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There wasn’t much to do today- but rest. Rest, rest, and rest. I had ate breakfast, and then read some. Later I spoke with my parents of the recent trip, going into detail of the experiences and stories that needed to be told, over a cup of chilled tea.
When the simple clicks of cups and softness of chatter faded, I sat alone in the library, almost finishing the book I had started a few a weeks ago, the yellow pages making a crisp sound as I searched for my last, 241, almost finished. I melted into that world, with the clashing of swords and the fearless hearts of battle.
It felt good to rest and- do nothing, occasionally going off into the world of dreams. However, I had the twitching feeling that I wasn’t doing enough. That I had to be yelling orders; changing sails, and feeling the hard pressure of the polished wheel beneath my hooves. There was at least, the pleasant rock of the Stargazer, though not as rough or extreme as the Dreamer. Otherwise it was quiet- lonely, and peaceful. I wanted to be doing something, but at the same time I wanted to do nothing.
And so I flipped the page.
I continued onwards, feeling a level of intensity pile up as the climax went through in the story, and the releasage after the tale coming to a shaky close, the future unstable and unpredictable. My lips pulled thin as my eyes flicked over the final page, a calligraphic ‘The End.’ neatly scripted on the lower half. I sighed deeply, pressing my hoof against the final words before I snapped the book shut and held it to my chest. The ceiling was a pale white, warm with the flickering candlelight and making a crisp seam with the wooden walls, which spiraled into winding bookshelves.
And there it was again, the feeling that I wanted to get up and just do.. something, yet I was enjoying being dulled, laying on the loveseat, not wanting to move, not wanting to do anything.
So I studied the walls, looking for patterns in the rings of the wood, or the way light shined on the carvings above the fireplace and shelves. How shadows lay- or the pattern of muffled noises from ponies moving on the upper decks. Every few minutes I could hear the crash of a relatively larger wave brush against the ship, echoing softly through the halls and rooms. My hooves fiddled with each other, and I searched the ways my wrists bent in different harmonies, or how the sensations of touch rung through my leg into my mind. Sound seemed to get warped- blurring away as I faded deep into thought, sensation, and lack of emotion. There was nothing to see, nothing to do but.. think.
Tick.
Tick.
Tick.
My body stiffened as I snapped out of the blurred world into the sharpened edges of reality. The clock’s pendulum swinging loosely over the mantle, bare and empty with only a charred log from winter. I took off my readers to focus better on the time, and startled up, sitting rigid. Was it quarter to nine already?! I knew I had dozed off a few times but-
I shuffled to my hooves, and placed the book gently on the end table, resting my readers on top of it, and quickly blowed out the candles around the room, only lighting the library with my horn as I went into a canter, and headed straight for my bedroom. I was almost there before I stumbled, almost falling onto Pops.
“Mmph!” He uttered in surprise, eyes widening as he tripped somewhat backwards, barely keeping his balance. I composed myself somewhat, and helped stabilize him with my arm.
“Oh heavens- I’m sorry father, I was-” he held up his hoof to stop me, and gave me a small smile.
“No problem son. I’m glad I bumped into you, I was.. hoping we could talk.”
I gulped. “I set up arrangements to see Quartz tonight Pops- I might be able to speak to you after but currently I’m running late.”
His face fell slightly, “Oh.. Alrighty then. Enjoy yourself son.” He patted me on the shoulder and turned around to walk back through the halls, a softness in his posture. I sighed; entered my room, quickly grabbing a comfortable jacket and combed down my mane, before getting my hat and going on my way, into the humid summer air of Ore des Selle.
The windows were flickering with candles, and shadows danced across stone and wooden shops of the marketplace. It was erie, with few ponies bustling about, but the sounds of voices through walls of ponies laughing and speaking their good nights. A slight chill was in the wind, causing a small shiver to roll down my spine, despite the muggy air. I flicked my ears around instinctively, scanning my surroundings, but only seeing my reflection in one of the dark windows. With a calm huff, I pulled out my pocket watch, seeing it at 8:57. I snapped it back and shoved it into my pocket, going into a full gallop. I’d never hear the end of it from Quartz if I was late. The loud sounds of the cobblestone beneath my hooves echoed around the streets and up alleyways, until I rounded a corner and shook to a halt at the well-lit lanterns of Le Bateau de Titan. Clasping the cold handle, and clicking the latch, I entered the warm tavern, cherry oak forming an arc as a ceiling and coating the walls in a cozy feel. Sounds of laughter and loud chatter hit me like a wave, and I trotted into the bar, the door closing behind me, my breath still ragged from my sprint. I saw the familiar gold mane and pale blue of my friend, his back facing me, a drink in his hoof as he talked to the bartender, Amber Glass, who was rubbing a glass clean with a pale cloth. I passed the tables and barrels, about to sit next to Quartz casually at the bar, sliding in, praying he wouldn’t notice my tardiness.
“9:02..” he clicked, and turned to look at me with a devilish grin, “You’re late.”
“I’ll leave you two be,” Amber chuckled and went to put up the glass he’d finished cleaning and stocked it on one of the wooden shelves.
“I was only late by a few moments- I rushed to get here!” I protested, to see him cock his eyebrows in humor.
“What was it you said…”
“Oh not this again Quartz, that was-”
His voice deepened to reflect mine, with a silly sarcastic expression tightening up his lips as he raised his hooves in a demeaning effort, “Oh Quartz- sure you may only be a minute late but-“
“Quartz!” I groaned, sitting down on the seat next to him, seeing his acted expression crack into a smile, his words intermingled with laughter.
“But time can not be spent so foolishly, as time is valued at not only bits, but till’ your last day! What if you were late to your wedding?! If you are to be late for your dear old friend, why-”
“Why couldn’t you be late to your own funeral..” I grumbled, finishing his sentence for him, lowering my head into my hooves.
“So…?” He played, nudging my side with his.
“I APOLOGIZE for my lateness.”
He went into light chuckles, and patted me on my shoulder affectionately, “Apology accepted.”
“I’m glad for it..” I murmured, lifting my head and regaining my gaze with his. “What have you been up to..? Besides making everypony a fool of themselves.”
He scoffed, and took a sip of his drink, the grin not leaving his face. “But those are the fun things…” he whined, a glint in his eyes. I stared him down, until he bursted out, “Fine! ….well, in all honesty- I haven’t done any devilish actions recently, it doesn’t feel right now anymore, as I’ve grown..” I shifted in my seat, resting my left arm on the bar, to better see him. “Though I still joke plenty!”
“You think?” I snorted.
“Otherwise.. I’m busy with- other things. Work, business, affairs and such.” His body stiffened as he looked away, a small blush tinting his cheeks as he brought the glass to his lips and sucked down another quick sip, a sly glance meeting my eyes “And of course- courting a mare.” My eyes widened, seeing his blush deepen, quickly resting his glass, flustered. “Clara.. such a sweet mare-“ he coughed, and whispered, “my sweet mare..”
“My my, gotten busy have we?”
He shot up, “NO! I just-“
“You just..?”
“I’m really happy with her..” he turned to face the bar again, and stroked the rim of his glass. “She’s quite kind, and generous.. beautiful at that, with a bright mind.”
I nodded, and pondered his words. Clara. The name sounded familiar, and I had a faint memory of a pale mare, from my History class a few years back. “Clara Diamond?”
“Yes, that’s her.”
“How did you meet her?”
