//------------------------------// // Chapter 54 // Story: Rekindled Embers // by applezombi //------------------------------// Chapter 54 Secret communique found and seized by Imperial Guards during the search of the Diarchy Embassy.  Document was partially destroyed by fire before the guards could rescue it from the hearth. …formula is incomplete, so it is only to be used in a worst-case scenario.  Brightblade and Joyful Noise are both working on a more refined version of the formula. …retains its potency in liquid form for up to a month, but once it dries on a weapon it will… …no idea how effective it will be.  I hope you never have cause to… …if the worst should happen, then I would like a full… …berglow and Rarity, as well as the head of the Discordant are… …ay safe, Ambassador.  Our prayers are with you. Signed, …dfast Word Crystal Empire, 1113 AD Rarity’s sleep was dreamless, but she did remember one thing.  In the haze that floated through her mind just before the rays of sunlight poked through the windows, she could hear Topaz Glitter’s voice drifting within her dream. “I’ll leave you two alone for now.  Well done, the both of you.  But remember, Rarity, where she came from.  What she came from.  Stay close to her all day, hmm?  Because the next little bit is going to be hard, and I want you there to remind her of what she has now.” Rarity fluttered her eyes open as the fog of sleep slowly peeled back from her mind.  She didn’t open her eyes at first, instead just feeling each signal her body was sending her. She was a little sore, but the good kind of sore from exercise and effort and body-wracking pleasure.  Had sex always been like this?  On the one hoof, she wondered why she’d held off so long.  On the other hoof, to have her first time being here, like this, with her… She could feel Emberglow’s hooves wrapped around her.  Rarity was the little spoon to her big, and her lover’s sleeping breaths tickled at her ear and cheek.  She nestled back against the warmth of Emberglow’s slightly larger body, making her stir a bit. Rarity clutched the hoof draped over her shoulder a little more tightly and inhaled deeply.  She could still smell what they’d gotten up to the previous evening (and well into the night).  But the whole room smelled like Emberglow; clean sweat and floral soap, and something more, something that made her remember everything that had happened before they slipped into sleep, tangled in an exhausted and passionate embrace. Suddenly she felt the figure behind her stiffen, and Rarity rolled over so she could be facing Emberglow, yet still between her hooves.  She waited, smiling, while Emberglow’s eyes slipped open.  She blinked twice, her one good eye hazy a bit before it came into focus, and a shy, tremulous smile poked its way onto her muzzle. “G-good morning,” Emberglow stammered nervously.  Rarity leaned forward and kissed her soundly. “Mm, you too, darling,” Rarity said.  “Last night was…” Rarity prided herself on her articulation, her linguistic elegance and flair.  But she felt overwhelmed in the best sort of way, and the words wouldn’t come.  “Last night was wow.” “Yeah,” Emberglow giggled.  “Wow.” They fell quiet as Rarity gently nuzzled against Emberglow’s neck, feeling warm and safe as Emberglow pulled them closer with her hooves and wings.  Emberglow’s soft feathery blanket was better than any sheet or comforter Rarity had ever felt. “So, if you don’t mind my asking,” Emberglow began carefully.  “What changed your mind?” “About Heartwing, darling?” It was a subject she would have shied away from yesterday.  Now, encircled in a loving cocoon of feathers, she could talk about anything.  “It was you.  And Cadance, as well.  I realized a lot of things…” She took a deep breath.  “But I think, maybe the main reason was that I was letting my anger at what he’d done change me, and I didn’t like it.  It was getting in the way of who I wanted to be, and what I wanted.  So I needed to let it go.” “What you wanted?” Emberglow asked.  Rarity pulled back to look into Emberglow’s good eye.  “You.” “Oh,” Emberglow said in a small, pleased voice.  Her cheeks were flushed, and Rarity had to just lean forward and kiss them both, prompting a giggle.  “Um, we can’t stay in bed all day, can we?” “Hmm…” Rarity tapped her chin thoughtfully, then smiled, her grin predatory and her eyes half lidded.  She rolled so she was on top of Emberglow, the motion quick enough to make the pegasus squeak in surprise.  “Not all day, no.  But we don’t have anywhere to be until after lunch time, so…” Emberglow’s only response was a sigh of pleasure as Rarity leaned down to kiss her again. *   *   *   *   * When a sense of responsibility and certain unladylike biological urges finally forced them to get out of bed, Rarity was pleasantly surprised to find a tray in the sitting room, just outside the bedroom.  It was piled with fresh fruit, small breads, and some kind of spread for brunch, as well as a note from the servants to call if any more was required.  There was a second note next to the first, in a quick, inelegant scrawl. You two enjoy your morning.  If you need anything we’ll be in the Sunrise Hall.  Remember, the hearing continues after lunch, so don’t get too distracted! It was finished with a smiley face drawing, and signed ‘Topaz’. “Food?”  There was a different kind of hunger in Emberglow’s voice as the mare walked up behind Rarity.  She smiled and looked over as Emberglow tentatively poked her head into the sitting room.  Rarity noticed she’d somehow found and slipped into a dressing gown.  She held back an amused laugh; Emberglow was still so shy and nervous about nudity, even after what they’d done. Multiple times. It was cute, in an innocent sort of way. Emberglow walked up next to Rarity, and after a moment of hesitation reached a wing out to stretch around her.  Rarity hummed in delight and leaned into the hug. “I could get used to this,” she said, her voice filled with awe.  Rarity agreed, nuzzling her cheek before slipping out of the embrace. “Come, let’s cuddle up on the love seat and partake of this nice brunch they were so kind to provide for us.  Then we can take a long shower together before we have to get ready for the hearing.” “Okay.”  Emberglow sat on the small couch, extending a wing so she could wrap it around Rarity as soon as she sat.  She noticed Rarity looking and blushed.  “What?  You seem to like it when I… um… so I thought…” Rarity quieted her nervousness by slipping into the welcome space, pecking Emberglow on the cheek.  “I do like it.  I could get used to this, too.” “Um.  Good.” Emberglow gave an uncharacteristic little giggle. They began to eat the brunch prepared for them. The spread turned out to be a delightfully fluffy strawberry type that Rarity found delicious.  They ate mostly in silence, reveling in the physical closeness and the warmth they shared. “Um,” Emberglow spoke barely above a whisper.  “What are we, exactly, now?” “What do you mean?” “Are we c-courting?  Or dating?  Or, uh…” “You can use whatever words you like, darling,” Rarity said kindly.  “I would like to call you my marefriend, though, if you don’t mind.” “Not at all!” Emberglow practically squeaked.  “That’s… that’s nice.  Very nice.”  Rarity felt Emberglow squeeze her with her wing. After brunch, they took a shower, discovering together that certain things they’d gotten up to all last night and partially in the morning could, with time, effort, and patience, also be done in a shower as well.  There was a risk of running out of hot water, though, as well as copious amounts of giggling awkwardness.  Both mares determined that this was worth it, however. A sort of bright giddiness suffused them when they got out.  