Chapters The day was not unlike others, Ater had invited an old alumni, Fay, to observe as he tried to break the approximate 12km range of gateways. It would be powered by four dark nexus set up in a square for stability around it.
A sinister construction, the dark nexus slowly but invariably pulls living creatures from around it inward to its center. Upon reaching the middle, the souls of the damned emerge from the nexus and tear the life force out of the creature. The dark nexus feeds on the life force, gaining a great deal of power. The power does come with a cost though, as the dark nexus will rapidly corrupt the area its in, so great is its evil. It produces a dark power that tends to increase efficiency and decrease stability.
Ater being aligned with Styx, had nothing to fear from such proximity to them while Fay, being aligned with Gaia, would have to make do with rooting to resist the pull.
"I assume your nexus are all at capacity? Do I even want to know how many creatures you had to feed them?"
Ater laughed as he answered, "It sure took awhile," then in an act of diplomacy continued, "no worries though, the majority were creatures I summoned."
Fay just sighed, "That might be worse than feeding it villagers."
"Oh I am sure a few foolish villagers got to close whilst I was sleeping, honestly they should thank me for helping weed their populace."
"Your morals aside, how far to the other gateway?"
"I went with 24km to avoid any who would try and deny the success on account of rounding."
"Well best of luck. Best get on with it though, I have a long journey ahead of me."
Ater patted Fay on the back before walking to the gateway and turning it on, "Longer than you may realize."
" ...You wouldn't."
"I would," Ater then teleported Fay,roots and all, into the gateway which promptly sent Fay along.
"Stereotypical dark mage, and they wonder why people all assume such bad things about them." After looking around Fay noticed a lack of gateway. "Well, serves him right." Being lost was of no true concern. It was a mighty inconvenience but, being nomadic by nature made being called for experiments like that natural, although as a courtesy people usually were clear about the role they expected to be performed. Fay turned around to walk in the direction of the sun, only to be greeted with the rift used to store useful things.
“Well that’s odd,” upon checking the spellbook it appeared that the rift spell was indeed the one currently marked; it had seemingly cast itself. Then the knowledge that there were no gloves on made the odd texture seen require a closer look. Achieving photosynthesis had always been the pinnacle of an alignment with Gaia but this… Thick twisted roots wound in thorny vines hidden under ivy, hands now a coil of excess vine with the feet being exposed roots spreading in a cross, likely for balance. Fay’s face appeared to be molded beech covered in fine moss with lavender stalks for hair that went to a leis of Calla flowers where the collarbone used to be. This was no longer emulation but outright transcendence into another form. Was it the travel or the location?
No matter, it had to wait. Either mana control was lost or the land itself had a surplus. Deciding to turn to a harmless spell that accelerated plant growth, Fay set the book down and put some distance between them. When the spell continued without Fay it became clear this land was not the one from which the gateway was located. Mana was supposed to be made in the body during metabolism and poured into spellpages, kept in binding for convenience, to activate a spell with the desired strength. Magic here must take a different form, most likely stronger than anything possible back home. Hopefully the locals are peaceful.
The rift now closed and the spellbook reclaimed, Fay walked towards the sun like planned, more vitalized than ever before. Eventually an isolated mountain with a castle perched on it could be seen with a village near the mountain’s base, a place to learn a whole new style of magic. With a new objective and joyful days ahead Fay headed for the village with vigor. Upon reaching the crest of a hill on the outskirts though that optimism faltered on seeing the residents.
A society of herbivores with a more powerful magic than Fay had previously thought feesable while in a brand new, entirely plant body with spells acting on their own... Society meant classes and classes meant distinctions had to be drawn usually through regular displays of power by obtaining rare resources, and Fay couldn't help but feel pretty rare. But the need to know is strong, this new land had such potential to open open all sorts of doors that were once walls.
An apple orchard could be seen which meant grafting was done regularly enough. Forcing the limb of an elder to take over the newborn body of another, a barbaric practice done out of ignorance or indifference. And for what, a more satisfying taste? Housing was built of wood rather than sturdier quarry for a good reason hopefully. The nearby forest however seemed free of their jurisdiction for whatever reason. Perhaps certain plants had superior rights? With any luck only fruit bearing trees were subjugated.
Curiosity won out in the end. The rift was opened once more and an ancient item was pulled out. An old cloak from the days in which harsh sunlight had to be feared and not welcomed. Herbivores should still be cautious of the unknown. Surely there were some predators out there they still had to fear? Walking covered entirely in cloth took a great deal of willpower and was much more exhausting than anticipated. New grass and flowers marked the slow progress Fay made towards the most official looking building. Many curious eyes watched the traveler approach Ponyville city hall. Hushed whispers over the nature of the trail but much more calm than during the early visits of Zecora, lessons having been learned.
