//------------------------------// // The Alledged Holiday III // Story: The Truth of the Worlds // by OnTheWay //------------------------------// The Alleged Holiday III Twilight Sparkle “Pinkie, girls.” Twilight began thoughtfully. “Just how do you get things to stick to your hooves anyway?” She asked as she eyed her ice cream soda thoughtfully. “Is there some special trick to it, or am I just thinking too hard and bunging it up?” Following their shocking encounter with an obviously unstable mare at Doctor Stable's clinic, they had quickly decided that ice cream and chit chat was in order, to sooth their frazzled nerves if anything else. And so, they had found their way to a little desserts parlour overlooking just off the main street. A rustic place run by an elderly Earth Pony couple, that had been only too happy to give them the best seats in the house; six plump cushions at an old mahogany table; a location from which they had a view of the imposing Barrier they had passed through. “Why, it's the same as always, I guess?” Pinkie replied, between big swallows of an triple large sundae with fudge and almonds and wafers and fudge. “See?” She demonstrated by hoofing her dessert spoon up to eye level. “Easy-peasy lemon squeezy.” “Pinkie, dear.” Rarity interrupted, levelling a critical eye at the pink mare. “That's because your spoon's been glued to your hoof with fudge. Goodness me, what a mess.” She sniffed. “The rest of us are are having some difficulty with the cutlery.” As if to emphasize her point, her spoon slipped from her hoof, and clattered upon the table, finishing in a small bowl of raspberry coulis. “This lack of magic is inconvenient, no.” “Speak fer yer'self, Rarity.” A.J said, as she wolfed down an apple cobbler with ice cream. “Ah'm not havin' much of a problem – sure it's a little more wobbly than usual, but...” “Yeah, too bad you don't have wings, Twi,” Rainbow Dash piped up. Hers was wedged in a mass of feathers, some of which were moulting into her bowl, seven colours of ice cream half consumed. “They're super useful, and that is why, pegasi are the best-est.” “I really couldn't say...” Fluttershy whispered, obviously distracted. She stared at her bowl of dessert thoughtfully, as if some sneaking suspicion was dawning upon her. “Gelatine,” she mouthed. “Was this from seaweed, or... oh my.” “Jeez, Fluttershy,” Rainbow cried. “I know your thing is staring and all, but you're not supposed to stare at crème' caramel – just eat it.” “Not until I'm sure.” “Of what?” “So, there's no easy answer, huh?” Twilight sighed, leaning back from the bickering. “Eenope,” came the collective reply. Twilight sighed and prodded her spoon glumly. Even Diamond Tiara, that exasperating filly, didn't seem to have had a problem sticking things to her hooves. Said filly however, was not with them. She had been left stewing in the ward, awaiting the arrival of her father. And serves her just right, Twilight thought, with some measure of vindictive satisfaction. She's trapped herself with her own lie. After all, a filly who was too ill to leave the sickbed, could not, by definition, leave for ice cream and chit chat. In any case, the spoilt little filly would not be alone for too long. If Twilight knew Filthy Rich at all, she knew that the doting father would drop everything at the very first sign of danger and be galloping off in a flash, speeding to his little princess's side like a rugged, wind tousled knight straight out of Cadance's romance novels. And so, they had left Diamond Tiara alone, while managing to maintain reasonably clear consciences. And sure enough, Filthy Rich had rocketed right past them just as they hit Hippocampus's main street, looking wind tousled and dashingly rugged as he galloped towards the clinic as if the shade of dread Grogar himself were snapping at his heels. Everything would be all right. Twilight smiled. “So, anyway” Twilight began, as she abandoned her dessert. “Filthy Rich, huh. I didn't expect him to come running out past us like that.” “Why yes, yes of course. Dear Mr Rich is always there for his daughter,” Rarity said, her eyes distant and misty as she placed her spoon down in her half empty bowl of peach gelato – a human delicacy of some sort. “He's such a perfect gentleman, but that Diamond Tiara of his - such a spiteful little creature! I don't know why, but that demented little filly seems to have something against poor Sweetie Belle.” “Filthy's alright in mah' books.” A.J agreed with a nod. “He's always been honest with us Apples, but that girl of his just ain't right!” She said as she stirred the melting slurry of her cobbler agitatedly. “She's always been