dasherby TheRedFoxChaptersi: under atmospheric hazeii: just some stratospheric strays, we waitiii: and can we hold on our heartsiv: 'til the day brings the lightv: nice to meet you, marigoldvii: but i don't think you can stayviii: said the sea to the nightvi: i don't think you're looking oldi: under atmospheric hazeFrom a high-rise building deep within Canterlot, Sweetie Drops felt like she could see the entire world. Through a pane of glass she could make out the ponies moving in the streets below, heading home after a long day of work and play. She took it all in and admired it, because she didn’t know if she’d ever see it again. Sweetie hesitantly raised a hoof and pressed it against the glass, as if to verify that it was still there. Her ear twitched as she heard movement behind her. “Oh. You’re still here,” said a voice. “Yeah, I was… on my way out,” she said absently, quickly retracting her hoof. She turned around to meet the face of former Special Agent Furlong. The unicorn usually held a stoic, unyielding gaze, but tonight all she could see were the bags under his eyes. Furlong shifted on his hooves, staring through Sweetie and out the window. “I see.” Sweetie looked over his shoulder, discomforted by his empty-eyed stare. Her eyes fell on the wall, where a sign reading “Secret Monster Intelligence League of Equestria” was mounted. SMILE. That word had meant so much to her over the past few years. But after tonight, it would mean nothing to the world. Because after tonight, SMILE would vanish like a ghost in the sun. Furlong moved over to her desk, where a train ticket sat alone on its surface. “Ah, you got Ponyville,” he said. “Lucky you. I hear it’s a quaint little place with friendly ponies. You’ll like it there.” Sweetie took a shaky breath. “Sir… is there… is there really no other way around it?” Furlong’s face morphed into a scowl, and Sweetie felt her heart drop. “You know as well as I do that there isn’t,” he snapped. “Do you think I’m really comfortable with sending an army of outcasts to small towns across Equestria?!” Sweetie’s ears fell backwards as she cringed. “I… I apologize,” Furlong said, squeezing his eyes shut and sighing. “This past week has taken its toll on us all.” Seeing the look in her eyes, he lowered his head in shame. “Sweetie, you know I didn’t mean that. It’s just… well, you remember what you were told in the academy. ‘Keep your distance, work alone,’ and all that.” Sweetie Drops nodded, remembering the mantras her instructors and seniors had pounded into her head. “Well, that’s great for our line of work, but outside of it?” Furlong shook his head sadly. “Outside it falls apart.” The unicorn ran a hoof along the edge of the barren desk. “But I have high hopes for you, Drops. You’ll do fine out there.” Sweetie couldn’t help but note how hollow his words sounded. She shook on her hooves, heart beating fast. “Sir, for… for what it’s worth, I’m sorry.” Please, she thought. Please, say you forgive me. Say it wasn’t my fault. Please. Furlong opened and shut his mouth, working his jaw. For a millisecond he offered her a smile, but it quickly slipped away. “I… I know.” He reached out and patted her on the shoulder. “You’ll like Ponyville,” he said again. With that, he turned and left the room, hoofsteps echoing in the empty hall. She stood there, blinking back tears and shaking, before she squeezed her eyes shut and grabbed her train ticket. Five minutes later, Sweetie Drops died, and a mare named Bon Bon left the empty office building. ii: just some stratospheric strays, we waitA snowflake fell from the sky, trickling downwards at its own pace, unaware or ignorant of the mare who watched it. There were millions more around it, but Bon Bon found her focus drawn to this one in particular. It danced and wavered through the air as the ground welcomed it with open arms, and when it landed, it became one with the snow that littered the ground. It reminded her of a life that once was, a life that she missed sorely with every passing day. But while she stood there, watching as snow blanketed the town, she was rudely reminded that her old life was gone. And it was never coming back. “Bon Bon?” She flinched and glanced behind her. “Yeah, boss?” Caramel sighed, his breath fogging up in the air. “Bon, I told you a million times, just ‘Caramel’ is fine.” Bon Bon blinked, then shrugged. “Sorry.” “It… it’s fine. Why are you still out here?” he asked. “I just…” She looked past Caramel and into the cafe, where chairs were stacked on top of tables and half the lights were off. “Had stuff on my mind.” Caramel sighed again and tried to smile at her. “Alright. Well, you better get going. Busy day tomorrow.” Bon Bon nodded. “Sure. Good night, bo—Caramel,” she said with a wave. “Oh, wait, before I forget…” Caramel disappeared back into the cafe for a second before emerging with a small brown box. “Here.” Bon Bon blinked, accepting it. “A… gift?” Caramel beamed at her. “Yeah! I know you haven’t been here long, but you’ve been working so hard I figured it’d be a crime to not reward you somehow.” She shrugged and carefully balanced the box on her back. “Oh… you didn’t have to, you know. You really shouldn’t have.” “It wasn’t any trouble,” Caramel insisted. “Right… thanks,” she said. “Really.” “No problem. Good night, Bon Bon, stay safe. And happy Hearth’s Warming Eve,” he replied, turning back into the cafe. She watched him go before finally moving, setting off at a carefree pace down the snow-covered streets of a town she didn’t quite belong to. Caramel was a good pony, and a nicer boss than she was expecting, but he was still her boss. It’d be strange to consider him anything else. Bon Bon held back a shiver, letting her thoughts distract her from the biting cold. She thought of her home: not the cozy but lonely apartment mere blocks away, but of her true home. One that she could never go back to. Her heart throbbed at that, and Bon Bon gave a bitter sigh at the memories that flooded into her mind. Because this wasn’t her home, and she was beginning to feel that it never would be. “Hiya, Bonnie!” Bon Bon was abruptly and rudely pulled from her thoughts as her field of view became pink. “Wha—oh, hello Pinkie,” she stammered out. Pinkie Pie giggled, reaching out to tap her on the nose. “Hi, silly! So, didya decide yet?” Bon Bon blinked, still scrambling to regain her composure on the inside. “Decide… what?” “When you want your Welcome to Ponyville Party!” Pinkie declared, throwing confetti into the air. “Come on, Bonster, I’ve thrown a party for every new pony who’s come to Ponyville, and you’ve been here for two whole weeks and haven’t come to any of the welcome parties I’ve planned for you!” Bon Bon cringed at the reminder, feeling a strange wave of despair wash over her. Two weeks. She had been here for two weeks already. “I, uh… I dunno, Pinkie,” she muttered. “Maybe not tonight. I’m… I’m pretty tired from work.” Pinkie seemed to deflate a little bit. “But you’re always tired!” she protested. “And when you’re not tired, you’re working, but even when you’re working you’re tired, and Caramel always says you need to take a break but you don’t, you just work even harder, and…” She tuned out the party pony as her conversation with Furlong echoed in her mind. “I hear it’s a quaint little place with friendly ponies. You’ll like it there.” How was it possible, she wondered, that in a town filled with friendly, warm faces, she was still alone? “... but never mind all of that!” Pinkie was saying as Bon Bon snapped back to reality. “I need to know how you keep avoiding me! It’s like you’re a secret agent or something—” “I’ll tell you if I’m ready for a party,” Bon Bon said hurriedly. Pinkie fell silent, and she seemed to freeze mid-bounce. “...if you’re ready?” she repeated. Bon Bon took a deep breath. Her heart beat quickly as she struggled to form words. “Look, I’ll tell you whenever I want my party, okay? I’m just very tired right now, and I’d like to go home.” Pinkie was taken aback and folded her ears. She quickly shook it off, though, and sprang back up. “Okiedokielokie! You just need time! I get it! Let me know, and I’ll have it ready faster than you can say Bon Bon’s bonbons!” With that, the pink pony bounced down the road, giggling madly to herself and leaving Bon Bon alone. She squeezed her eyes shut and scowled. How are you supposed to make friends like this? With a bitter sigh, she half-heartedly kicked at the snow and kept walking. She watched as ponies passed her by in pairs, talking and laughing with each other. She watched as a mare pressed into the coat of her companion, nuzzling his neck while giggling. It hurt. Because in their faces all she could see were her old friends. In their