Reflection Twenty-One: Enmity Breeds
“The honesty that held us together crumbled.
It was replaced with deception. Cheating truth to take more than we needed because we needed.
The kindness of our agreement faded away.
It was replaced with cruelty. To simply swindle, steal, or rob what we wanted.
The generosity of our charity from one equine to another eroded.
It was replaced by greed. For what we had was never enough.
The laughter once shared by friends was long gone.
It was replaced by hurt. Because we were now stepping forward too far, and we were aching inside.
The loyalty that once held together the treaty of trade was no longer doctrine.
It was replaced by betrayal. If you won't help us, you can expect a stab in the back.
The magic of our land was no more.
It was replaced by the machine. For we thought and worked too much, and for we felt and cared too little.
Friendship crumbled.
Enmity remained in the shards.
Enmity breeds.”
The storyteller exhaled deeply.
I was thirty-five years old.
He paused and let out another deep sigh.
None of it had to happen. None of it. But if you do as I do… if you look back through the years… if you connect the dots… it was inevitable.
It still doesn’t make it any more believable.
He sat up straighter, another misty breath coming from his nostrils.
When times are good, we can’t imagine that something horrible could happen to us. At least, not until it’s already happened. Sometimes, not even then. It’s not stupidity, it’s not weakness; it’s merely equine nature. Even now, as you sit here with me, you’re not expecting anyone here to die tonight. You’re just sitting back among friends and possibly family, enjoying an old buck’s story. You can’t imagine that happening. Just like I couldn’t imagine we’d destroy our world in twenty-two years.
We look back on it now- I know I have, many times- and think, ‘oh, but it’s so obvious that would happen.’ Well, folks, you know what they say about hindsight. Foresight usually gets the wrong prescription strength. Zebrica, Aldorna, even Equestria were no strangers to using power. We were already bickering among one another for resources. At that point, it was just a matter of time. The proverbial writing was on the wall. We all just had to read it.
I certainly didn’t. Or, at least, I chose not to. Those people who couldn’t believe something horrible could happen while times were good? I was one of them. I just called Zoleks and my parents- and my friends in Ponyville- and told them I was fine, Nightingale was fine. We’d gotten out safely. All, of course, while remaining hidden at home pretending to be on a flight back. I’m sure Pinkie knew, but she wisely remained quiet on the matter.
The storyteller inhaled softly.
And we got married. As expected after the talk with Celestia- and Luna and I both wanted the same- it was a quiet affair. No ceremony. No reception. Just some royal paperwork. It was all hush-hush… heh… our dirty little secret. Nobody ever found out. Pinkie didn’t even tell anyone.
I don’t want to get into the details. Those matters are… private, you understand. No, right now, I’m going to focus on something else.
Something far more important. Something far worse.
He inhaled softly.
I don’t remember it all happening so quickly like most say. It didn’t happen immediately after. It took its time creeping up on us. That three-letter word. One that chills me to the bone.
The storyteller sprouted an ice arm to produce his next memento- an old radio alarm. Several of the buttons were missing their tabs, and one of the switches was missing. The digital display was cracked, and black gunk had melted into the spiderweb. The grill cap covering one of the speakers popped out and started to fall out, but he caught it just in time and snapped it back into place.
It’s obviously not Stable-Tec. But it was important to me and I’m sure many others over the course of the next two years. Before, I tended to avoid paying attention to current events. After playing a part in them? I couldn’t help but keep my eyes on the tabloid and my ears to the speaker.
I’ve said it before, not too long ago. I’ll say it again. Industry is a good thing. The Age of Industry allowed society as a whole to improve the standards of living for everyone. It bolstered food production. It gave us modern conveniences. It gave us the means to communicate instantly over vast distances.
He gently pat the device at his hooves.
It made the whole wide world a whole lot smaller. It allowed us to wrest energy from the land and breathe light and life where there was none before. It allowed us to step forward.
And step forward.
And step forward.
And we took one step too far.
Remember, folks. Remember how this story all started.
* * *
One day after we returned.
“-little over a day ago, it was believed that Caesar Raj’M’Kora was assassinated in the Roaman Senate by Legate Damaro and other opposition leaders. It appears that he in fact survived, likely through a double- in other words, another zebra who took his place. He appeared via live feed from Avalon, apparently granted asylum by the Griffin Republic of Aldorna.
“In a speech, the Caesar questioned the legitimacy of Legate Khotek’s new regime, claiming that he was more than willing to peacefully pave the way for a transition in power. He described it as a takeover by military coup and called upon the greater powers to refuse to recognize the new leader of the Holy Zebrican Empire.
“The new regime has yet to reply or comment on the matter, and it is still unclear what stake Aldorna has in the conflict, as they claim responsibility for evacuating the Caesar. When asked about their stance on the matter, both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna offered no comment.
“The situation continues to rapidly evolve, and it is expected that an official response from Zebrica will come soon…”
* * *
Two hours later. And I will never forget that voice. Calm. Collected. Yet with that guttural undertone.
“-ago we reported that Caesar Raj’M’Kora is, in fact, alive and well and has received asylum under The Griffin Republic of Aldorna and has denounced the new regime in Roam. Only minutes ago, we received an official response from Legate Khotek himself.”
