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MP - Machiavellian Anonymous & Unfaithful Twi (Complete)
By ImDoingMyPartCreated: 2023-01-24 02:36:36
Expiry: Never
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> Be Prince Anonymous.
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> And you can scarcely believe the information set out before you.
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> Yet here it was, clear as day.
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> Pictures, of your wife...
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> Your wife betraying you.
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> One of your contacts said they had something juicy for you, but you had never expected...
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"How much?"
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> You keep your voice even.
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> The lanky stallion shuffles slightly. They're always so easily intimidated.
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> "Six-hundred bits. A thousand if you want the name of the stallion."
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> Hmm. Quite the high offer.
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> An unreasonable offer.
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"I'll give you five-hundred for the pictures and the stallion's name."
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> A more reasonable offer, you thought.
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> The stallion's scoff suggested otherwise.
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> "I know how much you don't want this to get out. My price remains the same."
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> You hated when they knew they had a good hand.
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> But maybe you could convince him otherwise.
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> You swiveled your chair around, facing the gardens outside your window.
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"And I know how much you enjoy staying out of prison, Featherweight."
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"I'm being generous by offering you anything at all. And suddenly I'm in no mood to negotiate."
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> "But your reputation-"
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> You silence him with a gesture of your hand.
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"My reputation will remain sterling, if not improved by this information. It's my wife who would suffer."
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"I'll not ask again, Featherweight."
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> You hear him shuffle from behind you.
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> He then gives an exasperated sigh.
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> "Fine. It was Private First-Class Flash Sentry, sir."
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> You hear the photos drop onto the desk.
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"Perfect. Simmer will compensate you on your way out."
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> You gesture with your hand that he's free to go, and the door opens behind him.
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"It's been a pleasure."
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> He grunts, then turns to leave.
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> The door closes.
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> Your arm lashes out.
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> A fifteen-thousand bit vase is the victim of your rage.
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> A gift from a Gryphon delegation.
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> It was almost three millennia old.
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> Shattered on the floor.
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> This was unfortunate.
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> Very unfortunate.
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> Much of what you had built was dependent on your relationship to Twilight.
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> Your status as Prince was what had enabled you to build political capital.
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> It enabled you to start building up a repertoire of secrets.
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> Your livelihood depended on you maintaining that title, if this information got out...
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> But it wouldn't. Because you could stop it.
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> Because secrets were your profession. Usually they just weren't so close to your identity.
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> And usually keeping them secret didn't hurt so badly.
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> But most importantly, you had to stop this from happening again.
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> Twilight wouldn't cheat with just anyone, she's not quite so stupid as to risk her reputation carelessly.
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> This Flash Sentry must have some strong connection, something irreplaceable.
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> So really, covering this up was more a matter of dealing with him at this point.
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> Getting up, you walked over to a bookcase.
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> Pulling back the "Tome of Cyclical Entropy," the wall begins to shift.
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> Revealing your pride and joy.
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> Behind the false door, row-upon-row of filing cabinets.
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> Dirt on just about every person on this damn world.
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> Knowing exactly where to go, you navigate the room flawlessly until you reach it.
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> A cabinet labelled "E. Royal Guard - Canterlot Region."
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> Pulling it open, you move to guard assignments to Ponyville.
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> It doesn't take you long to find Flash, but you have almost nothing on him.
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> So this would have to be indirect.
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> The Captain of the Ponyville Guard was one "Gilded Light."
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> Opening his file, a grin spread across your face.
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> You did so love the game.
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> Closing it, you return the rest and close the cabinet, taking it with you back to your office.
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> You carefully navigate the shattered porcelain of the vase.
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> As you take your seat in your comfortable chair, you pull out a quill from the desk.
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> Some parchment from a cabinet.
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> And you begin to machinate.
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"Dear Captain Light."
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> Best to begin formal.
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"I am writing you regarding one Miss Shining Diamond."
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> And hit hard, and fast.
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"I am well acquainted with your improprieties with her."
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> Appear civil.
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"I hope dearly that you know the cost of infidelity in Saddle Arabia."
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> But make clear the threat.
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"If you wish to avoid a political catastrophe which could cost you your life..."
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> The threat to him.
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"And the possible costs to your family."
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> The threat to what he holds dear.
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"I have only one request."
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> Make the task easy.
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"You will order Private First Class Flash Sentry to stand guard alone at the Babbling Brook."
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> And show how simple it will be for him to keep this all safe.
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"His posting will be beside the Everfree."
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> Leave no details out.
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"Burn this letter after reading it. Tell no one, I will know if you do."
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> And make clear your power.
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"Further instructions will follow."
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> And that was all it took.
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> You'd have Flash out of the way in no time.
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> And then you'd only have to deal with your unfaithful wife.
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----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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> Looking at yourself in the mirror, you carefully adjusted your tie to make sure it lined up perfectly.
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> Appearances were important, after all.
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> You had to make sure this event was memorable.
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"Sapphire, the platinum cuff-links, please."
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> "At once, my Prince."
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"And the matching crown, as well."
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> The blue-toned pony bowed, making an affirmative noise, before backing out of your room.
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> Moving over to the window, you looked out over Canterlot proper.
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> Your suite at the Castle was a thing of beauty.
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> An amazing view of the city.
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> While your wife lived in her castle in Ponyville, you stayed mostly in Canterlot.
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> At the castle which still represented the heart of Equestrian government.
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> Making regular trips out to the township, of course.
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> It was a necessity. Ponyville was still a backwater. There was little in the way of political gain to be made there.
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> You had carefully arranged political cover for your trip to Ponyville.
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> Ordinarily, if there was a threat, you would have someone else take care of it.
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> There was too much political risk in addressing a problem yourself.
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> But this 'Flash Sentry' had made things personal.
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> He had opted to not only risk Twilight's entire life, but yours.
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> That was something that called for action.
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> And you fully intended to deal with him yourself.
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> It had been too long since you had gotten to enjoy any real fun, anyhow.
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> While the game was still fun from afar, you missed the personal touch.
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> But you required a solid alibi. Or your wife would know something was up.
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> So you pulled a few strings.
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> The door opens behind you.
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> "Your cuff-links and crown, sir."
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"Thank you, Sapphire."
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> The train ride was luxurious, but it was what you were accustomed to.
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> You spent the duration of it looking over plans for an extension to the Manehattan train network.
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> Unlike your fellow Royals, who tended to delegate most of their labour, you preferred the personal touch.
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> It was what had made you so beloved amongst the populace.
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> Upon your initial arrival, you had been reviled; the ponies were a naturally suspicious lot.
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> But you had struggled endlessly to make the inroads necessary to win the hearts of the people.
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> In no small part by winning the heart of a princess.
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> And it was that focus on the individual issues that had won you that reputation.
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> That, combined with your ability to get what needed to be done finished.
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> Your door opened, a servant bringing in a cup of coffee.
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> "Your beverage, sir."
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"Thank you, Collar. An incredibly prompt delivery, I must say."
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> Even the stuffy old stallion becomes bashful at your comment.
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> "You flatter me, sir."
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> Of course you flattered him.
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> Flattery got you everywhere with the average citizen.
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> Made you seem humble, real. Something tangible.
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> Where their princesses were their deities, you were their messiah.
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> When the door closed, you returned to looking over the expansion.
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> It was a good distraction from the struggles that would be ahead of you.
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> Your purpose in Ponyville was ostensibly covered. You were opening a new orphanage this evening.
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> 'Anonymous' Home for The Hopeful.' Funded by one Filthy Rich.
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> One Filthy Rich with a lot of secrets.
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> But you only hoped you didn't encounter Twilight this evening.
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> You knew she would be in Ponyville, and likely know about your event.
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> But you couldn't predict what your reaction would be to seeing her.
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> You knew you had to keep your cool...
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> But you must confess, it stung. Harshly.
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> Hopefully she would wait until after Flash was dealt with.
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> Upon disembarking your train, you almost immediately spotted Mayor Mare.
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> And you also spot a veritable flood of the press.
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> They hounded you everywhere. You were a bit of a celebrity, after all.
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> Your guards move out to hold back the tide of press while you move towards the Mayor.
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> You had won her innumerable political battles in exchange for information in the early days.
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> It's why there was still a Mayor in this town when a Princess ruled it directly.
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> Something otherwise illogical.
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> As if there would ever be a 'Mayor of Canterlot,' for instance.
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> You address her.
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"Mayor Mare! It's such a pleasure."
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> "My Prince! It's been too long since I've seen you personally!"
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> You lift the small mare up into an embrace, and you hear the snapping of cameras behind you.
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> Putting her down, you brush a lock of hair out of her face.
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"Why, I was here not two weeks ago and saw neither hide nor hair of your beauty."
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> She gets a little flustered.
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> "Well, you could've dropped by City Hall! You know my door's always open for you!"
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> It's always hard to tell if she's playing the game quite like you are.
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> Or perhaps she's genuinely an admirer, like the rest.
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> You preferred to believe the former. Made it easier to deal with.
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"But I suppose we mustn't waste time with pleasantries. The sun's already falling and I have a ribbon to cut!"
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> She laughs and swats you with a hoof.
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> The mayor says to follow her, and you do, your guards moving with you.
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> You look to your watch.
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> Flash would be at his post now.
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> Your mind wanders briefly as to whether this is the right course of action.
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> When you look up, you notice you've fallen behind a bit from the Mayor, and pick up the pace.
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> Always have to look busy.
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> Because even if you spend every waking moment working for Equestria...
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> If it doesn't look like it, then they won't think you are.
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> And that's guaranteed to lose you the favour of the people.
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"And thus, it is my pleasure to officially declare Anonymous' Home for the Hopeful open for business!"
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> You bring down the giant scissors on the big red ribbon, slicing it in two.
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> As you open the doors, a bunch of foals run into the building.
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"And of course, to prove that this is a home fit for a prince, I'll be staying the night!"
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> The thundering roar of hooves on the ground echo through the township.
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> A rousing applause, merely for cutting a ribbon and giving them your presence.
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> The foals were for show, of course. The orphanage wouldn't open until tomorrow.
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> You had need of the building for tonight. Those foals would be put up at the local hotel for the evening.
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> Looking at the crowd, your entourage begin to disperse them as you move into the building with the Mayor.
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> "I can't tell you how much I appreciate this, Anonymous. Every time you stop by it seems a big boon for my career."
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"Happy to help, Mayor. I'm sure you realize this helps me as much as it helps you."
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> She chuckles, hiding her face behind her hoof.
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> "Oh as if you need political help. Everyone loves you."
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> You chuckle lightly.
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"I do seem to have that effect on people. But I'm sure you need to get home, Mayor. I won't keep you."
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> She bashfully kicks her hoof.
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> "Oh, I always have time for you, My Prince. But I suppose we can carry on tomorrow."
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> You move to escort her to the exit.
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"I'll see you in the morning, then?"
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> "You can bet on it!"
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> You watch her until she's firmly out of sight, before closing the door.
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> You turn to your Guard Captain, an imposing Gryphon.
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"Talon, I want you to watch this door and the windows."
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"No one comes in, no one looks in. If Twilight comes by, one of you stall and the other notify me."
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"In no other circumstance am I to be disturbed."
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> He snaps a sharp salute.
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> "Yes, Sir!"
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> Good.
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> You remove your crown and wrist-cuffs, placing them on the table.
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> You likewise remove your blazer, and place it over one of the dining chairs.
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> You roll up your sleeves.
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> Moving around the rear-portion of the orphanage, you head near the stairwell to the second floor.
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> Behind the stairs is a door, leading down to the basement.
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> Which you take.
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> And once downstairs, you go through the trapdoor beside the icebox.
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> In the sterile room there is a single occupant.
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> Your prize for the night. Bound and gagged.
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> Strapped to a table.
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> Yes, you think you'll have fun tonight.
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> You did miss the personal touch.
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"Hello, Private First-Class."
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-----------------------------------------------------------------
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> A voice draws you from your slumber.
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> Cracking open your eyes takes considerable effort.
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> And the intense light from the top of the stairs blinds you.
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> You move a hand to cover your eyes, and avert your gaze.
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> "My Prince, it's six-thirty."
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> You groan loudly.
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> You should have stopped earlier last night.
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> But he kept on going.
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> So you had to.
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> Your bones feel rusty as you move up into a sitting position.
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> Snaps and crackles all the way.
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> Your eyes finally adjusting, you can see your Guard Captain at the top of the stairs in the light.
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"Thank you, Talon."
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> He makes an affirmative noise, turning to leave.
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> The small door closes, returning you to the relative darkness of the cellar.
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> Small, magic-powered lamps are around the room, but they provide little light.
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> Grime cakes your once immaculate white dress shirt and vest.
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> Pulling yourself up from the floor, you nearly slip.
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> Seems you passed out in a wet spot, a terrible shame.
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> Your whole body moves slowly, aching from sleeping on a stone floor.
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> Looking down at yourself, long red splotches stain your clothes.
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> Beyond any hope of cleaning, you supposed.
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> Slowly, your hand moves to the buttons of your vest, and you discard it.
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> Then your dress shirt.
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> But the pants stay.
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> You stand tall, stretching to shake off the stiffness in your joints.
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> Your immaculate form glistening in the wetness.
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> Seems the stains weren't limited to your clothes.
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> Your gaze draws over to a table on the far side of the room, holding what you needed.
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> It was the only immaculate portion of the room, you had required that it remain so.
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> You move over, slowly, to the table, and hear something snap under your foot.
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> A long, white, yet thin stick.
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> Reminded you of a chicken wing from back home, if it was oversized.
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> Ignoring it, you continue to the desk, and pull yourself up on it.
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> You sit beside the object of your affection, your back against the wall.
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> A solid oak box, with Twilight's cutie mark emblem emblazoned on the lock.
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> Reaching down into your pants pocket, you withdrew a small key.
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> And slid it slowly into the box.
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> And as you pulled it back, it revealed perhaps your greatest treasure.
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> One of the only things you got to keep when you arrived.
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> Six cigars, Cubans.
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> Originally of twelve.
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> It was a terrible shame this world didn't have Tobacco.
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> Or at least some pony equivalent of Cuba, to reminisce at.
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> In the second compartment, your lighter.
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> Specially engraved, although you had no idea what the engraving meant.
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> You had forgotten a lot of your previous life, but you remembered what these were.
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> Flicking the lighter on, you put the cigar in your mouth.
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> You light the tip, and inhale deeply.
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> The hot feeling of smoke in your lungs makes you feel alive.
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> After holding it in for a second, you exhale slowly.
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> Letting the fire roll out of you.
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> And as it finishes...
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> You begin to speak.
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"You know, Flash, I detest murder."
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> The room remains completely silent, save your breath.
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> You take another long drag from the cigar.
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"It's terribly ineffective. Leaves too many holes to cover up."
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> You look at the state of the room before you.
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"Too much mess to clean."
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> Another drag.
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"But it's not all about the practicality. There's a personal reason."
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> The cigar is draining quickly, and you feel strength returning to your limbs.
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> Your impressive physique flexes, shaking away the stiffness.
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> The room is rapidly filling with smoke.
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"I don't like to end a life. I know it's not who I was before I came here."
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> Standing back up with the cigar, you approach the table where Flash was initially bound.
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> It's vacant now.
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> It's occupant had gone on quite an adventure.
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> Your fingers run along the shoddy wood.
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> It wasn't well built, but it didn't need to be.
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> It just needed to hold him still 'till you got here.
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"It's why I'm smoking now. Because I feel like..."
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> You pause, looking for an apropros thing to say.
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"If I'm going to take away something from you that is so precious, I should lose something too."
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> You clenched the Cigar end between your teeth, holding it there to free up your hands.
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> You picked up your vest from the floor, and laid it out nicely on the table.
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"Something from myself before I became this."
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> The cigar is nearly done.
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> You once again withdraw it to your hand, as you meander over to the lump in the corner.
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> It's not moving.
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> And it's certainly not the same colour it started out as.
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"I'm not sure what I'll do when I run out."
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> You kneel down, observing the lump.
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> There was little in the way of defining characteristics left.
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"But I do hope you understand, I didn't choose to do this lightly."
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> You rub out the nub of the cigar on the ruined corpse.
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> No reaction.
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> Not even a twitch.
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> Your work was truly done.
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> Moving back up, you gather up your vest and shirt.
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> You would leave the box for another to collect.
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> You couldn't risk sullying it further.
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> You then turn around, and look toward the door.
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> You pause for a moment.
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"I'm sorry it had to be this way. You could have avoided this."
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> You begin to move.
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"But you chose a fight you couldn't possibly win."
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> You're at the exit quickly.
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> You look back one last time.
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> And give a little salute.
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"Rest in peace, Private."
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> Climbing the stairs back up to the main room, you see Talon waiting for you.
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> Along with two of his subordinate Gryphons.
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> You hold out your clothes for one of the subordinates to take, which they do.
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"Burn them, there's a fireplace in the dining hall of the building."
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> He looks briefly to Talon, who gestures for him to go.
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> The Gryphon takes off quickly.
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"I'll be taking a shower. I expect that room to be collapsed before I finish."
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> Talon snaps a sharp salute.
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> "It will be done, My Prince. A new suit is in the bathroom."
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> He gestures to a specific door in the hallway.
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> A smile spreads across your face.
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"Thank you, I can't imagine what I'd do without you."
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> You move into the bathroom, and turn on the shower.
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> Taking off your pants and undergarments, you jump in immediately.
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> The water is like ice, but it feels like sweet relief.
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> The water flowing off you is tinged crimson.
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> Taking some of the soap, you begin to lather yourself.
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> This was reckless, you knew.
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> Coming here in person, you mean.
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> But sometimes principle overwhelmed logic.
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> And under the cold water, you knew you would be fine.
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> Your sins were washing right down the drain.
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> But as you look at the drain, you notice not all of it goes down so well.
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> A bright orange feather, tinged red.
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> Must've stuck to you with the caked on grime.
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> Picking it up, the red drains from it under the water.
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> As you turn off the water, you carry the feather with you out of the shower.
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> Your put on your shirt and new pair of of pants.
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> Your new vest.
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> And your blazer, from last night, with the cuff-links.
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> You slide the feather into one of the inside pockets of the blazer.
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> And lastly, you put on your crown.
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> You had returned from the darkness.
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> And there was only one problem left on your mind.
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----------------------------------------------------------------------
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> You're sitting before the fireplace of the orphanage.
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> Watching the flame waver back and forth.
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> Your foot tapping on the floor.
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> Now the real battle began.
-
366.
> You were entirely unsure how precisely you were going to handle the situation with Twilight.
-
367.
> And that disturbed you.
-
368.
> You never left things to chance.
-
369.
> The dim sizzle of what was once an incredibly expensive suit smouldered in the fireplace.
-
370.
> The ashes would need to be removed as well.
-
371.
> But you had no viable solution to the problem presented to you.
-
372.
> Divorce would crush everything you have worked so hard to achieve.
-
373.
> And if you challenged her on her affair, it would reveal your complicity in Flash's disappearance.
-
374.
> While you had plenty of material to control Twilight's silence with...
-
375.
> Experience has taught you that princesses are volatile, and difficult to manage with your trade.
-
376.
> You look away from the flames, your eyes closing.
-
377.
> None of the scheming mattered.
-
378.
> You knew you couldn't bring yourself to control her.
-
379.
> While the rational side of your mind said to play her...
-
380.
> You knew you couldn't.
-
381.
> You rose up, and moved over to the window.
-
382.
> You couldn't sit still.
-
383.
> There was so much at stake.
-
384.
> Your father had always said 'Great men know their strengths.'
-
385.
> 'The Greatest men know their weaknesses.'
-
386.
> You couldn't even remember the man.
-
387.
> But you remembered the phrase.
-
388.
> She was your Achilles' Heel, your one weakness.
-
389.
> What an irony.
-
390.
> What is a man to do when his weakness turns on him itself?
-
391.
> Twilight was invulnerable, to most of the populace.
-
392.
> You had made sure of that.
-
393.
> Because...
-
394.
> Because you loved her.
-
395.
> Which was tainted now, forever.
-
396.
> Every time you saw her face you would remember those pictures.
-
397.
> How in the hell could you ever be intimate again.
-
398.
> She would know something was up, immediately.
-
399.
> You prided yourself on your ability to put up a face to match any occasion.
-
400.
> And yet she could always tell when you were out of sorts.
-
401.
> And always find a way to cheer you up.
-
402.
> Your hand runs up through your hair, and you find it still damp.
-
403.
> Hell, you doubt you can keep your mask on just speaking with her.
-
404.
> A circumstance which was rapidly approaching.
-
405.
> A subtle rage brewed in you.
-
406.
> The rage of uncertainty.
-
407.
> You withdraw your key from your pocket, and run your thumb along it's grooves.
-
408.
> For now, you would have to keep it under wraps.
-
409.
> At least until Flash was long forgotten.
-
410.
> For all you know, she might tell you about it.
-
411.
> Beg for forgiveness, the whole nine.
-
412.
> That would complicate things even further, it occurred to you.
-
413.
> But had she intended to do that, she would've been at the train station.
-
414.
> So you supposed guilt was likely what she was feeling.
-
415.
> The grooves of the key are wearing a cut into your thumb.
-
416.
> And as a product of that, an unwillingness to approach you.
-
417.
> It was the most logical explanation of how you managed to evade seeing her all night.
-
418.
> You were prepared with a whole song and dance to avoid her if she showed.
-
419.
> When you had a plan, you could do anything.
-
420.
> You just boiled down your action to the steps.
-
421.
> It was how you dealt with stress, ignore the surrounding context.
-
422.
> Focus on what you need to do.
-
423.
> But your brain wouldn't permit it, here.
-
424.
> You knew the easiest solution to your problem.
-
425.
> Blueblood had mentioned it repeatedly over the course of your time in Canterlot.
-
426.
> How it is that he remains a permanent Prince without a Princess or a pair of wings.
-
427.
> His dearly departed.
-
428.
> How easy it would be.
-
429.
> Your mind immediately conjures the full plan.
-
430.
> A poisoned chalice, with Baktic Acid.
