Chapters Exhaustion was one that plague many for various causes. But the cost of devoting so much time and energy, and emotion, takes a tole on the mind. Nothing some rest can’t fix, says every pony ever. Luckily things were sorted out quickly and without issue, though the uncertainty still tugged at Twilight’s thoughts.
Celestia was not able to be present herself, though representatives from the court arrived yesterday afternoon to evaluate the prisoner, King Sombra, and then shipped him to the magic maximum security prison in Canterlot. He kept the same expression the entire time, though entirely emotionless expression, Twilight suspected something sinister as they locked eyes more than once. But now he was gone, and it was a massive weight lifted of the princess’ shoulders.
Now her new distraction walked in the door, blocking the blue Pegasus from passing as she took up the entire doorway. Grinning back at Rainbow with her large fangs, Mud continued to the sink, carrying on her back more dirty dishes covered with scraps and leftovers. The kelpie grew a few inches taller, over the last couple months, while having no effect on the “rest” of her body, and the reason was shown right in front of her.
Mud took the spot beside Pinkie, taking one plate, licking it clean, and sliding it to the earthpony who dipped it in the sink to clean it better. The kelpie had just eaten several large servings during dinner, along with dessert, turns out it wasn’t enough. Twilight thought about this, and wondered if nutrition directly impacted her growth spurts, or something else.
The princess reclined on the table, Applejack sitting the other side.
Apple Jack glanced over, seeing Pinkie pry a plate out of Mud’s jaws. “She likes ya quite a bit, and always has a ball when ya visit. Maybe she can go up there to Canterlot and stay a while.”
Twilight gazed into the distance, thoughts struggling to form.
“Well, y’all are gonna be off to Canterlot fer princess stuff, Tall Dark and Dumb’s gonna have to go somewhere for them friendship lessons.”
Twilight looked at her, slowly catching on. “Like, one takes Sombra, the other has Mud?”
Starlight who was reading a letter with coffee in hoof, glanced over at the conversation. “Now that sounds good, anything really to get that ‘garbage disposal’ out of my castle.”
Twilight grinned at the 'my castle' comment, and looked back at the kelpie being described.
Applejack chimed in “She won’t be used to the city right away, should take it slow.”
Mimicking an playful and mischievous look, Twilight rubbed her hooves together. “Oh, I know, just imagine a creature of her capabilities wreaking havoc in a small confined city. It’d be terrible.”
Mud had finished the dishes and was now sticking her head in the fridge, licking leftovers out of one of the containers. She stopped after the one, whimpering as her limit caught up to her. The creature turned around and dropped onto Starlight’s lap, resting her head against the pony’s chest.
The unicorn ran a hoof over the messy brown mane, giving a sigh.
Celestia was uncertain about the whole plan, partly wanting to deny permission altogether. However, this was her student, the very capable alicorn that saved Equestria with her friends many times in the past several years. The court hearing lasted only a day, ending in approval for Sombra’s transfer to Ponyville.
Twilight did not have Starlight by her side to give the news right away, so letters were sent a week prior to the King’s arrival. This also gave time to reorganize the invites and prepare the tests that Mud will be in. With all things starting to look up, Twilight felt slightly better.
But her excitement for the next couple weeks were soiled by one single thought.
Your friends will be without the sixth element, and alone with him.
Darkness clouded her mind once again, but this time with anger. She turned to peer from between some large columns to see the royal guards circling a barred cart, Sombra sitting inside it covered with shackles. His face showed only mild annoyance, watching the ponies mill around him.
Twilight felt her ears flatten, grunting angrily, she spread her wings to glide down. Sombra looked up as the princess landed and walked up calmly. The guards noticed, but paid no mind.
Twilight held her glare to the prisoner, standing in silence. Sombra hardly moved, only returning a more bored look.
“Just because I won’t be around doesn’t mean you can do whatever you want.” Her malice was clear in her voice.
But Sombra was not amused, “Can you tell your guards to hurry along, I don’t particularly like long travel.”
His tone enraged Twilight, leaving the alicorn to grit her teeth as he went on complaining.
The guards moved into formation, ready to head out to the prisoner transport platform. Twilight noticed them and finished her threats.
She leans in close enough to smell his musty fur, “And if I hear anything about you hurting my friends, we’re taking you out .”
Sombra said nothing after that, and the tumbrel started off along the concrete castle grounds. Twilight left alone to look on as it rounded a corner, disappearing from view.
I hope the Girls’ll be okay…
Author's Note
yes, i be bullying Somby like that.
Comfort was something kelpies seldom experienced, and when they do, they relished in it. Those memories kept their spirits up, last until their next turn with good luck. Unfortunately, not many get theirs often, and in such a hostile environment, it’s crucial for survival.
Mud was lucky, probably luckiest kelpie of all. Since making home with the ponies, her fur smelled of flowers, mane neatly brushed, going hungry was no option, and soft beds. She felt the plush seats give as she lay across them, breathing out with relief despite not exerting herself in the slightest prior to boarding the train.
This was the best way to start her week at Twilight’s castle, giving her a taste of what it would be like living like a princess. Thankfully, just as the new bathroom Starlight remodeled, the train cars were made for alicorns. This made them big enough for Mud as well, which surprised the kelpie. She was alone, except for the guards, cook, and the train operators, but no one she knew. But she didn’t mind, sleeping was on her schedule at the moment.
After waking up, bugging the maid for food, as she had already finished all the snacks in the train car, it was almost evening. The trip took most of the day, and Starlight let her know before hoof that she’d reach Canterlot by dinner time. That was time measurement she understood, and she relished in the thought of what princesses ate for dinner.
