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[ask-healthy-light]

Here are Celica Soldream, Loophoof, Odyssey Eurobeat Brony, and Stable2Stallion in a post of their own, either because they added a lovely little message or because of how unique a signature of theirs actually is ^^

Honestly getting these images from iPhone's HEIC file type to PNG was harder than the ground I slept on during the event after my air mattress gave me a skull-splitting headache after the first night haha

I hope to be back with somewhat more regular material soon ^^

Phew, three weeks of consecutive events sure does a number on your energy... But it was definitely worth it.

Speaking of which, howdy y'all, I'm back from my travels! In a moment I'll publish the story I wrote for @allyooops and @whirlwindflux's wedding for all y'all to see (maybe in a few parts because it's half a dozen A4 pages long), and after this I'll share at least a few of the simple doodles I made during the festival last week.

I don't know if I have the time to get back to daily writing yet, but the next few months are going to be far less eventful than the last three weeks, at least.

[ask-healthy-light]

Only 30 images allowed at once, DANGIT

Well, reckon I'll save a few nice ones for last, here's the main batch ^^ In order of appearance (hopefully haha), we have Mimic Harmony, Pagan Pegasus, Patchu (AKA. PatchNpaw), Pathfinder Project, Pinkaboo, Shimmer_Light, Single Purpose (AKA. Tom Hengst), Sound Check, Rhythm Sticks, Sushi (AKA. Blaze the Bass), Captain Thrack, Turquoise Splash, Tw3lv3, Waranto Wingbeat, Zecora PrinceWhateverer, Blackened Blue, BlocDrummer, Bolt the Super Pony, DeusNegotiator (AKA. UmbraDeus or just Deus), DJ Direkt, ElectroKaplosion, Fillip (AKA. DJ Neko Black), Koron Korak, Lavender Harmony, Cracking Lazer, and MelodyBrony

Final four coming right after this ^^

Phew, three weeks of consecutive events sure does a number on your energy... But it was definitely worth it.

Speaking of which, howdy y'all, I'm back from my travels! In a moment I'll publish the story I wrote for @allyooops and @whirlwindflux's wedding for all y'all to see (maybe in a few parts because it's half a dozen A4 pages long), and after this I'll share at least a few of the simple doodles I made during the festival last week.

I don't know if I have the time to get back to daily writing yet, but the next few months are going to be far less eventful than the last three weeks, at least.

[ask-healthy-light]

So, turns out I have a total of 31 doodles of every performer at Everfree Encore, and I’m not sure if Tumblr will support that many images at once haha

Phew, three weeks of consecutive events sure does a number on your energy... But it was definitely worth it.

Speaking of which, howdy y'all, I'm back from my travels! In a moment I'll publish the story I wrote for @allyooops and @whirlwindflux's wedding for all y'all to see (maybe in a few parts because it's half a dozen A4 pages long), and after this I'll share at least a few of the simple doodles I made during the festival last week.

I don't know if I have the time to get back to daily writing yet, but the next few months are going to be far less eventful than the last three weeks, at least.

[ask-healthy-light]

Almost immediately, Hopper leapt off the couch to greet their freezing friends and her shivering significant other, followed by Melon and Light, Inquiry and Lucid, and DC and Dusty. The group of arrivals barely had time to clean their hooves before they were pelted by warm hugs and blankets.

To their simultaneous concern and amusement, Hopper’s ecstatic embrace of Code proved too much for him, and they fell backwards onto the floor, rolling over each other as they did. Fortunately, in their embrace, the two tumblers and all their friends laughed heartily as they helped the other up.

The lobby had become terribly busy with a dozen Ponies, a Kirin, and a Changeling, so the tallest trio of Light, Dusty, and DC decided to make some space. With a few quick gestures and nods to each other, they split up, and headed to the kitchen, the lounge, and the storage room down the hall.

By the time greetings were exchanged, blankets were draped, and coats and boots were neatly hung and placed in the cloakroom, heavy thuds were heard in the lounge, Dusty walked there with piles of blankets and pillows, and Light followed him with over half a dozen trays of drinks behind them.

With a discreet triple hoofbump as they appeared again, the trio gently tapped on the shoulders of a few friends, and pointed them towards the lounge, until the combined groups were all sitting in the more spacious room, huddled together with their partners and close friends while trying to warm up.

For some time hereafter, the hearth brightened and warmed the entire room, the air was filled with good cheer, and hot drinks were enjoyed and shared with everyone around. Eventually, both Hopper and Code got up, still huddled together under a blanket and beaming in front of the group, and said:

“We just... wanted to thank everyone, for being here. It’s a long distance to travel – and the weather certainly did not help – but your presence, support, kindness, it means so much to us that you’re all here. We shared the advice that so many of you gave us both, and all of it was a great reassurance.”

“That being said...” Hopper added with a smile, “there are a few Ponies we haven’t heard from yet. There’s no pressure, but we do wonder if anyone still wants to share anything.” Code looked at Honey and Prism, but just as they hesitantly nodded, Hopper pointed out how excited Inquiry was.

Although Lucid was slightly red in the face, Inq still sweetly nudged him and asked him to join her, when he embraced her with a bright smile, and said: “Life with a significant other is unique for everyone. But I think we can all agree that it’s rarely the big moments that are most meaningful.”

“Whether it’s cooking with Inq, walking through the forest with her, Flora, and our twins, or having a picnic together, every little thing we do makes me love her and our kids even more. Wouldn’t you say so, dearest?” But Inquiry just stared back in awe, as he had said exactly what she had in mind.

So excited to gush about the things she loved to do with Lucid, and he just said everything that she wanted to say in such a calm way… So Inq just crossed her arms and pouted in exaggeration, until Lucid apologised to her with a soft kiss on her neck, and two cups of tea for them both to enjoy.

The adorable and by now familiar sight made the rest of the group embrace their significant other as well, before all eyes fell on Honey and Prism. Despite their apparent willingness to speak, however, a pair of hooves then slowly raised at the same time, to the surprise of all the couples in the room.

Neither of the two friends minded the many questioning gazes of the others, so Slice briefly said with a chuckle: “Do what you love...” when Sail added: “...and share in your partner’s joy.” They had nothing more to add, so they gestured to Honey and Prism, the last ones in the group to speak.

The two usually energetic lovebirds slowly got up and stayed close together, appearing to feel rather tense before so many mutual friends. After they whispered to each other, and smiled again, they took a deep breath, and said: “We don’t know if it’s fate or coincidence that we are here, together.”

“If it had not been for Code or Hopper,” who smiled warmly in response, “or for the many folks supporting us when we put ourselves out there,” as they glanced at the others, and Flux and Melon in particular, “we doubt that we would be here to give advice… let alone our sincerest gratitude.”

