private Another Cultural Exchange (1x1 with Skylight Scintillate)

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Skylight Scintillate

On 2024-05-13 at 10:19 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

"So you want to be a royal guard or city guard when you grow up? What part are you most interested in?" Speckle asked Nova as she watched him emulate.

Nova paused as he thought, "Umm,  I don't know. I mean, it would be really cool if I could be one of Princess Luna's personal guards, but you have to be related to a current personal guard to even be considered, and give up all loyalty to any others, including the clan. And being a city guard like my dad would be cool, but I think I want to be an explorer or adventurer."

He shrugged, "I haven't given it much thought."

 

On 2024-05-13 at 10:19 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

Speckle gasped, her face smiling as she saw the two princesses walk out onto the balcony. Princess Celestia turned to face the west while Princess Luna faced the east. Then, Speckle watched as the sun was pulled below the horizon an the moon rose opposite to it. Moments after that, the lights of Canterlot turned on as the day quickly transitioned to night and the air temperature cooled significantly. Turning her attention back to the balcony, the two princesses were now facing each other. It seemed that they were discussing something before Princess Celestia returned inside. Meanwhile, Princess Luna leapt off of the balcony, spreading her wings as she took flight. It took Speckle a moment to realize that she was flying towards the Thestral Market neighborhood.

Nova was of course thrilled to see Princess Luna in person, but he was a bit underwhelmed at the event itself, "That's it? I always imagined it would be..." he shrugged, "...different?"

He shook it off though, as something more exciting was about to happen.

On 2024-05-13 at 10:19 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

"Hey, Nova! Are you ready to meet Princess Luna at the restaurant?" Speckle exclaimed. Speckle would wait for Nova to be ready, before following the group towards the exit.

He nodded emphatically, already moving in the direction that Princess Luna had, "Let's go!"

[Skylight Scintillate 2,031]

@Illiad Easle 

17 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Nova paused as he thought, "Umm,  I don't know. I mean, it would be really cool if I could be one of Princess Luna's personal guards, but you have to be related to a current personal guard to even be considered, and give up all loyalty to any others, including the clan. And being a city guard like my dad would be cool, but I think I want to be an explorer or adventurer."

He shrugged, "I haven't given it much thought."

"Yeah I'm not really sure what I want to be when I grow up either yet. I mean, like, there are several different things I would be interested in doing, such as being a Wonderbolt, but I don't think I can join the Wonderbolts until I'm a grown-up. I would also like to work for Princess Luna, but I'm not sure if I'm committed enough to be her personal guard. I wonder what other jobs I could have that'll allow me to work for the princess. Also, I wonder when I'll get my cutie mark. Maybe that will give me a clear idea of what I'll do when I grow up..." Speckle thought out loud. 

"Hmm, what kind of adventurer or explorer do you want to be? Like, what do you want to explore? Are you going to be like Daring Do? Exploring sounds fun but also kind of dangerous," Speckle asked.

17 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Nova was of course thrilled to see Princess Luna in person, but he was a bit underwhelmed at the event itself, "That's it? I always imagined it would be..." he shrugged, "...different?"

"Hmm, well I thought everything like the castle tour and seeing where the princesses did all their things would be more special and magical as well. However, I guess since it's something that happens every day, it can't be that special? I don't know. Like, maybe things are only special if they don't happen every day. That's something I heard somepony else say," Speckle thought out loud.

17 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

He nodded emphatically, already moving in the direction that Princess Luna had, "Let's go!"

"I know right? I'm so excited as well!" Speckle exclaimed.

Soon enough, the pair found themselves back at the fancy seafood restaurant Speckle had pointed out the previous night. As soon as Speckle entered, the smell of seafood and rice hit her. It smelled really nice, and the atmosphere was quite nice as well. Everything seemed to be made of wood and bamboo, there was warm soft lighting, and there were cherry blossoms everywhere.

After being greeted by the hostess, the pair would be led to a semi-private room slightly separated from the rest of the tables at the restaurant. Princess Luna was already seated there, with a pair of her personal guards behind her, and several bat pony colts and fillies about Speckle's and Nova's age were also seated there.

"Princess Luna!" Speckle would bow as they entered the room before taking her seat. She would then lean over and whisper to Nova, "Oh my gosh, I'm so excited to talk to Princess Luna! I don't even know what I want to talk about first!" Speckle gushed. She also couldn't help but to admire how regal the princess looked, the way she towered over everypony else at the table, the way her mane flowed, the way she seemed to radiate magic and power just by existing. 

The rest of the seats would be quickly filled in by other colts and fillies with Princess Luna greeting them as they entered. Soon enough, Princess Twilight appeared right on time and took the last spot right next to Princess Luna.

"Princess Luna!" she would also greet, giving the other princess a light nuzzle as she sat down.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Skylight Scintillate

8 hours ago, Skylight Scintillate said:

"Hmm, what kind of adventurer or explorer do you want to be? Like, what do you want to explore? Are you going to be like Daring Do? Exploring sounds fun but also kind of dangerous," Speckle asked.

Nova looked confused, "Who's Daring Do? Are they a real pony? Or are they like those Power Ponies you were talking about before?"

8 hours ago, Skylight Scintillate said:

However, I guess since it's something that happens every day, it can't be that special? I don't know. Like, maybe things are only special if they don't happen every day. That's something I heard somepony else say," Speckle thought out loud.

Nova shrugged, "Hmm, I guess that makes sense, I would probably get tired of the clan festivals if they happened every day, especially if I had to get dressed up for them every time."

 

8 hours ago, Skylight Scintillate said:

"Princess Luna!" she would also greet, giving the other princess a light nuzzle as she sat down.

(If I remember correctly, you wanted me to play the princess when doing social interactions? If I am remembering wrong or you changed your mind I can edit this.)

Princess Luna accepted the nuzzle with a smile, "Ah, Princess Sparkle, we wert worried that thou wouldst be late. With thy arrival the feast shall begin!"

She spread her wings in welcome to all those gathered, and those present returned the gesture by spreading their own wings and bowing, returning to their normal positions when she closed her wings.

Princess Luna looked over all of those present, and paused when she saw Nova sitting next to Speckle, the former practically bouncing with excitement at being so close to his favorite princess, he had hardly even noticed that Princess Sparkle was here, and that no thestrals from his clan were present.

Luna's gave turned to Speckle, a soft yet curious smile on her face, "Young miss Scotia, it appears thou hast brought a guest, one we are unfamiliar with, wouldst thou introduce them to us?"

[Skylight Scintillate 2,031]

@Illiad Easle 

On 2024-05-19 at 1:52 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Nova looked confused, "Who's Daring Do? Are they a real pony? Or are they like those Power Ponies you were talking about before?"