“Mi’h nalmuf sifan-”
“It is regrettable that my fellow legates resorted to such a barbaric act, an act which I too condemn. No zebra, no servant of the Empire since the rule of Caesar Hilamnyama thousands of years ago ever committed such a high crime against their master. Only those legates, those barbarians, and the small circle that acted with them were responsible. As soon as the situation in Roam has stabilized, an investigational committee will be organized to identify those responsible. Their memory will be condemned. No further mention of their names will be permitted from that point on, and all existing icons of their visages will be destroyed, though their families will be compensated for their deaths. Their families will not share their punishment or shame. That is not our way.
“I understand that many both within and without The Holy Zebrican Empire call the legitimacy of my rule into question. I assure you- all of you- that I was elected by the senior members of the Senate and approved by the High Court to serve under emergency powers, and I accepted. No other living legate has as much experience or seniority, and I am in firm belief that I will lead this country to victory against the minotaur insurgency. We will show them their place. They will submit as fellow servants to the Empire.
“Now my own challenge to Caesar Raj’M’Kora. You claim that you would have willingly allowed for a transition of power anyway, which means that you no longer seek to become our leader in any case. So would you have elected one of those legates, knowing now that they planned to kill you? Would you have elected one of those transgressors to lead our nation? I doubt it. So who would you have nominated in this day and age? Who? Name another legate of similar standing. The Senate and the High Court will consider your nominations.”
* * *
One week later.
“-has finally allowed access to the press in a stunning reversal of policy. Legate Khotek claims that all minotaur and minotaur-supporting insurgents have been neutralized within the city of Roam, although he will continue to institute martial law and maintain a strict curfew in the event of possible infiltration until the end of the conflict. Citizens are not barred from the Bazaar but are encouraged to limit activities in public spaces for their own safety. Legate Khotek also announced that he will begin the counteroffensive as soon as they’ve combed the city from rooftop to waterway. There still has been no response from former caesar Raj’M’Kora regarding Legate Khotek’s remark last week. Officials from Aldorna maintain that he is in good hands and in good health.
“In other news, the hostage crisis regarding the Almarinian gem tanker Seashine has ended. While the gem pirates were allowed to seize much of the tanker’s cargo, all hostages were accounted for with only minor injuries. At a press conference earlier today, Princess Luna stated that Equestria will step up its security for gem tankers in the Almarinian Sea and will take a more hardline approach to hostage situations in the future, criticizing Almarinian authorities for conceding to the pirates’ demands. Her remarks have drawn a wave of criticism…”
* * *
Five months later.
“-that King Giannis of the minotaurs has surrendered. Almond Butter has more.”
“King Giannis unconditionally surrendered to the Zebrican Legion. He states that they will submit to their demands, only requesting that all further hostilities cease and that Legate Khotek allow equinitarian aid workers to enter the isle of Crete. Legate Khotek responded that he will remove the blockade from their ports only after all of his militants have fully disarmed.
“Princess Celestia and Princess Luna again withhold their comments on the conflict itself but express their relief that the fighting is over and pledge further equinitarian aid as needed.
“Former caesar Raj’M’Kora also broke his silence and similarly expressed gratitude and hopes for swift reconciliation between the Empire and the minotaurs. However, he also expresses concern regarding the blockade of the Cretan ports, stating that denying basic necessities to civilians constitutes what’s known as a ‘war crime.’ He condemned such an act and offered no further comments. Back to you, Trowel.”
“And now we have Hal Emberwind from the Aldornan Consulate in Canterlot. Thank you for joining us, Hal.”
“Thank you for having me.”
“Now I’m sure many of our listeners are wondering the same thing we are- what exactly is a war crime…?”
* * *
Two weeks later. Three days after we were married.
“-Senate and High Court have approved Khotek as the four-hundred-ninety-second Caesar of the Holy Zebrican Empire, a responsibility that he accepted. The international community in general, including The Principality of Equestria and The Griffin Republic of Aldorna has not recognized Khotek as the rightful leader of Roam while the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court continue to investigate the accusations of war crimes against the minotaur people.”
Then came Princess Celestia’s unmistakable voice.
“It is not a question of leadership ability. Khotek has displayed he has exceptional talent in that regard. It is a question of whether or not he deliberately committed war crimes against the minotaur people. Equestria’s decision to recognize Khotek as Caesar of The Holy Zebrican Empire is pending the ICJ’s evaluation of the litigations against Zebrica and the ICC’s individual investigation of Khotek himself.”
Then he went back to the reporter’s tone.
“In other news, it has been recently noted that Princess Luna has been increasingly absent from Parliamentary meetings. Both she and Princess Celestia declined to comment…”
The storyteller smiled briefly, knowingly.
* * *
Two months later.
“-has reached their decision regarding the allegations of war crimes levied against The Holy Zebrican Empire and Khotek personally. Shutterbug, our correspondent in Shropshire, Almarinia has more.”
“The International Court of Justice investigations committee addressed the press today, declaring that Zebrica is not guilty of war crimes against the minotaur people. The International Criminal Court reached a similar decision regarding then-Legate Khotek. With me is Think Tank, one of the members of the committee. Miss Tank, this ruling will certainly raise a great deal of controversy. What was the reasoning behind it?”
“Well, y’see, in order for either the ICJ- which as a ‘minder tries whole countries or organizations- n’ the ICC- which tries individules- t’declare an act as a war crime, there has t’be undeniable evidence that such a war crime was actually committed. In this case, it was the notion that Zebrica n’ Khotek specifically denied equinitarian aid t’the civilian populace o’ the isle o’ Crete. While there is plenty o’ evidence that they blockaded Crete as a whole, there is little evidence t’suggest that Zebrica or Khotek specifically targeted civvies with the naval blockade.”
