//------------------------------// // Chapter 9 - Panic Attack // Story: The Equestrian Odyssey - A Tale of Two Worlds // by Kamahido //------------------------------// Sometime later, there is a knock at the door of Arc’s quarters. Standing to answer it, he finds Ashe waiting for him. Beckoning her to enter he steps aside before closing the door behind her. Twilight looks over from the couch. “How did everything go with your father, Ashe?” Ashe sighs. “He... wasn’t exactly pleased about what happened. From the standpoint of security, I mean.” Shining Armor removes his helmet and sighs. “It’s my failure.” Arc shakes his head. “Not really. You couldn’t have seen an invisible enemy, after all.” Twilight walks over to her brother and puts a hoof on his shoulder. “This was clearly heavily planned, Shining Armor. The place, the timing, and the trajectory were all perfect.” Ashe looks to Arc. “We’re just lucky you were there to stop them.” Arc soberly pulls his shield from the ring. “I’m just glad Cadance gave me this.” Shining Armor groans. “While I’m thankful it all worked out, that doesn’t change the fact you were almost assassinated, Twilight.” “But I wasn’t. And the perpetrator has been apprehended.” Arc folds his arms over his chest. “As I said in the Infirmary earlier, I don’t believe this matter is as cut and dry at that.” Shining Armor raises an eyebrow. “How so?” “Everything just seemed a bit too perfect.” Ashe puts a talon to her cheek thoughtfully. “Yes. A hypnotized victim is given a suggestion along with the equipment needed to carry out their orders.” Arc nods. “And a note that was ‘supposed’ to be destroyed is hidden in their cloak linking the attack to the rebels.” Twilight frowns. “A what?” Arc turns to her. “There was a note that was supposedly the orders to take you and Ashe down on their person, Twilight.” Ashe nods. “But the note said it was supposed to be destroyed.” Shining Armor shrugs. “Perhaps they were just sloppy.” Arc looks out the window overlooking the city. “Considering how ‘well-trained’ the so-called assassin was, I don’t see how that would be possible.” Ashe turns to Twilight. “From what I’ve heard, professionals don’t make mistakes like that. Leaving behind evidence that links them to their employer, that is. That and she’s far too young to be that good!” Twilight puts a hoof to her chin thoughtfully. “Gabby...” Shining Armor looks to his sister. “Twilight?” “She’s so young.” Arc nods. “That she is.” Twilight moves to join Arc in looking out the window. “I saw her being led away from the ship the last time she was here.” Ashe sighs. “She said she just wanted to meet you, Twilight.” “Arc told me she had a bad case of ‘hero worship’.” Arc chuckles. “Very.” Shining Armor appears confused. “What does that have to do with it Twilight?” “Why would she adore me one day and almost literally the next try to kill me?” Ashe shrugs. “That could have just been a plot to check out the ship.” Arc shakes his head. “Possibly, but not likely. My guess is that she was selected for this ‘mission’ because of what she did back then.” Shining Armor gasps. “We’d have blamed her for being here back then to hurt Twilight!” “With the information we had, it would have appeared to be an open and shut case. No one would have questioned it further than to call it an assassination plot. We kill the assassin and no one is the wiser.” Twilight grimaces. “But why?!” Ashe walks over to Twilight. “Because you’re stirring the pot here.” Twilight appears confused. “Stirring the what?” “Rocking the boat?” “But I’m just trying to bring a matter forward to seek justice!” Shining Armor nods soberly. “Exactly. However I’m sure there are a great number of individuals whom would like you to stay quiet about that, Twilight.” Ashe nods. “Goldstone is very well connected, after all. Any number of griffons would be impacted should he be ousted.” Twilight stomps a hoof defiantly. “Well, I’m not backing down on this!” Arc clenches a fist. “Nor am I!” Ashe sighs. “Yes, I reiterated that to my father. However, he recommended that Twilight be relocated to the Aviary until this matter is settled though.” Shining Armor raises an eyebrow. “Why? Does he not believe the Equinox is secure enough?” “I’m sure he does. However, since an attempt has been made, it would be very hard for the powers that be not to extend additional protections. Both for the sake of Twilight and the Griffon Kingdom.” Shining Armor puts a hoof to his chin thoughtfully. “That’s understandable. If the princess should come to any harm it would make the government here look bad.” Arc nods. “Especially on the international stage.” “My father’s request does actually make pretty good sense, Twilight. That and the trial will be held in the Aviary anyways, which has already been put into lockdown in preparation of the event.” Twilight frowns. “How do we know it’ll be safe there? I mean... for all we know the Aviary could be compromised.” “All your guards will be permitted to accompany you, of course. And there’s no way of knowing that this place is safe either.” Arc snaps a finger as an idea comes to him. “What about returning to Equestria until the trial? I could portal Twilight back when the day arrives.” Ashe shakes her head. “The law states that all those involved in a pending legal case remain within the jurisdiction in which the case will be heard.” Shining Armor narrows his eyes. “And if we don’t?” Ashe sighs. “The case will be thrown out and Lord Goldstone will be reinstated.” Twilight groans. “This seems like a very strange way of carrying out legal matters.” Arc looks to Ashe. “Is there some reason for it?” “It was kind of a national pastime years ago. Nobles whom wanted to cause trouble for their rivals would put forth false claims and then fail to appear at court. It was only stopped when the king brought forth a decree ordering all parties of a case to remain within the area to keep the case active. The aristocracy absolutely HATE not being able to move about freely, after all.” Shining Armor frowns. “Why was this not told to us earlier?!” Ashe sighs as she gestures to Twilight. “Because I figured it would be overlooked due to a foreign leader being the one bringing forth the charges. Twilight can’t be sitting idly here in the Griffon Kingdom which she has a nation to rule over. However, when I brought that up to my father he told me that no such exemption can be made. I can only assume that whomever is behind this attack was hoping to scare the princess into leaving the country.” Arc clenches a fist. “And by doing so Twilight would have negated the charges.” “Exactly.” Twilight grits her teeth. “Then we would have to begin the process all over again!” Shining Armor grins. “Well, so much for that!” Arc puts a hand on the glass before him. “Indeed. We’re not going anywhere until this matter is settled.” “So... what should I tell my father regarding the addition protections?” Arc looks to Twilight. “That’s up to the princess here.” Twilight puts a hoof to her chin thoughtfully. “I believe that we should make an actionable statement here.” Ashe appears confused. “Which is...?” “That we are NOT leaving, and WILL NOT be driven away so easily!” Arc chuckles. “So we’re going to the Aviary?” “That we are!” Shining Armor sighs. “Are you sure that’s what you want to do, Twilight?” Arc nods. “You’re certainly safe here as it stands.” Twilight nods soberly. “I am, yes. However, as I said before, this is not done out of fear but to make a statement.” She turns to Ashe before continuing. “Notify Lord Gestal that I will accept lodging in the Aviary for my own protection.” “I’ll see to it, Twilight.” Shining Armor stands and salutes. “And I’ll notify Captain Soarin of your desire to relocate.” Bowing, the pair head for the door. As they leave Arc turns to Twilight. “Now then, all that’s left to do is wait.” Twilight sighs. “And consider how best to deliver me to the Aviary.” “Considering what just happened I would suggest an armored carriage. Now, I know you don’t like them, but...” Twilight interrupts. “That would be fine.” Arc raises an eyebrow. “Um... remember what happened last time you were in there?” “I know. But this time will be different.” “How so?” Twilight smiles seductively. “You’ll be there with me.” “I suppose I could, yes. But shouldn’t I be nearby for security purposes?” “The others could handle that. “ “Well...” Twilight looks to him pleadingly. “Please stay with me, Arc! I really need you there!” Arc smiles as he puts a hand on her cheek. “Alright then. I will.” Giggling, Twilight jumps into his arms. Catching her, she immediately locks lips with Arc. They sit down on the floor together to continue kissing. Meanwhile, Ashe returns to her quarters. Picking up her telephone she asks for a secure line to her father. As he answers she identifies herself. “It’s me again, father.” “How did it go, Ashe?” “I was able to convince Princess Twilight to accept your offer of hospitality and protection within the Aviary.” “Very good. She’ll be more than safe there.” Ashe sighs. “Although I still believe she’d be equally safe aboard Lord Arc’s ship.” “The Equestrian forces along with a contingent of my own personal guards will be bolstered by the considerable might of the soldiers already defending the Aviary. Believe me when I say that she will be more safe there than in that airship.” In the earliest hours of the morning, even before first light, Twilight and Arc head for the Cargo Hold together. Ashe, Shining