1 - The Mare with Silver Eyes
The Wanderer's Guide to Equestria and Beyond
A soft hum filled the air, the sound of telekinetic magic was one that was familiar to Twilight. It was one of the few noises she could tolerate while skimming through knowledge, as the noise had become synonymous with reading for her. Her mind had rarely wandered but today was special, as she peered down at the daintily written name on her appointment sheet. She didn't often receive visits from ponies that weren't her friends, someone barging in unannounced or unscheduled, or a random tour visiting the castle. Her mind continued to wander as she flipped through books, she hadn't helped anypony with book related issues since she lost the Treehouse Library. As Twilight continued to wonder, the sound of the library doors opening made her turn towards them, her mind quickly focusing.
Twilight peered at the rather matured pony sauntering into the castle library. The first thing she noticed was the beautiful silver eyes, peering back at her and a motherly smile across her face. A silver glow of magic was encapsulating a tome, carrying it and beginning to tug several others out of a saddle bag. A lovely voice filled the air, she thought it a tone that one would consider a loving mother to use, it took a moment for Twilight to realize it was coming from the mare.
"Hello, Miss Sparkle, I'm Serenade Silver. I was hoping you could lend me a hand in a matter pertaining these books?~" She hummed, her voice bringing an odd ease to Twilight.
"O-Of course! Sorry for the mess, I think I let my mind wander a bit." Twilight mumbled, peering around at the rather large pile of books she had accumulated from her mindless skimming. The familiar hum and hue of purple magic sorted the books back in a quick and orderly fashion. "Please, call me Twilight. What did you need Miss Silver?" queried Twilight, suddenly pondering the mare's choice of words.
"Call me Silver!~ I was wondering if you could help me compile the interesting bits of these books into one." Silver spoke with the same motherly tone as before. The tomes slowly floated onto the table, being gently settled down onto the surface. The tomes seemed to vary in forms of wear, the one slid closest to Twilight seemed like it had been through rough times. Twilight's head tilted as she inspected it, no visible title could be seen on the surface.
"Excuse me for prying, but where did you find this?" questioned Twilight, tilting her head as she opened the book.
"It's a personal piece of work, I thought maybe you could help me skim it down. The thoughts of a pony do tend to wander quite terribly and don't mesh very well when it comes to reading!~ I can assure you they become more focused, I had quite a bit of practice later on."
"Oh, these are yours? You want me to... Help you make a book!?~" exclaimed Twilight. She wasn't quite an author, however it was an interesting opportunity, she was glad she didn't have any plans today! "Well Silver, I think I can assist but, this is more than a bit of light reading, even for me!"
"Oh, I can schedule for a few days if need be."
"It's fine, I'll just take a look at- Oh dear." Twilight paused, peering down at the words. Seemingly at loss, she turned the pages back slowly until she reached the beginning, a soft murmur leaving her lips. "I suppose I should have asked earlier, but what exactly are these about?"
"Well, right now they're simply journals."
"Journals?" questioned Twilight, peering at the fresher text scribbled onto the inner cover of the book, reading the brief message.
"Traveling far distances on hoof sounded quite wonderful at first, I figured I would be able to see beautiful landscapes and find an answer to the grief that sent me out on this journey. However, amidst the sight seeing I've found much more than eye candy. Ponies, dragons, living rocks, and many other wonderful personalities, the adventures I shared with them have been the true treasure of my journey. Perhaps one day I will give this journal to someone who can share it with the rest of the world."
Twilight was almost in awe as she peered back at the first real page, reading the date marked on the page. "This is quite awhile ago, goodness... You must have had a lot to write about." mumbled Twilight, her curious mind tugging the newest looking tome close, opening it to a random page.
"When you travel beyond Equestria, you tend to find some interesting folks Twilight...~" Silver's words barely scraped Twilight's ears, a soft flick and a nod in response. The purple unicorn was peering through the words eagerly, she wasn't even sure where the events her mind was taking in. "Twilight?" Silver let out a soft giggle, bringing Twilight back down to earth.
"Oh, goodness I... Should probably start from where I am supposed to, I hope you don't mind if I take these off your hooves for a day or two. I'd like to properly read them, and I doubt you want to be around for hours watching me read." Twilight shifted the first tome back to her attention, settling the other two nearby.
"That's fine, I trust you'll keep them in good condition." Silver gave a small giggle, as the first tome had certainly seen better days. "Better than me, at least~. I'll see you tomorrow, at the same time? I'd like to know what you think of them!~"
"Absolutely."
"Farewell!~" hummed Silver, in a familiar silky tone, turning and sauntering back out the Library Doors, as Twilight slowly opened the worn tome, and peered down at the slightly faded words.
Yesterday was the day, I finally had built up the bits and the courage to leave. I made enough to where I could move along without fear, as terribly long as it took I can't think of anything else I wanted to do anymore. I suppose I should explain why I am writing this in the first place. After all, it barely took a day and I am already wondering if I should turn back to Ponyville and forget this crazy little idea in my head. Maybe writing it down will help me continue on, and remind me why I really left.
It all started with an awful letter. The parcel that made me realize how terribly lonesome I was in Ponyville. Through a lonesome piece of paper, I learned that my parents had both passed in a day. It made sense after all, they were the same age and both unicorns. It wasn't like ponies their age to have a child, and it certainly didn't help their financial situation! I never told them, but I moved away to make sure they could even continue living in the little flat they owned in Canterlot. It was all they really knew.
I visited the city to attend what little bit of a funeral session they had performed. There wasn't even a eulogy, after all it's the responsibility of a family member or close friend to deliver it to the others. There wasn't much point to speaking to myself, my head certainly didn't stop itself from pondering it though. I suppose that was why I was birthed so late in their lives, no one would have visited their funeral if I hadn't been at least conceived. I didn't really have anyone left aside from a few nice co-workers back in Ponyville.
However, it was during this visit I realized my love for sightseeing. I wasn't going to let the loss of my parents keep me from enjoying my visit to my home city. As awful as that may sound, I wasn't the type to let such things keep me down for very long. Enjoyment in life comes from enjoying the moment, perhaps occasionally what was, but you can never dwell on such a thing. Anyways, I let out my sorrows at the graveyard, and began to rediscover the city I had left as just a teenage filly.
I was quite in awe at how much the city had changed, or perhaps I never took the time to really appreciate what had made the city beautiful. For once in my life I was experiencing a place simply to drink in the sights. The many alleys of fashion, music and song filled my eyes and ears with a wonder I hadn't felt since I had first decided to settle in Ponyville. The sorrow in me sunk away, I couldn't imagine my parents having terrible lives in a place so rich with culture. It certainly surprised me to see a rather young filly with an awful grimace on her face, sitting alone in front of a coffee shop, even without a cup to accompany her. I couldn't quite help myself, as I approached her with a question ready on my lips.
"Is this seat taken?" I queried, motioning to the other end of the table. Her eyes glanced up at me, then around. The other tables were filled, it seemed to be a good hour for coffee. She responded with a shake of her head before placing it back down on the table. I gave her a smile as I sat down, setting my saddlebags to lean against the chair.
"Hello Miss, Can I help you with anything?" a voice suddenly queried from beside me, I turned to face the mare with a smile.
"Yes, could I have one coffee and..." I looked down at the grumbling filly for a moment. "A chocolate milk." I knew I had gotten her attention, because her ears perked up. Whether it was because she wondered why a mare had just ordered two drinks, or she knew it was for her I won't quite know.
"That comes out to three bits." she responded politely, a small smile coming to her face as I floated the coins out from my saddle bags. I turned back towards the filly, who seemed to be peering at me curiously now. The little scowl seemed to be present still, but it was overwhelmed by curiosity.
"What? You look like you need it. I certainly need this myself, I don't usually get around during this hour." I gave her a small wink, then a soft smile as her expression had simply softened a bit. "What's got you down? I'm sure it's nothing too terrible."
"I didn't get into the Celestia's School." The filly said quickly, "I guess I'm not very gifted." The scowl returned in record time, just in time for the drinks to arrive. I simply slid the chocolate milk over to her, to which her face brightened again. "Thanks, but I am not sure if a treat can help me very much right now.
"That's quite a serious thing a pony your age to say ya know?" I questioned, not exactly expecting an answer, I continued. "I'm all grown up and I barely consider such bleak things as you! I am not so sure if it's as a terrible burden as you might think." Her eyes stared up at me, too busy sipping down the sweet beverage to respond. "After all, it's a prestigious school that looks for a very particular talent. A school for 'Gifted Unicorns' seems like a bad title when that means every unicorn."