“Are you suggesting that these civilians were collateral then?”
“Unfortunate collateral, yeah. Very unfortunate collateral. It’s like usin’ pesticides. You kill the hoppers n’ all the other nasty buggers that chew your crops up, but you also kill off pollinators jus’ the same.”
“Not to point out the obvious, but these are unarmed civilians we’re talking- mothers and children. Not bees or butterflies or some other bug.”
“Oh, nob off! Please don’t twist my words like that! It’s just an analogy! Now look ‘ere, it’s unfortunate that all those civvies suffered from the blockade, n’ my heart goes out t’the families affected, but the rulin’- which was unanimous- remains. There was no bias- there weren’t even any stripes on the committees for Sparklesake. Civvies weren’t specifically targeted, n’ so Zebrica n’ Khotek are not guilty of such a war crime. They jus’ cast a wide net, n’ that resulted in everyone in Crete gettin’ affected.”
“Despite the fact that the Legion barred equinitarian aid from entering the country?”
“N’ other goods, both from legitimate shipping companies n’ smugglers. We had t’take all evidence int’account, includin’ the materials smuggled from Aldorna t’Crete- materials that could have been used t’make weapons o’ war. The minotaurs did, in fact, testify that such smugglin’ did take place. I’m not tryin’ t’cast the minotaurs in a bad light. Honestly, this whole conflict was a horrible mess t’begin with. It’s just that we had t’look at the whole picture in a comprehensive, holistic manner, n’ we made our decision accordingly.”
Back to the first reporter.
“And now we’re going to take a look at the response from both Equestria and Aldorna regarding the ruling, and let me say now- they’re a mixed bag…”
* * *
A few days later.
“-with me here today is Professor Motoupepo from Princess Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns. Professor, what can you tell us about the developing energy crisis?”
Though the professor speaks in clear Equestrian, there is most definitely a Zebrican accent to it.
“Oh boy. It’s a very complex situation right now. The minotaurs destroyed a number of Zebrican oil rigs and refineries, collapsed coal mines, and targeted much of their infrastructure. We’re talking highways, canals, shipping yards, even tankers. I think you just reported a few minutes ago that oil and coal imports were down by nearly forty percent last month, and I don’t think that’s going to improve anytime soon. Frankly, I feel we’re going to be turning to Almarinia for coal at some point. What hasn’t been often reported, however, is that the Empire’s demand for high-quality gems has remained constant even despite the end of the uprising, putting a strain on Equestria’s own supplies…”
* * *
Two weeks later.
“-find it odd that they didn’t bring any dragons, minotaurs, or hay, even any zebras on the investigations committee is all I’m saying. Why set up a committee for investigation allegations of war crimes made entirely up of races who haven’t seen war for centuries?”
“The point was t’review evidence of the allegations o’ targeted war crimes against civvies without the cloud of bias, Barge. Ask a minotaur, n’ they’ll definitely claim it happened. Ask a zebra, they’ll claim it didn’t! Ask a dragon, well, they’re with the Legion! They’ll claim the same thing! I’m sorry if the decision the committee made was a decision you didn’t like, but with all respect, it’s probably the best you’re going t’get in this day n’ age.”
“Then if you continue to defend the zebras, why-”
“I’m not defending their actions! I’m doing my bloody job without any confirmation bias unlike you!”
* * *
Four months later.
“-we have dispatched search boats int’the area. Rest assured, we will find them.”
“For our listeners who just tuned in, that was Captain Brass Buckler of the Shropshire Provincial Guard. The Almarinian gem tanker Lucid has gone missing. What’s most worrying was that this tanker had escort courtesy of Equestria. All attempts to hail the escort vessels were met with static or no response. The fate of the crews is unknown, but if zebra gem pirates are behind this, this would be their boldest attack ever…”
* * *
The next day.
“-reports that an Almarinian search party located the Lucid and confirmed the worst- the gem tanker has been seized by zebra gem pirates. They also reported signs of wreckage of the Equestrian escort ships and found no sign of their crew or any life vessels. They are feared dead. In addition, when attempting to give chase to the vessel, they were fired upon with powerful anti-ship weaponry jury-rigged to the deck by the pirates and lost two of their own ships and crew, whereupon they were forced to retreat. It is unknown how the gem pirates managed to obtain such weaponry. Caesar Khotek denounces the pirates’ actions and pledges support in efforts to apprehend them and free any hostages they may have taken. He stopped short, however, of allowing Equestrian or Almarinian vessels to enter Zebrican territory.
“We will continue to report more as the story develops. NPR sends its condolences to the families of the lost and taken…”
* * *
Two weeks later.
“-can all breathe easy, fillies and gentlecolts of Equestria. Princess Celestia announced this morning that the Wonderbolts, Equestria’s greatest fliers, have successfully rescued all crew members of the Lucid, now currently in safe hooves in the southern city of Tail Aviv. All seventeen crew members are accounted for, and only one received serious injury during the escape. While no name has been disclosed, the aforementioned pony is expected to make a full recovery.
“The success came at a grave cost, however. Four members of the Wonderbolts were confirmed killed in action as a result of the fierce gunfight that broke out during the rescue. They were reported to have drawn gunfire away from the captive crew members, and one especially valiant mare used her own body as a shield against an explosive device known as a hoof-grenade. Princess Celestia expressed her condolences to the Wonderbolts and the friends and family of those who gave their lives so that others may live, and she stated that they will be posthumously awarded the Order of the Alicorn, the highest military honor available.