“All in all,” they slowly continued, “after we spoke with friends here, we know now what advice to give you, which you apparently both worried about.” Honey and Prism then walked over to Hopper and Code, took their respective hooves, and after wiping away a few tears, they slowly told them:

“You two are whole, and complete, and perfect, even without the other…”

“...yet together, you make each other even better, in every way imaginable.”

Then, they gestured for everyone else to get up, before the entire group collectively said:

“And all of us wish you the very best, forever.”

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 (current)

Featuring: Whirlwind Flux, Single Slice, Sailboard, Prismatic Tilt, and Crafty Code from @whirlwindflux Grasshopper Pie from @allyooops Inquiry and DC from @askinquiry Melon Grumps and Honeydew Delight from @ask-a-grumpy-melon Aerial Aim from @aerialaim

Metamorphosis/Dust Jacket from @askashapeshifter Night Spinner/Lucid from @asknightspinner

Part 5 of the wedding story for @allyooops and @whirlwindflux

[ask-healthy-light]

Both outside and in, the duos of partners either slowed their pace or their drinking to come up with an answer that would reassure their respective friends. Not a soul uttered a single word, save for Sail and Slice, quietly whispering from the back of the group about what the others could tell Code.

Eventually, the first one who slowly spoke up was Melon at the Inn, who shared a knowing nod and a small smile with Light, before she leaned closer, took Hopper’s hoof, and let out a deep sigh. “In all honesty,” she started, “every day we’re together, we learn more about ourselves, and each other.”

“Knowing that there is someone who will listen when my mind is full, hold me close when my heart feels heavy, or help in any way they can when my body is working against me, and understands that they can come to me if they are dealing with the same struggles… It’s a truly incredible feeling.”

As Light softly embraced her with the blanket they wore, her smile brightened, and her face turned redder as they solemnly added: “There is not a single moment that I regret spending with Melon. Together, we can solve any problem we face, help each other grow, even learn from one another.”

“Plus,” they whispered with a small smirk, “you learn where the other is most ticklish, too~” Before Melon could react, Light blew a raspberry into her neck, making her laugh uncontrollably as she fell back into their mane, where they wrapped her in the blanket to give her a soft kiss on her forehead...

The adorable sight made everyone around them smile and laugh as a little ball of warmth lit up their chest, while outside, Flux and Aerie realised that Code was falling behind, so after the two quiet lovebirds let both Sail and Slice walk past them, they patiently waited for their friend to catch up.

When Flux noticed that Code was shivering, he offered him his scarf, to which he merely shook his head, and replied that “you need it more than I.” But a moment later, after he locked eyes with Aerial, he wrapped his scarf around Code’s neck anyway, and offered him a shoulder to lean on.

“Thanks, both of you,” Code said with a warm smile on his cold face, “but I’ll be all right. I’ve been through weather far worse than this.” In turn, Aerial replied: “That may be so, but we see a different story, and we won’t leave you alone. We headed out as a group, so we’ll all arrive together as well.”

“You did ask for advice just now, didn’t you? Well, if others see you’re struggling, and they want to help, no matter whether it’s family, friends, or even your partner,” Flux added with a smile to Aerie, “you should learn when to accept a hoof when it’s offered to you, and the same goes for them.”

“Trust me,” Aerie interjected with a warm smile, “when I say that it took forever before either of us truly understood that we could not do everything by ourselves. I promise it’s all right to ask for help, for support, for advice and guidance; it does not make you any less worthy of all of that stuff.”

At that moment, as Honey excitedly pointed out a light through the trees, back at the Inn she saw in the distance, DC laid his other wing over the back of Dust Jacket. But before he could say anything, his partner slowly turned back into the tall Changeling the others knew well, which made him smile.

“Well, no idea how you knew,” he said in a dry tone, “but that works for me, Schnookums.” The tall Morph just rolled his eyes as he gave DC a kiss on his cheek, before the latter looked at Hopper in his wing, and told her that “change is natural, even expected, but you should never fear or refuse it.”

“Regardless of how much you or your partner have changed in body, mind, or soul, you’ll still be in love with the same person as yesterday, last year, a decade ago. Even my Snuggle Bug,” whose face turned a dim red, “who can change on a whim, is still the same teasing dork I met so long ago.”

With a slow and deep sigh, Morph turned back into Dusty, and solemnly added: “It was not always like this. DC made it very clear when I crossed a line, and it took a long time for us both; for me to unlearn my behaviour, and for DC to trust me enough to allow my teasing again – in moderation.”

“I think it worked out very well,” DC said in return, “for even after a decade of being together, just like Scales over there said,” terribly confusing Light when he gestured at them, “talking with each other about everything big and small worked wonders, and we’re still learning what to look out for.”

The wise words and advice of the tall Pegasus and Changeling-turned-Unicorn made the others nod slowly and smile, before they turned towards Inquiry and Lucid, the last of the present couples to speak. But then, Light’s ear twitched, and as their head snapped towards the entryway, they said:

“They’re here, they made it!”

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 (current) | Part 5

Featuring: Whirlwind Flux, Single Slice, Sailboard, Prismatic Tilt, and Crafty Code from @whirlwindflux Grasshopper Pie from @allyooops Inquiry and DC from @askinquiry Melon Grumps and Honeydew Delight from @ask-a-grumpy-melon Aerial Aim from @aerialaim

Metamorphosis/Dust Jacket from @askashapeshifter Night Spinner/Lucid from @asknightspinner

Part 4 of the wedding story for @allyooops and @whirlwindflux

[ask-healthy-light]

When the train stopped, the travellers stepped onto the snow-covered platform, with many shivering briefly as they got used to the cold. Strangely enough, while none of the Earth Ponies were bothered, Aerial Aim did not feel cold either, but she knew they had to make haste to the Inn.

Fortunately, Prism and Honeydew had visited often before, and Crafty had written down and memorised the route before they travelled here, so they led the group from the station, all the way through the quiet, dimly lit, and peaceful town, until they reached the edge of a forest of pine trees.

In front of the forest, there was a chuckle amongst the group, before a voice spoke up to say: “Now I get the name… but I wonder where the ‘Spring’ is.” In response, Honey kindly answered that “It’s actually pretty close to the Inn, Sail. But it’s much nicer in Summer, when the lake ain’t frozen.”

“Come on now, y’all,” she said with a warm smile, “it’s just a stone’s throw to my Sister’s Inn from here. We’ll be sittin’ by the hearth in no time!” With these words, she grabbed a small lantern from her backpack, lit the wick inside, and happily gestured for the others to follow as she lit up the path.

