//------------------------------// // VOLUME FINALE - Chapter 12 - My Fellow Equestrians... // Story: The Equestrian Odyssey - A Tale of Two Worlds // by Kamahido //------------------------------// Two days later Arc walks down a corridor of Canterlot Castle with Ember and Hammer on either side of him. His squad forms a defensive perimeter around them. Ember is the first to speak. “Cloudsdale was, uh… parked in the wee hours of the morning.” Hammer yawns. “I think we all heard that.” Arc chuckles. “Not I. Sleeping soundly. But I’m going to assume that it came shortly before I felt a scaly invader in my bed.” Ember looks away innocently. “…maybe.” Hammer frowns. “So THAT’S where you ducked off to! I wondered where you went!” “Fine, you caught me.” Ember shoots Hammer a sly smile before countering. “It’s a funny thing though. I could have sworn I felt the bed move at one point. And I’m sure it wasn’t from Arc since I was tightly pressed up against him.” Xenos and Viktor chuckle slightly. Max turns to his companions and wordlessly frowns as Hammer groans. “Okay, okay. You win.” Arc shakes his head. “Please don’t leave all the work to Hammer in the future, Ember. Remember, she doesn’t have wings.” Hammer shrugs. “Those Pegasi didn’t mind giving me a lift a few times.” Ember turns to her. “So you used a chariot?” “Nah. I just stood on their backs.” Arc facepalms. “Hammer, please don’t abuse the help.” “I think I gave em a good workout though.” “In any case, can I assume the city of Cloudsdale and Wonderbolt’s Academy are now properly… uh… secured, or whatever?” Hammer shrugs. “While I’m assuming so, I didn’t see them drop an anchor or anything.” Ember clears her throat loudly. “Moon Dancer said something to the effect that they only had to properly align it to account for the wind.” Hammer nod mischievously as she looks to Ember. “And that was the last time I remember seeing you.” Ember grabs Arc’s arm. “What can I say? I had something else on my mind at the time.” Hammer looks to Ember as she takes his other arm. “Like Arc did the other night?” “Oh?” “We set him up with Princess Twilight.” “Here?” Hammer winks. “Nah. Aboard his airship. Funny thing about it though. She didn’t come back until the next morning.” Arc nods. “That’s true, yes.” Hammer laughs heartily. “Talk about shooting for the stars, Arc!” Ember appears confused. “Say what?” “What man in his right mind wouldn’t want to spend the night with a princess?!” Arc chuckles. “And early morning.” Hammer grins wickedly. “Went for round two, huh?” “Ha, ha.” “I’m just messing with you, Arc!” Ember turns to Arc. “So you two got breakfast together too?” Arc shakes his head. “There wasn’t time for that after our shower.” “Shower?!” “You already had your turn doing that, Ember.” Ember frowns and looks away. “Yeah, well… you’re lucky I don’t have a jealous bone in my body!” Hammer glares at Arc. “What about me?!” “We did that after I rescued you from Damocles Base, remember?” “That’s different!” “How?” Hammer presses her body against his. “You weren’t in there with me.” Ember laughs. “She’s got you there, Arc.” “Well, you’ll have to take a bit of a rain check, Hammer. I’m going to be pretty busy for a while.” “Doing what?!” “Helping Twilight with her royal duties for starters.” Ember rolls her eyes. “Come on, Arc! You could do that in your SLEEP!” “Under normal circumstance, probably. However I’m not running the country this time. Twilight is.” Hammer scoffs. “What’s the difference?!” “She needs to learn how to do it herself.” Ember laughs. “There’s no rush though. I mean, it’s not like you’re going anywhere.” A voice rings out behind them. “So certain of that?” They turn around to see Sereb walking toward them. Ember narrows her eyes as she addresses the wolf. “How long have you been back there?!” “Quite some time.” Hammer smiles nervously. “Uh… not sure how much of that you could hear, but…” “Everything.” “We were just…!” “No need to justify anything to me. After all, Arc’s sex life is his own.” Arc groans. “Um… thanks. I think.” Sereb smiles toothily as the group continues on. “No matter how full it gets.” Before long they come to the Audience Chamber. After speaking to the officer on duty they are escorted inside. The group spots Twilight sitting on the throne as the rest of her friends stand around the base of it talking. Flash Sentry stands to one side stoically as Arc and company approach the group. He calls out as the others turn to him. “Good morning, everyone.” Rainbow Dash groans. “Not sure if I’d call it that.” Hammer frowns. “Uh oh. What happened, blue?” “We’re trying to figure out our next move.” Ember chuckles. “Politically?” Fluttershy sighs. “Something like that.” Applejack steps forward. “A majority of Equestria now recognizes Twilight’s position as Equestria’s ruler.” Rarity nods soberly. “But not all.” Twilight holds up a map as she talks. “Right. Las Pegasus, Fillydelphia, and Tall Tale still side with Princess Celestia and Decimus.” Flash Sentry grits his teeth. “We’ve received reports that he’s been seen in all three towns at some point.” Arc