Talking Is Hard

by Leoshi

Rating: everyone
Tags: Random, Slice of Life, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Main 6, Other, Spike, Cutie Mark Crusaders
Length: 16928

Short, practice snippets of dialogue between characters. Absolutely nothing else.

Writing can be a tough hobby. Sometimes a writer can try for days or weeks to find that perfect scene that the story needs. Sometimes that writer will spiral into distractions in the vain hope of finding their spark. Sometimes their muse will run off with a younger, sexier version. All of that leaves the story unloved.

In those times, the writer can choose to try something different. Something basic.

Short, unplanned practice sessions that are entirely dialogue between characters. Absolutely no other detail or narrative is given. This is an experiment in dialogue, through dialogue, because dialogue is my weakness.
Inspired by the always-amazing Table for Two by KitsuneRisu. Prompted after five hours of laying awake in bed.
Featured: no. 10 (4/10/17, 4/17/17)

Published 2016-04-03 09:40:01 UTC
Last updated 2017-12-31 07:09:59 UTC

Distractions

"All right, young filly, that's the fourth time I've caught you staring into empty space."

"Oh! I'm sorry."

"Being sorry is well and good, but being distracted will not do your homework for you. Do try and stay focused."

"...Rarity?"

"Yes?"

"Can...I ask you something...about you?"

"About me? Hm. Well, is it important? Because you must complete this assignment to make up for last week."

"Please?"

"Oh...this is what's distracting you, isn't it?"

"Mm-hmm."

"Very well. Come over here and sit with me. Now, what is on your mind?"

"Why do you never visit Momma and Dad?"

"Oh? Sweetie Belle, I thought I had explained this to you. I run an active tailoring shop and simply must meet my goals if I am to stay a success."

"But you are a success. You have a shop in Canterlot, and another in Manehatten in a couple months. You never seem to need extra money, and you always have time for your friends."

"Oh, darling, it's not like that."

"I hear Momma and Dad talking sometimes."

"Talking?"

"About you. I mean, they're proud and all. We all are. But sometimes, they just mention how you never come down to our house, and then they just go quiet for a while."

"Oh, dear."

"Yeah... I always mention how great of a sister you are, and how much time you make so I can visit here and play with my friends. Sometimes Dad will just blurt out how he and Momma are also busy, but I know it's not the same. Fishing and decorating always seem to stop after a certain point, you know?"

"Have...ahem. Has this been going on for long?"

"Rarity! I told you about this last winter!"

"Did you?"

"I-I'm sure I did, anyway..."

"I'm terribly sorry, Sweetie Belle. You know how demanding the holiday season gets, and I am no exception. If you told me, I fear I might have missed it beneath my work load. I'm sorry."

"Yeah, and we understand that. You have a business to keep. Momma praised you for not going crazy last Hearth's Warming."

"Did she? Ahhaha... I may not have deserved that. Why, there was this one order..."

"Hey!"

"Hm?"

"I'm trying to be serious here!"

"Ahem. Apologies. It's a fond memory. I should tell you the story sometime."

"Can't you tell us?"

"Sweetie Belle..."

"You're in charge of your own franchise, and we love you. But I don't like it when Momma just gets quiet when I mention you. I don't want Dad to just sigh and grunt when I tell him what you've been up to. It's not fair, Rarity. They talk about you like you're in some far-away place, when you're just in the heart of town!"

"Sweetie, don't cry."

"Then tell me why! Do you not like visiting them? Do you hate that part of town? Did the three of you have a fight or something?"

"No! Goodness, no, nothing like that! I'm just...so very busy!"

"Not so busy...that you n-never...have time f-for your friends!"

"Hey, now! That's not fair!"

"It totally is! If A-Applejack or Princess Tw-Twilight came here, you would drop everything to talk with them!"

"Sweetie Belle, please-"

"You can't tell m-me that I'm wrong!"

"I...I only meant..."

"Go on. Finish y-your thought."

"I just meant...well, I merely thought that..."

"What? Do you even know?"

"...Oh dear. You're...right."

"What?"

"You're right, Sweetie Belle. I can't tell you that you're wrong, because I am the one in the wrong. I had no idea that my absence was causing so much sadness at the household."

"You can just call it home, Rarity. And of course you didn't know, because you're never there."

"I just...ahh. No, no, you're right about that, too. Goodness, I've been rather disrespectful to Mother and Father...and to you."

"You st-hic...you still haven't answered the question, you know."

"Yes, I know. And I don't have one. Or, at least, any that I can give are just excuses."

"Oh."

"After what you've told me, I think you deserve better than that. As do they."

"Rarity? Where are you going?"

"Not far! I need to send a letter to my colleagues, to tell them I'll be taking a little family vacation."

"Really? Wait. Can you do that?"

"Well, it certainly won't be the popular decision by any means. But Sassy Saddles and I agree that the season is due to slow down by this time next month, so I can risk spending a few days away from my thread and needle!"

"That's great!"

"Ah-ah! Don't celebrate too much, darling. I'm willing to do better, but I still have several shops to run. I cannot guarantee that this will be a regular thing. It will require planning, no different than when I spend time with you outside of town."

"Ugh. You went with your friends too!"

"Yes, and it was no exception."

"Hmph!"

"Oh, Sweetie Belle, please understand. I am on the precipice of achieving my lifelong dream. I can't bear to let it slip away, not when I'm so close to being fully independent. Did you know that Sassy Saddles has asked for my opinion on new tailors and seamstresses?"

"No?"

"Well, it means that the Canterlot Boutique is doing so well, we can afford to hire more full-time specialists to maintain the clothing line. I hope to reach similar levels of success with the Manehatten branch by this time next year, and the same for a few more locations across Equestria. And that means I won't need to work so hard to create new lines for each shop. All I would need to do is send them a drawing and a list of materials."

"Wow. That's a lot of work for just one pony."

"Well, after I find a manager for the Manehatten shop, it'll be a lot of work for three ponies!"

"Heheheh!"

"Anyway, if I can just keep going strong for another few years, I plan to have entire teams doing the work for me. I still intend to continue my craft here in Ponyville, of course, and when that time comes, I'll be just as available as I was before I opened this shop. Remember those days?"

"Barely. I think I was still learning to walk!"

"You had just learned. And we found a lot of hiding places thanks to your little adventures."

"I would get lost?"

"Constantly. But! That is also a story for another day."

"Awh. I want to hear it!"

"After your homework is done, Sweetie Belle."

"Okay, fine. Hey, Rarity?"

"Yes?"

"You're serious, right? You'll try to visit home more often?"

"I will. It's past time I try to talk some fashion sense into Mother again. I doubt I'll change her mind, but I know she likes the sparring!"

Author's Note

Based on my own personal experience.

Adrenaline

"Ugh."

"There you are! I was so worried! I heard what happened."

"Of course you did."

"Are you... Is this a bad time?"

"Bad time? Really? I'm pretty sure there are only two things in the world that could make this any worse, and both of them involve fire."

"Ooh... Wow, um..."

"Just go away."

"I only wanted to...you know..."

"Talk? Look, you're a good friend, Sweetie Belle, but I have had enough of talking for one day. The last thing I want is to get mad at you, too."

"I mean, I'm willing to take that risk."

"Ugh, please."

"You're a good friend too, Scoot. And I will probably enjoy hearing about what Diamond Tiara did to deserve that cut. You never know!"

"Please, Sweetie Belle!"

"But-"

"Please, no! I went too far today, okay? I feel so bad about losing control like that! It doesn't matter if Princess Prissy-Pants deserved it, right? I snapped, then she was on the floor, and all I saw was red. I'm not proud of it."

"I'm...I'm sorry. I shouldn't have pressured you."

"I just... Ugh. I'll be horrible company right now. I just want to go home and sleep so this day can end."

"Okay. But, um...can I at least walk with you until we get to your house?"

"Do what you want."

"Okay."

"Well, come on. I'm sick of being stared at around here."

"Yeah. I'm right here with you, all right?"

"Whatever."

Author's Note

Based on how I feel leading up to, and following, a heated argument.

Conduct

"We need to talk."

"Oh! Uh, okay. Like, now?"

"Now."

"Ah'm just about to lock up the barn. Can we walk an' talk at the same time?"

"As long as we walk and talk now."

"Okay, okay! Sheesh, you're more fired up than Granny's stove durin' pie day. Nnnguh! C'mon, then, speak your mind."

"You've heard about what Big Mac had to go through at the market today, right?"

"Ah, that. Yup, Ah heard. Nasty business, that."

"Nasty business? He tore the leg off that table like it was a twig! The poor stall worker looked like he would have a panic attack!"

"From what Ah hear, it wa'nt any more than he deserved."

"Yeah, I know, the pony at the stall was being rude."

"Insultin' mah brother about his choice in words goes just a mite past rude, Twilight."

"I get it, okay? The guy was being mean, and Big Macintosh reacted. But now the whole town is talking about it."

"Let 'em."

"The whole town is talking to me, Applejack."

"And what are...hold up a tick. Hn-gah! Whew, that harness digs a little deeper every day. Ah'm gonna get scars at this rate. What're they sayin'?"

"They're divided, actually. Some are saying that Big Mac was justified in scaring the worker, but some others are crying foul. They're saying they will stop buying from you and your orchard if this is how your family responds to a little teasing."

"Teasin', is it, Twilight? Callin' mah brother-"

"Their words, not mine!"

"Callin' him names enough times that he feels like he needs to fight back? That what they are sayin'? They think this is just some schoolyard squabble?"

"Hey now, don't get all-"

"Nuh-uh, Twilight. You wanted to talk. You don't get to tell me to be quiet."

"Ah..."

"These stallions ain't young anymore, Twilight. They're grown, they have jobs and needs, and each of 'em are smart enough to know what their choices might lead to. Mah brother tried bein' nice. He tried bein' firm. Then he tried bein' scary. Guess which one finally got the out-of-towner to stop gabbin'?"

"Applejack, just-"

"And then there's him! Some touring salespony, having the nerve to set up a stall here and call us wrong! Ah betchya all the bits in mah pillowcase that he knew exactly what he was doin' when he started to insult Big Mac. Probably thinks that just because he's from some fancy city, he gets to hold himself above the rest of us. Now, we Apples, we don't care what ponies think about us in other towns. But they got another thing comin' if they choose to waltz into our home and start callin' us names to our faces!"

"Okay, okay! I'm guessing Big Mac feels the same way?"