“Well.. with the Stardust’s Summer ball- her family was invited and without you to talk to.. I struck up a pleasant conversation with her.. in a few weeks I confessed my attraction to her and-“ A heavy blush riddled his face, and he trembled, shaking it off. “But no matter. How was your trip?”
“Quite good. As you know, I’ve only capitained a few ships, and this was my longest trip by far.”
“Almost a full loop around the Equestrian Continent, you say?”
“Yes, and don’t forget all of those damned Isles…”
He snorted, “anything story worth?”
“‘Came across my second sea-beast. Scale-covered, whirlpool type. We caught sight of it in the North Lunar Ocean, with a low-pressure system blowing through at that.”
His eyes narrowed, and leaned in. “North Luna. Was it- I suppose a charybdis?” I nodded, and watched his face go pale, drink trembling in his hooves as he gulped, “I’m glad you’re alive, Bronze.”
“Quartz-“
“A charybdis! Those knock out some of the best of Celestia’s crews! Suck them into a deep whirlpool of teeth and death- You could have died Bronze!” His face was contorted in a look of anger, similar to an older sibling scolding the younger for foolish behavior- concern lacing his face.
“Do you think I wanted to pass by it?” I whispered softly, looking down, remembering the fearful memory.
He put his hoof on his forehead, brushing up his mane as he leaned on his elbow onto the bar, a look of pain beginning to drown his face. “What happened?” He muttered, and flickered his eye back to mine.
“There were large storms flowing through- no doubt attracting the beast. Our weathermaster busted as many clouds as he could, but there are only so many a lone pegasus can do.”
“And how did you pass the serpent?”
I sighed, “everyone grew into a panic, the waves growing high and powerful, and before our very eyes it exploded out of the sea- a large roar coming with it, before its body crashed down and began to inhale the salty waters- the ship was unstable, and with our sails beginning to rip and tear- the Dreamer began to slip down into the current, passing by the teeth under the stony waves- everypony was..”my neck hung low, eyes shut tight, flashes of razory yellow teeth about to break through the twirling ship- so many screams. So much fear. Windy had been knocked off trying to keep others secure, my first mate- and best friend on the ship almost plummeting to her death. In a swoop of grey, she had been saved by Stormy- who had been creating thunder to distract the beast. My eyes flickered open weakly, “our weathermaster- Stormy told us that this particular charybdis was of the Kronus strain- strong oceanic swimmers but-“
“Weak to lightning- they able to handle storm currents, which is why it came hunting during the storm. But.. weak to strong bolts. What did you do?!”
“It took the might of all our unicorns, but with the Earth’s running the ship, trying to keep it stable as possible, and I rounded up all the unicorns, grabbing each other’s hooves for support as we connected all of our horns and.. I’m honestly not sure if we stunned or killed the beast. But the winds from the storm, and the power from the surge sped us out of that system.” My Heart was still racing, muscles tight from the terrifying memories, crackles of multicolored lightning streaming through the beast’s attack.
“Goodness. You’re pale Bronze.” He knocked the bar lightly, and I watched Amber turn his face, “hm?”
“Get this man a Pinot Noir, with a hint of cherry juice- on me.”
“Oh- you don’t need to do that Quartz, I have bits!” I started to rummage through my pockets, but a dark rosy drink was already sliding over on the worn bar. I saw him flicking over the bits, a gold shimmering flash into Amber’s hooves. I tenderly grasped the glass, and drank a few heavenly sips, sighing in contentment, though the memories not drifting far from my mind- only stifled for a moment. “Thank you.. Quartz. You didn’t need to do that, you know.”
“Pfft!” He waved dismissively, “let us not forget all the times you bought me a drink, and-“ he bowed his head in respective gesture, “you have quite some heroic things- I must admit.”
“It was my entire crew, not just me.”
“But you kept them together- both physically and mentally.”
I blowed, with a soft nicker, “I suppose.”
He gave me smile, and leaned both elbows back on the bar, closing his eyes. “First told them the plan, and kept everyone together with levitational?”
“That’s sounds about right..”
“I just have to question-“ there was an upswing to his voice, intermingled with curiosity. “What did the beast look like, may I ask? I’ve only seen pen conceptuals in schoolbooks.”
I shivered slightly, and traced the rim of my glass with my hoof. “It was far too long to see the whole body- we only viewed the head and neck when it burst upwards- and at that..” my forehead tightened, and I laid my hoof on my temple. “It is blurry from fear, Quartz, yet defined with the adrenaline I had. And.. shrouded in the darkness of the night, though flickering like a candle from the lightning refracting on the devil’s scales’.” He leaned in with intrigue, and nodded for me to continue. “ the jaw was cut like a starfish- five large mouths to seal the rows of death underneath. I couldn’t count all the rows of teeth, but the bow almost crashed into one of them after the devil went under water and began to suck us in its’ mighty whirlpool.. the scales were like the one of a golden carp- though large, and verte, with hints of bleu, though I may be wrong, not enough time to tell.”
“The scale color sounds correct- along with your other delineations.”
“The head was large, bulbous even compared to the neck which begins grows thin nearing its body’s end.” I snuffled, and grimaced hard now, eyes shut tight like tulips at night. “It was not the physical appearance that caused me such terror, moreso the black waters of the nightly oceans twisting and spiraling into such a whirlpool- White crests foaming at the teeth of the charybdis, and waves crashing like hell’s fires against our ship.”
I looked at the apprehension knotted up on his face, lips pulled thin as he flicked his eyes across the wooden floor, before lifting his chin to lock his golden iris’ with mine.
“Thank you Bronze, for telling me these things and all,” he patted me on the shoulder, before leaning into a quick- yet tight embrace. “Don’t you dare cross ways with a beast like that again!” He ordered, then pulled away, hooves still resting on my shoulders.
“Not planning to Quartz.” I murmured lowly.
“...Just because you’re big and tall doesn’t mean you’re immortal.” He snorted, trying to lighten the conversation from the heavy pressure.
Wait.
I flicked my ears up, face slack, a startling realization coming over me. Closing my eyes gently- a sense of drama pulling my mouth up into a devilish grin, eyebrows raising- creating the all-to-familiar smirk on my face.
“Big. And tall.” I simpered, putting the glass on the bar, and resting my hoof on it- seeing him become unraveled and uncomposed.
“I.. I did NOT say that!!” He sputtered, embarrassment flooding through him. I burst out laughing, my chest heaving as I wheezed.
“HA! FINALLY!! AFTER THREE DAMNED YEARS YOU ADMIT IT!!” I doubled over, laughing, hearing his stutters trying to deny what he mistakenly said, only making ,e laugh harder- tears beading up in my eyes as I cackled, a soreness welling up in my breast.
“Bronze..” he almost whimpered, looking around at the rest of the bar, which people had begun to look at the sight of me laughing.
“I’ve been taller than you for three years!”
“Oh stop your chuckling, would you?!”
I took in heavy gasp of breath, and fused my mouth shut, trying to keep my laugh down, as it bursted through my throat, trying to be let free.
“Fine. I admit it- you’re taller than me. And that’s that.” He turned away from me, his face cooled as he finished his drink.
“I’m not going to let this go, you know.” I smirked, trying to sit myself back up, and facing the bar, gently touching my glass, as I tried to overcome the cracks in my throat from the laugh, and gave him a small glance.
“Quartz? You okay?”
He looked down, but shook it off with a grin, and bumped into my shoulder. “I can’t stand you, that’s what.”
I grinned back, and bumped his side playfully in return. So. What other things have you been up too?
