To Be Herd

“Are you up for a walk, my pretty maid?” asked Thespian.

“Yes, Ms. Thespian,” responded Air Raid. “Anywhere you want to go.”

“What interests you Air Raid?” Thespian asked, “What do you find fascinating?”

“Besides driving really fast?” Air Raid thought for a moment, “Poems, literature, art, they’re forever festinating.”

“Very good, I can indulge you in that.” They stepped into Times Square proper and it is crowed with ponies along with a heavy police presence. “This is the heart of the city. To the south is the brains, the financial district, media outlets, and high-end stores. To the north is the soul with the parks, theatres, and museums. I do like to watch ponies scurry hither and yon. You can join the throng here or head south, but to relax you want to head north.”

“If this is the heart of the city, then the ponies must be the blood, and the streets the arteries and veins,” said Air Raid.

“Not a bad analogy, for without the ponies the city would die. It would be a wasteland of concrete and steel,” observed Thespian. “Like a body it has diseases and even cancer. Manehatten used to be very pro Celestia. There is even a borough named after her. In the Broncs live most of the zebras and being followers of Luna, you can guess the two boroughs don’t get along very well.”

Air Raid nodded as she looked around the square. “If this city is alive then Canterlot is a corpse that doesn’t know it died yet.”

Thespian smiled, “I’ve visited Canterlot, and I found the city… Quaint.”

“Quaint like a graveyard is quaint,” responded Air Raid.

“Well, you’re no longer there,” said Thespian. “To be honest change is difficult, and usually has to come from the inside. Even here change is resisted, but I’m still fighting the good fight one show at a time,” she ended with a giggle.

“You said the theatres are to the north. That’s where you work. I surprised Wily with my knowledge of literature and Shakespony.”

“I do have fun at work,” said Thespian. “You can always find Shakespony playing somewhere.

“Just like me, only one race at a time,” responded Air Raid.

“Are you feeling homesick?” asked Thespian.

“For Canterlot, no, Ms. Thespian,” answered Air Raid. “I’m more homesick for making a home here in Manehatten.”

Thespian laughed, “When I was younger, I wanted to escape this city where my parents lived. I met a zebra that didn’t care what I could bring, but only cared for me. Alas, he came to this city to live and here I stay.”

Air Raid nodded, “Home is home, I guess. Not just where you kip at night, but the memories you make.” A smile spread across her face, “I’m going to make some good ones here.”

“I hope you do,” said Thespian. “Now a bit more swish when you walk, as ponies are watching.”

“Yes, Ms. Thespian.” Air Raid added a lot more sway to her hips and looked to see who was watching.

“Eyes front!” commanded Thespian. “They may look at you, but you may not look at them.”

Air Raid snapped her head to the front and kept her eyes looking forward, “Yes ma’am!”

“Most mares, like myself, are dressed in their fur,” said Thespian, and then she added, “But you they want to undress with their eyes.”

A blush covered Air Raid’s cheeks, “It feels really good to be watched.”

Thespian observed those looking at her pretty maid, “You’ll be happy to know that some mares have also taken to looking at you.”

The blush spread to Air Raid’s ears, “Yes, Ms. Thespian. It’s like I have power over them.”

Thespian giggled, “Yes, the power of a bright red tail ribbon and a bit of burgundy cloth covering the valley of delight.” She sniffed, “Though I don’t think it is hiding the mist rising from the valley.”

Air Raid staggered a step, as she thought of how she was being humiliated. She quickly recovered, and held her muzzle high, “Don’t care. Let them look, right?”

“That’s the spirit, dear,” said Thespian. They continued for a couple more blocks before she spoke up again, “Here is the museum that I wanted to show you, my pretty maid. Let us find out how the air conditioning mixes with that mist over the valley.”

Air Raid’s blush intensified again, but the site of the building took her mind off that problem. “Wow, they really built to impress. I mean, look at those columns, and the sheer effort that went into that façade. Just, wow.”

“Remember, I did say this was Celestia’s city, and they tried to emulate Canterlot with their official buildings,” reminded Thespian. “Let us go in and see what they have to offer. We will start with the paintings and finish with the sculptures.”

“Lead on, Ms. Thespian,” said Air Raid as she never let her swishing tail slow down.

“Do keep up, my pretty maid.” Thespian led Air Raid into the museum and to the left. The first gallery held art from the classical era prior to Luna’s banishment. She saw Air Raid go slack jawed at the art before her and noted the pegasus’s tail slow down. “It is interesting that most of these were painted by earth ponies.”

“I know, right,” said Air Raid. “You’d think it would be unicorns, but it may have to do with mouth and hoof dexterity.”

Thespian lightly swatted Air Raid’s ass. “Your tail has stopped moving, my pretty maid.” She smiled as Air Raid’s cheeks heated up and the tail started moving. “I think it is mostly because the unicorn population was low, and they didn’t have time to waste magic on art.” They moved through the gallery, “Sadly much of the art from this period was destroyed in the war between the sisters. That is the only piece with Luna in it and that is because Celestia is in it too.”

The moved on to a section with six galleries. “This is during the Celestial period. Then you may have noted that Celestia is the running theme in these galleries.”

“Yeah, hard to miss that, Ms. Thespian.” Air Raid moved through the galleries and made sure to keep her tail and hips moving. She fought hard not to laugh when a stallion crashed into a bench but couldn’t keep the giggle contained. That earned another swat to her ass.

“Do not laugh at the misfortunes of others,” said Thespian even though she also giggled. “Here are a few exceptions, such as Comet Tails. The pegasus artist has a few works here in the gallery.”

“Yeah, I know of him,” said Air Raid. “He does sculpture too and did one of Darkies favourite statues.”

“I do like to end my tour with the sculptures,” said Thespian. “More art is being created over the last thirty years, and may one day rival the Celestial period art. This next two galleries are…”

A stallion interrupted Thespian’s tour, “Hey, pretty filly, can you clean pipes?”

Air Raid sputtered to think of a response when Thespian stepped in, “She does sir, but unfortunately for you, her talent is reserved for larger jobs.”

The stallion was left sputtering as Thespian moved along to the next gallery. Air Raid almost failed to follow as she watched the disgraced stallion. She quickly caught up with Thespian and whispered, “Thank you, Ms. Thespian.”

“He did call you pretty, my pretty maid,” Thespian said with a smug smile. Air Raid could only nod to that. “This is the painting I want you to see in the current diarchy period. This was painted in Central Park. Have you heard of an artist by the name of Brush Strokes?”

Air Raid paused for a moment to remember where she had heard that name and the moment came back to her. “Landscape artist. Darkie took me to an exhibit in Canterlot of his works.

“Have you met him then?” asked Thespian.

“Oh no,” said Air Raid. “I’d like to.” She pointed a hoof at the painting. “He does great at capturing nature.”

Thespian smiled at her inside joke, “You’ll meet him tomorrow. After all he is Prince Dusk’s stallion friend.”

“No way,” Air Raid said with a shake of her head.

“He’s an earth pony too, but no surprise there being a painter,” continued Thespian as if she weren’t interrupted. “Tempest likes to claim the credit of bringing the two of them together.”

“You’re so yanking my crank!” exclaimed Air Raid before she realized what she had said, “Um, Ms. Thespian.”

Thespian walked out of the gallery and into the cafeteria. “Be a dear and fetch me a coffee black and two daisy sandwiches. You may get something for yourself too.”

Air Raid’s blush had returned, “Sorry for the outburst, Ms. Thespian. I’ll see to it right away.” Air Raid went to the counter and got Thespian’s order along with a two-sugar coffee and blueberry muffin.

When Air Raid returned Thespian said, “You may stand to eat and drink. I don’t want that pretty ass of your hidden.”

“Yes, Ms. Thespian.” Air Raid arranged the food and drinks. Secretly she was pleased to stand since her ass was still sore. “How did Tempest get the two of them together?”

“That is a story in and of itself,” said Thespian. “Did you know Vocal Chord?” She saw Air Raid nod, but the expression she wore went from happy to sad in a moment. “Dusk and Vocal walked into my husband’s shop. Omega met them there and got an interview.”

“I was so surprised when I read about that. Dusk never gives interviews,” said Air Raid.

“Omega is the lead political reporter and works for Airmail,” said Thespian. “You’ll meet him on Thursday along with his coltfriend, Sunshine. Shortly after that Luna got Vocal and his band tour dates.” Thespian shook her head, “You never know what you’ll miss until it is gone. When Dusk was next in Manehatten he was mopping in the park and plopped down in front of Brush Stroke and the landscape he was painting. Tempest rolled in a big rainstorm. Ruined Brush Stroke’s painting and brought to stallions together to shelter from the storm. The rest, as they say, is history.”

“Good for Dusk,” said Air Raid.

“Well he isn’t missing Vocal Chord any longer, and I hope you’re not missing Wildfire either,” commented Thespian.

“No, it’s fine, Ms. Thespian,” responded Air Raid. “I missed my chance with Wily and it is time for me to move on. New scenery, new ponies. I can’t keep beating myself up over thinking what I could have done.”

Thespian came straight to the point, “Then why are you beating yourself up over Darkstar?”

Air Raid hesitated to answer, “I… I dunno, I guess, it’s, um, different, y’know?” When Thespian said nothing the words just rushed out of Air Raid, “It’s what I should have done with Wily, looking after her. It’s like, like wiping my slate clean. I don’t want to beat myself up anymore. Now Darkie has real help, and I have real hope to start anew. I can’t change what has been done but can only effect what is to come.”

When Air Raid ran out of steam, Thespian spoke up, “Seems I’m having an effect on you. Dance.”

Air Raid blinked as she processed the one-word command, “Dance?”

Thespian smiled, “A rhythmic movement of the body, usually with musical accompaniment, but music is not required as you can dance to a tune in your head.

Air Raid rolled her eyes, “I know what dance is, Ms. Thespian. As it happens, I do have a dance along with a poem, if it please you.”

“It pleases me to see you dance,” said Thespian. “Anything else will be a welcomed extra.”

Air Raid reared up on her hind legs and used her wings for balance. She started a slow dance around the table with Thespian and began to recite the poem ‘Paint the Sky with Stars’. Around her the ponies in the cafeteria quieted. While she always faced Thespian, her movements let her see the others in the cafeteria, and they were in her thrall. Thespian’s eyes never left her as she started the second half of the poem. When she finished, Air Raid lowered herself to four hooves and took a bow.

Thespian clapped her hooves and soon the rest of the cafeteria was doing the same along with a few whistles. “As a race driver, I suppose you are well able to handle being the centre of attention. Finish your muffin and we will look at the other offerings of this museum.

Air Raid moved back to her spot, “I’m used to it Ms. Thespian, though the smaller crowd is rather… Intimidating.” She takes a bite of her muffin and follows up with some coffee. “Dusk taught us that poem.”

“Interesting,” said Thespian. “So many things I don’t know. Then it does take time to know a pony.”

“Think about it, ma’am. A stadium of thousands is a faceless noise of cheering or booing.” Air Raid tossed her head, “Here I can see each muzzle. It’s different, scarier.”

Thespian smiled as she finished her coffee. “You did very well my pretty, pretty maid.”

“Thank you, Ms. Thespian.” Air Raid finished her muffin and coffee. “I cheated a bit, and pretended it was just you in the room.”

Thespian lifted her nose and waved a hoof, “It was I that asked you to dance, and it should be me that you danced for. It is a bonus that others were able to enjoy it. Move along now, we have statues to see.”

“Sure, Ms. Thespian. I wonder if there is a Cloud Blossom original here?” asked Air Raid.

Thespian giggled, “I shouldn’t be surprised that you know the arts, since you did say it interested you. I was going to ask if you followed rugby.”

“I follow a few of the players, and you can blame Wily for that, Ms. Thespian,” responded Air Raid. “I don’t have a clue about the game itself, then Wily is your mare for that.”

Thespian shook her head, “I don’t follow it either, but Caffy does, and he loves to annoy me with it.” They enter the first gallery of post-unification statues. “While Apple Blossom is the star of our local team, Cloud Blossom is the star in these hallowed halls.” They stop before a statue of a rising from a cloud with just one hoof touching the cloud base. “Pose.”

