Last Stop on the Mail Route

"Eventful, for a lunch." I comment, glancing behind us as the large gate slowly shuts, the guards that had been escorting us trotting back the way we'd just came. With the Castle behind us, the bustling main road is still underway with the excitement due for the final day of a festival, ponies trying to get around before they miss their chance. Still a good sized crowd shuffling along, but we're granted a little brevity thanks to the in-between road from the gates and the main path.

"It was, wasn't it? But in a good way." Derpy agrees, a pouty, slightly less portly Dinky posted up beside her mother. She burnt off a lot of that pudgy weight... weirdly quick. Another tally for how these things just work weird. Seems they're at their strangest as children.

"Yeah. Real good." I agree.

Dinky nods her head in agreement fast enough, I worry if she's going to knock her brain loose. Of course she agrees; kid got to load up on more sugar than I got in my entire childhood.

Looks like it's a good bit into the afternoon, I figure, once I stop watching Dinky try to shake her horn loose and get a good look up at the sky. Must've been in there... shit, at least two hours. Didn't get to see Luna, but she'll probably say something about it next time I knock out cold. At least the weathers holding out.

...Right. Scheduled weather. Man, what a concept.

Hang on. The festival. Throwing axes, Historical Equestrian Martial Arts... they still have those and the average pony doesn't know squat about soldiers or war? That's some pretty solid history scrubbing there, Princess. I think the throwing axes thing was marked as... Recreation?

"...So." Derpy mumbles, one of her hooves tapping the stonework underneath us, pulling me back from my thoughts. "How long until the University event?"

"Uh..." I par myself down, trying to find the pamphlet. In the meantime, Dinky shovels her face into the little bag hanging off of Derpy's neck, before pulling out the scrunched paper.

"Hrmh!" She announces proudly, holding it out.

Derpy snorts, shaking her head.
"Dinky. Use your magic." She reminds the filly.

Said filly who rolls her eyes, before a... that is a bright, golden glow that wraps around the pamphlet, unfolding it and holding it in front of herself. Kid must be supercharged after that unicorn-centric snackpile they called a meal.

"Four!" Dinky announces proudly.

"Hopefully, we've got about an hour or so. I think. Don't think I've seen a clock since yesterday." I gripe, glancing over the crowd. "Where does it say?"

"The park." Dinky continues, folding it up and handing it to Derpy -- who tucks it back into the bag with her mouth.

"...I think the Hotel has one in their lobby." Derpy idly comments, squinting."

"Huh? A park?" I ask, confused. "Like a little grassy spot?"

"Oh, no -- a clock. Sorry. We should head over there then, right?" Derpy says, patting her daughter with a wing.
"The park, not the hotel."

"Ahh. Earlier we go, better seating, probably." I agree, holding an outstretched hand to Derpy. She blinks at it, confused, until I gesture at her wing.

"You trying to hold my wing, Mister Muss?" Derpy teases -- yet her soft feathers gently slip against my palm all the same. We did it earlier back in Ponyville when boarding the train... but I'd like to do it more often. A little strange, trying to be gentle with the feathers, but Pegasus wings seems pretty sturdy. Especially Derpy's; she's sturdy (in the best way) and with a good wingspan.

"Absolutely." I smile, brushing between the individual, larger feathers with my thumb. With how pegasi used their wings half the time, the largest of the flight feathers could probably be interpreted as some form of finger.

I feel an odd tingle brush against my other hand, like something is enveloping it with a... damp blanket that doesn't leave my hand wet?

There's a soft, golden light enveloping my other hand, as Dinky waddled to my other side. Her horn is aglow, and she's smiling widely, refusing to be left out.

Forget how weird magic feels. Ponies don't normally use it on me -- excluding Twilight, who I had to figure some boundaries with earlier on. Thankfully, not the norm.

This little grasp of magic though -- I can deal with. The source of it is pretty damn adorable. It's a bit odd, holding hands by wing and magic, but it adds this oddly endearing element to the whole thing.
Should help us brave the storm that is the festival road crowds, anyway.

Derpy tugs at me, glancing back over her shoulder as she starts to lead. Seems she remembers the way -- but the smile on her face is telling me she's enjoying this too.

One weird shuffle through the waves of ponies, and we were through the breach, back to cutting through the lesser-used side streets. Still less populated thanks to the ongoing festivities, it's mostly other individuals or families avoiding the bustle -- or heading to the park like us.

Starting to see a lot more unicorns. Proud parents, excited foals trotting alongside them, and the numbers only thicken as we get closer and closer to the event. Not as packed as the main road, but it's starting to get there.

Also noticing a lot more... wealth, especially among the horned ponies. The raised snout, accessories and even some clothes are starting to make an appearance. It's putting a nervous streak in Derpy, who keeps glancing around. Maybe some conversation as we shuffle forwards towards the entryway might help ease her thoughts.