Armor, and Sereb meet them there. Shining Armor looks to his sister as the guards line up in formation. “We’ve been given the green light to proceed, princess.” “Thank you, general.” “Are you sure I can’t accompany you though?” Twilight shakes her head. “You’re needed here to watch over the ship.” Arc nods soberly. “It will be our fallback position and must be kept secure.” Ashe grimaces. “Hopefully we won’t need it, of course. However it does pay to have a backup plan if things go south.” “That and you’ll be in charge of keeping Natalya, Gallus, and Gabby safe.” Shining Armor raises an eyebrow. “Do you really think they’re targets?” Twilight sighs. “They could be, yes. That and Gabby’s fate hasn’t been released to the public, so they might try to ascertain if she’s truly dead.” Arc folds his arms over his chest. “She’s a loose end to whomever sent her. That and in her condition she can’t defend herself.” Shining Armor salutes. “I’ll do my best.” Twilight smiles at him. “Yes, I’m sure you will.” Arc clears his throat loudly. “Now then, no one is allowed to enter or leave The Equinox without me being personally present. Do not accept any verbal or written passes from anyone for any reason.” Ashe smiles at Arc. “Tight security. I like it.” “Lives may hang in the balance here, Ashe.” Shining Armor nods. “Agreed. Now then, you and the princess should get underway while the night is still able to hide you two.” Twilight looks to Arc and Ashe. “Agreed. Shall we be off?” “I’m ready.” “As am I.” Shining Armor nods to a nearby guard. He opens the carriage door as they approach. Arc helps Twilight and Ashe inside before turning back to Shining Armor. “I’ll call when we arrive at our room.” “Thank you sir. Please take good care of the princess.” Arc nods and steps into the carriage. Pulling the door shut behind him he turns to Twilight and sits down next to her. She holds out her hoof, allowing him to take it. Ashe looks out the window as they begin their trip. “Here we go.” Twilight sighs. “Indeed.” Arc looks to his friend. “You’d rather stay aboard ship, wouldn’t you?” “Yes.” Ashe raises an eyebrow, confused. “Then why...? Twilight interrupts her. “To be closer to the location the trial will take place.” Arc nods soberly. “A statement.” “Yes. As I said before, I must show whomever orchestrated the attack that I won’t be driven away so easily.” Ashe nods approvingly. “Very good, Twilight. I’m impressed.” Twilight sighs. “It’s not like I could do anything else though.” “Oh?” “An insurmountable amount of work has been done to bring us to this point. Throwing all that away now is not an option.” “I agree. But please let us know if you need to stop and stretch your legs.” Twilight shakes her head. “I can’t do that. For security reasons I’ve ordered the carriage not to stop until we arrive at the Aviary.” She squeezes Arc’s hand before continuing. “That and I don’t want to risk either you or Arc’s safety for my sake.” Ashe looks at the hoof in Arc’s hand. “You two are really close, aren’t you?” Arc nods. “We are, yes.” “I was the one whom brough him to our land, after all.” Arc chuckles. “Things certainly started off on the wrong foot. But we were able to move past it toward a brighter future.” Ashe speaks wistfully. “A brighter future.” Twilight raises an eyebrow. “Ashe?” “A very interesting way of looking at things.” “What do you mean?” “Starting off poorly but doing your best to make things work. Ultimately, that’s what I want for this land.” Twilight gestures at the window with a hoof. “But is it possible as it stands?” Ashe sighs. “Maybe. However I’ll do my best to show others that there are options that we could explore.” Arc frowns. “Options?” “The government doesn’t have to hold all the power. The wealthy don’t have to control everything. And the commoners can have tolerable lives that are happy and fulfilling.” Twilight smiles. “A nice future then.” Ashe sighs. “But one that may not be possible.” Arc looks at Ashe evenly. “Change will come. We may not live long enough to see the Griffon Kingdom adopt freedom and rights for the masses. All we can do is plant the seeds, nourish them, and hope for the best outcome. Twilight nods. “Agreed. That’s all any of us can hope for our lives. To be able to do what we can with the time we have.” They arrive at the Aviary sometime later. Innumerable guards line the road the carriage takes. Twilight looks out the window and speaks. “It looks like the powers that be are taking this matter very seriously.” Ashe nods. “That they are. The king as well as the Council of Lords don’t want an international incident. Especially after what happened yesterday, that is.” Arc sighs. “So it would seem.” The carriage stops a short time later in front of two figures. As Arc pushes open the door they spy Lord Gestal and Arbiter Ghaleon waiting for them with several platoons of soldiers. Lord Gestal steps forward and bows respectfully as they step out onto the red carpet below. “Welcome to the Aviary, your highness.” Twilight nods cordially. “Thank you for having us, sir.” Ghaleon grimaces. “We apologize for our forces failing to spot the attacker yesterday, your highness.” Twilight waves a hoof dismissively. “Please, sir... it’s in the past.” Gestal frowns. “Rest assured, there will be a thorough investigation into this matter.” Arc steps forward. “That will not be necessary, Lord Gestal.” “Oh?” Ashe looks to her father. “Lord Arc has already learned what he wanted to from them.” Ghaleon raises an eyebrow. “Impressive interrogation tactics!” Twilight continues. “We believe there may be more they can tell us though.” Gestal nods. “As it stands, their life is forfeit. Do with them as you wish, Princess Twilight.” Ghaleon clenches a talon. “If you would like a more... public display of the punishment for...!” Arc interrupts. “No need for that. And you can be sure that we will... take care of this individual when the time is right.” “Yes, father. I can attest to the... neatness of Equestria’s methods.” “Very well. Do as you see fit in this matter, Princess Twilight. Now then, shall I escort you to your rooms?” Twilight nods. “Yes please.” They walk down innumerable corridors on their way to the guest quarters. The sound of clanking armor over talons, paws, and hooves are the only sounds to be heard in the otherwise silent air. Arc turns to Gestal. “I don’t recall the Aviary being this quiet on my previous visits.” “Security wasn’t as tight back then, Lord Arc.” Ashe nods approvingly. “That’s saying something. After all, security here is second to none.” Ghaleon grins. “And now it’s been surpassed in every conceivable way.” Gestal looks to Arc. “The orders from the king were explicit. Nothing shall interfere with the upcoming trial of Lord Goldstone.” “It must be hard for the staff here to carry out their duties under such instructions.” Ghaleon grunts. “That may be. But orders are orders.” Gestal shrugs. “The essential staff are escorted by guards to their places, watched every moment, and walked out the front gate when they are done.” “Very neat and tidy, father.” They come to Twilight’s room. Gestal motions to the guards outside whom push the doors open. Entering, they see a truly magnificent room with every conceivable amenity and luxury. Clearing his throat, Gestal speaks. “These will be your quarters, your highness. A detachment of your best soldiers will be allowed to remain both inside and out at your command.” “Thank you, sir. However I’m not comfortable being surrounded by guards at all times.” Ghaleon raises an eyebrow. “Come again?” Twilight gestures to Arc with a wave of her hoof. “I will be guarded night and day by Equestria’s Hero of Light.” Gestal appears confused. “Just Lord Arc?” Arc grins as he draws the Spear of Righteousness from his ring. “One of me is more than enough, sir.” “I’ve seen him in combat, father. Princess Twilight will be adequately protected with him around.” Gestal nods. “Very well. We will do our best to accommodate your wishes, Princess Twilight. Another bed will be delivered as soon as possible.” Arc shakes his head. “It’s fine, Lord Gestal. I can sleep on the couch.” Ghaleon grins. “Very spartan of you, Lord Arc.” “I try not to let a cozy lifestyle soften me. Now then, we should probably let Princess Twilight get some rest. After all, it is still quite early. Gestal smiles at them. “Of course, Lord Arc. Breakfast will be sent over whenever the princess is ready.” He points to the telephone near the bed before continuing. “When you are, simply call for room service. They will send over whatever foods are desired.” Ashe quickly chimes in. “Or anything else that is needed.” “Yes. My daughter’s room will be right next door. She will be here to help you deal with any problems you may have.” Twilight smiles. “Thank you, sir. I appreciate the hospitality.” Ghaleon looks to Twilight. “Guards will bring your meals as well as anything else you request. They’ve all been vetted for complete loyalty to the king so you don’t need to worry about security risks.” Gestal nods. “Then I shall check back with you later, your highness.” Ashe bows respectfully. “By your leave.” Twilight nods as Ashe and her father turn to leave the room. Ghaleon looks to Arc and smirks. “Let us know if you need additional guards to aid you.” “I will, Arbiter.” Turning, he follows Gestal and Ashe back to the corridor. The guards outside pull the heavy steel doors shut as Arc walks over to them and turns the lock. Twilight lets