Verve

Vee snooted along the library, her expert eyes plucking book after book from the shelf. Hey! She didn’t order squiggly gibberish in her study-books! She’ll have to read them later when they release a purple legible version. But just so she doesn’t forget, she started the tedious process of marking the most interesting pages with spare feathers, so she’ll remember the best spots for reading.

“You! What are you doing?” A jerk-face doe spat, peaking her head down the aisle. Hhmhm! Being an extremely valuable coffee drinker and savior of all creatures, Vee decided to handle this professionally and with tact. By panicking, dropping her coffee to the floor and spilling it over a dozen books.

She tossed the tome in her hooves into the air, dashing heroically for the window before the Deer-Fuzz could snatch her for questioning. She’ll never talk! Never!

Of course the window was locked, good thing she brought her trusty lockpick. Which was another book she found on the shelf. She used it to calmly unlatch the window’s hook on top. What was she, a vandal who smashed glass without reason?! Neigh! With the window open, she darted outside - before hucking the hardback through the pane to avoid White Tail late fees. The perfect distraction for her daring escape! Glass flew in brilliant shimmering pieces, bouncing around and coating the floor inside - and a couple shards even managed to bounce out into the grass below.

Luckily, they never caught her name! They’ll never know it was her. Probably. If worst comes to worst, she’ll stake a local preening booth at a restaurant until she loses the heat, or until she’s banned for stealing all of their sugar packets.

Fluttering her amazingly beautiful wings to the floor, she snooted around her bag for that old ‘give me free stuff’ badge that Gold-Antler-fry passed around like coffee cakes. She had things to buy, and discounts were always welcome! She should use this responsibly, and as such - headed straight to a local coffee shop to sample the product. Since she lost her old mug, fending off the evil librarian from making her do less important things, like ‘cleaning up her mess’ or ‘not preening’, she’d need a replacement! After all, she had important enchantments to weave and snoot up, and materials to stock up on, too.

Arin sighed, rubbing his temples free of the stress of the last few hours. He was not a military expert; a month’s worth of training three years ago was hardly enough to be of extreme use. But still, his information was valuable, and it helped him set goals for his week here, too. General Falon had promised some desirable training directly under his command, to help solidify the Seraph as part of the Cervine’s command structure. He’d need to learn new terms, formations, and even new abilities to work in-hoof with the White Tail, and he was eager to see what the buck had planned.

His training would start tomorrow, when the General could organize a team course for the Knight. He’d be working with another buck, apparently a very special one - to study restoration spells to greater effects for his first day. After that, he’d be under the guidance of Falon proper.

Curious beyond belief to explore the town, and eager for some company - he followed sparse directions to the Alchemist’s lab. Celestia was undoubtedly busy, handling the more democratic side of things with the King - so he’d have a day to hang out with his old friend Umbra.

He peaked through the lab’s doors, finding the black maned mare very much alone. She swiveled a strange orb in her magic, inspecting it closely - the dark interior swirling with a blue fog. There were around a dozen more surrounding her on the nearby table, a spent burner and a multitude of herbs and jewels coating the workspace in clutter.

“Pst! Umbra!” Arin called, her ear swiveling towards him. A quick smile formed on her lips, turning to face the Seraph.

“What a surprise, I see you have an eye for exploration. What brings you here, Arin?” A smile tugged her cheeks, as she quietly set the small orb onto a work cloth, the Knight slipping inside with a brush of his wings.

“Well, I was thinking about heading into town to work on that exploration skill you just mentioned - and probably grab a bite to eat. I’d love some company, if you’re interested?”

She perked up at the request, a faint blush forming on her cheeks. “Are you by chance requesting a real second date, Sir Knight? If so… I believe I could be persuaded. I do not suppose you are in the mood for coffee yet again?”

Arin chuckled, as Umbra made her way to his side. “I think I’ll pass. I’d like a bit of time together - just us. No castle, no responsibilities, and I’m pretty sure coffee attracts a certain witch I’d like to avoid for my own sanity. Besides, today may be the last day we could do this together here. I’ve got a full schedule, and I want to spend as much time as I can with you before… well, you know. Just in case all of Canterlot burns down from our fight, heh.”

“Oh? Is that the reason? You are not worried of the most dire of outcomes?” Umbra questioned, as they made their way down the short, easy to navigate halls of Aster’s abode. He slid his fingers down her exceptionally soft coat, smiling.

“I have faith in our team. But I have significantly less faith in the structural integrity of Canterlot.”

