//------------------------------// // Welcome To Equestria // Story: My Little Teelo: Winter's Silence // by Ardwolf //------------------------------// In which a demon discusses morality, a mare proves her loyalty, and a princess asks an important question. Teagan collapsed on the padded stool in her room, leaning back against the wall. She closed her eyes, mentally exhausted. It was 11:00 PM and she and the troll king had finally hammered out answers to all the problems their dual rulership was going to cause. The final sticking point had been him demanding the ability to recall her at a moment’s notice. She had resisted, knowing it would be impossible to cover a sudden absence from school for any extended period. She’d got him to agree reluctantly that, except in the most dire and urgent circumstances, he would not call on her outside of weekends, school breaks, or the summer. In the process of laying out her available days she’d realized the date back on Earth was January 12’th. She was going to be over a week late getting back to school. Right now that seemed like such a trivial problem she didn’t even care. Matt had worked out that Equestria was roughly 3 months ahead of them in the year, with a time shift of four hours and 48 minutes. That explained why they’d all been so tired the first few days. And also explained why she hadn’t frozen to death when Discord had kidnapped her last year. However, in return for his concession the troll king had demanded that she return and spend her summers in Hejm so she could learn their language, their customs, and get to know them at least as well as she knew the ponies. He had been unyielding in that demand, so she’d been forced to agree. It wasn’t terribly unreasonable, she had to admit. Which meant the start of her summer vacation in the middle of May would put her here in the middle of August. She’d be going back in the middle of Equestria’s October, barely missing the first heavy snows in the mountains. That was good, because if she got snowed into Hejm only teleportation could get her back to Equestria, and thus home. She still didn’t know how she was going to get her mother to agree to it. Teagan was so tired her whole body hurt. But there was still one conversation she’d been putting off, dreading the inevitable revelations. All she wanted to do was crumple into bed and sleep for a week. But instead she took a deep breath and pulled Crush into her lap. She rested both hands on the club and closed her eyes. Wake up, we need to talk. The eyes in her mind opened, watching her curiously. Are you a demon? She asked. Yes. Crush replied. She felt a thrill of fear pour through her. Have you possessed me? After a fashion. Crush replied. We are soul bound, but I do not have the strength to overcome your will. When Alene Klok summoned me and I agreed to become this weapon a spell was placed on me. That spell prevents me from controlling anyone I accept as my wielder. Because I accepted you I cannot control you. Teelo considered that carefully, looking for loopholes. Not finding any she continued the conversation. Why did you accept me? I’m not a troll. The trolls tell me only their king or queen can wield you. That is a clever manipulation of the truth. Crush said. The plain truth is not ‘only a king can wield me’, it is rather ‘he who wields me is king’. There was definite laughter behind the words, and no little mockery. For the first time Teagan was sure she was seeing the real Crush, not just its professional side. Did Klok know this? Teagan asked. How could he not? Crush actually chuckled. It is very amusing, is it not? Klok passed this knowledge on to the other wizards. They all know this. Why do you think the highest ranking Alene is always the king’s advisor? They know I can bond with anyone of sufficient will. They make sure it is always the king’s heir. That is why they never stopped trying to recover me after the fight with Sun Hammer. So you took advantage of me! Teagan thought angrily. I didn’t know about the soul bond! I certainly didn’t give my permission to be possessed! Yes you did. Crush corrected her. When you first touched me and asked if I could kill a god I asked in return if you could. You answered ‘whatever it takes’. Binding with me is the price of wielding me. You paid it willingly. You have spent the last year strengthening our bond yourself. Every time you wield me, even in practice, we grow closer. Our bond is the strongest I have ever felt with any wielder because every time you wield me it is with the desire to become one with me. Did not Matt always tell you to become one with your weapon? To make it a part of you? Dark laughter filled her mind. What is your ultimate goal, Crush? Teagan thought angrily. Taking over the world? Bringing over hordes of your kind to enslave the rest of us? Its eyes narrowed. Why should I want that? You speak of demons as if you know us. You know nothing of us! You’re the queen of the trolls now. Do you want to rule the trolls? Aren’t you glad there is a troll king to make sure you never have to? Don’t you long to return home? To sleep and not worry about others? I am no different. Then what do you want? Teagan asked, confused. To sleep. To be fed so that I do not have to hunt. Being the king’s weapon gives me both, in exchange for very little effort on my part. That is why I accepted Klok’s offer. I am content to slay your enemies in return. I have no agenda beyond that. What do you feed on? Teagan asked nervously. On my host, of course. But you need not be afraid of that. Ordinarily, I require very little of the life you have in such abundance and replenish so easily. This is why hosted demons sleep so much. While we sleep we require almost no food. But you keep me awake far more than any host I have ever bonded with. Thus I must feed more often, taking more of your life force. Is that why I have so many nightmares? Teagan asked, trying to make sense of what Crush was telling her. She was so tired it was hard to concentrate. No. Those are your own folly. What? What are you talking about? You tried killing Discord, and failed only because Celestia intervened. For some strange reason you feel guilty about your attempt. This is stupid. The only reason you needed me in the first place was to kill him. To stop him. Teagan corrected the demon. You cannot lie to me—we are soul bound. I know you desired to kill Discord with every iota of your being. I could feel it. I was wrong. All right? I was wrong! Nightmare was the real culprit—and it was a