"You kiddin'? He had a smile on his lips when he told me about it. He was proud of what he'd done."

"A lot of ponies still think he took it too far."

"He didn't take anythin' anywhere, Twilight, he stopped it."

"Stopped it by breaking someone else's hard work."

"Someone else who was insultin' our hard work."

"Ugh. I had forgotten how stubborn you can be."

"Stubborn? Twilight, now don't make me get mad at you, too."

"But you are, Applejack. You're not even trying to hear the other side of things."

"Mah brother was victimized and harassed. He was insulted, his apple stall was insulted, and Ah reckon his family - my family - was insulted right along with 'im! We are the other side, Twilight. Right now, it's your job to hear both. Don't call it stubborn."

"And what about the ponies who saw this happen? The ones who say they won't give you their business unless Big Mac apologizes?"

"Pfft, they must have forgotten how little he talks."

"Applejack! This is going to make a bad image for buyers in other towns!"

"What're they gonna do, stop eatin'? If they want to quit buyin' from our stalls and carts, fine. Let 'em. That's the thing about selling food, Twilight: there is always a buyer. Ah won't run outta demand anytime soon. An' soon enough, those ponies who think that Ah rely on their money will come back around, because they get hungry too. An' we'll sell 'em our food, 'cause it's the kind of family we are."

"Right now, all anypony is talking about is how the largest in the family is an angry monster prone to outbursts."

"Well, then, maybe Big Mac ought'a pay them a visit too."

"You'd just be proving them right."

"It was a joke, Twilight. He ain't gonna go around bustin' up any homes. He's not that kinda stallion, he's a gentle soul."

"Not today, he wasn't."

"Today, he was pushed. You got wings now, Twilight, so maybe you won't understand this, but if you're bein' pushed toward the edge of a cliff, you can either let yourself fall over or push back and keep standin'. Sure, a few ponies might have their feelings hurt, but at least none of it was serious."

"The salespony thinks it was serious."

"Good. Then he'll think twice the next time he decides to call mah brother a dumb baby who can't talk."

"Oh, for the love of..."

"Heard enough of our side yet? 'Cause Ah can keep goin'."

"I think I have heard enough. I'll talk to everypony on your behalf-"

"Hey, if they want to hear mah side, they can come up here just like you did."

"Trust me, it's probably better if they hear it from me."

"You ain't gonna leave out some of what Ah said, are you?"

"Applejack, if I just quote what you've told me, it'll make things harder."

"What, for you?"

"You."

"Don't worry about me, Twilight."

"You're one of my best friends. I worry."

"Well, then don't worry about this. It ain't the first time it's happened. The Apple Family has had roots here in Ponyville longer'n you have."

"That's true. I'm still going to try and smooth things over, but I don't think I can completely fix this."

"About that. Sorry you're bein' bothered with this, Twi'. It wa'nt meant to be your problem."

"Just part of being a Princess, I suppose."

Author's Note

Also based on how feel when involved in heated arguments, this time with an edge toward pride instead of regret.

Diet

"You got my message earlier, didn't you?"

"Hm? Oh, that, yeah. Was a little confused by it, to be honest..."

"It's okay! It's just something I want to try, something to hold each of us accountable by the other."

"Hold us accountable?"

"Yeah. Something to keep us on the right track for once."

"It's not like we're unhealthy or anything."

"No, no...but we could always be better, you know?"

"Oh, this should be good. All right, hit me."

"That's the spirit! Okay, so I was spending a little time to draw it all out for us. And we don't have to go with a chart or a graph or anything if we don't have to. But we can definitely use something to keep track of us."

"Is that...you know, necessary?"

"Kind of, yes. We've gone this long without tracking our intake, and as a result I think we're just eating too much."

"And tracking our meals is gonna solve it?"

"Is it a bad thing?"

"That's not what... I don't know, it just seems silly to me. Am I gonna have to come down here and fill in a box each time I grab a snack?"

"It'd actually be a little line for a list, and...yeah! The food item, the intake, and a rolling estimate of how much we've eaten throughout the day, week, and month if we choose to go that far."

"I don't think I like the idea of having this...list-chart held above my head each time I grab an apple."

"That's the idea, Spike. That's accountability."

"Ugh. Noting and measuring how much I eat? Can't we just try some...I don't know, some newfangled diet and follow that plan?"

"What's wrong with this plan?"

"I-it's just...nothing, really, just..."

"We've tried going on a diet a couple times before, remember? Each time, we just slid back into our old habits. Do you even know how often we ordered take-out?"

"So we order less."

"We tried that. You kept visiting the bakery."

"They have good coffee!"

"Yes, they have good coffee. Is that all you get?"

"I... Most of the time..."

"See? You kept going there for snacks and meals, disregarding what you were putting in you. I mean no offense, Spike, but you've put on quite a bit of pudge in the last couple of month. Now, I think this new way will form a nice compromise. We don't have to stop eating on the go, but if we're aware of what we're putting in, we can measure it and manage it. Eat only what we need."

"Is that...such a bad thing?"

"Hm?"

"You said 'pudge' like it was a bad thing."

"Ah, w-well...yes. I mean, being overweight is bad for your health. You know that."

"Hmph. I don't know about you, but I think there's a marked difference between 'pudgy' and 'overweight,' Twilight."

"That's a little beside the point-"

"Do you think I'm fat?"

"Don't misunderstand, Spike. We're at risk of being overweight, and we really should take better care of our health."

"And this piece of paper is supposed to do that?"

"There's no need to get upset. It's an idea off which we can build, and it's supposed to help us do it. We have to really want to make this work, or else we'll just fall back into the same hole like the last few times."

"Well, I don't like it."

"You haven't even let me explain it."

"What? Is there more to it than to tell everyone what I had for lunch?"

"Look, the chart is just a method to help us measure. We'd need each other to really make a dent in our habits. It's not like our friends would be seeing this; it'd just be you and me. I'd see what you had in a day and talk to you about it if you had too much. I'd expect you to do the same for me! It's cooperation."

"There it is. 'Expect.'"

"Sorry?"

"With one word, you've turned this into a task. You 'expect' me to go along with it, even if I don't want to. You want to turn it into a chore instead of a choice."

"Spike, you're putting words in my mouth. I didn't say I expect you to do the whole thing. I said-"

"Then why are you-"

"Let me-"

"Why are you talking to me like the decision has already been made? That's expectation, Twilight. That's you denying me a choice in the matter!"

"It's just an idea! I've said that, like, five times!"

"I remember saying I didn't like the idea in the first place."

"Well, what would you have us do?"

"I said that, too! Order fewer take-out meals. Try out some sorta diet. Remember?"

"I remember. I remember us trying that already, and us not following through with either. I don't want us to try something that's already failed."

"Try, try again! That's the saying, isn't it? I still prefer those ideas to this one."

"What's so bad about this one?"

"I mean, it's...ugh, it feels like eating would just become a thing given to me, you know? Like I have to earn it by not eating sometimes. It boils down to earning a meal by skipping one. I don't see the logic in that."

"Spike, you're letting your imagination take you to places that don't exist."

"Whatever. I still don't like it. In fact, I don't see a problem with how things are now. I mean, if the diets and junk didn't work, who's to say we needed them at all?"

"I say we needed them. We need something. Something that'll work, and I really think this idea could be the one. Now, will you listen to what I have to say about it?"

"There you go again. Dismissing my opinion and sticking with your own. I've said I don't like this idea, Twilight. Stop pushing it on me."

"Please, Spike, I'll need your help to hold me accountable. And I can help you in the same way."

"I...don't...need help, Twilight."

"Why are you upset?"

"You're trying to tell me that I'm fat and that I need to announce to everyone who sees this thing how big of an eating problem I have!"

"Goodness, Spike, that's not at all what I'm trying to say! It's not about you! It's me, too! I've told you that this would be a team effort!"

"And what if I'm happy with the way I am?"

"Then...I dunno, I guess I'll have to ask myself why I wasted my time with this idea at all! If you're not interested in getting healthier, then why did I bother?"

"Good question, Twilight. Tell me, would it have helped if you asked me if I was interested in the beginning?"

"You..."

"Twilight, you came up with this idea. Great. That's good. But your idea would affect me, and I don't like having decisions made for me. Was it too much to ask for that little bit of respect? I might have thrown a couple ideas your way that would have shaped this idea. Turned it into something I'd agree with, you know? Instead, you did all this thinking on your own, expecting - expecting - me to go along with it. You took away my right to have a choice."

"So, wait, is all this even about the idea at all? Or are you upset with me?"

"I'm...maybe."

"Huh..."

"Sorry, it's just... I've started to notice how many times I've had decisions made for me. I wanted to take more control of my own life, instead of letting those around me think I was too dumb to think for myself."

"You're not... I just thought..."

"Agh... Look, I understand your idea. I do, okay? I guess I'm just mad that you thought it was enough to just tell me that 'It's happening!' and that'd I would just go with it. It's not a bad idea, really."

"No?"

"No, it's not. I mean, I honestly still don't like it. We can have accountability through our current habits, can't we? You said you wanted a compromise..."

"Let's not worry about this for now."

"I... Twilight."

"What?"

"You did it again."

"I did wha- oh...oh, no."

"Yeah, that's...that's what I'm talking about. Dismissing my thoughts and making a choice for me. I'd like to be heard, Twilight. Just like you are."

"I'm sorry. This whole time, it just sounded like you were making this whole thing about you. In a weird way, it still is, but...it's an understandable kind of weird."

"I...I guess I can see it like that."

"Heheh. This must be what it's like to cooperate, huh? Learning what lines not to cross."

"Yeah. Though that might be a little much."

"Well...all the same, we should...I mean, I'd like for us to set this whole idea aside for now and come back to it later. When we're both ready. Because I clearly was not."

"I think I can work with that. Thank you."

"Mm-hmm. Hey, um...don't hesitate to tell me when I think for you too much, okay? You were right about how I would make choices for you, and you deserve to have your own voice."

"I will. And I'll try to be less angry about it, too."

Author's Note

Inspired by personal experience with being ignored, as well as conversations with family members a few years ago.

Patch

"All right, class, that's it for today. Please remember that we have a make-up day starting at noon tomorrow. You need to show up with something to work on or you won't get any credit!"

"Give me back my Saturdays!"

"I'll see about that, Apple Bloom. Now run along! Have a great day! Sweetie Belle, would you come see me, please?"