The duo finally breached the majestic doors out of the Autumn Court, breathing in the cool night air. A chilly breeze pressed Umbra to Arin’s side, even though she could tolerate the cold quite well. It was a nice feeling, one he was happy to share.

A strange sight caught their attention on their left; three bucks chatting quietly over gleaming shards of glass; a groundskeeper buck plucking debris from bushes and flora alike. Several purple feathers lined the ground, a smashed window above showing signs of a struggle.

“Think we should intervene?” Umbra asked quietly. Arin shook his head.

“For once? No. If they needed help, they’d find us. For now, just smile and wave.” He grinned, raising a hand at the bucks - who stared awkwardly back at the duo as they passed into the city proper.

Free of the castle, the rich air felt wonderful on the skin. Not sure where to start first, the duo headed towards the west - past Oarkin, who sat speaking quietly to a little fawn. Once more, the duo waved - and he returned it with a mighty fist in the air. A sign of respect in the south of Erenorn.

Passing into the old town market, they basked in each other’s company - taking in the beautifully rich scenery. The stone blended into soft red and gold lined paths, autumn colored trees hanging over the jewel streetlights that blended a swath of multicolored lights into the world. Gold, orange, red, the occasional green and purple - each lit up the world in a beauty that was hard to describe. The far sound of the waterfall fell softly over the hush of the once bustling streets; while plenty of shops were open, few struggled to carry more than a sparse soul or three perusing their wares.

The path trekked upwards in a slight incline, directed along a mountain slope. Here, a magic root twined bridge held over a bubbling creek, that garnished the roundabout of townhome shops with fresh spring water. The path continued down farther, into more residential homes of the lower end of Silversun; large trees winding onwards to both support homes as natural spines, and dot the streets in shade that whittled away the moonlight.

“I have a question, Arin,” Umbra smirked, looking up to his eyes. “Can either of us actually read their language? Because I have no idea what any of these signs say.”

Oh. Right.

“Well, I would expect there to be outdoor seating for a restaurant, if there uh… are any open. It’s hard to tell. I know that farmers typically stock half of their produce for the residential sector, and the other half is for commercial - with food growing scarce, it’d be reasonable to say that most of it is being directed towards home use. Here, this place - it looks open,” Arin gestured to a nearby jewelry shop, that much was obvious - with beautiful bracelets, earrings, trinkets, and necklaces gracing the storefront, it might be a good place to start. “We’ll ask for directions, and enjoy the scenery in the meanwhile.”

Umbra gave a soft laugh; “Or perhaps you’re more interested in a ring of sorts?”

The Seraph nearly panicked at that accusation; but she relented with a bump of her barrel against his side. “Lead the way, sir Knight.”

“R-Right.” Arin chuckled, scratching the back of his head; if she kept this up, he’d develop a bald spot. Nervous habits were hard to kill, after all. Holding the door for the gray mare, she stepped inside the cheery light of the jewelers - a bored buck perking up at the sound of guests. He checked his wrist watch - perfect! An hour before his usual early close, plenty of time to help them find what they need.

“Ah! Welcome, welcome! To Belnian’s Baubles and… cross my branches, what are you? And a pony! Is this a robbery?! Are you here to besiege my wares?” The tall buck slid back against the far shelf of his shop, pink eyes wide. His short antlers nearly clattered against the wall, just barely missing several prized necklaces that dangled there unguarded.

The mystical wares of the clean, condensed business lined the cases and walls on displays and behind glass panes; the beautiful gem-stone encrusted accessories shining with a radiant light in the warmth of the far fire. A chandelier of sparkling flames radiated a supple glow across the polished wooden floors, ornate green and gold carpets breaking the monotony of beautiful planks into rich spaces, graced by pleasant carvings bearing rings and loops galore.

If every shop was as beautiful as this one, Canterlot would never compare. Several thousand years or more to refine Silversun’s allure was enough to leave the newer pony capitol to shame.

“We’re uh… guests to the royal circlet,” Arin said, withdrawing his medallion to flash at who was undoubtedly Belnian. Upon seeing the token, he visibly relaxed - stepping back to the counter to greet his new, potentially infinitely wealthy customers with a smile.

“Aha! I see! Have you come to browse my livelihood? I offer all kinds of services - from jewels and gem cutting, locket crafting, amulet imbuing, and most importantly, lavish jewelry. I suppose you’re after the latter?”