voices she heard Furlong and Foxtrot, and Bravo and Alpha, discussing missions and monsters. Stark reminders that here, she was alone. Bon Bon glanced behind her, back at the cafe. She watched as a pegasus landed in front of the building to greet Caramel and pull him into a hug. She turned away and kept walking. The stars above seemed dull tonight. iii: and can we hold on our hearts“Hey, Bon!” Bon Bon sighed, glancing behind her. A pony waved to her from across the hall. “Hi, Roseluck,” she replied wearily. If Roseluck noticed her exhaustion, she didn’t show it. “Hey, are you going to Pinkie’s Hearth’s Warming party tomorrow?” “Probably not, Caramel needs me to pull a night shift,” Bon Bon lied. She knew that if anything, Caramel would be insisting that she take the night off rather than ask her to work more. Roseluck looked like she wanted to say something more, but Bon Bon turned away to face the door. She heard Roseluck sigh in frustration. “Alright, hope we’ll see you anyways. Good night!” “Yeah,” Bon Bon replied as the earth pony headed into her apartment. Bon Bon stood alone in the hallway, staring at the closed door in front of her, before she finally summoned the courage to push it open. Her apartment awaited her: cold and void of any welcome. There was a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen, along with a tiny living space occupied by a table and a couple of sofas. Beyond that, there was nothing. Most of the furniture came with the lease, but other than that Bon Bon hadn’t changed much of the interior. She hadn’t bothered, because nothing she could add would make this place feel more like home. She slid Caramel’s gift off of her back and onto a table. It landed on the surface with a thud that seemed to echo throughout the room. Bon Bon plopped down into a chair with a sigh, rubbing her eyes. She looked around the dark apartment, at the barren walls and empty rooms, and frowned. As she turned her attention back to the package, she realized that a card had been tucked underneath the parcel string, and a pack of candles was taped to the side. Happy Hearth’s Warming, said the card. Hope you’re enjoying Ponyville so far! Your friend, Caramel. Bon Bon set the card and candles aside and unwrapped the parcel, revealing a creamy chocolate cake, already cut into slices. “Huh.” Bon Bon tilted her head, staring at the cake. She wasn’t quite sure what to make of it. With a shrug, she fetched a pack of matches from the kitchen drawer and stuck the candles into the pastry. They sunk deep into the frosting. Within seconds the candles were lit, and the cake became a glowing beacon of light in the dark and dreary room. The tiny flames danced across her vision as she watched, shades of orange and red against a backdrop of black. Bon Bon absently raised a hoof to the candle as it warmed her fur But the feeling didn’t carry down her foreleg to the rest of the body. Instead it seemed to stay at her peripherals, though the rest of her body cried out desperately for warmth. There she goes again. Stone cold Sweetie. Her ear twitched as a ghost of a whisper rang out across her apartment. Never talks to anyone and never bats an eye. Now there’s a good agent… Bon Bon was snapped out of her reverie by a flash of pain. She recoiled and swore, quickly realizing that her hoof was too close to the candle. Bon Bon hissed, hopping out of her chair and running over to her sink. She ran her hoof under cold water and winced as it stung. After shutting off the water, she squeezed her eyes closed and kicked the cupboard below the sink. Bon Bon wiped the tears from her eyes, made her way back to the table and sat down. She folded her forelegs on the table and rested her chin on them. Bon Bon had to blink fast to fight off the tears that threatened to trail down her cheeks. Bon Bon sat at the table, in the glow of the candles, until the fire went out and left her in the dark. iv: 'til the day brings the lightThe cafe was full of warmth and joy, yet none of it seemed to reach Bon Bon’s heart. Conversations and the clinking of glasses reverberated across the floor, but it fell short of her and never quite touched her ears. Bon Bon weaved through the patrons, cautiously balancing a tray full of cups and plates on her back. She made her way past pairs of lovers and crowds of holiday diners, both young and old. Shades of red and green burst out of every nook and cranny: from the holiday lights hanging from the walls to the hideous knitted sweaters ponies wore with pride. She ignored all of the color and festivities, gently nosing open the double doors leading to the kitchen and setting the tray down by the sink. Bon Bon stifled a yawn and turned to grab a full tray when she unexpectedly bumped into another pony. “Oh, sorry,” she muttered. “Oh, heavens, Bon Bon, you look exhausted,” Caramel said. “Sort of am, yeah,” Bon Bon admitted. “Been having trouble sleeping lately. Not that it’s your problem. I can still work.” Her manager frowned. “You better take the rest of the night off then.” Bon Bon raised an eyebrow. “Are you sure? It’s the holiday rush, after all, and—” “Hey, don’t worry. We got this. Besides, can’t have you spilling drinks on customers, can we?” Caramel flashed her an easy smile. “We’ll be fine, Bon. Seriously, take the night off. Have some fun.” Bon Bon blinked slowly a few times before nodding. “Well… if you’re sure,” she replied. Caramel watched her leave the kitchen before a soft sigh escaped his lips. “She’s gotta smile sometime,” he said to himself. The town square was mostly empty. A majority of ponies had either turned in to get some extra hours of sleep, or had gone to the party Pinkie Pie was throwing. That left Bon Bon alone, again. She sighed, watching as her breath appeared in the cold. Her legs were aching by now, but she didn’t really want to go home. Sitting on the couch and feeling miserable wasn’t any better than being out here. Bon Bon made her way over to a bench by the side of the road, before realizing that it was covered in snow and already occupied by another pony. With an annoyed huff, she turned away. “Hey, did you want to sit?” Her ear twitched as she glanced behind her. The unicorn sitting on the bench was eyeing her curiously. Bon Bon took her in, noting the loose manner in which her scarf was tied and the way her hat seemed to slide over her eyes. Bon Bon cleared her throat. “I, uh… kinda, but it’s no big deal.” “No, no, not at all! Here.” The unicorn’s horn flashed briefly, and the snow melted away. The water left behind then turned to steam, and the unicorn smiled warmly at her. “See? No big deal.” “Thanks,” Bon Bon replied, easing herself down into the bench. She glanced at the unicorn, noting her… strange sitting stance, but thought better than to ask about it. Bon Bon figured that she had a good read on the stranger. The unicorn would probably try and prod her with a few questions, to which Bon Bon would offer her honest response, before she’d shy away, get bored, or leave. The seat was warm now, likely from the remnants of the heat spell, and Bon Bon sighed in contentment. She hadn’t realized how cold it had gotten. Bon Bon leaned back and closed her eyes, letting another sigh escape her. “You new in town?” the unicorn asked. “Me?” Bon Bon opened her eyes to glance at her. “Uh, sort of. I’ve only been here for two weeks or so.” “Ah. I just got here myself,” the unicorn said. “What’s it like?” Bon Bon considered this. “Well, it’s not that bad. The ponies are nice, the town’s small, but it’s got a… I dunno, charm? Yeah, that’s it.” The unicorn chuckled. “Guess you’re right. Apparently I’m getting a welcome party or something later… or that’s what the pink pony told me when I got here.” Bon Bon grunted. “Oh, Pinkie Pie? Yeah, she’s like that. I can barely keep her off of me myself. I’m surprised she didn’t throw it tonight.” “She wanted to, believe me, but I turned her down. I’m pretty burned out tonight, so I doubt I’d survive a party. I managed to convince her to throw it later.” Bon Bon shrugged. “Makes sense.” “Town’s kind of empty tonight,” the unicorn noted. “Where is everypony?” “Pinkie Pie’s throwing a holiday party,” Bon Bon replied, gesturing vaguely towards the center of the town. “Is that where you’re going?” Bon Bon shook her head. “Nah, I’m not really a party kind of pony.” “I can respect that,” the unicorn conceded. “But… guess I don’t have anything better to do tonight.” She reached over and pulled an instrument case off the ground and set it next to her. “Well, other than trying to get some change, anyways.” Bon Bon blinked. “You’re a… street musician?” “For now,” replied the unicorn. “What about you?” “Oh, just a waitress. Nothing special. I work at