Air Raid immediately tried to copy the pose. On just one hoof with her wings spread she wobbled a bit until she found her balance. She watched Thespian slowly walk around her, studying her. A blush spread across Air Raid’s cheeks. She soon noticed that other patrons were also studying the newest statue in the museum.

“You could have been Cloud Blossom’s inspiration,” commented Thespian.

“I agree,” said a mare.

“I’m certainly inspired,” said a stallion.

Air Raid soaked it all in. They were looking at her, admiring her. It was so hot.

“Thank you, my dear maid,” said Thespian, “you may come to life.”

Air Raid lowered herself from the pose and saw the other ponies looking her way. She did a bow, and they nodded in appreciation. “That… That was unreal, Ms. Thespian.”

“Cloud Blossom has other works in this museum, but that one means the most to me.” Thespian led the way out of the gallery.

“Because of the name, Ms. Thespian. Tempest?” asked Air Raid.

“Yes, for many reasons,” answered Thespian. “I’ve been in the play, and Serenity is in it now. Then there is my herd mate, Tempest. The memories. Never lose your memories, Raid. Good and bad.”

“Oh, brave new world, that has such ponies in it,” quoted Air Raid.

Thespian giggled, “Going to give up racing for acting?”

Air Raid snorted, “I’m a rubbish actor, Ms. Thespian. Just me and Wily shared that line on the cloud the first time.”

Thespian nodded, “Wily remembers that day with fondness.”

Softly Air Raid responded, “As do I, Ms. Thespian, as do I.”

“Unlike the paintings, most of these works are done by pegasi.” Thespian led the pair into the Celestial era. “From the simplest stone to the grandest marble, I admire the patience to turn one of these out.”

Air Raid nodded, “Darkstar was able to interview Cloud Blossom. It amazed me that she could hover for eight hours while sculpting.” Thespian stopped before another statue and Air Raid looked at it. It was Princess Celestia in pure white marble. She had her wings spread and a forehoof raised like she was addressing a crowd. Her cutie mark was gold inlay, and her mane and tail were several pastel shades of marble. “Sweet, “she giggled, “Celestia. This had to take weeks. Look at the detail and the mane!”

“It took six months,” said Thespian. “This is the pony we imagine is in Canterlot. She is rather regal looking.” The mare started to rummage in her saddle bag.

“It is amazing!” exclaimed Air Raid. “Imagine, Ms. Thespian, being able to commission something like this.” She took her eyes from the statue to see what Thespian was doing.

The earth pony pulled out a piece of paper and rolled it into a cone. She used some bobby pins to fasten it to Air Raid’s mane. “Pose.”

Air Raid smiled and took one more look at the statue before she copied the pose to include the stern expression. It was an honour to copy another one of Cloud Blossom’s works. Again, several of the ponies that were in the gallery gathered to look at her recreating the statue. One of the ponies was wearing a museum vest.

“Are you mocking our Princess?” said the uniformed stallion.

Thespian glanced his way, “Do you think she is so insecure in her position that a pony such as I could mock her?”

The curator stomped a hoof, “I’ll not have you and this floozy disrupting my museum!”

Thespian sniffed, “This is a pony’s museum. A treasure house of art that belongs to no one pony.”

The curator pointed a hoof, “I’ll call security!”

Thespian dismissed him with her hoof, “That is your privilege.” She watched the pony storm off. “Raid, is it beneath me to use my position?”

Air Raid had remained stock still during the altercation, but she answered, “No, Ms. Thespian.”

Thespian laughed, “He isn’t worth it. Come to life and let’s look at the time before the banishment.” Air Raid followed Thespian who ignored the rest of the statues in this wing.

Air Raid sighed, “Personally, Ms. Thespian, I don’t see his issue, not as if we were defacing it.”

Thespian shrugged as she walked, “Manehatten was once a jewel in Celestia’s crown. Not everypony is happy to see the return of Luna. There are no onyx statues of the goddess of the night in this museum.”

“Yeah, yeah, I had noticed. Hardly right though.” Air Raid had an idea, “You could dress me up as Princes Luna, Ms. Thespian, and I’ll be that statue this museum needs.”

“My dear, I can’t do that, for I am Princess Luna!” Thespian giggled, “I’ll have to show you the photos when we get home.” There is shouting back the way they came, but Thespian continued to walk on calmly.

Air Raid walked calmly beside her and heard fast approaching hoof steps. She glanced at Thespian who seemed to be ignoring the sounds behind them. ‘I wonder what she will do?’

Thespian stops at a statue with Celestia on the left side of the long base. “To the right was a statue of Luna, but it was destroyed in the war.”

Air Raid squeezes her eyes to keep the tears in, “I bet this would have been beautiful with both Princesses present.”

Another stallion with a museum vest fast approaches, “Thespian, what the hay are you doing?”

Thespian turned to look at the stallion, “Good afternoon, Stomper. Just enjoying the museum on this fine day.”

“You got Timepiece in an uproar,” said the stallion.

Thespian shrugged, “How was I to know a Celestite would be in charge today?”

“Are you on your way out,” asked Stomper.

“After we finish this wing,” responded Thespian.

“Thanks,” said Stomper who then turned to Air Raid, “Cute horn, by the way.”

“Thank you, Stomper,” said Air Raid. “It wasn’t like we were doing any harm.”

Stomper laughed a little, “Funny you should say that Miss. Harm is often in the eye of the beholder. I’ll let Timepiece know I took care of the situation. Have a good day, Thespian.” The stallion turned and trotted off the way he came.

Air Raid looks at her hooves, “I’m sorry, Ms. Thespian, I shouldn’t have said anything.”

Thespian lifted Air Raid’s head with a hoof, “Did I tell you to be silent?”

“No, ma’am, but a servant should know her place,” answered Air Raid.

“Welcome to a, well for the moment to include you, free Equestria.” Thespian giggled, “There is one more statue I want you to see. It escaped the purge.” Thespian walked off and Air Raid followed. “I hadn’t given it much thought until Mapper explained to me what the statue meant.”

They stopped before a statue with the simple title of ‘Pegasus in Bronze’ “Oh, wow,” said Air Raid, “She’s beautiful and looks like she could take off at any moment. Who is she?”

“Until recently I had thought of her as, Pegasus. Now I know different. It is nice to see art survive the victory.” Thespian pointed at the statue. “This was a pegasus that would stand up to Princess Celestia when the nation needed a voice of reason. If ponies like Timepiece knew the truth of this statue, he would have it melted down. That she is here now gives me hope that the world will survive ponies like him, and me for that matter.”

“This does look familiar to me,” said Air Raid. “I’m sure I’ve seen it before.”

Thespian nodded, “There is an identical statue in marble in the Canterlot Castle gardens. Maybe Dusk showed it to you.”

“That’s it!” Air Raid brightened up. “This is Sky Dive, Luna’s wi…”

Thespian shushed the pegasus. “Seems some secrets are not so secret. Such is the way of children.” Thespian looked around, “No harm done, it is time to leave this place of beauty and venture back into the world of concrete and steel.”

As they neared the exit, Timepiece approached them, “Forgive me, Ms. Thespian, but…”

Thespian held up a hoof, “No, I will not accept your apology for I do not remember anything happening today. Maybe next time you’ll have more faith in your goddess. Let us take our leave, Raid.”

“Yes, Ms. Thespian.” She gave the curator a look and then trotted after Thespian. When they were outside, she asked, “What was that all about?”

“He may have learned that I’m a patron of the arts. More so, my husband and the coffee tribe. Even more so, my father.” Thespian shook her head, “Why I asked if I should use my position earlier. I learned long ago you shouldn’t use money to solve your problems, but at times I do want to rub it in a pony’s face.”

“Ah,” said Air Raid, “so fear of losing that money made him change his tune.”

“Sadly, yes,” commented Thespian. “Enough about him, do you like cheesy fries?”

Air Raid decided it would be best to go with the change of subject, “Yes, Ms. Thespian. They are proper yummy.”

“Good, we can get some at the park,” said Thespian. “It is a few blocks to the park.”

Air Raid giggles, “Then we can walk off the calories before we eat them.” Thespian laughed. “You see,” explained Air Raid, “if we walk one more step than we need to we can eat whatever we want and never gain weight!”

“I like how you think,” said Thespian. “Your logic is like my husband’s. Eat the donuts, but never the donut holes, because all the calories go to the middle.”

Air Raid laughed, “Ms. Thespian, I thought everypony knew that.”

Thespian shook her head as she trotted. “I can already see you and the zebras will get along fabulously. Up ahead, do you see that opening on the left? That is the start of the park. The subway station entrance is up this street at the middle of the park. About a half mile.”

“It’s a big park, maybe bigger than the Canterlot Gardens,” commented Air Raid. “I do hope we impress some zebras tomorrow.”

“I have faith in Coffee Bean,” said Thespian as she entered the park and trotted up to a zebra and earth pony behind two carts. “Fluffy, Leaf. Usual for me and a sweet one for my maid.”

Leaf, a light green zebra, said, “Shor ting, Ms. Thessy.

Fluffy started preparing the fries, “Taking your staff on a holiday?”

Air Raid giggled, “Ms. Thespian is such a good employer she lets us see the sun every so often.”

“Bah to da sun!” said Leaf. “Da moon ist true glory!’

“Whatever, Tealeaf. You herd, missy?” asked Fluffy. Air Raid shook her head. “Then welcome to the association. Two orders of cheesy fries.”

“And here is a coffee true, and a sweet brew,” said Leaf.

“Thank you both.” Thespian left some bits on the cart. “Let’s find somewhere to sit and watch ponies, my petty maid.”

“Over there, Ms. Thespian. That sitting area is free.” Air Raid pointed out with a hoof.

“That will do nicely.” Thespian trotted over to the sitting area, “Nice to sit in the open air when you’re surrounded by monuments of stone and steel”

Air Raid looked around at the city skyline that outlined the park, “Yeah, it is. It’s all bigger here isn’t it?”

Thespian nodded, “At least the illusion that it is. Still I played here as a foal.” She dug into her cheesy fries.

Air Raid sipped her coffee, “I can just see a little you running around playing with a ball, or a… Frisbee… Kite?”

“Maybe all three,” Thespian giggled, “Those were carefree days back then.”

“Tell me about them?” Air Raid asked before she started on her fries.

“It was before Luna’s return of course. I was quite the Celestite, as was my family. Then the zebras just started migrating to Manehatten, and they slowly pushed the other ponies out of the Broncs.” Thespian sipped her coffee as she reflected on the past. “I didn’t really think much of them at the time. Living here on Manehatten island. It was here in college at MU that I met Caffy.”

Air Raid paused in her eating, “How did you meet him?”

“This may come as a surprise, but I was a theatre major in college.” Thespian did enjoy her pretty maid’s giggle. “Caffy was a business major, but he had a secret love of the theatre. He came to all of our shows and rehearsals. He said it was my voice, before he ever saw me, that set me in his sights.

Air Raid smiled, “That’s so sweet! Better than me and Wily met, gotta love truth or dare.”

Thespian laughed, “A common game at open mic. I usually don’t play, but the other mares do.”

Air Raid waved a hoof, “I’m not saying it wasn’t fun. The end result was.”

Thespian was still giggling, “Caffy and I are usually under the table when they are playing the game. Playing a different game.” Air Raid’s face showed realization of what Thespian was talking about. “I put off his advances at first thinking he was after something other than me. When I realized it was me, he wanted, and not my money, then love did bloom.” Thespian shook her head, “So much that my father disowned me.”

“Harsh,” said Air Raid, “Was he worried he wanted money?”

“At first both of us thought that. It turned out Caffy had his own money. The export import business he manages is near a ten billion bits. The thing was he lived simply and took me out to low or moderate priced places. Funny thing is I did the same. Neither of us flaunted the money we had. Young fools in love.” Thespian smiled, “In the end he won my father out. Now they are thick as thieves.”

“My mum hated every mare I brought home,” stated Air Raid. “Of course, she hated me too.”

“I can’t understand that,” said Thespian softly. “My father never hated me. He was afraid I was making a poor choice and wanted to protect the family. The good of the many outweighs the needs of the one.” Thespian put a hoof on Air Raid’s, “Was it the mares that brought her ire to you?”

