The sound of the massive door reverberate through the empty room as Wave and I return to the great hall. Newly installed lights illuminate a great portion of the freshly renovated room. Our hoofsteps echo off the walls as we maneuver past the scattered tools left behind by the contractors working on the last portion of the room.
"So, what do you think? Pretty good, right?" I ask.
"Pretty good? This place is like, so totally radical!"
The response is not Wave's. Rather, the voice drifts down to us from one of the many circular platforms closer to the ceiling. The speaker's head peeks out, revealing her to be young Indigo. She buzzes down to the floor, the lights highlighting her namesake. She shares a rare trait among changelings of having her entire chitin bearing a unique color, in this case indigo, compared to the standard black found on most others. More common color variations are only found within the eyes, fin, and tail.
"Well, at least I got one on my side," I say.
"You bet!" Indigo exclaims.
"I like it as well. It's perfect for what we need. Perhaps a little too big, but I'm not complaining. Besides, you never know when we may get more changelings in the family," Wave says.
This last bit comes as Kite and Flower enter and walk past, side by side. Kite glares back sternly while Flower childishly sticks her tongue out at Wave. Though they do both end up radiating a bit of embarrassment.
"Aww, they're so cute together," Indigo says.
"Yeah, honestly wouldn't be surprised if they've formed their own link yet," I say.
"Technically, I don't think they're an official couple yet," Wave says.
"You've got to be kidding me! How can they not be considered a couple at this point?" I ask.
"I think it's nearly the same situation your friends Pitch and Meadow had. Unlike them, however, I don't think we'll have to wait long for them to get past that," Wave says.
"Oh, working from the outside, are ya?" I ask.
Wave points to the general area of Kite and Flower. The two find a seat in front of a large window with a fair view of the ocean. They talk some, and though I can't make out the words, their expressions are certainly soft and sincere. Suddenly, before our very eyes, Flower proceeds to kiss Kite. This causes Indigo to start squealing with delight.
"Well, that was fast," I say.
"Not fast enough if you ask me. You should have seen them on the voyage over. I nearly locked them together in the ship's hold until they got together," Wave says.
"Been there done that, didn't work as planned. Though it did get Meadow and Pitch to talk it out and open up more to each other. I suppose that's something," I say.
"You didn't," Wave says.
"I did! Locked them together in Pitch's room one night until the morning. Remind me later and I'll tell you the whole story," I say.
"Who are Pitch and Meadow?" Indigo asks.
"Two very good pony friends of mine that I met here. They are also now considered as honorary members of the hive," I say.
"Really? That's so cool! Can I meet them?" Indigo asks.
"Bevadie! I'm going to meet them tonight and anyling who wishes to do the same are welcome to join," Wave says.
"Yes! So totally awesome!" Indigo exclaims.
"Make sure you stay close with one of us. The place we're going to serves alcohol and these ponies are more strict when it comes to age limits than they are back home. Normally, someone your age isn't even allowed into bars. This one will only let you in with proper supervision," I warn.
"That said, there will be no sneaking drinks on my watch. I don't care what is acceptable at home, we are here and not there, understand?" Wave asks.
"Yes, Princess," Indigo replies.
"The same goes to you, Arctic. Your drinking has been getting out of hoof and I'm here to reel you back in," Wave says.
"Yes, Princess," I respond. I know I'll live longer if I just play along for now.
"Hey! What are these things for?" Indigo asks.
Somehow, in the short time Wave had her attention on me, Indigo managed to silently
fly back up to the platforms. She's inspecting one of the many metal hoops which extend from the ceiling. She even knocks on one, followed by pulling on it. For what purpose she does this, I have no clue.
"I'm not 100% sure. I know this place was built with a thestral first mindset, so it could have something to do with that. Something about them liking to hang from their tails? All I know is that the more thestrals I meet, the stranger their actions become. Remind me later to tell you the story of this one I met who was extremely obsessed with sucking the juices out of fruits with his fangs." I say.
Indigo lands back on the ground with a raised brow.
"What's a thestral?" She asks.
Instead of explaining, I decide to show her. Blue flames dance over my body, transforming me into my pony form, though slightly altered. In place of the normal, feathered wings of a pegasus are a pair of leathery, bat-like wings. My ears are tufted and my eyes take on a cat-like appearance with narrow pupils. I also keep my fangs, though they are smaller than normal.
"This is a thestral. From what I understand, they're more active at night, process great night vision on par with ours, have enhanced hearing, and they tend to go 'screeee' a lot," I explain, not at all exaggerating that last point based on what I heard only once.
Indigo tilts her head, observing all she sees. Spontaneous blue flames appear and shrouds her. The magic dissipates to reveal a thestral mare. She kept her indigo color as her coat while adapting a violet mane. She blinks her eyes a few times, changing the colors each time (show off!). She settles for purple and then spins around a few times to try and get a look at herself.
"How do I look? Did I get it right?" She asks.
"You look like a thestral to me," I say, shrugging.
"Oh wow! This is so totally rad! Hang on, let me try something. Screee! Whoa, that feels weird to do. This is awesome though. Can I have this as my new pony form, please?"
"As long as it's a species found here, you can take any form you like," Wave says.
"Yes! Screeehehe! That's fun to do. Thank you, Princess," Indigo says.
Indigo latches onto Wave for a moment before scattering off in a random direction. My best guest is that she's going to show everyling she runs into her new form. The guardians are going to have a field day with that.
"Who's watching over her?" I ask.
"Her mentor is Honeydew. When she told Indigo her plans to volunteer, Indigo went to ask her parents if she could follow. They were hesitant, but ultimately let her go after I explained how close she and her mentor are and assured them of her safety," Wave explains.
"That explains the whole 'radical' thing. Any other changeling here still in training?"
"Nope, Indigo is the only one. And, until she graduates, she'll be part of the work crew for this inn. Though, it has been suggested to me to have her enrolled in this 'school system' you mentioned in one of your reports. "
"Makes sense I suppose," I yawn.
"How have you been sleeping lately?"
"I take it the Queen also informed you of my nightmares?"
"She did, yes. After all, I'm your princess now as well as your concerned friend. So, back to my question."
"It's been better, but that strange presence have been becoming more persistent."
"I don't like it, it's not normal. Hopefully, now that I'm here I can help."
"Try not to worry too much. I have been sleeping better."
"Of course I'm going to worry. It's practically my job to now."
"Just don't run yourself ragged trying to find a solution that may not exist."
"I won't, but I'm not going to sit idly by either."
Silence falls and begins its brief reign. Its rule is shattered by the distant surprise squawking by one Sure Claw, still in his gryphon form no doubt, most likely reacting to the impromptu appearance by one bat-like (and potentially equally batty) Indigo. Wave and I can't help but chuckle.
"And others think I'm a hoofful to handle," I say.
"Because you are. At least Indigo has the excuse of being young. What's yours?" Wave asks.
"Too much lightning to the head maybe? Or too much time out at sea? How about my personal favorite, 'Arctic, you're just a crazy, waterlogged jook!'"
"And I still stand by what I said back then. What kind of sane changeling makes a harrowing journey across unknown seas to chase a fantasy?"
"And yet, you still helped me convince the Queen to make it happen."
"What? Me? No I- alright, who told you?"
"The Queen did, of course."
"Bevadie," Wave sighs.
"For what it's worth, thank you for making this possible."
"Bevadie! What's so funny?"
"Just imagining Pitch and Meadows reactions to your constant 'bevadie-ing'."
"There's no shame in using words from the old tongue."
"There isn't, no. But, you're going to confuse the hell out of everpony."
"So be it!" Wave declares.
"Princess Wave?"
"Yes, what ca- Oh! Lance! Hi, what do you need?"
Said changeling managed to walk up behind us very silently and in no way startled me what so ever. Wave didn't seem caught off guard, until she realized just who it was. Once she catches sight of the red eyed changeling, she leaps to her hooves and began fiddling with her mane.
'You're hopeless.'
'Not now.'
"Sketch and Trailblazer are ready to report. They're waiting in the map room," Lance says
"Yes, good, excellent. Thank you, Lance. Carry on," Wave says.
Lance takes his leave, leaving Wave and I alone once more.
"Of course, they could have, oh I don't know, informed me they were ready through the link!" Wave complains.
"They could have, yes," I say. I don't blame them for doing what they did. I'd have done the exact same thing in their place.
"I should see what they have. Are you going to stick around?"
"May as well. I don't have anything to do today and I need to show you where Charlie Hops is."
"Excellent, I understand that there is a couple of games happening in the basement if you want to join them. Other than that, the others could be anywhere. Have fun."
Wave takes her leave and I remain in place pondering what to do. Eventually, I settle on finding out what exactly they're doing in the basement. I make my way over to the staircase and head down to the cellar. I trot along the long corridor, searching for any signs of my fellow hivemates. It's not until I reach the end of the hallway that I hear them. I open the final door and enter the large, semi-circular chamber. I'm greeted with the sight of a little over a dozen changelings. Three groups of four changelings each are sitting on the floor with playing cards while the other two observe the proceedings nearby.
I trot over to stand by one such observer who I recognize as One Wing. A changeling easily identified by his, well, one wing. He and I met shortly after my misadventure in the wastelands of the arctic. Back then, I was grounded with no way of knowing if I could fly again and we pretty much ended up bonding over our flightless reality. We grounded ones got to look after each other we'd say. Of course, I regained my flight while he's still stuck to the ground.