The written word was lost on Fay but overhearing conversations showed that at least conversations remained. Once inside the city hall ponies went about their business once more, any creature that willingly approached government bureaucracy was likely very calm by nature.
The pony at the front desk greeted the guest with a chipper tone, “Welcome to Ponyville city hall. How can I help you today?”
With fatigue apparent in Fay’s voice, “I cannot read your language. For now, can you give me the abridged foreign relation policy? Anything important you think might concern me.”
“Travelers are granted all the rights of citizens excluding, suffrage and property rights.”
That could be a lot of rights or very little, can’t be helped mustn't appear too ignorant, “What kind of foods are available?”
“Meat is not sold inside city limits to avoid upsetting citizenry, but we have a wide variety of fruits and vegetables for sale in the market on main street, as well as a few rarer delicacies exclusively at BLANK fine dining. They have quite the skilled chef. There is also the Cake’s bakery,’ Sugar Cube Corner’ and Berry Punch’s ‘Lift your Spirits’ liquor store.”
Yeah sure, all the same rights. You don’t want to see your kind eaten near you, why would you? Carnivores just need to suck it up, clearly. I can let fruits slide, it is made to be eaten and spread, but vegetables… That's just another name for the roots and leaves of those plants you enjoy the most. I never knew any sugar personally but I am sure the refining process is not pleasant. As for liquor, isn't that where the fruit is sealed and allowed to rot until it is deemed fermented enough and is toxic to the drinker? That seems bad for both parties. What is the point? Careful to keep the calm facade up,“Thank you. Is there a place of learning in town I might be able to visit tomorrow?”
“Golden Oaks Library, it’s in the large tree in town, hard to miss.”
… In the tree… They don’t care at all do they? Is this even worth this risk? The cloak seems to be doing the trick though, and they don’t seem to be trying to force it off of me for some cultural rule. A quick trip to the library should be enough to know if I should bail or not. Fay couldn't avoid being hopeful and optimistic, with the reply being brighter than perhaps would be seen as natural, “Thank you miss, I will be there early should the caretaker need to know.” With that Fay turned and just as slowly left the building. Casually heading for the free forest with plans to enjoy the remaining sunlight.
A smile was on the clerk’s face, “I imagine Twilight will get along nicely with that one. Not many sound so excited when planning a trip to the library.” She made sure to write a memo to have delivered before tomorrow. With some prior notice the local librarian might be able to set up something truly worth anticipating.
Author's Note
Comments are helpful.
Editx1) Ran through it again and hopefully caught all the punctuation this time. Comma splices have been vanquished
The residents of Golden Oak Library were up early this morning, one of them by choice. Yesterday had been a long day ever since they received word that they should expect a guest who would be arriving early the next, that is to say today. Now guests to the library were rare enough but this was a traveler who chose the library as their 'first' destination.
“Twilight all I am saying is that even if Pencil Pusher was right about him looking forward to the library as much as she claimed, that doesn't mean we have to stay up late and get up early preparing. And besides early means different things to different ponies. Maybe he meant before lunch?"
"Spike, this traveler came all this way to learn. The least we can do is make sure everything is perfect for him or her. Can you go and get some fresh apples from AJ before they arrive?"
Spike grumbled as he made his way to the door, "Yeah, yeah." Upon opening the door he was greeted with an unusual sight. "Whoa! Dude that's creepy." A tall cloaked being loomed in front of the open door unmoving with a crow perched on it. "Uh, no can do Twi."
"What? Why?" Twilight called from the kitchen while preparing a pot of coffee.
"They are already here." Spike called back and then continued under his breath, "Wasn't kidding about being early."
Twilight hurried over to greet their mysterious guest. "Welcome to Golden Oaks Library, please do come in," to which there was no reply.
The two glanced to each other while the crow cawed at them. Spike decided to voice a thought, "Do you think they are still asleep?"
"What? Don't be silly. Who would sleep outside a building to make sure they get there right when it opens?"
"Somepony who doesn't know when the building opens or has no way to tell time."
"There is a clock tower and the directions would come with the hours of operation."
"Look, they haven't moved at all and there is a crow on them. Either they are asleep or really focused on something," to prove his point spike decided to shake them awake. At the very least the crow decided to go find somewhere else to perch.
"Spike, that's rude."
Slowly the cloaked figure shifted. "See Twilight, I told you they were asleep. It's unnatural to be awake this early." Twilight wanted to comment on which aspect of this was truly unnatural but the guest spoke up first.
