Chapter 10
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“I fall to pieces, I'm falling. Fell to pieces and I'm still falling. Every time I'm falling down, All alone I fall to pieces.” – Velvet Revolver, Fall to Pieces (Contraband)
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Celestia’s Point of View
I watched Verdigris leave. He walked out steadily, as though nothing had happened, but I could feel he was putting on a brave face. Probably the worst thing to date had happened, and he was holding himself together with sheer willpower. He’d probably break when he was alone, and I couldn’t let that happen. He was as traumatized as if Nightmare been there and hurt him in pony.
Honey. Grass. Verdigris needs you. He’s in a bad way, mentally. Hurry. Please hurry.
Yes, Celestia. Right away, Highness. I had to smile. Grass was probably never going to be as easy with me as Honey; some things never go away. I laid down on the deck, closed my eyes and “watched” Verdigris as he returned to his rooms. He seemed perfectly fine on the outside, but I could feel his turmoil. His mind and emotions were too stirred up to tell what was going on, and I took that as a bad sign.
I couldn’t help feeling for him. Everything he’d been through up to now, he’d bounced back from, but I couldn’t tell if this was the final straw. I also couldn’t help wondering if it was one of Luna’s tricks to keep him from resisting when she came for him. It fit what I remembered, but of the Nightmare, not my little sister. She might be the same pony, but you couldn’t tell, past a certain point. I leaned my head down and cried silently for him, ignoring the tears. I heard a gasp, and remembered I wasn’t alone. “Cornflower, Lilac, you may go. I … need to be alone.”
“Of course, your Highness,” Lilac replied. Hoof-steps passed and the door opened and closed. It was silent, except for the water returning to its previous calm. I sighed and poured it out silently, as before.
“Your Highness?”
“Yes, Rigel.”
“I still can’t believe that Verdigris is your son. I’m sorry, but I just can’t.”
“He has my blood in his veins, Rigel. I’m a part of him, and last I knew, that qualified me as his mother. Under certain circumstances, but it still works out the same. I am his mother; the only difference is I didn’t bear him.”
“What will the nobles say?”
“I have no idea, and I’ll have to deal with that. I all but announced it to all of Canterlot, and probably half of Equestria.” I sighed. “I’ll manage. Now, may I be alone? He’s almost to his rooms, and he won’t be in a good way.” Being a Princess has its drawbacks, as seeing you cry has a bad effect on your subjects’ morale. So I cry alone.
“Does he – Oh, you’d tell them. Yes, your Highness.” She left with her usual soft step, and I felt nopony else.
“I’m so sorry,” I said to myself, and to my son, who was just reaching his door.
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Verdigris’ Point of View
I understand Celestia a little better, now.
I walked back to my rooms, trying not to fall apart before I got there. I kept my face serene, but inside … I can’t describe it. There was so much going on. I had built a reputation as the pony who could take anything, and if I broke – well, I didn’t know what it would do, but I was sure it wasn’t good.
Tango and Blaze fell in with me, and kept their silence and distance. Tango said they could pretty much read most ponies, and I’m sure I was a walking danger sign. I was glad they didn’t ask, though I could feel they wanted to. The walk back seemed to take forever, but I finally made it. I opened my door and said in as calm a voice I could, “Posts, guys. Please ignore any sounds you might hear in the next hour. If anypony asks, I’m not here. O-okay?”
“You’ve got it, boss,” Tango replied respectfully. Blaze nodded, his eyes misted with sympathy. “Later.” I closed the door and crossed the living room quickly. I was starting to lose it, and if I needed to scream, it had to be in the bedroom.
I barely made it. Once the door closed, I collapsed to the floor, curled up in a fetal position and just quivered and whimpered. There wasn’t anything else I could do. Everything else I could take, but what I’d just been through … it brought it all back all at once, and I couldn’t handle it. I can’t remember how long I just laid there, trying not to cry like a foal.
A touch on my shoulder jerked me back, and I started violently. I looked to see Honey and Grass there, tears running out of their eyes as they nuzzled me. “H-how long were you there?”
“W-we got here just before you did,” Grass replied softly as she laid down on my right; Honey took the left. “What happened?”
I shook my head as I closed my eyes, trying to forget. “I can’t. I’m just barely keeping it together, Grass. I don’t want to remember it. Please don’t ask,” I replied huskily. I think I’d been crying, but I wasn’t sure.
“Okay, but let’s get you into bed. And don’t say anything. You shouldn’t be alone. I remember how Freewind was before she got over her fear of the silence.” It had gotten very quiet after I left home, and it bothered her a lot. I just didn’t know how much, but I probably had a good idea.
“Okay. Just … just don’t pester me. I’ve got to deal with it before I can tell anypony. Even Celestia.”
Grass nodded as she and Honey laid there with me, occasionally nuzzling me or making soothing noises when I whimpered. I don’t know how long it went on, other than it took quite a while. When I stopped shaking, I uncurled and relaxed with a sigh. “Better?” Honey asked. I nodded. “Okay, come on. You need to relax, and your feathers didn’t get preened earlier. Get up on the bed.”
I got to my hooves, and she nudged me. I couldn’t help saying, “You seem awfully eager.” Grass giggled as Honey rolled her eyes, but she started giggling, too. I got on the bed and relaxed, sinking into the mattress. I have got to get me one of these, I thought. When they moved to each side, I asked, “Sprawl out face down, or face up? What’s easier?”
“Face down,” Grass said. “Try not to melt into a puddle.”
“You’ve gotta be kidding – Oohhh,” I said as they started. I was in heaven, and was making different noises that shouldn’t be heard outside the bedroom, from what I’ve been told. I didn’t care. “Oh, don’t stop.”
“Oohh, I think he likes that,” Honey purred as she moved from my remaining primaries, then their coverts before moving onto my secondaries.
“Does that feel good, foal?” Grass said teasingly as she spit out some down. She gently tugged on a couple secondaries, and I about stopped thinking.
“Oh, wow. I wonder if this is how Celestia feels when she gets this.” I shouldn’t have said that. I should have known the universe wasn’t done with me.
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Twilight walked down the corridor, her expression thoughtful. She hoped Verdigris was over the news about the Pegasus, or at least as much as he could be. Nopony she knew had died, and she’d never seen it happen, so it was nothing more than an intellectual exercise for her. For Verdigris it was the bald, uncompromising truth, and his expression told her how much it meant to him. Probably as much as my studies mean to me, or my relationship with the Princess, she thought.
She turned the corner and saw Tango and Blaze standing a few feet too far from his door, both looking a little uncomfortable. What’s going on? She reached the door and was about to ask what was happening when she heard Verdigris: “Oohhh. Oh, don’t stop.” Her face heated-up almost instantly, and it didn’t help when Honey added, "Oohh, I think he likes that.”
Grass’ voice purred, “Does that feel good, foal?” Twilight’s mind conjured up images she didn’t know she knew, and the last straw was Verdigris saying, “Oh, wow. I wonder if this is how Celestia feels when she gets this.” She jerked back, her eyes wide, then turned tail and fled with a soft “Eep!”
The Guards watched her with bemusement. “I don’t think she knows about preening,” Tango said after clicking his tongue.
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Celestia’s Point of View
After a little time to myself, I returned to my rooms. I had the rest of the day more or less to myself, and I was trying to decide what to do – you’d think after all my years I’d have back-up plans – when Twilight burst through my door, looking mortified, and blushing almost fuchsia. It wasn’t a good look for her. “Twilight? What’s wrong?” She tried to speak several times, but it wouldn’t come out. “All right, stop there and take several deep breaths. Calm down, and try again.” Endless patience is a boon, sometimes.
