//------------------------------//
// The Crystal Empire's New Weapon 
// Story: Itty-Bitty Bite Size Stories 
// by gallagsp the corgi 
//------------------------------//

	Shining Armor sat in a simple wooden chair across from his superior. A large, ornate crystal desk sat between them, and his superior sat in an equally large ornate crystal thrown. They were in the midst of a heated argument.

"Think about it," Shining said. "If we introduce this new weapon to the Crystal Arsenal, the empire won't have to rely on our allies as much for defense, and we can be one step closer to actual freedom!"

"I've told you no." His superior responded, a bored look on her face. "This weapon is terrifying. All it will do is make us seem like we're developing some secret "Take over the world" agenda, and I won't have the Empire being associated with that. We are a peaceful nation, and still recovering from the thousand years under Sombra's rule. The last thing the ponies need is word that we are developing new military hardware without their consent."

"But think how we can improve their moral! If they learn about our military development they won't be afraid anymore."

"And what if this weapon falls into the wrong hooves?"

"It won't. I promise!"

"Commander, I said no, and that is final."

"But ma'am, I-"

"No buts. You are to cease development on this weapon immediately."

"Come on, baby! Please let me work with this!"

"Shining-" Cadance was cut short by her husband's best puppy-dog eyes. She sighed. "Fine. You can continue developement, now come here you big goof." She leaned over the desk and planted a kiss on his lips. "I'll see you at dinner tonight, have a good day, love you."

"Yes, your highness!" Shining saluted and left the room. Outside the office, three worried looking crystal statues sat in chairs, the chairs creaking and groaning under the obvious stress from the weight. Shining opened the door and stepped out into the hallway, he sighed and smiled, then turned to the statues.

"Congratulations, boys, you start boot camp on Monday." He said. The statues looked at him and smiled. Operation Living Crystal was a go.