I look over his stubble wing with pity. I wish there was a way I could help him, but once a wing is lost you can't get it back. Still, I make sure never to forget my ground buddy. Considering how he's here now, it appears he made sure to do the same. I then get hit with a wing strike from nowhere.
"Oi! Snap out of it will ya? I'm trying to enjoy the game." Wing says. "Honestly, how many times do I need to tell ya that I don't need a wing to be a normal, happy, and productive changeling? Really, out of everyling here I'd figure you'd at least understand that you damn water-bug."
"Alright, I get it! But you're just so pitiful looking anytime I see you that it just isn't an easy thing to do you big lump," I say.
"Big lump!?" One Wing glances over to his lost wing. "Oh, I see what ya did there. Alright, Arctic, you win this round. But, it's only because I want to witness this upset happen."
"There isn't going to be an upset, trust us. Or, at the very least, trust me since my cousin over there can't seem to bother pulling his weight," says Maze. His yellow eyes boring a hole in the forehead of his green tailed cousin.
"What are you talking about?" Asks Phalanx. "Did I not just win us the last round?"
"Yeah, way to go. You got the last trick and scored us a point. One point. Guess how much we have. Six. Now, guess who scored the other five," Maze says.
"Like I can help what I get dealt," Phalanx says.
"No, but you can help how you use what you get," Maze says.
Maze and Phalanx lock eyes and begin to growl. The other two players, Myst and Ringworm, cautiously glance between the two while One Wing chuckles.
"Are they always like this?" I ask.
"Sometimes. Maybe a quarter of the time. I think Maze is just upset he's one point away from losing his champion streak," Wing says.
"As I said, we're not going to lose," Maze says.
"Really? I like to see you work your way out of this one," Wing says.
"Done. Pick it up, going alone!" Maze exclaims.
The sudden onrush of nerves from Myst and Ringworm hits me like a brick wall. Myst picks up the 10 of clubs from the center and discards one from his hand. Phalanx folds his cards down on the table with a smug grin. One Wing looks on curiously. Maze lays all five of his cards face up on the table revealing both black jacks, the ace of clubs, king of clubs, and queen of clubs. A perfect hand.
"You have to be kidding me," Myst says in despair.
Ringworm drops his head on the table while the cousins bump hooves in victory. I sense One Wing's astonishment and can't help but laugh at the turn of events. I circle around to Myst and rest a reassuring hoof on his shoulder.
"Don't stress to much about it. We've all been there before when it comes to facing the kings of Euchre," I say.
"But we were this close. Ughh!"
"As I said, we've all been there."
"Yeah," Myst sighs.
He looks over to a nearby set of saddlebags and levitates a red book. He flips it open and rapidly turns page by page until he finds the one he's looking for. He then retrieves a quill and ink bottle and starts to write.
"Let's see here. Maze and Phalanx win their 5th tournament in a row leaving them at the top with 33 wins. In second, with 23 wins, are Lance and Sure Claw. In third place, with 19 wins, are Flower and Honeydew." Myst then looks up at me with a mischievous grin. "And in dead last, with only a single win, are Wave and Arctic."
"And what a glorious victory it was," I say. "But hey, it's not like we've been a part of these tournaments for a while now. Whose to say we couldn't be in second?"
"Right, keep telling yourself that."
Myst places the red covered book away and pulls out a green one. He opens it and begins writing at a feverish pace.
"What's this one for?" I ask.
"This, is the recollection and recordings of every event which happens here in the land of ponies, as told by yours truly. I'm currently finishing up the day of our arrival."
"A momentous occasion indeed, I imagine."
"Definitely! Seeing this city for the first time was amazing. I can see how you shipwrecked yourself."
"How do you figure?"
"Well, everyling was so distracted by the city that we nearly beached ourselves next to your ship. With only you on your ship, I can understand how you were too distracted to avoid the rocks."
"Yup! You know it! Definitely distracted by Manehatten and nothing else entirely. You keep at it, Myst. I'm going to find a place to rest for a while."
I expertly disengage myself from the conversation and make my way to the exit. It was close, but plane 11 didn't fail me and I manage to escape with dignity intact. That said, I am feeling very exhausted and a rest sounds good.
I open one of the nearby doors revealing a perfectly dark room to nap in. I walk inside and make myself comfortable on the ground. I lay my head down and close my eyes.
"Long night, Arctic?"
Said eyes jump open along with the rest of my body at the unexpected voice. One frantic search later and I locate the burly shape of Kite Shield near the entrance. How I missed the unusually tall and bulky changeling is anyone's guess.
"Or something," I say, willing my pulse to not throb in my neck. I then notice a second form next to Kite. "I'm not interrupting something am I?"
"Shhh, no you're not. We're all the same page of just getting in some Zs."
Observing Flower, I take note of the closed eyes and steady breathing.
"Looks like she beat us to it already. Before I forget, I believe congratulations are in order."
"Word travels fast, yeah?"
"That, and there's the fact you two were making out in the full view of Wave, Indigo, and I."
"Oh, that did happen, didn't it? Ah, well, say what you want. The only important thing to me is that I finally have my sweet angel by my side."
As soon as those words leave his lips, Flower snuggles closer to him, a large smile adorns her muzzle.
"Looks like someling isn't as asleep as we first thought," I say.
"Mmhmm, I don't mind," Flower says. "So long as these are the words I keep waking up to."
"Congratulations, Flower," I say.
"Thanks, Arctic," she yawns. "Now back to sleep."
Just like that, her breathing steadies again and she's out. Kite shakes his head, not understanding how she can instantaneously wake up and fall asleep in an instant. I merely offer a shrug before I lay my head down and close my eyes once more.
"And here we are! Charlie Hops! A bar with an entire personality of its own," I announce. Wave gives the place a quick one over.
"Huh, I thought it would be bigger."
Several changelings, in pony forms, walk into the establishment, leaving just Wave and I.
"And I figured just about everyling would be coming today."
"The guardians are finishing a drill and will be over later. Outside them, those who stayed behind are just exhausted after the long trip at sea."
"I understand. Now then, Pitch and Meadow said they would meet us outside. I wonder where they are?"
"I don't mind waiting. I'm here to meet them, after all."
"Then wait we will. Tell me, what do you think of Manehatten so far?"
"Big, very big. Ginormous even! Look at all these ponies on the streets. How can you not be overwhelmed by it all?"
"You learn to adjust over time. Don't try to pick out and absorb any emotions while out and about. Save all that when you're in smaller, enclosed places. Such as Charlie Hops here."
"Is that why you like this place so much?"
"That, as well as some other reasons."
"Oh, what's this I sense? Fondness?"
"Didn't I just say not to pick out emotions while outside?"
"I didn't."
'We do have a link now, knucklehead.'
"Oh, right..."
"Now, what's up wi-"
"Hey look! It's Pitch and Meadow in the flesh!"
Sure enough, the two life savers are trotting side by side, appearing rather alert. They spot us and hurry over. It looks as though they took the advice I gave them earlier and didn't dress up or do anything drastic for the occasion. Pitch's mane looks shiner than usual, though. Meadow still has her mane bow as always, but I never seen her wear that white gold necklace before. Let's call it a compromise.
"Hi, Arctic. How are you?" Pitch asks.
"Easy, Pitch. No need to be so nervous," I say.
"Yeah, well, it's not every day you meet a leader of an entirely different species which may, or may not, have future consequences based on how it goes," he says. Meadow shoves his side.
"What he means is that we're just excited to be here." Meadow then spots Wave standing to the side. "Is that her?" she asks tentatively. Wave smiles in return.
"My name is-"
"Nah, she's just an old friend of mine," I interrupt.
'Arctic, what are you up to?'
'Nothing.'
"Okay then... Is the Princess waiting inside or something?" Pitch asks.
"Or something," I say with a wide grin.
"Come on, Arctic. Enough is enough," Meadow says.
"I agree," Wave says.
"Fine. Presenting her royal highness, Princess Hagana Wave Runner. Third daughter of Queen Shinuie of Hive Shinuie, and leader of all changelings within Manehatten, " I say, waving a hoof towards Wave.
'Her royal highness? My birth name? Just what was all that about?'
'Wait for it...'
The eyes of Pitch and Meadow go wide. They immediately give their attention to Wave and bow down before her. Wave completely freezes in place. One of her ears flop down as her eyes constantly shifts from one pony to the other. Her jaw works up and down, but the only word that comes out is a long drawn "uh". During this, I have to jam a hoof into my mouth to prevent myself from doubling over in laughter.
"Welcome to Manhattan, your highness. It's an honor to be in your presence," Pitch says. I have to jam a second hoof into my mouth.
"No, please stand up friends. No bowing is necessary. Arctic, what did you tell them?" Wave asks sternly.
"Me? I told them absolutely nothing. Although, I may have forgotten to mention to you how Equestria is a monarchy ruled by two princesses and that they may come to view you as their princesses equal.
"I also may, or may not, have failed to inform Pitch and Meadow about how our princesses, though still held in high regard, are viewed more like peers rather than royalty. Oh, and how formal actions, such as bowing, can be taken as an insult in our culture."
"Say what? Arctic!" Pitch shouts, scrambling to stand straight.