On their way through the forest, Code smiled as he thought about Hopper, who did the same as she thought about him, still sitting in the wings of Dream Catcher at the Inn, drinking her tea. Here, she told the others she felt better, and politely thanked them, as Code thanked the group for joining him.

Unbeknownst to the other, however, whether by magic or pure chance, their thoughts lined up perfectly, even through both their occupied minds. “Before I forget,” they quietly asked at the same time, “I wanted to ask you all for advice. Not on planning or baking, but something more personal.”

When both Code and Hopper got the undivided attention of their respective groups, and silence filled the room and the forest around them, only broken by the cracking wood in the hearthfire, and their muffled hoofsteps in the thick blanket of snow, they took a deep breath, and solemnly asked:

“What have you learnt about yourself that you believe I should know? Or about your significant other? Or your relationship overall?”

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 (current) | Part 4 | Part 5

Featuring: Whirlwind Flux, Single Slice, Sailboard, Prismatic Tilt, and Crafty Code from @whirlwindflux Grasshopper Pie from @allyooops Inquiry and DC from @askinquiry Melon Grumps and Honeydew Delight from @ask-a-grumpy-melon Aerial Aim from @aerialaim

Part 3 of the wedding story for @allyooops and @whirlwindflux

[ask-healthy-light]

A couple of leagues away, a train was making its way through the ever intensifying snowfall, slowly making its way to Pine Springs; a little village along the tracks between Canterlot and the Crystal Empire, that laid adjacent to both a forest and a lake, and where few passengers ever disembarked.

Over the speakers, the Conductor politely announced that the train would have to wait at the next station until the storm had passed, which annoyed plenty of passengers, while others cared little. In one of the coaches, an unusual group of these indifferent and mostly jovial Ponies could be found.

Dressed in thick winter clothing and carrying many bags, it had taken them a long time to make it to their destination. The half baker’s dozen of Pegasi, Earth Ponies, and a Unicorn spent the increasing time in the train talking with each other, cuddling, or listening to music – or a combination thereof.

While neither the chatting duo of Earth Ponies, nor the two cuddling Pegasi, or even the couple of both races cared about the delay, the quiet Unicorn repeatedly looked out of the window and back to the pocket watch he was holding, counting the seconds as they ticked by while smiling to his music.

As he watched the landscape roll by at what felt like no more than a single hoof per hour, the Earth Ponies sitting opposite him checked in on him every so often. They knew how much he had been working and organising over the last few months, so they just wanted to make sure he was all right.

The smile on the face of the blueish-grey Unicorn turned slightly sombre as a hint of fatigue slipped through his facade, but after he took a deep breath, he solemnly thanked the two for looking out for him, before he promised them that he would definitely be all right when they made it to the Inn.

Upon uttering that word, however, the nigh rainbow-maned Pegasus quickly replied: “I still say it’s a bad idea for me to come along, y’know”. But in response, the yellow-coated Mare in his wings said with a sarcastic sigh: “Oh, come on. I told you, my big Sis has already said she’s fine with us.”

After she gave him a quick kiss on his cheek and ruffled his mane, the grey Pegasus did the same in return, before he loudly whispered that “It’s not your Sister I’m worried about…” as he gestured to the white-coated Pegasus sitting across from him, staring daggers at him from the corner of her eye.

At that moment, there was a loud thunk that made the grey Pegasus recoil in pain, before the last Pegasus in the group said with a sly smile that “We’re all friends here, right, Prism? I’m certain that you won’t cause anypony any trouble, especially with how busy things have been for Code lately.”

As Crafty Code and the blue-maned Pegasus discreetly shared a solemn nod, Prism rubbed his shin, and let out a deep sigh, before he sincerely smiled, and promised that he would behave. In turn, Code thanked him and his brother, but just turned his music on again as he looked out the window.

Because of this, and due to him being lost in thought as he stared into the snowy night, Code did not notice the subtle glances and close whispering between the two adjacent Pegasi, until he felt a soft wing over his back, followed by the warm smile and kind eyes of his Muse, interrupting his musing.

“It won’t be long until we’re there”, the Pegasus reassured, “but I know that look far too well. What’s on your mind, Code?” In response, Code merely looked at the two Earth Ponies opposite him, and glanced past his Muse to the other table, when the expression on his face grew bittersweet.

“I know I’m the luckiest Stallion in the land to be marrying somepony as wonderful, and caring, and kind, as Hopper”, Code sombrely said, “but I just can’t shake this feeling that’s been nagging at me, Flux. Looking at you and Aerie, and Prism and Honey, it just makes me feel… I don’t know...”

“Imperfect?”, Flux quietly asked, wearing a small smile on his face. With the attention of all the others on the two long-time friends, Code sighed deeply in turn, slowly nodded in agreement, and said: “Yeah… Hopper makes me better, and I want to be my very best self for her, but I worry that-”

Then, before either of the two could utter another word, a crackle sounded over the speaker, and the voice of the train conductor announced that the next station was just ahead. Despite the terrible delay because of the ever intensifying snow, they would arrive at Pine Springs in a few moments.

The good news made everypony in the cabin breathe a sigh of relief, before they steadily got up, put on their coats and scarves, and grabbed the suitcases they had taken along. With a bit of magic help from Code, the group headed to the doors, where Flux said:

“Only a stone’s throw until you two can hug each other again, Crafty…”

Part 1 | Part 2 (current) | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5

Featuring: Honeydew Delight from @ask-a-grumpy-melon Aerial Aim from @aerialaim Whirlwind Flux, Single Slice, Sailboard, Prismatic Tilt, and Crafty Code from @whirlwindflux

Part 2 of the wedding story for @allyooops and @whirlwindflux

[ask-healthy-light]

The ground outside slowly turned white as the day grew colder and darker, while burning logs creaked and cracked, placed in the hearth and set ablaze by a good friend. The fire lit up the familiar and homely room, while a Pony they all knew and loved paced back and forth in front of the flames.

The green-coated Mare spoke to herself, audible to all of her friends that were silently watching her as she walked to and fro before them, wearing kind but concerned smiles on their faces. They all dearly wished to ease her doubts, but knew there was little more they could do than be there for her.

Occasionally during her worried wandering, she re-adjusted her spectacles using her magic before they fell off her faintly freckled face. But even then, she did not pause, or take more than a mere moment to breathe, before she went right back into one of seemingly endless lists she had in mind.

At that moment, the usually stern innkeeper turned to her blue-coated partner, who simply nodded before trotting off to the kitchen, while she stepped in to lead the pacing, panicked, pink-maned Pony to the couch, directly into the big soft wings and caring arms of her oldest and closest friends.