-
431.
> Uniquely found in the Falstad Republic, a Minotaur country.
-
432.
> Invite the ambassador back, as an act of good will.
-
433.
> Your thumb stopped running along the key.
-
434.
> Political tensions already festered between the nations.
-
435.
> Twilight had already spoken down to an ambassador.
-
436.
> An assassination would be expected.
-
437.
> Your foot stops tapping.
-
438.
> There's a knock at the door, and your guards answer it.
-
439.
> You could mourn Twi to win their hearts...
-
440.
> And when the war inevitably started up
-
441.
> Lead battles to win their minds.
-
442.
> You can see yourself, standing in the field, donning Equestrian armor.
-
443.
> Commanding the ponies in battle.
-
444.
> And in doing so uniting Equestria...
-
445.
> And destroying one of its enemies.
-
446.
> And becoming more beloved than ever before for leading despite your hardship.
-
447.
> The familiar voice of Mayor Mare at the door.
-
448.
> It would be so easy to accomplish.
-
449.
> You knew you could best the Republic.
-
450.
> And it would help Equestria.
-
451.
> Your heartbeat slows.
-
452.
> The sound of hoofsteps entering the orphanage.
-
453.
> The plan gives you comfort, a feeling of familiarity.
-
454.
> An ability to detach yourself from reality.
-
455.
> But you know it to be a false confidence.
-
456.
> The plan failed to account for you.
-
457.
> And your weakness.
-
458.
> When the sound of steps reaches the entrance to your room, you turn.
-
459.
> A friendly smile on your face.
-
460.
> Not a sign of stress upon you.
-
461.
"Mayor! I hope you slept well!"
-
462.
> And the game begins anew.
-
463.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
464.
> "Why yes! You don't get to look this good without your beauty sleep!"
-
465.
> The mare slowly sauntered across the room until she could speak in a lower tone.
-
466.
> "The paperwork is filed for Flash's 'transfer.'"
-
467.
> A small smile spreads across your face.
-
468.
"I appreciate it, Mayor. Can't imagine where I'd be without you."
-
469.
> She titters, poking your leg with a hoof.
-
470.
> "Don't mention it, Anon. Anything you ever need."
-
471.
> And she bumps your leg with her flank.
-
472.
> "And I do mean anything."
-
473.
> She's definitely playing the game.
-
474.
> And you love it. There are so few who appreciated the art like you did.
-
475.
"I'll have to keep that in mind. Care to have lunch?"
-
476.
> You were stalling.
-
477.
> You knew you had to go to the Castle, but you needed more time.
-
478.
> Time to compartmentalize your encounter with Twilight.
-
479.
> The Mayor strikes a dramatic pose.
-
480.
> "Why Prince Anonymous, I would be delighted. You sure your wife won't mind?"
-
481.
> She might.
-
482.
> Twilight had always been a protective mare, a little controlling.
-
483.
> It was in her nature, you supposed.
-
484.
> Like you, she craved structure.
-
485.
> Things following a neatly laid plan.
-
486.
> It was what had drawn you to her.
-
487.
> It was what had drawn her to you.
-
488.
> She exposed you to a whole other dimension of organizing, the study of magic.
-
489.
> While not innately capable of casting yourself...
-
490.
> You had designed a number of devices based on its principles.
-
491.
> Like the special watch you wore on your wrist right now.
-
492.
> In return you had exposed her to a far more complicated field of planning.
-
493.
> The study of politics.
-
494.
"I'm sure she won't mind if I'm a little late to visit."
-
495.
> On your way out of the orphanage, you see quite a number of foals waiting outside.
-
496.
> Alongside the press, who had returned to catch the Prince in the morning.
-
497.
"Good morning, my little ponies!"
-
498.
> A roar of approval surged through the crowd.
-
499.
"I think I can safely say this home is one of the comfiest around, and perfectly fit for the best little foals in Equestria!"
-
500.
> You kneel down and pick one up, ruffling her mane.
-
501.
> A little dark blue filly.
-
502.
> She giggles and swats at your hand to try and get you to stop.
-
503.
> You grin as you place her atop your head, giving her a piggy-back ride.
-
504.
"But I think all of you deserve a treat, first. Ice cream's on the crown today!"
-
505.
> Yet more cries of approval, and a horde of foals swarming around you.
-
506.
> The filly on your shoulders makes a squee of happiness.
-
507.
> You start making your way to the local ice cream parlour, carefully avoiding stepping on anypony.
-
508.
> It occurred to you that knowing Twilight, she had to have some sort of plan in motion.
-
509.
> It would be unlike her to dive into an affair without checks in place.
-
510.
> She's typically not so reckless as to risk getting caught.
-
511.
> Flashes of cameras surround you, and you take it in stride, leading your troupe of foals to their destination.
-
512.
> The Mayor is at your side, chatting to a young colt.
-
513.
> You were surprised she didn't have foals of her own, actually.
-
514.
> Nor a stallion, for that matter.
-
515.
> A family was a political asset.
-
516.
> Especially given the political climate in Ponyville rapidly changing...
-
517.
> Before long, this little town would be a metropolis like Manehattan or Canterlot.
-
518.
> Being the seat of royalty tended to do that to a town.
-
519.
> And with that population, political challengers would arise.
-
520.
> Perhaps it was time to discuss her political future.
-
521.
> Well, that could wait.
-
522.
> You had appearances to keep up for now.
-
523.
"Here it is! Go in and order whatever you want, you little rascals!"
-
524.
> The filly on your shoulders practically leaps off to enter the shop.
-
525.
> Foals.
-
526.
> You were sitting in the ice cream parlour listening to one little foal tell a story.
-
527.
> Well, pretending to listen anyway.
-
528.
> You had a remarkable talent for pretending.
-
529.
> The shop owner had practically exploded with joy at your presence.
-
530.
> Oddly, not even at the financial impact of such a big purchase.
-
531.
> Nor the further financial incentives of association with your name in the press.
-
532.
> She just gushed over you from behind the counter.
-
533.
> When you had called her by name...
-
534.
> 'Bubblegum Swirl, how could I forget the owner of the best Ice Cream shop in Equestria?'
-
535.
> She had practically exploded with glee that you remembered her.
-
536.
> It was amazing what an impact you had on these ponies.
-
537.
> But sadly, your mind remained many miles away.
-
538.
> Your meeting with Twilight grew ever closer.
-
539.
> In fact, you'd probably have to head there once all the foals were done.
-
540.
> To visit your loving wife.
-
541.
> It was a struggle to keep a grimace off of your face.
-
542.
> But you couldn't risk it with the cameras all around you.
-
543.
> The foal has wrapped up his story.
-
544.
> You start clapping your hands, the rest of the foals follow your example.
-
545.
"Why, that was terrific Skystreak! You'll be the next Shakespone yet!"
-
546.
> The colt blushes, but excitedly jumps up and down.
-
547.
> "You really think so? Thanks mister Nononymoose!"
-
548.
> You let out a chuckle.
-
549.
> You ruffle his hair as well as you stand up.
-
550.
"Well, fillies and colts, I fear I must be off to go visit my princess."
-
551.
> A collective 'awwwwwwwwh' cries out through the shop.
-
552.
> Including one from the owner.
-
553.
> Adorable.
-
554.
"But you lot can feel free to drop by the castle any time I'm in town. That's a promise."
-
555.
> That made their expressions do a 180. A cheer erupts.
-
556.
> The instructors start shepherding out the foals.
-
557.
> Chiding them about the ice cream on their faces.
-
558.
> "Good luck, My Prince."
-
559.
> The Mayor had snuck up beside you, giving you a grin.
-
560.
> She gives you a pat on the back of the leg before following out the swarm.
-
561.
> It was time.
-
562.
> As you approach the castle, the media frenzy remains relentless.
-
563.
> Constant pictures, everywhere you went.
-
564.
> While it was sometimes annoying, you knew it was for the best.
-
565.
> It was a constant reminder.
-
566.
> To keep up your face at all times, no matter what.
-
567.
> To never give the impression of the turmoil inside you.
-
568.
> Because a frown could provoke a national outcry.
-
569.
> An inquiry into who or what had wounded the normally exuberant prince so badly.
-
570.
> And that inquiry might find more than it has any business finding.
-
571.
> When you reach the courtyard of the castle, you hear your name cried out from above.
-
572.
> "Anon!"
-
573.
> Looking up, you see a lanky purple dragon flying down from one of the balconies.
-
574.
> Prince Spike.
-
575.
"Spike! It feels like it's been forever!"
-
576.
> The dragon doesn't stop as he glides low, tackling you onto your back.
-
577.
> He was bigger than you, now.
-
578.
> "That's because it HAS been forever! I've missed you!"
-
579.
> A tight hug envelops you.
-
580.
> You can feel the heat radiating from his inner fire.
-
581.
"Well miss no more, buddy. I'm here for a while."
-
582.
> You can see the grin spread across his face.
-
583.
> He adored you more than any other in Equestria.
-
584.
> You were partially responsible for his growth, after all.
-
585.
> You had worked your magic to learn about his specific breed's ageing habits.
-
586.
> It was part of what had won Twilight's affection so many years ago.
-
587.
> You pat the dragon on the side, signalling him to let you up.
-
588.
> He gets up off of you, and then helps you up.
-
589.
> The dust slides off your clothes itself.
-
590.
> Thank you, magic.
-
591.
> The giant grin remains on Spike's face.
-
592.
> "Well, c'mon! Twi's been locked up in her study for days. God knows on what."
-
593.
> "And we both know the only one who can break her out of that daze."
-
594.
> He does an eyebrow waggle.
-
595.
> You smile back.
-
596.
"I'll see what I can do."
-
597.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
-
598.
> Moving toward the castle proper, Spike begins to regale you with his exploits.
-
599.
> His romantic exploits, primarily.
-
600.
> The little Drake could have almost any mare he wanted.
-
601.
> He was royalty, after all.
-
602.
> Yet his sights remained set on his true love.
-
603.
> The element of generosity.
-
604.
> It stunned you that she remained single.
-
605.
> It stunned you further that she continued to play coy to his advances.
-
606.
> When Spike still looked young, it was understandable.
-
607.
> But now, you couldn't fathom why she didn't give in.
-
608.
> Perhaps she simply liked the chase.
-
609.
> As you pass the main entrance, you gesture to your guards that they were dismissed.
-
610.
> Only Talon remained, joining the Royal Guards in the castle courtyard.
-
611.
> He was fiercely loyal.
-
612.
> You wondered when the poor sap had time to sleep, with how diligently he followed you.
-
613.
> But he was your most trusted advisor.
-
614.
> Apart from your wife, of course.
-
615.
> Hm.
-
616.
> Perhaps he had moved up in the ranks, you supposed.
-
617.
> Entering the castle, you're immediately struck by a feeling of claustrophobia.
-
618.
> Like the walls are closing in on you.
-
619.
> You feel trapped.
-
620.
> Yet, through it all you persevere.
-
621.
> While you were away from the cameras, you had Spike here.
-
622.
> And it would crush him to know that you were upset.
-
623.
> Especially if he were to discover the reason why.
-
624.
"So Spike, where's your sister hiding?"
-
625.
> "The archives, of course. She's barely been eating, too."
-
626.
> So your guilt assumption was likely right.
-
627.
> No doubt Spike was writing it off as her usually obsession with new knowledge.
-
628.
> At least she had the decency to be upset about her betrayal.
-
629.
> Looking around while walking, a thought strikes you.
-
630.
"Where are all the guards? This place is barren!"
-
631.
> That was generally a bad sign.
-
632.
> Spike scratches the back of his head.
-
633.
> "Gilded Light has them all on a search. One of his guys went missing."
-
634.
> Oh?
-
635.
> Seems they would find out too late that Flash went to the mayor for a transfer.
-
636.
> A terrible shame, that.
-
637.
"Oh? Is Gilded here?"
-
638.
> Gilded in person, Light in letters.
-
639.
> The differentiation gave you more plausible deniability.
-
640.
> "Nope, he's out with the rest of them searching the Everfree."
-
641.
> Useful.
-
642.
> Walking by the door to his office, you distract Spike.
-
643.
"I don't recognize that statue..."
-
644.
> Of course you recognized the statue.
-
645.
> Spike looks at you with disbelief, before turning to the statue.
-
646.
> "That's a replica of Luna's first Night Guard, Silverwing! He's so awesome, this one time..."
-
647.
> And while he's distracted, with perfect timing, you withdraw a letter.
-
648.
> And slide it under the door.
-
649.
> It should keep Gilded Light's conscience clear.
-
650.
> And your footsteps covered.
-
651.
> As Spike wraps up his little tale, you comment.
-
652.
"Fascinating. Let's carry on, though. Gotta bust Twilight out of her trance."
-
653.
> The door to the Royal Archives.
-
654.
> You had spent many a day down there, learning everything about Equestria.
-
655.
> Its culture, its heroes, its history...
-
656.
> Its villains.
-
657.
> You knew the ins and outs of what every Equestrian thought the model citizen was.
-
658.
> And what they reviled in anypony.
-
659.
> It was essential to crafting your political persona.
-
660.
> The archives even possessed knowledge of foreign cultures.
-
661.
> Every border state to Equestria, in fact.
-
662.
> You and Twilight had spent months combing through the collective knowledge when it was uncovered.
-
663.
> It was initially sealed away, only uncovered by Spike accidentally.
-
664.
> There was something magical about it, that it seemed to perpetually generate new knowledge.
-
665.
> News about recent events would be found in tombs in sections you and Twilight had picked clean.
-
666.
> It was the eternal source of joy for Twilight.
-
667.
> And where she went whenever stressed.
-
668.
> It was how she dealt with stress, absorbing knowledge.
-
669.
> It helped her keep her mind off the real world.
-
670.
> You knock lightly on the door.
-
671.
> But your intentions for subtlety are lost on Spike, who barges in.
-
672.
> "Twi! We've got company!"
-
673.
> You smiled.
-
674.
> Spike's presence would make a useful excuse for yourself.
-
675.
> It would allow you to play the game when you encountered Twilight.
-
676.
> You did have to keep up appearances, after all.
-
677.
> And if you focused on that...
-
678.
> Then it wouldn't hurt so much.
-
679.
> Entering the Archives, you close the door behind you.
-
680.
> The room always had a certain ambiance, with it's dark blue lights.
-
681.
> While you and Twilight had attempted to integrate regular lighting, it was always snuffed out.
-
682.
> Twilight could never locate the source of the magic preventing the light.
-
683.
> Looking ahead, you saw down the aisle Spike start descending a stairwell.
-
684.
> There were seven floors you knew of, and Twilight could be on any of them.
-
685.
> Better to follow the drake, he probably knew where she was.
-
686.
> Keeping up a brisk pace, you reach the stairs and follow him down.
-
687.
> All the while he's calling her name.
-
688.
> Yet no response comes.
-
689.
> Perhaps she's ignoring him, deeply involved in her studies.
-
690.
> It would be like her.
-
691.
> On the fourth floor, he exits the stairs.
-
692.
> As you exit the door, you recognize a voice.
-
693.
> "Hey, wussup?"
-
694.
> Her voice.
-
695.
> She must've been sleeping. She sounds tired as tartarus.
-
696.
> Even still, her voice is like silk in your ears.
-
697.
> "We've got company, Twi!"
-
698.
> You turn around the stacks, and you can see them.
-
699.
> She sits at a table by dim blue light, from one of the magic candles.
-
700.
> "Who is it?"
-
701.
> Spike gestures in your direction.
-
702.
> As she looks up, her eyes meet yours.
-
703.
> Your heart seizes, for a moment you think she shot you.
-
704.
> It's the only explanation for this pain.
-
705.
> Your mouth feels full of cotton, and you struggle to swallow.
-
706.
> But you force the mask into position.
-
707.
> You had to keep up appearances.
-
708.
> For Spike, of course.
-
709.
"Hey, Sparky. I'm home."
-
710.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
711.
> Your mind tells you to move toward her.
-
712.
> But your body is frozen in place.
-
713.
> Fortunately for you, she does the movement for you.
-
714.
> "Anon!"
-
715.
> She cries out ecstatically.
-
716.
> Jumping out of the chair, she gallops in your direction before taking flight.
-
717.
> Much like Spike, she tackles your chest.
-
718.
> Her hooves going around your shoulders.
-
719.
> But unlike with Spike, you don't fall.
-
720.
> You catch her and put your arms around her as well.
-
721.
> The soft feeling of her hooves on your back feels like fire.
-
722.
> Every point of contact is torturous.
-
723.
> Her face snuggles into your chest.
-
724.
> "I missed you..."
-
725.
> A cringe briefly lights your features.
-
726.
> How the hell could she maintain such an air of joy.
-
727.
> How could she play the game so well, when you could barely do it.
-
728.
> Assuming she's playing, that is.
-
729.
> Perhaps you never meant as much to her as you thought...
-
730.
> If she could ignore her betrayal like this.
-
731.
"I've missed you too, Sparks. It's been a while."
-
732.
> The words are like poison in your mouth.
-
733.
> They come out naturally, but burn away at you all the while.
-
734.
> She looks up, obviously aiming for a kiss.
-
735.
> But suddenly, hesitation.
-
736.
> From both of you, it seemed.
-
737.
> Rather than going for the lips, she went for your neck.
-
738.
> And you went for her forehead, at the base of her horn.
-
739.
> She was playing the game as well.
-
740.
> She had to be.
-
741.
> The alternative was too horrible.
-
742.
"Spike tattled, missus. Sounds like someone's been neglecting their food."
-
743.
> The dragon huffs over by the desk.
-
744.
> But a large smile remained on his face seeing you two interact.
-
745.
> That was what mattered.
-
746.
> Appearances.
-
747.
> She adjusts in your embrace so she can turn around.
-
748.
> Looking over at Spike, she points a hoof, childishly laughing.
-
749.
> "Traitor!"
-
750.
> They briefly quibble about loyalties.
-
751.
> The topic itself feels toxic to you.
-
752.
> But worse, is the manner of their discussion.
-
753.
> It feels so natural.
-
754.
> So much like before.
-
755.
> Gods, you wish it could go back to before.
-
756.
> When you didn't have to pretend around her.
-
757.
> The only one you could be yourself with, who understood you.
-
758.
> And you had lost that rock.
-
759.
> A cold fury is building in your chest, but you keep it in check.
-
760.
> You would have to be your own rock.
-
761.
> For the sake of Equestria, and all those within it.
-
762.
"Well, on the plus side, your flanks are feeling more toned for it."
-
763.
> That earns you an indignant "Hey!" from Twilight.
-
764.
> And an uproarious laugh from Spike.
-
765.
> Especially when a rumble from Twilight's stomach seals the deal.
-
766.
> You let out a laugh.
-
767.
> You hope that sounded natural.
-
768.
> You gently let Twilight down, before gesturing towards the stairs.
-
769.
"But as much as I appreciate them, we'd best get you some food, before you start eating books in your sleep again."
-
770.
> As she moves past you, lightly responding to your comment, you still feel frozen in place.
-
771.
> Your eyes following her as she moved to the stairs.
-
772.
> She was beautiful.
-
773.
> Why did she have to be so beautiful.
-
774.
> Reaching the top of the stairs, you follow her out of the archives.
-
775.
> The hallways remain barren.
-
776.
> You needed to know that she was playing the game.
-
777.
> That she was hurting too, under that relaxed face.
-
778.
> It was a risk to bring up the subject, but your conscience demanded it.
-
779.
"So Spike tells me the guard's off looking for somepony?"
-
780.
> Twilight briefly sputters.
-
781.
> A great burden feels lifted from your shoulders.
-
782.
> Her composure returns immediately.
-
783.
> But that reaction was all you needed.
-
784.
> "Yes, one of the junior members of the guard disappeared near the Everfree Forest."
-
785.
> A terrible shame, that.
-
786.
"Disappeared? Do they think it's desertion, or did some beastie nab him?"
-
787.
> You can see her façade crack again.
-
788.
> This time she can't fix it quite so fast.
-
789.
> "Gilded Light said he wasn't sure yet, they were looking into it. They're all combing the forest now for a trace."
-
790.
> Then he had played his part admirably.
-
791.
> Ponies place such value on harmony, on trying to keep things the same.
-
792.
> Never changing.
-
793.
> The chaos of uncertainty frightens them.
-
794.
> They'll do anything to keep the status quo, or at least the illusion of it.
-
795.
> Sacrifice anypony else to maintain their own harmony.
-
796.
> It's why you had to keep this marriage together.
-
797.
> It would rend this country asunder otherwise.
-
798.
> Sadly, in this case, you were the sacrifice.
-
799.
> You reach the kitchens, where a chef immediately trots up to Twilight.
-
800.
> But you gesture with a hand for her to relax.
-
801.
"Don't worry about it, Cuisine. I'll make us all some lunch."
-
802.
"Gotta prove that what you taught me stuck, right?"
-
803.
> The chef mare blushes immensely, but capitulates, offering the kitchen up to you.
-
804.
> The personal touch.
-
805.
> While you were cooking, you sent Spike out to invite Talon in.
-
806.
> In the early days, Talon had always refused to eat with you.
-
807.
> "I could not disgrace the Fylkir by eating in his presence."
-
808.
> A title you had earned among the Gryphons.
-
809.
> It made it difficult for you to build the personal connections you liked in your business.
-
810.
> You were working a number of frying pans.
-
811.
> The title translated loosely to Peacekeeper.
-
812.
> It was the most respected honorific in their culture.
-
813.
> It was a religious title, really.
-
814.
> While they were warlike by nature, and always aggressive...
-
815.
> They valued peace all the more for it, believing those who could attain it to be Godlike.
-
816.
> A fire flares up over Twilight's meal.
-
817.
> Looking over it, you see it is ready, quite a bit before the rest.
-
818.
> Such is the nature of vegetarian dishes.
-
819.
> You put it under a heat lamp.
-
820.
> Four years ago, you personally had stopped a civil war between member states of the Holy Accipi Empire.
-
821.
> In return, they declared you Fylkir, and offered you anything you could want from their people.
-
822.
> It was why you had a personal guard of Gryphons.