"Why didn't you tell us knowing that we very well could insult your princess?" Meadow asks. "I apologize your- I mean-"
"And miss out on an opportunity like this?" I ask, laughing all the while.
"You may just call me Wave. Pay no heed to this trickster. While, yes, formality can be taken as an insult, it is only taken as such when done by other members of the hive. You see, we all view each other as a form of extended family and to have a changeling act formal to another is to regard that changeling as an outsider to the family. However, we understand that a true outsider may be unaware by this and so formality is not taken as an insult when dealing with ponies or other creatures," Wave explains.
"That said, the look on Wave's face when you two bowed was priceless," I say.
"Ha, ha, we're all very amused," Wave says.
My laughter ceases when I look up to see a very unamused Meadow hovering over me. She reaches out and pulls me closer by the ear.
"You and I are going to have a talk about this after tonight, understand?" She whispers.
"100%," I say.
"Good. Now, is there anything else Pitch and I should know?" She asks.
"Just one. As honorary members of the hive, you and Pitch will be treated as if you two were family the whole time so don't be surprise when they act very familiar around you. Still, they're aware you guys are ponies so they won't expect you to do the same for them," I explain.
"That's true for the most part. They'll also do their best to make you feel welcomed and not uncomfortable. We're pretty good at finding and not stepping over the line," Wave adds.
"When were you going to inform us of all this?" She asks.
"After tonight," I say.
"Of course you were," she says.
Meadow let's go of my ear and I fall to the ground. I then hear the soft laughter of Wave.
"Oh, I like her. I think you and I are going to get along very well," Wave says.
"A familiar sight I take it, your- I mean, Princess Wave?" Meadow asks.
"You have no idea. I swear, that lightning bolt scrambled something loose in that head of his," Wave says. "And just Wave is fine."
"Lightning bolt?" Pitch and Meadow ask.
'Wave! They don't know and I want to keep it that way for now!'
'You haven't told them? Have they not seen your scar?'
'They have, but they haven't asked about it.'
'Okay, but really, Arctic. There is no shame talking about that day'[/i)
'Noted.'
"Don't mind me, just a saying from back home," Wave says.
Pitch and Meadow don't look convinced. Neither would I in their situation. They let it slide though and the four of us enter the bar. The place is jam packed, but a clever changeling knows to plan ahead.
"Hi, Arctic!"
"Silvia! A pleasure as always. Is our table ready?" I ask.
"You bet! Right this way," Silvia says.
Silvia leads us to a corner of the bar. Along the way, we pass by the others that came with us. They wave once they spot Pitch and Meadow. The two seem a little hesitant and confused, but they wave back nonetheless. I also spy Wave looking at me out of the corner of her eye.
'What?'
'Nothing, it's not important.'
'Why does everyone keep telling me that?'
'Because it's true.'
'Right...'
"Here you are, can I get anything for you to start with? Would you like your usual, Pitch and Arctic?" Silvia asks.
"Yes, please," Pitch says. "In fact, make it a double for me."
"Just water for me this time," I say.
"Same," Wave says.
"I'll have what Pitch is having," Meadow says.
"Okay, that's two waters and two tall glasses of the house special coming right up," Silvia says.
"Thanks, Silvia, you're the best," I say.
Silvia leaves with a wide smile, leaving the four of us alone. Although the table we're at is, more or less, out of the way, it's still a small bar full of ponies so it's a bit noisy. Still, I don't mind the noise and Wave doesn't seem to bothered by it either. In fact, she typically likes social places like these.
"I'm surprised, Arctic. None of Silvia's special brew?" Pitch asks.
"Yeah, I sort of made a promise to take it easier on the drinking," I say.
"More like he doesn't have a say in the matter now that I'm here," Wave says.
"Ouch, I weep for your loss," Pitch says.
"Oh, ha ha, laugh it up while you still can," I say.
"So, am I the only one who found it strange that a whole bunch of ponies were waving at us?" Meadow asks.
"Only as strange as having a random thestral coming over to greet you two specifically," I say.
"That's oddly specific," Meadow says.
"Hello there!"
"Eep!'
"Hi, my name is Indigo! You two must be Pitch and Meadow. I heard that you both are honorary hive mates and I wanted to come meet you and say hi. Oh wow!" Indigo speeds over to Meadow's side and begins playing with her mane. "Your style is so awesome and that bow really makes you look cute."
"Uh, thanks?" Meadow questions, blocking Indigo from continuing to mess with her mane.
"Your welcome!" Indigo then moves on from Meadow to Pitch. "Your mane could use a little work, but I can definitely see that earth pony strength show through all that fur," she says.
"I'm oddly okay with that assessment," Pitch says.
"Oh, I have to go. Honeydew is waving me over. Nice to meet you both," Indigo says, flying off before anyone can react.
"What just happened?" Pitch asks.
"That was Indigo. She's young and has a tendency to get very excitable at times," Wave explains.
'Still, that was a bit too intrusive, even for her.'
Wave glances at the table Indigo and Honeydew are sitting at.
'Honeydew is reining her in as we speak. Probably sharing a lesson as well.'
"Ah, so it was another changeling," Pitch says.
"Yup. In fact, all those ponies you saw waving were all changelings," I say.
Pitch look back the way Indigo left. He looks over the crowd searching for the ones who waved earlier. A few of them are looking are way as well and offer up some smiles and a wink or two.
"Unreal. It just feels... strange knowing that there are ponies here that aren't actually ponies," Pitch says. "Who apparently feed off our emotions, and that the princess of these creatures is just sitting across from me as we speak."
"It's a lot to take in I know, but trust me when I say that there is a very mutual benefit in having us changelings in your society," Wave says.
"Meadow? Are you okay?" I ask the silent mare.
"I'm not cute," Meadow says.
"Really? That's what your hung up on?" I ask.
"The bow does not make me cute," she emphasizes.
"Your right, Meadow. It makes you absolutely adorable," Pitch says.
"It's not adorable either," she says.
"If you don't want others to call you cute, then why not just remove the bow," Wave asks.
"Remove my bow!? Never! Those words are heresy I tell you. Heresy!" Meadow exclaims.
"She's very attached to her bow. She has worn it nearly every day since I met her," Pitch explains.
"Is there a reason for that?" Wave asks.
"It's a gift from my grandmother. She and I have always been close. Even closer than I am with my own mother at times. She's having a hard time remembering things now, but anytime she sees me wear the bow... I guess I just grew as attached to it as I am with her," Meadow explains.
"Sorry to bring up a sore subject," Wave says.
"No, it's okay. I love talking about her. In fact, it was she who taught me everything I know about gardening and landscaping," Meadow says.
"You know, for the several months I've known you now, I've yet to know what it is you do," I say.
"Landscaping, gardening, and things similar to that nature. I even still care for the old baseball field at the college Pitch and I went to," Meadow says.
"She's very good at it too. That old diamond is still the greatest field I've played on, in my opinion," Pitch says.
"And the fact that your marefriend, sitting right here before you, is the caretaker has nothing to do with it?" I ask.
"None at all, I've held that opinion before I even knew who took care of that field. Learning that it's Meadow is just bonus points," Pitch says.
"Is that where you two met? At this 'college'?" Wave asks.
"Correct, I was a freshman at the time and Pitch was a sophomore," Meadow says.
'I have no idea what those words mean.'
'Neither do I. Just smile and nod.'
"Interesting," Wave says, smiling and nodding.
"One day, I go out to trim the grass, only to find a player who apparently didn't get the memo that practice was over," Meadow continues.
"Hey, to be the best you have to put in the work," Pitch says.
"Well that 'work' very shortly turned into a trip to the E.R. because somepony overworked their leg throwing too many fastballs," Meadow says.
"Well, that trip did allow me to me a very beautiful, fun loving mare so, if you ask me, completely worth it," Pitch says.
"Flatterer," Meadow says.
"You know you love it," Pitch says.
"I do, but not as much as this," Meadow says.
She leans in and plants a kiss on Pitch's lips as he eagerly returns the favor. I'm fairly certain at this point that they both completely forgot they are with company. Not that Wave and I mind at all. Nor do the several other changelings sneaking a peak at the sudden outflow of love.
'Well, this just took a sudden turn, didn't it?'
'That it did. Almost seems like a challenge.'
'Don't tempt me. Honestly, you know better than to tempt a queen changeling like that.'
'Just got the role of princess and already thinking of becoming a Queen? Going a bit too fast there, are we?'
'You know what I mean.'
"Much, much better you two," I say. "Definitely a whole lot less awkwardness and much more passion."
Pitch and Meadow eyes snap open and they quickly pull away from each other. They look up at the amused expressions of Wave and myself before doing their best to avoid eye contact. Pitch runs the back of his neck while Meadow plays with her mane. Both are sporting unapologetic smiles.
"Aw, you two were doing so well," I say.
"Do you always have to do that, Arctic?" Pitch asks.
"Of course, what else could I do outside helping you guys?" I ask.
"Helping!?" Meadow exclaims.
"Maybe stop focusing on us? I appreciate you helping get us together, but we don't need outside influence going forward," Pitch says.
"But I'm a changeling. How can I have to ability to know how you two are feeling and not use it for good?" I ask.
"Don't you feed off them?" Meadow asks.