"Wha? What do you mean miss?"
"Well it's pretty simple! Every mare is gifted in their own way, something as humble as gardening is still a gift. It's in our nature to be gifted wouldn't you say?"
"When you say it like that... Why didn't they let me in then! I tried my hardest, that egg test was a fluke!"
"Because it wasn't testing for being simply 'Gifted' it was looking to see if you were gifted in the art of magic in particular." I gave a small chuckle as I continued. "Think of it like this, the school isn't looking for gifted ponies, rather a latent magical talent." I smiled, as she seemed to slowly understand what I was getting at.
"So, I can still be special?"
"Of course! Look at me, I might look like the type of unicorn who knows about magic." I giggled, looking up at the sky, then back down at the filly. "I am simply, gifted in a very humble way~." I could see the surprise in her eyes, as I let the words come out in a very frilly way. I sipped the last of my coffee as I stood from my seat. "Well, I hope you find what you're looking for." I gave a small nod as I sauntered back into the depths of Canterlot.
I had spent the rest of the afternoon pondering my meeting with the filly, even while I had stared at the most beautiful pieces of art inside the Canterlot Art Museum. I'd look at the paintings and continue to wonder if I had made a difference, giggling to myself as I wondered why my head was so focused on the little mare. It wasn't often I got to interact with another pony in such a way, the most I did was possibly make my co-workers blush with my words. I wasn't able to focus on it anymore as my steps lead me up to the door of the meager flat my parents used to live in.
The door creaked open, as if it hadn't been opened in some time. Slowly lighting up the darkening room with candles, looking over the familiar room. I had stayed in Canterlot much longer than I anticipated and I needed a place to stay, the flat had been inherited though I won't say I was very comfortable waltzing in here without my parents about. Not that I had for a very long time anyways. I sat upon the couch with a huff, not wanting to dive too deep into my childhood home.
I think I took a nap, I may have left my sorrows behind but I still couldn't help but ponder why I had ever left this beautiful city. So that my parents could live in peace, and not worry about money? I found myself doubting even the excuse I had used for years, I rarely even sent them a letter. I remembered the first time I saw Ponyville, the simple town had a similar effect on me. The wonderous little sights and ponies I met, they made me want to stay so... I did.
I finally took a moment to truly inspect the room around me, my eyes landing on a little note on the table. It was a simple to-do list, the still familiar dainty writing of my mother and the rough crossing of my father. The list made me shudder, they seemed to be aware of what was coming. They always were prepared for anything, the ordered graveyard plots, a will, and to send a letter to me... It wasn't crossed out!
I gulped, I wanted to look around and see if there was anything left for me. Perhaps it wasn't right to snoop around the home I had left so long ago, but I figured if they wanted me to see something they would have at least started writing it. So, I searched for it, pacing through each quaint little room. I wasn't going to resort to turning the place inside out, but I didn't have to as my eyes peered upon a little envelope with my name on it. I slowly floated it to my eyes, peering upon the date. It was addressed to be sent a mere day after they had passed, they knew it wasn't long but... I sniffed, slowly tugging the note loose from the envelope.
"Dear Serenade,
I wish you could send more letters, or at least go by your first name! You're a Canterlot unicorn, you should always put yourself forward as graceful as possible. It's always been like you to try and find the most humble reasons and ways to present yourself. Anyways, I'm rambling. Something I find myself doing more often than I would like to admit in recent days. I'd like you to come and visit, Serenade, since your father and I haven't been in the best condition recently. I'd like to see you one more time before we go and join the rest of the family. I still feel sorry about driving you out all those years ago, having older parents isn't the best thing for a young filly. I just want to see you again, your silver eyes. They remind me of my mother, I see so much of her in you. Goodness, I'm rambling again. Come visit! I can promise you Canterlot has more to offer now that you're all grown up.
With love, Mom & Dad."
At first I wasn't sure what to think, it was the first time they had requested a visit from me. It was also the first time I had heard they felt they drove me away, which I didn't think of course! I sniffed, slowly packing the letter back into the envelope and sealing it. I drifted back over to the couch and pushed the envelope into my saddlebags, turning and slowly walking towards the small balcony.
When I stepped into the night air, I wanted to shiver and turn back. But I didn't, slowly settling in the lovely breeze I stared out into Canterlot. The wonderful city, alight with life even during the darkest hours. I leaned against the edge of the balcony, and looked beyond Canterlot. The height of the city allows you to see deep into Equestria, some even say you can see the borders of the neighboring countries from the great mountain city. I glanced upon the specks of civilization, Ponyville was clearly visible from the great city and something lit in my heart. All I wanted to do was see all these lovely little places. I sniffed, exhaling slowly and giving a soft chuckle as I realized I was crying. I let myself cry, staring out at the vast untapped land of Equestria, surely no other pony other than the Princess herself had seen it all. After what seemed like hours, I turned back into my old home and laid upon the couch to drift into sleep.
I returned to Ponyville in the morning, an awful idea was burning in my chest but I couldn't ignore it any longer. I wanted to go, somewhere, everywhere. Equestria was a beautiful place, and it's towns and cities were filled with many wonderful landscapes and things to see! I suddenly felt cooped up, even in the lovely open town of Ponyville. I spent a few bits on map of Equestria, they weren't very common and sometimes not very accurate. It took me awhile but I decided on Las Pegasus to be the first place I travel to. I couldn't quite imagine taking a trains if I planned to travel to many places, so I decided I would hoof it to my destinations.
I'll spare the months where I spent as little as I could manage, I was glad I did since I quickly got used to living off apples. I suspect I might find myself having to eat the lovely little morsels for quite awhile just from my first day out on the road. Most food I've encountered that isn't apples would run me out of bits in just a month or two! However, I certainly gained a nice buffer of bits from my thrifty spending. Though I couldn't just leave everything as it is, that would be wildly unfair to the great ponies of this place. So I started to work on making sure my leave wouldn't make anyone unsatisfied or unhappy.
I started with my workplace, a simple little news station that decided it wanted to feature bits and pieces of my work for an honest bit of living. They needed a piece for each week's installment of the newspaper. All it was is a simple bit of philosophy or a poem, so I began to write like a madmare! I wasn't sure just how many I wrote, but I looked at each one with care and made sure they were actual words instead of tired ramblings. The look on my boss' face when I dropped a stack of papers onto her desk was unforgettable.
"Uhh, Silver?" she slowly peered around the huge stack of papers.
"Yes?" I responded, giving a very small giggle.
"Do you plan on leaving for awhile? You did just go to Canterlot the other day and well..." She slowly hoofed through several of the sheets. "For like, several years or something?"
"I'm honestly not too sure, I just know I wanted to go for a bit. I'm sure I'll be back someday, I just couldn't leave you without some sort of material to put in that little spot of mine until you found a replacement."
"You're quitting?"
"Well... I suppose so, I really did enjoy working here but I simply have something I must do. I don't expect any sort of payment for all those so don't worry about it!"
"Mmh, You've been working here for so long I guess it caught me off guard. Did you find something more your speed?"
"Well, I suppose that's what I'm going to find out! I'm just going on a vacation, one where I don't quite know when I'll be back." I stopped myself for a moment, I must've sounded quite odd to her.
"Don't get lost, you hear? I'd hate to hear of it." She stated, I simply nodded as I headed off to my next bit of business.
I traveled to my home in Ponyville to meet the newlywed couple who were down in their luck, they needed a place to stay and I happened to need someone to watch my home while I was gone. I believe it was time I admitted just how long I might be gone to them.
"F-Forever?" The teal mare stammered, her mouth agape. I simply gave a small chuckle as I floated my jingling saddlebags onto my back.
"Well, possibly. I'm not sure how long I'll be gone Mrs. Cake, and I wouldn't be able to collect any payments on the home if I sold it to ya." I smiled slowly, looking at her shocked expression. "I'm sure you could run your shop down here, the studio upstairs is spacious enough to serve as somewhere to sleep."
"G-Goodness, you're a saint Miss..." A yellow and lanky Stallion responded, "I don't think you know how much this means to us we've been-"
"Pay it no mind. I've got a place to stay when I come back, I'd hate to have this place vacant without someone nice to take care of it." I smiled, almost wishing to cry myself. "I hope you can make a life for yourselves here, I certainly made part of mine."
"I, hold on just a moment, I can't..." Mrs. Cake trotted away nervously, I gave a small smile to her husband who was simply sitting there. I was about to turn and leave before I heard her speak again. "Miss Silver, I can't let you leave just yet." I turned, and gave a small giggle when I glanced back at her.