His eyes raised, and he gave a nod to Amber to refill his drink. “Well. The mine has been quite profitable, and my parents are giving me more control over the business every day, preparing me for.. well when I take over.”
“Yeah..” I dipped my hat, looking off. “I understand- we’re stallions now and..”
“And we’re all grown up.. gosh, I’ll miss the days where we could get away with anything.” He said, melancholy tracing his voice. He breathed a hearty sigh, and clasped his new drink. “But I simply must say- authority is quite a pleasant position.”
I snorted loudly, “You know not of what you speak.”
A grumble rumbled out of his throat, “A sea Captain is different than the Excutive Officer.”
“Wait till you’ve done it for a yea-“
“However, a miner of mine challenged me when he couldn’t break through a particularly hard piece of granite, saying it couldn’t be done with a pickaxe.”
“You showed him how it’s done?”
“Oh yes; quite. —with a bet, of course,” He snickered devilishly, “so I rolled up my sleeves, and told him if I could create a large crack on the first swing, he wouldn’t get a days pay- if I couldn’t, I’d give him fifty bits for the trouble.”
“Oh dear..” I could imagine the glint in Quartz’s eyes as he challenged the stallion, knowing that he’d clearly win. It wasn’t the actual bet that brightened Quartz, no. It was proving any stuck up stallion wrong. It was the challenge that invigorated him.
“I also gave him permission to berate me- which led to him calling me a falabella- which is a pity, because falas may be small but are known for their endurance- but nevermind that, I swung my hooves backwards and reared up,” he moved his hooves to show me, and then swung down, “And crashed the pick straight into it, cracking it open to reveal a thick vein of gold!” He looked at me, a look of self-pride coating his face. “You shoulda’ seen his face!”
“Draw dropped?”
“Oh it was wide as the gates of hell!” I rolled my eyes at his embellishment, but leaned my cheek on my hoof, letting him go on.
“I tossed aside the pickaxe, and looked him up in the eyes, and threatened him flat out.. terrified him, likely.”
“Oh really now?” I said, sarcasm twinging at my words.
“You better believe it.” He grinned, taking another large gulp of his drink, the Carmel liquid gone in only a few moments, “next round on me?!”
-
“Have a wonderful evening, Mrs. Chalcedony!” I said, trotting back, grin wider than ever.
“Mamama..*hic* I-I loooveeesyou..” I heard Quartz stutter out, leaning on his surprised Mother, a look of fury spiraling down her face.
“Get your flanks back here, Bronze Heart!!”
“Get back where?” I asked, trotting backwards faster, the tipsiness from the alcohol making me bubbly.
“You left me with my son, drunk!!”
“Left who?”
“YOU LITTLE-“
I lit my horn and quickly closed the door on them, as I spun around, going into a grinning canter, making my way down the road, pass the fine marble mansions to the simple, yet elegant wooden houses and shops, my hoovesteps alone, echoing loudly as I laughed, and headed for the harbor- the quiet parks and homes, only a rare candle in sight as I made my way through the dimly lit streets, and to a screeching halt at the metal gate, and sure enough- the light on my horn fizzled out from the invisible magic barrier. I brushed my jacket off, and knocked on the gate lightly.
“Monsieur?” I asked lightly, looking at the tired guard at the other side of the gate, and he stirred a bit, and came to face me.
“Pass?”
I put my hoof on the lapel of my jacket, and opened up the inside, and removed my pass, signed, and the large red wax stamp pressed on it, allowing my yearly passing. The guard squinted at it, and unlocked the gate.
“Have a wonderful night, Mister Heart.”
I gave him his respective nod, and made my way home, up the ramp, and through the doors. I began to unbutton my jacket as I took my steps through the hallways, and eventually to the hall where my bedroom was. I was about to go through, but I noticed the door to my parents bedroom was cracked open, the sound of Pop’s voice coming through. I should tell them I’m home.
I went to the back of the hall, and opened the door farther, peeking my head in. They were laying together, father’s hoof resting behind her neck as I caught them mid-conversation.
“Pardon for interrupting you, Mother- Pops. I just wanted to tell you I’m back.”
Mama smiled, and gave me a short wave, “did you have fun with Quartz?”
“Well, If you mean by fun, Mrs. Chalcedony has probably cursed my name in every swear under the sun. Otherwise, yes! I said sarcastically.
She chuckled lightly, and Pops gave a humorous smile.
“You got him drunk?”
“He got himself drunk, Pops.”
He snorted, and leaned back, “Your mother and I were talking- I’ll speak with you after we’re done.” I saluted, and I watched him roll his eyes, and saluted back, “Dismissed, swab boy!”
“Swab boy?!” I exclaimed, joking my dishonor, “I’ll tell you, I am no swab boy, Ca-“
“DISMISSED!” He hissed, the playful tone still on the edges of his words.
I went back to my room, the humor still lighting my movements, as I shrugged off my jacket and hung it up, while resting my hat on my dresser. I began to stretch, rolling my shoulders and lifting my legs. I groaned, feeling the ease and relief coming over and I collapsed onto my bed, the box spring creaking.
“Mmm..” I huffed out, and grasped my pillows, the cold case comforting from the heat from late summer. I turned over onto my back, and tugged on the strings that kept my shirt together, loosening them.
I shouldn’t need a nightshirt.. I’ll just sleep like this. My eyes began to weaken, exhaustion coming over me.. over.. me.
“Son?”
I shot up, my back stiffening as I twisted my head to look at the door. “Father!” The blankets shifted as I got to my hooves from the bed, and trotted over to him, opening the door fully. “Please, come in.”
He gave me a warm smile, and whispered gently, “No thank you, Son.”
Before I knew it, I was outside, leaning over the balcony-like rim around the Stargazer, the breeze sifting through my mane. The window clicked shut with my father’s magic, and only the dull jaune light came through it to light us. He clapped me on my back, and stood beside me, looking off into the sea with me.
I waited patiently for him to begin speaking- suppressing the anxiety that boiled up in my chest- what was he going to say-? It could be anything, any word.
“I’m so proud of you, Bronze.” My ears perked up, not expecting that tone- nor those words.
I coughed, trying to regain myself from the startlement. “I- wouldn’t be who I am without your words, support, and heart, Pops.”
He smiled lightly, and removed his hoof from my backside. “Bronze, I-“ he fiddled with his hooves, which surprised me, he never looked uncomfortable. His chest heaved deeply, as he inhaled largely.
Exhale.
He brushed his mane to the side slightly, and looked at me. “You’re almost all grown up now, Son- and I.. well, both your mother and I think you are ready to go out and explore the world for your own- without our restraints.”
My brows knit, “restraints?” He was cooled- yet gentle, his hooves touching mine, and clutching them strongly.
There was pain on his face, etching through like a statue being carved. “You know, very well perhaps- the mare I once thought I loved.. Lavender- or the stallion that betrayed your aunt- resulting in her,” he choked, “demise..”
I tugged my hooves away, frustration pricking at my neck. “I haven’t even considered a mare, like you ordered me to do so before I left!”
He gulped, “I know, Son, I only meant to sa-“
“Is what I’ve done not enough?!” I snapped out- instant regret welling into my eyes as he folded his ears down, lip quivering for a moment; “Pops.. I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to say-“ I shakily rose my hoof to his shoulder, where he grimaced, and looked where I touched him. His gaze went up my arm, to my face, where he bit his lip.