-
823.
> The Empire was a political body formed of all the various independent Gryphon Kingdoms.
-
824.
> They valued you as if you were one of their own, and felt the ponies were unworthy of protecting you.
-
825.
> On the flip-side, the ponies thought the Gryphons were inappropriate for protecting their prince.
-
826.
> But their presence is good for Equestria.
-
827.
> It has shown the ponies that the Gryphons are not all blood-thirsty warmongers.
-
828.
> And it has shown the Gryphons that the ponies could exemplify the core Accipi virtues.
-
829.
> Loyalty, Respect, and Self-Sacrifice.
-
830.
> Those virtues made them the perfect confidants.
-
831.
> The meat is done.
-
832.
> You begin to plate the meals. Including one for Talon.
-
833.
> Fortunately, you managed to convince Talon it was alright to eat in front of you over time.
-
834.
> The poor Gryphon even used to pray to you.
-
835.
> Now, you think, he prayed for you instead.
-
836.
"And Lunch is served!"
-
837.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
838.
> Setting down the meals in front of everyone, you took your seat.
-
839.
> Right beside Twilight, as always.
-
840.
> The long table had two chairs at either end, and twelve along the sides.
-
841.
> Talon and Spike both went for the seat right next to you.
-
842.
> But Talon is a little faster, and Spike has to settle for next to Twilight.
-
843.
> It never ceases to amuse you that Talon treats the rest of Equestria's royalty like commoners.
-
844.
> Twilight gives a little indignant huff at the display.
-
845.
> You clap your hands.
-
846.
"No sense standing on ceremony, let's dig in!"
-
847.
> Spike and Talon tear into their food ravenously.
-
848.
> Spike, because he always did so.
-
849.
> Talon, because he hadn't eaten in hours, instead opting to stay at his post.
-
850.
> Beside you, you hear Twilight sigh in contentment as she takes the first bite of her meal.
-
851.
> It was Eggplant Parmigiana, one of her favourite dishes.
-
852.
> You always made it for her the first day you were visiting Ponyville.
-
853.
> Spike was rambling on to Talon about something or other.
-
854.
> Him and Talon had always had a mutual respect for one another, as outsiders.
-
855.
> It was something you knew well from the early days.
-
856.
> Your eyes return to Twilight.
-
857.
> You were tempted to not make that dish this time.
-
858.
> It felt like you were soiling those memories.
-
859.
> But you and Twilight were creatures of habit, and everypony in the room knew it.
-
860.
> Had you done otherwise, they might've picked up on it.
-
861.
> And that would be unacceptable.
-
862.
> Your knife cuts through the steak on your plate like butter.
-
863.
> To most ponies, seeing carnivores eat meat was unsettling.
-
864.
> But for some reason, Twilight had always been relaxed about it.
-
865.
> She always said she understood, but you had no idea how.
-
866.
> She always understood everything about you.
-
867.
> You feel a hoof touch your nose.
-
868.
> Her soft, velvety hoof.
-
869.
> You had been staring.
-
870.
> "Bit for your thoughts?"
-
871.
> Fuck.
-
872.
> You were sloppy.
-
873.
> The game demanded your constant attention.
-
874.
> Yet you allowed yourself to be lulled into a false sense of security.
-
875.
> Could you help it?
-
876.
> Your former security blanket was right there.
-
877.
> Gazing up at you with her big, beautiful eyes.
-
878.
> It still awed you how she managed to keep this up.
-
879.
> You had taught her well, it seemed.
-
880.
"Can't I stare at the most beautiful mare in the world for a moment?"
-
881.
> The truth behind that statement made it hurt more.
-
882.
> Across from you, Spike makes a 'blech' expression, poking his tongue out.
-
883.
> It was followed by a genuine smile, though.
-
884.
> Twi moved up and pecked you on the nose.
-
885.
> The small action sent a chill down your spine.
-
886.
> And an ache through your heart.
-
887.
> This was becoming intolerable.
-
888.
> Keeping up your expression, you turned back to your food.
-
889.
> You couldn't keep this up.
-
890.
> It was emotional torture.
-
891.
> How in the nine hells were you meant to keep this illusion up for the rest of your days?
-
892.
> You needed to get away from the castle.
-
893.
> There was never any structure while you were here.
-
894.
> It was the one place where you allowed things to go with the flow.
-
895.
> It was the one place where you usually didn't wear a mask.
-
896.
> And you were having difficulty putting one on right now.
-
897.
"So Twilight, I was thinking we could go out for dinner tonight."
-
898.
> Take the bait...
-
899.
> "Oh? Where to?"
-
900.
"Aria's Hall. Been forever since we've had a real date night, hasn't it?"
-
901.
> Her eyes light up with excitement.
-
902.
> "Really?"
-
903.
> You wonder if it's genuine.
-
904.
> Aria's Hall was where you had taken her for your first date.
-
905.
> It was very much so a high-society affair.
-
906.
> Dinner, dancing, the whole lot.
-
907.
> You'd been many times over the years, but it had been a while since your last visit.
-
908.
> "But... Reservations there go back months, and I'd hate for somepony to lose their spot."
-
909.
> "I'm not so sure we could just decide this on the fly."
-
910.
> You were tired of playing politics.
-
911.
> Playing romance would enable you to distract yourself from your emotions.
-
912.
"I may have already arranged plans, but if you didn't want to..."
-
913.
> It was a lie.
-
914.
> You couldn't have possibly arranged such plans.
-
915.
> But you wouldn't have a problem getting into Aria's Hall.
-
916.
> There was guaranteed to be a wealthy sap you could... persuade to give you his reservation.
-
917.
> But when you saw the big smile spread across her face.
-
918.
> Her mouth is covered in sauce.
-
919.
> You knew you would do anything for her.
-
920.
> "Well then, I can't rightly say no now can I?"
-
921.
> Excellent.
-
922.
> "But, I'll need to get ready! I can't go there looking like I've been sleeping on a bunch of books for days!"
-
923.
> It was true, she didn't look in tip-top shape.
-
924.
> Her mane was sticking out at random angles.
-
925.
> Her fur ruffled.
-
926.
> Her feathers in dire need of a preening.
-
927.
> And yet she was still perfection in your eyes.
-
928.
> Why...
-
929.
> She pushed back the chair, and got up.
-
930.
> "I'm going to have to go see the stylist. Cuisine will clean up the plates!"
-
931.
> "See you tonight, Anon!"
-
932.
"6:30, Sparky."
-
933.
> You'd find a spot at that time.
-
934.
> "Gotcha!"
-
935.
> She spreads her wings, and flies out of the room at incredible speed.
-
936.
> With that done, you turn to Talon.
-
937.
"Find me those reservations. You know who to contact."
-
938.
> "Yes, my Prince."
-
939.
> Within a split second, he's gone as well.
-
940.
> Leaving only you and Spike.
-
941.
> He breathes deeply, before looking over to you.
-
942.
> "You guys are so adorkable."
-
943.
> The dragon's comment strikes a nerve.
-
944.
> Once upon a time, you found such a comment to be a compliment.
-
945.
> Now, it hurt.
-
946.
> Because it was referring to nothing but a construction.
-
947.
> A falsity, built out of necessity. An illusion of happiness.
-
948.
> But you don't let it show.
-
949.
"I do try to be ever entertaining, Spike. Have you got any plans with the missus tonight?"
-
950.
> Spike sighs.
-
951.
> "As if. Rarity's impossible to woo, I'm almost tempted to give up at this point."
-
952.
> It would probably be for the best.
-
953.
> But those were not the words he wanted to hear.
-
954.
"Hah! Those sound like quitter's words, and I know you're not a quitter."
-
955.
> You point your fork at him.
-
956.
"I'll have Talon rustle me up a second reservation for you, I expect you and her there at 6:30 sharp mister."
-
957.
> Panic sets in on his eyes.
-
958.
> "But Anon!"
-
959.
"No excuses! Get to it bucko!"
-
960.
> In a panic, he jumps out of his seat and tries to run the way Twi and Talon did.
-
961.
> He falls briefly, but continues out.
-
962.
> You laugh lightly as he makes his way out of the room.
-
963.
> You let out a deep sigh.
-
964.
> Your heart is finally beginning to settle down.
-
965.
> It's been almost ten minutes since everypony else left the room.
-
966.
> Leaving just you here.
-
967.
> Cuisine had dropped by once, to collect the dishes.
-
968.
> But you had told her you were not quite done.
-
969.
> Without even looking, she had left.
-
970.
> You could finally think straight, and work on how you intended this evening to go.
-
971.
> If your mind was focused on making the date perfect, then you would be fine.
-
972.
> So long as you had structure, you could handle it.
-
973.
> But your mind had been torn asunder.
-
974.
> You felt emotions you hadn't known personally for a long time.
-
975.
> Doubt. Fear. Sadness.
-
976.
> You had spent your entire life building up walls against those feelings.
-
977.
> And Twilight had torn them down from the inside.
-
978.
> As your eyes gazed over, they once again caught Twilight's plate.
-
979.
> Half-finished.
-
980.
> She had never left anything of that dish behind.'
-
981.
> Not once, in all the years you were married.
-
982.
> Not even if Celestia demanded her immediate presence.
-
983.
> You casually lifted up the plate.
-
984.
> And threw it at the wall.
-
985.
> It was a priceless artifact.
-
986.
> An irreplaceable part of the castle, having come with it from the Tree of Harmony.
-
987.
> And yet, as it shattered against the wall, spreading the leftover meal everywhere...
-
988.
> And fractured crystals across the floor...
-
989.
> You felt a certain satisfaction.
-
990.
> The heat in your chest subsided.
-
991.
> It was time to plan.
-
992.
"Cuisine, if you wouldn't mind, I accidentally dropped a plate..."
-
993.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
-
994.
> Looking at yourself in the mirror, you gave a whistle.
-
995.
> Looking impeccable as ever.
-
996.
> Not a sign of distress upon your features.
-
997.
> It was getting close to 6:30, and you had seen neither hide nor hair of Twilight.
-
998.
> In that time you had briefly worked out, and changed your suit.
-
999.
> And occasion as formal as Aria's Hall demanded something a little different.
-
1000.
> As such, you were now wearing a tuxedo, an incredibly expensive one at that.
-
1001.
> Personally designed by one of your wife's friends.
-
1002.
> A pony with whom one of your closest friends was deeply infatuated.
-
1003.
> A pony with whom you would be joining this evening for dinner.
-
1004.
> You were sure she would appreciate you wearing her designs.
-
1005.
> She always used to go on and on about how well you carried her work.
-
1006.
> And how much she valued a challenge in designing something.
-
1007.
> That was a mare who understood the value of appearances.
-
1008.
> At times, you could swear she played the political game.
-
1009.
> She knew precisely how to deceive an audience about her feelings.
-
1010.
"I think gold will go nicer with this suit."
-
1011.
> You look over to the pure white pony attending you.
-
1012.
> She had just moments before finished trimming your hair.
-
1013.
> "Yes, my Prince."
-
1014.
> She moved over to the side of the room, and brought over gold cuff-links.
-
1015.
> And a golden crown.
-
1016.
> Laced with rubies.
-
1017.
> One of two that you possessed, and you switched between for occasion.
-
1018.
> The platinum one was better suited for playing politics.
-
1019.
> The coldness it emanated gave you an air of authority.
-
1020.
> It was a practical, imposing symbol of why you were their prince.
-
1021.
> By contrast, the gold was inviting.
-
1022.
> It felt warm and made you appear even more benevolent.
-
1023.
> It could evoke passionate feelings.
-
1024.
> And in the game of romance, passion was what was critical.
-
1025.
> You look at how well it matches your tuxedo.
-
1026.
> Yes, Rarity understood how important this all was.
-
1027.
> Yet Rarity had purposefully avoided politics, opting to pursue art.
-
1028.
> An admirable goal.
-
1029.
> A very different goal from yours.
-
1030.
> Power.
-
1031.
> You thought your choice better.
-
1032.
> It meant that you could change Equestria for the better.
-
1033.
> It meant you could save lives.
-
1034.
> Or destroy them, if it was for the greater good.
-
1035.
> But art could have considerable impact, you knew that.
-
1036.
> Art could sway the minds of the powerful and the wealthy alike.
-
1037.
> Art win the hearts and minds of millions for a cause.
-
1038.
> It was a far more admirable pursuit than wealth, at any rate.
-
1039.
> You rest the crown atop your head.
-
1040.
"That's perfect, Gleam. Thank you so much for your help."
-
1041.
> She bowed deeply, her face flushed.
-
1042.
> "I-it was my pleasure to help you, my Prince."
-
1043.
> You turn to open the door, leaving the salon of the castle.
-
1044.
> A carriage awaits to take you to Aria's Hall.
-
1045.
> You quickly get in, shutting the door behind you and placing you in silence.
-
1046.
> The carriage immediately gets moving.
-
1047.
> Your thoughts wander back to Rarity.
-
1048.
> Yes, both your passion and her passion could obtain wealth easily.
-
1049.
> The wealthy adored the artists and the politicians.
-
1050.
> Because you were their access to satisfaction.
-
1051.
> Their wealth bought them access to you, rather than seeking to be like you.
-
1052.
> It was a shallow pursuit.
-
1053.
> Survival by proxy.
-
1054.
> But you understood it, you incorporated it into your play.
-
1055.
> They thought their money made them important, and that was why they had access.
-
1056.
> But in reality, they were a tangent; their money itself was important.
-
1057.
> That was no way to live.
-
1058.
> Arriving at the building, you exit your carriage with purpose.
-
1059.
> You see none of your party there.
-
1060.
> But the damage is done by your presence alone.
-
1061.
> Immediately, the paparazzi swarm that always attends this locale shifted focus to you.
-
1062.
> Questions shouted from the crowd.
-
1063.
> Flashes of photographs being taken.
-
1064.
"Hello, my little ponies!"
-
1065.
> And the crowd goes wild.
-
1066.
> Such simple words.
-
1067.
> Said by every damn ruler of this country.
-
1068.
> But so valuable.
-
1069.
> Checking your watch, you see that it is 6:40.
-
1070.
> Fashionably late, as ever.
-
1071.
> Twilight and Spike were likely inside already.
-
1072.
> It was sensible, you supposed. Being out here could grow tiresome for some.
-
1073.
> Not for you, though.
-
1074.
> You knew that this part of the game was a part that so many members of the public valued most.
-
1075.
> Seeing you as you went on a date.
-
1076.
> Something so innocuous, but so important to so many.
-
1077.
> You imagine Rarity would be slightly later than you, knowing her.
-
1078.
> Assuming the poor Dragon managed to finagle her into it.
-
1079.
> He better have.
-
1080.
> Talon had nearly had a stroke when you told him to get another reservation beside yours.
-
1081.
> But that Gryphon is resourceful.
-
1082.
> As you move up to the door, a greeter with an incredible moustache gestures for you to follow him.
-
1083.
> Walking through the restaurant, you hear mumblings from ponies all around you.
-
1084.
> "It's him! It's the Prince!"
-
1085.
> "Do you think he'd let us get a picture with him?"
-
1086.
> "Oh my, he's looking fetching, isn't he?"
-
1087.
> You keep a sterling smile on your face.
-
1088.
> Truly, the game could be played in this environment.
-
1089.
> As you near your table, you find your suspicions confirmed.
-
1090.
> Twilight and Spike are sitting at two separate tables, right beside one another.
-
1091.
> Chatting back and forth.
-
1092.
> But the words cannot reach your ears.
-
1093.
> The world seems to have slowed to a stop.
-
1094.
> She is immaculate.
-
1095.
> Your breath is caught in your throat.
-
1096.
> Her accessories perfectly accentuates her appearance.
-
1097.
> Her mane is done in precisely the style she knew you liked.
-
1098.
> Her coat and wings perfectly groomed.
-
1099.
> And yet, the sight does not hurt you as seeing her earlier did.
-
1100.
> The very sight does not freeze your blood in your veins.
-
1101.
> Your heart does not ache.
-
1102.
> For in this environment, you could compartmentalize it as a construction.
-
1103.
> It was part of the game.
-
1104.
> You approach the table from behind Twilight, without her noticing.
-
1105.
> You make a shush motion to Spike, who notices your approach but keeps his appearance neutral.
-
1106.
> And when in position, you swiftly scoop her up.
-
1107.
> Your arms under her forelegs to lift her.
-
1108.
> She squeals in surprise.
-
1109.
> And you whisper hotly in her ear.
-
1110.
"Surprise, Sparky."
-
1111.
> She lets out a long whine.
-
1112.
> "Anooooon, I told you not to do that!"
-
1113.
> You laugh lightly.
-
1114.
> You set her back down, and move to your seat.
-
1115.
> The atmosphere feels just perfect.
-
1116.
> Here, in this place...
-
1117.
> In the sight of the public and high society,
-
1118.
> In the company of your friends...
-
1119.
> It seems like everything is real, there is no illusion.
-
1120.
> It seems like you can pretend forever, and never worry again.
-
1121.
> It seems like it doesn't hurt.
-
1122.
> Like it won't hurt when it ends.
-
1123.
> And that's what's important.
-
1124.
> Appearances.
-
1125.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
1126.
> You take your seat opposite Twilight.
-
1127.
> It looks ridiculous, if one's honest.
-
1128.
> Twilight looks positively tiny being surrounded by you and Spike.
-
1129.
> But at least your smile is genuine this time.
-
1130.
"Hope I didn't keep you waiting to long."
-
1131.
> She chuckles behind her hoof.
-
1132.
> "Oh, not terribly."
-
1133.
> She gets a sly look on her face.
-
1134.
> As reaches over for her wine, she fires a quip.
-
1135.
> "As if you didn't measure the time it would take you to get here to the second."
-
1136.
> She knew you too well.
-
1137.
> Fortunately, you knew her just as well.
-
1138.
> You raise an eyebrow.
-
1139.
"And you didn't? I'd bet my life savings you have the calculations filed away somewhere at home."
-
1140.
> A grin shows on her face.
-
1141.
> It feels heavenly to see.
-
1142.
> "In triplicate! Anything less would be gambling with the evening!"
-
1143.
> That earns a light chuckle from you as you remove your jacket.
-
1144.
"I dearly hope you got that signed off on by a guarantor, or we're flying blind here."
-
1145.
> A loud 'blech' emerges from the side.
-
1146.
> Looking over, you see Spike with his finger in his mouth.
-
1147.
> His lips curled into a smile.
-
1148.
> "You guys seriously need a room for all those nerd pheromones."
-
1149.
> You can tell his smile is forced, however.
-
1150.
> His eyes are darting around.
-
1151.
> His fangs are embedded in his bottom lip.
-
1152.
> He was always bad at hiding his emotions.
-
1153.
> He's worried Rarity won't show.
-
1154.
"Did you manage to convince the missus?"
-
1155.
> He twidles his claws together.
-
1156.
> You can practically smell the insecurity.
-
1157.
> Perhaps what he needed was a wingman.
-
1158.
> While it had been years since you had put these skills to work for another...
-
1159.
> Perhaps you could aid him tonight.
-
1160.
> "She said she would, but I'm a little worried."
-
1161.
> You look back at Twi with an expression of barely controlled excitement.
-
1162.
> You see she's looking at you with the identical look on her face.
-
1163.
"She'll be here Spike. But if you want to win her heart..."
-
1164.
> "Then there's a few steps we'll need to take. We'll walk you through it!"
-
1165.
> It felt good.
-
1166.
> To be so in sync with her again.
-
1167.
> To pretend for just a little while longer.
-
1168.
> Together you could conquer any challenge.
-
1169.
> The dragon groaned loudly.
-
1170.
> "I'm not so sure that you guys know the first thing about wooing a lady."
-
1171.
> At that, Twilight adopts a faux-outraged pose.
-
1172.
> "Hey, lady right here! I know what it takes to woo."
-
1173.
> And you take your jab.
-
1174.
"While I concede Twilight has no idea what a lady might want, I've never steered you wrong Spike."
-
1175.
> Yet another outraged gasp.
-
1176.
> But this one is accompanied by a zap to your exposed forearm.
-
1177.
> You flinch briefly, but give no other indication you noticed it, keeping your look facing Spike.
-
1178.
> This was normal.
-
1179.
> The dragon sighs loudly.
-
1180.
> "I suppose my way hasn't been working. I'm open to suggestions."
-
1181.
> You both pull your chairs over to his table.
-
1182.
> Twilight conjures up a piece of paper.
-
1183.
> While Spike didn't think in terms of the stages of a plan...
-
1184.
> He could still follow a written one.
-
1185.
> "Alright, so Spike, we're going to need to start with your introductions..."
-
1186.
"Needlessly romantic. Hoof-kiss, pull out her chair, the whole nine. You know Rarity."
-
1187.
> Twilight has a quill in her magic and is eagerly drawing out a battle-plan.
-
1188.
> He sighs and covers his eyes with his talons.
-
1189.
> "What did I get myself into..."
-
1190.
> A grin forms on your face.
-
1191.
> Your hand snakes behind Twi's head to scratch her ear.
-
1192.
> It twitches in your grasp.
-
1193.
> Your heart melts at the feeling.
-
1194.
"The best decision you ever made."
-
1195.
> "Why hello darlings! I'm terribly sorry I'm late, but one of my dresses ripped on the way here..."
-
1196.
> The plan is in motion.
-
1197.
> Spike sweeps out from his table, and takes her hoof in his claw.
-
1198.
> And he lays a chaste kiss on it.
-
1199.
> "Why Rarity, it's delightful to see you tonight."
-
1200.
> Oh God.
-
1201.
> The way he said that was cringeworthy.
-
1202.
> Why in the nine hells did Twilight put that in the plan.
-
1203.
> Though, you suppose she knew Rarity better than you did.
-
1204.
> Perhaps the mare liked a little cheese with her wine.
-
1205.
> He then swooped around to pull out her chair.
-
1206.
> "Oh my, Spike. Such the gentledrake!"
-
1207.
> She was being dramatic.
-
1208.
> But you supposed so were you, thus far.
-
1209.
> Using emotions you knew you should feel.