Even here, though, despite being covered by a blanket and gently hushed and comforted by close to half a dozen friends who were there for her, Grasshopper Pie continued to chatter away about everything she still had to do before her big day, happening just over half a year from this moment.

Fortunately, when the blonde Kirin returned, carrying many trays of drinks and wearing a shy smile on their face, they asked Hopper which drink she wanted. “For such a complex situation”, they said, “I didn’t know if coffee, tea, or hot cocoa was the best choice, so I made all three… for everyone.”

To the relief of Healthy Light, all the Ponies before them smiled, before they politely thanked them for the drinks they set down on the table. As Light and Melon Grumps sat down, they carefully grabbed two cups of cocoa, while the quiet librarian picked tea for herself, her partner, and Hopper.

With Hopper nestled in the black wings of the rainbow-maned Pegasus, however, he whispered to the grey Unicorn next to him that he could not move, and sweetly asked him for coffee. With a peck on his cheek, a kind smile on his face, and a brief roll of his eyes, he obliged, and grabbed two cups.

The tea was wonderfully sweet, and Hopper slowly let out an immense sigh of relief as she relaxed for the first time in hours. Every couple moved closer together as the room grew quiet, until Hopper thanked Light for the sweet tea, Melon for her hospitality, and all her friends for being there for her.

Although she had asked Melon if she could come here to clear her mind, and to ask the others for advice, Hopper had thusfar failed to do both, so she apologised for being inconsiderate. Her friends would have none of it, however, and Inquiry immediately replied she had nothing to apologise for.

With such an incredible event steadily approaching, one that all of them had only ever dreamed of, they fully understood why she felt so stressed. There was a massive weight on her shoulders, she had to arrange countless things, and worst of all, she had to make so many cupcakes for everyone…

Hopper briefly chuckled in return, before she sighed deeply, and almost sombrely said: “I just… It needs to be perfect, for both of us. I can’t let Code down… I just can’t.” None of the present Ponies, Changeling, nor Kirin, knew whether there was anything to say that would ease her burdened mind.

Despite this, Inquiry just sweetly smiled, gently held her hoof, and said: “We’re here for you. All of us want to be here for you. And if there’s anything we can do, you have but to ask.” Her words were met with unanimous agreement from the others, who all smiled at Hopper as she looked around.

A small smile slowly grew upon her face as she finished her tea, before she carefully put the cup on the table, and quietly asked Inquiry for a hug, which she was more than happy to give. Not to be outdone, DC wrapped the two of them in his great wings, and promised that she would be okay.

As her eyes welled up with tears of joy and of sadness, Hopper sniffled that she knew, and she could count herself lucky to be surrounded by so many wonderful and caring friends. Still, as she wiped away her tears, she whispered that “I wish Crafty was here, too… Seeing you all together like this.”

With a smile as warm as the fire in the hearth, one she had given her little Flora countless times in times of duress, and a beautiful kindness in her eyes, Inquiry carefully cleaned Hopper’s face of tears, before she squeezed her hooves, and sweetly said:

“He’ll be here soon. I’m certain of it.”

Part 1 (current) | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5

Featuring: Inquiry and DC from @askinquiry Melon Grumps from @ask-a-grumpy-melon Grasshopper Pie from @allyooops

Part 1 of the wedding story for @allyooops and @whirlwindflux

[ask-healthy-light]

Almost immediately, Hopper leapt off the couch to greet their freezing friends and her shivering significant other, followed by Melon and Light, Inquiry and Lucid, and DC and Dusty. The group of arrivals barely had time to clean their hooves before they were pelted by warm hugs and blankets.

To their simultaneous concern and amusement, Hopper’s ecstatic embrace of Code proved too much for him, and they fell backwards onto the floor, rolling over each other as they did. Fortunately, in their embrace, the two tumblers and all their friends laughed heartily as they helped the other up.

The lobby had become terribly busy with a dozen Ponies, a Kirin, and a Changeling, so the tallest trio of Light, Dusty, and DC decided to make some space. With a few quick gestures and nods to each other, they split up, and headed to the kitchen, the lounge, and the storage room down the hall.

By the time greetings were exchanged, blankets were draped, and coats and boots were neatly hung and placed in the cloakroom, heavy thuds were heard in the lounge, Dusty walked there with piles of blankets and pillows, and Light followed him with over half a dozen trays of drinks behind them.

With a discreet triple hoofbump as they appeared again, the trio gently tapped on the shoulders of a few friends, and pointed them towards the lounge, until the combined groups were all sitting in the more spacious room, huddled together with their partners and close friends while trying to warm up.

For some time hereafter, the hearth brightened and warmed the entire room, the air was filled with good cheer, and hot drinks were enjoyed and shared with everyone around. Eventually, both Hopper and Code got up, still huddled together under a blanket and beaming in front of the group, and said:

“We just... wanted to thank everyone, for being here. It’s a long distance to travel – and the weather certainly did not help – but your presence, support, kindness, it means so much to us that you’re all here. We shared the advice that so many of you gave us both, and all of it was a great reassurance.”

“That being said...” Hopper added with a smile, “there are a few Ponies we haven’t heard from yet. There’s no pressure, but we do wonder if anyone still wants to share anything.” Code looked at Honey and Prism, but just as they hesitantly nodded, Hopper pointed out how excited Inquiry was.

Although Lucid was slightly red in the face, Inq still sweetly nudged him and asked him to join her, when he embraced her with a bright smile, and said: “Life with a significant other is unique for everyone. But I think we can all agree that it’s rarely the big moments that are most meaningful.”

“Whether it’s cooking with Inq, walking through the forest with her, Flora, and our twins, or having a picnic together, every little thing we do makes me love her and our kids even more. Wouldn’t you say so, dearest?” But Inquiry just stared back in awe, as he had said exactly what she had in mind.

So excited to gush about the things she loved to do with Lucid, and he just said everything that she wanted to say in such a calm way… So Inq just crossed her arms and pouted in exaggeration, until Lucid apologised to her with a soft kiss on her neck, and two cups of tea for them both to enjoy.

The adorable and by now familiar sight made the rest of the group embrace their significant other as well, before all eyes fell on Honey and Prism. Despite their apparent willingness to speak, however, a pair of hooves then slowly raised at the same time, to the surprise of all the couples in the room.

Neither of the two friends minded the many questioning gazes of the others, so Slice briefly said with a chuckle: “Do what you love...” when Sail added: “...and share in your partner’s joy.” They had nothing more to add, so they gestured to Honey and Prism, the last ones in the group to speak.

The two usually energetic lovebirds slowly got up and stayed close together, appearing to feel rather tense before so many mutual friends. After they whispered to each other, and smiled again, they took a deep breath, and said: “We don’t know if it’s fate or coincidence that we are here, together.”