She would find out soon, as the royal train slowed to a halt in the private station platform. Tickets for this area were more expensive than the ones for the rest of the station, so not many ponies were there. But the few that were there, turned to stared in excitement at the arrival of the royal train. But it was not any of the princesses that stepped out, instead the tall grey kelpie strode out, looking in interest at the elegant structures.
She walked past the dropped jaws and wide eyes, flanked by four guards in armor. Adding to the site, the aristocrats watched this creature led to the royal carriage. Mud fit easily inside, however the suspension sagged and the frame creaked, making the guards around it give uneasy looks. But nothing bad happened, leaving this the last trip across the city to the palace.
Twilight shuffled her hooves, excitement welling inside her. Celestia had never met Mud, and now stood beside her student waiting to greet the guest. It had been a year, now it was time to get to business. It had gone from simple observations and kelpsitting to now, and now she’ll have a whole week with proper equipment and professional doctors.
As all the ideas and excitement whirled in her head, Twilight barley heard Celestia’s words.
“-taking quite a bit, I hope nothing hap-“
After a few more minutes, the royal carriage pulled by six full grown stallions struggled along the uphill road to the front entrance. Twilight snapped out of her science trance to see it slow to a stop in front of her. The chauffer stepped down and stood by the door.
“Her Mistress, Mud, has arri-“
The door swung open, slamming against the other side of the coach wall. Mud flew over the short distance, tackling the purple alicorn to the ground. One long lick, from chest to ears, left Twi drenched in kelpie slobber.
“Ack! You smell like ketchup!” She put up her hooves, holding up the massive drooling face.
Several crumpled hayburger wrappers spilled from the cart, including milkshake cups and fry boxes.
Celestia managed a polite smile, “Well, pleasure to meet you… Mud? Is it?”
The kelpie stood up, meeting the Sun Princess’ height. “Mud!”
Twilight jumped up and wrapped her arms around her test subject’s neck, hanging off the ground to try and pull the kelpie down, but she didn’t budge.
“Mud, this is Celestia, Princess Celestia.” Twi dangled off the kelpie, looking up at her teacher from the brown mane covering her face.
Celestia held a hoof, offering a hoof shake. “You’ll be staying with us for quite a while.”
Mud instead placed her mouth around the hoof, and pulled up, slurping off the regal horseshoe. The taller alicorn looking on in shock. Twilight reached up a hoof, trying to pry open the fanged shoe prison.
Mud lifted her head out of reach, trying to chew the metal to swallow it.
“Mud! Drop it!”
The ordeal unveiled in the middle of the empty lot, every pony near a window, and who were already there, watched as their princess in training wrestle a shoe out of some beast’s mouth.
Celestia looked at the shoe, wincing at the mucus that pooled around it. “Well, ah, best of luck my student, I hope it’s worth it…”
Twilight’s eyes sparkled, “C’mon girl! You wanna see your own room?”
The inside of this castle was so much bigger than Starlight’s castle, astounding the kelpie at every site.
Twilight led through large corridors and decorated halls, but the most fantastical one was the path to the throne room. It was lined all the way with stained windows depicting the very ponies Mud lived with. They were shown fighting all manner of monsters and strange looking ponies, the depictions looking almost like wild dreams.
Down another hall, they arrived in a residential hall, only instead this castle’s rooms were spaced further apart. Twilight opened the door with magic, stepping back to let the kelpie enter.
Mud skirted along the edge, taking in the scents. It was bigger than her old room, and the bed was bigger as well, almost like it wasn’t pony sized at all. The window looked out over a portion of the city, and over the edge to view the vast landscape. There was a large closet and dresser, a wardrobe against the wall with a vanity mirror. The whole place looked like Rarity’s shop but compressed, except for the large box of toys Twilight must have placed in it.
Mud came back around to her sitter, panting happily.
Twilight set a hoof on the big grey ear and scratched vigorously. “I knew you’d love it.”
The alicorn turned to walk back down the hall, “You can wait here a bit for me? I gotta go prep some things for the dinner tonight.”
Mud nodded, leaning in to nuzzle Twilight’s cheek. “Come back?”
Twilight ran her chin over her kelpie’s forehead, a sign she learned from the kelpie herself. “I’ll send someone up to watch you while I’m gone.”
Mud’s ears pricked up, and gave a curious look as the princess started back down the hall.
She called back, “You be good! Okay?”
“Okay!” Mud barked, stepping back and closing the door.
The kelpie shoved her muzzle into the toy box, pulling out a tugging rope one of her favorite kinds of toys. She climbed onto the bed, and rolled over in the blankets to cover herself up. The blankets and mattress were soft and smooth, much more comfortable than her own back in Ponyville. Her warmth filled the confined roll of sheets, making her fall asleep almost instantly.
Author's Note
give a kelpie full authority of her carriage ride, expect a rather long drive thru receipt.
The heat was immense, her form of sleeping rolled up tightly in every blanket she found, made waking up leaving her sweating and drooling. But it was the best way to fall asleep, and always woke up recharged. The cause of this awakening was what Mud focused on, shifting around while keeping the rope toy in her mouth, she eyed the door.
There was another knock, followed by a voice.
“Bonjour madame!”
It was a pony for sure, a cheerful mare, with a strange tone. The words caught Mud off guard and the kelpie waited again for something familiar.
“Un poney est reveille?”
More weird words, and the door opened. Hoof steps by the bed made Mud glance to that side. The steps slowed as they came up beside the bed, and the smell of perfume filled the room.
