//------------------------------// // Gathering Shadows 10 // Story: The Lunar Rebellion // by Chengar Qordath //------------------------------// Though I made all haste back to Cloudsdale, rumor flew on faster wings than e’en the speediest of pegasi. Indeed, the crime had already been suspected before I’d even left for Canterlot—all I could do now was bring the confirmation of it. For all the speed with which I returned home, I could not help but wonder what I might do ‘pon my arrival there. I could inform my fellow ephors that Celestia had no part in the fraud, but I did not think it likely that such would be believed. At best, I would persuade them that Sunbeam Sparkle or some other agent of the crown had acted with her blessing, but not her explicit approval. ‘Twas an old maneuver of politics to place one’s subordinates for action but never give the order. It allowed for one to uphold the appearance of honor while reaping the benefits of dishonorable behavior. But if I could not persuade my fellow ephors of Celestia’s innocence, then what could I hope to accomplish? No true pegasus would allow a tyrant and usurper to come to power amongst the earth ponies, nor did I think it likely that Apple Tree and his confederates would accept a plainly fraudulent election. I feared that Steel’s dire prophecy from our last conversation might well come true—that events might reach a point where I was utterly powerless to prevent the oncoming storm. Though I prayed he was wrong, I suppose it made little difference to my ultimate course. I would not simply lie down and passively allow matters to escalate further simply because ‘twas possible that e’en my best efforts might not suffice. I would fight for Celestia’s cause and the good of Pegasopolis, and if I would ultimately know defeat, at least I would fall knowing that I’d done all that I could. I was unsurprised to learn that the Ephorate was already in session, and the members of the Gerousia were more slowly being roused from their clanholds and homes. I made all haste to Swift Blade’s clanhold, as ‘twas he who hosted this gathering. Compared to the holds of the other great clans, the Blades’ compound was small and modest. They were not one of the older or more prestigious clans of Pegasopolis, but Swift himself had led them to some prominence by virtue of his rise to the Ephorate. Whether his clan would continue to hold any status once he passed from leadership remained an open question, though. Like many of the lesser clans of Pegasopolis, they had little in the way of legacy, nor any great talents or resources. Though great talents can emerge from any clan or even the ranks of the clanless, ‘twas rare for those who lacked the support of a great clan to build anything which could last beyond their own lifetime. Still, there was something refreshing about the genuine modesty of the Blade clanhold. The Strikers had an e’en more modest dwelling, but that was a matter of choice. Indeed, there were times when I found the Striker clanhold almost ostentatious in its sheer humility. Where the Strikers were austere as a matter of pride, the Blades seemed to embrace it more naturaly, and as a matter of course. Though it seems strange to say, the Blades were far more modest in their modesty. Whilst the meeting had begun prior to my return and continued for nearly an hour prior to my arrival, unlike the previous instances I would not condemn my fellow ephors for meeting in my absence. Matters were grave, and they could not know when I would return or even that I intended to do so. ‘Twas neither uncommon nor untoward for the Ephorate to meet with less than its full numbers when the business of government called some of its members elsewhere. Whether it be diplomatic conferences, reiver raids, or a simple review of the border forts, there were many things which called for an ephor’s attention. Indeed, part of why there were five ephors was precisely because it allowed us to retain a functioning government even in the absence of some of our number. As I neared the meeting chamber, I could easily hear Swift’s voice. For once, ‘twould seem he had abandoned his usual desire to linger in the background of our meetings in favor of taking a leading role. No doubt the fact that we met in his home emboldened him. “I shall speak plainly then, sir, for ‘twould seem that this is the time for it. By this action, Celestia has shown her true colors: she’ll not accept her legal removal by the earth ponies. She has resulted to the lowest forms of skullduggery to maintain her grip on that office; infamous acts deserving the utmost condemnation.” Though Swift was a skilled logistician, he was not gifted in rhetoric. Despite the clumsiness of his speech, his audience seemed to accept it well enough, judging by the low rumble of approval his words drew. I stepped into the chamber, and quickly took stock of the situation. Swift Blade currently flew about near the top of the room’s domed ceiling, occupying a position that demanded the attention of all as he spoke. Below him, my fellow ephors and several members of the Gerousia listened. I was unsurprised by the numerous absences in the Gerousia’s ranks: ‘twas often difficult for many of the oldest geronts to attend a meeting on short notice. Many, like my father or the ancient Dawnburst Charger, suffered the infirmities of age and a lifetime of warfare. The soldier’s life is not kind to the equine body. “If Celestia would take the liberties of the earth ponies,” Swift Blade continued, “then how secure are our freedoms? This cannot be allowed to stand. Pegasopolis must do all within its power to ensure that the true and legitimate Chancellor of Earth Ponies, Apple Tree, is given his rightful position. E’en if it requires the utmost measures to do so.” I could not hold my silence in face of such words. “What you counsel is madness, Swift.” As he