"Because, Arctic, Meadow and I can't continue to grow our relationship if we keep relying on you to tell us what's up all the time. Just because we love each other a lot doesn't mean the train stops here. Relationships requires hard work and dedication to maintain them and if we use you as a shortcut all we'll end up doing is shortchanging ourselves," Pitch explains. Meadow gives a firm nod in agreement.
"Well said. Looks like you can learn a thing or two from your friends and not the other way around," Wave says.
I wish to respond to this, but find that I cannot come up with a thorough counter argument. What Pitch said was something I never considered before, mostly because I never needed to. I still believe they could use a helping hoof in some aspects, but perhaps it will be best to cut down my involvement some. Still, if they somehow mess this up I'm coming back into the fold.
"Besides, it's about time you focus on your own romantic interests for a change," Wave continues.
"What romantic interest?" I ask.
Wave doesn't get a chance to respond as Silvia returns with our drinks. She gives me a smile as she places my water before me, yet something seems a little off. She's constantly casting glances at Wave while feeling uneasy, worried even.
"Have you decided what you would like, or do you need a few minutes?" She asks.
"I'll have a plate of timothy hay and mixed with corn," Pitch says.
"Yes, because Celestia forbid if you actually enjoy a meal for once. I'll have a hayburger and fries," Meadow says.
"It's important to be consistent with your meals when your an athlete, besides, it's not as bland as you think it is," Pitch counters.
"And yet, the same time you preach this, you're drinking from a tall glass of beer. Very consistent, Pitch," Meadow says.
"Hence why I can't indulge in a greasy hayburger," Pitch says.
"Anything for you today, Arctic?" Silvia asks.
"Not tonight," I reply.
"And for you Miss?" Silvia asks
"You can call me Wave. Hmmm? I think I will try something tonight. Anything you recommend, Arctic?" Wave asks.
"Let me think. Personally, I'd say that the house soup is an absolute waste of time," I say.
"Excellent, I'll have that then," Wave says.
A cloud of utter confusion drifts across the table as the three ponies stare on in various looks of befuddlement. Wave and I share a glance, confused as to why everyone else is confused. Our confusion leads to even more confusion from the ponies which strengthens our confusion starting a circle of eternal perpetual confusion.
"I'm confused," Pitch says.
No shit.
"Why?" I ask.
"Well, for one, I thought you enjoyed our house soup?" Silvia asks.
"I do. It's why I recommended it," I say.
"But, you called it a waste of time," Meadow says.
"Yeah... I fail to see the problem," I say.
"How is saying something is bad recommending it?" Meadow asks.
"I didn't call it bad, I said it's a waste of time. A fairly good compliment if you ask me," I say.
"A very good one," Wave adds.
"I... I got nothing. Pitch?" Meadow asks.
"I think I have some clue. Arctic, how would you describe that phrase in full?" Pitch asks.
"Well, when you enjoy something very much, you'll waste the time away without knowing. I think a similar phrase I heard here is time flies when having fun?" I explain.
"Ah, that it explains it then. You see, Arctic, when you say something is a waste of time here it describe something so bad that you feel that you wasted the time spent on it that could have been applied to something else better," Pitch says.
"That's... bizarre. You ponies are bizarre," I say.
"You ponies?" Silvia asks.
"You ponies in the west. Arctic and I are from a distant land across the sea," Wave says.
"That explains a few things actually. You've been coming here nearly everyday for months now and you never told me?" Silvia asks.
"It never got brought up," I defend myself.
"I'd hardly call that an excuse. Welcome to Equestria, land of harmony and friendship!" Silvia exclaims.
"Remember forever, the Land of Equestria," the entire bar sings.
"What was that?" Wave asks.
"Don't ask," I say.
"Okay then... Can I borrow your ear for a moment, Silvia?" Wave asks.
"Uh, sure?" Silvia questions.
Silvia cautiously walks up to Wave and leans in. inaudible words pass between the two as Silvia's posture becomes much more relaxed. Finally, Silvia backs off, gives Wave a final smile, and leaves with a much more lighthearted step.
"I've been wondering, if you feed off emotions, why eat any of our food at all?" Meadow asks.
"It helps us blend in and because we still have taste buds and enjoy sampling pony foods as a type of pastime. Now, did Silvia seem kind of off to anyone else?" I ask.
"No," Meadow replies.
"Not that I noticed," Pitch says.
"Okay, but you must have felt it, Wave. How uneasy she seemed," I say.
"You mean like as if she saw her crush walk in with a strange, new mare along with another pair of ponies she knows are dating and watch as the four of them sit down in a seemingly double date? Yes I did," Wave says.
"That's oddly specific," I say.
I hear a sharp slapping noise and look to discover Meadow's hoof pressed firmly on her forehead. Pitch reaches over and gently starts massaging her shoulders. Wave merely rolls her eyes.
"I gave her some words of encouragement and she appears to be at ease now," Wave continues.
"That's good, I was beginning to get concerned. I don't think I ever felt that from her before," I say.
"You're killing me, Arctic," Meadow says.
"I am? How so?" I ask.
"Because you're so oblivious it's physically painful to watch," Meadow says.
"I don't understand," I say.
"I'll talk to you about it later," Wave says.
'And don't think for a second your little oblivious act will work on me.'
Suddenly, I feel a strong incline to move in and never leave Charlie Hops ever again. A distraction is desperately needed. It just so happens that I know a fairly good one that has a 95% success rate. Time to execute plan 5-3.
"Speaking about crushes and dates..." I begin.
"Don't you dare," Wave says.
The bait works as Pitch catches on immediately and decides to join the fun.
"Oh, does the Princess here have an eye for somepony herself? Or someling as you say?" He asks.
"I do not! Besides, as the newly appointed princess of Sub-Hive Manehatten, I simply do not have the time for a romantic commitment. Not to mention, it is my responsibility to put the welfare of the hive above any personal interests I may or may not have," Wave says.
She ends her small rant by crossing her hooves and pointing her nose up in that self-righteous sort of way. I look over to Pitch and Meadow, who are not convinced in the slightest, and give them a wink.
"Oh, code E-3 by the way," I say.
Wave's smug smile immediately drops along side her ears as she ducks below the table. She starts to scan the bar, only to stop and grimace menacingly at me when she hears my laughter.
"Arctic! That's not funny," Wave says.
"Really? Because they seem to disagree," I say.
I motion over to Pitch and Meadow who are having trouble holding in their own laughter. With the attention on them, Meadow fakes a cough while Pitch begins to whistle.
"Code E-3?" Meadow asks. Wave attempts to blend in with the table as I explain.
"It's a little code Wave and I came up a long time ago to warn us whenever our respective crushes are around. I never had one, but in Waves case... well, I believe the results speak for themselves," I say.
"Really, you two have a code for that?" Meadow asks.
"What can I say? We're both pretty terrible when it comes to our own romance," I say.
"Are you ever," Meadow mumbles.
"So, I take it based on her reaction that her romantic interest followed her over?" Pitch asks.
"Indeed he did. He came as part of her personal guardian team no less," I say.
"Where is he then if he's not among the other changelings here?" Pitch asks.
"Lance and the other guardians will be here later," I say.
"Lance, huh?" Meadow inquires.
"Arctic, Shush!" Wave whispers loudly.
"Yup! You'll see him as a red unicorn stallion with a short, lightish red mane and tail and blue eyes," I say.
"Arctic..." Wave complains.
"Isn't lightish red just pink?" Pitch asks.
"Don't tell him that," I say.
"Please stop," Wave says.
"What? It's not like it's a secret," I say.
"It's suppose to be," Wave says.
"Hardly," I say.
"Arctic..."
"Wave is in love with Lance Corporal! Wave is in love with Lance Corporal!" I singsong.
"Enough!" Wave shouts.
She attempts to clock me upside the head. I'm fast on my reflexes, however, and successfully dodge the incoming blow.
"Ha! Missed me, missed me, now you got to kiss him!" I sing.
"Doesn't it go, 'now you have to kiss me?'" Meadow asks. I ponder the question for a split second.
"That's just ridiculous. Why would I want her to-" I freeze up, suddenly aware of the fatal error in Meadow's words. Wave smiles and radiates mischief. "Wait! Wave! Don't-"
"Done!"
I'm too late! Before I can escape, Wave wraps me in her magic and draws me in close. Without hesitation, she locks her lips with mine leaving me completely bewildered as to what is occurring. Instantaneously, every changeling's attention is diverted to the scene as well as a few pony's. Whistling and catcalls fill the bar as I struggle to free myself from Wave's iron grip. I stare down Pitch and Meadow, begging with my eyes for help, but they are too shocked to offer any. Eventually, she lets go causing me to drop to the floor in a heap, scrubbing my tongue viciously to rid myself of her germs.
"Wave! What the hell!?" I shout.
"Hey, you were asking for it," Wave says.
"No I was not!" I reply.
"Oh, don't give me that Mr. 'Seems like a challenge'," she says.
"I was joking! You know I was joking!" I exclaim.
"And as I said, you know better than to tempt me like that," she says.
"I didn't think you actually do it! You're like a blood relative to me," I say.
"Yeah, well, I've kissed my actual sisters before," she says.
"I... did not need to know that," I say.
"Wait, that didn't come out right. Some context is required," she says, with a little hint of panic.
"Wave, I care not to hear of your fetishes," I say.