“Hyou’re auake?” The mare whispered in her strange voice, at least slightly clearer.
Mud groaned, realizing she’ll must get up now. With rope toy in her teeth, she slowly stood up. The mare stepped back as the kelpie slid off of the bed to the floor, and stared in surprise as Mud raised to tower over her.
“Ouah.” The unicorn breathed out, seeing the full-sized kelpie.
She wasn’t used to seeing a kelpie, but Mud was too tired to care. She just stared down at this pony, seeing she was dressed like a few of the other mares she passed on the way here. The mare shook the feeling off and stood at attention.
“Madame Mud, I presume.” The mare dipped her head in a proper greeting.
Mud’s nose stung from the perfume and other scents, so she turned her head to avoid sneezing on her guest. The rope toy and a good-sized spray of drool expelled from her teeth.
“Vous benisse madame.” The pony looked on as Mud was left dazed by the sneeze.
Twi said she’d send someone, Mud wanted to lean in and catch Brilliant’s scent, but the perfume was impenetrable.
Brillant marched around the room, looking up and down inspecting every inch.
Mud’s wretched appearance was fully visible now, and just realizing the stench of kelpie sweat, Brillant set a hoof to cover her own muzzle.
“Je vais vous preparer un bain madame.” Brilliant stepped outside the room and to the side, “Vite, vite!” She urged, waving a hoof.
Mud didn’t understand the words, but knew what she implied. So, the dirty kelpie, ears drooping, dragged her hooves in following the maid pony Brilliant to the bath room.
Starlight would always have to keep an eye on Mud while the kelpie was in the bath, so Mud wasn’t a stranger to having somepony else in the bathroom. But Brilliant instead took greater efficiency in her task, pointing out spots Mud had missed, and even aiding in scrubbing places that were missed. Once the kelpie was cleaned, Brilliant dried her with her magic, and went to brush Mud’s long brown mane.
Once the kelpie was cleaned, Brilliant brought her back to the guest room.
“I believe you have your propre tenue?” The mare walked to the travel case Mud came with.
“Oh la la,” She mused, “Never let it be said a beast can’t be beautiful too.”
“Voyons mieux.”
Mud stepped over, ears hot at the compliment, and held still as the pony fitted the dress over her.
Once dressed, it was around time for Twilight’s dinner meeting. Brilliant looked back at the clock, noticing the time.
“Tres bien, now you can’t be late, viens!” The unicorn rushed to the door, and Mud followed.
Brilliant followed the kelpie closely until they met Twilight outside the dining hall. Twilight’s eyes sparkled when she saw Mud, only having seen the photo Starlight sent a while ago.
“Well, aren’t you the grown-up kelpie.” She mewed.
“Have you been a good kelpie for Bree?” The princess set bother hooves on Mud’s cheeks, squishing them in circles.
Brilliant dipped her head, addressing Twilight. “Non problem whatsoever.”
“Good, and right on time too.” Twilight finished giving attention to her kelpie, turning to walk into the dining room.
A guard on the other side announced the Princess’ arrival.
“Her majesty Princess Twilight Sparkle!”
Twi leaned in and whispered to him, as Mud entered the room beside her.
“And mistress Mud, the Kelpie!”
Mud heard her name, and looked out at the apparent audience. Her ears went flat as she saw several ponies sitting around the table, all eyes on her. The kelpie froze up, leaving Brilliant to give her a hardy shove to get moving.
Mud glanced back as the unicorn kissed a hoof and waved, “Au revior!”
A server pony led the princess to her seat, which was at the head of the table right beside a much larger chair. The server pony used his magic to pull the chairs out, letting Twi and Mud sit. But pushing in the chairs, he only struggled with Mud’s, despite using magic.
Mud was already feeling out of place now, and having to look slightly down at the ponies closer to her made it worse. The looks she got were some of caution, others tried to avoid eye contact, and others were deeply vested. Mud just about got used to ponies staring due to her size, teeth, and just growling at every response. But her situation now, wearing a dress in front of all these ponies was something new.
Twilight noticed, reaching out a hoof and touching the kelpie’s arm.
Mud looked to see her giving a comforting gaze, it helped some. And she watched Twilight look behind herself, waving a hoof at something, gesturing for it to proceed. Mud leaned in her chair to peer back, seeing a bunch of dressed ponies filing out into the room. Most were unicorns, and a few earthponies. They went around the table, setting covered plated in front of each guest and pouring red drinks from bottles.
Mud’s food had not arrived yet, and she glanced for any server moving in her direction. Twi noticed her squirming again, and glanced back at the room entrance.
Mud leaned over and looked back, seeing a massive polished dome set over two carts. Two ponies pushed it up beside the kelpie, and slid the wide bowl onto the table in front of her. Mud’s nose filled with the delicious familiar smell of her favorite dinner.
Mud was immediately impatient, feeling the urge to lick the warm metal and get to the food underneath. Once all the ponies were served, and every cup filled, the chef stallion bowed his head as the extra carts were pushed out of the hall.
“Bon appetit!” And he left as well.
And the covers were lifted off every plate, revealing the small portioned meals. Mud’s eyes widened, and drool began dripping from her jaws. Her bowl was as big as her head, and filled with spaghetti noodles piled up, covered with sauce, mushrooms, veggies, and cheese. She looked bewildered at her kelpie sitter, who smiled back amused.
“I knew you’d like it.” She chuckled.