"Oh, yeah, she's a fictional character like the power ponies. She's always going on these epic adventures exploring places nopony's gone before! She solves puzzles and she always ends up in these epic action scenes! It's usually some ancient monster she runs into in an abandoned temple or one of her rivals trying to steal from her! Even when it seems like everything's aguenst her, like the time she broke her wings and then got trapped, she always manages to escape! What about you? What kind of adventurer do you want to be? Where do you want to explore?" Speckle asked.

On 2024-05-19 at 1:52 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Princess Luna accepted the nuzzle with a smile, "Ah, Princess Sparkle, we wert worried that thou wouldst be late. With thy arrival the feast shall begin!"

She spread her wings in welcome to all those gathered, and those present returned the gesture by spreading their own wings and bowing, returning to their normal positions when she closed her wings.

"Me? Late? Never! I'm always on time," Princess Twilight laughed. "Plus, I love spending time with you and learning about new cultures. I think it's great that you do these meetups to learn about and get to know others better. I also appreciate being invited to spend time with you at one of these meetups. It's so nice to be able to see you again. How are things going? I know things have been quite busy for me with all the things involved in becoming a princess."

Noting that everyone had arrived, the waiters started bringing out dish after dish of sushi, seafood tempura, udon noodles, rice bowls, and more soon afterwards. While Speckle was starving and wanted to dig on right away, she waited until everypony at the table was served so that they would start eating at the same time. She was really excited to meet both princesses and she wanted to make sure she was being polite.

On 2024-05-19 at 1:52 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Luna's gave turned to Speckle, a soft yet curious smile on her face, "Young miss Scotia, it appears thou hast brought a guest, one we are unfamiliar with, wouldst thou introduce them to us?"

"Oh, this here is my friend Nova Fastar! He's a thestral from the Shimmerwood Forest, and he's here on a cultural exchange with me! At first, I thought I was excited to see you again, but I think he's more excited to meet you for the first time! Both of us look up to you so much!" Speckle exclaimed. 

"Nice to meet you, Nova. I'm Princess Twilight Sparkle."

Despite being excited to see Princess Luna themselves, some of the other bat ponies at the table had turned their attention to observe Nova's excitement.

Edited May 23 by Skylight Scintillate

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Skylight Scintillate

On 2024-05-19 at 10:03 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

Noting that everyone had arrived, the waiters started bringing out dish after dish of sushi, seafood tempura, udon noodles, rice bowls, and more soon afterwards. While Speckle was staring and wanted to dig on right away, she waited until everypony at the table was served so that they would start eating at the same time. She was really excited to meet both princesses and she wanted to make sure she was being polite.

Nova was also impressed to see so much food gathered, it reminded him of the festivals at home where everyone would gather around like this. He also waited until all the food was set out, or until someone else started eating, to join in, following Speckle's lead.

 

When it came to actually eating, Princess Luna would not use her magic to operate the provided utensils, nor would any of those present who had horns (Except perhaps for Princess Twilight depending on if she picked up on why Luna wasn't using her magic)

 

On 2024-05-19 at 10:03 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

"Oh, this here is my friend Nova Fastar! He's a thestral from the Shimmerwood Forest, and he's here on a cultural exchange with me! At first, I thought I was excited to see you again, but I think he's more excited to meet you for the first time! Both of us look up to you so much!" Speckle exclaimed. 

"Nice to meet you, Nova. I'm Princess Twilight Sparkle."

Despite being excited to see Princess Luna themselves, some of the other bat ponies at the table had turned their attention to observe Nova's excitement.

As the attention was on him, and not on Princess Luna, those gathered did not notice the brief flicker on her face, except for him and perhaps Speckle. When the name Fastar was brought up, there was a distinct show of surprise, a bit of uncertainty, like she was momentarily dismayed to see him there. But she was quick to recover, turning her attention back to the food, her demeanor ever so slightly colder than before.

"Welcome, young Nova of the Fastar Clan."

And with that she turned her attention away to the other guests.

Nova was a bit surprised at her reaction, turning his gaze around the room he noticed that none of those gathered here had the mark of his clan, and as he thought about it he realized that his father had never told him about these meetings.

He worried that he, or someone in his clan in the past, had done something wrong or offended the princess in some way. He spoke quietly to Speckle, "Did... did I do something wrong?"

[Skylight Scintillate 2,031]

@Illiad Easle 

On 2024-05-23 at 3:56 PM, Illiad Easle said:

 

Nova was also impressed to see so much food gathered, it reminded him of the festivals at home where everyone would gather around like this. He also waited until all the food was set out, or until someone else started eating, to join in, following Speckle's lead.

"Hey Nova, what do you like the most? I really like the sushi! The bit-sized pieces of seafood wrapped in rice and seaweed are really cool in my opinion!" Speckle asked as she helped herself to more sushi.

On 2024-05-23 at 3:56 PM, Illiad Easle said:

When it came to actually eating, Princess Luna would not use her magic to operate the provided utensils, nor would any of those present who had horns (Except perhaps for Princess Twilight depending on if she picked up on why Luna wasn't using her magic)

Princess Twilight would initially use her magic to operate the utensils, but she would switch to using her hooves once she noticed that nopony else was using their magic. After a slight initial struggle, she managed to grab a tempura shrimp with her chopsticks using her hooves. Once the initial barrier was broken, grabbing any food was a breeze after that. Twilight really enjoyed the food and she remarked about how it was quite different from the food she usually ate. 

On 2024-05-23 at 3:56 PM, Illiad Easle said:

As the attention was on him, and not on Princess Luna, those gathered did not notice the brief flicker on her face, except for him and perhaps Speckle. When the name Fastar was brought up, there was a distinct show of surprise, a bit of uncertainty, like she was momentarily dismayed to see him there. But she was quick to recover, turning her attention back to the food, her demeanor ever so slightly colder than before.

"Welcome, young Nova of the Fastar Clan."

And with that she turned her attention away to the other guests.

Speckle was so focused on introducing Nova that she didn't notice Princess Luna's reaction. However, the Princess of Friendship was quick to notice. "Is something wrong?" Twilight asked, using her magic to create a private conversation between the two princesses so none of the guests would overhear. 

On 2024-05-23 at 3:56 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Nova was a bit surprised at her reaction, turning his gaze around the room he noticed that none of those gathered here had the mark of his clan, and as he thought about it he realized that his father had never told him about these meetings.

He worried that he, or someone in his clan in the past, had done something wrong or offended the princess in some way. He spoke quietly to Speckle, "Did... did I do something wrong?"

Speckle, not having noticed Luna's reaction, turned to Nova, confused. "What do you mean?" she asked. At first, she was confused and slightly surprised by how Nova's excitement had just vanished. "Uuhhmm, I don't know..." she replied, completely oblivious to Princess Luna's reaction.

Edited June 4 by Skylight Scintillate

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Skylight Scintillate

On 2024-05-25 at 9:21 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

"Hey Nova, what do you like the most? I really like the sushi! The bit-sized pieces of seafood wrapped in rice and seaweed are really cool in my opinion!" Speckle asked as she helped herself to more sushi.