She sat down, closed her eyes and breathed, but whatever was bothering her seemed to keep her from concentrating. “All right, just answer with a nod or head-shake. Is it somepony here?” A nod. “All right, now it gets harder.” Sigh. This won’t be easy. “One of the nobles?” A head-shake. “A Guard?” Another head-shake. “A servant?” Another head-shake. “A guest.” A nod. I had to think, but I noticed something. I could feel – “Verdigris?” She nodded, and blushed even more.
I closed my eyes and “looked in” on him, and I couldn’t help smiling as I “heard” what was going on. “All right, I see what it is,” I said as I opened my eyes. “Come on. This has to be dealt with.”
“B-but – I can’t!” Dear me, was she horrified? “It’s – ”
Sigh. Time for the Royal Canterlot Voice. "Twilight." She stopped and stared at me. “I think you jumped to an erroneous conclusion. Come with me.” I replaced my regalia and walked to the door; she reluctantly followed. We continued on, and Twilight seemed almost resigned to witnessing something horrible.
We arrived at the door, and Tango almost managed to hide his smirk. I gave him a warning glance, and he was suddenly stone-faced. I opened the door, and nodded for Twilight to precede me. After the door closed, I walked to and opened the bedroom door, and couldn’t help chuckling softly. Grass and Honey had their heads buried in what was left of Verdigris’ plumage, and his expression was one of absolute bliss. Ah, is that what I look like? Twilight approached slowly, then blinked when she saw the trio, and blushed even worse as she face-hoofed.
“I told you not to take anything at face-value,” I chided gently. Grass and Honey emerged from Verdigris’ wings, looking at us curiously, then smiling almost evilly when they saw my student’s face. “I take it you’re having fun?” I asked as I walked closer.
“Uh, yeah, you could say that,” my god-son replied almost groggily. As Twilight walked beside me – her embarrassment replaced by curiosity – he grinned and asked, “What did you think we were doing, Twi?” He waggled his eyebrows suggestively, causing her to blush again.
“Well, how was I supposed to know?” she demanded almost angrily. “I’m not a Pegasus.”
“Verdigris,” I said sternly, but gently. “No trolling my student. That’s my privilege.”
Twilight rolled her eyes, but soon was watching Honey and Grass work, her fore-hooves on the mattress as she looked. “How does that feel?”
“I can’t describe it, other than wonderful,” Verdigris replied before he was hit by another wave. “Oohhh, excuse me,” he said as he laid his head down again. Twilight giggled a little.
Grass peeked out from under his primaries, grinning. “What were you thinking?” Twilight rolled her eyes again.
“Okay, I jumped to the wrong conclusion. I’m sorry.”
I suppressed another chuckle as I watched. Grass and Honey knew what they were doing, and I wondered who taught them. I also noticed the room was getting a little … whiff, and Twilight was unconsciously shuffling her back hooves in a specific way. Time to go, before this goes any further, I thought. “Before you get too involved, there is certain behavior I don’t condone between under-aged ponies,” I said as I telekinetically opened the window. “Feathers only. Understood?”
“Don’t worry, we don’t let our impulses rule over us. Unfortunately,” Grass replied from under Verdigris’ secondary coverts.
I couldn’t help chuckling. “All right. We’ll leave you in peace. Twilight, let’s go.” My student somewhat reluctantly followed, and soon we were back in the hall. I breathed in the fresh air, and told Tango, “Next time, either speak up or put up a sign. Honestly, Surestrike would have your heads if he heard.”
“Aye, Highness,” Blaze replied, giving Tango a side-long glance.
“Good. I have a situation to defuse.” I led Twilight away, after checking to see that she was all right.
After a few minutes – I took the “scenic route” – she asked, “Why do I feel so warm?”
“Pheromones,” I replied, knowing she’d look it up if she didn’t already know. “I think that should be enough of a clue.”
“Oh.” Twilight walked along, her eyes far away. “So, preening could be considered, um, fore-play.” I nodded, and she shivered. “Wow. I, um...” she trailed off, unable to finish, probably unable to put what she was feeling into words.
“The book What Every Mare Should Know, Twilight.” She blushed, but said nothing. We walked back to her rooms, and I left her there with the advice, “Keep your doors closed, just in case.” Once she stopped blushing, she smiled and closed her door.
As I returned to my rooms, I shook my head and smiled. A god-mother and teacher’s work is never done.
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Verdigris’ Point of View
Wow. Just wow. I did not want to move. I felt way too good. Not just the preening, I had the two mares I loved wrapped in my wings, contentedly snuggled against me. I didn’t have any particular place to be, but what I told Celestia earlier nagged at me. I did need to get stronger, or at least back to where I was. Never mind it was years away, Nightmare would be back, and what was going to keep her from harassing me in the meantime? I got lucky in that dream. I had to wonder how and why I beat her. I didn’t understand how that could be. I sighed, but before I could start on myself for being stupid, Honey murmured, “Stop it. Just rest.”
“You can’t read minds,” I told her.
“Don’t need to. I know you,” she said as she kissed my neck. “Rest. Better yet, sleep.”
I couldn’t sleep, but I didn’t tell her that. I laid there, looking at the open balcony doors. I couldn’t stop thinking about everything that had happened up to today, and what might happen in the future. All the nonsense in Oceanside, the problems with the Rus – somehow I didn’t think that was over – Honey staying in Canterlot, Grass and I going home and having to keep our relationship under wraps, the storm and whatever else I was going to be dealing with when I went home. At least Bluestreak’s not there, I thought. One good thing.
What kept coming back to bother me was the dream. She should have mopped the floor with me, and I knew it. I shouldn’t have beaten Nightmare, but I had, and it wasn’t just Celestia’s help. There was something about it that I couldn’t put a hoof on, and I knew it was important.
A knock on the door snapped me awake. I didn’t know I’d dropped off. I carefully rose, letting Honey and Grass sleep, and walked out to find Celestia standing at the balcony, looking out. I stopped at her side, and got lost in the view. I think every vantage point in Canterlot had as good a view of the city, if not better. I’m sure the Princess’ suites had the best.
After a few minutes, she said, “You’re worried.” I nodded. “You’re wondering how you beat her, and if it was a fluke.”
“Yeah, and I think it was. She wasn’t expecting it. She’ll be ready for the next time,” I replied.
She nuzzled me, then said, “No, I don’t think so, but you’re right, you can’t count on it happening again. The Realm of Dreams may be hers, but it’s absolutely neutral. Temporal power isn’t what makes you strong or weak there, it’s strength of will, and with everything you’ve been through up to now, yours is as strong as anypony’s I ever knew. Luna’s might be stronger, but she never had to use it the way you and I do. Night and Day, Verdigris. Her temperament is that of an artist; she follows imagination, inspiration and emotion. You and I are crafts-ponies, and our way is through discipline, logic and a firm grounding in reality. Each has its advantages and disadvantages.” She looked at me. “However, you seem to fall into the middle ground. You’ve come up with solutions I’d have never imagined, and you’ve managed to surprise me more than once. And no, I’m not talking about that nice prank involving my shower.” She smiled, and I blushed. “No, I’m not mad. I don’t remember anypony ever trying that, and it was wonderfully done.” Her smile hardened. “Just don’t do it again.”
“I could only get away with it once,” I replied sheepishly. I stood there, looking out and thinking. “Willpower’s what does it?”