“We are joined by Dux Valorum of the Roaman Legion. Thank you for allowing us to interview you, sir.”
“Do not honor me yet. I have given nothing to you.”
“Ah… very well. Dux Valorum, Caesar Khotek stated repeatedly during this hostage crisis that he would pledge the Legion’s support in tracking down the Lucid. What happened here?”
“The KSV held that the gem pirates, which we continue to disavow, were operating in international seas, and so that is where we searched, working closely with both Equestrian and Almarinian volunteers.”
“Did it ever occur to the Legion or to the KSV that the pirates could have been anchored closer to home for you?”
“The, ah, the possibility was considered, yes.”
“But was it ever explored?”
“I’m sure that, ah, our Legionaries have combed our outermost territories.”
“Can you personally confirm that they did, though?”
“You would have to speak to another Dux or a Legate. If I may speak my mind for a minute, however, the more pressing issue to the whole of The Holy Zebrican Empire is that your military deployed their most elite squadron into Zebrican airspace without either prior notice or prior approval. What do you have to say to that?”
“Well, actually, Princess Celestia mentioned that in her address this morning. She said it was… let me take a look here… the result of a ‘happy miscommunication’ and apologized personally to Caesar Khotek.”
“That still does not erase the fact that Equestria violated Zebrican airspace, and furthermore…”
* * *
One month later.
“Pua men ef ha’ema enna-”
“It is my understanding that The Principality of Equestria continues to express concerns that the Empire is not doing its part to reign in zebra gem pirates. Will all due respect to the Princesses and the Equestrian Parliament, we are doing all we can with the resources available. Gems, the means to combat the pirate scourge, are the very thing they steal, preventing us from mounting proper raids on their strongholds. As evidenced by the Lucid crisis, they have acquired more powerful weaponry through the black market and from raids made on military bases we were forced to abandon back during the minotaur uprising. Without the proper means to combat them, efforts to flush them out and apprehend them will be fruitless.
“And in spite of all this, I must also point out that Equestria continues to do nothing about their own oil pirates, bandits, whatever you choose to call them. Another group was captured at Mosambi- eight total, bringing the number of felons to twenty-six. We will extradite them to Equestrian territories in exchange for extradition of apprehended zebra pirates currently held at your Shattered Hoof Ridge facility.
“This is also without touching upon Equestria’s continued violation of our territorial borders with their task forces. Even if their intentions are just in locating gem pirates strongholds, I cannot condone their repeated breaching of international law…”
* * *
One week later.
“-have to respectfully disagree, Doctor Eckhardt. This could have all been avoided. So many already saw this energy crisis coming! I’m surprised The Great Exodus wasn’t already enough to get people to cut back, but apparently we already forgot about that! Hay, I’m wondering who thought it was a good idea to base an energy system off of an exclusively foreign resource in the first place!”
And now a clearly Aldornan accent.
“I’m not saying I don’t agree with your points, Motoupepo. I’m saying that the world is by and large unwilling to try for efficiency. Power-guzzling machines have been and will continue to be the trend. It would have been costly to convert to the Almarinian hybrid system as suggested earlier, and right now, it’ll be even costlier.”
“It’s cost untold numbers of lives already. I fail to see why legislation for all three global superpowers keeps failing to see that! If anything, now is the best time to push for efficiency standards to reduce dependency on traded coal and gems!”
“And I’m saying it’s already too late. It’s no use. At this point, it’s either continue using the systems already in place or switching to the hybrid system, which would take years to implement, involve an astronomical price tag, and stunt foreign trade among all global superpowers after. That last point, by the way, would strain Equestrian-Zebrican relations even further. It’s just too late to do that…”
‘Too late.’ A pair of words I’d started hearing more and more often over the radio…
* * *
Three months later.
“-will not stand idly by as the sovereignty of the Empire continues to be violated! From this point on, any Equestrian who enters Zebrican borders or waters will be apprehended, and any attempt to resist will be treated as hostility! Know I have the backing of all of the Zebrican people behind me, and we will not hesitate to establish order!”
* * *
The next day.
“This is Golden Fawn reporting from just outside the United Nations building in Manehattan, where the General Assembly has gone into uproar over the escalating tensions between Equestria and Zebrica. The press were barred from the meeting due to how intense the caucus had become. In fact, before we were escorted out, the chairs were unsuccessful in maintaining decorum among the delegates. I’m afraid that until the meeting is adjourned, we won’t… I’m sorry, but it appears that the Zebrican delegation is leaving the grounds! They are walking right out of the United Nations General Assembly, and I’m seeing the delegation from the Security Council do the same! Uh, sir! Sir! Pardon, I’m with NPR! Can we please have a moment? Sir? Sir! Excuse me could we please…?”
* * *
The same day. And I’ll never forget that somber tone.
The voice of Princess Celestia.
“Good morning, my faithful subjects. I’m sure by now many of you are well aware of the rising tensions between Equestria and The Holy Zebrican Empire. While yes, it is true that in order to apprehend and neutralize gem pirate threats for our brothers and sisters in Almarinia we had to deploy our task forces into Zebrican territory, it was a necessary petty crime. And as this continues to be brought up in the Caesar’s many speeches, I continue to object the actions of oil bandits that believe that just because the zebras do it, so can they. Shame. Shame. On. You.