Nova looked unsure, "Well, it's all so new, I don't know if I could pick a favorite yet..." He smiled, "I guess I'll just have to try them all to be sure!"

He would do his best to be considerate though, taking only a small amount of each option so that he could try it without too much risk, and without filling up completely.

On 2024-05-25 at 9:21 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

Princess Twilight would initially use her magic to operate the utensils, but she would switch to using her hooves once she noticed that nopony else was using their magic. After a slight initial struggle, she managed to grab a tempura shrimp with her chopsticks using her hooves. Once the initial barrier was broken, grabbing any food was a breeze after that. Twilight really enjoyed the food and she remarked about how it was quite different from the food she usually ate. 

Princess Luna imperceptibly smiled before softly commenting that, as Twilight hadn't been a pegasus before, she likely hadn't ever considered fish as an option prior to her ascension.

 

On 2024-05-25 at 9:21 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

Speckle was so focused on introducing Nova that she didn't notice Princess Luna's reaction. However, the Princess of Friendship was quick to notice. "Is something wrong?" Twilight asked, using her magic to create a private conversation between the two princesses so none of the guests would overhear. 

Those seated closest noticed the sudden barrier, but returned to their conversations when Princess Luna waved them off, indicating that it wasn't anything serious. 

She turned such that her mane would hide her face from those seated at the table, most especially Nova and Speckle (Which to put into perspective, I envisioned Luna and Twilight seated at the head of the table, with Nova and Speckle seated at the foot. Or if the table is circular, Nova and Luna are on opposite sides.)

She sighed, her expression growing slightly tired, "The Fastar Clan is unique among thestrals, they hold to the old ways stronger than any other clan, and have outlasted many, or rather, other clans have joined into them in order to maintain their strength where others have dissolved or melded with the other ponies. They.... they have a certain expectation of us, passed down through their histories, of a harsh leader, fearless in the defense of what they believe is right. In our absence, they idolized us. Their belief in our eventual return gave them the strength to persevere even when oppressed from all sides. We fear that, should they discover that we are not as they were taught, they would lose that spark. We have remained aloof from them these many years since our return, maintaining the cold outward appearance they expect."

She didn't meet Twilight's gaze, "Perhaps we will leave early, claim some important business has arisen, lest young Nova see that we are not so strong as their clan believes, and return to them with such sorry information."

 

(Per my ooc post, we'll hold on the rest until Luna and Twilight are done talking)

[Skylight Scintillate 2,031]

@Illiad Easle 

16 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

"The Fastar Clan is unique among thestrals, they hold to the old ways stronger than any other clan, and have outlasted many, or rather, other clans have joined into them in order to maintain their strength where others have dissolved or melded with the other ponies. They.... they have a certain expectation of us, passed down through their histories, of a harsh leader, fearless in the defense of what they believe is right. In our absence, they idolized us. Their belief in our eventual return gave them the strength to persevere even when oppressed from all sides. We fear that, should they discover that we are not as they were taught, they would lose that spark. We have remained aloof from them these many years since our return, maintaining the cold outward appearance they expect."

Princess Twilight remained silent for a while as she processed what Princess Luna had just said. After about a minute, she spoke up. "I see. As the Princess of Friendship, I wish it was easy to simply say that you should become friends with him. And that extending a hoof in kindness to him wouldn't cause the thestrals to turn away from you, and that everything would work out in the end. However, I know that it is much more complicated than that, given how much their culture could impact this... I know I have my biases: I don't know nearly as much about the history of the culture of the thestrals, and as the princess whose power and magic come from friendship, my response would be biased towards friendship. However, I don't think you're a harsh leader. I don't think you want to be a harsh leader. And I don't think you lead well as a harsh leader. Like, just look at how you dedicate your time to get to know the bat pony children of this neighborhood. Due to all this, that is why I am concerned about how much longer you can hide this and maintain this facade from the thestrals if this isn't who you are. I'm sorry, I know this is a tricky subject......" Twilight replied. Another pause.

"...Perhaps I could try to get to know Nova better, and then I might be able to offer my opinion on this matter..."

"...Although, maybe Nova is different. I mean, Speckle said he came here in a cultural exchange. Wouldn't that mean he is interested in learning about other cultures? And if he's open to becoming friends with ponies with other cultures, maybe he'll still admire and respect you if you are friendly and kind to him. Just please, stay a little longer. Everypony here was really enjoying this," Twilight suggested. Twilight felt many things as she tried to navigate and untangle this situation. As the Princess of Friendship, she felt it was her calling to help resolve issues between ponies. Most notably was when she helped Princess Luna separate herself from Nightmare Moon, which was what started her journey to where she was now. She knew all of this, and she looked up to Princess Luna, so she desperately wanted to help her out here. Friendship was her calling.

Edited June 4 by Skylight Scintillate

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Skylight Scintillate

Princess Luna looked pensive, and sighed, "Thou speakest truly, and there is much wisdom in thy words. To live two lives, while it cometh more naturally to us than most, still imposeth a cost. This day is an example of an event we had hoped would not occur, when a thestral would see that we are not as they had been taught."

She nodded, "We should plan to meet with the thestral clans, personally, to dispel their misconceptions of us, before it is discovered through less forward means."

She didn't look that sure though, as she turned her attention back to her food, "If thou couldst approach the colt, gauge his reaction, we would be most appreciative."

 

If Twilight didn't have anything else, Luna would recompose herself before dispelling the shield that held their conversation private, "Apologies, there was an important matter that Princess Twilight had to discuss with us. Frolicsome, where didst we leave off?" And so she returned to the conversation at the table.

 

Nova had been watching the conversation between Luna and Twilight, at lease between bites of his food. He thought it odd that she had apologized when returning to the conversation, the elders of his clan certainly wouldn't have been expected to apologize for needing to step away for important matters.

He didn't know how he felt about the difference though, while he had expected Luna to be more like the elders, she seemed almost like how his mother was when company was present. Still, he'd have to think about it, he was still very humbled to even be in her presence, and she had even spoken to him! No one back home would believe him though...

He looked over at Speckle, "Do you think, um... or would it be wrong to ask if... maybe... I could get some sort of proof that I met Princess Luna? I don't know what that might be though."

The Fastar Clan didn't usually give autographs, and didn't have a concept of celebrities either, other than Princess Luna, who none who did not work directly with her had met personally, and they had their lunar guard armor and badges to prove their connection.

[Skylight Scintillate 2,031]

@Illiad Easle 

On 2024-06-06 at 5:34 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Princess Luna looked pensive, and sighed, "Thou speakest truly, and there is much wisdom in thy words. To live two lives, while it cometh more naturally to us than most, still imposeth a cost. This day is an example of an event we had hoped would not occur, when a thestral would see that we are not as they had been taught."