“Yes. There are other factors – imagination is the other big one – but bending that Realm to your will is key to winning.” She paused, her brow wrinkled in thought. “I think she knows that, and won’t try again.” She looked at me. “Did she attack you?”
“Smacked me in the chest, then sank her teeth into my throat.”
“Let me see.” I gave her a questioning look, then raised my head, and she looked, her expression shifting to worry. “Oh, buck it. She marked you as her own, if not for death,” she said. I looked at her in surprise, and she nodded at the mirror. “Go look.”
I walked over and looked at my reflection; floor-length mirrors are great, sometimes. I raised and turned my head until I could see, and at my throat was a darker patch that resembled a bite mark. I also noticed the hoof-shaped mark on my chest. “Am I going to have problems?” I asked, wondering why my eyes wouldn’t focus when I moved to get a closer look.
“Not that I’m aware of. I don’t think anypony but you and I can see them, and they tend to blend into your markings. If anypony knew, they’d probably avoid you so she didn’t get them, too.” She shook her head and snorted. “As though she really cares. Love is a two-way street, and I don’t think Nightmare understood that. Luna knew it all too well, and, well, not getting any back poisoned hers, turning it into hate.” She hung her head briefly, and there were tears when she raised it. “Unrequited love can be devastating.”
“What you told me about that last fight about said it all, Celestia.” I returned to her side and wiped her tears away. “Uncle Mike and I told you there was no way you cold have known it was coming. You were still getting organized and barely saw each other, and it was only at certain times, and you usually discussed business. You didn’t just talk, like sisters do. It’s not an excuse, but you’re not to blame. Neither was she. You put your work first. Bad idea, but you had to. You had too much riding on getting order restored, right?”
She nodded, and smiled. “Thank you. Maybe I should appoint you as Royal Counselor; it sounds better than Court Psychologist.”
“Go wash out your mouth. You can’t see it because you’re right in the middle of it; I can because I’m the outsider, and I’ll tell you because you need to know. I know I’ll hurt your feelings, but it’s like my wings. Blackhoof had to put me through that so I’d get better.”
“I was wondering if you’d heard that.”
As she spoke, I lost focus on her, and we were about a foot apart. “Oh, crap.”
“What is it?” she asked, her expression concerned.
“My eyes are doing funny things. I can’t see you clearly, and I couldn’t see in the mirror, either,” I said, backing away until she was in focus, about a yard away. “Gotta see the doctor.”
Celestia sighed. “We were wondering if you’d have some after-effects. Let’s go see Doctor Horse.”
We left quietly. I didn’t want to hoof Honey and Grass a nasty surprise, but I could truthfully say the universe had done it.
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Horse leaned back after looking into my eyes with the ophthalmoscope. “Well, there’s no obvious damage, but I thought I saw something odd about your lenses. Wait a moment.” He brought the lights up – electricity was spreading throughout Equestria – and walked to a cabinet. “Your Highness, could I ask you to do something?” he asked as he took out a camera.
“I’m not leaving,” she said firmly.
“No, I’d like you to cast a viewing spell. I need to see his eyes in cross-section, to check this.” She nodded, and I had the weirdest feeling as her horn glowed. He sat down and had me move a few inches to one side, then took a picture, then I moved the other way, followed by another picture. “I’ll be back after I have these developed.” Horse left quickly, as though he was actually eager, instead of the jaded cynic I’d seen earlier. Of course, I didn’t have much room to talk. Being isolated does that to you as well. I wonder what happened.
Celestia moved to one side as she held the spell, looking at my head with fascination. “Wow. I’ve never seen this. Interesting.” She squinted. “I can’t tell what’s wrong. Of course I’ve never seen this on a normal pony.”
“Try it on a normal pony, first.” She gave me a sour look. “Well, it’s true. Call me unique or one-of-a-kind, but the truth is I’m a freak.” She dropped the spell and smacked me in the head. “I’m not gonna stop feeling like one, or saying it.”
“You don’t have to do it at all. Everypony’s different, and what’s freakish changes as time passes or who you ask. Some time I’ll have to tell you about what ponies thought about each other before Hearth’s Warming.”
“I’ve read the story, and seen the play.”
“It doesn’t even come close. I think Michael would call it ‘The Hollywood Version’, whatever that means. We still have some of that going on now: Pegasai versus Unicorns versus Earth ponies.” She shook her head with mild disgust. “Trust me, it’s not that good. Ponies used to kill each other over those differences, and I’m sure if Luna and I hadn’t stopped Discord, they’d have wiped themselves and each other out. Just like the humans did.”
“What happened to them?” I asked. I still couldn’t really believe the myths were true, but then I thought about uncle Mike, and I wasn’t so sure.
“Humans were a very energetic species, but they were also hot-headed and prone to violence. Life wasn’t easy, back then. Discord pushed them further into their natural tendencies, and the worst part was they were just learning to put their differences aside and live in peace.” She stared at nothing for a while. “All that potential, and they never realized it.”
“I don’t care what anypony says, he’s not chaos, Celestia. From what I gathered, he’s too malicious for that.”
She nodded. “You’re probably right. He took delight in causing trouble for others.” She looked as Horse returned. “Doctor?”
“Well, good and bad news, as you were probably expecting.” He held up two sets of pictures, each marked “Normal” and “Verdigris”. As though we couldn’t tell the difference. “The lightning did affect your eyes, but not catastrophically. The lenses and corneas have thickened slightly as a defense, but at the cost of your close vision. The good news is, that’s as far as it seems to go, and it’s stabilizing. You’ll need glasses, but probably only to read with. Your Highness?” She re-cast the spell. “Mmm, hmm. The lenses are re-gaining their flexibility, according to Doctor Ojos in Manehattan, so that should be it.”
I closed my eyes and sighed in relief. That’s not so bad. At least I’m not going blind. That would be the worst, I thought. “What else?”
“Well, I ought to check your ears, but I don’t think you’ll go deaf. From what I’ve been told, thunder is the air expanding violently as it’s heated. Since you were right there, you wouldn’t have noticed any sound at all, but the pressure change couldn’t have helped.” He told me to move, and he looked carefully. “Well, no damage I can see. Just do what you did: Report any sudden changes. That’s the key to preventing more problems. Do something right away, instead of waiting.” He sighed. “If only more ponies would do that.”
“Oh, so there’s a pony with real concern in there after all,” I said.
“If you tell anyone, I’ll deny every word.”
“Ah, there’s the real Horse.” Celestia gave me a warning glance. “Okay, sorry. Am I okay to start exercising more? I want to get back into shape.”
“You should be, but don’t push too hard. You’re still recovering from a direct lightning strike. Some symptoms don’t show up for years.” He glanced at my wings, then said, “Just remember to keep to a high-protein diet until your feathers finish growing in.” He paused, tilted his head to one side, then said, “Oceanside, right?” I nodded. “So, fish isn’t a problem for you.”
“Nope. It is for others, but that’s not my problem, either.”
He smiled. “There’s still hope for you, Verdigris. I’ll make a cynic out of you yet.”
“Get the buck in line,” I said.
He started, then looked at Celestia. “Is there a problem?” she asked.
“Not what I expected,” he said. “Well, as I said, if there’s anything else, tell me immediately. I’ve had ponies die suddenly after a full recovery, and no sign of why, so take it easy. Well, okay, easier.” He reached into a drawer and removed a set of glasses that didn’t scream “NERD!” and hoofed them and their case over. “These are at an average setting. You can adjust them to suit, and again when your sight changes. And I saw that look. I only give those glasses to ponies who irritate me. You’ve got a way to go, yet.”