Mud gave a wide fang filled grin, and turned to her food. Ponies up and down the table eyed her as she buried her muzzle up to her cheeks in the pasta, taking big gulps of it. Twilight, being well used to her kelpie’s table manners, continued to eat her own cooked veggies. Though she noticed many of her guests hadn’t touched theirs yet, and looked over at the few ponies ready to play music. She gestured her hoof, offering them to begin, and they did. The sound of cello and violins snapped the ponies out of their trance, and they stiffly went to eating.
After the first course, and server ponies giving wine refills to the more nervous colleagues, the second course was brought out. Mud finished her bowl as quickly as it came, face and chest covered in sauce. The empty bowl was replaced with a similarly wide platter, but there were huge hey burgers stacked on it. These ones were different though, more fancifully made. The patties were made with various vegetables, making them flavorful and hardy. The stacks were filled with butter cheese and sliced veggies, held together with a spear of carrot.
As the kelpie devoured the massive burgers, two bites per, Twilight saw the ponies were distracted by it again. The music having no effect, the princess slid her empty plate forward to rest her elbows on the table.
She eyed her assistant director, “I’m thinking for some of the evaluations, we can use the equipment outside, And the controlled experiments in the ballroom.”
No response from the stallion, Twilight chimed his name. “What that work? Doctor Diligenter.”
The brown unicorn closest to Twilight blinked, “Um, yes, when shall we start?”
Twilight glances at Mud, who was beginning to look sleepy from the hot food. “I’m thinking around ten, it’ll give us time to set everything up.”
Dr. Diligenter nods, “And the routine, you said you have one?”
Twilight smiled, levitating out an envelope. “Right here.”
Mud hardly paid attention. While the ponies began discussing work, she finished another massive plate of pies for dessert. After that she was ready for sleep, and Twilight excused her.
“It’s okay, we’ll be here a bit longer.” She waves a hoof for one of the serves to fetch Brilliant. “You go get some sleep.”
With a ‘good night’, Mud was led out of the dining hall by the small pink unicorn. After a quick bath, and Bree grimacing at the sauce, cheese, and berries all over the dress, the maid tossed a blanket over the kelpie.
“Big day tomorrow, sumnum stricta mea.” She patted a hoof on Mud’s shoulder, and turned off the light as she closed the door behind her.
Head half submerged in the pile of pillows; Mud smiled as sleep set in.
This is going to be a great week.
Author's Note
new pony new pony new pony new pony
I just really like her as a character, and i hope i can write her properly.
and don't worry, anytime she does speak Prench, it's intentionally not to be understood, hence the lack of translations. Just like when Mud only spoke Kelpish.
Morning was late as Twilight had stated at the meeting, and Mud awoke refreshed. The sent of shampoo and wet fur still fresh as she was wrapped in the blankets, funneling the smell around her sensitive nose. Through her own scent she could pick up the intense perfume Brilliant wore lingered in the room, hinting that the maid pony had been her moments ago.
Suspecting the unicorn would return, Mud huffed as she slid off the bed only to lay on the floor. It was cold and uncomfortable with her damp fur, but the overwhelming musty odor was being aired out now. And with facing being awake, her stomach found this the right time to remind her it was time to eat.
Bree met her kelpie in the hall, intercepting the hungry beast to lead her to the castle garden. The two passed the dining hall, the maid pony ignoring the piles of toast, muffins, and pancakes. Mud became confused, watching the door to her breakfast disappear as she followed the unicorn to the outside.
“Where are we going?” Hunger and confusion forcing a whine out of her.
Not satisfied, Mud suppressed a growl, of which her stomach did. And up on this mountain, in the early morning, the wind was colder. And the doctors and other students stood by, Twilight overseeing while looking over her clipboard.
Bree took quick strides to stay ahead, and stopped beside the princess.
“Madam has arrived!” She peeped without any hint of exhaustion.
Mud’s head hung low as she skulked up and around to stand on Twilight’s other side, sniffing her wings and scarf for any hidden treats. Looking down and nodding at the maid, Twilight smiled. “Thanks, we’ll get this done and you can take her for breakfast.”
Finding nothing in those feathers, Mud looked pleadingly up at her caretaker, letting out a long sigh. Twilight set a hoof under the kelpie’s chin, scratching it side to side. “Just come this way, silly thing.”
She led to a large pannel, where a couple science ponies were standing beside it. Twilight gave an encouraging nudge. “Go ahead and step up here, the sooner we get done the sooner you can eat.”
At that Mud lifted her head and stepped quickly on the plate. It gave under her weight and a small bar in front of her tipped to the side, the small red bead sliding across it. Simultaneously one of the unicorns stretched out a measuring tape, holding it from Mud’s hoof to the top of her head.
The pony measuring eyed the mark, “Two point six meters…”
Mud glared, remembering when Starlight became strict with the kelpie’s weight, which led to no sweets for weeks. But Twilight, instead of becoming cross, chuckled. “I thought you’d be heavier.”
After some basic tests with listening to the kelpie’s breathing and heartbeat with a stethoscope, checking how clear her eyes were with a small light, and reflexes, which were exceptional. Then some samples were taken, fur, saliva, and hoof shavings. The poking and prodding leaving Mud slightly annoyed but also curious, watching these short creatures running around and writing things down.
Mud had almost forgotten her hunger while watching Twilight and the ponies calibrating some of the bigger machines. Her stomach roared loud enough for the alicorn beside her to smile knowingly. She looks over at Brilliant, who was sitting under a lawn table umbrella.
“Bree!” She called over. The maid pony jumped up, ran over to the princess, skidding to a halt.