Air Raid spread her wings, “Nope, it was these. I was born to an earth pony family, and if I was a pegasus, I was going to be the best pegasus there ever was. She had my life planned out before me. Junior flyers, royal guard, and eventually Wonderbolts.” Air Raid sighed, “When that wasn’t going to happen, I became a disappointment.”

“What did you think of Fluffy,” asked Thespian.

“The cheese fry guy,” Air Raid shrugged, “He was alright.”

“He can cloud walk,” commented Thespian.

Air Raid paused a moment, “Really? Enchantment?”

“No enchantments,” added Thespian.

Air Raid shook her head, “Okay, I give. How?”

Thespian giggled, “How do you cloud walk?”

Air Raid tilted her head, “Um, pegasusness.”

Thespian nodded, “Unlike you, Fluffy Cloud had wings until he lost them ten years ago. Leaf and he live together. Leaf gave him a reason to live. You, though, have your own reasons to live, right?”

“Yeah, I do,” responded Air Raid. “I came to terms with what I’ve got a long time ago. It hasn’t held me back. You heard of a mare called Scootaloo?” Thespian shook her head. “She lived in Ponyville and was a pegasus with the same condition as me. Why it is named after her now. Anyway, even though she couldn’t fly, she was world class stunt mare with her scooter. That inspired me to drive instead of fly.”

“Let me show you where I grew up,” said Thespian.

Air Raid smiled, “Please, I’d love to see.”

The mares cut a diagonal through the park towards the northwest corner. “Over there is the bandstand,” pointed out Thespian. That is where we put on our college plays for the public. You can catch a performance the first Saturday of the month. It is where I got my start.” They walk a bit further and Thespian pointed out the water jets in a paved area. “That was added four years ago.” She lowered her voice to a whisper, “I’ve snuck out here at night to splash around in it.”

“Why sneak?” questioned Air Raid. “Just come and enjoy yourself.”

Thespian responded, “Because there is fun in sneaking, silly.” The pair walked up to a tall, well appointed, building. Thespian used a key card like the one for her house to enter the front door. Inside a uniformed unicorn guard sat behind a desk. He nodded to Thespian. After they entered the elevator, she used her key card again, and entered a code. The PH light lit, and the doors closed.

When the doors opened, and elderly white mare with a blank flank was standing there. “A surprise visit and with a guest.” She moved in and hugged and kissed Thespian, then turned to Air Raid.

“Mom, Air Raid,” stated Thespian, “Air Raid, my mother, Snowflake. Go for it, mom, she’s the huggy type.”

The white mare moved in to give Air Raid a hug and kiss. “Ha, ha ha. That joke was old when you were born. My name is Snowfall.”

“Please to meet you Snowfl… Fall,” said Air Raid, but her eyes were on Snowfall’s flank. She snapped her eyes back to Snowfalls, “Sorry about that.”

Snowfall ushered the two of them out of the elevator. “Come on in and be welcomed to my home.”

“Dad in?” asked Thespian. Her mother gave her the look. “He’s been known to take a day off.”

“He’ll be here at five,” said Snowfall.

“I still say granny would have called you Snowflake if she knew what your cutie mark would be,” said Thespian.

“Yes, so you remind me, and have called me that since you were able to talk.” Snowfall moved so the light was exactly right to see the three snowflakes that were her cutie mark. She then led the pair to a sitting room with a beautiful view to the west.

Air Raid giggled, “I can understand now.” When she entered the room, her eyes were only for the scene outside the windows, “Wow, and I thought the mountains were beautiful.”

A brown earth pony mare with a burgundy mane entered. She was wearing a lace collar and black bow tie. One hoof pushed a coffee service. “Please put two sugars in our guest’s cup, Lilac.”

“Yes ma’am.” The mare prepared the three coffees. She placed one before each mare and moved out of the room, leaving the service behind.

Snowfall took a sip of her coffee, “While it is always pleasant to see you, dear. What brings you by today? Any changes for tomorrow?”

“No,” responded Thespian. “Everything is still on track, but I think it is really going to be crowded. I’m here to show Raid my old haunts, you know live life through a younger mare’s eyes.”

Air Raid is still looking out at the view. She turned to take up her coffee, “Some of mine and Wily’s friends will be there.” She took a sip of her coffee. “It was fun seeing the museums.”

Snowfall smiled knowingly, “Did my daughter complain about the lack of Luna?”

“Just a bit,” agreed Air Raid. “Though imitating the statues was fun.”

“Hey,” said Thespian, “she was my maid for the day, and must earn her wages.”

Snowfall looked at her daughter, “You had her imitate Celestia,” she deadpanned.

Thespian giggled, “Did the paper horn give it away?”

“That was so much fun,” interjected Air Raid. “Especially when that dusty old stallion yelled at us.”

“It was resolved,” added Thespian. “Stomper was on duty.”

Snowfall nodded, “Is that from Rarity’s Recreations, Air Raid?”

“Oh, the maid outfit, yes, it is, Ms. Snowfall,” responded Air Raid. “We went earlier today, and I saw this on the way out. It fairly sang my name. Please you can just call me Raid.”

It does match your outfit, Thespy,” said Snowfall. “With a colour swap. Are you both serving tomorrow?”

“I’ll be helping,” said Air Raid. Thespian nodded in agreement.

“Sounds like delicious fun,” commented Snowfall.

“That’s what I’m hoping for, Ms. Snowfall,” said Air Raid.

“Will you be staying for dinner?” asked Snowfall.

“I don’t have to go home. I can go straight to the theatre from here,” said Thespian. “Raid?”

“I can stay, sure,” responded Air Raid. “Darkie’ sorting herself I’m sure.”

“Lilac, two more for dinner, please,” Snowfall called out.

From the other room Lilac responded, “No problem, ma’am.”

“Thank you, Ms. Snowfall,” said Air Raid.

“It’s not a problem, dear.” Snowfall turned back to her daughter, “Dogs is still doing well at the box office?” Thespian smiled and nodded.

“I should watch you sometime on stage, Ms. Thespian,” said Air Raid.

“We can always get you tickets to any of the shows the herd is in,” said Thespian.

“Is everypony back from Canterlot?” asked Snowfall.

“Mapper and Serenity are back,” answered Thespian. “I’m expecting Airy and crew to be back later tonight.”

Air Raid spoke up, “I saw Ms. Mapper again yesterday. She showed us around her house that I’m buying.”

Snowfall tilted her head, “That’s a new development.”

“That’s why me and Darkie are staying with Ms. Thespian, Ms. Snowfall,” Air Raid said. “Until the house is ready.”

Thespian saw that her mother still didn’t understand, “You can ask her about the house tomorrow, but I think the mini herd is getting back together.”

Snowfall clapped her hooves, “That is good news! Darkie?”

“Darkstar, she is with me from Canterlot. Oh, Mr. Caffeinated did tell me that Airmail and Wily are getting married,” added Air Raid.

Snowfall put a hoof to her chin, “I wonder what Tempest thinks about that.” She shook her head, “That is silly, we are herd.”

“We are herd,” Thespian repeated.

Air Raid nodded, “Well, you’ve only got to see them both together to see they’re smitten… And that’s… Fine, I hope they’re all happy.”

Snowfall let Air Raid’s hesitation slide, “Time will tell as it does with any relationship. How many others are coming to the party tomorrow?”

Thespian started tapping her hoof, “There is the herd, Raid and Darkie, Dusky and Oils, and I’m sure Luna and Octavia will be there. Coffee Bean is bringing some zebras for this one and Darkie.” She giggled, “They can’t tell if they want dark meat or light meat.”

“I know that Cyclone will be there too, as Tempest invited her,” added Air Raid.

Thespian laughed, “Oh, yes the nappy play pegasus. There could be a few more and with all the foals, it will be wall to wall ponies.”

Air Raid joined Thespian in laughter, “She will be in a nappy alright. She all most always is these days.”

“What are your plans, Air Raid?” asked Snowfall.

“Well, broad plan is a fresh start out here, Ms. Snowfall, “answered Air Raid. “In detail, meet a mare, preferably a zebra, then show those Manehattenites how to drive.”

Snowfall clapped her hooves, “So, you play golf then?”

Air Raid hesitated as she processed what Snowfall said, and then she laughed, “On the racetrack, Ms. Snowfall.”

“Too bad,” said Snowfall. “My husband could use some pointers on the golf course.”

“I think he just likes chasing that ball around,” commented Thespian. “Raid has made a name for herself in Canterlot. Now it is time to take on the world.”

“Is your family still in Canterlot?” asked Snowfall.

Air Raid frowned, “Yes, if you call them that, Ms. Snowfall.” She saw her hostess tilt her head. “My mother,” Air Raid did air quotes with her hooves, “told me that if I left Canterlot with Darkie, I’d no longer be welcomed to return. My father really didn’t have much to say in that.”

Snowfall looked at her daughter, “I know a pony that went through something like that.” She turned back to Air Raid and pressed, “They are? I travel a good bit with Baron to Canterlot.”

“There is no need for twenty questions, mom,” said Thespian. “My mother can be a snoop at times.”

“I like to frame it as a gatherer of information,” responded Snowfall.

“Snoop,” retorted Thespian.

Air Raid laughed, “I really don’t mind. Both are earth ponies. My dad is Fire Prism, and he is on the Canterlot General Hospital board, and a landowner. My mom is Starburst, and she does attend as many social circles as she can while presenting herself more royal than the Princess.”

“Neither name rings a bell, but there are a lot of ponies in Canterlot,” said Snowfall.

“Hold on, I have pics of them.” Air Raid started looking through her phone. “Most of my pics are from racing, and, there. A pic of mom and dad together.” Air Raid showed the picture to Snowfall.

“I don’t recognize your father, but I do remember your mother,” said Snowfall. She giggled, “How does Mapper put it, ‘We’re all pretenders’.”

Thespian added, “She also says it takes one to know one.” To that Snowfall just smiled.

“The real issue with me is I’m not the child the wanted,” Air Raid said.

Snowfall was taken back by that, “Because you’re a pegasus and they are earth ponies?”

“Oh, no, nothing like that,” Air Raid said quickly. “If they were going to have a pegasus it had to be the best pegasus. Wonderbolt material. I’m pegasus that can’t fly. I have Scootaloo Syndrome.”

“Well, that does complete the picture, but it doesn’t make it any prettier,” commented Snowfall.

“Regardless of what they think,” said Thespian, “Serenity likes her.”

“High praise,” said Snowfall. “Have you met Lavender?”

Air Raid shivered, “I did, and she was a scary pony.”

Snowfall nodded, “She can be a bit intimidating.”

“She was non-committal, mom,” Thespian said. “I think Raid needs a bit more time to get back up on her hooves.” Snowfall nodded again.

Air Raid shivered again, “She gave me a look that brought back some memories I’d like to forget. Probably my own fault I failed her test.”

Snowfall laid a hoof on Air Raid’s shoulder. “Dear, if you had failed her test, you wouldn’t be here now. You simply earned an incomplete.”

Thespian giggled, “You’ll have lots of time tomorrow to study while serving drinks.”

Air Raid blushed, “Yeah, guess it has just been a lot to take in, with the move and… Everything.”

“You can always come here to visit,” said Snowfall. “When things seem overwhelming, and when my daughter gets too crazy for you.” That got a raspberry from Thespian.

“Thank you, Ms. Snowfall,” said Air Raid. “I wouldn’t want to be any trouble.”

Snowfall waved a hoof, “Friend of the herd. I will guess that Darkstar isn’t your sister.”

Air Raid couldn’t help but giggle at Thespian’s eye roll. “No, ma’am, I do have guardianship over her and treat her like a sister.”

“What?” stated Snowfall, “Is she a foal?”

“Mother,” Thespian said softly.

“It’s okay, Ms. Thespian, I don’t mind,” said Air Raid. “It’s nice that others have an interest in me. She’s a couple of years younger than me, and one of my oldest friends. She is clinically depressed and suicidal.”

Snowfall held a hoof to her mouth, “Oh my!” She turned to her daughter, “Is Requiem involved?”

“She was scheduled to visit her today,” answered Thespian to which Snowfall nodded.

“That’s why I have guardianship. After the first two attempts,” Air Raid said.

“A big burden of responsibility to bear,” stated Snowfall. “When I’m next in Canterlot, I shall make an effort to speak to your mother.”