“Everypony’s gotta have a goal,” I said, and he actually chuckled a little. “We good?” He nodded. “Okay. Thanks, doc.” I put the glasses away, and Celestia and I left.
“What next?” she asked. I stopped and looked at nothing for a few minutes. “I’m going to talk to Surestrike after lunch about training, ground and flight. I’ve got to get back on my hooves completely. I can’t say why, but I have to.” She nodded understandingly. “Then I’ll see you tonight, at dinner. I don’t think I want to be by myself, but Honey and Grass need their own time.” I grinned nastily. “And Blueblood needs to be annoyed or horrified.” I looked at her. “It’s like he’s Equis' punching bag, or something.”
“I can’t say one way or another, but he seems to ask for it,” she replied before nuzzling me. “Go get used to those, and talk to Surestrike. I’ll find something to keep me occupied.” She grinned and walked away, regal as always.
I took out and looked at the glasses, then sighed. “I wonder how they’re gonna react.”
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Honey Bunch stirred, and noticed her left side was cooler than she remembered it. She opened her eyes and found Sea Grass about a foot away from her. The slate-blue mare was sprawled on her back, her wings folded over her like a blanket. She looked adorable. Honey smiled at the sight, then looked around the room. Where did he go? There was a whisper of a page turning, and she rolled her eyes. “I told him to get some rest,” she grumbled as she got up. Reluctantly, as the cloud mattress was just so comfortable. I have to get one of these, she thought. After shaking her mane into place – a bad habit she’d picked up from Verdigris – she walked out to see what he was doing.
He was sitting on a lounge, facing the balcony doors, through which early evening sunlight streamed. She moved as silently as possible, hoping to catch him off-guard. It wasn’t easy, but she sometimes managed. He either didn’t hear her, or was playing along; after she kissed him between the ears, he looked up and smiled. The steely glint on his face made her jerk back in extreme surprise. “What the buck!” she hissed.
“Sorry about that, Honey. I noticed my eyes weren’t working right earlier, and it’s from the strike,” he said as he set the book aside.
“B-but – ” she stammered before calming herself. We didn’t think he got away completely, but damn, she thought. “How bad?”
“I only need them for reading or close work,” he said almost tonelessly. “I just hope that’s all. I don’t need to have anything else happen. Guess what’ll happen when somepony back home sees these.” He looked out the doors without expression. “Hey, four-eyes.”
Honey removed his glasses and smacked his face with her wing. “Stop it. We’ve already been over that. You’ve got the easy part. Grass is going to get a lot of grief for coming back on her own. Imagine what dad’s going to say when she tells him I’m not coming back.” She shivered. “I don’t want that, and I hope you don’t either.” She slipped onto the lounge, shoving him against the back, and snuggling close. He wrapped his wings around her as she set the glasses on the side table.
“I don’t, but we can’t keep her here, Honey. School’s going to start soon, and she’s got to graduate with the class or they’ll hold her back a year. Stupid rule. She’s been right there with us in the top ten for years, but no, that doesn’t count.” He sighed. “And just imagine what they’ll say about you and me while I’m still here, getting better.” A thought struck, and he face-hoofed. “Fire Coral’s going to give Grass all kinds of grief about ‘ruining’ herself with me, and you know she won’t listen.”
Honey Bunch sighed. “What’s wrong with Coral, anyway? She makes my step-mom seem normal. Well, sort of.”
“Old, old family. I don’t see how. We Hawks have been in Oceanside just as long.”
“Oh, yeah, I forgot about that,” she replied. “It’s not going to be good. Grass is going to be facing all that alone while you’re stuck here.”
“I’m going to get better and back home as soon as I can. I’ll be damned if I let her go through that on her own.” He nuzzled her, then said, “I’m going to miss you.”
“And I’ll miss you. However, I don’t want you depriving yourselves.”
“Nothing’s changed, Honey. It’s still Oceanside, and Grass and I can’t be together any more than you and I could. I’m going to have enough problems dealing with your dad as it is. I don’t know if I could deal with Sea Grape and Fire Coral on top of that.”
Honey sighed and nodded. “All right. I guess I can deal with everything, and I’m going to be busy learning. I might not have time to think about it.” She glanced at the book. “What were you reading?”
“What happens to lightning strike survivors.” He shuddered. “There was another book, but you don’t want to know. It … was pretty bad. I wanted to know what I might have to live with, if there’s more.”
“What could happen?”
“I took that bolt in the horn, and I’m lucky to be alive. Neurological damage, among other things. I could have trouble walking, or my body’s ability to regulate temperature could go sideways, or my muscles could atrophy. I could go on, but I don’t want to get hit again.” He fell silent, and hugged her. “Hell, I could have completely lost my memory of us, or worse, everything.”
“You’re right. Shut up before I smack you again. We’ll deal with everything as it comes. I’m not going to worry about anything, other than I love you and Grass.” He looked at her in surprise. “What? I love you both. She loves you and me, and we know you love us. Why does that surprise you?”
“I wasn’t expecting to hear it. I mean, yeah, it’s a given, considering how few stallions there are, but nopony talks about it. It’s gonna raise some eyebrows.”
“Let it. We’re not going to live for them.” Honey paused in thought. “When she leaves for college, what are you going to do? I know you’ve got the business, and Patrol, but that shouldn’t keep you in Oceanside forever.”
“I’ve been thinking about it. Fancypants suggested I move to Canterlot, but I don’t know. It’s a big city, and I don’t know if I could get used to it. Maybe someplace fairly close, and not too big.” He shook his head. “I’ve got time. As long as I know you’re all right, I’ll be okay. I’ll just keep on keeping on. There’s no hurry.”
“No hurry for what?” They looked as Sea Grass walked into the living area, her mane tousled from sleep. “What did I miss?”
“We were talking about the future, of course,” Honey said. “How are you going to handle being home and trying to field questions?”
“I won’t even try. I’m sure your dad won’t listen to me, and my parents are going to be sure Verdigris and I have been fooling around. Mom kept asking me, every time I came back from being with you two.”
“What’s with that?” Honey asked seriously. “Why does she do that?”
“I have to be with the right pony, one with the right background. Something like royalty here, but with ties to Oceanside. I know you do, Verdigris, but she’s superstitious. The old ‘Keep with your own kind’ line. She doesn’t like the fact you look like an Earth pony somepony stuck wings and a horn onto. She misses the point that you’re an Alicorn. But I’m not telling you anything you don’t know.”
“Huh. That simple. I always thought it was something else,” the young stallion said. “Well, there’ll be another reason.” He reached over, picked up his glasses and set them on his face. “The strike affected my vision. Not real bad, but...” he trailed off.
Grass leaned closed and took a good look at him. “Y’know, I like that. Something like the Supermane stories, right, Honey?”
Honey looked at him. “Yeah, I can see it. You’re right.” She snuggled back, and smiled. “We’ve got our own super-hero.”
Verdigris shook his head. “Oh, great. Thanks, girls. No pressure at all.”
“You already do some stuff nopony else can, and you survived a lightning strike,” Grass replied. “You did more than anypony expected with the Comet, and in general. Sure it’s part of being an Alicorn, but they don’t know that. Maybe they need a wake-up.”
“Maybe,” he agreed. “Anyway, I was – ” A streak of fire flew into the room, stopped over the table and – Pop! – changed into a letter. “That’s got to be mom. Twilight or Celestia would just come up to talk.” He opened the letter and began reading.
Dear son,
I don’t want to sound frantic, but you didn’t reply to the last letter. I’ll go with you’re still recovering, and you didn’t get it until I know better.