-
1210.
> Rather than the ones you felt.
-
1211.
> But in using them they began to feel genuine on their own.
-
1212.
> Rarity speaks up again.
-
1213.
> "My, you're all looking dapper this evening. I feel positively under-dressed!"
-
1214.
> She's being silly, of course.
-
1215.
> She's looking stunning, as always.
-
1216.
> Perfectly matched accessories and dress.
-
1217.
> Perfectly styled mane.
-
1218.
> The pinnacle of fashion and beauty that she always aspired to be.
-
1219.
> Yet, in your view, she seemed positively dull compared to the radiance sitting across from you.
-
1220.
"But of course, Rarity. My tux was made by one of the best seamstresses in Equestria!"
-
1221.
> A smile covers her features.
-
1222.
> The time to strike was now.
-
1223.
"Now... If only I could remember her name."
-
1224.
> And now you had been zapped by two mares in one night.
-
1225.
> Hopefully the papers didn't take that the wrong way.
-
1226.
> As your meals all arrive, Spike and Rarity are engaged in an intense discussion.
-
1227.
> About what, you might ask?
-
1228.
> The political tensions in the latest Daring Do book.
-
1229.
> Spike had gone off the script.
-
1230.
> And despite the best efforts of you and Twi to nudge him back on topic...
-
1231.
> The drake was just too excited to stop.
-
1232.
> But, Rarity still seemed engaged.
-
1233.
> Giving up, for now, you turned back to Twi and spoke quietly enough that the others couldn't hear.
-
1234.
"Seems like Spike had enough of our shenanigans."
-
1235.
> Her face near the plate, she chuckles lightly.
-
1236.
> The way the light strikes her hair is enough to stop your thoughts.
-
1237.
> After swallowing, she speaks up.
-
1238.
> "Maybe we should've cut down on the steps a little bit."
-
1239.
> Maybe.
-
1240.
> At this distance you can somewhat see through all the work she had put into her appearance.
-
1241.
> There were the vestiges of bags under her eyes.
-
1242.
> But you wondered how far he was going to go off script.
-
1243.
"Still think he's going to ask her to dance?"
-
1244.
> She gets a frown on her face.
-
1245.
> "He better, or I'm going to give him such a talking to."
-
1246.
> She looks over in his direction.
-
1247.
> But the two of them are so involved in their own world they don't notice you.
-
1248.
> You were hoping he made sure to as well.
-
1249.
> You and Twilight had some of the best moves around.
-
1250.
> And it would mess up his play if you and Twi left to dance and he felt too awkward to ask.
-
1251.
> The sacrifices you had to make.
-
1252.
"Even if he doesn't, we could still go dance after dinner."
-
1253.
> Her gaze turns back to you.
-
1254.
> The way her eyes sparkled.
-
1255.
> "I'd like that."
-
1256.
> So would you.
-
1257.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
1258.
> "So... Want to dance?"
-
1259.
> Finally.
-
1260.
> Spike had been tittering with Rarity over wine for about eight minutes now.
-
1261.
> The food long done.
-
1262.
> You can see Twilight release a breath she had been holding as well.
-
1263.
> "Why, Spikey! I thought you'd never ask!"
-
1264.
> While Spike's face continued looking at Rarity, his eyes darted over to you.
-
1265.
> He said earlier he had no idea how to dance.
-
1266.
> And your and Twilight's attempts to explain failed utterly.
-
1267.
> Both of you had essentially said to let the music control you.
-
1268.
> To shut down your plans and let it flow.
-
1269.
> It was an interesting point of agreement the two of you shared.
-
1270.
> One of the few places you were comfortable giving up structure.
-
1271.
> Wiping your mouth with a napkin, you scoot your chair back.
-
1272.
> And Twilight does the same.
-
1273.
"Hope you two don't mind if we join you."
-
1274.
> Rarity chuckles behind her hoof.
-
1275.
> "Oh, by all means dears. I do ever-so love watching Twilight dance."
-
1276.
> Oh?
-
1277.
> Twilight's face flusters at that.
-
1278.
> "You know I've gotten a lot better, Rarity!"
-
1279.
> Hmm? Did she used to be terrible at dancing?
-
1280.
> How odd. From the first night you went here on, you and her always stole the show.
-
1281.
> "Oh, I'm sure dear."
-
1282.
> A predatory smile is on Rarity's face.
-
1283.
> A thought occurs to you.
-
1284.
"I don't believe you've ever seen the two of us dance together, Rarity."
-
1285.
> She redirects her grin at you.
-
1286.
> "Why, no, I don't believe I have."
-
1287.
> Hm.
-
1288.
> Sorry Spike, but you had romance of your own to execute.
-
1289.
"Then how about a little wager?"
-
1290.
> "You should know a lady never bets, Anonymous."
-
1291.
> You do.
-
1292.
> But you also know that Rarity is a sucker for competition.
-
1293.
> You gesture dismissively.
-
1294.
"A friendly competition, then. To see who can steal the show, us or you two."
-
1295.
> You can see the intrigue on her face.
-
1296.
> And the panic on Spike's.
-
1297.
> They would do fine, you were sure.
-
1298.
> Familiarity bred a fantastic dancing partner, not strategy.
-
1299.
> The ability to know how your partner would move.
-
1300.
> Rarity makes an affirmative noise, before tossing back the rest of her wine.
-
1301.
> "It might be a little unfair, our side's short a princess to draw attention... But it is on!"
-
1302.
> She also took the rest of Spike's wine.
-
1303.
> The poor dragon made a whimpering sound.
-
1304.
> She rose up out of her chair and her magic tugged on Spike's collar.
-
1305.
> As he looked at you, getting pulled to the floor, he shot you a look of betrayal.
-
1306.
> You smiled deeply.
-
1307.
> That's what he got for dropping script.
-
1308.
> You feel a soft presence by your leg, and looking down you see Twilight rubbing against you.
-
1309.
> Incandescent as Celestia's sun.
-
1310.
"So you used to be a terrible dancer?"
-
1311.
> She giggles lightly, hoofing at the ground.
-
1312.
> "I still am. Just not when I'm dancing with you."
-
1313.
> You were horrid at it without her, as well.
-
1314.
> There was something about being together, though, that usually made it acceptable to lack structure.
-
1315.
> Something that made you comfortable at all times.
-
1316.
> A shame that that comfort was gone.
-
1317.
> You hoped it wouldn't impede your ability to beat Rarity and Spike.
-
1318.
> You finished off your wine.
-
1319.
> It was time to win.
-
1320.
> As always.
-
1321.
> Reaching the floor, you noticed how immensely crowded it was.
-
1322.
> No doubt you'd have that solved rather quickly.
-
1323.
> Intimidation was a powerful force on the dance floor.
-
1324.
> You quickly surveyed the battlefield for Spike and Rarity.
-
1325.
> They were on the far side of the floor, just getting started.
-
1326.
> It was clumsy, but you knew they'd find their stride.
-
1327.
> You feel Twi's wing brush up against your hand.
-
1328.
> The soft texture sends shocks up your arm.
-
1329.
> "Ready, my dashing knight?"
-
1330.
> It was the same set of words from the first night.
-
1331.
> She said it every time you danced here.
-
1332.
> And you always had the same response.
-
1333.
"As ever, my shining star."
-
1334.
> The first time, you had both burst out laughing at that.
-
1335.
> Yet now, the words held a special power.
-
1336.
> With that, she jumped up on her hind hooves.
-
1337.
> Her wings resting over on your shoulders.
-
1338.
> Her head laid against your chest.
-
1339.
> And you slowly began to sway.
-
1340.
> It was the beginning, you always had to start off slow.
-
1341.
> You were already attracting attention by virtue of your very presence.
-
1342.
> If you got right into it, then it would be over too soon.
-
1343.
> But these thoughts are barely whispers in your mind.
-
1344.
> Because while your mind wants to think about the performance...
-
1345.
> All it can focus on is Twilight.
-
1346.
> Her gentle eyes staring up at you.
-
1347.
> As you slowly swayed back and forth on the dance floor.
-
1348.
> You didn't need to concern yourself with anyone else.
-
1349.
> They would move out of your way.
-
1350.
> Nothing else mattered at the moment.
-
1351.
> Not history, not heroes, not villains.
-
1352.
> Just the dance.
-
1353.
> But, of course, the pace couldn't stay slow forever.
-
1354.
> Your once short steps began to develop into strides across the floor.
-
1355.
> Perfectly in tune with the music.
-
1356.
> Perfectly in tune with Twilight.
-
1357.
> You maintained the simplicity of the dance for now, just expanding the range of movement.
-
1358.
> And every time you went for a longer leap...
-
1359.
> Twilight's was just as long.
-
1360.
> It never ceased to amaze you how she could move like that on hooves.
-
1361.
> Yet, by shifting the weight into your chest with her hold, she could stay stable.
-
1362.
> You each kept the other in motion, and kept them from falling.
-
1363.
> But it couldn't remain so simple for so long.
-
1364.
> A smirk crosses your features as you look down at her.
-
1365.
> The music was building.
-
1366.
> It was time.
-
1367.
> Your leg kicked forward, almost as though to trip her.
-
1368.
> And her hoof slid forward, falling back into your arms.
-
1369.
> A perfect dip.
-
1370.
> Flaring her wings, she pushed back against you.
-
1371.
> And you used that force to spin around, twirling her with your arm before pulling her tight up against you.
-
1372.
> Linking up once again, you briefly sway before another pulse in the music has you push her away.
-
1373.
> Holding her by her hooves.
-
1374.
> The risky play, for most ponies such a move would mean falling.
-
1375.
> Too early, to the floor.
-
1376.
> Too late, into your partner's crotch.
-
1377.
> But you and her knew the exact moment to pull back.
-
1378.
> And as you collided once more, you were once again sashaying across the dance floor.
-
1379.
> The flash of a camera briefly blinds you.
-
1380.
> In that moment, you briefly became aware of your surroundings, and noticed that it had become mostly barren.
-
1381.
> But the touch of a wingtip against your face brought you back to what was important.
-
1382.
> Twilight.
-
1383.
> You needed only to look into her eyes.
-
1384.
> Everything was going to be fine.
-
1385.
> At the last peak of the song, you once again performed the dip.
-
1386.
> But this time, rather than a spin at the end of the move,
-
1387.
> When she pushed you up high you used the momentum to pick her up.
-
1388.
> She slid around to your back, on your shoulders, her forehooves cascading down over your arms.
-
1389.
> And she struck a pose above you, as you fell to a knee.
-
1390.
> And gestured grandly with your hands.
-
1391.
> The dance floor was entirely empty, save one other couple.
-
1392.
> A drake and a unicorn, posing in a very different but still excellently executed fashion.
-
1393.
> Seems that it was a draw.
-
1394.
> A terrible shame, that.
-
1395.
> Your face looks up to Twilight above you as cheers erupt through the restaurant.
-
1396.
> Her beautiful eyes staring back.
-
1397.
"Looks like a tie."
-
1398.
> She smiles broadly.
-
1399.
> "Looks that way."
-
1400.
> And in that moment, when you didn't need to think.
-
1401.
> When the world didn't matter.
-
1402.
> Your lips met.
-
1403.
> It felt like pure bliss.
-
1404.
> And in that moment you knew that you didn't need to pretend.
-
1405.
> You could fix this all.
-
1406.
> It was only a matter of work.
-
1407.
> Vaguely, you were aware of an incredible number of camera flashes.
-
1408.
> No doubt this picture would be riddling the newspapers tomorrow.
-
1409.
> But, that's not what really gets your attention.
-
1410.
> You heard a gasp from Rarity silenced quickly as well.
-
1411.
> Good to see the dragon still had a talent for mimicry.
-
1412.
> Hopefully his night was as good as yours.
-
1413.
> Your kiss ends all too soon.
-
1414.
> And you know precisely what to say.
-
1415.
"I love you."
-
1416.
> "I love you too."
-
1417.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
1418.
> Returning to your tables, you found that you were incredibly sweaty.
-
1419.
> An unfortunate consequence of not paying attention to your appearance for a period.
-
1420.
> The skies had darkened considerably outside, and Luna's night had started.
-
1421.
> But you couldn't tell that well, because it had evidently started to rain.
-
1422.
> Thick, dark clouds obscured the stars.
-
1423.
> "But really, Spikey, I had no idea you could dance like that!"
-
1424.
> The drake has been a bubbling mess before Rarity's compliments.
-
1425.
> "T-thanks Rares, I just sort of followed your lead though."
-
1426.
> She pokes his chest with her hoof.
-
1427.
> An indignant look on her face.
-
1428.
> "Now Spikey-wikey, don't you lie to me. I suspect someone took some lessons!"
-
1429.
> Hm.
-
1430.
> You hadn't paid them terribly much attention, so you had no idea how good they had been.
-
1431.
> The drake was blushing, but merely gestured with a claw instead of responding.
-
1432.
> "I thought so. Now, to pay the bill..."
-
1433.
> For a second, you thought Spike was going to be foolish enough to not pick it up.
-
1434.
> He just stood there smiling like a dolt.
-
1435.
> Until you nudged him with an elbow.
-
1436.
> "I'll cover it Rarity!"
-
1437.
> A smile covered her face.
-
1438.
> But not a friendly smile.
-
1439.
> A competitive smile.
-
1440.
> "Oh, but Spike, I couldn't possibly..."
-
1441.
> Oh, to be young and in love.
-
1442.
> You tune them out at that point.
-
1443.
> You had already set bits on the table for yourself and Twilight.
-
1444.
> Looking back to her, you feel a sense of comfort.
-
1445.
> She's looking worse for wear than you are from that dance.
-
1446.
> Her perfectly styled mane fraying in a couple of spots.
-
1447.
> Her fur lightly damp from working up such excitement.
-
1448.
> But a genuine look of happiness on her face.
-
1449.
> At least, you think it looked genuine.
-
1450.
> Yours certainly was.
-
1451.
> Departing the restaurant, you move to open the door to your carriage.
-
1452.
> It was pouring rain.
-
1453.
> You and Twilight clamber in quickly, but Spike stops outside with Rarity.
-
1454.
> "Hey Spike, I had a great night tonight..."
-
1455.
> You can see her eyes dart to Twilight.
-
1456.
> And Twilight gives a nod.
-
1457.
> They had something going on, you're sure of it.
-
1458.
> But Spike doesn't notice.
-
1459.
> He's probably too concerned with how soaking wet he's getting.
-
1460.
> "Yeah, it was great Rarity. Thank you so much for coming."
-
1461.
> But as his claw reaches for the carriage door, a blue aura holds it back.
-
1462.
> "Well, Spike... You know, it doesn't have to end here. The Boutique's just around the corner if you wanted to join me."
-
1463.
> The look on Spike's face was priceless.
-
1464.
> You dearly hoped one of the cameras caught it from a good angle.
-
1465.
> He was awestruck.
-
1466.
> He briefly looked in at you.
-
1467.
> And you gave him a nod.
-
1468.
> "I'd love to, Rarity! See you guys!"
-
1469.
> At that, he slammed your carriage door shut.
-
1470.
> You and Twilight held your expressions still for a moment.
-
1471.
> And as soon as you were out of earshot from Spike and Rarity, erupted into giggles.
-
1472.
> You were the first to get control of yourself.
-
1473.
"By Celestia, that was so adorable!"
-
1474.
> You reach to a bottle of wine in the side of the carriage, and take a sip.
-
1475.
> You were parched from that dancing.
-
1476.
> Twilight takes a little longer to calm down.
-
1477.
> "Did you see his look? Like a deer in front of an Ursa Major!"
-
1478.
> The imagery makes you choke on the wine.
-
1479.
> You had missed this.
-
1480.
> This not having to think about things business.
-
1481.
> You were always so analytical, it felt nice to be able to cast that aside briefly.
-
1482.
> But the thought brings you back to the harsh reality.
-
1483.
> You would have to deal with what she did tonight.
-
1484.
> When you got back to the castle, probably.
-
1485.
> You still weren't quite ready to forgive and forget.
-
1486.
> While every part of you screamed out to do it, you knew you couldn't.
-
1487.
> It would eat at your very soul to ignore.
-
1488.
> And doubtless, at Twilight's as well.
-
1489.
> If her recent behaviour according to Spike was to be believed.
-
1490.
> You wouldn't be surprised if she was the one to bring it up when you arrived.
-
1491.
> But you knew now that you could fix this.
-
1492.
> With time and effort, you could both fix this.
-
1493.
> "Hey, Anon?"
-
1494.
> You look over to her.
-
1495.
> She's gazing listlessly out the window.
-
1496.
> Watching the raindrops collect upon it.
-
1497.
"Yeah, Sparky?"
-
1498.
> Her gaze remains fixed outside.
-
1499.
> She can't look at you.
-
1500.
> Reality is closing in on her as well.
-
1501.
> She's nibbling one of the flowers on her neckpiece.
-
1502.
> When she was nervous she nibbled.
-
1503.
> "Thanks for tonight."
-
1504.
> You lifted up the bottle.
-
1505.
> No sense letting the alcohol go to waste.
-
1506.
"It was my pleasure, and here's to many more!"
-
1507.
> But as you take a drink, you watch a deep cringe flow across her features.
-
1508.
> It's only there for the briefest of seconds.
-
1509.
> Is she worried you're going to divorce her when she tells you?
-
1510.
> That this evening was potentially the last you would have?
-
1511.
> Perhaps she didn't know you as well as you thought she did.
-
1512.
> She had to know you'd place your marriage above such mistakes.
-
1513.
> That you'd place her and Equestria above yourself.
-
1514.
> You had always sacrificed everything for them.
-
1515.
> But she remains silent for the remainder of the carriage ride.
-
1516.
> Which leaves you to stew in your thoughts.
-
1517.
> Sadly, you couldn't use the time to plan.
-
1518.
> Because you knew you would be alone with her, and you could never plan for that.
-
1519.
> It concerns you immensely.
-
1520.
> Stepping out of the carriage, you help Twilight down as well.
-
1521.
> Her mask has shattered completely, in the privacy of the Castle courtyard.
-
1522.
> A look of pure sadness highlights her features.
-
1523.
> You poke her nose, breaking her out of her reverie.
-
1524.
> She looks up to you.
-
1525.
"Bit for your thoughts?"
-
1526.
> A sad smile crosses her features.
-
1527.
> "I'll tell you when we're inside."
-
1528.
> You knew it was going to hurt to discuss.
-
1529.
> But seeing her this sad almost tore you apart.
-
1530.
> Entering through the grand front gates, you dismiss Talon to your office.
-
1531.
> You would meet him there later.
-
1532.
> Looking back at your wife, her frown has returned.
-
1533.
> She was normally so optimistic.
-
1534.
> It almost made you feel bad for being the cause of her sadness.
-
1535.
> Even if it was her fault.
-
1536.
> But as the old saying goes.
-
1537.
> 'T'is better to purge a wound with salt and fire then let it fester 'neath a bandage."
-
1538.
> It wasn't a pony expression, but a Gryphon one.
-
1539.
> You rather preferred their way of thinking.
-
1540.
> As you both neared your room, the tension between you could be cut with a knife.
-
1541.
> She opened the door first, and entered.
-
1542.
> And as you entered, you saw her staring out the window at the rain.
-
1543.
> As you moved to take your jacket off, she spoke.
-
1544.
> "Leave it on."
-
1545.
> What?
-
1546.
"What? Why would I-"
-
1547.
> She looks back at you, her eyes red and teary.
-
1548.
> What in the nine hells...
-
1549.
> "Answer me honestly Anon..."
-
1550.
> "What did you do to Flash."
-
1551.
> Your blood froze cold in your veins.
-
1552.
> And your mask shattered.
-
1553.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
-
1554.
"So then you know that I know."
-
1555.
> The words escaped your lips before you could stop them.
-
1556.
> They had no emotional inflection.
-
1557.
> You needed facts.
-
1558.
> You needed to sort out what was happening.
-
1559.
> Her horn glows, and from the desk two white envelopes arise.
-
1560.
> And from one, you can see the orange feather float out.
-
1561.
> "I recognize your handwriting, Anon."
-
1562.
> Your missives to Gilded Light.
-
1563.
> He had turned them over to Twilight.
-
1564.
> "Did you think he wouldn't tell me? He knows I'll protect him."
-
1565.
> That son of a bitch.
-
1566.
> Nothing would protect him.
-
1567.
> You reach up and pull the feather out of her magic.
-
1568.
> As your fingers weave through the feather, you speak measuredly.
-
1569.
> This was not a direction you had been anticipating. You were blindsided.
-
1570.
> You couldn't rush into things.
-
1571.
"Does it matter?"
-
1572.
> She then turns around, looking back out the window.
-
1573.
> "I'll ask again. What did you do with him."
-
1574.
> A white-hot rage building in your chest.
-
1575.
> You feel control slipping away.
-
1576.
> You had done nothing wrong.
-
1577.
> It was her betrayal that had prompted all of this.
-
1578.
> You had simply endeavoured to solve the problem she created.
-
1579.
> You had given up everything since day one for her.
-
1580.
> And yet she dared take the high ground?
-
1581.
> Your grip tightens around the feather.
-
1582.
> Until it snaps in two in your grip.
-
1583.
"I did what was necessary. What you could not."
-
1584.
> You begin an advance, but her magic envelops you.
-
1585.
> It holds you in place.
-
1586.
> "Stop playing the fucking game! Tell me!"
-
1587.
"I killed him, and I'd gladly do it again!"
-
1588.
> You shouted it louder than you had intended.
-
1589.
> You hoped there were no guards around.
-
1590.
> But your control was fully slipping away now.
-
1591.
> Rage was beginning to consume your words.
-
1592.
> By what right did this harlot judge you?
-
1593.
> She has not responded to your outburst, so you continued.
-
1594.
"He was a risk to everything we have worked to create, Twilight."
-
1595.
> You continue to struggle against her magic in futility.
-
1596.
> Your words come out like venom.
-
1597.
> You were in privacy.
-
1598.
> The game wasn't needed.
-
1599.
"And had I left him alive he would've undone both of us. With him gone, we can fix this."