“You're not the one who should be apologizing, Bronze,” he cleared his throat, “When.. I had you, I promised I would never let the pain I felt hurt you- and yet,” his eyes were shaky with mine, “look at what I’ve done to you..”
I shook off the blur, and put on a small smile, “You prepared me father,” his face paled,
“Bronze-“
“It is for the greater good, like you always said.”
He looked away, almost sheepishly, “I was wrong, Son. The consequences of my actions were not my intent.”
Confusion flooded through me, “Consequences-?”
“I only wanted to teach you to look for a true heart in your mates- to keep your eyes open for greed, or darkness- and that’s how it started..”
I smiled, “I do, father. Just look at Quartz and me. He may be a troublemaker- but he’s a brother to me, and we’ll always have each other’s backs.”
“I know that, Bronze. I just-”
“I find pure friends I can trust, and I may only have a few, but their hearts are in the right place!”
“Few? How about you name them. And I mean to those you are not restricted by professionality- and you feel close to. Almost family too.”
“Well, there’s Quartz, of course, and..” my mind blanked out, frantically searching for names Mrs. Chalcedony? Weren’t close.. Sir Stardust? Professional- Amber? Stormy? I racked my brain furiously now, names of the sailors I had captained or been with as a first mate. My cousins, my aunts and uncles.. Windy! “..Windy! Windy Sails, my first mate.”
“She’s that close to you?”
“Well I suppose not, but we went through a lot together and.. I think I can trust her.”
“Think?”
I huffed, annoyance beginning to bubble up. “Fine. I only have one close friend. Quartz. What does it matter?! I found someone I can trust, someone I love as a brother. It doesn’t matter how many friends I have, it matters if they are pure!”
His face had darkened, eyes and voice low. “You’re right, Son. But..”
He seemed to have difficulty putting the words together, so I cut in, “But what? Have I done something wrong?”
“You’re afraid of being betrayed, Son.”
I sputtered out, “who isn’t?”
“Afraid enough to close yourself off. You’re not only keeping a keen eye, Bronze. You are afraid of opening up- to anyone.”
“Where did you get that idea from?!” I was surprised to feel a growl in my voice, rough and angry.
“You don’t need to get defensive.” He said calmly, putting his hoof on my cheek.
“I’m not being defensive!”
“Then let me speak, Son,” I swallowed down my frustration, feeling a barrier go away as I shut my mouth tightly, gritting my teeth. He sighed, “You were on a ship for six months, with some of the finest sailors- no criminal records and high work ethic.. And yes, a Captain should show authority, and keep it professional on deck, but there is no shame in getting to know any of them, especially during dinner and supper.”
“Fath-“ he stopped me with his hoof. I scowled, and once again shut my mouth.
“You got to know this mare- Ms. Sails, Who you, by the way, were forced to have one on one communication with every night for planning. And last night, you mentioned the weathermaster, who joins those meetings on occasion regarding severe weather.”
“Yes..”
“So you mean to tell me that the only ponies you somewhat got to know, over SIX months were the ponies you were forced to talk to?”
“How is this relevant?!” I barked, feeling the barrier being punctured by his words- like knives.
“And you think you don’t keep to yourself?!”
I stumbled a bit back, losing my composure, trying to come back, trying to prove him wrong. “I’m sorry that I’m not as open as you! So what of this?!” My heartstrings were tugging now, as I felt my barrier begin to crack and chip away. I’m just protecting myself from a terrible fate, not over something as pathetic as this.
“You close yourself away-“
“From what?! I know how to judge if someone wishes to hurt me! There is nothing I would cower for- so what exactly do you think I’m ‘hiding’ from?!”
He inhaled, “from love, Bronze.”
My face fell, falling freely, my mouth limp as my shield shattered, emotions clogging up my throat and trying to wet my eyes- memories of everytime I chained myself down when I wanted to just- speak. Let go.
NO!!
“Afraid of love?! You have stopped me from even approaching a mare! I just don’t want to disobey YOU! And now you’re upset with me?!”
“I’m not upset with you, Bronze.”
“Then what are you?! Clearly not proud of me, unlike you said earlier!!”
Seconds passed, as the wince disappeared from his face, and a look of sorrow took moved through him. I felt my own anger subside from my heaving chest, my hooves lowering and resting on the railing as I looked away.
And so the tension rose.
Tick.
Tick.
Tick.
“I’m.. sorry, Son. I’ve shaped you, scolded you, and.. hurt you, trying to protect you. It wasn’t my threats- though may you say it is, that makes you retaliate from finding others.. It was my pain. My hatred of her, your mother’s fear. Those.. colts. It was infused into you, years and years after we pressed it into you..” tears formed in his eyes, undripping, but there- watery and painful. My throat became clogged, no words could be let through. “And though it may be hard- know that I’ll always be here. And I hope- you can open up to someone, to more.” His eyes flicked over me, and smiled melancholically, “You are such a wonderful stallion, Bronze. It would be a shame if the world didn’t get to see my son the way they should..” he cleared his throat- one last time, “You don’t need to have many.. but just enough to make you smile. To make you feel free.” He began to chuckle, a single tear sliding through, “And by darned- I can’t wait to see you at the altar, beaming with love in your smile’.” He clapped me on the shoulder, and wiped his tear. “Oh dear. Don’t tell your mother I got all sappy.”
“I w-won’t.” I choked out, trying to even process the flooding words and sensations that were swimming through me, the debris from my shattered shield making me feel raw against the late-summer's salty breeze.
“I’ll always be here- doing my best to guide you- but now, it’s up to you to make decisions.” I breathed shakily, my eyes still locked with his, “You’re trembling, son.” Pop’s said concernedly, gripping my shoulder tighter.
“I-I’ll be al-alright.”
He nodded. You need time to think and just.. sleep it through. Come on, Bronze.” His horn flared, and we walked into the candle lit hallways of our ship, his arm looped around my shoulder comfortingly.
The trembling began to subside, but thoughts were still waves crashing like chaos over me- swirling in whirlwinds and uncontrollable, louder than thunder, while the outside was quiet, with the simple sounds of our hoofsteps. There were no words to say, they couldn’t be formed. If I spoke anything now, it would be an excuse.. or even a lie. I knew he was right- I had known from the beginning. And I hated myself for it.
Next thing I knew we were by their bedroom door, where we came in, silent. Mother yawned peacefully, and gave me a warm smile- with tinges of worry. “Are you alright, Bronze?”
I nodded weakly, and went to her bedside, kissing her gently on the cheek. “G-goodnight, Mama, I love you.” I whispered, seeing her smile widen, as she touched her cheek.
“You have no idea how much I missed that while you were gone.” She rose up, and pecked me on the forehead, her voice low as well, “I love you, and sleep well, my little colt,” she gently stroked my cheek, causing me to smile myself- some clear emotion coming through.
I couldn’t be mad at her. Nor could I be mad at him.
I stood up, an turned to Pops. “Goodnight, father.” I started to trot pass him, but he caught me.
“Don’t I get a goodnight kiss?”
I snorted- “Fine.” And moved back, quickly kissing him on his cheek, while he did it on mine.
“I love you, my boy. Know that.”
“I do, Pops. A-and I love you too.” His hooves quickly would around my shoulders, and he hugged me. My eyes widened for a moment, before I returned the embrace, and grasped him tightly.
“I love you- so, so much.” He hushed, before releasing me, his eyes still watery, “sleep well, Son.” My lips tugged up in a smile, and I nodded to both of them.

“See you in the morn’.”