was not mincing words, I saw no reason not to do the same. “Would you plunge all Equestria into civil war simply because of the misbehavior of a few miscreants? What proof have you that Celestia endorsed this course of action? Do you know the contents of her mind so well that you can share her most secret thoughts with us now? If so, that is a fine talent indeed.” Swift Blade stared at me for a long moment, then reluctantly returned to the floor. “Shadow. I am glad to see you as a guest in my home. ‘Tis an unexpected pleasure, when we had thought you would be in Canterlot for some time hence.” “The Ephorate has need of all its numbers in these times.” I frowned at him as several thoughts sprang to mind. ‘Tis no secret that Swift Blade has a keen ear for all that passes within Equestria’s borders. Such is a valuable asset in a logistician. ‘Twas also no secret that he and Steel Striker had been close friends for some time. Might he have known of, or at least suspected, that news of scandal would reach Pegasopolis in my absence, and told Steel to make the suggestion? ‘Twas most likely a thought born of paranoia, yet I could not force it from my mind. “Regardless,” I continued, “there seems little point to my attending a diplomatic function whilst in the halls of Cloudsdale my fellow ephors speak of war with Unicornia. A course which, as I’ve said, is of the utmost foolishness.” “And yet,” Rightly’s calm voice cut across the floor, “Swift’s point is not entirely lacking in merit. Thou canst not deny that this news bears troubling implications for all Pegasopolis, Shadow.” “I can, and do,” I answered him. “Does anypony here truly think that Celestia would authorize such a course of action?” I found myself unpleasantly reminded of my recent conversation with the former Archmagus of Canterlot. “I think if she intended a fraud, she would at least have the sense to go about perpetrating it competently. This crime, and none can deny that it is one, bears all the marks of an act done with neither her knowledge nor her consent. Are we to condemn her for the acts done by every random fool claiming to act in her name now? We also must not forget that her opponents have been just as dishonest in this matter.” One of the geronts, a clanless mare by the name of Lightning Clash, spoke to me. “You are freshly arrived from Canterlot, neigh? What news have you of Celestia’s intentions in this matter?” I found myself in the midst of a dilemma. In truth, I knew nothing concrete of my former Commander’s intentions. I’d not had an opportunity to consult with her on the matter before my rather hasty departure from Canterlot. However, to confess that much would destroy what little credit my position held. Thus, I chose to make certain reasonable inferences and simply allow the others to draw their own conclusions as to how I came to possess that knowledge. “Celestia will not allow an illegitimate election result to stand. A stolen victory is no victory at all. I think it likely by now she has already contacted Apple Tree in the hopes of arranging some manner of compromise to satisfy all parties.” (1) 1: As it turns out, Shadow’s inference was not far off the mark at all. If Shadow had made an attempt to contact Celestia before leaving Canterlot, she would have learned Celestia was already rushing to Manehatten for damage control and emergency negotiations with Apple Tree. “Best wait, then,” Steel offered with his usual laconic wit. “Aye.” Bright Charger’s agreement came as a surprise, but a most welcome one. “While ‘tis only prudent to stand at the ready in such times, I see no reason to take further action whilst the negotiations ‘tween the two parties are ongoing.” “Then we are in agreement,” Rightly concluded, much to my relief. “Whilst these developments are deeply troubling, it is premature to talk of war when negotiations to find a peaceful solution are ongoing. I’ll not seek war needlessly, especially not one where ponies shed each others’ blood.” One of Swift’s ears flicked—no doubt he did not care for being so effectively outmaneuvered by a mare thought to be out of power and out of favor, and within his own clanhold no less. After a few moments in which he no doubt sought to find some way to o’ercome my argument, he conceded the matter with a wave of his hoof. “I yield to the consensus of my peers, and offer my own vote so that we might stand as one, unanimous in our conclusions. ‘Tis not fitting for one of our number to hold themselves separate from the rest.” I let the barbed comment pass, if only because it did not merit any response. After allowing a moment for his words to strike home, Swift continued. “However, in light of the ongoing crisis, I do think it prudent that we look to our own readiness. I propose that we muster the clans and make ready to mobilize.” “Sensible,” Steel grunted. “Hope for best, but stand ready for worst.” Bright and Rightly were quick to signal their own approval of the suggestion, so that only my own opinion was unaccounted for. I will confess, with the memory of Swift’s words so fresh in my mind, ‘twas tempting to vote alongside my fellow ephors in the matter. The position was not an unreasonable one, and my vote would do much to bridge the gap that had developed ‘tween us all since Celestia’s removal. To show, much as Bright’s own gesture had, that we were all ephors of Pegasopolis. That all stood united in our service to the pegasi whatever our differences of opinion. However, I could not take that step. “I fear that I must offer a dissenting vote in the matter. If the unicorns fear war with us, mobilizing our military will only confirm those fears in their minds. The very act of preparing to weather this crisis would only serve to make it all the more certain that it shall come to pass.” Rightly turned to me, his voice carrying a sort of weary resignation I was not accustomed to