givin' Applebloom a hard time. And ah' hear bad, bad things about her from Cheerilee” This was received with a flurry of nods and shaking heads. But,” she continued , her expression softened somewhat, taking an almost wistful appearance. “Ah' suppose, it's hard goin', raisin' a kid without a mother. Mrs Rich was always such a nice lady even if she was one of em' fancy Canterlot ponies. If only she were still around, maybe Diamond Tiara would be a lil' sweeter.” “She just needs a spankin'. A good spankin'.” Rainbow Dash announced, as she pushed her empty bowl aside, leaving a melted trail of rainbow on the table. “Spare the rod, spoil the cheese, or something like that.” “Child, dear. Spare the rod, spoil the child.” Rarity corrected, tapping a hoof agitatedly. “And while I may not agree with 'spanking' per say, we shouldn't allow Diamond Tiara to run amok. What about your little friend, Scootaloo, was it? Aren't you worried about her?” “Ah, Scoots? She's the toughest filly in Ponyville. She can take anything Diamond Brat can dish out and then some.” “That's not the point, Rainbow.” Rarity sighed. “Anyway, once we get back from this trip, I'm thinking that one of us might have a talk with Filthy Rich, and find a way to take Diamond Tiara in hoof. Twilight, dear, what say you to that?” “Sounds good, I guess,” Twilight agreed hesitantly. “But why me?” “That's because you don't have a dear little sister who's being bullied.” Rarity explained, as she placed a hoof on her shoulder. “Filthy Rich might claim bias on my part if I complain – and same with Applejack and Rainbow Dash, while you probably wouldn't have that problem. In case you didn't know Twilight, your word carries quite a bit weight in Ponyville.” “Yeah, Twilight. Being the Princess's pet egghead does have perks, don'tcha think?” Rainbow Dash agreed, a silly grin adorning her features. “Anyhow, you wouldn't be doing anything wrong, would you?” “Yeah, but I don't like drawing attention to that...” Twilight said, as she shook her head. “And the Princess would be disappointed in me if I start throwing my weight around. Maybe Fluttershy, or Pinkie could...” “I'm thinking,” Pinkie spoke softly, but with an evil grin on her face. She set both her fore hooves upon her table and asked a single, pregnant question. “What if we matchmake Richie and he remarries!” “What?” “Ooooh,” Rainbow crowed, a rancorous grin splitting her face from ear to ear “Looks like Pinkie likes older stallions. When is the foal commin' along?” “What? Me? Hee hee, nooooo! It's not like that!” Pinkie giggled pinker than ever, as she matched Rainbow, grin for grin. “ Just listen to me, girls. What if Richie marries, I dunno', Twilight!” “Pinkie, no” Twilight warned. Alright! Alright! How about... maybe Ms. Harshwhinny! Yes, that Harshwhinny!” They stared. “Oh come on, girls!” Pinkie pleaded, her eyes darting back and forth between her friends. “You've got to know which one I'm talking about. She's an Earth Pony games inspector. Also has a super-duper grumpy-grouchy-face. Hmm, sounds hoarse all the time too. And she's stuffier than a Canterlot Musician. Oh come on!” “Oh yes, I remember Harshwhinny.” Twilight sighed. She recalled that mare. A pantheon's worth of primness and professionalism packed into a petite pony. “Oh, I'm not one for romance,” Fluttershy said thoughtfully, blushing at the mere thought of it. “But I suppose if anyone can set Diamond Tiara straight...” “Girls! Girls!” Pinkie grinned. “Come on! Just imagine this.” She took a deep breath and burst into a horribly mutilated exaggeration of a Trottingham accent. “Diamond! Dazzle! Tiara!” she caterwauled.“If I see you being a r-r-r-aspscallion one more time, I shall spank your r-r-rump! To you r-r-room and no dinner tonight! R-r-richie, my dear, we simply must have a talk about our daughter! Tadah!” Pinkie reared and took a bow. There was a brief, if respectful silence, and then they all burst into peals of laughter. “Darn it, Pinkie. Now've you done gone put some strange notion inta' my head! And ah' can't get it out!” A.J coughed, choking back giggles, her cobbler forgotten. “That Harshwhinny lady, she's all right as a pony, ah' mean, but, by Granny Smith's saggy hip, if she were my mother... Ya'll could say goodbye to Applejack, folks! This mare's gonna' be movin' to Manehattan!!!” “Um, isn't that kinda' mean, Applejack?” Fluttershy protested, between tiny giggles. “She wasn't really all that bad.” Rainbow Dash laughed, and banged a hoof on the table. “Speak for yourself, Fluttershy! I've known her since I was a filly and she is definitely that bad! Good job with the r-r-right accent, Pinkie.” “Still,” Rarity giggled