>>42564232
>Just in time as well, since the door began to groan ominously as it swung inward.
>Stepping into the hall was a stallion, dressed in a turquoise robe that was more patches than original fabric.
>His sand-coloured coat and dishevelled brown mane gave him a very unassuming appearance, not helped by the faded green cloak that was more patches than original fabric.
>Save for the deep green of his eyes which held a quiet intelligence.
>He gave all three of you a once over before speaking, his voice a subtle blend of confidence and caution.
>"Interesting... you're not quite what I expected."
"Clover, I'm guessing?"
>He nodded curtly as he looked between the sisters with a furrowed expression, before settling back on you.
>"You can talk? That's... surprisingly convenient."
>You raised your eyebrows at that.
>Though he was quick to clarify as his attention slowly drifted from you, to the sisters.
>"Oh please - don't flatter yourself. Star Swirl wasn't exactly subtle bringing you into the castle..."
>He proceeded to circle around Luna and Celestia, his expression shifting from mild interest to complete fascination.
>"And who might you be? You must forgive me but - my master was very... light, on the details."
>"I'm Celestia, this is my sister, Luna."
>Clover smiled pleasantly at the two of them, though it felt... forced.
>"Charmed. Really..."
>From the way the sisters were standing, they weren't sure what to make of him either.
>They both bristled slightly under his analyzing gaze.
>Luna made the first move, quietly dispelling the tension with a slight cough.
>"Um, Star Swirl said you'd show us around the castle?"
>"Well, I certainly could but where do /you/ wish to go, my lady?"
>The playful sarcasm that laced his words was irritatingly effective as Luna glanced to her sister for help.
>"The library."
>His eyes flicked to Celestia like a viper, though his cordial demeanor remained as he took a step closer to her.
>"A fellow scholar, I see. Unless - you've never been there before?"
>He punctuated the question with a knowing smile, practically daring her to deny it.
>"What's it to you?"
>He chuckled dryly, seemingly unbothered by her tone.
"Something funny?"