Snails and the rest of the mini-6 are selected to attend the School for Gifted Unicorns. The CMCs and Snails find themselves caught in school rivalries, dark magics, and Canterlot fun.
The life of a colt should be simple, should be fun. Playing sports in the mud, fishing, building forts and tree houses, soap box races. Snails used to love all of that, there was nothing better then spending a hot day at the waterhole swimming with Snips, Rumble, and the other colts.
That seemed so long ago now. That seemed like another life. Ever since falling into that cursed pool, snails life has been non stop, trying to find a cure for the curse, trying to keep his curse hidden, and trying to lead a double life. When hit with cold water, HE becomes Escargot, the leader of the Mini-6, selected by the table to wield the elements of harmony light versions. To protect the castle and Ponyville when the Main Six have duties elsewhere.
This is a duty, a responsibility. So of course the princesses have decided that Escargot and the Mini Six, Noi, Dinky, Apple Bloom, Sweetiebelle, and Scootaloo must attend The Canterlot School for Gifted Unicorns, to ensure they can control the magics safely and responsibly.
Because more responsibility, and more school, is just what Snails was hoping for.
Snails’ life had become a series of nonstop adventures and little problems. It seemed like every time things settled down for him, something else would be there to shake his world apart. It had been months since the event that changed his life forever, months since his encounter at the cursed pool in the Everfree that left him questioning his life. It had been months, and yet still he suffered from the curse, and even Zecora couldn’t cure it. He was starting to think he was doomed to live a double life forever.
A double life, because when hit with cold water he became a filly. If that wasn’t bad enough, as a filly he was known as Escargot, a magical prodigy, savior of the Crystal Empire, trusted student of Twilight Sparkle, savior of Ponyville, one of the six lesser Elements of Harmony, and, oh yes, Harvest Princess, a nothing title from beauty pageant that seemed to haunt him constantly.
When hit with warm water, he returned to his normal colt form. Still just as strong in magic, yet ignored by most, dismissed as a clumsy and doltish. Oh, for the days when he could just lounge around and play with the other colts. Get messy, and not worry about having any real responsibilities.
Then, however, he had been given a new responsibility- he was to lead his friends as Escargot to the School for Gifted Unicorns, to study the new friendship and harmony magic he had gained. To learn more about how to control it, and his own magical abilities. To keep his secret, and to become…
“Escargot! We’re here!” Dinky called out, bouncing on her seat.
The train chugged along, puffing plumes of smoke as it climbed the hill. The girls leaned against the windows, looking out at the city spires and white castle walls. A large flying yacht was moored, the vibrant colors of its airbag glittering above the silver and gold trimmed yacht.
“Oh my gosh!” Noi said, “This is the first time I’ve really been out on my own.”
“Ah know, ma sister was so proud.” Apple Bloom said. “Just wish she hadn’t cried so much.”
“Why couldn’t I have traveled as myself?” Escargot asked with a sigh.
“Because your father saw you leave by air cart to Canterlot.” Scootaloo said. “The cart couldn’t take all of us and we are supposed to be going as a group.”
Running to the other side of the railcar, the girls oohed as they passed through the train gate. Its whistle tooted twice to announce the train’s arrival. Looking around, the girls could see the stores, restaurants, the wide paths and road, the whole city was a wonder.
“I wanna try everything!” Sweetie Belle said, her tail wiggling in excitement.
Pulling up to the station, the girls grabbed their bags and trotted out onto the platform. Other ponies went about entering and leaving the train for their own trips. The girls even noticed some other residents from Ponyville shuttling to Canterlot.
“Hello, my little ponies.”
Looking over, Escargot saw Raven, Celestia’s aid, who’d helped the first time he was in Canterlot. “Hello, ma’am.”
“Hello Escargot. The princess wishes to convey you her warmest welcome. She will meet you at the school later in the day.” Raven said, smiling. “First, however, your passes.”
The girls looked at each other, blinking, then up at Raven, who was rooting through her pouch. Lighting her horn, she floated a pair of cards to each of the girls. “The first is your Royal Rail Pass. You can use it at any time to ride the rails for free. If you get homesick, you can use it to visit home. Just remember, the morning train arrives too late for classes. That is why you will be put up in the dorms.”
“What’s this card for?” Dinky asked, holding up the second more brightly colored card.
“That, little ones, is your library card. Don’t lose it- you’ll need to present it whenever you want to use the royal library or school library.” Motioning towards the castle, “The royal library limits its visitors, but as students of the school, you will have access, at least to the unrestricted areas. There are a few sections that are off-limits, but they are well-marked.”
Putting the library card in his bag, Escargot sighed, ‘More study. The world hates me- every time I help out, I’m sent to school. Why can’t I be sent to the ice cream shop, or a hoofball game? Just once, I’d like to be sent anywhere but school.’
“But girls, you’re being sent to the shopping district.” Raven said with a smile.
“Shopping?” Sweetie Belle squeaked and perked right up.
Blinking, Escargot looked up, filled with hope.
Jumping forward, Noi looked up, “What are we shopping for?”
“Your school uniforms. You will all be getting new skirts and blouses for your semester!” Raven said, turning, “Now, follow me.”
‘Skirts? Why does it have to be skirts?’ Escargot whimpered. He put on his best smile and followed.
The clothing store was much different than Rarity’s shop. It was very boxy, and didn’t seem to concern itself with just clothing- there were t-shirts and blouses, vests, skirts, and blazers, as well as socks, ties, and neck scarfs. The styles and selections seemed very limited. The store also carried blank books, papers, quills, inkwells, pencils, and other school-related miscellany.
“While the school does not require you to wear uniforms every day, you will be expected to have them for special events and field trips.” Raven said firmly.
Several other first-years were in the store gathering their clothing. Both colts and fillies, giggling about being selected to go to the school, about the prestige and the honor it would bring to their families, about how they were personally selected by-
“The royal court will be covering the accounts for these six.” Raven said, nodding to the attendant, a stout earth green and pink earth pony mare.
Quickly the girls spread out, giggling and choosing different colored books, picking up school supplies that they needed. While there was a basic code, the basic supplies could be personalized and came in different styles.
Walking up, Escargot poked a uniform skirt gently. ‘What have I gotten myself into?’
Lifting a skirt, Raven held it against Escargot’s side. “It doesn’t look that bad.”