Everypony’s wondering how you are. Before you start wondering, it’s not because they’re overly concerned, at least the ponies who aren’t your friends. They’re a little worried. Breakwater wants to perform a ceremony honoring you, but your father and I already shot that one down.
Driftwood’s wondering about the processing; you seem to be the only one who knows how it works. Birchbark already has your official replacement Patrol regalia picked out; yours was blasted by the lightning, from what we could gather, and it may have saved your life. It looks as though you’re “going pro” sooner than you thought.
Blackhoof told us what he could, and I’m sorry about your wings. I can’t begin to understand what losing flight is like, but I can sympathize; all I have to do is imagine losing my magic. Freewind misses you very much, and interestingly, so does Sky. Firelance keeps asking when you’re coming back, and I don’t know what to tell him.
Full Sail and Sea Grape are wondering when Honey Bunch and Sea Grass are coming back, and there’s an undercurrent that they think you’re up to no good. There are rumors floating around about them being called to Canterlot, and whatever you’re doing, Celestia’s behind it, if not tacitly supporting you. I know better, but it’s hard to keep quiet. Then there’s school starting in a few weeks.
Your father and I miss you very much, Verdigris. Even though you moved out – we understand why – it didn’t matter, as you weren’t far away. Now, it’s like you just dropped of the face of Equis. I keep wondering if I ever had you, to tell the truth. I want you home, son. I miss you that much.
Sorry to dump that on you, but you need to know. You might not believe it, but some of the ponies here wonder how they ever got along before, and I know that’s something you wouldn’t have expected. We sure didn’t.
Please get better soon, and hurry back. I miss my colt.
All my love, Mom.
“Wow. I sure wouldn’t have believed that,” Verdigris said after reading it through twice. He got up after Honey scooted over to let Grass sit, and they read the letter as he walked to the kitchen to make a snack. It’s like a dream. Am I actually becoming popular? he wondered.
“That’s interesting,” Grass said after she finished reading. “I’d better get back soon. I’ve got to face my parents some time, and school won’t wait.”
“I think I can go to school while I’m here. Twilight is, if I remember correctly,” Honey thought aloud. “I’d like to go home, but dad’s falling back into his old habits. I can’t risk it.”
“And I can’t stay, either,” Verdigris said as he brought out a large tray and a few plates. “The perfumers are used to the quality product we have for them, and I’m sure there’s plenty mom didn’t put in that letter. Her mentioning Sky has me wondering what’s going on.” He sat in the lounge chair. “I miss my other friends, too.”
I’m glad you finally see it, Celestia’s voice said in his mind. May we come in?
Of course. There was a knock, and the door opened to reveal the Princess and Twilight, who gasped when she saw Verdigris wearing glasses. The pair walked in, and Verdigris got up to get more food. Twilight was quickly by his side, looking at him closely. “The strike,” he said.
“Wow. How bad?”
“I just need them for reading,” he replied as Celestia took one of the cushions. “We’ve decided, god-mother. Grass is going home so she won’t miss any school. I’m going as soon as I’m back in shape. Honey’s staying.”
“Y-you’re leaving?” Twilight stammered.
“Not right away,” Grass replied gently. “But before the week’s over. I’d love to stay, but I can’t.”
“Same here, except for school,” Verdigris told her.
“O-okay. I’m going to miss you,” the Unicorn replied shakily. “You’d better write.”
“Oh, count on it,” Honey said with a smile. “And I’ll still be here, Twi.”
“Tango and Blaze will probably be relieved to get back to work,” Grass said with a smile, which faltered. “Your Highness, about what you shouted – was it today? Anyway, how does Verdigris stand? Once the word gets back to Oceanside, ponies are going to be jockeying for position.”
“That’s entirely up to Verdigris,” Celestia replied. “If he wants to make a point of it, he’s the same rank as Blueblood, but he’s still a Coast pony. I don’t think it matters.” She looked at him. “You’d rather forget about it, I’m sure.”
“Oh, yeah, you bet. It might solve a few problems, but it’ll create a whole lot more. I’ll be damned if I let a bunch of suck-ups who wouldn’t give me the time of day before get close to me. They didn’t want me before. No thanks.”
Celestia nodded. “I thought as much. You don’t want to be treated differently, and it’s not altruistic. They made their bed, and they’ll have to lie in it. I can’t say I approve, but I understand, and won’t stop you.” Her expression didn’t change, but her eyes hardened. “I can’t blame you, son.”
“Th-that’s true?” Twilight said. “You weren’t just saying that to make him fight?”
“I thought we discussed this to your satisfaction, Twilight. You read the report. Verdigris has three parents; one came along a little later,” the Princess replied with a slightly mocking smile. Her expression sobered. “Gemstone gave him life, while I saved his life. She brought him into the world, while I kept him from leaving it. Neither of us could let him go. We love him, and that won’t change. I didn’t bear him, but I want him to succeed and thrive as much as if I had.”
Verdigris just looked at her solemnly while Twilight teared up and smiled happily. Grass and Honey sobbed quietly, but smiled. “I want the best for you, Verdigris, the same as Gemstone and Hawk, and like them, I’ll let you live your life and make your own choices. That’s the greatest gift I can give you: Free choice. It’s a treasure beyond price, and the heaviest burden there is, or can ever be.”
He walked over and nuzzled her, letting the tears that were coming fall. “Thank you,” he replied softly. “I hope I keep making you proud of me, even with the ‘oopsies’.”
Celestia nodded as she wrapped him with her wings. “You’ve done well, which is better than some can say.”
He cleared his throat and stood back a little. “Then I’m going to start tomorrow. I can call this an enforced vacation, but it can’t go on forever. I have responsibilities.”
“I know.” She stood, approached and nuzzled him again. “My little prince.”
(((())))
The next day, Verdigris was up at dawn with the rest of the Guards. After looking him over, Surestrike approved him for full training, including sparring. He surprised the colt by presenting him with new Patrol regalia, including wing-blades and combat shoes. Verdigris looked at the rank – Second Lieutenant – dubiously, and Surestrike told him it was to signify his performance above and beyond the call with the Comet. “And you’re now officially a Patrol pony, so that means we’ll get you into proper form. It’s a matter of pride; ours, theirs and yours.”
Verdigris pushed himself as hard as he could, determined to get as much out of the training as possible. He spent most of his time working with Blaze and Tango, who’d taken a real shine to the tough, no-nonsense Coast pony they’d served. They didn’t let up on him, either, knowing it was what he wanted.
Nor did Verdigris neglect his studies. After training and cleaning up, he’d spend hour after hour with Twilight studying, and practicing all things magical, at least what Celestia allowed them to practice. The combat magic he’d learned wasn’t something the Princess felt her student should learn, at least not until she felt a need for it. Their friendship deepened, but was a bit strained by the knowledge that he’d be leaving, and they wouldn’t see each other again, possibly forever. Verdigris denied that, reminding Twilight they’d still write.
At the end of the week, Grass left for Oceanside, and Honey began her apprenticeship under Rigel. The mares said tearful goodbyes, not only to each other but Verdigris, as Honey wouldn’t see him very much, if at all. Grass took a few letters with her to pass on to ponies Verdigris had dealings with.
On occasion he’d attend Royal dinners or breakfasts, mostly to have an ear on what was happening in Canterlot, and let the nobles know there was a pony among them who didn’t care what they thought, wasn’t interested in politics and couldn’t be bothered with the usual gossip. Attending one dinner in his regalia was considered crass by some, but Fancypants and Fleur looked at it as a strategic move on his part, letting everypony know whose camp he was in. Sometimes the trio would spend time practicing and learning languages.