“The discoveries today will only serve to add more fuel to the proverbial fire. It was proven today with undeniable evidence from our Aldornan cohorts that the Legion has, in fact, been supplying the very gem pirates they claimed to be suppressing, intentionally allowing them to obtain the gems they so desperately crave. This contradicts statements made by the Caesar claiming they needed those gems to combat the pirates. As such actions have led to the deaths of far too many good mares and stallions, I can only condemn their actions.”
Pause.
“Many of you have written to me expressing worry- worry that… this may lead to the most tragic, the most horrible of all things.
“War.
“Understand, my little ponies, that such a declaration cannot be taken lightly. Very few outside of my sister and I truly know its implications and its disastrous consequences. I… no. My sister and I must ask that you all cease to believe that war is a viable option. None of you know what horrors it entails. We have known nothing but peace for over six-hundred years. It has been that way for a reason.”
Pause.
“No one in this country of ours wants war. I must strongly emphasize that. But... if war should come…”
Pause.
“I pray it does not come to that.”
* * *
Three weeks later.
“-but sir-”
“You will refer to me as ‘Your Excellency.’”
“Your Excellency, there hasn’t been a single emergency Parliamentary meeting that’s been documented for six-hundred years. The last one was during the onset of The Almarinian War against the then-Griffin Kingdom of Aldorna. Have you… has Parliament voted on a declaration of… of war?”
“I will neither confirm nor deny that.”
“But Prince Blueblood, what else could warrant an emergency meeting?”
“I don’t know! Fetch yourself a history book or something if you insist on asking!”
“Your Excellency, does either Princess Celestia or Princess Luna- or even Princess Cadance know about this meeting?”
“No. What could they possibly know about what the ponies of this country want? I love my dear aunt to death, but she can’t possibly comprehend all the strife those striped felons are causing while seated on her golden throne. The time has come to teach those zebras that their treachery has consequences.”
“Then… Parliament has voted on a declaration of war, your Excellency?”
“... I will neither confirm nor deny that.”
* * *
The next day.
“Good evening, my faithful subjects. I understand that even as your Princess of the Night, I do not speak often to the press. That is for personal reasons. But personal reasons have no place at a time so dire. While it is true that if sufficient members of Parliament deem it necessary, they can call forth an emergency meeting with or without sister, myself, or Princess Cadance presiding, this vote for a declaration of war against Zebrica goes against everything that we and all people of Equestria, not just ponies, seek out of this international crisis. My sister, myself, and Princess Cadance will veto the declaration of war.
“... ah… yes, do you have a question?”
“Your Highness, doesn’t… the… Parliament actually have the power to overturn a veto with a three-fourths’ majority?”
A pause. A deathly long pause.
“Do you imply that we should go to war?”
An audible gulp. No response.
“Do you. Imply. That we should go to war?”
“W-W-Well…”
Another audible gulp. Another pause.
“This press call is adjourned. Leave my sight at once. All of you.”
* * *
Three. Days. Later.
“Good…”
“... greetings, my faithful subjects.”
“It seems like not too long ago I addressed all of you.
“I regret that… the worst of times now lie ahead of us. That which I feared and tried to prevent…”
“Parliament has overturned our unanimous royal veto.
* * *
I was thirty-seven years old.
* * *
Footnote: Frost- Level Up! Level 21 Reached!
Perk Added: Radiohead- It’s time to tune in. New speech options are available as you listen to radio broadcasts, even mid-conversation. Musical Mayhem triggered by ambient radio music is more likely to increase your CHA score.
Unlockables added: Soundtrack- Through the Airwaves
Last Sentinel has updated twice in one month. I can now die happily.
Or at least I could if the story didn't still have so many chapters to go. We aren't even back in the story, we are still in the flashback. I predict about a billion more chapters to go at this rate.
4443163 *looks at the time* But I just... how did you...?
*flops*
Yeahhhh, TLS has plenty of life left in it. Hope everything's still coherent by the time I resume work on the "present-day" scenario. >.>
This reminds me of the bits of recordings and messages I sometimes stumble upon when I played Fallout 3 and NV. Even though it was a video game, some of those gave me chills, and this chapter, gave me a sense of dread as well. Nice pick with the music btw
Blast, I was expecting a chapter for Ranger of Seamane this time- but its nice to have it reasonably fresh in my mind, since I'm tracking ~75 stories. Kinda a pain really. At this point I let updates build until there's a good 10-20k words.
Though I'll be honest, I didn't expect to have such a relatively short chapter reaching up to this point... I was hoping for a few academy scenes as well... Unless that's part of the plot and he secretly joined the guards.
Warning: Rambling ahead!
But now I wait for the war chapters- which I will then think about in terms of game mechanics... (Crusade ALL THE KINGS. Because its hard to Victoria all the twos, and difficult to Europa all the Universes). It's actually rather useful to better understand what's going on (I want my Victoria 3... DEVELOP FASTER PARADOX INTERACTIVE! And make it overlap EU4 with a savegames converter... 860AD to 1940AD *nerdgasm* )
Grand Strategy genre best genre. (Tragically without any real apps for it)
4443277 I'm glad. That's pretty close to the overall feeling I was trying to emulate with this installment. Happy you enjoyed it and the music. ^^
4443401 Um... alright? *isn't sure what he's supposed to feel when someone comments that he was expecting an update for a different story*
Pfft. No. You'll be getting a Littlehorn scene soon enough, though.