“If it had not been for Code or Hopper,” who smiled warmly in response, “or for the many folks supporting us when we put ourselves out there,” as they glanced at the others, and Flux and Melon in particular, “we doubt that we would be here to give advice… let alone our sincerest gratitude.”

“All in all,” they slowly continued, “after we spoke with friends here, we know now what advice to give you, which you apparently both worried about.” Honey and Prism then walked over to Hopper and Code, took their respective hooves, and after wiping away a few tears, they slowly told them:

“You two are whole, and complete, and perfect, even without the other…”

“...yet together, you make each other even better, in every way imaginable.”

Then, they gestured for everyone else to get up, before the entire group collectively said:

“And all of us wish you the very best, forever.”

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 (current)

Featuring: Whirlwind Flux, Single Slice, Sailboard, Prismatic Tilt, and Crafty Code from @whirlwindflux Grasshopper Pie from @allyooops Inquiry and DC from @askinquiry Melon Grumps and Honeydew Delight from @ask-a-grumpy-melon Aerial Aim from @aerialaim

Metamorphosis/Dust Jacket from @askashapeshifter Night Spinner/Lucid from @asknightspinner

Part 5 of the wedding story for @allyooops and @whirlwindflux

[ask-healthy-light]

Both outside and in, the duos of partners either slowed their pace or their drinking to come up with an answer that would reassure their respective friends. Not a soul uttered a single word, save for Sail and Slice, quietly whispering from the back of the group about what the others could tell Code.

Eventually, the first one who slowly spoke up was Melon at the Inn, who shared a knowing nod and a small smile with Light, before she leaned closer, took Hopper’s hoof, and let out a deep sigh. “In all honesty,” she started, “every day we’re together, we learn more about ourselves, and each other.”

“Knowing that there is someone who will listen when my mind is full, hold me close when my heart feels heavy, or help in any way they can when my body is working against me, and understands that they can come to me if they are dealing with the same struggles… It’s a truly incredible feeling.”

As Light softly embraced her with the blanket they wore, her smile brightened, and her face turned redder as they solemnly added: “There is not a single moment that I regret spending with Melon. Together, we can solve any problem we face, help each other grow, even learn from one another.”

“Plus,” they whispered with a small smirk, “you learn where the other is most ticklish, too~” Before Melon could react, Light blew a raspberry into her neck, making her laugh uncontrollably as she fell back into their mane, where they wrapped her in the blanket to give her a soft kiss on her forehead...

The adorable sight made everyone around them smile and laugh as a little ball of warmth lit up their chest, while outside, Flux and Aerie realised that Code was falling behind, so after the two quiet lovebirds let both Sail and Slice walk past them, they patiently waited for their friend to catch up.

When Flux noticed that Code was shivering, he offered him his scarf, to which he merely shook his head, and replied that “you need it more than I.” But a moment later, after he locked eyes with Aerial, he wrapped his scarf around Code’s neck anyway, and offered him a shoulder to lean on.

“Thanks, both of you,” Code said with a warm smile on his cold face, “but I’ll be all right. I’ve been through weather far worse than this.” In turn, Aerial replied: “That may be so, but we see a different story, and we won’t leave you alone. We headed out as a group, so we’ll all arrive together as well.”

“You did ask for advice just now, didn’t you? Well, if others see you’re struggling, and they want to help, no matter whether it’s family, friends, or even your partner,” Flux added with a smile to Aerie, “you should learn when to accept a hoof when it’s offered to you, and the same goes for them.”

“Trust me,” Aerie interjected with a warm smile, “when I say that it took forever before either of us truly understood that we could not do everything by ourselves. I promise it’s all right to ask for help, for support, for advice and guidance; it does not make you any less worthy of all of that stuff.”

At that moment, as Honey excitedly pointed out a light through the trees, back at the Inn she saw in the distance, DC laid his other wing over the back of Dust Jacket. But before he could say anything, his partner slowly turned back into the tall Changeling the others knew well, which made him smile.

“Well, no idea how you knew,” he said in a dry tone, “but that works for me, Schnookums.” The tall Morph just rolled his eyes as he gave DC a kiss on his cheek, before the latter looked at Hopper in his wing, and told her that “change is natural, even expected, but you should never fear or refuse it.”

“Regardless of how much you or your partner have changed in body, mind, or soul, you’ll still be in love with the same person as yesterday, last year, a decade ago. Even my Snuggle Bug,” whose face turned a dim red, “who can change on a whim, is still the same teasing dork I met so long ago.”

With a slow and deep sigh, Morph turned back into Dusty, and solemnly added: “It was not always like this. DC made it very clear when I crossed a line, and it took a long time for us both; for me to unlearn my behaviour, and for DC to trust me enough to allow my teasing again – in moderation.”

“I think it worked out very well,” DC said in return, “for even after a decade of being together, just like Scales over there said,” terribly confusing Light when he gestured at them, “talking with each other about everything big and small worked wonders, and we’re still learning what to look out for.”

The wise words and advice of the tall Pegasus and Changeling-turned-Unicorn made the others nod slowly and smile, before they turned towards Inquiry and Lucid, the last of the present couples to speak. But then, Light’s ear twitched, and as their head snapped towards the entryway, they said:

“They’re here, they made it!”

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 (current) | Part 5

Featuring: Whirlwind Flux, Single Slice, Sailboard, Prismatic Tilt, and Crafty Code from @whirlwindflux Grasshopper Pie from @allyooops Inquiry and DC from @askinquiry Melon Grumps and Honeydew Delight from @ask-a-grumpy-melon Aerial Aim from @aerialaim

Metamorphosis/Dust Jacket from @askashapeshifter Night Spinner/Lucid from @asknightspinner

Part 4 of the wedding story for @allyooops and @whirlwindflux

[ask-healthy-light]

When the train stopped, the travellers stepped onto the snow-covered platform, with many shivering briefly as they got used to the cold. Strangely enough, while none of the Earth Ponies were bothered, Aerial Aim did not feel cold either, but she knew they had to make haste to the Inn.

Fortunately, Prism and Honeydew had visited often before, and Crafty had written down and memorised the route before they travelled here, so they led the group from the station, all the way through the quiet, dimly lit, and peaceful town, until they reached the edge of a forest of pine trees.

In front of the forest, there was a chuckle amongst the group, before a voice spoke up to say: “Now I get the name… but I wonder where the ‘Spring’ is.” In response, Honey kindly answered that “It’s actually pretty close to the Inn, Sail. But it’s much nicer in Summer, when the lake ain’t frozen.”