Caramel’s Cafe, down on Fourth Street… 'course, you probably don’t know where it is,” Bon Bon replied. The unicorn shrugged good-naturedly. “Well, might as well head to that party and get to know ponies. Mind showing me the way?” “Sure,” Bon Bon said. “Follow me.” v: nice to meet you, marigold“... And that’s where Pinkie works, should you ever need to see her. But I’ve found that if you want to talk to her, she has a tendency to find you first. It’s uncanny, if I’m being honest.” The unicorn chuckled, taking in the information as Bon Bon led her down the streets of Ponyville, pointing out residents and buildings. “Where are you from?” asked Bon Bon. Probably some rich place, she seems like the kind that came from money. “Canterlot,” came the reply. “But as rich as that place is…” she sighed, shaking her head. “Never mind that.” Bon Bon raised an eyebrow at that. Wasn’t expecting that. “Well, anyways, Ponyville’s a pretty welcoming place. Ponies are nice, and the food’s not bad either.” The unicorn chuckled, her breath misting in the cold air. “That’s good. Can’t tell you how many towns I’ve been to with garbage eating options.” “I know,” Bon Bon replied. “I don’t know what’s wrong with ponies in lower Manehattan… My stomach wasn’t right for months on end after that.” “Oh yeah, I feel that.” The unicorn tugged at her scarf, eyes darting between the buildings. “You sound like you get around a lot though.” If you only knew the half of it. “Yeah. My old job had me moving around Equestria a lot.” The unicorn smiled at her. “Oh yeah? What job was that?” Bon Bon grimaced. “I… don’t want to talk about it.” Before she could continue the thought, Bon Bon suddenly felt something wrap tightly around her body. It took her a few seconds to realize the unicorn was hugging her. “Aw, that sucks!” the unicorn said. “You don’t have to talk about it if you don’t want to!” The unicorn quickly released her and bounded down the street. “Hey, have you ever tried to catch a snowflake on your tongue?” Bon Bon blinked in confusion, trying to process what had just happened. How does a unicorn who grows up in Canterlot act like a young foal? “Uh… no?” “Really?” asked the unicorn, spinning around in a circle. “You’ve never made snowponies? Snow angels in the street? Come on, did you even have a foalhood?” Bon Bon frowned, shaking her head. “Well, it’s never too late,” the unicorn replied, adjusting her hat again. “Seriously, though. I can’t believe you’ve never spent time playing in the snow.” “I just… didn’t like playing with the other foals. Wasn’t very social.” The unicorn nodded. “I understand. But you have to have fun sometime! Life’s more than just one business meeting, you know!” Bon Bon opened her mouth to reply but couldn’t string together a reply. I… I wonder if she’s right? Have I really spent my whole life working instead of living? Wait, did she take the conversational lead from me? How’d that happen? “But this place is amazing! It’s so cool how it feels so big while seeming so small and cozy!” the unicorn declared. Bon Bon looked around them at the houses and storefronts, still musing on the thought. “I guess you’re right. I never thought much of it. It’s compact enough for easy ex-fill and it has enough ponies living in it to establish cover, use as a distraction, and gather sources…” She shook her head, snapping out of her rant. “Uh… sorry, I’m rambling.” She glanced around, hoping that nopony had caught her little tirade. Unfortunately, the unicorn was looking directly at her, head tilted at a curious angle. Bon Bon held her breath, ready for the unicorn to take a few steps back or run away, creeped-out and bothered by what she said. The unicorn slowly raised a hoof, then reached out and tapped Bon Bon on the nose before bursting into a fit of giggles. “Wow! You really prepare for the worst, huh?” “It’s… It’s who I am,” Bon Bon stammered, unsure of how to respond. The unicorn nodded and smiled wider. “And that’s great! Equestria needs more ponies like you!” She paused to consider a building on their right. “So what’s up with that? Looks kinda like a carousel or something.” Bon Bon worked her jaw, struggling to form a coherent sentence. Had this unicorn really just brushed off her outburst so easily? “That’s, uh… Carousel Boutique. A mare named Rarity runs it.” “Cool. You sure know a lot about this town,” the unicorn replied. “I profiled it before I arrived,” Bon Bon automatically answered. The unicorn laughed again. “Of course you did. Brilliant!” She trotted off down the street, humming a happy song to herself. Bon Bon squeezed her eyes shut to get her legs working again. As the unicorn pranced down the roads, the gears started to spin in her mind. Bon Bon didn’t consider Ponyville to be her home. Would that be different if she could find a friend? Someone who didn’t think she was odd or strange, or that her demeanor was off-putting and harsh? She wasn’t sure. But a part of her hoped so. Bon Bon bit her lip and upped her pace to keep up with the unicorn ahead of her. vii: but i don't think you can stayIt was a rare moment that Bon Bon didn’t want to get out of bed. But today, she didn’t have a reason to. The cafe was closed, so work wasn’t an option. And while she had planned to do some exploring of the town, her body didn’t seem to agree. She yawned, pulling the blanket up to her chin and rolling to her side. Bon Bon rubbed her face into her pillow and sighed, savoring the warmth trapped beneath the blankets. Ponyville could wait: she was far too comfortable to get out of bed at the moment. Her bliss was shattered by a knock at the door. She froze mid-yawn and grumbled to herself, her smile slowly sliding off of her face. When the knocking persisted, Bon Bon threw off her blankets and trudged over to the door, rubbing sleep from her eyes and shaking her mane loose. “Coming!” Bon Bon approached the door, half-expecting to find Pinkie Pie awaiting her. But when she peered through the peephole, she was surprised to see a shock of minty green instead of pink. Hurriedly, she unlocked the door and pulled it open. “Oh, thank Celestia, I found you!” the unicorn panted. “I went by the cafe today, but I realized it was closed, so then I had to go find Pinkie and ask where you lived!” Bon Bon raised an eyebrow, her sleepy mind still struggling to process everything she had just said. “Wha… Oh. Sure?” She stood in the doorway for a few more seconds before Lyra cleared her throat. “So… can I come in?” “Oh, yeah. Sure.” Bon Bon took a few steps backwards and let Lyra in. “Thanks! Thought you were gonna just leave me hanging,” she chirped, undoing her scarf with her magic and taking off her hat. She glanced around the room before raising an eyebrow. “You don’t have a coat hanger?” “Never needed one,” Bon Bon replied. “Plus I wasn’t really expecting a guest.” “Yeah? Tell me about it, barely looks like you live here,” Lyra replied, tossing her clothing items onto the coffee table and flopping down on Bon Bon’s sofa. Bon Bon kicked the door shut, unsure of what to make of this strange mare who had just showed up on her doorstep and claimed ownership of her couch. “So, uh… how was the party?” Lyra perked up at that. “Oh, really fun, actually! That Pinkie Pie really knows how to throw a party!” “I guess she does. Well, that’s what everypony else says, anyways. I’ve never been to one,” Bon Bon replied as she eased into the armchair next to Lyra. Lyra raised an eyebrow. “I thought Pinkie threw a party for everyone when they show up?” Bon Bon shrugged. “Yeah, but… I dunno, I’m not really the partying type.” “Yeesh. So you’ve been avoiding her for what, two weeks now?” Lyra shuddered. “That’s gotta be a challenge.” Bon Bon chuckled, shaking her head. “You have no idea. So, what brings you by?” Lyra’s gaze dropped to the carpet. “Well… I was actually heading out today.” “Oh.” Bon Bon hoped her voice didn’t crack and came across as even. “That was fast.” “Yeah,” Lyra replied, rubbing a foreleg. “This was just a layover stop. I was really heading for Dodge Junction. There’s this music festival there… ah, you wouldn’t care.” “No no,” Bon Bon hastily cut in. “It sounds… interesting. What happens there?” Lyra blinked. “Oh, well it’s this gathering of musicians from all over Equestria. They call it Burning Mare. It’s… not like a typical festival. There’s all sorts of genres that come together and play their hearts out for a week. Some of my heroes go there every year, and it’s so inspiring to hear them play, too!” Bon Bon couldn’t help but smile when Lyra’s voice took on a melodious tone, as she bounced up and down excitedly, waving her hooves around while she spoke. In her eyes she could see an energetic spark that seemed to dash around the