 

She nodded, "We should plan to meet with the thestral clans, personally, to dispel their misconceptions of us, before it is discovered through less forward means."

"Yeah I hear you. Just let me know if there's anything I can do to help," Twilight offered.

On 2024-06-06 at 5:34 PM, Illiad Easle said:

She didn't look that sure though, as she turned her attention back to her food, "If thou couldst approach the colt, gauge his reaction, we would be most appreciative."

"Sure," Princess Twilight replied. Once the spell keeping their conversation private was dispelled, she would turn her attention to Nova. "Hello there, Nova; how are things going? I heard this is your first time meeting Princess Luna, and me," Twilight asked Nova, hoping to break the ice. 

On 2024-06-06 at 5:34 PM, Illiad Easle said:

He looked over at Speckle, "Do you think, um... or would it be wrong to ask if... maybe... I could get some sort of proof that I met Princess Luna? I don't know what that might be though."

"I don't know... I mean, I heard Princess Luna wants this to be a casual chat and get to know each other kind of thing. Like, she doesn't want it to be like all the princess-y events that she attends and such. Like we just chat and eat dinner and such..." Speckle rambled, not quite sure exactly how to describe the vibe of these chats. 

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Skylight Scintillate

On 2024-06-07 at 10:11 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

"Sure," Princess Twilight replied. Once the spell keeping their conversation private was dispelled, she would turn her attention to Nova. "Hello there, Nova; how are things going? I heard this is your first time meeting Princess Luna, and me," Twilight asked Nova, hoping to break the ice. 

Luna looked momentarily surprised that Twilight was so quick to start a conversation, she had meant maybe afterwards or on some future date.

She made no attempt to stop or dissuade her however, inwardly wondering if she herself had set too long a timetable on her own plans.

 

Nova was also surprised that Princess Twilight was talking to him specifically, while thestrals did not have the same sort of reverence for her as they did for Princess Luna, Nova still took her speaking to him to be an honor.

"Oh, um, I am doing well, thank you. I was brought here just last night. Yes, this is, um, my first time meeting, well, anyone from outside my clan or Archback. I didn't think I would meet such important ponies on my trip."

 

On 2024-06-07 at 10:11 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

"I don't know... I mean, I heard Princess Luna wants this to be a casual chat and get to know each other kind of thing. Like, she doesn't want it to be like all the princess-y events that she attends and such. Like we just chat and eat dinner and such..." Speckle rambled, not quite sure exactly how to describe the vibe of these chats. 

Nova looked a little disappointed, "Oh, alright." He didn't know what he had been expecting really, those badges and armor were earned through service, why should he get something special just for having been in the same room as her?

He lamented that no one back home would believe him, but was happy that he would know it was true.

[Skylight Scintillate 2,031]

@Illiad Easle 

On 2024-06-11 at 3:44 PM, Illiad Easle said:

"Oh, um, I am doing well, thank you. I was brought here just last night. Yes, this is, um, my first time meeting, well, anyone from outside my clan or Archback. I didn't think I would meet such important ponies on my trip."

"Ah, that's nice. There are a lot of important ponies here in Canterlot, so you'll run into them in a few specific places. Speaking of which, what do you think of the ponies here and their culture? It sounds like the threstals are very different from the ponies here in Canterlot, and I hear you view the princesses very highly, especially Princess Luna," Twilight asked as she savored some vegetable tempera.

Meanwhile, Speckle, who was completely oblivious to what had just gone down with Princess Luna, turned to her and asked, "So, what do you think of Nova? Isn't he so cool!? I think he's a really nice friend. Do you think thestrals are cool? And what have you been up to recently? Anything intersting or awesome happen? I want all the juicy details..." Speckle rambled.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Skylight Scintillate

On 2024-06-13 at 8:48 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

"Ah, that's nice. There are a lot of important ponies here in Canterlot, so you'll run into them in a few specific places. Speaking of which, what do you think of the ponies here and their culture? It sounds like the threstals are very different from the ponies here in Canterlot, and I hear you view the princesses very highly, especially Princess Luna," Twilight asked as she savored some vegetable tempera.

Nova was a little intimidated by the depth of the question that Twilight had posed, but did his best to answer, "Um, well, I've only just got here, but I think the ponies here are interesting. They do things different from how I'm used to, but that's not a bad thing. I'm sure I'll get used to the differences soon, and maybe I'll take some things back?"

He shrugged

"Princess Luna is very important to my clan, I was taught that she stood up for what was right, even when her sister disagreed. She even secretly adopted a bunch of foals before she was, um, yeah, anyway... I always hoped I would get to meet her some day, or that she would visit me in my dreams, so to be here where she is is a real big honor!"

 

On 2024-06-13 at 8:48 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

"So, what do you think of Nova? Isn't he so cool!? I think he's a really nice friend. Do you think thestrals are cool? And what have you been up to recently? Anything intersting or awesome happen? I want all the juicy details..." Speckle rambled.

Despite the content of Speckle's question, Luna gave a measured smile, "Calm thyself, there is time enough for us to answer all thy questions, if thou asketh with patience."

"We have only just met young Nova, it would be premature for us to think ill of him, but we are happy that thou hast found in him a friend."

"We have a very high opinion of thestrals, as we do for all ponies who seeketh to protect those around them."

She shook her head with a smile at the last question though, "This is not the place for idle chatter of that nature. It suffices us to say that we have been quite busy as of late. There has been much to do with reorganizing the guard and their training regimen."

[Skylight Scintillate 2,031]

@Illiad Easle 

On 2024-06-18 at 4:48 PM, Illiad Easle said:

"Um, well, I've only just got here, but I think the ponies here are interesting. They do things different from how I'm used to, but that's not a bad thing. I'm sure I'll get used to the differences soon, and maybe I'll take some things back?"

"That's fascinating. So you're into learning about and understanding different cultures? I know I love learning about various cultures, appreciating the aspects that make them unique, and observing how they interact with each other. I find that learning about different cultures gives me a different perspective of my own culture, furthering my understanding and allowing me to better understand myself. What is it like for you?" Twilight asked.

On 2024-06-18 at 4:48 PM, Illiad Easle said:

"Princess Luna is very important to my clan, I was taught that she stood up for what was right, even when her sister disagreed. She even secretly adopted a bunch of foals before she was, um, yeah, anyway... I always hoped I would get to meet her some day, or that she would visit me in my dreams, so to be here where she is is a real big honor!"

"That's nice. It appears you have a very strong sense of what Princess Luna is like or should be like. What do you believe she believes is right, and how does that compare to the other princesses? I know I also look up to Princess Luna, but my perspective of her as a fellow princess is quite different," Twilight discussed.

On 2024-06-18 at 4:48 PM, Illiad Easle said:

"We have only just met young Nova, it would be premature for us to think ill of him, but we are happy that thou hast found in him a friend."

"We have a very high opinion of thestrals, as we do for all ponies who seeketh to protect those around them."