"Good morning, please allow me a moment to convince my body to move." They could see its legs tremble underneath the cloak as if there truly was an internal battle of wills going on about moving from that spot. It did not take to long before the guest stepped forward. The cloaked one looked at the sunrise before commenting, “Earlier than I expected, a pleasant surprise.”
“Well honestly we don’t normally open this early. Didn’t Pencil Pusher tell you when we open when you asked where the library was?” Twilight asked.
“I was only told to look for a tree which would be hard to miss. I am glad to see it healthy.” Looking over the tree, “Going the extra distance to keep it healthy was very thoughtful.”
Twilight would have to have some words with Pencil later. “I imagine it was mostly done for the sake of appearance though. It is a bit brisk out, do come inside.” Twilight noticed the grass where the guest stood was taller than the neighboring region and had spouted blooming poppies that most certainly were not there the day before when she closed the door behind them. She introduced them to the guest, “I am Twilight Sparkle and this is my assistant Spike.”
Fay replied with a slight bow, “Greetings esteemed bookkeeper, I am Fay the vagabond.”
Spike had to know the reason for half of his problem and he took care not to sound upset, “So, uh, Fay, why sleep outside the library? It’s not going anywhere, no need to get up early or anything.”
Fay’s answer was heartfelt, “I wished to avoid the crowd if at all possible.”
Twilight chuckled awkwardly, “Yeah, library being such a popular place and all, waiting for your turn at a book would take away from the experience.” Twilight couldn’t help but feel slightly envious of a place where libraries were truly appreciated by the public as Fay seemed to be implying. “What can we help you with today?”
Pulling out a book, “If I am lucky, nothing,” Fay set the book down on a table and waited a moment while looking around. Twilight and Spike waited in silence trying to avoid being rude to the culture of the foreigner. “A shame, it was worth a shot though.”
Spike had more experience than most with books sitting around, “It's just a book. What did you expect?”
Fay held up the book and explained, “This is my Arcane Compendium. It is a mystic tome that contains all the knowledge of my land’s magic. I have never heard of it being updated but nothing ventured nothing gained.”
Twilight was curious of another culture’s magic and levitated the book to herself to have a look, “Uh, its blank.”
It appears this culture needs to be learned first for safety before I can get anywhere, “Where I am from such an action is seen as very rude. I ask that you refrain yourself in the future.”
Twilight smiled sheepishly, “It is here too.
Fay continued, “The Arcane Compendium only shows knowledge you have earned from the basic foundation up to advanced topics. It serves to prevent accidents from a lack of proper understanding. I have yet to gain access to everything in it myself. Although, there are those who would try and get around this by asking the book’s owner for the knowledge instead.”
Twilight tried to transition as politely as possible back on track, “So… since your compendium didn't work out, what kind of books are you looking for today?”
Fay looked down in shame, “I am unable to read your language, your books would be useless to me.” Fay made for the door dejected, “I should be on my way.”
“Now there is no reason for that, we can read them to you.”
“I couldn’t selfishly waste the time of a bookkeeper like that. Simply being given access to them despite being an alien is more than I could have asked for.”
Spike shouted in surprise, “You’re an alien!”
Fay voiced the confusion felt, “Does that mean something different here? I am not a resident of your country, I thought my appearance, even cloaked, was enough to tell that?”
Twilight clarified for both parties, “Spike reads too many comic books, most ponies would know what you were referring to. On the topic, why are you cloaked? Is it too cold in here for you? We could build a fire if you like.”
Fay’s response was nearly instant and vehement enough to warrant a follow up excuse, “No, that’s quite all right.” Sighing upon noticing the mistake and stalling for a suitable response, “To be seen uncloaked would require an intimate level of trust.”
This gave Twilight an idea, “Why not read them to you, not as a bookkeeper but a friend? I can teach you some things you want to know and you can teach me some things.”
“But what of your duties to society as bookkeeper?”
Twilight waved off the concern, “I will still be around if they need me. It is just us right now and times like this happen more often than you would think.”
Fay considered this while grasping the worn cloth that was all that served for protection from this society of those that eat plants, all wielding an unknown magic stronger than once seemed feasible.
Twilight’s keen eye saw the similarity to Fluttershy’s fear of crowds. With nopony to support Fay all this time, growing self-conscious over appearance when all eyes are naturally drawn was understandable. Fay was a vagabond after all, and the cloak was old and worn. “Come on Fay, I think you could do with a visit to my friend Rarity.” Twilight all but dragged Fay who struggled to sufficiently refuse while Spike followed closely, never one to miss a trip to Rarity’s boutique.