room. And she felt a smile forming on her face. “It’s so amazing there,” gushed Lyra. “And… and every year I go because maybe one day…” The spark in her eyes shimmered as the unicorn faltered. “Maybe one day someone will notice me,” she muttered, slumping back against the sofa. Bon Bon blinked, caught off guard by the mood swing. “Is… is something wrong?” Lyra coughed awkwardly into her hoof. “I… no, it’s just some stupid thing. I’ve been going for so long, you know? Kinda hoping that someone there could acknowledge that I exist. Or something… I mean, is it really so much to ask?” An uneasy silence fell upon the apartment. Bon Bon shifted nervously, clearing her throat before speaking. “I’m… I’m sorry to hear that, Lyra. I really am. Wish I could help you.” “Oh, you already have,” Lyra insisted, the spark returning to her eyes. “Trust me! And I came by to say thanks for yesterday. It… it meant a lot to me to have someone to hang out with, even if it was only one night.” Bon Bon smiled. “For sure, it wasn’t a problem.” Lyra nodded and glanced at the clock. “Oh, I should probably get going. My train’s leaving soon.” They stood up almost simultaneously. “I could, uh, walk you to the station?” Bon Bon offered. “That… that’d be wonderful,” Lyra said with a warm smile. viii: said the sea to the nightBon Bon should have been anxious. She should have felt the butterflies soaring around in her stomach and the familiar, light-headed feeling that came with talking to a stranger. But for some reason, she didn’t. Instead, she was lost in Lyra’s conversation, nodding and laughing along as the mare recounted a story from her past. The streets were still covered in snow from last night’s snowfall, although the clouds above were beginning to clear. Bon Bon tightened her scarf, chuckling as Lyra finished her tale. “So yeah, that’s why I’m not allowed to go back to Baltimare,” she said. “Wow. I don’t think I’ve ever met a mare who pissed off an entire city,” Bon Bon remarked dryly. “Well, now you have,” chirped Lyra, reaching out and tapping her on the nose. Bon Bon laughed, swatting at Lyra’s foreleg playfully. As they walked, they passed Roseluck, who was headed back towards their apartment building. She eyed them curiously, but when she caught Bon Bon’s eye, she gave her a massive grin. “Hey, I never asked you, what do you want to do in the future?” Lyra said. Bon Bon shrugged. “Well, I’ve always wanted to open a candy store. Never had the bits though, or the time.” Lyra nodded sagely. “Yeah, trust me, I know the feeling. But I don’t think it’s great to waste your dream on a paycheck, you know?” “Maybe, but at the moment what choice do I have?” Bon Bon sighed, kicking at a pile of snow below her. “Hey, chin up! Things’ll get better soon. I’m sure of it,” Lyra said. She caught Bon Bon’s gaze, and once again her eyes shone with that strange determination Bon Bon only wished she had herself. “Oh, we’re here,” Bon Bon said in surprise. Sure enough, the Ponyville train station sat in front of them. “So we are,” Lyra replied, trotting up the stairs and through the station. Bon Bon hesitated before following. After a brief stop at the lockers, where Lyra fetched her suitcase and instrument, they found themselves standing on the station platform. The platform was mostly empty, as there weren’t many ponies travelling on Hearth’s Warming Day. The train itself sat waiting by the tracks. Stewards moved about the cars while the engine idled patiently. “So… I guess this is it,” Bon Bon said, scuffing her hoof on the platform. Lyra blinked, then looked at Bon Bon. She turned from the train back to Bon Bon, repeating the motion a few times. “... What is it?” asked Bon Bon nervously. Whatever Lyra said was drowned out by the shrill whistle of the train engine. “All aboard, all aboard!” called the conductor. “Last call to Dodge Junction! Last call to Dodge Junction!” The engine hissed and creaked in anticipation, as a few passengers trotted past Lyra and onto the train. “Lyra, you’re going to miss it,” Bon Bon said, half-shoving the unicorn towards the train. “I…” Lyra hesitated, planting her hooves on the platform. “Bon Bon, wait.” Bon Bon stopped pushing and let Lyra regain her footing. The unicorn took a deep breath and smiled. “I’m not going.” “Wha… you’re not? But… but why?” Bon Bon stammered, perplexed. “Because I want to stay here,” Lyra decided. The train whistled again, and the doors began to slide shut. “There… there’ll be another Burning Mare next year. But I don’t know if I’ll ever see you again.” Bon Bon blinked a few times, trying to process this. “I… wow, that’s… are you sure?” “Well, no turning back now,” Lyra replied, as the train pulled away from the station. “So yeah. I’m pretty sure.” They watched as the train left them far behind, picking up its speed towards some distant horizon. “... Guess we better find a place for you to stay,” Bon Bon said with a smirk. “How about yours?” retorted Lyra as they trotted off the platform. “Mind showing me some of that Ponyville hospitality you were telling me about?” “Depends, are you gonna pay rent?” teased Bon Bon, jabbing at Lyra playfully. Before they could continue, they were interrupted by a burst of pink and confetti. “Oh my gosh! So you decided to stay?!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed. Lyra nodded. “Yeah, what can I say?” She nudged Bon Bon. “Bon Bon persuaded me.” Pinkie squealed. “I’ll get started on your Lyra-Decided-To-Stay-In-Ponyville-After-All party right now!” she declared. As she was about to bounce away she paused, then hesitantly turned to Bon Bon. “... Did you decide when you want your party yet?” Before she could reply, Lyra cut in again. “Hey, I have an idea. How about you throw our parties together?” “Together?” echoed Pinkie. “Yeah, like a joint Welcome to Ponyville party or something.” Bon Bon watched in amusement as the gears began to turn in Pinkie’s mind. Then she sprang up into the air with another squeal. “Yes! Why didn’t I think of this before?!” With that, she bounced away, listing off colors and foodstuffs and decorations as she went. Lyra turned to Bon Bon, a smirk on her face and a spark in her eye. “You are okay with that, right?” Bon Bon took a deep breath and smiled. “Yeah. I guess I am.” vi: i don't think you're looking oldThe glow of the gaslights seemed to bounce and dance giddily, like a foal on Hearth’s Warming Day. Laughter echoed from open doors and windows, and the moon watched it all from above. Bon Bon hadn’t realized it until now, but she felt… warm. She smiled, glancing at her unicorn companion. “How long will you be in town?” The unicorn shrugged. “I dunno,” she replied. “Probably not long. I’m a bit of a… dasher. Always moving.” When she saw Bon Bon’s ears fold at that, the unicorn quickly continued. “But if you’re right about the food, I could always make an exception.” They shared a laugh, stopping outside of the meeting hall. “Well, this is it,” Bon Bon declared. “Best party Pinkie’s ever thrown… until her next one.” “Heh. Thanks, by the way,” the unicorn said with a genuine smile. “I mean it. It’s great to finally see a friendly face.” “Don’t mention it,” Bon Bon replied. “That’s just a thing they do in Ponyville. Look out for each other.” The unicorn nodded again. “You coming in?” “Probably not,” Bon Bon said. “I’m pretty tired. Kinda want to get a headstart on sleep.” “Alright,” replied the unicorn. “Thanks again.” She offered her hoof, and Bon Bon shook it. Bon Bon turned away and took a few steps down the street. “Hey!” She flinched and glanced backwards to see the unicorn waving at her. “I just realized, I never got your name!” “Oh.” She almost facehoofed at the faux pas of not introducing herself. “I’m Bon Bon.” “Bon Bon? Pleasure to meet you. I’m Lyra. Lyra Heartstrings,” said the unicorn. “You said you work at Caramel’s Cafe on Fourth Street, right?” “Uh, yeah.” “Cool!” Lyra beamed at her. “I might come visit you before I go.” Bon Bon shrugged. “Well, that’d be nice.” “So… be seeing you?” asked Lyra. The sound of a rousing cheer came from within the meeting hall, followed by the stomping of hooves in applause. “Sure,” Bon Bon replied. “Sure.” “Awesome.” Lyra waved again and trotted into the meeting hall. Bon Bon stood there in the street for a moment longer, piecing together what had happened. She shook her head and laughed, continuing on her journey home. The wind blew through her again, and the snowfall had picked up its pace, but she didn’t care. The lights around her glowed a bit brighter, and the snow felt a little bit softer. Bon Bon pressed her hoof a little bit harder against the imaginary window, and she passed through to the other side. She wondered how long the feeling would last.