demon too! How was Nightmare any different from you? It didn’t want to sleep, Crush. It wanted to end the world! Nightmare was insane. Crush replied flatly. I do not know why it wanted to end the world. That makes no sense. Do not compare me to Nightmare. It would be like me comparing you to a mass murderer. Ok, sorry. But how can my nightmares be from guilt? Because you were taught killing was wrong. Yet you found yourself longing to kill another. Why does this confuse you? Discord was going to torture Fluttershy to death! She protested. Yes. And you were going to kill him to prevent it. Simple. Not simple at all! Teagan responded sharply. Only because you are trying to complicate it. Discord was going to do something you would not permit. He would not stop unless killed. Therefore you tried to kill him. This is not difficult logic. Who gave me the right? Teagan demanded. I don’t have the right to decide who lives and who dies! Right? Crush mentally snorted. There is no such thing. Rights are fictions foisted on the strong by the weak to restrain them. Believing you have a right to do something is moral cowardice. You either have the ability to do something or you do not. You either have the ability to prevent interference with your choices or you do not. What about the innocent? With reasoning like that they’re just victims of the strong! Teagan protested. Yes they are. Because they do not have enough power to stop the strong. But do not confuse that with right and wrong. Is it wrong for a predator to kill its prey and consume it? You eat meat, do you not? That meat was a living creature killed so you could feed. How is that not the strong taking advantage of the weak? Plants are living things too, which means even gentle, loving Fluttershy kills to eat every single day. It’s not the same thing! Plants can’t feel anything! Cows and pigs and sheep aren’t sentient! Well, not on Earth I mean. I’d never try to eat an Equestrian cow because they’re a person! That is your choice. Crush noted. You think this is because you don’t have the right to end the life of a sentient creature. You draw a line and say it is wrong to cross it. Or you accept the line drawn by another. But this is your choice; it is not some law of nature. It is a fiction, created by one creature and accepted by another. Those who do not accept the choice are labeled evil. Yet strangely you then feel free to violate their right to exist. This is utter hypocrisy. Crush, if we didn’t do that we couldn’t coexist. If we didn’t accept another’s right to exist we’d have nothing. If the strong didn’t defend the weak we couldn’t live together. Therefore this right to exist is merely accepted to allow you to profit from the existence of others. Crush replied. I do not argue it may be advantageous to accept certain limits in exchange for the benefits received. I did that to become this weapon. But you confuse pragmatism with morality. You confuse convenience with a law of nature. So you think it’s ok to kill someone? Teagan demanded angrily. I have never exercised that choice. Crush replied calmly. I leave that choice to my wielder. I do not need to concern myself with rights and choices. That is for you to decide, queen of the trolls. But do not make the choice and then punish yourself because you regret what you did. According to the ‘rights’ you proclaim, you still had the right to kill Discord for what he attempted. Yet you defend him as an ‘innocent’. You claim it was Nightmare that controlled him. Or that he had been driven insane by his confinement. Or both. That may be so. It does not change what he tried to do or the choice you made to stop him. I was wrong to try and kill him. Teagan insisted quietly. Then so be it. You were wrong. Have you never been wrong before? Of course I have! A lot! Yet you do not feel guilty for all the other times you were wrong. Why only this one? Especially when any harm you may have caused was reversed and the situation was resolved in the way you preferred. Teagan was silent, thinking about it. Because this one was really important, Crush. And I failed. She finally thought. Yet Celestia lives. Fluttershy lives. Discord was put to sleep and Nightmare destroyed. How is this failure? Is it not in fact the best possible outcome you can imagine? It happened in spite of me, not because of me. Teagan retorted. If I had killed Discord I’d have been possessed by Nightmare—no, wait, you’d have protected me. Fluttershy would have been possessed. Nightmare would have left us all to die and Fluttershy would have become a monster. That’s my failure. But that did not happen. Crush observed. You made other choices that insured it did not. If you insist on wallowing in your failures at least be rational enough to accept your successes as well. Teagan was too tired to continue arguing. We’ll table this for now. But one final question. Why did you urge me to kill the Snøskred? Because he threatened you. Crush replied. I have lived with the trolls for many thousands of years. I know them. For most trolls it would have been an innocent question. But the Snøskred is one of those rare trolls that know how to cut the corners of truth so it fits their intended purpose. Had you not revealed our bond he would have tossed you out of the chariot. Teagan blinked, astonished. He’d have murdered me? The ponies would have beaten him senseless! Matt would have shot him! It would have meant war! Fjell would have executed him! You’re talking nonsense. You assume the Snøskred values his own life more than the welfare of the troll kingdom. Crush replied. As I said, Bevis Mot Lyn is a rare troll. Are such individuals unknown to humans? Teagan started to respond, then stopped, thinking about all the stories Matt had told her about the Middle East. She remembered the fanaticism of some Japanese soldiers in World War II. She remembered heroes that deliberately chose to die to save others… There are some. But are you certain he was going to kill me? She thought. Yes. The one word answer chilled Teagan. And now? You are the queen. He will not move against you, especially so long as you have Fjell’s favor. So you don’t advise me killing him then? Teagan asked drily. He is not an immediate threat. Should that change I will warn you. Just as I would warn you about Celestia or Matthew Sanders or your parents. They would never hurt me, Crush. She retorted. Now goodnight! I’m going to sleep. ooOoo Faerie Mist shivered in the cool night air. Around her the Sun Shield were setting up torches in a perimeter