excitedly. “A collision between Diamond Tiara and Miss Harshwhinny would be something spectacular indeed! I would pay a thousand bits for a front seat at the ring of honour to see that particular fight; the match of the century!” “Implying it would be a fair fight,” Twilight snorted, nodding along to the sounds of rowdy, or in Fluttershy's case, demure, laughter, and the clip clop of hooves pounding upon the table. They made such a din that the proprietress and their fellow guests turned to stare – a sunny yellow mare even shuffling over to listen in. “True, but any sympathy that the onlookers would ordinarily feel for a child pitted against a full grown pony would be negated by the simple fact that the filly in question is, well, Diamond Tiara.” Rarity explained, a mischievously coy little smile on her face, one which Twilight returned. “Oh! Hello! Excuse me,” a bright cheery voice said, cutting into the conversation. Twilight turned, and sure enough there was a a visitor along side their table. It was their eavesdropper, a relatively youthful looking Earth Pony mare who smiled cheerily like a sunrise. She had shimmering coat, the colour of wheat in the sun, and her mane was a deep, evening orange. To round out her appearance, she was clad in a light rose pink blouse that covered all the way down her hind legs. Twilight caught Rarity nodding appreciatively. “Oh my! Could you six be the Elements of Harmony?” She asked, as she gazed inquisitively at each of them in turn. “Um, yes?” Twilight began. “ Can we help you?” “Oh yes, you can help me indeed. I'm from the Canterlot Foal Protection Agency, ” the mare smiled, serene like a quiet evening. “And I couldn't help but overhear the tail end of your conversation. I'd say we need to have a little chat. ” Twilight stopped dead at once, as did A.J and Rarity beside her. Her breath stuck in her very throat as the mare approached, calm and not indigent as she expected, which made it worse, somehow. And Rainbow and Fluttershy and Pinkie were no better. Each and every one of them were staring at the interloper as if she had grown mandibles and unmasked herself as a changeling. Twilight could have heard a feather hit the ground in the resulting silence, as her friends sat, their faces frozen in various shades of puce. The Earth Pony mare stopped and her smile gave way to a stern, authoritative countenance; one that was reminiscent of Princess Celestia, a moment before a royal scolding. Twilight cowered instinctively, and bowed her head to await a dressing down. Which did not come. “Oh! Oh, oh my!” A amused chuckle, like the chiming of bells filled the room, as the mare laughed demurely, a hoof raised to cover her mouth. “Oh, you should have seen all your faces. It's not every day someone gets to flummox Elements of Harmony.” “Huh? What?” Twilight spluttered. “Oh, stop it! Please be at ease.” The mare looked at each of them in turn. There's no need to worry! I'm not from the CFPA at all! It's just my little joke. Honestly!” “Little joke?” Rarity sniffed. “Little joke??? That was simply unkind.” “Yeah, Miss” A.J agreed with a frown. “If this is ya' idea of a lil' jest, then you might have a screw loose somewhere.” “Yeah, lady,” Pinkie cried, distressed. “You're mean! CFPA jokes aren't funny! Not one bit!” The mare leaned over, and if she was taken aback, she gave no sign. Instead, she placed a comforting hoof upon their shoulders in turn. “Oh oh no no no, my dears. It's just my little joke. There's no need to overreact... I apologise....” “Now, is that all you had to say?” Twilight asked, a font of irritation rising up within her. “Or is there any point to this?” “Oh! Oh yes! I wanted to talk to you.” the mare smiled as she turned back to face Twilight with a knowing look. “I'm just here to talk to an old school mate of mine. I'm Golden Branch, dear Twilight Sparkle and, oh, hmmm, what was that little phrase again... oh! Long time no see, was it?” “A school mate, Golden Branch?.” Twilight accused, her voice tight as she felt the mare's inquisitive eyes boring down on her, azure like a blue morning sky. “I don't know you, do I?” “Oh! Well, it is understandable, it has been a long, long time indeed.” the mare said, smiling pleasantly despite her less than warm reception. “But I do know you; Twilight Sparkle of First year, Clover Class, row three, desk six. We're schoolmates, you and I, even if it was only for six months, for your foundation studies at the Academy, before the Princess took you directly under her wing.” “Really?” “Oh yes indeed. I was in the fourth Year, Puddinghead Class, Row six, desk thirteen. Also, part time, cafeteria-lady. I served you lunch on several occasions.” “But aren't you an Earth Pony?” Twilight asked, bluntly. She took a second confirmatory look at the mare's forehead - some mane styles did obscure a horn, but...nope, nothing.