“It’s not me, though.” Escargot said, looking up.
“Of course not. You are you, and no matter what you’re wearing, no matter what you look like, that won’t change. The uniform is CSGU- when you wear it, you tell everypony that you have proven that you can do something special with magic.” Raven said softly, smiling at Escargot.
“Did you go to CSGU?” Escargot asked.
“I wanted to as a little filly, but it wasn’t meant to be. While I am ok with magic, my calling was administration.” Raven said, and smiled proudly, “And that calling has had me working with Princess Celestia for years now.”
“So, what do I need?” Escargot asked meekly.
Raven smiled and started helping Escargot pick out the uniform parts, making sure each item fit. While unicorns of Escargot’s stature were extremely rare, the store was able to fit a proper uniform.
Wings, on the other hand…
“Come on, it’s bad enough I have to wear a skirt, but these vests and shirts don’t have wing holes.” Scootaloo complained.
“Don’t worry Miss Scootaloo, we will make alterations. It will only take a few moments.” The store clerk said, “Just don’t struggle, or you will stretch it out too much.”
Escargot couldn’t help but giggle, seeing Scootaloo trying to spread her wings under the vest. The little pegasus really did not like the feeling of her wings being bound. “Relax, Scootaloo, they just need to mark where your wings are. I’ve seen Rarity do it several times.”
“Bah, if you had wings you’d understand.” Scootaloo huffed.
A shiver went down Escargot’s spine, “Don’t even joke. Honestly, even just a horn seems like too much trouble.”
“So, you’re her!” A little white unicorn foal with two-tone pink and peach mane bounded over and sat in front of Escargot, looking at her with awe.
A unicorn colt, brown with a white-tipped muzzle and yellow mane trotted up, “Wow, you really are pretty.”
“Umm, her who?” Escargot asked with a gulp, looking around the store.
“Celestia’s new favorite.” An older filly said, walking by. “Her ‘chosen’ one.” The filly’s voice dripped venom.
The filly shivered, “That’s Galaxy Starbright. Her family has held the top-ranking students almost every class. I only know of five ponies- well, four graduates- who beat them. Sunset would have beat them, but she quit. And of course, the Twilight family is better.”
Galaxy looked over sternly, “But my family will NOT be beaten this time. Right, Star Shine?”
The filly gulped, “No, ma’am.”
As Galaxy paid for her things and left the store, the filly stood up, “As you heard, I’m Star Shine. See you in class!” Gathering her things, she went to the cashier as quick as she could.
Looking sideways at Sweetie Belle, Escargot let out a sigh, “What did I get myself into?”
“Ok girls, let’s get you to the school.” Raven gathered the group and headed out.
It was a short walk as the ponies troted to the school dorms. While most picture the school as a single, old, 3-story building, in reality the school was located on a campus with several buildings, towers, and halls. Though a few buildings had been repaired and replaced over years of test-related accidents, that was the price of training foals to control powerful spells.
Escargot looked up at the towers as he walked, ‘Powerful spells? I’m just a little foal, how am I supposed to do powerful magic?’
“Why am I even here?” Sweetie Belle said, looking up. “I can barely lift a feather.”
“You can do whatever you put your heart to.” Escargot said without thinking, “Just like Dinky, you deserve to be here. I’m the pony that’s the fraud.”
The girls leaned into Escargot as they walked. “Don’t sell yourself short- we’ve learned never to underestimate you.” Apple Bloom said firmly.
The dorm was a two-story building comprised of a central area with reading room, a large kitchen and dining room for the students, then two wings, where the students’ rooms were. The building was decorated with the same marble and limestone motif that made up the rest of Canterlot.
“The left wing is for colts, the right, for fillies. There’s a spell on the doorways to prevent foals from going into the wrong dorms so don’t worry.” Smiling, she walked through the shimmering doorway.
Gulping once, Escargot stopped at the door and reached out with a hoof. While it tingled a little, there seemed to be no alarms, no guards running, no portal opening to tartar sauce. Taking a breath, Escargot stepped through and looked around, before trotting to catch up. ‘Oh, this will not end well.’ Shivering once, Escargot looked up, “That made my horn tingle.”
“Mine to.” Sweetie Belle said. “That just felt strange.”
Raven smiled and stopped by the rooms. “Each room will sleep three fillies. There is a bed, closet, desk, and chair for each girl, as well as a bathroom for the three to share in each room. It will be your responsibility to keep your room clean.”
“And… the colts?” Escargot asked looking around.
“Don’t worry, the colts sleep in the other wing, it’s a school rule that colts and fillies don’t sleep in the same room. The spell was set up to keep mischievous colts and fillies from sneaking into each other’s dorms with alteration spells. The barrier will cancel a spell and alert the staff. So be warned.” Raven said with a smile “Don’t worry, we are careful about that. Now we like to group the students into three’s this lets them build trust and friendships.”
Opening a door, the girls looked in the room, “It’s pretty sparse.” Noi said looking in, seeing the beds without sheets, simple chairs and such.
“That’s part of the fun of it. You will get to spruce it up as you want, add your own touches, and as your magic gets better you’ll be able to change things to suit yourselves.” Raven said, “Scootaloo, Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle, you will have this room.”
Other girls stepped out of their rooms to see the new entries. While most were first years as well, a few were seniors drawn by curiosity. Moving-in day was always interesting to see what new students would be showing up.
Dinky bounced happily, “So where are me, Noi and Escargot bunking?”
Opening the door across the hall, Raven smiled, “This room will be for Noi, Dinky, and…” Ravens speech was interrupted by a brown streak of fur and feathers charging out of the room. The fluff ball leapt into the air and hit Escargot square in the side.
“PRINCESS! You made it!” Gisa said laughing. “I was worried!”
“Gisa, you know you could have taken the train with us?” Escargot said laughing and hugging the little griffin.
“Too claustrophobic. ‘Sides, the princesses wanted to see me too.” Gisa said.
Poking her head inside Noi giggled, “So Gisa’s bunking with us too?”
“No, Escargot gets her own room. By request of Luna, Escargot has been granted special permission of a single room. You will be solely responsible for cleaning it. However, no others, not even staff are to enter it without permission, by order of Celestia and Luna.” Raven said firmly
Puffing out her cheeks, Galaxy narrowed her eyes, “A private room? Who does she think she is?”