"No! It's not like that! You see, they were teaching me a new, queen type spell about distributing love in emergencies, and it required physical displays of affection-"
"Too much information!" I shout, covering my ears and willing myself to forget what I heard.
"No! Not that kind of physical display! I mean-"
"Hey, did you say we'd recognize Lance as a red unicorn with a pink mane and blue eyes?" Pitch cuts in.
"Yes, wh-"
I cut my question off when I look over and see Lance standing between Meadow and Pitch. Wave also spys Lance with shrunken eyes and proceeds to try and hide herself behind her mane.
"How long have you been standing there?" I ask.
"About the same time the Princess started making out with you," he replies.
"You are very stealthy," Pitch says.
"Thank you," Lance replies. "And my mane is not pink."
"Pinkish," Pitch corrects.
"Light red," Lance says.
"That pretty much describes pink," Pitch says.
"No, it describes a shade of red," Lance says.
"Know what else is 'lightish red'? This part of my mane. Know how I describe it? Pink with a reddish hue," Meadow cuts in.
"Give it up, Lance. Against Pitch, you can win. Against Meadow, you will fail," I say.
"I highly disagree with that," Pitch says.
"Be quiet and agree with the snow bug!" Meadow mockingly demands.
"I highly agree with that," Pitch corrects.
"Snow bug? I have to remember that one later," Lance laughs. I join in as well. It's definitely a new one for me. Suddenly, Wave perks up. Finally finding some words to say.
"Hi, Lance! You're just in time. These two right here are Pitch and Meadow, nothing is what it looks like, and I'll be right back," Wave rattles off.
She then picks herself up and gallops to the mare's room. I scan the crowd and pick out Flower and Honeydew. I give them a nod. They give me a nod of understanding in return and follow after Wave. Meanwhile, Lance takes a seat in Wave's abandoned chair.
"Well, that uh... happened. Honestly, I'm not sure what to say after all of that," Pitch says.
"Is she going to be okay?" Meadow asks.
"Wave is a tough girl, she'll bounce back soon enough," Lance says.
"We just caught her a little too unguarded is all. Give her a little time, a few breathing exercises, and a pep talk from the two finest harvesters around and she'll come out, a pep in her step, acting like this was all planned," I say.
"Are you sure?" Meadow asks.
"Absolutely, 100%," I confirm.
"Okay. So, Lance is it? I'm Meadow Lands, and this is my very special somepony, Pitch Out," Meadow says.
"Lance Corporal, second in command of the Princess's personal guardian detail," Lance says.
"Guardian? So you're like a royal guard then?" Pitch asks.
"Er, I'm not sure," Lance replies.
"Yes and no. From what I know of your royal guards, they do have similar responsibilities. However, guardians are trained, and have similar combat capabilities as your special forces," I explain.
"Whoa, talk about extreme. Remind me never to pick a fight with you," Pitch says.
"Don't pick a fight with any changelings and we'll remain on good terms," Lance says.
"Deal," Pitch agrees.
"Hey, Arctic. Is he aware that your princess-" Wave begins.
"Has a complete and utter crush on me? Yes, I do. I've known for a long time actually," Lance says.
"Oh, well, do you share the feeling?" Meadow asks.
"I... can't really say. I mean, physically, she's a very gorgeous changeling queen. But, anytime I actually try to get to know her, her normally very extroverted personality becomes very introverted in a heartbeat, preventing me from learning anything about her. I figured if I became part of her personal guard that I could get to know her that way, but so far no luck," Lance sighs.
"But, you are interested?" Meadow asks.
"Sure, who wouldn't be? Outside Arctic here," Lance asks.
"I said it once, I'll say it again. Wave is like a blood relative to me. Which is why I find that sudden kiss from her very disturbing," I say.
"Yeah, what was that about?"
"I don't know! I've teased her a bunch of times like that in the past and she's never done anything like that before," I say.
After I finished my last sentence, I realize that the question did not come from any if those present at the table. turning to face the voice behind me, I nearly bumping my nose with Silvia's she's standing so close. What did not occur afterwards is me jumping back, falling out of my chair with a yipe. Nope, did not happen whatsoever. Thus, leaving the reason as to why everyone else starts to laugh forever wrapped in mystery.
"I'm okay," I say for unknown reasons.
"Sorry," Silvia giggles. "It's a bit of a tight fit around here."
"I'm sure most of us understand," Meadow says with a wink.
Silvia turns away for a moment, most likely carefully adjusting our food that she levitates off her back. She sets them in their respective places, though she pauses at Wave's dish when she discovers Lance sitting in her place.
"Are you now assuming the role of Miss Wave?" Silvia asks.
"Until she returns," Lance says, changing his voice to match Wave's silvery one. This really catches Silvia off guard. She starts backing away slowly, ears down.
"Okay, that was good. Too good. Very creepily accurate," she says.
"I have lots of practice," Lance says, returning to his natural, guttural voice.
Silvia doesn't feel convinced, so I decide to step in. I lay a hoof on her withers, gaining her undivided attention. I offer her a smile and I feel her relax soon afterwards.
"Pay little heed to that jook over there..."
"Hey!" Lance protests.
"...He likes to brag about his great vocal control and has a tendency to be quite mischievous in showing off his skill to others. But, between you and me." I lean in, whispering into her ear so the others can't hear. "That's the only voice he can pull off and I think it's because he has a desire to be like Wave. I've even seen him dress up as her once or twice."
"No way, really?" Silvia asks.
"Absolutely," I say.
It's a small lie, but it gets the result I'm looking for. She giggles silently, looking at Lance in a new light. A light that makes him squirm uncomfortably. Silvia tosses one last mocking glare to Lance before leaving once again. I watch her return to the bar and then return my attention back to the table where I meet the gaze of a curious Lance.
"What?" I ask.
"Nothing, it's not important," he says.
"Oh, for the love of all the sugary goodness in the world! Will everyone please stop saying that!" I demand.
"Nope," Meadow says.
"Not gonna happen, buddy," Pitch says.
"You two are the worst," I say.
"We love you too," Meadow says mockingly, though her words are backed with actual love for a friend.
"So, are you going to tell me what you told her?" Lance asks.
"That you have an unquenchable desire to be Wave and even dressed up as her before," I say. This gets an amused chuckle out of both Pitch and Meadow. Lance, on the other hoof, lowers his gaze to the floor.
"Oh," he says. Now he is really, really uncomfortable.
"Oh? No. Lance, don't tell me..." I say.
"I uh... lost a bet with Sure Claw. Had to go around as Wave's pony form for a whole day," he says.
That's it. That's the final straw. I double over in a fit of laughter stronger than my desire to breath. Tears roll down my cheek as I try to get my laughter under control, only for an image of Lance transforming into Wave to send me back in the whole I'm desperately trying to climb out of. Lance, for his part, merely stares ahead blankly, waiting for me to finish. I must have continued this struggle for several minutes, for by the time I finally recover, I discover that Wave returned at some point and is standing behind Lance. This doesn't help in the slightest, but I am able to keep the laughter at bay.
"Wow. I thought it was funny too, but just wow," Pitch says.
"Do I want to know?" Wave asks.
"No you don't!" Lance rapidly replies.
"Good enough for me," Wave says. "I uh, don't suppose I can have my seat back."
"Right, of course," Lance says.
Lance gets up and retrieves another chair while Wave reclaims hers. She, Pitch, and Meadow begin their meals. Silvia returns briefly to ask if Lance would like anything to eat. He declines and settles for a beer. Time passes with nothing of interest happening until Pitch brings up a previous subject.
"I have to ask. Do you all really have a changeling by the name of Sure Claw?" He asks.
"I had a feeling that was going to be brought up at some point," I say.
"Yes we do, he's the easiest one to spot as well," Lance says.
"Which one is he?" Pitch asks.
"The only one in here that's a gryphon," Wave responds.
Said changeling gryphon is sitting at the bar, staring ahead with little interest in his surroundings. He appears to have neither drink nor meal and seems to be here just for the sake of being here with the others.
"Okay, so that explains the claw part of his name. But, Sure Claw? What is that even suppose to mean?" Pitch asks. I scratch my chin in thought.
"I think he actually took the name from a series of books he likes to read," I say.
"You're correct. When he decided to take a gryphon main form, he felt as though the literal meaning of a name of a character from a book he liked to read would fit nicely. And so, he became Sure Claw," Wave explains.
"So he just translated a gryphon's name to Ponish to get his?" Pitch asks.
"Dragon name, actually. The characters in the book were dragons," Wave says.
"Oh, so why a gryphon then? Why not be a dragon?" Pitch asks.
"I like gryphons," Sure Claw says.
I'm unaware as to how the massive, bulky tangle of feathers managed to sneak up to our table, yet here he is.
"Ah, Sure Claw! Would you like to introduce yourself to our honorary hive mates?" Wave asks.
"Have I not been introduced already? I heard the lot of you talking about me," He replies.
"Yes, but would you like to do so personally?" Wave asks.
"I don't see the point. I know their names and now they know mine," he says.
"Okay, but it's polite nonetheless and it opens up an opportunity to get to know them," Wave says.
"If they're truly considered part of the hive then they'll live without me being polite. And if they really want to get to know me, have them come to one of my training sessions, " he says.
"Why are you over here then?" Wave asks.