"Huh? Uh...sure, okay! See you later, girls!"

"Goodbye, kids!"

"Everything okay, Miss Cheerilee?"

"Oh, yes, Sweetie Belle, everything is fine with me, thank you. I wanted to have a short talk with you before you left."

"Sure!"

"Good. Now, I noticed the new saddlebags you have, and the design on the side. Rarity's work, I imagine?"

"Oh, yeah! It was a birthday gift she created to make up for being out of town this week. Do you like it?"

"I like it just fine, Sweetie Belle, but I'm afraid I must...emm, raise some concerns with it."

"What do you mean?"

"Well, help me to understand it first. What is it that I'm seeing on this patch?"

"It's me! See, that's me giving a high-hoof in celebration of all I've managed to do since my last birthday. It's offset from my cutie mark design, too. It even feels as soft as the saddlebags themselves. Rarity told me that she used some special thread for it just for me!"

"Mm-hmm. Tell me something, is Rarity aware of the...compromising position she made you take?"

"Com-what-sizing?"

"Compromising, Sweetie Belle, it means that you're not in as good a spot as you want to be."

"What, is it in a bad spot? Because my last bags were just bare..."

"Sorry, that's not what I'm saying. What I mean is that she made your design to focus a little too much on your body. I worry that your classmates see that design and get the wrong idea about what it's trying to convey."

"What? What's wrong with my body?"

"Nothing, nothing. It's not you personally. It's the patch design. You see that pose?"

"Y-yeah, it's me jumping in the air and giving a high-hoof."

"Well, to some other students, and maybe even some ponies around town, they may not see that. I'm worried that they might see something else."

"What?"

"That's actually something I can't tell you, not like this. I just wanted you to know that I had concerns about this design, and I'd like to ask that you tell your sister about those concerns."

"I don't understand. What's so bad about it?"

"I promise, if I get permission from Rarity, I'll tell you all about it. Has she left?"

"Yeah... She had to leave for Canterlot to oversee updates to her shop there. It's supposed to keep her busy until next week."

"I see. Well, then I'll send a letter to Canterlot and hope it reaches her. In the meantime, I have to ask that you use a different pair of saddlebags."

"What?? Why?"

"Sweetie Belle, I can't get into the details with you, not without permission. What I can say is that the design on your bags is disruptive to the class. Perhaps you noticed how I've had to grab the attention of some of your classmates more often than usual?"

"I just thought they were spacing out."

"Well, I thought so too, until I caught them stealing glances at your bags more and more frequently. I'm trying to keep you safe from some nasty rumors that I know aren't true-"

"Rumors?"

"-but it would be much easier if you simply use a different set of saddlebags for now. Can you do that?"

"Wait, go back. What rumors? Have there been rumors?"

"I'm sorry, but again, I can't get into those details unless I have permission."

"Why not?"

"It has to do with how old you are, Sweetie Belle. The things I'm worried about are not meant to be discussed in front of fillies your age."

"Well, can't you at least help me understand? This feels so unfair!"

"All I can tell you is that it has to do with how ponies see you. For example, when I look at you, I see a very bright and cheerful young filly with a good heart and a great grasp on logic. But if, for example, a bully were to look at you, they might see a pony they can pick on without consequence."

"Then what... I mean, what..."

"The patch? It's a similar problem. You see it as a badge of what you have accomplished, and I believe that it is. But some other ponies might see it and think some very hurtful things about you. Now, again, I promise that I will tell you everything if Rarity allows me. In fact, I'd feel better if Rarity were here to help me explain. But since she's out of town until next... I'm sorry, what day did you say, again?"

"I didn't. Wednesday."

"Thank you. Until next Wednesday or Thursday, I need you to go back to your old saddlebags, or at least a pair that doesn't have a patch on them."

"But...but I like these bags!"

"I know, Sweetie Belle, and I'm sorry. This is only for a little while, until I can get everything straightened out with Rarity."

"I-If you need permission, I can ask our parents! Then we wouldn't have to wait!"

"That may be, but I'd much rather speak with Rarity."

"Why? It'll be so long!"

"Aside from the fact that I want to know her side of things, I know her personally and want to talk to her as a friend about this. If your parents get involved - and if they do, then I'll just talk to them like I would with Rarity - I worry that they will not understand the situation as well as Rarity would. So, it's better that we wait for Rarity herself to be here, so we can all get the entire story at one time."

"That's not fair, Miss Cheerilee!"

"Sweetie Belle, I'm not punishing you. This is a sensitive subject that requires a...a more delicate approach."

"So I have to stop using my new saddlebags because of it?"

"I'm sorry, but yes. At least for a little while."

"But I like these! They were made special for me!"

"I know, Sweetie Belle, but please understand what it means to your classmates..."

"I don't understand what it means to them! You won't tell me! And I don't care what it means to them, I care what it means to me!"

"Now, Sweetie Belle, you don't need to raise your voice. I haven't raised mine, have I?"

"But...b-but you're not being asked to give up something that's special to you!"

"Sweetie Belle, please sit back down."

"I d-don't want to."

"That's...fine. Stand up if it feels right to you."

"And I don't want t-to give up my new bags."

"Sweetie Belle, please. I can't make you understand, not yet. But I've promised you, remember? I've promised to tell you everything if Rarity lets me, and I've always kept my promises to my students."

"C-can't I just...I don't know, cover them with a b-blanket or something?"

"What good would that do? Ponies would be able to just move it away."

"I'd still be able to keep what's mine. What's special to me."

"You can't solve a problem by covering it up, Sweetie Belle. The answer is no."

"Oh, come on!"

"Now now, I think I'm being very reasonable, given the circumstances. All you need to do-"

"Circumstances you won't tell me about."

"That's enough, young lady."

"You're not being fair."

"Sweetie Belle, I can't tell you yet because it could land both of us in some very big trouble. It's not something to rush in to, but I can't just let you unwittingly put yourself at risk for teasing or worse, either. Please, this is very difficult for me too, and I honestly believe that this is the best solution until Rarity gets back. Trust me, I'd be happy to tell you everything, and I'm sure you would understand. You're one of the brightest students in class, after all. But the world doesn't work that way, and so I need to be a little unfair right now."

"This just..."

"I know, Sweetie Belle. I know. But I need you to work with me on this until we can get everything straightened out."

"Do you...promise that I can...use them again once we all talk together?"

"I promise to try and let you. I didn't realize how important this gift was to you, and I feel very bad for asking you to do this. I'll try to reach a compromise if i can, one that'll benefit you. But until then..."

"I know, I know."

"You can stay here a little longer if you want to compose yourself."

"No, I...I-I think I just want to go to Apple Bloom's house."

"Very well. Will you be using your old saddle bags, then?"

"Yes, ma'am."

"Oh, Sweetie Belle, don't be sad like that. You're not in trouble."

"It still feels like I am."

"I am sorry that it came to this. If you like, I can walk you to the apple orchard. Keep you company?"

"No thank you."

"Very well. One last thing before you go?"

"Mmm?"

"You are still one of my brightest, most intelligent students, and I am very proud of all that you've accomplished. Remember that, hm?"

"...okay. Thanks, Miss Cheerilee. Good night."

Author's Note

Inspired by my recent trouble with a long-time friend who would not listen to what I had to say, and also inspired by how people will intentionally misunderstand situations in order to assign a wrong meaning.

Resolutions

"Fancy seeing you here."

"Oh! Hello. Care to join me?"

"Only if you pour me a glass of whatever you've got there."

"Certainly. Tell me when."

"Is that a joke?"

"Fair point. Here you are."

"Thanks. So, to cut to the chase, why are you out here? The celebration is inside, you know."

"Yes, darling, I know. I fear I had a little too much to drink a moment ago, and I felt that the fresh air might do me good."

"Pfft, lightweight."

"Hardly! I fully intend to head back inside and show everypony how a Canterlot Elite handles her spirits."

"You're really from Ponyville. You know that, right?"

"And you're really from Cloudsdale. Why be festive with us?"

"Ah-heh, I'll be visiting family back in Clousdale next week. They know that. This week is all about my friends and how we got through another year together."

"'Got through?' Darling, it's not like it was a struggle."

"I dunno, there were a plenty of goals that I wasn't able to meet this year. Hey, got any more of this stuff?"

"Why don't you just take the bottle?"

"Sweet."

"So what do you mean? About goals."

"Mm. Well, I don't wanna sell short all the things I have gotten to do. It's been a good year, really, but there were plenty of small things that I wanted to do but never did. Things like changing up the house, trying out a new weather schedule, and bringing all of you girls along for a trip to nowhere."

"That last one sounds like something we do all the time."

"Sure, but the one I wanted to do would be my treat. It's not the same if we all chip in, or if we travel on the Princess' budget."

"Aw! How thoughtful of you!"

"Psh, it's not like you girls don't deserve it. I mean, we do travel a lot, but it's always for some summit, or a function, or...or a world-ending mission, or to get crystal groceries! It's never really just to have a vacation, you know?"

"Indeed. Though I do seem to recall allowing all of you girls a chance to see a Bridleway show on my budget."

"Heh! Yeah, things like that! Except, you know how that trip turned out."

"Nonetheless, it was a good trip!"

"Yeah! I wanted to give you all a good trip where we could do anything we wanted! Or, hay, do nothing if we wanted. I even had a short list of locations and dates for when I saved up enough."

"You have savings?"

"Why so surprised?"

"It just doesn't seem like you, darling."

"C'mon, my dad didn't raise me to be a featherbrain!"

"Oh, dear. I meant no offense..."

"Pfft, puh-leese, Rarity. You should know when I'm pulling your leg!"

"Ahem. Yes, well, I suppose I was simply trying to begin what I want to do for this next year."

"Heh...what? Not offend your friends?"

"No. Well, not really. It's more accurate to say that I want to be more mindful of what my friends are thinking and feeling before I say what I say, or do what I would do."

"Huh. That's an awfully specific resolution."

"Perhaps, but I fear it may be appropriate."

"How so?"

"Well...going back to the trip we took to Manehatten and the Bridleway show? You remember how that trip turned out."

"Yeah?"

"I let myself become a horrid mess because of what I wanted. That let me justify my inconsiderate attitude toward you and the girls."

"And Spike."

"And...Spike! Goodness, there I go again! I've been far too dismissive of him altogether."

"Heheh. Okay, I think I get it. Your resolution is the self-improvement shtick."

"Yes, I suppose that's one way to put it."