Mud had gotten used to the cold, but her fur was chilled. The mention of warmth reminded her of all the food she missed out on, and she started forward quickly. Bree whipped around and ran after her, leaving Twilight to prepare the next set of tests.
“And don’t fall asleep! We’re not finished yet.” Twilight waved a hoof, calling after the two.
After plenty of food, Mud wanted to slink back into bed. Bree stopped her several times, leaving the kelpie no choice but to lay on the floor. Her protest almost successful, as being too heavy to even move, she still was not in bed. After a while, Twilight came back looking to bring Mud back to do more tests.
The afternoon was more measuring and calibrating the equipment. One other test that Mud kind of enjoyed was a bite strength test. All she had to do was bite as hard as she could on a bar, and hearing the ponies’ astonishment at the numbers going higher and higher.
A weight lift machine needing adjustments for her larger hooves, as well as the treadmill so she did not break it while using it. Some of the other devices had no need to be so specific, temperature chamber, the pool, and a tall pole marked with lines to measure her jumping. With the morning gone, and mostly setting up the equipment through the afternoon, did not leave much time in the evening.
Mud got bored watching and tried to play with the ponies, starting with the smallest one, a young stallion. She snapped up his clipboard with her teeth, startling him into jumping back. Around the clipboard went, the kelpie spinning around in circles keeping it high in the air. Twilight and Bree both noticed, the two levitated the clipboard out of her mouth, giving it back to the cowering student.
“Tu are coming with moi.” The maid pony round the kelpie, herding her to the castle.
Twilight follows closely anyway, once stepping through the door she comes up beside Mud. “Hey girl, hope you’re ready.”
Mud licked her cold nose, staring at the alicorn.
“Tomorrow the real stuff begins.”
Mud smiled and purred loudly, the rumble traveling through the floor. Twilight ran a hoof back and forth across the top of Mud’s head, speaking in a baby-talk voice. “You so excited, gonna be a big help for us.”
The kelpie’s tongue lolled out as she panted, and licked the princess’s cheek. Bree took a few steps ahead, ready to lead Mud to dinner.
After Twilight left back outside, Mud went back to her room. Bree stood in the doorway with an expectant gaze. “Qu'aimerez-vous madame?”
Mud whipped around, frozen, eyes glowing and pupils small.
“What would you like madam?” Bree repeated in Ponish.
Mud was still a bit confused, “Like what?”
Bree waved a hoof, “La Princess decided you will be capable of deciding what you will want for dinner, as the rest of the company will be occupied for a while.”
Mud slowly began to catch on, ears pricking up and eyes sparkling.
“So, you will be dining in your room, la kitchen is warmed up and at your disposal.” Bree finished, expecting an answer now.
Mud smiled big, and tipped her head as she thought mischievously.
Starlight would lose her mind if she heard that.
Author's Note
Prench pony ^^
anyway, Starlight is going to lose her mind lol
After nursing a stomach ache from the night before, with Bree’s help, it was back to testing.
Since the last time Twilight did a few experiments, the kelpie was much smaller. Now that she was full grown, everything had to be redone. First up was some more of the basics as done the day before, making sure everything was calibrated correctly, and any change in bite strength. While they already took count of her weight, they took it again to see just how much she eats on average.
“…However often she eats as well, at least, we need to have a median…”
Though Twilight’s inserts of how she had to kelpiesit several times, and knew most of what the doctors asked, she agreed it’d be best to just be sure. Mud paid no mind, at least she got to eat as part of the experiments. And with that, things went by fairly quickly, the day ending with Mud trudging back to her room. Day two consisting of more physical applications for the tests, the more humiliating one being her top running speed.
It would happen again tomorrow, and with treats promised as a reward, Mud will do it.
Bree noticed her kelpie’s sulking growing more and more, to the point Mud refused to leave bed. It was day five, and it looked as though no tests will be done. Twilight being concerned, went to visit Mud before going off with her science students, leaving the tired, saddened, kelpie to her maid pony.
“She gets like this sometimes.” The alicorn sighed as she left the door open just a crack behind her. “I don’t blame her though, this stuff can get pretty boring, and the exercise.” She chuckled, and started down the hall.
Bree peeked inside the room, seeing the large mound of fur motionless on the bed. She stepped in, feeling the immense heat from the room’s personal fireplace. Mud liked it warm, with some ponies finding it overbearing. But Bree tolerated it and stepped lightly around the bed, seeing Mud’s eyes closed, face and cheek squished against the pillow.
The kelpie lay on her side, too tired to roll up in the blankets. Bree sat down by Mud’s face, gently running a hoof over her head. From ear to chin, making lines in the thick fur.
“Dors bien ma chérie .” Bree whispered.
Mud, deep in dreaming, smiled while pulling in her limbs and curled into a purring ball of fluff.
When the kelpie awoke, it was in the afternoon. Bree was waiting there, ready to start the day. But that day wasn’t like the others.
After a much larger breakfast, probably to ease any remaining frustration, Bree led her down the hall. But it was the wrong direction, heading further from where the science ponies would most likely be waiting for her. But it was to the recreational wing of the castle, so Mud stayed close, not knowing what was to come.
The small unicorn entered a large room, the walls lined with spare tables and books. Mud’s nose was assaulted with a power musty odor, as if this place was the last place cleaned in the whole castle. Bree wasn’t fazed by it, and instead trotted happily to one of the large outlying windows.