Author's Note
If you can see where this is going I am truly impressed because I can't tell at all.
Comments are nice.
Editx1) It is odd seeing the punctuation I missed. And the trend of comma splice into non marked question is cause for concern. Should all be better now.
Fay would have been dragged along if such a thing wouldn't risk an unfavorable upcloak viewing angle. Instead Fay was trying to voice reason while walking beside Twilight and Spike, “I will concede to the possibility of your point about the library not always being used. But if you are not even there how will you know that to be the case? As such I must insist you return to your post. No one will be denied opportunity as a result of my actions."
Twilight couldn't help but smile at Fay's antics, "Oh how noble of you. I can see it pains you so having to give up our trip to Rarity's together."
The sarcasm was lost on Fay, "The seat of vagabond gives rise to events like this worth lament. Vagabond such as I, must strive to never hinder a society that tolerates, lest we become a nuisance and unwelcome guests."
This trip could easily turn into a double act, Twilight of a few years ago would never believe she would be in the position of banana pony, Fay making a fantastic dead wood. Apparently, Fay needed some time to grow accustomed to pony conversational norms. Twilight decided against keeping the charade going, "Fay, remember how I told you we don't normally open this early? It isn't a small deviation from the average, it is an outlier of occurrence. Not many ponies even wake up this early."
Not just ponies actually, Spike added, "Nor do they want to."
Twilight had a feeling this wouldn't be the last time Spike complained about getting up early this morning, "Thanks for the contribution Spike."
Spike's mood was improving given the destination and allowed himself to feel smug, "Happy to help."
Twilight getting back on topic, "I can assure you Fay, nopony will be let down that the library is closed right now, nor would anypony find it strange."
Fay wouldn't give up that easily, using the new angle presented, "Then what of your friend, Rarity? Surely she will be inconvenienced by our knocking her up, as you have said is most likely the result."
Spike and Twilight were caught off guard by that, "What?"
Fay sighed and explained, "Our arrival is marked by knocking on the door, which awakens your friend and causes her to get up and out of bed. It appears even my speech, our most shared trait, is alien after all."
Spike stepped up to the plate and consoled Fay, "Don't worry about it Fay, Twilight here says things nopony understands, all the time."
"Yes, well, speaking differently may cause confusion at times but these differences also make talking to others that much more interesting. That being said you raise a fair point, Rarity does love her beauty sleep." Twilight stopped walking to consider things, which in turn lead to them all stopping. 'I should go.' Did go mean leave Ponyville or visit the next planned site in Ponyville? Sleeping outside a library for unreadable books. It didn't seem beyond Fay to simply leave without saying anything and never actively plan on returning. Oh how nice it would be to simply ask and move from there, but how would such a question be received?
Twilight didn't seem to be in any hurry to continue so Spike chatted with Fay, "...So... what brings you to these parts?"
"I am passing through on accounts of an old acquaintance's experiment requiring my presence."
"A friend from before you were a vagabond?"
"No."
"No to them being a friend or to them being from before you became a vagabond?"
"We merely studied together. He is not beyond using me for an experiment to keep himself safe from any possible fallout, not what I would call a friend. What makes you think there was a time before I was a vagabond?"
"Just the way you said it is all. You made it sound like you chose to be a vagabond, not something that was thrust upon you by circumstance."
"I suppose. I always did seem to distance myself from my kind, more literally recently."
"I remember when I saw the great dragon migration and wonder what it meant to be a dragon. Yeah, I learned who I am is not the same as what I am. They were a bunch of jerks."
To be a manifest of the action of sudden abrupt motion, so a group of individuals who are against smooth motion. Sudden changes being unfavorable making them... rude. "A wise lesson, but what you are does factor into how you interact with things almost as much as who you are."
"As the least dragon-like dragon around, I would have to disagree with you there."
"It changes what fears you, based on what you eat; where you can live, based on the climate you can tolerate; and even something as simple as your perspective, based on how tall you are. Looking up at something verse looking down upon it changes more than you might think. There are many things you don't choose based on what you are that change how you react to things. A bird looks very different to a bear than to a worm after all."
Could that be what all this is? Fay, being nomadic walks a fine line with foreign societies already. Whether cultural or personal in origin Fay refuses to hinder any visited land in the slightest. It could explain the head to toe cloak. Time to test the hypothesis, "Right, let's go eat breakfast first. That way Rarity will be up by the time we arrive without us waking her."
Leave it to Twilight to take so long to reach a decision as simple as eating before or during a visit to a friends, "Sounds good. Where at?"
