//------------------------------// // Chapter 52 // Story: Rekindled Embers // by applezombi //------------------------------// Chapter 52 Notes on unnamed conspiracy, found in a ledger left behind by Princess Twilight in the care of Mlinzi the Dragon. It occurs to me that there are two levels to this conspiracy, and I’ve been wasting my time looking into the members that just don’t matter.  Flim and Flam tried to warn me ages ago, and I discounted them, even though they were murdered for it.  I’ve been following up on everypony I can get my hooves on that might hold a grudge against me, or any of our friends, and I’ve been discovering a disturbing trend. Suri Polomare, Gladmane, Lightning Dust and the other Washouts, even Wind Rider, all came to dark and mysterious ends.  Gladmane was on trial for a part in the bombing of the Manehatten School for Advanced Magic Users, though he died mysteriously in his cell.  Suri disappeared years ago, after the Whinnyapolis police began investigating her ties to anti-unicorn extremist groups.  And the Washouts all died in ‘accidents’ during various shows, all of which could have been easily contrived. The closer I looked at all of these ponies before their deaths, the more suspicions I now have.  But I don’t think that any of them have any real hoof in what’s been happening.  There’s a puppetmaster behind all of this.  Who else could be keeping Tirek and Cozy Glow under control?  They escaped, and then not a peep from either of them.  Their silence is baffling. Perhaps that’s the point.  Whoever it is has me chasing shadows, worrying about the little ponies while the real master is free to play.  They’re good at it, and that’s what scares me. If Discord weren’t deteriorating alongside Fluttershy’s declining health, I’m sure he’d be able to help in a heartbeat.  Or maybe Rarity.  If Rarity were here, none of this would have happened.  She was always so much more adroit at navigating social and political waters.  I miss her. Crystal Empire, 1113 AF “An actual TRIAL?!” Topaz’ fury rocketed her voice through a whole octave.  She’d barely waited for the doors to the grand throne room to close behind them before she started screaming.  “You mean you weren’t kidding?  You’re really going through with it?  I thought it was just…” Topaz growled, her hooves gyrating through the air with obvious frustration.  Emberglow had never seen her this upset before.  “I don’t know.  Posturing?” “You thought I was posturing?”  Princess Flurry Heart’s voice was low and dangerous, and Emberglow found herself stepping between Rarity and the towering alicorn. “Yes, I did,” Topaz shot back.  “I didn’t think you could be this vengeful, Grandma.” The princess clearly bristled at the remark, rounding on Topaz with blazing eyes.  “Vengeance?  You think this is just about vengeance?  Topaz, he killed my aunt!” “So?” Topaz said.  Emberglow gasped, and even Rarity looked shocked.  Princess Flurry closed her eyes.  Emberglow could see her hooves shaking. “You’re going to want to very carefully think about what you just said,” the princess whispered, her voice trembling.  “And then you’re going to want to explain yourself.” “Or you’ll banish me again?  Or maybe you’ll put me on trial?” “Maybe I will!” The princess slammed her hooves against the tiles of the throne room, loud enough to send a loud crack echoing off the crystal floors and walls.  “Maybe I’ll banish all of you!” “Good plan, Grandma.  Do you always solve your problems by banishing them?” “Don’t you dare,” Princess Flurry hissed.  “You’re a child.  Don’t you dare try to… psychoanalyze me.  You have no idea—" “I’m not trying to psychoanalyze you, Grandma.  I’m—" “DON’T CALL ME GRANDMA!” “So I should call you your royal highness, instead?” Topaz spat.  “Maybe bow and curtsey?  Kiss your hooves like all the other sycophants?”  She stomped her own hoof.  “If you don’t wanna hear hard truths from me, Grandma, you’re going to need to banish me again.” Princess Flurry Heart opened her mouth to respond, but then snapped it closed again.  With an angry sigh, she turned, her tail swishing with agitation.  “At least you waited until we were in the throne room alone, this time.” It appeared to take the wind out of Topaz’ angry sails, as well.  She bowed her head, glancing away.  “I’m sorry about that.  Really.  I… I made a mistake, back then.” Princess Flurry snorted.  “Topaz Glitter?  Admitting a mistake?  It really is the end of the world.” “I’m not kidding!” Topaz protested.  “I was wrong.  Really wrong.  It took a lot of things for me to understand that.  War, fighting, violence; these things won’t save the world.  I should have listened better.” “What made you change your mind?” “Meeting the other Elements.  Meeting Heartwing.  You were right to oppose him, and his methods,” Topaz said firmly, and Princess Flurry spun, surprise painted across her face.  “Just like you’re wrong to prosecute him now, for something that happened a thousand years ago.  Something, I remind you, he has already been punished for.  Or is seven centuries as a statue not enough for you?” “You don’t understand,” Princess Flurry slumped down into the majestic throne.  “You’ll never understand.  He killed an alicorn.  He destroyed… an eternity.” “Again, so?” Topaz was waving her hooves.  “I’m not trying to be rude, but… it doesn’t matter.  Really.  It was a thousand years ago.  And what matters now is… well… now.  He’s an Element of Harmony.  And we have a chance to change the entire world.  But only if you look past your own anger and hatred long enough to let us.” “Is that how you see me?” Princess Flurry whispered. “I know you’re upset.  You’ve held onto that for hundreds of years.”  Now Topaz was soothing, and calm.  “I can’t even begin to understand that.  But you don’t want to be the thing that’s stopping us from saving the world.” “What if…” Emberglow had a sudden idea, and she resolved to speak it aloud before she could second guess herself. Both other mares snapped their gaze to her, and she wanted to shrivel up and slink out of the room at the glare the alicorn princess was giving her.  “What if you didn’t have to be the one to decide?” “What.”  The princess’ eyes narrowed, and Emberglow gulped. “You’re clearly very close to this, P-princess,” Emberglow said.  “What if you left the decision on whether or not to hold the trial to somepony else?” The princess walked, or perhaps stalked, slowly over to where Emberglow stood.  Emberglow was used to being a little taller than most other mares, but Princess Flurry Heart towered over her.  By some miracle, she stood her ground as the royal alicorn loomed over her. “And who are you, little pony?”  The princess’ eyes flicked contemptuously over Emberglow, taking in her armor. “Emberglow is the Element of Honesty,” Rarity chimed in before Emberglow could even open her mouth.  “She’s the one who saved me from that cave in Manehatten.” Emberglow could feel the princess assessing her, considering. “Emberglow is right, Grandma.  You’re too close to this to be objective,” Topaz walked over and reached a hoof up to the Princess’ shoulder.  “Let somepony else shoulder the burden.  Please.” Princess Flurry looked down at Topaz, and Emberglow watched as the anger drained out of her eyes, leaving only exhaustion.  They kept staring for a few moments, before the princess looked away. “There will be a trial,” she said.  Topaz opened her mouth to protest again, but Princess Flurry lifted a hoof to forestall her.  “No, just listen.  There will be a trial.  But I’ll recuse myself.  Stay out of it.” “Who’s going to judge, then?” Topaz asked. “The twins,” Princess Flurry said decisively. “You know they’ll be fair.” “Grandma…” “This is happening, Topaz.  Whatever the results are, I’ll accept them.” “But…” “Topaz.  Please.  I don’t want to talk about Discord any longer.  Or Heartwing.  Whatever.  I don’t care.”  She looked over at Rarity. “I want…” “I’d love to catch up, darling,” Rarity said.  “Talk about some old friends?  Goodness, the last time I saw you, you were still wearing diapers.  It’s amazing you even remember me.” “You made me my first dress,” Princess Flurry said, reminiscing.  “You always told me how beautiful I looked.  You’re one of my earliest memories, Rarity.” “I’ll… show Miss Emberglow to her room, then?” Topaz suggested.  “Let you two reconnect?” “Sure.  Thank you, Topaz.”  The Princess paused.  “And… I’m glad you’re back.  And safe.  I… I missed you.” “Yeah.”  Topaz shuffled her hooves uncomfortably.  “Yeah, me too.  And I’m sorry I get so worked up when we talk, Grandma.”  She took a deep breath.  “I meant what I said.  You were right, before.  I’m sorry.  I shouldn’t have argued like I did.” “No.  No, you keep arguing with me, Topaz.  And I want to catch up with you, too.  Once… once we’ve both cooled down a bit.” “Sure.”  Topaz trotted over to Emberglow, wrapping a hoof around her.  “C’mon, Emberglow.  Let’s go find you a palace suite.” “Have fun, darlings,” Rarity called out as they slipped out of the throne room. Outside the doors, the guards glanced nervously at the two of them.  They were the same two guards who had eyed them just as nervously when Topaz had stormed in after Princess Flurry.  Topaz rolled her eyes. “Don’t worry.  I didn’t get banished this time,” she smirked. “Of course, Duchess,” the guard said.  “But, uh, my captain asked me to pass along a warning.  You know about the Diarchy embassy?  Princess Flurry Heart wants no trouble between you ponies and them, okay?” “Do I look like a big scary Knight?” Topaz laughed.  “Besides, Terminus is going to be staying down in the dungeons with Heartwing until they let him out, and my Lofty’s getting settled into our suite with his son.  Then there’s Emberglow here, but she’s a big softie.” Emberglow wanted to protest, but somehow it sounded like a compliment.  “Don’t worry, sirs.  We won’t cause any trouble.” The two guards somehow seemed to take more reassurance from Emberglow’s words than they did from Topaz.  They nodded, and Topaz and Emberglow trotted off down the hallway. On the way in, chasing after a fuming Topaz and a furious princess, Emberglow hadn’t had the time to truly appreciate the palace she was in.  It was spectacular; a monumental version of the ancient architecture she’d seen on the way in.  There had been no time to appreciate the arching crystal walls, the colorful way they filtered in the cold sunlight from the icy streets outside.  Emberglow loved it. “You grew up here?” she asked Topaz.  Topaz shook her head. “Not really.  Dad wanted me to grow up as normally as possible.  We never lived in the palace, even though Princess Flurry said there was always a suite for us, if we wanted.  When I grew up, she offered again, but it still didn’t feel like home.  I was always welcome to visit, though, so I did as often as I could.  Mostly just to come see the Empress.” “You two were close?” Topaz went silent, looking straight ahead down the crystalline corridor.  Her front hoof pawed at the carpeted floor. “We were.  When I was younger.  I…”  She looked back at Emberglow, her eyes bright with emotion.  “I know you’re probably tired, but would you mind making a detour before we find your room?  I promise it’ll be worth it.” “Okay,” Emberglow said.  “Where to? “We’re going to go meet my other grandmother.  Assuming the guards don’t have some weird orders to keep me out.” “Your other…” Emberglow stopped in her tracks.  “You mean… the Empress?”  She’d heard little more than rumors and legends from the sailors on Pearl Shimmer.  She was revered, absolutely worshiped by the creatures on board the ship, most of whom had stories about visiting her as a foal.  Emberglow was very curious. “And if we’re lucky?  Empress Cadance will talk the Princess out of this trial nonsense.” “Speaking of…” Emberglow had to trot to catch up.  “Who are the twins she was talking about?” “The twins?  Oh!  Sometimes I forget how little of the Empire is known outside the shield.”  Topaz laughed.  “The changeling nation is one of those which swore fealty to Empress Cadance when things started to go bad down south.” “Um…” Emberglow couldn’t hide the surge of curiosity.  Topaz was hinting at an entire new history for her to learn.  “If there’s time, later, do you have a library?” “I probably still have access to the palace library.  There’s books there supposedly written by Twilight Sparkle herself, in her own horn writing.  Why?” But once again, Emberglow had been stunned immobile.  She worked her mouth, but her brain wouldn’t supply an answer.  Books.  Written by a Saint.  Hoof written.  Or rather, horn written, as Topaz had said.  