Dr. Horse checked his progress weekly, and seemed satisfied that his patient was following instructions, albeit with his own adjustments. He was startled at first when Verdigris appeared with the Guards for training injuries, but agreed with the colt’s reasoning behind the regimen.
Most evenings found him and Celestia talking about Luna, and what happened to her a thousand years ago. Other topics were mostly how he’d have to guard and defend himself while asleep. Though she didn’t appear again, neither could believe the Nightmare wouldn’t strike in his dreams. On occasion, he’d stand on his balcony, looking up at the moon and stars, as he had in Oceanside. He’d never hidden the fact he felt more akin to Luna than Celestia. Not only for what isolated them, but their love for the night.
Three weeks into his training, Verdigris began carefully trying out his wings, once all his feathers had grown in. One thing everypony found interesting was they didn’t match the striped pattern he’d had originally, but their color matched his coat, shading to black along the edges with a burnished sheen to them. Twilight and Celestia agreed it was quite attractive, though for differing reasons.
His first few flight attempts weren’t disasters, but he was sporting bruises after a few miscalculations upon landing. It took a full day before he was comfortable, and later flew as often as possible, mostly to let the day’s tensions bleed away, as he used to do. It wasn’t long until he was a common sight in the sky above Canterlot castle, either hovering or flying for the sheer pleasure.
Once he felt competent, the Guard Pegasai began working with him on aerial combat and flight maneuvers. They were a little surprised to learn he could keep up with them from the start, but he explained he’d started flying at an early age. They had to get used to the fact that an Alicorn frequently out-paced his or her contemporaries.
Through it all, Celestia watched his progress, quietly pleased with how easy it seemed to be for him to get back into form. Her pride in him rose more as he also explored Canterlot. He was seeing the underside of life in a city, and though it bothered him, he didn’t let it get in the way of his recovery or other activities. He was becoming the pony she’d told him he’d be, and she was content.
(((())))
“We'll be singing, When we're winning. We'll be singing – I get knocked down, But I get up again; You're never gonna keep me down! I get knocked down, But I get up again; You're never going to keep me down!” – Chumbawamba, Tubthumping (Tubthumper)
(((())))
The day they’d been looking forward to and dreading came, finally. Verdigris had received his final examination and a clean bill of health. No other after-effects of the strike appeared, and Surestrike had been pleased to report to Celestia that Verdigris could, with a ninety day “short tour” training course, become a Guard if he wanted to. He’d told Verdigris, who had declined with genuine regret. He was a Patrol pony, as all Hawks were.
(((())))
Celestia knocked, and Verdigris’ voice said, “Come.” She walked in with Tango and Blaze to find him packing his books into a set of cargo saddlebags. They waited until he finished. “What is it?” he asked.
“A little ceremony we put together,” Celestia replied. “Recognition for your actions involving the Comet.”
“Oh, that. It’s no big deal. I’ve been gone about two months, and I doubt anypony even remembers.”
“Now, now, old son, that’s simply not true,” said a voice Verdigris had never expected to hear again. He turned to see Dumb Luck standing beside the Princess. “I’m told I owe you a great deal, and you’ve every reason to accept. It’s not every day a colt performs at the level you did that day.” The ship owner missed Verdigris’ expression of What did I do to deserve this? as he looked at Celestia.
Verdigris calmed himself. “You’re welcome, sir, but I was doing my duty. I still cost you a crew member.”
“Pish and tosh. You did everything in your power. You of all ponies know how thin an edge we sometimes walk, and when it’s our time, we can’t do anything about it.” Luck walked up and held out a hoof. “I’m in your debt.”
Verdigris took it, feeling oddly calm. “Consider it even, please. It was worth saving the old girl.”
Luck nodded graciously. “Agreed. Good luck to you, Verdigris. I’ve a good feeling about your future. Tah.” He walked out after bowing to Celestia.
“All right, who was that really? That’s not the same pony I met,” Verdigris said after the door closed.
“Actually, it is. He’s always been that way. Life just leaves him alone. Nopony knows why,” Celestia replied. “Come on. You’ve earned this, son. Accept gracefully. You need the practice.”
“Oh, I am wounded!” Verdigris clutched a hoof to his chest with over-wrought distress. “All right. I’m obviously not going to win this one.”
Celestia’s smile confirmed it. “Not even close.”
(((())))
The Guard was arrayed in the parade field, but only as many as Verdigris would stand for; about two dozen mixed Pegasai, Unicorns and Earth ponies stood in two rows that faced each other, forming a lane. Celestia stood at one end, while Verdigris stood at the other. Surestrike stood by the Princess, while Tango and Blaze flanked Verdigris. Several dozen curious onlookers had gathered, wondering what was going on. There had been awards ceremonies before, but not for a Patrol pony.
Surestrike cleared his throat, and the murmuring died down. He held up a scroll and read:
“For actions in accordance with the Coast Patrol’s highest goals, and also for bravery worthy of any Royal Guard, it is this day Her Highness’ pleasure to Commission Verdigris of Oceanside as an Officer in the Coast Patrol, and to award him the Gold Wings of Valor. His performance saved the lives of the crew of the Steam Ship Comet, as well as the vessel herself, despite the danger to himself. Also, for injuries received in the performance of said actions, the Patrol awards Verdigris the Lighting Strike badge.” He furled the scroll and said, “Verdigris. Front and center.”
There was a stir among the gathering as a few noticed the Alicorn and his coloring while Verdigris walked forward to stop before Celestia. With her usual serenity, the Princess levitated the medal and hung it around his neck, followed by attaching the badge – a dark blue shield with a silver lightning bolt superimposed – to his pectoral.
When the Princess stepped back, Verdigris bowed deeply, then stood tall and saluted. Celestia nodded, and he withdrew, picking up his escorts as he returned to the barracks. Surestrike called out, “This ends these proceedings!” With that, Celestia returned to the palace, and the Guards formed up and marched away smartly, leaving the populace to talk. Nopony was worried about what might be said. The information would be wildly distorted into nonsense and uselessness by the end of the day.
(((())))
“Whew, that’s over.” Verdigris finished packing his regalia, then looked down from the balcony for the last time, not wanting to leave, yet looking forward to it. He felt he’d passed a stage, somehow, and wondered what the future would bring. “Guess I’ll find out.” He turned when the door opened, and Celestia, Surestrike and Honey Bunch entered. He stopped and stared. The hoof-maiden garb she wore wasn’t the usual light blue, but a vibrant dark green that set off her coat beautifully. He noticed it also covered her flanks; she hadn’t gained her cutie mark yet.
“Uh, wow. You look beautiful,” he finally managed to say.
Honey smiled demurely and glided to him, wrapping him with her wings. She glanced at Celestia, who nodded, and kissed him with restrained passion. “Thank you. You’re very handsome yourself, in or out uniform.”
“I tell them these things, and do they believe me? Oh, nooo!” Celestia said with an exaggerated tone of long-suffering. “And me a Princess. I don’t know why I bother,” she half-wailed.
“Well, yeah, but it’s you, mom. It’s kinda what everypony expects.” There was about a seconds’ silence before they all broke up laughing.
Celestia joined them and nuzzled him. “There, that wasn’t so bad, was it?”
“Well, no, but they know who I am, now.”
“No, not really, lad,” Surestrike countered. “All they saw was a Unicorn in armor, but not your cutie mark. They’ve heard the name, but I doubt they’ll think it’s the same pony. I’ve heard reports, and the rumors are already so far out there you’d have to fly a full day before catching a glimpse of the truth. And that’s if you know what you’re looking for.”