“Princess Celestia's Academy was for unicorns. It's a school for magic.” She emphasised. For the first time, since Twilight had seen the mare, a brief, flicker of irritation appeared on Golden Branch's pale wheaten face. “Well yes, “ she huffed. “I am a mere an Earth Pony, that is certainly true, but that doesn't mean the study of magic is beyond me” There was a brief and uncomfortable silence and Twilight wished she had just kept her fat mouth shut. Rarity leaned over, a worried expression on her face. “Twilight, dear. Let's not press the issue, it seems to be a sore spot for her...” “Puddinghead class is completely theory based. Magical theory, of course” Golden Branch continued, a slurry of words that tumbled forth by rote. Twilight imagined that she had spoken these same words countless times before and a spark of guilt rose up within her. “I do study magic - research, gathering data, cryptography; semiotics in particular. It's nowhere near as glamorous as what you do, dear Twilight Sparkle, but I like to think that it helps advance the field.. Not everyone is as fortunate as you, Twilight Sparkle. To be so singularly blessed with such an affinity for magic that an entire generation of magicians was put to shame. ” “I... see.” Twilight mumbled half-heartedly. “Um, I wasn't insinuating anything?” “No. Of course you didn't,” Golden Branch blinked and seemed to catch herself. She stopped her spiel and then laughed, shaking her head and her ire along with it, as if she hadn't lost her composure the first place. “I'm so, so sorry. I over reacted.” “Erm, yes, we were rather snippy to each other.” Twilight admitted, with both Rarity and A.J prodding her at the sides. Across the table, Rainbow and Fluttershy and Pinkie nodded on in agreement. “Let's start afresh shall we?” “Oh! Why, that would be very nice indeed.” Golden Branch nodded amicably. “I'd rather like to think that I have more productive things to do with my time than to feel offended, oh goodness me no. I tell you what; I'll foot the bill as token of my apology.” The result was immediate. The table was thrown into a tittering mess as Golden Branch serenely lifted a dainty hoof, flagging the waitress pony over. “Oh, no no dear, let me.” Rarity protested, as she tugged gently on the mare's fore hoof. “You don't feel obligated to pay for snacks just because of a few snide remarks.” “Yeah, lady,” A.J added her two cents. “Ah' can't let ya' do that.” “Oh, I simply couldn't let you do that,” Fluttershy added her two bits worth, as she piled in. Golden Branch, looked at each of them and nodded. “Alright then,” she said. “May I suggest something else then?” “Look,” Twilight replied, still feeling a little bad. “What do you have in mind?” “Oh, nothing special,” Golden Branch tittered innocently. “Why don't I show you around town instead, then? Hippocampus isn't anything special, compared to Canterlot, or New York, but it's a nice little place. It's the least I could do for you.” “Well, the flight isn't until ten tonight,” Rarity reminded her. “Maybe taking a little tour of the place wouldn't be such a bad idea.” “There is a pet store down the main street.” Fluttershy whispered. “I wouldn’t buy anything of course, but I am just ever so, um, curious about what animals are like, out here...” Twilight sighed. “We'll accept. Thank you, Golden Branch.” Golden Branch reacted well, perhaps overly much so. Twilight blinked in surprise as the mare pranced in excitement. “Oh! How wonderful.” She exclaimed gaily, grinning to reveal neat white teeth. “It would be my utmost pleasure! I'll meet all of you outside in a minute then.” And with that, she trotted right out the door. “Go on Twilight,” Rarity said, as she reached into a saddle bag for her purse of bits. “I'll get the bill and see you in a moment.” Twilight nodded, not quite sure about the whole affair, but going along with it anyway. She stood and headed for the door, mouthing a half-hearted farewell to the waitress as she left, her friends, sans Rarity filing out along, right behind her. Golden Branch stood alone, just across the little cobblestone path where a long row of planters lined the roadway overlooking the bay. The sunlight shone gently, giving her already wheaten coat an almost shimmering quality to it. In the distance, a massive ship of iron sailed, an impossible juggernaut of metal upon the calm water, slowly but steadily making its way towards the harbour in the distance. “Port Luna.” Golden Branch