“A princess, and favored by Celestia.” Sparkle Glory said.
“We will see about that.” Galaxy turned and stormed back into her room.
Snails sighed, pulling the covers over himself- the normality of his good old alarm clock, the warmth of the bed, the soft covers. The smell of sheets still holding that fresh from the wash smell. ‘It’s nice just being a colt.’
Noot, noot.
The normality of a new day, a new chance to explore the world, a new chance to find interesting things. Maybe go down and play in the mud by the river, chasing frogs, or help Snips paint the fence. The comfort of living a life with no responsibilities. Opening his eyes for a moment, Snails saw the pink mane. ‘It’s not like I have-’
Noot, noot!
“SCHOOL!” sitting up and blinking, he shook his head vigorously, ‘Not Snails.’ Escargot thought as he took note of his surroundings again. He looked around the strange dorm room- in some ways it felt too large for a single colt or filly alone, even though the princesses had done their best. A larger-than-normal canopy bed had been brought in to eat up space and better retain heat. The small desk and chair had been replaced with some from the castles stock, giving Escargot an elm writing desk with a rolling cover and a matching, high-backed, cushioned chair. Where one of the other beds once stood, a large bookshelf stood, mostly empty, though a few choice books had been added. Finally, the tea table, a gift from princess Celestia.
Noot, noot!
Reaching over, Escargot turned off the alarm clock and hopped out of bed, running for the bathroom. Being late for school wasn’t the bad thing, being late for breakfast though- he might get stuck eating leftovers, or some unrecognizable fancy dish no one wanted, or worse, gruel. ‘What is gruel anyway?’
Diving into the shower, Escargot got himself cleaned up as fast as he could before dressing himself in the school uniform. It wasn’t needed for everyday classes, but it was the first day, and he figured everyone else would dress the same. It felt strange wearing socks, let alone shoes, on his hind legs.
The short skirt just covered Escargot’s cutie mark, and white blouse and green vest just covered Escargot’s back and met up with the skirt. The strangest, though, was the red ribbon around the neck. Escargot couldn’t figure it out, it seemed to serve no purpose whatsoever. Sitting in front of the mirror, Escargot looked at 'herself' before a shiver went up his spine. “Ugg, I actually look cute like this. Why do I have to look cute?”
Standing, he turned and opened the door to his private room. Other girls were already in the halls already heading for the cafeteria, standing around talking, or running back to their rooms. Noi was standing on her hind legs banging on Apple Bloom’s door, while Dinky was pointing at Escargot.
“Well, at least I’m not the last.” Escargot said as she stepped out.
As soon as Escargot stepped into the hall, there was the loud slam of shoed hoof against the stone floor followed by, “Ma’am!”
Lighting his horn, Escargot threw up a shield spell and cowered against the ground for a moment, before seeing the guard beside the door. A female thestral stood, wearing Luna’s traditional dark blue and purple armor, the eye crest in the center of the armor shining in the morning light.
“Wh…who are… you?” Escargot trembled for a moment, dropping the shield and standing up.
“I was assigned to guard your room at night, Princess Luna has ordered one guard to protect you at night, Princess Celestia will have one guard here during the day.” The thestral said, her head held high with pride. “It is my duty to serve.”
“Protect?” Escargot asked, shaking himself out for a moment.
“Yes, the princesses wanted to ensure that nopony enters your room but you.” The guard said standing at attention. “To protect your privacy and honor.”
Several of the girls in the hall blinked. A private guard was unheard off, even the Galaxy family never had one of those. “This filly must be truly special.” One filly oohed.
“She’s probably the most powerful unicorn and needs special care.” Another said with awe.
Galaxy huffed as she walked by, “Breakfast time, let’s get trotting.”
Bounding across the corridor, Giza leapt onto Escargot’s back, kneading her claws a few times. “Sleep well?”
Flinching at the claws, Escargot nodded, “Yep, but it felt strange. Oddly quiet.”
“Too used to hearing thumping sounds at night?” Giza asked looking at Escargot.
“Yeh, I guess, hearing the wind blowing the shutters and the sounds of the trees was relaxing.” Walking towards the door, Escargot looked over her shoulder, “Hurry up, girls. We don’t want to miss breakfast and be stuck eating gruel!”
The cafeteria seemed more like some fancy restaurant, rather than a school cafe. Dotting the room were round tables, each seating up to six foals. The headmasters’ table was a long square table raised on a platform, with a single row of seats, including those marked reserved for Celestia and Luna. The food was served buffet-style for the students, with several chefs standing behind the counter, though there were waiters for the headmasters table.
Walking up to the breakfast line, Escargot tilted his head, trying to figure out the food. Even with labels, things did not make sense. Sparkling apple cider pancakes with a berry compote, overnight baked caramel French toast with chopped almonds and walnuts.
“Muffin tops with meadowcream and buttercream glaze? What happened to the rest of the muffin?” Dinky said, turning her head sideways, “You’d need three of them just to make one muffin.”
“Oatmeal brulee with ginger cream? Come on how could they ruin perfectly good oatmeal, just put apples on it.” Apple Bloom said.
Sweetie Belle oohed, “Amaretto Crème glazed strawberry pancakes? Yes please!”
“These are the best foods made for the best students.” Galaxy said as she picked up a tray and filled it with selected foods. “Even a common unicorn would find things they enjoy. Might I suggest the water? It should be common enough for you.”
“Oh goody, someone who reads Diamond Tiara’s book on making friends.” Noi said, and looked at Apple Bloom, “Hash browns, toast with apple jam, and orange juice for us please.”
“Me too.” Scootaloo held up her tray.
All the food was so regal, but even the colts were eating it. Shaking his head, Escargot looked down the list, “Can I just get some toast with jam, and some of that porridge please?” Heading over, he took a seat at a table with the rest of her group and stirred. “Oats, millet, and barley in milk- not bad I guess.”
Muffled through a pastry, "Are you kidding? This is almost as good as the cakes stuff!"
Looking across, he tried his hardest not to laugh at the little griffin stuffing her beak with muffin tops, cream all over her face.
Laughing, Noi held up a hoof, “Someone get that griffin a napkin! Stat!”