hearing from him. “Though ‘tis possible thou art correct, what other course have we? We cannot leave our defenses weak and open in the hopes that doing so will calm unicorn fears. If thou canst see another course of action that addresses the needs of Pegasopolis, by all means speak of it.” I struggled to find a satisfactory answer, but there was none. What could I do, ask my fellow ephors to trust the goodwill of Celestia and Unicornia? ‘Twould be a waste of my breath. I could suggest that we take care in our mobilizations to avoid the appearance of aggression, but such words would also accomplish little. There is no artifice known to ponykind which can make the mustering of armies not seem an aggressive act. If anything, attempting to muster in secrecy would only make matters appear e’en more threatening. If we mustered openly, the cooler heads ‘mongst the unicorns could at least argue that we did so purely for our own defense in the midst of a tense situation. To muster in secrecy would have the odor of subterfuge about it, as if we planned a sudden strike to catch our enemies unawares. “I regret that I can offer no other course of action at this time,” I confessed. “I merely state that we should be aware of the consequences of mustering, and how such an act is likely to be viewed in both Unicornia and the rest of Equestria.” “Then the matter is resolved,” Rightly concluded. “We stand at four votes in favor and one dissenting.” After that difficult moment, the Ephorate and Gerousia fell to discussing the minutiae of mobilizing the clans. ‘Twas a major undertaking, and I found it pleasant to lose myself in the details of such planning rather than focus on the political unpleasantness that had come to dominate my life of late. In a strange way, despite my disapproval of the move in general, I almost looked forward to calling up and preparing my clan and all its auxiliaries. (2) 2: The major Pegasopolan clans controlled military forces that exceeded their actual family trees, mostly by fielding the auxiliaries Shadow mentioned. These were clanless warriors who swore loyalty and service to one of the clans in exchange for enjoying the clan’s protection and support. Often, these sorts of relationships could become generational in nature, almost like the feudal ties of the unicorns. Unlike the patron/client dynamic dynamic of the unicorns, talented pegasus auxiliaries were frequently incorporated into the clan proper through either marriage or adoption. Gale would be an obvious and highly relevant example. As the arrangements continued, I could not help but note that my father remained absent. ‘Twas most vexing, as having another Kicker present at the meeting would have made my own task easier. Though I do my best to keep abreast of all matters within my clan, I do have many other duties and only a limited number of hours in every day. E’en if I held perfect knowledge of all my clan’s doings, my father’s perspective and experience would still be a valuable resource. Still, I could manage matters well enough on my own, if I must. The subject of discussion gradually turned to making adjustments to the Allotment. ‘Twas a subject I found somewhat uncomfortable, but at least endurable so long as I did not think o’erlong on why we were altering the disposition of our forces. Rightly was in the midst of proposing an expansion to our mobile skirmishers—a suggestion I found uncomfortable, given that my clan had many trained in such techniques. Already I had begun to fear that offering Bright’s clan training in the art of killing magi might bear poisoned fruit. Talk of war had gone from alarmist rumormongering to a thing openly discussed by the Ephorate itself with alarming haste. What could I do, if matters came to that point? The thought of raising my clan’s forces to seek war with Celestia was distasteful in the extreme, but the alternative was equally unconscionable. To turn ‘gainst Pegasopolis itself, and order my clan to shed pegasus blood, to kill friend, comrade, and lover in Celestia’s name. My eyes lingered long on Rightly with that last thought. Could I willingly face him in battle, knowing that I might be the cause of his death? And yet, Celestia was my Commander. The ruling of the Ephorate be damned, she held the post still in my heart and mind. More than that, I’d seen her in a way the others had not. Though she be flawed, she sought the best in all of ponykind. E’en with those who seemed to have no redeeming features, such as her former vizier, she struggled to bring out the good in them. Perhaps ‘twas a form of madness, but after I’d gazed ‘pon her and come to see all that she intended, I knew I could not bring myself to contend ‘gainst her. That the words of my fellows, speaking of tyranny and repression, were mistaken. Sadly, none of that was a thing I could easily put to words for them. If I were to tell my fellow ephors that I’d seen Celestia’s heart, felt the purity of her soul, then I’d be fortunate if they simply chose to disregard me as a besotted filly. There are some experiences which cannot be properly conveyed to others. A commotion outside the meeting chambers drew my mind from such melancholy thoughts. Though I could not discern the nature or cause of it, the cries of distress and fury were plain enough to all with ears. At first I merely thought it might be some internal matter of Swift’s clan—family disputes in a clanhold were far from uncommon—but that thought was quickly cast aside. In light of the seriousness of this meeting, I could scarcely imagine that the Blades would allow one of the usual family quarrels to occur within earshot of all the most powerful ponies in Pegasopolis. Soon enough, our curiosity as to the cause of the disturbance overcame any offended sense of propriety, and both I and my fellow ephors left the meeting hall to seek out the source of the commotion. Soon