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There wasn’t much to do today- but rest. Rest, rest, and rest. I had ate breakfast, and then read some. Later I spoke with my parents of the recent trip, going into detail of the experiences and stories that needed to be told, over a cup of chilled tea.
When the simple clicks of cups and softness of chatter faded, I sat alone in the library, almost finishing the book I had started a few a weeks ago, the yellow pages making a crisp sound as I searched for my last, 241, almost finished. I melted into that world, with the clashing of swords and the fearless hearts of battle.
It felt good to rest and- do nothing, occasionally going off into the world of dreams. However, I had the twitching feeling that I wasn’t doing enough. That I had to be yelling orders; changing sails, and feeling the hard pressure of the polished wheel beneath my hooves. There was at least, the pleasant rock of the Stargazer, though not as rough or extreme as the Dreamer. Otherwise it was quiet- lonely, and peaceful. I wanted to be doing something, but at the same time I wanted to do nothing.
And so I flipped the page.
I continued onwards, feeling a level of intensity pile up as the climax went through in the story, and the releasage after the tale coming to a shaky close, the future unstable and unpredictable. My lips pulled thin as my eyes flicked over the final page, a calligraphic ‘The End.’ neatly scripted on the lower half. I sighed deeply, pressing my hoof against the final words before I snapped the book shut and held it to my chest. The ceiling was a pale white, warm with the flickering candlelight and making a crisp seam with the wooden walls, which spiraled into winding bookshelves.
And there it was again, the feeling that I wanted to get up and just do.. something, yet I was enjoying being dulled, laying on the loveseat, not wanting to move, not wanting to do anything.
So I studied the walls, looking for patterns in the rings of the wood, or the way light shined on the carvings above the fireplace and shelves. How shadows lay- or the pattern of muffled noises from ponies moving on the upper decks. Every few minutes I could hear the crash of a relatively larger wave brush against the ship, echoing softly through the halls and rooms. My hooves fiddled with each other, and I searched the ways my wrists bent in different harmonies, or how the sensations of touch rung through my leg into my mind. Sound seemed to get warped- blurring away as I faded deep into thought, sensation, and lack of emotion. There was nothing to see, nothing to do but.. think.
Tick.
Tick.
Tick.
My body stiffened as I snapped out of the blurred world into the sharpened edges of reality. The clock’s pendulum swinging loosely over the mantle, bare and empty with only a charred log from winter. I took off my readers to focus better on the time, and startled up, sitting rigid. Was it quarter to nine already?! I knew I had dozed off a few times but-
I shuffled to my hooves, and placed the book gently on the end table, resting my readers on top of it, and quickly blowed out the candles around the room, only lighting the library with my horn as I went into a canter, and headed straight for my bedroom. I was almost there before I stumbled, almost falling onto Pops.
“Mmph!” He uttered in surprise, eyes widening as he tripped somewhat backwards, barely keeping his balance. I composed myself somewhat, and helped stabilize him with my arm.
“Oh heavens- I’m sorry father, I was-” he held up his hoof to stop me, and gave me a small smile.
“No problem son. I’m glad I bumped into you, I was.. hoping we could talk.”
I gulped. “I set up arrangements to see Quartz tonight Pops- I might be able to speak to you after but currently I’m running late.”
His face fell slightly, “Oh.. Alrighty then. Enjoy yourself son.” He patted me on the shoulder and turned around to walk back through the halls, a softness in his posture. I sighed; entered my room, quickly grabbing a comfortable jacket and combed down my mane, before getting my hat and going on my way, into the humid summer air of Ore des Selle.
The windows were flickering with candles, and shadows danced across stone and wooden shops of the marketplace. It was erie, with few ponies bustling about, but the sounds of voices through walls of ponies laughing and speaking their good nights. A slight chill was in the wind, causing a small shiver to roll down my spine, despite the muggy air. I flicked my ears around instinctively, scanning my surroundings, but only seeing my reflection in one of the dark windows. With a calm huff, I pulled out my pocket watch, seeing it at 8:57. I snapped it back and shoved it into my pocket, going into a full gallop. I’d never hear the end of it from Quartz if I was late. The loud sounds of the cobblestone beneath my hooves echoed around the streets and up alleyways, until I rounded a corner and shook to a halt at the well-lit lanterns of Le Bateau de Titan. Clasping the cold handle, and clicking the latch, I entered the warm tavern, cherry oak forming an arc as a ceiling and coating the walls in a cozy feel. Sounds of laughter and loud chatter hit me like a wave, and I trotted into the bar, the door closing behind me, my breath still ragged from my sprint. I saw the familiar gold mane and pale blue of my friend, his back facing me, a drink in his hoof as he talked to the bartender, Amber Glass, who was rubbing a glass clean with a pale cloth. I passed the tables and barrels, about to sit next to Quartz casually at the bar, sliding in, praying he wouldn’t notice my tardiness.
“9:02..” he clicked, and turned to look at me with a devilish grin, “You’re late.”
“I’ll leave you two be,” Amber chuckled and went to put up the glass he’d finished cleaning and stocked it on one of the wooden shelves.
“I was only late by a few moments- I rushed to get here!” I protested, to see him cock his eyebrows in humor.
“What was it you said…”
“Oh not this again Quartz, that was-”
His voice deepened to reflect mine, with a silly sarcastic expression tightening up his lips as he raised his hooves in a demeaning effort, “Oh Quartz- sure you may only be a minute late but-“
“Quartz!” I groaned, sitting down on the seat next to him, seeing his acted expression crack into a smile, his words intermingled with laughter.
“But time can not be spent so foolishly, as time is valued at not only bits, but till’ your last day! What if you were late to your wedding?! If you are to be late for your dear old friend, why-”
“Why couldn’t you be late to your own funeral..” I grumbled, finishing his sentence for him, lowering my head into my hooves.
“So…?” He played, nudging my side with his.
“I APOLOGIZE for my lateness.”
He went into light chuckles, and patted me on my shoulder affectionately, “Apology accepted.”
“I’m glad for it..” I murmured, lifting my head and regaining my gaze with his. “What have you been up to..? Besides making everypony a fool of themselves.”
He scoffed, and took a sip of his drink, the grin not leaving his face. “But those are the fun things…” he whined, a glint in his eyes. I stared him down, until he bursted out, “Fine! ….well, in all honesty- I haven’t done any devilish actions recently, it doesn’t feel right now anymore, as I’ve grown..” I shifted in my seat, resting my left arm on the bar, to better see him. “Though I still joke plenty!”
“You think?” I snorted.
“Otherwise.. I’m busy with- other things. Work, business, affairs and such.” His body stiffened as he looked away, a small blush tinting his cheeks as he brought the glass to his lips and sucked down another quick sip, a sly glance meeting my eyes “And of course- courting a mare.” My eyes widened, seeing his blush deepen, quickly resting his glass, flustered. “Clara.. such a sweet mare-“ he coughed, and whispered, “my sweet mare..”
“My my, gotten busy have we?”
He shot up, “NO! I just-“
“You just..?”
“I’m really happy with her..” he turned to face the bar again, and stroked the rim of his glass. “She’s quite kind, and generous.. beautiful at that, with a bright mind.”
I nodded, and pondered his words. Clara. The name sounded familiar, and I had a faint memory of a pale mare, from my History class a few years back. “Clara Diamond?”
“Yes, that’s her.”
“How did you meet her?”