"...Is there like a pedigree thing with ponies?" I ask suddenly.

Dinky tilts her head, curious, while Derpy blinks several times as she clues in.
"Is there a what?"

"Like, you're all magic, right? Even with Unicorns being a bit more outward with their horn and all that." I continue, to which Dinky nods.

"Miss Cherilee told us about how all the ponies have their own kinds of magic. Earth ponies are in their hooves, pegasuses like Mom are in their wings, and mines in my horn!" She explains, beaming proudly.

"And different ponies can have kids, obviously..." I trail off in thought. Derpy picks up where I'm going with it, sighing softly.

"Yeah, to a degree. It's most prominent in... traditional households. They believe that if the lineage keeps to a kind, the magic will be stronger. There are some pegasi on Cloudsdale who hold that kind of belief, thinking 'pure' pegasi fly faster. Since, you know, only pegasi can safely live there without issue, it'sa surprisingly large amount of them that hold that belief." Derpy explains. She seems a bit sour about the notion... which I understand.

"...Does it?" I ask, curious now.

"Couldn't tell you, unfortunately. I think Dash comes from a pegasi-only line, but... she's already kind of an outlier, even among the others. They tend to be Wonderbolts, more often than not, but there's enough mixed-pegasi that it muddies opinions." She continues to explain.

"...You've got earth pony in your blood, right?"

"My mother, yes. Why?"

"I thought so. Just curious; my peoples Nobility of old had a whole thing in our history about keeping bloodlines 'Pure'. Backfired when the..." I lean down to whisper. "Incest backfired on them. One dude had water in his skull."

Derpy makes an 'eugh' face as I smile, enjoying her reaction -- though it morphs into a curious face surprisingly quickly.
"...That's... really? How did he live?"

"Not well, and not for long." I state simply, shaking my head.

"...Huh." Derpy hums. She seems more interested than I was expecting.

"What's wrong with having water in your brain?" Dinky asks, head tilted.

"Soggy thoughts." I say quickly. She makes a little 'Oooh' sound, nodding and accepting the answer.

Derpy stifles a snort, before she motions for me to lean down.
"You figured I had earth pony genes before I told you about my family?" Derpy asks quietly, curious.

"Yeah, think I figured it in the first week of knowing you." I nod.

"How?"

"Well, you're about as stout as one -- especially in the flank. Drives me crazy." I offer, cheeky in tone.

"You... like that I'm... 'stout'?"

"Is that a surprise at this point?"

"Well, normally pegasi beauty standards are... lithe, small, athletic. Not..." Derpy clarifies, glancing back at herself. I might've joined her in glancing, too.

She's a good mix of muscular, curvy and stocky. She's well-muscled from labor, but it's not refined -- showing hints as her leg extends fully or when she moves in certain ways. But to move the way and the speed she does, while being on the larger size for a pegasi? Definitely strong.

...My eyes are definitely roaming a little too much.

"Anon?"

I cough awkwardly, glancing back to her face. She's giving me a 'really?' look.

"...Dunno what those other pegasi are on about. I think you should be the standard." I offer. She scoffs, rolling her eyes.

"Right. Sure." She deflects.

"Gimme half an hour when we get back to the hotel, and I'll tell you my favorite thing about each part of you." I whisper, smiling.

I'm expecting a wing-smack, but I'm holding said wing, and it doesn't even twitch. I do see a hint of flush form on her cheeks. Instead, she bumps my side, tsking at me.
"Easy. We've gotten in enough trouble for public flirting, and I think Dinky is getting tired of trying to zone us out." She laughs softly.

Dinky sticks her tongue out at both of us, making a bleugh noise once she's mentioned.

"But... I'll hold you to that." Derpy mutters back, now walking close enough that we keep bumping each-other every few steps. She's got this little smile sat on her fave now that just doesn't seem to want to go away.
"Why the question about pedigrees, though?"

"Just a feeling I'm getting seeing all these..." I stop, as a Unicorn with her nose raised so high she might as well be trying to smell clouds cuts us off, trotting to join another group. "...Nobles. Starting to wonder if this school is a status thing."

"I've been thinking about that, too. I want Dinky to have options and opportunities, but... Canterlot is far, and we can't move here easily. But there's no Unicorn-centric schooling any closer... but by the time she goes to one of them, she'd be old enough to board there. But boarding in a place with expectations about something out of her control..." Derpy sighs. She has a point; while she's got faith Dinky could rise to meet whatever prestigious demands a Unicorn school might demand, there's nothing they can do about difference in life experience. Being surrounded by Canterlot nobles and the Canterlot lifestyle, away from her Mom and home... it's a daunting thought path for poor Derpy.