i: under atmospheric hazeFrom a high-rise building deep within Canterlot, Sweetie Drops felt like she could see the entire world. Through a pane of glass she could make out the ponies moving in the streets below, heading home after a long day of work and play. She took it all in and admired it, because she didn’t know if she’d ever see it again. Sweetie hesitantly raised a hoof and pressed it against the glass, as if to verify that it was still there. Her ear twitched as she heard movement behind her. “Oh. You’re still here,” said a voice. “Yeah, I was… on my way out,” she said absently, quickly retracting her hoof. She turned around to meet the face of former Special Agent Furlong. The unicorn usually held a stoic, unyielding gaze, but tonight all she could see were the bags under his eyes. Furlong shifted on his hooves, staring through Sweetie and out the window. “I see.” Sweetie looked over his shoulder, discomforted by his empty-eyed stare. Her eyes fell on the wall, where a sign reading “Secret Monster Intelligence League of Equestria” was mounted. SMILE. That word had meant so much to her over the past few years. But after tonight, it would mean nothing to the world. Because after tonight, SMILE would vanish like a ghost in the sun. Furlong moved over to her desk, where a train ticket sat alone on its surface. “Ah, you got Ponyville,” he said. “Lucky you. I hear it’s a quaint little place with friendly ponies. You’ll like it there.” Sweetie took a shaky breath. “Sir… is there… is there really no other way around it?” Furlong’s face morphed into a scowl, and Sweetie felt her heart drop. “You know as well as I do that there isn’t,” he snapped. “Do you think I’m really comfortable with sending an army of outcasts to small towns across Equestria?!” Sweetie’s ears fell backwards as she cringed. “I… I apologize,” Furlong said, squeezing his eyes shut and sighing. “This past week has taken its toll on us all.” Seeing the look in her eyes, he lowered his head in shame. “Sweetie, you know I didn’t mean that. It’s just… well, you remember what you were told in the academy. ‘Keep your distance, work alone,’ and all that.” Sweetie Drops nodded, remembering the mantras her instructors and seniors had pounded into her head. “Well, that’s great for our line of work, but outside of it?” Furlong shook his head sadly. “Outside it falls apart.” The unicorn ran a hoof along the edge of the barren desk. “But I have high hopes for you, Drops. You’ll do fine out there.” Sweetie couldn’t help but note how hollow his words sounded. She shook on her hooves, heart beating fast. “Sir, for… for what it’s worth, I’m sorry.” Please, she thought. Please, say you forgive me. Say it wasn’t my fault. Please. Furlong opened and shut his mouth, working his jaw. For a millisecond he offered her a smile, but it quickly slipped away. “I… I know.” He reached out and patted her on the shoulder. “You’ll like Ponyville,” he said again. With that, he turned and left the room, hoofsteps echoing in the empty hall. She stood there, blinking back tears and shaking, before she squeezed her eyes shut and grabbed her train ticket. Five minutes later, Sweetie Drops died, and a mare named Bon Bon left the empty office building.
ii: just some stratospheric strays, we waitA snowflake fell from the sky, trickling downwards at its own pace, unaware or ignorant of the mare who watched it. There were millions more around it, but Bon Bon found her focus drawn to this one in particular. It danced and wavered through the air as the ground welcomed it with open arms, and when it landed, it became one with the snow that littered the ground. It reminded her of a life that once was, a life that she missed sorely with every passing day. But while she stood there, watching as snow blanketed the town, she was rudely reminded that her old life was gone. And it was never coming back. “Bon Bon?” She flinched and glanced behind her. “Yeah, boss?” Caramel sighed, his breath fogging up in the air. “Bon, I told you a million times, just ‘Caramel’ is fine.” Bon Bon blinked, then shrugged. “Sorry.” “It… it’s fine. Why are you still out here?” he asked. “I just…” She looked past Caramel and into the cafe, where chairs were stacked on top of tables and half the lights were off. “Had stuff on my mind.” Caramel sighed again and tried to smile at her. “Alright. Well, you better get going. Busy day tomorrow.” Bon Bon nodded. “Sure. Good night, bo—Caramel,” she said with a wave. “Oh, wait, before I forget…” Caramel disappeared back into the cafe for a second before emerging with a small brown box. “Here.” Bon Bon blinked, accepting it. “A… gift?” Caramel beamed at her. “Yeah! I know you haven’t been here long, but you’ve been working so hard I figured it’d be a crime to not reward you somehow.” She shrugged and carefully balanced the box on her back. “Oh… you didn’t have to, you know. You really shouldn’t have.” “It wasn’t any trouble,” Caramel insisted. “Right… thanks,” she said. “Really.” “No problem. Good night, Bon Bon, stay safe. And happy Hearth’s Warming Eve,” he replied, turning back into the cafe. She watched him go before finally moving, setting off at a carefree pace down the snow-covered streets of a town she didn’t quite belong to. Caramel was a good pony, and a nicer boss than she was expecting, but he was still her boss. It’d be strange to consider him anything else. Bon Bon held back a shiver, letting her thoughts distract her from the biting cold. She thought of her home: not the cozy but lonely apartment mere blocks away, but of her true home. One that she could never go back to. Her heart throbbed at that, and Bon Bon gave a bitter sigh at the memories that flooded into her mind. Because this wasn’t her home, and she was beginning to feel that it never would be. “Hiya, Bonnie!” Bon Bon was abruptly and rudely pulled from her thoughts as her field of view became pink. “Wha—oh, hello Pinkie,” she stammered out. Pinkie Pie giggled, reaching out to tap her on the nose. “Hi, silly! So, didya decide yet?” Bon Bon blinked, still scrambling to regain her composure on the inside. “Decide… what?” “When you want your Welcome to Ponyville Party!” Pinkie declared, throwing confetti into the air. “Come on, Bonster, I’ve thrown a party for every new pony who’s come to Ponyville, and you’ve been here for two whole weeks and haven’t come to any of the welcome parties I’ve planned for you!” Bon Bon cringed at the reminder, feeling a strange wave of despair wash over her. Two weeks. She had been here for two weeks already. “I, uh… I dunno, Pinkie,” she muttered. “Maybe not tonight. I’m… I’m pretty tired from work.” Pinkie seemed to deflate a little bit. “But you’re always tired!” she protested. “And when you’re not tired, you’re working, but even when you’re working you’re tired, and Caramel always says you need to take a break but you don’t, you just work even harder, and…” She tuned out the party pony as her conversation with Furlong echoed in her mind. “I hear it’s a quaint little place with friendly ponies. You’ll like it there.” How was it possible, she wondered, that in a town filled with friendly, warm faces, she was still alone? “... but never mind all of that!” Pinkie was saying as Bon Bon snapped back to reality. “I need to know how you keep avoiding me! It’s like you’re a secret agent or something—” “I’ll tell you if I’m ready for a party,” Bon Bon said hurriedly. Pinkie fell silent, and she seemed to freeze mid-bounce. “...if you’re ready?” she repeated. Bon Bon took a deep breath. Her heart beat quickly as she struggled to form words. “Look, I’ll tell you whenever I want my party, okay? I’m just very tired right now, and I’d like to go home.” Pinkie was taken aback and folded her ears. She quickly shook it off, though, and sprang back up. “Okiedokielokie! You just need time! I get it! Let me know, and I’ll have it ready faster than you can say Bon Bon’s bonbons!” With that, the pink pony bounced down the road, giggling madly to herself and leaving Bon Bon alone. She squeezed her eyes shut and scowled. How are you supposed to make friends like this? With a bitter sigh, she half-heartedly kicked at the snow and kept walking. She watched as ponies passed her by in pairs, talking and laughing with each other. She watched as a mare pressed into the coat of her companion, nuzzling his neck while giggling. It hurt. Because in their faces all she could see were her old friends. In their voices she heard Furlong and Foxtrot, and Bravo and Alpha, discussing missions and monsters. Stark reminders that here, she was alone. Bon Bon glanced behind her, back at the cafe. She watched as a pegasus landed in front of the building to greet Caramel and pull him into a hug. She turned away and kept walking. The stars above seemed dull tonight.