"Any other things you want to try?"

"Mmm, I think it may be time to re-style my mane."

"You're kidding."

"Hmm?"

"That's not... Okay, first off, that's not even a resolution, Rare. That's a wardrobe change, and you go through, like, twelve of those in a week. You're covered. Second, you've gotten this curl-loop thing down to a science! I bet it takes a super long time to get it right in the morning, so why throw all of that away for some new style?"

"Why not? I mean, there's that phrase of 'New year, new me' after all."

"Okay, but who would it be for?"

"Why, for myself, of course. I'd like to get a feel for it, once I decide what style to employ."

"Hm. All right. Well, if you change your style, then you're out of the road trip."

"Hmph! And ponies say I have high standards!"

"Bahaha!"

"Hehe. Alas, that's a decision that I can make in the morning, because I'm sure that my mane will be a frightful mess after tonight."

"We could always give you a buzz cut."

"And cease to be the envy of manestylists across the realm? Perish the thought!"

"So, anything else? Any more resolutions that would change the group dynamic?"

"Oh, hardly. The rest that I have in mind are more business-oriented, and I doubt you want to hear about those."

"You'd be right!"

"What about you? I heard you mention a change to your house?"

"Oh, yeah! Come on, let's head back inside and I'll tell you and our friends at the same time. I think you all will love it!"

"Goodness, such excitement! Is that the drink talking?"

"Trust me, even a night of drinking wouldn't make this idea any less awesome."

"Very well! After you."

Author's Note

This entry is not inspired by any one event, but rather on the idea of the New Year's Resolution. I personally don't believe in resolutions, but I admire how they can inspire conversation.

Details

"Twilight, I've finished with your draft. May I go over some notes with you?"

"Oh, yes! Please do! And thank you again for agreeing to help me with this."

"Happy to help, darling. Now, what would you like first: the good or the bad?"

"Oof, there's a lot of 'bad,' isn't there?"

"Hardly! In fact, many of my notes are largely my own opinions. I don't really have anything to say about the technical side of things."

"Oh yeah? Heheh, okay. In that case, let's go through the bad."

"Very well! This should not take long. Erm...here, let's start with this section. I noticed that you go into some detail on your study, which is good for this lesson. However, the way it's worded makes me feel like it's rushing ahead."

"Oh, I had taken that from one of my old flashcards. I tried to expand on it. Does it work?"

"It works, but only in the sense that a water balloon would work at putting out a stove fire."

"Ouch. That's quite an analogy."

"I'm sorry, dear. I don't say it to be mean, but rather to be factual. Tossing a water balloon at a stove fire would work for the moment, but only in a small way and not enough to last. In the same way, the fire would be my questions for you. Wouldn't it be better to include more detail in this passage?"

"I've thought about it, especially during earlier drafts, but I haven't been able to find a way to explain it without putting Spike to sleep."

"Twilight, you know we all love Spike to pieces, but he's hardly the target audience for this study of yours."

"Ehh, you'd be surprised. You know, it was his idea to include the pancake batter example on page two."

"Goodness, that was his? I was laughing for so long, I saw stars!"

"I know, I heard!"

"Oh, wonderful! I take back what I said, then. But still, that doesn't really help with the rushing issue here."

"Haaa, you're right. Okay, do you have any ideas to slow it down?"

"Well...if this lesson were a dress, and this particular passage is a delicate pattern, then I'd try to draw more attention to it by doubling the stitching, or perhaps sewing in some translucent stones on the points of the pattern. So...perhaps include a little more to the beginning and ending?"

"Hmm, there was something I wanted to try for that first sentence. Tell me, does it have that 'hook' to catch your attention?"

"Oh? My attention was drawn in from the opening paragraph, darling. Would it be necessary to grab it again?"

"Well, if Spike's snoring was any indication..."

"Ah, yes, that's a good point, and well-made. In that case, the answer is no."

"Well, what if I wrote it like...oh, how to say it..."

"Just pretend you're reading it from the published copy, dear."

"Oh, okay. Um, I want you to picture a colt walking home from school. He's tired from a day of tests, and he's looking forward to curling up with his favorite comic book. During his walk home, he comes across a...a-a, ugh..."

"Twilight?"

"Sorry, I was trying to remember how it went."

"I think you're on the right track, though."

"Really?"

"Oh, yes. Opening with that allows me to re-engage my mind. That, in turn, lets me picture the scene you're telling me to picture. Do you think you can work that into this passage?"

"Absolutely! You know, I'm glad I asked you to proofread this for me. Spike helped a lot, but he doesn't have the same eye for detail that you do."

"It's nothing, really! I'm sure it has more to do with the fact that I was not involved in the process of writing this."

"Wh-what do you mean?"

"It's like dresses again. When I'm creating something new, I may have all sorts of ideas for what I want. But if it's a particularly difficult job, I may gloss over some pieces in the hopes of meeting a deadline. And when that happens, I overlook something basic, like a cross-stitch or a slightly brighter shade of pink, and that means I'll need to carefully cut out that part and do it again—"

"Rarity!"

"Oh, huh?"

"You're rambling."

"Am I?"

"Rarity..."

"Ahh...hem. My apologies. Last week's special order for Pinkie Pie did not go according to Plan A. Or B, C, or D."

"Hahaha! Well, what were you trying to say?"

"It was...ah, yes! When I'm involved in the creative process, I may go over a piece of detail so many times that I lose sight of what I wanted from it. If and when that happens, it's because I turned my focus to another part of the dress that seemed more important at the time, but ultimately was not. Because of that other part distracting me, I forgot what I wanted in the first place, and it would take some fresh eyes to see the big picture again."

"Now that is something I can relate to."

"Case and point, right?"

"Right!"

"Now, of course, if you choose to open this passage with that scenario, you may need to re-write a good amount of the entire paper."

"In that case, let me do that now. That way, we won't need to—"

"Is something wrong?"

"I was...just about to say how...well, I was about to say how we wouldn't need to go over the 'good' part of your notes if the whole draft is about to change. But then I realized that would make all of the time you've spent here a wasted effort."

"Goodness! Why would you think that way?"

"Well, isn't that what it would be?"

"Twilight Sparkle, I fear you may have missed the point of my notes. Remember when I said that my notes were opinionated?"

"I thought you said that was for the bad parts?"

"I don't believe I did, darling. I meant that for all of my notes."

"Oh. So..."

"So of course that means we should still go over the good, right? It is always worthwhile to see what areas are your strongest. That way, perhaps you can apply the same lessons to weaker areas, and even future jobs!"

"Wait, jobs? Are you talking about dresses again?"

"Hats, actually."

Author's Note

This was originally inspired by Aragón's recent blog post (beware of awesome) but turned into something different, so I guess it's more like my experience with helping people with their own writing. And perhaps giant hats.

Questions [Fullmetal Pony]

Note: This is meant to take place in the continuity of Fullmetal Pony. For this reason, this particular entry is rated Teen.

"Let us not dwell on ceremony. Ask your questions, please. I am ready."

"Haagh, even when you allow yourself to be questioned, you command the room."

"It's what I am meant to do."

"Fine, that's...ugh. I'm sorry, Your Highness, I should not be so irritable right now."

"No, you have every right to be. You wish to be with your foal, and I am keeping you from that."

"Well, there's truth in that."

"There's more than just 'truth in it,' Cadenza. It is simply 'the truth.' Now then, please..."

"You have such a way with... Fine, I hope you won't mind if I start off small."

"Whatever you wish."

"Where are we?"

"This is a special room that my sister had created some time ago, specifically to keep our meetings private. The room itself may change from time to time due to the nature of its creation, but it is always hidden by way of the small study we passed through. If you wish to know specifics, you will need to ask her. As for where in the palace, we are beneath the south wing, in an area that has never been developed too deeply. We are surrounded on all sides by the mountain."

"Okay. And she is you sister?"

"Correct. She is my elder."

"But you're the Princess."

"That's not a question, Cadenza."

"I...I know, but there's plenty of question behind it, trust me."

"I do trust you. And yes, I am the Princess. That's never meant that I have been alone, or that I do not seek counsel from those who are better qualified to give it. There are things that my sister Celestia knows that I do not, and things that I entrust to her that I cannot entrust to any other."

"So that's why you need all of this secrecy? This special room?"

"Yes."

"All right, then. That leads to my big question. Why is this secrecy necessary? Why have I never heard of your sister before? And assuming what I'm about to say is true, why has no one else heard of your sister?"

"I can address all of that with one answer: because we are being observed by something incredibly dangerous."

"I hope you intend to explain that...Your Highness."

"Please. Remember what I said about ceremony. While you are here, you should not hold yourself back. Speak freely, for we will."

"Sorry, it will take me some time to allow myself to do that. Being formal with you is what I'm meant to do."

"Ah, very well. The reason all of this secrecy is necessary, and the reason Celestia has been - and must remain - hidden from the public, is the same reason I have asked you to join us now. There is a great evil that is watching our every move, something that commands great respect. It has many plans for Equestria and her citizens, plans that I would sooner see fail. My sister and I meet like this to discuss whatever news we have learned, as well as to make our own plans to stop this menace before the end."

"What's this menace supposed to be? Discordants, like Whiteout?"

"No, nothing so simple. I will tell you everything about it later, but only if you agree to help us."

"You're my only family. Why wouldn't I..."

"Luna would like it if you agreed."

"Sister, please--"

"She wants you to help us. It's what she's wanted for years. But she cares for you, and the things she and I are doing are very demanding, even for us. So she insists on making sure you understand the risks first. She will never forgive herself if you leap before you look."

"Well. My sister speaks the truth, even if I would have been gentler about it."

"Forgive me... You said your name was...?"

"Celestia."

"Right. Celestia. Look, since you were honest with me, I'll be honest with you. If it's true that you are the sister of my aunt, then I'm sure I will get to know you very well. I might even enjoy your company. But right now? All I can see when I look at you is another pony who uses that gods-forsaken science."

"I beg your pardon. Have I offended you in some way?"

"Yes. Yes, you have."

"I apologize. What have I said?"

"Oh, it's not what you said. My aunt told me that this room was made by you. It's your own design. But I doubt that you took the time to carve it out of the mountainside, right? Now, I don't believe that my aunt is a liar, which means you must have used some other method. And I'm willing to bet that it was the same method you used to make that door back there. Am I right?"

"Yes."

"So you're one of them. You're an alchemist."