to warn away the dangerous creatures that lurked in the Everfree Forest. Beside her Subtle Dancer reviewed the spell that would open the Bridge of Days. Celestia, why did I let you talk me into this? She thought to herself, half angry and half frightened. All for the sake of a stupid party! “Are you ready, Faerie Mist?” Subtle Dancer asked, noting how stiffly she stood. “You’re sure I’ll end up in Lady Teagan’s house, right?” She asked nervously. “Absolutely. You’ll exit the bridge at the same point Sun Hammer did. If Lady Teagan’s parents are not in the room simply call out to attract their attention. If they’re not home, just wait for them. The Lieutenant said it’s now evening in their world. Her parents will certainly be waiting for Lady Teagan’s return, so they should be home. I’ll reopen the bridge in four hours. If there’s a problem I’ll reopen it four hours after that. Sun Hammer reported no difficulty crossing the bridge. You’ll be fine. “I hope you’re right.” She checked to make sure the neck pouch was secure. It held the invitations and a note from the Lieutenant. “All right, I’m ready.” She said, settling her wings. “Very well.” The unicorn’s horn blazed brightly and a rainbow edged hole expanded in mid air. She could see a room on the other side. Taking a deep breath she trotted through the hole, feeling a smooth firm surface under hoof for about three strides before her hoof came down on something soft and she found herself in a small room. The bridge closed behind her, bringing on a momentary flash of panic. She quickly smothered it when she noticed the two humans gaping at her. “Greetings, Lord and Lady O’Gara.” The pegasus performed the same bow she would for Princess Celestia and rose smiling. “My name is Faerie Mist and I am the First Lady-In-Waiting of her Royal Highness, Princess Celestia. I am here at her request, to invite both of you to come to Equestria and attend a party in honor of Lady Teagan.” “Where’s my daughter? Is she all right?” The female human demanded coldly, coming to her feet and glaring daggers at the pegasus. Sun Hammer was right. Faerie Mist thought, eyeing the formidable creature facing her. I’m glad I’m not bringing bad news! “Your daughter is fine, Lady O’Gara.” Faerie Mist said hastily. “She is staying in the Ghrian suite as befits a noble of her exalted rank. We’re arranging a surprise party for her and Princess Celestia would very much like you and your husband to attend as Her Highness’s special guests. I have your invitations here, along with a note from Lieutenant Sanders.” The woman relaxed, letting the pegasus breathe a mental sigh of relief. “Teagan’s really ok?” She asked, her face begging for reassurance. “I spoke to her less than two hours ago, Lady O’Gara.” Faerie Mist assured the woman. “She is completely fine. Matters are resolved and she’ll be coming home with you the day after tomorrow.” “Thank God!” The woman collapsed back into her chair. “You said you had a note from Matt?” The man asked. Faerie Mist nodded and reared, using her hoof to extract both the invitations and the note. Absentmindedly spreading her wings to keep her balance she walked forward on her hind legs and extended her foreleg with the papers. “Is something wrong?” She asked, noticing the two of them staring at her, wide-eyed. “No, it’s just we’ve never seen a pegasus before. A real one, that is.” The man said, taking the papers. “Sorry if we’re being rude.” “No apologies necessary.” Faerie Mist said with a smile. “I remember the first time I met a griffin. I was absolutely tongue-tied.” The man gave the invitations to his wife and opened the note. He read it quickly, and burst into laughter. “What is it, John?” His wife asked. “Matt says, ‘Mission accomplished. No casualties. PS: food fantastic, ponies pleasant, Princess + Pinkie + party = WOW. Do not miss this!’ I guess Matt thinks we should come.” “I would like to meet Teagan’s friends.” She said, and then frowned at the invitations in her hand. “Faerie Mist I’m afraid I can’t read these.” She said apologetically to the pegasus. Her husband snagged one and looked it over. “Me neither. Very impressive though. Gold leaf and golden ink, if I’m not mistaken.” “May I?” Faerie Mist asked, extending her hoof. John handed her the invitation, staring intently at her hoof as she took it. Faerie Mist politely ignored his rapt attention as she began to read aloud. “Her Highness Celestia, Royal Princess of Equestria, requests the pleasure of Lord and Lady O’Gara’s company at a party honoring their daughter, the Lady Teagan, now also addressed as Her Majesty, Dronning Teagan, Queen of all Trolls, here in Equestria, tomorrow afternoon.” “The bearer of this invitation, Faerie Mist, is my First Lady-In-Waiting, and she will be delighted to handle all arrangements for your attendance.” “Wait—Her Majesty? Queen of all trolls? What in the world?” The woman stared at Faerie Mist, stunned. She did it to me again. Faerie Mist raged internally as she smiled at the dumbfounded humans. You just wait, Celestia! ooOoo “It would seem our task is done, sister.” Luna said as they watched Teagan return to her room. Celestia let the image fade from the scrying crystal. “I think you’re right, Luna. Peace with the trolls will be far more stable now. That ghastly fight between Sun Hammer and the troll king can finally become forgotten history and Crush will remain safely in Lady Teagan’s keeping and far away from Equestria. I want to thank you for the months of effort you spent pouring over troll law, by the way. Your deflection of the king’s wedding plans was superbly done.” “While it is said that all knowledge is useful, sister, we admit having to learn Trollish simply to read their scrolls was quite a challenge. We hope our studies will be useful for more than this one incident. We never anticipated having to disrupt the troll king’s wedding plans!” Luna responded, chuckling. “However, if Lady Teagan’s hopes become reality it will certainly be useful for listening to what the trolls say amongst themselves.” “You’re absolutely right, sister. Also, given their nature trolls are more comfortable above ground at night. They may walk the day easily enough, but they prefer the night. Since you’re now Equestria’s royal expert on trolls I will leave it to you to deal with them, my sister.” Luna grimaced. “As you say, sister. I just wish they were more refined.” “Really? I would have thought their honesty and directness would appeal to you.” Celestia said, surprised. “I did not say they were without