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// Averting Suspicions 
// Story: Reacquiring The Throne 
// by Unknown Ficwriter 
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A crystal-like gazebo stood as his place of residence as Sombra went about creating crystals. Due to his competence in crystal crafting, he was able to create superior crystals of varying colors. In a month's time, Sombra returned to Ember with a green crystal in the shape of a diamond. Removing it from his saddlebag he presented it to her as his contribution.

The glint in her eye didn't go unnoticed as she thoroughly appraised it. Wanting to keep it as a symbol of friendship but curious about its taste, Ember gave it a subtle lick. Satisfied with its quality she passed it to her guard to be added to her hoard. Noticing the puzzled look on Sombra's face she explained dragons occasionally ate crystals and gemstones as a snack.

After informing her that two piles awaited transport Sombra and several dragons flew off. This monthly exchange continued for half a year before his first equine visitors. While not thrilled at who they were Sombra politely greeted them. Prepared for a fight Twilight and her friends glared at Sombra as he attempted to talk them down.

Upon hearing he'd gained the approval of both Cadence and Ember the group began to lower their guard. Conjuring two pieces of parchment Twilight jotted a quick note. As the letters traveled to their proper recipients Twilight inquired about his sudden desire to be good. To his relief, Twilight's interrogation only lasted a couple of minutes before being interrupted by their responses.

Sombra couldn't help but smile as a disbelieving Twilight reread the letters. Depositing them in her saddlebag, Twilight acknowledged he was telling the truth. Relief washed over the group as the threat of battle faded. While her friends dispersed to entertain themselves Sombra decided to talk with Twilight. He inquired how Twilight discovered his location when only dragons knew.

From her explanation, he deduced the one in question was a dragon visiting family. Although awkward Twilight humored Sombra with some small talk. As they talked Rarity was examining a cart full of crystals. While gemstones complemented her clothing better. The brilliance of these crystals captivated her. Levitating a rather large crystal of blue Sombra used his magic to reshape it.

Twilight and Rarity watched in awe as Sombra molded the crystal as if it was a ball of clay. After several minutes Sombra presented Twilight with a realistic statue of an Ursa Minor. When asked to deliver the statue as a gift Twilight asked why. Explaining the individual had exposed Twilight and her friends of his return.

While wishing to postpone the encounter, his intentions were laid bare and vouched for by reliable sources. Additionally, the gift would be the start of garnering goodwill in Equestria. Satisfied, if not perplexed, the group of friends left for home. Once they left he walked back to the carts of crystal. A toothy grin formed as he infused the rest of them with magic.