Emberglow was breathing heavily. “Emberglow?” Topaz seemed to notice Emberglow had stopped.  “You okay?” “I… uh… yeah…” “Goodness, are you drooling?” Topaz giggled.  Emberglow’s eyes shot wide, and her hoof darted up to wipe at her lips.  Which were dry.  Topaz snickered.  “Reading a book written by Princess Twilight makes you that excited, huh?”  Emberglow nodded.  “Why wouldn’t it?”  She thought about the Journal of Friendship Heartwing had given her.  “Maybe it doesn’t seem like much to you, you grew up around it.  But to hold in my hooves a piece of history like that…” “Fine, I’ll show you the library after we meet the Empress.” *   *   *   *   * The guards, thankfully enough, hadn’t been given any sort of orders about not allowing Emberglow or the other Knights Discordant to enter the Empress’ room, so after ensuring she carried no weapons the guards pulled the doors open for the two mares.  Topaz had a distant look on her face as she watched them.  She looked back to see Emberglow’s regard, and smiled sadly. “This was the duty Escher seemed to pull the most,” she whispered, and Emberglow reached out to give Topaz a quick squeeze.  “He loved being here.  He said it made him feel useful.” The doors opened into a long hallway, and Emberglow followed Topaz down into a brightly lit room beyond.  On either side of the room were shrines; one underneath the large portrait of a white-furred unicorn stallion Emberglow didn’t recognize, and the other for Princess Twilight Sparkle herself.  The walls around the shrine and behind the raised dais in the center were festooned with dozens of foal’s crayon drawings. For a throne room, it seemed rather small, though it held only one occupant.  Like Princess Flurry Heart, Empress Cadance was much larger than an average pony.  But unlike the princess, the Empress was skinny, almost unhealthily so, with taut skin pulled too tightly over her bones.  Her fur and mane were clean, but limp and dull, and her eyes were closed. Wrapped around her forehooves were a pair of metal bracers, attached to a strange looking machine.  It was cylindrical and tinkled and hummed very faintly with a musical sound that reminded Emberglow of a child’s music box. “I hope she’s not sleeping,” Topaz whispered, barely enough to even make a sound, but the Empress’ eyes shot open.  Her eyes were bright and aware, and she looked at the approaching ponies.  A broad smile split her face, and she lifted one hoof, beckoning them closer.  “Guess not.  Hi, Grandma!” “You call them both grandma?” Emberglow whispered.  Topaz laughed and nodded. “Topaz!  It’s wonderful to see you back.”  The Empress’ voice was hoarse and scratchy.  Emberglow flinched to think about how much pain she must be in.  “And you brought a friend.” “Grandma, this is Lady Emberglow of the Discordant, and the bearer of the Element of Honesty,” Topaz said, a little grandly.  “She was curious about the Apparatus of Ocellus.”  Emberglow approached the raised dais the Empress laid on and bowed low.  “Please, none of that.  It’s a pleasure to meet you, Emberglow.” “I’m sorry, Grandma.” Topaz stepped up on the dais to embrace the frail alicorn.  “I’ve been trying to find your dreams, to stay in touch, but it was too hard at that distance.” “You’ve been practicing, though?” “Oh yes.” Topaz nodded proudly.  “It seems I can easily find the dreams of the other Elements of Harmony, even when they’re far away, now.” “You all share a connection, and it will only deepen in time, I believe.”  The princess’ keen, bright eyes passed between Emberglow and Topaz.  “But I’m sure you have quite the story of your adventures for me.  Tell me everything.” While Emberglow was mostly familiar with the story, it was still fun to sit and listen to Topaz tell it.  She sat silently, smiling gently as she watched Topaz’ face light up with joy when she spoke of Lofty, or hear the tinkling of her laughter when she talked about True.  For her part, Empress Cadance seemed enraptured by the tale.  She even made appreciative coos and squeals of delight at Topaz’ blushing tales of stolen kisses and a romance carried out in dreams. Of course, the story wasn’t all romance. “Adagio Dazzle?  Tirek?  Cozy Glow?” Empress Cadance shook her head with stunned disbelief.  “Twilight always suspected a broad conspiracy, but this is insane.” “I don’t believe the image was lying,” Topaz admitted.  The room fell silent. “It… it makes a strange amount of sense,” Empress Cadance said.  “They beat us.  Ran roughshod around me and Twilight.  We never saw it coming. And then when Twilight passed, all I could do was circle the proverbial wagons.” “Um, Grandma?  About that…” Topaz took a deep breath.  “It’s Flurry.  She’s… insisting on holding a trial for Heartwing.” “I see.”  The Empress let out a long, raspy sigh.  “And you’d like me to intervene with my daughter?” “If you can.” Empress Cadance was quiet for several breaths. “I can’t.  And I won’t.” “But…” “No, Topaz.  My daughter needs this.  She needs closure.” “But…!” “Listen to me, Topaz,” Empress Cadance whispered.  She was quiet, but the strength of her voice filled the room.  “You need to have faith.  My daughter is impulsive.  Sometimes even vindictive.  But I believe this will all turn out for the best.” “Grandma, he’s an Element of Harmony.  We need him with us, not in some prison.  Or as a statue again.” “Have faith, Topaz,” the Empress repeated.  “Now.  I’d like to talk about something else.  I’ve only heard your story, Topaz.”  Her gaze shifted to Emberglow, who eyed her back nervously.  “I would love to hear yours.” “Grandma, you can’t just change the—” “Please, Topaz.  Later.  I need to talk to Emberglow, now.” “M-my story?  There’s nothing interesting about—” “Miss Emberglow,” Empress Cadance interrupted.  “Before I was the Empress of Sitting Alone In a Room Powering a Giant Shield, I was the Princess of Love.  From the very second you walked into this room, I sensed that your love life is in distress.  Nothing would make me happier than to offer you the benefit of my expertise.” Emberglow gaped, her eye shooting between an amused Topaz and an eager looking Empress. “Please, Miss Emberglow.  Let me help.  It’s my special talent.” Emberglow’s heart pounded.  She worked her mouth, which felt dry and sticky. “Would it help if I told you anything you say to Grandma is just like anything you say to me?” Topaz offered.  “Completely confidential.”  She turned to the Empress.  “And we’re not done talking about Heartwing.  But I’ll set that aside in favor of helping Emberglow’s love life.” “Priorities?” Emberglow said sardonically, but the eager mares watching her looked undaunted.  “Fine.  Um, well, where to start?  I’m…”  she took the plunge.  “I’m in love with Rarity.” “Oooh!”  Empress Cadance clopped her hooves together.  “How did that happen?  Start at the beginning.  The more details I get, the better I can help.” So Emberglow spoke.  At first, it was difficult.  She talked about meeting Heartwing in the cave, and finding Rarity.  She talked about being taken prisoner, and being rescued.  As she spoke, though, her mind went back to the image of Rarity standing firmly over her, between her and Steadfast.  She didn’t even know she was smiling until the Empress pointed it out. “You’ve got it bad for Rarity, don’t you?” Empress Cadance asked softly.  Emberglow nodded, her face red. She kept talking.  She told of the days they’d spent in Angel’s Rest, of Rarity’s kindness as she helped Emberglow in the early days of her faith transition.  She spoke of the trip to Port Luminescence, then later the journey from Jubilation to Nyumba Ya Joka, and how things were going so well. And then came the dragon.  And the books.  And Rarity retreating into her studies. “She’s not cruel to me,” Emberglow admitted.  “She’s kind, just like before.  Only… she’s distant.  Unavailable, sometimes.  Or then things will be going great, and she kisses me, except we should be taking it slow and I’m so confused!”  She stomped a hoof on the floor.  “I want to go back to the way it was before.” “I’m not surprised she’s struggling with all of this,” Empress Cadance sounded thoughtful, and her expression was heavy.  “Can you imagine what she’s feeling?  Her whole world was upended, and just as she was starting to get her hooves under her, she finds out about Heartwing’s guilt.” But it was Emberglow’s own guilt that rose up like a wave, washing over her.  Emberglow shrunk back, her ears pinned.  Topaz looked on with concern. “I… I think I’ve been pushing her too hard.  To adapt,” Emberglow said.  “She worries me, when she hides away with the construct, or talks like it’s a real pony.  But… it’s not my business, is it?” “It might be,” Empress Cadance mused.  “Rarity seems to want you in her life.  But you’ll need to approach things gently.”  She waved a hoof at Topaz, shooting her great-granddaughter an amused look.  “You’re like this one.  Sometimes, what’s right and wrong seems so clear, doesn’t it? And it can be frustrating when complicated things like emotions and feelings get in the way of your perfect insight.” Topaz shrunk down, ashamed.  Empress Cadance smiled. “It’s a struggle to empathize, sometimes.  I understand.  And there’s nothing at fault with your concern for Rarity.”  She turned to Topaz.  “Or yours for Heartwing and Flurry.  I’d just like you both to try and empathize a bit more. Especially you, granddaughter.” “Yes, mom,” Topaz muttered sarcastically, but her smile took away the sting. “I would like to hear about these issues from Rarity herself, though,” Empress Cadance mused.  “Maybe I should have a word with her.”  Emberglow’s eye widened.  “Don’t you worry, Emberglow.  I’ll come up with the perfect plan to help you.”  Her eyes were gleaming.  “You can rest safely knowing the world’s best matchmaker is on the case.” *   *   *   *   * “Cadance is scary,” Emberglow admitted to the giggling Topaz as the two of them retreated out of the room.  “Good scary, but…” “Give her a break,” Topaz laughed, waving to the guards as they walked past. “She hasn’t had a chance to play matchmaker in decades, probably.  This is her special talent.” “Do you think…” Emberglow began, then shook her head.  “Never mind.” “No, don’t do that!” Topaz shoved her with a hoof, giggling.  “This is girl talk time.  You can ask me anything.” “Girl talk time?” “You never really had a lot of girl friends growing up, right?  This is the time where we talk about embarrassing stuff, like boys.  Or girls, in your case.  We should head to our suite.  I’m sure we could do a traditional girly sleepover, if you really wanted.”  She nudged Emberglow’s ribs with a hoof.  “Maybe even invite Rarity?” “I…” It had a certain silly appeal.  “Not yet.  I’d like to check on Sunset Shimmer.  I promised Doctor Heartthrob Pulse I’d spend some time filling him in on Diarchy medical techniques, too.” Topaz paused, turning to face Emberglow in the long hallway.  Her hoof shuffled impatiently on the carpeted floor.  “Emberglow.  You sweet, naïve, silly girl.  Has anypony ever told you that it’s okay to take some time for yourself, every so often?  To have fun?  To enjoy life, to eat too many sweets, to sleep in?” Emberglow stared at her.  Her parents had, once.  Long ago.  She remembered the day she sold her favorite childhood fairy tale novels in order to trade up to her very first copy of Grey’s Pony Anatomy.  She remembered the look in Textile’s eyes, both sad and proud. “I’ve always chosen this for myself, I guess,” she said.  She could tell Topaz was teasing her a little, but that didn’t stop her from answering seriously.  “I’ve had my whole life planned out.  Go to med school.  Get sponsored into the Ivy Seminary.  Then there were the oaths I swore, chastity and poverty.  And you remember me telling you about the cake.” Topaz nodded.  “Yes, I remember the cake.” “I suppose… it’s just who I am.” “Okay then, my super serious friend.” Topaz wrapped a hoof around her shoulders and pulled her forward.  “You’re the Element of Honesty, sure.  Well, I’m the Element of Laughter.  And in my official capacity of officialness, I’m declaring that your entire life is currently a walking laughter disaster.  Come on.  Doctor Heartthrob can wait.  We’re going down to the kitchen to steal some sweets.” “You’re a duchess,” Emberglow noted.  “Couldn’t you just ask?” “That would take the fun out of it.  C’mon.  Hopefully they didn’t move the kitchen.” Emberglow snorted with laughter as she allowed herself to be dragged away. *   *   *   *   * It was nice to be able to walk the halls of the Crystal Palace without rushing after a pair of furious ponies, waiting for an inevitable explosion.  