Not so much for Dinky, who puffs up her chest.
"I can be the ped-of-gree!" Dinky eagerly boasts, getting a laugh out of both of us.

"Not quite, kiddo. That's not really something you can do." I explain, and Dinky falls back to rumination, before shrugging.
"You don't need to worry about me, Mom. I can handle Unicorn school!"

"I know you can, Dinky. Your mom just worries for you, is all." She nods, smiling softly.

"She's got Teelee-Kee-Sneesis, don't you know? Dinky will be fine." I joke, getting a huff out of Derpy -- and a prideful, beaming smile out of Dinky.

"...Yeah, you're right." Derpy smiles, nodding.

A pair of city guards stood at the fenced entryway to the park are slowly motioning ponies through. I can see it from the distance; almost half the park doesn't look like itself anymore, changed by magics. Numerous banners bearing the logos and insignias of the Unicorn University hang over the gathering ponies heads, styling a Unicorn horn surrounded by magic. Grey and Purple seem to be the big color themes for the University, with a splash of that deep plum color everywhere you look.

Lots of other foals, like Dinky, though most aren't as young. Closer to the age of being enrolled, I'd figure, though there's still some little ones.

As we're guided through the entryway along with a few others, we can see where the main bulk of the event is happening. They've constructed a large stage, lifted from the ground and backed with large, draping curtains. There's a table with half a dozen darkly colored gown-wearing ponies sitting and talking quietly, while numerous stands have been raised for ponies to watch the presentation floor. Since they don't use chairs, their form if bleachers are very wide to work around how they tend to sit on their haunches or stomachs. They're about half-filled so far, so looks like we got here soon enough.

Of course, it wouldn't be a Unicorn thing if they weren't showing off magic, either. Just like at the booth the day prior, floating blue text that holds a soft underglow ambiently informs event-goers of the time they'll be starting, and other minute information like directions, or blurbs about the University. A good portion of the banners and curtains aren't actually secured to anything, floating and wisping in the air. There's a... static to the whole area, with it being under so much magical exertion. I've got the feeling even the stage and stands weren't made by hoof.

Derpy is more concerned about avoiding bumping into anybody, considering a good portion of this crowd seems to care little for watching where they're going. Simple solution is she keeps pressed up against me pretty good, using me as a navigation tool. No complaints from me. Dinky, on the other hand, isn't tethered by a wing, and keeps trying to drift further while still 'holding' my hand, curious about the abundant magic she's witnessing. I guess she... 'feels' me tug the 'magic hand' she's holding my hand with? Any time she gets too far, a little pull and she perks up, and rotates back towards me.

"Where should we...?" Derpy asks aloud, unsure.

"Anywhere with an open spot, probably. Gonna hear something about trying to look past me either way, unless I lay down." I snort. It takes Derpy a second, then she realizes. With my height, in a nation of little horses, anyone sitting behind me for anything naturally disliked me. Just an unfortunate law of nature.

"Right. Near the back rows, then?"

"Dont want to be too far from the stage, though."

"But if we put you in front..."

"Might even get two rows whining." I chuckle at the inevitable upset.
"We could go for a spot on the side, and I stand on the grass."

There's a sudden, firm yank from Derpy's wing, pulling me to a stop.
"I'm not asking you to do that. Not with your leg."

"I'll live, Derpy. It's grass. If I get tired, I'll sit. Come on." I argue, gently pulling her forward again. She's resistant at first, but sighs.

Working through the other gathering ponies, we manage a spot on the second row, right side of the stage where it's a little quieter. It's close to those gown-wearing ponies, who I'm assuming are the presenters, or even professors at the University, considering they're all Unicorns. There's about six of them now, but around eight open spots at their table, in the midst of a discussion.

It's a touch awkward, but we're close to the stage, even if we're at a bit of an odd angle, but we're out of the way of the others still coming in. Takes me a second to comfortably sit down, but I notice a hidden upside to our choice of situation.

Derpy is head-level with me once she sits down on the bleachers, settling down with Dinky beside her, fussing about making sure she's got a good view on the stage and is paying attention. It takes her a minute before her motherly worries are satisfied, and she looks to me. She blinks for a second, realizing we're face-to-face.

"Are you sure you're alright, Anon?" She presses. "We can find somewhere else to sit if not. Are you sure you're not in the way of anyone...?" She glances back behind us, and at the rest of the ponies hunting for a seat.

"It's grass, Derpy. I think I'll live." I laugh, leaning against the side of the stands.

"...Alright." Derpy relents after a pause. "But seriously, just let me know. We can find another spot if we need to."

"Hey." I hum.

"Yes?"

I put my open palm out beside her, nudging one of her hooves. Derpy looks at it, before putting her hoof in my hand, sighing softly.

