//------------------------------// // Chapter 4: An issue we cant ignore and an offer he can't refuse // Story: Her Whispers // by TheAtomicBomb //------------------------------// “You’ve got to be kidding me!” “No, sister.” “But she’s been through so much! Their love has to blossom to heal her shattered heart and soul!” “Yeah well, get over it.” “I waited a year just for another cliff-hanger!?” Celestia slammed her book down on to the small metal framed table, That sat squarely in the middle of the empty balcony that overlooked the castle garden and beyond that their flourishing kingdom. Causing their teacups to rattle. "Why did you give me spoilers!?” she folded her forelegs in a huff and glared at her unfazed sister. “A year isn't that long, and I told you so I wouldn't have to listen to you whine for the next nine months until the next book is released. Your unhealthy obsession with a fictional Spanish hunk of a stallion is very disturbing sister. Even your star pupil Twilight Sparkle seems to feel awkward when you discuss that book series.” Princess Luna pointed to the book accusingly giving a slightly disgusted look at the title ‘Their Reflections.’ “I am saddened that you can not see the beauty of this tale Luna.” The older princess sighed, still adamant to read and defend her novel. “You hated it too until Princess Cadence forced you to read her copy.” “I'll admit that I am not a fantastical theories or romancing history, but it's an engaging read. I suppose you could say I was…” The elder princess bit her lip trying to hold back a giggle. “Please, don't.” “Shown the light!” “Uuuurg” The sisters shared a restrained smile before breaking out into a fit of giggles. After the many years that had past under their, they had learned to appreciate the small moments of happiness that they had such as this. As the laughter subsided, the Princesses resumed their usual royal façade. “Speaking of Love, how is Cadence?" "She is well. However, I am concerned about the number of nightmares, you found surfacing in the crystal kingdom last time." "Yes, apparently it is starting to become quite a problem. We are beginning to think they have something to do with the ominous clouds that have started to pop up." "Can't you do anything about it?" Celestia pleaded. "It is very complicated and risky." "I wish I could help you, but the night and sleep realm are your domain. It would be so much easier if we were still connected to the elements of harmony." They sighed in unison, trying to brainstorm a solution. Celestia's ear's perked up as an idea sprang to mind. "Perhaps Mr Shy could do something about it." "The Baron?" "Yes. With the daughter that Blueblood was engaged to" A smile began to form on Celestia's lips. "That is not a bad idea, sister. However, will he be willing?" The younger princess's question caused her sister's grin to falter. "What do you mean?" "Well, from what I can remember... They didn't sever their engagement on the best of terms." Now the ivory alicorn was wincing. Recalling their nephew's....'passionate' description of the young mare as a 'Broken, uppity, thick, mute Pegasus that can’t even fly' as well as his blatant refusal to continue the Shy's business. Luckily it wasn't said to Mr Shy's face. But a strongly worded letter. However, Mr Shy's response to Blueblood was even more memorable. Celestia shivered thought. “It is very worrying, especially now that the Shy family has grown more influential over these short few years. They are a key feature in our economy, with wealth that is starting to rival ours." "Cancelling their engagement was for the best. Money is power and power like that in, Bluebloods hooves would have been dangerous." Luna used her magic to refill her sister's now empty teacup. "But with them not technically living on Equestria, we have no true leverage over them." "Well, that was what the engagement had been for," Celestia stated. They both hummed in thought. A soft yellow hue wrapped itself around her steaming cup of tea levitating it up to her lips “And the business falling into her brother’s hooves is just as dangerous” This murmur was followed by a slow sip. “Her brother?” Luna’s brow furrowed in thought trying to remember if there was such a stallion. Celestia nodded “Zephyr Breeze.” “Zephyr!? You mean that loose cannon?” “Exactly, A stallion such Zephyr, I am sorry to say cannot be trusted with his father’s organisation. That's why It is essential that they join our court and soon.” “Why? What’s the rush?” “Mr Shy’s retirement, of course. We want the cloud situation, neutralised, as soon as possible.” "Then maybe we should try the engagement plan again." Luna offered. "Like you said before, I highly doubt that Mr Shy will be eager to re-evaluate Bluebloods personality," Celestia said picking up her tea again. "Why must it be Blueblood?" Luna questioned. Celestia paused mid-sip and eyed her sister over the brim of her floral teacup. "As long as its anypony within our court, then it's fine. Correct?" Setting her cup back on the table, Celestia flashed her sister one of her biggest smiles. "Correct" she confirmed. “We can offer Fluttershy a debut and her pick of suitors.” "Her pick?" Luna's brow furrowed in confusion before all the pieces finally clicked together. “I see, You mean quality control because you intend to make Mr Shy pass on his organisation to his son in law instead.” It was a statement rather than a question. Dabbing her lips dry with a napkin nearby, the ivory Alicorn sat up and looked at her beloved sister. “It's a plan then. First, we finish tea, then send out a letter to the baron.” “You make that sound easy, might I remind you, Tia, that the baron is not somepony who gives something for nothing. Especially the hoof of his one and only daughter.” “Hmmm, you are right about that sister” This time it was Celestia's turn to go deep into thought as she struggled to meet a conclusion her royal partner came up with an idea. “Well, from what I have understood about the baron. It sounds like he has the money and the reputation but...” Luna looked into her untouched teacup. Her reflection cast in the murky now lukewarm water. Tracing a midnight blue hoof across the bags under her eyes. “Luna?” Looking back up in response to her name, she saw how Celestia's concerned gaze reach across the table to her. Looking for what was wrong. Instead, Luna’s conflicted expression misted over replaced by a sly and playful smirk, which turned to admire the view over the balcony wall. It was almost time for a new day. “ I think we give the baron an offer he can’t refuse...”