Um... I... don't know what to make of that rambling. At all.
4443495
I saw the favorites icon light up, and since Seamane was one of a few that was due for an update... Anyways, I'm curious for his employment at Littlehorn, as one of the more interesting (and unresolved) parts of the history lesson. Though in hindsight it doesn't make that much sense to include it in the chapter, it'd just seem odd without any real significance. As you said, it will be told soon enough... Until then I wait in anticipation.
And rambling is rambling, it's not supposed to make sense! (I blame school. It's making me extra-crazy! That and I haven't been able to sack Rome since I conquered it in retaliation for the pope calling a crusade on my Norse comrades. )
Damn. Just, damn. It all seems so minor in other stories. They see the propaganda, think good intentions gone bad but beyond some stories discovering secret plots, you never get a scope for it. This, is that scope.
I wonder, has anyone written a story on the Wonderbolt's attack on the tanker? That would defineitly make for some good reading.
I liked the time frames, but I'm just wondering here -Are they all in order, or mixed up? At that point where it said it was two weeks after the wedding, is it ahead of all the other radio broadcasts? (Apologies if that doesn't seem very clear.)
I'm very interested to see what Aldorna could do in the war. I get that its pretty close to Zebrica, but the Zebra have sent out Gem Pirates so I'd be surprised if they willingly sided with Zebrica.
Think Tank's scenes were pretty cool, I really got the feel she was just trying to do her job and vented on the reporters who just didn't get it. Hmmm, that makes me wonder who was asking her the question about why there weren't any Zebra on the council? Was it a Zebra?
I really get the feeling that Blueblood fucked up. It seems he convinced the Senate. I doubt he'll be a popular person for a while.
At the end though, I think you really managed to portray Celestia's morose tone. The feels.
There was a lot of meat in this chapter, and I think you wrote it all well. But it seems that there is a lot happening in very little words, so there isn't as much to talk about. This is okay though, I'll be honest, the slice of life/romance was dragging out a bit when the war is a big focus in the upcoming future. I know Nightingale was important and all, and the writing was good, but the story really slowed down for a bit.
I doubt that Frost will be there for the attack on Littlehorn with the Pink Cloud. Maybe he'd be in the Dead Boys by then?
He calls it a war crime, then says he's ok with it?
4444606 Glad you liked the unique style of this chapter, and to clarify, the "xxx time later" refers to xxx time after the previous report. They're in sequential order, in other words.
I'm not sure if anyone did a one-shot on the Wonderbolts' rescue mission. I would agree it would be good reading if done well.
As for the part about Think Tank, I'm glad you particularly like those. And... I leave that up to the imagination.
Parliament, actually. The Senate would be a Zebrican thing. And... you'd be surprised.
And I'm glad. The minimalist touch there helped with that, I feel.
Heh... then get ready for things to ramp up real quick. You'll see how things pan out.
4445428 FFFF- I made quite a few errors in this chapter regarding that. Should be fixed by now. Thanks for catching those.
4446139 Just checking - it would hardly be out of character for a politician.
The Beginning of the end...... and the end of the beginning.
Sometimes its best to portray history in minimal snippets then dragging it out. History is made by key events, certain decisions, and outrageous discoveries all happening at once or near enough. History itself has to be broken up into different subsections in order to thoroughly portray every aspect. It would take to long to portray every detail from every angle. That's why we have multiple writers multiple stories that are filling in the holes left behind by Fallout Equestria. The fun comes in picking what story bests fits these holes, even if you have to ignore certain information provided by the author for background....
I approve of how you portrayed these events while still showing how important these events are.
I will await your next posting.
4447680 Wow. You put that together... pretty beautifully. I'm glad you enjoyed this installment. Thank you. =)
4447734 I have moments of clear thought commenting, usually followed by poorly thought out pieces of mental spittle.
Your welcome by the way. =)
Whoooooo boy... end of the beginning, beginning of the end indeed. Though I did enjoy the style in which you laid it all out. Two years and suddenly it hits that the war begins... and I assume this gets into the origins of just what made Frost what he is now.
While this is small, I'm actually rather glad you're keeping the whole Frost/Luna thing toned down. I know, I know; I've commented on it before and leaned a bit towards dislike of it, but the way it's been done has made it... tolerable. Regardless, you'll find me eagerly awaiting the next chapter.
4451235 Glad you enjoyed both installments, and... yes, things are about to pick up very quickly now. I realize the whole Luna-Frost relationship has rubbed some the wrong way, but I hope I continue forward with it in a tasteful manner.
As soon as I saw what you were doing with the reflection phase of this story, I was wondering how you would do the wonderbolts rescue. I must say, of the ways you could have done it, this was pretty much perfect. Even allows for wiggle room in interpretations of the event with different stories. Well played. EDIT: Oh, and for the record I thoroughly enjoyed what you did with the Frost and Luna romance. It is a rather pivotal thing for the character, and story as a whole. It deserves time in the spotlight.
4461698 Glad you liked it. One thing about news reports? They don't always get the story right- or tell the whole thing. Wanted to capture that through this chapter and inspire the same sort of skepticism.
As for the relationship, it's a mixed bag when it comes to opinions of it. I just hope I can continue to pull it off in a tasteful manner.