“Come on now, y’all,” she said with a warm smile, “it’s just a stone’s throw to my Sister’s Inn from here. We’ll be sittin’ by the hearth in no time!” With these words, she grabbed a small lantern from her backpack, lit the wick inside, and happily gestured for the others to follow as she lit up the path.

On their way through the forest, Code smiled as he thought about Hopper, who did the same as she thought about him, still sitting in the wings of Dream Catcher at the Inn, drinking her tea. Here, she told the others she felt better, and politely thanked them, as Code thanked the group for joining him.

Unbeknownst to the other, however, whether by magic or pure chance, their thoughts lined up perfectly, even through both their occupied minds. “Before I forget,” they quietly asked at the same time, “I wanted to ask you all for advice. Not on planning or baking, but something more personal.”

When both Code and Hopper got the undivided attention of their respective groups, and silence filled the room and the forest around them, only broken by the cracking wood in the hearthfire, and their muffled hoofsteps in the thick blanket of snow, they took a deep breath, and solemnly asked:

“What have you learnt about yourself that you believe I should know? Or about your significant other? Or your relationship overall?”

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 (current) | Part 4 | Part 5

Featuring: Whirlwind Flux, Single Slice, Sailboard, Prismatic Tilt, and Crafty Code from @whirlwindflux Grasshopper Pie from @allyooops Inquiry and DC from @askinquiry Melon Grumps and Honeydew Delight from @ask-a-grumpy-melon Aerial Aim from @aerialaim

Part 3 of the wedding story for @allyooops and @whirlwindflux

[ask-healthy-light]

A couple of leagues away, a train was making its way through the ever intensifying snowfall, slowly making its way to Pine Springs; a little village along the tracks between Canterlot and the Crystal Empire, that laid adjacent to both a forest and a lake, and where few passengers ever disembarked.

Over the speakers, the Conductor politely announced that the train would have to wait at the next station until the storm had passed, which annoyed plenty of passengers, while others cared little. In one of the coaches, an unusual group of these indifferent and mostly jovial Ponies could be found.

Dressed in thick winter clothing and carrying many bags, it had taken them a long time to make it to their destination. The half baker’s dozen of Pegasi, Earth Ponies, and a Unicorn spent the increasing time in the train talking with each other, cuddling, or listening to music – or a combination thereof.

While neither the chatting duo of Earth Ponies, nor the two cuddling Pegasi, or even the couple of both races cared about the delay, the quiet Unicorn repeatedly looked out of the window and back to the pocket watch he was holding, counting the seconds as they ticked by while smiling to his music.

As he watched the landscape roll by at what felt like no more than a single hoof per hour, the Earth Ponies sitting opposite him checked in on him every so often. They knew how much he had been working and organising over the last few months, so they just wanted to make sure he was all right.

The smile on the face of the blueish-grey Unicorn turned slightly sombre as a hint of fatigue slipped through his facade, but after he took a deep breath, he solemnly thanked the two for looking out for him, before he promised them that he would definitely be all right when they made it to the Inn.

Upon uttering that word, however, the nigh rainbow-maned Pegasus quickly replied: “I still say it’s a bad idea for me to come along, y’know”. But in response, the yellow-coated Mare in his wings said with a sarcastic sigh: “Oh, come on. I told you, my big Sis has already said she’s fine with us.”

After she gave him a quick kiss on his cheek and ruffled his mane, the grey Pegasus did the same in return, before he loudly whispered that “It’s not your Sister I’m worried about…” as he gestured to the white-coated Pegasus sitting across from him, staring daggers at him from the corner of her eye.

At that moment, there was a loud thunk that made the grey Pegasus recoil in pain, before the last Pegasus in the group said with a sly smile that “We’re all friends here, right, Prism? I’m certain that you won’t cause anypony any trouble, especially with how busy things have been for Code lately.”

As Crafty Code and the blue-maned Pegasus discreetly shared a solemn nod, Prism rubbed his shin, and let out a deep sigh, before he sincerely smiled, and promised that he would behave. In turn, Code thanked him and his brother, but just turned his music on again as he looked out the window.

Because of this, and due to him being lost in thought as he stared into the snowy night, Code did not notice the subtle glances and close whispering between the two adjacent Pegasi, until he felt a soft wing over his back, followed by the warm smile and kind eyes of his Muse, interrupting his musing.

“It won’t be long until we’re there”, the Pegasus reassured, “but I know that look far too well. What’s on your mind, Code?” In response, Code merely looked at the two Earth Ponies opposite him, and glanced past his Muse to the other table, when the expression on his face grew bittersweet.

“I know I’m the luckiest Stallion in the land to be marrying somepony as wonderful, and caring, and kind, as Hopper”, Code sombrely said, “but I just can’t shake this feeling that’s been nagging at me, Flux. Looking at you and Aerie, and Prism and Honey, it just makes me feel… I don’t know...”

“Imperfect?”, Flux quietly asked, wearing a small smile on his face. With the attention of all the others on the two long-time friends, Code sighed deeply in turn, slowly nodded in agreement, and said: “Yeah… Hopper makes me better, and I want to be my very best self for her, but I worry that-”

Then, before either of the two could utter another word, a crackle sounded over the speaker, and the voice of the train conductor announced that the next station was just ahead. Despite the terrible delay because of the ever intensifying snow, they would arrive at Pine Springs in a few moments.

The good news made everypony in the cabin breathe a sigh of relief, before they steadily got up, put on their coats and scarves, and grabbed the suitcases they had taken along. With a bit of magic help from Code, the group headed to the doors, where Flux said:

“Only a stone’s throw until you two can hug each other again, Crafty…”

Part 1 | Part 2 (current) | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5

Featuring: Honeydew Delight from @ask-a-grumpy-melon Aerial Aim from @aerialaim Whirlwind Flux, Single Slice, Sailboard, Prismatic Tilt, and Crafty Code from @whirlwindflux

Part 2 of the wedding story for @allyooops and @whirlwindflux

[ask-healthy-light]

The ground outside slowly turned white as the day grew colder and darker, while burning logs creaked and cracked, placed in the hearth and set ablaze by a good friend. The fire lit up the familiar and homely room, while a Pony they all knew and loved paced back and forth in front of the flames.

The green-coated Mare spoke to herself, audible to all of her friends that were silently watching her as she walked to and fro before them, wearing kind but concerned smiles on their faces. They all dearly wished to ease her doubts, but knew there was little more they could do than be there for her.

Occasionally during her worried wandering, she re-adjusted her spectacles using her magic before they fell off her faintly freckled face. But even then, she did not pause, or take more than a mere moment to breathe, before she went right back into one of seemingly endless lists she had in mind.