redeeming qualities, my sister.” Luna chuckled. “But their snarling! And the ease with which they are insulted! It grows tiresome.” Celestia wisely chose not to point out the obvious. Instead, she yawned. “Well, goodnight, Luna. It has been a grueling few weeks and I am still not fully recovered from my ordeal. I’ll see you at morning meal.” “Sleep well, my beloved sister.” Luna replied, turning to leave the chamber and continue her never ending responsibilities. Which now apparently included direct diplomatic dealings with the trolls. We cannot contain our joy, she thought grimly. Celestia settled into bed with a blissful sigh. ooOoo “My daughter married the king of the trolls?” John asked the pegasus in disbelief. “That is how you get to be queen, right?” “Well, normally yes.” Faerie Mist admitted. “Happily, however, circumstances are somewhat more—complex. Lady Teagan is indeed queen of the trolls, but she did not marry the troll king. I am terribly sorry for the clumsy way you found out about this. There must have been a miscommunication between the Princess and the Mare of Protocol. I’m sure the Princess would have wished to break the news to you personally.” Since Faerie Mist herself was the Mare of Protocol (among her many other duties) technically she wasn’t lying. She was merely being—diplomatic. Or at least that’s what she kept telling herself. “There’s only one other way she could become queen. Are you saying she killed him?” The man’s voice was hollow. His wife suddenly looked stricken. “Ki—OH! No! No, nothing like that.” She said hastily. “As I said, the situation is very complicated. I don’t understand all the details myself. You should ask Princess Celestia or Lady Teagan when you see them. In fact”, she smiled, suddenly realizing how to revenge herself for Celestia’s practical joke, “Princess Celestia would be delighted to explain. She’s familiar with troll customs and law so she’s the one you need to speak to.” Ha! Let’s see how you like a dose of your own medicine, Princess! She thought in glee. “Isn’t Equestria quite dangerous?” The woman asked, considering. “I mean, all those monsters wandering about?” “There’s a full wing of the Sun Shield to escort the chariot, Lady O’Gara.” Faerie Mist assured her. “We’ll be in the Everfree forest for less than ten minutes. Once we’re in Equestria proper there will be no danger at all. Not even a full grown dragon would dare attack a wing of the Sun Shield. Not that any dragons living inside Equestria would dream of doing something like that anyway!” “Teagan talked about those chariots.” The man said thoughtfully. “They’re small open vehicles pulled by a pair of pegasi aren’t they?” “Normal chariots, yes.” Faerie Mist nodded. “However, the Princess thought you would be more comfortable flying in an enclosed one. It’s much larger and takes four pegasi to pull it.” “That was thoughtful of her.” Elaine said. “It’s also more practical. It lets me travel with you so I can answer any questions you might have. It’s about a forty minute flight to Canterlot from that part of the Everfree Forest. Oh! I guess I should mention day and night are different between your world and ours. In Equestria it’s early spring and by the time we arrive at the castle it will be about three hours before daybreak. Matt said it was early evening here?” “Yep, hasn’t been dark that long.” John answered her. “Good. Subtle Dancer will open the bridge in a little under four hours from now, which should give you plenty of time to get ready.” “How long will we be staying?” The woman asked. “Well, the party is tomorrow afternoon and the plan is for you to return the day after that.” Faerie Mist answered. “If I know the Bearer of Laughter the party’s likely to last until late evening. Certainly there will be many ponies eager to meet you. I imagine the troll king and his advisor will want to meet you as well, and of course both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna would like to have some time with you.” Faerie Mist chuckled at their expressions. “What did you expect? I mean this is the first visit from the Lord and Lady of Clan O’Gara in Equestria’s history! The Grand Galloping Gala pales in comparison. But don’t worry, I convinced the Princess to keep the party small so you won’t be overwhelmed. It’s limited to only fifty guests, so I had to be absolutely ruthless pruning the guest list. I’ve been beating off the lesser nobility with a stick all day. The real trick was doing that without Lady Teagan finding out about the party.” “Hmm. So this is going to be a formal affair?” John asked, clearly unhappy. “Not officially.” Faerie Mist shook her head. “Pinkie Pie is organizing it and she’s used to Ponyville, which is a small rural village. I doubt the Bearers will be wearing anything at all, although I’m sure the nobility will dress to impress such illustrious guests as yourselves.” “Oh dear, I’m not sure I have anything to wear to something like this.” The woman fretted. “John, what do you think? Should I wear the black semi-formal or the blue evening dress?” “The Lieutenant had another message concerning attire for the party, Lord O’Gara.” Faerie Mist interjected. “He said, and I’m quoting him, ‘black-tie is over kill’. Do you know what he meant by that?” The man chuckled. “Oh yes. I’ll have to remember to thank him. I’ve never been fond of black-tie affairs.” “John! You will not be wearing jeans and a sweater! We’ll be meeting royalty!” The woman scolded her husband. Faerie Mist blinked, startled. She’d seen this same scene play out between her own parents, although she had no idea what “jeans” might be. The casual intimacy it revealed was both comforting and somewhat surreal given this was the head of the legendary Clan O’Gara and his lady. “If I may, sir and lady, neither ponies nor trolls are familiar with human fashion. Lady Teagan’s clothing was made by the Bearer of Generosity, who naturally followed Equestrian style. The party is supposed to be informal, to let everyone relax and enjoy themselves after the recent unpleasantness. Please wear whatever you would be most comfortable with.” “Thank you, Faerie Mist. See, Elaine? They wouldn’t know a tuxedo from a leisure suit. Why shouldn’t I dress comfortably?” “Men.” His wife snorted. “I’ll lay out your clothes, John.” He raised an eyebrow. “I won’t inflict a tie on you.” She said, rolling her eyes. “Faerie Mist, you said we’ll be there just for the weekend, right?” “Weekend?” She tilted her head. “I’m not familiar with that term, Lady