The unicorn pulled out the bench, sitting neatly in front of the old wooden piano. The black paint was faded and chipped in some places, and the strings inside were rusted in spots, the keys a faded yellow as well. Bree looked back at the kelpie standing just off to the side behind her, and patted the seat next to her. Mud licked her nose of the smell, and stepped over.
She had seen pianos before, one in Starlight’s castle and a few other places. She was careful not to break the bench, but it held her weight perfectly. She sat awkwardly still, as it was still a pony sized bench. Bree had only a small bit to sit on, but personal space meant less than nothing.
She scooted closer to Mud as she could to avoid falling off the edge, leaning against the kelpie, and pointed to the keys on the far end. “Ceux-ci font des notes aiguës .”
She pressed one of the keys on Mud’s side, making a small ding. Mud looked down at it, and to the maid. Understanding she nodded, but was still curious to what they were going to do.
Bree laid her hooves on her own keys, “Ready?”
Mud set one hoof on the piano, growling a yes. Bree smiled and played a few notes, starting slow. Mud waited, watching the small pink hooves gently press each key. Her music partner then tipped her head, looking up at mud and to a specific key, signaling her to press it. Mud did, adding a higher note to the tune.
The piano, while old and unkempt, was in perfect tune. The notes smooth, high, low, high, a bit higher and low again. Mud slowly relaxed, feeling the hum of the strings vibrating in her hoof. Bree looped her hoof around it and led it to her desired notes, playing with eyes closed, swaying to the lulling sound.
After some more strings of music, Bree tapped the kelpie’s shoulder. “Allons-y chérie .”
Bree hopped off the bench, leaving Mud, who had let her weight lean on the maid, to fall to the side uncontrollably hitting the floor. The kelpie pulled herself up and stepped quickly to follow, but only to a different part of the room. Disguised in the junk scattered around, was a table set up with tea and tea snacks.
Mud’s eyes lit up; this was food. She hurried past Bree, only to be stopped in a field of magic. This magic felt different, usually the kelpie was able to slip through it and escape, but Bree had a firm grasp. The small maid strolled around to sit at the table, with an amused expression as Mud stared in surprised at her ability.
Mud was released, and she calmly walked up and sat on the cushion on the floor. Bree used her magic again to pour the tea into the small cups, all while Mud wanted the few cookies on the tiny plate.
“You can have la biscuits, if you drink your tea.” Bree hummed as she took a sip, looking more serious now.
Mud looked confused, so Bree set her cup down. “You know how to drink tea, correcte ?”
Grinning, Mud snatched up the pot. “Yeah, I can, see?”
“You’re a very wild kelpie aren’t you.” Bree rested her hooves on the table, “You tried to bite the students five times and succeeded twice in just three hours.”
Mud chuckled, “They shoulda’ been more careful.”
Bree grinned, “And your table manners could do with a refresher course.”
Mud stared now, eyes narrowing. Bree grinned, and stood up. “And your la grâce .”
“Ta mane, et manteau , hooves et grammaire , I don’t even want to ask when you last brushed your teeth.”
Mud’s ears drooped, and tail ceased any excited wagging. Bree caught her worried expression, smiling sympathetically. “Oh, don’t act like that, you’re still very belle fille .”faire le ménage .”
Mud was then dragged to the bathroom again, the maid pony determined to make her look pristine. After a full makeover, and lots of shaved fur, the walls were covered in hair and empty shampoo bottles. Thinking it wouldn’t get worse, Bree shoved her into the dressing room.
After fitting her with a rather large dress, much too big for any of the princesses, it was revealed that Twilight requested a bunch of outfits in Mud’s size to be made and kept in the castle.
“I’ll bite her for this.” Mud grumbled as she saw in the mirror a smooth maned kelpie wearing a poofy pink dress.
Bree was more appreciative, and admired her own hoof work. “Rather a nice change, tu ne pense pas ?”
Mud glared at her, being more resistant as she was pulled out of the closet, they went back to the large cluttered room. Something was different about it, many things catching Mud’s eye. Some decorations were set up, with lights and flower bouquets, and two tables piled with hors d'oeuvres.
It was an extravagant display, and Bree had slipped out of sight, reappearing in more appropriate clothes.Bon après-midi , pleasure to meet you.”
Mud stood awkwardly, hoof beginning to rub her elbow nervously. Bree smiled, and slowly pronounced the words again. Feeling it could not get more embarrassing, Mud gave, and muttered the greeting.
Bree’s eyes shown a deep triggered spark, but brushed it off with a sparkle of admiration. “Close enough… My name is Brilliant, you may call me Bree. I will be your host tonight.”
She gestured a hoof to Mud, “And you introduire yourself.”
Mud hesitated, “But, you know my name…”
“I know, but you must introduce yourself to ponies you’ve not met. It is polite, and this is pratique .”
“Hmm… I’m Mud…” The polite kelpie barely gave any volume, and stared at the floor.
Bree stepped closer, setting a hoof under Mud’s chin and lifted it up so she looked forward. “You need to speak up Cherie, especially in the company of seniors.”
Mud wanted to run away from this discomfort, “I’m- “
“Enoncer Mud, use your words.” Bree urged.
“I… My name is Mud.” She breathed out,
Pleased enough, the new tutor started to the tables of food. “Right this way madam.”
Mud followed, beginning to focus on the food. Bree then levitated instead a small cracker with a dab of mix on it, placing it on Mud’s hoof.
She ate hers, chewing it slowly and quietly. Mud’s ears drooped again, obeying and licking it up. Bree swallowed and stated after. “And do not speak while chewing, no pony wants to see what you’re eating.”