"Cadenza, please. Celestia does use alchemy - in fact, she's quite a talent with it - but it would be a grave error to simply label her an alchemist."

"Fine. But she uses it. She uses the same accursed science that gave Whiteout and his followers the power to attack the city. The same power they used to claim the lives of a half-dozen innocent ponies. The same ritual that took my fiancé from me and put him in an unfeeling body!"

"And you blame me for this, young one?"

"No, of course not. But it's all I know about you. You're supposed to be my aunt, my only other family, and that's all I know about you. And I have no love whatsoever for your damn science."

"I see. Luna..."

"Of course, sister. Come along, Cadenza. It's obvious now that bringing you here so soon was a mistake."

"May I still speak freely?"

"You may."

"Next time you intend to recruit me into a conspiracy, tell me about any other family I might have. Your Highness."

"Of course. We shall talk later."

"I want to know about her."

"You will. Privately."

Author's Note

Surprisingly, I've been able to get into Cadance's head very easily over the last month or so. Many of my freetype and scrap sessions have been around her, or involved her motivations. This particular exchange is one version of several that I have in mind for when she finally is allowed a glimpse of the larger world around her. Naturally, she is her own character, so it's only right for her to think for herself.

In a way, this writing session is planned, but only in the sense that I've wanted to play around with this meeting scene for a long time. I've never thought about the content of the scene, which is why I've decided to put it in this collection instead of where I usually keep FMP-related sessions.

In addition, this was inspired by recent conversations I've had with family members, where I felt pressure to keep my thoughts to myself. I wanted to see what it would be like to not have that kind of anxiety.

Aggression

"Do you ever get tired of being stepped on all the time?"

"What?"

"You. Stepped on. Ignored, exploited, and all that other junk that those friends of yours do to you so often."

"No, I know what you meant. And sure, that's weird, but when I said 'what,' I meant 'why are you talking to me?'"

"Oh, my apologies, lord dragon child. I didn't realize I was lower than you."

"Didn't you turn me into a bouncy ball when you took over Ponyville?"

"Yes, but I was corrupted by an ancient magical relic. That makes it forgivable."

"I never said I forgave you."

"Your precious Twilight did."

"As much as she looks out for me, I don't need Twilight to do my thinking."

"Hmph! Could have fooled me, with how poorly they treat you all the time."

"I can't really think on their behavior when you're hardly being friendly right now. Have we even spoken to each other before?"

"No. Well, you did try to heckle me when I first came to town. But I wasn't listening."

"Obviously. I wasn't heckling, I was saying that you were wrong."

"And I remember that your dear caretaker proceeded to pull you aside and tell you to be quiet."

"Look, is there a point to this? I know you're just waiting for Starlight to finish up..."

"My point is that I'm curious."

"Could have fooled me."

"Curiosity doesn't have to mean kindness. Every magician knows that in order to find new ways to wow the crowd, you need to be aggressive in your tricks."

"Aggressive...what, aggressive fireworks? Aggressive light shows?"

"'Aggressive sensory feedback' is what I like to call it. New ways to capture, enrapture, and make things grander."

"So bigger fireworks and brighter lights."

"Name one artist whose shows aren't improved by big fireworks."

"Octavia Harmony."

"Hmm. I honestly didn't expect that. Nice."

"Thank you. Are you done being curious? Because I still have to—"

"Oh, no, not nearly. All you've done is dodge and deflect, after all. So, spill. Do you ever get tired of getting stepped on all the time?"

"If I tell you, will you leave me alone?"

"I only promise to listen. That's gotta be more than what these rubes do."

"Those are my friends. They're aren't rubes, they do listen, and I don't feel like telling you."

"Oh, okay then."

"You—what?"

"Okay. I'm curious, but I can't force you to talk. So I won't."

"Is this a trick?"

"Why would it be?"

"It's kinda in your name."

"Har-har. If I had a bit for every time I've heard that one..."

"You'll forgive me for not trusting you. Every time I've gotten involved around you, I've suffered for it."

"Oh, please. Being a ball was probably the highlight of your day."

"Yes, because in the same day, you cast out Twilight and took over Ponyville!"

"Yeeeeah, see, darling little Twilight forgave me for that. And that was a slight against her, not you."

"Slight means it was accidental, you know."

"Corruption."

"Gr... You can hide behind that reason all you like. Sure, it was corruption, but don't deny what you did."

"I don't. I was still forgiven for it."

"Mm-hmm. And you're all about facts and results now, is that it?"

"Just because my show uses illusions doesn't mean I don't appreciate the power of a fact. Especially when it benefits me."

"Oh, there it is! You know what? Wait here."

"Why? Where are you going?"

"I'm going to find Starlight. I'm going to find her and beg her to keep you away from me for the rest of the day before I do something I'll regret."

"Oooh, make it something that affects Twilight! I want to see if she forgives you before or after she mistreats you!"

"STAAARRR-LLLIIIIIIIIIIGHT!!"

Author's Note

I wanted something that plucked the fine line between discussion and argument just to see how it shook.

Names [Season 7]

Spoiler warning: This particular entry relies on Season Seven.

"I don't know. Sometimes...friendship is hard, I guess."

"No kidding. I mean, take you for example. Bottling up your anger just because you were worried about how I would feel? Seems a little extreme, if you ask me."

"Hey, you were the one willing to let yourself be chewed up and swallowed by a manticore the first day we met!"

"Hm, yes, that's true. Oh! Does that mean ours is the most extreme friendship ever?"

"Haha! I can only imagine what our friendship lessons would be like!"

"Ew. Friendship...lessons? That just sounds wrong when I say it."

"Yeah, it can seem pretty strange at first. Still, it's helped me a lot on my way to be a better pony."

"You can't be that much of a goody-two-horseshoes. After all, you're still learning."

"I've graduated!"

"Really?"

"I think. I mean, it's an official proclamation and all, but don't graduations usually have more...I dunno, ceremony?"

"And a diploma."

"And those funny square hats."

"I know a pony who makes a lot of funny hats."

"You're talking about Rarity, aren't you?"

"I don't even know the name!"

"Heh. Say, do you ever think you'll be as good a friend to the rest of the girls as you are to me?"

"What? Why?"

"Oh, it's just a thought, really. I noticed that you take pleasure in getting under Twilight's skin, which I totally understand. As long as, you know, you don't go around her castle making her stuff disappear again."

"What about 'teacup!'?"

"That's okay. Spike's got that handled."

"Yay! So, what's this about the other ponies?"

"Well, I'm friends with you. I'm also friends with them. But you aren't friends with them."

"Yeah, that's true. And I don't expect, or plan, to be."

"Why?"

"Huff! Do I really need a reason?"

"I'd...kinda like to hear it."

"You don't intend on trying to mend any hurt relationships, are you?"

"I...maybe? Maybe if I think it would work?"

"Oh, just use your little mind-control spell, and everything--"

"Hey."

"Oh. Shoot. Sorry! I did it again... I'm sorry."

"It's okay, I forgive you. But please do better to remember."

"Of course. Um..."

"Anyway, I'd like to see if you can be friends with them, too. If for no other reason than I won't have to choose who I hang out with!"

"Whom."

"Oh, whatever."

"Heheheh. Um, I don't think it'll work, really."

"Why not? I mean, I know you've made your share of mistakes that involved them, but I'm living proof that things can be better."

"Oh, I don't doubt that. Not in the slightest! No, it's less about 'I can't have it' and more about 'I don't want it.'"

"Don't...want it?"

"Come on. Just look at how much fun I have getting under Princess Twilight's skin! I mean, dry pretzels and vanishing tables? Ah! It's an instant classic!"

"Ah-heh. Well, that's Twilight. What about..."

"The rest are just as easy. All I have to do is make that one unicorn's mane green, and I'm laughing for an hour! Although she would probably expect it from me, so I'd have to get more creative..."

"Trix, please don't go changing Rarity's mane."

"But you haven't seen it! It's hilarious! And the way she screams is just...eeegh, too funny!"

"I can't...heh, actually, it would be pretty funny!"

"Ah-ha! You agree!"

"I-I agree that it would look funny! Not that you should be cruel!"

"Pbbbt. As if temporary mane dye is cruel."

"Rarity would be really upset if you did."

"That's the point! These ponies are a lot of fun when I'm teasing them! Oh, I know enough to not push them too far of course...as my lovely experience with ancient magical relics will make clear. But sometimes they can give back as good as they get, especially that blue, fast one."

"Rainbow Dash."

"I don't even know the name!"

"Really, it's Rainb--"

"Ah-ah-ah! I want to keep it that way! When we use names, things get personal. For better or for worse, they get personal. And I want to make sure that I don't go too far with my tricks, regardless of how minor a detail may be. That's why my whole show is revolving around me pushing myself to new limits, like the manticore mouth-dive, instead of me trying to showboat like a few years ago."

"Wow. And you really think that not using their names will help with that?"

"Of course! When it's just another face in the crowd, you're able to focus on your act instead of a pony's expectation for you. Same thing for little pranks."

"Huh. I don't really get it, but okay. Still, no cruelty!"

"Oh, pbbt. You graduate from friendship lessons and suddenly you're a law-abiding citizen. Don't you want to know what I stuck in the pink one's pancakes?"

"H-how would you have gotten close?"

"Hm?"

"Trix, there are cannons in her pancakes!"

"W...w-what?"

Author's Note

Spoiler: I really enjoyed the subtle way that Trixie picked on Twilight in the second episode. Teacups everywhere, pretzels, and banishing the core of the castle! Well okay, it's not so subtle in that regard. Nonetheless, it was a fantastic tidbit from the premiere that I wanted to explore.

I could probably keep going with this exercise for another thousand words, but I'm just as satisfied with how it is now.

Recall

"You know, it occurs to me that ponies are much more susceptible to suggestion than you would believe. Even weirder is that it doesn't have to be a verbal suggestion. That whole incident with Fluttershy morphing into a feral fruit bat is proof enough..."

"Uh-huh, okay."

"I mean, think about it! It wasn't even intentional, and yet the power of suggestion made her focus on things she normally wouldn't concern herself with. That focus went on to consume her, and even change her into something else. Doesn't that raise questions about what other kinds of things ponies can become if exposed to similar stimuli?"

"Yeah, sure."

"Think of the possibilities! If Fluttershy were holding a bear in place with her stare, and I used my magic to convince the bear to stop eating honey, would it have the same effect as when we tried it on the vampire fruit bats? Would Fluttershy become obsessed with honey? Would she morph into some other feral creature?"

