1. Merry Ambrosial Saltation
The laughter rose from the hors d'œuvres table like the tinkling of tiny bells from the VIPs admitted first to the ball. It was an invite-only event and only those who were on the highest of popularity among Canterlot were invited. Of course, so were the craftsponies who had designed their ensembles and donated towards the occasion. Among them was a small pegasus from Mareami who seemed quite plain aside from her decadent gown. She had designed it herself based entirely around the true masterpiece that set over her eyes. She strolled over to the table, smiling at the masked faces that she had crafted with care with her own hooves. The colors were vibrant, beautiful, and enchanting. The designs were genius, unique, and elegant. She had been able to make something everypony here want- no- need to have. They had fawned all over her in attempts to be placed higher on her work roster, some even willing to throw in a few extra bits on the side. She had opened a tiny storefront in Canterlot only a year ago- nothing more than a large window display, a door with a bell, and a counter to hold the lockbox she had used in Mareami when she first began selling the masks. It had exploded when she was able to move to Canterlot and became a huge sensation. Every popular pony of status and name were now raving about masquerades to be hosted in every grand hall available. Other mask shops began to open, but none could quite compare with the stunning colors the original shop would produce. The store had grown and expanded since then to accommodation the need of those who wanted a true Mask Q. Rae mask. It was only natural that she would name it after herself.
Mask Q. Rae Masks. Of course, that was not her true name. None really ever knew or asked what her real name even was. They didn't even care as long as they were able to get the glamorous accessory in time for their next event. She sold clothing and other hoof-made items too now, but it was more of a hobby than an actual business investment. And now? Now, Mask stood among her clients. She looked upon the decorated faces she had created and smiled. This was living. And how beautiful this life was. She had finally made it to the top. An entrepreneur like herself from the outskirts of a major city finally came to the royal city under the power of her own creations. She was now invited to the galas and balls hosted by those of her clients as a very important pony once they were enamored by their requests coming to life. This was one such masquerade filled with laughter, romance, and dance. A silver coated stallion donning an elegant vest that matched her gown's accents drifted beside her, nosing her in the side to catch her attention from the awe held from the sight of her own masks on other faces. She looked to him until he gestured towards the front entry way. As she turned, the line of other invitees were finally introduced into the grand hall. She grinned at the duller masks, knowing they would look enviously upon her own creations. She knew they would regret not paying the hefty price behind such a beautiful new face.
She trotted towards others who she knew were also in the mask making business and greeted them cordially. The stallion came silently in tow, standing behind her like a tall, silent protector. "Feather Fleet! Oh how are you dear? And of course the lovely Ribbon May, pleasure as always." She addressed each one of them with a courteous nod and a smile. Unicorns. Pitiful unicorns who knew nothing of the true powers using a hoof had during the crafting process. That was the one thing she absolutely despised about Canterlot. All of the unicorns thinking they have the ability to truly craft something phenomenal with just their worthless magic. They too had worn their best masks which didn't even sum up to par with her worst masks. Pitiful things. She would never reveal her secrets though to her competitors, though she would gladly accept their envy and adoration. The compliments pooled in left and right from those glancing towards the group of chattering VIPs. Truly spectacular. Intriguing design. Such lovely feathers. Her heart glowed and her smile was beaming. This truly was the life. Other craftsponies came in that she wasn't all too familiar with, though she had certainly heard their names before. Namebrand crafters whose gowns and vests were flaunted proudly by their clients just as much as her designs were on their faces. The galas were a party of showing off status to the majority of the ponies attending, but they were a vicious competition among the fierce rivaling designers who accompanied them. The music swirled and the dancing begun. Dignified waltzes rose from the live chamber quintet and Mask moved to the floor with her companion.
"You seem happy," He stated simply as they drifted together, murmuring only in her ear, glancing to the other couples that took to the floor as well.
"I am happy," She answered promptly, glancing over his shoulder to the crowds swaying and surging together as a single mass. "Are you happy, Steel Spirit? I couldn't have possibly gotten all of these orders done without your help. You have just as much reason to be proud of the finished products as I do."
The turned and another couple drew near. He remained silent until they passed. "I am always happy by your side, Miss. Mask." It was a casual response. He had said it time and time again as though it were written permanently in the script of life.
"Such the charmer." She said with a hint of joking sarcasm in her voice. "We can just relax and have fun tonight. There aren't any other major events until the end of the month."
Steel Spirit nodded simply, sweeping her deeper into the twirling depth of the dance floor. He continually watched the other groups carefully as the two danced. It was only for appearances, he reminded himself, this is just business as usual. He was there only to serve and protect the tiny mare as he had promised her grandmother all those years ago. If there was anything Steel Spirit did, it was keep a promise.
The night continued on with the same merry laughter, ambrosial romance, and dancing saltation deep into the late hours...
Author's Note
First entry into Feather Blessed Genocides. Just who is Mask Q. Rae and how harsh is this competition? What is the secret between the silent Steel Spirit and the mask maker? Will we ever hear more about her competitors Feather Fleet and Ribbon May? Tune in next chapter for more!