After another quick lesson on slouching and how to walk properly in a dress, Brilliant led Mud down the hall to the main throne room. Mud caught Twilight’s scent early and her tail began swinging furiously. Upon opening the door, Mud’s vision locked on, and breaking character she sprinted at the princess.
Twilight spun around and dropped to a crouch, well in tune with Mud’s instincts. Mud halted and matched her kelpiesitter’s pose, the two almost touching noses and tongues lolling out excitedly. Bree marched up beside them and looked down as they shifted on their hooves, ready to pounce at the perfect moment.
“Please princess, we are trying to set an exemple .” Bree ushered Mud to her hooves, turning her as well ready to head out the door.
Twilight chuckled, following along. “We’re also supposed to have fun.”
“Princess work is just that: work.” Bree stated as she opened the large door.
Mud looked at Twilight, “Princess work?”
“You’re gonna help me with a few things.” Twilight puts on her tiara.
Mud’s eyes went wide, “I’m a princess?”
Bree grinned, taking the kelpie’s hoof with her own. “A-ssist-ant.”
With Mud more excited, the three went down the pavement to the carriage that waited for them.
Author's Note
Assistant kelpie
no art this time, i wanna get these stories out quicker, but the art (once its done) will be on any of my other sites, if wanna see them in better detail ^^
University newspapers made way through Canterlot, as will anything that mentions a royal, and ponies there saw their first ever kelpie. The picture given to the paper was deceiving at first, being an older one with Mud only just starting her growth spurt. Whether it was intentional, or she’d just not thought about it, Twilight now arrived in the center of city square with her kelpie, and ponies will see for themselves.
After a small crowd had gathered, first Bree exited the carriage, standing aside for Twilight. Some excited murmurs as the princess moved to the side, and all silenced as the last pony stepped off onto the curb.
Mud looked down at all the shocked looking ponies, used to the looks after living in Ponyville for so long, she closed her eyes and offered a hoof.
“Mud, pleasure to meet you.” She mimicked Bree’s accent and pitch, and grinned as she saw their expressions. Many were confused, and the stuttering of the mare she offered her hoof to let Mud continue with Twi and Bree.
Mud took short struts, keeping her muzzle high. If not for the long heavy dress, her tail would be free to swing side to side. She was beside Twilight, and with Bree in the lead. The princess stuff was just a few errands Twilight needed done that week, mostly paperwork and picking up other items for Celestia. Mud’s assistant role consisted of following, sniffing the documents, and as Bree suggested; “Just stand over there and look pretty.”
After the task was complete, Twilight stopped by the lab of the School for Gifted Unicorns. The foals all stared in awe, straining their necks to always look up at the kelpie mare. Mud watched them run around and gather in front of her, squeaking and asking questions. She found this as not the right time to use any of her “manners”, and gave a deep growl to show the fillies and colts what she really sounded like. They made happy giggles and some ran jumped back, pretending to be scared.
Once the last few had some rides on her back, Mud was brought to the older students. They gave more centered observations, of which Twi took over answering as well. Some of the students even asked what Mud’s favorite foods were, and then if they could give her some treats. Mud wanted to see what they had, but Twilight just smiled. “We don’t wanna spoil her dinner.”
The day slowly coming to an end, with the sun setting just over the wall surrounding the city. The carriage slowed to a halt, but not at the castle, instead at the very beginning of a long street. Mud peeked out the window, catching dozens of delicious smells in the air. “Where are we?”
Twilight’s smile stuck the whole way, “We thought you could use a break, and because you did so well as my assistant…” She looked to Bree.
“We are taking you to dinner.” The maid pony got up first, stepping out as the door opened.
Ponies lined the sidewalks, entering and leaving the glass walled stores. Colorful signs hung over the streets, shedding a warm light over the road. The low temperature of the mountain made the steam leaving the doorways visible, plumes of savory, creamy, and sweet smells flooding the streets.
The three walked into the first restaurant on the right, the waiter at the front door noticing the princess.
“Right this way your highness.” He immediately spoke up and gestured to follow.
Mud did not have to squeeze under a short table, or sit on the floor. Everything was perfectly sized for larger ponies, “princess sized” alicorns. The chairs were especially comfortable, having a large curve for wings to be tucked behind, or a nice recline for a kelpie.
Another waitress hurried over, a unicorn with notepad in tow, stopping just beside Twilight. “Welcome to ‘Alimento’s’, what will we be starting with tonight?”
Twilight eyed the personal menu that lay on the table, “hmm, well, it’s late enough for some red wine. And one large Pep soda.”
“Any appetizers?”
Twi gave one look to Bree, the two sharing a knowing look as they side glanced at Mud. Twi smiled and turned to the waitress, “We’d like one of everything.”
Mud’s and the waitress pony’s eyes went wide with confusion.
“Everything?” the unicorn lowered her notepad.
Both Bree and Twi nodded, and Mud watched as the little pony hurried off. She turned to her caretakers, “One of everything?” She repeated.
Bree huffed, but smiled still. “Against ma better judgment, the princess suggested you’d like this activity.”
“Like a reward.” Twilight added, brushing off Bree’s attitude.
It was a while before the first plates came, and first were the drinks. Twilight and Bree sipped there weird smelling juice, while Mud chugged her soda. She’d eyed the bottle Twilight would refill her own glass with, but remembered the awful time she had once long ago. The kelpie had learned her lesson after sneaking into Apple Jacks bottles of hard cider.