"Honey creature. Got it."

"What would we even call that, anyway? Any ideas, Spike?"

"Honeyboo."

"What?"

"What."

"Are you even listening?"

"Uh...of course! We were...ah, we were talking about a new theory regarding a pony morphing to inherit the physical traits of other animals in a similar way that Fluttershy did when exposed to your spell designed for the vampire fruit bats."

"Wow. That's...a pretty accurate summary. But wait, you've barely been responding this whole time!"

"Twilight, years of being around you has taught me a valuable skill. I call it 'recallversations.'"

"Recall...and conversation?"

"Yep. How else do you think I respond to things happening around me when I'm reading a comic? Recallversations!"

"Okay, that's something we should talk about."

"Heh, I don't think there's much there to discuss. All I really do is remember what others have been saying. Sometimes it takes me a few seconds."

"But that's just it! Being able to perfectly recall details like that is a great skill! Have you been able to do it for long?"

"For years, like I said. And it's not really perfect. I just remember the key details that stick out. Like honey!"

"What? Why honey?"

"Well, honey is a great topping for snacks, and I got to thinking that I'd like a scone or something that's topped with honey."

"Right. We'll get some. But then...why honeyboo?"

"Oh, uh, I was just picturing a giant pile of honey that could walk on its own."

"Ah-ha! That's not at all what the point of my theory was!"

"Hey, I said it wasn't perfect. What were you working toward, again?"

"Ugh, nevermind. It's probably something I should put to paper first. I mean, the last few times I've experimented with magic without writing it out first, I've had to deal with all of the side-effects. Like the whole Flutterbat situation."

"Aw, c'mon. That's what I do best, remember? Writing things down and keeping an eye out for you."

"Heheh, yeah. Those are definitely some of your best traits. Ha! I wonder what would happen if I tried that kind of spell on you while Fluttershy was keeping you distracted!"

"Please have mercy on me."

"I'm not really going to do it, Spike! But isn't it fun to think about? How would she change?"

"Twilight. Do you really want to picture what Fluttershy as a dragon would be like?"

"Ah...oof. Right. Let's go back to honey creatures."

Attention

"So, you know how each season has a new event for that year's posters, flyers, and other advertising things, right?"

"Um, no."

"No? I thought I told you that at some point..."

"Oh, well, you might have. Maybe I just forgot, or maybe I was distracted, or..."

"Okay, okay, let's not board that train of thought. I'm just thinking that maybe I should ask to be the center of the new photos. Kind of like how it was when I was officially made a Wonderbolt, you know?"

"Yes, that I do know! You looked so happy!"

"Heh, I had every reason to be. Anyway, I'm thinking that it would make some sense, right? The whole team would be there, but I'd be in the middle, as an instant success story for the younger pegasi who want to follow my example."

"Um...you know that you had to work very hard to become a Wonderbolt, right?"

"Duh! It was all I could think about since I was a filly!"

"That's a good point. I'm just wondering if showing you in the middle as an 'instant success story' would actually be true. Because, well, you did have to work very, very hard to get here. It wasn't...instant."

"Eh, it's the message that counts, right? I made it through with passion, perseverance, and a whole lotta mistakes, but I finally got here. I mean, even Twilight had to go through a whole bunch of trouble to get where she is now, and she's considered a role model."

"I suppose you have a point."

"Right! So anyway, these photos..."

"You were saying the whole team would be there."

"Oh, yeah! I'd have to talk it over with them to make sure it's okay, and I'd be okay if it's not okay."

"Okay...?"

"It's just that I've had this idea stuck in my head for about a week. Ever since I heard that the photo-shoot was coming up, really. And I know that I won't be able to get over it unless I try to make it happen. Kind of like my dream of being a Wonderbolt, you know?"

"I guess so."

"Huh? You don't sound very convinced."

"Oh, um, I don't mean to say that it can't be done. I just...well, I just can't relate. I'll still support you, though, no matter what!"

"Heheh. Thanks. So...me talking about this idea isn't even relevant to you? We can change topics if that's the case!"

"Don't do that! I might not have anything to add, but I'm happy to listen."

"You sure?"

"I'm sure. It won't be time to feed the critters for a while anyway, and I've missed talking with you."

"Well, all right! Where was I?"

"The same spot. The whole team would be there."

"Was I? I thought I had...wow, I must be really distracted today. Hm. Anyway, we'd all be there, and I would be standing with the others bowing down before me. Or maybe I should be held up on all of their hooves while I pretend it's natural?"

"Don't you think that's taking it a little far?"

"Ha! No, no, it's taking it much farther than just a little!"

"Oh, hehehe!"

"I'm joking, of course. I like attention and all, but there's no way I'd get the team to agree to that. Their collective pride wouldn't allow it."

Author's Note

Honestly, I've got nothin' for this one. I just wanted to practice a little, and I never get a chance to write just for these two.

Winona

"Have ya got a minute to talk?"

"For you? Of course. Um, can I offer you anything?"

"Nah, not today. Mind if Ah sit?"

"Go ahead."

"Right, thanks..."

"You seem distracted."

"Yeah, Ah guess that's true. Ah s'pose you already heard?"

"About Winona?"

"...y-yeah..."

"I'm sorry. I wish there was more I could do. This is something that can keep coming back, you know..."

"No, no, not that. Ah know all about that bunch'a junk. It's not why... Well, it's not why Ah'm..."

"Are...you here for something else?"

"Y-yeah! Kinda like...advice, Ah guess? I-it's, uh..."

"Applejack?"

"Whew, sorry. Ah just...whew. It's hard, y'know. Losin' her."

"I know."

"It's harder havin' to watch her be in so much pain just to get around. It ain't fair, Fluttershy, it ain't fair at all. She don't deserve to be hurtin' the way she is."

"I know."

"What can Ah...what can Ah do?"

"Applejack, I thought the veterinarian had talked you through it."

"She did."

"Then you would know that there's really nothing that--"

"Ah know that! Ah know...all about that..."

"I'm sorry."

"...bunch'a junk..."

"You can make her comfortable."

"Yeah..."

"Give her treats. Some special food that she can still keep down. Spend as much time with her as you can."

"Y-yeah, sure...but what about..."

"Applejack?"

"J-just...give me a minute..."

"Of course."

"...hey, mind if Ah ask for a drink after all?"

"Oh, not at all! I'll be right back."

"Mmmnh..."

"I remember Winona when she was just big enough to stop being a puppy."

"Yeah? Oh yeah, you set up your cottage here after we found her."

"That's right! I never really went out to the orchard on my own, but I always saw Winona out and about. She was so full of life back then."

"Heh, she still is. It's this silly cancer that's sappin' the life from her."

"That's true. Here, I made some juice this morning."

"Heh, thanks."

"So, remember when you first brought her to me?"

"The first time? Nah... Ah've brought her about so many times over the years, they've all kinda blended together."

"That's also true. I remember, though. I remember because she started out as nervous about me as I was about her. Why, she barely poked her head out from behind your hind legs until she saw us getting along!"

"Wait...wait, Ah remember that! She kept nippin' at mah heels 'cause Ah was so far from home!"

"Was she? Oh goodness!"

"Yeah! In fact, once she knew that you weren't gonna pull a fast one on me, she started to wander your yard, and ended up diggin' a hole beneath your chicken coop!"

"Mm-hmm, that's it!"

"An' Ah was so embarrassed by the ordeal that Ah took it upon myself to fill it in, but Ah ended up goin' too far with mah own diggin' that Ah made another hole right next to the first!"

"Yeah, yeah! That's the one that became a flowerbed for a few years."

"Heheheh! Goodness sake, Ah...Sh-she'd probably still try to dig even now if anypony would let 'er."

"She's probably trying to ignore the pain for your sake."

"Like she doesn't want me to worry, yeah."

"Mm-hmm."

"Have you got any more juice?"

"Sure. I'll be right back."

"Thanks. Y'know, the vet told me a lot of the same stuff you just said."

"Oh?"

"Oh, uh, about makin' Winona comfortable, Ah mean."

"Oh, yeah. Well, she was absolutely right, I think."

"You get these sort of questions a lot?"

"Not a lot, no. But I do get them every now and then."

"Ah'm sorry."

"Oh, Applejack, don't be. You have no reason to be sorry. Here's your juice."

"Th-thanks. Sorry."

"Hey now, you're starting to sound like me."

"Ah know, and it's weird, and Ah feel so uncomfortable. It's like Ah know what to do 'cause everypony's told me what to do, but Ah still don't really know."

"Really?"

"Yeah, it's like... Fluff, Ah don't know! Makin' Winona happy and comfortable is all well an' good, but it ain't gonna make a difference when the time comes. She's still gonna be in pain, an' she'll still try to play like always, an' then...then she'll..."

"Applejack."

"What's the point, Fluttershy?"

"It's because--"

"If all that's gonna happen is exactly what Ah expect, then what's the point in doin' that stuff at all? Ain't it kinder to just end it now? What then?"

"Applejack."

"Wh-what??"

"Would you mind taking a sip of your juice, please?"

"What? Ah--... all right, Ah guess..."

"Thank you. I'd like to answer your questions, if you want me to."

"S-sure..."

"Thank you, again. Look, I... Well, you've already guessed at how I get these kinds of questions sometimes. They're never easy, just like the bad news with the cancer. But that's why ponies come to me, I think, because deep down they already know why making their animal friends comfortable is necessary. They just need to hear it from me."

"Yeah? An'...w-what do Ah already know?"

"Well, that it's...not about you. It's about Winona."

"Uh-huh..."

"Winona has been a part of your life for a long time. You love her, and she loves you. But she doesn't understand the...the seriousness of her condition, which is why she's trying so hard to do what she's always done. She knows that being happy can help make you happy, after all."

"Uh-huh..."

"Well, here's the reality of it. You're not going to be happy. This is all just too tragic and it's going to make you sad, because you know exactly how serious all of this is. So since you can't rely on how things used to be, it's up to you to change your actions to keep her happy. Really, there's only one way to do all of that."

"Make her comfortable?"

"Yes. I'm sorry, Applejack, but yes. And it's because it's not about what you feel. Nothing will change the sadness you're feeling, and trying to change it will miss the point."

"The point?"