The palace had the weight of history to it; every wall and every alcove had some sort of portrait or artifact.  But it didn’t feel stuffy, like a museum.  Living ponies darted about on various tasks, functionaries and servants and guards moving about on their way to some business or other.  It felt alive; alive and cheerful.  Many ponies recognized Topaz by sight, waving and smiling.  Even ponies who didn’t recognize her gave them a cheerful, if harried or rushed, greeting as they passed.  A few eyed Emberglow’s armor curiously, but nopony stopped them or challenged her presence. “What you’re feeling right now?” Topaz whispered in her ear, smiling.  “That’s Harmony.  This is how everywhere should be.  Not just here.” “That’s our job, right?” Emberglow said, touching her breastplate, where she could feel her Element resting underneath.  Topaz tapped the chest of her own dress, nodding with a grin. “Right.  C’mon, kitchen’s this way.” They rounded another corner, listening to the sounds of ponies moving about up ahead.  Emberglow expected another group of servants, or maybe even a squad of guards. Instead it was a pony in pink Knight robes, followed by three others in the uniform of the Diarchy marines.  Topaz gasped and pulled up sharply, skidding to a stop.  Emberglow herself was frozen, like a small animal caught in a sudden light. Turquoise.  She’d forgotten about Turquoise.  The ambassador the Diarchy had sent to the Crystal Empire.  Her mentor and friend.  And the pony who now stood in front of her. “Emberglow?” Turquoise gasped.  She rushed forward heedlessly, crossing the distance in a heartbeat and wrapping Emberglow in a crushing hug.  “Emberglow is that you?  How?  Why?  You’re here!  How are you here?  The last I heard you were—” Turquoise stopped, her mouth working noiselessly.  Her eyes were fixed on the shoulder of Emberglow’s armor, where the yellow stripes were painted that signified her allegiance to the Discordant. “Hello, Lady Turquoise,” Emberglow whispered, as Turquoise’s expression melted from joy to horror before her eyes.  Turquoise jerked away, shaking, pointing a hoof accusingly at the marks.  The Diarchy soldiers were unarmed, but they moved forward threateningly, probably to defend their ambassador. “No,” Turquoise moaned in dismay.  “No.  No!  Not you, no no no, Emberglow, not you!  NOT YOU!”  She was shaking and sobbing, tears spilling out of her eyes.  “No, you can’t!  You can’t be!  IT’S NOT TRUE!” “Turquoise…” “Tell me it’s a lie!” Turquoise shrieked.  “Tell me it’s not true!” “Turquoise!” Emberglow cut through loudly.  “Turquoise, calm down.  I’m still your friend.  That hasn’t changed.  It never will.” “B-but you’re wearing that!  Why?” “Because we were lied to, Turquoise.  All of us Knights.  The Diarchy is built on lies.  And when I found out, I couldn’t stay.” Turquoise began backing away, shaking with horror, eyes wet and wide.  The soldiers quickly made a ring around her, and Emberglow heard the clanking of armor as two imperial guards had finally noticed the confrontation and began sprinting down the hallway to intervene.  They immediately interposed themselves between Emberglow and Turquoise. “Ambassador Turquoise,” one of the guards said.  “You were warned that there would be Discordant staying at the castle.  You were asked to stay away from them, and you gave your word.  Care to explain what happened?” “She… I…” Turquoise floundered, before closing her eyes and taking a deep breath.  “I’m sorry, sirs.  The contact was accidental.  Neither party intended to run into one another.  And no violence resulted.” “It’s true,” Emberglow said.  She had no desire to see her friend accused of something she didn’t do.  Even if they were on opposite sides of a divide, now.  But Turquoise glared at her, her eyes alight with fury and hurt.  “She did nothing wrong.” “I don’t need you to speak for me, heretic,” Turquoise snapped, her voice chilly. “Ambassador,” the guard mare who spoke earlier said diplomatically.  “Where were you on your way to?  I would be happy to escort you to your next appointment.” “Yes, of course.  Very well handled, guardsmare.  Lead the way.  I was just on the way to a meeting with Minister Rail Spike about building materials for the new Cathedral.” “I’ll happily escort you to his office.” “One moment, please.  I assume words are acceptable?  Emberglow is an old friend, after all.”  The guard gave her a worried glance, but Turquoise continued.  “I wrote to your parents, when I found out, Emberglow.  When I heard you were missing.  They’re beside themselves with grief.  I wonder how they’d feel if they knew the truth?”  Emberglow felt a stab of ice in her heart as Turquoise turned to leave, led by the guard.  The three soldiers followed, making a protective ring of their own around the ambassador. The other guard stayed behind, watching his partner lead the Diarchy ponies away.  He turned to Emberglow and Topaz.  “You will need to stay away from the ponies in the Embassy.  There’s three Knights Jubilant, and they always wear their robes, so they’ll be easy to identify.  I know the Princess mentioned something about suggesting the same requirement for your party.” “I don’t mind,” Emberglow said.  “It really was an accident, sir.  We had no intention of running into them.” “Good.  Now I’m going to escort you to your destination, so that nopony ‘accidentally’ runs into each other again, okay?” “Of course,” said Topaz.  “We were just heading to the kitchens for a snack.” “I’ll lead the way.”  He smiled.  “Not that you don’t know the way yourself, Duchess.” They were silent for a few steps down the hallway.  Emberglow didn’t want to talk; her mind swam with the thoughts churned up by Turquoise’s cruel final words to her.  Her parents.  She’d barely thought about them, recently.  She hadn’t been worried about what they might be going through, what consequences might have come to them because of her choices.  They hadn’t been arrested, though she was sure it could have happened.  She wondered why not?  But according to Turquoise, at least, it wasn’t common knowledge that she’d switched sides. “We can talk about it tonight, if you want,” Topaz whispered.  “A dream therapy session.  Like old times.”  Her voice was strained. “I don’t know if I’ll even be able to sleep tonight,” Emberglow admitted.  Topaz squeezed her tight in a walking hug.  “I’m sorry.  