enough, we came upon a cluster of pegasi, some in the colors of the Blades and others in the robes of the Gerousia. Most importantly, my father seemed to be in the midst of it, and not all of the red ‘pon him came from the armor of our clan. “Father!” Two of Swift’s clan were roughly shoved aside in my haste to make way to my father’s side. Father had suffered a blow to his scalp that yet trickled a small stream of his lifesblood despite the attentions of a chirurgeon, and there were several shallower wounds to his forelegs. Though I am not adept in the medical arts, I knew the difference ‘tween battle wounds and those that stem from a common accident. The fresh blood on father’s wing blades at least offered some solace that he'd shown that e'en a blind Kicker was yet a force to contend with. “Who dares?!” I demanded. “Who would dare lay hooves upon a member of the Gerousia?!” (3) 3: By long-standing Pegasopolan custom, the geronts were sacrosanct. In a society that believed in nonlethal dueling as the most common form of conflict resolution, being completely untouchable is a major privilege. Attacking a geront was not only a crime, it was all but sacrilege. “A fool,” my father answered tersely as he attempted to wave off the chirurgeon tending his injury. “He would not cease prattling on about how our clan were traitors to all Pegasopolis, e’en after battle was joined. Had he thought to cease the flapping of his jaws, I might not have been able to end him so easily.” Father gave a derisive snort. “No doubt the fool felt a need to justify his crimes e’en as he committed them. Unwise.” So that was the way of it: my father had been attacked over damnable politics. Were e’en our most sacred traditions to be cast aside in the name of political expediency? In a fury, I whirled ‘pon Rightly. “Find the corpse of the one who dared strike my father. I would have a full investigation of this matter, so that all the accomplices of my father’s attacker might be brought to the same justice as the one who thought to meet my father in battle.” “I have already sent my clanponies to attend to the matter,” Swift Blade quickly reassured me. “But if I may, Ephor, I think you are quick to see a conspiracy where none may exist. From the honored Geront’s description of the event, it sounds far more likely that the attack was perpetrated by a single fool acting alone.” “I think that likely.” Father’s agreement with Swift Blade’s suggestion did not sit well with me. “‘Twould be a poor conspiracy indeed if they could not even manage to end the life of a single old, blind warrior.” As the chirurgeon finished binding my father’s head wound, he rose to his hooves and slowly made his way in my general direction. I stepped forward and took one of his hooves in my own, guiding him to my side. Once there he placed a hoof ‘pon my shoulder both as a show of support and so that he could be certain of my location. “Do not let thy righteous anger at this attack blind thee to the fact that thou art ‘mongst friends here.” “Am I?” The bitter words sprang from my lips before I could e’en think to restrain them. “My own father’s blood is shed in the streets because I dare hold a differing opinion from my fellow ephors.” I turned to them all, anger lacing my words. “Which of you spoke the words that led to my father’s pain? The business of the Ephorate, and my own opinions, would not be such common knowledge unless one of you made it so. My father’s blood is on your hooves.” I rounded on them in a fury, at last giving voice to all my grievances. “I endured marginalization, being cast out of the Ephorates meetings because you would not hear my words or doubted my loyalty to Pegasopolis. I stood silent whilst thine own kin whispered vile insults behind my back. I attended every meeting of the Ephorate which you deigned to allow me to participate in, and did all that I could to defend the best interests of Pegasopolis e’en though I knew my voice would go unheard. But this? To shed the blood of my kin—of my father— over a matter of politics?! It is heinous, and I will not tolerate it!” Rightly drew back at my words, but a moment mustered himself and carefully approached, angrily waving away the growing crowd of onlookers as made his way to my side. “Shadow, the business of the Ephorate is hardly a state secret. E’en thou hast spoken openly of the discord ‘tween us all. I assure thee, none of us would have knowingly spoken words that led to this heinous crime.” Would that I could find his words as reassuring as he intended them to be. More and more, I felt as though I could not trust my comrades. The suspicion that Swift and Steel had conspired to remove me from Cloudsdale at a critical moment yet lingered in my mind. If the member of the Ephorate who was my closest kin ‘mongst their number might betray me, what of the others? My beloved closed his eyes in thought for several long moments, then spoke decisively. “We must act to ensure that this is not repeated. To make it plain to all that this act was the foulest crime imaginable, and in no way endorsed or allowed by any member of the Ephorate. And also to inform all those foolish enough to think so that thou and thy clan are now and shall always be loyal to Pegasopolis first and foremost. That will put an end to all this madness.” I could scarce believe my own ears. That he would not only think my clan’s loyalty so questionable that I must confirm it, but then go on to demand that I make a public declaration in order to prevent further attacks. At first I told myself that he could not have meant to say the words as I’d heard them. That my fear and suspicion had twisted his meaning. And yet ... I could not entirely bring myself to believe it. “So my family is to be subjected to further attacks unless I make a public statement committing myself to war with Celestia?” Rightly drew back from me, blinking as