out a sigh of relief as he does so. “Finally!” Arc chuckles as he walks over to her. “Lord Gestal means well. However I was wondering if he and the Arbiter would ever leave.” Twilight puts a hoof to her forehead. “As did I.” “Are you alright, Twilight?” “Just a bit tired.” Arc motions to the bed. “Then why don’t I put you to bed, your highness.” Twilight groans. “Now don’t you start with that.” Arc smirks as he pulls the covers back. “Sorry. Couldn’t resist.” Hopping up onto the bed, Twilight lays her head down on one of the many pillows. Arc carefully removes her crown and sets it on the nightstand. Looking up at him, Twilight smiles sleepily. “Would you please... stay by my side?” Arc nods. “Of course.” He sits down next to her and pets her mane gently. Twilight gives him a withering look. “Seriously?” Arc grins innocently. “Whatever do you mean, your highness?” Twilight groans. “Get in here!” Arc bows cordially. “Yes, my princess.” Kicking off his boots, Arc lies down next to her. Twilight presses her body against his and sighs contentedly as Arc puts an arm around her and speaks. “Is that better?” Twilight closes her eyes. “Much.” Arc lies there holding Twilight as she drifts off to sleep. Looking down at her, he smiles and buries his face in her mane as he muses to herself. “Twilight’s really cute when she’s asleep.” He doesn’t have much time to consider more than this single thought as he himself dozes off. Arc sleeps fitfully through the remainder of the night. He sits up as the sun peeks over the horizon and walks over to the window. Looking out of it he spies a number of patrols flying by in the dim morning light. Sighing, Arc closes the curtains and turns back to Twilight. “Guess I’d better get her up too.” Returning to Twilight’s side, he puts a hand on her shoulder. Gently shaking her, she slowly opens her eyes and grimaces. “Morning... already?” Arc nods. “Yup. Well, dawn anyways.” “Do we have to get up so early?” “I suppose not. But I thought we should be available in case something regarding the case comes up.” Twilight sits up, stretches, and hops off the bed. Walking slowly to the bathroom she motions for him to follow. Entering with her, Twilight turns on the shower as she looks to him. “We should probably look our best from here on out.” “Agreed. How can I help, Twilight?” “We can wash each other’s backs.” Arc smirks. “But I thought you could do that with your magic, Twilight.” “I suppose I could. But you’re so good at getting all those hard to reach places.” Arc chuckles. “Are you sure that’s the only reason?” “Do I have to say it?” “Yup.” Twilight smiles nervously. “Fine. I... I like seeing you bare.” “There. Was that so hard?” “Not really, I suppose.” Arc smiles. “Practice makes perfect.” “Why don’t you get in and get comfortable?” “What about you?” Twilight points to the sink. “I need to brush my mane first. Just relax and I’ll be there in a bit.” Doing as he is told, Arc disrobes and steps into the warm shower. Sitting down, he leans against the wall. Twilight picks up a brush with her hoof and begins running it through her mane. Closing her eyes, Twilight hums melodically as she works. The running water obscures the swishing sound of her mane. Arc closes his eyes and dozes off for what he believes to be a few moments. His eyes open as a strange hissing sound rings out across the room. Pulling back the curtain, he calls out. “Twilight, are you...?” Arc stops talking as he spies Twilight sitting on the toilet. She blushes heavily as her pupils shrink and the hissing stops. A light dripping sound rings out as they wordlessly stare at each other for a long moment. Eventually there is a plopping sound as something larger drops into the water. Wordlessly, Arc slowly closes the shower curtain and leans back against the wall. The toilet flushes to carry away the waste as Twilight remains sitting. Sometime later she slowly walks over to the shower and sits down on her haunches in front of the closed curtain. Taking a deep breath, she calls out. “A-Arc?” “Um... yes?” “I... sorry.” “Sorry?” “That you had to witness... that.” “It’s... okay, Twilight.” Twilight shakes her head. “No, it isn’t! I was brushing my mane and... and just forgot you were in here!” Arc raises an eyebrow. “Forgot I was...?” “Sometimes I get so engrossed in a task that I forget really basic things. Brushing my mane myself just felt so good that I spent longer than I normally would doing it. Then I felt... that I had to go.” “So you did.” “When you looked out, it all came back to me. What I had come in here for originally, that is.” “It was just a bit... surprising, that’s all.” Twilight blushes heavily as she looks down. “Then when you poked your head out and saw me I tried to stop. To hold it in instinctively. But that just made me lose control... elsewhere.” “It’s a natural bodily function, Twilight.” Twilight gasps. “However I shouldn’t have forced you to witness it!” Arc smiles as he speaks. “You didn’t force me to do anything.” “But I couldn’t stop it from...!” Arc interrupts. “And I was so surprised that I couldn’t turn away. So I’m sorry for that.” Twilight raises an eyebrow. “You’re sorry?!” “For not giving you the privacy you deserve.” “I... didn’t really mind it all that much.” “Oh?” “It was just... embarrassing! After all, I’ve never had somepony watch me use the toilet before!” “Well, that wasn’t my first time.” Twilight appear surprised. “It wasn’t?” Arc blushes slightly. “No.” “Um... it isn’t any of my business.” “You want to know, don’t you?” Twilight sighs. “Yes.” “Then come in here and sit with me.” Bowing her head, Twilight enters the shower. She sits down on her haunches as the steamy air rolls over her fur. Arc puts an arm around her. “It was... Shelly.” Twilight turns to him, confused. “I didn’t know you and her were involved like that.” “We weren’t. But her condition back then didn’t always allow her to reach the bathroom in time. Some days she was just lucky that I could get her to the toilet and her pants down before she starting going. So I’m no stranger to... those kinds of bodily functions. At least on humans, I mean.” “But they’re about the same, right?” Arc nods. “Pretty much. It’s been a long time since I did that for Shelly though. So the sound was... unfamiliar to me. At least until I saw what you were doing, that is.” Twilight blushes and looks away. “And the... other thing?” “When you gotta go, you gotta go.” Twilight bows her head. “I... can’t believe you had to see me defecating.” “Well, I won’t tell if you won’t.” “Thanks. And... sorry again.” “No need to apologize, Twilight.” “I, uh... do want to confess something though.” “What is it?” “You watching me... you know... I... think I kinda liked it.” “That’s surprising. Never thought about...” Twilight gasps. “Is that bad?!” Arc shakes his head. “No, Twilight. After all, you can’t control what you like.” “But what would the others think if they found out?!” “I imagine they’d be very receptive and understanding.” “How?!” “Everyone has their own kinks, Twilight. Some may be less common or culturally acceptable than others. But I believe that as long as everyone involved is consenting and doesn’t ask the other to stop I don’t see anything wrong with it.” Twilight sighs. “Never thought I’d indulge in something like this though. And kinda enjoy it.” “Being watched?” Twilight covers her face with her hooves as she blushes. “Don’t say it like that!” “Why not? That’s what it is.” “But it sounds so dirty!” Arc puts a hand under her chin and turns her head towards his. “Like I said, I won’t tell anyone if you don’t want me too.” Twilight appears relieved. “That’s what I want, yes.” “Sure. But just so you know, there are others in our group of friends whom have their own kinks, Twilight. And they’ve learned to come to terms with them.” “I’ll try.” “Good. But, um... can I ask you something a bit... strange?” Twilight raises an eyebrow. “Stranger than what just happened?” “Yeah, kinda.” “Um... go ahead.” “It’s about a certain... pony biological function.” “Which one?” “I’ve looked over several medical books on the subject and understand that a pony’s insides are very similar to a human in terms of organs and their positioning. Including how your digestive tract works.” Twilight nods. “All living creatures have such systems, Arc. Pony, human, dogs, cats, birds, etcetera.” “When a pony drinks water, or any other liquid, it has to go through and come out.” “Right. What are you getting at though?” “It’s the same with food. Chewing and swallowing. While digestion begins in the stomach, the food eventually moves on to the small intestine where much of the nutrients are absorbed and dispersed. Then it moves to the large intestine where a lot of the water is removed to form... you know...” “Fecal matter?” “Yeah. But there is one thing I noticed since arriving in Equestria. And that’s just how little toilet paper is used here.” “Little?” Arc nods. “And that the bathroom doesn’t smell bad after a pony... defecates in it.” “That’s because our digestive systems are very efficient. Most of what smells bad is absorbed or otherwise broken down. Where as a human doesn’t have that same luxury. Which is why your fecal matter smells bad.” “So... can I assume that you don’t have to wipe?” Twilight shakes her head. “Only after urinating. It’s just a little dabbing to dry things up down there for a mare. Stallions just kinda... shake it off.” “Like human males.” “As far as defecating goes, they’re just kinda