Chapters Snowflake Shine: A New Beginning
I grabbed my luggage and made my way to the nearest exit. The stations were all packed with ponies, and they were all in a rush. ('All right, it'll be okay,') I reasoned.
My name is Snowflake Shine, and I'm on the run. You're probably wondering, "What is she fleeing from?" Is there something harmful on its way for me, and if so, what is it? All of your inquiries will be addressed shortly, and many mysteries will be revealed. But right now I'm dealing with an imbecile who knows nothing. "Listen, Snowflake, I'm not sure why in Equestria you're doing this. Please, for Celestia's sake, just end this lunacy and let's go back!" It was my brother.
My parents were quite normal, in the sense that they didn't have exciting careers or go on daring adventures. My father, was indeed a builder. He built homes for ponies and brightened their day by providing them with a roof over their heads. Yes, that seems heroic, but when you look at other ponies, such as Twilight Sparkle, you can see them confronting the dangers of this society. It was something I'd always wanted to do.
My mother used to be a gardener. She spent so much time in the gardens, always taking care of the flowers and making sure they grew healthily. When she was in a sour mood, she would go outdoors and chat to her flowers. Then she'd come back inside, making it appear as if she wasn't agitated in the first place. They were constantly saying to me, "We know you want to do your part in making this world a better place. There are other ways to fulfil this; you do not have to battle wicked creatures in order to partake." This was typically the response whenever I protested about how I didn't feel useful helping my father construct or caring to the plants. Even though I knew what they were saying, I still would get up in the morning and read about how six ponies always would save the world. It made me feel small.
"If you want to go, Snowflake, you must do it right now. Everypony will be seeking for you, and Miss Rosette will most probably ground me!" Maxwell shrieked in my ear. I snapped out of my daze and turned to face him. He looked terrified, and I could see he didn't like my idea at all. "Maxwell, you need to chill! If you return to the orphanage behaving like this, everypony will know you assisted in my escape. Don't worry, everything will be alright. Please go, and if you spot someone, tell them you've already checked all of the stations," I placed my hoof on his shoulder to reassure him. Maxwell fixed his focus on me for a few seconds. Tears began to form in his eyes. I didn't want to desert my brother, but I needed somepony to fool the others. I felt selfish for forcing him to do this, but I didn't have an option. It was either take him with me and have us both taken, or leave alone and let him tell everypony that it was pointless to hunt for me. At the very least, after the drama was over, I'd be ready to return for him.
"I'll miss you; please don't forget about me!" Maxwell cried, then clutched me. I could sense tears welling up in my eyes. "How could you honestly say such a thing? I guarantee I will never forget you. I'll return and rescue you after I've become somepony." I whimpered.
"Somepony you are already. You are magnificent, and anypony who doesn't notice that is very much mistaken. I'll miss you as well, and I'll be waiting for you sis!" His remark made me smile. We let go of each other with that final note. I started moving towards the station's exit, and as I got there, I whirled around and waved at Maxwell. We both went off after he waved back.
Snowflake Shine: A New Beginning
You're presumably intrigued over what happened to my parents. I recalled it as if it were yesterday; it was an awful memory that grasped me and wouldn't let go. It all started on a bright day in which my mother called me from our kitchen. "HONEY! GET UP! PLEASE!" I could hear her yell. I yawned as I brushed my mane using my horn magic, and then cleaned my bedroom. After brushing my teeth, I leaped from stair to stair till I reached the bottom. My mother hurried into the hallway, with one of her furious looks on her face, which usually meant she was ready to nag me. "Snowflake, how many times have I told you? Do not prance down the stairs; what if you end up falling?" She scowled at me.
"I'm always cautious, Mother! I don't need you to constantly bother me! I'm just having a little fun, and like you always mention, "having fun is crucial!" I quoted her with a deep sigh. Whether I had schoolwork or had to do a chore, Mother always turned it entertaining. She always did it with me and made sure I had a wonderful time. But, as delightful as she was, she was also ultra careful. If she detected something hazardous, she would educate me about it and make me pledge never to do it again, lest I injure myself.
"You don't have to remind me of what I said; anyway, come help me fix breakfast." She walked us towards the kitchen. I took a pan and went to the fridge to get the eggs. When I gave them to my mother, she cracked them perfectly. She cranked up the heat, and a sizzling voice struck my eardrums.
"Where has Father gone?" I wondered aloud, realising he wasn't visible.