“Actually, no, we’re - wait, you said locket crafting, right? Does that mean you do portraits as well?” The Seraph smiled, sharing a warm look between him and the Unicorn to his side. Her heart swelled, green eyes shining to meet his golden irises. The buck caught on in a moment, giving a heartfelt sigh.

“Ah, young love. It reminds me of my youth. I do, in fact. I have just the method for it, as well - have you heard of magic sketching? It’s a quick process, where I imbue a thin gem with a flash of light - and it captures several moments inside, as if reliving those seconds eternally. I can assure you a hundred year warranty on it, as well - if not more, if you’re willing to embellish yourself?”

The Seraph didn’t even hesitate. He’s known Umbra for far, far too long to say no - and quickly lifted the silvered locket from his neck, offering it to the buck. “If the gem color doesn’t matter, give me something to match her eyes.”

“Oh! It doesn’t, the gem simply holds the magic - and replays the memory endlessly. Let me see if I have something cut in my boughs, and I’ll piece together a splendid visage for you.”

He held the locket in his magical aura, his small antlers shining dimly much like a Unicorn’s horn would. Arin offered his hand to Umbra as they waited, the somber mare taking it in her hoof’s grasp. Their eyes locked, as if searching for something - something they’ve both found. A feeling Arin had trouble finding before, a true emotion.

“A deep emerald, and - ah! Hold that pose, don’t move. You two look stunning together, let me just…” Belnian raised the heart shaped emerald up, a flash of pink light encompassing them both. Before Umbra could react, Arin slid down for a gentle kiss at her nose - leaving her stunned.

“Arin…” she warned, but kindly relented her stern demeanor, if only just. Instead, a soft smile followed. “And I thought I was the clever one, between us.”

“Is that an insult, or did I simply prove you wrong?” He winked, a gentle flick of his wings following. By the Feathers, he should slow down. With his luck, Celestia would wander in and find them. And he simply didn’t want to hurt her like that. In fact, he still wanted to talk with Luna, too, but…

Umbra really captured something neither of them could, and he just wanted to prove it.

“And… done! A splendid job on my part, but I can’t seem to read the inscription inside. It looks to be in some kind of… foreign language. Strange.” The necklace floated in a dim pink glow, returning to Arin’s palm. “Now, if you’ll let me see that mark, Heralds, you two can be on your way.”

Arin nodded, placing the gold, near saucer size symbol on the table. The buck quietly hefted it in his magic, withdrawing an invoice; with a firm press of the round charm, a fresh sear burned into the page, the parchment detailing the services he rendered for the duo. Gently, he slid it forward - levitating a quill and inkpot for the Knight’s signature. Arin placed the newly updated locket in Umbra’s hooves, so she can inspect the handiwork while he signed.

“You know, three years ago, I heard word of several ponies - and a strange creature - entering Silversun. Was that you, by any chance?” He asked, as Arin flashed his name in Equestrian across the page. He would write it in his home language of Sarin, but… well, he’d be the only one who could read it. Save maybe Oarkin.

“I was the strange creature, yes, though my friend here wasn’t with us at the time.” He turned down to look at his doting guardian, stooping an inch to gaze at the gem as it recreated the moment in a flash of gleaming magic across its surface. The duo peering into each other’s eyes, a sweet love that was instantly recognizable - and at the very last moment, Arin darted down to kiss her shocked nose.

“Say… I don’t suppose you could make us another locket, can you?” The Seraph asked, Umbra’s eyes lighting up.

“Arin, you do not have to do this to please me. I am simply happy to be by your side.”

“I’m not doing it to please you, Umbra. I’m doing it because I lo-… I cherish you. As a close friend.” He ran his thumb over her cheek, the tall unicorn knowing exactly what he meant. “You’ve been by my side for three years. I want a piece of that by your heart for many more.”

By the stars, the Seraph already had her heart - but that poetic comment was weakening her resolve to keep him faithful to the Princess. Perhaps in a moment of weakness, she smiled and nodded. “...Very well then. I will trust your judgement.”

The buck nearly melted behind the counter, leaning over a cloven hoof to stare. You could almost see the little romantic hearts bubbling above his head as he watched. “Ah, I live for these moments. I think I’ll have something prepared for you tomorrow around this time, to match the first locket; a special treat. Young buck, let me see your eyes - gold, correct? Perhaps a citrine would fit, or a honey topaz…”

“Citrine,” Umbra stated firmly; “I dislike topaz jewels keenly, after a recent incident in Canterlot. If… Arin is okay with that.”