“It is, but you… Do it for friends, right?” responded Air Raid. “And… You can try, but you might be wasting your breath, Ms. Snowfall.”

“Wouldn’t be the first time,” said Snowfall with a smile. “It is good to have friends, and even more so when they are family to you.”

Air Raid nodded, “I do think of Darkie as more a sister then a friend.”

Thespian giggled, “A sister like Avalanche.”

Snowfall saw Air Raid’s questioning look, “Daughter.” Thespian just giggled harder. “She was more difficult than your brother.”

“I apologize to you both,” said Air Raid. “We’ve been talking about me, but I haven’t asked about your family at all.”

“As I said earlier, my mother is a snoop,” stated Thespian.

“Gatherer of information,” responded Snowfall.

Thespian smiled, “Snoop.”

“A snoopy gatherer of information?” interjected Air Raid.

“Maybe,” said Snowfall with a smile.

“Definitely,” said Thespian with a nod.

Air Raid giggled, “Nothing wrong with that.”

“I’ve had three foals,” said Snowfall. “You’re hanging out with the oldest which forces me to move my birthday now and again.” She was unaffected by her daughter’s eye roll. “Filly, filly, colt.”

“We gather on Hearth’s Warming Eve,” said Thespian. “Only me and my brother Broker live in Manehatten.”

“What about the other one,” asked Air Raid.

“Avalanche lives in Ponywood and is in films,” said Snowfall. “What was her last one?”

“Prancealot,” answered Thespian. “She played Celestia’s advisor.”

“Yes, that’s it. She is still in search for that academy award.” Snowfall continued, “Broker plans on following in his father’s hoofsteps.”

“I took Darkie to see Prancealot,” Air Raid said, “it was a particularly good film.”

“It’s not easy being known as Thespian’s sister. Not that, that stops her from using my name to open doors.” She saw her mother’s glare. “Sorry mom, just Avalanche is always in competition with me.”

“I can well understand competition, but it is usually with myself,” said Air Raid. “What about your family, Ms. Thespian?”

“I stopped at two,” Thespian said with a giggle. “My colt, Knight, lives in Baltimare with his wife, Wind Chime. They gave me a grandcolt, Charger, and all of them are earth ponies. My crazy zebra filly, Brazilian, married a crazier Sand Tribe zebra, Black Hoof. He’s a mining engineer in the Crystal Empire. They gave me a grandcolt. Long Tail, and a grandfilly, Green Leaf.”

“It was nice to name my great grandfilly after Caffy’s sister,” said Snowfall, “but I don’t get to see them very often.” Thespian nodded to that.

“Because of my disability, my parents stopped with me,” said Air Raid. “For the same reason, I don’t plan on having any foals.”

Lilac entered the room, “Ms. Snowfall, Baron has entered the building. I’m putting dinner on the table.”

“Thank you, Lilac,” responded Snowfall.

Thespian laid a hoof on her mother’s, “Do you think Lilac had enough time to make my favourite?”

“I’m sure she did, given time or not,” said Snowfall.

Thespian laughed, “Of course it gives everypony gas. Do you like Broccoli, Raid?”

Air Raid nodded, “I pretty much like anything, but my own cooking, Ms. Thespian.”

An elderly stallion entered the room, “I’m home love, oh and I see we have guests.” He gave his wife a big kiss, and then rubbed cheeks with his daughter.”

Thespian made the introductions, “Father, this is Air Raid the race car driver. Raid, my father Baron.”

“It’s an honour to meet you, sir,” said Air Raid.

Baron took note of Thespian’s ear flicks. Something that Air Raid did see. He rubbed cheeks with the pegasus, “Ah, yes, the race car driver we are sponsoring. Caffeinated has spoken well of you, and it will be nice to have an outsider shake up things around here.”

Air Raid was a bit surprised, “Has he, really?”

“You have to trust your advisors to do the research,” said Baron.

Lilac entered the room, “Dinner is served.”

Baron led the way into the dining room followed by Snowfall. Thespian motioned for Air Raid to go ahead of her. Baron and Snowfall sat next to each other on one side of the table. “Sit across from my mother, Air Raid. My father tends to have a stay hoof when there is a pretty filly around.” That received a giggle from Snowfall and an eyeroll from Baron. Air Raid also giggled as she sat down opposite Snowfall.

Lilac starts the meal with a Manedarin Orange salad for each. “Would you like utensils, Ms Raid?” asked Lilac.

Air Raid noted that the other three had none. “No thank you, that’s fine.”

Baron spoke up, “By nice things, he did a full report on your racing history, and a background check on you.” Baron started in on his salad.

Air Raid stared at her salad. “Oh, um, he did? Well, the racing is spot on. I’ve won almost every race in Canterlot.”

“Is the salad okay, dear,” Snowfall asked.

“Oh, yes!” Air Raid started to eat her salad.

“I’ve met your father,” said Baron between bites. “He is a competent stallion, but how shall I say, lacking in initiative.”

“Well, um, yeah…” Air Raid trailed off and went back to her salad.

“Is he just a front for your mother to run the business?” questioned Baron. “I know the Canterlot elite often has trouble with a mare running things.”

“They have no problem with us serving tea though,” said Snowfall. “Nor will any stallion admit they may not be the head of the household.”

“I’m not really sure,” Air Raid led off. “Dad likes to think he’s all that, mum flatters herself she’s the ‘brains behind it all’. To be honest, I didn’t pay them much mind Mr. Baron.” She shrugged, “I just take care of my friend, and drive really fast.”

“Driving really fast is why I’m sponsoring you,” Baron said. “That you take care of your friend is a bonus that you can chose how to use.”

Air Raid stared at her empty salad bowl as her heart dropped through her hind hooves, “It was a thorough background check on me?” Her voice just above a whisper.

Baron nodded as Lilac cleared the salad bowls. “Yes, it was. After all the Times can’t endorse just any pony.”

Air Raid had time to think as Lilac wheeled out a cart with a large mushroom and broccoli casserole. She portioned out some to a plate and placed it in front of each pony. She then placed the casserole in the middle of the table and left the room. Air Raid stared at her food when she asked, “Did it turn up anything interesting?”

Baron looked at his daughter, “I knew you were visiting when I smelled this as I entered.” He took a mouthful and swallowed before he turned his attention back to Air Raid. “Is there something of interest in the report you want to point out to me?”

Air Raid said nothing but did shrug her shoulders. Thespian put a hoof on the pegasus’s, “If you don’t like broccoli, I’m sure…”

“It’s not that, Ms. Thespian,” Air Raid said quickly. She looked up at Baron, “I, um, I may have done a lot of things. Those assault charges were thrown out,” she said as her voice rose.

Baron looked over to his wife, “Did you hear that dear, she’s done lots of things.”

“I did,” Snowfall said with a smile. “I think you’ve done lots of things.”

“I may have, I may have.” Baron turned back to Air Raid, “You’re a mare of action. I think that is important when it is you and a machine against the world.”

Air Raid breathed a sigh of relief and took a bit of the casserole, “This is good.” After a couple of bites, she looked towards Baron, “My car is more than an extension of me when I race, Mr. Baron. I don’t think on the track, I just do. Like you feel the road through the tyres, and the wind in your mane, and you can sense what you need to do.”

“The most likely thing you’ll have to deal with is ‘pegasus that can only fly on the ground’,” continued Baron. “You won’t be breaking any jaws over that, I hope.”

Air Raid looks down at her meal and then back up to Baron. “No, I’ve… I’ve come to terms with my illness a long time ago, Mr. Baron.”

“The press will still make hay out of it,” said Baron.

Air Raid sighed as she knew that would be the case. “The press will write what they want no matter how hurtful it is. I’ve found the perfect cure for that back in Canterlot. Standing in the winner’s circle.”

Baron took a sip of his wine, “Ah, good then you can use that when they write about your live-in lover who has no choice.”

Air Raid looked at the other mares for help. She saw Snowfall was calmly eating her dinner, and Thespian was doing the same as she flicked her ears like they itched. Air Raid took several deep breaths to remain calm herself. “I take you mean Darkstar.” Baron simply nodded. “Darkie is getting help. Proper help finally, and she’s only with me till she gets herself back on track.”

“Well played dear,” said Baron. “You took that attack rather well. I think the most unusual thing in the report was those ponies that attacked you have vanished. Caffy has ensured me that they won’t come back to haunt us.”

That gave Air Raid pause, “What? They’ve been arrested?”

“I’m going to leave that to Caffy to explain,” said Baron as he returned to eating.

“Oh, okay,” said Air Raid, “you’re happy though. I mean with me, Mr. Baron?”

Baron looked directly at Air Raid, “Yes, I’m quite happy with your skills and drive. I’m happy with your baggage, and you’re quite pretty to hoof, not that I can hoof you thanks to my daughter.” Both Snowfall and Thespian giggle.

Air Raid shared in the giggle, “Thanks, I’m offloading a great deal of that baggage to the past where it belongs, and as for being pretty, I try my best.”

Snowfall spoke up, “Baron is terrible, and I mean bad at it, flirt.”

“I don’t mind,” said Air Raid, “I hope to find my own tomorrow night.”

At her father’s glance, Thespian added, “Coffee Bean is bringing some zebras for Darkstar and Air Raid to check out at gaming night.”

“I’ll be wearing this get up tomorrow as I serve, so I’m feeling lucky,” said Air Raid.

Thespian added, “The same as me for serving. Her performance tonight will determine chain length.”

“I do think I’ll be rather thirsty tomorrow,” said Baron.

“Yes,” added Snowfall, “I think there will be some friendly competition too.”

Air Raid said, “I’m sure Ms. Thespian’s chains will be shorter than mine, and I’m fine with that.”

“True,” amended Snowfall, “since she doesn’t bother with a chain. I meant in keeping all the guests well sated. Would you care for seconds on the casserole, Air Raid?”

“Yes, please, this is quite yummy,” said Air Raid.

Snowfall served seconds to Air Raid, Thespian, and herself, but left Baron out. “Do you think Luna will be present tomorrow?”

“I’m confident she will be there with Octavia,” said Thespian. “I let Duskie know that we have a variety of racing games available.”

Air Raid nodded, “And Ms. Thespian suggested that I ask Lady Octavia to ride with me on Sunday’s race.”

“What?” exclaimed Baron, “How could you suggest that? What are the risks?”

Air Raid spoke first, “Almost none, well, not really, unless we crash at one hundred and seventy miles an hour, which I don’t intend on doing.

Thespian smiled, “Because it is something, they will both want. Life is a risk, just walking across Broadway is a risk.”

Air Raid added, “And the real thing is a lot more fun than a video game.” Air Raid looked coy, “The qualifiers are on Saturday, if you’d like a run out, Mr. Baron?”

Baron glanced at his wife who flicked her ears, “I’d love to see you qualify.”

Air Raid almost bounced in her seat, “You’ll ride with me then?”

“No,” said Baron, “I’ll watch you from the pits. You have a pit crew?”

That was a question that Air Raid wasn’t prepared for. She hadn’t talked to her old pit crew since before she left Canterlot for Manehatten, and then wasn’t on the best of terms. Air Raid’s voice was subdued, “Not at the moment. I had one in Canterlot, but now here all I have is my car and your sponsorship.”

Baron tilted his head, “You need one, don’t you? The reports also said you had a co-driver.”

Air Raid looked glum, “Yeah, I will, and Slingshot was my co-driver, but we had a falling out.”

“Falling out,” asked Snowfall.

Air Raid sighed, “When Darkie was injured, I took her into my house to watch over her and took guardianship. Slingshot accused me of trying to steal her away, and we broke up as a team. He’s working for another racer now. I still have his number.”

“Do you think your old pit crew will move from Canterlot to here?” asked Thespian.

“I donna know,” said Air Raid. “We were having some money issues when I left town.”

“Not much point in sponsoring you if we don’t give you the tools you need to win. If you need assistance with tickets or lodging, let Caffy know,” said Baron.

“Really?” Air Raid said with excitement. Baron nodded, and Air Raid’s excitement grew, “That’s awesome!” She fumbled for her phone in her pouch, “I gotta call them! Ratchet’s going to love this.”

“Not at the dinner table, dear,” said Snowfall.

“Oh,” Air Raid let the phone drop back into her pouch, “Sorry, my bad, Ms. Snowfall.”