“I know you’d have preferred a smaller, more private ceremony, but it had to be done right,” Celestia told him. “You earned the recognition, even if it doesn’t change anything. I’m proud of you, and you should be, too. There aren’t many ponies who do this much by their tenth birthday.”
“That’s okay, but I just want to live quietly. I know, I’m an Alicorn and I’m going to draw attention. That’s one reason why I want to go home. They’re used to me and will ignore me and just leave me alone.”
Celestia looked at him sadly. “You can’t stay isolated forever. Don’t you want to be known for your accomplishments?”
“On my own terms. I’m no show-pony.”
“I guess that’s as good as I’ll get.” The Princess hugged him. “I’m glad we could spend the time together, even if it didn’t start well. We’ve learned a lot about ourselves, and each other, and that’s a good thing.” She touched her horn to his. Never forget I love you, Verdigris. My son or not, you’re a special pony, and I’m so glad I was able to save you. My life would have been that much emptier.
I won’t, Celestia. You’ve done so much for me, and I don’t know how I can repay that, if you’ll even let me. You can always count on me. That’s a promise.
“Oh, good, I’m in time!” Twilight gasped as she skidded to a halt. “I wanted to say goodbye, and thank you, Verdi. I’ve learned a lot, and about a lot more than magic. I know why the Princess talks about friends being the most important thing you can have. I’ll miss you,” she said as she threw her hooves around his neck.
“It’s okay, Twi. I’ll miss you, and I'll never regret meeting you. My life’s better. Can’t ask for more,” he replied as he nuzzled her. “And get out of the books every now and then. What good’s studying about the world if you don’t go out and see it?”
Twilight smiled and nodded. “I’ll try. Goodbye,” she said as she let him go.
Verdigris hefted the saddlebags into place. “I’ll let you know when I get home. I think I’ve got some work to do.” He met everypony’s gaze. “See you when I see you. Sometime again.” He walked out onto the balcony, spread his wings and leapt away, leaving them to their own devices.
“I think we all need some tea,” Twilight said. “Let’s see what he has.” She headed for the kitchen as Celestia watched Honey, who was staring out the balcony doors.
“A copper for your thoughts,” the Princess said softly.
“I don’t think you need to ask,” the mare replied. “It’s hard, but letting him go was something I had to do, wasn’t it?”
Celestia nodded as she tapped Honey’s pendant with a hoof. “He’s yours. Never forget that. It’s how the truism goes: ‘If you love something, let it go. If it comes back to you, it’s yours forever. If it doesn’t, then it was never meant to be.’ You have nothing to worry about, Honey. He’ll come back to you no matter what it costs him.”
Honey gave Celestia a hug. “Thank you, Princess. It means a lot.”
Twilight returned with a tray. “I found some tea, but I don’t think it’s Verdigris’. Who do we know that drinks,” she squinted at the label on the box. “Earl Grey?” Celestia face-hoofed. “What?”
(((())))
Verdigris’ Point of View
I didn’t leave for Oceanside right away. I had a few things to do before going home. Thinking, for one. I was ending one chapter in my life and starting another, and anypony knows that can be a little scary.
I didn’t want to spend any more time in Canterlot, though. It’s a wonderful place, but I felt it was just too “cushy” for me. Once a Coastie, always a Coastie. I also wanted to see if there was a place near Canterlot where I could live; I’d seen Ponyville on a map, and it looked promising. About an hour’s flight away, fairly small – maybe two to three times Oceanside’s size – and a good mix of pony types. Cloudsdale wasn’t far from there, and I could run my business in Canterlot from there through Fancypants. I owed him, as he’d helped me make contacts, as well as vouched for me at the Bank of Equestria branch. And I wasn’t sure I wanted to ride the train the whole way back. It’s a slow trip.
Cloudsdale was a typical Pegasus city, but since I hadn’t seen one before, I did a little sight-seeing – okay, call it gawking – while I searched for the furniture store that had advertised it would deliver long distances. I wasn’t having much luck, and I stopped to look around and get my bearings when I noticed a quartet of Pegasai mares about my age or a little older walking down the lane towards me. “Excuse me, girls, could you help me? I’m trying to find Barnyard’s Furniture, and I’m new here.”
The apparent leader, who had a cyan coat and rainbow mane and tail, led them over, and looked at the map I was using. “Oh, hey, no wonder; you’ve got east at the top.” She turned the map after making the correction. “There. It’s just down the lane, at that corner,” she pointed a hoof, and I could see the sign. After that, she looked me up-and-down. “What the hay are you?” I was wearing a cloak, both to hide my wings and it was chilly up here, compared to Canterlot. She stuck out a hoof. “My name’s Rainbow Dash. These are my friends Fluttershy – ” she nodded to a butter-yellow, pink-maned mare who was almost too cute to stand, “Cloud Kicker – ” a pale purple, blonde-maned mare who looked at me almost as though I was a plate of fish, “And Ditzy Doo, though she prefers Derpy.” The last was a grey mare with a blonde mane and eyes that didn’t point the same direction.
“Well, thanks a lot, Rainbow Dash. My name’s Verdigris.” Their eyes widened, and I face-hoofed. “I guess you heard.”
“It - it was kind of obvious,” Fluttershy answered, almost too softly to hear.
“Yeah, I guess so,” I said, blushing slightly. “To answer your question, Dash – you mind if I call you that?” She shook her head. “I’m an Alicorn. I don’t like to advertise it.”
She nodded sympathetically as Cloud Kicker said, “I can see that.” She tilted her head to one side, and I saw the recognition in her eyes as I put two-and-two together to get six: More than I was expecting. “You’re a Hawk,” she added, making Derpy and Dash look at me in surprise.
I nodded, and raised my left foreleg; she tapped hers to it, completing the last part of the ritual. “We good, Kicker?”
“We’re good, Hawk.” She looked at the others, and said, “Hawks are Patrol instead of Guard, and there’s more history to it. Too much to go into now, but it’s about like mine and Derpy’s.” I looked at them and nodded. “So, who do you serve?” Cloud asked half-formally.
“I serve no pony. I serve Equestria,” I replied. “You’re all here for Flight School?”
Dash nodded enthusiastically, then seemed to puff up. “Yep. You’re looking at the awesomest flier in all Equestria.” I couldn’t help smiling.
“That so? You’ll have to do seriously well to live up to Hurricane,” I said. “Good luck.” She deflated slightly, but not for long. Cloud hid a chuckle behind a hoof. “Well, nice to meet you. I’ve got to take care of something, and then I’ve got to get home.”
Derpy, who’d stayed quiet, nodded at my pendant. “A special somepony to get back to?”
“Something like that. Thanks again.” They nodded, then turned and trotted away. I watched them go, thinking I wasn’t done with them, especially Dash and Fluttershy. They felt a little like Twilight. Celestia’s Element-bearers. Even without that, I like them. I shook my head, and went on to Barnyard’s.
The store had exactly what I was looking for, but on a feeling I went with a bed the size I had in Canterlot. I admit it, I was spoiled. The price made me suspicious, though. “Why eight hundred bits? It should be twelve.”
The sales-mare said, “Test it.” I touched a hoof to it, and felt slightly more resistance, almost like it was pushing back. “There’s nothing wrong with it, but cloud mattresses are supposed to be softly supportive, not reactive.”