“Well.. with the Stardust’s Summer ball- her family was invited and without you to talk to.. I struck up a pleasant conversation with her.. in a few weeks I confessed my attraction to her and-“ A heavy blush riddled his face, and he trembled, shaking it off. “But no matter. How was your trip?”
“Quite good. As you know, I’ve only capitained a few ships, and this was my longest trip by far.”
“Almost a full loop around the Equestrian Continent, you say?”
“Yes, and don’t forget all of those damned Isles…”
He snorted, “anything story worth?”
“‘Came across my second sea-beast. Scale-covered, whirlpool type. We caught sight of it in the North Lunar Ocean, with a low-pressure system blowing through at that.”
His eyes narrowed, and leaned in. “North Luna. Was it- I suppose a charybdis?” I nodded, and watched his face go pale, drink trembling in his hooves as he gulped, “I’m glad you’re alive, Bronze.”
“Quartz-“
“A charybdis! Those knock out some of the best of Celestia’s crews! Suck them into a deep whirlpool of teeth and death- You could have died Bronze!” His face was contorted in a look of anger, similar to an older sibling scolding the younger for foolish behavior- concern lacing his face.
“Do you think I wanted to pass by it?” I whispered softly, looking down, remembering the fearful memory.
He put his hoof on his forehead, brushing up his mane as he leaned on his elbow onto the bar, a look of pain beginning to drown his face. “What happened?” He muttered, and flickered his eye back to mine.
“There were large storms flowing through- no doubt attracting the beast. Our weathermaster busted as many clouds as he could, but there are only so many a lone pegasus can do.”
“And how did you pass the serpent?”
I sighed, “everyone grew into a panic, the waves growing high and powerful, and before our very eyes it exploded out of the sea- a large roar coming with it, before its body crashed down and began to inhale the salty waters- the ship was unstable, and with our sails beginning to rip and tear- the Dreamer began to slip down into the current, passing by the teeth under the stony waves- everypony was..”my neck hung low, eyes shut tight, flashes of razory yellow teeth about to break through the twirling ship- so many screams. So much fear. Windy had been knocked off trying to keep others secure, my first mate- and best friend on the ship almost plummeting to her death. In a swoop of grey, she had been saved by Stormy- who had been creating thunder to distract the beast. My eyes flickered open weakly, “our weathermaster- Stormy told us that this particular charybdis was of the Kronus strain- strong oceanic swimmers but-“
“Weak to lightning- they able to handle storm currents, which is why it came hunting during the storm. But.. weak to strong bolts. What did you do?!”
“It took the might of all our unicorns, but with the Earth’s running the ship, trying to keep it stable as possible, and I rounded up all the unicorns, grabbing each other’s hooves for support as we connected all of our horns and.. I’m honestly not sure if we stunned or killed the beast. But the winds from the storm, and the power from the surge sped us out of that system.” My Heart was still racing, muscles tight from the terrifying memories, crackles of multicolored lightning streaming through the beast’s attack.
“Goodness. You’re pale Bronze.” He knocked the bar lightly, and I watched Amber turn his face, “hm?”
“Get this man a Pinot Noir, with a hint of cherry juice- on me.”
“Oh- you don’t need to do that Quartz, I have bits!” I started to rummage through my pockets, but a dark rosy drink was already sliding over on the worn bar. I saw him flicking over the bits, a gold shimmering flash into Amber’s hooves. I tenderly grasped the glass, and drank a few heavenly sips, sighing in contentment, though the memories not drifting far from my mind- only stifled for a moment. “Thank you.. Quartz. You didn’t need to do that, you know.”
“Pfft!” He waved dismissively, “let us not forget all the times you bought me a drink, and-“ he bowed his head in respective gesture, “you have quite some heroic things- I must admit.”
“It was my entire crew, not just me.”
“But you kept them together- both physically and mentally.”
I blowed, with a soft nicker, “I suppose.”
He gave me smile, and leaned both elbows back on the bar, closing his eyes. “First told them the plan, and kept everyone together with levitational?”
“That’s sounds about right..”
“I just have to question-“ there was an upswing to his voice, intermingled with curiosity. “What did the beast look like, may I ask? I’ve only seen pen conceptuals in schoolbooks.”
I shivered slightly, and traced the rim of my glass with my hoof. “It was far too long to see the whole body- we only viewed the head and neck when it burst upwards- and at that..” my forehead tightened, and I laid my hoof on my temple. “It is blurry from fear, Quartz, yet defined with the adrenaline I had. And.. shrouded in the darkness of the night, though flickering like a candle from the lightning refracting on the devil’s scales’.” He leaned in with intrigue, and nodded for me to continue. “ the jaw was cut like a starfish- five large mouths to seal the rows of death underneath. I couldn’t count all the rows of teeth, but the bow almost crashed into one of them after the devil went under water and began to suck us in its’ mighty whirlpool.. the scales were like the one of a golden carp- though large, and verte, with hints of bleu, though I may be wrong, not enough time to tell.”
“The scale color sounds correct- along with your other delineations.”
“The head was large, bulbous even compared to the neck which begins grows thin nearing its body’s end.” I snuffled, and grimaced hard now, eyes shut tight like tulips at night. “It was not the physical appearance that caused me such terror, moreso the black waters of the nightly oceans twisting and spiraling into such a whirlpool- White crests foaming at the teeth of the charybdis, and waves crashing like hell’s fires against our ship.”
I looked at the apprehension knotted up on his face, lips pulled thin as he flicked his eyes across the wooden floor, before lifting his chin to lock his golden iris’ with mine.
“Thank you Bronze, for telling me these things and all,” he patted me on the shoulder, before leaning into a quick- yet tight embrace. “Don’t you dare cross ways with a beast like that again!” He ordered, then pulled away, hooves still resting on my shoulders.
“Not planning to Quartz.” I murmured lowly.
“...Just because you’re big and tall doesn’t mean you’re immortal.” He snorted, trying to lighten the conversation from the heavy pressure.
Wait.
I flicked my ears up, face slack, a startling realization coming over me. Closing my eyes gently- a sense of drama pulling my mouth up into a devilish grin, eyebrows raising- creating the all-to-familiar smirk on my face.
“Big. And tall.” I simpered, putting the glass on the bar, and resting my hoof on it- seeing him become unraveled and uncomposed.
“I.. I did NOT say that!!” He sputtered, embarrassment flooding through him. I burst out laughing, my chest heaving as I wheezed.
“HA! FINALLY!! AFTER THREE DAMNED YEARS YOU ADMIT IT!!” I doubled over, laughing, hearing his stutters trying to deny what he mistakenly said, only making ,e laugh harder- tears beading up in my eyes as I cackled, a soreness welling up in my breast.
“Bronze..” he almost whimpered, looking around at the rest of the bar, which people had begun to look at the sight of me laughing.
“I’ve been taller than you for three years!”
“Oh stop your chuckling, would you?!”
I took in heavy gasp of breath, and fused my mouth shut, trying to keep my laugh down, as it bursted through my throat, trying to be let free.
“Fine. I admit it- you’re taller than me. And that’s that.” He turned away from me, his face cooled as he finished his drink.
“I’m not going to let this go, you know.” I smirked, trying to sit myself back up, and facing the bar, gently touching my glass, as I tried to overcome the cracks in my throat from the laugh, and gave him a small glance.
“Quartz? You okay?”
He looked down, but shook it off with a grin, and bumped into my shoulder. “I can’t stand you, that’s what.”
I grinned back, and bumped his side playfully in return. So. What other things have you been up too?