There is no way to eat without removing part of the cloak and no explanation for my refusal to dine, "I am afraid for personal reasons, I will be unable to dine with you."
Twilight felt understanding lighten the burden previously felt, "I figured as much. Fay it doesn't matter to me." Fay only confirmed three things after all: What was allowed, what food was available, and where a place of learning was located. It's why asking Pencil Pusher for the library stood out so much in the first place.
I bet it doesn't matter to you. It's not you risking the platter next. "Could you truly sit casually with one who eats that which is not unlike yourself?"
Twilight felt she was getting through to Fay, "I could if presented the opportunity."
"Then you are of a stronger fortitude than I, and many others I suspect. I shall trust you to keep it to yourself in any case, not all can be expected to be so understanding like an esteemed bookkeeper." Fay would need to be more cautious, bookkeeper or not, a pony had found out.
Fay was probably right in that not many would be so accepting without knowing Fay. Judgement and rumors must be that much more important to keep to the high ethic policy set forth, "My friend Rarity is a seamstress. If you come with us to visit her I am sure she can make you something that would free you from the worry of somepony judging you on appearance." This might be her best bet to gaining Fay's trust as an individual and not an 'esteemed bookkeeper', "At the very least... nothing ventured..."
Could the sting of regret be worth than the steam of a pot? Fay remained silent for a time, "... nothing gained." With that Twilight lead the way to Carousel Boutique once more.
" ...So does that mean no breakfast?"
Author's Note
I always fear my style of dialogue is off putting. I rather like the pacing I have for this story. Anywho there is a lot of dramatic irony in this one. It just feels so natural I can' help myself.
editx1) Didn't see much in need of an edit. 2 questions without marks even after pointing this out from the other chapters.
The time had finally dawned on Fay. There was little chance of escape. They stood at the threshold of carousel boutique and Twilight had knocked a little while ago allowing some time to the owner before presenting an echo once more. The passing of time was not kind to Fay's nerves, "I warned this visit would catch her napping, and to knock once more would risk her snapping; snapping being no way to start the day, let's leave post haste, lest her mood we decay."
Twilight’s couldn't help but be in high spirits as another cloaked visitor who spoke in rhyme would not be subjected to the same misjudgments from Ponyville’s past mistake."Rarity wouldn't be mad over an early visit, no need to be so nervous"
To so easily see through Fay's visage, bookkeepers truly live up to their image, "I can assure my nerves implore no more. You would imply I choose a sly deny? Is this not the normal style of speech, to grace the ears of one we will beseech?"
To Spike though, it felt like an attempt to exclude him from the conversation, "Even if that was the case, she is inside still. Do you really need to start talking like that now?"
Before Fay could provide an articulate retort the door was opened. "Sorry to keep you waiting. Had to make sure I looked my best when I saw you came with a guest."
Now with a clear view inside, ties to the high class were implied, "I don't mean to doubt your sagacity, but work done by such a celebrity; I wish simply to not stand out too much, not to turn heads, I need a subtle touch. Should a rude fanatic ignore boundary, it is I who burden discovery. And so, with prejudice I must decline any that she might have chosen to design."
Despite the claims put forth by Fay, they would not work, at least today. While speaking to say no to her, Fay spoke praise like a true good ser. "Who is you charming friend Twilight, whom I shall show a celebrity of my caliber, is capable of craft both big and small."
Well a little preemptive ego stroking isn't a bad thing I suppose, Twilight introduced, "This is Fay, who is a little socially shy due to personal appearance. I was hoping you could help remedy that."
These pony customs are quite forceful, I doubt they should ever feel remorseful. "Does my speech no longer produce a sound? Did I not just give a counter expound?"
Spike had been in similar positions more than he would like, "Sorry Fay, your opinion no longer matters to them anymore."
Twilight gave her official endorsement of her friend, "Rarity is the best seamstress in Ponyville and in the top tier of all Equestria, as well as my friend. I trust in her skill and her discretion. If you want to not worry about your looks anymore than Rarity here is the pony for you."
There is nothing to be gained by retreat, Fay sighed and began a heartfelt entreat, "If the esteemed bookkeeper should say so, then who am I to go and rush a no. Just know that the result will be my route, for better or worse, if even cast out. Nomad as I need not try to retain, leaving here will not be done in disdain. I shall put faith in your work, Rarity, although it is vagabond charity."
Twilight whispered to Rarity, "Long story short, Fay believes being seen is grounds for leaving. A librarian's time can't be wasted, apparently, so I need to convince Fay that we can talk as friends. Sorry to put this on you, with no warning."