The soft blush on her cheeks was absolutely stunning compared to the usual expressionless gaze she held, and he stroked her cheek again. He couldn’t help but think how soft her fur was - like pressing one’s hand into a pile of dark, rich ash, or perhaps a living shadow.

Belnian sighed in delight, the tender moment filling his heart with joy. He couldn’t hold back a smile as he spoke; “Of course, madam. I will see to it-”

BANG!

A set of hooves kicked in the door with a rush, Arin and Umbra jumping into a defensive position as Sun Song ripped from its sheath - gleaming violently with cackling, flaming, solar energy. Umbra’s horn glowed a radiant green, before her snarl of a glare died and returned to mild annoyance.

Vee stepped into the store, preening a wing quietly as she stared ahead; a trail of feathers left in her wake. On her back rested a small barrel labeled in Cervine; the extremely happy pegasus marching quietly forward before finally spotting Umbra and Arin staring dumbfounded at her.

“Ah! Hello Tall-fry! And Spooky-fry! A wonderful surprise!” Vee ho-hummed, plucking an empty coffee cup from her unpreened wing. With a hoof, she reached back to turn the handle on her portable barista - overflowing the cup to the brim with fresh, piping hot - do I even need to tell you? It’s coffee. It’s always coffee.

Arin groaned, slipping sun song into it’s royal red sheath, as Umbra went on to the offensive.

“Vee. Seriously? Of all of the shops you stumble into-”

“I trotted for a change, but you’re not wrong. I am usually very stumbly. D’ohoho~” Vee dropped another feather, as Belnian finally recovered from the heart attack.

“My door!” he yelped, for good cause. The door, which he labeled ‘pull’ for a reason, was nearly knocked off its hinges when it wouldn’t give for Vee’s snoot. He then saw the massive coffee stain forming beneath Vee. She didn’t fully close her tap, and it was spilling all over his carpet. “My RUG!”

“Oh hey, Deer-fry. I need all of your jewelry. This is a robbery. Except I’m paying you in a magic give-me-free-things coin. So really, I’m robbing Aster. It’s okay, he doesn’t know it yet, hmhmhm~” She placed the Herald’s mark on the counter, staring straight through the tall buck without question. Perhap out of pity for the jewelcrafter, Arin reached forward and squeezed the knob shut on the keg.

“I-I… you what?”

“I’ll take this, this, this…” Vee used her magic to start grabbing random necklaces from the wall, preferably the purple gemmed ones first - then the green, occasionally a cheeky blue or orange. But never the red. Red was bad for the feathers, after all. By the time she was done, she had a literal pile of beautifully designed amulets in front of her. Which she then proceeded to throw over her neck, one by one. The buck gawked in absolute shock as she basically just paid his mortgage off.

With blazing speed of his magic, he struggled to keep count of all the product going out - quickly creating a receipt on the longest piece of parchment he had, and the smallest hoofwriting he could manage. By the time Vee was done, she was absolutely covered in bling.

“Vee, don’t you think you’re overdoing it?...”

“You’re right, Tall-fry! I need a new watch, too. My last one turned into a winged frog.” Her hoof glowed - unstrapping the small wrist watch on the buck’s leg - making him shout.

“Hey! That’s mine!”

“Herald~” she chimed, waving the coin around. This level of smug should be absolutely illegal. Umbra simply stared on in absolute shock as the sheer amount of gold on the pegasi’s neck outweighed the barrel of dripping coffee, Vee’s hindlegs hefting from the floor from the weight of it all. How was she still standing?

With a growl, he simply added it to the list of costs - a literal fortune by now, as Arin and Umbra quickly made their way to the door.

“I believe we forgot to ask for directions…” Umbra frowned, when the duo quickly abandoned the scene of the crime.

“No we didn’t. Just follow the coffee stains. That’ll lead us to food. Let’s uh… go, before Vee bankrupts Aster.”

By the time Umbra and Arin had reached the now coffee-less restaurant, Vee was waddling her very richly endowed flank out the door, the buck slamming it shut behind her. Not before pinning a hastily drawn doodle to the front - ‘BANNED’; with Vee’s extremely smug smile haunting the page, crossed out with a line. The door then proceeded to fall inwards, smacking the floor with a fwump. The hinges finally gave out, it seems.

Funnily enough, it was the third poster banning Vee from somewhere in Silversun that evening alone. And truth be told, it probably wouldn’t be the last.