An Amazing Rescue (8 page)

P:
Yes and no. I’ve always taken pleasure in seeing the rescued ponies have long, fun-filled lives on Chevalia. In fact, I brought your great-great-grandmare to this island – I can still remember it like it was yesterday. She was curious like you, but ill treated in the human world. I found her tied to a post in a busy, crowded town. When I rubbed noses with her she grew wings like mine, although hers were temporary, and together we flew to Chevalia, where she touched down and started a new life. It fills my heart with joy to know that I’ve helped achieve Nightingale’s dream for Chevalia. But, I must admit, occasionally I felt a small pang of envy when I watched ponies galloping and frolicking. Sometimes I wished I could just set down and have a good canter myself.

TI:
And now you can!

P:
Yes, that’s right. Another pony – a very brave pony – has taken on the wings of responsibility.

TI:
So it’s true? You can confirm that Princess Cloud has become the new Peggy?

P:
Cloud is the new Cloud! She is her own pony and I’m sure she’ll fulfill her duties admirably.

TI:
But she’s always been the grumpiest of the Royal Ponies!

P:
I believe there’s good in all ponies, and I suspect that Cloud has been misunderstood by some of us. She craves a life of adventure and travel. Being cooped up in Stableside Castle, with its many rules, was too stifling for such a life-loving pony.

TI:
I’ve never thought about it like that.

P:
You never truly know a pony until you step into their horseshoes, young Tulip Inkhoof.

TI:
And please tell us how you met Pippa MacDonald? I understand that you helped her retrieve the first magical horseshoe?