His eyes raised, and he gave a nod to Amber to refill his drink. “Well. The mine has been quite profitable, and my parents are giving me more control over the business every day, preparing me for.. well when I take over.”
“Yeah..” I dipped my hat, looking off. “I understand- we’re stallions now and..”
“And we’re all grown up.. gosh, I’ll miss the days where we could get away with anything.” He said, melancholy tracing his voice. He breathed a hearty sigh, and clasped his new drink. “But I simply must say- authority is quite a pleasant position.”
I snorted loudly, “You know not of what you speak.”
A grumble rumbled out of his throat, “A sea Captain is different than the Excutive Officer.”
“Wait till you’ve done it for a yea-“
“However, a miner of mine challenged me when he couldn’t break through a particularly hard piece of granite, saying it couldn’t be done with a pickaxe.”
“You showed him how it’s done?”
“Oh yes; quite. —with a bet, of course,” He snickered devilishly, “so I rolled up my sleeves, and told him if I could create a large crack on the first swing, he wouldn’t get a days pay- if I couldn’t, I’d give him fifty bits for the trouble.”
“Oh dear..” I could imagine the glint in Quartz’s eyes as he challenged the stallion, knowing that he’d clearly win. It wasn’t the actual bet that brightened Quartz, no. It was proving any stuck up stallion wrong. It was the challenge that invigorated him.
“I also gave him permission to berate me- which led to him calling me a falabella- which is a pity, because falas may be small but are known for their endurance- but nevermind that, I swung my hooves backwards and reared up,” he moved his hooves to show me, and then swung down, “And crashed the pick straight into it, cracking it open to reveal a thick vein of gold!” He looked at me, a look of self-pride coating his face. “You shoulda’ seen his face!”
“Draw dropped?”
“Oh it was wide as the gates of hell!” I rolled my eyes at his embellishment, but leaned my cheek on my hoof, letting him go on.
“I tossed aside the pickaxe, and looked him up in the eyes, and threatened him flat out.. terrified him, likely.”
“Oh really now?” I said, sarcasm twinging at my words.
“You better believe it.” He grinned, taking another large gulp of his drink, the Carmel liquid gone in only a few moments, “next round on me?!”
-
“Have a wonderful evening, Mrs. Chalcedony!” I said, trotting back, grin wider than ever.
“Mamama..*hic* I-I loooveeesyou..” I heard Quartz stutter out, leaning on his surprised Mother, a look of fury spiraling down her face.
“Get your flanks back here, Bronze Heart!!”
“Get back where?” I asked, trotting backwards faster, the tipsiness from the alcohol making me bubbly.
“You left me with my son, drunk!!”
“Left who?”
“YOU LITTLE-“
I lit my horn and quickly closed the door on them, as I spun around, going into a grinning canter, making my way down the road, pass the fine marble mansions to the simple, yet elegant wooden houses and shops, my hoovesteps alone, echoing loudly as I laughed, and headed for the harbor- the quiet parks and homes, only a rare candle in sight as I made my way through the dimly lit streets, and to a screeching halt at the metal gate, and sure enough- the light on my horn fizzled out from the invisible magic barrier. I brushed my jacket off, and knocked on the gate lightly.
“Monsieur?” I asked lightly, looking at the tired guard at the other side of the gate, and he stirred a bit, and came to face me.
“Pass?”
I put my hoof on the lapel of my jacket, and opened up the inside, and removed my pass, signed, and the large red wax stamp pressed on it, allowing my yearly passing. The guard squinted at it, and unlocked the gate.
“Have a wonderful night, Mister Heart.”
I gave him his respective nod, and made my way home, up the ramp, and through the doors. I began to unbutton my jacket as I took my steps through the hallways, and eventually to the hall where my bedroom was. I was about to go through, but I noticed the door to my parents bedroom was cracked open, the sound of Pop’s voice coming through. I should tell them I’m home.
I went to the back of the hall, and opened the door farther, peeking my head in. They were laying together, father’s hoof resting behind her neck as I caught them mid-conversation.
“Pardon for interrupting you, Mother- Pops. I just wanted to tell you I’m back.”
Mama smiled, and gave me a short wave, “did you have fun with Quartz?”
“Well, If you mean by fun, Mrs. Chalcedony has probably cursed my name in every swear under the sun. Otherwise, yes! I said sarcastically.
She chuckled lightly, and Pops gave a humorous smile.
“You got him drunk?”
“He got himself drunk, Pops.”
He snorted, and leaned back, “Your mother and I were talking- I’ll speak with you after we’re done.” I saluted, and I watched him roll his eyes, and saluted back, “Dismissed, swab boy!”
“Swab boy?!” I exclaimed, joking my dishonor, “I’ll tell you, I am no swab boy, Ca-“
“DISMISSED!” He hissed, the playful tone still on the edges of his words.
I went back to my room, the humor still lighting my movements, as I shrugged off my jacket and hung it up, while resting my hat on my dresser. I began to stretch, rolling my shoulders and lifting my legs. I groaned, feeling the ease and relief coming over and I collapsed onto my bed, the box spring creaking.
“Mmm..” I huffed out, and grasped my pillows, the cold case comforting from the heat from late summer. I turned over onto my back, and tugged on the strings that kept my shirt together, loosening them.
I shouldn’t need a nightshirt.. I’ll just sleep like this. My eyes began to weaken, exhaustion coming over me.. over.. me.
“Son?”
I shot up, my back stiffening as I twisted my head to look at the door. “Father!” The blankets shifted as I got to my hooves from the bed, and trotted over to him, opening the door fully. “Please, come in.”
He gave me a warm smile, and whispered gently, “No thank you, Son.”
Before I knew it, I was outside, leaning over the balcony-like rim around the Stargazer, the breeze sifting through my mane. The window clicked shut with my father’s magic, and only the dull jaune light came through it to light us. He clapped me on my back, and stood beside me, looking off into the sea with me.
I waited patiently for him to begin speaking- suppressing the anxiety that boiled up in my chest- what was he going to say-? It could be anything, any word.
“I’m so proud of you, Bronze.” My ears perked up, not expecting that tone- nor those words.
I coughed, trying to regain myself from the startlement. “I- wouldn’t be who I am without your words, support, and heart, Pops.”
He smiled lightly, and removed his hoof from my backside. “Bronze, I-“ he fiddled with his hooves, which surprised me, he never looked uncomfortable. His chest heaved deeply, as he inhaled largely.
Exhale.
He brushed his mane to the side slightly, and looked at me. “You’re almost all grown up now, Son- and I.. well, both your mother and I think you are ready to go out and explore the world for your own- without our restraints.”
My brows knit, “restraints?” He was cooled- yet gentle, his hooves touching mine, and clutching them strongly.
There was pain on his face, etching through like a statue being carved. “You know, very well perhaps- the mare I once thought I loved.. Lavender- or the stallion that betrayed your aunt- resulting in her,” he choked, “demise..”
I tugged my hooves away, frustration pricking at my neck. “I haven’t even considered a mare, like you ordered me to do so before I left!”
He gulped, “I know, Son, I only meant to sa-“
“Is what I’ve done not enough?!” I snapped out- instant regret welling into my eyes as he folded his ears down, lip quivering for a moment; “Pops.. I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to say-“ I shakily rose my hoof to his shoulder, where he grimaced, and looked where I touched him. His gaze went up my arm, to my face, where he bit his lip.