hard pellets usually. The fecal matter just drops into the toilet without much mess. Sometimes that’s not the case if we’re sick though.” “Diarrhea?” Twilight shudders. “That’s hard enough to deal with for Unicorns. Imagine being a Pegasi or Earth Pony.” “Hooves probably aren’t much for cleanup down there I would imagine.” Twilight sighs. “When that happens we don’t usually leave the house. Regardless of race, I mean. Earth Ponies and Pegasi would just have to shower after each... defecation.” “Thanks for explaining all that, Twilight.” “I never thought I’d feel so comfortable explaining such a messy subject.” “Me too. That’s why I’ve never brought it up to anyone before.” Twilight smiles and lays her head on Arc’s shoulder. “It’s nice to have somepony to talk to with whom I can say whatever.” “Yes, it is.” Reaching for a bar of soap, Arc turn back to Twilight. “Now then... are you ready to get clean?” Twilight giggles and stands up to lift her tail. “Only if you’ll wash my flank too.” Arc nods. “It’s a deal.” Sometime later, Arc and Twilight step out of the bathroom together. Arc looks to her and smiles. “There you are, Twilight. One clean flank.” Twilight smiles. “Thank you for that. And I have to say that I also enjoyed washing your... what do humans call their flanks again?” “It’s a ‘rear end’ if you want to be proper about it. A ‘butt’ if you don’t.” He looks at the clock before continuing. “In any case, I should get the Hoof Maidens over here to tend to you now.” “Thank you, Arc.” Arc touches his earring. “Arc to Equinox.” Lemon Hearts’ voice rings out. “Equinox here, sir.” “I need the Hoof Maidens to report to my quarters aboard ship. I’ll open a portal in ten minutes to bring them to the Aviary.” “Yes sir. Will there be anything else?” Arc shakes his head. “No, I think that will do.” Twilight gasps. “Wait, Arc!” “Standby, Lemon Hearts.” He turns to Twilight. “Did I miss something?” “Have her tell Saffron to send over some breakfast when she cooks it for everyone else aboard.” Arc chuckles. “Did you hear that, Lemon Hearts?” “I did, sir. She’s currently getting things ready over there as we speak.” “Tell her to keep something warm for us until we call for it later.” “I’ll see to it, sir.” “Thanks. Arc out.” He touches his earring, severing the connection. Frowning, Arc turns to Twilight. “Look, I know the food here might not be as good as what we have back in Equestria, but our hosts might get a little offended if we refuse their hospitality.” Twilight grimaces. “It’s just a bit of a precaution. Believe me, I’ll still be ordering food from the Aviary kitchens.” A short time later Arc opens a portal. Four Hoof Maidens step though, two of which are pushing carts. Twilight motions to a vanity and walks over to it with them. Arc joins them as the mares get to work. “So... should I order us something to eat?” Twilight nods. “Yes, please. This shouldn’t take too long.” Sometime later there is a knock at the door. Answering it, Arc finds a griffon standing there with a dinner cart. Pulling it into the room he motions for them to leave. Closing the door, Arc walks the cart over to the table as the Hoof Maidens finish their task. Bowing, they step back and smile. “We are finished, you highness.” “Thank you. Return to the ship and await further orders.” Arc steps forward and opens a portal for them. Walking through, they vanish from sight. Closing the portal, Arc extends a hand to Twilight. “Ready to eat?” Twilight shakes her head. “Not quite. Would you please push that cart onto the sigil?” Arc raises an eyebrow. “You want to eat somewhere else?” “No. I want you to send it to Canterlot Castle.” “Um... okay. Why though?” “You’ll see.” Shrugging, Arc does as she asks. Pushing the cart onto the sigil, he powers up his crystals and sends it to his room in the castle. Twilight smiles as she speaks. “Now please call the ship and ask Lemon Hearts to relay a message to Sunburst.” “Sunburst?” Twilight nods. “I want him to assess that food for anything that shouldn’t be in it.” “You want it tested for poison?” “Anything that could be, yes. Then you can tell her to have Saffron deliver some food to the sigil in your room aboard ship.” Arc sighs as he touches his earring. “Fine.” Giving the instructions to Lemon Hearts, she relays them. A few minutes later Arc teleports a dinner cart from Saffron into the room. Twilight walks over to it and pushes the cart over to the table. “And now we can eat.” Arc chuckles. “Kinda paranoid for someone whom is immortal now.” Twilight smiles at him as she sits down. “Think about it this way, Arc. The life I save might be yours.” Arc joins her at the table to eat. Filling up glasses from a pitcher of juice, he turns to her. “So... it looks like we’re going to be together for a while.” Twilight giggles and blushes happily. “For the rest of our lives, yes.” “I meant here in the Aviary.” “Oh... right.” “Is there anything you’d like to do with the extra time?” “Honestly, I was just planning to have you teleport paperwork over so that I can do my part of the workload from here.” “I suppose that would be proper. After all, we’ve all been mostly just sitting around or having fun since we got here.” “While there’s nothing wrong with that, I would like to try and use my time more judiciously from now on.” Arc raises an eyebrow. “From now on?” “I need to work hard so that I have time for myself as well as you, Arc. Just like Princess Celestia did all those years.” “When she ruled Equestria alone, you mean?” Twilight nods. “Right. She confided in me that getting her work done was of great importance to her. That way she could relax and do something fun without feeling guilty for doing so.” “And what did she do?” “Read a book while listening to music and drinking tea was her favorite way to unwind.” Arc chuckles. “Like someone else I could name.” Twilight grins. “She was the one whom instilled A love for reading into me. However I generally read to learn new things.” “And she didn’t?” “No. When you’re as old as Princess Celestia you pretty much know everything about everything.” She lowers her voice before continuing nervously. “Ah... please don’t mention to anypony that I called her ‘old’.” Arc pats her hoof. “Your secret is safe with me, Twilight.” Taking, they slowly eat their meal. As it concludes, Arc’s earring chirps. Touching it he calls out. “Arc here.” “Sir, this is Sunburst. I called to tell you that I’ve completed the analysis of the food you sent over earlier.” “Good. Did you find anything?” “Actually, yes.” Arc raises an eyebrow. “Really?” Twilight leans over. “What was it?” “A very strange substance that isn’t found in Equestria.” Arc frowns. “Is it toxic?” Sunburst nods. “Yes, but not in the way you’d imagine, sir.” “Can you elaborate on its effects?” “It has a crystalline structure very similar to sugar. I surmise that it’s very sweet and would make a perfect addition to any meal.” “So what makes it dangerous?” “I fed some of it to a cage of lab rats. They gobbled it up as if I hadn’t fed them in days though. As I watched them with a timer, I found that their movements began to slow about ten minutes after ingestion.” “Did they fall asleep like Luna and Cadance did some time ago?” “Quite the opposite, sir. They suddenly became very active and... well... ah...” Twilight frowns. “And what, Sunburst?” “It... it gave them all... explosive diarrhea.” Arc facepalms. “I’m sorry, what?” “Feces were EVERYWHERE, sir!” Twilight gasps. “So the food was poisoned?” “Not exactly, your highness. I contacted Ambassador Ashe regarding this matter and was told it’s an additive used in extremely expensive sweet foods in the Griffon Kingdom. Totally normal and safe for consumption.” Arc frowns. “Then why did the mice... you know...?” “Because they ate SIGNIFICANTLY more than any creature with an ounce of sense would have. Pony, griffon, human, anything really.” “And how did they fare in the end?” “They’re all currently unconscious. I believe it’s known in laypony’s terms as being in a ‘food coma’.” “So they’re going to be okay.” “Yes, your highness. Well, after they sleep it off, that is.” Twilight sighs, clearly relieved. “Thank you, Sunburst. Please let us know if anything changes on that end.” Arc chuckles. “Anything else to add, Sunburst?” “Just that those pancakes were VERY tasty!” Twilight raises an eyebrow. “You tried them yourself?” “Just a bite for science, Princess Twilight.” Arc shrugs. “Keep us appraised.” Twilight giggles. “And feel free to eat the rest of that meal.” “I will, your majesty.” “Enjoy. Arc out.” Touching his earring, Arc severs the connection as Twilight looks to him. “Mice.” “With extreme diarrhea.” Twilight groans. “The irony.” Arc chuckles. “Our previous conversation?” “Yup. You might have been able to see what I was talking about firsthoof.” Arc picks up his fork and chuckles. “I’m sure I will eventually. However, I’m in absolutely no rush to witness such a thing.” Sometime later there is a knock at the door. Arc rises and answers it. Finding Ashe standing there he allows her in. Looking to the pair as the doors close behind her, she speaks. “Good morning. I hope you two slept alright.” Twilight looks up from her book and nods. “Yes, the bed was very soft.” “Did you enjoy the food?” Arc smiles nervously as he looks away. “Um... we kinda sent it off to Canterlot to be tested.” Twilight quickly chimes in. “It was my idea!” Ashe shrugs. “Well, after what happened yesterday I can understand your reasoning behind