Sixty-Eighth Theory [Action]

[i_speak_softly]

[For the past few weeks, Don has spent an increasing amount of time staring out the windows of his winter room, watching for signs of spring. As comfortable as the room is, after two-plus months of living in it he really just wants to get out.]

[To that end, he has been packing for a camping trip, and today - not knowing that winter isn't yet done with Luceti - he shuts down all the systems in his room and leaves the house.]

[Anyone out and about in the village may see the Turtle, bundled in his snowsuit and carrying a duffel bag, heading out of town. He's not going anywhere in particular and isn't in a hurry, so he'd be happy to stop and talk.]

Comments

[fourthgenerationprincess]

[ It's all new to Twilight. You're talking to the pony who's been in the library almost since she arrived. ]

Pinkie Pie? Rainbow Dash? She has a pet turtle, you know. Maybe she'd audition you to be Tank's stand-in!

[i_speak_softly]

[Don misses a step, then pretends he didn't hear that and just says:]

The blue one.

[fourthgenerationprincess]

Rainbow. Of course. Do you know her?

[i_speak_softly]

We met. She told me about your world.

[fourthgenerationprincess]

Well, in that case, could you maybe tell me about yours? I'm all ears. How many of you are there?

[i_speak_softly]

Just four. Mostly my world is full of humans. [He really doesn't want to get onto that topic today, so he'll change the subject.] Do you like lakes or mountains?

[fourthgenerationprincess]

I prefer lakes myself. Mountains are more difficult to climb, and they tend to house dragons. Is that where you're going?

[i_speak_softly]

I haven't decided yet. [But he makes a definite left turn now.] Let's follow the river for a while.

[fourthgenerationprincess]

Sounds good to me. [ She's quiet for a time as they walk along the banks, just observing the environment and drinking in the fresh air. ]

[i_speak_softly]

[Don is quiet a while too, then asks:]

This may be an odd question, but - have you met me before?

[fourthgenerationprincess]

[ She grins in surprise. ] You're the first giant talking turtle I've known. Unless you used to be called "Tank".

[i_speak_softly]

No one has ever called me that.

[fourthgenerationprincess]

[ She winces. ] Sorry, I guess home is still on my mind. What is your name?

[i_speak_softly]

It's Donatello.

[No(t much) offense taken, really.]

[fourthgenerationprincess]

Don-a-tell-o. It's nice to meet you! [ She glances at his bag again. ] So... are you going camping?

[i_speak_softly]

[He smiles at the guess.]

Yes. Have you ever gone?

[fourthgenerationprincess]

No, but I've read all about them! All we need is a tent, and s'mores, and a campfire, and spooky stories...

[i_speak_softly]

- Read about them?

[What kind of person pony reads about camping?]

[fourthgenerationprincess]

It's served me well so far! I came in fifth in a race once because I did my research. Ooh, I know the perfect story, I used it for a slumber party with Applejack and Rarity.

[i_speak_softly]

[Don stares at Twilight with a mixture of disbelief and respect, and finally says:]

Fifth out of how many?

[fourthgenerationprincess]

Lots of ponies! Half of Ponyville turned out. But most of them tired out before they got to the finish line, so I sprinted to the end.

[i_speak_softly]

You knew to pace yourself because you had researched how long the route was?

[fourthgenerationprincess]

Yeah, and I also researched good running strategies, prepared a nutritious breakfast, and stretched properly. Also, I wanted to spend plenty of time savoring the Running of the Leaves. It was my first time seeing the traditional Ponyville custom.

[i_speak_softly]

[Well. Don may have something of a kindred spirit in this purple pony.]

I'm impressed -- I didn't get your name.

[fourthgenerationprincess]

[ She stops and gives a small bow to him. ] Twilight Sparkle. Just Twilight is fine. [ Continuing to walk: ] Rainbow and Applejack were pretty surprised. They didn't think my strategy would work, either!