If I am to be denied all the responsibilities of my station then should I not revel in my irresponsibility? A foalhood is a fleeting and precious thing. Mine was far too short and far too long ago so I chose today to relive it to some extent. I am surprised Celestia lets me out of my gilded prison and she is surprised I feel that I must ask to be let out. Nevertheless there is a carnival and I intend to make the most of it.
Even the grandest of carnivals I remember are outshone by this one. There is food and dancing and merriment everywhere I look. Even the group of guards, a mixture of my own and sister’s, around me cannot prevent foals from chasing each other under my hoofs as they scream with laughter. After a time the sound can be grating to the ear but I must admit it is heartwarming to hear such a joyful din once more.
I am a mare of quiet pleasures and the press of the crowd, even stayed by my guards, becomes too much for me. I find a secluded bench and sit for a time. I merely watch as others enjoy the festivities. My warm cape hides the fact that I am an alicorn and braces me against the late fall chill. Though I may not revel in the merriment or take the center of attention like my sister I see my subjects happy and I am gladdened for it.
As the sun sets lanterns of all kinds are lit. Many of them were not lit by fire but by some sort of magic. I do not sense any enchantment upon them only the flow of magic through them. I begin tracing the magic to its source and I am led to a solid structure lit up by so many of these magic lanterns that it shines like a beacon.
Inside I recognize a young colt. I observed him earlier that day and he seemed to be shy and withdrawn but here he was the center of attention and was even making the occasional boast. One of the group around him would offer a challenge and they would put a few bits in the machine in front of them. It seemed to be some contest of skill which he usually won but even when he did not he seemed happy.
There are several very complex spells placed on each of the machines. It is an alluring mix of magic and craftsponyship that even I am impressed by. I did not set hoof in this ‘arcade’ but I have resolved to investigate this new field of magic further.
-L