As my fingers close around it, thumb brushing the top of the trimmed fur, she shuffles a little closer, leaning her head against mine. She's still got a wing around Dinky, but rests against me.
"Thank you for coming, Anon. Honestly, I can't imagine this having gone nearly as well without you."

"Of course, Derpy. Anything for my favorite little grey-furred pregasus. And her spunky little filly, of course." I add as I see Dinky's head peek over her moms back, grinning at me between her feathers.

"You think they made these with magic?" I ask idly, enjoying the chance to slow down and enjoy some... well, it's not private time. But the ponies sitting around us are either minding their business, fussing over their own kid, or having their own conversations. About as alone as we'll get until we head back to the hotel.

Derpy traces her other hoof over the top of their choice of seating arrangement. It looks almost like stone, though I don't know if it is or not. Doesn't feel quite right, and I doubt they'd let them tear up the park for an event.

"I think so. Theres a little give to it, see?" Derpy points out, pressing into it with her hoof. There's a slight bend to it as she does, sinking it before it reforms once she pulls away.

"Oh! That's, uh... transmogrifigation!" Dinky chimes in, laying her chin against her moms back.
"They probably..." Dinky squints in thought. Her horn glows ever so softly, and I see little dancing sparkles of off-gold tunble across the top of some of the nearby seats, confusing some of the nearby ponies.

"Something... small, made big!" Dinky decides, nodding to herself.

"Really? How can you tell?" Derpy asks, surprised.

"I talked to Miss Cherilee about the kind of magic Unicorns can do, and she told me one of the, uh... the things you can do with it, is trains-figure-ration! And, if you turn something small, big, it has to get... all spread out I think. So it becomes kind of squishy!" Dinky gleefully informs us, smiling proudly as she does.

"You've got a smart little foal on your hooves." I comment, nudging Derpy. Dinky only smiles wider at the praise, especially when Derpy's wing pats the top of Dinky's head, rustling her mane.

"I sure do." She sighs fondly, smiling.

"No luck that one Twilight Sparkle has published her paper, and I might get to ask you more questions?" A familiar voice chimes in beside us.
"Still, I am glad you took up our invitation."

It's the older Unicorn from the Univerty booth yesterday, little squiggly goat chin-strap and all. He's wearing one of the robes that the others sitting at the table off the side of the stage are wearing, though it looks more like it was more for him than any of them. His horn is perpetually glowing, it's blue streak matching the various sprawls of airborne text. Guy must be pretty good, managing half a parks worth of fine print and holding a conversation.

"Afraid not, but here we are." I chuckle. He's a good sport about it, at least, pursing his lips and nodding.

"And you must be the Mother of this young prodigy. Professor Harlow Marsh, tutor at the Canterlot Unicorn University for nigh twenty years. Good to meet you." He says, turning and politely nodding to Derpy.

"O-oh! Good to meet you. Too." She quickly responds, looking to me for some clarification.

"We found his booth while you were running the track. He's actually the one that recommended we come to the event tonight." I explain, as Dinky waves at him. He returns the gesture, amused.

"The Wonderbolt track, I presume?" Harlow prompts, Derpy blushing.

"Y-yes. It seemed... fun to try." Derpy stammers, having thought her little Wonderbolt-binge behind her.

"Crushed the competition?" Harlow goads, grinning.

"Well..."

"If your daughter is anything to go by, which biologically, the magical capability of the parent tends to heavily influence the child. I'd be willing to bet bits you easily pulled top three." Harlow continues.

"Oh, I mean... her father is a Unicorn, so it's likely from him that she gets her aptitude." Derpy tries to deflect, but Harlow snorts loudly.

"Studies show the Mother is the one who holds the majority influence, if you don't mind my obtrusive interest. Nothing wrong with a late interest in career, either. The Wonderbolts are about as Scholarly in their path to magic as a Pegasi can field, I find." Harlow continues.

"Really?" I ask, surprised.

"Indeed. Pegasi are proud fliers heavily focused on being the best -- as such, their cream of the crop, The Wonderbolts, are studious in their practice of flight. As such, studious in their practice of their own magic." Harlow explains. "...Behavior forgiving, of course." He adds, considering they don't act particularly... scholarly.

"Oh, no, I couldn't. I'm just a Mail-Mare, I can't do that kind of thing." Derpy tries to deflect. No dice, given by Harlow's grin.

"It's never too late to consider a career change. I started teaching when I was thirty-five; I used to be a publicist." Harlow chuckles, his magic lifting his gown. It reveals his cutie mark -- an open book, with vague words lifting off the page. Figures that he's the guy handling all the floating text.

Dude must be nearing his sixties. Damn.

"...Really?" Derpy asks, surprised. She seems a little less off-hoof after hearing that.