Emberglow was flush and nervous, but Rarity treasured each sideways glance, each shy, tentative smile, each careful touch.  It was as if she didn’t think Rarity was real, and had to keep feeling her to make sure she was still there.  Rarity didn’t mind at all; she leaned into each caress to make the most out of it. “Care to help me pick my outfit?” Rarity asked as she sashayed out of the bathroom, reveling in the way Emberglow’s wide eye was glued on her.  Emberglow nodded wordlessly. For being so seemingly uninterested in dressing herself up, Emberglow seemed to know what she was talking about when it came to clothing.  Rarity was impressed with the way she understood complementary colors, the importance of a good accent, and even how different outfits could communicate.  In the end, Emberglow suggested a formal gown that they both found in Rarity’s closet; one of several outfits provided by the Princess’ generosity.   It was a thick velvet, so dark blue it was nearly black.  Rarity loved the feel of the soft fabric sliding over her fur, though when she said so with a coy smirk Emberglow looked like she was about to turn redder than her namesake. “And what shall you be wearing, darling?” Rarity asked.  “I’m sure the princess has stocked your wardrobe as well.” “She has,” Emberglow said with a small smile.  “I… I think I’d like to keep wearing my robes, if that’s okay.”  Rarity leaned in close, and Emberglow blushed, turning as if to hide her face. “Darling?” Rarity couldn’t help but smile back.  “You don’t need to look so embarrassed.  What’s on your mind?  You can share anything with me.”  She felt her own cheeks heat up.  “We’re a bit past the point of keeping secrets from each other, don’t you think?” “Um.  Okay,” Emberglow took a deep breath, and gave a giddy little giggle.  “It’s just a silly thought I had.  Me wearing your cutie mark.  It has a bit of a different context now, doesn’t it?” “I suppose it does.” Rarity smirked.  “Though it’s hardly fair.  I shall have to come up with something with your cutie mark on it, just so that we can be even.” Emberglow’s return smile told Rarity just how much her marefriend liked that idea. Between the flirting, spontaneous cuddles, and general silliness, it was nearly lunch by the time the two of them finally finished getting dressed and ready to leave Rarity’s suite. “I wonder what our friends are up to?” Rarity mused.  “Probably eating.  Shall we go say hello?  And we should also decide what we want to tell them.  You know, about us.” “Sure,” Emberglow said, closing the door behind them.  There was something a little off in her voice, but Emberglow looked away. “Darling, is something wrong?  You can tell me anything, you know.” “Nothing.  It’s just…” Emberglow fell silent, looking forward down the hallway as they trotted side by side.  Rarity moved so that their flanks were almost touching, swishing her tail to brush gently against Emberglow’s own.  Emberglow looked at her in surprise.  “Um.  Promise you won’t think I’m crazy?” Rarity patted her on the shoulder with a little laugh.  “Nothing would make me think that.  After all the things you’ve been through, darling?  You’re one of the strongest ponies I know.”  That didn’t feel right, and Rarity cleared her throat before trying again.  “What I mean is, if we’re together, you don’t have to be strong on your own anymore.  We can be strong together.  But only if you share your troubles with me.” “Okay,” Emberglow breathed as they walked.  “Okay.  Give me a moment.” They continued down the halls in silence, heading towards the private dining room Princess Flurry Heart had designated for their use during mealtimes, when they weren’t eating in their suites. The halls were not empty; palace staff and dignitaries, guards and guests all moved back and forth around them.  Emberglow even moved protectively in front of Rarity when three Diarchy marines, probably from the embassy and here for the hearing, passed down the hallway.  They gave Emberglow a wicked sort of sneer as they passed, but she ignored them, and they said nothing. “You can relax, darling.  They were unarmed.” “I just don’t feel like you’re safe around them,” Emberglow muttered, sotto voce.  “They’d try to hurt you if they could.” “I know that, darling.  But they can’t.  We’re safe here in the Crystal Palace.  They wouldn’t dare try anything; Flurry Heart would eject their embassy in a heartbeat.” “I’m not taking risks when it comes to your safety,” Emberglow whispered back, with a sort of iron in her voice that made Rarity’s stomach all fluttery.  She resisted the urge to sigh dramatically, instead leaning over to nuzzle against the taller mare. “So you’re to be my bodyguard, then?  My valiant defender?”  Rarity was teasing, but the fantasy of the idea appealed to her.  She was already enamored with Emberglow’s poise, her athletic figure, her instinct to leap into danger to protect those around her. “Always,” Emberglow said, in a voice that sent shivers down Rarity’s spine. “W-we’re getting off the subject, dear.” Rarity felt sorely tempted to drag Emberglow to some empty alcove and kiss her senseless.  Perhaps it would be best to change topics.  Besides, she really did want to get to the heart of what was troubling Emberglow. “I… I really am stalling, aren’t I?” Emberglow admitted.  Rarity nodded, and after a sudden burst of inspiration, leaned over just enough so that they were touching at the sides as they walked.  “Thanks.  I need…” she took a deep breath, and began in a harsh whisper. “I’m a mess, Rarity.  In my own head, I mean.  The stupidest, most innocent comments set off these voices in my head.  Voices of ponies who’ve passed, telling me I’m a hypocrite for being happy, telling me I’m a coward, I’m useless, I’m guilty of something.  And just now, when you were talking about telling our friends we’re together?  All I could hear was the voice of…” Emberglow gulped.  “… the voice of a dead pony I know reminding me to think about what my parents would say, and how disappointed they’d be if they knew…” She trailed off into silence, head and shoulders slumped.  Rarity pondered for a moment.  What was she to say?  What could she say?  She was no stranger to personal guilt, but she knew that what Emberglow felt was on another level.  Stay close to her, okay?  That’s what Topaz had said, though they were already as close as two ponies could be while still walking down a palace hallway.  So she stopped, holding Emberglow back and moving to the side of the passage, out of the way. “I…” she began, her mind still fumbling about for the right thing to say.  Emberglow’s good eye was large and nervous, watching Rarity intently.  “I don’t know what to say,” Rarity said finally, in a rush of breath.  “But what I can do is be there for you to lean on, okay?  Don’t hide these feelings inside.  Tell me about them.”  She leaned forward giving Emberglow a tiny peck on her cheek.  “And when it comes time to tell your parents, if you do, I’ll be right there with you.” “Y-you will?” “I will.  And while I don’t know what will happen,” Rarity hoped for the best, but she’d never met Emberglow’s parents, “I do know that anypony who could raise somepony as wonderful as you would never be disappointed in their caring, brave, strong, beautiful daughter.”  Her flowery compliment had the desired effect, which was to tease a little smile out of Emberglow.  “I’m still going to worry about it, though.  They were raised the same way I was, and they don’t know the Diarchy’s all a lie, yet.” “Then you and I shall have to tell them!” Rarity insisted.  “And have faith, and hope for the best.”  