Baron was pleased that Air Raid didn’t push the issue. He learned long ago that the table wasn’t for business. “Canterlot is several hours behind us anyways. Plenty of time to let them know ad get ready for an early train tomorrow. That still leaves the co-driver issue.”

“I have Slingshot’s number,” Air Raid Said, “but I don’t know if I can entice him from his driver.”

Thespian laid a hoof on Air Raid’s, “I wouldn’t worry about him. I’m sure there are others available here in Manehatten.” She smiled, “After all, your win here may make him call you.”

“When you’re right, you’re right, Ms. Thespian,” said Air Raid. “I’ll worry about that another day. First is to get my crew out here.”

Lilac enters the room to clear the table, “Would you like some chocolate soup for dessert, Ms. Raid?”

Air Raid noticed that Thespian began to drool and giggled, “Yes, Ms. Lilac, that would be wonderful.” Once everyone was served, Thespian wasted no time digging into hers. Air Raid didn’t think she had ever seen so much chocolate in one place. “Did Mr. Caffeinated tell you about the desert race, Mr. Baron?”

Baron said, “He did, but said you’d need a different vehicle than what you are using Sunday.”

Air Raid had to savour the chocolate soup before she could continue. “Yes, my car is fast, but you need a much sturdier vehicle for the desert.”

“Well, Sunday, I expect you to at least place,” said Baron. “For the desert race, just finishing is an accomplishment.”

“Sir, I plan on winning Sunday,” responded Air Raid, “but for the desert, I just want to be in the top ten.”

Baron smiled, “That would be a good goal, as last year only nine finished.”

Air Raid laughed, “It would have been ten if that stallion’s suspension didn’t collapse a hundred yards from the finish. Right poor maintenance that was.”

Snowfall finished her soup and asked, “Are you working tonight, Thespy?”

“Yes, one more trip to the dog pound,” answered Thespian. “I don’t really need to go home though, so I can go straight to the theatre from here.”

“I’m pretty sure I can get back on the trains,” added Air Raid.

Thespian fished up her soup, “As am I.”

Air Raid finished hers, “Wily would have loved that.”

“I can’t do Lilac’s creation justice, so she’ll have to settle for black forest cake,” said Thespian. She turned to Lilac, “Thank you for spoiling me, Lilac.”

“First, I don’t think that is settling,” responded Air Raid, “and thank you Ms. Lilac, that was proper awesome.”

Lilac smiled as she began to clear the table, “You’re welcome Ms. Thespian, Ms. Raid.”

“Father, mother, if I may be excused?” With a nod from each parent, Thespian turned to Air Raid, “Come on, let’s go to my room so we can make some phone calls.”

Air Raid followed Thespian to her room. The first thing she noticed was the room was uncluttered, and there were no plushies. She did have Celestia’s cutie mark in the centre of her bedspread and one book on the writing desk. Air Raid giggled, “I was expecting a cave of plushies.”

“I couldn’t leave them behind. What if there was an inspection,” exclaimed Thespian. “Besides, I only stay here when Caffy is out of town on business. A bed, my makeup kit, and a few changes of clothing is all I need.”

Air Raid nodded as she looked at the book cover. ‘Poems by Eques’. “Light reading. This room is a lot like me. Simple, and does what you need.”

Thespian pulled out her phone, “Stripes. Hello Two Step, is Caffy still there? Okay, I’ll call the house, thank you, bye.”

Air Raid took out her phone, “Oh, I got a text from Darkie. Meeting with Requiem went well. She has kitchen privileges. Will be home late going to a play called Showmares.”

“Things must have gone well then,” said Thespian. “Showmares is a play with Recital in it, she is part of the herd.” Thespian held up her phone, “House. Hi love, we are at my parent’s place. Yeah, I’m going straight to work, but Raid is coming home so put her through the paces. Yes, we got a text saying the same. She will be late as she is going to Showmares.” Thespian laughed, “Sorry, big boy, but she is still into mares. Bye.” Thespian put her phone away. “Requiem left a voice mail saying she was giving Darkstar rights to the kitchen.”

“That’s good. She’s doing well, right?” Air Raid asked hopefully.

Thespian smiled, “That or she has fooled Requiem completely. I’d go with the former.”

Air Raid nodded, “Yeah, well time to make my phone calls.” She dialled a number and hoped for the best. “Ratchet? Yeah, it’s me. What? No, I don’t need any money. Yes, I’m in Manehatten. Just shut up and listen. You and the crew, we have a job. No, on the moon, you plum, of course it is in Manehatten. I got us a sponsor. A good one this time. Look, just tell the others to be on the train tomorrow for Manehatten. Yes, I’m working on a cargo car, just ring me later for details.” She hung up and thought twice about tossing the phone.

Thespian couldn’t help but giggle, “I take it there are some issues in the past to overcome?”

Air Raid lowered her head, “Yeah, money issues, my lack of driving, and sponsors leaving us hanging.”

“Tomorrow we can send them the details of your contract and sponsors,” said Thespian. “Then go over what you pay them so Caffy can have a contract drawn up for each of them.”

“Thanks again for all of this,” said Air Raid. “Now to work on the cargo car.” She stared at her phone.

“Silly,” giggled Thespian. “Who did my father tell you to contact about that?”

Air Raid shook her head, “Duh, Caffy.” She still stared at her phone, “I guess that still leaves one thing then, Slingshot.” Her hoof hoovered over the phone.

“You don’t have to do this,” said Thespian softly. “Wait till you’ve talked with Darkstar. Wait till you’ve checked out the local talent. Sometimes it is best to not scratch off the scab.”

Air Raid put away her phone, “You’re right! One thing at a time.”

“Come along, I’ll walk with you to the subway station.” Thespian held her door open to let Air Raid exit first but stopped her at the door. “I don’t think you’ll be needing this.” She removed the paper horn and both mares laughed.

~ ~ ~

Darkstar watched Requiem trot off to do the paperwork side of her job. ‘Paperwork we created.’ She giggled as that was something, they could both agree on. ‘What to do?’ ‘Caffy said Celestia was nice for a visit.’ The unicorn nodded to herself, “I should give the zebra a call that we will be late.” ‘Talk to yourself much?’ ‘Hush.’ She pulled out her phone and dialled.

Caffeinated picked up on the second ring, “Hello Darkstar. Everything okay?”

“Everything is great,” replied Darkstar. “We are allowed out without a leash!” She giggled, “At least the doc says we are okay. She left a message that I can use the kitchen too!”

“I’ll be sure to leave a piece of cake for Requiem then,” said Caffeinated. He thought about Darkstar in the kitchen but was sure that Requiem knew what she was doing. She was a professional after all. “I’ll stock up the kitchen for any future midnight raids then.”

“Ha, ha ha,” responded Darkstar. “We aren’t that bad but thank you. Oh, I wanted to let you know I’d be home late tonight. Requiem recommended I see a show called ‘Showmares’.”

“That’s a good song and dance show. One of our herd members, Recital, is in it. She is a light blue unicorn with a dark blue mane,” Caffeinated said. “It starts at seven. Will you be stopping by for a drink and snack before the show?”

“That’s a good idea,” said Darkstar as she started moving to the subway stop. “Right now we’re going to check out Celestia and that fountain you told me about.”

“It is very pretty,” said Caffeinated. “I’ll be here till six thirty.” He remembered Darkstar’s desire to meet up with a zebra and added, “Oh, and the ponies in Celestia are not big zebra fans.”

Darkstar laughed, “Rodger that, leave the pro-stripes placard in the train.” That agreed with what Requiem told her about Celestia borough. “We… I’ll try to be back at the shop about five thirty for that snack and drink.” ‘Nice save.’ Darkstar rolled her eyes.

“Have fun, Darkie,” said Caffeinated. “See you when you get here.”

Darkstar put her phone away as she passed through the turnstile.

‘This time we will check the map.’ Darkstar giggled ‘Go you!’ A check of the map showed her which platform to catch the train, and where to change to reach her destination. Royal Square in Celestia. The station was only moderately crowded in the early afternoon. ‘This dress isn’t so bad.’ ‘Neither is the MiAC stuff.’ She settled for a mental hoof bump instead of clapping her hooves on the platform.

The train pulled in and Darkstar looked around herself. She saw a stallion starring at her and she winked. The stallion quickly turned away and hurried onto the train two cars down from her. She boarded the train and thought about what the doctor said earlier. ‘Was it okay to wink at him?’ ‘Yeah, he wasn’t close, so it wasn’t too scary.’ Darkstar sat between a couple of ponies. One was chatting with a friend and the other had a newspaper. ‘I didn’t think to check.’ Darkstar smiled, ‘I didn’t complain.’

Darkstar continued to watch the ponies around her, but most of them were self-absorbed. After the last station on Manehatten, the train car held mostly unicorns. An older stallion and mare sat next to you. Both reminded her of how ponies in Canterlot dressed. ‘No one likes us.’ Darkstar sighed, ‘Maybe you’re right.’

The stallion next to her spoke up, “Excuse me Miss, are you on your way to work?”

Darkstar blinked when she realized she was being talked to. “Um, no, Waa, I’m on my way to Celestia. Just having an explore. How about you?” ‘Good save.’ Darkstar put on her best smile.

The mare next to the stallion spoke up, “We’re returning home after a shipping trip in the city. There are many lovely things to see in Celestia. Anything you’re interested in?”

Darkstar nodded, “I’ve been shopping too. It is a lot of fun.” She looked them both over and they seemed nice enough, even if they reminded her of Canterlot ponies. “My friend told me of a fountain I should see.”

The stallion responded, “Must be the one in Royal Square. It is a marvellous fountain dedicated to our Princess Celestia. Are you visiting from Canterlot?”

Darkstar giggled, “We recently moved from Canterlot.” ‘Act normal, no we stuff.’ The unicorn swallowed, “Um, I’m now living on Stallion Island.” Neither of them seemed put off by what she said, so she continued, “My friend did say it was dedicated to Princess Celestia, but that makes sense since the borough is named after her.”

“Welcome to our fair city,” said the mare. “My mane is Persimmon, and this is my husband, Truestone. While you are there you must look into the Grand Hotel. It is where the Princess stays when she visits.”

Darkstar was liked this couple. “I’ll be sure to check that out. How did your shopping trip go?” ‘Introductions?’ “Oh, my name is Darkstar, and I’m pleased to meet you both.”

Truestone chuckled, “It was quite enjoyable.”

Persimmon prodded the stallion’s shoulder. “He just likes to watch me model clothing.”

Darkstar giggled some more, “Why not?” She gave Persimmon a conspiratorial look, “The better the modelling job, the more outfits we come home with, right?”

“That is true, Darkstar,” said Persimmon, “but I really just enjoy the modelling.”

Truestone looked at his wife, “And the two you came home with.” His wife just giggled. The train came to a halt. “This is our stop; we live near the waterfront. Your stop is two more away.”

“Enjoy your day, dear,” said Persimmon. “I hope you find our fair borough enjoyable.”

“Thank you, and a good day to you both,” said Darkstar as the coupled exited the train. ‘Well done us. We were totally normal.’ ‘Just one slip, but we did do good.’ After the train started again, the ponies around her seemed less standoffish, but none engaged her in conversation. ‘Oh, I should text Raid we are okay.’ ‘Thought you didn’t want a keeper.’ ‘Just being nice, she is our sister.’ With no response she pulled out her phone to text how the visit with Requiem went.

The train came to a halt and she looked at the platform sign, ‘Our stop kiddo’. She exited the train and looked around for a map. “Now to find where the fountain is.”

A unicorn stallion near her point a hoof. “Take the north station exit. You’ll be in Royal Square.”

Darkstar turned to face the stallion with a moment of fear that she had spoken out loud. The stallion was just standing there with a smile and pointed hoof. “Tha… Thank you, it’s my first visit.” Darkstar stumbled over her words.

“I hope it is a good one,” said the stallion. He lowered his hoof and headed off in the opposite direction he was pointing in.

‘Wow, there are nice ponies.’ ‘He was cute too.’ ‘No stripes.’ With a smile she headed for the north exit. Along the way she spotted a map and confirmed were the fountain and hotel were. There as a good mix of tribes in the station, but she didn’t spot any zebras. ‘Seems tourists are a thing here.’ ‘We are one.’ She giggled and exited out the turnstile.