"The change may be difficult, but I assure you, success or not, you will find yourself relieved at the effort." Harlow confides, nodding firmly.

Derpy seems to ruminate on his words a moment, before smiling.
"...Thank you, Professor Harlow."

"Of course. Please, enjoy the event -- and if you've any questions, find me after. I believe I find myself invested in this young ones future, from what I've seen." Harlow lightly bows, before heading towards the stage.

"...Surprisingly wise, for a guy with a little goat beard." I comment.

A wing smacks my shoulder as I chuckle, Derpy huffing at me.
"Why didn't you tell me about him?"

"Didn't really come up. We chatted, he gave us a pamphlet and said we should come. Didn't even get his name, originally." I shrug.

"...You're ridiculous, sometimes." Derpy sighs, resting her head on my shoulder. Her snout tickles my neck as she takes a long, slow breath, before I feel her mane tickle my skin as she adjusts.

"I like him. Can I grow a beard like that?" Dinky asks, slumping over her mom, little hooves kicking.

"Maybe with magic, unless you've got a goat ancestor." I offer.

Dinky leans closer to her moms ear, whispering.
"Do I have a goat grandpa?"

"No, Dinky, you do not." Derpy chuckles softly.
"...I think."

There's a few pointed whispers around us about our special little visit, and why they didn't get one, but they get ignored. Too busy focusing on the cure thing leaning against me, and the smell of the hotels shampoo in her mane.

"...Think I prefer the shampoo you use at home." I comment, turning my head to bury my nose in her hair, taking my own sniff.

"And why's that?" Derpy hums, ear twitching.

"Smells more like... you." I say, sitting back. Derpy's other wing leans out, pulling me close again to lean against her.

"I'll remember to pack some, next time." She smiles.

"What do I smell like?!" Dinky cuts in, nearly tumbling over her mom and onto me.

"Mischief, mostly. And sweets." Derpy is quick to retort as she catches Dinky with a wing, setting Dinky back up against herself as the filly giggles to herself.

Still looks like there's some ponies filtering in, as final preparations are being made and the last of the seats get filled. One of the gowned ponies at the table up on the stage departs from the others, heading to the center to overlook the crowd. At this point, I'm just going to presume they're all Professors or some member of the faculty up there.

It's an older Unicorn, like Harlow, though I'm pretty sure he dyes his mane. Haven't seen a black mane like that around. He lifts a hoof to his mouth -- I think he's clearing his throat, as his horn starts to glow a soft purple.

"Mares and Gentle-Colts. Please, be seated -- and thank you for attending this prestigious event!" His voice booms, carrying across the park. The general bustle and buzz among the stands quickly dies down to a hush, as the final few take to their seats. Sparkles and psuedo-fireworks gently soar and crackle, located primarily around the stage to punctuate the announcement. Some of the younger ones in the crowd are wowed, but I note the parents have yet to look impressed. Probably because they're thinking of the enrollment cost, not the light show.

Derpy looks torn between sitting up attentively, and continuing to lean against me. A quick kiss on the cheek, and a point towards the stage helps her decide, flashing me a quick smile before her attention is focused on the speaker. Dinky is curious, watching with a tilted head. I think she's waiting to see some more magic, but I see her gaze keep going over to the table, as the last of the empty chairs of the professors fill out.

About seven of the gown-wearing professors, not including the one on the stage speaking. Harlow is among them, speaking to the one beside him.

...I think that's Dinky's dad, sitting at the presenter table. Ponet, I think his name was. Fur like hers, with that blonde mane and a horn. In a gown. Is he one of the teachers at the University? It looks like he's arguing with Harlow over something, and Harlow keeps shaking his head, trying to listen to the speech.

Not going to mention anything yet, and let Derpy focus on the presentation. A quick glance to Dinky shows she's watching the presenter again -- sorry bud, but I'm hardly paying attention now. He's talking about the fabled history of the University, and why it thinks it can compete with Tia's school or something. Not really listening.

One of the other professors snips at the pair, getting a glare from Harlow, before their conversation dims. For a second, I'm wondering if he was arguing about seeing Derpy in the stands -- but Ponet doesn't even look over this way. Instead, he does a little wave to the far end of the stands, once he's done huffing at the intruder to their conversation.

I try to follow his gaze, sitting up to look over Derpy and Dinky... I'm pretty sure I can see the Mare and Filly he was with at Sal Pimento's. So his other family is here. Looks like he got his Canterlot connections after all.

One of my hands slowly traces over Derpy's back, brushing through her fur as my attention tried to tune back in to the presenter.

" -- and now, we will hear a word from our Founders, before we --"

...And I'm tuning out again, my gaze wandering. I think Dinky is, too. She looks at me, as I reach over and poke her nose with a finger. A little grin appears on her equally little face, before I feel a familiar glowy sensation pressed against mine.