iii: and can we hold on our hearts“Hey, Bon!” Bon Bon sighed, glancing behind her. A pony waved to her from across the hall. “Hi, Roseluck,” she replied wearily. If Roseluck noticed her exhaustion, she didn’t show it. “Hey, are you going to Pinkie’s Hearth’s Warming party tomorrow?” “Probably not, Caramel needs me to pull a night shift,” Bon Bon lied. She knew that if anything, Caramel would be insisting that she take the night off rather than ask her to work more. Roseluck looked like she wanted to say something more, but Bon Bon turned away to face the door. She heard Roseluck sigh in frustration. “Alright, hope we’ll see you anyways. Good night!” “Yeah,” Bon Bon replied as the earth pony headed into her apartment. Bon Bon stood alone in the hallway, staring at the closed door in front of her, before she finally summoned the courage to push it open. Her apartment awaited her: cold and void of any welcome. There was a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen, along with a tiny living space occupied by a table and a couple of sofas. Beyond that, there was nothing. Most of the furniture came with the lease, but other than that Bon Bon hadn’t changed much of the interior. She hadn’t bothered, because nothing she could add would make this place feel more like home. She slid Caramel’s gift off of her back and onto a table. It landed on the surface with a thud that seemed to echo throughout the room. Bon Bon plopped down into a chair with a sigh, rubbing her eyes. She looked around the dark apartment, at the barren walls and empty rooms, and frowned. As she turned her attention back to the package, she realized that a card had been tucked underneath the parcel string, and a pack of candles was taped to the side. Happy Hearth’s Warming, said the card. Hope you’re enjoying Ponyville so far! Your friend, Caramel. Bon Bon set the card and candles aside and unwrapped the parcel, revealing a creamy chocolate cake, already cut into slices. “Huh.” Bon Bon tilted her head, staring at the cake. She wasn’t quite sure what to make of it. With a shrug, she fetched a pack of matches from the kitchen drawer and stuck the candles into the pastry. They sunk deep into the frosting. Within seconds the candles were lit, and the cake became a glowing beacon of light in the dark and dreary room. The tiny flames danced across her vision as she watched, shades of orange and red against a backdrop of black. Bon Bon absently raised a hoof to the candle as it warmed her fur But the feeling didn’t carry down her foreleg to the rest of the body. Instead it seemed to stay at her peripherals, though the rest of her body cried out desperately for warmth. There she goes again. Stone cold Sweetie. Her ear twitched as a ghost of a whisper rang out across her apartment. Never talks to anyone and never bats an eye. Now there’s a good agent… Bon Bon was snapped out of her reverie by a flash of pain. She recoiled and swore, quickly realizing that her hoof was too close to the candle. Bon Bon hissed, hopping out of her chair and running over to her sink. She ran her hoof under cold water and winced as it stung. After shutting off the water, she squeezed her eyes closed and kicked the cupboard below the sink. Bon Bon wiped the tears from her eyes, made her way back to the table and sat down. She folded her forelegs on the table and rested her chin on them. Bon Bon had to blink fast to fight off the tears that threatened to trail down her cheeks. Bon Bon sat at the table, in the glow of the candles, until the fire went out and left her in the dark.
iv: 'til the day brings the lightThe cafe was full of warmth and joy, yet none of it seemed to reach Bon Bon’s heart. Conversations and the clinking of glasses reverberated across the floor, but it fell short of her and never quite touched her ears. Bon Bon weaved through the patrons, cautiously balancing a tray full of cups and plates on her back. She made her way past pairs of lovers and crowds of holiday diners, both young and old. Shades of red and green burst out of every nook and cranny: from the holiday lights hanging from the walls to the hideous knitted sweaters ponies wore with pride. She ignored all of the color and festivities, gently nosing open the double doors leading to the kitchen and setting the tray down by the sink. Bon Bon stifled a yawn and turned to grab a full tray when she unexpectedly bumped into another pony. “Oh, sorry,” she muttered. “Oh, heavens, Bon Bon, you look exhausted,” Caramel said. “Sort of am, yeah,” Bon Bon admitted. “Been having trouble sleeping lately. Not that it’s your problem. I can still work.” Her manager frowned. “You better take the rest of the night off then.” Bon Bon raised an eyebrow. “Are you sure? It’s the holiday rush, after all, and—” “Hey, don’t worry. We got this. Besides, can’t have you spilling drinks on customers, can we?” Caramel flashed her an easy smile. “We’ll be fine, Bon. Seriously, take the night off. Have some fun.” Bon Bon blinked slowly a few times before nodding. “Well… if you’re sure,” she replied. Caramel watched her leave the kitchen before a soft sigh escaped his lips. “She’s gotta smile sometime,” he said to himself. The town square was mostly empty. A majority of ponies had either turned in to get some extra hours of sleep, or had gone to the party Pinkie Pie was throwing. That left Bon Bon alone, again. She sighed, watching as her breath appeared in the cold. Her legs were aching by now, but she didn’t really want to go home. Sitting on the couch and feeling miserable wasn’t any better than being out here. Bon Bon made her way over to a bench by the side of the road, before realizing that it was covered in snow and already occupied by another pony. With an annoyed huff, she turned away. “Hey, did you want to sit?” Her ear twitched as she glanced behind her. The unicorn sitting on the bench was eyeing her curiously. Bon Bon took her in, noting the loose manner in which her scarf was tied and the way her hat seemed to slide over her eyes. Bon Bon cleared her throat. “I, uh… kinda, but it’s no big deal.” “No, no, not at all! Here.” The unicorn’s horn flashed briefly, and the snow melted away. The water left behind then turned to steam, and the unicorn smiled warmly at her. “See? No big deal.” “Thanks,” Bon Bon replied, easing herself down into the bench. She glanced at the unicorn, noting her… strange sitting stance, but thought better than to ask about it. Bon Bon figured that she had a good read on the stranger. The unicorn would probably try and prod her with a few questions, to which Bon Bon would offer her honest response, before she’d shy away, get bored, or leave. The seat was warm now, likely from the remnants of the heat spell, and Bon Bon sighed in contentment. She hadn’t realized how cold it had gotten. Bon Bon leaned back and closed her eyes, letting another sigh escape her. “You new in town?” the unicorn asked. “Me?” Bon Bon opened her eyes to glance at her. “Uh, sort of. I’ve only been here for two weeks or so.” “Ah. I just got here myself,” the unicorn said. “What’s it like?” Bon Bon considered this. “Well, it’s not that bad. The ponies are nice, the town’s small, but it’s got a… I dunno, charm? Yeah, that’s it.” The unicorn chuckled. “Guess you’re right. Apparently I’m getting a welcome party or something later… or that’s what the pink pony told me when I got here.” Bon Bon grunted. “Oh, Pinkie Pie? Yeah, she’s like that. I can barely keep her off of me myself. I’m surprised she didn’t throw it tonight.” “She wanted to, believe me, but I turned her down. I’m pretty burned out tonight, so I doubt I’d survive a party. I managed to convince her to throw it later.” Bon Bon shrugged. “Makes sense.” “Town’s kind of empty tonight,” the unicorn noted. “Where is everypony?” “Pinkie Pie’s throwing a holiday party,” Bon Bon replied, gesturing vaguely towards the center of the town. “Is that where you’re going?” Bon Bon shook her head. “Nah, I’m not really a party kind of pony.” “I can respect that,” the unicorn conceded. “But… guess I don’t have anything better to do tonight.” She reached over and pulled an instrument case off the ground and set it next to her. “Well, other than trying to get some change, anyways.” Bon Bon blinked. “You’re a… street musician?” “For now,” replied the unicorn. “What about you?” “Oh, just a waitress. Nothing special. I work at Caramel’s Cafe, down on Fourth Street… 'course, you probably don’t know where it is,” Bon Bon replied. The unicorn shrugged good-naturedly. “Well, might as well head to that party and get to know ponies. Mind showing me the way?” “Sure,” Bon Bon said. “Follow me.”