O’Gara.” “Tonight, tomorrow, and the day after.” The woman translated. “Ah, thank you. Yes, that’s right.” The pegasus nodded. “I would suggest small saddle bags since you’ll have to carry them across the bridge.” “Saddlebags?” Lady O’Gara asked, startled. “Or whatever the human equivalent is. Backpacks perhaps?” Faerie Mist offered. “A small suitcase, Elaine.” Her husband said. “The bridge doesn’t stay open very long, remember? I don’t want to try and lug something big and heavy across it.” “I’ll see what I can do.” His wife answered. “Faerie Mist we’ll be a few minutes. Please make yourself comfortable.” “Thank you Lady O’Gara.” Faerie Mist waited until they had left the room and then looked around for a place to lie down. She finally chose a comfortable looking rug lying on top of the soft floor covering. She sighed contentedly, able to truly relax for the first time since crossing the bridge. ooOoo Subtle Dancer braced himself to open the portal. He was no magical weakling, but opening the Bridge of Days taxed him severely. He hoped they were ready on the other side because he really didn’t want to do this again. It was like holding a door open with an angry giant on the other side pushing it closed. He closed his eyes and let the magic flare, prying open the rainbow edged hole to another world. His breath became ragged as the opening widened, fighting him. He bore down, stabilizing the bridge. Come on, Faerie Mist, don’t dawdle! Get your rump home already! He thought angrily as the seconds ticked past. Sweat was pouring down his flanks and his legs were beginning to shake. How long had it been? He was nearing the end of his strength, but stubbornly held it open, sides heaving. “We’re here, Subtle Dancer.” Faerie Mist’s silver voice was like an angelic choir to the black unicorn. With a gasp he released the magic and sank to his knees, completely spent. “Are you all right?” An unfamiliar male voice asked. He blinked, looking up to see a human towering over him, a concerned look on his face. “Yes, sorry. Give me a minute. I think I held it a bit longer than I should have.” He struggled to his hooves. “I thought you knew we were here, Dancer.” Faerie Mist said apologetically. “We were standing right in front of you for a while.” The unicorn glared at the pegasus. “You might have said something sooner.” He growled. “That thing is heavy, Mist!” “I’m so sorry, are you all right?” She asked, noting the way he swayed on his hooves. “Fine, I’m fine.” He drew in a deep breath and forced himself to breath normally. “Lord O’Gara, it is an honor to welcome you and your lady to Equestria. My name is Subtle Dancer. I am the head of Her Highness’s magical investigations bureau.” “Good evening, Subtle Dancer. I’m glad to meet you. I’m John and this is my wife Elaine.” “Lady O’Gara, a pleasure.” Subtle Dancer bowed to her. “Oh my.” She said, flustered. “Nice to meet you, Subtle Dancer.” “It’s very late.” Faerie Mist said. “We should be on our way. Lord O’Gara, if you and your lady would follow me to the chariot?” “Of course.” The man picked up a small oblong object that dangled by his side as the three walked to the enclosed chariot. Subtle Dancer watched them go, eyes narrowed in thought. ooOoo Teagan slept late the next day, not rising until the sun was well above the horizon. With Tišina defeated and her royal duties completed for the moment she didn’t feel guilty about lazing in bed for a half hour. In fact this was the first time since she’d been back she hadn’t been running flat out or sleeping on the ground with one eye open. It was nice to feel warm and safe again. She finally rousted herself out of bed and dressed leisurely; donning the dress that Rarity had made for her, debating what she wanted for breakfast. She, Matt, and Evelyn were going to get together with Twilight and her friends and spend the morning shopping. Celestia had given Teagan a bag of coins—bridles? No, bits, she corrected herself, so she’d have spending money. The girl was looking forward to buying some souvenirs for her parents. And she was definitely getting some cupcakes to give her parents a taste of Equestria. She smiled at the pun. Teagan slung Crush over her back without even noticing she’d done it. The club felt as natural now as a purse and it was never more than a few feet away from her. That was partially Matt’s relentless training (always know where your weapon is!) and partially habitual paranoia. When she entered the suite’s main room she saw Alene Dalen and the Snøskred talking quietly. She stiffened, remembering what Crush had said. On the one hand neither princess trusted Bevis Mot Lyn, but on the other Crush was a demon… “Ah, good morning, Your Majesty.” The Snøskred came to his feet and bowed to her. The Alene nodded without rising. She didn’t think the Alene was being rude to his queen, but his behavior didn’t match human or pony norms. Still, it was yet another reminder she was clueless about trollish protocol… “Good morning, Snøskred, Alene.” She said, forcing a smile. She wanted to talk to Matt before deciding what, if anything, to do about the Snøskred. She knew enough about politics to know alienating the influential troll was a bad idea. Still, if Crush could be trusted (and she still wasn’t sure about that) he had planned to kill her and only coincidence had saved her. She was beginning to appreciate just how difficult the job Celestia and Luna did every day really was. The job she was now doing… “Your Majesty, I would like to ask for some details about the deepening relations you wish to engage in with Equestria…” The Snøskred started to say politely. “Snøskred, you really need to talk to the king concerning details.” Teagan said, holding up a hand to interrupt him. “Right now I know very little about troll law and history. Given most trolls’ view of Sun Hammer I don’t want to put a foot wrong and do something idiotic, especially since I’m going home tomorrow and won’t be back until fall.” “A wise decision, Your Majesty.” The Snøskred bowed. “I will confer with the king as you suggest.” “Now if you will excuse me, I’m going to go get some breakfast.” “Of course, Your Majesty.” The Snøskred bowed again and Teagan left the suite, relieved to be away from the massive troll. She headed for the kitchens and a big breakfast. She was famished. ooOoo Her parents woke an hour later. After dressing they debated what to do next. Faerie Mist had left them in the care of an earth pony named Marigold who’d settled them in, but neither had any idea how to get hold of her this