I ruined your plan to have fun.” “You?” Topaz stopped, once again turning to face Emberglow.  “This wasn’t your fault, Emberglow.  And don’t you dare blame yourself.  That’s always your first instinct, isn’t it?  When something goes wrong, it must have been something you did, right?” Topaz sighed, and prodded Emberglow in the chest with one hoof, hard enough to make Emberglow step back a little.  “Look.  That mare’s feelings are valid.  It’s okay for her to mourn the loss of the relationship you had.  But it’s also a fact that you are not responsible for her grief.  Both things can be equally true at the same time.  You can’t take responsibility for everything that happens to everypony.” She turned again and waved at the guard.  “We’re ready to head to the kitchen, now.  And you’ve ruined nothing, Emberglow.  We’re gonna get ourselves a snack, and then, if you want, we can go check on Sunset.  Or we can find something else to do.  Something fun, though.  You deserve it.” *   *   *   *   * It turned out that while Topaz did assure Emberglow that she hadn’t ruined the mood, neither one of them had the urge to try to ‘steal’ treats from the kitchen any longer.  The cooks were more than happy to make them something on the spot, but Topaz and Emberglow were content to raid the palace walk-in for some cupcakes.  Armed with their baked morale-boosters, Topaz offered to take Emberglow anywhere in the palace, as long as it was somewhere she could have fun. Which is how they made their way straight to the library. After the guard dropped them off, Emberglow first asked for anything the palace library had on medicine, but one sour look from Topaz made her change her mind.  Instead, Topaz took her to the towering fiction section.  The bookshelves were stacked at least three ponies high, with rolling wooden ladders that slid along the shelves to give access to the higher levels. “We’ve got books here that have been banned for a thousand years down south.  Any genre you’d like.  Romance, adventure, mystery, horror.  Pick a subject, and I’ll find you a book that’s been banned in your hometown for you to enjoy.” Emberglow wasn’t sure; she hadn’t done any recreational reading in years.  But the allure of the forbidden was strong. “R-romance.  Um, do you know if there’s anything with… ponies like me?” “Pegasi?” Topaz asked with a silly grin. “N-no.  You know…” “I can’t answer unless you say it, Emberglow.” “Homosexual,” Emberglow forced it out.  Months later and it was still hard for her to say the words without a twinge of guilt. “Yes, I’m sure they do have stories about lesbian ponies, Emberglow.” Topaz’s brows wiggled mischievously.  “The question is, just how erotic would you like them to be?” Emberglow’s jaw dropped.  “P-ponies write that sort of thing?” “Oh, you’d be amazed at what kinds of things creative writers come up with.  But you don’t have to start in the deep end right away, even if you want to.  We can find you a lovely romance story that’s totally tame and safe.  Or one that’s just…” Topaz’ voice dropped so it was low and husky, “…dripping with juicy bits.” “Eep!” Emberglow couldn’t stop the squeak that slipped out.  “Um, something t-tame, please.  Uh…” “Or maybe just a little steamy?” Topaz teased. Emberglow didn’t trust her voice, so she nodded.  “Don’t worry, Emberglow.  I promise I won’t corrupt you too badly.  Yet.” In the end, they left the library with three books.  Emberglow wasn’t sure she should even be allowed to check them out, but Topaz assured her as long as they didn’t leave the palace she was probably okay.  Two of the books were ancient, written back in Rarity’s time, while the third was a more modern romance, written in the Empire.  With her new borrows in tow, Emberglow and Topaz made their way to the suite where she’d be staying while in the palace. When she got to her rooms, Emberglow felt dizzy.  Not room.  Rooms.  There was a bedroom, a sitting room, and a private bathroom.  “It’s too much,” she said, backing away after Topaz opened the door.  She fell backwards, shaking her head as she landed on her rump.  “I can’t.” “This is like the cake, isn’t it?” Topaz asked.  Emberglow nodded silently. “It’s exactly like the cake,” she whimpered.  “I don’t know if I can possibly sleep in such... splendor.” “It is pretty swanky,” Topaz admitted.  “Why don’t you come inside, at least have a look around before we find you a spot in the guards’ barracks or something.” She was up to something, Emberglow could tell.  But Topaz’ ‘up-to-somethings’ usually ended well for Emberglow.  So she followed the mare into the room. The sitting room was furnished with two chairs and a small couch, complete with a large fireplace that was crackling away merrily. The chairs were plush, upholstered with soft lavender covers that matched the violet crystal floors and walls of the palace.  The center of the room had a tea table, and Emberglow was sure if she asked, she could have somepony summoned from the kitchen to fill it with all manner of goodies. Topaz walked over to one of the chairs and bounced into it, sighing with pleasure.  “Ooh, this is nice.  The ship wasn’t bad, but it’s all hard wooden stools.”  She wriggled her butt around in the chair, making Emberglow giggle, before bouncing right out again.  “Okay, let’s go check out the bedroom.” “Is this what your rooms are like?” Emberglow asked. “Kinda.  Our suite has two bedrooms.  And a king-sized bed.”  Topaz shot her a suggestive smirk as she opened the sliding door that led to the bedroom. The bed wasn’t a king-size, but it was much larger than Emberglow was used to.  Rich fluffy blankets spread out over the tall mattress.  At the foot of the bed were Emberglow’s saddlebags, placed there previously by a servant.  The bedroom also had a large vanity, complete with a full-length mirror, as well as a wardrobe. “Did you know the palace has enchanted temperature controls?” Topaz asked, pointing to a small display set into the wall, just to the right of the door.  “When I stayed over in the palace, I would always set it to be warm during the day, but cold at night.  I always loved being snuggled up in tons of blankets while the air outside them was freezing.  Makes the dash to the morning hot shower all the more exciting.  Ooh!  Even better now that I have somepony to snuggle up with.  