She was presenting a scarf with a silver hue seemed to match my eyes quite perfectly, a small box that jingled with bits, and a pin with several colored gems embedded in it. I moved close to her, my eyes peering over the scarf. It seemed to be quite aged, but still vibrant. I ran a hoof over the lovely silken cloth, the smoothness bringing a smile to my face. She began to speak again before I could comment.
"It's, something my mother gave to me when she passed. It never matched my coat very well, but I think it would be in much better hooves with you." I blushed, standing still as she draped it around my neck. "There, and this." She slid the jingling box forward, "It's what we were saving to start buying a home, I don't think we'll be needing them anymore." Finally, the pin was placed into a seemingly familiar spot onto the scarf. "A gift from 'Mr. Sappy' over there, I was going to sell it but..." She seemed to struggle to find words.
"These are all wonderful gifts Mrs. Cake." I mumbled, part of me wanted to take the scarf off and shuffle it back into her hooves, but I could see the look in her eyes. It would tear my heart out to make her feel like she still owed me... It's a terrible insult to not accept a gift given in good faith. "I'll take good care of them, as you take good care of 'Mr. Sappy', and the home." I chuckled, embracing the mare.
As I left, I swear I could hear the most giddy noise come from the inside of the house. There certainly was much for celebration for those two. I trotted towards the edge of town grunting with effort as I struggled to get used to the weighty saddlebags. Unfortunately, my saddlebags wasn't the only weight I was bearing. My mind had begun to wander, and my hooves started to slow until I was standing still. I slowly dragged my hoof along the scarf hanging from my neck, mumbling to myself until I heard a rather high pitched voice fill my ears from the nearby playground.
"That's no fair!" A rather small filly had practically screamed, foals aren't exactly known for their volume control. The voice stopped me in my tracks nonetheless, slowly sauntering close to the edge of the playground to listen in on the sudden yelling. I'm not quite sure what possessed me to do so, perhaps I was avoiding leaving Ponyville, even if it was only for a few short minutes. I entered the clearing just as the filly spoke up again, "There's only one ball and I grabbed it first!"
"Well you cheated and used magic to grab it!" A similarly sized colt responded, his friend piped in.
"Unicorns cheat!"
"Nuh uh, Pegasus cheat. Wings are faster!" chirped a filly beside the first filly.
"You're a pegasus too, you dodo."
I giggled and looked at the small argument take place, beginning to hum a simple tine. The foals all turned their heads towards me as I continued on to start simply making noises of the simple beat. "Ba da da de da de dum~ Ba da da de da de dum~" I bounced my head to the simple beat, I could see their expressions soften as they simmered down. They followed my voice, their heads bobbing gently. Continuing the tune as I slowly levitated a few stones into place, making a makeshift goal on either end of the fillies. Dragging a small branch through the ground to draw a rectangular boundary around them. I levitated the ball between the two pairs and plopped it down.
"Why not a friendly game to settle this, eh?" The fillies seemed a bit confused at first, before I continued. "It's simple! Kick the ball into the other end, and no going out of bounds! An age old conflict, Stallions versus Mares. Colts versus Fillies!~" I could see their excitement build in their eyes, they turned to face each other in this simple game. "While your at it, why not mix it up even? All the ground bound fillies versus pegasi?" I watched them think it over before they began the game.
It didn't take very long for them to completely forget why they were playing in the first place, I smiled as I watched the fillies play. Soon enough, the whole playground of fillies were involved. Each of them shouting ideas who should play next, how many points needed to be scored. I began to hum my little tune as I sauntered off back onto the road, I turned back and met eyes with a single pegasus filly. Her eyes were alight with wonder as I simply winked, continuing down the road to Celestia knows where.
I certainly put practice into what I'd have to eat for this journey, but I certainly wasn't thinking when I left with simply saddlebags! I figured I'd only been walking for a mere mile before I started to ache softly. I suppose it would have been smart to think about the physical repercussions of traveling long distance by hoof. I wasn't bright in a logical sense back in that moment, or now I suppose. Anyways, I pushed onward deeper into what I considered unknown territory.
I looked down at the path I was walking, it seemed hooves rarely passed the trail I was treading upon. Though I suppose I would have to get used to the feeling of treading rarely walked paths, I stopped to look up at the landscape around me. I peered back at Ponyville, I had happened to be going up a hill. The large rolling hills of apple trees were behind me, and I could barely make out the roof of town hall. I already began to miss it, having to wrench my eyes away from the beauty behind me, I peered ahead.
The landscape seemed to spill out around me, the beauty of nature was one that I never quite appreciated until I was part of it. Though, nature wouldn't get me to any new places currently. I shifted my saddlebags until I produced a map of Equestria. It wasn't the most reliable guide, it is really just a rather large oversimplification of what lay inside of Equestria's borders, as well as what lay just outside of them. Many of the towns were barely marked, and only major landmarks and cities were placed upon it's surface. I continued onward, suddenly realizing my path was bordering a rather deep crevice in the ground.
It was filled with brambles, steep cliffs, sharp rocks, and some sort of large eel creatures that made my skin crawl. I couldn't imagine such a ghastly place being so close to Ponyville, but it seemed like it was contained within itself. I decided to take a small break and peer down into the crevice further, peering down at the seemingly peaceful bottom of the gorge. I mumbled to myself, "What an awful looking place"
I slowly shuffled back to where I had laid my saddlebags, laying down in the grass and idly twiddling my hooves. I started to wonder just how many places I would cross that were like this. Perhaps it wasn't the greatest idea anymore, I've had the awful idea in my head for months. I suppose I was just nervous, after all I wasn't even harmed by what was in the gorge, it simply existed on it's own. I levitated my bags onto my back once more, shifting them comfortably into place as I continued onward.
I feel like the sight of a light on the side of the road was the most welcome thing I had seen in my entire life. It must have been twelve hours since I left Ponyville, and I only had myself and the increasing weight of my saddlebags to keep me company. The darkening skies were beginning to make me nervous, I didn't realize just how far away Las Pegasus was from Ponyville. The map certainly made it seem a lot closer than it actually was, and I didn't have any readily available camp supplies. I almost forgot my legs were tired as I practically galloped up to what seemed like a campsite, a large cart was off to the side and a lone stallion sat next to a crackling fire.
"G-Greetings!" I huffed, the Stallion hopping up with a jolt from my sudden introduction.
"Goodess to Celestia, you surprised me..." He grumbled softly as he slowly settled back down onto the grass, "What brings a filly like you out here at this time? You look like the type you'd see in Canterlot." He motioned to the scarf draped around me, I blushed and tilted back on my legs.
"Oh, well I was just traveling to Las Pegasus by hoof. I seem to have been a little well, ill prepared to say the least!" I shuffled my hooves, before getting onto the point, I could see him questioning why I stopped. "I was wondering if I could share this fire with you tonight, if you... Don't mind." I gave him my best smile before he gave a simple nod.
As I settled down, I noticed him give a soft chuckle. Before I could ask what he found amusing he began to speak again. "You don't know about hoof travel at all do ya? I can tell by your saddlebags."
"No sir, I'm sorta out here on a whim. I uh... My saddlebags?" I lifted them off my back and set them next to the wheel of his cart. They jingled quite noisily, the sound of bits bouncing about could be heard.
"You've only got coin huh? A lot of it from what I can tell, you'd have been better off getting a cart than hoarding it for supplies."
"Well uh, uhm..." I bit my lip, realizing he was right. A spacious enough cart would be good enough to carry any items I had. Food, water, souvenirs and provide a place to sleep that wasn't the floor. "I suppose that would have been, a good idea." I gave a sheepish smile, but he shook his head.
"I'm glad you're not a shy pony, If you really plan on hoofing it to cities you gotta have a little bit of know how for the road. If you're willing to listen I can give you a hoof, ain't got much to do at this hour anyways." He stated his next bit clearly, "I don't exactly want to hear of fine mare as yourself getting starved from taking a journey too long."
"I would be happy to learn as much as you could teach me Mister...?" I queried, leaning my head sideways.
"Brooks." He stated firmly. "Just Brooks."
"I'm Serenade Silver. You can just call me Silver."
"Awfully pretty name, you really are a Canterlot mare ain't ya?"
"You can tell that much huh?"
"Somewhat, but that ain't what you wanted to discuss right now is it?" He stood, pushing a pot over the campfire, filling it with water and several vegetables. "You know how to cook over a campfire?"