4608282 *blinks* That's one way to put it. I do hope you enjoy the rest of the story, that said. =)
Had some catch up to play with this story, but finally got around to reading through the recent chapters. Wish I had some sort of useful commentary to bring to the table but you handled the entire scenario in Zebrica with the same remarkably potent blend of detail, believable and engaging dialogue, and somehow manage to keep the plot rolling without it really getting bogged down by anything. You really do have a talent for making a particular culture or scene pop out with a sort of tasty believably that I'm downright envious of.
So since I got no constructive or in depth analysis to throw your way I think I'll just run through my random, running thoughts of the last few chapters, pretty much abridged and filtered through the filter of writing this at, like, 3:30 AM.
I find it funny that Frost actually proposed and married Luna, not because I find that unbelievable, you pull it off well, but because I could've sworn that Frost said somewhere in the present time (or quasi-present time, like where he's with Rig) that he's never actually had sex. Like, it's been implied he's done everything up to sex, but I have some semi-clear memory of him saying he's never actually "done it" per se. Which is weird, because he's been married to Luna by the end of the current chapter for, like, a year and a half, maybe two years? And they haven't had sex, after being married? Suspicious.
Anyway, apparently we've got a horrible death-forest of ultimate doom going on here; and yeah, willing to be that's coming back sometime. Forget what its called, but the horrible death-forest of ultimate doom makes me think that either A) The forest isn't natural and is some kind of extraterrestrial or extradimensional infection on the planet, or B) the forest is the original, natural enviornment of the planet, and the advent of equinekind is actually unnatural in origin, like ponies and/or zebra originate from a different world. Mainly I think this because I got no clue how ponies come to evolve in a world apparently so lethal and prevalent that it takes an epic-tier magic fire barrier just to keep it kinda sorta contained.
And hey, we finally get to meet the Night Guard. Creepy bunch. Theory time! The armor is possessed by the spirits of the original Night Guard that were loyal to Luna during her Nightmare Moon, er... "phase". Coooould be that some of the characters we met are the originals, given we know Frost isn't aging, so the armor might halt aging or whatever, but its also quite possible that it does that, and retains the personalities or souls of its original owners. Might explain why Frost keeps getting a hyper-sensitive voice in his head telling him not to think of Luna in "that way". Oh, that'd totally explain why he wouldn't have had sex with her despite being married to her. When he gets bonded to that armor if he's got a hyper religious zealot personality in there that worships Luna as a literal goddess it'd be next to impossible to get it on. But that's just my crack theory. The Night Guard got some potent abilities, especially that temporal stuff.
Kind of makes me think Celestia needs some badass special forces. Luna always gets too much play in these kind of stories as the one with the awesome black ops team.
Best scene in Zebrica was with the shopowner who enchants Frost's balisong thingies. Loved all the tasty flavor in the massive market area and just the way the moments there drew me in.
Oh, then shit went down. Its a mouse's eye view, but the momentousness of events still hit even from just Frost's limited perspective. Really got nothing to say here though other than that's one sexy Praetor. Zebra Gear Solid: Revengence! Would've paid money to see Frost's face when he saw her deflect bullets with a sword. Hoping to see more of her at some point, but even if she's just a one-off character she certainly left an impression.
And next up we got a lot of snap-shot views of news events leading into the war. Gives just the right amount of detail I think. Happy you didn't mention which Wonderbolts bought it. Means if I want to reference Last Sentinel I got no worries about if/when I do memory orbs with the Wonderbolts myself.
Hm, I wonder, I can't recall if its ever mentioned in the original FoE if it was Equestria that declared war first? Not really important, but I do find it an interesting detail here. The ponies really didn't have a clue what they were getting into, whereas the zebra, they've already had a war with the minotaurs and have plenty of experience with warfare besides. Zebra know not to take war lightly, whereas the nobility of Equestria seems to think its kind of a game. I guess I can't blame them, I mean, they're idea of armed conflict up to that point involves pie throwing and harsh language. Still, I almost find it hard to believe that the Princess Emergency Political Override Power also has an override. I can just see Celestia doing the largest facehoof in the history of facehoofs at that point. Declaring war like that, there's really only one thing I can think of that quantifies what the Princesses must be thinking about their little ponies:
.
So, yes, still very much enjoying things, and equally eager and terrified to see just how bad this goes for Frost as the war kicks off. Carry on.
4616015 Super big comment! Yisssssss!
Well, there's a few reasons for that. Hopefully I'll remember to address them. >.> There's also the fact that while Frost having a relationship with Luna is apparently acceptable to the readers that have said anything about it, not quite so sure about a sensual one.
*looks at the next two paragraphs* ... all I gotta say is that you come up with very interesting ideas early in the morning (alsoit'sLunarGuardinthiscontext >.>).
Ehhhh, Celestia does get the Solar Guard. While they don't participate in covert operations, they aren't to be taken lightly. They would be pretty piss-poor guards if they were taken lightly. XD
Glad you liked that scene. Loooot of work went into that. *mumblegrumbles about how that seems to occur every late chapter*
Well... Faraal's a minor character, maybe, but for someone with her own theme? Won't be the last time you'll see her.
Snapshot. I like that phrasing. Well, expect to see something along the liens of that for the upcoming installment- granted, from Frost's perspective this time.
I don't believe it was ever mentioned. Regarding the disbelief of the veto override, even if there was no way to override a veto from the princesses, the people of Equestria would find a way to wage their war against Zebrica. You'll see... something of the sort happen later.
Thank you for the interesting commentary. Hopefully you'll be enjoying the next installment soon.