Thankfully the waitress pony came back after a few minutes to refill the kelpie’s drink, cautiously as well, and then the food came. It was appetizers first, one of every kind; chips, dips, and garlic bread. Then, as many as she could at a time, the waitress pony came back with plates of all different kinds of meals. The whole of the tabletop was covered, and the last few on an extra, smaller table.
Mud’s mouth watered, looking over every plate. Twilight selected one for herself, and Bree did as well.
Mud looked at her, “Why? Something else after this?”
Bree rolled her eyes. Twi raised her glass to take a sip. “The next restaurant.”
Finally, it was the last establishment, every plate cleaned off. Twilight’s evening “reward” was one of everything from every restaurant on the street . Mud felt as sick as she could be, not wanting to move. Twilight and Bree both broke down and ordered wine from a few different places, though Bree having more control over herself.
Now it was time to head back to the castle, Bree leading her two companions to the carriage. First Bree carefully took her seat, Twi struggled to put her hooves on the steps but got in, and Mud hesitated. Afraid the floor would give under her weight, she took a deep breath and hoisted herself in. The suspension hissed and the whole carriage leaned to one side, leaving Mud to lay on the floor to avoid tipping the cabin.
Twilight laughed in her daze and slid to the floor next to her kelpie, both passing out from alcohol and food comas. Bree yawned, covering her mouth with a hoof. She watched her friends as they slept, until she herself leaned against the wall and closed her eyes.
Once at the castle, Bree poked a hoof at Twilight’s head. “Princess, we’re here.”
But she did not get up, still sleeping. Mud groaned as she fell out of the carriage, and Bree floated Twi onto the kelpie’s side.
“You can carry her.” Bree moved around, getting ready to push Mud to her hooves. “I’m too tired, and I must clean our mess.”
Mud dragged her hooves all the way to her room, not even dropping Twilight at hers. Stopping just before getting into bed, Mud leaned just enough for her alicorn to fall off into a pile of stuffed animals on the floor. Exhaustion preventing her from taking off the tight dress, the kelpie fell on the bed, springs and frame bending with a concerning creak.
After a moment, Bree came around. Peeking through the door she saw Twilight nuzzling the plushy fish and bears, face red and ears flicking as she dreamt. Mud was not asleep yet, large sides rising and falling as she took deep breaths. Her gut ached too much to try and fall asleep, but Bree attempted to comfort her.
“How are you Chérie ?” The unicorn leaned against the bed, laying a hoof on Mud’s cheek. “You did super today!”
“You’d make a proper lady in no time.” She brushed gently.
Mud smiled, purring, and shifted to meet Bree’s eyes. “What is that?” Mud mewed.
Bree smiled, turning slightly to recline against the bed. “Is what?”
“It means sweet heart, Cherie .”
Mud laid her head down again, not knowing what to say.
“I’ve seen it.” She rested her hoof.
Mud was silent, too tired to ponder, but took in each word. Bree lowered to her hooves, reaching up one last time to run her hoof along Mud’s wide chin. “Goodnight, mon petit kelpie .”
And with a light, soothing spell for Mud’s and Twi’s stomachs, Bree turned to leave. But now Mud was free from her soreness, quickly reached out, hooking a hoof around the maid pony’s small body. Bree let out a surprised squeak, and was pulled into the kelpie’s chest. The massive warm arms locked in, surrounding her, and Mud’s large head resting on hers.
Unable to move now, and much too tired, Bree found her new place to sleep. After rotating enough to not be suffocated by the thick neck of her kelpie, and using it as a pillow, she fell asleep almost instantly.
Author's Note
girls night!
Saturday night, the last couple days of the week were much more beneficial to the tests. Mud behaved better while around Brilliant, and Twilight made sure to keep the kelpie’s feelings in mind. Eventually, to the last minute, everything was completed.
Twilight lay on her chamber balcony, Mud beside her, both looking out at the stary sky. The alicorn smiled and glanced at her test subject, “You really helped a lot.”
She placed a hoof around Mud’s neck and chest, pulling her close enough to nuzzle with her chin. Mud purred loudly, sticking her tongue out to try and lick the hoof. Twilight had moments ago returned from more princess tasks, leaving Mud to think a while.
“I wish I was a princess.” The kelpie meowed softly, “I wouldn’t have to leave.”
Twi smiled, “And what would a kelpie be princess of?”
Mud moved her head up into Twi’s chin, “Food.” She purred.
Sticking her nose into the smug kelpie’s neck, tickling her with a squawk. Settling again, Twilight got an idea. She pulled Mud slightly up, so her massive head was upright.
Mud’s eyes went wide, and touched her new crown with a hoof. “What? Really?”
“A princess like you, big and strong, Equestria will be safe forever.” Hugging her kelpie tightly, looking down into the big orange eyes. “No baddy or monster would ever dare try to fight you.”
A light kiss on the forehead, and Mud watched Twi slip off the bench. “Come on you, you gotta get up for the train tomorrow.”
The kelpie obeyed, looking in every reflective surface she could to see her crown. Once she reached her room, Mud ran to her mirror. In it she saw the tiny sparkles on the top of her head, and her chest filled with the most joy she’d ever felt.
Twilight pressed her body against Mud’s, pushing her to the bed. The small piece of woven silver and gems levitated off its new mane to the table, in perfect view. Mud stared at it all the while Twilight pulled the blankets over, tucking in the kelpie.
The alicorn gave one last kiss on the forehead, and trotted to her own room.
“Good night, Princess Mud.”
Author's Note
not even a whole page according to ms word, but, it fits the timeframe.
now, on to see what our Dark King was up to during this time.