Shaking his head, Escargot groaned and reached out across the cafeteria, grabbing several napkins from the front of the line and bringing them back. “Hold still.” Smiling, Escargot went to work on both sides of Giza’s beak and face at once.
“Argh! The horror!” Gisa said laughing while holding up her claws defensively trying to fend off the dreaded napkin attack of doom.
“Ok now, that’s showing off.” Sweetie Belle said playfully.
Escargot blinked and finished cleaning off Gisa. “What?” Looking around, Escargot noticed a lot of the other unicorns looking at her. “Ok, now what did I do wrong?”
Dinky smiled, “Nothing. I know you’re not used to using magic in public that much, but most unicorns don’t reach out 100 feet or so and grab things. Most generally find 35 feet or so a stretch.”
Sweetie Belle nodded, “Yeah, sis reaches out that far, but she’s had years of practice and training. Don’t worry, we’ve seen what you can do but others might think you’re trying to be a show off.”
Escargot let his head drop to the table and sighed, “So even here I shouldn’t really use my magic…”
Apple Bloom blinked, “This from the one who rebuilt the colts’ clubhouse for them single hooved? No way…”
Puffing out their cheeks, several other unicorns were trying or pulling napkins over the same distance. Looking around, Escargot realized she had accidentally issued a challenge, and now other unicorns were trying to prove they could do it too.
Clinking her glass several times, Raven smiled at the students, “Quiet please, I wish to introduce you to your headmistress, Princess Celestia.”
Walking in with her head high, Celestia trotted over to the teachers table and stood, looking across at the gathered students. Her eyes settled on Escargot.
Gulping nervously, Escargot looked up at the Princess.
Clearing her throat, Celestia smiled, “From chance meetings, to well known families, from accidental encounters, to students who have applied for years to enter here- I welcome you all. Each of you will find something new here, something special. This school will help you grow and learn, not just about magic, but about yourselves. It will help you grow into the mares and stallions you wish to be, or into the mares and stallions you never knew you could become.”
Looking over the students, Princess Celestia takes a breath before starting, “For the first time ever, my little ponies, we have some non-unicorns who are going to be taking classes here too. They have all demonstrated a special magical talent, and a bond that has allowed them control the Elements of Harmony.”
Escargot gulped and lowered his head trying to hide a little, ‘Please don’t single me out. Please.”
“And their leader, Escargot, who has displayed exception magical talent and ability, so much so that she was chosen to wield the Element of Magic itself.” Celestia bowed her head. “So for her service to Ponyville, the Crystal Empire and Equestria itself, she and her friends will be here for this semester.”
Many of the ponies clapped, though Escargot noticed several sour looks. Keeping his head low, he couldn’t help but blush at the attention. ‘Why me?’
Trotting in, Princess Luna looked around the room, her eyes a touch red and bloodshot as she yawned, “Sorry I’m late, it was a long night.”
“Greetings sister, would you like to say anything to the students?” Celestia asked as she took her seat at the table, lifting a small class of tea in the air.
Grabbing a large cup of coffee, Princess Luna walked over and the foals table beside Escargot. “This year is going to see changes. Changes in how we view each other, and how we deal with each other. You won’t be able to expect ponies like Apple Bloom here to battle with spells, but according to Twilight and Zecora, she’s becoming a master potion brewer. You won’t be able to treat all of them like unicorns, but they can all contribute, just like all ponies contribute to Equestria as a whole.”
Many of the ponies clapped and cheered. Both Princesses giving speeches was something truly special, and the foals looked on with awe and Princess Luna gave Escargot a hug with her wing and gentle nuzzle.
Princess Luna stood and walked back over to the head table to take the seat Raven had actually prepared for her. Looking at the tea with disdain, she chose to stick with her coffee- black, double sugar.
Moving up beside Escargot, Galaxy stalked up the filly one last time before speaking to her in a harsh whisper. “That does it. I challenge you to a duel! The school dueling arena, today after class- unless you’re a coward, of course.” Turning, Galaxy walked back up to the buffet line to get herself something else to eat.
Gulping, Escargot looked up, almost in panic, ‘Oh Celestia, what have you got me into?’
Trotting into class, Escargot looked at the other girls with him- Dinky was pronking, her tail wiggling just below supersonic speeds as she looked around the halls. Apple Bloom and Scootaloo were talking with each other, while Noi was arguing with Sweetie Belle over Rainbow Dash over Rarity for style. Shaking his head, Escargot found himself a seat at the back of the class. It always felt safer to be at the back- less pressure, no pony looking at you.
The CMCs were quick to take the three seats in the front row, with Noi behind them. Looking beside himself, Escargot sighed- it was strange not be be in class with Snips. Right now, Snips was probably playing hoofball, or in the clubhouse reading comics.
“It’s ok, I’ll stay with you.” Dinky said and smiled, taking the seat beside Escargot. “I know you prefer the back.”
“I’m not good in class.” Escargot said, “It doesn’t come easy like it does for you and the other girls.”
“It’s okay if you need help reading I'm your filly, I help my mom sometimes.” Dinky said smiling, “It’s not that she can’t read, it just hurts her eyes at times.”
“Hello class, my name is Mrs. Hackney.” The purple unicorn had her blue mane done up in a tight bun. “Since today is our first class, we are going to talk about magical strength.”
Escargot gulped, but then saw Sweetie Belle look back at him and smile. At least he had support, this would be as brutal as trying to do this alone.
“To gauge your strength, we are going to do a simple test. I brought some buckets from the gym, all you need to do is lift one up and hold it, while we fill it with these iron pellets. From there, we will find out how much you can actually hold.”
The teacher floated a basket out and sat it down in front of the class. “So, who would like to go first?”
Lots of foals threw their hooves up, as ‘Me’s’ filled the air. The teacher laughed slightly, before picking one foal at random.
Looking around, Escargot blinked, “Why is the class mostly fillies?”
“I’m not sure,” Dinky said softly, “Maybe fillies are just stronger than colts at magic?”
“Sweetie Belle.”
Eeeping, Sweetie hopped out of her seat and walked over. Splaying her legs, she grunted, lifting the basket up, the entire thing wobbling. “Heavy.”
Scootaloo lifted her head a bit, “How many pellets are in there?”
Groaning softly, Apple Bloom shook her head, “None yet. Remember, Sweetie Belle has trouble with a broom right now. She’s best with small things, like flowers and feathers.”