"He's in the back garden, outside. Could you please call him, dear?" Mother requested. I nodded and pushed open the door to the garden. Father was cooing over the plants, telling them how splendid they are. I found this amusing and burst out laughing, causing him to turn around startled. He looked embarrassed and stood up quickly from watering them. "I had no idea you also chatted with plants, father!" I burst out laughing.
"Of course I do, my dear. It's important that we make them feel like they're a part of the family. Also, please don't surprise me like that again," He chuckled. I agreed with a nod. "I'm familiar with his father. Mother told me to call you for breakfast," I remembered.
He beamed and, using his magic, cleaned up all of the gardening equipment he was using for the plants before racing inside with me. We assisted mother by laying the table, and once we had done all of our responsibilities, we sat down and began to eat the breakfast that mother had prepared. "I feel it is time for you to seek for job, Snowflake." My mother explained well while spreading honey on toast. I stopped munching and glared at both of my parents. I wasn't like the other ponies who knew what they were meant to do as soon as they earned their cutie mark. Yes, my cutie mark is a pencil concealed behind a snowflake... I know!!! Isn't it puzzling? "I'm not sure what you're talking about, mother; have you seen my cutie mark? I'm not sure what it symbolizes." I buried my face in my hooves and slammed my face on the table.
"Hmm... Okay, snowflake, here's what we're going to do. Your mother and I will search for jobs that you might be interested in, and while we are doing so, you can walk about and ask various ponies about their careers. It may assist you in making your decision." My father completed his breakfast and revealed his scheme to me. My mother clapped her hooves together, showing that she approved with the approach. I grinned. ('This might actually work...') I pondered.
"We need to wash the dishes and clean up a little, Snowflake, so why don't you go ahead?" my mother advised. As I stepped out the door, I said goodbye to them. I had no idea that would be the final time I would see them...
Author's Note
Hi, if you're still reading then thanks! Just a heads up, this book is put in the time when the main 6 were still there. Just in case you were confused by the timeline.
Snowflake Shine: A New Beginning
To summarize, my parents were murdered by a fire caused by an oven... I recall sobbing for hours beside the rubble. I simply wanted my parents back, but I guess that wasn't going to happen. I knew I couldn't think about it too much since it was already difficult for me to complete my goal of finding a job; I couldn't add any more drama to the mix.
"Hey! Will you just stand there or will you take a walk?" I snapped awake from my daydream and turned to look. A male Pegasus stood behind me, with a furious expression on his face. "I'm sorry, sir, but you could have just gone around me!" I criticized him, wondering why he hadn't done it.
"Don't you dare to reproach me! You evidently have no manners; you haven't even apologized! I don't have time for this foolishness anyhow..." The Pegasus strode away. Adults sometimes assume they know everything, so I clicked my teeth together in hostility. I resolved to just walk quickly because I needed to get home.
The weather was a little murky, but the sun appeared to be on its way out any minute. If there was one thing I knew about every creature, it was that they all enjoyed being outside in the sunlight. But the question was, how would I get home? I heaved my suitcase across the stony sidewalks, hoping to get a ride to my destination. After my parents died, I earned their bits, and when I intended to leave the orphanage, I decided to use the bits to purchase a little cottage for myself. I'm sure you thought I hadn't plotted anything at all... You were clearly mistaken.
"EXCUSE ME!!" At the top of my lungs, I hollered. I'd seen a carriage stop to pick up a pony; surely they wouldn't mind if I snagged a ride as well. To my delight, the carriage came to a halt, and a unicorn peered out. She smiled at me and motioned me along. "Good day, my dear! Where do you want to go?" The mare politely investigated. I was currently in Manehattan, where the train had taken me, Ponyville was my hometown, and no, I hadn't seen any of the famous 6. I'm sure you're thinking of asking me that...
"I apologize for bothering you, ma'am, but my cottage is on Sunlight Road; the only problem is, I don't know how to get there," I explained. The mare's face brightened up, and her grin became even more extreme. "Haha! I'm not sure if fortune is on your side today, but you may thank Celestia! Starshine Lane is the name of the street next to Sunlight Road where I dwell. You are welcome to join me on a ride!" She made a lovely offer.
"No way! Oh my Luna! You have no idea how much this means to me! Thank you incredibly much!" As she hauled my luggage onto the carriage, I praised her. She laughed, and patted me on my shoulder. "Please, don't even mention it my dear pony! We're practically neighbours!" I gleamed, and gave her some bits.
"Oh my goodness! NO, NO, NO!!! Please, my hun! There's no need for that; this is only a formality!" The mare begged me to listen to her. I shook my head and grasped her hoof to place the bits. "Ma'am, I realise this act may not mean much to you, but it means a lot to me. This is my way of saying thank you." I said to her, trying to make her understand.