though I’d struck him across the face. ‘Twould be fair to admit that the idea of doing so had a certain appeal. “That is not what I said, Shadow! It bears not e’en the faintest resemblance to my actual words!” “Openly said, neigh,” I countered. “The implication was clear enough, however.” “Implication?” Rightly stared at me as if I’d begun speaking in Zebrican. “What implication? I am simply trying to prevent any more needless violence.” “And the only way I can do so is to make it known that in the event of war, I’ll take thy side in the matter,” I finished for him. “As I said, thy meaning is plain.” I turned my back on them, and offered a supporting hoof to my father. “Come, Father. Let us away from this place. ‘Twould seem that the Pegasopolis I once knew and loved is now a thing of mists and aether.” Father frowned at my words. “Do not be so quick to cast aside thy homeland, Shadow.” He sighed and shook his head. “The acts of a single fool do not damn us all, nor do a few ill-chosen words from thy Commander.” “Acting Commander,” I corrected. A pang of guilt passed through me as I saw Rightly’s reaction to my words; ‘twas clear from his pained grimace that they had cut him to the quick. That did not change the truth of them, though. He was not my commander, and now I do not think I would ever be able to view him as such. “And I wonder how well I can even know him, if he would extract a price from me in exchange for the safety of my own clan.” Rightly let out a frustrated growl and gripped me by the shoulders. “Damnation, Shadow! I have already said that was not my intention!” I gave him no further answer, for there was nothing more to be said. Whether he intended the ultimatum or had merely chosen his words poorly, the matter was ended. Instead I turned to my father. “Shall we, then?” Father considered for a moment, then slowly shook his head. “Neigh. E’en if ‘tis thy wish to depart at once, I’ve business yet to conduct here.” Though his response vexed me at some level, I could not begrudge him that choice. Indeed, on some level I quite approved of his decision to carry on despite his wounds, to show that he would not be intimidated. “Very well then, Father. Shall I arrange an honor guard to accompany thee once thou art prepared to return?” “There is no need for such,” Rightly cut in, much to my annoyance. “It would be my pleasure to see to it that thy father is returned safely to thy clanhold once our business is done.” My voice turned cool as I answered him. “I would prefer that my own clan see to his safety.” Once more Rightly withdrew, wounded by my words. “So be it, then.” As my father fell to conversing with the other ephors, I turned my back on them and began to make my way back to my clanhold. I issued two orders upon my return to my clan’s fortress: the first was to dispatch the honor guard to the Blade clanhold for my father. The second was for my daughter to meet with me at once. We had much to discuss. Gale responded to my call before Rock’s squad had even left the compound. My daughter seemed much as I’d left her, though I was surprised at how chastened she seemed compared to her usual confidence. ‘Twould seem my condemnation over the handling of Dusk yet lingered in her mind. Bothersome; we had more important affairs now. I could only pray that Dusk Charger’s presence did not further complicate an already difficult situation. Gale began to speak, no doubt to ask what service I required of her, but I quickly waved her silent. “It will wait until we speak in privacy. This is not a matter for all ears.” Judging by the way her ears perked at the words, my daughter’s curiosity was clearly piqued. However, she wisely said nothing more as we made our way to my quarters. E’en once we were there, I was uncertain whether our conversation had sufficient privacy. What I intended to speak of was dangerous indeed. “Take measures to ensure we are undisturbed.” Gale nodded, and departed the room for a time. I heard a few faintly muffled commands through the walls as my daughter set about fulfilling my order, and she returned once that was tended to. “There are sentries covering all possible approaches to thy quarters, Mother. Nopony will hear of what we say, or approach without permission.” I offered a single sharp nod by way of answer. “Well done, then. If what we are about to discuss were to become common knowledge, it could spell disaster for our clan.” Gale gave a single surprised blink, then her eyes narrowed in thought. “Are we to break ranks with Pegasopolis then?” I could scarce contain a shudder ‘pon hearing the words spoken. Though the thought had lingered in my mind for some time, there seemed a very great difference between having it linger in the darkest corners of my mind and daring to speak it aloud. The matter had gone from a distant and terrible nightmare to a reality I must presently face. However, one aspect of my daughter’s response troubled me. “How is it that thou didst guess my intentions so easily?” Gale let out a patient sigh, as if annoyed by the very question. “Mother, ‘tis no secret that thou didst deeply disapprove of the decision to remove Celestia from power. Now all Cloudsdale is abuzz with rumors that the Ephorate intends war with her, and I am called into thy chambers for a meeting of utmost secrecy. A pony would have to be blind and foolish not to suspect our intentions.” She paused, and shot me a warning look. “I took all care to make our sentries seem unobtrusive—if it is known we are holding private and highly secure conferences, our enemies will guess our intentions without the need to hear a single word we’ve spoken.” Though I did not care for the thought that all so many had already assumed I would turn ‘gainst my own homeland when the time came, I could not deny the truth of it. ‘Twould hardly be fair to condemn my fellow pegasi for suspecting me of things I fully