Rarity narrowed her eyes, staring at Emberglow and ignoring the bustle along the hallway to their side.  “But I would like a promise from you, darling.  Whenever you hear those awful little voices in your head, you’ll let me know?  You don’t have to tell me what they’re saying if you don’t want to, just tell me when you’re struggling.  So I can give you all the support and cuddles that you so richly deserve.” “I promise,” Emberglow said solemnly, though her eyes shined with amusement.  “I’ll let you know.” “Good.”  Rarity nodded firmly.  “Let’s go meet our friends.”  She paused.  “We never did decide on what we were going to tell them, did we?” “I want them to know,” Emberglow said, a smile tugging at her muzzle.  “They’re definitely going to tease us, though.  Especially Heartwing and Lofty.” “Let them tease!” Rarity tossed her mane dramatically.  “I’m far too happy to care!” Both mares giggled, and Rarity trotted off down the hall with Emberglow following closely. *   *   *   *   * Their prediction about teasing proved prescient.  As soon as Rarity’s magic pulled the door open to the private dining hall, everypony else was already there, including Heartwing.  Everypony looked up as Rarity and Emberglow entered, pausing in the act of eating lunch.  Topaz looked giddy, and Terminus proud.  Lofty appeared to be holding back laughter.  The only pony who didn’t appear to have noticed their arrival was True, who seemed tightly focused on disassembling the peanut butter and jelly sandwich on the plate before him. And Heartwing began to clap, slow, overexaggerated sounds that filled the suddenly silent dining room.  Until that sound was joined by the dull thud of a wooden spoon whacking him on the back of the head. “Be nice,” Terminus said, while Heartwing pouted at him. “I was being nice!  I was congratulating them!” Heartwing protested, and Lofty snickered. “You’re teasing, you scoundrel,” Terminus tried to scowl, though he was grinning. “Oh, let him tease, darling,” Rarity announced.  “Since clearly everypony already knows.  I’m curious as to how, though.” “It wasn’t exactly subtle the way Emberglow practically dragged you out of the courtroom, Rarity,” Heartwing said with a smirk.  “I’m told your dramatic exit has become quite the subject for gossip among the castle staff and Princess Flurry’s courtiers.” “Well, since you all seem to have spoiled our big announcement,” Rarity mock-pouted, “I suppose it shall come as no surprise that Emberglow and I are lovers, now.” “Cheers!” Topaz cried out gleefully, practically bouncing in her seat.  “Congratulations, you two!” This time the applause was genuine, and everypony joined in, even True, splashing bits of peanut butter on his father, who didn’t seem to mind in the slightest as he casually leaned over and did some triage with a napkin. “They’re going to have to rewrite the Book of the Saints, I suppose,” Heartwing mused.  “Especially the bits about Rarity being the Etern…” He was cut off as Terminus quickly shoved a roll into his mouth. “Thank you, darling,” Rarity said with a smile and a nod in Terminus’ direction.  “But now that our good news is out of the way, I couldn’t help but notice that Heartwing is out of his cell.” “Sit down, have some food, and we’ll tell you about that,” Terminus said with an inviting wave of his hoof.  Rarity was about to take her chair, but it slid out for her.  She glanced at Emberglow, who was grinning and flushed. “Why thank you!” she cooed as Emberglow slid the chair into the table.  She pointedly ignored Heartwing’s snickers as Emberglow took the seat next to her. In front of them was a buffet of lunch foods, from fresh vegetables to savory pastries and an array of berries.  There were even a pair of teapots with steam wafting from the openings, complete with mugs next to each place setting.  Rarity wasn’t too hungry from their late brunch, though she selected a few things to be polite, and began to munch daintily on some carrot sticks while Terminus spoke. “It’s because of your speech yesterday, Rarity.  It made quite an impression.  Princess Flurry, in particular, looked very troubled as she left. “This morning, she came to the prison cell,” he continued. Terminus and Heartwing shared a look.  “I… I don’t think she’s quite ready to forgive him just yet.  But something changed yesterday, and she’s trying.  She offered Heartwing a deal.” “A deal?” Rarity made sure to swallow first.  A lady never speaks with her mouth full, after all. “Yeah,” Heartwing chimed in, spraying crumbs from the roll he was chewing onto the table.  “We still don’t know what the King and Queen’s verdict will be, but assuming they were just as moved by Rarity’s speech, the princess and I wanted to start negotiating what might happen next.  With the Discordant, and me, and some sort of mission to New Canterlot City to retrieve the Element of Magic.” “At least you’re speaking with her.”  Rarity paused, glancing around the table until she found one of the steaming pots of tea.  She floated it over to her and inhaled, taking in the strong scent of lemon and bergamot.  With a pleased little noise, she filled a mug with the wonderful smelling brew.  “What sort of plans do you think are likely to form?” Heartwing sighed.  “I’m not sure.  But we need to find a way to retrieve the Element from the Diarchy.  As Flurry Heart has been so kind to remind me, several times, she disapproves of my choice to use violence against them.  But I don’t see how there’s any other way.  We’re going to have to mount some sort of assault on the capital if we’re going to get the Element back.” “And then what?” Rarity had to ask.  “In the past, when we used the Elements before, there was always some big target to point them at.  Nightmare Moon, Tirek,” she paused.  “You.”  Heartwing merely smirked and gave a little bow.  “It’s not as if you can use the elements to fix an entire culture.  And the creature that started all of this?  That ‘Adagio Dazzle’ individual?  She seems to be long gone.” “I’ve been thinking about that,” Heartwing said.  “I’ve been fighting the Diarchy my way for three hundred years.  I’d like to think I’ve accomplished something; made it possible for some ponies to live free and happy.  But you’re right; there’s not a single pony or monster that we can just rainbow blast into friendship like before.  So why did the Tree reach out to us now, and not when I began my war?” “Maybe the right ponies simply weren’t born yet?” Rarity gave a smile to the assembled Elements.  Emberglow blushed, and Terminus looked away nervously, but Topaz smiled back at her and Lofty looked a little proud.  Heartwing was shaking his head. “I don’t think that’s it.  I think something’s coming; the Tree instructed us to restore Harmony, and to restore the Alicorns.  I think we were meant to find Sunset Shimmer, and I think we're also meant to reconnect the Empire with the Diarchy.  But that’s not all.  The Diarchy is going through the coldest winter it has ever experienced before, and I think it’s got something to do with the lack of harmony.” “We spoke of this before,” Rarity noted.  “The Windigoes.” “Exactly.”  Heartwing tapped his cup with one hoof as he thought.  “I’ve had a horrifying idea.  The Diarchy has been out of balance for centuries; no harmony between the pony races, no Elements, no alicorns.  Shouldn’t it have been turned into a Windigo playground, chock full of pony-icicles centuries ago?” “No need to be macabre, darling,” Rarity shuddered.  “You have a point, I assume?” “What if…” he shuddered.  “What if Adagio and Tirek and Cozy made some sort of arrangement with the Windigoes?  And it’s now expiring?  