“Five pounds five, not to bad for somepony so young.” The teacher said, after adding some weight. “Don’t worry, you’ll find you get a lot stronger with practice.”
Dinky let out a giggle, “Escargot’s the strong one, Belle’s the singer.” Getting up, Dinky walked down for her turn. Like Sweetie Belle, she wasn’t the strongest, though she managed a total of nine pounds. Other students had topped out at as much as thirty-five pounds, but most hovered in the twenty-pound mark.
“Escargot, if you would please.” The teacher said.
Walking up, Escargot sat down, and looked at the basket, before looking up at the teacher.
“It’s OK, just pick it up and hold it, concentrate on it and we’ll see how you do.” The teacher said with a soft smile. “Just focus on holding it up.”
Lifting the basket, Escargot sat, horn glowing bright, ‘Maybe I should just drop it, if I hold to much they will think I’m showing off.’ Escargot thought as the teacher started filling the basket. ‘Yeah, that’s it, I can just drop it when the teacher... but is that the right thing to do? To lie to the teacher and students?’
Closing his eyes, Escargot whimpered, ‘I don’t want to lie, lying is what got me here in the first place, but I’m not really that strong, what should I do? Why can’t I just go back to playing in the summer, why do I keep having to go to school for this?’
“Escargot? Escargot!?!” The teacher said gently.
Blinking, Escargot looked up and dropped the basket quickly, there, it was done. No one would think he was showing off.
“Sorry Ma’am.” Escargot said softly quickly and lowering his head.
The teacher tilted her head, “For what? We’ll have to retest you again when I get more pellets, I’ve never needed more than 300 pounds for a student your age. So for now we list you as 305 plus. You weren’t even concentrating were you?”
“I…I…I…” Escargot stammered and looked around the class again before looking down, ears going bright red.
“It’s fine, we’re done for today.” Mrs. Hackney said, “But for tonight, I want you all to read up on telekinetic focus.”
Standing up, the students headed for the door, giggling about the test.
“Escargot?” The teacher called.
Stopping at the door Escargot sighed, ‘So close, so close to being free.’ Looking over his shoulder Escargot tilted his head, “Yes, Mrs. Hackney?”
“Would you be a nice little filly and return these buckets to the gymnasium for me?” The teacher asked as she sat behind her desk and straightened her glasses.
Walking over, Escargot lit her horn, putting her books on her back, then picked up the pair of wooden half-bushel baskets. A small giggle escaped as she walked down the hall, ‘Applejack would have given a long lecture about the difference between a bucket and a basket.’
Dinky bounded up beside Escargot, “Need help?”
“I’m fine, just need to take these to the gym, then I can go back to my room and relax. Finally.” Escargot said, turning backwards to open the door with his butt, backing into the gym.
“What about the duel?” Dinky asked, “Galaxy? This morning?”
“I really don’t want…” Escargot moaned as he turned around to see Galaxy standing inside a large circle.
“You really don’t want to what? Are you scared?” Galaxy taunted.
“She’s not scared, and she could kick your tail.” Dinky shot back.
Laying his ears side to side, Escargot whimpered before yawning, “I’m tired, I just want to go back to my room.”
“I just want to see how good you really are.” Galaxy challenged, turning to fire a stun blast at Escargot.
Still holding the pair of buckets in the air, Escargot moved one with blazing speed to catch the stun bolt. “Careful, somepony could get hurt like that.”
Growling Galaxy fired off another quick blast only to see it intercepted again by a bucket.
‘It’s like she’s reading my moves’. Galaxy thought in shock, ‘Like she knows what I’m going to cast and where before even I do.’
Galaxy lowered her stance, rapidly firing off four more bolts, alternating high and low shots. The crimson bolts crackled across the gym, leaving Escargot only moments to react.
Twilight had spent weeks drilling fundamentals into Escargot, building up power, speed, strength and accuracy with her magic. His buckets blurred in a flurry of motion, catching the stun bolts as they flew at him.
Galaxy roared angrily. Gritting her teeth, she let loose a salvo of magic. Something had to get through! ‘I… I can’t even touch her! Who is this filly?’
Spinning the buckets in a swirling dance, Escargot defended against the assault, until finally one of the buckets couldn’t take the impacts anymore and broke. Looking through the hole in the bottom, Escargot sighed, “I hope they don’t make me pay for this.”
“Pay for that? You’re making me look like a foal, and you’re concerned about a bucket?” Galaxy snarled indignantly.
“But… we are foals.” Escargot said, hesitating as he saw Galaxy charging a huge blast. He didn’t want to risk Dinky getting hurt- or Galaxy, for that matter. Winking out, Escargot appeared behind Galaxy, taking the buckets with him. With a quick yank, he broke the metal bands on one of the buckets, opening it up and wrapping it around Galaxy’s neck like a pet cone.
Poking Galaxy’s flank gently with a hoof, Escargot sighed, “Galaxy, stop. Please.”
“Ohhh, the cone of shame.” Dinky said, giggling.
Turning to face Escargot, Galaxy glared, “Take this thing off me. Now.”
Opening the door, Princess Celestia walked in with professor Giddilee at her side. Looking around, she shook her head,
“May I ask what is going on here?”
Squeaking, Dinky turned to face Celestia and bowed deeply, “Princess!”
Spinning around, Galaxy bowed too, the bucket sliding forward till it thumped on her horn causing her to flinch.
Lowering his head, Escargot bowed as well, “Sorry, it’s my fault. I was just trying to stop her, I’ll pay for the bucket, princess.”
Princess Celestia arched an eyebrow.
“You should have seen it Princess, Galaxy challenged Escargot to a duel and started firing bolts at her. But she blocked them with-” Dinky started, her tail wiggling excitedly, ‘til she saw Celestia hold up a hoof.
“You two are not supposed to duel without an instructor present. You should know better then that.” Celestial shook her head and teleported the bucket off of Galaxy.
“Sorry, Princess.” Galaxy started, before turning to Escargot, “At least I was beaten by a purebred unicorn princess. If I’d lost to a lowborn, that would have been embarrassing.”
“I won’t punish either of you for this, this time.” Celestia said firmly, “Galaxy, Dinky, if I can have a moment with Escargot?”