frowns. “Recently?” Ember gasps. “How?!” Twilight looks out the window to the southwest. “I would assume they momentarily lowered the barrier to allow him to come and go.” Hammer draws her gun. “Any chance we could lie in wait for him?!” Rainbow Dash sighs and shakes her head. “I already suggested that.” Rarity groans. “It’s just as well. After all, nothing good would come from just running in.” Applejack points a hoof toward the window. “We’d probably only get a hooffull of troops inside before they raised the barrier again anyways.” Fluttershy shudders. “Then they’d be trapped!” Arc clenches a fist. “I’m not sending anyone on a suicide mission.” Pinkie gaps. “What about breaking the door down?!” Ember grins. “Like Decimus and his ilk did during the peace summit!?” Hammer swings a fist. “Blamo, right?!” Twilight shakes her head. “I’ve asked Rose to analyze the data from that night already. She concluded that the shadow creatures were only able to do that after being empowered by Tempest’s dark aura.” Rarity appears hopeful. “Could the Nightborn do the same?” “Judging from what is known about them, no. Rose was very insistent that the aura was unlike anything previously recorded.” Hammer grins. “How about we blast it with the Charger’s artillery cannons?! They’ve been fixed by now!” Rainbow Dash’s ears droop. “Nice idea, cupcake. But Rose also said there was no force in all of Equestria that could do that job.” Arc groans. “So our only option is still to wait until the barrier runs out of energy?” Applejack bows her head. “Looks like it.” Fluttershy attempts the change the subject. “In the meantime, we were talking about ideas to turn the remaining towns to our side.” Pinkie’s mane deflates. “But we aren’t really getting anywhere!” Sereb turns to Arc. “Could we not go talk to their leaders? Explain our actions perhaps?” “Twilight already sent letters to all the towns.” Twilight holds up several scrolls. “The replies they sent back were not friendly.” Hammer raises an eyebrow. “I’m almost afraid to ask, but what exactly did they say?” “Paraphrasing of course, they all agreed to a dialogue. But would only speak to what they referred to as a ‘true princess’.” Ember frowns. “But you ARE a princess!” Pinkie stomps a hoof. “Right! That’s what I said!” Sereb growls. “Her ascension to the throne was viewed by them as a hostile takeover.” Arc shrugs. “I suppose it really was a coup.” Ember turns to Arc. “But I thought you had the authority to remove a sitting princess, Arc!” Twilight nods. “He does. However that isn’t what happened.” Sereb steps forward. “If you recall, only Decimus and the Royal Guards were here in the Audience Chamber when we arrived.” Hammer frowns. “What would that have to do with it, shaggy?” “Princess Celestia was not present at the time. Therefore, at least in their minds, Arc did not officially remove her. So from their point of view she is simply ruling from an alternate location.” Arc folds his arms over his chest. “That’s really stretching it though.” Applejack gestures to the scrolls in Twilight’s hooves. “Right. But according to the messages here they completely believe it.” Rainbow Dash grits her teeth. “And I bet Decimus went there to make sure that mentality took root!” Hammer clenches a fist. “I’m with you on that one, blue. He’s manipulating them by using their trust for the other princess.” Ember smiles wickedly. “So if we can just find a way to break that trust, we could…” Twilight interrupts her. “That would end badly.” Arc nods. “Twilight’s right. If we failed, it would further cement those town’s distrust for Twilight.” Sereb groans. “And if we succeeded it would damage Princess Celestia’s reputation for many years to come.” Fluttershy sighs. “I don’t think there is a good way to do this.” Pinkie shakes her head. “Nope!” The doors to the Audience Chamber open. Kibitz and Raven walk in together with several stacks of papers. As they approach the throne Twilight looks to them. “Is it time for audiences already?” Raven nods. “Yes, your highness.” Kibitz motions to the office. “We’ll put the paperwork on your desk.” Twilight sighs. “Carry on.” They disappear into the office as Arc turns to Twilight. “So where do we stand on this?” “Nowhere.” Rainbow Dash grunts. “Right. We’re no further along than before you came in.” Applejack nods sadly. “Every potential path leads to a dead end as we talk through it.” Rarity puts a hoof to her forehead. “Some take longer than others, yes. But the results would be the same.” Sereb growls. “We will think of something though.” Pinkie giggles. “Eventually!” Fluttershy looks to Twilight soberly. “There has to be an answer.” “Exactly. That’s one thing Princess Celestia taught me. There’s a solution to every problem. It may not be simple or easy though.” Ember brandishes her claws. “I bet my dad could take that shield down.” Hammer raises an eyebrow. “How?” “Flicking it?” Arc frowns. “That would probably destroy most of the base!” Sereb shrugs. “It is just a building, Arc.” Twilight rolls her eyes. “True. But we don’t want to hurt Princess Celestia OR the soldiers whom