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// Regarding the Allocation of Diplomatic Assignments 
// Story: Diplomacy, Blue in Ink and Blood 
// by Rubidium 
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Dear Cousin,
Why is it that whenever you have need of my diplomatic talents, it involves some bug-infested hole in the ground, and not, for instance, a nice beach on the Mediquestrian?  I know for a fact the Crown maintains accounts with the bank of the City of Flowers, which is supposed to be quite lovely this time of year; it seems positively imprudent to leave looking out for our interests in that region to some lesser talent than mine.
As regards the bugs, they are, I suppose, tolerable hosts.  The space they have set aside for me is not so large as my rooms at Canterlot, but I shall make do.  Thorax and I have not had a chance to speak, and I don’t think it’s a deliberate snub - it seems he’s not encountered the notion of a staff.  I can’t make heads or tails of how he gets anything done, but one gets the sense it involves considerably more effort on his part than sensible creatures expend.
Nothing else to report at the moment, and I have plans to host a dinner soon, so I’ll keep this brief.  Do please confirm that my stipend is on the way, and send me a copy of your favorite book on management practices - I’ve no doubt you have one, and I need a gift for Thorax.
Your loyal, though thoroughly misused servant,
Prince Blueblood





Dear Blueblood,
Thanks for the update.  Your stipend is on the way, and if it continues to be delayed, take out a loan in the name of the crown - I’m fairly sure Tartarus will freeze over the day you learn financial responsibility, and I don’t fancy overseeing another set of prisoner transfers in the middle of all this.  Attached is the book you’ve requested.
I recommend not calling the changelings ‘bugs’.  From an outsider, it’s considered derogatory, which you would know if you had read the notes I gave you.
As regards your recommendation with respect to my foreign policy, I’m inclined to agree with you - the City of Flowers is indeed an important friend of Ours, and closer diplomatic relations with them can only be beneficial.  As it happens, my friend Rarity, who no doubt you remember fondly, is quite familiar with the city, it being a considerable supplier of thread, and no doubt she would be happy to advise you on the matter.  Shall I set up a meeting?
Your friend,
Princess Twilight