"My name is Miss Kind, but you can call me Emerald if you choose. What is your name?" She requested.
Author's Note
Hey guys! So, I just realised that I hadn't really talked about where Snowflake came from, sorry about that. She was born and raised in Ponyville, and her orphanage was in Ponyville too. When she escaped though she took a train to Manehattan, which is where her new home is now. Thank you!!
Snowflake Shine: A New Beginning
Emerald was a fantastic mare. I listened to her stories and learned about her day-to-day lifestyle. Being around her made me feel as though I was already at home. I knew I couldn't get too connected though, since I didn't want her to find out I'm on the run. She'd probably turn me over, and then I wouldn't be able to save Maxwell.
"So here we are hon! Your new home," Emerald said with glee. I moved over to view the cottage. It was a nice cream colour with turquoise doors, lavender windows, and a lovely vivid garden in front. ('That garden would have been wonderful for Mother...') In my thoughts, I grieved. Emerald stepped out of the carriage and assisted me in coming down.
"I apologize if it isn't to your taste, Snowflake. If you like, I can offer a designer. I may request that he update the design." As Emerald questioned, I smiled at her.
"Emerald, you're so generous. This is precisely my style, and I wouldn't alter a thing. Thank you!" I approached her and hugged her. She started laughing and embraced me back. "Please do not thank me in any way. We're now friends, and if you ever need anything, my house is just down the street. It's the one with the bold mint and roses around the fences." Emerald explained. I frantically waved at her with my hoof and watched as she settled back into the carriage and rode down the street.
The rich scent of majestic flowers attracted me as I opened a pearl gate to the front garden. I discovered a note on the front door that said, ' Hi! Welcome to your new home! Your key will be concealed behind the red potted plant next to the entrance!' I turned to notice a plant laying near me as I followed the directions. Like the letter said, I cautiously nudged it, revealing a key. ('Who would leave a note and key like this laying around?') I mused. "I'll have to get adjusted to how things are done around here..." I mumbled to myself. I inserted the key into the lock and twisted it. As I pushed the door open, it creaked free, then I retrieved the key.
The hall was really colourful, and there was a lot of vintage paintings against the walls. I plunged in and then yanked the suitcase aside, relieved that I could breathe easy. I strode into the spacious living room and made my way straight to the sofas, where I sank into the pillows with one great jump.
('What now?') I wondered myself. It was becoming tedious, despite the fact that I had only been here for about two hours. "Don't be weary, go outdoors and explore, make new friendships, you'll simply be squandering important time," my mother used to say. I got up from the sofa and went to get the suitcase so that I could keep it in my new bedroom. ('I'll start unpacking everything later...') I reminded myself of this.
I couldn't wait to meet new ponies in Manehattan; I'd heard they're fairly elegant. In this city, Rarity (one of the famed main 6) established a fashion boutique. I considered if I might get Emerald to take me; she seemed to know everyone. Oh my Celestia!!! Imagine if I walked into one of Rarity's boutiques and saw her selecting out attire for ponies! That would be fabulous! Unfortunately, the likelihood of such happening are less than 10%. Who am I kidding?!? Rarity is such a glamorous pony and she and her companions are probably out rescuing ponies non stop. That didn't stop me from venturing out and exploring.
Author's Note
Hey guys! If you guys think the chapters are to short, please let me know. Thank you!
Snowflake Shine: A New Beginning
As I headed out, the crisp, refreshing breeze greeted me. I wrapped a scarf round my neck as I didn't want to catch a cold. I was lugging a tiny bag on my shoulder, which held a few bits and was handy in case I wanted to buy something from the shops.
('Hmm... I'll swing by Emerald's and see if she can show me in the direction of town square.') I devised a strategy. I proceeded down the street to Starshine Lane, where I recognized the cottage Emerald had described to me. The gate was locked, and I noticed that all of the lights inside had been turned off. Emerald had left. (She's probably gone to work or something...) I figured. I occasionally forget that everypony has a job but me.
I distinctly remember when I lived in Ponyville, there were three fillies who were so desperate for cutie marks that they formed a team. They were the sisters of Rarity and Applejack, and I believe one of them was a big Rainbow Dash devotee. Applebloom (I presume her name was Applebloom) was Applejack's sister, and I remember seeing her once at Sweet Apple Acres. I used to go there routinely and aid with some of the Apple Family's chores. But I can't think about it right now since I'd probably burst into tears if I realized everything I used to do in my old town.