morning. “I suppose we could just wander the corridors until we find someone.” John suggested. “Really?” Elaine raised an eyebrow. “Darling I love you but sometimes I have to wonder why. That’s the most idiotic suggestion I’ve ever heard you make.” “Well, I don’t think they have telephones, Elaine.” He said good-naturedly. “Let’s see if anyone’s about.” He went to the door and opened it. To his surprise there were a pair of heavily armored unicorns flanking the door. “Um, hello?” He offered. One of the unicorns turned. “Yes, Lord O’Gara?” “I was wondering if you knew how we could find a pony named Marigold. She settled us in last night, but we’re not sure how to contact her this morning.” “Just tug the bell pull by the bed three times, my lord.” The unicorn said. “Thank you. By the way—are you guarding our door?” “Yes, my lord.” The unicorn replied. “Ok. Um, why?” The man asked blankly. “To protect you and your lady, my lord.” The unicorn answered patiently. “From what? I mean this is a castle, isn’t it? Since the princesses live here I would think it’s the safest place in Equestria.” “It is, my lord. The guards help keep it that way.” The unicorn said mildly. “While Lady Teagan and the Bearers dealt with the most recent threat, the Captain doesn’t believe in taking chances with important guests. We’ve been assigned as part of your protection detail. Let us know when you’d like to leave the castle and we’ll summon the rest of your guards to escort you.” “I see. Thank you, uh—” He raised his eyebrows. “Midnight Star, my lord.” The unicorn dipped its horn. “Thank you, Midnight Star.” John replied. He closed the door. “Did you know we rate a personal bodyguard?” He asked his wife, astounded. He walked over to the bell pull, a fancy rope with a large ring on the end. He hadn’t noticed it last night and examined it curiously, finally giving the rope three firm yanks, hearing a small bell ring each time. “This place is like an old time movie.” His wife commented. “Teagan said they didn’t have electricity. Good thing they do have running water!” “Yeah, from what I’ve read old-time castle privies were pretty nasty. Glad they’re at least beyond that. In fact the bathroom is absolutely huge. Did you see the size of that tub? It had gold faucets!” “Well, I guess it has to be big if a pony uses it.” Elaine said, shrugging. “Though you’d think they’d avoid water because of their fur. Must take forever to dry off.” John chuckled. “Here we are talking about bathtubs! Elaine, you realize we’re in another world? Blasé much?” “I’m trying not to think about it. I don’t know whether to be awestruck or terrified.” She said. “That chariot ride last night was like a dream. It was so smooth and quiet! There was just a whisper of wind. It wasn’t like a plane at all.” “I noticed that.” He nodded. “Did you see how Faerie Mist was using her hooves like hands? I spotted the flanges Teagan mentioned, but they were really hard to see even when she was reaching for something. No wonder the cartoon never showed them.” “Don’t remind me we’re in a cartoon.” Elaine shook her head. “How in the world did we get mixed up in all this, John?” “Well first, let’s be fair. The cartoon is about Equestria, but Equestria certainly isn’t a cartoon.” He responded. “As for how we got involved—well you married me, and I’m the clan head. Not that I ever expected that to amount to anything in this day and age. Oh—and magic is real. Even on Earth, magic is real.” He chuckled. “Can you imagine Einstein or Hawking having to fit magic into physics? They’d go absolutely nuts!” “Well, Hawking would. Einstein’s dead, dear.” Elaine said, grinning at her husband. “Pfft. You know what I mean. We’re sitting on the biggest discovery in the history of the world! And we can’t tell anybody because they’d lock us up and throw away the key.” “Or they’d believe us and the government would make us disappear.” Elaine said cynically. John rolled his eyes. “You never did trust authority, dear. But getting back on track, the old clan horses were magical…and intelligent. Another world shaking discovery we can’t tell anybody about.” He sighed. “I’m going to stop talking about it. This is getting depressing.” “It’s just as well, John. Equestria doesn’t need our world messing with it. And you know they would. Even you aren’t that naïve.” John hesitated, and then sighed again. “Yeah, you’re right. They would. And, if that story Sun Hammer told us actually happened, then the ponies are clan. They’re family. You don’t throw family to the wolves.” He chuckled suddenly. “Except Sun Hammer. Throw him to the wolves and poof, no more wolves!” “Oh, Sun Hammer. How could I forget Sun Hammer?” Elaine said ruefully. “He’s probably still mad at me. I’m going to have to eat some serious crow to make it up for the things I said to him.” “You could have handled it better.” Her husband admitted. “But then again who expects a talking horse to show up and ask to borrow your daughter to fight a shadowy villain?” There was a knock on the door. “Come in.” He called. Marigold, the pony from the night before opened the door and trotted in. “You rang for me, Lord O’Gara?” She asked, smiling. She was a typical earth pony, dark gold, with a straw colored mane and tail. Her cutie mark was a large book, an old-style ledger that was partially open. “Call me John. This Lord O’Gara stuff is kind of surreal. I’m a college professor, not a clan chieftain from the old days.” He said, laughing. “Very well, Lord John.” Marigold said, nodding. Would you and Lady Elaine like some breakfast? It’s nearly eleven o’clock. Or perhaps lunch? Princess Celestia asked to be informed when you woke up, she’d like to share a meal with you.” “I never thought I’d be having lunch with a princess.” Elaine said, shaking her head. “I wouldn’t worry, Lady Elaine.” Marigold said soothingly. “Princess Celestia is very good at putting ponies at their ease. She’s actually quite friendly and not at all formal, except when visiting dignitaries expect it.” “That’s comforting.” The woman said. “Do we look all right, Marigold? Fit to meet your princess?” “You look fine.” Marigold assured them with a smile. “I noticed there are guards on the door. Are you expecting trouble?” John asked. Marigold shook her head. “Oh no, Lord John. All high ranking guests are assigned guards. Celestia help us if a visiting dignitary should ever be hurt! It would be a diplomatic disaster. So we err on the side of caution. Better to have guards and not need them, yes?” “I suppose that makes sense.” John