Feathered Paths

The days flowed and with time, Soul Harmony got better and better. It was a wonderful springtide morning in the middle of January as he left bed the first time after saving Fluttershy's life. The broken bones in his wing adhered again very well and the doctor, who came to examine his patient again, meant that Soul would be able to fly as good as he could before his injury, but the wing still needed rest. Nevertheless, the pegasus stallion was glad about his regained freedom to go wherever he pleased, but due to the persistency of Fluttershy he stayed at her cottage and the garden around it. In return, he insisted on moving his sleeping berth on the couch in the first floor. He was astonished how many animals lived in Fluttershy's house, but as he saw how lively the home was, he could not prevent a little smile. As he came down the stairs, he was welcomed by a horde of woodland critters and birds, who whizzed around everywhere in the house. The most of the animals ignored him, some sniffed at him and huddled against him and the remaining eyed him closely.

But from all of the animals, there was one who seemed to be absolutely disapproved of Soul Harmony's presence. It was a little, completely white male bunny, who flashed him a glance full of enviousness, but also with a bit of grimly gratitude. As Fluttershy told the bunny about Soul, it turned out that his name was Angel. Fluttershy introduced him to Soul as her personal pet, and by the way the tiny rabbit acted, Soul could tell that the bunny thought he was the absolute number one in Fluttershy's house. Soul Harmony though it was advisable to remain aloof respectfully to prevent provoking a dispute with the little devil. But altogether, he was well received from the animals and both Soul Harmony and the animals enjoyed the tender loving cares he gave to them.

After lunch, Fluttershy said to Soul Harmony: "I have to go to the village to buy some food, do you need anything... special... I can get for you?"

Soul responded: "If you don't mind, Fluttershy, I'd like to attend you. You see, I actually came to Ponyville because of business and I think I can't shirk it any longer."

Fluttershy looked worried for a moment and tried to convince him to stay: "But your wing still needs a rest! I-I think it would be better for you if you stay here."

Soul answered unimpressed: "Fluttershy, it's just my wing. I don't think I've to use it for anything. I am deeply grateful for your care, but I can't tell why you want me to stay away from public life. To be honest, it doesn't really make much sense to me. Is there anything wrong with me that you don't want to show up with me in Ponyville?"

Fluttershy blenched and tried to assure him: "No, no, I... I just... I...", but she was unable to finish her sentence and with that she finally gave in.

As they arrived in Ponyville, Fluttershy brought herself to turn around to Soul Harmony and broke the subdued silence, which existed between both of them the whole way from Fluttershy's cottage to Ponyville, by asking him expectant: "What do you think, should we meet at Sugarcube Corner when you are finished? I mean... I-If you don't mind..."

Soul Harmony answered friendly:"It would be my pleasure. Let's say we meet there in... three hours?", and winked at her.

Fluttershy, who was still coy face to face with him, responded: "Okay, but... I-I won't need that long for my shopping, so I'll be there earlier. Should I reserve a cupcake for you? Or a muffin?"

Soul's eyes glared shortly and in anticipation of one of his most favorite snacks he said: "A muffin sounds good. If it's possible one with chocolate."

"Okay, I-I'll see you then..." Fluttershy turned away again and went to the sales booths.

Soul needed half an hour to find the residence of the pony who appointed him. Because almost every house in Ponyville looked the same he had to ask other ponies for it several times and not only once he ended up in front of the wrong house. Soul was surprised by how many ponies did not know an address in their own hometown. He even got confused by some of the answers - sometimes the ponies he asked had such a strong rural accent that it was impossible for him to even understand one single word. In that case he just mumbled a thanks and trotted away. Finally, he found the right domicile on the outskirts of Ponyville. From inside he could hear the dull wubs of dubstep music, what convinced him ultimately he was in front of the right house. He straightened his mane, cleared his throat and knocked on the wooden door.

From inside, a somewhat raspy female voice shouted, half stressed, half surprised, and almost not audible due to the loud music: "One moment! I'm coming!"