“You're not the one who should be apologizing, Bronze,” he cleared his throat, “When.. I had you, I promised I would never let the pain I felt hurt you- and yet,” his eyes were shaky with mine, “look at what I’ve done to you..”
I shook off the blur, and put on a small smile, “You prepared me father,” his face paled,
“Bronze-“
“It is for the greater good, like you always said.”
He looked away, almost sheepishly, “I was wrong, Son. The consequences of my actions were not my intent.”
Confusion flooded through me, “Consequences-?”
“I only wanted to teach you to look for a true heart in your mates- to keep your eyes open for greed, or darkness- and that’s how it started..”
I smiled, “I do, father. Just look at Quartz and me. He may be a troublemaker- but he’s a brother to me, and we’ll always have each other’s backs.”
“I know that, Bronze. I just-”
“I find pure friends I can trust, and I may only have a few, but their hearts are in the right place!”
“Few? How about you name them. And I mean to those you are not restricted by professionality- and you feel close to. Almost family too.”
“Well, there’s Quartz, of course, and..” my mind blanked out, frantically searching for names Mrs. Chalcedony? Weren’t close.. Sir Stardust? Professional- Amber? Stormy? I racked my brain furiously now, names of the sailors I had captained or been with as a first mate. My cousins, my aunts and uncles.. Windy! “..Windy! Windy Sails, my first mate.”
“She’s that close to you?”
“Well I suppose not, but we went through a lot together and.. I think I can trust her.”
“Think?”
I huffed, annoyance beginning to bubble up. “Fine. I only have one close friend. Quartz. What does it matter?! I found someone I can trust, someone I love as a brother. It doesn’t matter how many friends I have, it matters if they are pure!”
His face had darkened, eyes and voice low. “You’re right, Son. But..”
He seemed to have difficulty putting the words together, so I cut in, “But what? Have I done something wrong?”
“You’re afraid of being betrayed, Son.”
I sputtered out, “who isn’t?”
“Afraid enough to close yourself off. You’re not only keeping a keen eye, Bronze. You are afraid of opening up- to anyone.”
“Where did you get that idea from?!” I was surprised to feel a growl in my voice, rough and angry.
“You don’t need to get defensive.” He said calmly, putting his hoof on my cheek.
“I’m not being defensive!”
“Then let me speak, Son,” I swallowed down my frustration, feeling a barrier go away as I shut my mouth tightly, gritting my teeth. He sighed, “You were on a ship for six months, with some of the finest sailors- no criminal records and high work ethic.. And yes, a Captain should show authority, and keep it professional on deck, but there is no shame in getting to know any of them, especially during dinner and supper.”
“Fath-“ he stopped me with his hoof. I scowled, and once again shut my mouth.
“You got to know this mare- Ms. Sails, Who you, by the way, were forced to have one on one communication with every night for planning. And last night, you mentioned the weathermaster, who joins those meetings on occasion regarding severe weather.”
“Yes..”
“So you mean to tell me that the only ponies you somewhat got to know, over SIX months were the ponies you were forced to talk to?”
“How is this relevant?!” I barked, feeling the barrier being punctured by his words- like knives.
“And you think you don’t keep to yourself?!”
I stumbled a bit back, losing my composure, trying to come back, trying to prove him wrong. “I’m sorry that I’m not as open as you! So what of this?!” My heartstrings were tugging now, as I felt my barrier begin to crack and chip away. I’m just protecting myself from a terrible fate, not over something as pathetic as this.
“You close yourself away-“
“From what?! I know how to judge if someone wishes to hurt me! There is nothing I would cower for- so what exactly do you think I’m ‘hiding’ from?!”
He inhaled, “from love, Bronze.”
My face fell, falling freely, my mouth limp as my shield shattered, emotions clogging up my throat and trying to wet my eyes- memories of everytime I chained myself down when I wanted to just- speak. Let go.
NO!!
“Afraid of love?! You have stopped me from even approaching a mare! I just don’t want to disobey YOU! And now you’re upset with me?!”
“I’m not upset with you, Bronze.”
“Then what are you?! Clearly not proud of me, unlike you said earlier!!”
Seconds passed, as the wince disappeared from his face, and a look of sorrow took moved through him. I felt my own anger subside from my heaving chest, my hooves lowering and resting on the railing as I looked away.
And so the tension rose.
Tick.
Tick.
Tick.
“I’m.. sorry, Son. I’ve shaped you, scolded you, and.. hurt you, trying to protect you. It wasn’t my threats- though may you say it is, that makes you retaliate from finding others.. It was my pain. My hatred of her, your mother’s fear. Those.. colts. It was infused into you, years and years after we pressed it into you..” tears formed in his eyes, undripping, but there- watery and painful. My throat became clogged, no words could be let through. “And though it may be hard- know that I’ll always be here. And I hope- you can open up to someone, to more.” His eyes flicked over me, and smiled melancholically, “You are such a wonderful stallion, Bronze. It would be a shame if the world didn’t get to see my son the way they should..” he cleared his throat- one last time, “You don’t need to have many.. but just enough to make you smile. To make you feel free.” He began to chuckle, a single tear sliding through, “And by darned- I can’t wait to see you at the altar, beaming with love in your smile’.” He clapped me on the shoulder, and wiped his tear. “Oh dear. Don’t tell your mother I got all sappy.”
“I w-won’t.” I choked out, trying to even process the flooding words and sensations that were swimming through me, the debris from my shattered shield making me feel raw against the late-summer's salty breeze.
“I’ll always be here- doing my best to guide you- but now, it’s up to you to make decisions.” I breathed shakily, my eyes still locked with his, “You’re trembling, son.” Pop’s said concernedly, gripping my shoulder tighter.
“I-I’ll be al-alright.”
He nodded. You need time to think and just.. sleep it through. Come on, Bronze.” His horn flared, and we walked into the candle lit hallways of our ship, his arm looped around my shoulder comfortingly.
The trembling began to subside, but thoughts were still waves crashing like chaos over me- swirling in whirlwinds and uncontrollable, louder than thunder, while the outside was quiet, with the simple sounds of our hoofsteps. There were no words to say, they couldn’t be formed. If I spoke anything now, it would be an excuse.. or even a lie. I knew he was right- I had known from the beginning. And I hated myself for it.
Next thing I knew we were by their bedroom door, where we came in, silent. Mother yawned peacefully, and gave me a warm smile- with tinges of worry. “Are you alright, Bronze?”
I nodded weakly, and went to her bedside, kissing her gently on the cheek. “G-goodnight, Mama, I love you.” I whispered, seeing her smile widen, as she touched her cheek.
“You have no idea how much I missed that while you were gone.” She rose up, and pecked me on the forehead, her voice low as well, “I love you, and sleep well, my little colt,” she gently stroked my cheek, causing me to smile myself- some clear emotion coming through.
I couldn’t be mad at her. Nor could I be mad at him.
I stood up, an turned to Pops. “Goodnight, father.” I started to trot pass him, but he caught me.
“Don’t I get a goodnight kiss?”
I snorted- “Fine.” And moved back, quickly kissing him on his cheek, while he did it on mine.
“I love you, my boy. Know that.”
“I do, Pops. A-and I love you too.” His hooves quickly would around my shoulders, and he hugged me. My eyes widened for a moment, before I returned the embrace, and grasped him tightly.
“I love you- so, so much.” He hushed, before releasing me, his eyes still watery, “sleep well, Son.” My lips tugged up in a smile, and I nodded to both of them.

“See you in the morn’.”