 "Oh that's cool. I think Nova is very cool. You should become friends with him!" Speckle repeated herself without realizing.

"How did you become friends with the thestrals? Why is the guard being reorganized? What is your favorite thing to do as a princess? Do you like flying? What do you like doing for fun? Also, isn't this restaurant so cool? How did you find this restaurant? I really love the cozy private rooms they create for each table here, and the cherry blossoms hanging from the ceiling. Also, the food here is so good. What's your favorite food? I really like the bite-sized pieces of  seafood wrapped in rice and seaweed!" Speckle rambled, jumping from topic to topic.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Skylight Scintillate

23 hours ago, Skylight Scintillate said:

What is it like for you?" Twilight asked.

Nova looked a bit intimidated by the question, and started to feel more like he was being interviewed. In a way it felt like when his teacher or one of the elders spoke to him.

He got the feeling that there was a 'correct' answer that the princess was looking for, so he thought before answering, "Um, I guess it's the same? I mean, I guess I've thought about how the ponies back home do things and how that's different from the way the ponies do things here?"

He shrugged.

23 hours ago, Skylight Scintillate said:

"That's nice. It appears you have a very strong sense of what Princess Luna is like or should be like. What do you believe she believes is right, and how does that compare to the other princesses? I know I also look up to Princess Luna, but my perspective of her as a fellow princess is quite different,"

Nova looked thoughtful, "Well, I never really thought about the other princesses before. I mean, no one really told me much about you other than that you existed. So I don't know how you or the other princesses compare to Princess Luna, other than that Princess Celestia has disagreed with Princess Celestia before. But, um, as to what I believe she believes is right, um..."

He spared a glance at Princess Luna, whose attention was on Speckle, or at least it appeared to be, before continuing, "Um, I think she believes in standing up for yourself, and for those around you who can't stand up for themselves. She believes in acting honestly, being loyal, and doing her duty."

He looked a bit unsure, "That's what I was taught at least, and that's what I and my clan try to do."

 

23 hours ago, Skylight Scintillate said:

"Oh that's cool. I think Nova is very cool. You should become friends with him!" Speckle repeated herself without realizing.

Luna paused for the briefest of moments before regaining her composure.

23 hours ago, Skylight Scintillate said:

"How did you become friends with the thestrals? Why is the guard being reorganized? What is your favorite thing to do as a princess? Do you like flying? What do you like doing for fun? Also, isn't this restaurant so cool? How did you find this restaurant? I really love the cozy private rooms they create for each table here, and the cherry blossoms hanging from the ceiling. Also, the food here is so good. What's your favorite food? I really like the bite-sized pieces of  seafood wrapped in rice and seaweed!" Speckle rambled, jumping from topic to topic.

Luna held up a hoof to get the young Speckle to calm, "Again thou speakest too quickly. We can hardly keep up with thy queries! We will answer what questions we can remember."

"When we were younger, before our... indisposition... we encountered the thestrals on their island nation of Thestralia off the coast of Minos. They were nocturnal, like us, and were struggling on their island. We gave them safe passage to Equestria, and allowed them to settle colonies in the forests, and allowed them to thrive. As they were nocturnal, we were able to work with them more directly than the rest of our ponies, and so I would say that this cooperation allowed for our friendship to form."

"The guard needs to be reorganized from time to time, to account for the changes in Equestria's needs. Lately the addition of Princess Twilight to the diarchy has necessitated an adjustment to the current system."

"We would be remiss if we did not say that these excursions, where we interact with our subjects, wert our favorite royal activity."

"We are indeed fond of flying, perhaps thou hast seen us in the night sky on occasion?"

Before she continued with her answers another bat pony, who she had subtly signaled to approach her, did so to draw her attention away. "If thou wouldt excuse us," She turned away from Speckle to converse privately with the pony she had summoned, giving Speckle a moment to take notice of the conversation that Nova was having with Twilight, and maybe help him out a bit with the questions she had for him?

[Skylight Scintillate 2,031]

@Illiad Easle 

On 2024-06-21 at 12:28 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He got the feeling that there was a 'correct' answer that the princess was looking for, so he thought before answering, "Um, I guess it's the same? I mean, I guess I've thought about how the ponies back home do things and how that's different from the way the ponies do things here?"

Princess Twilight seemed notice that her questions were making Nova a bit uncomfortable. "Sorry if it feels like I'm pressuring you with my questions. It's just that I love learning about new things and sometimes I can get a bit carried away. I know that as a princess, it can seem like I'm flawless, but I'm hardly perfect. Despite this, as the Princess of Friendship, it is most important to me that I'm kind to everypony, and that includes those that I'm getting to know," Twilight replied.

On 2024-06-21 at 12:28 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Nova looked thoughtful, "Well, I never really thought about the other princesses before. I mean, no one really told me much about you other than that you existed. So I don't know how you or the other princesses compare to Princess Luna, other than that Princess Celestia has disagreed with Princess Celestia before. But, um, as to what I believe she believes is right, um..."

He spared a glance at Princess Luna, whose attention was on Speckle, or at least it appeared to be, before continuing, "Um, I think she believes in standing up for yourself, and for those around you who can't stand up for themselves. She believes in acting honestly, being loyal, and doing her duty."

He looked a bit unsure, "That's what I was taught at least, and that's what I and my clan try to do."

"...Those are some of the elements of harmony..." Twilight thought to herself. 

"That's very nice. I too think that Princess Luna is very determined in her beliefs and defends what she believes is right. I also think it's quite nice that you try to copy her values like this. I suppose I've been asking a lot of the questions here. You say that you don't know that much about the other princesses. Why don't you ask me some questions?" Twilight offered.

On 2024-06-21 at 12:28 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Luna held up a hoof to get the young Speckle to calm, "Again thou speakest too quickly. We can hardly keep up with thy queries! We will answer what questions we can remember."

"Oh, sorry," Speckle realized. She blushed as she covered her face, trying to hide her embarrassment.

 

On 2024-06-21 at 12:28 AM, Illiad Easle said:

"When we were younger, before our... indisposition... we encountered the thestrals on their island nation of Thestralia off the coast of Minos. They were nocturnal, like us, and were struggling on their island. We gave them safe passage to Equestria, and allowed them to settle colonies in the forests, and allowed them to thrive. As they were nocturnal, we were able to work with them more directly than the rest of our ponies, and so I would say that this cooperation allowed for our friendship to form."

"The guard needs to be reorganized from time to time, to account for the changes in Equestria's needs. Lately the addition of Princess Twilight to the diarchy has necessitated an adjustment to the current system."

"We would be remiss if we did not say that these excursions, where we interact with our subjects, wert our favorite royal activity."

"We are indeed fond of flying, perhaps thou hast seen us in the night sky on occasion?"

"Oh that's cool. It sounds like you're really nice to save the thestrals like that. I know I love meeting the princesses. And I have definitely seen you flying at night. I think it's so cool!" Speckle would reply. 