"Not really, but I do have these!" I retrieved the few apples I had in my saddlebags, munching on one as I realized I had grown quite hungry from my walking. "Mmm"
"Good choice. Quite cheap, but not effective if you're planning to move a lot. There ain't apples everywhere, and not everything tastes as good raw."
"Quite true." I mumbled, thinking about my choice of food carefully as I bit into it again.
"I'd suggest you learn how to cook like this, or you'll find apples to be revolting if you're on the road long enough." He chuckled from what seemed like experience. "Here, pay attention."
I spent the next hour listening to Brooks, he had much more to offer knowledge on than simply cooking. I wish I had my journal back then to write down just about everything he spoke about. I do remember him speaking that a cart should be my number one priority if I decide to continue traveling. He gave suggestions on how I could earn coin to keep myself running should I need to purchase any necessities. It was getting late into the night when he stopped discussing how I could get acquainted to traveling the long roads.
"You should find it easier to walk these distances after you've done it a few times. Ain't nothing gonna prepare you for walking for hours other than doing it."
"You're telling me, my legs don't have any feeling in them at this point." I reached back with telekinetic magic and massages the sore bit of my back, "I never want to carry saddlebags again."
"You shouldn't have to once you get your hooves on a cart. I promise you a metal ring begins to feel natural after awhile. It'll make you feel light as a feather when you got it off."
I couldn't help but giggle, looking up at the sky before I spoke. "I'm not the most prepared road traveler you've seen am I, Brooks?"
"Nope, but you're certainly not stupid neither."
"Huh?"
"I can tell you're serious about moving about like this." He motioned to the cart next to him, and to the saddlebags full of bits. "Someone who'd turn back in a day would have stuck around and not asked a single question. Nor would they have admitted to being not prepared."
I sat there in a bit of silence, slowly smiling at Brooks. He was busy tugging his cooked soup off of the fire carefully, I simply levitated it off, and dropped it in front of him carefully. He gave a soft nod of appreciation, before I slowly began to hum.
"Ba da da de da de dum~ Ba da da de da de dum~" I hummed softly, slowly bouncing my head to the little beat that had filled my head. He stared for a moment before chuckling and simply listened. I continued the melody for a few minutes, mixing in little bits of improvisation. I could tell the music was bringing a bit of relaxation to his nerves, perhaps he hadn't heard a sweeter voice in quite awhile. I was starting to drift off before I was suddenly given a soft shove. "Whahuh?"
"Sleep in the cart, I can rough it tonight." A rather tired looking Brooks was smiling down at me.
"Mhuhm? You don't gotta do that Brooks I'm rrrather fine..." I mumbled sleepily, my tired legs lifting me as I mindlessly sauntered into the cart. I was laid upon some rather fine feeling blankets before I drifted into sleep.
I was woken up slowly to the sound of the rumbling wheels of the cart beneath me. My head slowly poking out of the covers of the cart to see Brooks was tugging it along the road. A quick glance and I realized I had slept all night in the cart, I looked about and saw my saddlebags were places alongside the many crates stuffed into the travel cart.
"Rise and shine, Canterlot mare. You've got a lotta walkin' to do before we reach Las Pegasus." He slowly stopped and looked back at me with a grin.
"Huh? What time is it?" I looked about, the sky was still a bit red.
"Early, bout the time you wanna start moving if you're on the road."
"This early?! Goodness." I clambered out of the cart, I felt him place my saddlebags on my back, grumbling annoyedly at the weight on my back.
"Cheer up missy, I wouldn't be doing you any favors by pampering you on your first days. It's best you learn to deal with it, I doubt you'll find a good traveling cart here in Las Pegasus."
"Huh?" I walked alongside him, his pace felt rushed compared to the leisurely stroll I was taking yesterday.
"Las Pegasus ain't exactly the city for simple folk like me, the most they probably have is a stand for food vendors. So you'll likely have to make a walk like this again."
The color drained from my face, "Again? I hope there's a place closer than this walk. It'd certainly be a lot easier if I could make it without worrying about having to sleep in the open..."
"It's not just that. Ya think I could carry all them crates on my back with you sittin' on em?"
I pondered it, he did look quite burly. Perhaps if it was only for a moment, to move them from one spot to another. I saw him staring at me with eyes that can only be described as, ridiculing. "A-Ah, I don't suppose so, at least only for a few moments."
He stared for a moment longer before chuckling, shaking his head before giving another gruff chuckle. "Goodness, you look to be the epitome of a Canterlot mare, yet you've got the spirit of a simple towns pony." I watched him chuckle again, his throat rumbled. "Been too long since I enjoyed company on the road."
"O-Oh." I stammered softly, a soft blush graced my cheeks. "I'm glad that I'm not a burden Brooks, I would hate to trouble you on your travels." I smiled and leaned towards him slightly.
"Keep your saddlebags on missy." He stated without even peering at me, I begrudgingly lowered them back onto me with a soft mumble. "This cart might be lighter than those bags, but you don't get the luxury till you got a cart of your own."
"You seem to stress the importance of a cart, even in last night's conversation. I'm assuming I should invest in one the moment I reach Las Pegasus."
"Like I said, you probably ain't gonna find one there. Best you might be able to do is try and build one yourself but it takes some real practice and determination if you're going to make one sturdy enough to last even a few trips."
I pondered it, there had to be somepony who was skilled enough in woodworking to give me a hoof. I didn't expect it to come at a very cheap price, it'd end up being a custom job since they probably wouldn't sell carts fit enough to sleep in. I spent so much time thinking of what I would want in a cart I didn't notice that a few hours had passed by before I spoke again.
"Something sturdy, spacious enough to sleep in and carry a decent load of gear an souvenirs, as well as feel homey." I thought aloud.
"That sounds about right." Brooks responded without thinking, I suspect he's used to hours of silence.
"Yours doesn't seem very homey, or pony accessible." I mumbled, peering back at the rather archaic cart.
"That's cause it's meant for finding a home, not for being a home."
"Oh, have you been searching for a place to stay?"
"Nope, but plenty of other ponies are. It's my job to find habitable places in Equestria and help start settlements. It helps newer families find a place to stay, since sometimes places are scarce in the bigger cities."
"So, you settle places. Do the hard work so other ponies don't have to?"
"Mhm, it's a bit lonesome. I used to have a crew but they all got attached to a place we settled, or grew too old to keep walking trails." He let out a quick huff. I wasn't sure if I should keep prying, but I was simply too curious.
"Think you'll ever stop? To settle down in a place you helped build rather than leave it in somepony else's hooves?"
"I reckon not, unless something happens that makes me fall in love with a place myself, eh?" He chuckled, seeming to get over his earlier disappointment. I smiled back before continuing to speak.
"So, what has you traveling to Las Pegasus anyways? If you're looking for untapped land, wouldn't you want to stay off the trails?"
"Supplies is all, really. I came from Ponyville, and they didn't have much selection when it came to morsels." He grunted in a bit of disapproval, I thought for a moment, chuckling at his distaste for apples.
"Sweet Apple Acres grow apples that aren't like any other apples you've tasted before sir, I can assure you that." I plucked the final apple from my saddlebags and lifted it to his maw, which was met with a soft grunt of distaste.
"I'm fine missy."
"It's the least I could do for all your help, I insist." I smiled at him, which he rolled his eyes at. I was about to pull the apple away before he took a small bite. I honestly didn't expect him to enjoy it but he tugged the apple from my telekinetic grasp. I watched him slowly turn the apple in his maw, expertly munching the juicy bits into his maw while slowly turning it. Soon the core fell away and he was left munching on the tasty remains. I let out a soft giggle as he swallowed, looking up at him expectantly.
"Alright fine, it was good I suppose. You're lucky I don't like disappointing mares." He said with a bit of joviality in his tone. I looked away, my cheeks alight again. I softly kicked a rock off the path, starting to wonder just how many times he had been on the road to have gained a distaste for the most common and delicious snack in Equestria. After all, there was a reason why ponies could stand to eat the little red globes for centuries.
The hours passed surprisingly quickly, little mumbles of the landscape were all I could muster for the rest of the trip. It almost seemed unreal to me, as I stared forward and the city of Las Pegasus slowly drifted into view. It was practically night by the time we arrived, and my legs were dead tired from the saddlebags I was lugging about. I smiled over at my companion, who gave a simple nod. We had finally made it to our destination, one that I hope it will be the first of many for me.