v: nice to meet you, marigold“... And that’s where Pinkie works, should you ever need to see her. But I’ve found that if you want to talk to her, she has a tendency to find you first. It’s uncanny, if I’m being honest.” The unicorn chuckled, taking in the information as Bon Bon led her down the streets of Ponyville, pointing out residents and buildings. “Where are you from?” asked Bon Bon. Probably some rich place, she seems like the kind that came from money. “Canterlot,” came the reply. “But as rich as that place is…” she sighed, shaking her head. “Never mind that.” Bon Bon raised an eyebrow at that. Wasn’t expecting that. “Well, anyways, Ponyville’s a pretty welcoming place. Ponies are nice, and the food’s not bad either.” The unicorn chuckled, her breath misting in the cold air. “That’s good. Can’t tell you how many towns I’ve been to with garbage eating options.” “I know,” Bon Bon replied. “I don’t know what’s wrong with ponies in lower Manehattan… My stomach wasn’t right for months on end after that.” “Oh yeah, I feel that.” The unicorn tugged at her scarf, eyes darting between the buildings. “You sound like you get around a lot though.” If you only knew the half of it. “Yeah. My old job had me moving around Equestria a lot.” The unicorn smiled at her. “Oh yeah? What job was that?” Bon Bon grimaced. “I… don’t want to talk about it.” Before she could continue the thought, Bon Bon suddenly felt something wrap tightly around her body. It took her a few seconds to realize the unicorn was hugging her. “Aw, that sucks!” the unicorn said. “You don’t have to talk about it if you don’t want to!” The unicorn quickly released her and bounded down the street. “Hey, have you ever tried to catch a snowflake on your tongue?” Bon Bon blinked in confusion, trying to process what had just happened. How does a unicorn who grows up in Canterlot act like a young foal? “Uh… no?” “Really?” asked the unicorn, spinning around in a circle. “You’ve never made snowponies? Snow angels in the street? Come on, did you even have a foalhood?” Bon Bon frowned, shaking her head. “Well, it’s never too late,” the unicorn replied, adjusting her hat again. “Seriously, though. I can’t believe you’ve never spent time playing in the snow.” “I just… didn’t like playing with the other foals. Wasn’t very social.” The unicorn nodded. “I understand. But you have to have fun sometime! Life’s more than just one business meeting, you know!” Bon Bon opened her mouth to reply but couldn’t string together a reply. I… I wonder if she’s right? Have I really spent my whole life working instead of living? Wait, did she take the conversational lead from me? How’d that happen? “But this place is amazing! It’s so cool how it feels so big while seeming so small and cozy!” the unicorn declared. Bon Bon looked around them at the houses and storefronts, still musing on the thought. “I guess you’re right. I never thought much of it. It’s compact enough for easy ex-fill and it has enough ponies living in it to establish cover, use as a distraction, and gather sources…” She shook her head, snapping out of her rant. “Uh… sorry, I’m rambling.” She glanced around, hoping that nopony had caught her little tirade. Unfortunately, the unicorn was looking directly at her, head tilted at a curious angle. Bon Bon held her breath, ready for the unicorn to take a few steps back or run away, creeped-out and bothered by what she said. The unicorn slowly raised a hoof, then reached out and tapped Bon Bon on the nose before bursting into a fit of giggles. “Wow! You really prepare for the worst, huh?” “It’s… It’s who I am,” Bon Bon stammered, unsure of how to respond. The unicorn nodded and smiled wider. “And that’s great! Equestria needs more ponies like you!” She paused to consider a building on their right. “So what’s up with that? Looks kinda like a carousel or something.” Bon Bon worked her jaw, struggling to form a coherent sentence. Had this unicorn really just brushed off her outburst so easily? “That’s, uh… Carousel Boutique. A mare named Rarity runs it.” “Cool. You sure know a lot about this town,” the unicorn replied. “I profiled it before I arrived,” Bon Bon automatically answered. The unicorn laughed again. “Of course you did. Brilliant!” She trotted off down the street, humming a happy song to herself. Bon Bon squeezed her eyes shut to get her legs working again. As the unicorn pranced down the roads, the gears started to spin in her mind. Bon Bon didn’t consider Ponyville to be her home. Would that be different if she could find a friend? Someone who didn’t think she was odd or strange, or that her demeanor was off-putting and harsh? She wasn’t sure. But a part of her hoped so. Bon Bon bit her lip and upped her pace to keep up with the unicorn ahead of her.
vii: but i don't think you can stayIt was a rare moment that Bon Bon didn’t want to get out of bed. But today, she didn’t have a reason to. The cafe was closed, so work wasn’t an option. And while she had planned to do some exploring of the town, her body didn’t seem to agree. She yawned, pulling the blanket up to her chin and rolling to her side. Bon Bon rubbed her face into her pillow and sighed, savoring the warmth trapped beneath the blankets. Ponyville could wait: she was far too comfortable to get out of bed at the moment. Her bliss was shattered by a knock at the door. She froze mid-yawn and grumbled to herself, her smile slowly sliding off of her face. When the knocking persisted, Bon Bon threw off her blankets and trudged over to the door, rubbing sleep from her eyes and shaking her mane loose. “Coming!” Bon Bon approached the door, half-expecting to find Pinkie Pie awaiting her. But when she peered through the peephole, she was surprised to see a shock of minty green instead of pink. Hurriedly, she unlocked the door and pulled it open. “Oh, thank Celestia, I found you!” the unicorn panted. “I went by the cafe today, but I realized it was closed, so then I had to go find Pinkie and ask where you lived!” Bon Bon raised an eyebrow, her sleepy mind still struggling to process everything she had just said. “Wha… Oh. Sure?” She stood in the doorway for a few more seconds before Lyra cleared her throat. “So… can I come in?” “Oh, yeah. Sure.” Bon Bon took a few steps backwards and let Lyra in. “Thanks! Thought you were gonna just leave me hanging,” she chirped, undoing her scarf with her magic and taking off her hat. She glanced around the room before raising an eyebrow. “You don’t have a coat hanger?” “Never needed one,” Bon Bon replied. “Plus I wasn’t really expecting a guest.” “Yeah? Tell me about it, barely looks like you live here,” Lyra replied, tossing her clothing items onto the coffee table and flopping down on Bon Bon’s sofa. Bon Bon kicked the door shut, unsure of what to make of this strange mare who had just showed up on her doorstep and claimed ownership of her couch. “So, uh… how was the party?” Lyra perked up at that. “Oh, really fun, actually! That Pinkie Pie really knows how to throw a party!” “I guess she does. Well, that’s what everypony else says, anyways. I’ve never been to one,” Bon Bon replied as she eased into the armchair next to Lyra. Lyra raised an eyebrow. “I thought Pinkie threw a party for everyone when they show up?” Bon Bon shrugged. “Yeah, but… I dunno, I’m not really the partying type.” “Yeesh. So you’ve been avoiding her for what, two weeks now?” Lyra shuddered. “That’s gotta be a challenge.” Bon Bon chuckled, shaking her head. “You have no idea. So, what brings you by?” Lyra’s gaze dropped to the carpet. “Well… I was actually heading out today.” “Oh.” Bon Bon hoped her voice didn’t crack and came across as even. “That was fast.” “Yeah,” Lyra replied, rubbing a foreleg. “This was just a layover stop. I was really heading for Dodge Junction. There’s this music festival there… ah, you wouldn’t care.” “No no,” Bon Bon hastily cut in. “It sounds… interesting. What happens there?” Lyra blinked. “Oh, well it’s this gathering of musicians from all over Equestria. They call it Burning Mare. It’s… not like a typical festival. There’s all sorts of genres that come together and play their hearts out for a week. Some of my heroes go there every year, and it’s so inspiring to hear them play, too!” Bon Bon couldn’t help but smile when Lyra’s voice took on a melodious tone, as she bounced up and down excitedly, waving her hooves around while she spoke. In her eyes she could see an energetic spark that seemed to dash around the room. And she felt a smile forming on her face. “It’s so amazing there,” gushed Lyra. “And… and every year I go because maybe one day…” The spark in her eyes shimmered as the unicorn faltered. “Maybe one day someone will notice me,” she muttered, slumping back against the sofa. Bon Bon blinked, caught off guard by the mood swing. “Is… is something wrong?” Lyra coughed awkwardly into her hoof. “I… no, it’s just some stupid thing. I’ve been going for so long, you know? Kinda hoping that someone there could acknowledge that I exist. Or something… I mean, is it really so much to ask?” An uneasy silence fell upon the apartment. Bon Bon shifted nervously, clearing her throat before speaking. “I’m… I’m sorry to hear that, Lyra. I really am. Wish I could help you.” “Oh, you already have,” Lyra insisted, the spark returning to her eyes. “Trust me! And I came by to say thanks for yesterday. It… it meant a lot to me to have someone to hang out with, even if it was only one night.” Bon Bon smiled. “For sure, it wasn’t a problem.” Lyra nodded and glanced at the clock. “Oh, I should probably get going. My train’s leaving soon.” They stood up almost simultaneously. “I could, uh, walk you to the station?” Bon Bon offered. “That… that’d be wonderful,” Lyra said with a warm smile.