are with them.” Flash Sentry nods. “And it would further cement distrust in your rule, your highness.” Rainbow Dash gasps. “What?! How?!” “Calling in a foreign nation to help in overthrowing a princess would leave a bad taste in everypony’s mouth.” Applejack bows her head. “And another dead end plan.” Fluttershy sighs. “Unfortunately.” Arc puts a hand to his chin. “So we’re still stuck on both matters.” Ember shrugs. “Yup.” Hammer looks toward the throne. “The best thing to do right now is to probably just do your job, Princess Twilight.” “My… job?” Rainbow Dash turns to Hammer angrily. “What do you think she’s been doing, cupcake?!” “I mean show everyone just how good a leader she can be. If even one percent of all this stuff I’ve heard about the previous princess is true, she has some BIG shoes to fill.” Arc points a thumb over his shoulder. “Well, I guess the best way to start that would be to get audiences going. Why don’t you do that while I take a look at the paperwork aspect, Twilight?” “Are you sure? I don’t mind doing paperwork.” Sereb sighs. “That may be. But you need to show your wisdom and resolve to the public by helping solve their problems.” Ember chuckles. “Makes sense.” Fluttershy giggles. “That and if somepony gets out of line we could always call for Arc to take care of them.” “I could, yes. But the colonel should probably handle that.” Flash Sentry raises an eyebrow. “Sir?” Hammer smacks her fists together. “Someone gets lippy and starts disrespecting the princess and you whack em!” Applejack rolls her eyes. “How about we just send them to the dungeon to cool down?” Pinkie grins. “That’s not as fun though!” Rarity shrugs. “Well, we do have to keep up appearances.” Rainbow Dash takes flight and shadowboxes. “I’ll help Flash Sentry if they get sassy!” Hammer cracks her knuckles. “Want help with that, blue?” “Sure.” Arc chuckles as he passes Raven and Kibitz leaving the office. Closing the door behind them he down at the desk to get to work. “Woe be to whomever causes trouble in there today.” An hour or so later Raven enters the office levitating a scroll. “Sir, do you have a moment?” Arc looks up from his task “Yes. What is it?” “I know you’re very busy, but Ambassador Ashe asked me to deliver this to you personally.” She levitates the scroll over to him. Taking it, Arc breaks the seal and reads it silently before looking up at Raven. “When did you get this?” “It was given to me by the ambassador herself just outside the Audience Chamber a few minutes ago.” “Outside, eh? Is she waiting for an audience?” Raven shakes her head. “No sir. She only wanted to make sure somepony delivered this to you personally. Is some sort of action required?” Arc stands and opens a portal. “I’ll handle this personally. If Twilight asks where I’ve gone just tell her I had to step out for a bit to attend an impromptu meeting.” Nodding as Arc steps through the swirling energies Raven turns to leave the office. Meanwhile, Arc reappears in his room in the castle. Leaving, he walks quickly down the corridor before coming to Ashe’s office. The guards outside it step aside to allow him passage. Entering, he spots the ambassador sitting at her desk, writing. Clearing his throat loudly as he closes the door, she looks up. “Ah, good morning, Lord Arc.” Arc narrows his eyes. “Not sure if it is or not yet.” “Thank you for answering my summons nonetheless.” “On the off chance you actually have a good idea I want to hear it.” Ashe frowns. “You’re rather suspicious these days.” Arc folds his arms over his chest. “We have a past.” “Yes, I suppose we do. However it is just that. Past. I’m trying to move forward here.” “You’ll have to forgive me if I don’t immediately believe you.” “Fair. Now then why don’t we have a seat and… talk.” She stands and gestures to a posh looking couch in front of a coffee table with numerous snacks on it. Arc frowns as he turns back to look at Ashe. “I believe I’ll stand.” “Very well.” Sitting back down behind her desk, Ashe looks to him evenly as she begins to speak. “It has come to my attention that some of the surrounding Equestrian towns are… shall we say… less than accepting of the new princess.” “Really?” “Yes. I do believe you’ve done quite the job of rallying the others. It’s most impressive actually.” “And how exactly did you hear about this?” “From another ambassador actually.” Opening her desk drawer, Ashe pulls out several pieces of hard candy. Dropping them noisily in front of her the sound of fluttering nearby rings out. “Yes, yes!” Brightwing flutters over to the desk and drops onto the candy. Quickly gobbling it up, she looks to Ashe happily. “They are good!” Ashe smiles. “I’m glad you like them. These were shipped directly from the Griffon Kingdom, after all.” “Do all rocks from there taste this good?!” Arc raises an eyebrow. “You got your information from… them?!” Ashe nods. “Oh yes. Brightwing and I ARE colleagues, after all.” The small creature crunches the rock candy loudly, which is quite the sight to behold since they have no teeth. Turning to Ashe, Brightwing giggles. “Collect these, friends! They