Her Most Faithful Servant

Dear Princess Celestia,

Today I learned that it's important to watch the small reactions and subconscious acts of ponies when holding a conversation. Reading those actions is the key to unlocking what their unspoken feelings may be. It’s much more than just recognizing the actions though. You have to use them and understand what they can mean for each individual. If bringing up a topic makes them uncomfortable, you know that you can recreate that feeling by bringing up that topic again or pressing for more info. In a way it's like being a lawyer. You watch and listen to their cases for small inconsistencies or anything they put emphasis on. Because, those things can be used as ammunition later.

I was curious about how we were going to find an example of this in our lesson today, but I didn’t even have to ask the question. I have no idea what my face must have looked like, but you were able to pull words out of my mouth for almost twenty minutes. Somehow, you were able to point out all of the subtle little things I did and what it meant I was thinking and feeling without me having to tell you. A slight head tilt when I was curious, a dart of my eyes when I was guilty, embarrassed or uncomfortable, and even something like direct eye contact when I wanted something. You could read me like a book.

I felt almost… violated. You intruded into my mind and picked me apart like an index. At the same time, I was in awe. How could you do that? I wanted to learn and the only answer I got was that it took time. I’d have to watch the other ponies and learn their different reactions to things. You had thousands of years to practice and hone your craft. Hopefully I can learn a thing or two in the next few weeks. I think I can do it. I think I’m beginning to see some of the subconscious reactions around me already. Like the servants at dinner wanting to comment that I was using the wrong fork for the salad. I knew it was wrong. I just wanted to see them react. It worked. I think I can get the hang of this.

Your Faithful Student,
Anon

P.S. I also learned and permanently burned into my mind to ask Princess Celestia what's on her mind when she bites her lip.