On 2024-06-21 at 12:28 AM, Illiad Easle said:

 

She turned away from Speckle to converse privately with the pony she had summoned, giving Speckle a moment to take notice of the conversation that Nova was having with Twilight, and maybe help him out a bit with the questions she had for him?

Speckle would turn her attention to the conversation that was taking place between Nova and Twilight. "Oh oh oh, those are like the Elements of Harmony! There's laughter, kindness, honesty, loyalty, generosity, and magic! These are the six things that make friendship magical!" Speckle exclaimed. 

"Yes, they are," Twilight would nod. 

"And I also think it's cool to learn about new cultures! I think it's so interesting to see how they do things differently and why and such..." Speckle rambled.

"Also, I think you're really kind..." Speckle said, admiring Twilight. 

Speckle looked up to both Princess Twilight and Princess Luna, but in different ways. For Princess Twilight, Speckle thought it was really cool how she was a princess, but she looked like a normal young adult pony. The only difference being she had both wings and a horn. In addition, Princess Twilight just felt really magical and special, like the other alicorns. Finally, there was how nice she was to everypony, which Speckle thought was magical in itself. 

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Skylight Scintillate

On 2024-06-23 at 10:07 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

Princess Twilight seemed notice that her questions were making Nova a bit uncomfortable. "Sorry if it feels like I'm pressuring you with my questions. It's just that I love learning about new things and sometimes I can get a bit carried away. I know that as a princess, it can seem like I'm flawless, but I'm hardly perfect. Despite this, as the Princess of Friendship, it is most important to me that I'm kind to everypony, and that includes those that I'm getting to know," Twilight replied.

Nova was surprised by the apology and explanation, his teachers and leaders would never offer an apology like that, especially for something so small as his own comfort! He had actually been preparing to apologize for expressing discomfort.

As he was unsure how to react, "Um, thank you? It was alright, I'm just not used to being talked to this much. Back home I'm always told to be quiet and listen, not many have taken an interest in me like you."

On 2024-06-23 at 10:07 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

You say that you don't know that much about the other princesses. Why don't you ask me some questions?" Twilight offered.

He was even more surprised by that opportunity, "Oh! Um... I was told that you weren't always a princess, or an alicorn. Does that mean that anyone could become an alicorn?"

He idly considered what he would look like if he were an alicorn, would he still have the features that made him a thestral?

 

On 2024-06-23 at 10:07 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

Speckle looked up to both Princess Twilight and Princess Luna, but in different ways. For Princess Twilight, Speckle thought it was really cool how she was a princess, but she looked like a normal young adult pony. The only difference being she had both wings and a horn. In addition, Princess Twilight just felt really magical and special, like the other alicorns. Finally, there was how nice she was to everypony, which Speckle thought was magical in itself. 

Nova was relieved that Speckle was joining his conversation and could take some of Twilight's attention off of himself. He was a bit envious as to how Speckle could feel so comfortable here, so close to royalty, and even in just talking to them like there was nothing special about it! He wished he had her confidence.

Still, he had asked a question, and it would be rude to not listen to the answer. 

[Skylight Scintillate 2,031]

@Illiad Easle 

On 2024-06-24 at 12:07 AM, Skylight Scintillate said:

"Also, I think you're really kind..." Speckle said, admiring Twilight. 

Twilight blushed slightly at Speckle's compliment.

On 2024-06-28 at 4:54 PM, Illiad Easle said:

"Um, thank you? It was alright, I'm just not used to being talked to this much. Back home I'm always told to be quiet and listen, not many have taken an interest in me like you."

"I see. Well I hope you don't mind if we can get to know each other better," Twilight replied, trying to reassure Nova with a gentle smile. 

On 2024-06-28 at 4:54 PM, Illiad Easle said:

He was even more surprised by that opportunity, "Oh! Um... I was told that you weren't always a princess, or an alicorn. Does that mean that anyone could become an alicorn?"

 Twilight thought for a moment before replying. "Perhaps. I'm sure you know about unicorns, pegasi, and earth ponies. Each of these pony species has certain magic that makes them unique. Alicorns have significant magic from all three species. However, in addition to that, an alicorn needs a specific kind of regal magic to bind the magic from the three species together. For Celestia and Luna, it is their connection to the celestial bodies; for Cadence, it is the magic of love; and for me, it is the magic of friendship. However, I have only studied how earth pony, pegasi, and unicorn magic interact with each other. It could be possible for a thestral to become an alicorn, but I can't be sure," Twilight explained.

"Do you think about becoming an alicorn? What are some things you like doing?" Twilight asked.

"Oh, and feel free to ask me more questions," Twilight added.

Meanwhile, Speckle had curiously tried a piece of wasabi and was quickly reminded of how spicy it was. Her face burned red hot, and she desperately tried to wash the heat away with a glass of water despite its ineffectiveness.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Skylight Scintillate

On 2024-07-02 at 10:22 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

"Do you think about becoming an alicorn? What are some things you like doing?" Twilight asked.

Nova looked a little unsure, "Not really? I didn't think it was possible. I mean, no thestral has become an alicorn before. I don't know if the elders would consider them pure blooded if one did though."

As to what he liked doing, "Um, well I like exploring the forest. Hunting is fun, even if I'm not very good at it. I think I want to be a guard when I grow up, but I'm not old enough to learn how to fight yet. So I don't know if I'm good at guarding."

On 2024-07-02 at 10:22 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

Meanwhile, Speckle had curiously tried a piece of wasabi and was quickly reminded of how spicy it was. Her face burned red hot, and she desperately tried to wash the heat away with a glass of water despite its ineffectiveness.

Nova noticed Speckle's reaction, and thought it odd. He had tried some of the wasabi too, and while it was certainly spicy, it wasn't terribly hotter than some of the food he had tried in Mohotma. He hoped that Speckle wouldn't have issues with the food on his half of the exchange.

On 2024-07-02 at 10:22 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

"Oh, and feel free to ask me more questions," Twilight added.

He looked thoughtful, and a bit more comfortable now that there weren't so many questions coming his way, "Um, Do you have any thestral friends? Or Bat pony friends?"

[Skylight Scintillate 2,031]

@Illiad Easle 

On 2024-07-12 at 3:56 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Nova looked a little unsure, "Not really? I didn't think it was possible. I mean, no thestral has become an alicorn before. I don't know if the elders would consider them pure blooded if one did though."

"...Pure blooded? What do you mean by that?" Twilight asked, giving Nova a puzzled look. 

On 2024-07-12 at 3:56 PM, Illiad Easle said:

As to what he liked doing, "Um, well I like exploring the forest. Hunting is fun, even if I'm not very good at it. I think I want to be a guard when I grow up, but I'm not old enough to learn how to fight yet. So I don't know if I'm good at guarding."