are good!” Ashe looks at the small creature before her. “Brightwing, how do you feel about the current upheaval facing the land at this particular point in time?” Brightwing scratches her head. “Cute griffon’s words are hard to make together talking, for expressing... things.” Arc frowns. “What does that even mean?” Ashe giggles. “That Brightwing isn’t exactly the greatest in terms of intellect.” Brightwing takes flight and does a summersault midair. “Flutter, flutter! Flutter, flutter! Ooh, what? It is fun!” Arc raises an eyebrow skeptically. “I find it hard to believe you got your… information from her.” “Believe what you will. But I’d like to help Princess Twilight and, by proxy, Equestria right now.” “Okay, I’ll bite. Why?” Ashe stands up and walks over to the balcony door. Turning back to Arc she gestures for him to follow her. Stepping out onto the balcony with Brightwing following closely, Ashe makes a sweeping gesture with a talon at the city below. “Look around you, Lord Arc. This is why. To preserve the nation as it is.” Brightwing grins. “This place is nice!” “And you care why exactly?” “As I told you before, I’ve come to love this country and its basic rights for all citizens. The continued existence and stability of Equestria gives the griffons back in my homeland hope for a better future.” Brightwing nods. “I am happy to agree!” “But your government doesn’t allow them freedom. What hope do they have other than a complete overhaul?” “Since our two nations signed the original treaty our citizens have been exposed to Equestrian goods for the first time. While the cost is often quite competitive when compared to griffon made goods, the quality is leagues ahead of their domestic counterparts.” “So you view helping us as a business idea?” “Partially, yes. It will allow the griffons back home to continue to be able to buy Equestrian goods. Tools that don’t break, medicine that is more effective, and food that doesn’t make them sick.” “Brightwing likes happy things! Like puppies and rainbows and... bloody meat!” Arc motions to the small creature. “Uh… does Brightwing always say things like that?” “Usually, yes. She’s a bit… overly emphatic about some things.” Ashe turns to him before continuing. “Please understand that I honestly do want what’s best for my own citizens across the sea, yes. But our nation’s futures are intertwined as it stands. Now then, if you care at least a little about this country… then you’ll at least listen to my idea.” “Fine. I’ll hear what you have to say. But I’m not promising any more than that.” Listening to Ashe’s plan, Arc nods soberly. “That’s very… decent of you.” “As I said previously, it’s as much for the Griffon Kingdom as it is for Equestria.” Brightwing grins. “This place is nice.” Arc groans. “As horrified as I am to agree with both you AND Brightwing, you’re right.” Ashe appears hopeful. “So does that mean we have a deal?” “It’s up to Princess Twilight, of course. But I will bring your idea to her at once.” “Thank you, Lord Arc.” “Don’t thank me yet. I still don’t trust you.” Ashe sighs. “And I deserve that.” Arc nods as he turns to leave. “Glad to hear you admitting that.” Closing the door behind him, Arc leaves Ashe on the balcony. She turns to Brightwing. “Thanks for backing me up on this.” Brightwing lands on the stone guardrail. “This place is important! It should be defended!” “Agreed. Now then, would you like to take a little walk through the Royal Gardens?” “Yes, I will!” Ashe spreads her wings. “Follow me then.” Brightwing takes flight and follows her. “Brightwing going! Going, going!” Meanwhile, Arc returns to the Audience Chamber. After the previous audience completes, he briefs Twilight and her friends on Ashe’s idea. Twilight weighs the idea internally for a few moments before speaking. “I do admit that it’s a sound plan. However I’m not sure how I feel about its source.” Rainbow Dash grits her teeth. “Yeah! Not sure why we let her stay!” Applejack groans. “It’s a matter of diplomacy, Dash!” Pinkie sighs. “Yeah! If we sent her away the Griffon Kingdom would be mad!” Rarity shudders. “We don’t need another enemy right now.” Fluttershy shrinks back nervously. “Right. Our plate is already pretty full as it is.” Flash Sentry turns to Twilight. “That just leaves the decision of what to do, your highness.” “What do you think, Arc?” “I think… that this decision is so important that it needs to be decided upon by you and you alone, Twilight.” Raven nods. “We have faith in your abilities, your highness.” Kibitz smiles with evident pride. “You’ve certainly come a long way since I first saw you walking through the corridors with Princess Celestia many years ago.” Twilight raises an eyebrow. “Kibitz?” “I’m sure you don’t remember me from back then though, as I still had a full mane of dark brown hair. But you were always with her majesty. Learning from her, soaking in her knowledge, and storing it away for the future.” Closing his eyes, the elderly stallion smiles before continuing. “While I didn’t understand at the time, I now know that Princess Celestia was