“You two, come with me.” Professor Giddilee said, smiling as she turned and trotted out the door.
Looking up sadly, Escargot whimpered, “I’m so sorry, Princess.”
Shaking her head, Celestia lowered her head, “There’s no need to apologize. You’ve grown so much since the first time we met, since the first time I saw you on stage.”
“Thank you princess, I’m just scared I’m going to let everypony down.” Escargot said as he scuffed a hoof on the ground.
“Let everypony down how?” Celestia sat on the gym floor and tilted her head.
“I’m not very good at school- reading and writing doesn’t come easily to me, I can’t even do math well.” Lowering his head, he traced a figure eight with his hoof on the floor, “I kind of get bored, and want to go out and do things, like explore, or play games instead. Princess Twilight is counting on me to do well, and to show how good a teacher she is, and you and Princess Luna expect me to be something special.”
Shaking her head, Celestia put a wing over Escargot, “You’re trying to walk in the shadow of others. That’s not why you’re here. You’re here to get the practice with your magic that you need, and to find your own place. Once you do….” Celestia pulled her wing back, “You’ll find you don’t need shadows, you will find that you can shine yourself.”
“I… I… I need to go to my room.” Escargot said gulping.
Celestia nodded as she spoke softly, “It has been a long day for you. I gather you want to change back.”
“Uh huh, I need to go to the bathroom bad.” Escargot said.
Celestia blinked, “You know there are bathrooms throughout the school, right?”
“I don’t feel right going into the fillies’ bathroom, and it’s a big risk to change and change back in public bathrooms.” Snails said, thumping a hind leg gently.
“I understand. Why not just go as a filly?” Celestia inquired and tilted her head.
Escargot blushed and looked down, “I… don’t really know how… Well, I kinda know I just don’t feel comfortable with…”
“I think I will let my sister deal with this.” Celestia said, standing up and looking around. “In the meantime, Princess Luna and I brought something from Ponyville for you. It should help.”
Nodding once Escargot looked at the door, “Can I?”
“Go, go, we don’t want you having an accident.” Celestia said, fighting a giggle.
Escargot ran out of the gym as fast as his hooves could carry him. ‘Teeth floating, teeth floating.”
Escargot returned to the room running past the unicorn guard, tired and exhausted. Running into the bathroom, he took a quick shower. Changing back to Snails, he hopped out to do his business panting and sighing, before getting dried off and cleaned up.
Walking out of the bathroom and over to the bed, he turned and fell backwards onto it. Beside it, he saw a stuffed animal. It was old, raggedy, beaten up, with one eye hanging a little loose. The stuffed pony doll still carried the scents of Ponyville on it. The smell of apples and trees, the smell of the old library and new castle, the smell of friends, his mentor. Closing his eyes, Snails hugged the smartypants doll. It may not have been the most stallionly thing to do.
Lighting his horn, Snails curled up and snuggled the doll. Right now, he didn't care. Colt or filly didn't matter, all that mattered was that it reminded him of home.
Snails trotted happily down the street, head held high as he looked at the tower ahead. The spire was located in a corner of Canterlot Castle that was home to Royal Guard Cadet barracks, and a small parade ground.
Stopping in front of the door, Snails took a deep breath. Most of the guards were male, so this was the perfect chance for him simply to be a colt, a chance for him to have fun and not have to worry about magic lessons. A chance for him to-
“So, you’re the one?” Snails spun on the spot at the booming voice, coming to a rest at the hooves of a white unicorn stallion in golden armor, “The one Celestia submitted for training?”
Throwing a salute with his left foreleg, Snails smiled, “Yep!”
Rolling his eyes, the guard walked past Snails, heading inside, “Follow me.”
Snails trotted after the guard and looked around the tower. A smaller parade ground was inside, with a spiral staircase winding around the edge of the tower. He followed the guard up to the second floor, which was broken up into offices.
The stallion walked down a hall and entered a small room with a pair of filing cabinets and a large desk in the center with a high-backed chair. Circling the room, he climbed into the chair and opened a file, speaking calmly, “Snailsquirm.”
“Yes, sir?” Snails tilted his head with a dopey grin.
“You don’t really want to be here, do you?” The unicorn asked, leaning back in his chair.
“No, sir, ” Snails said, then sputtered, “I mean yes, sir, I mean-”
Chuckling, the guard shook his head, “You’d rather be lounging around, reading comics, maybe playing with your friends, or simply just enjoying the summer.”
Snails blinked and sighed with a smile, “That would so be great.”
“Personally though, I really hate slackers,” The guard said firmly.
Gulping, Snails looked down, “I- I don’t mean to be.”
“Being a guard is not something to joke about, it’s not putting on some disguise. It’s a badge of honor, a right that’s earned,” The guard stated.
Looking down, Snails felt himself begin to tremble a bit in fear.
Opening a folder, the guard looked down then at Snails, “Relax, I don’t bite. Princess Celestia has given special instructions. Your father doesn’t like you using magic?”
“No, sir,” Snails said, looking down.
“It seems Celestia has decided you need a cover story- that you are training as a guard,” The stallion said, looking at Snails sternly.
Snails nodded, “It wasn’t my idea, sir.”
“I don’t care whose idea it was! I believe in honor and integrity! I believe that only those who deserve the uniform should wear it,” The stallion said proudly.
Backing up a step, Snails gulped, “I’m sorry.”
“Don’t be. We just need to make sure that, in the time we do have together, you are an actual, trained, cadet. I want to make sure that you deserve the uniform you will be wearing. That way, if your father asks, we won’t have to lie.”
Looking down at the sheet, the guard tilted his head, “The Princess has also ordered no water training with you, and no training in the rain. Susceptible to the cold.”
“Umm, yes, sir. I don’t turn out well when I’m cold and wet,” Snails said nervously.
“We can limit some of our training to indoors. First, however, we can get you your trainee uniform from Supply,” The stallion said, “So, let’s get you in your first true uniform.”
‘That doesn’t have a skirt,’ Snails thought with a grateful sigh.
The guard stood and left the office, heading upstairs again, this time to a large supply room with a pony standing behind a counter. Snails looked around the room at the rows of uniforms, weapons, and other gear.
The supply sergeant looked down at Snails, then nodded once, “Large, but thin.”