-
1600.
> But she could not be left off the hook.
-
1601.
> Your strength is beginning to overwhelm her magical bonds.
-
1602.
"I just don't understand, what the hell were you thinking?"
-
1603.
> She had to account for what she had done.
-
1604.
> The white-hot furnace in your chest felt unbearable.
-
1605.
> You needed to get this out.
-
1606.
"Don't you care about me? Didn't you give a damn about what that would mean for us?"
-
1607.
> But you weren't the only one.
-
1608.
"For Equestria? Are you so selfish?"
-
1609.
> The words come easily to you.
-
1610.
> You had felt them all day, every time you looked upon her.
-
1611.
> But had suppressed them.
-
1612.
> Now, you felt righteous rage.
-
1613.
> Had she apologized, you would've moved on.
-
1614.
> But to judge you...
-
1615.
> As if she had any right.
-
1616.
> As if she wasn't the one who had caused all this.
-
1617.
> At that, she turns around to face you.
-
1618.
> Her face conveys nothing but pure hatred.
-
1619.
> As you go to speak again, her magic seals around your jaw.
-
1620.
> Preventing you from speaking.
-
1621.
> "Now you're going to listen to me. This has been tearing me apart inside."
-
1622.
> You continue to struggle against your restraints.
-
1623.
> Fuck magic.
-
1624.
> And fuck Twilight too.
-
1625.
> "And I can't fucking deal with this. You don't think I haven't thought constantly about what I did?"
-
1626.
> Tears are falling freely now.
-
1627.
> Not only from her eyes.
-
1628.
> "That every time I saw you I felt a lance of guilt through my heart?"
-
1629.
> The fire in her expression is dying out.
-
1630.
> Replaced with a solemn sadness.
-
1631.
> It was deserved!
-
1632.
> It was your betrayal!
-
1633.
> "And now, every time I see you, I'll be reminded that I'm not only responsible for betraying you, but a pony's death."
-
1634.
> "And I can't handle that."
-
1635.
> Well she'll have to.
-
1636.
> You didn't have any other option.
-
1637.
> And she didn't deserve another one.
-
1638.
> "And so I won't. I can't play these games, and I can't play pretend any longer."
-
1639.
> ...
-
1640.
> What?
-
1641.
> "I'm filing for divorce."
-
1642.
> She...
-
1643.
> She couldn't.
-
1644.
> Those words are like a douse of water on the fiery rage in your heart.
-
1645.
> The rage drains from your face immediately.
-
1646.
> But not only does the rage flee you...
-
1647.
> So too do all other feelings.
-
1648.
> Her magic fades from covering your mouth.
-
1649.
> But the restraints on the rest of your body remain in place.
-
1650.
> She turns back to the window.
-
1651.
"Twilight... But what about Equestria?"
-
1652.
> Her words are cold and resigned, but she does not turn to address you.
-
1653.
> "Equestria will heal with time. But I can't heal so long as I'm with you, and you can't heal either."
-
1654.
> A stack of papers on her desk levitates into the air.
-
1655.
> Divorce papers.
-
1656.
> She had planned this all day.
-
1657.
> "All we can do is pretend. I know you like to do that, but I can't handle it."
-
1658.
> Your body went limp against her restraints.
-
1659.
> Your head hung, staring at the floor.
-
1660.
> Your voice was resigned, but your words harsh.
-
1661.
"You selfish whore. I won't sign those. It's a betrayal of our ponies to give up."
-
1662.
> That brings back her anger at once.
-
1663.
> She walks up to you with a glare in her eyes.
-
1664.
> "They're not your ponies, Anonymous. They're mine. Get out."
-
1665.
> Your eyes raise to meet hers.
-
1666.
> Gods, she was beautiful.
-
1667.
> But so terrible.
-
1668.
"No. We're going to fix this, here and now."
-
1669.
> At that, her face contorts.
-
1670.
> "I'll send the paperwork to you."
-
1671.
> And suddenly, your world is thrown backward.
-
1672.
> Her magic forcibly throws you out of the room, against the wall on the opposite side of the hall.
-
1673.
> A loud, sickening crack rings out from your left leg.
-
1674.
> Your body slides down the wall to the floor.
-
1675.
> Your leg bending in an unnatural direction.
-
1676.
> And the door to your room slams shut.
-
1677.
> There are no guards in the hallway.
-
1678.
> She had anticipated this.
-
1679.
> Planned it.
-
1680.
> Looking at your leg, you knew you should be in incredible pain.
-
1681.
> But you felt nothing.
-
1682.
> For what felt like hours, you simply sat there, making no movement.
-
1683.
> No sound.
-
1684.
> Until eventually, you pull out your ceremonial sword.
-
1685.
> Using it as a cane, you rise up.
-
1686.
> And begin limping to your office.
-
1687.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
1688.
> Your office was in shambles.
-
1689.
> Bookcases fallen to the floor.
-
1690.
> Your desk upside down.
-
1691.
> Glass covered the floor, shattered relics from bygone eras.
-
1692.
> Your knuckles were bloody from the effort.
-
1693.
> You were rather impressed with yourself.
-
1694.
> To create such damage with a fractured leg.
-
1695.
> And you had indeed determined that it was fractured.
-
1696.
> Right below your left knee, the bone had simply been snapped.
-
1697.
> You were vaguely aware that you should get it checked out.
-
1698.
> That every second potentially put you closer to death.
-
1699.
> Yet you had spent all your energy on this pointless destruction.
-
1700.
> Now, you sat in a chair on the balcony.
-
1701.
> Before you, on a table, is a picture of your wedding day.
-
1702.
> And your box of cigars.
-
1703.
> They were the two things in your office you couldn't bring yourself to destroy.
-
1704.
> They were your anchors to reality.
-
1705.
> It occurred to you that there was a real chance you die here.
-
1706.
> If that bone had punctured a vein, you could be getting poisoned.
-
1707.
> Or maybe it didn't even need to do that.
-
1708.
> You weren't a doctor.
-
1709.
> At least it would punish Twilight more to know she took your life.
-
1710.
> What's this?
-
1711.
> A knock at your door.
-
1712.
> No one should even know you're here.
-
1713.
> And if they see your office, it will be clear to all of Equestria that something is up.
-
1714.
> You couldn't let that happen.
-
1715.
"Go away."
-
1716.
> But the voice on the other side is not what you expect.
-
1717.
> "Are you sure, my Prince? A maid saw you limping."
-
1718.
> Talon.
-
1719.
> You shift around in your seat to face that direction.
-
1720.
> You briefly consider dismissing him.
-
1721.
> But you knew that would be foolish.
-
1722.
> Talon could be discrete.
-
1723.
"I didn't realize who it was. You may enter, Talon."
-
1724.
> He opens the door.
-
1725.
> His eyes first survey the state of your office.
-
1726.
> His visage remains neutral in the face of such destruction.
-
1727.
> As he rounds your desk, his eyes looking at the destruction, he begins to comment.
-
1728.
> "Seems you've made a lot of work for me toni-"
-
1729.
> Yet when he looks upon you, your leg bent at an obscene angle...
-
1730.
> Pure shock runs across his face.
-
1731.
> And his feathers puff out.
-
1732.
> An interesting response, you hadn't seen it before.
-
1733.
> Talon was always a relaxed operator.
-
1734.
> You chuckle lightly.
-
1735.
"We'll need to come up with a story to tell that maid."
-
1736.
> His eyes cannot stop staring at your leg.
-
1737.
> The skin was black and purple now where the bone had broken.
-
1738.
> "My Prince, we need to-"
-
1739.
> You cut him off deftly.
-
1740.
"I fear that you may need to start calling me something else. She's filing for divorce."
-
1741.
> His eyes snap back up from your leg to your face.
-
1742.
> Disbelief now highlights his features.
-
1743.
> Yet as quick as you see it, he returns to a neutral stoicism.
-
1744.
> But his voice continues to bleed empathy.
-
1745.
> "Then you shall return to being my Fylkir first and foremost. And you need medicine."
-
1746.
> He begins to move toward you, seemingly intending to carry you to a doctor.
-
1747.
> But you hold out your hand to stop him.
-
1748.
> A loud bark of a laugh escaping your throat.
-
1749.
> It was time he knew.
-
1750.
"I don't deserve that title either. I built it on a lie."
-
1751.
> He freezes in place.
-
1752.
> His eyes once again meet yours, as he waits for you to continue.
-
1753.
> And so you do.
-
1754.
"I was responsible for positioning your clans against one another. Lord Tungsten and Lord Yarrak."
-
1755.
> You feel a weight lifting from your shoulders.
-
1756.
> Even if he turned on you for this, it would be worth it.
-
1757.
> You have deceived him for too long for this loyalty.
-
1758.
> No more masks.
-
1759.
"The Accipi Empire was poised for war with Equestria. So I manipulated them into fighting one another."
-
1760.
> At this point, he begins moving again.
-
1761.
> But only over to the railing of the balcony.
-
1762.
> His gaze shifts over Ponyville.
-
1763.
"It was a simple task. Tungsten had a great many indiscretions, torture and the like."
-
1764.
> The Gryphon continues to stare out at the town.
-
1765.
> But you knew you had his full attention.
-
1766.
"It was enough to get him removed from office. So he did as I said and picked a fight with Yarrak."
-
1767.
> But, there had been complications.
-
1768.
> Not every plan could be executed flawlessly.
-
1769.
> Especially before you had such valuable allies.
-
1770.
"But it all went further than I had expected when Yarrak killed him."
-
1771.
> You breathe deeply.
-
1772.
> The truth.
-
1773.
> It was such an unfamiliar feeling to you.
-
1774.
> You never shared the truth with anyone but Twilight.
-
1775.
> The more who knew it, the more compromised you were.
-
1776.
"I felt joy when that happened. Accipi had no more attention to spare for us. I had created an opportunity."
-
1777.
> You remember fondly how pleased you were with Yarrak's foolishness.
-
1778.
> How you had woven it into your narrative.
-
1779.
"And so I marched an army in between coalition forces and commanded Yarrak and Tungsten's son to treat."
-
1780.
> A wonderful day.
-
1781.
> The Gryphons had been eating out of your hands.
-
1782.
> They had never wanted to fight one another, it had been pure machination.
-
1783.
> It made them so pliable.
-
1784.
"And negotiated the peace deal that got me named Fylkir. It was a lie, the title is a lie. I thought you should know."
-
1785.
> He looks over in your direction.
-
1786.
> You half expect him to lash out.
-
1787.
> He could easily kill you right now, given your state.
-
1788.
> And yet, instead, he speaks.
-
1789.
> And they are not the words that you expect.
-
1790.
> "That is what makes you a great Fylkir."
-
1791.
> What?
-
1792.
> Your mind cannot process that sentence right now.
-
1793.
> But he continues.
-
1794.
> "Your pony ethics are soft. They do not take into account the harsh realities of life, and yet you judge yourselves by them."
-
1795.
> He moves into your office, and begins fixing the furniture.
-
1796.
> As he does, however, he continues to speak.
-
1797.
> "There's a reason the Accipi do not value honesty or kindness as ethical maxims."
-
1798.
> He shows immense strength pushing back up the bookcase.
-
1799.
> And diligence in returning the books to its shelves.
-
1800.
> "Honesty is an impediment to peace. An honest answer only ever causes suffering, where a simple lie could create joy."
-
1801.
> He then moves to your desk.
-
1802.
> First removing the shelves, and then flipping it back up.
-
1803.
> "Kindness is an impediment to justice. Perfect justice and any mercy are naturally incompatible."
-
1804.
> "You will let people get away with horrendous wrongs for your kindness, and they will commit them on others as a result."
-
1805.
> He begins to collect the fractured glass and porcelain into a bin.
-
1806.
> And attempting to straighten pictures.
-
1807.
> "It is why we boil our system down to three virtues. Loyalty, Respect, and Self-Sacrifice."
-
1808.
> "They ensure that what needs to be done, will be done. And it is understood that we act in accordance with what is best for all."
-
1809.
> "Results are what is important. You stopped two wars, if this is true.
-
1810.
> "You are my Fylkir."
-
1811.
> He briefly stops, and walks up to you.
-
1812.
> One of his wings extends, resting on your shoulder.
-
1813.
> "You are not a Gryphon. But you are not entirely a pony, I think you can understand."
-
1814.
> You did.
-
1815.
> At least, you thought you did.
-
1816.
> A grin falls across your face looking at Talon.
-
1817.
"I was unaware I had a philosopher in my employ."
-
1818.
> A smile forms on his face.
-
1819.
> "Basic tenets of our religion."
-
1820.
> "We are raised comparing ourselves to the ponies. We know why we prefer our way."
-
1821.
> You had always said that you preferred the Gryphon culture.
-
1822.
> But that left you with a difficult decision.
-
1823.
"Then I suppose we ought to plan how to fix this."
-
1824.
> His wing withdraws contact as he resumes his cleaning.
-
1825.
> You churn the ideas in your head for a moment.
-
1826.
> There was one concern which needed to be dealt with immediately.
-
1827.
> A loose end that needed to be tied.
-
1828.
"I want you to get me Gilded Light. Quietly, Twilight will have agents protecting him."
-
1829.
> The Gryphon is nearly done fixing your destruction.
-
1830.
> He would depart when it was suitable that no questions would be asked.
-
1831.
> "Of course, my Fylkir."
-
1832.
> The title gives you comfort.
-
1833.
> You were doing what was right.
-
1834.
> Even if your people could never understand it.
-
1835.
> There could be no loose ends.
-
1836.
> Turning around, you open the cigar box.
-
1837.
> Five left.
-
1838.
> You withdraw three cigars, and put them into the pocket of your blazer.
-
1839.
> There was no turning back at this point.
-
1840.
"His wife and daughter as well. I want them all in a room together."
-
1841.
> The floor was clean.
-
1842.
> Your office was in order.
-
1843.
> "As you wish, my Fylkir."
-
1844.
> Gilded Light clearly did not fear his secrets.
-
1845.
> He did not fear the impact of them on his family.
-
1846.
> But you would make him learn to fear you.
-
1847.
> He would learn the cost associated with betrayal.
-
1848.
> All of them would learn that cost.
-
1849.
> The time for kindness had passed.
-
1850.
> Justice was what was needed now.
-
1851.
"Oh, and Talon?"
-
1852.
> He paused at the door.
-
1853.
> He looked back, waiting on your every word.
-
1854.
> Loyalty.
-
1855.
> You knock over the picture of your wedding day.
-
1856.
> The glass frame shatters.
-
1857.
"Do send a doctor this way, would you? My leg is starting to hurt."
-
1858.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
1859.
> Dear Princess Celestia.
-
1860.
> This is Anon.
-
1861.
> I'm terribly sorry to be contacting you so early, but I know you're an early riser.
-
1862.
> First of all, I hope you're doing well. Things have been great here in Ponyville.
-
1863.
> I'm writing to inform you that myself and Twilight will be hosting a dinner this evening.
-
1864.
> At the castle in Ponyville, of course.
-
1865.
> I would be ever-so delighted if you could attend.
-
1866.
> I feel like it has been terribly long since we have had a real opportunity to talk.
-
1867.
> If you could pass along the invitation to Luna as well, it would be appreciated.
-
1868.
> The more the merrier, after all.
-
1869.
> I know you have a busy schedule, I'll understand if you can't make it.
-
1870.
> But your presence would brighten up what's sure to be a drab affair otherwise.
-
1871.
> And I can only imagine the joy on Twilight's face were you to show up.
-
1872.
> I appreciate your consideration.
-
1873.
> ...
-
1874.
> Prince Anonymous I, Peacekeeper
-
1875.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
1876.
"I'll require a cane."
-
1877.
> Talon nods, and heads out of the medical bay.
-
1878.
> But your doctor yells at him all the way out of the room.
-
1879.
> Your doctor had been droning on and on.
-
1880.
> But at your interruption, her commands grow in quantity.
-
1881.
> About you needing plenty of rest.
-
1882.
> And not moving.
-
1883.
> And generally being excessively overprotective.
-
1884.
> And putting the entire wing of the castle on high alert.
-
1885.
> You had refused to tell her the details of how you were injured.
-
1886.
> Simply telling her that it was not her concern, and that it would be dealt with.
-
1887.
> You knew there was no way of effectively preventing this scandal.
-
1888.
> But you could mitigate the damage by averting responsibility from Twilight.
-
1889.
> There was a plan in motion for what precisely the details would be.
-
1890.
> But you couldn't have her implicated.
-
1891.
> Or there would be questions raised.
-
1892.
> As your doctor finally seems to be at an end to her droning, you decide to silence her.
-
1893.
"I appreciate your recommendations, doctor. But I am terribly busy, and cannot stay here."
-
1894.
> The look on her face is heartbreaking.
-
1895.
> Like you told her you were about to go jump off a bridge.
-
1896.
> "But... My Prince, surely nothing can take a higher priority than your life and health?"
-
1897.
> How you wish that were true.
-
1898.
> But a great many things required your immediate attention now.
-
1899.
> And you couldn't be restricted to this bed while they unfolded.
-
1900.
"I have faith that your splint will hold. I will keep pressure off of it."
-
1901.
> She sighs deeply.
-
1902.
> The poor pony was driving herself insane trying to convince you to stay.
-
1903.
> You place your hand on her withers.
-
1904.
"Listen, my friend. I appreciate your advice, genuinely. But a Prince must be ready to sacrifice for others."
-
1905.
> She relaxes under your touch.
-
1906.
> "You know I can't stop you. But please, be careful."
-
1907.
"I will."
-
1908.
> Shortly thereafter, Talon returned with a cane.
-
1909.
> It was an immaculately well crafted piece.
-
1910.
> Silver pommel, in the shape of a Gryphon.
-
1911.
> Talon had a gift for art, it seemed.
-
1912.
> You had to wonder how it had been crafted so quickly for a being like you.
-
1913.
> Doubtless using magic, you supposed.
-
1914.
> Or perhaps, given the craft, the Gryphons had prepared for such an eventuality.
-
1915.
> You cared not to inquire.
-
1916.
> As you rose up, you carefully balanced your body using the cane.
-
1917.
> Your doctor had insisted on crutches, but that would create the appearance of a very bad wound.
-
1918.
> To be fair, it was a very bad wound.
-
1919.
> But you had hoped that a cane would suggest something lesser.
-
1920.
> Like a sprain.
-
1921.
> Something which might not cause quite the controversy.
-
1922.
> Your pants effectively covered all of the splint and cast.
-
1923.
> And your feet were able to remain covered by shoes.
-
1924.
> The damage was not down there, it was up below the knee, after all.
-
1925.
> To the average citizen, it would look simply like you were limping.
-
1926.
> Not that your leg had snapped.
-
1927.
> The unfortunate part was that it was unlikely to ever fully heal.
-
1928.
> Which meant you had to get familiar with this cane.
-
1929.
> Even in the best case scenario, according to the doctor, it would still hurt to put full weight on it.
-
1930.
> You would never run again.
-
1931.
> You would never dance again.
-
1932.
> But those were small sacrifices, looking back.
-
1933.
> Running had never been terribly important to affairs.
-
1934.
> If speed was an issue, you had individuals who could work far faster than you.
-
1935.
> But dancing...
-
1936.
> Well...
-
1937.
> You supposed you never were very good at dancing alone anyway.
-
1938.
> Hobbling back to your office, you find a number of documents on your desk.
-
1939.
> You had one of your Gryphon guards return to Canterlot and obtain them.
-
1940.
> Along with dropping off your message to Celestia.
-
1941.
> They would be critical to setting up your plans after tonight's dinner.
-
1942.
> However, as you walk past the slightly fractured mirror, you notice something.
-
1943.
> You had no idea where your crown was.
-
1944.
> Your clothes were a mess, still wearing the suit from last night.
-
1945.
> And your crown was missing.
-
1946.
> The doctor definitely didn't remove it.
-
1947.
> Which probably meant that it had fallen off your head at some point.
-
1948.
> The logical side of your mind told you it likely fell lose when you were thrown at the wall.
-
1949.
> But the emotional side told you that meant it was in front of your room.
-
1950.
> But the emotional side was an irrelevancy.
-
1951.
> Your clothes were in that room.
-
1952.
> You swiftly about-faced.
-
1953.
> Well, as swiftly as you could given your circumstances.
-
1954.
> And began the march to your bedroom.
-
1955.
> The halls remained mostly barren.
-
1956.
> An occasional maid or guard.
-
1957.
> But far fewer than there typically were in the castle.
-
1958.
> Were they still out looking for Flash?
-
1959.
> That suggested that Twilight had not told anyone.
-
1960.
> Which was good.
-
1961.
> As you neared your bedroom, you notice the door still closed.
-
1962.
> Your eye was caught by a shimmer.
-
1963.
> Right by the potted plant.
-
1964.
> Your crown.
-
1965.
> It was slightly dented along the back.
-
1966.
> One of the rubies knocked loose.
-
1967.
> But you still picked it up.
-
1968.
> But as you bent down to grab it, a voice catches your attention.
-
1969.
> "Hey Anon!"
-
1970.
> It was Spike.
-
1971.
> What the hell was he doing back here so early?
-
1972.
> You swore he was making a home run play last night.
-
1973.
> He should still be over at Rarity's.
-
1974.
> You look up at him.
-
1975.
"Spike? What the hell are you doing back?"
-
1976.
> He's got a huge grin on his face.
-
1977.
> So he had some degree of success, at least.
-
1978.
> "Oh, Twilight showed up at Rarity's about something urgent. Girltalk, apparently."
-
1979.
> That... was unfortunate.
-
1980.
> If Rarity knew, then there were more lose ends.
-
1981.
> Sorry, Spike.
-
1982.
> But you could not tolerate lose ends this time.
-
1983.
"Yeah, she ran out of here in a rush this morning. Celestia's coming for dinner tonight."
-
1984.
> He scratches his head at that.
-
1985.
> You bend back up, the golden crown in your hand.
-
1986.
> "Why couldn't I be there for them to talk about that?"
-
1987.
> But as you straighten back up and make a move for the door, he notices the cane.
-
1988.