Magic feels... wet, but without leaving you wet. It's weird, but it's the closest comparison I can figure for the sensation.

Dinky's getting good with that manipulation stuff. I might not have much of an understanding to the depths of magic, but I've seen some of the others foals struggle with some things Dinky takes on naturally.

The way Derpy is focused on the presentation, it makes me wonder if she ever wanted this kind of schooling, or if it's reminding her of her time in Cloudsdale. Is their schooling like a traditional school, or is it all one big sports scholarship? There has to be some level of actual, statistical thinking to managing the weather. Otherwise it'd be a complete mess.

Dinky is back to nestling against her mom, watching the speakers. Now a nearly ancient looking Unicorn is up there, speaking. He looks like those old dogs where their face gets all powdery. He's got a wiry, grey beard and some serious eyebrows.

I glance back to the table, and Ponet is whispering to Harlow again. Is he asking him something? Harlow keeps shaking his head. There's a layer of animosity that I feel towards this Unicorn I've never met, because of the wonderful Pegasus I sit beside. But I'd rather spend time loving her than hating him. I'm trying to step away from... those kind of thoughts, I think. So the right path forward should be... supporting her, and how she feels about it, and making sure she's comfortable in those decisions.

But that doesn't mean I won't keep an eye on him. Him working at the University as a professor is something Derpy will probably want to hear about. Which, kind of fucking sucks, because that's going to be a pretty big kick in the pants.

The old, wizened Unicorn is heading back to the table, as the original speaker urges an applause from the crowd -- and another one of the professors moves to walk with him. Damn, the guy must be ancient in pony years. A polite collection of hooves tapping together fills the park for a few moments, as Derpy leans close to me.

"That would be wonderful for Dinky, wouldn't it?" She asks, grinning and looking at me expectantly. The smile falters a smidgen when she sees my blank face, her head tilting.
"Are you doing alright, Anon?"

"...Sorry, I zoned out crowd-watching. What would be?" I clue back in, dropping out of my mental self-discussion.

"Sponsorships!" Derpy explains excitedly, clapping her hooves together and twisting around to face me properly.
"Each Professor is able to personally Sponsor a number of students, 'investing in their future on an individual level', they said!"

"So if Dinky impresses one of the old dudes up there, she could reserve herself a spot at the school?" I nod towards the stage for clarity.

"This could be her in, Anon!" Derpy says. She's practically beaming. Shit, man.

... No, I love this mare. I've gotta let her know, even if it's gonna kick the shit out of her sails. Or wind, or whatever.

"Hey, uh... Derpy." I lean closer, motioning for her to do the same.

She does, bringing her face close to mine.
"If you want a kiss, you can just ask, silly." She whispers playfully, smiling at me.

God, she's so damn cute. I hate that I've got to do this, but I doubt she even knows he's up there.
"Kiss later. No, there's a... small problem."

"There... is? Did I miss something? Oh, no -- Is there a fee for the Sponsorship?" Derpy quickly asks, worry creeping into her voice.

"No, it's... Ponet." I finally manage.

Her face is... confused. She's trying to process what I mean, before she starts glancing around.
"Ponet? What do you mean, Anon?"

"I'm pretty sure Ponet is one of the professors at that table." I let her know -- though I keep out the part about him being in Harlow's ear the entire time. I'm still trying to figure out what's going on there, and I don't need to stir the pot. I point about as subtly as I can towards their table to direct Derpy, as she squints towards the stage.

"Dinky... do you see your father up there, by the table?" Derpy turns, asking Dinky.

Dinky perks up from her idle staring into the crowd, and slumps over her mom again.
"Dad's here? Uh..." She trails off, face scrunching as she looks the table over; as do I. Ponet is talking with Harlow again, as Harlow looks... fairly uninterested. I don't know what Ponet is trying to get across to Harlow, but he's been trying to make a case for it this entire time.
"I think so. Yeah, there he is." She points with a little hoof.

Right. Dinky was pretty young when Ponet left for Canterlot, if I'm remembering what Derpy told me correctly. She might not even remember him very well.

Derpy visibly deflates. I can see she's trying to hide it, to put on a strong face; but it's heartbreaking watching all that excitement seep right out of her after hearing about it.
"I... see. Looks like he got his Canterlot connections after all." She comments quietly, staring at the table. Now that he's been pointed out, she's staring, her face a mixture of emotions.

"I can't send Dinky away to a school in another city where she'll be alone with him, Anon. I can't trust him like that again." Derpy mumbles in upset, biting her lip. Her hooves are starting to fidget, one pawing at the other

Her big plan just came crashing down, thanks to her daughters father. Again. Sure, there were other booths, other careers -- but this was the main one she came here for. She wanted Dinky in a Unicorn-centric school, for the opportunity and growth it would provide her.

