his share. Found a good piece, he did.”
“Well, if this doesn’t make somepony upset, I don’t know what will. I’ll let you get back to it.”
As the Pegasus walked away, Driftwood murmured to himself, “Yep. That colt’s gonna be a force to reckon with. Can’t wait to see what else he does.”