viii: said the sea to the nightBon Bon should have been anxious. She should have felt the butterflies soaring around in her stomach and the familiar, light-headed feeling that came with talking to a stranger. But for some reason, she didn’t. Instead, she was lost in Lyra’s conversation, nodding and laughing along as the mare recounted a story from her past. The streets were still covered in snow from last night’s snowfall, although the clouds above were beginning to clear. Bon Bon tightened her scarf, chuckling as Lyra finished her tale. “So yeah, that’s why I’m not allowed to go back to Baltimare,” she said. “Wow. I don’t think I’ve ever met a mare who pissed off an entire city,” Bon Bon remarked dryly. “Well, now you have,” chirped Lyra, reaching out and tapping her on the nose. Bon Bon laughed, swatting at Lyra’s foreleg playfully. As they walked, they passed Roseluck, who was headed back towards their apartment building. She eyed them curiously, but when she caught Bon Bon’s eye, she gave her a massive grin. “Hey, I never asked you, what do you want to do in the future?” Lyra said. Bon Bon shrugged. “Well, I’ve always wanted to open a candy store. Never had the bits though, or the time.” Lyra nodded sagely. “Yeah, trust me, I know the feeling. But I don’t think it’s great to waste your dream on a paycheck, you know?” “Maybe, but at the moment what choice do I have?” Bon Bon sighed, kicking at a pile of snow below her. “Hey, chin up! Things’ll get better soon. I’m sure of it,” Lyra said. She caught Bon Bon’s gaze, and once again her eyes shone with that strange determination Bon Bon only wished she had herself. “Oh, we’re here,” Bon Bon said in surprise. Sure enough, the Ponyville train station sat in front of them. “So we are,” Lyra replied, trotting up the stairs and through the station. Bon Bon hesitated before following. After a brief stop at the lockers, where Lyra fetched her suitcase and instrument, they found themselves standing on the station platform. The platform was mostly empty, as there weren’t many ponies travelling on Hearth’s Warming Day. The train itself sat waiting by the tracks. Stewards moved about the cars while the engine idled patiently. “So… I guess this is it,” Bon Bon said, scuffing her hoof on the platform. Lyra blinked, then looked at Bon Bon. She turned from the train back to Bon Bon, repeating the motion a few times. “... What is it?” asked Bon Bon nervously. Whatever Lyra said was drowned out by the shrill whistle of the train engine. “All aboard, all aboard!” called the conductor. “Last call to Dodge Junction! Last call to Dodge Junction!” The engine hissed and creaked in anticipation, as a few passengers trotted past Lyra and onto the train. “Lyra, you’re going to miss it,” Bon Bon said, half-shoving the unicorn towards the train. “I…” Lyra hesitated, planting her hooves on the platform. “Bon Bon, wait.” Bon Bon stopped pushing and let Lyra regain her footing. The unicorn took a deep breath and smiled. “I’m not going.” “Wha… you’re not? But… but why?” Bon Bon stammered, perplexed. “Because I want to stay here,” Lyra decided. The train whistled again, and the doors began to slide shut. “There… there’ll be another Burning Mare next year. But I don’t know if I’ll ever see you again.” Bon Bon blinked a few times, trying to process this. “I… wow, that’s… are you sure?” “Well, no turning back now,” Lyra replied, as the train pulled away from the station. “So yeah. I’m pretty sure.” They watched as the train left them far behind, picking up its speed towards some distant horizon. “... Guess we better find a place for you to stay,” Bon Bon said with a smirk. “How about yours?” retorted Lyra as they trotted off the platform. “Mind showing me some of that Ponyville hospitality you were telling me about?” “Depends, are you gonna pay rent?” teased Bon Bon, jabbing at Lyra playfully. Before they could continue, they were interrupted by a burst of pink and confetti. “Oh my gosh! So you decided to stay?!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed. Lyra nodded. “Yeah, what can I say?” She nudged Bon Bon. “Bon Bon persuaded me.” Pinkie squealed. “I’ll get started on your Lyra-Decided-To-Stay-In-Ponyville-After-All party right now!” she declared. As she was about to bounce away she paused, then hesitantly turned to Bon Bon. “... Did you decide when you want your party yet?” Before she could reply, Lyra cut in again. “Hey, I have an idea. How about you throw our parties together?” “Together?” echoed Pinkie. “Yeah, like a joint Welcome to Ponyville party or something.” Bon Bon watched in amusement as the gears began to turn in Pinkie’s mind. Then she sprang up into the air with another squeal. “Yes! Why didn’t I think of this before?!” With that, she bounced away, listing off colors and foodstuffs and decorations as she went. Lyra turned to Bon Bon, a smirk on her face and a spark in her eye. “You are okay with that, right?” Bon Bon took a deep breath and smiled. “Yeah. I guess I am.”
vi: i don't think you're looking oldThe glow of the gaslights seemed to bounce and dance giddily, like a foal on Hearth’s Warming Day. Laughter echoed from open doors and windows, and the moon watched it all from above. Bon Bon hadn’t realized it until now, but she felt… warm. She smiled, glancing at her unicorn companion. “How long will you be in town?” The unicorn shrugged. “I dunno,” she replied. “Probably not long. I’m a bit of a… dasher. Always moving.” When she saw Bon Bon’s ears fold at that, the unicorn quickly continued. “But if you’re right about the food, I could always make an exception.” They shared a laugh, stopping outside of the meeting hall. “Well, this is it,” Bon Bon declared. “Best party Pinkie’s ever thrown… until her next one.” “Heh. Thanks, by the way,” the unicorn said with a genuine smile. “I mean it. It’s great to finally see a friendly face.” “Don’t mention it,” Bon Bon replied. “That’s just a thing they do in Ponyville. Look out for each other.” The unicorn nodded again. “You coming in?” “Probably not,” Bon Bon said. “I’m pretty tired. Kinda want to get a headstart on sleep.” “Alright,” replied the unicorn. “Thanks again.” She offered her hoof, and Bon Bon shook it. Bon Bon turned away and took a few steps down the street. “Hey!” She flinched and glanced backwards to see the unicorn waving at her. “I just realized, I never got your name!” “Oh.” She almost facehoofed at the faux pas of not introducing herself. “I’m Bon Bon.” “Bon Bon? Pleasure to meet you. I’m Lyra. Lyra Heartstrings,” said the unicorn. “You said you work at Caramel’s Cafe on Fourth Street, right?” “Uh, yeah.” “Cool!” Lyra beamed at her. “I might come visit you before I go.” Bon Bon shrugged. “Well, that’d be nice.” “So… be seeing you?” asked Lyra. The sound of a rousing cheer came from within the meeting hall, followed by the stomping of hooves in applause. “Sure,” Bon Bon replied. “Sure.” “Awesome.” Lyra waved again and trotted into the meeting hall. Bon Bon stood there in the street for a moment longer, piecing together what had happened. She shook her head and laughed, continuing on her journey home. The wind blew through her again, and the snowfall had picked up its pace, but she didn’t care. The lights around her glowed a bit brighter, and the snow felt a little bit softer. Bon Bon pressed her hoof a little bit harder against the imaginary window, and she passed through to the other side. She wondered how long the feeling would last.