I gave Brooks my thanks, and a quick hug for good measure once we actually reached the city. He wished me good travels, and told me not to forget what he said. My first instinct was to copy it down somewhere, I needed a way to write down everything he taught me before I forgot it all. So, I picked up this empty book, a few more apples, and a room to stay in for hopefully only a day or two. I'd rather not blow all my bits before I found a cart to use, and I certainly didn't wish to end up stuck here without a coin to spend to save my haunches.
Writing this all down really did help, perhaps I can continue on after all. It's only been a day but, I've already been graced by a kind soul. One I never would have met if I didn't decide to step out of Ponyville.
A cart is what I need next, perhaps somepony can help me find one. Once I have it, Equestria awaits!
I don't think I could have been more wrong.
Where should I start? Well, I figured I'd be perfectly fine traveling off road since I had a cart to my name and a decent amount of supplies. I shouldn't have assumed it'd be a cake walk, considering I was going to travel through a bit of a desert, albeit only a very small patch of it. Unfortunately, I was sorely mistaken, the heat was truly unbearable and I don't think I could feel my hooves after a few hours of walking on that unbelievably hot sand. I think I might have died if I didn't have my cart! Well not died, but I would have had much worse off hooves since it gave me a place to rest them.
Of course at this point, I completely forgot to wonder why in Celestia there would be farm down south in the hotter climates of Equestria. Doesn't make much sense does it? Well that's because it's a ROCK farm, I have never heard of such a bizarre thing in my entire life. Ugh, I am getting way ahead of myself... Perhaps I should start at the beginning, it'll help me get over this ridiculously strange day.
It all began when I realized there wasn't any direct roads to where I wanted to travel, of course since I already decided that I was heading south to visit the supposed farmland I thought it'd be fine if I simply attempted to follow a few landmarks to reach the farm. I could have simply gone back towards Ponyville, then down south but it would have added a few DAYS to my trip! Of course I felt the only logical option was to stock up on water and head through the small patch of desert! What's the worst that could happen I said! Horrible mistake...
Pretty soon after I had left, and entered the desert I realized I may have gotten myself into quite the heated situation. I certainly misjudged what "small" was, the map I bought didn't appear to be much of a help determining distance. Luckily enough it was at least somewhat accurate geographically, I probably wouldn't have found the mountain pass I was looking for... Or even know I was looking for a mountain pass. Goodness I'm utterly scatterbrained at the moment.
I had at first judged the desert to take only one or two hours to traverse, the mountain pass appeared to be the brunt of the journey on the map. I eventually learned however that the map had a massive issue with it's north and south distances. It was easy to realize after I spent almost five hours even getting the second mountain in sight! At this point I decided it would be best to take a rest and rethink my route. I couldn't trust the map anymore for anything other than names at this point.
After getting a quick rest, I decided I would still follow my route, it seemed like it was simply extended rather than completely invalid to make my trip to the farms. Of course a few hours later I finally made it to the mountain pass, all the more angry at the fact I had majorly misjudged the distance of the farm... I should have looked for a better map, or not been a complete dolt by walking blindly into a desert. To make matters worse, it took me a mere thirty minutes to make it through the pass to my destination.
However, it wasn't the luscious farm I had imagined in my head, far from it in fact... Practically the exact opposite of what I imagined myself coming to rest at. It was utterly peppered in small rocks, all of them seemed deliberately placed. I almost felt cursed as I looked up at the gloomy sky covering the whole farm, it looked like it was constantly at risk of raining. I slowly turned my gaze downward, meeting eyes with a gray mare who had managed to get quite close before I noticed her.
"Oh! Hello there, I'm Serenade Silver. I was wondering if you would happen to know where the nearest farm is." I asked her... I was met with a resounding silence, awkwardly shuffling my hooves in the dirt when I heard another voice from behind the gray mare.
"Marble!" A voice shouted from who I assumed was Marble, who practically jumped out of her skin and turned rapidly. I peered around her and saw another gray mare, however she had perfectly lime colored eyes. "Did ya finish- Huh?" She seemed to lose interest in Marble for the moment, trotting close and peering at me closely. "Who's this?"
Marble gave a simple hum that sounded quite similar to, "I don't know." She seemed to saunter off slowly, keeping her on me but starting to make some seemingly much needed distance.
I began to speak before holes burned into my eyes from the mare's rough stare. "Ahem, I'm Serenade Silver, I was simply wondering if you could point me to the nearest farm." I asked, but I certainly wasn't prepared for the answer I was given.
"You're standing on it." She replied.
"Ah I- Huh? Wait this..." I peered past her at the rocks, their meticulous organization suddenly made much more sense. "This is a farm? A farm for what, rocks?!" I chuckled before I received the most insane answer I've probably ever heard in my life.
"Mhm. Now, are you going to stand there and gawk all day or do I have to ask you to leave?" She snorted impatiently, "I've got work missy, so answer quick."
"Ah uh... I-I was erh... A-Are there any other farms in the area?" I gulped, questioning the mare nervously.
"Nope, not unless you count the acres up north, but that's a whole night's travel away. We've got a saying here on the farm, if you're not working you ain't staying."
"Apologies, I'll be- Wait..." I stopped to ponder for a moment, which seemed to annoy her. "Would I be allowed to stay in the area if I were to work?"
"Yep."
"Would I get paid?"
"As long as you're eating on your own, and aren't sleeping in the house, yep." She seemed to have calmed down a bit, perhaps the prospect of having an extra set of hooves on the... 'field' was enough to calm her down. It certainly pleased my lighter saddlebags to hear about possible replenishment, even if it's very little.
"I'd... Like to stay for a day or two, when do I start help-"
"Now. Cmon, I'll show you the basics but that's all." She walked off, looking quite grim as she did so. I followed closely, wondering just what one did on a 'rock farm'.
Turns out it's a bit more complicated than one might initially imagine... Or perhaps, simply just as physically demanding as you'd expect if something involves moving around rocks and boulders. It wasn't exactly what I'd call an enjoyable job and I suppose I was distracted by the work to bother asking exactly why one would spend their days pushing rocks about into certain spots.
The mare finally gave me a name to work with after she explained where to move each size and shape. Limestone Pie, certainly a fitting name if I've ever heard one, more than my own I'd say. Perhaps it's just sheer luck but I happen upon one incredibly interesting personality no matter where I travel, and Limestone is certainly no exception. She's probably one of the rougher mares I've met, constantly miserable, but seems to care deeply for her work. At least that's what I gained from her attitude, you can never say for certain.
By the end of the day I was utterly exhausted, sure I had my horn to help but you can only do so much before you get a headache and have to do it the Earth pony way! I certainly didn't envy Limestone, her anger seemed to make a little more sense... At least it would if she wasn't so particular about how everything was done on the farm! I set up my cart by the edge of their house, prepping to sleep before I was approached by a third mare I hadn't seen before.
"There's a room in the house you know." The mare said, in perhaps the most deadpan manner I could ever imagine.
I tilted my head, I wasn't quite sure how I should take the statement, her tone was very... Neutral. "Erh... Right. I heard if I took a bed inside, I'd not get paid for the work."
"That's only partially true, it's just slightly cut. We're always open to strangers who are willing to pull their weight."
I took a moment to look over the mare, dark purple mane, and a dark grey coat that was only slightly different to the other two mares I had spoken to already... I silently wondered if they would let me eat instead of some of the pay, though the few apples in my saddlebags would be wasted if I didn't eat them soon. My mind had wandered a bit too long and I caught the mare staring at me. "O-Oh ah, That's quite lovely, I just was passing through and was simply hoping to find a place to settle down for a bit! I shouldn't be here long Miss...?"
"Maud... That's fine. Though it's been quite awhile since we've had anyone stop here." She said, seemingly pondering the statement for a moment before continuing, "Have a nice night." I watched her walk away, with a host of curious thoughts churning through my head.
As I sit in my cart, I can't help but wonder why these mares are out here still, surely they don't run this place by themselves... Maybe they have family I haven't seen, or a reason to not leave?
I am currently writing this from the lovely comforts of the Pie Family Household, with a fresh meal graciously given to me. I found myself sore in many ways after today's events. While physical exhaustion is the most obvious, it certainly isn't the most intense one I am feeling currently. Emotion is powerful, personality is powerful... I don't know what let me find such lovely ponies in such a short time, but I can say that I've found more than just places to see, but ponies to meet... I'm rambling. Where do I begin?
I woke up to a nice stack of bits piled neatly on the window sill of my cart, with a crudely written note tacked onto my cart that simply read, "One day's work -Limestone". I would cautiously slide the stack into my saddlebags, after all I wasn't exactly certain of them, the work was hard sure, but I didn't exactly see their operation producing much to afford paying me.