said, gazing into the distance as they approached. “They completed its just three months after the Nightmare Moon incident, just about two years ago. I'd dare say no harbour in Equestria is the equal of this one – at least not for a few more decades.” Twilight looked on, as the cold breeze swept through her mane. Port Luna was not what she had expected. In the place of familiar dockworker ponies and rope and pulley lifts, or trained unicorn cargo masters, there were vast machines, like metal dragons that threaded black metal cables through their structures. Ponies, like ants in comparison, scurried around, tending to the behemoths. Golden Branch notice her staring. She waved a single hoof, sweeping the horizon ahead, as she trotted along down the path towards the shore. “They have to use those machines because there's insufficient magic to get anything done” She proclaimed. “Can you feel it? How different it is?” “I don't feel anything.” Twilight admitted. She realized she had been unconsciously probing with her horn, fruitlessly drawing upon something that wasn't there. “It was a little uncomfortable at first, but I think I'm used to it by now.” She lied as she conscientiously avoided any mention her little episode at the barrier. In truth, her horn just felt numb, allowing her to ignore the strangeness of it all and try to enjoy her holiday. “Exactly!” Golden Branch said, as she trotted onwards steadily. “You don't, or rather, can't feel the ambient magic; not now at least. But, back in Equestria, I'd say that you could. You could feel, or perhaps even see it; an ephemeral currant swirling around you, like liquid silver!” She said breathlessly. “Or at least that's how the unicorns from the university describe it.” “Oooh! Ooooh!” Pinkie jumped at her chance, cutting in before Twilight could even speak. She bounced on the spot, heaving up a hoof like a school filly. “How do we Earth Ponies feel it?” she practically yelled, alarming a number of passer bys on the street. Golden Branch looked over to the jumping mare, a drawn expression on her face. “Not much at all Pinkie Pie, my dear. Barely perceptible even. It's not for the likes of us I'm afraid. Perhaps nothing more than a little tingle in our hooves when we're on a particularly strong lay line, I suppose.” She shrugged non-committally, leaving Pinkie looking at her hooves in curious disappointment. “And as for the Pegasi,” she continued, as she strolled over to Rainbow and Fluttershy and staring at their wings appreciative. “I am told that it feels like a stallion bucking you under the wings, and I meant that in the sexual context – please don't ask me how the Pegasi came up with that analogy.” Twilight felt heat rushing to her cheeks as she turned away instinctively, catching a glimpse of Rarity emerging from the shop her ears perked at the sound of steamy gossip. Along side her, she heard A.J's good natured earth cackle and Fluttershy's demure “oh my...” And Rainbow Dash shot a lascivious grin to Pinkie, who giggled, blushing pinker than her usual pastel shade. Of course the Party Fiends would know. Twilight thought, embarrassment struggling with amusement within her. “The humans.” Golden Branch continued, as she pressed on down the incline. “Feel nothing at all, or so they tell us – excuse me, sir.” She ducked aside as a human pedestrian strode past with a nod of acknowledgement. “The university theorises that with the degree of magical non-presence they have, they could simply walk right through the strongest magical security system in Canterlot.” But Twilight was barely listening. She gawked as the towering creature stepped past her and right over Pinkie, his long legs clearing the pink Earth Pony's back with room to spare. “Pardon me, girls.” he acknowledged, his voice the low rumble of thunder and was right past their little group and around a corner before she could get a good look at him. “A strange people, all things considered.” Golden Branch commented as she went. “Lots of strange customs. Their culture emphasises confrontation and aggressiveness more than us, that's for sure. “Oh! Look, over there!” she cried, as she pointed a hoof to a columned building further down the hill. “It's open to the public, but it's hardly finished. One of my personal projects for cultural exchange; the Alexander the Great Exhibit. Armour, weapons, banners, paintings – and soon, the centrepiece bronze work. Might be worth a look, don't you think? Come on!” The next several hours passed in a blur, as Twilight let herself be ushered around the city, from sight to sight. Golden Branch was right; the little harbour town was no Canterlot, and likely no New York