4714635 Glad to hear from you again, Doomande. Now, I have actually been considering something along the lines of short stories connected to the TLSverse. After all, the TLSverse is pretty damn huge at this point, and I'm a still writing... slowly... Reflection Twenty-Two is coming, I swear.
As for your corrections, I'm not sure if connected words require spacing when connected via ellipsis when they would normally be connected by dash (pegasus-esque to pegasus...esque). If you can confirm that, by all means call me out on it again.
Those other two are definite errors, though. Thanks for pointing them out. =)
4716152
You are properly right so I am not going to use any google-fu to look into that ellipse case. And it is good to be back.
As things are looking up does it seem like I am getting more and more time between my hands, so if you ever would want an extra helper on your team and one to spot those small things are you always more than welcome to give me a little private poke about it
4737204 You're welcome. Hope you continue to enjoy the story. =)
4740818 That was actually the inspiration for the scene! Funnily enough, it ends up synching up pretty well, especially toward the end- at least in my opinion.
My oh my you are really treating us well this time, a whole chapter almost made up of your strong dialogue! I would ohh so wish that others tried to do things like this when they have plotpoints to show, because exposition that are told like this are are alive and interesting instead of the dull info dumps that others make.
Yet again this time can we see that you are taking a step away from the tone of Fallout and with that Fo:E as well, me thinking on your energy discussion between Doctor Eckhardt and Motoupepo. It is nice to see some commentary on our own world and the situation that we (soon) are in, but even with it being so fitting do I feel that it somewhat are going past the originals tone. I am still hit by some jetlag and sleep deprivation since my flight was an hour and a half late, so I am sadly not in a mindset to go into great details about what I mean with this segment. All I can say is that while it is a neat little piece of commentary do I feel that it miss past some greater point, because in the Fallout setting did they actually try to solve their energy problem, and actually did so by inventing micro fusion, the thing was that it just was all too late to do any difference... and that vault tec was the giant company of jerks that they were.
And a last little thing before the nitpicks, yea I would say that the story should be marked as both mature and gore, you go into some rather detailed pictures at times after all
Nitpicks away!
"We have known nothing but peace for over six-hundred years. It has been that way for a reason." Sorry but what about the day of Discord or the changeling invasion? While I do know that they ain´t classified as wars and only lasted a day or so would I still be so cheeky and say that those two incidents broke the peace.
"Caesar Khotek denounces the pirates’ actions and pledges support in efforts to apprehend them and free any hostages they may have taken." This sentence are missing a space in the beginning, it laying up to a period
" I… no, we must ask that you all cease to believe that war is a viable option." What kind of we did you mean to use here? The royal We of both of the princesses, or the we of the people?
“You will refer to me as ‘your Excellency." Your E in Excellency is in capital, so your Your should be it as well, or so does my google-fu say
4789057 Glad this particular installment worked out so well. It's a new narrative style for me- one that I was itching to try out to simulate the passage of so much time.
The energy crisis isn't a sudden development. It's been sneaking up on them as demonstrated in recent installments, such as Zoleks mentioning the switch to gem-powered engines that amplify pedaling for bikes. Like you said, it was a matter of too-little, too-late, and I hope that was the message that got across.
As for the story rating, I'm considering doing it.
For your first nitpick, those incidents did certainly break the peace, but for the most part relations between members of the international community remained friendly for all that time. I still think it's a valid statement.
Fixed.
Fixed.
AAAAAnd fixed. Thank you kindly for your comment and notices, Doomande. ^^
GGGGGGGG Oh shet. Fucken Blueballs with his money fetish.
This would’ve been done like eight hours ago, but while I was in the middle of typing it up, I saw some fanart that sent me into a jealous rage, and I sort of lost the ability to think rationally for a while. Alas, I digress.
Well this was certainly different, and all the more intriguing for it. I don’t think I can possibly imagine a better way to bring the story forward in time as efficiently as you’ve done here, and that was definitely for the best. As much as I like learning about Frost’s past, it was high time that we moved forward a little bit closer to the ‘present’ day at Stalliongrad.
I really like the gradual progression of events in this chapter, jumps in time notwithstanding. Considering that kkat left this part of FoE’s history a completely blank slate, that gives you a lot of freedom to interpret and develop it as you so choose, and develop it you did. You did a great job conveying a sense of mounting tension with the narrative style of this chapter. As things draw closer and closer to the outbreak of war, foreign relations continue to devolve towards the point of no return.
I think one of the things I liked the most about this chapter was the inclusion of Zebrican gem pirates. We knew from FoE that things got out of hand because the zebras’ gem demands weren’t met, but that was about the extent of what we knew. To see that they would outright attack and capture ships transporting gems and even go so far as to murder their escorts really drives home how desperate they were to get their hooves on their coveted resource. I did take extra special note of the Wonderbolts being assigned to the task of rescuing the captives. I also took extra special note of an unnamed mare perishing in the attempt. I will pretend this mare is Fleetfoot or another unnamed Wonderbolt because of very obvious reasons.
Huh. I never imagined the peoples of Equestria would actually vote for a war. Equestria’s parliament must be full of assholes (heh, Blueblood is there, of course parliament is full of assholes) to completely disregard the peaceful ways of ponies in favor of the violence and chaos that war brings. And so we’ve arrived at the beginning of the end. With a chapter title like that, I’m sure some serious stuff is about to go down, and I have a pretty good idea of what’s coming. Until then… Tag! You’re it.