Because they are coming back.” “That would mean the Tree wanted us to find the Elements in order to save the Diarchy?” Terminus added, his face twisted with distaste.  Lofty and Emberglow also looked ill at the idea. “Not the Diarchy itself, but the innocent ponies who live and suffer there,” Heartwing said. Rarity felt the familiar rush of inspiration, that moment of joy where things click into place.  “Oh!  So you’re saying the Tree brought back the Elements not to banish some monolithic foe, but rather to guide and inspire the citizens of the Diarchy to push back the Windigoes themselves!”  She felt excited as she looked around at the faces staring at her.  “That has to be it!  That’s why the Elements chose ponies the way they did!  Each of you, coming from different walks of life.”  She stood up; she couldn’t help herself. “Think about it!” She was nearly shaking in her excitement at her epiphany.  “Some of you grew up in the Diarchy, were molded by it.”  She looked at Lofty and Emberglow.  “Some of you have an outsider’s perspective.”  Topaz grinned, bouncing in her seat, while Heartwing nodded.  “Terminus, you left when you were young, so you have a perspective all your own.  Don’t you see?  All of you are to be the beacon that leads the Diarchy to fix itself!” There was a moment of silence following her speech, and Heartwing coughed nervously into his hoof.  “Um, Rarity?  Perhaps you shouldn’t put ponies up so high on a pedestal?  We’re just five normal ponies.” “Normal?” Terminus whispered, raising an eyebrow at his coltfriend, who smirked. “Normal-ish.  You know what I mean.  It’s…” He never got to finish what he was going to say.  The doors to the dining room opened to reveal a squad of Empire guards.  Rarity recognized Sergeant Lockstep, looking much less antagonistic than their last encounter. “It is time for the final hearing,” he said calmly.  “We’re here to escort you to the Sunrise Hall.” “So it is to be chains again?” Heartwing drawled, while Terminus bristled beside him. “No,” the sergeant shook his head.  “We are here for your protection, Sir Heartwing.  Princess Flurry has told us that no chains will be necessary.” “Thank you,” Heartwing replied.  Everypony stood, with Lofty and Topaz pausing long enough to address the explosive peanut butter situation on True’s muzzle. “Lofty and I will escort this handsome young colt to his afternoon tutor, then catch up with you all in the audience hall,” Topaz offered, and Lofty nodded. *   *   *   *   * The walk to the Sunrise Hall had Rarity in high spirits.  Perhaps it was partially because of the mare walking alongside her, bumping flanks every so often, or even leaning over for a quick, shy nuzzle.  It didn’t hurt that every time Rarity looked over Emberglow was blushing cutely from the teasing smirks and gentle ribbing coming from Lofty and Heartwing. It was more than that, though; Rarity felt like a weight had been lifted from her shoulders.  Before, she’d been sure she could never have considered forgiving Heartwing for what he had done.  Thinking about what he had caused still stung, but it was a dull pain, distant and muffled behind who he was now. “Heartwing, darling,” she began, with a sudden burst of inspiration.  “Do you know what happened to the Twilight construct after my departure yesterday?” “You mean, after Emberglow dragged you from the courtroom to ravish you?” he quipped.   Emberglow stumbled with a surprised snort. “Th-that’s…” Emberglow began, stammering. “Yes, after that,” Rarity felt her own cheeks warming.  She leaned towards Emberglow.  “If you act all cute and embarrassed every time he prods you like that, you’re just going to egg him on more.  Not that I mind.  You blush rather nicely.” “In answer to your question,” Heartwing pushed forward as Emberglow sputtered.  “Princess Flurry took it with her.” “I think I’ll let her keep it.  Twilight was her aunt, after all.” Rarity mused before putting voice to her own idea.  Her own feelings towards Heartwing were clearer than they had been in weeks, but she still hesitated for a moment. “I shall need a new magic tutor, though, and I believe I’ll respond better to a more practical trainer than recorded messages, even if they’re from Princess Twilight.  Heartwing, do you think you could teach me?” “I would be honored,” Heartwing said after a short pause.  Rarity searched his face for any hint of mischief or teasing, then nodded when she found none. “Thank you, darling.  Though I suppose we’ll have to wait to see the outcome of today’s hearing before we schedule my first lesson.” “Agreed.” When they approached the front doors of the Sunrise Hall, it became abundantly clear to Rarity exactly why they’d needed a guard escort today.  The hallway was packed with ponies and other creatures; many carried notepads or cameras, and to one side there was even a cadre of unicorns setting up some sort of broadcasting equipment.  The crowd buzzed with energy as they waited for the doors to open. Then one of the creatures present, a pink and orange changeling mare buzzing just above the crowd, happened to look behind her to see Rarity and her friends’ approach.  Her eyes lit up and she swooped down to intercept them, raising the camera she had strapped around her neck.  Several other reporters noticed the movement as Sergeant Lockstep and his soldiers closed in around the group in a protective shell. A barrage of flashbulbs and hastily shouted questions rained around Rarity and her friends as the guards jostled them towards the door.  It was nearly impossible to single out the shouting individuals in the crowd, but Rarity heard the questions anyway. “Sir Heartwing, is it true that you and the Princess have been meeting to discuss a deal?” “Rarity, Miss Rarity.  Are you really the Rarity of legend?  How did you come to be here?” “Rarity, tell us about your exit after yesterday’s hearing.” “Sir Heartwing, are the Discordant going to be dissolved?” “Where is Duchess Topaz?” “Miss Rarity, are you dating the mare at your side?” Despite the flurry of questions, the crowd of reporters parted politely enough when the guards began pushing towards the door.  “These ponies have no comment at this time,” Sergeant Lockstep said, repeating it over and over as they managed their way forward.  Several guards with crossed spears stood watch at the Sunrise Hall doors themselves, waiting until the sergeant had made it to open them. Something about the rote response didn’t sit quite right from Rarity, though, so she paused and turned to the reporters as the guards opened the door.  “Thank you, sergeant, but all the same I believe I can speak for myself,” she said to him.  The reporters renewed their assault, this time focusing exclusively on Rarity with their barrage of queries.  She cleared her throat, raised an eyebrow, and waited. It took a few seconds for the press ponies to get the idea, quieting down.  The camera flashes continued unabated, but Rarity didn’t mind in the slightest. In fact, it felt fabulous. “I’m sorry that I won’t be able to answer all your questions today, darlings,” Rarity began, tossing her mane and smiling at the assembled creatures.  “The hearing is still ongoing, and I’m sure you’ll be able to pick up all the details yourself.  But I think I can clear up some questions about me and my relationships.”  She spared a side glance at Emberglow.  Maybe she should have asked about this first?  But Emberglow was smiling at her, even as she stood protectively at Rarity’s side. “This mare, as some of you already know, is Lady Emberglow of the Discordant.  And as of this morning, yes, we are indeed dating.  She’s a sweet, brave, wonderful mare and I’m lucky to have her.” Apparently that was all the patience the reporters had; as soon as she was done speaking they began peppering her with questions again.  