grooming you to one day stand by her side on the royal throne.” “But I’m not ready to make such important decisions!” “Ready or not, Princess Celestia believed your time had come.” Arc nods. “He’s right, Twilight. You’re here now and we need an answer.” Flash Sentry stands at attention. “Just think about the matter and make a rational decision, your highness.” “I… believe that Princess Celestia would have agreed to this were she here. So we should do it.” Kibitz looks to the door. “Very well, your highness. Raven and I shall contact the powers that be and make the necessary arrangements.” “Good.” Twilight turns to Flash Sentry as she stands. “Colonel, inform those waiting outside the Audience Chamber that the rest of today’s audiences are cancelled.” “Your highness?” “I… need to rest.” Applejack sighs. “We all should.” Rarity nods. “Agreed. Shall we adjourn for the day then?” Pinkie grins. “Sounds good to me!” Rainbow Dash yawns. “Me too! I could go for a nap!” Fluttershy raises an eyebrow. “This early in the day?” “It’s never too early to sleep!” As Twilight steps down from her throne and heads for the door along with the rest of the Mane 6 Arc follows them along with Flash Sentry. Turning to the colonel he lowers his voice. “See to it that all security measures are taken to ensure Twilight’s safety.” “Yes sir. I’ve already written out a plan to do just that in the past. However I didn’t think it would be used for such a thing.” “Such is life.” Later that day as the sun begins to set, every pony in town heads to Canterlot Castle to stand before the main balcony. Scootaloo looks outside momentarily before turning to Arc. “It’s just about time, Big Brother.” “Agreed.” Turning, he looks over those assembled. “Are we ready?” They nod soberly as Arc turns to Twilight. “Anytime you’re ready.” Taking a deep breath, she looks toward the curtain. Applejack puts a hoof on her shoulder. “We believe in you, Twilight.” Pinkie salutes playfully. “Right! Now you just have to show everypony else what you can do!” Rarity nods approvingly. “And we’ll be waiting for you right here.” Fluttershy smiles. “That we will.” Rainbow Dash takes flight. “We’re behind you one-hundred percent!” Flash Sentry stands at attention and salutes her. “As am I, your highness.” Twilight grimaces. “Thank you, everypony. Well… here goes nothing.” Taking a deep breath, Twilight turns to Arc and soberly nods. He walks through the curtain with his squad and Flash Sentry at his side. Motioning for them to take their positions, they take flight into the night sky to look around for a few moments before landing and nodding to Arc. Walking over to a small stage built onto the balcony he looks himself over a final time before coming into view of those assembled. Heading for a microphone Arc takes it and begins to speak. “Good evening, everyone. As you all know by now, I am Hero of Light Arc. I stand before all of you today, as well as the multitudes tuning in on their radios, to ask for your help.” The ponies below murmur to one another as Arc continues. “These past several months have been hard for all of us. Uncertainty, political upheaval, and absent leadership abounded for much of it. While I am happy to report that Canterlot is again allowing audiences to everyone, there is still much work to be done.” Pausing before continuing, Arc looks out over the crowd. “Our nation and its inhabitants have been united for centuries. Moving past the elitism of the past, Earth Pony, Unicorn, and Pegasi were able to work together to build this nation. However right now we need your help to preserve it.” He turns and gestures to Twilight. She slowly walks forward to join him as he continues. “As many of you witnessed, Princess Celestia appointed a new princess not so long ago. The Princess of Friendship has done her best to lead the nation after I was forced to oust the traitor Decimus from the capital. Just as Princess Celestia did for many years, Princess Twilight now rules over this land alone. However, unlike then, the land and its inhabitants are divided on whom is truly in charge. Whether it be the Princess of the Sun, the Princess of Friendship, or even myself. Right now Princess Twilight sits on the throne with me in an advisory position along with the Element Bearers. However, she does so with the blessing of myself and others. Several of them will now step forward to address the nation.” Standing to the side, Arc motions toward the curtain as Scootaloo walks out to face the crowd. “Hello. As you know, I’m the Scarlet Filly. As everypony witnessed not so long ago, I was honored by Princess Celestia herself for my deeds in helping safeguard Equestria and its inhabitants. I was given a medal in recognition of this and have continued to serve the nation as an independent protector. While I may be just a filly, even I can see that Princess Celestia is gone and Princess Twilight, whom was personally appointed to her position by her mentor and friend, now stands before you. Therefore I ask everypony to please listen to her and follow her advice. Follow as you would Princess