"Yes. The point that it's for Winona's sake. She's the one in pain right now, but she doesn't understand why. Not like we do. So it's our responsibility to make sure she's happy in spite of the pain. And since you mentioned it, you can choose to 'end it all' sooner if you think that's best. At this point, nopony will blame you for it. Winona has lived a happy life with you and your family, so you have the right to make that choice. Just remember that it's a choice that should be made for Winona's sake, too, and not your own."

"...Ah j-just..."

"Hey, it's okay to cry."

"N-no, it's just that... You're m-much better at explainin' this k-kinda stuff than the vet was..."

"Heh. We have different methods. She's still very good at what she does, though."

"Y-yeah, whatever."

"Would you like to know what you can do afterwards?"

"..."

"Applejack?"

"Sorry...but that's p-pretty much the question Ah was gonna a-ask in the first place."

"Oh! Then...?"

"Don't worry. Ah think Ah...needed to hear all of th-that anyway."

"I'm...I'm glad."

Author's Note

Update note: Entry title changed from "Pets" to "Winona" 8/3/17

My little sister recently had to euthanize her dog. He had a relapse in his cancer which led to a few difficult weeks, and I regret that I wasn't around in his last few days. It so happened that his birthday came around in the same week, and the cake they got for him was the last thing he ate. My sister says that he went to the hospital at little livelier than he had been, and we're all grateful to him for keeping her safe through the years.

I've always figured that Fluttershy would be the most aware about pet mortality. Aside from the fact that she's the resident expert on animal behavior, she has shown a good grasp on the subject when confronting Rainbow Dash about Tank's hibernation. Fluttershy knew it was just reality. That would make her a solid source of advice on what to expect when the time comes. No false hopes - just truth. Truth and comfort.

It's about time that I've written Fluttershy in a leading light, too.

Logic

"Please, come in! Excuse the mess, I've been grading all afternoon and haven't really..."

"No worries! I'm no stranger to a little dustiness myself."

"I don't doubt it! You know, sometimes I'm envious of you. You have Spike around to help you keep things neat."

"He's a real treasure! Maybe you could ask him to help around here, too."

"Oh, no, I wouldn't dream of adding to his workload. Anyway, that's not why I asked you to visit, Princess."

"Please, we're friends. Let's just keep it 'Twilight,' hmm?"

"Somehow I knew you'd want it that way. Okay then, Twilight, I know you've got a busy schedule so I'll get right to the point. I'm thinking through an idea to have you take on some teaching responsibility of your own."

"Oh! Oh, goodness, uh... I don't suppose you mean the kind of teaching I've already been doing for Starlight Glimmer?"

"Correct, I'm not. Teaching in more of my capacity. Kind of like a tutor for school-age ponies."

"Oh. Tutor, huh? I've done that before. The young ones called it Twilight Time, and it got pretty messy by the end."

"Yes, kind of like that."

"What, messy?"

"No, no, sorry. Kind of like Twilight Time, I mean, only more regular. Keep in mind that this is just an idea, and it started as just a fun little logic puzzle for me to do before bed. Now I'm curious what your thoughts on an arrangement like that would be."

"Wow. Uh, okay. This is sudden..."

"Remember, it started as a game. I'm not formally asking you to become the town's second schoolmare. It's just a logic puzzle."

"Logic puzzle. Like, cause-and-effect? Guessing what would happen next?"

"Yep! And to convince you to stay...ta-da!"

"Whoa! Spirits!"

"Do you like it? I haven't had a reason to drink with a friend in a long time, and this is an old favorite of mine. It's not as strong, but it's more flavorful as a result. Won't you join me?"

"You know what? Playing a logic game sounds pretty fun!"

"I knew you'd see it my way. Guests and royalty first!"

"Heheh. I'm grateful that you see me as a guest before royalty!

"Very true! Now then, let's start from the beginning. This all began with Spike."

"Spike? Why?"

"It's pretty straightforward. Spike is a quick-witted and intelligent little dragon. By all accounts, just as well-taught as any of my little ponies. I attribute that knowledge to you."

"Heh, I am a pretty savvy teacher."

"Maybe, but let's not forget who's certified here!"

"Heh. Go on!"

"So, my first thought that began all of this was the question of 'why.' Why was Spike so intelligent? And it's because he learned from you, Twilight. And why did he learn from you?"

"Because he's spent his entire life at my side, learning everything I've been learning."

"Exactly. Now you're getting the point of the game. So now we know that Spike is one smart dragon, and that he was taught by one smart unicorn. Even if most of it was learning by proxy. Now then, my next line of thinking naturally turned to how that kind of intelligence could be extended to the fillies and colts I teach every day."

"Mmm! Which then became the idea of having me teach them as well!"

"Precisely! Now the game can really begin."

"Okay, then! Let's see...my next big question to follow that would be 'what.' What would I do from there?"

"I can take a guess."

"Go on!"

"You would probably overthink it for an hour before accepting, and you'd probably say something like how it would be a good exercise in your overall teaching skills."

"That...hmph!"

"Hit the nail on the head?"

"I do not overthink things!"

"Heh, only when Spike's there too. Doesn't he help to keep you grounded?"

"Cheerilee! I'm shocked!"

"Yeah, but you're still drinking, which means I'm right."

"Oh, you're terrible."

"What comes next?"

"Hmph! I suppose it would be another question of 'what.' What would happen first? Or rather, what would I try to teach first?"

"If you're only tutoring, then it would all be dependent on what my current subject is at that time."

"Ah, true. Then how about something I try to teach on my own?"

"I thought you'd say that. Well then, what would you teach first?"

"Astronomy!"

"Wow. That was quick."

"See? I do not overthink things! Sometimes the answers are obvious!"

"You're still drinking, Twilight."

"But this time I'm right!"

"Heheh! Okay, so, astronomy. That's quite a bit more advanced than what school-age ponies will learn, but then again that's not the point of the game. Let's say you teach them astronomy. How would that go?"

"Obviously, they would learn the names of some constellations, know the structural matter of meteorites, and I'd host some once-a-month field trips to go stargazing in the meadow!"

"Really?"

"Yeah!"

"Because I have a different scenario."

"It's your game."

"I think you won't make much headway in your lessons until a couple weeks have passed. You'll spend most of your teaching time trying to get the class to settle down while also experimenting with things you've seen me do, like assigned seating, scheduled lessons, and incentives."

"Incentives? For school ponies?"

"Incentives. Things like recess time, little gadgets, pieces of candy that you'll soon take away because you'll realize you need to get approval from the parents first and who wants that kind of trouble, and colorful stickers!"

"Cheerilee, I think you're projecting."

"I think you're overthinking! Play the game, Twilight. There's still half a bottle left!"

Author's Note

I wanted to test the dynamic between these two while also remembering a few times I've had Drinking Conversations with my friends. Nothing like a few shots to loosen lips, and loose lips build friendships!

Gift

"Erm...Spike?"

"Oh, hey."

"Spike, it's late. Why are you up?"

"I'm making something for Applejack."

"For Applejack? Why?"

"Well, remember when she saved me from those timberwolves?"

"Yeah."

"That was a year ago tomorrow. I wanted to make her something to say thanks, y'know, without getting under her hooves and making a mess of things."

"Heheh. That explains the mess of things here."

"Ha, yeah, I got a little carried away with the craft supplies. But hey, it's working! I think."

"So what are you making?"

"Well, first I wanted to just get a card, but that didn't say enough for saving my life. Then I thought about doing what I did last year - helping out where I could - but we all know how that turned out. Plus, she and I still have our agreement, which meant I couldn't just go out and get in trouble again just to make her save me a second time. Anyway, I eventually settled on this."

"So...again, what are you making?"

"Heh, sorry, got carried away again. It's a mural. Well, a tiny one - I'm just one dragon, after all. I decided to make something by hand that would say more than a card, so it naturally had to be bigger than a card somehow."

"Wow, that's really thoughtful of you, Spike! Any way I can help?"

"As long as you're better at helping me than I was with her, sure!"

"Great! What's next for you?"

"Hmm...over here. I was wanting to fashion a few sticks together in order to make a timberwolf, so I got these, and--"

"So that's where all of our popsicles went!"

"It's for a good cause!"

"Mmmmph!"

"Hey, you said you wanted to help, not to judge!"

"I'm not judging! I'm just scolding you. With my eyes."

"So you're judging silently."

"Oh, hush, you silly dragon. Here, how's this?"

"Ahh, yeah, that looks great! Say, can you make sure they stay like that somehow, so I don't accidentally move one piece and make it look weird?"

"Sure, I can hold them still in this shape. Are you thinking...right here?"

"No, uh, more like...here. Yep, good, hold it there..."

"Spike? What are you--"

"Phftoo!!"

"Whoa! Hey, watch it with the fire, mister!"

"Twilight, you moved the stick wolf!"

"You breathed fire on it! Spike, this is wood, and we're putting it on paper, and you're breathing fire on it. What are you thinking?"

"Ugh, well since you asked...one, I'm thinking that I set up some special paste on the underside of the sticks that activates when exposed to heat. Two, I'm thinking that I wasn't blowing fire on anything, I was blowing close to it so the heat would be enough without actually lighting anything. Three, I'm thinking that your magic won't get affected by any flame, so you're good to stay back where you are now. And four, since we're on the subject anyway--"

"Okay, okay, I get it. You thought this through."

"--we're in a giant crystal house now instead of a tree, so there's no chance of an uncontrolled fire--"

"Shush, you. I get it."

"Heh, yeah, I win. Care to try again?"

"Ugh. Would it hurt you to give a pony a little warning before you light a fire?"

"Consider this... Phtooo!! Just consider this a little payback for you constantly picking me up in your magic without warning. That's pretty surprising too, you know!"

"Oh, please, it's not like I'm hurting you."

"Yep. And it's not like I was hurting you just now."

"Sheesh, Spike, you're a bit of a fighter when you're focused. It's actually pretty neat."

"Thanks! But you know, it shouldn't come as any surprise. This is for Applejack after all."

"Oh, so it's only for her?"

"Well, I'd make something for everypony, but then I'd have to move on from a mini mural to a full-blown tapestry. Or, wait, don't you already have stained-glass windows?"

"Pfft, this coming from mister crystal statue over here."

"Exactly my point. You and I? We get enough recognition already. It'd be like giving you the gift of a book you already own."

"I think I'd just give you the book on your birthday."

"Heheh, some things will never change. Do we have any yarn? I want to try to make a grassy field right here..."

Author's Note

Spike is awesome. Applejack is awesome. Their episode, silly as it was, is also kind of awesome. And you know what? The family bond between Spike and Twilight is also awesome.