"Oh that's cool. I like exploring as well, but for me, it's exploring new cultures. I love learning new perspectives on things!" Twilight replied. "As for figuring out your life's purpose, well you have plenty of time. I know some ponies took forever to get their cutie marks. And when you learn about fighting, you'll know if being a guard is right for you. However, even if you aren't good at fighting, there are still careers that rely on a wide variety of skills that are similar to the guards."

"Oh oh oh, I want to be a Wonderbolt when I grow up! Either that or somepony who works with Princess Luna! But like, being a Wonderbolt is so cool! I love flying and doing all the cool tricks and such! And everypony looks up to them because of their amazing flying skills! And did I mention...!" Speckle fanfillied. 

Twilight giggled. "You sound a lot like my friend Rainbow Dash. She loved the Wonderbolts from a young age, and recently, she joined them as a member. Maybe I should introduce you to her..."

On 2024-07-12 at 3:56 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Nova noticed Speckle's reaction, and thought it odd. He had tried some of the wasabi too, and while it was certainly spicy, it wasn't terribly hotter than some of the food he had tried in Mohotma. He hoped that Speckle wouldn't have issues with the food on his half of the exchange.

Twilight Sparkle put some wasabi on her sushi before eating it and asking "Nova, Speckle, what do you think of the food here?"

"Oh my gosh I love the food here so much! I think these bite-sized pieces of seafood wrapped in seaweed on rice are so cool! And the tempura and soup are so savory and tasty! It's like everything here is so good! Except for the wasabi. That's too spicy..."

Twilight giggled a little in response to Speckle.

On 2024-07-12 at 3:56 PM, Illiad Easle said:

 

He looked thoughtful, and a bit more comfortable now that there weren't so many questions coming his way, "Um, Do you have any thestral friends? Or Bat pony friends?"

"Well, not really. Let's see. First, there's Applejack, who's an earth pony farmer. She's like really traditional and loves apples, working hard and saying things the way it is. Then there's Rarity who's a unicorn fashionista. She loves being creative and is always making dresses and other things for me and my friends. Then there's Fluttershy, who is really shy around other ponies, but loves animals. She loves caring for them and is super nice to them. And if you get to know her as a friend, she would be super kind to you too. There's Pinkie Pie, who's always living the life of the party. She's a party planner and baker and loves making other ponies laugh or smile. I know I mentioned Rainbow Dahs before, who in addition to being part of the wonderbolts, helps manage the weather in Ponyville. She loves being cool, but will fight hard for what she believes in and to defend her friends. Oh, and Spike, who's a young dragon, and my younger brother. He's the best dragon helper anypony could ask for, and we're always there for each other. Oh, and I guess I could also talk about Shining Armor and Cadence, who are the captain of the royal guard and the Princess of the Crystal Empire respectively..."

"Wait, you're friends with Cadence and a Wonderbolt!?" Speckle exclaimed, causing the rest of the table to turn and stare at her.

"Well, yeah, I'm friends with all the princesses. As for Rainbow Dash, we met in Ponyville before I was a princess and before she was a Wonderbolt," Twilight replied, giving Princess Luna another affectionate nuzzle. "But uh, back to Nova's original question. Unfortunately no, I'm not friends with any thestrals or bat ponies.Thus, I have a lot to learn about them. However, maybe we could be friends," Twilight offered to Nova and Speckle.

Edited July 18 by Skylight Scintillate

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Skylight Scintillate

On 2024-07-15 at 10:42 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

"...Pure blooded? What do you mean by that?" Twilight asked, giving Nova a puzzled look. 

Nova looked confused too, though more in the way that he thought Twilight would know about something like this.

"Well, you know how bat ponies have certain attributes that are different from other ponies? Things like our different eyes, our fangs, our ears, our wings, and other things. Well, a thestral has all of those defining traits, while a bat pony only has some of them."

He looked a bit less sure, "There hasn't been any thestral that I've heard of that's had all of the features and something extra, like a horn, so I don't know if they would count as pure or not. Maybe even the elders don't know? Given how much they respect Princess Luna, I don't think they'd be opposed to accepting a thestral alicorn."

 

On 2024-07-15 at 10:42 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

However, even if you aren't good at fighting, there are still careers that rely on a wide variety of skills that are similar to the guards."

He nodded at that, not discouraged.

 

On 2024-07-15 at 10:42 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

Twilight Sparkle put some wasabi on her sushi before eating it and asking "Nova, Speckle, what do you think of the food here?"

"Oh my gosh I love the food here so much! I think these bite-sized pieces of seafood wrapped in seaweed on rice are so cool! And the tempura and soup are so savory and tasty! It's like everything here is so good! Except for the wasabi. That's too spicy..."

Twilight giggled a little in response to Speckle.

He regarded his food again, "It's... different from what I'm used to, but not in a bad way. We don't get too many big fish out in the forest, so we usually don't put much effort into preparing them like this. The spice is nice though, it reminds me of some of the food I tried from the zebra in Mohotma. Again, different, but not bad."

 

On 2024-07-15 at 10:42 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

"Well, yeah, I'm friends with all the princesses. As for Rainbow Dash, we met in Ponyville before I was a princess and before she was a Wonderbolt," Twilight replied, giving Princess Luna another affectionate nuzzle. "But uh, back to Nova's original question. Unfortunately no, I'm not friends with any thestrals or bat ponies.Thus, I have a lot to learn about them. However, maybe we could be friends," Twilight offered to Nova and Speckle.

Nova looked a bit concerned, "That's... not a lot of friends. I mean, it's more than I have but I thought you would have hundreds of friends."

Inwardly his concerns were more personal, thinking that if even the Princess of Friendship only had a dozen friends or so, he, who was comparatively nothing, had very little hope of making many more friends than he already had.

And given her descriptions of the friends she had, Nova realized that maybe he didn't actually have any friends.

Hardly any of the thestrals his age spoke much to him, other than telling him to be quiet, so he didn't have a friend like Applejack.

No one other than his own parents had given him a gift before, so he didn't have a friend like Rarity.

No one had been particularly kind to him, other than maybe the mailpony, so he didn't have a friend like Fluttershy.

He had always been the one to make himself smile or laugh, so he didn't have a friend like Pinkie Pie.

He had been the one getting picked on, and only the teachers came to his aid, so he didn't have a friend like Rainbow Dash.

Sure, he had a sister, like Spike, but did family really count as friends?

 

It was weighing heavy on his mind, until he was stirred back to the conversation by her question. He was intimidated by the prospect. To be Princess Sparkle's first ever thestral friend? A thestral like him with no friends of his own? He hardly felt worthy... but... it would be rude to refuse a request of the Princess... right?

So he nodded, with a small and only partially genuine smile, "Okay, I would like that."

[Skylight Scintillate 2,031]

@Illiad Easle 

 

On 2024-07-18 at 4:41 PM, Illiad Easle said:

 

Nova looked confused too, though more in the way that he thought Twilight would know about something like this.