Doubts aside, I had figured I might as well spend another day here. Sure the work made the rest a bit less satisfying to consider moving onward, but at the very least it would barter me a bit more coin to make the journey onward easier. After all I wasn't sure the next time I would even be able to find an odd job to support it! I made my way over to the household only to hear shouting coming from the fields of rocks, a sudden cacophony of anger and... laughter? Needless to say, I wasn't exactly considering just standing around while something was going on, heading outward to the field is when I saw that odd pack of dogs!
Limestone and Maud were chasing off these odd dog looking creatures in a bit of seeming desperation! Lanky and certainly lacking in manner, they'd have several of the stones that were being shifted around clutched in their hands and were running off with them in a howl of grating laughter, certainly not pleasant to the ears in the slightest! I'd watch them disappear into swiftly dug holes right as I approached! "What were those...?!" I'd asked right as I approached.
"Diamond Dogs! I swear, I'm going to move this whole farm if they keep showing their faces!" Limestone would seethe! She already seemed the angry type, and now she had a reason to be furious, and I wasn't particularly eager to see that in full force!
"Well they're gone for now, but we should probably keep watch for the rest of the day." Maud would calmly reply, only to have Limestone shuffle up to her and shout!
"And lose another day of work to them?! Some of these aren't going to turn out right if we keep having to drop everything." I'd watch her stamp her hoof on one of those dull boring stones, it'd crack into a fantastic display of color! It'd become quite clear at this point, and I'd glance about at the livelihood I'd helped with the other day.
"Maybe I can help?" I would offer, catching the gaze of both mares in an instant! I'd smile nervously as I simply cleared my throat. "I'm not exactly keen on just, watching."
"Don't worry about it, we've dealt with them before, and as many times as it takes it seems... Go to the east Maud, I'll keep my eyes here." Limestone would give a sigh, starting to turn her gaze back towards the tunnels left behind by the dogs.
Maud would look at me and simply gesture towards the home, and started to saunter off, I'd follow and start to speak before she simply said, "Shh." So, I did, and followed... Once we were out of earshot of Limestone, she would stop and stare at me seemingly blankly before speaking again. "What'd you have in mind?" I'd give her a nice bright smile, and the gears in my head started to turn!
Me and Maud had taken watch over the eastern fields, and Marble to the west. No sense in leaving the farm unprotected while I thought of my solution. We had spotted the tunnels outside the eastern fields, seemingly in prep for if the girls faltered in any bit of their watch... It seems the dogs were familiar with the mare's tactics as well. I would be curious however and ask "Why don't the dogs just... well, dig straight into the farm?"
"I'm not completely sure. It's either they don't want us to stop making the rocks, or they know the ground is perfect condition for them, wont disturb them." She'd reply, keeping her gaze affixed towards those planted tunnels... I'd look about and something about that didn't seem quite right to me! "I'm going to do some work, at least that will make Limestone a bit happier." Maud would nod as I sauntered away and looked about for a reason as to why.
It seems like none of the girls had ever really known why they didn't! I would slowly make my way about the farm doing the work I was taught once I was close enough, I went to ask Limestone, and she responded similarly... "I don't know. As long as they don't it makes our job easier doesn't it?" I did the same for Marble, all I could get out of her was a simple hum, similar to one saying 'I don't know'. The day was nearly at an end, I couldn't help but feel defeated at my lack of an answer... but ears would flick as I approached the center of the farm, my gaze falling on the windmill by the farmhouse.
It seems silly, but the sudden connection came like a pure eureka moment! They were 'dogs'! I'd listen close again, the shrill turn of the windmill, it wasn't necessarily grating... but one with much more sensitive ears, I'd grit my teeth as my magic coated my ears, the windmill turned deafening, and even moreso was the sound of running water beneath the home, and even the heating fixture beneath it! I'd shake my head and end the spell, but one last test of course.
I galloped my way back to Maud, past her and towards the tunnels! "Hey, where are you going?" She'd ask, with the same tone, yet somehow seeming concerned! I'd clear my throat once again, facing the tunnel, and using my horn to shift my pitch... and then I screamed! It was beyond shrill, and certainly hurt my own ears... and seemingly Maud's! But more satisfyingly, was the howl that came out of the tunnel! I'd fix my gaze upward and rubbed my head right as I saw the dogs rise from the ground covering their ears! Showtime!
I'd breathe in deep, galloping towards the trio without a second thought, once again loosing a shrill magic induced cry! The effect was clear, their heads clutched as they ran off! I could scarcely hear Maud raising her voice behind me! "Wait! There's a ravine that way!" It didn't matter to me, as long as I drove them off for the day, I knew exactly how to keep them away.
I felt like I was running for a long time, constantly loosing those cries to keep them on the run! Soon enough we came to the ravine, and I watched them tunnel away! Down the wall and across! "Scream all you like! We'll be back!" They dissapeared, seemingly heading towards Ponyville, it wasn't too far from the farm after all. I'd make my way back... and with an unfortunately sore throat.
When I came back, the girls were all gathered up, talking amongst eachother! "What do you mean she ran off screaming, they're just dogs it's not like-" I heard Limestone before she turned her gaze to me, "Hey! What was that all about, I thought they'd attacked you or something!" She'd frown, seemingly annoyed.
"No need to worry! Ack, sore throat... Turns out, they're like dogs." I'd answer to a trio of blank faces, before I coughed and cleared up my answer a bit! "I mean ah, they're sensitive to high pitched noises. I think a dog whistle would work nicely. The sound of your windmill, and your house kept them away from your inner farm." They'd keep staring, Limestone simply seeming to glow red before shouting again!
"That's it?! Agh, whatever... Thank you." She seemed annoyed, but pleasantly relieved to hear their dog problem wasn't going to be occurring quite as heavily with a single purchase. "I guess I'll head to town." She'd saunter off, Marble would give a soft smile and shuffle off as well! Maud would still be blank faced, but she nodded.
"Thanks. I know it doesn't seem like it, but she appreciates it." Maud would say flatly, I would give a smile and shake my head.
"I know, I had a feeling she cared deeply from the way she was yesterday... Oh uhm... I wouldn't mind that room tonight however! I think I'll need a good rest before I leave tomorrow..." I'd rub my head! It wasn't exactly a calm day, the excess of rock moving, and running, and screaming. Maud would give a small nod, and head back to the farmhouse.
I couldn't really ever imagine myself being the reason why someone's life improved... All I have ever really done was write little things, and sing little tunes to brighten a day! And more importantly, that attitude doesn't necessarily determine one's feelings, the Pie sisters may all have a stony exterior, but each of them shined as brightly as their life's work on the inside! I think I'll head for the hills tomorrow, Limestone spoke of a patch of desert south of Ponyville that was being turned into a settlement! It reminded me of Brooks, he did say he helped settle new places for ponies to live.
2 - A Cart and a Showpony
Dear Journal,
Is journal appropriate for this? Maybe I should call it a diary. Either way, I guess I'll continue to write down the day's events in here as long as they're interesting. And what a terribly eventful day it was.
After a nice long sleep in a real bed, I set off into Las Pegasus to find myself a nice and sturdy cart to bring on my travels. Perhaps then I would be able to actually travel a decent bit without my haunches feeling like putty. Unfortunately, it seems that Brooks was completely and utterly right about Las Pegasus. I must've tread through the entire city looking for anyone who could possibly be selling even the simplest travel cart, without a single bit of luck.
However at least the city was brimming with life, more than I had ever seen in Ponyville. It was filled with performing acts, ponies of awe inspiring talents, and casinos. It was quite a weird place for ponies. Perhaps if there wasn't a place like this, ponies would let out their primal desires elsewhere. A playground for grown stallions and mares it almost seemed, I felt a little guilty just watching the little bits of degeneracy take place around me.
It was near the end of my search when I met a strange young mare. I could hear her speaking from the depths of an alleyway, a grandiose tone drifting into my ears. I slowly peered down the alleyway to see a light blue mare, with a pale mane. I watched her as she was angrily tapping her hoof on a door yelling with an indignant tone.
"Excuse you! You do not shut the door on Trixie! Especially when Trixie is simply asking a question!" She yelped, huffing as she turned and trotted past me and along the street. I trotted after her quickly to catch up, turning my head to face her. I noticed her nose was held up high, and her eyes were practically shut.
"Uhm, excuse me miss, but what was that all about? Are you alright?"
Her eyes flickered open as she stopped and lowered her head slightly, she looked in my general direction. "If you must know, Trixie is stuck in this horrible place." She responded, a rather fierce grimace crossing her face.