But Rarity merely bowed to the crowd, turned with a swish of her tail, and followed her friends and an impatient-looking Sergeant into the Sunrise Hall.  There was a bounce in her step as she did so, a prance of joy, but in that moment Rarity wished it could be more. Prance?  She’d just announced to the world that she was in love.  She wanted to dance. “I really should have warned you,” she whispered to Emberglow as the doors closed behind them.  The courtroom was much quieter, but it still buzzed with a more subdued version of the same energy that had electrified the creatures outside.  The King and Queen were not in their thrones, but Princess Flurry sat with the prosecuting lawyers, watching them arrive with an amused look on her face.  “That was a little impulsive of me, wasn’t it?” “N-no, that was fine,” Emberglow said, her voice trembling with nervous energy.  “You only just gushed about me to a hundred reporters.”  She didn’t sound too disappointed. “Something this marvelous needs to be shouted from the rooftops, darling.”  The comment earned Rarity a laugh and a kiss on the cheek, which she accepted eagerly. It was then that Rarity heard a noise, somewhere between a disgusted and dismayed growl.  She glanced up to lock eyes with the turquoise-colored mare, still dressed in the offensive pink robes that bore Pinkie’s cutie mark.  The Diarchy ambassador looked both furious and sickened, eyes blazing as she stared at Rarity.  The soldiers surrounding her also looked disapproving and angry.  Rarity had to fight the urge to stick her tongue out at them; instead, she wrapped a hoof around Emberglow and squeezed her tight.  Emberglow hesitated, glancing over at them in the crowd. “Ignore that,” Rarity said dismissively, guiding Emberglow with her hoof to where Habeus sat at the table.  Emberglow nodded and the two of them sat down together to wait for the King and Queen.  “Hmm.  They do like to make an entrance, don’t they?  I wonder if all royalty receives some sort of primer on making other ponies wait the moment they receive their titles.” The joke had the effect Rarity wanted; Emberglow’s sour expression faded into a tiny laugh.  Rarity could still feel the tension in the mare beside her as they waited.  She completely understood.  The hairs on the back of her own neck were raised; it was as if she could feel the hateful gaze of the turquoise-colored mare behind them boring into the back of her skull. Just like yesterday, a changeling in black robes arrived to announce the changeling royalty.  “All rise for their majesties, Queen Chrysalis the Fifth, and King Pharynx the Third.”  He paused, as once again Queen Chrysalis arrived through the Sunrise Room’s back door, carrying her brother. Rarity met eyes with Flurry across the courtroom.  She looked exhausted, with bags of stress and sleeplessness under her eyes.  Rarity remembered the other day, when she’d suggested a spa treatment for Cadance.  Perhaps a mother-daughter vacation was in order, once all this was done?  She tried not to giggle at the thought, but from the puzzled look Flurry gave Rarity, some of her amusement had probably leaked through. From behind the princess, a uniformed guard slipped into the Sunrise Room, looking harried.  Rarity recognized Guard Yolene from before, and she rushed towards the princess, whispering something urgently in her ear. “What!?  But…” Flurry jerked stiffly in shock.  “O-of course she can.  G-guards, prepare to receive the Empress, Mi Amore Cadenza.” A gasp rolled through the courtroom, and even Queen Chrysalis stood, though her brother stayed on their throne.  The doors swung wide to reveal two more yak guards, flanking Cadance’s withered form.  She was walking on her own, though she had a wing around both yaks on either side of her for support.  Rarity noted that she still wore the gauntlets of the Apparatus of Ocellus; the rest of the machine was strapped onto some sort of harness and carried by the yak to her right. “Please.” Cadance’s harsh whisper cut through the murmuring crowd.  “I am only here to observe.  Continue about your business.” The spell of silence was broken, and Flurry Heart leapt across the room to her mother’s side, taking the place of one of the guards.  She whispered something that Rarity couldn’t hear, and Cadance laughed. Flurry turned, and with a steadier voice, addressed the crowd. “My mother has honored us today with her presence, but doesn’t wish to be a disturbance.  We can proceed.”  She helped Cadance to a seat right next to hers, at the prosecution table.  Rarity noted that Flurry’s barristers were already there, though like everypony else their stunned eyes were frozen on the Empress. “Then, with your leave, your Eminence,” the King bowed as much as his seat would allow.  “We shall proceed?” “Go ahead,” Cadance whispered.  Rarity did her best to slide closer to her, unwilling to disturb the proceedings but eager to be close to her old friend.  She looked up at Cadance with a puzzled expression, but Cadance merely gave her a mysterious smile before turning her attention back to the changeling king and queen. “To all of you here, to the defendant, and the legal teams, members of the press and diplomats from afar,” Queen Chrysalis began, raising her voice enough that it filled the whole room.  “We have met with barristers from both sides, and with the complainant Princess Flurry Heart.  In light of testimony received yesterday, she has chosen to call no new witnesses and add no new evidence.  Barrister Habeus has also informed Us that he has nothing more to contribute to these proceedings.  Assuming there are no other objections, We are ready to proceed with Our decision.” Rarity heard a cry of dismay from the back of the courtroom.  She turned to look; the Diarchy ambassador had surged to her hooves.  The blue-uniformed marines on either side of her were trying to coax her back into her seat, holding her back with their own hooves. The changelings ignored the interruption.  “Defendant Heartwing, would you step forward?” the king began.  Heartwing, this time unbound by chain or muzzle, stepped forward, standing proudly in the center of the Sunlight Hall.  “The charges against you are regicide, treason, and vigilantism.  You have pled guilty.  Do you have anything you wish to say before we pass sentence?” Heartwing opened his mouth but paused thoughtfully before speaking.  “Ever since I woke up, I thought it was my duty to fight.  To struggle against the oppression and evil that tainted the memory of those I love.  More and more, though, I realize that it is not my responsibility to fight for the dead, but to fight for the living.  “I defer to the wisdom of this court; I am guilty of terrible things and must pay.  But I ask that I be allowed to keep fighting for those I loved then, and for those I love now.” There was a flash of red light from under Heartwing’s robes, the glow that came from the Element of Loyalty.  Rarity had the urge to reach out and embrace him.  The thrill of fear filled her breast; what if things went poorly?  She looked over at both Emberglow and Terminus, seeing the same fear in their eyes. “Very well, Heartwing.  My sister and I, having conferred on this subject, have decided the following:  for the charges of regicide and treason, we sentence you to petrification, for a time lasting a minimum of seven centuries.  You are sentenced to time served for this crime.” Time served, Rarity thought, her heart pounding as she tried to digest what she’d heard.  Time served.  So he wouldn’t be going back into his slumber as a statue.  