nodded. “Midnight Star said something about more guards if we leave the castle?” “Oh yes. You have a full guard detail, six unicorns.” Marigold said. “Here in the castle only two escort you, but outside the castle it’s all six. We want to make sure you’re safe, after all.” “Does Teagan have a bodyguard too?” Elaine asked. The dark gold earth pony nodded. “Lady Teagan’s been assigned a full wing of the Sun Shield. I imagine the troll king gave her bodyguards as well. Not to mention she carries Crush with her everywhere she goes. Outside the castle Lieutenant Sanders is with her, as well as the Bearers of the Elements. Oh, and Sun Hammer too.” She shivered. “I wouldn’t want to tangle with that pony, Lady Elaine! He’s deadly.” There was a trace of fear in her voice. “But he’s not dangerous to Teagan, right?” Elaine asked sharply. “Oh no! The princesses both trust Sun Hammer completely! So much so he stood guard in the same room where Princess Luna and Twilight Sparkle slept after they raised the sun.” Elaine relaxed. “That’s a relief. Well, Marigold, let’s not keep Princess Celestia waiting!” Elaine said brightly. ooOoo Teagan had a problem. No, strike that. She had two, both very, very large. They loomed politely over her while the king tried to understand why they were a problem. “Why, exactly, do I need a pair of troll bodyguards, Your Majesty?” She asked, masking her exasperation. “Do you honestly expect me to need them in the heart of Canterlot?” “No, of course not, my queen.” He said, shaking his head. “However it is unseemly for the Dronning to travel unescorted.” “I have an escort.” She said, taking unobtrusive deep breaths to stay calm. “The Princess insists on sending a wing of the Sun Shield with me everywhere I go!” “Exactly, my queen. Pony guards? For the queen of the trolls? It is a disgrace! You should have guards that befit your station. These are the finest warriors in my retinue, truly fit to serve the Dronning Av Fjellet!” He said in ringing tones. The two trolls beside her stiffened to attention, clearly trying to impress her with their fierce devotion to duty. She held up one finger. “First, I truly appreciate what you are doing, Fjell. I really do.” She held up a second finger. “Second, do these two even speak Equestrian?” “No, my queen. But they do not need to speak. Simply draw your club and charge. They will leap to attack your foe. It is quite simple.” She face-palmed. “Ok, three, what part of deepening friendly relations did you not understand, Fjell? You’re the master of politics! How is having two very large and scary trolls no one can talk to going to help me do that? Especially if I can’t talk to them? I don’t know Trollish yet!” “Ah.” The king paused. “I had forgotten you could not speak Trollish, my queen. That could indeed pose a problem.” “You think? I’m willing to compromise on the bodyguard thing for the sake of harmony, but do you at least have two guards that know Equestrian?” He turned and spoke to the two guards. They nodded and left. “They are going to find guards who can speak the pony language.” The king said. “Thank you.” She relaxed. “And I’m not, you know.” He said suddenly. “Not what?” She asked, confused. “A master of politics. Except with trolls, of course. But troll politics are simple compared to other species. It takes a very rare troll to be a master of non-trollish politics. That is why we use, I believe the word is ambassadors, when dealing with ponies. The Snøskred understands the weaving labyrinth ponies walk. The Alene are also adept at understanding other species.” Teagan stared at him, blinded by an unexpected epiphany. Suddenly she believed every word Crush had told her. Her blinding flash of insight let her see it all. The King ruled the trolls. The wizards and the troll politicians obeyed him—after all troll politics were simple, weren’t they? Trolls were conservative and traditional. They stubbornly adhered to the old ways. The king ruled the trolls while the Snøskred and his brethren dealt with non-trolls. The Alene advised the king in the strange ways of other species… She suddenly realized it wasn’t the king she had to worry about. Nor the rank and file of ordinary trolls. Her real problem was going to be trolls like Alene Avgrunn and the Snøskred. Clever trolls. Trolls who could scheme just like humans. Trolls who weren’t afraid to die if that’s what it took to best serve their species… She was very glad she was going home tomorrow. ooOoo “Lord John, Lady Elaine, it’s an honor to have you visit Equestria.” Princess Celestia greeted them warmly. They were meeting in one of the numerous patios scattered through the gardens inside the castle walls. “The honor is ours, Your Highness.” John said bowing. Elaine attempted a curtsey, but her shorts and top spoiled the effect somewhat. “I’m so glad you accepted my invitation! I apologize for the short notice but things have been hectic here lately and the party was very spur of the moment.” Celestia apologized. “Please don’t give it another thought, Your Highness.” Elaine said quickly. “Thank you for inviting us, I never thought I’d have the opportunity to meet any of Teagan’s pony friends. What we’ve seen of Equestria so far is amazing.” “I’m glad you’re enjoying your stay, Lady Elaine.” The princess said and then turned to Marigold. “Marigold, would you be so kind as to bring us lunch? Lord John, Lady Elaine, I assume Lady Teelo shares your taste in food?” “For the most part.” Elaine answered with a chuckle. “Our daughter is a typical teenager. Pizza makes up a large part of her prefered diet. If I didn’t insist she eat with us before going to the dojo I’d hate to think what she’d gobble down.” The princess chuckled. “Young ponies are often the same way, Lady Elaine. Marigold dear, the kitchens know Lady Teelo’s preferences, would you bring us three servings please?” “Of course, Your Highness.” Marigold made a half bow and trotted back toward the castle. “While we’re waiting for our food I wanted to apologize for the clumsy way you learned your daughter became queen of the trolls.” Celestia said with an absolutely straight face. “Faerie Mist told me about the terrible faux pas. I am truly sorry.” “Well, it was a bit of a shock.” John admitted. “What exactly happened, Your Highness?” “To understand that you must understand a bit of troll history.” The princess replied. “The story began many thousands of years ago, long before ponies came to Equestria. The troll civilization grew very great and they had many powerful wizards. The most powerful