Rarity observed Fay’s unique frame before responding, "It's fine dear, it is not often one gets a foreign model to work with. You can count on me."
"I am in your care seamstress.” Fay turned to address Twilight, “The process will likely be timely and your duty to society trumps any obligation you may feel is owed to me. You should return to your post."
As if responding to a naggy mom, "Yes Fay," Twilight smiled as she left, "Glad you are feeling more at ease." Twilight lifted Spike and trotted back to Golden Oak.
Spike grumbled, "Really? But we just got here.”
After they were gone Rarity spoke up, "Let's get your measurements then."
Fay asked the source question that cause the panic in the first place, "The measurements require me uncloaked?"
It is always a shame when somepony thinks they are ugly. Nothing a good makeover can’t fix, "I lack a mannequin stand in that would work for you. If you are to have proper clothes I will need to be able to make measurements for them."
After looking around at all the windows, "Is there some place more private for such an activity?"
Rarity led them to her workshop where they continued, "Nopony will see you in here."
Before making a bold move by uncloaking Fay reminded Rarity, "You are not to speak of what you saw." Upon receiving confirmation in the form of a pinkie promise Fay removed the cloak and stood both naked and nude.
Rarity let out a loud gasp in surprise. Such natural beauty hidden under the unseemly cloak. She spoke under her breath, "Why would you hide yourself?" Although it wasn't exactly difficult to figure out why a plant would hide in a land of ponies.
There were loud thuds marking the approach of another, Fay darted for the curtains where Rarity kept works to be presented, when a little one burst through the door, "Rarity, I can explain." Then seeing her sister alone. "What was that?"
Just what Rarity needed, "What do you mean you can explain?"
Noticing her sister had not yet found out Sweetie decided to seek counsel, "... That I will be going to see the cutie mark crusaders early today?"
Priorities Rarity, there is a time and place for everything, "You are lucky now is not a good time. Go have fun, we will finish this conversation later."
Once the little one was gone Fay reemerged cloaked once more. "The will of the RNG has been made clear. I must leave this place to mystery or suffer the consequences. It's been a pleasure Rarity, goodbye forever," and after a small bow Fay headed for the exit in the usual slow pace.
Shortly after Fay left Rarity followed suit and made her way to Golden Oaks to deliver the bad news passing Fay one last time on the streets outside.
Author's Note
Took longer than it should have. Stopped at the DYNAMIC ENTRY then got side tracked by this and that for awhile. Hope the silly quirk I chose doesn't bother too many readers.
Anywho, Happy Earth Day. Let potted plants free and don't mash those potatoes. Spare the spud.
Fay was deep in enemy lines. The destination was the forest of the free but there was a good deal of village to get through and the pathing would bring Fay uncomfortably close to the orchard and its owner(s). The streets were still relatively clear compared to the day before, apparently it was still on the early side for the populace. The bookkeeper through hidden means, the seamstress through a hopeful gambit, and the little one through impropriety, thankfully lacking in guile... Far more exposure than acceptable. Truly the one lacking guile was not the little one. Perhaps too much time spent as a hermit to socialize properly, soon it wouldn't matter, for now though descending from the heavens was a sky blue impediment. Things would be fine if the preemptive retreat is not interrupted.
How could somepony be up early enough to finish their business in town before the town is even awake? "Hey Zecora, heading back so soon."
Fay felt the force of foregoing folly and froze, constraing communication causing the company confusion over the covert compatriot’s continence to conversation.
Rainbow Dash continued her decent not entirely awake. "I didn't mean to imply anything. Just didn't know you came to town this early is all."
Eager for escape from endangerment, "Zecora is not here, tis only Fay. The flora beckon me, have a nice day."
Having reached a proper altitude to notice the different build from her friend. "Oh, sorry about that. You speak just like her though, and that is saying something. You a friend of Zecora?"
Civility caused conversation to continue not cease clearly the case for coarse conduct, "A triangle neither acute nor right much like this pegasus still in flight. Without wings I fly above this ones head. Cannot find meaning without being lead? Allow me to make it perfectly clear, I am through with ponies and staying here!" Averting allocation of additional argument, Fay abandons the area to advance the adventure.
Rainbow Dash remained there awhile, stunned. Never before had she even considered an egghead being so rude. In the end it was too early and she had better things to do, so she went on her way deciding to not give a hay. With some time before the planned early morning shower she decided to stop by those of her friends who were early morning risers.
Rarity brought the news of events involving Fay to Twilight, who was needless to say distraught. A whole branch of magic and culture just walking away.
Rainbow's entrance went unnoticed as Rarity watched Twilight pace about the library. "Hey Rarity, what's eating at Twilight?"