"To make sure you kids have proper supervision and don't end up burning this land to a crisp," he says.
"No, not here as in Equestria. Here as in why are you standing right there," Wave asks.
"You were talking about me without me being here, I corrected the issue," He states.
"Are you going to continue to stand there? Or are you st least going to take a seat?" Wave asks.
"Depends, am I to be the subject of your talks moving forward?" He asks.
"No," Wave replies.
"Then I'll continue my watch," he says. He nods to signal his departure. He takes a couple of steps before he stops and looks at Pitch.
"You're lucky, colt. You have a good mare at your side. Make sure you keep it that way," he says.
"Thank you?" Pitch responds uneasily. Sure claw gives a huff and returns to his seat at the bar.
"Isn't he friendly..." Meadow says.
"More like stern, stubborn, and unnecessarily straight forward. He seems to like you though," I say.
"How could you tell?" Meadow asks.
"The way he basically challenged Pitch not to break your heart," I say.
"That's what that was about?" Pitch asks.
"Well he has absolutely nothing to worry about there. What kind of training does he do anyways?" Meadow asks.
"Our kind of training," Lance says. "Best way to have him open up is to earn his respect. Best way to earn his respect is to go through what we do. You are welcome to join us in the future if you like. But, be warned, you will be in pain for the next few days."
"Hmm, I may just take you up on that," Meadow says.
"Are you serious?" Pitch asks.
"What? It could give me something to do on my days off. Besides, it could be fun," Meadow says. Lance and I shake our heads in unison. "Well, it would be an interesting experience to try once, at the very least."
"Pitch, your marefriend has very crazy concept of the idea of fun," I say.
"I'm aware, trust me," He responds.
"Hey! Just for that, you can sleep in your own bed tonight," Meadow huffs.
"Okay, but I'm dragging you with me," He says.
"Ha! You can try," Meadow says.
"Succeed more like," He says.
"That's it! You, me, wrestling match tonight after dinner!" Meadow declares.
"Deal!" Pitch exclaims.
"Sounds like things are going to get exciting tonight. Do you two need me to find somewhere else to sleep tonight?" I ask.
"One, not that kind of wrestling! Two, we need someone to act as ref and you're it!" Meadow demands.
"Don't I get a say in this?" I ask.
"Nope," Meadow says.
"You may want to just accept your fate, Arctic," Wave giggles.
"Pretty sure it's going to happen whether I accept it or not so, fine, I'll judge your boring version of wrestling," I say.
"Seems like its true no matter where you are, all mares are crazy," Lance says.
"Yeah, well, you would have insight on us mares wouldn't you?" Meadow calls out.
"Huh?" Wave questions.
"Nothing! Not important! Hey, I think I hear Maze calling for me. It was nice meeting you, Pitch and Meadow. Have a safe, fun night and remember to use protection," Lance says. He makes his hasty escape and I have to clear a tear from my eye. That was one of the most beautiful uses of plan 39 I've ever seen. I'm so proud of him. Only one nitpick, Maze isn't present at the bar.
"It's not that kind of wrestling!" Meadow shouts out to him.
"Hey! You did it Wave! You held in there while he was here. You know, after you returned from the first time that is," I say.
"Oh, buzz off will you! Why did he- What's so funny?" Wave asks.
"Buzz off. Get it, Meadow, because they look like bugs," Pitch laughs. I roll my eyes.
"What were you saying?" I ask.
"Why did he suddenly run off?"
"Probably because I was about to call out his escapade as a, certain, mare," Meadow says.
"Really? Well, as amusing as that would have been, I still don't get it. I'm pretty sure we all, at one point in our lives, tried out what if feels like to be a part of the other sex," Wave says. Pitch and Meadow tilt their heads, confused, yet curious.
"What? We get curious just like anyone else and we just so happen to have the powers of shape shifting to satisfy those curiosities," Wave says.
"Is that the only curiosity you find out while gender swapping?" Pitch asks.
"Pitch! That's gross!" Meadow exclaims, playfully shoving him.
"Oh come on, you were thinking it too," Pitch says.
"But I didn't go ahead and ask it," Meadow responds.
"I'm... not going to say it doesn't happen," I say.
"But it's a highly uncommon among changelings and anything on the topic is all hear say!" Wave quickly cuts in.
"Pitch, stop asking questions I don't want to hear the answer to," Meadow says, shaking him all the while.
"What about you, Arctic? Ever explore the other side?" Pitch asks with a mischievous smile.
"Pitch! I said stop!" Meadow demands, still shaking him.
"You have, like, no idea," I say in my shrill Hydro voice. Meadow stops shaking Pitch.
"Wait, you actually did that?" Wave asks.
"Yeah... didn't I tell you the story?" I ask.
"Oh, that story. I remember now," Wave says.
"Sounds like an interesting story," Pitch says.
"I'll tell you one day, Pitch, just not tonight." I say.
"Fair enough. So, how did it feel?" He asks.
"Strange. Very strange. I felt very pretty," I say. Wave cuffs me upside the head.
"Ow! hey, it's true," I say. She sticks her tongue out at me and I stick mine out in retaliation.
"Meadow, are you okay," Pitch asks the vacantly staring mare.
"How did I not put the pieces together sooner," she says.
"Well folks, it's been fun, but I'm beat and could really use some sleep. I'll see you all tomorrow," I say.
I get up and make a hasty retreat to the exit. Mistakes were made and it's imperative that I make my escape before things escalate. Hopefully, escape plan 9 will give me the time I need to create some distance between me and Meadow. That hope soon gets crushed when the doors to the establishment slam shut in the light blue aura of Meadow's magic.
"Arctic! You get your Hydie flank back here!" She shouts. I gulp.
"Meadow, I can explain," I say, turning around to face the angry mare in the middle of the bar.
"Fillies and gentlecolts, let's get ready to rumble!" Wave shouts in the microphone.
Wave has managed to get onto the small stage. At her announcement, the ponies in the bar starts to clear the tables away from the center, leaving an arena for Meadow and I. I'm pretty sure I see a few bits passing between the ponies as well.
"Aren't you suppose to be on my side?" I ask Wave.
"Not when you've had this coming," She replies.
'Some princess you are.'
'Shut up and face the music like an actual changeling for once.
'Yes, because I haven't nearly had enough near death experiences yet.'
If Wave responds, I don't hear it as I'm too focus in dodging the oncoming train that is Meadow. She rushes at me headlong and I run to the left to avoid her. She gives chase behind me, always just a quarter length away.
"Meadow, please! I though we resolved this?" I beg.
"I also said I was going to give Hydro my comeuppance should I met her again," She says.
"Then why are you chasing me, Arctic Thunder?" I ask.
"You know that I know the truth, Arctic!" She exclaims.
She pauses in her tracks to change tactics. She picks up a dessert from a nearby table and launches it at me with high velocity. I let out a panicked yelp and dive to the side, just missing getting splattered by the pie. I have no time to breath as she quickly picks up and launches another pie. I'm darting side to side, doing my best to avoid the creamy missiles of doom. I'm not watching where I'm going, however, and end up stopping a few inches short of Meadow herself, smiling smugly, a pie floating right next to her. With no time to escape, I rely on a desperate last move. I quickly reach out with one of my feathery wings and tickle her underside. The tactic works as she moves to cover her vulnerable side. Meanwhile, she lets the pie fly and it sails over my head and into the crowd.
The pie lands on the face of a stallion who's hanging out with his buddies. He blinks his eyes clear while his buddies laugh at him. Not amused in the slightest, he takes part of the pie from his face and tosses it in the face of his friend across from him. His friend tries to get revenge and throws his entire plate of food right back. His target ducks in time and the plate goes sailing into the next table, covering the couple sitting there.
Then all hell breaks loose.
Hooffuls of food go flying right and left. No one is spared from the carnage as each miss brings in more ponies to the fight. Even the changelings are not spared as they begin a food fight among themselves. It looks to be the guardians vs everyling else.
Despite the chaos, I'm not free from the wrath of Meadow. She stands in the middle of the bar once more, advancing ever so slowly my way. I match her every step forward with a step back. That is, until I bump into something behind me. Next thing I know, I'm being held in place in the blue aura of Wave's magic.
"Hey! No fair! I call interference!" I shout, struggling to get free.
"Didn't I mention? This is a no holds barred match," she says.
I watch as my doom approaches ever closer, baring a menacing smile. I continue to struggle against Wave's magic, but it's no use. She has me right where she wants me and there's nothing I can do. When Meadow reveals the multiple pies she carries, I give in and accept my fate. Suddenly, something knocks Wave unbalanced and I escape in time to have the pies miss me and hit Wave instead. Meadow stomps in frustrations while Wave clears her face, trying part of the pies in the process. I search for my savior and find Pitch waving me over to a tipped over table. I gallop over and take cover.
"Thanks for the save," I say.
"Us stallions have to stick together," he says.
"Don't think for a second I didn't see that, Pitch! Don't think for a second I'll spare you either!" Meadow shouts.
"Game on, Meadow!" he shouts, launching a bowl of ice cream over the table. His aim is true, but Meadow rolls to the right at the last second.
"Pitch, behind us!" I shout, forcing Pitch down as a pie impacts where his head was a split second before. A pie thrown by Wave who somehow managed to get behind our lines.
"We're surrounded!" I shout.
"I know it!" He responds.