intended to do. Best that I put aside such concerns for the moment and focus ‘pon the matter at hoof. “Thy surmise is correct,” I confessed. “The Pegasopolis I know and love, the one I’d thought to devote my life to serving ... I fear it no longer exists. All that remains is a realm that uses honor to excuse crimes and kind words to blind us to the hidden daggers being sharpened ere they are plunged into our backs.” Gale wore a thoughtful frown as she regarded me. “Such harsh words are unlike thee, Mother. Thou dost speak more harshly of the Ephorate than thou hast of far fouler enemies. What passed to make thee so wroth with them?” I took a moment to restrain my choler as best I could. Fury would avail me nothing in this matter. When I had regained some semblance of calm, I answered her. “Father has been attacked in the streets of Cloudsdale, on account of these ... political matters.” Gale gave a horrified gasp at the news, and I allowed her a moment to recover herself before I continued. “He was wounded, but saw to his assailant easily enough. However, in the aftermath of the attack, ‘twas made plain to me by my fellow ephors and the acting commander that if I wished to prevent such incidents, I should swear myself to their cause.” My daughter’s eyes narrowed, and she regarded me with a skeptical grimace. “That sounds most unlike them. They are ponies of honor, are they not?” “Mayhap ‘twas not the full intention behind their words,” I conceded. “Nonetheless, ‘twas what was said, and likely meant in at least some manner. I do not think Rightly, Steel, or Bright would stoop so low as to do violence to my family in an effort to force my loyalty.” I scowled, and struck a lump of cloud with a hoof. “I also did not think that they would even consider using such an event to bring pressure ‘pon me to join their cause. E’en in the kindest interpretation, Rightly thought to use my father’s wounds to bind me closer to Pegasopolis and the Ephorate. It was unworthy of him.” “If that was the way of it, then ‘twould seem his honor is not so precious to him as his reputation would suggest,” Gale commented sourly. “Indeed.” I scowled at a nearby wall. “I am ... weary of this. The constant feeling that I can trust no one. That every word must be questioned and searched for hidden intentions. Seeing a hidden knife behind words that might simply have been meant to convey support and comfort. I long for the days when I saw my fellow ephors as comrades in arms, not enemies or conspirators. I am openly insulted, the other ephors seem to conspire to marginalize my voice and deny me the opportunity to be heard, and now my own father is attacked in the streets, in violation of our most sacred laws and traditions. I cannot endure this any longer.” Gale stepped forward and placed a comforting hoof on my shoulder. “So, what wouldst thou have me do? How might I lessen this burden?” I took a moment to order my thoughts before answering her. “We must make ready to depart for Canterlot as quickly as possible. For all that I hope there might be a peaceful resolution to this matter, if it continues to escalate matters might quickly reach a point where the clans might use force to prevent our departure. The Ephorate has ordered a mobilization of the clans—if fortune favors us, our preparations for departing Pegasopolis will not seem amiss.” Gale slowly nodded as she wove her own plans. “Much of the preparation for relocating the clan will seem like that for a military campaign. Not all of it, though. E’en if I take the utmost care to cover our tracks, we will have to tell the clan at large eventually. That will make secrecy impossible, especially since not all will approve of this decision.” I had feared as much. ‘Tis a rare leader indeed who can unify all under a single banner without the slightest murmuring of dissent. Normally such was simply one of the burdens any clan leader must bear, but when the matter at hoof is which side to take in an impending conflict such disagreement could quickly escalate. “Will I sunder my own clan with this choice? Or worse—be the cause of the bloodshed ‘tween kin?” She could offer no answer beyond a helpless shrug. “Such things are difficult to determine this far in advance. Much will depend ‘pon the nature of any opposition which arises to thy decision. So long as it is but a few discontent voices in the wind, I imagine all will remain loyal to their materfamilias. However, if a strong enough challenge to thy leadership is made...” “Aye, that is often the way of it.” I found myself briefly reminded of the earth pony elections, and Apple Tree. As the former archmagus had said, many ponies will accept a leader’s dubious choices so long as they think themselves alone in that opinion. However, if given a leader to rally about, many who might normally bury their discontent and simply go about their duties might instead be persuaded to raise their voices in protest. Such things could quickly build momentum, in the right circumstances—there was e’en a chance I could be stripped of clan leadership. (4) 4: Leadership in Pegasopolan clans tends to be a somewhat complicated affair. In general, the clans tended to be willing enough to let leadership pass within a sort of informal royal family within the clan—such as from Shadow’s father to her and (eventually) to Gale. However, unlike with unicorn nobility, clan leaders could be removed and replaced with somepony completely different if the clan as a whole felt the current leader wasn’t doing a good enough job, or that the current informal line of succession would lead to an inadequate heir. Thus, Shadow’s fear that she might be challenged for leadership if enough ponies disagreed with her decision. Father would likely not approve of my choice. His own actions ‘mongst the ephors and geronts earlier this day showed as much. For all that he’d suffered, he