I was just about to return home when I heard a voice from behind me yell my name. "SNOWFLAKE SHINE!!!!!" A Pegasus with a turquoise and cream mane shouted. I spun around, struck away by the pony. "Hi. Sorry, but how did you learn what my name is?" I investigated.
"Where have my manners gone? Silly me! My name is Pearl Twirl, and I'm Miss Kind's niece. She told me everything I needed to know about you" Pearl made clear as she reached me to befriend me. She shook my hoof fiercely and grinned at me, much like Miss Kind had done when she first saw me.
The similarity was astounding; the two looked so identical. I would have misdiagnosed them if they were close together. "I know my aunt and I resemble each other; is that what you're pondering?" Pearl enquired. I looked at her, bewildered, questioning if she could read my mind.
"Umm... Sorry how do you know that?" I asked. She chuckled at me and then looked about at the other ponies exiting from their dwellings. "Everypony thinks about it, and when they first encounter me, they gasp in amazement. Some claim I'm imitating her style so I can be like her, despite knowing nothing about me. I hope you don't feel the same way..." Pearl's voice trembled at the end, and I could see she was about to break down in tears.
"No way! Not at all; in fact, you have a very different sense of style than her. You have an unique manner of arranging your mane and expressing yourself. It's nothing like your aunt's style." I hastily added, not wanting her to have the same view of me.
Pearl addressed me in the eyes and patted my head with her hoof. She glowed at me and began to smile heartily, expressing her thankfulness for what I had told her. "Thank you kindly, Snowflake. I can see why my aunt gushed about you when she returned home; she saw a genuine pony in you. That doesn't happen very often lately. All ponies want to discuss about is how to dress and how to talk on cue. My aunt is the same way, however she adores a strong wild side on any pony." Pearl explained it all to me.
I had now realised that when I first met Miss Kind, she was timely and regal in her attitude. She reminded me of how high-class ponies behaved, and I saw ponies acting like this everywhere I went in Manhattan. But as I boarded the carriage and Miss Kind began speaking to me, she went from being regal to acting as if she had known me my adult existence, as if I were a member of her family. That was outstanding, in my perspective.
"Snowflake! Come on in, I have my aunt's key, and she said if you come along, I should serve you tea." Pearl yanked me out of my trance and escorted me to Miss Kind's magnificent home.
Snowflake Shine: A New Beginning
Miss Kind's house was magnificent! I sensed peppermint as soon as I walked in with Pearl, and the floor was constructed of brown marble. We headed right to the kitchen, where I noticed fairy lights strung over the countertops. "Snowflake, take a seat," Pearl spoke as we walked over to some chairs. I nodded and moved to come and sit. "What type of tea do you tend to favour?" She enquired.
"May I have have a mint tea?" I asked. Pearl laughed, and I contemplated what she considered humorous. "Sorry about that! It's only that Auntie like mint tea as well, and you remind me of her so much." Pearl observed my befuddled reaction and inserted this comment.
"Your Aunt is a lovely unicorn... I wasn't warmly welcomed here, and then she turned up. She certainly has a compassionate spirit," I complimented. Pearl smirked shortly before making a saddened grimace. "What's the concern?" I nailed the sight; it's the precise expression my mother used to possess when one of her flowers perished.
"It's really generous of you to say things like this, Snowflake, but you must take extra precautions in this city. Nopony, for whatever reason, like accepting criticism, despite the fact that they are all very strict. My mother usually had a bright smile on her face and was often encouraging ponies. They used to give her a filthy look in exchange, which I never appreciated. They're typically dreary and harsh." Pearl informed before bringing the mint tea in front of me. I lifted the tea and poured it in my mouth.
"May I ask... You don't appear to be from hereabouts." Pearl exposed. I set my cup down and fixed my gaze on her. "Oh, no... No, I've lived here my entire life. My parents died not long ago, and I decided I couldn't stay at their cottage any anymore." I deceived her. When Pearl heard this, she enlarged her eyes and clasped my hoof into hers. "I'm truly sorry! That's dreadful... My parents also passed, and my Aunt has been caring for me ever since; I understand how you feel, Snowflake" She clarified. I honoured her for her thoughtfulness.
After I concluded my tea, I joined Pearl in washing and drying the cups. "If you're eager, we have a library... There are several excellent books there, and if you're bored, it's a phenomenal way to unwind" She elaborated. I offered her a friendly gesture and let her lead the way.