it.” Arc clears his throat to move the conversation along. “Are you here about Sunburst’s call?” “I am actually. He was concerned that the food was too sweet.” Twilight sighs. “It was because the sweetener in question wasn’t known to him.” “Ah! Right! You see, it’s a very old product that was first discovered by King Grover back when he was still a merchant.” Arc raises an eyebrow. “Discovered? As in he found it?” “Oh yes. On a particular journey, he stopped to set up camp one evening and made himself some tea. It wasn’t hot enough to mix naturally so he tried to speed the process by stirring it with a twig he plucked from the ground. However, when he took his first sip he spit the tea out as it was far too sweet.” Twilight gasps. “The twig!” Ashe nods. “Right. You see, his tea was very bitter as he didn’t have anything to sweeten it with. So he was shocked when so much sweetness came from a single small twig.” Arc chuckles. “So he looked for the source of the plant?” “The nearby plants were the source. He had used a hardened stem from one. You see, the plant has a very bitter taste if harvested and eaten as-is. However, the twig he found was old and dried out. He found that those were the sweet ones. Gathering some of the twigs, he took them with him when he broke camp the next day along with a talonful of seeds.” Twilight puts a hoof to her chin thoughtfully. “Very smart of him. It would be more economical to grow them commercially versus gathering more from the wild.” Ashe sighs. “Unfortunately, that didn’t work out.” Arc frowns. “Which part?” “The seeds. He was able to easily sell the twigs to some curious nobles. However, they wanted more. A lot more. So he took the seeds to a botanist in an attempt to learn what the plant was.” “And they didn’t know?” “It was completely new to them. They tried to grow more at their facilities. Sadly the effort met with failure.” Arc smirks. “Let me guess. The plants could only be grown in their native soil?” Ashe nods. “Exactly. Grover brought some soil back for testing and was told that a complex combination of nutrients, acidity, and conditions at the site were the missing link to growing them. Sadly it was never discovered how to cultivate them anywhere other than that particular location.” Twilight appears hopeful. “And where is that?” Ashe gestures out the window as she speaks. “Far to the north halfway between Griffonstone and an old town named ‘Beakwick’.” “Beakwick...” Arc looks to her. “You’ve heard of it, Twilight?” “Yes. That town is near the border of what used to be the Pegasus Kingdom.” “I’m assuming that was before Unification.” Twilight nods. “Right.” Ashe continues. “The plant still grows there today naturally. King Guto sends a convoy there once a year to gather what falls from their branches.” Arc frowns. “Guessing that’s not a lot.” “It’s around twenty pounds of dried branches. They also prune the plants to help them grow better and stronger while they’re there too.” Twilight nods. “What is done with the pruned branches?” “They’re brought back to Griffonstone to dry and age in a designated room in the castle. It takes about a year for them to be ready though.” Arc puts a hand to his chin thoughtfully. “So by the time they come back with fresh droppings...” Twilight continues his sentence. “The previous year’s gatherings are ready for consumption.” Ashe shakes her head. “Not quite. After they switch out the old with the new, the dried twigs need to be processed for use in cooking. They use a very high potency alcohol to extract the sweet substance from the twigs.” “By what method?” “Submersion for several days. Afterwards the alcohol is removed and the process is repeated with fresh alcohol.” Arc thinks for a moment. “And after that it’s put into a ‘still’ of sorts to separate the alcohol from the sweetener.” Ashe appears surprised. “Yes. How did you know that?” “Earth has similar extraction techniques.” Twilight giggles. “As does Equestria.” Arc continues. “What form is the substance after that, Ashe?” “It’s pressed into paper thin sheets and cut into small strips. They’re green and come from plants so folks call it ‘Grover Grass’ in honor of its discoverer.” Arc raises an eyebrow. “Why paper thin strips though?” “Because it’s so powerful. A little bit goes a LONG way, after all.” Twilight nods. “And I would assume it’s very expensive.” Ashe sighs. “So much so that it’s only affordable for the extremely wealthy. Even then such things are generally only used for very special occasions.” Arc motions to Twilight. “Such as a visiting princess?” “That would certainly fit the bill, yes.” Twilight smiles nervously. “Yes, well... I would appreciate it if you didn’t mention to anypony that I thought my food was poisoned, Ashe.” “Your secret is safe with me, Twilight.” Arc turns to Ashe. “Now that we have that settled... any word on the trial?” “Preparations are still underway, of course, but it appears that they will be done by tomorrow.” Twilight gasps. “Tomorrow?!” Ashe appears confused. “Um... yes. Something wrong with that?” Twilight trots in place nervously. “We’re not ready!” Arc raises an eyebrow. “Um... we kinda are, Twilight.” “HOW?!” Arc counts on his fingers. “We have Raven and Flash Sentry aboard The Equinox, the mental projector thingamajig, and the rest of the Council of Lords backing us up.” “I... suppose that’s true, yes.” Ashe steps forward. “Was there something else you needed time for, Twilight?” “Not really, no. But this is really moving very fast now.” Arc folds his arms over his chest. “Considering just how long it took to get to this point, I thought we’d still be jumping through hoops.” “Now that the paperwork is done, along with my father and the other two members of the Council of Lords getting behind it, there is nothing standing between us and the trial.” Twilight grimaces. “Nothing?” Ashe puts a talon to her beak thoughtfully. “Well... I suppose it could be stopped if you were to drop the charges. Not that you’d do that, mind you.” Arc clenches a fist. “Not for anything!” “I figured as much.” Twilight looks to Ashe. “So is there anything we can do to try and prepare for this trial?” Ashe shakes her head. “As I said before, sadly nothing. What happens next is out of our control.” Arc nods. “Any idea when we’ll know the exact time?” “Actually, yes. I received word that a messenger would be delivering a missive containing that information sometime this morning. In fact, that’s part of the reason I came over here.” Twilight smiles. “You wanted to be present for it?” “I do. This is a historical moment for the Griffon Kingdom and I want to be here to witness it as closely as possible.” Arc gestures to the couch. “Well then, we might as well sit down and make ourselves comfortable while we...” A knock from the door rings out. Ashe grins as she turns to Twilight. “Were you expecting someone?!” Twilight shakes her head. “No, we weren’t.” “That has to be the missive then!” Arc turns to the door. “Guess I’ll get it then.” Ashe gasps. “Wait!” She hurries over and looks around frantically. Twilight raises an eyebrow. “Ashe? What are you...?” “Looking for the best vantage point!” Arc rolls his eyes. “Why not from overhead?” “Good idea!” Flapping her wings, she takes flight. Ashe hovers over Arc steadily. The air from her wings messes up his and Twilight’s hair/mane. Arc groans. “Ashe?” “Yes?!” “Land.” “What?” Twilight frowns. “Now, please.” Slightly embarrassed at the now disheveled physical appearance of the pair before her, Ashe does as she is told. Arc straightens up for a few moments before heading to the door. Opening it, he spies a visibly flustered female griffon standing there holding an envelope. Arc smiles at her and beckons to her with a hand. “Please, come in.” Nodding wordlessly, she steps across the threshold. Arc closes the door behind her as she bows and holds out the envelope to Twilight. “A message to Princess Twilight of Equestria from King Guto.” Twilight grins. “The trial notice!” She quickly accepts the envelope, breaks the clay seal, and pulls out a piece of paper. Reading quickly Twilight grimaces. “Tomorrow at noon!” Ashe raises an eyebrow. “That’s a strange time to start a trial.” Arc looks to her “Is it?” “At least for something this important, yes.” Twilight frowns. “When were you expecting it to happen, Ashe?” “First thing in the morning is generally when something this important would take place.” Arc puts a hand to his chin. “But why would the king...?” He stop talking and looks at the young griffon messenger still kneeling. “Um...” Ashe sighs. “Twilight never actually dismissed her.” Twilight smiles sheepishly. “Oh! Sorry!” Turning to the griffon, Twilight continues. “Thank you for bringing this to us. You are...” She is cut off as the griffon suddenly cries out loudly and falls to the floor in pain. Arc, Twilight, and Ashe instinctively draw back from the severity of her change of mood. Twilight is the first to find her voice. “Miss, are you alright?!” The griffon shuffles slowly toward the door. “I... I need to...!” She gasps and falls to the floor again. Arc walks over to her and picks the griffon up. Laying her on the bed, he turns to Ashe as Twilight pats her talon in an effort to comfort her. “Call a doctor!” Ashe hurries toward the phone. “Right away!” The griffon cries out. “No, please!” Twilight sighs. “Miss, it’s obvious that you’re in a lot of pain. Just let...” “I... I can’t let...!” Tears stream down her face as she chokes out the