remained in his heart a loyal servant of Pegasopolis. Our departure would bring him pain, and undeserved pain at that. However, he had entrusted me with the leadership of our clan--and not lightly so. He and his late husband had groomed me from youth with the intention that I would succeed him. Father has, in his own subtle way, expressed his pride in my tenure as ephor. I confess some hubris in assuming that my father Clay would be in accord, were he still with us. Though he might disagree with my choice, he would follow my lead. Gale stepped forward, and paced a hoof ‘pon my shoulder. “I can assure thee, Mother, that as of this time I am unaware of any potential threat to thy position from within the clan. None have yet tried to rally opinions ‘gainst thee, and if that should change I shall be ‘mongst the first to learn of it.” “I suppose that is some small consolation,” I murmured with a touch of bitterness. “At least I shall be forewarned if the whole of my clan thinks me unworthy of leading them.” “I do not think it will come to that,” my daughter offered by way of reassurance. “For every one who might doubt thy wisdom, there will be ten who are prepared to follow thee to whatever end. Thou art our materfamilias, and we are bound by duty and honor to abide by thine instructions.” “I pray that all our family view the matter as thou dost, Gale.” ‘Twas no doubt a vain hope—ne’er have I known of a family whose members could come to full agreement—but I could at least hope that those who doubted me would choose not to act on those doubts for long enough to see the wisdom of my course. The two of us fell to troubled silence for some time after that, until at last my daughter spoke once more. “If I might offer a suggestion, Mother, I think ‘twould be best to confine news of our plans to as few ponies as possible. ‘Twill lessen the time available to organize any resistance to thy leadership ere the clan’s departure, and will increase our chances of making a successful departure before the other clans can act to stop us.” Gale gave a reluctant sigh and shook her head. “Once we give word of our evacuation, though, there is no hope of hiding it. Every Kicker who hopes to bring a spouse, lover, or child from outside the clan with us when we depart will be another tongue set to wagging.” “Then as thou didst say, speed will be of the essence,” I concluded. “We must not reveal our intentions until we can act with such speed that the other clans cannot stop us, if they would attempt to use means other than persuasion to do so.” Much as it pained me to admit it, ‘twould be quite sensible for the clans to prevent my own departure by whatever means necessary. If it came to war, my clan’s numbers and my own insight into both Pegasopolan methods and the character of the other ephors would be a valuable resource. I did not relish the thought of violence ‘gainst my fellow pegasi, but I would not shrink from battle if it became needful. The attack upon my father had proven one thing beyond all dispute: my family was no longer safe in Cloudsdale. The only way I could prevent further violence would be to cravenly betray my principles by siding with the other ephors. Such acquiescence in the face of violence would be a betrayal of all that my clan stood for. E’en if it did bring us the security we sought, no true safety can ever come from surrender without battle. ‘Twould be a signal to all that my will could be altered by a simple threat. While the thought of fleeing Pegasopolis in the face of violence was unflattering, ‘twas the only option available to me at this time. One clan could hardly fight an entire city. I fully intended to return to Pegasopolis once matters had settled—though whether I would return to the city as a sign that all had been resolved peacefully, or as either conqueror or conquered remained to be seen. I prayed for the former, but one of the latter now seemed increasingly likely. Gale’s thoughts must have echoed my own, judging by her words. “There are alternatives to fleeing, Mother.” “Name them.” After a moment’s thought, I amended, “But we will not take up arms ‘gainst Celestia.” My daughter nodded, acknowledging my instruction. “Naturally not. However, matters have not yet come to war, and ‘tis still possible that some peaceful resolution to the matter might be found. We could simply make a carefully worded pledge of loyalty for now in the hopes that peace will be maintained. If it is, then nothing more need come of it. If it comes to war, we might defect to Celestia once in the field with less risk and no loss of honor—our oath of loyalty will be worded to allow such, though subtly enough that none will know of it until after our departure.” “Neigh.” I grimaced and gave a quick shake of my head. “I would not rely on sophistry and wordplay to hide my intentions. Better to endure the shame of honestly breaking an oath than to engage in some artifice to break one whilst pretending I’ve kept my word.” Gale nodded, seeming less than wholly pleased by my answer. “That will make our task more difficult. There is another option we might pursue, though if my first suggestion was unwelcome I do not think thou shalt even entertain this one.” I waved her worries away. “Speak of it, e’en if it is a plan you expect I shan’t like. A wise leader knows the value of a dissenting opinion.” More than one warlord has met their downfall simply because none would dare to question their plans. In fairness, some of the brutal warlords in Equestria’s past were less than open to constructive criticism. Sanguine Steel might well have triumphed in his great raid ‘gainst the earth ponies, if not for the fact that none dared mention how badly he underestimated the strength of their fortifications. (5) 5: Though it’s not a very popular topic for most historians, the earliest historical records we have for Pegasopolis do indicate that