At that moment, the usually stern innkeeper turned to her blue-coated partner, who simply nodded before trotting off to the kitchen, while she stepped in to lead the pacing, panicked, pink-maned Pony to the couch, directly into the big soft wings and caring arms of her oldest and closest friends.

Even here, though, despite being covered by a blanket and gently hushed and comforted by close to half a dozen friends who were there for her, Grasshopper Pie continued to chatter away about everything she still had to do before her big day, happening just over half a year from this moment.

Fortunately, when the blonde Kirin returned, carrying many trays of drinks and wearing a shy smile on their face, they asked Hopper which drink she wanted. “For such a complex situation”, they said, “I didn’t know if coffee, tea, or hot cocoa was the best choice, so I made all three… for everyone.”

To the relief of Healthy Light, all the Ponies before them smiled, before they politely thanked them for the drinks they set down on the table. As Light and Melon Grumps sat down, they carefully grabbed two cups of cocoa, while the quiet librarian picked tea for herself, her partner, and Hopper.

With Hopper nestled in the black wings of the rainbow-maned Pegasus, however, he whispered to the grey Unicorn next to him that he could not move, and sweetly asked him for coffee. With a peck on his cheek, a kind smile on his face, and a brief roll of his eyes, he obliged, and grabbed two cups.

The tea was wonderfully sweet, and Hopper slowly let out an immense sigh of relief as she relaxed for the first time in hours. Every couple moved closer together as the room grew quiet, until Hopper thanked Light for the sweet tea, Melon for her hospitality, and all her friends for being there for her.

Although she had asked Melon if she could come here to clear her mind, and to ask the others for advice, Hopper had thusfar failed to do both, so she apologised for being inconsiderate. Her friends would have none of it, however, and Inquiry immediately replied she had nothing to apologise for.

With such an incredible event steadily approaching, one that all of them had only ever dreamed of, they fully understood why she felt so stressed. There was a massive weight on her shoulders, she had to arrange countless things, and worst of all, she had to make so many cupcakes for everyone…

Hopper briefly chuckled in return, before she sighed deeply, and almost sombrely said: “I just… It needs to be perfect, for both of us. I can’t let Code down… I just can’t.” None of the present Ponies, Changeling, nor Kirin, knew whether there was anything to say that would ease her burdened mind.

Despite this, Inquiry just sweetly smiled, gently held her hoof, and said: “We’re here for you. All of us want to be here for you. And if there’s anything we can do, you have but to ask.” Her words were met with unanimous agreement from the others, who all smiled at Hopper as she looked around.

A small smile slowly grew upon her face as she finished her tea, before she carefully put the cup on the table, and quietly asked Inquiry for a hug, which she was more than happy to give. Not to be outdone, DC wrapped the two of them in his great wings, and promised that she would be okay.

As her eyes welled up with tears of joy and of sadness, Hopper sniffled that she knew, and she could count herself lucky to be surrounded by so many wonderful and caring friends. Still, as she wiped away her tears, she whispered that “I wish Crafty was here, too… Seeing you all together like this.”

With a smile as warm as the fire in the hearth, one she had given her little Flora countless times in times of duress, and a beautiful kindness in her eyes, Inquiry carefully cleaned Hopper’s face of tears, before she squeezed her hooves, and sweetly said:

“He’ll be here soon. I’m certain of it.”

Part 1 (current) | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5

Featuring: Inquiry and DC from @askinquiry Melon Grumps from @ask-a-grumpy-melon Grasshopper Pie from @allyooops

Part 1 of the wedding story for @allyooops and @whirlwindflux

[ask-healthy-light]

Phew, three weeks of consecutive events sure does a number on your energy... But it was definitely worth it.

Speaking of which, howdy y'all, I'm back from my travels! In a moment I'll publish the story I wrote for @allyooops and @whirlwindflux's wedding for all y'all to see (maybe in a few parts because it's half a dozen A4 pages long), and after this I'll share at least a few of the simple doodles I made during the festival last week.

I don't know if I have the time to get back to daily writing yet, but the next few months are going to be far less eventful than the last three weeks, at least.

[ask-healthy-light]

Happy pride my fellow tumbler gremilns an goblins. To celebrate everyone may receive one of these.

To get yourself a Raynbow simply reblog an wish your fellow ponies gremlins or whomever else a happy pride month. Let spread the love an acceptance this month. (Check the art credits in the pic weapon not made by me)

[ask-healthy-light]

With Nox’s help and polite introductions, the brief period of uncertainty and hostility between her friends was lifted, and with firm nods and polite hoof- and clawshakes, the quartet at the table were on the same page not long after. However, since Light did not yet know the exact same information, Nox took the time to further detail them on only as much as the Brothers had asked her to:

“So… Light,” she hesitantly started, “I mentioned it to you just now, but Gad and Zooks are looking for something that even I don’t know much about. Since we have been through so much together, I trust you to keep this matter close to your heart. Do you understand?”

It had been a long time since Nox had asked them anything in such a serious tone, and Light knew she would not have asked them to travel such a great distance to Ponyville if what she told them was of little importance.

For this reason, Light took a deep breath and placed one hoof on their own chest and another on her paw, which made the two chuckle over fond memories they shared. A moment later, they swore that whatever they were told that day would not leave the room unless they had all given them their express permission.

The Brothers both sighed deeply when they heard Light utter their promise, and Gad thanked Light for understanding, when Zooks cleared his throat and nudged his Brother. Gad then spoke up, and shyly asked: “Before we continue, could you tell us about yourself, Healthy Light? We have only heard so much from Nox, and want to be sure that you are suited for our operation… journey… quest .”

The hesitance in Gad’s voice and the gentle pushing by his Brother seemed odd to Light, so without uttering a word, they merely glanced at Nox, who smiled and nodded to them as she gestured for Gad to continue speaking. Light only quickly interjected to tell Gad: “Just ‘Light’ is okay.”

“Okay then, Light,” Gad started again, “we have heard about some of your travels with Nox, but we do not know much more than that. Can you tell us more about yourself? Your family? Your sword? Your time as a... a ‘Ranger’?” Gad then turned to his Brother, and asked him in a whisper: “That’s what Nox said, right? That Light here is a Ranger?”

But a mere moment after Zooks discreetly nodded to Gad, the two heard a chair scoot back, swiftly followed by another, and they turned back to find that Light had gotten up and walked away, closely shadowed by Nox. Neither Brother could even move a muscle before Nox worriedly shook her head at the two as she gestured for them to stay seated.

Now on the far side of the Hall, Light was quickly taking deep breaths as they paced back and forth rapidly, only stopping when Nox placed her paw on their shoulder, and whispered to them that they were safe: “I promise that they mean you no harm. I had not expected them to ask you to talk about… those topics. I should have made this clear to them… I’m sorry.”