Rainbow had good timing, Twilight would probably need her friends to calm her down or she would blow this out of proportion. "Oh, good morning Rainbow. There was a guest in town Twilight was hoping to exchange academic knowledge of some sort. It didn't work out."
Chance had brought Fay here and now chance had taken Fay away, most likely far away. There were no records she had seen of such a culture. She had studied all types of magic back at Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns and yet no record of this culture likely due to the secrecy they held with their approach to knowledge as the Arcane Compendium had shown. But not even a footnote, as far as she could remember. Perhaps a censor brought forth by an international agreement. Fay acted like knowledge was seeked and feared so that wouldn't be too much a stretch.
Sure sounded like Twi to get worked up over something like not being allowed to share notes, "I can get that, but why is she zoned out like this?"
Probably making a mountain out of a molehill most likely, "Trying to make sense of the logic behind one who loves learning leaving without learning anything I suppose."
And in order to be fair neither side would be given anything in regards to the others discoveries. Fay who seeked forbidden knowledge needed secrecy and to avoid getting the attention of officials, explaining away odd behavior like camping outside a library and an aversion to causing any inconvenience to locals. "There is only one explanation. Fay is a spy."
"What? A spy! Is Fay the unusual looking robed fellow?" To think she let a spy just walk away like that. Spies meant somepony was plotting something nefarious.
Twilight finally noticed Rainbow's presence, "You've met Fay?"
Rainbow was regretting letting such a shady character simply walk off "Yeah, thought it was Zecora leaving town so I went to say hi. Seemed nice enough at first but got real rude real fast. That no good... We can't just let a spy sneak away," with that Rainbow flew off to chase down the spy.
Twilight levitated a parchment and quill and began writing a report for Princess Celestia, "If a nation truly sent Fay to spy ignoring an international agreement with Equestira... The princess will want to know about this."
Rainbow had clearly read to many adventure books, if only it had been down to earth Apple Jack, "Darling, don't you think you are over reacting a little."
Twilight had Spike send the letter before responding, "Over reacting! You know what Fay really is too. Don't you think Fay's kind wouldn't like how much power Equestria has?"
Rarity could not deny that, "Of course not, but that doesn't mean-"
Rainbow doesn't know Fay is capable of some sort of magic does she? "Rainbow Dash is going to need my help to capture Fay."
Rarity stood in the library with Spike, sighing, "Oh dear."
Despite his closeness to Royalty and politics Spike didn't always understand the subtleties, "So uh, Rarity, if Twilight is really over reacting what would happen from trying to capture Fay?"
Wrongful detainment of an innocent, especially by one so close to Princess Celestia would certainly cause a political mess. For somepony so smart, Twilight sure had some moments causing one to doubt that, "Confound it," Rarity hurried after her friends hoping to stop them from doing something they will regret.
Author's Note
Sorry for the wait, my outline was too general and too much time had passed for me to easily continue. Still regardless of what I was going to do I rather like this turn of events. I certainly regret my choice to make Fay poetic at times but reading that insult to myself is fantastic. I highly recommend you say it out loud it just rolls of the tongue, its so nice and fluid. Also if your geometry is not fresh there are three triangle types acute, right, and obtuse.
Anywho, as much as I want to promise that a follow up chapter is in the near future, my track record says I can make no such promise. I have another project in mind but I don't want to drop this so perhaps that will encourage me to step up my work ethic.
I like to think I kept the pace natural but feel free to tell me otherwise. Also watch me have missed question marks again.
The early bright seemed avoided by Fay's plight, which is quite alright, and with the forest in sight Fay just might get to avoid a fight, alas the Rainbow returned bringing spite. The antecedent aberrations accord appeared annulled by an agent of animosity. The current velocity would overtake any sprint attempt, likewise sprinting upon sight would squash any attempt of further conflict resolution. A bridge must have been burned as Fay stood upon the wrong side of a canyon, so close yet the short path denied.
Fay turned and awaited, fortify for freedom, well traveled routes are watched by predators the correct path may not always be smooth, " Once more it seems I must greet you good morn, and yet here you return bearing me scorn. I came across as rude I know but still, if you wish to converse let your blood chill." Civility required patience but had gotten better results in the long term if this angry avion was any indication.
Rainbow Dash landed goal side forcing Fay to turn once more. Just like last time it seems, polite as long as things are going your way. "I thought you were odd, but espionage in Ponyville... who sent you? Why did you come here?"