Celestia herself. Thank you.” Stepping back, Scootaloo returns to the room as the next speaker emerges. Ember walks to the platform, clad in her signature armor and clutching her spear. Brightwing follows closely behind. As she clears her throat, Ember speaks. “I am Dragon Lord Ember. Daughter of Dragon Lord Torch and co-ruler of the Dragon Lands. For the first time in history, Equestria and the Dragon Lands have a peace treaty. It was drafted, negotiated, and signed by both myself, my Dragon Lord Torch, and Princess Celestia. While at that time we recognized her as the leader of this land, circumstances have seen fit to change that.” Ember gestures to Twilight with a claw as she continues. “The Dragon Lands now acknowledges Princess Twilight as this nation’s rightful ruler and will uphold its treaty with Equestria as per the terms of the agreement.” “Brightwing ambassador to Equestria from Dragon Lands! Brightwing likes Princess Twilight! She nice pony!” “My ambassador and I are in agreement. We will continue to uphold diplomatic ties with Equestria through Princess Twilight. Thank you.” Turning, Ember returns to the room with Brightwing. As she leaves Ashe passes her and walks up to the platform. Looking around, she begins to speak. “My name is Lady Ashe. Daughter of Lord Gestal of the Griffon Kingdom’s Council of Lords. Quite some time ago your nation and mine agreed to a treaty to promote unity and cooperation between our countries. It was signed by King Guto and Equestria’s Princess Luna with the Hero of Light acting as witness. I stand before you today to reaffirm the Griffon Kingdom’s desire to peace and prosperity via both our original treaty and our secondary treaty. As per our agreement, the Griffon Kingdom will uphold our promise to send military aid to the legitimate rulers of this land.” She points a talon at Twilight before continuing. “And the Griffon Kingdom recognizes Princess Twilight as the rightful monarch of Equestria. We shall continue to work toward an amicable resolution to the matter of leadership of your land. Failing that, however… the Griffon Kingdom will do its part to uphold our end of the treaties ratified by our respective leaders. Potentially culminating in a joint military venture. Please understand that we have not come to this decision lightly, mind you. But with great amounts of contemplation, it is obvious to me that the Princess of Friendship is indeed the one whom we will deal with… now and in the foreseeable future. Thank you.” Stepping back, Ashe leaves the platform and returns to the room. The sounds of hooves rings out as Shining Armor approaches the podium and addresses the crowd. “Presenting the leader of the Crystal Empire, may I introduce to everypony… Princess Cadance.” Stepping to one side, Shining Armor salutes as Cadance steps forward and turns to address the crowd. “Good evening, everypony. By now I’m sure that everypony knows me as Equestria’s Princess of Love. Since being appointed to my position by Aunt Celestia many years ago, I’ve learned a lot about leadership, friendship, and also loyalty. When Aunt Celestia vanished I returned to Canterlot to help lead the nation by Princess Luna’s side. In time, we appointed Hero of Light Arc to his position in an effort to keep the land safe for everypony. He has since then continually exceeded our expectations at every turn. As has my friend here.” Cadance turns and puts a hoof on Twilight’s shoulder. “I still remember foal siting for Twilight when she was little. In truth, it’s hard for me to imagine her as anything but a filly. However, here she stands… a fully grown mare and a princess too. Aunt Celestia appointed her to this position for a reason. To lead the land should something befall her again. While I’m not fully sure of her reasoning, what I do know is that she made the right choice. As I sit on the throne of the Crystal Empire, Princess Twilight occupies the throne of Equestria with my full support and blessing. Just like Aunt Celestia would have wanted. Thank you, everypony.” She bows to the crowd before continuing. “Several others were contacted and agreed to say a few words to everypony tonight. They will now step forward and speak.” The Princess of Love stands aside as a massive wall of fur and muscle approaches the podium. Stepping onto it, his foot goes straight through. Frowning, he clears his throat and addresses the crowd from the podium steps. “Prince Rutherford come to Equestria to talk about friendship between Yakyakistan and Equestria! Yaks invade Crystal Empire some time ago! Stopped by Hero of Light! Yak honored to lose to such great warrior! Yaks hope for great friendship between ponies and yaks! Friends with puny purple pony princess for a thousand moons!” He yanks his foot from the demolished step as a large, green humanoid character steps over to the podium. “Good evening. I am Prince Tugem. Son of King Megut of the now forgotten Ogre Nation. We live beneath the city you know as Vanhoover in the aqueducts, and have been there for centuries. I only briefly met your newest princess when I attended