But really, the only inspiration I needed was the first bit. Spike is awesome.

Resolve [Sequel to Resolutions]

This entry follows continuity from the first entry of this year, Resolutions. This is also not as cheerful or cathartic as previous entries. View the notes on the bottom for context.

Happy New Year, anyone.

"Back outside again, huh?"

"Oh? Rainbow Dash, darling, please don't mind me. You should stay inside. It's dreadfully cold out."

"Yep. That only makes me wonder why you're hanging out here on the porch like some kicked stone. Are you okay? I saw what happened."

"Don't fret over it, please. It was just a lapse in judgment, and it won't happen again. It's my newest resolution."

"Rare."

"Hm?"

"Resolutions are nice because they sound nice. Don't just slap some pretty words on this and expect me to let it go. Talk to me."

"I... I don't wish to discuss it."

"Is it because you truly don't want to?"

"I beg your pardon?"

"Do you not wanna get into it because it makes you uneasy, or because you have this idea that somehow you'd be making me uneasy?"

"What gives you that impression?"

"Oh, nothing, really. Just that it's exactly what your resolution for this year was. You know, minding your words around your friends in order to be more considerate. Seriously, Rare, I appreciate the effort, but I'm not Fluttershy. I can take it."

"Well, it's not like she can't take criticism either..."

"Not tonight, it seems, but come on. We just got through another wacky year. I know you, and I will drop the subject if it's hard for you, but if it's just because you don't want me to think about it? Then you've got another thing comin'."

"Ah..."

"Rarity. Stop looking at your wine glass. I learned the hard way that bottles don't have any answers."

"Ha! Heheh..."

"Oh, made you smile."

"Heh...hmm. I suppose... It is a new year. Might as well go into it with a clear head."

"The wine ain't gonna help with that. Maybe we should wait until it's past midnight."

"My, my, such restraint. Just how many, ahem, answers did you seek this year?"

"Only the bottles and the Wonderbolts know."

"Heh, indeed. Okay, Rainbow Dash, I'll confess. Fluttershy's new confidence is something worth my pride. All of our pride. She's grown so strong and beautiful in just a year, and I don't mean her body. It's her spirit. She's bigger, and better for it."

"Yeah."

"Yes. And...hm. It shames me to say it, but a part of me wished she weren't quite so strong. It's made me realize how much things have changed. And it's nothing at all like fashion and seasons - those are all works of passion. But the way she carries herself now just strikes me harder than any other surprise I can name."

"So... What, you didn't like how she's grown so confident, so you low-key sassed her all night until she finally snapped?"

"It wasn't just tonight."

"Oh. Oh?"

"Please."

"Rarity, you wanted a clear conscience, remember?"

"Yes, well... I think I need a bit of courage to get through this next part."

"Heh. Fine, have your glass. At least you won't be sharing secrets with some fancy label."

"Somehow, you're not much better."

"Hey, I've grown up these last few years, too, you know? I'm not gonna go around spilling secrets."

"No... No, I suppose you won't. Hm..."

"Hey... Hey, come up for air when you drink that stuff."

"I've been drowning in negativity for weeks, Rainbow Dash. A little more drowning of a different sort won't change it."

"Weeks? You've been feeling this way for weeks?"

"Yes, for Celestia's sake! She's... She is so strong now, Rainbow. Her confidence is stunning, her spirit is inspiring. And the lengths she's gone to in order to help those she cared about? And the sanctuary! The discovery of a cure to something that petrifies ponies into trees! She even kept pace with us the entire time we were searching for other races to help us in Canterlot!"

"Rare... Nothing you just said is a bad thing."

"I know! So why am I so jealous of her spirit? Why am I so much more sarcastic around her right now? This only started after Nightmare Night, after she stayed in again. I just couldn't help but make a playful rib at her predicament. I called out the irony of her newfound spirit against her habitual cowardice on the holiday, and it's just festered ever since. First it was just jokes, then critique at her expense, then muttering behind her back. Now I can't be in the same room with her and not undermine her!"

"Wow, yeah. Those? Those are the bad things."

"Pheh. Like I don't already know that."

"It sounds like you didn't quite hold yourself to your last resolution."

"No. No, I did not. I tried so hard and made such strides, but in the end... It seems they were just pretty words, like you said."

"Rarity, come on. One bad show doesn't wreck the whole tour."

"Oh, we're speaking in Wonderbolt terms now?"

"Just hush up and use the analogy."

"Fine. One bad show is all well and good when the audience doesn't know you personally. But if I went to your shows and I saw you all falter, fall, and crash, I'd be worried for the safety of my friends. Because I know them. This isn't some show, Rainbow Dash - this is Fluttershy. My dearest friend. It's not a show I didn't practice, it's a friend I've hurt because I've somehow forgotten what it means to be a friend!"

"I... I just..."

"Please, no more. Not now, not yet. I need to find her and apologize, but I must figure out why I can't just be happy for her. I know that friends are allowed to be cross with each other from time to time, but this? I find myself thinking of ways to embarrass her. I wake up some mornings, and my first thought was if Fluttershy got better rest than I did. I think about her worries against my own, and if she even has any worries left, because she's carrying herself so wonderfully now. I'm supposed to be Generosity, aren't I? So why do I crave my friend's success?"

"I, uh... I don't know."

"No, I suppose you don't. And that's not your fault. Heh, maybe now I'll become jealous of you, simply because you don't have the same feelings of jealousy."

"I've been jealous plenty of times. I told you about the cadet I was partnered with, right? Lightning Dust?"

"You... Oh, please. Don't compare this to that. You might have been jealous of her spot at first, but you were justified in the end. The only pony who lost something was Lightning Dust herself, and she brought that failure on herself."

"But...ugh. Maybe I really don't know what you're feeling."

"Hm. So answer me this. What was the point in telling you any of this at all?"

"Wow, okay, I'm trying to help you, Rarity."

"And here I am, still drowning. At least my bottle makes it a little more flavorful."

"You know what? I think I'll try some of those pretty words right now. Next year, I'm gonna be supportive of my friends, even when they don't want me to be. Because that's the kind of friend I am."

"Off to a poor start."

"Nah, Rare. It hasn't started yet. There's still time before the new year begins. So until then, enjoy being out here in the cold, alone, just like how you want to be. And maybe next year, you'll try not to drive a wedge between you and your friends."

"I already know this is my fault!"

"Yeah, well... Then you must have seen this coming. See you tomorrow I guess. And don't trust that bottle all night long."

Author's Note

Context:
One of my oldest friends is going to a rough patch (death in the family, forming an open marriage after his wife cheated, and temporary suspension from work, to name the most recent events), and yet when he visited with me and another friend earlier this week, he seemed to be without any worry. I don't know if it's a strong spirit or something I can't name, but I've thought about it a lot. What must it be like to have everything bad happen to you, and yet you can still talk and laugh as though everything were okay?

I can't say if it's the direction his grief has taken. I can't say if he's just putting on airs. Really, I can't say for sure what he's feeling, because it's a situation I've never been in. I know this year has been hard on him. Not just the year, either; it might just be the last four months. So I've been trying to put a name on his behavior that I saw earlier, and of course I can only use names of things I know and have personally felt.

Really, it's not my place to assign any one label to what he's going and gone through. And there have been brief moments where I saw his behavior fracture, where whatever metaphorical mask he put on would crack and show a bare hint of what he was really feeling. Still, that part, where the confidence shakes and something else is revealed, is something I've both seen and done several times. And there's no other time where personal reflection is more prominent than when the year turns.

This entry took on a number of surprising turns. It began as just a repeat of the setting from the previous entry: two friends discussing themselves as the year ends and the next begins. But as I wrote it, I remembered how my recent get-together with friends was different than normal, and how it seemed to stem from what one friend was hiding. I drew inspiration from what I actually know - confidence and jealousy - and then the conversation became something much more profound. Much more alarming. It's not even about jealousy. It's about the resolve of a person and whatever shape that resolve takes. But more importantly, it's about how that resolve can fracture when things change that can't be controlled.

I'm always here for my friend. I've invited him to share whatever he feels in whatever way he wishes, knowing that I can't help any more than just being here for him. There's no way I can really know what he's going through, but doing is just as useful as knowing, I think. I've seen his resolve, and I saw moments where it cracked at the edges. I can only hope that he remembers that we're here for him if he needs us. Even if it doesn't start tonight.

Essentials

"Spike!"

"What's wrong?"

"Oh, Spike, it's horrible. I just got this letter from the Princess!"

"Which one?"

"What?"

"Which one? We have the original Celestia, her night-owl sister Luna, Cadance up north, then there's you...though I don't think you'd send a letter to yourself. Unless there's another time-travel situation going around. And finally there's the baby, Flurry, also up north. Can she write yet?"

"Wow, we have really expanded the alicorn ratio, haven't we?"

"Yeah, but if you think about it, one of them has been an accident!"

"Hey! Don't talk about my niece like that, mister!"

"Sorry, I couldn't help it. Now, what happened?"

"Oh! Right. Letter, letter, letter... Ah. It's from Luna-"

"Aha, the night owl."

"Shush. She says there has been an urgent summons to the Buffalo Frontier, and I need to go and act as a representative of Canterlot."

"Urgent summons? From the Buffalo? Are they feuding with the settlers again?"

"I don't know, it doesn't say. Luna says she'll contact me with more information soon, but for now I need to pack for the journey."

"Hey, now that you mention it...how did Luna send a letter to you? It certainly didn't go through me. I haven't tasted parchment all weekend."

"It was...delivered by owl."

"Ha!"

"Mmph!"

"Okay, okay. So what's so horrible about all this?"

"I am a Princess, and I will play my part. Still, I'm worried. The last time there was trouble involving the buffalo, an entire town was nearly flattened!"

"The last time there was trouble there, it was resolved with pie."

"I know, and that only makes this stranger! What could be happening over there that they need a Princess to come down and help? Ooh, where are my good saddlebags?"

"You're wearing them."

"What?"

"You grabbed them on your way here. They're on your back."

"Huh. That's it! You're coming with me!"

"Wha- hey!"

"No complaints, Spike! I need to be on the first train to the Frontier, and it's obvious I'm going to be a frazzled mess without you."

"Phah! I get that, but I can walk! You don't need to stuff me ins- whoa!"

"Make room, mister!"

Author's Note

Dialogue is my weakness.