Turning, the sergeant began laying out items on the table- PT gear, work uniform, dress uniform, a saddle bag and pack, as well as other basic items he would need, “This equipment is all your responsibility. You will need to keep it clean and pressed.”
“Yes, sir,” Snails said with a quick nod.
The unicorn guard chuckled, “Try it on for fit.”
Picking up the dress uniform, Snails looked around, “Um, where’s the dressing room?”
The sergeant stood, blinking at the colt in confusion, shocked at his question, “Dressing… room?”
“Snails, we’re not fillies, there’s a mirror right there. Why don’t you try it on?” The guard asked, shaking his head and looking at the sergeant.
Snails looked at himself in the mirror, turning from side to side, “It fits.”
“Good, you look like a cadet, now you need to train like one. Training will begin Saturday mornings at 8 AM,” The guard said with a chuckle, “I expect you here in PT gear bright and early.”
Snails nodded, doing his best to stand at attention.
“Now, dismissed.”
Bounding out in joy, Snails stopped in the square and took a deep breath. It was still early, so he had more than enough time to have fun. There were so many things to do, he found it hard to choose.
He could go to one of Canterlot’s candy stores, ice cream shops, or even doughnut shops. There was Joe’s Doughnuts, that had to be a safe place- not like he could run into anyone important there. Or maybe he could go to the comic store, the city just had to have one.
Getting bumped from behind, Snails turned quickly, “Oh, I’m sorry.”
“Don’t be, it was my fault, I was just…” Looking up from her book, Galaxy blinked at Snails in his uniform her gaze slowly drifting from hoof to beret, and back, “Umm, hello there. I love the uniform.”
‘Oh nope, nope nope nopenope,’ Snails blinked and took a step back, ‘I don’t need this.”
“Is something wrong?” Galaxy asked, tilting her head.
“No, ma’am!” Snails turned and made a break for the park. Technically, it was the royal gardens, but it looked like a park, so that would have to do. Once inside, Snails slowed to a trot and looked around. He had never seen trees, flowers, or plants like this. They all looked so alien to him. Many of the animals he had seen at Fluttershy’s, but even then, they didn’t look common to the area.
There was a sloth hanging from a tree, resting, as well as some kind of giant bunny that was taller than Snails, with a huge, thick, tail. The pond had ducks, flamingos, and a pelican, but strangely no swans. Smaller animals could also be seen moving in the trees, though they all kept their distance.
“Wait up!” Galaxy called and trotted up beside Snails, “Wow, I’ve never been in the gardens before.”
“I… umm… me neither.” Snails said. Why can’t I be anywhere but here with her.
“So, are you training to be a guard?” Galaxy asked, leaning down to look at the ducks.
“Cadet summer course. I’d rather just be at home in the clubhouse, or playing sports.” Snails said, shaking his head, ‘or just about anywhere but here.’
Several rabbits and squirrels run out of a bush, heading for trees. The squirrels running to get up high as fast as they can, while the rabbits zig-zagged for a burrow. The disturbance has caused the ducks to take to the air, and even the giant rabbit has hopped off for cover.
Snails slowly turned to face the source of the disturbance. He looked at the bush, narrowing his eyes as branches start to move and rustle. With a soft gulp, Galaxy moved behind Snails for protection.
A pair of dark eyes shine out of the bush, narrowing as they fixate on the foals. A low growl began to fill the air, almost a snarl. “Wha- what is it?” Galaxy asked timidly.
Snails lit his horn, banishing the shadows and illuminating the area. A moment later, a black streak lunged out of the bushes at incredible speed. A blur of motion, the creature headed straight for the two foals. Whatever it was, the creature was fast, but not fast enough.
Even though it was a blur, Snails was able to easily project its path. Lowering his head a little, Snails shifted his magic and that was that- the creature was caught in Snails’ magical grasp only a few apples from Galaxy’s face. A small, blue-black, pig, with a polka-dotted red scraf around its neck, and behind one ear, a golden skull clip.
Wiggling its ears, it scowled at Snails, then started swing all four legs violently, trying to get at Galaxy. Galaxy hugged Snails happily, “My hero! I’m Galaxy, by the way.”
Turning, Galaxy started trotting off, “I’ve got some shopping to do for school. I hope to see you around again, if not, I know where to find you. Bye bye, my hero.”
Groaning, Snails turned his head to look at the scowling pig. “Gee, thanks, just what I needed. Now my life is even more complicated.”
The pig let out a nasty snort and took a swing at Snails with its foreleg, but it was just out of reach. It spun for a moment, before slowing to a stop, staring at Snails.
Turning, Snails started walking for the garden gate, “All because of you, I’ll have her showing up at my training. Why can’t I have a normal life?”
Dropping the pig in a large animal pen, Snails trotted away, heading towards Rarity’s boutique in Canterlot. ‘What else could go wrong?’
Snails groaned and rolled over, hoof thumping the alarm clock. “Just 5 more minutes!”
“Noot, noot. Noot, noot.”
Groaning again, Snails bashed the alarm a few times in rapid succession, “I had a hard time at cadet training! Sleep is good for a growing colt.”
“Noot, noot. Noot, noot.”
Sitting up, Snails grumbled at his alarm clock, then at Gisa, who was sitting on the floor with a clipboard. She grinned, tilting her head menacingly, “Noot, noot. Noot, noot.”
“Gee, thanks.” Yawning, Snails reached over with one hoof and tapped Gisa on the head, “Off.”
“Bee boop.” Ducking her head with the tap, Gisa giggled softly, “Ok, you have classes as normal today. Did you get all of your homework done?”
Snails slumped out of bed and walked to the shower, “Yes and no.” Snails turned on the water with a soft squeak, and started washing herself.
“No?” Giza asked, sitting at the door, “What’s no?”
“Well, I kind of skipped doing the Telekinesis practice, and that whole thing on the history of Metamorphic spells was so boring.”
“Ugg, you need to do this stuff!” Gisa stomped her fore-claw before she peeped in alarm as Escargot wrapped her in magic and dragged her towards the water, “EEEP! Okay okay! TK practice done!”
Dropping Gisa a hair's breadth from the shower, Escargot quickly dried off, “Thanks, Gisa.”