When Darkstar exited the station, it was easy to see why this was a big tourist attraction. The fountain was thirty feet across and made of pure white marble. The statue of Celestia was on her hind legs and wings spread wide. There was gold leaf on her hooves, horn, mane, tail, and cutie mark. A lot of ponies were taking pictures of the statue, or selfies of themselves with the statue. She moved up to the fountain and sat at the edge so she could dip a hoof in the water.

A mare moved up to the sitting unicorn, “Excuse me, could you please take our picture?”

Darkstar froze as the sound of the voice. She looked up from the water to see a mare with two foals. She held a camera in her magic. The foals were looking and her and the mare was smiling. ‘Do something.’ Darkstar cleared her thought, “Of course, we’d be happy to.” She took the camera in her magic.

The mare levitated her two foals onto the fountain edge and sat between them. “Please try to get all of Celestia in, if you can.”

Darkstar breathed an inner sigh of relief that her slip of the tongue went unnoticed. She moved back and held the camera in her magic low so she could get the three ponies and the statue in frame. “All done!” she announced.

“Thank you very much,” said the mare. “She levitated the foals off the fountain edge and took that camera back in her magic. Once that was put away, she said, “Who wants ice cream?” Both foals danced around her as she said, “Cream, cream,” over and over.

Darkstar smiled, “You have adorable foals. Do you mind if w…” She swallowed, “I join you?” ‘You are so going to lose it!’ ‘Please, we could make a friend.’ “My name is Darkstar.”

“Sure, it’s right over there,” said the mare as she pointed with her horn. She looked down, “Stay with me.” As she walked to the shop, she looked at Darkstar, “I’m Heartstrong, and these to hyperactive ones are Truesight,” she pointed to the colt, “and Migration,” she pointed to the filly. She lowered her voice, “Not to be to nosey, but the outfit? I mean, I love the dress, but the socks seem excessive.”

Darkstar giggled as she walked along Heartstrong,” They are a gift from me to me.” She giggled, “I’ve been ill, and now I’m getting better, so I wanted to treat myself.” She let the mare and foals enter the Istallion Gelato shop first.

“I’m sorry to hear that, but treating oneself is the best medicine, like ice cream,” Heartstrong said. She looked at the stallion behind the counter, “One foal scoop of mango, and another of raspberry, both in a cup please. A two-scoop waffle cone of coffee for me, please.”

“A two-scoop cone of chocolate for me, please,” said Darkstar. She watched the stallion serve up the treats and Heartstrong paid for hers. Darkstar paid for her own cone. The group moved to a table outside the shop. “Have you lived I Manehatten for a while?”

Heartstrong made sure her foals were set up to lick the ice cream out of their cups while she levitated her cone. “All my life. My husband, Horizon, is from Neighagra Falls. I’m guessing you’re new to town.” She started licking her own cone before it could melt.

“Mmm, this is creamy chocolate,” said Darkstar after a few licks. “I have tourist written all over me.” She giggled, “Just moved from Canterlot with my friend, well more of a sister, yesterday.” ‘Big win on the pronoun.’

Heartstong was amazed to hear that, “Oh, wow, Canterlot. I’ve never been there. Have you seen the Princess?”

As Darkstar licked her ice cream she said in a very nonchalant manner, “Indeed, I have. I was part of Prince Dusk’s group.”

“Wait, what? You were with Princess Luna’s colt?” Heartstong was trying to tell if Darkstar was just playing her. “You talked with Princess Luna?”

Darkstar giggled, “Only in passing. We spent time with Prince Dusk as we were in his class. Princess Celestia was,” she waved a hoof, “sort of aloof, and Princess Luna can be intimidating. Now, Princess Octavia was a lot of fun.”

“Just being able to hang out at the castle had to be something,” said Heartstrong. “I remember Princess Celestia’s last visit. I was at the fountain when she waved from the hotel balcony. I hope my foals will have a chance to see her someday.” She took a bite out of her cone, “To think you gave up all that to move here.”

Darkstar took a bite of her cone and shrugged, “Um, huh, my um, illness. My sister decided we both needed a change of scenery.”

Heartstrong put a hoof to her mouth, “I’m sorry. I hope I didn’t bring up a bad memory.” She looked down, “I tend to talk too much when I have an adult to talk to.”

‘We made someone sad.’ Darkstar looked at her new friend and didn’t want that, “Not all, Ms. Heartstrong. Really.” When the mare looked back up, Darkstar continued, “It’s fine. I had a lot of good memories in Canterlot.” She smiled when Heartstrong smiled, “I bet adult conversations are a rarity, huh?”

Heartstong nodded, “These two can be a hoof-full, but I love them dearly. I don’t have a lot of friends to talk to, and Horizon works a lot.” Heartstrong giggled, “Thank you, but I can ramble a lot.” She saw Darkstar’s smile and it was welcoming. “The foals love to play at the fountains edge. We were on our way home from Central Park when we ran into you.”

“It is a gorgeous fountain,” said Darkstar. She waved a hoof, “It is a small city though. I was in Central Park earlier meeting…” ‘Don’t say shrink.’ “A friend of a friend for coffee.”

Heartstrong finished her cone, but the foals were still working on their cups. “It isn’t so bad then when you have friends in an area you’ve just moved to.” She reached out a hoof to Darkstar, “Besides when I saw you, you looked so confident. I don’t know if I have the courage to go out wearing socks.”

“Confident?” Darkstar giggled. ‘We were confident!’ ‘Mapper and Requiem were right.’ “Wearing socks is a mindset where you want to be sexy and noticed. If you look closely, the dress is sheer enough that I have more than just socks.” Darkstar moved a bit so the sunlight hit her exactly right. She saw Heartstrong’s eyes go wide. “A nice-looking mare like you would knock ‘em crazy dressed up in socks.”

Heartstrong looked around, but it seemed no pony had overheard. She lowered her voice, “Just to nervous I guess.” She shook her head, “I wonder what my husband would say if he came home to me wearing socks?”

“He’d think it was his birthday and Hearth’s Warming all wrapped up in one,” stated Darkstar. “If you were to try some on, what colour would you like?”

“Oh, wow, I don’t know.” Heartstrong thought about it a bit, “Maybe a light blue like my mane, or a red like my husband’s mane?” She shrugged her shoulders, “I doubt I’ll find out.”

Darkstar’s horn lit up as she concentrated on the illusion. Heartstrong watched the unicorn, and knew she was casting, but had no idea what. Then her filly, Migration, touched her leg, “Pritty.” She looked and saw blue socks covering all four of her legs. Her colt nodded at what his sister said, and a blush spread across her face. “Oh, my,” exclaimed Heartstrong. “They look beautiful, do they feel as nice as they look?”

“Like a second layer of fur,” replied Darkstar. “Your filly has good taste. You should totally get yourself a set.” The effort of keeping up the illusion wore the unicorn down, so she dropped it. “Sorry, can’t keep that up for very long.”

“I’m terrible at illusions,” said Heartstrong, “and Migration does have good taste.” She lowered her voice, “Where would I get socks?”

Darkstar nodded, but she also lowered her voice, “We do, there is a MiAC store at the sixty first street station. While you’re there you may as well go all the way and get a corset too, and…” She saw the shocked expression on Heartstrong’s face, “Are you okay?”

“M… MiAC. You are confident,” asserted Heartstrong. “I’d never be able to get past the door.”

Darkstar smiled, “I do have my times where I’m not so confident. Still, you feel good when ponies check you out and you can say we did that.” ‘Stop with the we stuff.’ Darkstar swallowed, “Just wearing them gives you confidence.”

Heartstrong giggled, “Maybe I’ll get a foal sitter so I can go downtown and buy some.” She put a hoof to her mouth, “I can’t believe I even said that.”

Darkstar was liking this mare. It would be nice to have a friend that isn’t family or herd. “You should totally do that. If you do, I could meet you there, help get you past the door,” suggested Darkstar.

Heartstrong blinked. She couldn’t believe she was considered taking Darkstar up on her offer. She had just met this mare. “I couldn’t impose on you like that. It’s silly.”

Darkstar waved a hoof, “You aren’t imposing and sexy isn’t silly.” Darkstar had an idea, “We can exchange info and when you have a free day you can give me a call. I’m so new to town, I don’t even have a job lined up yet.”

Heartstrong thought about it. This pony seemed harmless, but she did have a few quirks. Then she is a Canterlot pony so that excused a lot of things. Horizon didn’t forbid her from making friends but did say she should be cautious. “These two are my job, but I should have Saturday afternoon free if I can get Horizon to foal sit.” She pulled out her tablet. “Let’s exchange numbers and I’ll give you a call on Friday if it is a go. You live here in Celestia?”

Darkstar got out her phone, “No, I live in Stallion Island. Right now, we’re staying at a friend’s house while my sister is working out a place for us to live.” She exchanged phone numbers.

Heartstrong looked around to see if anyone was listening. “I’ve taken the foals there for Midwinter’s Night.” She giggled, “Carnival full of pretty lights that the foals love. Good music, and even a foal’s choir. It is a nice show, and not too expensive. Just dedicated to Princess Luna, and well, you know who is on the fountain out front.”

Darkstar put a hoof to her mouth, “Such a dare devil you are. Risked being burnt alive to have a bit of fun.” She giggled, “I like you.”

Heartstrong snorted, “It wasn’t that bad. Well the burnt alive part. Maybe just tar and feathers,” she giggled. “Are you free Saturday afternoon?”

“Sure,” said Darkstar. “I’m free all-day Saturday. Want to go shopping?”

“I’m busy in the morning, but I do have the afternoon free,” said Heartstrong. “I just may need a pony to push me through the door of the MiAC store.” She smiled, “And maybe some advice on something interesting to buy.”

“Hey, we can float you past the door if needed,” responded Darkstar. ‘You just dropped the ‘we’ word.’ She closed her eyes to wait for the reaction.

“Okay then, I’ll text you on Friday if everything is a go,” said Heartstrong as if nothing happened. “I just need to get hubby to foal sit.”

Darkstar breathed a sigh of relief, “That sounds like a plan.”

The little filly took that moment to speak, “Eepy mawma.”

Heartstrong chuckled, “Ice cream does it to them every time.” She levitated the foals to her back.

Darkstar realized that this conversation was coming to an end, “Maybe we can see the airship land too?”

“Maybe we can make it a filly’s night out,” responded Heartstrong. “I just need to check with Horizon to make sure he will take the duty for the day.” Once she was sure both foals were secure, she added, “I need to get the two home. It has been a pleasure talking with you, Darkstar.”

Darkstar leaned in for a nuzzle, “Thank you for taking the time to talk with me.”

Heartstrong retuned the nuzzle. “The feeling is mutual. Take care and enjoy your day.” The mare walked out of the shop with the foals on her back.

‘We made a friend.’ ‘We did, even if we talked crazy.’ ‘We’re not crazy though, the Doctor said so.’ Silence followed before she responded to herself. ‘Do you believe her?’ Darkstar thought about that. “I do.” She realized she said that out loud, but no pony seemed to mind. ‘I think I do to. So now what?’ ‘May as well see if the hotel room is as good as the fountain.’ Darkstar walked out of the shop with the intent to do just that.

Darkstar trotted her way to the subway station. While the fifty-bit tour of the Royal Suite was okay, it was comparable to Dusk’s apartment. She had only seen a little of Luna’s apartment, and never been in Celestia’s apartment. ‘Still, it was posh.’ ‘But we know the real deal.’

The station wasn’t overcrowded, and the first thing she did was check the train map. “Go us!” She entered when the correct train arrived and was quite pleased with how her day was going. The train filled up with shoppers before it left Celestia. “Oh, I know!” Darkstar took out her phone and texted Heartstrong. Did you get home okay?

A minute passed, but Darkstar didn’t let doubt enter her mind. After two minutes she got a text back. Yes, thank you for a fun time. ‘We have a friend.’ She texted back. See you on Saturday! In less than a minute she got a reply text. I hope so, will let you know the details on Friday. ‘We so have a friend.’ Darkstar texted back. Kay and XXX. Before she put her phone away.