I thought about it. I preferred a firmer mattress, and somehow the regular ones seemed too soft. This was closer to what I was used to back home. “I don’t have a problem with it,” I told her. “I’ll take it.” She looked at me as though I was crazy – well, I am, just a little – and I added, “It’s just fine. It’s still better than a ground-made mattress, however you look at it.”
She nodded dubiously, and we went to make the exchange. Her eyes widened when I signed my name, and then she nodded. “They say you’re different. I guess this is part of it.”
“Yeah, well, please keep that to yourself. I prefer to keep quiet about certain things. I know I can’t stop you from pointing out that I bought a mattress here, but don’t go overboard.” We finished – cheques are so much better than carrying around a ton of bits – and I asked, “You’ll have it at the Ponyville train station on time?”
“We pride ourselves on on-time deliveries,” she replied seriously. “It’ll be there before the five o’clock train.”
We shook hooves. “Good to know. If I need anything else, you’ll be first to hear.” She smiled, and I left.
The trip to Ponyville was uneventful, other than the saddlebags seemed to drag more than usual, but since they were so big, I wasn’t surprised. It just felt good to fly. When I arrived, I stopped at the edge of town and hid my wings again. I still didn’t want to draw any attention. As I walked into town, I felt right at home. It was perfect. Well, other than the Everfree Forest being fairly close, but I’d never heard about any of the creatures there bothering the town.
I walked through, looking at the buildings and houses, and the good feeling continued. This is the place, I thought. I could live here without a problem. Everypony seems to get along with everypony else. That thought stopped when I heard a voice say, “Tarnation, Ah told ya ain’t no better apples anywhere. The price is fair.” I looked to see an orange coated, blonde-maned – why all the blondes? I wondered – Earth pony mare – wearing a cowboy hat – glaring at a pure-white, royal-blue-maned Unicorn angrily. “Wouldn’ charge that ‘less it was worth it.”
The Unicorn sniffed dramatically. “I would need proof of that, darling,” she replied haughtily, almost equaling Blueblood.
I trotted over and looked at the apples, then at the sign. Ah, Sweet Apple Acres. They’re good at what they do. The mares fell silent and looked up at me. “How about I settle this?” I asked, letting my Coast accent come out. “How much?”
“Three bits for these,” the farm-pony said, pointing to some Red Delicious apples. “Four for these.” The latter were Goldens. “We’re out o’ Gala this week. They’re five, an’ go fast.” She spared the Unicorn another glare. “Should say somethin'.”
I took a Golden apple and hoofed over the bits, then looked at the Unicorn. “Will you accept my judgment?” I asked, putting on a faint Canterlot accent. Her mouth dropped open and she nodded. “Very well.” I took a bite, and I had to close my eyes to stop tears from running down my face. It was wonderful, far better than what was shipped to Oceanside. I took my time, enjoying every bite. I was in heaven, or close to it. Yep, Ponyville’s perfect.
When I finished, I looked the Unicorn and said very softly, “We don’t have them this good out in Oceanside. I think somepony steals the best ones, but even then, they’re great. These are far superior, miss. They’re well worth four bits.”
The Earth pony looked at me happily with a slight blush, while the Unicorn looked at me in consternation. I didn’t use an accent this time, and that meant she couldn’t tell where I was from, not after using three modes of speech. “I - I’ll accept your judgment. My name is Rarity, I operate the Carousel Boutique,” she said extending a hoof in close to the proper Court manner.
I couldn’t resist. If she ran a boutique and was a fashionista – her appearance said so – she’d freak out. I took her hoof, and turned it slightly. “There’s how. Pleased to meet you, Miss Rarity. I’m Verdigris. I believe you might know the name.”
Her eyes opened wider than I thought possible. “I - I always thought you were too good to be real,” she replied softly, glancing at my flank. I pulled the cloak up for a few seconds, and she gasped. “Your products are known everywhere,” she added. Despite some fan-filly-like happiness, she maintained her sophisticated façade, then smiled demurely when she saw my pendant. “Somepony’s a lucky mare.” Oh. Of course she’d understand its significance.
“Thank you, but you haven’t introduced me to your friend.” Both looked at me, then at each other, then looked away, blushing. “Oh, come on. I’ve seen that act before. Oceanside’s not a rustic back-water, we’re just serious and practical. Not always a bad thing.” Huh. Celestia’s right. I just needed to get a different perspective.
The farm-pony extended a hoof. “Name’s Applejack. Ya make any cereal jokes, I’ll buck ya across town an’ back.” I don’t think she knew what buck meant to some other ponies, and so I assumed she meant I’d find out how well she could use those back hooves. Farm ponies and Coast ponies aren’t that different, except for where we live. Was she strong? She about shook my foreleg off.
“Pleased to meet you,” I said, shaking my hoof with exaggerated care. That got a chuckle.
“May I ask why you’re in Ponyville?” Rarity asked. “We don’t have many visitors.”
“I’m thinking – well, I’ll be leaving Oceanside in a few years. If you know anything about coast ponies, you might understand how unpopular I could be.” Applejack nodded sympathetically, while Rarity glared in disgust. “It’s not so bad, but that special somepony and I can’t be together there. That, and I plan to attend the Academy, as well as Canterlot University. The problem is, Canterlot’s too big.”
“Wait, you’re – ” Rarity stopped, and I nodded for her to continue. “We heard the Princess’ declaration, Verdigris.”
“Couldn’ miss it,” Applejack agreed. “Why stay here?”
“I’m about as high-society as you are, Applejack. I don’t fit in, and I don’t really want to. As for what you might be thinking, Rarity, I think of myself as just another pony. I may be more than that, but I’m not going to be anything other than who I am, and who I choose to be.” They nodded to themselves, then looked up as a shadow passed over. I looked, and saw the delivery cart from Cloudsdale. I glanced at the clock on a nearby building, and said, “Right on time. I’ve got to go; my train should be arriving soon.”
Rarity didn’t even try to hide her disappointment. “Well, it was a pleasure to meet you, Verdigris. I hope you do well, and we’ll be waiting for you when you come to stay.” She curtseyed, and I bowed.
“Likewise,” Applejack said as she hoofed over a bag of apples. “Here, take ‘em. Ya can enjoy ‘em on the trip.”
“Wow, I appreciate that, both of you. I can’t say I’ve felt like I belonged anywhere before coming here,” I said, blinking tears back.
“Think nothing of it.” A train whistle interrupted Rarity briefly. “We’ll look forward to it.”
I nodded, then turned and trotted to the train station. When I arrived, I found my ticket was waiting, then supervised the loading of the bed. The conductor called, “All aboard!” within a few minutes, and I climbed aboard after a final glance back. Ponyville was better than I’d expected. I’d definitely be back. Not just for the place. Two more, and I can feel the last, somewhere. This is a good place, and so are the ponies.
(((())))
Rarity and Applejack watched until the train pulled out, then sighed. “Barely met him, an’ miss him already, Rarity.”
“Yes, exactly, Applejack.” She paused, then said, “Didn’t it seem as though he wanted to say more?”
Applejack shrugged. “Dunno. Maybe.” She shook herself, then said, “So, ya want the apples, or what?”
Rarity sighed. “Fine. I’ll take five Goldens, and two Red.” She smiled. “I don’t think, as you’d say, he’d steer me wrong.”
(((())))
Celestia stood on her balcony, looking west, a wistful smile on her face. She watched something for a few minutes, then shook her head with a grin. Yes, he’s very special. He knew them when he saw them. Her expression sobered. Be careful, my son. There’s still much to see, do and accomplish. She paused, looking up. Yes, still something to do.