"I know, Derpy." I respond softly, trying to comfort her as I brush her back with my fingers. Even if she didn't have classes with him, just knowing her daughter was alone in another city without her, with him, was enough to sour the whole thing.

She leans against me, our heads pressed together as she sniffles. Her wing pulls a confused Dinky closer into a hug, who just shrugs and wraps her hooves around her mom.

Dinky just squints at the table towards Ponet, before holding her mother closer.
"Well, I don't wanna go here then." Dinky states resolutely.
"If they let ponies who make my mom sad teach here, it's a stinky place." Dinky states, resolutely.

"Dinky..." Derpy sighs softly, nuzzling her daughters cheek.

I'm trying to think of what to say in this situation, considering it's a pretty big upturn with no positive spin to put on it, but I'm pulling a blank here.

A few of the ponies around us are starting to get up and shuffle around past each-other towards the stage, probably to start talking to their preferred professors about getting their young ones in, or more about the school. Not like it matters much to us anymore.

Derpy takes a slow, big breath, blinking a few times.
"We can probably just head back to the hotel." She says simply, clearing her throat and lifting her head.

I'd agree with her -- but I see a few of the ponies glance around, confused. I follow their gaze -- and there's two of the gown-wearing professors skirting the stands. Harlow -- and Ponet.

"No matter how much you attempt to persuade me, Ponet, I have made my stance clear on the situation." Harlow states firmly, a furrow to his brow.

Ponet is keeping pace with him, still entirely focused on Harlow as they pass several ponies who try to get their attention, only to be passed by. Harlow does nod politely at them, but excuses himself from their questions to keep walking.

I quickly nudge Derpy, pointing out their rapid approach. She stiffens in realization, but her ear flicks as she listens. They're not close yet, but Ponet isn't exactly speaking quietly.

"But yours is clearly the best for her, Harlow! There's no other teacher at the University who is suitable for --" Ponet continues, but Harlow cuts him off.

"Professor Marsh, Ponet. You forget yourself in your excitement." Harlow snips, his frown deepening as he pulls rank. Ponet must be one of the newer professors, and Harlow fairly tenured.

"Right. Sorry. Of course. Professor Marsh -- Dainty is a prodigy, as I'm sure you've seen!" Ponet pushes after quickly correcting himself.

"And one of the other teachers would gladly take her on as her sponsor. In truth, Ponet, you'd better luck trying to argue in favor of abolishing the Universty's rule against sponsoring your own kiin, than trying to convince me. I've already got somepony in mind." Harlow deflects.

"Wait -- you do? Who?" Ponet asks, before double taking as Harlow stops in front of us.

Harlow goes to greet us, but I see his smile falters as he notices Derpy's expression -- and how it's not aimed at him.

"...Derpy? Why are you here?" Ponet says simply, glancing us over. A confused look lingers on his face as his eyes trail over to me, and just how closely I'm sitting with Derpy.

I can feel Derpy's hoof reach out for my arm, for comfort. I'm quick to grab it, giving it a comforting squeeze. I can feel her take a deep breath, as Ponet looks between us with confusion. The last time she saw Ponet, she was upset -- it was a flood of bad memories.

Now, Derpy looks... pissed. Her brow furrows heavily.

"Looking out for Dinky's future, Ponet. Something you stopped doing some time ago." She bites back suddenly, getting an interested huff out of Harlow. Attagirl. She takes a quick glance at me for reassurance, and I squeeze her hoof again, letting her know I'm here.

"And how is it that you know Miss Hooves, Ponet?" Harlow asks, turning to look at him. Ponet stammers, trying to clear his throat as he's caught in an unintentional ambush at his work, in the public eye. Several other ponies are watching -- at first, because two professors just wandered towards the stands, now because a surprising amount of vitriol was being exuded at their presence.

"Wh--I don't-- She's, uh... Derpy? You can't just --" Ponet tries to deflect, taking a step forward before he stops. I think he just realized that to reach Derpy, he's either got to work through the crowd, or get past me. And he way he keeps looking me over with a confused, disgusted look on his face is telling me he's not a fan of that option either; the nearby families consisting of nobles and upper-class ponies love their gossip, and are already looking over with nosy interest.

And you know, I'm some weird gangly monkey thing. I don't think Ponet is exactly a stallion with a lot of backbone, considering. I'm not going to cut in -- but I won't deny enjoying how much my presence is bothering him.

"I'm the mother of his first child, Professor Marsh." Derpy politely informs him, before looking back to Ponet.

"Ah. I can see the resemblance, now." Harlow hums, glancing back to his colleague.
"I'm surprised you never mentioned it, Ponet. Well, looks like I've good news for you after all."