"Guys! Over here, quickly!"
I spy a waving hoof behind the bar. nodding to Pitch, we take off, sprinting through the crossfire and diving over the high top. On the other side to met us is Silvia as well as a carefully stacked pile of pies.
"Silvia, you're a hero!" I exclaim.
"Less talking, more throwing," she replies, throwing one of the pies randomly in the crowd.
"Aye, aye ma'am," I say.
I move over a stack of pies over to Pitch and then pick out a stack for myself. We begin engaging any target we see. All the while, I keep an eye out for Meadow and Wave, but am unable to locate them. Odds are they did not give up the chase, so me not having an eye on them makes me very nervous as to what they are planning. I spy movement out of the corner of my eye and finally locate them. It's not good.
"Pitch..." I warn, tapping on his shoulders and pointing towards Meadow and Wave. Wave has assembled a shield of pies, covering her advance with Meadow in tow. Meadow is carrying an extreme amount of whip cream in a bubble of magic.
"Intensify forward fire power!" Pitch shouts. He, Silvia and I start throwing pies at a rapid rate, trying to slow down the duo's advance. It doesn't work.
"Intensify forward fire power!" he shouts again. Meadow breaks away with a battle cry, jumping over the high table.
"Too late!" I shout.
I drop my pies and dive on top of Silvia, protecting her from the powerful, tactical whipsplosion which rocks the establishment to its foundation. The fighting stops immediately as the entire place, and all the ponies in it, are covered head to toe in whipped cream. Dazed and confused ponies try to stand and walk, only to slip back down. Those who are able to keep their balance start helping the others recover. The air is filled with only one sound.
Joyous laughter.
This includes Meadow, who is being helped up by Pitch, only for her to loose her balance and slide back to the ground taking Pitch with her. I try and am able to stand up, revealing a virtually untouched and giggling Silvia. I offer a hoof to help her up. She appears to finally realize who it is standing over her and it shows in her cheeks. She accepts the hoof and I successfully help her get to her hooves. Deciding to goof off just a little more, I take some of the whip cream off my coat and fix it into a beard on my face. I show my creation to Silvia with a smile and she begins to laugh again. That's when I make an interesting discovery.
I really like making Silvia laugh.
With the fight officially over the bar completely covered, the ponies start to make their exit, the night forever entrenched in their memories. A few changelings leave as well, though most stay to help clean up and introduce themselves to Pitch and Meadow. The couple stay to help clean up as well, though Meadow leaves shortly afterwards complaining about a headache. By the end of the clean up, the only ones left are Pitch, Wave, Silvia, and I.
"Thanks again for helping me clean up," Silvia says.
"Bevadie! It's the least we can do after starting the whole thing," Wave says.
"Beh-vah-dye?" Silvia asks.
"It's from an old tongue from my homeland. It simply means 'of course'," I explain.
"Ah, you guys are really from some place far away, huh?" Silvia asks.
"Kamoovan," Wave says.
"Huh?" Silvia questions.
"Don't mind her, she just teasing you with another word that means 'of course'," I say. Wave winks at Silvia.
"Gotcha," Silvia says.
"Anything else you need help with?" I ask.
"No, I just need to close up now," Silvia says.
"You sure? Maybe you like one of us to walk you home?" Wave asks. She nods her head in my direction thinking I wouldn't notice, I do of course. Silvia gaze lingers on me very briefly.
"I'll be fine, I wouldn't want to impose," she replies.
"It's perfectly fine, the night's still plenty young in my opinion," I say.
"Well, if you insist," she says.
"I do," I say.
"Then sure, just give me a few minutes to lock up," she says.
"No problem, I'll be just outside," I say.
Wave, Pitch, and I exist the bar. Silvia locks the doors behind us then trots away to continue securing the bar.
"Well, it's been a great night. Unexpectedly messy and not how I thought things would go, but great nonetheless. That said, I think it's way past time that I head out and check on Meadow. Have a great rest of your night!
"Oh, and Princess Wave, it's been an honor to meet you. Allow me to officially welcome you to the city of Manhattan. I believe I say for both myself and Meadow that we're happy you're here, and that we have no problem recognizing you as the fourth princess of Equestria."
Pitch ends his little speech with a small dip of his head. We understand what the gesture means to him and, by the way she's feeling, it means the world to Wave. With little more to say, Pitch begins trotting down the street and-
Wait a second.
"Fourth?" I cry after him.
"Ask your lover," he says over his shoulder.
"She's not my... forget it," I sigh.
"She can be if you allow it," Wave says.
"I know," I say.
"Do you want it?" She asks.
"I don't know," I reply.
"Arctic..."
"Please Wave, not now."
"Okay, for Silvia's sake not yours. But we'll pick this up again later. "
"Looking ever so forward to it."
"I'm leaving you now in good hooves, do try and keep it that way.
"I will."
Wave begins her journey back to the inn, leaving me waiting on Silvia. I end up waiting for several minutes until Silvia emerges from the backside of the bar, sporting a light black jacket.
"All set," she says.
"Lead the way, my heroine," I reply, much to her delight. She begins a slow walk and I fall in step.
"I couldn't just leave you two stranded out there."
"And you have my eternal gratitude."
"Noted," she giggles.
Yup, still like making her laugh.
"The boss isn't going to be too angry with you with what happened tonight, is he?"
"I highly doubt it, considering it was the owner himself who supplied all the whipped cream used in that final attack."
"Wait, really?"
"Yup, I spotted Charlie earlier in the fight exiting the kitchen with cans upon cans of the stuff. I was curious what he was up to. Turns out, he was working with the opposition."
"Sounds like a really fun boss."
"He is definitely the best one I've ever had. He always cares more about everypony having a good time over profits or appearances. "
"With an owner like that, it's no wonder the bar has a personality all of its own."
"Right? The place is the best!"
We fall silent after that for a little bit. I wanted to give her time to come up with and ask any questions of her own. Yet, it's obvious that she's completely satisfied with just being present with me and taking in the city's busy night life. I find that I wish to know more about her and so I start up the conversation once more.
"So, Silvia. I must admit, it's an unusual name."
So says I, a changeling, whose race uses such names as Sheleg, Geshem, and Shemesh.
"An unusual pony name, yes. But, I'm clearly not a pony."
I take a long look over the clearly blue coat, silver mane unicorn. I raise my brow in severe doubt at her claim. She continues walking with head forward, her silver eyes concentrated on the path ahead. However, I can virtually feel the ripple of excitement travel down her spine as I look her over.
"Really? Forgive me when I say I absolutely do not believe that for a second."
"It's true! For you see, I'm obviously a gryphon trapped in the form of a pony."
"Obviously. And I'm obviously not a pegasus, but rather a bug pony with the ability to transform into a pegasus."
"Aha! I know that to be false because why would one seek to transform into a pegasus and not the clearly better choice of a unicorn?"
"Feathered wings are comfortable. Plus, I can do this."
I reach out with my wing and start to tickle her side. She gasps at the sudden contact and hunkers down to protect herself. This gives me advantage though, and I turn to allow my other wing to reach her unprotected side, attacking her on two fronts. I quickly overwhelm her as she succumbs to the surprise tickle torture. Her joyous laughter is music to my ears as I increase the intensity of my assault, ignoring the strange looks given to me by those passing by.
"Hahaha, Arctic! Hahaha... please... haha... stop!"
"Not until you tell me the truth!"
"O-haha-kay! Okay! Hahaha I gi-haha-ve hahaha up!"
I cease my assault and help her to her hooves. She takes a few moments to recover, a few giggles still escaping from her lips. Once she finds her breath, we continue walking as she explains.
"The truth of the matter is I'm adopted, and my parents just so happen to be a pair of gryphons," she says.
"A pair of gryphon adopted a pony? Now I've heard of everything," I say.
"Right? I always get a kick out of everpony's reactions when they find out. Especially if they find out by meeting them," she says. "I guess Mom is barren and decided to adopt and, well, your not exactly going to find many gryphon orphans around here. So Dad suggest adopting a pony instead and so, here I am."
"Such a thing would be unheard of back home. In fact, the idea of adoption is a foreign concept to us," I say.
"What? But, then what happens to those without parents?" She asks.
"First thing to understand is that the towns back home are very, very small and spread out so orphans are extremely rare for us. Each town also differs on how they do take care of any orphans. For instance, where I grew up, any orphans are typically raised by the Queen and her daughters, though I've only heard of such a thing happening once, maybe twice.
"As for the other towns, I know of one that has them raised by the elders, and another that has them pretty much live on there own, but the entire community pitches in to help them grow and learn," I explain.
"That's a very strange concept to me. Why doesn't your Queen have a centralized plan for any occurrences?" She asks.
"I think your getting the wrong picture here. None of the towns are under any sort of centralized government, let alone our Queen. If the Queen were to try to do such a thing it would be heavily resisted. I think it's best to think of every town as a city-state. Ours just so happen to be the biggest and most influential," I say.
"I can't imagine living in such a land," she says.
"And I couldn't imagine ponies living in several different metropolises being united under one rule. This land is like one great big dream to me. A miracle of ponykind," I say. "Even the idea of all three pony tribes living together is bizarre. I've seen places with two tribes together, but never all three. Now I find out there's a fourth one."
"A fourth one?" She asks.
"You know, the thestrals," I say.
