“You sure don’t say much, do ya?”

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Edit: resized the picture, sorry it was so small

Celestine is mute; please keep that in mind, so when reading his answer, just assume he’s speaking to himself within his mind

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I met Ophelia on my first day of school, though I was a bit behind the rest of the class, as I was schooled from home the first year due to my… uh, muteness. Though I could make small noises, it was not enough to communicate, so this home schooling was a must, where I was taught a form of sign language and a more simplistic way of communication with other ponies.

Ophelia didn’t mind my disability, I don’t think she understood; just took that I was quiet and listened to her when she spoke. I liked that about her. She talked to me and didn’t stop when I wasn’t responding. She didn’t say “Oops! I forgot…” and shyly move on to another pony who could communicate verbally like most. She just simply spoke, and I listened and hung on her every word. She treated me equally.

Though she had a lot to say, and left little room in between for a response even if I could give one, I enjoyed listening to her stories and overall excitement about the world around us.

As we grew up together I liked her more and more. Each year she pushed herself to learn my sign language which consisted of snorting and hoof stomping, one of my few friends who completely devoted time to it. Though some have, such as Nessa and Retro, it’s only a small amount of knowledge on the form of language; enough to get by with simplistic conversations. Ophelia devoted herself to learning it so she could speak to me as if she were talking to any other pony.

I’ve grown attached to her through her actions and kindness towards me. Her ability to see me for me, and not my inability to speak. I’d even say that… I loved her… though she’ll more than likely never know, for her heart is set on another stallion…