rest of the words. “...no one can know!” Arc looks to her. “What if I took you to a pony doctor, miss?” “...w-where...?” “Aboard my ship at the Skyport.” “I... I can’t...!” Ashe frowns. “It’s either Lord Arc’s doctor or the castle’s!” Raspily, the griffon calls out. “P-p-pony... doctor.” Twilight nods soberly. “Fine. Arc?” “On it.” Calling forth his gauntlet, Arc makes a sigil on the floor and opens a portal. Twilight and Ashe hurry thought as Arc carefully picks up the griffon. She shakes in pain as he runs through. Appearing in his quarters aboard The Equinox he heads for the door as Ashe holds it open. Twilight hurries in front of him and calls out to the guards. “Make way! Medical emergency!” They stand to the side as best they can as Arc runs past them. Entering the Infirmary, Twilight calls out. “Redheart, help!” Running out of her office as Arc enters the room, she appears suddenly confused at the sight of the griffon whom appears to be in great pain. “What happened?!” Arc grunts as he lays her down on the nearest hospital cot. “No idea!” Twilight shudders. “She was delivering a message to us when she just collapsed!” Ashe nods fervently. “It appeared to hit her all at once!” Redheart frowns as she looks the griffon over. “I’m afraid that I’m not very acute when it comes to griffon medical knowledge. She really should be transferred to a local medical...” The griffon cries out. “No! Please!” Redheart sighs. “Miss, I really think you need to be cared for by somepony whom knows how to properly help.” She shakes her head vehemently. “I can’t!” Ashe groans. “Why not?” Twilight, seeing how the questions are only serving to make the griffon more agitated, steps forward with a smile. “Why don’t you tell us your name, miss?” “G... G-Galena.” “That’s a very pretty name.” “Th-thank you... your highness.” “Tell me, are you sick?” Galena looks away nervously. “Not... exactly.” Ashe frowns. “Is it some kind of disease?” “N-no.” Arc looks to Redheart. “Do your best.” “But sir...!” “She’s been very adamant about not wanting to see a doctor here thus far. Hence my request for you to do your best with what you know.” Redheart sighs. “I’ll do my best, sir.” Turning back to Galena, Redheart begins taking her vitals. Twilight continues to talk to the patient. “So what do you do in the castle?” “I’m an... assistant, your highness.” Twilight giggles. “Oh, no need to call me that.” Galena appears confused. “Huh?” “You can just call me ‘Twilight’.” Galena gasps. “What?! No! That’d be disrespectful to your station!” Ashe frowns. “More disrespectful than ignoring an order from royalty?” “But I couldn’t...!” Twilight cuts her off. “How about you just call me something else then?” Arc raises an eyebrow. “What else would she...?” Ashe chimes in. “How about ‘Lady Twilight’?” Twilight appears confused. “But I’m not...” Ashe nods. “It’s what you would be called here if you weren’t a royal. What with you being connected to the princesses, that is.” Arc chuckles. “And an Element Bearer.” Twilight shrugs. “I can live with that.” She turns to Galena before continuing. “How about you?” Galena grimaces in pain. “Yes... Lady Twilight.” “Good.” Redheart looks over. “Miss, do you have any history of this particular problem?” Galena shakes her head. “None at all.” “How about your family history?” “I... I don’t...” She sighs as Twilight puts a hoof on her talon again. “It’s okay. Just answer the nurse’s questions as best you can. Nopony else has to know.” “Yes, Lady Twilight.” Turning to Redheart again, she grimaces. “To be completely honest, I... don’t know.” Redheart raises an eyebrow, confused. “Don’t know?” “I’m an orphan, miss.” “Ah! How about any known siblings?” “No idea.” Redheart sighs. “I think I’ll need to run some more tests then.” Ashe frowns. “Wait!” Arc appears confused. “Ashe?” Walking over to the bedside, Ashe looks into Galena’s face soberly. “Are you... ‘laying’?” Twilight shrugs. “Well, she is in a bed.” Redheart shakes her head. “I don’t think that’s what the ambassador means.” Ashe nods. “Right.” Returning her gaze to the griffon before her, Ashe continues. “So... are you?” “I... I don’t...!” Arc interrupts her. “Please, miss. We can’t help you if we don’t...” Galena squeezes her eyes shut. “YES!” Ashe grins. “Now we’re getting somewhere!” Redheart looks to Ashe. “What does ‘laying’ mean?” “That she’s about to lay an egg.” Twilight gasps as she looks to Galena. “You’re PREGNANT?!” Galena grimaces. “I’m... what, Lady Twilight?” Arc looks to her belly. “It’s what ponies call having a foal growing inside you.” Ashe shakes her head. “But griffon’s don’t give birth like ponies do. We lay eggs like most other birds.” Redheart smiles as she turns away. “Then I’d best get the sterile sheets ready.” Twilight grimaces. “Nurse Redheart, what do we do now?” Ashe puts a talon to her cheek. “Notifying the father would be prudent.” Galena gasps in pain. “NO! PLEASE!” Arc frowns. “But he should be here for you, Galena.” “He... he doesn’t know I’m... laying!” Redheart sighs as she walks over to the bedside with a tray. “Please try to keep the patient calm, everypony. The pain seems to increase when she cries out.” Twilight looks to Ashe. “What now?” “Just make her comfortable while she pushes it out.” Ashe turns to Galena again. “Is this your first egg?” Galena nods nervously. “Y-yes.” Ashe grimaces. “Great.” Arc raises an eyebrow. “Is that bad?” “They say the first egg is the hardest. And the most painful.” Twilight looks to Redheart. “Can’t you give her something for the pain?” “I could, yes.” Ashe shakes her head. “Not a good idea. Griffons need that pain to tell them when it’s time to push.” Arc frowns. “Well, we have to do SOMETHING for her!” Twilight nods in agreement. “What should we do, Ashe?!” “Not much. She needs to lay the egg herself.” Redheart frowns. “Do griffons lay their eggs like other birds?” “More or less. Why?” “We should roll her over onto her belly then.” Twilight gasps. “But that would hurt the foal?!” Ashe shakes her head. “No, she’s right. Remember Twilight, it’s an egg.” Redheart points to the mattress. “It’s going to fall on the sheets when it comes out. Best to be closer to them I would imagine.” Ashe grimaces. “Yes, and judging by the amount of pain she’s in, it’s probably almost time too.” Arc steps forward. “I’ll help.” Together, Arc and Ashe roll Galena over. She gasps as her belly comes into contact with the bedsheets. Ashe walks around to the back of the bed with Redheart and raises Galena’s tail. Her unmentionables are red and heavily inflamed. Redheart frowns. “That... doesn’t look good.” Ashe shakes her head. “No, it is not.” Arc folds his arms over his chest. “Okay, so admittedly I have seen a few griffon’s... backsides before. But none of them looked anything like that.” Twilight grimaces. “Is that some kind of infection?” Redheart nods soberly. “Yes, your highness. It’s something that can occur in a mare as well though.” “Caused by...?” “Usually... rape.” They are silent for a time. Eventually Ashe looks to Galena. “Is that true?” Galena gasps. “What?! NO!” Twilight appears genuinely concerned. “Miss, you really need to...” Arc interrupts. “Fine.” Redheart looks over. “Sir, this is a very serious matter!” “True. However I think that we should be focusing on the matter at hand. Seeing to it that the egg is safely... um... what’s the word, Ashe?” “Laid.” Redheart looks back to the patient. “Alright, Miss Galena. Now this is going to hurt quite a bit, but I need you to start pushing.” Twilight grimaces. “Are you sure, Redheart? Maybe Ashe has an idea.” Ashe shrugs. “Even I’m unsure what happens next.” Redheart grits her teeth. “I took some courses in... veterinary medicine years ago. One of them was about chickens laying eggs.” Twilight frowns. “Redheart!” Ashe shrugs. “It’s probably pretty similar. So unless the patient wants to be transferred to a normal griffon hospital...” Galena shakes her head as she cries out. “NO!” Arc sighs. “Guess that answers that question.” Twilight takes Galena’s talon in her hoof. “Give us a little push, Galena.” Doing so, the three females look at Galena’s nether regions. Ashe gasps. “I see the tip of it!” Redheart frowns. “It’s a lot... bigger than I thought it would be.” Twilight gasps. “Will it really fit?!” Ashe nods. “It’s supposed to. “ Arc leans over. “Are you sure?” “I’m told that the first time may have a bit of... tearing.” Galena gasps. “What?!” Redheart nods. “Just like a mare.” She looks to Galena and motions to her tools before continuing. “Not to worry, miss. I can stitch you back up if that happens. Now then... keep pushing.” Taking a deep breath, Galena continues. The egg pokes its way a bit further out. Twilight smiles. “It moved a bit more!” Ashe smiles. “You still have a long way to go though. Keep at it.” Pushing harder, Galena begins to sweat. She cries out in pain and flails slightly. Grabbing Arc’s hand she squeezes momentarily pulling back nervously. “P-please forgive me, Lord Arc!” “It’s okay. I’d be willing to hold your other talon if you want.” Redheart looks over. “That might be wise. It may give you some comfort, miss.” Arc holds out a hand as Galena slowly puts her talon in his palm. Wrapping his fingers gently around it, he looks to her and smiles. “You can do this.” Nodding, Galena resumes pushing. The egg slowly begins moving again. Ashe calls out to her. “Almost a quarter of the way out!” Galena gasps in pain. “It hurts!” Twilight pats her talon. “You’re doing fine!” Redheart