Ponet looks tense, but perks up at Harlow's words.
"You do?" Ponet asks, surprised. "You mean you'll sponsor --"

"I mean that it seems that I'll be sponsoring your daughter after all, Ponet." Harlow hums, raising his head. There's a glint in his eye.

"Yes! Thank you, Har--Professor Harlow! You won't regret this!" Ponet excitedly remarks, hardly containing his excitement.

"Oh, I know I won't." Harlow turns, facing... Derpy.
"Miss Hooves. I would like to personally extend an offer to Sponsor young Dinky Hooves, here, at the Canterlot Unicorn University." He explains, before nodding his head.
"From our interactions, I believe her a confident, intelligent filly with a bright future ahead of her; if you'll grant me the opportunity to teach her, it would be my pleasure."

"What?" Both Ponet and Derpy say in surprise. Dinky is grinning at the compliments.

Pont looks like he wants to start arguing with Harlow -- and he does try, starting to stammer something about his other daughter, but a curious glance from Harlow shuts him up quickly. In a setting like this, he's one truthful blurt from having his prior actions exposed -- and that would likely spell the end for his little upper-echelon lifestyle he's been clawing towards. Honestly, I'm impressed by Derpy's level of restraint to not just blast him now that she's got him trapped.

But instead, I feel Derpy's hoof gently tap my arm, as she rises to a stand.
"Professor Marsh, your offer to sponsor my daughter is... well, it's everything I hoped for and more. Unfortunately, for as long as her father works as a member of the University's faculty, I couldn't allow Dinky to attend."

"I assure you, Miss Hooves, there is no issue with the students of staff attending the university." Harlow tries to amend, surprised at being turned down.

"That is not the reason, I'm afraid." Derpy states firmly. I think Harlow is picking up on the... animosity between them, the way his gaze slowly lingers between the two of them.

Ponet frowns, lip twitching. He quickly fixes it, trying to hold himself to his earlier demeanor.
"Well, you heard her Harlow. Derpy, you shouldn't be here. This is an event for --" Ponet tries to cut in. I can tell by how antsy he looks, his hearts flipping out every time something slanderous gets even close to being mentioned. He's got no control in this situation, stuck between the public eye and his academic superior.

"Ponet. Perhaps it best you return to the table, with the other teachers." Harlow suddenly turns, speaking bluntly.
"I'm sure there are eager parents for you to speak to about their potential sponsorees."

"Huh? No, it's alright, Professor Marsh. I've been meaning to speak with Derpy about things, and now would be a good opportunity, if we can have a moment alone." Ponet states firmly, shaking his head. Derpy's fur bristles at his words.

Fat chance he's getting that while I'm around.

"I'm afraid you misheard my words as a request, Ponet. I advise you to return to the stage, if you hold any interest at continuing to teach at this educational institution." Harlow states firmly, stepping closer to Ponet.

The other families sitting around us are already whispering, adding pressure.
Ponet purses his lips, glancing between him and Derpy -- throwing a final glare in my direction, he mutters something and trots back towards the stage.

I can feel Derpy exhale as Ponet departs, having held her breath the entire time.

"Hey -- it's alright. You did good." I whisper to her, pushing myself to a stand as well. Dinky hops up, looking at her mom curiously.

"Are you certain, Miss Hooves? If there's any issues, we can discuss them. Plenty of time before her proper enrollment. " Harlow asks, gaze softening.

"I'm sorry to turn down your offer, Professor Marsh. It means a lot to us that you're willing to invest yourself in Dinky's future, but... I can't. There's nothing we could discuss that could change that. I'm sorry." She repeats, her head lowering. Without Ponet, she's not as on guard, and I can hear the tremble in her voice.

"You need not apologize, Miss Hooves. I understand. Thank you for attending nonetheless." Harlow says simply, bowing his head.
"If you'll excuse me, I should return to the stage. If you need anything -- please don't hesitate to ask for me."

Derpy nods, biting her lip as we're left alone. Well, as alone as we could be in a crowd, with a few lingering eyes and hushed whispers about what just played out. They mostly seem surprised at the turn-down of the offer, something that almost never occurs.

"Can we go?" Derpy asks me softly.

"Of course." I'm quick to respond, making sure Derpy dismounts the stands without issue. Dinky is hot on her moms heels, a concerned face sat on the usually cheery, confidence-brimming filly.

It's only moments, passing the waiting guard and exiting the park, that we're back on the way to the estate. We didn't stay the full length of the event, so the evening sun still hangs overhead, casting long shadows and tinting the sky a warm orange, as we quietly walk the side-streets back.

Dinky is glued to her moms side, unsure of what to do. The whole interaction was a little beyond her age.

But Derpy is stuck firmly to my side, leaning against me and the hand resting on her back as we walk.