When Darkstar exited the train at the Central Park station, she looked at the map. ‘Times Square isn’t far.’ ‘Why walk when we can ride?’ Darkstar smiled as she knew herself so well. She entered the train going south and found an empty spot. She noted a pair of stallions checking her out as they whispered to each other. ‘I want to let them know I know they are watching.’ She glanced around the car and felt safe. ‘Go for it.’ She looked directly at the stallions and grinned.

One of the stallions winked at her while a blush spread across the other stallion’s face. ‘Score.’ Darkstar winked back. The winker nudged his companion and that one’s blushed deepened. Both approached her. Darkstar spoke first, “Hello, gentle colts, I’m Darkstar.”

The one with the blush stuttered, “H… H… Hi.”

The other spoke with confidence, “Hello, pretty filly. I’m Forest, and my talkative friend is Mainline.”

“I’m pleased to meet you both,” said Darkstar. “Are you going to enjoy some of the nightlife?”

Mainline shook his head, but Forest answered, “Sadly no. We’re headed home from the university. There are a lot of fun things to do in Manehatten though.”

Mainline nudged his friend, “Forest.”

Forest looked at him, “What, just going to have some fun.”

Mainline replied with one word, “Stratus.”

Forest sighed, “At least you can have some fun. Are you local?”

“I live on Stallion Island, and W… I’m going to have some fun taking in a show,” answered Darkstar. “You don’t say much, Mainline.”

Forest spoke up as Mainline’s blush deepened, “He is a bit shy around the m…” Forest staggered a step when Mainline nudged him. “He doesn’t talk much,” concluded Forest.

Darkstar smiled, “Nothing wrong with being shy. I take it you’re the confident one, Forest?”

Forest chuckled, “Main would say foolish, but yeah, I’m willing to take a risk.”

Darkstar glanced between the two. ‘It is like looking at us, only separated.’ ‘Bucking hell.’ She coughed, “So, you two live together?”

Mainline shook his head while Forest spoke up, “No, we attend Uni together and he lives two doors down from me.”

Darkstar smiled, “Mainline, I don’t bite, unless you ask me very nicely.” She giggled, “So, what are you studying?”

“Transportation,” said Mainline softly.

Forest snorted, “He’ll keep the trains on time. I’m, though this may surprise you, studying forestry.”

“Yeah,” said Mainline, “turning trees into toothpicks.”

Darkstar giggled, “A name of Forest, colour me so surprised. So, Mainline, you’ll be like Maresolini?”

“No,” Mainline shook his head, “She kept things on time by cutting services instead of improving efficiency.” He ended with a snort.

Darkstar projected her voice next to the stallion’s ear, “Sowwy.” Mainline jumped with eyes wide.

Forest laughed, “Did you goose him? He does get passionate about his major.”

“Passion is good, and I’m sorry.” Darkstar smiled, “I studied pranks and illusions.”

Forest tilled his head, “Plan on being a show mare?”

“That was my plan, rule Las Pegasus.” Darkstar noted they pulled into Times Square station. She gave each stallion a kiss on the cheek, “Give you both a free dance when I do.”

“Maybe we’ll take you up on that one day.” Forest returned the cheek kiss.

Darkstar gave Mainline a second cheek kiss and sauntered off the train with her tail high. Neither of the stallions followed, but she did hear a whistle from some pony on the platform. ‘Well played us!’ ‘Thank you.’ The station was crowed. Darkstar did lower her tail and pushed her way to the exit. Her fear heightened with each pony she touched until she stepped out onto the sidewalk.

It was still crowded, but now the ponies flowed around her. Once a level of calmed returned she headed south. ‘Coffee.’ She was in full agreement as she made her way to Stripes Cup of Java. Along the way she noted all the neon signs. ‘Almost like Las Pegasus.’ ‘Almost, be we’re going to make it here.’ She trotted off with a smile.

Darkstar trotted through the crowd and could smell the street food. ‘Food!’ ‘Caffy has food, so wait.’ ‘Fine.’ She smiled as they agreed on something. ‘That one is looking at us.’ A moment of panic went through Darkstar as she focused on the stallion. The stallion blushed and quickly moved to adjust his rear fetlock. ‘Was he sick?’ ‘No, he has a hard on!’ Darkstar turned away and giggled. “He thinks we’re cute.”

She trotted with a high step. The other stallions that looked at her she returned a wink or blew a kiss. ‘Easy on the flirting.’ ‘Sorry.’ The slight reprimand to herself wasn’t enough to lower her mood. Darkstar entered the Manehatten Times building with a smile. Caffeinated and an earth pony mare were behind the counter. There were others in the shop but Darkstar paid them no mind as she moved up to the counter. “Hi Caffy, can w… Ugh… I get a Celestia Coffee please?”

Caffeinated smiled, “Sure thing, Darkie. Would you like a soup, sandwich or both with that?”

“Ohh, both please!” exclaimed Darkstar. “My stomach thinks our throat’s been cut.”

The stallion at the counter spoke up. Darkstar noted her nametag read ‘Twostep’. “One repair sandwich and healing soup. That will be watercress and cucumber and tomato bisque. “

“That would be great, Twostep,” responded Darkstar.

“I’ll bring it out to you,” said Caffeinated. “Why don’t you have a seat with Lavender.”

Darkstar turned and noticed the tan mare for the first time. “Okie dokie,” she said as she moved to Lavender’s table. “Mind if we join you,” Darkstar asked when she arrived.

Lavender looked at the mare and smiled, “I’ll have to ask my husband if he wants to do a mini-herd thing.”

“What? No.” Darkstar watched Lavender giggle. “Just sitting here at the table is fine.” She sat down, “Is everypony in the herd jokesters?” Lavender didn’t respond, but was just stared at her, like she could see her soul. Darkstar’s smile wavered, “Now you’re just staring at me. Is… Something wrong?”

Lavender blinked, “Quite the opposite. I’d say everypony in the herd is a tease. I like you. You’re not the mare I saw this morning. Your happiness is contagious. Might infect the whole city!”

Darkstar breathed a sigh of relief and her smile returned full force. “I’m in a good mood, Lavender. The meeting with Doctor Requiem went very well, and I’ve made a new friend in Celestia after.”

That peaked Lavender’s interest as she was a lifelong resident of the Celestia Borough. “What is the name of your new friend?”

“A lovely unicorn mare named Heartstrong,” replied Darkstar. “She had two adorable foals, Truesight and Migration.” Darkstar thought for a moment while Lavender was doing the same. “Oh, her husband is named Horizon.”

Lavender shook her head, “I guess I don’t know every pony in Celestia,” she giggled. “Then there are a lot of ponies in that borough. It is a beautiful fountain.”

“It is! said Darkstar. “She asked me to take her picture with the foals. Then we had ice cream and talked for a bit.” Darkstar giggled, “She said it was nice to have some adult conversation.”

Lavender laughed, “Been there done that. I do love both my foals, Sunset and Jasmine, even if they are almost grown up.”

Caffeinated arrived and dropped off the soup and sandwich for Darkstar and coffee for the two mares. “That yellow dress and black socks are quite pretty on you.”

Darkstar giggled, “Thank you Caffy, it was a… happy compromise.”

Lavender could see the black lingerie under the dress as she sipped her coffee. “Did any stallions break their neck when you walked by?”

Darkstar nodded as she swallowed the bite of sandwich. “Some whispered, stared, and blushed. I blew them kisses and carried on.”

Lavender clapped her hooves, “Well done! Are you looking forward to some more fun tomorrow then?”

Caffeinated returned to the table with his own coffee. “Going to be a full house for gaming day.”

“We are,” stated Darkstar. She paused for a moment, but no pony said anything about her slip. “Um, I plan on getting a zebra. Caffy’s aunt is bringing some.” She dug into her soup.

“Well, if Coffee Bean is in on this, I think you’ll find that zebra.” Lavender held her hoof over Darkstar’s, “May I?” With Darkstar’s nod she put her hoof on the unicorn’s and closed her eyes.

“They say zebras do voodoo,” Caffeinated said as he picked up his cup.

Lavender didn’t miss a beat as she stuck her tongue out at the zebra. Darkstar giggled and did the same. Lavender removed her hoof, “Yeah, I like you, and I bet Serenity will too.”

“And Raid?” Caffeinated asked as he sipped his coffee.

Lavender shrugged, “Mixed vibes today, but Serenity vouches for her. I’ll see what tomorrow brings.”

‘Mother hen.’ ‘She said she would let us go.’ ‘Never.’ “Why was Air Raid hear,” asked Darkstar

“She stopped by with Thespian for some coffee,” answered Caffeinated. “She was dressed to serve tomorrow at the party. They left to meet up with Snowfall and Baron, Thespy’s parents.”

‘Maybe not.’ ‘Never!’ Darkstar sighed, “Was she asking about me?

“She did ask to make sure you made it out on your own,” responded Caffeinated.

Lavender laughed, “Enough she had to give Thespy her phone!”

‘Maybe not never.’ Darkstar smiled, “Well she’s my big sis more than my friend, and she’s got baggage.” Darkstar paused to eat some sandwich. “Like me for a start, and a lot of self-imposed guilt for something she refuses to let go.”

“That’s it!” exclaimed Lavender.

Darkstar almost spit out her coffee, “What is?”

Lavender pointed a hoof at Darkstar, “You believe in yourself, and you’ve forgiven yourself, haven’t you Darkie?” With Darkstar’s nod she continued, “That was the problem with Air Raid. Maybe you could teach her to forgive herself too.”

Darkstar did an eye roll. “Ture, I’ve moved on, new start, new friends, new life. I can try with Raid, but you probably know what she blames herself for.” Lavender and Caffeinated nodded. “And she tortures herself for what happened to me. Such a silly mare.”

Caffeinated snorted as he thought all mares were silly. Lavender giggled and spoke up before he could, “Not that you weren’t a silly mare first thing this morning.” Lavender smiled, “Nice dress by the way.”

Darkstar gave her best Canterlot snooty look, “We reserve the right to be silly. And thank you, the not-so-adventurous me wanted the dress, the fun me wanted the socks so we compromised, in the end.”

“Judging by Twostep’s comments it is a good compromise,” Caffeinated said. “Of course, it is rather tame to what Raid was wearing.”

Darkstar did a head tilt. She got the earlier comment that Air Raid and Thespian had gone shopping. “She was wearing a dress? I thought she was shopping for race gear. Sunday is when you’ll have the chance to see the real Raid.”

Lavender laughed, “Let’s just say her dress wasn’t as conservative as yours is. I hope to see the real Raid tomorrow, as she is wearing that dress to serve at the party. Will you be wearing that tomorrow?”

“No,” said Darkstar. “I’ll be wearing a cream dress with flowers and a red corset I picked up today. Along with the red socks I have at Caffy’s house.”

Lavender clapped her hooves, “Now, I’ll have to dress up too.”

“As if you need an excuse to dress up,” said Caffeinated. Lavender stuck her tongue out which made the zebra smile. He turned back to Darkstar, “I’m sure that what you and Raid wear will turn your prospective zebra’s heads.”

Darkstar nodded, “And if the outfit doesn’t leave the zebra panting, there is always plan B. Your pole!”

Caffeinated muttered, “Mimi kupendekeza fimbo.”

Darkstar laughed, “Who needs a stick when you have flanks like mine!” She finished the last of her coffee and sandwich. “One dance and he’ll be in the sole of my hoof.”

“That is true,” said Caffeinated. “Speaking of time, you may want to move along if you’re going to catch your show.”

“Ahhh!” Darkstar ran out of the coffee shop.

Caffeinated laughed at the mare’s behaviour. He gave Lavender a kiss, “See you tomorrow.” Caffeinated turned to the remaining barista, “You have closing, Twostep.” He left the shop to make is way home.

~ ~ ~

When Darkstar reached the theatre, there was still a line at the box office. ‘We are on time.’ ‘Or they are all late.’ ‘Darkie!’ ‘Teasing.’ Darkstar calmed down and was soon at the window. “Hi, I’m here to see the show. Requiem recommended the show.”

“Herd, huh. Name?” Once Darkstar gave her name, she quickly found the will call tickets. “Enjoy the show. Oh, this stub will get you backstage after the closing curtain.”

“Thank you,” responded Darkstar when she took the tickets. Once inside she found her seat which was front row of the balcony and right of centre. ‘Nice seat.’ ‘I think this herd is a lot more then they seem.’ ‘Is that a good thing?’ “We think it is a very good thing.” A quick glance to her left and right showed that the ponies beside her didn’t notice.