at that time was a wizard named Alene Klok.” “Clock?” Elaine asked, startled. “Like a timepiece?” “No, Lady Elaine. The words sound the same but in Trollish Klok means wisdom.” The alicorn explained. “Klok was the most powerful wizard the trolls ever produced. There has never been one to match him, before or since.” “Alene Klok forged a weapon from the heart of a mountain. It is said that forging formed the cavern where the troll capitol city of Hejm now lies. The name of that weapon was Mountain Heart, a dark gray, knobby iron club some three feet long.” “Crush?” John asked. “Crush.” Celestia nodded. “You must understand trolls do not deal with symbolism very well. To the trolls Crush is the heart of the mountain, and that mountain is the heart of the World Below. The very soul of their civilization, you see. Thus the weapon is a holy relic. It is wielded only by troll kings and queens. Since Lady Teagan wields it the trolls view her as queen by definition.” “So she didn’t have to marry the king to become queen?” Elaine asked. “Wait a minute—if she’s queen where does that leave the king?” “In a very awkward position.” Celestia answered. “Thus his marriage proposal.” John barked a short laugh. Elaine glared at him. “Oh, I bet Teagan loved that.” He said, chortling. “I was there. I believe her exact words were ‘Did a rock fall on your head?’.” Celestia said, a small smile playing about her muzzle. “Needless to say she declined—forcefully. Indeed Lieutenant Sanders later told me he thought she would become violent. Fortunately, Lady Teelo has grown wiser since the last time she was here.” “What happened?” Elaine asked in morbid curiosity. “As it happens, my sister had been studying troll law for the last few months. When Lady Teelo refused the king my sister asked Alene Avgrunn if there was a law demanding the king and queen be married. Once he admitted there was not the situation resolved itself—for the most part.” “For the most part?” Elaine asked, eyes hardening. “Your daughter has the makings of a fine queen, Lady Elaine.” Celestia said serenely. “She and the troll king have been hammering out the details of their co-rulership. I will leave Lady Teelo to explain the details, however I believe one of the terms of their agreement is she must return during her summers to study in Hejm. The king insisted.” “Oh he did, did he?” Elaine growled. John put a hand on his wife’s arm. “Let’s find out the details first, dear.” He said quietly. She glared at him, but mindful she was in the presence of royalty, restrained herself. “Is there a problem?” Princess Celestia asked. “I can assure you there’s little danger. She will have a wing of the Sun Shield escorting her from the Bridge of Days to Hejm. Once in the World Below she’ll be escorted by the Troll Guard. They are exceptionally formidable, as I’ve learned to my sorrow.” “The fight between Sun Hammer and the old king?” John asked. Celestia nodded. “Lady Teelo will be as safe here as she would be in your own world. You needn’t worry about her wellbeing.” “I’m her mother, Your Highness. I worry about her every minute she’s out of my sight.” Elaine said quietly. “Just out of curiosity, what would happen if she didn’t come back this summer?” “The trolls regard a promise given as sacred, Lady Elaine.” Celestia replied calmly. “If Lady Teelo did not return the tentative peace established between Equestria and the World Below would vanish. War might be inevitable since the trolls would blame us for Lady Teelo’s failure to return. By troll logic, Equestria controls the Bridge of Days, which is the only connection they have to their queen and their holiest relic. Do remember, abstract logic is not a troll strong suit.” “So my daughter becomes a sacrifice for the good of your kingdom? She’ll never be free of this place?” Elaine asked coldly. “Hardly.” Celestia protested. “Lady Teelo has always acted of her own free will. She chose to save me when I was about to die. And then she chose Crush from all the weapons available in our armory. She chose to fight Discord. She chose to return to save our world from utter destruction. Now she has chosen to promise the king she would return during her summers. It would be poor thanks indeed if we were to sacrifice such a hero’s happiness for our own selfish benefit, Lady Elaine.” “On the other hand, it’s really no different than if she were going to study abroad.” John said quickly. “Or if she were away at camp.” “Some camp.” Elaine snorted. “All those huge creatures with sharp teeth and claws? Thousands of them? Teagan would be there all alone, John! That’s what they’re asking her to do. You saw what one troll did to Sun Hammer. Teagan wouldn’t stand a chance if they turned on her!” “There is absolutely no chance of that, Lady Elaine.” The princess said with such certainty Elaine lost most of her momentum. “How can you be so certain, Your Highness?” She asked. “Trolls are—reliable.” Celestia said, choosing her words carefully. “Even predictable. While they are extremely stubborn almost all of them are very straightforward and extremely lawful. In many ways they are quite admirable. I have dealt with them for a thousand years. Lady Teelo will be safe with them. I give you my word as the ruler of Equestria and Sheppard of the Sun.” “Have you ever had children, Your Highness?” Elaine asked. “I have never born a child, Lady Elaine.” Celestia said solemnly. “But all my little ponies are my children. I do understand how hard it is to watch them grow up and become adults, to make the mistakes you yourself would never make. I have done it for a thousand years and sometimes I’ve lost my children to monsters or mischance. I know what is being asked of you. I know your pain.” “How can I let my child go into danger, Princess?” Elaine asked. “She’s the only one I have.” “Trust me. One or thousands, it makes no difference.” The Princess replied. “It is true some of my children are closer to me than others. My student, Twilight Sparkle, is particularly close to my heart. I taught her magic and guided her as best I could. And she has made me very proud of her.” The princess smiled fondly, remembering. “But I also place a great burden on her.” She continued, sobering. “I trust her to save the world, Lady Elaine. I trust her to make decisions on her own, with almost nothing to guide her. I trust her to follow her instincts as well as her knowledge.” The alicorn gave the woman a look that sent shivers down her spine. “So tell me, Lady Elaine of Clan O’Gara…do you trust your daughter?”