prior to the Lyequine Reforms roving bands of pegasi would often attack the other pony tribes and take whatever they wished by force of arms. The Lyequine Reforms largely put an end to this by establishing a standing army and formalizing the exchange of weather service and military protection for food and other supplies. The fact that, as Sanguine Steel’s fate shows, the other pony tribes were mounting more effective resistance to such raids no doubt contributed to the success of Lyequinegus’ reforms. My daughter took several moments to gather her thoughts before continuing. “I propose that thou invite the other ephors and all the Gerousia to a banquet within our clanhold. Once we have them here, within our power, ‘twould be easy enough to either make hostages of them, or simply remove them entirely.” I could scarce believe my own ears. “Thou wouldst have me welcome them as guests within my home, only to make hostages or corpses of them?” “I would,” Gale confirmed. “I am under no illusions as to the consequences of such an act. The violation of sacred hospitality is a grave offense, and would blacken our name ‘cross all Pegasopolis. E’en moreso as we would take all the Gerousia as our prisoners alongside the Ephors. However, the strategic benefits of such a course are so great that we must at least consider it.” “I do not think we must consider such a thing at all,” I countered. “However, I will allow thee to explain thy reasoning first.” “There is little to explain, Mother. With the government of Pegasopolis under our control, we would be free to act in whatever manner we feel best. ‘Twould be an easy thing to depose them, and name new ephors and geronts who would quickly confirm Celestia as the rightful Commander of Pegasopolis. The clans may dislike it, but they’ll not openly move ‘gainst us so long as we hold their leaders in our power. Especially given that ‘twill be difficult to organize resistance to our regime when we’ve taken those best placed to do so prisoner.” I grimaced and gave a disapproving shake of my head. “I do not think such a coup would be as easy as that. E’en if we can manage such a crime ‘gainst all Pegasopolis with no resistance from within our own clan, there will be fighting in the streets, ambushes and murders. I cannot imagine the clans will ever willingly accept having Celestia returned to power in such a fashion.” “I am under no illusion that ‘twould be a bloodless coup,” Gale answered. “But I think that e’en a generation of assassination and murder in the streets would not equal the toll of a single open battle if matters come to war.” “And what of our honor?” I asked. “Some might argue that there is more honor to be had in sacrificing our reputation for the good of all Equestria,” Gale argued. “If we can prevent a war, save untold thousands of lives, and the only cost to it is that many ponies will think less of us for doing so ... I could endure it. I would rather be derided by all than live out my days knowing that I allowed others to die because I valued my honor above their lives.” She sighed, and slowly shook her head. “If there is one thing we know from our history, it is that even the most sacred of promises and traditions can be violated when the circumstances justify such. I do not think I could value sacred hospitality above the lives of thousands.” I found the persuasiveness my daughter’s argument intensely unsettling. I confess that I was almost tempted to accept her recommendation. Facing the prospect of civil war made it possible to countenance many ideas that might normally have been unthinkable. I found myself unpleasantly reminded of the former Archmagus of Canterlot. No doubt she would also advocate such a course, saying that the goal of preventing war justified the use of dishonorable methods. However, that very thought revealed the flaw in her logic. “Actions have consequences, and infamous acts such as the sort of base treachery we would have to perform would have far more lasting ones. Commander Celestia desires an Equestria of conscience and decency. How are we to deliver that to her in an act of betrayal?” I offered a resigned shake of my head. “Though we might prevent war on this day, we would taint Equestria in a way that would tell throughout the ages.” Gale frowned at me. “Does preventing this taint outweigh the value of pony lives?” “I think that a new Equestria founded upon the idea that things like honor and righteousness are shackels to be cast aside in the face of grave matters would cost us far more,” I countered. “It is an easy thing to be a good pony when it costs nothing to do so. All are decent when decency is the only prudent course. Honor only has value when there is something to be gained from dishonorable behavior. If we are to write the first page in the history of the new Equestria that Celestia dreams of, let it be said that we chose to make an Equestria which chose what was right over what was easy, rather than one which discards honor in the face of adversity. When future generations study Equestria’s origins, I would have them take pride in what they read, rather than be ashamed of their ancestor’s actions.” “Still thou dost speak of legacy and ideas,” Gale grumbled. “How many ponies must die before honor is the lesser consideration?” “If Equestria is born of villainy, how many more dost thou think would suffer or die by comparison?” I countered. “Though we might prevent a war today, the Equestria we forge with such an act will fight many more.” “So we accept the near certainty of war in our time, in order to preserve Equestria’s honor and possibly  prevent many hypothetical future wars.” Gale frowned at me, her concern showing clearly in her eyes. “Art thou certain that this is the proper course to take?” “Neigh, I am not,” I confessed with a heavy heart. “Yet I must make a choice. Let us hope I’ve made the correct one.”