looks over the sheets. “Keep going.” Taking a deep breath, Galena pushes yet again. Sweat beads up on her forehead as she cries out violently. Arc continues holding her talon as Redheart watches the egg intently. “You’re almost a third of the way there. Keep going.” Galena voice cracks. “I... I don’t think I can! It feels as if I’ll split in half the further I go!” Ashe grimaces. “The egg is tapered, so the worst is yet to come.” Galena raises her head frantically. “WHAT?!” Redheart smiles. “Look at it this way, miss. Once you get past the halfway point the egg should more or less pop out.” Ashe nods. “And I can help pull it out then as well.” Arc gives her talon a pat. “You’re doing fine. Just keep going.” Squeezing her eyes shut, Galena pushes for all she’s worth. Clenching Arc’s hand, she screams in agony as the egg again begins to move. A small trickle of blood runs down her rump onto the bedsheets as Redheart encourages her. “Keep going, miss. Don’t stop now.” Twilight nods fervently. “You’re almost there!” Ashe nods. “Come on! Just one more big push should do it! Wailing, Galena gives it everything she has. The egg slowly moves outward millimeter by millimeter. Ashe takes a deep breath and cautiously reaches forward to put her talons on either side of the egg. Tugging gently she pulls it loose as Redheart catches and wraps it in a towel. Twilight beams as she looks to Galena. “You did it!” Ashe nods as she looks at the egg in Redheart’s hooves. “That you did!” Galena rolls onto her back breathing heavily. “Th-thank you, all.” Redheart walks over to the sink to carefully wash the egg. “Now the incubation period starts.” Ashe nods. “Right. The egg needs to be kept warm at all times. Griffons usually have special slings for such purposes.” Twilight puts a hoof to her chin. “To hold the egg close to them?” “And protect it. If possible, the female generally goes on bedrest to care for and protect the egg. But not all griffons can afford to do such things. Hence the slings.” Redheart walks back over with the egg in a fresh towel. “Here you are, miss.” Galena takes the egg in her talons and pulls back the towel. She gently caresses the shell with a soft touch before sighing. “It’s finally over.” Redheart puts on a pair of gloves. “I’ll need to give you a few stitches down there to help prevent infection.” She holds up a syringe before continuing. “And I can numb you up now.” Galena looks away nervously. “Oh, um... that isn’t really necessary.” Redheart raises an eyebrow. “It’ll be needlessly painful then.” “No, no. I meant the stitches.” Twilight frowns. “But you really do need them.” Galena bows her head. “I... can’t afford it. In truth, I have no idea how I’m going to pay for what you’ve already done for me.” Arc raises an eyebrow. “Pay?” Galena nods. “The procedure.” Twilight smiles at Galena. “Don’t worry about that. Nurse Redheart is employed by the military and permanently stationed aboard this ship.” Redheart nods. “Right. I don’t collect any kind of fees for the work I do here.” Arc chuckles. “She simply does whatever needs to be done.” “But...” Ashe cuts Galena off. “Please, just accept their offer. You really don’t want that to get any more inflamed than it already is.” Galena nods. Redheart walks over to a cabinet and begins assembling a try. Walking back to the foot of the bed she sits down in a doctor’s chair and picks up the syringe. “You’ll feel a bit of a prick now.” Inserting the needle, Redheart depresses the plunger. A few moments later she taps the griffon’s nether regions with her gloved hoof. “How’s this?” Galena appears confused. “How’s what?” Arc smirks. “Guess that answers that question.” Ashe nods. “Looks like you’re numbed up already.” Twilight turns to Redheart. “Do what you can to help alleviate the rest of the swelling.” Redheart picks up a needle and thread. “I’ll give her an antibiotic shot when I’m done.” Redheart works quickly to sew up the small tear in the flesh. Eventually she steps back with a second empty syringe, tosses it into a receptacle, and removes her gloves. “All done. You’ll be numb for a bit longer though.” Galena smiles weakly. “Thank you, nurse.” “The second shot should help with the inflammation down there. It’ll still need to heal though, so don’t do anything too rough and keep yourself clean down there until it heals.” “I’ll try.” Twilight turns to the nurse. “She should probably rest though, right?” “Oh yes. For a few days, at least.” Galena gasps. “Oh no!” Ashe appears confused. “What’s wrong?” “I need to get back to work right away! I was already behind on my paperwork before I brought that message to you, Lady Twilight!” Twilight shakes her head. “Miss, I really don’t think you should be moving!” “But I have to!” Redheart steps to the head of the bed. “Be careful! Too much moving around will rip your stitches.” Ashe sighs. “Don’t worry about work right now. I’ll have a talk with whomever your superior is in the secretarial pool.” “But I can’t afford to...!” Ashe interrupts her. “Then I’ll tell them Princess Twilight requires an aide to do her royal duties.” Twilight nods. “Yes, we’ll cover for you.” Galena looks away nervously. “I don’t think my boss would be too happy if I were to...” Arc interrupts her. “If they don’t listen to Ashe I’ll take it up with Lord Gestal. He’ll set them straight.” “Thank... you.” Redheart pulls a form from a nearby drawer. “In any case, I’ll get to work filling out the birth certificate.” Arc puts a hand to his chin. “I think the Griffon Kingdom would probably be the one to do that.” Twilight nods. “Normally, yes.” Ashe looks to Arc. “That is true, yes. However, this egg was laid on an Equestrian diplomatic vessel.” “Is that important?” Redheart walks over with a clipboard. “Yes, sir. Its status makes The Equinox an extension of Equestrian soil. Therefore the youngling will have dual citizenship as per our two nation’s treaty.” She turns to Galena before continuing. “I’ll give you a copy of the paperwork before you leave. However it will be up to you to file it with the appropriate official here in the Griffon Kingdom.” Galena sighs. “Not really sure who that would be in this case.” Ashe smiles at her. “Then I’ll make some inquiries while you’re in here.” Redheart begins to write. “Mother... Galena. ‘Griffon’ for species. Father...?” Galena looks away nervously. “I... don’t know.” Redheart looks up. “Miss, it’s important that we have all the information for you to present to your nation’s officials.” Arc sighs. “Just write ‘unknown’, Redheart.” Ashe nods. “Yes, I’ll see to it they don’t give her any legal trouble when the forms are submitted.” Twilight looks to Galena. “Is that alright with you?” Galena bows her head and sighs. “It... honestly doesn’t really matter.” Redheart frowns. “I have to disagree, miss. These forms will identify...” Galena interrupts. “No, no! You don’t understand!” Arc raises an eyebrow. “Don’t understand what?” “That I can’t keep this egg!” Twilight frowns. “What do you mean you ‘can’t keep it’?” “The father, he... um... wouldn’t approve.” Redheart chimes in. “So you do know whom he is?” Galena groans. “I... can’t tell you!” Turning to Arc, she smiles weakly up at him. “I heard all about the treaty between our nations. How Equestria is taking our orphans to their land. Is that true?” Arc nods. “Yes, it is. We have a large facility there known as the ‘Little Hooves Orphanage’.” Twilight looks to Galena. “It’s fully equipped to house, educate, and raise both foals and younglings.” Ashe puts a talon on the bed as she speaks. “I can attest to that. It was inspected by me personally on behalf of the Griffon Kingdom.” Galena sighs and runs a talon along the shell of her egg before turning and setting it down on the mattress next to her “Please... take my egg there then.” Arc gasps. “What?!” Redheart looks to Galena soberly “Miss, are you turning your egg over to the state?!” Galena nods. “I am, yes. After all, their father would only hurt them. Or worse.” Twilight grimaces. “We can speak to Lord Gestal about this for you, Galena!” Ashe smiles at her. “Right! He can take care of the father so that you and your egg are kept safe!” Galena sighs. “Believe me when I say that no one can do that.” Twilight steps forward. “Well, how about me then?” Galena appears confused. “Lady Twilight?” “We could take you with us to Equestria when we leave.” Arc looks to the egg. “Equestria could extend amnesty to both of you.” Ashe gestures with a wave of her talon. “Until then, you would be a guest here aboard The Equinox.” Galena shakes her head. “Thank you for the offer. But I...” She looks out the window at the city outside before continuing. “The Griffon Kingdom... it’s my home. I have a place here. A job. Responsibilities and duties.” Redheart appears hopeful. “In Equestria you could start anew.” “It’s too late for me. But...” Galena motions to her egg. “...it’s not too late for this little one to have a better life.” Arc frowns. “Without their mother?” Galena sighs. “Yes. Believe me when I say that I would make a terrible mother.” Ashe groans. “You don’t know that though!” “I do actually.” Arc folds his arms over his chest. “Elaborate.” “Fine. I lied and cheated my way through the ranks at my job to get to where I am.” Twilight raises an eyebrow. “Aren’t you and aide though?” Ashe turns to her. “That’s pretty high up there for someone of common birth though, Princess Twilight.” Galena sighs. “Right. I stole other’s work and passed it off as my