But they weren’t finished yet. “The third charge caused the two of us a bit more consternation,” the Queen picked up.  “But with the grace of Princess Flurry Heart, we have come up with a just solution.  For the crime of vigilantism, the act of leading a rebellion in an unauthorized war against Equestria, we sentence you to community service, beginning immediately, for a time lasting until you are convinced you have completed the duty you claim to owe to those you love, past and present.” “No!” the ambassador shouted.  Once again, Rarity looked to see the Diarchy knight being held back by her soldiers.  “No…” she repeated. “Ambassador Turquoise, you are here as a courtesy.  Please restrain your outbursts, or you will be removed from this hall.”  Queen Chrysalis stared hard over the courtroom.  Turquoise froze, met the changeling queen’s stare, and hung her head. “I am sorry, your majesty,” the ambassador replied.  “May I have leave to address this court?” The king and queen glanced at each other, looking a bit shocked.  The queen nodded, and the king looked at Princess Flurry, who gave a tiny nod of her own. “Very well, Ambassador Turquoise.  You may speak.” “Thank you, your majesties.”  The crowd parted as Turquoise stood, walking towards the center of the Sunrise Hall.  All eyes were on her, but Turquoise kept her hateful gaze fixed on Heartwing.  As she passed Rarity, Rarity saw tears in her eyes. Finally she reached the center of the room.  “Queen Chrysalis, King Pharynx, I am deeply sorry for my interruptions.  No offense was intended.” Rarity saw her tremble, and then shook her head.  “No.  No, that’s not honest.  I do intend offense.  Because what I’ve seen here today breaks my heart. “I’ve known…” her voice was shaking.  “I’ve known since I was a foal that my destiny was up here.  In the North.  The Saints called me to be the first to extend the hoof of peace to the crystal ponies. “I worked for years doing research, devouring everything we knew about our cousins.  I knew that all the Saints were watching over me, even when my goal looked hopeless.” Turquoise clenched her eyes shut, and Rarity saw tears leaking down her face. “I had so much hope when I came here…” she whispered, as if only to herself.  When her eyes opened, there was only fury and tears.  “Today killed that hope.  There can be no peace between us.  Hopscotch.” Rarity cocked her head to the side, ears straining.  Had the ambassador just said ‘hopscotch’?  Whatever could she… The reasoning became apparent as several flashes of green light lit the room.  Cries of surprise cut through the crowd as several members of the press were engulfed in a magical haze, only to reveal the figures hiding behind the illusion. Knights Mystic.  At least four that Rarity could see, and all armed with spears. The room exploded with noise.  Panicked screams, cries of anger and rage, shouted orders.  Everypony began moving at once in an eruption of color and light. One of the Knights threw something high in the air, above everypony, and Rarity looked despite herself.  It burst into a tremendous flash, so bright it sent a bolt of pain through Rarity’s head.  A roar of sound filled the room, and then Rarity could hear and see nothing. She flailed about, pouring magic into her horn to do… something.  Anything.  A quick shield was all she could manage before something slammed into her, tossing her forward until she bumped into somepony else.  A large figure.  Cadance, probably. Rarity still couldn’t quite see anything more than a sharp, bright glare, but she sidled up close to Cadance, pouring magic into the shield.  Something struck against it, and she grunted with effort. The ringing in her ears was starting to subside.  Figures and blurs were resolving into shapes.  Somepony was shouting at her. “..ity!  Rarity, look out!”  It was Cadance, slumped beneath her.  Her eyes focused on something behind Rarity.  Cadance’s horn flashed, and Rarity felt a burning tingle in her horn.  It took her a moment to recognize a transference spell, a way for one unicorn to give her energy to another. She didn’t have time to turn to see what Cadance was looking at.  Instead, Rarity took the offered power and reinforced the shield, just as it rattled and buzzed under some kind of attack.  Blue light flickered and flashed all around her as her spell struggled, and tendrils of agony wormed down her horn and into her brain.  She could hear herself screaming through the ringing in her ears. Rarity turned to face her opponent, keeping Cadance behind her.  It was a Knight Mystic, an earth pony mare with a hard expression on her face and a webwork of scars on her yellow muzzle.  She held a spear in her hooves, and the tip was poking through Rarity’s shield, surrounded by a dozen cracks in the glass-like magical construct.  Its deadly tip was pointed down at Cadance. The shield rocked and flashed, and Rarity jerked to the side.  A second Knight was there, a pegasus stallion, wings flapping as he bore down from above, face twisted in a rictus grin.  His spear was also lodged into the blue barrier, grinding and cracking the magic as it inched towards them.  Rarity could feel the energy in her shield slipping.  Each spear tip was something she could feel, like a spike driving into her head, grinding and piercing.  Mystics were trained to fight unicorns, she remembered.  Maybe they’d done something to their spears. Something slammed into the pegasus Knight.  Rarity saw a blur of black fur and heard the Mystic cry out in pain and surprise.  His spear fell to the floor, and Rarity felt the pain in her head ease a little.  But she couldn’t spare a glance for Terminus or the Knight he was engaged with.  The Knight mare howled a battle cry.  Spittle spattered against the shield. The cracks grew.  Rarity held on.  But she was flagging.  The Knight’s muzzle spread in a smug grin.  Her lips moved, and despite the ringing in Rarity’s ears she heard enough to send a chill down her spine. “It’s time to die, abomination.”  The Knight was staring at Cadance as she said it. The shield shattered.  The Knight thrust forward, spear tip jerking down and to the side.  It was too fast.  Rarity wasn’t ready.  She tensed her hind-legs to throw herself in front of the spear; at least she could do this much.  Rarity felt the kiss of the spear on her chest, even as she charged her horn for one last, desperate spell.  She was screaming, but she could barely hear herself.  Without thinking about it she clenched her eyes shut. But the spear went no further.  “Eyes up, soldier!  Protect the Empress!”  Heartwing’s barked orders snapped her into the present.  The ringing was subsiding, and Rarity opened her eyes. For one frozen second, Rarity was able to take in the entire room.  Knights and Empire guards were fighting and dying all over the room.  Civilians were slumped on the ground, crying, screaming, bleeding.  Queen Chrysalis, shaped like a bugbear, clutched her brother tightly with one claw while swiping at several soldiers who kept her at bay with long spears, disguised as ordinary ponies. Emberglow and the ambassador traded blows; Emberglow had found a spear somewhere.  Flurry Heart screamed in fury as she fired blast after blast of crackling energy at the ponies jabbing at her with their weapons.  Terminus and one Knight were in the air, wings beating furiously.  And in front of her, Heartwing, covered in blood, some of which seeped from a dozen wounds, grappled with the female Knight for her spear. The moment passed, and time began flowing again.  Rarity gasped for breath and felt the trickle of blood down her chest.  She glanced at the Knight who’d broken her shield.  The Knight’s attention was on Heartwing.  