> "Anon! What happened to your leg?"
-
1989.
> Hmph.
-
1990.
> You supposed it wouldn't hurt to start the plan a little early.
-
1991.
"A guardspony attacked me. Not sure which one, but Talon is investigating."
-
1992.
> He gasps in shock.
-
1993.
> He quickly leans down to get a closer look, but you shy the leg away from him.
-
1994.
"You don't need to worry, Spike. It's nothing too serious."
-
1995.
> He looks skeptical.
-
1996.
> "If you're hurt, Anon, you should be resting in bed. Not up and about!"
-
1997.
> His concern was adorable.
-
1998.
> You reach out with your right hand and pat his shoulder.
-
1999.
"I'm fine, Spike. Now, you go get out of that suit. You smell like Tartarus."
-
2000.
> He chuckles at that.
-
2001.
> But the concern still remains on his face.
-
2002.
> "Like you smell any better. But take it easy, for me, alright?"
-
2003.
> You nod.
-
2004.
"Of course."
-
2005.
> Upon entering your bedroom, a sense of dread overtakes you.
-
2006.
> The previous night flashes through your mind.
-
2007.
> Your rage.
-
2008.
> Her rage.
-
2009.
> This room was forever tainted by that memory.
-
2010.
> A flicker of a powerful fire still roared in the fireplace.
-
2011.
> Magically created to last a long period without risk.
-
2012.
> Moving over to the closet, you open it up.
-
2013.
> Your clothes remain in tact.
-
2014.
> That was a good sign.
-
2015.
> Pulling out a new suit, you lay it on the bed.
-
2016.
> Sitting down, you carefully remove your jacket.
-
2017.
> Then your shirt.
-
2018.
> But the hardest part came now.
-
2019.
> Removing your pants was an immense struggle.
-
2020.
> The Doctor had initially simply cut them off, then re-attached them via magic.
-
2021.
> But you didn't have that option.
-
2022.
> And shifting your leg through it sent immense pain shooting up your body.
-
2023.
> You dearly hoped that would get more manageable with time.
-
2024.
> If that pain had to be a constant feature of dressing yourself...
-
2025.
> You imagine your appearance might suffer.
-
2026.
> But perhaps appearance did not matter as much as you thought.
-
2027.
> Your philosophies had gotten you nowhere.
-
2028.
> They had cost you everything.
-
2029.
> You regarded the crown once again.
-
2030.
> The golden crown, giving the impression of warmth.
-
2031.
> When you finish getting on your new clothes, you move over to the couch in front of the fire.
-
2032.
> You hold the crown in your hands.
-
2033.
> It was damaged anyway.
-
2034.
> You cast the crown into the flames, and for a time watch it sit there.
-
2035.
> It's fascinating how the gold flakes off slowly, in pieces.
-
2036.
> How the gems begin to slide out as the tension weakens in the metal.
-
2037.
> But you of course didn't have time to watch the full event.
-
2038.
> You had documents to review for this evening.
-
2039.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
2040.
> There's a knock at your office door.
-
2041.
> Hmm. You hadn't been expecting anyone.
-
2042.
> There was no way Talon was done that quickly, was there?
-
2043.
"Talon, how the hell did you finish so quick?"
-
2044.
> There's a bit of a cough outside.
-
2045.
> Then, a clearly feminine voice attempting to sound masculine rings out.
-
2046.
> "Uh, you know me boss. Super fast."
-
2047.
> God damnit.
-
2048.
> This mare did not deserve to be a princess.
-
2049.
> But you'd play along.
-
2050.
"Oh, that's fantastic. Then you have the key, you can open the door yourself."
-
2051.
> It was a silly little game.
-
2052.
> But it meant the world to you right now.
-
2053.
> "But, uh, boss, I lost the key."
-
2054.
> As if Talon would ever do such a thing.
-
2055.
"Well, I'm sure you know about a million and one lockpick spells, Celestia."
-
2056.
> You put the documents on the table into your desk.
-
2057.
> You can practically feel the pout that accompanied the whine on the other side of the door.
-
2058.
> The knob is briefly illuminated with a golden glow.
-
2059.
> And the door swings open.
-
2060.
> And there's the pout.
-
2061.
> The pout that could render any sensible stallion subject to her every whim.
-
2062.
> "You're no fun, my faithful student-in-law."
-
2063.
> Her nickname for you.
-
2064.
> Yesterday, such a comment would have hurt to hear.
-
2065.
> A reminder of better times.
-
2066.
> But today those nerves were numb.
-
2067.
> They had to be, because that title could soon be lost.
-
2068.
"Gotta be careful who you tell about that spell, or the royal treasury will be empty in a week."
-
2069.
> She chuckles lightly, before moving into your office proper.
-
2070.
> "I've been very careful over the past millennia, don't you worry sweetie."
-
2071.
> She practically treated you like a son.
-
2072.
> Which made sense, given that Twilight was practically her daughter.
-
2073.
"So, didja manage to get Lulu to cave in?"
-
2074.
> Celestia sighs, rolling her eyes.
-
2075.
> "She's sleeping right now, but she said she'd be here for dinner."
-
2076.
> She pokes you in the side with a hoof.
-
2077.
> A brilliant smile illuminating her ever-beautiful face.
-
2078.
> "But who knows with her, that mare seems to have no concept of time."
-
2079.
> She walks past you, heading to the balcony.
-
2080.
> But stops suddenly.
-
2081.
> "What happened to your mirror?"
-
2082.
> Now, you could begin your plan.
-
2083.
"Unfortunately, a deranged Guardspony broke into my office last night."
-
2084.
> Her serene expression turns dark very quickly.
-
2085.
> "Who?"
-
2086.
> Always to the point when it was serious.
-
2087.
> She truly was an artful ruler.
-
2088.
"We don't know yet. He was in full armour and had white fur, but that describes a million guards."
-
2089.
> "You saw him?"
-
2090.
> Hook, line, and....
-
2091.
"Yeah, he came in to attack me, not the office."
-
2092.
> Her eyes go wide.
-
2093.
> She rushes over to you.
-
2094.
> "Did he hurt you?"
-
2095.
> Sinker.
-
2096.
> You instantly feel her magic floating over your body.
-
2097.
> Searching for damage.
-
2098.
> H-er eyes widen as the pulse centers around your leg.
-
2099.
> "Anon! You get back to that medical ward right this second!"
-
2100.
> It always warmed your heart how concerned she was about you.
-
2101.
> But it was getting rather tiring how everyone thought they knew better what you needed.
-
2102.
> How best for you to 'heal.'
-
2103.
> You knew what it would fucking take to heal.
-
2104.
> It would never heal.
-
2105.
"But Celery, I've got a dinner to plan!'
-
2106.
> She loved it when you played up the petulant child role.
-
2107.
> Made her feel like a mother, something she never had the opportunity to be.
-
2108.
> Terrible shame about the sterility associated with ascension.
-
2109.
> Twilight had a terrible time dealing with it.
-
2110.
> "I think I told you not to call me that mister. And that injury is serious!"
-
2111.
> You feel the chair softly, slowly pull back in her magic.
-
2112.
> And the leg of your pants simply phase out of existence.
-
2113.
> "Goodness, Anon... What could he have possibly wanted?"
-
2114.
> And now you plant the bait.
-
2115.
"I'm not sure, but he was blabbering a lot about Twilight. Not sure if it's just deranged obsession or what."
-
2116.
> A look of steely determination crossed her features.
-
2117.
> She backed up, and you saw the aura of her magic fall over the room.
-
2118.
> Feeling for all the inconsistencies and damage.
-
2119.
> "What the... Did you try and fight him? Everything's damaged, it's just cleverly hidden!"
-
2120.
> You let a grin fall onto your face.
-
2121.
"Yep, and I beat the fucker too. Had him running with his tail between his legs."
-
2122.
"Talon's been on his trail since last night, we're hoping to figure out who it was."
-
2123.
> Her eyes match yours again.
-
2124.
> It was time for a lecture.
-
2125.
> She never did approve of your choice of guards.
-
2126.
> "He should've been here to protect you, Anon."
-
2127.
> Sadly, had he protected you he'd be in a lot worse trouble.
-
2128.
> Assaulting a princess and all that.
-
2129.
"To be fair, Princess, given that it was an Equestrian who assaulted me..."
-
2130.
"And Talon at least helped clean up after."
-
2131.
> That causes her expression to change in an instant.
-
2132.
> The look on her face is sympathetic.
-
2133.
> Like she feels partially responsible.
-
2134.
> It broke your heart to lie to her like this.
-
2135.
> To make her feel like it was her ponies who had hurt you.
-
2136.
> But it had to be done.
-
2137.
> For the greater good.
-
2138.
> "Anon, I swear I'm going to find who did this. You have my word."
-
2139.
> You were counting on her finding him.
-
2140.
> Terrible shame the Captain of the Guard couldn't be trusted.
-
2141.
> That would make her feel even worse.
-
2142.
> She had personally appointed him, after all.
-
2143.
"You don't need to worry, Celes-"
-
2144.
> She cut you off.
-
2145.
> Now she looked angry, not sad.
-
2146.
> "I do need to worry. One of my guards hurt you. And I will deal with them."
-
2147.
> "You can tell Talon to relax his search. The criminal will be brought to justice."
-
2148.
> Celestia was incredibly protective of you.
-
2149.
> While you and her shared the same rank and state-sanctioned powers...
-
2150.
> Everyone knew who the big fish at the show was.
-
2151.
> You let a smile show.
-
2152.
"I understand. I'll back off the investigation."
-
2153.
> She lets out a sigh.
-
2154.
> "I know you probably want revenge, Anon. But... this is my responsibility."
-
2155.
> She turns around, looking in your cracked mirror.
-
2156.
> "I've taken great strides to keep the guard always in their best state. To avoid abuses."
-
2157.
> It was crushing your heart to hear this.
-
2158.
> To know that your lie made her feel like she'd failed.
-
2159.
> She didn't deserve this.
-
2160.
> But then, neither did you.
-
2161.
> "And it's my duty to bring them to justice. I will solve it personally."
-
2162.
> And it had become necessary.
-
2163.
"I trust I'll still see you for dinner?"
-
2164.
> She lets out a soft chuckle.
-
2165.
> "As if I'd miss it for the world. You know how much you and Twilight mean to me.."
-
2166.
> A terrible shame, that.
-
2167.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
2168.
> Loud whining.
-
2169.
> The crying of a young filly.
-
2170.
> "Please, Shimmer, just calm down. It's going to be fine."
-
2171.
> The voice of a stallion.
-
2172.
> The sound grates on your ears.
-
2173.
> It is a voice you were only somewhat familiar with.
-
2174.
> You didn't spend a terribly vast amount of time here in Ponyville.
-
2175.
> But his attempts to quell the filly's screaming fall on deaf ears.
-
2176.
> "B-but the rope hurts!"
-
2177.
> Thank the Gods this room is soundproofed.
-
2178.
> You enter the room with two Gryphon guards.
-
2179.
> Talon stands watch outside.
-
2180.
> You limp into the room slowly.
-
2181.
> Your cane making loud taps against the ground.
-
2182.
> At the sound of your movement, the filly silences herself.
-
2183.
> All of them remain silent.
-
2184.
> As you turn the corner into the main room, you remain out of view of your guests.
-
2185.
> They're all facing a wall.
-
2186.
> Bound to chairs.
-
2187.
> The lights are dim, but bright enough to cast shadows on the wall.
-
2188.
> But the shadows lack definition.
-
2189.
> You rather enjoyed the ambiance.
-
2190.
> You remain silent, to watch their behaviour.
-
2191.
> To see how they react when they don't know what's happening.
-
2192.
> When people are uncertain, they show their true character.
-
2193.
> They lash out in ways they wouldn't if they understood.
-
2194.
> It was a lesson you had learned well.
-
2195.
> You don't need to wait terribly long for the Stallion to speak up.
-
2196.
> "Who's there?"
-
2197.
> You remain silent to his question.
-
2198.
> Lash out.
-
2199.
> "Who the fuck are you? I'm the Captain of the Guard!"
-
2200.
> He's pulling rank.
-
2201.
> Adorable.
-
2202.
> But quickly, his ferocity vanishes.
-
2203.
> "If you're the one who sent me those letters, I had no choice! The princess knew something was up."
-
2204.
> You imagine she did.
-
2205.
> If only he knew the cost of obeying her.
-
2206.
> Surely, he must suspect that he's not leaving this room.
-
2207.
> You continue to stand in silence.
-
2208.
> Awaiting another response.
-
2209.
> Yet, he's not the one who speaks next.
-
2210.
> The mare beside him is.
-
2211.
> "Please, we just want to go home. We won't tell anyone about this."
-
2212.
> You tap your cane on the floor.
-
2213.
> The Gryphons head back into the small hallway leading to this room.
-
2214.
> Out of sight.
-
2215.
> "Please..."
-
2216.
> Out of mind.
-
2217.
"Enough."
-
2218.
> A gasp rattles out from the ponies.
-
2219.
> They must've recognized your voice.
-
2220.
> You suppose you had on occasion seen the stallion around.
-
2221.
> "My Prince? Oh by the sun and stars we're saved!"
-
2222.
> The mare is optimistic.
-
2223.
> A terrible character flaw.
-
2224.
> You would have to remedy that.
-
2225.
> "There are traitors in your ranks, my Prince. Gryphons abducted me and took me here."
-
2226.
> You withdraw a cigar from your blazer pocket.
-
2227.
> And light it.
-
2228.
> "They were working for Talon, I just know it! I knew they couldn't be trusted!"
-
2229.
> You take a deep inhale of the tobacco.
-
2230.
> And slowly exhale it.
-
2231.
> Pony guards always were suspicious of your entourage.
-
2232.
> Felt like they were an affront to their dignity.
-
2233.
> It was part of why Celestia had always disliked your guards.
-
2234.
> Her military advisers were against them.
-
2235.
> But unfortunately, you could not permit his delusions to carry on.
-
2236.
"They brought you here at my behest, Gilded Light."
-
2237.
> His back goes stiff at that revelation.
-
2238.
> "B-but I..."
-
2239.
> His jaw is slack.
-
2240.
> No doubt his precious little world is crumbling around him.
-
2241.
> With his idealized Prince and Princess, to whom he was eternally loyal.
-
2242.
> Whom would defend him no matter the situation. Give up everything for him.
-
2243.
> Unfortunate that the man he dreamed of was an illusion.
-
2244.
"You need not worry for your life or the lives of your family, Gilded. Provided you do as I ask."
-
2245.
> Visibly, you can see some degree of stress melt out of his withers.
-
2246.
> He's trying to look back in your direction.
-
2247.
> But his restraints prevent him from doing so.
-
2248.
> "What... Do you need me to do?"
-
2249.
> Wonderful.
-
2250.
> It was so much better when they cooperated.
-
2251.
"As I imagine you're aware by now, I was the one who sent you the letters. Betraying the order of a Prince is treason."
-
2252.
> He quickly begins stammering.
-
2253.
> "But, I had no idea it was you! Had you signed them, I would've destroyed them at once!"
-
2254.
> You shuffle slowly over to a table at the side of the room.
-
2255.
> And withdraw a knife from the table.
-
2256.
> At the sound of the slick metal being picked up, he freezes again.
-
2257.
> You move over behind the smallest chair., every step accompanied by a tap of your cane.
-
2258.
> They know precisely where you are at all times.
-
2259.
"You may claim that, Gilded. But your loyalties are in question. I need insurance."
-
2260.
> Your hand rests on the shoulder of the filly.
-
2261.
"I need you to stay still, alright sweetie?
-
2262.
> She nods, and otherwise remains still.
-
2263.
> "Ok, mister prince."
-
2264.
> Her fear-filled voice tears at your heart, but you ignore it.
-
2265.
> Gilded is struggling to look over at you.
-
2266.
> You push the blade into his field of view.
-
2267.
> Right at the neck of his filly.
-
2268.
> "Please! No! Anything but that! Anything!"
-
2269.
> The blade is close enough to split fur.
-
2270.
"I need you to be cognizant of the costs of disobedience. Remember this picture."
-
2271.
> You withdraw the knife.
-
2272.
> And move over to his chair.
-
2273.
> And slice the ropes.
-
2274.
> They fall around him with a loud thud.
-
2275.
> But he does not move.
-
2276.
> He remains frozen in place, staring over at his filly.
-
2277.
> Moonlight Shimmer.
-
2278.
> Such an adorable name.
-
2279.
> To his other side, his wife.
-
2280.
> You hadn't bothered with her name.
-
2281.
> She was more incidental to this situation.
-
2282.
> But she had the most lustrous orange fur you had seen.
-
2283.
> It reminded you of somepony you despised.
-
2284.
> Somepony responsible for all of this.
-
2285.
> You let the knife rest at her neck.
-
2286.
> But you do not look at her. Your gaze remains fixed on the wall.
-
2287.
"There is a table to your right, with a quill and parchment on it."
-
2288.
> At first, there is no response.
-
2289.
> He just continues staring forward.
-
2290.
> And after a minute passes, you feel rage beginning to build.
-
2291.
"I am not making a suggestion. Go to the table."
-
2292.
> He continues to stare bleakly forward.
-
2293.
> But, in time, his body begins to move.
-
2294.
> He robotically rises, and trots over to the table.
-
2295.
> "What do you want me to write?"
-
2296.
> A defeated soul.
-
2297.
> Perfect.
-
2298.
> It was suitable for what you needed done.
-
2299.
"A suicide note. I will tell you the specifics as you write it."
-
2300.
> There is barely a reaction.
-
2301.
> But his voice sounds out again.
-
2302.
> How you wish you could silence it.
-
2303.
> "Do my wife and daughter get to live?"
-
2304.
> At that, his wife lets out a gasp.
-
2305.
> But you lay a reassuring hand on her head.
-
2306.
> Honesty.
-
2307.
> Honesty could cause great suffering.
-
2308.
"You all get to live. Just not here. I will find somewhere suitable for you."
-
2309.
> When a simple lie could create such joy.
-
2310.
> You could see the relief in his expression.
-
2311.
> It was better this way.
-
2312.
> "Where do I begin?"
-
2313.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
-
2314.
> The dinner was soon.
-
2315.
> You stared at yourself in the cracked mirror.
-
2316.
> You could scarcely recognize the man before you.
-
2317.
> Never before had you allowed such bags to form under your eyes.
-
2318.
> You had barely slept in three days.
-
2319.
> Only a short period when you dealt with Flash.
-
2320.
> Your posture was horrible.
-
2321.
> A natural consequence of walking with the cane.
-
2322.
> You had always taken a pride-filled stance.
-
2323.
> Yet now, it required more effort than you could expend.
-
2324.
> Your hair, freshly cut yesterday, now was messy atop your head.
-
2325.
> Five o'clock shadow along your jaw.
-
2326.
> Your suit was messily wrinkled.
-
2327.
> This would not do.
-
2328.
> You may have lost drive to wear your mask.
-
2329.
> But you would not give her the satisfaction of breaking you.
-
2330.
> You open the door of your office and address the Gryphon out there.
-
2331.
"You, Seraph. Fetch me a new suit from my room."
-
2332.
> "Yes, Lord Fylkir."
-
2333.
> One of Talon's subordinates.
-
2334.
> Talon's work was too critical for you to be taking up his time right now.
-
2335.
> Moving into your bathroom, you turn on the shower.
-
2336.
> Once within it, you withdraw a razor blade.
-
2337.
> And begin fixing your facial hair.
-
2338.
> And then the hair on your head.
-
2339.
> Exiting the bathroom, you find the suit waiting for you.
-
2340.
> You put the fresh suit.
-
2341.
> Platinum cuff-links.
-
2342.
> Yet, there is one thing you do not keep from your typical garb.
-
2343.
> Your platinum crown remains on your desk.
-
2344.
> And you leave it.
-
2345.
> You didn't need it.
-
2346.
> It was time for dinner.
-
2347.
> "Good evening, fair Anonymous. We hope you are well this eve."
-
2348.
> It was always fascinating talking to Luna.
-
2349.
> She had been waiting for you in the parlour, along with the other guests.
-
2350.
> Dinner would be soon.
-
2351.
> But it could not begin without Twilight, of course.
-
2352.
> Who had still yet to arrive.
-
2353.
> You dearly hoped she would at least continue to play the game at least one more day.
-
2354.
> While she had mostly adopted her speech, she liked certain words.
-
2355.
> Like calling you fair.
-
2356.
> If you didn't know better, you'd swear at times she was hitting on you.
-
2357.
> But you suspected she was teasing.
-
2358.
"As well as can be expected, I suppose. I imagine Celly told you all about what happened?"
-
2359.
> Her face takes on a grim expression.
-
2360.
> "She had mentioned you suffered a wound most dire. Your leg, I believe?"
-
2361.
> You nod.
-
2362.
> There was no sense hiding it from her.
-
2363.
> While Luna did not have the protective instinct over you that Celestia did...
-
2364.
> She remained concerned. In her own special way.
-
2365.
> "At least you haven't let it keep you down. Better to die standing up!"
-
2366.
> You let out a polite laugh at that.
-
2367.
> Luna was another who shared a good deal in common with the Gryphons.
-
2368.
> No doubt a product of being from another time.
-
2369.
"No doubt, but I do so hope that things aren't quite that dire."
-
2370.
> She lets out a chuckle, before moving to another topic.
-
2371.
> You mingle for a short while longer, when the doors to the castle open.
-
2372.
> And in moves your wife.
-
2373.
> You feel your breath leave your lungs as you gaze upon her.
-
2374.
> Her mane is...
-
2375.
> Not done.
-
2376.
> Her dress...
-
2377.
> She doesn't have one.
-
2378.
> She looks...
-
2379.
> Normal.
-
2380.
> Immaculate.
-
2381.
> So beautiful, and so terrible.
-
2382.
> A swarm of partygoers move over toward her at once.
-
2383.
> They had already had their fill of gossiping with you, Luna and Celestia you supposed.
-
2384.
> Even Spike had been dragged in on the action, much to his chagrin.
-
2385.