"Trixie? Is that a friend of yours?"
"No, I am Trixie." She stated, almost seeming annoyed at having to say it.
"O-Oh well uhm, I'm sure it's not all bad. This place seems quite lively, might I ask what you were looking for?" I pondered the odd way of addressing herself. In an interesting way she reminded me of the more regal Canterlot citizens.
"Trixie was searching for a way out of this place. She cannot find a ride, nor even a simple cart to put all of her things in!"
"A cart? I've been looking for one myself. Did you happen to- Oh wait, you just..." I sighed, and started to hope wherever I ended up at night at least had a patch of grass to lie on.
"The most Trixie could find was oversized stage carts." She snorted in annoyance, almost talking to herself more than me.
It was probably the best words I've ever heard in a sentence together. Found and Cart. Well, technically she said find but I was still rather excited. "Really? What was wrong with them? I'm sure it wasn't because they were too small."
"Trixie will not settle for anything with less than four wheels."
I thought about it for a moment, if I could get my hooves on one... "I think it would be simple enough to modify it. Just add another set of wheels in the front." I continued to imagine what you could do to turn it into a good travel cart, the size was fine enough it just needed to be able to be moved with much more ease. With the size and the wheels taken care of, all that would be left would to make it more homelike.
"Hmm, Trixie thinks this is a fine idea." She said softly, for the first time I felt like she was actually addressing me with her answer rather than speaking it to the wind. "Perhaps Trixie can finally leave this ridiculous city!" She started prancing off immediately, I yelped as I practically had to start chasing after her.
Whether she meant for me to follow or not, I had followed Trixie to an immense theater in the center of Las Pegasus. After winding through the theater filled with showponies, we finally came to a stop in front of a rather lanky stallion. I was about to speak when Trixie stepped in front of me and began speaking herself.
"Ahem! Trixie has reconsidered your deal, and is willing to purchase your excuse for a cart." Trixie announced, the stallion seemed to be confused by the sudden request. "It has come to Trixie's attention that she can simply modify it to fit her needs."
"Huh? Oh, it's you again? Whatever you say missy, it'll be fifty bits then." The stallion responded once he recognized Trixie, rolling his eyes in the middle of the statement.
"Excellent- Wait, Fifty?! That is ridiculous, it's just a cart!"
"Yeah, a cart meant to carry heavy equipment that even most unicorns can't float around. Listen, you gonna buy it or not?"
"Trixie refuses to-!" I blanked out what she was saying, pondering just what I could do... The mare did help me find a cart after nearly a full day of searching for one. I never would have considered even coming to this theater if she didn't lead me there. I gulped a heavy breath of air as I knew what I should do.
I interjected, leaning my head in between the two, "Excuse me, I'll buy it." I looked to my side, seeing Trixie already beginning to huff in air to speak. "Two, I'll buy two. One for me, and one for her." I had already begun siphoning the bits out of my saddlebag. I couldn't help but gulp as I felt the pouch feel considerably lighter from it.
"That's more like it. The carts are all yours girls." He walked off as two other stallions pushed a pair of large, two wheeled carts towards us. I looked towards Trixie and gave a little bit of a smile, and was met with an expression of pure surprise.
"You..." She stammered. I felt like she was a prideful sort, so I didn't let her pride get the best of her.
"I certainly owed you one, I'm not quite sure how long you've been here and I thought I was trapped! I've only been here a day and was losing hope on getting anything, it was the least I could do." I stated quickly, I was almost convinced of my own words.
"Well... Trixie-."
"Don't mention it." I waved quickly before collecting my cart, trotting out with a bit of haste. I looked back at the theater with a sigh, at first I wasn't sure if I was happy or regretting my decision. The odd mare was one I didn't expect a thanks from, nor did I really wish to hear if she didn't appreciate my action.
I lugged the cart back to the inn, only to discover they didn't really have anywhere for me to keep the cart. So, I had to pack up and find somewhere else. The day was coming to a close and I was quickly running out of options, and it finally hit me I'd likely have to camp outside the city while I fixed up the cart to be more proper for traveling. I wasn't exactly looking forward to sleeping on the grass, but I ran into my... acquaintance.
At first all I saw was a campfire, a large lavish tent, and a familiar two wheeled cart. It didn't quite hit me who exactly had set up the camp until I nearly ran into her as I approached!
"Oh! Sorry, I didn't see you there I was uh- Oh, Trixie?"
"Hmph, Trixie did not invite any visitors. There's no- Oh, it's you..." I sensed a bit of distaste to her tone at first, "Despite your lack of manners earlier, and now, Trixie still finds your kindness appreciable."
"Erh..."
"Nevertheless, Trixie still has to modify this poor excuse of a cart. Ideas are a plenty... Everything else, not so much."
"What do you mean?" I asked, suddenly forgetting I didn't exactly have a place to sleep.
"Since you seem to insist." She backpedaled away and lifted a rather shoddy looking wheel with her magic, certainly too small to be fixed properly to the side of the cart. "It was the best Trixie could get her hooves on. Your idea of fixing this mistake of a cart doesn't seem to be as good as Trixie thought."
I rolled my eyes, "Look, I can probably fix it for you as well but, this time it won't be free. I don't have a place to sleep because of my cart and you seem to have enough room in that tent for two."
"Deal." She stated suddenly.
"Listen I- Wait what?"
"Trixie doesn't stoop to such simple work unless absolutely necessary. If such a bargain can be made she will make it."
I rubbed the back of my head, I still wasn't sure what to think of the mare... She did just give me a place to stay, "Alright... I'll take care of the carts, and you tell me what you want with yours. In exchange for a place to sleep while I'm here in Las Pegasus." I offered my hoof to shake on the deal.
"Trixie has already agreed, but if it makes you feel comfortable." She hesitantly placed her hoof on mine and shook.
I'm trying my hardest not to feel a bit awkward, writing about her while she snores next to me. It isn't working... Work starts on the carts tomorrow, I'd best get some sleep.
Dear Diary,
You know, I think I'll skip the intros... Just isn't really my style. Anyways, I am not exactly in the best state of mind after today. It all started once I woke up and headed off into the city to get the supplies to fix up the carts. It was still remarkably early when I noticed a flock of ponies still walking about and talking as if it was still partying time, and it piqued my interest.
"The ponies of this city are always partying. Certainly too out of their heads to notice when a proper act graces their presence." Trixie harrumphed, laying idly in the entrance of her tent while I studied the wheel already affixed to the cart. I was trying to see just how the wheel was attached so I could copy it. After all, the stallion did say they were made to support a lot of weight.
"Really? They must have been at it since before the break of dawn... When would they ever sleep?" I slowly positioned the first wheel against the side of the cart, and began to fix it in as best I could. It certainly was a little more difficult than I originally anticipated, I figured it'd take a bit of trial and error now that I was properly working on it.
"Trixie supposes it's something about the energy of the city." I looked back at her and tilted my head, she didn't seem too focused on the conversation so I continued working without speaking for awhile. I only glanced at Trixie occasionally, who seemed in a more irritable mood than usual.
After a bit, I seemed to have managed fixing the wheel problem with both carts. They rolled smoothly enough, but I quickly learned that was going to be the least of my problems fixing up the carts for travel, as I made the worst mistake I ever could... And asked what Trixie wanted.
"A foldout stage, a fully enclosed roof, doorway, and window."
"What? I can't just-"
"Ahem, Trixie recalls that as long as you are staying at her camp, you are the one fixing the carts." I leaned back, annoyed with what seemed like her taking advantage of my proposition. "Unless of course, you take back your word. Trixie thinks you've done enough work for the night she let you spend."
I decided not to argue, didn't want her to get cold hooves and force me to leave, "Alright, I get it. I'll just need to get more supplies then." I turned and left back into Las Pegasus, trying not to stamp my hooves in the dirt from frustration. I certainly didn't trot straight to get wood from the store, I needed a break from working on the cart... Not to mention I had to think about how I could even make such a cart.
I growled, I wasn't sure how I'd turn a cart into what is essentially a house! I thought about what she wanted and realized I certainly would want that if I was going to be traveling on the road for days, perhaps minus the stage. Her requests seemed rather ridiculous, but after a long walk and a lot of thinking, she was simply unafraid to ask of what she wanted in a long distance cart. It didn't stop me from feeling sour about it though, sour enough to wander straight into a club.
The first thing I noticed was the rhythmic bump of the electric music, I lifted my head as I suddenly realized where I had stumbled into in my thoughtless stupor. I turned to leave and noticed there was even a stallion guarding the door! Did he notice me walk in? Did he let me? I was too busy being pushed deeper into the crowd to really ponder those questions.