We went up some spiralling stairs, and they had golden leaves imprinted onto the bars. As we approached the passage, I spotted portraits of the seasons painted on the walls; it was all so intriguing! "As you can see, my Aunt adores the changing of the seasons!" Pearl remarked as she observed me studying at the picture.
"My mother used to truly appreciate it as well! She was infatuated with greenery and anything ecological. Almost like the main 6's Fluttershy..." I drifted off into my thoughts yet again. Pearl rested her hoof on my shoulder as she spotted me checking back. "So... you like the main 6 as well? So do I; in fact, Auntie purchased me numerous books on some of their biggest triumphs and conquests. You are welcome to read it if you wish" She shone at me when she uncovered something I appreciated. We proceeded into the library as I accepted.
I sat down, and Pearl went to get the main 6 books for me to browse over. "Thank you so much, Pearl! I'm so glad I encountered you; you're incredible and generous!" I thanked her.
"Exactly like beautiful Rarity taught us hahaha!" Pearl burst into laughter as she sat across from me. I embraced her in her laughter.
We continued to read. We were consuming one book after another, and after about ten books... The doorbell rang on.
Snowflake Shine: A New Beginning
"I'll go look who it is," Pearl said as she hurried towards the front door. I nodded and retreated to my seat. I eventually heard hoofsteps reaching the library.
When the door opened, I turned to see who was there. "Snowflake! It's wonderful to see you, sweetheart!" Miss Kind greeted me as I rose from my chair. I displayed a glittering smile and shook her hoof. "Likewise Miss Kind!" I answered. She chuckled and shook her head as she looked at me. "I'm confident my niece took good care of you. Or has she reverted directly to her silly stories?" Miss Kind turned to face Pearl, who was now gazing at her.
"Oh no Miss. She took me to the utmost in hospitality! I appreciate her, and she also creates excellent tea!" I notified her. Pearl sent me a wink. "Well, I did teach her how to make tea, haha!" Miss Kind chuckled. Pearl moved forward and grabbed her Aunt's handbag. "I'll go put this away for you, auntie, and you remain with Snowflake." She commented. Miss Kind gave her a nod before walking over to the chairs. "Please take a seat, Snowflake..." I did as she said and sat in the chair.
"How are you finding Manehattan, dear?" Miss Kind enquired. I hesitated for a moment, then realised why I had come to her cottage in the first place. "Actually, Miss Kind... I had originally come to ask about the whereabouts of town. Or perhaps somewhere worthwhile observing; I've never been to this part of city before. I was hoping you'd recommend some destinations for me to attend" I stated her. Miss Kind chuckled at me before getting up and walking over to some bookcases. She selected a book and brought it on the table in front of me. Miss Kind brought out a tiny map concealed inside the book. "This is a little map of Manehattan. If you want to go adventuring, here is the map to use" She slipped it in my hoof.
"Miss Kind, thank you very much! I promise to return this map to you in perfect condition," I made a commitment to her and then got up from my seat. She did the same and came over to hug me. "A word of caution, dearie. Ponies in this location are vicious and incompetent of remembering their etiquette. Also, and I mean this with no disrespect to you, Snowflake. You have an unique personality, a distinct way of speaking, and diverse actions. Of course, this isn't horrible; in fact, I think it's very spectacular. Other ponies in this city, however, will not, so please be vigilant," Miss Kind described it all to me.
"Please don't worry Miss, I swear I'll be as attentive as ever," I said as I departed the library and made my way to the kitchen. I also had to bid farewell to Pearl. As I went in, I noticed Pearl wiping down the counter with a damp wipe. She flashed me a vibrant, loving grin as she peered at me. "Do you require assistance, Pearl?" I asked.
"No need! I'm almost done anyways, so I was thinking we might just go shopping," she said to me, I stroked my hoof into my mane, trying to come up with a way to notify her I was departing.
"I'd like to, Pearl. To be honest, you're a wonderful friend of mine, and I cherish, respect, and honour everything you've done for me. But I can't stay; I have to leave immediately now." I told it all to her. She laughed uproariously at me, as if she thought I was insane for saying this. "Dear Snowflake! You now live down the street, and we can come whenever we want!" Pearl cracked up laughing.
"I know, but I'll be gone for a few days as well, looking to learn everything there is to know about Manehattan." I notified her. She then glanced at me, her eyes were wide with worry. "I really wanted to spend time with you, but I'll be there for you whenever you need me. Please know that Auntie and I will always be present to you" Pearl approached me and hugged me. I embraced her back tightly. Then I left the front door and returned my gaze to the home before traveling down the street.