The show did have a lot of dancing. Her program listed Sandalwood as the lead for the show, but she saw Recital’s name as the main cast. She even knew some of the songs and sang along with them. Others around her were doing the same. ‘Operation sneak backstage begins.’ ‘We have a pass.’ ‘What fun is that. Let’s sneak.’ Darkstar giggled and totted off to see if she could.

Fortunately for her, a couple of ponies pointed out the way to get to backstage. A mare guarded the door. “Hi there, I’d like to see Recital?”

“Name,” asked the mare. She checked her list when Darkstar gave it, “You should have a stub.” Darkstar quickly produced the stub. “Tails,” called out the mare. “Please escort this one to Recital.”

“Sure thing,” said Tails. “This way Miss.”

Darkstar followed the stallion to a door, which he knocked. A mare’s voice inside said ‘Enter’, and he held the door for Darkstar to do so. She walked int to see two mares. She recognized Sandalwood from the program and guessed the other would be Recital. “Guest for you, Ms. Recital,” said the stallion before he left closing the door behind him.

“Thank you,” Recital said to the departing stallion. She looked the new mare over, “You are?”

‘On the spot.’ ‘We got this.’ “I’m Darkstar, or Darkie, if you prefer. Doctor Requiem recommended seeing the show.” Darkstar started to relax as the mares before her smiled.

“So much like her to surprise me with a guest. Please sit with us.” Recital pointed to the mare next to her, “This is Sandalwood. Sandalwood, I’d like you to meet a friend of the herd, Darkie.”

Sandalwood knew of the herd, and most of all, Thespian. “My pleasure. Did you enjoy the show?”

“Hi Sandalwood,” responded Darkstar. “I loved it. I was totally singing along.”

Sandalwood laughed, “Good, another pony to buy the soundtrack.”

Recital shared in the laugh, “Come in and have a seat. Tell me about yourself. Not every day Requiem sends somepony to see my show.”

Sandalwood knew Requiem and Recital were part of a herd, and that Thespian was the matriarch of that herd. “She could have sent her to any of the other shows that your herd mates are in.”

Recital nodded, “Very true, so why did Requiem send you to this show?”

Darkstar shrugged her shoulders, “We… I, um had a meeting with her earlier, and she asked me about stuff I like to do. We.. I…” ‘Going crazy again.’

Recital lightly put a hoof on Darkstar’s shoulder, “Just talk dear. Don’t worry about the words.”

Darkstar sighed and nodded. ‘Not everypony thinks we are crazy.’ The inner voice was silent. “We like dancing, and I like shows, so she pointed me here.” She looked at both mares, and only saw smiles.

Sandalwood chuckled, “There is a lot of dancing in this show.”

“Thespian’s production has a lot of dancing too,” amended Recital. “But it is nice of her to send you my way. Have you danced in front of large crowds?”

Darkstar smiled, “I’m staying at Thespian and Caffeinated’s place right now. I have danced in front of crowds. The biggest one was an addition at university for a showmare job in Las Pegasus.

Sandalwood shook her head. Her experience in Las Pegasus was not the best memories in her life, “I’ve been down that route. I don’t think you missed out on much.”

Recital moved her hoof to Sandalwood, “At least you don’t have to deal with jerks like that here.”

Sandalwood smiles, “So, you’ve come to Manehatten to join the theatre?”

Darkstar rubbed the back of her head, “Welllll, not directly. Air Raid, my sort of sis, brought me here to get well. Airmail offered me a reporter’s job with the Times, but if we’re honest the theatre would be more me.”

“It’s a grinding life,” stated Sandalwood.

“It’s a fun life,” stated Recital. Both nodded. “Airy has a job lined up for you at the times? Doing what?”

“Um, reporting on theatre stuff,” said Darkstar.

“Wow, tickets to every show,” said Sandalwood.

“No rehearsals,” said Recital.

“No agents!” exclaimed Sandalwood.

“Hey!” responded Recital.

Sandalwood laughed, “Not every pony has an agent like Longshore, like your herd does.” Recital nodded to that.

‘I think these theatre mares are as crazy as us.’ Darkstar giggled, “Well, back in Canterlot I was doing freelance stuff. I told that to Airy on Monday, and she offered us a job.”

Recital knew that Airmail wasn’t in Manehatten on Monday. “During her vacation with Wily?” Darkstar nodded, “I want to know everything. Airy is a nice pony, but she doesn’t hoof out jobs.”

“It’s a pretty longish story,” said Darkstar. “Could we get a drink?”

“What are you drinking?” asked Sandalwood.

Darkstar responded, “A beer would be nice, thank you.”

Sandalwood reached over to the intercom, “Tails, three beers please.” She let go of the button and saw the look Recital gave her. A non-verbal reminder of her past and where she didn’t want to return. “I most likely won’t finish it.” Recital relaxed, “So, tell us your story.”

“Okay,” said Darkstar, “Well to start at the beginning, I would have to start with Wildfire getting blinded five years ago. Just found out she was put in a home.”

“You know Wily,” interjected Recital.

“Went to school with her and Dusk,” answered Darkstar.

Sandalwood turned to look at Recital. “Yes, that is Prince Dusk, Luna’s son.” Sandalwood’s eyes went wide. “Name dropper.”

Darkstar laughed, “Maybe a little. He was the most normal, dull pegasus in the land.” She passed where there was a knock on the door. Trails let himself in and set the three beers on a table and leaves.” Sandalwood motioned to the beers and Darkstar helped herself to one. “When Wily was blinded her dad told us she moved to Filly, but we knew she had no family there.”

Recital listened without interrupting. She was cross checking what Darkstar said with what she learned at the BDSM meet last Thursday. Sandalwood liked stories so she listened closely.

Darkstar continued, “Our friends set out to find her as best we could. My brother, Brightstar, moved to Fillydelphia and lives there still. Cyclone ended up in Cloudsdale. Me and Air Raid wouldn’t quit. Dusk just drifted apart from us.” She paused to drink some beer. “We got close to the truth, so close. Wily’s dad threatened Raid, but she didn’t listen. He broke her muzzle and she backed off after that. I was too determined to quit.” “Or too stupid.” A blush spread across the unicorn’s face. “I paid for it. Cold Front,” she saw the look on the mares, “Wily’s dad, and his mates foalnapped me. Beat me senseless, cut off my horn, and dumped me in the warehouse district to die.”

That revelation shocked both earth ponies. “But,” sputtered Sandalwood, “That’s a major crime!”

“Yes, but I was in no condition to report the crime,” said Darkstar. “When I woke up from the coma, I had no desire to live. Raid was able to stop me from killing myself, but I didn’t make it easy for her.”

Recital thought it was Air Raid trying to atone for the past, “So there is some good in Air Raid.”

“What?” Darkstar fired back, “I won’t hear a word against her. She put her life on hold for four years to care for me. She’s my sister more than a friend.”

Recital was taken back by the force in Darkstar’s voice. “Has Wily forgiven her?”

Darkstar took a moment to calm down, “Yes, eventually. Everypony has forgiven her apart from herself.”

Sandalwood could feel the tension in the air, “What is this about.”

Recital smiled and sat back. “Air Raid was Wildfire’s marefriend up till she was blinded, and then bailed on her.” She reached a hoof out to Darkstar, “So, I’ll rephrase what I said Darkstar. There is good in Air Raid. That better?”

Darkstar gave Recital a hoof bump. “Yeah, that’s better.” She smiled, “So, fast forward to last week. Raid met Mapper and Serenity in Canterlot. Mapper gave Raid, Wily’s phone number. She called her and got shot down. Then Wily checked in with Cyclone, who told them about me. They followed up with Mapper and decided that Air Raid was telling the truth. We both met with them in Canterlot.”

“Is what happened to you, why you’re talking with Requiem?” enquired Recital.

Darkstar nodded as she briefly relived that Sunday. “Luna healed our horn and she recommend Requiem. So did a lot of others. Raid decided to move here, and I have a psyche that we project onto as a result of the trauma. We’re getting better though.”

Recital took a bottle of beer, “That’s enough interrogation.” She raised the bottle, “Theatre!”

Sandalwood also took a bottle and raised it, “Theatre!”

Darkstar giggled and raised her bottle, “Theatre!”

The three clinked their bottles and drank. Sandalwood only took a small sip, “If you become a playwright, that would be a real tragedy of a story. Requiem, though, keeps most of us on the right side of the sanity line.” Recital’s giggle was infectious. “Since you live there, I will assume you’ll be at gaming night?”

“Oh, yes, but I wasn’t at first. I’m not good with crowds, but it is totally going to be worth it,” said Darkstar. “First Caffy’s aunt is going to bring some zebra prospects for me and Raid. I want a stallion and she wants a mare.” She drank some more beer. “Second, Air Raid will be assisting Thespian in serving.”

Sandalwood had been to some game nights. A lot of ponies to monitor her alcohol intake. “Will she be trussed up like Thespian?” Darkstar nodded, “That I have to see.”

Requiem waved a hoof, “She does have wings, so that should make it easy.”

“I must point out her wings are useless,” said Darkstar, “She has Scootaloo syndrome.” Both mares gave her a blank look. “She can’t fly.”

Sandalwood snickered, “Well that makes sense. Not much point in tying her hooves together if she can fly.”

“I still say the wings will help with balance,” said Requiem, “But I’m coming thirsty tomorrow!”

Darkstar sniggered, “Me too, but that is why Raid races. It’s her way of flying.”

Recital shook her head, “She won’t be doing much racing with her hooves chained together.” She and Sandalwood shared a laugh.

‘She will be muzzle first into the floor.’ ‘Or on her plot.’ Darkstar sniggered, “You have a very good point, Recital.” She drank some more beer. ‘Ask her.’ What if she says no?’ ‘Won’t know till you ask.’ “You think the theatre could use a dancer?”

Sandalwood and Recital shared a look. Sandalwood started it off, “Does the Cider press need another apple?”

Darkstar nodded, and Recital followed up, “The point is what happens to the apple in the press?”

“Um, it gets juiced,” answered Darkstar.

“Yes!” exclaimed Recital with a smile, “Then what happens to the rest of the apple?”

“Compost heap?” Darkstar said softly.

Sandalwood had her bright smile on, “But we got the juice and that is the important part, right?”

“Right!” said Darkstar.

“Yes,” agreed Sandalwood, “And then what happens to the juice?”

“Gets enjoyed by the drinkers,” responded Darkstar.

“Right,” said Recital. The smiles vanished from both mares, “Then what happens to the juice?”

“Well, usually gets pissed down th… Oh,” responded Darkstar.

Sandalwood led off, “The cast of this show is twenty-eight.”

Recital continued, “Twenty of them are dancers.”

“Next week, it won’t be the same twenty,” Sandalwood added.

“Nor will it be the same twenty the week after that,” Recital confirmed.

Sandalwood looked Darkstar over. She did show poise and balance. Stamina would have to be tested. “Are you truly a good dancer? Can you get a role as a main player?”

‘We’ve seen that look before.’ ‘Yeah, looking for a reason to cut us.’ Darkstar wasn’t having any of that, “We’re bucking awesome is what we are!”

“That’s the right attitude!” Sandalwood toned down her stare, “Maybe you can be a dancer, and take my place?” She smiled, “Auditions are on Saturday. Show time is six am.”

Recital nodded, “Plan on a long day.”

‘We’ll show them!’ “We’ll be there!” Darkstar said with determination.

Sandalwood raised her beer, “I wish you all the best.”

“But,” said Recital, “You may need to tell Airy she’ll have to hire a different pony.”

Darkstar shrugged, “I’m sure she’ll be okay with it. I’ll pick a moment when she’s distracted by Wily’s ass to tell her.” All three mares laughed.

After another half hour of general talk about theatre life, Sandalwood pointed looked at Recital as she held up her half bottle full of beer. She then dropped it into the trash can and giggled at Recital’s nod. Sandalwood stood up, “I’ll see both of you tomorrow.” She received hugs from both mares.

“You can ride back with me and Trumpet, Darkstar. We live just a block from Caffy’s place,” offered Recital.

“Sure,” said Darkstar. “That way we won’t get lost.”