Rarity snarled and fired off a blast from her horn.  It hurt, an aching echo of the Knight shattering her shield. It was weak.  Rarity was distracted, winded, hurting, and scared.  But the blue bolt lanced out, striking the Knight in the side of her armor.  She barely stumbled, but Heartwing shoved, throwing the Knight to the floor. His horn flared yellow and he ripped the spear out of her hooves, before sparing Rarity a glance.  “Stay by the Empress,” he ordered, before spinning the spear and slamming it down hard, blade first, into the fallen Knight through a gap in her armor.  The resulting liquid sound turned Rarity’s stomach.  She couldn’t look at the new splash of blood that marred Heartwing’s robes.  “Discordant!  Rally to the Empress!” He followed his orders with a quick blast into the sky.  Rarity saw it clip the wing of Terminus’ opponent, who immediately swerved and slammed into the wall in a sickening crunch of bone and masonry.  Terminus spun and landed next to Rarity.  He’d found a spear too, though it was broken in half, with a jagged stump only a dozen or so inches below the point. Rarity looked for Emberglow next.  Her heart leapt with terror when she saw Emberglow, bleeding from a gash below her ruined eye, limping on one hoof as she tried to keep herself between the ambassador and the Empress.  The ambassador was shouting and slashing wildly with a long knife, driving her back.  As Rarity watched, horrified, the knife bit deep into Emberglow’s shoulder.  “Emberglow!” she screamed, jerking forward despite herself.  She had no plan other than to get that bitch away from her marefriend.  Her horn glowed with blind, furious magic.  Rarity’s hooves churned in a gallop as she launched herself over fallen civilians and disguised Diarchy soldiers alike.  She had no plan, only adrenaline and an image burned into her mind: Emberglow, her Emberglow, crying out in pain at the slash of a knife.  Rarity’s hoof caught a patch of blood on the floor and she slid, legs windmilling as she stumbled.  Her momentum carried her right into Ambassador Turquoise’s stunned face.  She heard Emberglow cry out in shock, as well as Terminus and Heartwing’s cries of protest behind her.  “Don’t touch me, abomination,” she heard Turquoise hiss, and something shoved her, hard.  “This is your fault.  It’s all…” Something sharp dug into the underside of Rarity’s barrel, and a hot wetness soaked her clothing.  Agony like fire sliced into her torso, making her gasp, her breath short.  She rolled away from the ambassador and looked down at the wet spot soaked into her dress, that beautiful velvet the princess had gifted her with.  Ruined now. The ringing was back in her ears.  Rarity felt faint. “Die, you foul thing,” something hissed at her, from close by.  Something was moving.  Rarity turned, too slowly, trying to see who was speaking.  Suddenly Emberglow was right there, shoving her aside.  Rarity lost track in the scuffle.  She heard somepony grunt in pain.  She hoped it was the ambassador. It was getting hard to focus on things. “Rarity?  Rarity, you’re…” Emberglow sounded desperate.  Rarity was on the floor.  When did she wind up there?  “Rarity, look at me.” Emberglow was standing right over her, fumbling with her dress.  Silly Emberglow.  Now was not the… She hissed in pain as Emberglow’s hooves found her wound.  “It’s deep,” she heard Emberglow mutter.  Her blue eye looked worried.  Then there was something, a cloth of some sort, pressing hard against her barrel, hard enough to make her moan in agony.  “We have to put pressure on it, Rarity.  Can you…” “I got it.”  It was Heartwing’s voice.  Rarity saw him move up beside Emberglow, his horn already glowing.  Rarity felt his magic wrap around her barrel, squeezing down.  “Put this on.” “Thank the Saints.”  Emberglow was strapping something onto her hoof.  It was lavender in color, and splashed with blood.  Oh!  Rarity recognized one of the Knights Mystic’s rune gauntlets.  Soon enough it was glowing with arcane light as Emberglow frantically traced runes through the air.  “But, darling, what about…” Rarity tensed her shoulders, trying to stand.  Heartwing pushed her back down, even as Emberglow held out a free hoof in front of her. “Please don’t move, Rarity.”  It was a professional voice, a voice of command, made all the more wonderful by the tremulous emotion Rarity could sense behind it.  She felt the rush of cold energy, an unsettling chill as her insides knit and mended.  She couldn’t help the gasp that rushed out of her lungs, and she jerked up to a sitting position. “Feel better?” Heartwing smiled thinly at Rarity, while Emberglow insistently pushed her back down, pulling at the tattered edges of her gown to look at the bloodstained fur underneath. “Of course, I...” “Stay down,” Emberglow ordered.  Rarity held back a sound of protest as Emberglow tore the dress.  It was ruined anyways, between the stabs and the blood, but she still had to spare a mournful thought for the gorgeous garment. “Out of immediate danger?” Terminus asked from somewhere above Rarity’s head. “Flurry has rallied the guards and broken through to the front door.  The changelings have their monarchs out of the room, they’ve secured the back door.  The enemy Knights are all down or captured,” Heartwing said shortly.  “Empress, are you okay?” “Fine,” Cadance rasped from Rarity’s right.  “Is Rarity…” “Rarity’s fine,” Emberglow reported, her face flush as she leaned down to give Rarity a relieved kiss on the cheek.  “She’s fine.”  One kiss was not enough.  Rarity lifted herself up enough to throw her hooves around her doctor, eliciting a surprised squeak.  “Thank you,” she whispered against Emberglow’s neck, and then proceeded to kiss her more thoroughly.  She felt like she could risk it; Heartwing had said the room was secure.  “What about you, are you…” “I’m okay for now,” Emberglow said. “Princess Flurry will be sending for medics,” Heartwing said confidently.  “We will all let them check us over.”  It was an order. “Yes, sir,” Emberglow said.  “While we wait, though, I’ll see what else I can do.” Rarity took the moment of silence to look around the room while her marefriend began to move about, tending to the wounded soldiers and civilians.  What Rarity saw broke her heart. Most of the bodies on the floor were the various reporters and civilians who had come to see the trial.  There were also guards, their crystal armor splashed with blood and limp on the painted floor. Many of the benches had been toppled in the frenzy. Rarity’s breath caught when she recognized the still form of Habeus, his eyes open and frozen in pain.  Near the table where Princess Flurry and her barristers sat was a trio of dead guards.  Rarity recognized the eager yak guard from before, Yolene, and felt her eyes brimming with tears. With a pang of guilt she remembered her own words, just a few hours earlier, said to Emberglow. We’re safe here in the Crystal Palace.  That hadn’t exactly ended up being quite true, had it? They don’t dare try anything. And how many innocent ponies had paid the price for that assumption, hm? With a shudder, she noticed the other bodies in the room.  There were the lavender-armored Knights, of course.  Two of them were limp on the ground, two more were buried, struggling, under piles of armored crystal ponies.  Ambassador Turquoise lay on the floor, only a few paces away, her face turned away and her body still. Several other ponies, probably soldiers disguised as civilians, were being dragged away by crystal pony guards.  Rarity finally saw Princess Flurry, her face a thunderstorm of outrage, directing her guards in dragging the assassins out of the room. Their eyes met, and the Princess’ face softened.  