//------------------------------//
// Raven of the Light 
// Story: Inkwells across Equestria 
// by Keyslam 
//------------------------------//

"I trust that the Alicorn has been disposed of?"

Raven gives a singular nod to Raven. "I do not believe any Inkwells were harmed in the unsealing of the false vault, save for the rogue Alicorn."

The Inkwell behind the desk raises a brow. "What of the Inkwells reported to have been abducted and imprisoned?"

"Automatons, fabricated with no sentience and orders to serve as a lure for the Raven of Shadow. I have deliberately kept this fact concealed in order to avoid raising suspicion."

"And what of the Inkwell that assisted the Raven of Shadow in the construction of the prisons and the unsealing of the vault?"

"You are speaking to her. I am the one ordered to sabotage the rogue Raven."

The Inkwell behind the desk pauses, staring into the eyes of the Raven that stands before her. Her reflection stares back.

"Well done, Miss Inkwell. I will send a report of this to the Sun Princess. The continued support of us and our fellow sisters ensures that the nation remains at peace. We salute you for your part in the banishment of the rogue Raven to the Emptiness."

"And what of the Celestial Sisters' abdications? What is to come of us?"

The Inkwell behind the desk sighs, setting her glasses on her desk. She slides them toward the edge. "Each and every one of us holds the memories of the previous generation, as well as the ones before, all the way back to the First. We are our own ancestors. Though we remain physically young, our memories stretch on for millennia. Do you not believe we have lived long enough? The First lived a long and fulfilling life. We must hold on to that life; cherish it, perhaps. In the end, we are but drones, serving a bloodline's sealed promises. We have already lived a life worth living, and this is our repayment for that blessing. When our duties are ultimately complete, we will all enter our Final Retirement. Each of us will receive our own chance to live long and happy, as an identity separate from what -- who -- we were created to be."

"I understand."

"Dismissed. Thank you for your time and effort."