> Although Blueblood remained, as ever, a center of attention.
-
2386.
> As the only stallion royal, you suppose it made sense.
-
2387.
> But, casting your view over to Twilight, you see her desperately looking about.
-
2388.
> Ignoring the party guests.
-
2389.
> That was... unconventional.
-
2390.
> She did say she was tired of playing pretend.
-
2391.
> She continues to scan the room until she spots you.
-
2392.
> When her eyes meet yours, they light up.
-
2393.
> But as her eyes fall, they take on a deep sadness.
-
2394.
> They lock on to the cane in your hand.
-
2395.
> Perhaps someone had told her.
-
2396.
> Perhaps it had been Celestia, it would not be unexpected.
-
2397.
> She begins to move through the crowd toward you.
-
2398.
> But you cannot allow her that small mercy just yet.
-
2399.
> Holding up your wine glass, you tap it with a fork.
-
2400.
"Everyone, we've officially got the full party here. To the dining hall!"
-
2401.
> The ponies begin aggressively shuffling out of the parlour and into the hall.
-
2402.
> And you allow yourself to be swept up in the flock.
-
2403.
> Luna keeps to your left side to ensure your leg is not bumped into.
-
2404.
> But it seems Twilight will have none of this.
-
2405.
> She flies over the crowd, and lands right beside you.
-
2406.
> The other partygoers huff and puff at her display.
-
2407.
> Even you find it hard to resist the urge to scold her for her indiscretion.
-
2408.
> "Anon, we need to talk. Please."
-
2409.
> There is an expression of sincere sadness on her face.
-
2410.
> But you could not allow yourself to be concerned with that.
-
2411.
> She was feeling guilt only now that she had wounded you physically.
-
2412.
> It was clear she did not feel guilt for the real damage she had inflicted.
-
2413.
> Perhaps she was worried that divorcing you after you were wounded would hurt her reputation.
-
2414.
> She had proven herself so selfish.
-
2415.
"We can speak over the meal, dear."
-
2416.
> You had taken your place at the head of the table.
-
2417.
> While typically for such affairs you were at the side, in Ponyville you were the primary Prince.
-
2418.
> And Twilight the primary princess.
-
2419.
> So you sat at the forefront, with Celestia and Luna to one side.
-
2420.
> And Spike and Blueblood on the other.
-
2421.
> And nearly fifty aristocrats following each of them down the sides.
-
2422.
> The time was so close.
-
2423.
> You stand up, carefully, and slowly.
-
2424.
> And raise your glass of wine into the air.
-
2425.
"My friends and colleagues, I appreciate your taking the time to visit us on such short notice."
-
2426.
"I recognize that we all have terribly busy schedules, minus Prince Spike and Princess Luna."
-
2427.
> You get a couple of indignant 'HEY's out of that and some light laughter from the aristocrats.
-
2428.
> They were ever-so easy to entertain.
-
2429.
"But the reason I have called you all here tonight is for a day of celebration."
-
2430.
"I have with me a treaty, bound and signed by the Farin Woods, consenting to peace with Equestria."
-
2431.
> Gasps ring out throughout the room.
-
2432.
> Celestia, in particular, has a look of shock on her face.
-
2433.
> The Farin Woods, a Deerborn country, had been harassing Equestrian borders for ages.
-
2434.
> Because of their guerilla tactics, they had never been fully dealt with.
-
2435.
> But now, they had.
-
2436.
"And so, I propose a toast! To peace in our age!"
-
2437.
> An uproarious cheer echoed through the halls.
-
2438.
> As you clinked your glass with your wife and the other princesses, your eyes focused on Twilight's glass.
-
2439.
> As she drunk deep from the crimson wine.
-
2440.
> Deeper than you had expected, actually.
-
2441.
> You sit back down, and the table quickly breaks off into conversation.
-
2442.
> While the rest of the conversation interests you, you address Twilight.
-
2443.
"So... what did you want to discuss?"
-
2444.
> She looks about briefly, to ensure some degree of privacy, before moving her face close to yours.
-
2445.
> Her eyes are puffy, like tears are about to fall.
-
2446.
> "I... I..."
-
2447.
> "I'm so sorry Anon."
-
2448.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
-
2449.
> She should not be doing this.
-
2450.
> Not right now.
-
2451.
> You needed to control this situation.
-
2452.
> If anyone else heard...
-
2453.
"Twilight, calm down. We can discuss thi-"
-
2454.
> "I burned the divorce papers. Last night."
-
2455.
> What?
-
2456.
> But, no, she couldn't...
-
2457.
> "I... I need to explain myself. If you'll let me. I understand if you won't."
-
2458.
> You are barely cognizant of her words.
-
2459.
> Your eyes affixed to her glass.
-
2460.
> "But I beg of you, please, give me a-"
-
2461.
> She coughs into her hoof briefly, before continuing.
-
2462.
> "-a chance to fix this."
-
2463.
> You turn to look at her.
-
2464.
> Her brilliant, shimmering eyes.
-
2465.
> Her perfect hair.
-
2466.
> She couldn't do this to you. Not right now.
-
2467.
> And yet, you could not deny her.
-
2468.
> You never could.
-
2469.
"Speak quietly."
-
2470.
> She nods, and reaches for her glass of wine for quick drink again.
-
2471.
> You do not stop her.
-
2472.
> "Last night, I..."
-
2473.
> A look of discomfort falls across her face.
-
2474.
> She corrects where she intended to begin.
-
2475.
> "I suppose I should start at the beginning. With why I... was with Flash."
-
2476.
> A dodging way of putting it.
-
2477.
> But suitable.
-
2478.
> You had been curious about that detail.
-
2479.
"Continue."
-
2480.
> "We were incredibly drunk."
-
2481.
> You almost laugh at the bluntness of her statement.
-
2482.
> But the sombre atmosphere prevents you.
-
2483.
> Your gaze continues to scan the tables, ensuring your conversation remains private.
-
2484.
> "And... It had been almost a month since I had seen you. At the Royal Soiree in Manehattan."
-
2485.
> "We had barely even spoken that night either. You had ambassadors to please."
-
2486.
> Had you truly spent so little time together?
-
2487.
> You suppose you had been distant.
-
2488.
> Twilight attempts to clear her throat, but is struggling.
-
2489.
> "It's not a justification, but it's what happened. And... After, when I woke up, I told him never to speak to me again."
-
2490.
> That was... curious.
-
2491.
> Featherweight had given you the impression that this was a repeating cycle.
-
2492.
> "I had hoped I could bury that betrayal, but even when I thought you didn't know... It ate me up inside."
-
2493.
> Her hoof runs over her chest.
-
2494.
> She's nibbling on a bit of salad.
-
2495.
> She always nibbles when she's nervous.
-
2496.
> "When I had heard you were coming from Canterlot, I thought I could tell you all of what happened."
-
2497.
> Her expression is heartbreaking.
-
2498.
> The look of a defeated mare.
-
2499.
> Of your mare.
-
2500.
> "When Gilded came to me with the letters, asking me to protect him, I... I couldn't believe it."
-
2501.
> "Like I could say we were even. Like... Like I didn't have to feel guilty any longer."
-
2502.
> She lets out a loose chuckle.
-
2503.
> But it leads into a bit of a coughing fit.
-
2504.
> "And then I realized what happened to Flash was my fault, and I felt even more guilty."
-
2505.
> Her eyes cast down to your meal.
-
2506.
> Eggplant Parmigiana.
-
2507.
> Her favourite.
-
2508.
> "But when we went to-
-
2509.
> Another cough.
-
2510.
> "- dinner... I just felt so relieved. Like the whole world was right again."
-
2511.
> She takes another drink of wine.
-
2512.
> And moves to refill her glass.
-
2513.
> She has been drinking it down incredibly quickly.
-
2514.
> "And when we left Aria's... The whole world came crashing down around me."
-
2515.
> She's swallowing thickly.
-
2516.
> Another cough.
-
2517.
> You maintain your look on the table.
-
2518.
> You can't look at her.
-
2519.
> Not now.
-
2520.
> "I had initially ordered those papers for you. If you wanted to leave me."
-
2521.
> "But when I was cornered... I panicked. And I've hurt you for it..."
-
2522.
> Her hoof lays on your leg.
-
2523.
> She tries to get you to look at her.
-
2524.
> But you can't.
-
2525.
> "If you're still willing to try..."
-
2526.
> "I think we-"
-
2527.
> She starts coughing, but tries to talk through it.
-
2528.
> "I think we can fix-"
-
2529.
> The coughs overwhelm her for a moment, but it calms.
-
2530.
> When she thinks she's calmed down enough, she tries again.
-
2531.
> "We can fix this."
-
2532.
> And she coughs again.
-
2533.
> And hot crimson flies over the table.
-
2534.
> A scream erupts from your right.
-
2535.
> As you look over to Twilight, a look of pure shock is on her face.
-
2536.
> Blood drips down from her muzzle, staining her fur.
-
2537.
> She pushes back the chair in panic, but another racket of coughs cause her to fall on her back.
-
2538.
> And you feel hot panic flow through you as well.
-
2539.
"Twilight! Someone get a doctor!"
-
2540.
> The words were supposed to come out as authoritative.
-
2541.
> But they come out as a struggled plea.
-
2542.
> Vaguely you're aware of Luna running out of the room.
-
2543.
> And Celestia attempting to command the nobility to calm.
-
2544.
> You push back your chair to move to her.
-
2545.
> You were meant to get up on your right leg and move to her.
-
2546.
> You attempt to get up on your left.
-
2547.
> The splint snaps, and your bone flies loose.
-
2548.
> Yet you do not feel the pain.
-
2549.
> Your collapse atop her.
-
2550.
> Staring into those beautiful eyes.
-
2551.
> As the whites around them slowly filled with red.
-
2552.
> Her hoof lightly pressing against your chest.
-
2553.
> "A-anon?"
-
2554.
> She's barely whispering.
-
2555.
> She hacks up blood once more, and it strikes you across the face.
-
2556.
> You lean in close to her ear.
-
2557.
> Your body is heaving with unshed tears.
-
2558.
> It wasn't supposed to be this way.
-
2559.
"I'm so sorry..."
-
2560.
> It was barely a whisper in her ear.
-
2561.
> The movement of her hoof is slowly fading.
-
2562.
> You can feel her pulse through your hand on her neck.
-
2563.
> Through your cheek at the side of her face.
-
2564.
> She weakly croaks, trying to form words you cannot bear to hear.
-
2565.
> Neither can you bring yourself to look back at her eyes.
-
2566.
> To gaze into those brilliant orbs.
-
2567.
> And so you stay beside her head.
-
2568.
> Listening to her pulse.
-
2569.
> "I..."
-
2570.
> It is slowly fading.
-
2571.
> Her body is seizing in your hands.
-
2572.
> "Still..."
-
2573.
> Her hoof holds still against your chest.
-
2574.
> Her back hooves cease movement as well.
-
2575.
> "Love..."
-
2576.
> She can't do this to you.
-
2577.
> She betrayed you.
-
2578.
> "You."
-
2579.
> And like that, her body stops seizing.
-
2580.
> The hoof falls down against her.
-
2581.
> And her pulse stops.
-
2582.
> And with it, so too does yours.
-
2583.
> And neither would start again.
-
2584.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
2585.
> Slowly, you cracked open your eyes.
-
2586.
> The room you were in was shrouded in darkness.
-
2587.
> A roaring thunderstorm rages outside the window.
-
2588.
> A dull beep by your head.
-
2589.
> You're back in the medical bay.
-
2590.
> Alone, at the moment.
-
2591.
> Your mind attempts to piece together what happened.
-
2592.
> After what happened to Twilight...
-
2593.
> After what you did to her.
-
2594.
> Panic had ensued.
-
2595.
> Celestia and Luna had managed to keep some degree of order.
-
2596.
> You don't know how long you laid there by her side.
-
2597.
> It felt like an eternity.
-
2598.
> They had to pry you off of her, eventually.
-
2599.
> The first time they tried...
-
2600.
> You had lashed out at them.
-
2601.
> At Spike.
-
2602.
> You supposed that was a poor decision.
-
2603.
> Doubtless the situation was as hard for him.
-
2604.
> Well, not quite as hard.
-
2605.
> He wasn't the cause.
-
2606.
> But you weren't thinking straight.
-
2607.
> You weren't thinking at all.
-
2608.
> Irrespective, eventually you had lost the strength to resist their efforts.
-
2609.
> When you were pulled away...
-
2610.
> Seeing her fur matted with blood.
-
2611.
> Her body shock-still.
-
2612.
> Seeing her eyes.
-
2613.
> Wide, and stained fully red with blood.
-
2614.
> But no longer shimmering.
-
2615.
> That was when you had lost control of your tears.
-
2616.
> Dimly, you were aware that you were still covered in her blood.
-
2617.
> You would have thought they would have cleaned you.
-
2618.
> But perhaps they were still too busy with the fallout.
-
2619.
> You had no idea how long it had been since that time.
-
2620.
> Once they had separated you, time was a blur.
-
2621.
> A blur of oaths for vengeance from Celestia.
-
2622.
> Cries of rage from you.
-
2623.
> Talon.
-
2624.
> He had taken you to the medical bay, at Celestia's order.
-
2625.
> And he had been the target of your rage.
-
2626.
> You had told him and his entire troupe to get out of your sight.
-
2627.
> To never set foot in this castle again.
-
2628.
> It appeared they had complied.
-
2629.
> But the cinders of that rage had burned out.
-
2630.
> You felt numb.
-
2631.
> This was her fault, yet again.
-
2632.
> Had she not...
-
2633.
> Had she not apologized.
-
2634.
> Then your plan would have worked.
-
2635.
> Had she come back playing the game.
-
2636.
> Wearing her mask.
-
2637.
> Then you would have felt like this was a victory.
-
2638.
> Like you had won the day.
-
2639.
> You would have been a saviour to Equestria.
-
2640.
> The prince who put Equestria above his own losses.
-
2641.
> You know the words to be lies.
-
2642.
> They feel empty, and hollow.
-
2643.
> Honesty.
-
2644.
> Perhaps there was more to it.
-
2645.
> Perhaps the Gryphons weren't always right.
-
2646.
> Looking down, you see an IV drip inserted.
-
2647.
> But you have no idea why.
-
2648.
> Surely, you weren't lacking fluids.
-
2649.
> Perhaps some sort of painkiller.
-
2650.
> Your leg had to be in a much worse condition after your foolishness.
-
2651.
> A crack of lightning.
-
2652.
> You were stunned at how much rain had been falling.
-
2653.
> Two nights in a row, no less.
-
2654.
> Sitting up in your bed, you look around the room.
-
2655.
> A lancing pain erupts from your leg as it shifts in the bed.
-
2656.
> It seemed those painkillers were not working.
-
2657.
> But there was another concern.
-
2658.
> You were naked.
-
2659.
> Your suit, still stained with grime and browned blood, sat on a chair.
-
2660.
> Your cane beside it.
-
2661.
> Your watch, however, remained on your arm.
-
2662.
> It was close to one in the morning.
-
2663.
> If you stayed here, things would work out for you.
-
2664.
> Gilded's manifesto would be found in about five hours, in your office.
-
2665.
> Neatly folded into an envelope and slipped under your door.
-
2666.
> Everyone would know of the Captain of the Ponyville Guard, who killed the princess.
-
2667.
> And then himself, with his family.
-
2668.
> Celestia would never forgive herself.
-
2669.
> Her selection for guard, after millennia of experience, not only crippled someone who was like a son to her...
-
2670.
> He killed her most faithful student.
-
2671.
> It's possible she might even begin to withdraw from political life.
-
2672.
> The stress and grief of this weighing on her.
-
2673.
> You knew she had done so in the past, when intense strife had struck.
-
2674.
> Typically when she was naive enough to take a lover.
-
2675.
> Or The Banishment.
-
2676.
> Or any number of other circumstances.
-
2677.
> There was an entire executive council in place to assume control should that happen.
-
2678.
> Although, with Luna back, who knows how things would work out.
-
2679.
> Either way, you would be clear to take on a more prominent role.
-
2680.
> You could unite the world as the proper leader of Equestria.
-
2681.
> But, you had come to realize...
-
2682.
> You were not the proper leader of Equestria.
-
2683.
> You never had been.
-
2684.
> You pull out the IV drip.
-
2685.
> Turning to the side, you unplug the heartrate monitor.
-
2686.
> And you pull off the heartrate monitor's attachments to your chest.
-
2687.
> You couldn't allow that to happen.
-
2688.
> A kindness could allow someone to escape great injustice.
-
2689.
> Did you deserve to escape?
-
2690.
> Your body moved on autopilot.
-
2691.
> You knew what you had to do.
-
2692.
> You attempt to move out of the bed.
-
2693.
> But when your torso reaches the edge, your leg moves.
-
2694.
> White-hot pain lances through you, and you feel dizzy.
-
2695.
> Unfortunately, your position meant that this caused you to collapse off the side.
-
2696.
> Onto the tile floor.
-
2697.
> You suppress a scream.
-
2698.
> You lay on the ground for a little while.
-
2699.
> Waiting for the pain in your leg to subside.
-
2700.
> They had re-splinted it.
-
2701.
> However, now the splint glowed with a dim light.
-
2702.
> It had been magically reinforced to prevent a break.
-
2703.
> When you feel stable enough, you pull yourself over to one of the chairs.
-
2704.
> Pulling yourself up, you sit in it.
-
2705.
> In the chair beside you is your suit.
-
2706.
> You pull out the blood-stained dress shirt first.
-
2707.
> And begin to put it on.
-
2708.
> You leave behind the blazer.
-
2709.
> You put on the dress pants next.
-
2710.
> That part of the process takes you easily an hour.
-
2711.
> An hour of intense agony.
-
2712.
> But ultimately, you are dressed once more.
-
2713.
> Taking your cane from the wall, you rise up.
-
2714.
> And move out of the door.
-
2715.
> The medical bay was barren.
-
2716.
> Not a nurse or doctor to be seen.
-
2717.
> You imagine at this time of night they have a skeleton staff keeping an ear out.
-
2718.
> It wasn't a public hospital, after all.
-
2719.
> Strictly for guards, most of the time.
-
2720.
> Speaking of guards, you were surprised there were none here.
-
2721.
> Even when you exited the medical bay, the castle was barren.
-
2722.
> But it worked well for you.
-
2723.
> You imagine they would not be as permitting as yesterday about your movement.
-
2724.
> You know where you are headed.
-
2725.
> And as your office comes into view, you're struck by the lack of guards.
-
2726.
> Seems Talon had taken your words to heart.
-
2727.
> Loyalty.
-
2728.
> What did it really mean.
-
2729.
> Obeying your command, or doing what was best for you?
-
2730.
> Perhaps they were synonymous in this case.
-
2731.
> Opening the door, you see the room exactly as you left it.
-
2732.
> Even the small white envelope on the floor.
-
2733.
> Picking it up, you shamble over to the fireplace.
-
2734.
> It is nothing but cinders at the moment.
-
2735.
> But you can fix that.
-
2736.
> Your cigar box is still out on the balcony.
-
2737.
> Getting rained on.
-
2738.
> You move out, and open it up.
-
2739.
> You withdraw the lighter.
-
2740.
> You pause for a moment.
-
2741.
> And throw the box off the balcony.
-
2742.
> You didn't need it any more.
-
2743.
> You then move back to the fireplace
-
2744.
> And you hold up the letter.
-
2745.
> You stop for a minute, in consideration.
-
2746.
> Before a steely resolve washes over you.
-
2747.
> You bring the lighter up, and ignite the letter.
-
2748.
> Before casting it into the fireplace.
-
2749.
> Gilded didn't deserve that.
-
2750.
> He would be remembered as a hero.
-
2751.
> But a thought occurred to you.
-
2752.
> He wasn't the only loose end you had planned to tie.
-
2753.
> And looking to your watch, the other would be tied soon.
-
2754.
> You needed to move.
-
2755.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
-
2756.
> When you turn around to leave the room, you're once again struck by your mirror.
-
2757.
> You had spent such time fixing your appearance yesterday for dinner.
-
2758.
> To make everything perfect.
-
2759.
> And yet now, you couldn't bear to see yourself.
-
2760.
> Especially with... Her all over you.
-
2761.
> Looking in the mirror, your body locks up.
-
2762.
> Her final words repeating endlessly in your head.
-
2763.
> Frustration builds within you.
-
2764.
> It wasn't fair.
-
2765.
> But it was.
-
2766.
> The guilt building up in you...
-
2767.
> You somewhat understood what she felt now.
-
2768.
> The guilt of betrayal.
-
2769.
> It burned worse than anything you had ever felt.
-
2770.
> Your leg paled in comparison to the ache in your heart.
-
2771.
> The ache of guilt which had festered in you for years.
-
2772.
> With every betrayal.
-
2773.
> With every justification.
-
2774.
> Every time you did something for the greater good.
-
2775.
> You had signed it away as being for the best.
-
2776.
> That you couldn't do wrong.
-
2777.
> Looking at yourself now, your eyes have gotten worse.
-
2778.
> The dark rings thick under them.
-
2779.
> Bloodshot.
-
2780.
> Like a man driven to madness.
-
2781.
> The responsibility of ruling demanded darkness.
-
2782.
> All of you understood that, to a degree.
-
2783.
> The royalty, that is.
-
2784.
> And yet, you had never considered it darkness.
-
2785.
> It was necessary.
-
2786.
> But perhaps there had been other ways.
-
2787.
> You just had never considered them.
-
2788.
> Your right arm lashes out, and smashes the mirror before you.
-
2789.
> The glass shatters, and flies through the air.
-
2790.
> A shard slices cleanly along your hand.
-
2791.
> The sting feels nice.
-
2792.
> It feels like the beginnings of justice.
-
2793.
> You had always lashed out when angry.
-
2794.
> Destroying things.
-
2795.
> Ponies.
-
2796.
> Because you could not express yourself properly.
-
2797.
> Because the slightest infraction would cause a national outrage.
-
2798.
> Because you were perfect for them.
-
2799.
> There was only one pony you could ever be yourself with.