Accusations of espionage were unexpected. Perhaps a dabble of truth to sate this investigation. "An acquaintance and alumni, Ater, nothing pony in this private matter. At first I thought I might not need go back, but he would seek and I a simple track. Simply mistake brings me here, merely chance, and back I go so that we may enhance. It would be wise not to make him to wait. He would be quite irate if I am late. He is a tad cruel on a good day, as such I would like to be on my way."
Rainbow had expected Fay to be defensive not give an honest sounding answer. It would help if she knew why Twilight thought Fay was a spy. Clearly though if she didn't leave when she did Fay would be lost to the Everfree. "While we wait for Twilight to give you clearance for take off, mind telling me why you are heading for the Everfree Forest."
What a glorious name, truly what Fay was hoping to hear. "I do not choose which direction is right. I won't lie that it is to my delight. I find myself at peace among plant life, and you can trust they won't pull out a knife. As for hunters that live in there as well, I can defend myself with a few spell."
Spell... as in magic, like a Unicorn. " I've never heard of anything beside a unicorn being capable of spells."
Twilight had finally caught up, having run after Rainbow Dash not knowing the final destination. "If Fay is to be believed his kind, mostly, are unaware of a different creature being capable of spells. Yet despite this mutual censorship, Fay here, came to me seeking information on how we do magic. Claiming to not know our laws on foreigners so that keeping cloaked won't seem strange when griffins and dragons go about out in the open."
The book keeper had been trying to prevent departure through various means. "You are the source of this, book keeper? I had thought you better. Clearly not learning your culture before approaching your kind was a bigger mistake than I had thought. Your inaccurate conclusion would imply poor logic or assumption much like a student, not an esteemed book keeper. Hopefully this is not the truth and you are simply of darker alignment and lying to this one so that unknown knowledge does not escape your grasp."
While true it still hurt a little, "I may be a student but I am Princess Celestia's number one student."
That adds a lot of perspective to Fay's relationship with Ater. "Ater isn't forcing you to help him is he?"
What an odd thing to ask, "He asked for aide to advance our knowledge. There is no reason to not acknowledge. He may be dark but his path is the same, although my path does not follow his aim. I make no claim to know his final goal, and it does not matter I play my role."
Helping an admitted dark figure complete some nefarious plot is one thing but trying to get Twilight be an unwitting co-conspirator was taking it to another level. Charging up her horn and taking a more aggressive stance, "You are going to come with me until I can contact the Princess on proper criminal proceedings as agreed upon by our nations."
The bookkeeper may not know after all. Take the pace, set the tempo, victory is within grasp. "I am going to have to refuse. I would be a terrible nomad if I was unable to defend myself." Taking out the spellbook, Fay turned to the summon spell as its high activation threshold should allow a semblance of control. "Will you be a student once more and act on assumptions of my capability?" Fear of the unknown is in all but the apex.
Rarity had finally arrived. She hadn't seen which way Twilight had went and had to ask around, which wasn't easy considering how few ponies were out to see her in the first place. "Twilight there is a big misunderstanding here."
Twilight quickly explained so Rarity wouldn't get too close. "Rarity, Fay admitted to helping a shady alumni with plots unknown."
It was as she feared, "And that is exactly what I am talking about. You are assuming that means the same thing to us ponies as it does to Fay."
Rainbow had the least exposure to Fay and hadn't heard any of the questionable phrasing. "Why wouldn't it?"
Rarity groaned as words didn't appear they would be enough and removed Fay's cloak via her magic.
Twilight and Rainbow may have stood stunned if Fay hadn't taken that as a sign of open hostility, "The shadow of the flower falls on the vortex and knows no fear. You have brought this upon yourselves."
Fay's obsession with books made that much more sense seeing as they also served as the spell matrix. Twilight attempted to forcefully remove the book from Fay, while Rainbow seemed to be on the same page going in for a tackle.
Fay was pouring in the necessary mana as the blue pegasus blitzed when there was a surge of power causing the spell to surpass the usual highest threshold. The spell activated and violently summoned an unbound knight fiend. Recognizing it for the rouge it was and the threat it posed, Fay turned and ran for the forest uncaring of the fallout.
Rainbow collided with the creature that had appeared in front of her which quickly focused on the equines who needed to learn their place like the spriggan-like creature that fled. Twilight took a moment to recover from the shock of her magic being repurposed.
Author's Note
Kinda a cruel place to end a chapter but I need more time to plan such a scene and "secretly" I don't want any chapter length outliers. In other news I am considering placing this in the group "Human in Equestria" folder "Aliens in Equestria" to hopefully get the story some more attention. I don't think I ever went to check the last chapter for errors after publishing like normal. My ongoing questions have marks tally might be off.
Thoughts on chapter and/or placing this in said group.