a peace summit some time ago just outside Ponyville. However I would like to take this opportunity to show my support for Princess Twilight. The ogres recognize her as the rightful ruler of Equestria and pledge to support her as we are able in the future.” He turns to Twilight and bows cordially at the waist before stepping back and allowing two large wolves to approach the platform. They jump up on it and turn to face those assembled. “I am Sereb. Warchief of the Forsaken Tribe. We once fought alongside ponykind in their wars centuries ago. While our tribe’s laws forbid us from entering into official alliances, we come here now to show our support for Princess Twilight.” Iris nods. “The Forsaken approve of her leadership and ideals. We join with the Dragon Lord’s voice to acknowledge this leader’s future reign. Long and prosperous may it be.” They Blink to one side as a pair of Abyssinians take to the platform. “Greetings, Equestrians. I am King Felix and this is my wife Queen Fiona. As the leaders of Abyssinia, we come here today to show our gratitude to Equestria for aid in the past.” Fiona nods. “Some time ago our citizens were dying. Starving to death due to a tyrannical oppressor named the Storm King.” “Not only did Lord Arc vanquish this monster, but he also saw to it that we were given food and other international aid to help restore our land and help out citizens.” “We and our country are in Lord Arc’s debt. If he speaks for Princess Twilight, we too shall give her our support. Thank you.” They step back as Twilight ascends the platform and looks out over the sea of ponies. “While I may not be Princess Celestia, all of you have my word that I shall do my very best to lead the nation with fairness and…” The sound of hooves approaching Twilight ring out. A stallion runs up to the podium and whispers in Twilight’s ear. She nods and again addresses the crowd. “It would appear we have one last speaker.” As Twilight steps back, the stallion turns to look out over the throng. “Presenting her royal majesty… Princess Luna!” A dark portal opens and Luna steps out. She looks to the citizens whom are understandably distressed at her entry. The stallion steps back to stand with Arc. Turning, Arc whispers to him. “Sandstorm Mirage?” “Yes sir?” “What’s going on?” “I don’t really know, sir.” “That’s helpful.” Sandstorm Mirage sighs. “Princess Luna just suddenly decided she needed to come here while listening to the speech.” Luna clears her throat and begins to speak. “I am Luna. Princess of the Night. Some of you know me from my earlier time as the ruler of the land. When my sister vanished some time ago I had to take the country’s reins along with Cadance. It was a… difficult time in my life, as I was unaccustomed to such things. However we were able to get through it and keep this land safe. It was Cadance and I whom gave Hero of Light Arc everything he needed to rescue my sister. While he was indeed successful in that endeavor, soon thereafter he was betrayed by the traitor Decimus whom sought to control my sister and bend her to his will. Arc has since sworn to find my sister yet again and return her to Canterlot safely. However… in the meantime, I will be preoccupied with my own… preparations. Everypony will listen to and obey Princess Twilight in the interim. She has my blessing as well as Celestia’s, I’m sure.” Her horn aglow, Luna opens a dark portal behind her as she continues. “Decimus… if you can hear me, know this. For you numerous crimes against Equestria… against the Hero of Light… and against me personally… before this matter is over you WILL lie dead at my hooves! Even if I must do the deed personally.” Turning to Twilight, she bows her head respectfully before heading through the portal with Sandstorm Mirage and vanishing. Twilight again turns to the crowd. “Thank you for coming, everypony. As I said before, I’ll do my very best to be a good leader. Someone you can all look up to one day. Good night.” Turning, Twilight leads the other rulers back into the castle to the sound of respectful applause. As Shining Armor and Arc close the balcony doors behind them they turn to her. “Good job out there, Twilight.” “Yeah, Twily. I didn’t know you had it in you.” Twilight breathes a sigh of relief and sits down on her haunches heavily. “Neither did I.” Felix walks over to her. “You must have more faith in yourself, your highness.” Fiona nods. “Yes. The public will not easily support a ruler whom they sense does not believe in themselves.” Rutherford stomps the floor. “Kitties right! Yaks know all about leading! Yaks best leaders!” Ashe sighs. “Hopefully that will help soothe the public’s tension.” Ember grins as she looks around at the surrounding leaders. “And if not, it was still nice to get everyone together again.” Tugem motions to a window at the night sky. “Agreed, Dragon Lord. We ogres are eager to be part of this nation’s future.” Scootaloo grins. “We all have to do our part though.” Cadance smiles. “And we will. Now then, I will ferry Prince Tugem and Prince Rutherford back to their lands.” Tugem nods. “Very