either.Whatever New York is, it must be a fine city if it rivals Canterlot. Twilight thought. They stopped at the local museum, despite Rainbow's numerous proclamations of boredom. It was supposed to be hosting a grand exhibit from some Human folk hero of antiquity; Alexander the Great, the local ponies called him. There, Rainbow's reservations slipped away when she realized that that Alexander fellow had be a conqueror – and she lost herself in the exhibits of arms and armour. But the exhibit was yet incomplete. A large, metal sign outside the main entrance apologized for the delays in shipment of the exhibits; works of bronze; cutlery, a bell, shields and a bust of the legendary man himself. Twilight soon tired of wandering about aisles of what seemed to be the same set of Old Pegasopolis Armour, but smithed for a human stature. She had been glad to leave for other, more relaxing sites. Then, Pinkie Pie, on an impulse spending spree had bought a dearly overpriced camera at a tourist trap and so to humour her, they posed for photos at the seascape, and then, at a small monument to a local hero, Sterling Silver; some small time philanthropist or the other. And following that, they made funny faces at the base of other statues, strange, of tall, terrifying and yet dignified humans, out of place in a pony city. Zhang Ma, Charles Darwin and many other names that meant absolutely nothing to Twilight. They browsed the wares of quaint little shop houses, their pony shopkeepers crying their wares ranging from bronze horseshoes to the strange baubles imported from Human lands. One wide eyed shopkeeper with an abacus cutie mark had waxed lyrical about a little rectangular of mirrored glass, one that supposedly potentially held the contents of an entire library within it. Twilight had respectfully declined to make a purchase. Unlike Pinkie, her bits could be better spent at Inkey Pie's adopted homeland. Or invested on the local delicacies. Crunchy roasted nuts, sea salted caramel and a novel foreign confectionery the local ponies called lamingtons; squares of light, airy, cake coated with chocolate and dusted with coconut. Those had been a worthwhile investment. Twilight ate more than was good for her, and gradually, and despite her reservations, she found herself becomming at ease with their self appointed tour guide. Golden Branch was witty, articulate and friendly; ever prepared with some interesting stories about whichever sights Hippocampus had to offer. And one by one, she won her friends over with an ease that Twilight quite honestly felt envious of. All except one. Rarity, while maintaining an all around pleasant demeanour, had been reserved all the while. It was the little things that Twilight noticed. The slight, barely perceptible arch of an eyebrow, or a slight pursing of the lips before she spoke. Little signs that only someone that knew the mare well would have seen. Or at least, someone who knew Rarity well and was not scoffing down salt kelp at a seaside stand. The sun was now setting, and had swelled into an immense, glorious swell of light than seemed to consume the horizon, casting its orange glow upon the sea,. A warm light that alleviated the winter chill somewhat. They had come down to the shoreline to rest from their excursions and shared the place with dozens of other ponies, freshly come from a day of work to relax to the sound of the waves. Twilight chewed slowly, savouring the the tangy crunch of the kelp as she lay upon the pier, relaxing as the evening light fell upon her. Rarity, at her side, had barely touched hers. “Is something on your mind?” she asked idly, as the mallow white mare stared into the distance. No, Twilight thought. Not into the distance, but rather at her. “Yes. It's Golden Branch.” Rarity said thoughtfully. “It's been bothering me all day.” “Is it the outfit? Is it too last year?” Twilight asked, a cheeky grin breaking on her face. “Oh hush, Twilight dear.” Rarity huffed. “I think she's hiding something. She's not from Hippocampus, or I'm a mule.” “Well, why don't you just go ask her then?” Twilight sighed, not wanting to argue with one of her best friends. “Twilight,” Rarity sniffed. “Not everything is like a Daring Do novel; no one is going to reveal everything to you just because you asked nicely. Most ponies are honest with you because you're the Princess's protégé and they think you can read their minds if they're lying.” “Wha'?” Twilight's jaw hung open. “I can't read minds!” She spluttered. “No one ever could do that – not the Princess. Not Star Swirl even.” “Not the point, dear.” Rarity replied softly. “But not everyone knows that. But anyway, I doubt