"Well, you know how bat ponies have certain attributes that are different from other ponies? Things like our different eyes, our fangs, our ears, our wings, and other things. Well, a thestral has all of those defining traits, while a bat pony only has some of them."

"Yeah what Nova said," Speckle added.

"Oh ok, that makes sense. That was one of the ideas I had in mind. Sometimes I overcomplicate things with other possibilities..." Twilight admitted. 

 "You know, I wasn't really sure what a threstral was either before I went on this exchange. However, it is interesting to learn how bat ponies are a mix of thestrals and other ponies. I think that's pretty cool," Speckle noted. Twilight nodded.

"Hey Nova, what's your magic like?" Twilight asked.

On 2024-07-18 at 4:41 PM, Illiad Easle said:

He regarded his food again, "It's... different from what I'm used to, but not in a bad way. We don't get too many big fish out in the forest, so we usually don't put much effort into preparing them like this. The spice is nice though, it reminds me of some of the food I tried from the zebra in Mohotma. Again, different, but not bad."

"I see. What is your food like there?" Twilight asked.

"As for me, I quite like the food here. I understand why Princess Luna loves the food here. These flavors are like a harmony of tastes that perfectly complement each other. In addition, everything is so fresh, and the flavors are strong without being overwhelming..." Twilight said.

On 2024-07-18 at 4:41 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Nova looked a bit concerned, "That's... not a lot of friends. I mean, it's more than I have but I thought you would have hundreds of friends."

"Oh me? Noo, I don't have that many best friends. It's more about the quality of my friendships than the quantity. There's this magical connection that we have, and that's what makes us best friends. Because of that, we do so many different things together, we always have each other's backs, and we're always saving Equestria together," Princess Twilight explained, giggling a little at her explanation at the end. 

"Hey. Nova. We're friends ok? And that's what matters," Speckle said as she stared at Nova straight in the eyes. "If it was the how many friends that somepony had that made them a princess, then it would be Pinkie Pie. She's like friends with everypony she meets!"

"...Right... So what do you do with your friends?" Twilight asked.

On 2024-07-18 at 4:41 PM, Illiad Easle said:

So he nodded, with a small and only partially genuine smile, "Okay, I would like that."

"Yay, the three of us, best friends forever!" Speckle exclaimed. This briefly caused the other ponies at the table to glance at Speckle before returning back to their conversations.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Skylight Scintillate

On 2024-07-22 at 9:11 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

"Yeah what Nova said," Speckle added.

"Oh ok, that makes sense. That was one of the ideas I had in mind. Sometimes I overcomplicate things with other possibilities..." Twilight admitted. 

Nova looked curious, "What did you think it meant?"

On 2024-07-22 at 9:11 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

"Hey Nova, what's your magic like?" Twilight asked.

He looked more confused, "Magic? Um... I don't think Thestrals have any unique magic to them. I mean, we fly and can sit on clouds like pegasi, maybe magic helps us see in the dark better?"

He shrugged.

 

On 2024-07-22 at 9:11 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

"I see. What is your food like there?" Twilight asked.

"As for me, I quite like the food here. I understand why Princess Luna loves the food here. These flavors are like a harmony of tastes that perfectly complement each other. In addition, everything is so fresh, and the flavors are strong without being overwhelming..." Twilight said.

He was thoughtful, "Well, we eat what we can hunt and grow for ourselves. most meat was caught that day and any plants were grown nearby or we traded for them from Mohotma since they have more space for fields. So we mostly have the same things all the time, outside of festivals."

 

On 2024-07-22 at 9:11 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

"...Right... So what do you do with your friends?" Twilight asked.

He looked embarrassed at that question, "Um, I guess I don't do much of anything. Outside of Speckle, and now you, I don't know if I have any friends. Most of the other young thestrals don't like having me around..."

[Skylight Scintillate 2,031]

@Illiad Easle 

On 2024-07-26 at 4:59 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Nova looked curious, "What did you think it meant?"

 

"Well um, different pony species do different things based on their culture. My best guess would be that it would be similar to the other pony species, but I didn't want to assume. It seems that for most other pony species, they don't really specify this," Twilight replied. 

On 2024-07-26 at 4:59 PM, Illiad Easle said:

He looked more confused, "Magic? Um... I don't think Thestrals have any unique magic to them. I mean, we fly and can sit on clouds like pegasi, maybe magic helps us see in the dark better?"

"Oh, I see. I suppose I'm just wondering what it is like as your species, you two," Twilight asked.

"Well for bat ponies we are awake during the night and we see quite well in the dark and we avoid the day and we love flying around like pegasi and whatnot..."Speckle rambled.

On 2024-07-26 at 4:59 PM, Illiad Easle said:

He was thoughtful, "Well, we eat what we can hunt and grow for ourselves. most meat was caught that day and any plants were grown nearby or we traded for them from Mohotma since they have more space for fields. So we mostly have the same things all the time, outside of festivals."

"I see, so you're saying where you live, your group is mostly gatherers but also trade? That is quite fascinating," Twilight pondered. 

On 2024-07-26 at 4:59 PM, Illiad Easle said:

He looked embarrassed at that question, "Um, I guess I don't do much of anything. Outside of Speckle, and now you, I don't know if I have any friends. Most of the other young thestrals don't like having me around..."

"Oh, well I hope Speckle and I are able to help you with this," Twilight replied. "Maybe Speckle could suggest some things and we could go along with what you agree with," Twilight suggested.

"Why would the other thestrals not want you around!? I think you're a great friend!" Speckle exclaimed.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Skylight Scintillate

On 2024-07-29 at 10:25 PM, Skylight Scintillate said:

"Why would the other thestrals not want you around!? I think you're a great friend!" Speckle exclaimed.

Nova looked a bit uncomfortable with this line of questioning, "Oh, um, I don't know, I..."

He sighed, looking away as many thoughts went through his head.

You talk too much

You're too loud

You're weird

Leave us alone

Go bother someone else

Go away

Go Away

GO AWAY

 

Twilight might notice that Luna had returned her attention to the group, her expression one of concern as she studied the young thestral colt. She recognized the feeling, loneliness in a crowded room, being misunderstood, rejected, it pained her that she had been so dismissive of him before.

She resolved that something needed to be done, later, maybe when the colt was asleep she would visit him.

 

(It seems like they've been here long enough, but if you had other things you wanted to have happen here at the dinner then you can ignore the part below for now.)

 

At the moment though, she saw an opportunity to alleviate his troubles at least a little as she rose from her seat, "Alas my friends, the time has come for us to depart. We hope thou hast all enjoyed these festivities. We bid thee all a good evening."

As she turned to leave, she hailed Twilight to join her, "Princess Sparkle? A word?"

She would proceed outside so they could speak privately without the shield that they had used before.

 

This would also give Nova and Speckle a chance to speak just the two of them for a bit.