Picking up the school bag, Escargot trotted through the doorway and into the dorm hall. Gisa quickly flipped pages on her clipboard, speaking out for the whole hallway to hear, “Also, at 12:10, you have tea with Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna would like to see you this evening around 6:30.” Escargot wilted as all eyes in the hall turned towards her. Several other fillies started whispering to each other. Galaxy narrowed her eyes at Escargot.
“Have I told you I hate you recently?”
Escargot mewed softly and shuffled towards the cafeteria, head low, his face hidden behind his long flowing mane in a very Fluttershy-esque manner. Gisa shook her head, and with a cheerful “Nope.”, she thumped the door closed with her hip.
“I’m so excited!” Noi exclaimed, bouncing up beside Escargot.
Prancing up on the other side, Dinky giggled, “Noi, you’re always excited. Sleep well, Escargot?”
Escargot gave a sleepy nod and collected food from the table- banana pancakes with peanut butter seemed like a safe choice, with some juice and fruit. He was more interested in sleep than a big breakfast this morning. Apple Bloom sat on the other side of the table between Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo, who rested her head on the table.
“She didn’t want to wake up this morning.” Sweetie noted.
“I’m awake, I’m just resting. Pegasi need their rest- just look at Rainbow Dash!” Scootaloo said, eyes closed and head down. Sweetie Belle looked at Dinky, then at Escargot, sighing,
“Okay, we need to do something about you.” Nodding at Escargot, Sweetie smiled, “You need a fun day.”
“Whatcha mean?” Apple Bloom blinked in confusion, “There’s so much fun here! Potions class, shopping, dress up... a filly could have fun here forever.”
Shaking her head a little Dinky smiled, “That’s our fun. Escargot needs a real stress breaker!”
“I don’t need anything special,” Escargot said, “I just… I don’t know, I just…”
Lifting a wing, Scootaloo piped up, “You just need to be dumb, or to do something dumb. To have fun without thinking!”
“Hey, that’s not nice,” Noi stomped at Scootaloo. “Escargot’s not dumb!”
“No, dumb fun is a pegasi thing! It means like, not studying, not practicing, just doing something and having fun with it.” putting her wing down, Scootaloo smiled, “Like soccer in the mud. Rainbow Dash is all about stuff like that- flying just to fly, sledding down hills... She says it’s good for a pony not to think about stuff sometimes.”
“I hate the mud,” Sweetie Belle said, puffing out her cheeks, “But for Escargot, three on three?”
“Recess soccer match!” Dinky called out, holding a hoof high. A moment later, her hoof was joined by five others.
Escargot sighed as she walked to class, “I hate this, classes are so hard, its all so…”
Dinky smiled at Escargot, “I know! It’s bad for me and Sweetie Belle too. I really miss my mom, but we couldn’t let you go through this alone.” Taking a seat, Escargot heard some of the other students chatting. As she opened the study book, Escargot flicked an ear, listening.
“His color was just perfect.”
“What was it like?”
Looking over, Escargot saw Galaxy talking with some of the other fillies, going on in almost a dreamy voice, “Oh, it was this wonderful amber color, and he has a scruffy turquoise mane and short cropped tail. Can you picture how that would look in crystal form?”
Escargot cringed, ‘No, they can’t be talking about…’
“He’s a cadet at the academy,” She went on, “He looked so cute in his uniform!”
Escargot groaned, head hitting the desk, ‘I really didn’t need this, just no…’
Trying to ignore the girls, Escargot only half concentrated on the classwork. It was summer! He didn’t want to sit in class, but at the same time, he had three princesses with expectations. All of the other students were here on hard work, chosen because they were special. And he was just…
Escargot to jumped slightly as the bell went off. Putting the books in her bag, he watched Dinky and Sweetie Belle hurrying to get their things together. Escargot trotted out to put her things in her locker before heading out side. Scootaloo was standing on the field, bouncing a hoofball on her head while Applebloom and Noi talked with each other. All three perked up as Escargot walked over.
“Three on three,” Scoots called out, “Me, Bloom and Belle, against you Noi, and Dinky. No magic.”
Pawing the ground nervously, Belle looked down, “Well, it doesn’t look that bad…”
“Not like the mud pits we set up for the sisterhooves social,” Apple Bloom said, “It’s just a little muddy in the center.”
“Ponyville power!” Noi said, holding a hoof up.
Laughing, all six of the girls reached up, clapping hooves together above their heads, “Let’s do this!”
With Dinky and Scootaloo taking goalie, Escargot and Belle faced off on the center line, “Aw, come on, she’s got longer legs than me!” Laughing softly, Escargot crouched down to Belle’s level, and the game began. The girls galloped back and forth up and down the field. It wasn’t about the score, it wasn’t about the game, it was just about having fun. Sliding across the field trying to kick the ball, the girls laughed and shouted. Before they knew it, the end-of-recess bell was ringing.
Heading for the school building, Scootaloo smiled, “See, fun! And Sweetie Belle even got her cutie mark!”
Blinking in shock, Sweetie Belle squeaked, “What?!” She turned to look at her flank and huffed, “That’s just mud.” With an annoyed glance at Scootaloo, she wiped it off.
Applebloom laughed cheerfully, “Given the amount of times we get muddy on our cutie mark quests? Sometimes ah think mud might end up being one of our marks.”
“Oh, don’t joke about that.” Sweetie Belle said and puffed out her cheeks, only to be met by Noi and Escargot’s giggles. In high spirits, they picked up their bags and turned towards their classrooms, only to be met by Galaxy and their teacher.
“See, I told you, just like common ponies, all dirty,” Galaxy remarked smugly.
“I am aware that the standards of Ponyville might be a tad lower, but here, we do try and maintain a level of cleanliness and decorum.” The teacher said, adjusting her glasses.
Escargot lowered his head, “Sorry ma’am.”
Galaxy huffed, “They smell almost as bad as boys.”
“Hey!” Sweetie Belle scowled at Galaxy.
Noi and Apple Bloom moved in between Escargot and the teacher. “Sorry ma’am, but Escargot needed to play. She’s been under so much pressure here, that she needed something fun.”
“I see,” Shaking her head, Mrs. Hackney pointed to the gym, “Shower first, then class, and I’ll expect to see you three after class, to make up the missed time.”
Looking at each other, the girls blinked, then sighed in unison, “Yes, Ma’am.”
Blinking, Escargot gulped as he walked towards the girl’s shower room, “Why me?”