She spread her wings, floating over the chaos to land next to Rarity.  “Rarity, you’re hurt!  Is everything…” “Emberglow sorted me out, darling.  Really, it’s—” she cut off as Flurry swept her up in a full-wing hug.  “—oof.  Really, I’m just fine.” “You saved my mother,” Flurry said, before stepping back.  “Don’t think I’ll ever forget that, Rarity.  You were wounded saving my mother.  The Empire won’t forget, either.” Rarity didn’t know what to say to that, so she simply nodded, sniffing as she wiped at a tear in her eye.  Perhaps she had saved Cadance.  But what about all the others?  What if… “I know that look, Rarity,” Heartwing moved up on her other side, bumping her with a hoof.  “Don’t go down that path right now.  Take some time to talk to Topaz and Terminus.  It will help.” “Where are they?” “Diarchy soldiers, disguised as press members, managed to barricade the door outside to stop reinforcements from interrupting their assassination attempt.  If Lofty and Topaz hadn’t been late, they wouldn’t have been able to alert the crystal guards that something was happening inside.”  Flurry’s own smile was wan.  “I’m rather impressed with that young stallion.  I think he’ll be good for her.” Again, there was nothing for Rarity to say.  She felt oddly adrift.  She longed for the touch of her marefriend, but Emberglow was several paces away, healing a panting changeling soldier with a broken hoof. “What would you like us to do now, Princess Flurry?” Heartwing said.  Flurry gave him an annoyed glare.  “What?  By the terms of my community service, I work for you now, don’t I?” “If you insist.”  She glanced at the urgent figures that spilled through the doors.  Ponies dressed in hospital gowns were filtering into the room, bearing all sorts of first aid supplies.  “I trust I can put the prisoners in your charge?  You have the most experience dealing with enhanced Knights.”  She narrowed her eyes.  “I trust you can treat them with compassion.  We don’t condone torture here.” “I don’t condone it either,” Heartwing said calmly.  “As you command, princess.” Flurry Heart scowled at him as he trotted away towards the two struggling Diarchy Knights.  Terminus followed after him.  Flurry sighed as soon as they were out of earshot. “I’m going to have to get used to that.” “I think it will be as difficult for him as it is for you,” Cadance noted. Flurry huffed.  “Not likely.”  She turned her gaze down to her mother, sitting on the ground, and her eyes grew soft.  “Come on, Mother.  Let’s get you checked out by the medics.  You too, Rarity.” “I’ll help.”  Rarity took a moment to brush her hoof along the healed wound in her torso, wondering at the small scar.  It was like it had been healing for weeks, rather than seconds.  She reached down and helped Cadance to her hooves, amazed at the merely dull pain in her wound, the barely-there ache as she tried her wounded muscles.  She shot a grateful look over at Emberglow, but the mare was busy at work casting another spell over a whimpering photographer pony. Rarity wondered what Emberglow was thinking.  She was starting to understand her marefriend’s tendency to hide pain under a stoic façade.  She wondered if Emberglow’s mental voice was torturing her right now.  She imagined she could see the battle raging behind Emberglow’s professional mien. As Rarity was watching, she could see Emberglow’s gaze dart to the ambassador.  A medic was already there, looking over the unconscious Knight.  Emberglow kept looking as if she wanted to go help, but she kept her distance. Finally a pair of medics noticed Rarity and Flurry helping Cadance along, and rushed over with chagrined looks on their faces.  They bowed awkwardly before Cadance, but Flurry waved them off with a hoof. “Y-your eminence, I’m so sorry, we should have…” “There were other wounded,” Cadance cut her off.  “I was fine to wait.  Please, look at my friend Rarity, first.” Rarity and Flurry settled Cadance to the floor again, with Flurry even levitating a cushion from somewhere and making sure her weakened mother was comfortable.  Meanwhile, one medic began asking Cadance questions while the other approached Rarity. “Are you wounded, miss?” he asked, and Rarity motioned to the bloodstained hole in her gown. “I was, but I was already healed by Miss Emberglow, there.”  She pointed. “The Discordant?” The medic sounded interested.  “I’ve heard about her!  I’d love to see…” He cleared his throat.  “Sorry.  Lay down please, I’d like to take a look at her work.” Rarity obliged him, turning away as he tore at the dress once again to get a better look at her wound.  Instead, she kept her gaze protectively over her friends, particularly her marefriend.  Terminus and Heartwing were busy helping the guards fit chains onto the surviving Knights, and Emberglow looked tired. “If you’re set here, Mother, I’m going to check on the changelings.  I think Queen Chrysalis was wounded in the attack.” “I do hope they are both okay,” Rarity said. “I think so.  The changeling guards managed to secure the back door and hustle them out of the room.”  Flurry leaned down, giving both of them a quick nuzzle.  “Thank you again, Rarity, for saving my mother.” “It was nothing, darling.  Only what any friend would do.”  Rarity felt her face heating, and Flurry merely smiled and trotted off. Suddenly Rarity felt the press of exhaustion on her mind.  She was prone, relaxed, and sore, but alive.  She rested her head on the floor, wondering why she shouldn’t just let herself drift off in a short nap.  The others could handle the results of today, right?  Just a few moments to rest her eyes… Rarity may have drifted off for a second; she wasn’t sure.  But a sudden shout, and a flash of bright light, jerked her eyes open.  Ambassador Turquoise was rising, surging to her hooves, eyes ablaze.  Had she been feigning unconsciousness? There was a knife in her hoof, a long blade, and even from the other side of the room Rarity could see it dripping with a viscous orange liquid.  How had she… Rarity didn’t have time to wonder.  The ambassador, her face a mask of frenzied rage, launched herself towards Princess Flurry, who was facing the other way. “Abomination!” the ambassador shrieked as she sailed through the air. Time seemed to stop.  The Diarchy Knight, bruised and bloody but undaunted, knife leading, soared through the air.  Flurry Heart, eyes open in shock, spinning to respond, too slow.  Far too slow.  Rarity heard the yelp from the medic who was applying a bandage to her side as she rose to her own hooves, horn blazing.  Too far away. She could see it all.  Soldiers and civilians, medics and officials, all staring in shock and horror as the Knight with a dripping blade descended on their monarch.  Nopony was close enough to stop her. Nopony except Emberglow. Wings spread, Emberglow was a pink blur shooting between the Princess and the assassin.  Rarity was running, even knowing she’d be too late.  Her eyes were frozen on the knife and its baleful-looking coating.  She barely saw Turquoise’s surprised eyes, the way she tried to jerk away, to stop what was about to happen.  She barely heard Emberglow’s huff of breath as the knife slid between her ribs, into Emberglow’s chest.  Both ponies thudded to the ground. “Emberglow! No, I didn’t…” Turquoise protested, reaching out, horror and grief on her face. Rarity never let her finish.  With a scream of rage, she fired off a bolt of pure, unfocused force.  It slammed against Turquoise hard enough to toss the Knight against the opposite wall, where she landed with a sickening crunch before flopping like a rag doll against the floor.