I’ll show you how it works, if you want.  Or you can just leave it alone and it will adjust automatically to be comfortable.” “If you’re trying to convince me that this is all somehow not too much, not too luxurious, it’s not working,” Emberglow said skeptically.  Topaz laughed.  “Seriously.  All this for… me?” “For you, Emberglow.  You deserve it.  But let’s take a look at the bathroom.” “I guess so.” The bathroom reminded Emberglow of the one in Terminus and Heartwing’s house.  It was small, but with a huge bathtub that took up most of the space.  There was even a spigot for a shower high over the tub, complete with a sliding glass door to close it off if she wanted a shower instead of a bath. “The bathroom is going to be stocked with all sorts of mane and fur care products, including make up, if you want or need them,” Topaz offered.  “Especially if, for some reason, you decide you need to dress up for somepony.  Like on a date, or something.” Emberglow was reddening.  “I don’t know if that will happen any time soon.  Things are still a little… busy.  Chaotic.  Messy.” “What better time to take a moment to enjoy yourself?” Topaz countered.  “Emberglow, who’s the expert on mental health, here?” “You are,” Emberglow conceded. “Exactly.  Look, we both know the next few weeks are going to be frustrating, especially with the trial coming up.  I think we’re going to need some luxury and relaxation in our lives, to really counteract everything else.”  She walked over to where Emberglow stood at the bathroom door and wrapped her in a hug.  “You deserve some good in your life, after everything that’s happened to you.  Will you let me, and my grandma, do at least this much?  If it really is excessive, I’m happy to find you someplace else.” Emberglow almost said yes.  The small voice in her head, the one that filled her with guilt and shame and self-loathing stirred and writhed in her mind, but she tamped it down.  “No, this will be fine.  I hope.  I’ll let you know if that changes, though.” “Good.  Take a moment to relax, and breathe.  Maybe change out of your armor.  You don’t have to be on guard here.  We’re safe.” It made good sense.  Even though they’d seen Diarchy forces in the palace itself, they’d been unarmed, with little more than words to sling at her.  Topaz waited politely in the sitting room while Emberglow changed into a clean white robe of Knighthood.  She glanced longingly at the empty wardrobe; they wouldn’t be here long, but maybe, if she was indulging herself, she could get something nice to wear?  It was the one luxury she didn’t feel guilty lusting after. Well, not too guilty. Topaz was sitting on the love seat, flipping through one of the novels she’d borrowed from the library when Emberglow emerged from her bedroom.  “C’mon, lemme show you where Lofty and I are staying.  It’s just down the hall.  We should see if True’s torn it apart yet.” True and Lofty, it turned out, had only torn the suite apart a little.  When Emberglow and Topaz entered, they’d removed all the cushions from their own sitting room (only a little larger than Emberglow’s, with a full sized couch) and were both squirreled away inside the ensuing pillow fort. “Invaders!  Prepare the assault, General True!” came Lofty’s muffled voice from inside the plush battlements. “Catapult!” came the tiny war cry, as a throw pillow launched itself over the walls of the fort to bounce softly against Topaz’ back. “Ack!  We’re under fire, Emberglow!  Prepare the counterattack!” Emberglow stared for a moment, taken by surprise, until a second pillow sailed through the air and impacted right on her face. “Uh, y-yes sir!  What’s the plan, commander?” She was embarrassed and laughing, but given the foalish giggles (not entirely all from the foal, either) coming from the pillow fort, she was glad to be playing along. The plan, apparently, was to duck behind the couch and throw pillows back at the boys hiding in their fort.  This strategy worked up until some double agent informed General True of Commander Topaz Glitter’s secret weak spot (a ticklish bit on her ribs) whereupon a daring sneak attack was launched that left the commander incapacitated, and her loyal minion Emberglow unable to defend her because she was laughing too hard. Seeing the three of them romping around, laughing and playing, struck something in Emberglow’s heart.  She remembered what Lofty had mentioned to her back on the boat: that he thought he and Topaz could be a long-term family.  She could see it, too; in the effortless way Topaz played with True, in the look of contentment in Lofty’s eyes when he stared at her. How could she feel both happy and somehow… empty at the same time? “Uh, sorry about that, Emberglow,” Lofty said, finally, after everypony had calmed down and caught their breath. “Don’t you dare.  That was adorable and fun.  Nice pillow fort, by the way.  I don’t think I’ve built one of those since before we moved to New Canterlot City.” “Secretly I think this is the best reason to have foals.  So you can have an excuse to build pillow forts,” Lofty said, and Topaz and Emberglow both laughed in agreement.  “So, what have you ladies been up to?” “Besides arguing with Grandma?” Topaz rolled her eyes.  “I took Emberglow to meet the Empress, and maybe get some romantic advice.  We also saw the library and raided the kitchen for cupcakes.”  Lofty’s eyes lit up, but Topaz shrugged.  “Sorry.  The cupcakes disappeared somewhere between the kitchen and the library.  I don’t know where they went.”  Her voice became serious.  “We also ran into the ambassador from the Diarchy, Lofty.  A Knight Jubilant named Turquoise.”  Lofty’s eyes shot wide, and he glanced at Emberglow, who nodded.  “Don’t worry.  Nothing happened.  But we should steer clear of them.” “Of course.  And what about Rarity? What has she been up to?” “Catching up with Grandma.  She’s got her own suite around here, too, so we’ll probably see her at dinner, if not sooner.” “Okay, good.”  His face became serious.  “Because we have to talk about this trial thing.” Topaz sighed with exasperation.  “I know.  Emberglow was at least able to convince Grandma to have somepony else preside at the trial.  So there will be an impartial judge.  Or judges, for what it’s worth.” “Judges?” Lofty asked. “The twin monarchs.  The leaders of the changeling people, Pharynx and Chrysalis.  