-
2800.
> Looking back, it had been ages since you had spent real time with her.
-
2801.
> You had been caught up in the sway of politics.
-
2802.
> Neglectful.
-
2803.
> And you could never be with her again.
-
2804.
> Never look at her shining smile.
-
2805.
> Never slowly preen her wings as you discussed your days.
-
2806.
> Never intricately plan something meaningless, just to do it together.
-
2807.
> Never discuss magic for hours on end.
-
2808.
> Never love.
-
2809.
> You move over to your desk and withdraw a cloth.
-
2810.
> This wallowing was meaningless.
-
2811.
> You couldn't save Twilight at this point.
-
2812.
> And you couldn't save yourself.
-
2813.
> But there was still somepony you could save.
-
2814.
> Somepony who meant the world to your closest friend.
-
2815.
> Your brother.
-
2816.
> You would not betray Spike as well.
-
2817.
> You had your fill of betrayal.
-
2818.
> You wrap the cloth around your hand, tying it tight.
-
2819.
> The cloth is immediately stained red with blood.
-
2820.
> A substance you had seen far too much of lately.
-
2821.
> Taking your cane, you move to exit your office.
-
2822.
> Looking to your watch, you realize you had to hurry.
-
2823.
> Your reminiscing was costing you precious time.
-
2824.
> Your agent would be at Carousel Boutique any moment.
-
2825.
> As you walk through the empty halls of the castle, the only sound is that of your cane on the tile.
-
2826.
> And the relentless pounding of the rain and thunder outside.
-
2827.
> This would not be easy.
-
2828.
> You had difficulty enough walking in general, right now.
-
2829.
> Walking in the muddy, rainy conditions outside...
-
2830.
> It was an irrelevancy.
-
2831.
> You had to do this.
-
2832.
> Equestria needed a prince who could lead her into a new era.
-
2833.
> That was no longer you.
-
2834.
> But there remained one who could save this country.
-
2835.
> You were confident in that.
-
2836.
> But if he lost her tonight...
-
2837.
> He might never recover.
-
2838.
> Not so soon after Twilight.
-
2839.
> Reaching the front gates to the castle, you finally encounter some guards.
-
2840.
> Not your Gryphons, but the regular staff of the castle.
-
2841.
> They move toward you, but you will have none of it.
-
2842.
"I'm going out."
-
2843.
> They attempt to comment, but you ignore them.
-
2844.
> One of them moves to get in your way.
-
2845.
> You look down at him.
-
2846.
"Move, or so help me you will lose everything you hold dear."
-
2847.
> No doubt the look of pure insanity about you influenced his capitulation.
-
2848.
> Once upon a time, you would have persuaded them to let you pass.
-
2849.
> With pretty language and compliments.
-
2850.
> But you couldn't do that any longer.
-
2851.
> Your mask was long gone.
-
2852.
> The storm continued to rage outside.
-
2853.
> The winds were intense, blowing trees to their sides.
-
2854.
"You will stay here."
-
2855.
> You couldn't risk them knowing.
-
2856.
> If you were implicated in this assassination, then the story might come to light.
-
2857.
> That would crush Spike. And potentially Celestia.
-
2858.
> Perhaps it would be better if they knew the truth.
-
2859.
> But not like this.
-
2860.
> The guards remain at their posts as you take your first step out into the mud.
-
2861.
> Your cane sinks deep into the earth.
-
2862.
> As does your right leg.
-
2863.
> This would be difficult.
-
2864.
> And so it proves to be.
-
2865.
> Every step takes an immense amount of concentration.
-
2866.
> The wind whips at you harshly, irritating the cuts on your hand even through the bandage.
-
2867.
> The cold of the intense weather seeps into your heart.
-
2868.
> And the rain has you soaked to the bone.
-
2869.
> But you carry on.
-
2870.
> When you are almost to the boutique, a particularly strong gust of wind knocks your cane out from under you.
-
2871.
> You fall face first into the mud.
-
2872.
> Searing pain erupts from your leg as it jars against the ground.
-
2873.
> Desperately, you attempt to find purchase to lift yourself up.
-
2874.
> But your hand continues to slip on the slick ground.
-
2875.
> Pulling your head up, you look at the boutique.
-
2876.
> The lights remain on.
-
2877.
> And you can see, atop the front awning...
-
2878.
> A dark pony-shaped shadow.
-
2879.
> Peering in from the upper level through a window.
-
2880.
"Hey!"
-
2881.
> You attempt to call out, but it comes out as a croak.
-
2882.
> It would be impossible to hear you in this weather.
-
2883.
> You needed to get close.
-
2884.
> And so you once again attempt to push yourself up.
-
2885.
> And succeed.
-
2886.
> You begin to move to the boutique.
-
2887.
> You would not fail this time.
-
2888.
> You couldn't.
-
2889.
----------------------------------------------------------------
-
2890.
> You eventually reach the side of the boutique.
-
2891.
> And collapsed against it.
-
2892.
> Your entire body ached with exhaustion.
-
2893.
> You had so little sleep...
-
2894.
> But you had to carry on.
-
2895.
> You tried calling out to the shadowy individual, but they still could not hear you.
-
2896.
> As you looked up, you saw the awning not too far up from you.
-
2897.
> You needed to get even closer still.
-
2898.
> Which meant climbing.
-
2899.
> Ordinarily, you would have little trouble climbing up there.
-
2900.
> You had a powerful physique.
-
2901.
> But you were weak right now.
-
2902.
> Weak and crippled.
-
2903.
> Just focus.
-
2904.
> Focus on what needs to be done.
-
2905.
> Balancing on one leg, you throw up your cane to the awning.
-
2906.
> The silver pommel hooks over the edge, the cane hanging down.
-
2907.
> You grab on, and try to pull yourself up.
-
2908.
> But your hands slip right off.
-
2909.
> The rain had made it too slippery.
-
2910.
> You pull down the cane.
-
2911.
> You had an idea.
-
2912.
> Tearing off your shirt, you wrap the cloth around it.
-
2913.
> While the shirt was wet, you could still grip it.
-
2914.
> The shirt was still stained.
-
2915.
> With her blood.
-
2916.
> It pained you to see it.
-
2917.
> How could the rain not wash it away?
-
2918.
> Why couldn't it just go away?
-
2919.
> You nearly lapse back into a shocked state.
-
2920.
> But you tear yourself out of it.
-
2921.
> You needed to do this.
-
2922.
> Hooking the cane back on to the awning, you heave on the cloth.
-
2923.
> It makes a loud stretching noise, but holds.
-
2924.
> With one leg against the wall, you start pulling yourself up.
-
2925.
> Desperately, you slowly ascend.
-
2926.
> Your one leg is burning with the effort of pulling up.
-
2927.
> But when you're near the top, a slippery spot strikes your foot.
-
2928.
> And you fall back into the mud.
-
2929.
> Immense pain blossoms across your body.
-
2930.
> Particularly from your leg.
-
2931.
> You hear a loud ringing sound in your ears.
-
2932.
> And your vision flashes white.
-
2933.
> The world is spinning.
-
2934.
> You can't focus...
-
2935.
> You can't do it.
-
2936.
> But you have to.
-
2937.
> You push yourself up, swallowing your nausea.
-
2938.
> Your muscles scream in resistance.
-
2939.
> The world continues to spin as you reach out to grip the cane.
-
2940.
> You miss it, falling against the wall again.
-
2941.
> You can't do this...
-
2942.
> You're too weak.
-
2943.
> But if you don't, then everyone loses.
-
2944.
> And you won't let that happen.
-
2945.
> Your hand takes up the cane again.
-
2946.
> And you make another attempt.
-
2947.
> Your vision is darkened around the edges.
-
2948.
> And you can't concentrate.
-
2949.
> Your foot slips again.
-
2950.
> But this time, you shoot out your other leg.
-
2951.
> And catch the wall against it.
-
2952.
> You can feel the bone shift out of place again.
-
2953.
> An incredible pain shoots through you.
-
2954.
> But the magically-enhanced splint prevents it from giving in.
-
2955.
> You attempt to scream in pain.
-
2956.
> But it comes out barely a gasp.
-
2957.
> Forcing yourself to overcome it, you push up on your shattered leg.
-
2958.
> Before catching the wall again with your right leg.
-
2959.
> Relief floods through you as the pressure is released on your bad leg.
-
2960.
> And you catch the ledge with your hands.
-
2961.
> You slowly, but surely pull yourself up and over.
-
2962.
> You could see him from where you were.
-
2963.
> Pulling up the cane, you struggle to your feet.
-
2964.
> The surface is slippery, but with great care you manage to rise.
-
2965.
"Hey!"
-
2966.
> That gets his attention.
-
2967.
> But you notice something horrifying.
-
2968.
> The window is open, and his crossbow is out.
-
2969.
> You move in his direction.
-
2970.
> And he pulls back from the window.
-
2971.
> Perfect timing, as ever.
-
2972.
> Now you could solve this.
-
2973.
"Apologies, but I no longer require you-"
-
2974.
> A loud twang sounds out.
-
2975.
> Your breath catches in your throat.
-
2976.
> Pain spreads out from your chest.
-
2977.
> You look down.
-
2978.
> A shimmering steel bolt.
-
2979.
> Embedded in your chest.
-
2980.
> Your eyes can't look away from it, but you force them to.
-
2981.
> Your eyes look back up to him.
-
2982.
> There is a panicked expression on his face.
-
2983.
> Time seems to stand still.
-
2984.
> The only thing moving being the rain.
-
2985.
> Until you speak.
-
2986.
"You shot-"
-
2987.
> Another twang sounds out.
-
2988.
> The bolt hits you in the stomach this time.
-
2989.
> You can feel it penetrate deeply.
-
2990.
> And a third twang.
-
2991.
> It lands beside the second shot, another in your stomach.
-
2992.
> The pony then turns, and sprints off the roof.
-
2993.
> You watch him go with a look of disbelief on your face.
-
2994.
> Fucking mercenaries.
-
2995.
> Your body resists your commands to move.
-
2996.
> But slowly, your hand moves to one of the bolts in your stomach.
-
2997.
> It's wedged in deep.
-
2998.
> Removing it would kill you faster.
-
2999.
> You prepare to call out to Rarity for help, her window still open there.
-
3000.
> When suddenly, fatigue overwhelms you.
-
3001.
> Your legs give out from under you.
-
3002.
> Loudly, your body smashes against the roof.
-
3003.
> And you roll harshly off the side of the building.
-
3004.
> You land on your back in the thick muck.
-
3005.
> You would think that fall would hurt quite badly.
-
3006.
> But you can barely feel a thing.
-
3007.
> The bolt in your chest was pushed in further by your fall.
-
3008.
> You focus on your breathing.
-
3009.
> In and out.
-
3010.
> When you hear a door open.
-
3011.
> And a male voice ring out.
-
3012.
> "Is anypony out there?"
-
3013.
> He shouldn't be here.
-
3014.
> He can't see you right now.
-
3015.
> Please, just go back inside...
-
3016.
> "Anon?"
-
3017.
---------------------------------------------------------
-
3018.
> "What're you doing here?"
-
3019.
> You can barely hear him over the continuing roar of the rain.
-
3020.
> You try to lift your head to acknowledge him.
-
3021.
> To tell him it's all fine.
-
3022.
> But you can't.
-
3023.
> You don't have the strength.
-
3024.
> "A-anon...?"
-
3025.
> You hear a gasp.
-
3026.
> So he's noticed.
-
3027.
> He runs quickly to your side.
-
3028.
> And sits beside you, looking over your body.
-
3029.
> "No..."
-
3030.
> You feel his claws touch the bolt in your chest.
-
3031.
> He's shaking.
-
3032.
> Uncontrollably.
-
3033.
> "Rarity! Rarity get help!"
-
3034.
> His voice is a screech to your ears.
-
3035.
> He's on the verge of tears as it is.
-
3036.
> He collapses beside you.
-
3037.
> "Please, Anon... Don't do this to me..."
-
3038.
> A morbid sob escapes his mouth.
-
3039.
> He can't control himself.
-
3040.
> "Rarity!"
-
3041.
> His screams echo into the night.
-
3042.
> You muster the strength to speak.
-
3043.
"Spike... listen to me."
-
3044.
> He looks up to you.
-
3045.
> His eyes filled with hope.
-
3046.
> "Anon! You're ok!"
-
3047.
> It hurts more than your wounds to dash his hopes.
-
3048.
> But he needs to listen.
-
3049.
"Not for long. Listen closely."
-
3050.
> You can feel the darkness closing in on you.
-
3051.
> You didn't have long.
-
3052.
"You need to find Talon, and tell him to stop the plan."
-
3053.
> The door opens once again.
-
3054.
> And you hear Rarity say something, but you can't make it out.
-
3055.
> But you hear Spike's scream.
-
3056.
> "Anon's dying! Get help! Now!"
-
3057.
> You can't see her, but you presume she left when he turned back to you.
-
3058.
> "You'll tell him yourself, Anon. It's going to be fine..."
-
3059.
> It pained you to see such denial.
-
3060.
> You wished you could play pretend for him one last time.
-
3061.
> But he needed to hear this.
-
3062.
"It's not, Spike. And there's more you need to do..."
-
3063.
> You cough, and pain flares up from your wounds.
-
3064.
> They're oozing blood.
-
3065.
> "No! You can't just give up! We can save you... We have to..."
-
3066.
> You managed to lift a hand.
-
3067.
> You hold the side of his face.
-
3068.
"You need to take care of Velvet for me. And Celestia."
-
3069.
> His eyes are bloodshot.
-
3070.
> Tears falling freely.
-
3071.
"They're not going to do so well after this. See them at least once a week."
-
3072.
> "Stop! Stop talking, it's just making you weaker."
-
3073.
> He puts his claws under you, and attempts to lift you.
-
3074.
> But that causes more blood to ooze up from your wounds.
-
3075.
> And you cough intensely from it.
-
3076.
> So he immediately sets you back down.
-
3077.
> "Anon... Please, just not right now... I can't..."
-
3078.
> Sobs break up his words.
-
3079.
> Your hand falls from his face, back to the mud.
-
3080.
> He starts coughing, choking on his tears.
-
3081.
> "You're all I have left..."
-
3082.
> His claws cover his face.
-
3083.
> He can't bear to look at you.
-
3084.
"That's not true. You have Rarity."
-
3085.
> He lays down beside you, his arms wrapped around his face.
-
3086.
> The puddles from the rain around you had turned crimson.
-
3087.
"And you need to remember her. Always."
-
3088.
> Yet more crying.
-
3089.
> But you knew he was listening.
-
3090.
"Cherish her every day. When she's your princess, never neglect a second."
-
3091.
> You wish you had someone to tell you this before.
-
3092.
> But you never had anyone.
-
3093.
> You lost that when you came here.
-
3094.
"Because she'll be gone before you know it. And you'll want those memories."
-
3095.
> This cough is accompanied by blood.
-
3096.
> A lot of it.
-
3097.
> You spit it out.
-
3098.
"Above all, never change."
-
3099.
> You tilt your head to the right.
-
3100.
> He's staring forward, blankly.
-
3101.
> Tears freely running.
-
3102.
> "I won't, Anon. I promise you. I promise..."
-
3103.
> His eyes look back at you.
-
3104.
> You attempt a serene smile.
-
3105.
"Good. You always were a better prince than me."
-
3106.
> You can hear the shouts of guards in the distance.
-
3107.
> But the darkness is closing in on you.
-
3108.
> But at the voices, Spike perks up.
-
3109.
> "They're here! You're going to be fine!"
-
3110.
> Sorry.
-
3111.
> You're so sorry.
-
3112.
> That you can't be stronger.
-
3113.
> But you're so tired.
-
3114.
"Goodbye, Spike."
-
3115.
> "What? No! Anonymous, stay with me, please!"
-
3116.
> Your eyes close.
-
3117.
> They're too heavy to keep open.
-
3118.
> "Stay with me, just a little longer!"
-
3119.
> You wondered if you would see her again.
-
3120.
> If you would get to be with her.
-
3121.
> "Help him! Now! Hurry!"
-
3122.
> To see her smile.
-
3123.
> "Please..."
-
3124.
> Would she forgive you?
-
3125.
> "I don't care! Save him!"
-
3126.
> You had long forgiven her.
-
3127.
> But you had done so much worse.
-
3128.
> "What do you mean stopped?"
-
3129.
> But who were you kidding.
-
3130.
> You wouldn't get to see her.
-
3131.
> "No. Do it again!"
-
3132.
> She deserved so much better.
-
3133.
> "Again!"
-
3134.
> But still...
-
3135.
> "Please..."
-
3136.
> A man could hope.
-
3137.
> A man could dream.
-
3138.
> And with that final thought...
-
3139.
> You let the darkness consume you.
-
3140.
> And the voices fade.
-
3141.
> And you begin your everlasting dream.
-
3142.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
-
3143.
> You are Gwalor Skytalon.
-
3144.
> Best known among the Equestrians as Talon.
-
3145.
> And it has been three years since Equestria lost it's royal couple.
-
3146.
> One, a national hero, who had saved the world time and time again.
-
3147.
> The other, their most treasured Prince.
-
3148.
> Your best friend.
-
3149.
> Your only friend, at the time.
-
3150.
> You are currently visiting their grave.
-
3151.
> A monolithic statue, rising tall into the sky.
-
3152.
> It depicts Anonymous with Twilight hanging from his back.
-
3153.
> Both pointing to the skies.
-
3154.
> It rests on the border between Equestria and the Holy Accipi Empire.
-
3155.
> It was the only place they could be together.
-
3156.
> Their deaths had caused such immense political upheaval.
-
3157.
> The Gryphons had blamed the ponies, because it was a pony who had slain the Fylkir.
-
3158.
> The Ponies had blamed... Well, you. And by extension the Gryphons.
-
3159.
> They blamed you for your failure.
-
3160.
> That you could not protect Twilight and Anon.
-
3161.
> If they had known the truth, you had no doubt you would be dead now.
-
3162.
> Both lives weighed heavily on your conscience.
-
3163.
> And they forever would.
-
3164.
> It made these trips to this monument painful.
-
3165.
> So painful you nearly wished you could leave.
-
3166.
> But you made them once a week.
-
3167.
> Not alone.
-
3168.
> But alongside your new Fylkir.
-
3169.
> The second in almost four centuries.
-
3170.
> It would figure that it would be another Equestrian.
-
3171.
> They seemed to have a talent for peace.
-
3172.
> The dragon was laid out before the statue.
-
3173.
> Speaking to them about the events of the week.
-
3174.
> He did so every week. He said he did it so he wouldn't forget.
-
3175.
> Often times he would fly around the statue.
-
3176.
> The years had not been easy on him.
-
3177.
> The tensions between Equestria and Accipi grew quickly.
-
3178.
> Especially when Celestia withdrew from public life.
-
3179.
> And, rather stunningly, so too did Luna.
-
3180.
> When the executive council assumed control, that left only two Princes to challenge them.
-
3181.
> And Blueblood was hardly capable.
-
3182.
> So war brewed, as the hot-headed politicians debated whose fault the tragedy was.
-
3183.
> And skirmishes broke out.
-
3184.
> You had avoided them, trying to find peace on your own.
-
3185.
> But you didn't need to.
-
3186.
> Equestria provided an answer.
-
3187.
> When the Ponies and the Gryphons had clamoured for war, he rose up.
-
3188.
> Like the Prince he was, he brought all parties to the table.
-
3189.
> He was the one who had proposed this monument.
-
3190.
> And rallied Equestrians and Gryphons alike to build it together.
-
3191.
> A symbol of unity.
-
3192.
> An instruction to stay true to the wishes of the late couple.
-
3193.
> A reminder.
-
3194.
> So no one would forget.
-
3195.
> Spike certainly hadn't.
-
3196.
> And neither had you.
-
3197.
> The young drake had aged at an incredible pace since their passing.
-
3198.
> While he did not grow larger, he unquestionably grew wiser.
-
3199.
> In his gaze now was a wisdom surpassing any you had ever known.
-
3200.
> You admired him.
-
3201.
> He could reconcile justice with kindness.
-
3202.
> Truth with joy.
-
3203.
> "He does love to be dramatic, doesn't he?"
-
3204.
> The Fylkir's wife.
-
3205.
> She always accompanied him here.
-
3206.
> They were practically inseparable.
-
3207.
> Even when you were discussing security with him, she was present.
-
3208.
> They did everything together.
-
3209.
"I think he's earned the right to a bit of theatre."
-
3210.
> A smile creeps upon her face.
-
3211.
> As she gazes back out at Spike by the statue.
-
3212.
> You suspected she knew the truth.
-
3213.
> Or at least suspected it.
-
3214.
> Since there was never a culprit found.
-
3215.
> Only two dead rulers, and a dead guard captain.
-
3216.
> With his family.
-
3217.
> There was a reason she was meant to die, after all.
-
3218.
> But she never revealed it to Spike.
-
3219.
> You could respect that.
-
3220.
> "Well, if we don't go bug him he'll be there all day."
-
3221.
> She was the only one who could break him out of these reveries.
-
3222.
> You watch as she trots down to him.
-
3223.
> She always broke him out of it the same way.
-
3224.
> Her hoof to his muzzle.
-
3225.
> 'Bit for your thoughts?'
-
3226.
> It reminded you of another couple you had known quite well.
-
3227.
> You see them moving back toward you, and snap to a salute.
-
3228.
> Spike chuckles as he approaches.
-
3229.
> "How often do I have to tell you to relax, Talon?"
-
3230.
> You keep your steely appearance, but reply.
-
3231.
"Too often, sir."
-
3232.
> He moves past you, and you move to follow him.
-
3233.
> Three years ago, Equestria lost two of its greatest heroes.
-
3234.
> Only you would ever know what actually happened.
-
3235.
> And in their place rose one to best them all.
-
3236.
> Your Fylkir.
-
3237.
> The best hope for peace.
-
3238.
> And you would follow him until the end of your days.
by ImDoingMyPart
by ImDoingMyPart
by ImDoingMyPart
by ImDoingMyPart
by ImDoingMyPart