"Oh right, honestly I've never thought about them being a fourth tribe, rather just a split from pegasi, though I suppose you'd be more correct," she says.
"Did someone mention thestrals?"
"What the!? Indigo!?" I ask, jumping in surprise at the sudden interruption.
"That's me!" Indigo exclaims, emerging from the shadows behind us.
"What are you doing here?" I ask.
"Oh, you know... totally not spying on you by orders of the Princess," she says.
"Princess? Which princess? Why would a princess want to spy on us?" Silvia asks.
"Well, you can tell Wave to mind her own business," I say.
"Wave is a princess!?" Silvia asks.
"I was pretty much planning to, otherwise you'd never know I was here," Indigo says.
"Thank you, Indigo. At least you know when to leave well enough alone," I say.
"I learn from the best!" Indigo proclaims.
"In that case, send my regards to Honeydew as well," I say.
"Will do," Indigo says.
"Can somepony please explain what's going on?" Silvia asks.
"Right, of course. Silvia, this is Indigo. Indigo, Silvia," I say.
"Hiya!" Indigo greets with a wide, toothy smile.
"Hi. Now back to Wave being a princess..." Silvia says.
"Wave is the third daughter of our Queen here to manage our involvement in your lands, and so, a princess," I explain.
"A totally radical princess at that," Indigo adds.
"Pfff, radical," Silvia giggles. "I haven't heard that word used in decades."
"Get use to it, because I'm not gonna give up using it," Indigo says, jabbing a hoof challenging in Silvia's direction.
"No harm meant," Silvia says, raising her hooves in defense.
"Try not to pick fights, Indigo," I say.
"I'm not," she says while simultaneously sticking her long tongue out.
"Right, well we need to get going," I say.
"No worries, I totally understand," Indigo says, flying next to us. "So, we're we going?"
"I'm going to continue walking Silvia home. You are going to report back to Wave," I say.
"Aw, you're no fun," Indigo complains, but starts to fly away anyways. "Nice to meet you, Silvia! Come by the inn when we open, first meals on us."
"She's a wildly one," Silvia states.
"She's a hoofful that's for sure," I agree.
"What was that about opening an inn?"
"I'm glad you ask. I was able to get a good deal on an old building in a great location for all of us who came over here to act as our home away from home. We're currently renovating it and planning to open up a section of the place to act like an inn in order to fund us going forward. He have plenty of good cooks with us, but we could always use a brewer."
"I appreciate the off and I'll give it some thought, but I do like my job at Charlie Hops."
"Of course, but take in mind that we're not asking you to leave and join our servers. Rather, that you supply us with some of your great tasting beer."
"Like I said, I'll give it some thought. But, in order to make enough to supply a whole restaurant I would have to take up brewing full time."
"I understand. And there is absolutely no rush as this is a standing offer."
"Thank you."
We arrive at Silvia's apartment complex which, surprisingly, turns out to be Meadow's old one. We climb up one flight of stairs to the second floor and walk down the hallway until we reach the fifth door to the right. Silvia fishes out her key from her jacket and unlocks the door.
"Well, here we are," she says. I look past her to sneak a peak at her room, swallowing my disappointment.
"You know, I think we can also offer you a better room to stay in if you work for us."
"Oh, it's not that bad."
I proceed to walk past Silvia and into her apartment much to her shock. I then stand in the middle of the room and spread my wings out fully. Length wise, my wingspans takes up half the room while width wise I can just touch each wall.
"Really?" I ask.
"To be fair, the only time I spend in here is when I'm sleeping," she says. "And it's very cheap compared to anywhere else."
I look around at the pitifully small cell of a room one last time. An idea comes to mind.
"I tell you what, whether you accept our offer or not, I'll make sure we always have a room ready for you should you decide you want more space." I exit her apartment and look back over my shoulder. "Free of charge."
"I... thank you. But, why?"
"Because, Silvia, the best deserve the best." I give her a wink and walk down the hallway. "Goodnight, Silvia! You're the best!"
I believe I leave her dumbfounded and speechless for I don't hear a reply. I climb down to the first floor and begin trotting down the street, feeling rather good about myself. I take a turn at the corner and begin a peaceful journey back to Pitch's house.
'You're a damn hypocrite, you know that, right?'
At least, that was the plan.
*Sigh*
"I didn't realize later meant as soon as I dropped her off," I say. Wave emerges from around the corner and falls in line with me.
"This is a serious discussion that we have to have," she says.
"Okay, why am I a hypocrite?"
"Because you'll tease me, interfere, and tell me I need to put my fears aside and start a relationship with Lance, yet when faced with the same situation yourself, you run away just as fast."
"I'm not running away. It's just, not the right time. I have other matters to attend to first."
"That's a load of horse shit, Arctic! What other matters? You have no role or responsibilities within the Sub-Hive itself and if you truly wished, you'd have continued sailing and exploring months ago. You finally found a place your attached to and you don't wish to leave so why not try to settle down?
"You know very well that that mare is very fond of you and I know you're very fond of her yourself. And yet, you continuously lead her on with zero intention in pursuing a relationship. And what about that other mare you had a fling with? That DJ? The one you promised you'd ask out once you had the time?"
"I still like her as well, just as much as Silvia even. I just don't see her or have the chance to interact with her as often. Plus, I still don't think it's the right time."
"Of course you don't. You know, anyling else would call you cruel leading these mares on, but I know you're not so I'm just going to say it how it is, you're a coward."
"You know very well I'm anything but that!"
"You're not a coward when it comes to risking your own head, but when it comes to your heart you cower in fear. I know this because I'm exactly the same way."
"So how about you fix yourself before you lecture me?"
"Because I am your princess as well as your friend. If I don't call you out noling will and you'll continue down this idiotic path. I'm very aware of my own faults and I'm working on them. It's time you do the same."
"What do you truly know about my faults? How can you speak on why I guard my heart?"
"Because I know you, Arctic, as well as the very thing which makes you afraid. Why it is you so fear tying your fate with another. You don't mind risking your own life because it's yours with results based on your choices.
"But, everything changes when it comes to relationships. Suddenly, it's not just you. Suddenly, what you do and say can have severe and unintended consequences. What if you mess up do something wrong? What if this fling is only fleeting? What if she hates you when she finds out what you truly are? Or, what if she to wake up one day and decides she's bored with you and leaves you for someone else? Perhaps a pony she can better control? Just like what dear old mother did to dear old father!"
I spin around and collide my face with Wave's. Eyes red with fury.
"THAT'S ENOUGH! You have no right to bring that up!"
I'm huffing, barely able to control my own breathing. Despite it all, she's right. I regret telling at her, but I'm too angry to back down now. Wave stares at me softly for a few moments. She then wraps her hooves around me and pulls me into a hug. I continue to stand stiff in defiance, but the rage slowly fades away.
"Arctic, you can't keep letting what happened to your parents affect you. If you do, then what you fear will only become a self-fulfilling prophecy."
"I know, it's just not easy."
"And it's easier to run instead?"
I think of Silvia's laugh and Vinyl's smile.
"No."
"Then do what you do best. Stand your ground and fight the odds."
"Maybe."
"I can call you out and even guide you. But I can't force you to do anything. Just, reflect on my words, will you?"
"I will."
"I'll tell you what, I'll even throw in a little competition/motivation. Should you ask either Silvia or the DJ out, I'll buckle down and ask out Lance. But, should I start dating Lance first, you have to ask out which ever one I choose, deal?
I'm gonna regret this.
"Deal."
"Excellent, it's settled. Now, do you wish for me to join you on the rest of your walk?"
"No, I'm good. I think I'm going to take a slight detour and think for a bit."
"Okay, and if you need me."
'You know where to find me.'
"Bevadie."
Wave smiles at that and takes her leave. I wander around the city for a while with no destination in mind. Despite my claims, I do little thinking for the time being, unsure of what I should be thinking about. Eventually, I end up at the city park where I rested on my first night.
Laying beneath a tree, I stare out into the city, watching the few remaining lights turn off one at a time. I end up falling asleep and for the first time in many moons the Nightmare is not waiting for me. Instead, I find myself sitting between the two mares always in my thoughts. On the right, the energetic, ever the optimist Silvia and her ear pleasing laughter. On the left, the fun loving, risk taking Vinyl Scratch and her ever present smile. I look between the two of them and make a choice.
I'm going to stay here in the middle, just for a little while longer.
"Are you comfortable? Anything else I can get you?"
"I'm fine, Pitch, really. It's just a headache."
"You sure? Seems pretty long lasting to be just a headache."
"No, it's not. You're just overly concerned, not that its unappreciated. Still, I would like to get some rest in."
"Okay, I'll leave you be. But, if you need anything, just call for me."
"I will. And Pitch, I love you."
"I love you too, Meadow. Goodnight."
"Goodnight."
Pitch closes the door softly. It's not the first time he heard those three words from her, but they cause his heart to flutter all the same.
Meadow leans up in her bed and looks into a small mirror on the end table. A firefly sneaks in through the window and lands on her horn. She lifts a hoof up to the firefly and it Hops on. She brings it to eye level and smiles.
"Everything is going perfectly," she says.
She then stretches her arm towards the window and the firefly flies off. She then wraps her green magic around the window and closes them. She lays her head back down and falls asleep.
"Everything is just perfect."