They’re twins.  And don’t worry.  They have a reputation for wisdom and fairness.  I’ve met them a few times.  They’re…” she waved a hoof, searching for the words.  “Different, but they’re kind.  I just wish we didn’t have to go through this at all.” “Me too.  But it will all turn out well in the end.  I’m sure of it.” *   *   *   *   * In the hours before dinner, Emberglow spent her time in pleasant company with Lofty, True, and Topaz.  She had no wish to go back to her empty suite alone.  While there, crystal pony palace staff delivered messages about the time of dinner, and also a request for a meeting from Queen Chrysalis and King Pharynx to be held tomorrow morning.  Another messenger offered to take their measurements, as Princess Flurry Heart had offered to have them all outfitted in new wardrobes.  Lofty and Topaz took them up on her generosity, and after a moment’s hesitation, Emberglow did, too. When they left Lofty and Topaz’ suite to head towards dinner, a number of servants were hauling crates into the suite next to Emberglow’s. “What’s all this?” Topaz asked curiously. “Gift from the Princess, to Miss Rarity,” one of the servants replied.  “It’s bolts of material.”  Emberglow grinned.  That would make Rarity happy, and it would be nice to have her focused on something other than her magical studies for once. “Maybe you should see if Rarity can design your new wardrobe,” Topaz suggested slyly.  Emberglow grinned at the thought.  “She’d probably jump at the chance.” “She already tried, back in Angel’s Rest.  We had to leave before she could finish what she was working on, though.” “This could be the perfect opportunity, then.” As Topaz showed them into the dining room, Emberglow was expecting some vast dining hall, with a huge, long table spanning the room.  Instead it was a much more intimate affair.  The table was still much larger than the one she’d had growing up, but it still could only seat a dozen ponies or so, not the crowd she’d been expecting for some reason. Rarity and Princess Flurry were already seated, waiting for the others to arrive.  Dinner was delicious, but Emberglow couldn’t help but keep shooting worried glances at Topaz and the Princess, who were affectionate and polite, but a little distant.  She kept waiting for them to break into an argument again. The meal ended without incident, though, mostly because both ponies refused to mention Heartwing.  It lent an awkwardness to the whole thing that made it a bit of a relief when it was finished. “Topaz?” Lofty began, as soon as the ponies were rising from their seats to retire to their suites for the evening.  “Could you take True and get him to bed, please?” “Oh?” Topaz’s eyes narrowed suspiciously.  Even Emberglow wasn’t fooled.  Lofty was up to something. “Please, Topaz.  I’ll explain later, I promise.  And maybe check on Terminus and Heartwing, once True’s in bed?” “Don’ wanna go to bed!” True protested.  “Can I build a snowpony?” “Oh, you like snowponies?” Topaz said.  “I’ve heard they’re really hard to build without a plan.  Let’s go back to the suite, and you can draw a picture of one so we’re ready to build it tomorrow.  I’m sure the princess here has some crayons somewhere in the palace.” “I’ll have some sent right over,” the princess said, fighting a grin.  “Kay,” True said, and Topaz led him out of the dining room with one last confused look back at Lofty.  He blew her a kiss and waved. “So what is it you needed to speak to me about, Sir Lofty?” the princess asked formally.  Emberglow and Rarity looked on with interest. “Princess Flurry, I understand that all of Topaz’ family has passed?  Besides you and the Empress, of course.” “Unfortunately so, sir.” “Among the nobility of New Canterlot City, it is considered a social faux pas of the highest order to enter into a romance or a liaison with another scion of a noble family without the permission of the family head.  I must offer you my apologies.” “You know we don’t hold to the same customs, Lofty Tale,” the princess replied. “Even so, I was raised to be proper.  I have not done so at many points in my life.  But Topaz Glitter is worth the time and effort to do things right.  So to begin, may I have both your forgiveness for courting her without your permission, as well as your blessing to continue?” “You have it.” The princess looked bemused. “Thank you, your Highness.”  Lofty bowed low.  “Now that that’s done…” he took a deep breath, then straightened up proudly.  “I know you haven’t known me for long, but your approval does me honor.  Now I have a question.  I would like to know if there are any customs in the Crystal Empire regarding proposals of marriage.” Rarity let out a squeal of joy and clapped her hooves together.  Emberglow’s own face split in a wide grin, and even Princess Flurry raised an amused eyebrow. “My, you do move quickly, young colt.  Only a few seconds after asking to court, and already asking to marry.  I’ll have to keep a close eye on you, to see that you continue to be worthy of Topaz’ affections.”  She paused.  “I would be more than happy to fill you in on some of the details, but I think I may have to introduce you to my mother.  She would be most annoyed with me if I kept something like this from her.  She will be your tutor in our wedding traditions.  But why ask while Rarity and Emberglow are here?” “I will be asking for Rarity’s help with one of our own traditions,” Lofty said.  “When a stallion proposes to a mare down south, especially one of high birth, he will often present her with a bridal gift; a necklace, or sometimes a bracelet, that symbolizes his worthiness and virtues, his value as a husband.  It is supposed to have more than just monetary value; it’s seen as symbolic.”  He turned to Rarity.  “I was hoping you would help me design it and locate materials.” Rarity couldn’t answer verbally, she was too busy squeaking and shaking.  She did, however, nod energetically.  “How can I help?” Emberglow asked. “Emberglow, I…” he sighed.  “You’re more of a sister to me than anypony in my family.”  Her eyes stung at his words, though her smile widened and she sniffed a little.  “You’re also my foal’s Goddess mother.  You’re… you’re family, Emberglow, and I want you involved at every step, including as Best Mare, if she says yes.” “Of course.  I’ll help however I can.”