"Eep! A-Ah uhm excuse me can-" The crowd roared as the music suddenly got more intense, the feeling of coat against coat, my head swimming in the energy of the crowd, mentally and magically. The longer I stayed the more I wanted to join into the odd chant of ponies, I could feel the unicorns in the crowd freely expelling wild pleasurable magic. I was doomed the moment another tapped horns with mine, he seemed to notice I wasn't connected with the rest of the partying crowd of magically enabled.
It was then I realized one of the truest spirits of Las Pegasus, the euphoria of utter freedom. These ponies were liberated from any responsibilities, and they enjoyed every single moment of it to it's fullest! I'd felt like a rebel many times before in my more risque writings but, I never quite experienced what it felt like to be utterly liberated from law and reason. Soon enough I must've been enjoying myself just as eagerly among the crowd as the rest of them.
Eventually I wandered out with a pack of unicorns, I wasn't quite sure just who was among the crowd, all that mattered was the heavy magical link that kept us liberated from the thoughts of responsibility. We wandered around the city, chatting about anything and everything, commenting on even the color of a wall or the shifty eyes of a nearby pony. The group and I wandered into a show, shuffling in without any admission and watching the wonderful performance. I can't quite remember what it was, but the beautiful and bright colors only furthered my detachment from the world around me.
I must've been wandering for a remarkable amount of hours, simply sightseeing with a completely random group of ponies who had practically abducted me! I must've walked so much in that single day that I covered more ground than I did simply walking to Las Pegasus! I can only imagine that the reason why I could've handled so much of it was from the shared energy of the unicorns. All those wandering packs of ponies made perfect sense to me, and I was enjoying every bit of being part of it!
I finally manged to disconnect from the pack of ponies, by sheer luck I wandered too far to share their energy and the fatigue hit me like a sack of bricks. I groggily wandered back to the camp, I could see the sun rising over the horizon... I was out partying for almost 20 hours! I suppose I managed to answer the question I asked Trixie this morning. There was no sign of Trixie even when I entered the tent, so I figured it safe to write down what I remembered the day's events.
I've started to think about how much I was looking for freedom when I left Ponyville, yet here I've found it in all of it's beautiful glory! The complete feeling of freedom here surely didn't match anywhere else. Perhaps the wanderlust I had was simply a misunderstood feeling of simply wanting to be free of responsibility. I'm much to tired to think about all this junk, I'd best get some sleep.
Hello book of terribly conflicting ideas and thoughts,
Yeah that's a little much... Anyways, Trixie came back after I managed to squeeze in just a few hours of sleep. I wasn't able to settle enough to feel groggy or tired, as Trixie was completely furious. It didn't exactly make for a very comfortable morning.
"Trixie supposes, you were caught in the 'energy' of the city?" She remarked with a small snort, one that you only heard from annoyed ponies. I looked up at her groggily, slowly shifting onto my hooves and rubbing my eyes. I couldn't quite tell how long I was asleep, nor did it really matter once she got close. "Do you know how long Trixie spent looking for you? You foalishly forgot your bits when you went back into the city. Trixie doubts you would forget something so major if you were attempting to abandon her."
"Urgh, Sorry... I really didn't mean to worry you. Perhaps I was just a bit frustrated, and yes I did get a bit roped into the energy of the city." I rubbed my head, then my horn as I pondered just how I let myself get so crazy... Perhaps I need to read over what I scrawled last night, I did wake up with my book in my hooves. "I think the unicorns of the city tend to link up-"
"And share their magic so they can feel free from all their little problems and responsibilities unlike the rest of us." Trixie interrupted, looking rather annoyed before continuing. "Trixie is all too familiar with such a feeling, but it doesn't fix everything. Forgetting such issues doesn't make them go away now does it?" She motioned to the two carts, which now both had a sizable piles of shaped lumber sitting upon them.
"Yes that- Huh?" I shook my head, looking over at the annoyed mare. "Did you know about it? It was... Goodness I don't even really remember much of it." I blushed as I looked over at the carts, I still had responsibility over them. No amount of memory loss and partying would change that, though I was certainly curious about the wood that was piled onto them.
"Trixie once enjoyed the mindless use of time before it ruined her ability to perform. The reason why she came to this city in the first place! Without anywhere to perform, Trixie cannot make her living so she has to leave." She stated quite firmly, it was strangely honest. Albeit in a very egotistical way, she seemed to have a good point. "Now, Trixie has taken the liberty of getting her requests formally planned."
"Huh? Oh, you mean the extra wood?" I tilted my head and fixed my gaze upon Trixie as she trotted close to the carts and pulled several sheets of paper off the top and passed it to me. It was a complex, yet easy to follow guide of how to construct EXACTLY what Trixie wanted with her cart.
"Trixie would have hired his services personally if she had the bits, but she had to settle with simply making sure you could do what was necessary. After your misuse of time yesterday, Trixie assumes you are willing to work extra for lost time?" She huffed, the ego surfacing as her main quality once more.
"Mhm... I suppose It'll be easy now. Planning it out was the hard part anyways." I looked at the carts, giving a slow heavy sigh as I began to follow the steps. I'm a few parts into it now, and I have a feeling this is going to take all day. At least I have some interesting company to share it with.
I don't think I've ever done so much heavy magic lifting in my entire life.
Yeah that feels right. After spending the entire day working on it, I've finally manged to finish constructing the carts. Not just Trixie's either, I worked on both of em at the same time. Though I'd be lying if I said I didn't do Trixie's first to give her the impression I was trying to get hers done first. In reality I figured It'd be best I'd fix mine up after I had done each step once on Trixie's!
"Hmph. It seems Trixie underestimated you." I turned and looked back at the approaching mare, who lit up her horn... I squeaked as the foldout stage suddenly opened up, thankfully it worked exactly as intended! "Trixie is pleased." I was more surprised to see that she had packed up all of her belongings and began to float them into the cart.
"Huh? You're leaving already?" I watched as she slowly piled up her belongings. I shuffled my hooves, realizing I was going to be alone again. It didn't quite hit me until then, Trixie felt more like a business partner than a companion for the entire duration of my stay around her. However, now that she was going away I realized that even such a small company was one I loved to have.
"Trixie did mention she was trying to leave this city, did she not?" She closed up the stage, levitating the metal loop around her waist. "Though, Trixie does feel obligated to allow you this." She floated a little golden slip of paper to me, I took it and looked down at it. "Perhaps if we cross paths again, you can come see the glorious Trixie in her proper state! Trixie is sure you will be in awe at her greatness!"
I simply laughed, I suppose it was her attempt at a kind gesture. I didn't mind it. "Thanks, I'll make sure to keep it." I shuffled my hooves a bit as I giggled, trying not to laugh as I spoke. "I'm sure you can show everyone how great and powerful you are."
"Indeed! Trixie will certainly remember that one." She gave a quick nod, a flourish, then began to trot down the road. I couldn't help but watch until she disappeared behind the landscape.
I turned and entered my own cart, it was quite an odd feeling at first. I was standing in what was mostly my own hard work, and it felt remarkably nice to be inside a set of walls that felt... Like home. I looked at the empty space, already wondering what I could do to fix it up and be more homely. Of course the more comforting things could wait until later, I at least needed a place to lay down! I slipped the ticket into my saddlebags and set them aside, pulling my scarf tight and tucking a modest amount of bits into it's folds as I turned and exited the cart and into the city.
I looked around at the city I must've seen all of at some point, albeit in a magic induced stupor. It was an odd feeling going back in just to purchase a few pillows and a blankets. This was a city of showponies, of freedom, an adult pony playground... But like anything that draws us away from responsibility, it often did more harm than good to indulge in it heavily. With a clear head, I realized I probably was a bit more responsible than other ponies who came here to escape their troubles! Who knows how many ponies wandered here for a quick relaxation adventure, and ended up spending more days than anticipated.
I settled back into my cart, and not even the lavish tent compared to the feeling of being inside this cart. It reminded me of the night I spent in Brooks' cart, a wonderfully comfy night I certainly had there. I finally had a moment to stop and recollect all of this into the book. Perhaps I'll keep this up, just for fun if anything.
I'll wave goodbye to Las Pegasus in the morning, south seems like a good direction to head. Maybe I'll take a break from all this big city stuff and visit a farm marked on the map. There's sure to be a friendly face in those lovely places, not to mention the land! I'm sure it's a beautiful place, lush with wildlife and crops.