well, Princess Cadance. Hopefully next time we have a chance to speak more.” Rutherford laughs heartily. “Yak anxious to get back to mountain! Too warm here!” Arc chuckles. “Thank you for coming everyone. We’ll have to organize another summit one of these days.” Twilight nods enthusiastically. “Yes. One which Princess Celestia can attend.” Arc looks to Sereb’s mother. “I’ll give you a portal back to the Dragon Lands now, ma’am.” Iris grins toothily. “Thank you. That would be most helpful.” They all part ways. Cadance and her group head toward the castle’s hanger as Arc opens a portal back to the Dragon Lands for Iris. Nodding to her son she leaves as Arc turns to Felix and Fiona. “Thank you for coming. “ Twilight extends a hoof. “Yes, it means a lot that we have such loyal allies.” Felix nods as he shakes Twilight’s hoof. “We owe you that and then some, your highness.” Fiona bows respectfully. “Right. After all, Abyssinia most likely wouldn’t be standing had Equestria not intervened back then.” Arc nods. “It was just the right thing to do.” Felix returns his gaze to Twilight. “Your majesty, before we came I had a meeting with our accountants. This month we should be able to finish paying your country back.” Twilight appears confused. “Paying us… back?” Fiona smiles. “Yes, for all the food and other supplies Lord Arc gave us when our nation was struggling.” “Ah! Well, thank you for that. Um… but please don’t spread yourselves too thin. After all, we wouldn’t want to be responsible for causing any economic blowback to your nation.” Felix chuckles. “Don’t worry about that, your highness.” “Yes, we’ve greatly increased our exports since then and our economy is thriving from the extra income.” “If Equestria is ever in need of food we’ll always be there to lend a paw. I just wish we could do more to express our gratitude for the help.” Arc nods soberly. “Hopefully we’ll never need it, but thank you for that. I just have one request of your nation.” Fiona tilts her head to one side, confused. “Oh?” “No matter what happens… don’t become like the Griffon Kingdom.” Felix raises an eyebrow. “Sir?” “I mean, don’t take advantage of a nation that’s struggling to feed its subjects.” Fiona nods. “That we can do, Lord Arc.” Felix raises his right paw. “Yes, as king of Abyssinia you have my word that our nation will never try to price gouge those whom are vulnerable.” Arc smiles as he opens a portal for them. “Thank you. That’s all I ask.” The king and queen enter the portal and are gone. Closing it, Arc and the others head down the corridor together. “Anyone else thinking a piece of cake would be nice right now?” Pinkie salivates. “Cake…” Applejack raises a hoof. “I’m in.” Fluttershy giggles. “Me too!” Rarity smiles. “Just a small one please.” Rainbow Dash grins slyly at her friend. “Why’s that, Rarity? Watching your figure again?” Rarity nods matter of factly. “I just want to stay beautiful for a very special somepony.” Ember rolls her eyes. “You look fine. Right, Arc?” “I think I’m a little biased there.” Entering the Dining Room they sit down around the large round table. After requesting cake for everyone they talk as they eat. Twilight sighs contentedly. “I’m certainly glad that’s over.” Scootaloo raises an eyebrow. “Your highness?” Ember chuckles. “She had stage fright.” “What’s that?” Arc turns to Scootaloo. “Fear of speaking in front of large groups.” Rainbow Dash laughs. “But you did great!” Applejack nods matter-of-factly. “Right. Now all that’s left to do is see if those seeds you planted tonight bear fruit.” Flash Sentry sighs. “That might take some time though.” Fluttershy grimaces. “How long?” Rarity shrugs. “The leaders of the towns would have to get together, talk about the pros and cons of following Twilight, and come to some kind of agreement amongst themselves.” Pinkie groans. “It’ll be almost as hard as getting more than one pony to agree on what to have on their pizza!” Kibitz and Raven run into the room breathlessly. They make a beeline for Twilight. “Your highness!” Twilight gasps as she drops her fork. “What’s wrong?!” Raven points a hoof behind them. “The… the phones!” Ember frowns. “Spit it out already!” Kibitz trots in place. “Our switchboard operator just notified us that the leaders of the remaining towns have all contacted them to make appointments for audiences!” Arc appears hopeful. “You mean…?!” Raven grins and nods. “Yes sir! They’ve all expressed an interest in coming over to Princess Twilight’s side!” Rainbow Dash’s eyes light up. “You mean we did it?!” Arc chuckles. “Sounds like it.” Flash Sentry clears his throat. “With some proper negotiation, yes.” Kibitz smiles. “They’ll be here in a day or so, your highness.” “Good. I want to see them the moment they arrive.” Raven bows respectfully. “Yes, your highness.” Ember chuckles. “Well, I guess the only question now is where do we go from here?” Arc grins. “I have an idea.” Sereb raises an eyebrow. “Oh?” Arc turns to Kibitz. “Inform the kitchen staff that we will require more cake.” Sereb puts a paw over his face. “I saw that one coming. I really did.”