Mini Mysteries

by Acologic

The Paterfamilias

Walking in Lower Canterlot, Slipstar decided he ought to visit his father. Upon his arrival he was disappointed to find that the doors to the house were locked and bolted. He sighed and doubled back, scanning the road. He spotted a familiar figure, limping quickly away.

‘Wait!’ called Slipstar as he ran to catch up.

Cardow’s face, aged, was sullen. ‘Huh,’ he grunted. ‘It’s you.’

‘Where were you going?’ asked Slipstar sharply. ‘The pub?’

‘Must you accost me with your accusations each time we meet? I’m going to the library! Happy?’

‘Show me what’s in the bag,’ demanded Slipstar. Cardow scowled as he showed Slipstar a book about card games, a packet of nuts, his keys and his library card.

‘You’re walking?’ said Slipstar.

‘To the bus stop, yes.’

Slipstar sighed again and shook his head. ‘Each time we meet must you lie to me?’

How did Slipstar know?

If he were travelling to the library, the aged Cardow would bring his entitlement card so as to ride the bus free of charge.

Comments

[CasualReader]

These riddles are hard when it depends on knowledge about stuff, I didn't even know entitlement cards were a thing.
I just assumed it was because he didn't bring any bits for the bus fare, and that he was paying for drinks with a tab.

[Acologic]

11090669
You did everything right though. That he did not have money with him is significant: how could one pay for either the bus or drinks? Drinks could go on a bill, so you were right – but, because he is a pensioner, he would not have to pay the fare if he brought his entitlement card, which he didn't. So, one can infer that Cardow intends not to ride the bus – despite his claiming that he does.

Thanks for the comments! I hope you enjoyed reading these.