A Walk Through a Forest

Quill Tip looked at the scenery from the train window as it went by. It had been a while since the beige unicorn had left Canterlot. Even longer when his destination wasn't another major city. He turned to look at Feather Tip. The orange pegasus just looked right back at him.

“You don’t have to do this,” His sister said, “You’ve already been a big help in bringing those books and maps. There’s no reason for you to come.”

Quill looked at the saddle bag lying next to him. It was stuffed with books and maps, some that Dr. Hunt had asked for and some that Quill thought would be helpful, and then looked back at his sister. “I told the doctor that I would come with you on your expedition and that is what I’m doing,” he said firmly, “And anyway, it isn’t like this is my first time going out to a historical site for study”.

“This isn’t like one of those research trips you go on, Quill,” his sister said, frustration building in her voice, “this is a first in exploration group. Our job is to explore unknown areas for undiscovered ruins, temples, and artifacts. This is a job for trained explores and,” Feather paused, “and you’re just an author”.

This caused Quill to take a look at his flank. On it was his cutie mark, a quill and an inkwell. “I can do more then just wright,” he said quietly.

Feather looked down at the floor after he said that. “I know Quill,” she said quietly. “I know that you can offer a lot to an expedition,” she continued, “but I just want to make sure you’re safe”.

Quill couldn’t help but smile at this. He had said those exact same words to her once. Quill had been so worried for his little sister’s safety then and now the horseshoe was on the other hoof. “It’s not like I’m a helpless colt, I’ve been trained to defend myself with both magic and without,” he said.

“I know,” Feather Tip said. She was quiet for a while before she smiled and continued, “It’s not like I’ve ever been able to get anything through that thick skull of yours”.

“Look who’s talking,” Quill retorted, a smile equal to Feather’s on his face. They both sat their smiling for a while before Feather’s face became serious again as she looked into her brother’s eyes.

“Promise me,” she said before letting out a sigh, “Promise me you’ll stay safe”

“I will,” Quill said with equal seriousness.

Feather seemed to take this as the best she’d get because she lay down on her bench and went to sleep.

Quill turned his head to look back out the train window, trying to convince himself that what he just told his sister was true.