In response, Light just gently took her paw, and after they took one last quick deep breath, they slowly exhaled, sat down next to Nox, and said: “I’ll… I’ll be all right, Nox. Thank you. But none of you need to apologise. You couldn’t have known they would ask this, and they did not know they shouldn’t have.”

“I think… I’d like something to drink. Perhaps some more tea,” Light slowly added, before they got up, and walked back to the table with their eyes closed. Here, they quietly asked: “Do either of you want any tea? Nox, do you want anything? I just need... a moment, to get my thoughts in order. If you could explain this... predicament, while I’m away, I would very much appreciate it.”

With a gentle nod and sweet smile from Nox, and a few requests for pine, fruit mix, and lavender from around the table, Light left the Library, leaving Nox to briefly explain to the Brothers why Light reacted so harshly.

“It took a very long time before they opened up, even with me. I hope you understand they prefer not to delve into their past. You saw what happened when they defended themselves.”

Only a moment later, Light returned with a platter of tea, far calmer than how they looked before, and thanked the rest of the group for their patience and understanding. After they sat down and took a sip of their tea, they took a deep breath, and told the Brothers:

“About myself... Well, you know my name, my story is one that I… would rather not talk about. The same goes for my sword. As for family, however, I do have a partner; a wonderful Earth Pony who runs an Inn a few hours North of here. I visit her as often as I can, and I’m already thinking about what to bring her when I head there after this journey of yours.”

A smile grew upon their face as it turned slightly red, and they sighed quietly as they thought about Melon, and what they would talk about with her when they were sitting down in front of the hearth with a sweet drink again. To their relief, the others all politely waited for them until they nodded to themselves, and turned back to continue talking, even if briefly:

“Now, then, from my time and experience as a Ranger, which you heard correctly, I learnt how to forage and stay self-sufficient for extended periods of time. Also, in case you’re concerned about what or who we might face on our way to wherever we’re headed, I was taught how to fight with a sword, and with bow and arrow, but primarily on how to incapacitate opponents, or to disarm them at the least.”

“I think that’s everything that’s relevant for the moment. Now, how about you two?”

[ask-healthy-light]

With Nox’s help and polite introductions, the brief period of uncertainty and hostility between her friends was lifted, and with firm nods and polite hoof- and clawshakes, the quartet at the table were on the same page not long after. However, since Light did not yet know the exact same information, Nox took the time to further detail them on only as much as the Brothers had asked her to:

“So… Light,” she hesitantly started, “I mentioned it to you just now, but Gad and Zooks are looking for something that even I don’t know much about. Since we have been through so much together, I trust you to keep this matter close to your heart. Do you understand?”

It had been a long time since Nox had asked them anything in such a serious tone, and Light knew she would not have asked them to travel such a great distance to Ponyville if what she told them was of little importance.

For this reason, Light took a deep breath and placed one hoof on their own chest and another on her paw, which made the two chuckle over fond memories they shared. A moment later, they swore that whatever they were told that day would not leave the room unless they had all given them their express permission.

The Brothers both sighed deeply when they heard Light utter their promise, and Gad thanked Light for understanding, when Zooks cleared his throat and nudged his Brother. Gad then spoke up, and shyly asked: “Before we continue, could you tell us about yourself, Healthy Light? We have only heard so much from Nox, and want to be sure that you are suited for our operation… journey… quest .”

The hesitance in Gad’s voice and the gentle pushing by his Brother seemed odd to Light, so without uttering a word, they merely glanced at Nox, who smiled and nodded to them as she gestured for Gad to continue speaking. Light only quickly interjected to tell Gad: “Just ‘Light’ is okay.”

“Okay then, Light,” Gad started again, “we have heard about some of your travels with Nox, but we do not know much more than that. Can you tell us more about yourself? Your family? Your sword? Your time as a... a ‘Ranger’?” Gad then turned to his Brother, and asked him in a whisper: “That’s what Nox said, right? That Light here is a Ranger?”

But a mere moment after Zooks discreetly nodded to Gad, the two heard a chair scoot back, swiftly followed by another, and they turned back to find that Light had gotten up and walked away, closely shadowed by Nox. Neither Brother could even move a muscle before Nox worriedly shook her head at the two as she gestured for them to stay seated.

Now on the far side of the Hall, Light was quickly taking deep breaths as they paced back and forth rapidly, only stopping when Nox placed her paw on their shoulder, and whispered to them that they were safe: “I promise that they mean you no harm. I had not expected them to ask you to talk about… those topics. I should have made this clear to them… I’m sorry.”

In response, Light just gently took her paw, and after they took one last quick deep breath, they slowly exhaled, sat down next to Nox, and said: “I’ll… I’ll be all right, Nox. Thank you. But none of you need to apologise. You couldn’t have known they would ask this, and they did not know they shouldn’t have.”

“I think… I’d like something to drink. Perhaps some more tea,” Light slowly added, before they got up, and walked back to the table with their eyes closed. Here, they quietly asked: “Do either of you want any tea? Nox, do you want anything? I just need... a moment, to get my thoughts in order. If you could explain this... predicament, while I’m away, I would very much appreciate it.”

With a gentle nod and sweet smile from Nox, and a few requests for pine, fruit mix, and lavender from around the table, Light left the Library, leaving Nox to briefly explain to the Brothers why Light reacted so harshly.

“It took a very long time before they opened up, even with me. I hope you understand they prefer not to delve into their past. You saw what happened when they defended themselves.”

Only a moment later, Light returned with a platter of tea, far calmer than how they looked before, and thanked the rest of the group for their patience and understanding. After they sat down and took a sip of their tea, they took a deep breath, and told the Brothers:

“About myself... Well, you know my name, my story is one that I… would rather not talk about. The same goes for my sword. As for family, however, I do have a partner; a wonderful Earth Pony who runs an Inn a few hours North of here. I visit her as often as I can, and I’m already thinking about what to bring her when I head there after this journey of yours.”

A smile grew upon their face as it turned slightly red, and they sighed quietly as they thought about Melon, and what they would talk about with her when they were sitting down in front of the hearth with a sweet drink again. To their relief, the others all politely waited for them until they nodded to themselves, and turned back to continue talking, even if briefly:

“Now, then, from my time and experience as a Ranger, which you heard correctly, I learnt how to forage and stay self-sufficient for extended periods of time. Also, in case you’re concerned about what or who we might face on our way to wherever we’re headed, I was taught how to fight with a sword, and with bow and arrow, but primarily on how to incapacitate opponents, or to disarm them at the least.”

“I think that’s everything that’s relevant for the moment. Now, how about you two?”