At the North Pole, in the northmost extremity of Equestria stands a remote research base, dedicated to studying a strange obelisk erected for unknown reasons. Here, a small research team works to find out what they can about this structure. Their research hasn't progressed very far, and it's generally unexciting work.

The most interesting thing to happen on the job is the yearly visit from Waypoint. For the last three years, this odd goldenrod pegasus visits by plane, says hello to the team, assists in an experiment or two, and leaves a few days later.

All they really know about him is that he's the only son of well-off parents, and he claims that the reason he wants to visit so much is because the North Pole is where he got his cutie mark. Clearly there's more to his reasons, but what? What sort of answers would a pony wanting for little in the world be looking for out in the middle of a frozen wasteland?

Death tag is due to references to a near-death experience.

Takes place a few years after the Season 9 conclusion, but this story does not contain any spoilers for that conclusion.

Thanks to my friends who proofread my story!

Cover art by Calmivore!