own in addition to stabbing them in the back to keep my position. Figuratively, of course. But the results weren’t much better.” Arc frowns. “Results?” “They lost their positions and probably everything they had because of me.” Galena strokes her egg tenderly before continuing. “I... I don’t want my youngling to learn such things from me.” Ashe turns away as she speaks. “Anyone can change though.” Galena shakes her head. “It’s... too late for me. I’ve made my choices and must live with the consequences of them.” Twilight looks to her pleadingly. “Galena, please. Is there nothing we could do to convince you to let us help you?” “you would take my egg, that alone would be more than enough.” She holds out the egg to Arc. Nodding soberly he takes it in both hands. A long moment passes as Galena pats it. “Goodbye, little one. I hope you are able to grow up healthy and happy. Two things I never had.” Gently pushing the egg away from herself, Arc steps back. Covering the shell with the towel he nods as Galena looks to him. “Are you certain my egg can be safely transported back to Equestria, sir?” Arc nods soberly. “I’ll take your egg to the Little Hooves Orphanage right now... personally. That is... if you’re truly sure that this is really what you want.” Galena looks at her egg sadly. “It’s not what I want that’s important here. But what’s best for my unborn youngling.” Redheart steps forward and hands the completed birth certificate to Arc. He accepts it and turns to Twilight and Ashe. “I’ll... run the egg over to the orphanage. You two going to be okay for a bit?” Twilight nods. “Yes. We’ll just stay here with Galena.” Ashe sighs. “Go ahead and do what you have to.” Nodding, Arc powers up his crystals. Opening a portal, he looks down at the egg and uncovers it to give Galena one last look at it. She reaches out to stroke the shell one last time before lying back down and looking away. Stepping toward the portal, Arc passes through and reappears on the sigil in his quarters within Light’s Hope. Grabbing a jacket he carefully puts it on and zips it up. Folding his arms to help support the egg inside of it, Arc head out the door and down the corridor. Leaving the base he makes the short walk to the Little Hooves Orphanage. Stepping inside he hears Cheerilee and Peachbottom’s distinct voices coming from their respective classrooms. Walking upstairs he comes to Coco Pommel’s office. Knocking lightly, he waits patiently. “Come in!” Pushing the door open Arc enters the warm office. Spotting him, Coco Pommel stands and hurries over to him. Kneeling down carefully to give her a hug she smiles at him and speaks. “Good morning, Arc.” “Hello again.” “It’s good to see your back safely. But I thought you were overseas in the Griffon Kingdom.” “I am. Well, was. However I need to give you something.” Holding out the birth certificate to her Coco Pommel takes it and looks it over. “So we’re going to be getting a new little one?” “Um... kinda.” Coco Pommel nods to the birth certificate. “Well, considering you’re giving me this I just figured...” She stops talking as she looks at the paper again. “Um... I think there’s been a typo here, Arc. The date of birth is listed as today and less than an hour ago.” “It’s correct.” “Alright. Now then, when will the little one arrive?” Sighing, Arc unzips his coat and carefully removes the egg. “They’re right here.” Coco Pommel gasps. “A griffon’s egg?!” Arc nods. “Yes. The mother went into labor, or laying as they call it, abord my ship. However after the process they surrendered the egg to the custody of the state.” “Did they give a reason?!” “Just that they don’t believe they’ll be able to raise their youngling properly. Apparently the mother has a rather... checkered past.” Coco Pommel nods as she looks at the document again. “I don’t see a father listed. Could he potentially be located?” “I tried to get her to tell us whom it was. But she insisted that he would hurt the youngling. Redheart suspects that she was raped, however the mother insists that she wasn’t.” “This is quite the legal issue.” “Oh?” “Equestrian law says that I have to attempt to locate the father. Failing that, I’m supposed to look for any other relatives whom could take the egg and raise it.” “She claims there is no other known family and is an orphan herself. And while I could certainly get the information from the government over there, the mother made it clear that the father could try to retaliate against her for it.” “So you want me to just take this egg in without further inquiry?” Arc nods soberly. “I think that might be the best thing to do at the moment.” “And you’re absolutely sure that the mother understood what she was doing when she turned her egg over to you?” “Very. Twilight, Ashe, and I all tried to talk her out of it. But her mind really was made up.” “Very well, Arc. I’ll do as you suggest and take the egg into my custody.” “Do you have the facilities here to do that though?” “Actually, we do. Tell me, do you remember that donation you made some time ago to the orphanage?” Arc puts a hand to his chin. “You mean my earning from working at Cherry Hill Ranch when I went on vacation?” “Yes. It’s been sitting in the bank ever since for the most part.” “A nice rainy day fund, I suppose.” Coco Pommel smiles. “Well, I thought of something to spend it on about a month ago. You see, we had a foal brought in late one night whom was very young and used to sleeping in a crib. We were able to construct a makeshift one out of a normal foal’s bed by using books covered with blankets. However it got me thinking about how we should care for the very young in the future.” “So you bought some cribs?” “Even better! I asked Canterlot for permission to build a nursery here in that big empty room down the hall.” “That one for future expansion?” “Yes. The young filly is currently its only occupant at night and there are numerous other cribs that I bought with the money you donated.” Arc grins. “That sounds perfect!” “Would you like to see it?” “Yes, please!” Coco Pommel opens her office door and leads Arc down the corridor. Turning to a door she slowly pushes it open and gestures with a hoof. “Here we are. The nursery.” A brightly lit room with pastel painted walls stretches out before them. Cribs are lined up along two walls with two changing tables beside them. Toys and books for infants sit on shelves on the third wall as numerous cupboards line the fourth. Arc nods approvingly. “Looks like you planned this out pretty well, Coco Pommel.” He looks down to the egg in his hands before continuing. “However I think this will need to be incubated.” Coco Pommel nods. “That it will be, yes. However I’ve thought of that too.” Opening a cupboard, she removes a strange looking device and sets it on a table. Plugging it in, the light comes on as a turntable inside begins to slowly spin. “I ordered this from the Griffon Kingdom in preparation for something like this. It’s designed to warm eggs when an expecting mother can’t be with them.” She gestures with a hoof as she point to the turntable. “You see, there’s a small heating element in the center that keeps the internal temperature of this device at the perfect temperature for the eggs. It turns slowly so that all sides of the shell can be warmed evenly.” “This looks like just what’s needed right now.” “I’ll keep it in my office so I can watch the egg too. Even though that’s not actually necessary.” Arc appears confused. “It isn’t?” Coco Pommel shakes her head. “This model has a sensor inside that detects when an egg begins to crack. It transmits an alarm to a receiver which I’ll have on me at all times.” “Are you able to do... whatever needs to be done at that point?” “I’ve read up on the subject from training manuals used in medical schools imported from the Griffon Kingdom. While it certainly isn’t the best way to learn, it’s the best I could do.” “Perhaps Doctor Horse could help with that. “Yes, indeed. I’ll call for him the moment the alarm goes off. That and he’s been learning about how to treat youngling as well.” “Makes sense considering all the younglings in town now.” “I’ll call and appraise him of the situation. He should have plenty of time to read up on the subject.” “Um... how long does it take for a griffon egg to hatch anyways?” “Around three weeks from initial laying. At least that’s what the informational pamphlet that came with the machine said.” “Why don’t we take the machine back to your office and get it warmed up?” “Good idea.” Coco Pommel picks up the device and carries it back to her office with Arc in tow. Setting it on top of a sturdy filing cabinet she plugs it in. Turning to Arc, she motions to a holster with a wave of her hoof. “Now then, just put it in one of these slots and the machine will do the rest.” Arc does so. Closing the clear lid, Coco Pommel presses a button to start it up. The heating element comes on and the tray begins to spin. “There we are. Nice and toasty.” She pulls a small device from a nearby drawer and puts it around her neck before continuing. “This will beep if there’s some kind of mechanical fault, the power goes out, or the egg begins to hatch.” Arc smiles. “Very good planning on your part, Coco Pommel.” “I’ve done what I can. However this will be the true test of that.” “And I believe that you’ll pass it with flying colors.” Coco Pommel nods soberly as she puts a hoof on the clear case holding the egg. “I have to. After all... this small life is depending on it.”