A Dazzling Trio

Chapter XIV: New Road, Old Thoughts

Chapter XIV: New Road, Old Thoughts

The first hour of this trip was probably the most unbearable. Everyone tried to find what seat would make them comfortable and an argument happened between Rarity and Pinkie Pie. Although, Rainbow Dash resolved that conflict by telling them to "pipe down." For the last week and a half at least, Rainbow has acted strangely. Ever since I had that little party at my music studio. Needless to say, it makes me feel anxious, but no matter how much I may ask her what is wrong, she doesn't tell me.

Inside the RV, there are a couple of tables with booth seats, a small kitchen area, a couch, and a small bedroom in the back. Clearly, this vehicle wasn't made for eight people to stay in it, but we weren't exactly planning on sleeping in here to begin with. There's also a door that opens up to the driver's compartment, giving easy access if someone wants to sit in the passenger seat. That is where I decided to be.

Looking out the window, it is nearly impossible to count the number of trees that pass us by. The only time I've really ever left Canterlot City was when I went to Appleloosa for Rich. This is in the complete opposite direction, however. Pulling out a map, I look at the sections circled in green. Nevada and Louisiana... The spell I used from the brief moment I got my magic back told me that the two of them are in those states. Unfortunately, my magic wasn't able to determine their precise location due to how far away they are. That and... I haven't used my magic in almost four years. I can't tell who is in either state, but what perplexes me the most is that they're apart from each other. If anything, I thought the two of them would be together. Sonata always did like Aria, despite their bickering, so I figured she would just follow her. The idea that they have been separate this entire time is a bit concerning since the postcards they sent me a long time ago were from the same address.

What separated you two...?

"It always is difficult to drive when the sun is just on the horizon," Applejack tells me with a laugh, looking over at me for a second. The dawn of the new day reminds me that we've been on the road for a few hours now. We started in the middle of the night... I know Apple Bloom will be upset with me for that. She wanted to see me off, but Applejack decided to take off at four in the morning. "Ya know you could doze off if ya want. I wouldn't mind, sugarcube," Applejack states with a nod, keeping her eyes on the road.

"No thanks. I'd rather stay awake for now." Looking out the window again, I can't help but wonder what Sonata and Aria are up to. What is Nevada like? Or Louisiana for that matter?

"Everyone else decided to get some sleep a while ago. We're going to be on the road for a few more hours before I make any stops." Honestly, I'm glad Applejack is looking out for me. That is what friends do. I'm not exactly used to having kindness in my life, but it feels nice.

"I appreciate the offer, but I'm fine, really. I slept plenty before we took off." Quietly putting the map back into my bag, only the low hum of the road fills my ears, almost acting like a calming white noise.

"Let me guess. You're anxious, right?" Applejack asks me quietly. Even though she isn't looking at me, I can tell she is giving me her full attention. Well, as much attention as she can spare from the road. For some reason, Applejack is able to read practically anyone. I can't lie. I am anxious. How am I supposed to approach Sonata or Aria again? How am I supposed to talk to them again? I have days to figure it out, but... still. "Well, I know these words aren't going to do a lick of good, but I just want ya to remember that we have your back." Applejack takes a moment to look at me, her eyes filled with sincerity. "I don't just mean Sunset. I mean everyone here. Even me. We're all here for ya. I know anxiety and insecurities make it hard to listen to advice, but I just want you to at least think about it."