The Mortal Paper Fist said:
We should make a short trip to Hoofington and see how the preparations for tomorrow's festival are going. Besides, Windcaller should be back from Ponyville by now. Maybe we can find him and tell him that we’re back from our epic adventure.

After following the road west to Hoofington's train station, you walk underneath the town's entrance arch, and enter its busy marketplace.

All around the square, ponies have freshly begun decorating their houses and stalls with vibrant pennant flags and streamers. By the town hall, a stack of wooden planks and panels steadily grows next to a wide vacant space.

Among a few arrivals from the park, you spy a familiar blue-maned stallion leisurely making his way back home. You decide to approach him, and greet him on his way.

Windcaller: "Ah... Trailblazer, Moonflower... it's a relief to see you both safe and sound. You... look different."

You grin sheepishly as you realize how similar to Windcaller's hair colour you dyed your own. Still, you nod in response, and as always, decide to start by introducing your newest party member.

Apple Basket: "Howdy!"

You take a moment to recount how you met the colt, and summarize the adventures you've been on together, up to the events of the last night.

Windcaller: "You've... been through a lot. I can't imagine how it must've been. And you... must have a lot of courage to join these two on their adventures. Courage... and stamina."

You all have a good knowing chuckle at that.

Apple Basket: "Heh, I reckon you know 'em well. Can't say I expected 'em to be so friendly at first, but I couldn't ask for better partners."

Moonflower: "Heehee! We make a great team!"

You mention thinking about catching up with Windcaller earlier, but being told that he was out of town yesterday. You inquire about his newfound hobbies.

Windcaller: "Ah... it's true. I was in Ponyville, rehearsing... for the festival."

Moonflower: "Oooh, you're gonna be playin' music! Is there gonna be a music show?"

Windcaller: "Oh, um... nothing so spectacular. Just some... background music, to set the mood."

You tell Windcaller that you're looking forward to hearing him play again, and that you're certain it will be a great addition to the festival.

Windcaller: "Ah, that's... I-I mean, this is embarrassing, but I, um... I meant to thank you both. For... spending time with me when you did.

Thinking back to before we met, I spent every day confined to my... comfort zone, as it were. I never realized how... small and restrictive it was. Or... how much there was to discover outside of it.

You, um... helped me see that. You patiently taught me to try new things... things I didn't think I could do. Or, rather... things that I convinced myself I couldn't do. And I'm grateful for that. So, um... thank you."

Moonflower: "Awww! We're happy to help!"

You and Moonflower promptly besiege the timid stallion with hugs and nuzzles, all the while Apple Basket watches on with an amused smile, knowing all too well how he feels.
— —
Previous Page: >>2829881
— —