she'll tell me where she's actually from..” “Oh! I would – but you never asked.” Came a cheery voice. “Let's say we make a little guessing game out of it?” Twilight and Rarity jumped, both caught unawares. Golden Branch's face appeared between them, radiant in the evening sun. “Oh, do go on.” she prompted as she discarded her now empty plate of kelp. “Impress me!” “Alright then, I will.” Rarity said, her voice serious despite her unsure demeanour. She looked the golden mare up and down a moment, her sharp eyes narrowed in concentration. “I was merely wondering, if you were a Baroness Golden Branch. Or perhaps, a Countess Golden Branch. Or maybe even Duchess Golden Branch. Or perhaps I'm all wrong – but you are surely someone from Canterlot's upper crust.” “Oh! What a deduction!” Golden Mane chuckled, beaming at Rarity, her smile like a morning sunrise. “How did you come ever up with that? I could be a mere well wisher, for all you know. A simple Earth Pony come to pay her respects to the Elements of Harmony.” “I think... I really think... I would recognize Hoity Toity's signature style for the various High Organizations in Canterlot. The locals wear human textiles – that nasty unnatural stuff, but yours is a fabric favoured by Hoity.” Rarity said, obviously still unsure, as she eyed the golden mare's ensemble. “Hoity always adds a double layered patch on the breast which is used for pins and badges or brooches.” Rarity stated as she pointed to the breast of Golden Branch's blouse. Twilight curious despite herself, leaned in for a closer look; there was indeed such a patch. “In addition, you” Rarity continued, her voice more confident now. “ You talk with a strong Canterlot accent common amongst the nobility. Not to mention that the heavy, ostentatious and very tacky baubles the Canterlot Nobility and Royal Organizations favours leaves big, obvious pin-holes - right there. You've removed your badge.” There was a pregnant silence and Twilight stared at Golden Branch. Their little game had caught the attention of the rest of her friends and they piled in eager to see how it played out. Golden Branch nodded, comfortable under scrutiny, absolutely beaming rainbows even as Rarity spoke. “Oh! Miss Rarity,” the sunny mare exclaimed, as she clasped Rarity's hooves in her own. “Oh, you have no idea how impressed I am! You certainly have eye for detail – and you're almost right too. Almost.” Rarity blinked. “Well?” “We've dispensed with Hoity Toity's services – and Miss Suri Polomare was commissioned to make more in the same style, but I digress. Maybe destiny erred this time. With that brain of yours, you'd have made a fine Element of Magic.” Golden Branch said brightly. “You flatter me, Miss Golden Branch.” Rarity replied, sounding half pleased. “But that honour belongs to Twilight.” She gazed sternly at their erstwhile tour guide. “And now I would like to ask, just who are you, Golden Branch?” she asked. “We're grateful for your company and friendship, darling, but I think there should be no deceptions between us all.” Golden Branch looked at each of them in turn, nodding all the while, and Twilight thought she say satisfaction, of all things in her eyes. “Let there be no deceptions indeed,” Golden Branch said, her voice laden with amicability. “I am simply Golden Branch. I have no title to boast of, though I have the honour to represent The Order of the Golden Horn.” She removed a large, bold golden badge from a pouch and held it up to them. A stylized unicorn's head, its horn alight with magic. “I've seen that before,” Twilight said softly. “Some of Shining Armour's friends had them.” Unicorn Friends She thought, words unsaid. “What does the Order want with us?” “Why, the Order seeks the same end as you, dear Twilight.” Golden Branch said, as she stashed her badge away. “Peace, and prosperity for Equestria. To ensure we have a bright future ahead in this dangerous world– we might differ on how we try to achieve it, but it is the same end result that we both want.” “Do we differ in methods? Twilight asked, curious. “Oh! We certainly do! ” Golden Branch laughed as she gestured to each of them, pointing to the bases of their necks and to Twilight, her brow – where the Elements would have been, had they worn them. “See it this way, from my perspective.” Golden Branch explained. “A threat appears, the Elements are assembled and a blast of rainbow light soon follows. And then, oh my! Poof! The threat is gone! Nightmare Moon, Discord, The Changeling Queen and The Mighty Crystal King! All subdued by your hooves.” “The Elements of Harmony – and the Crystal Heart.” Twilight corrected, as she recalled he burst of pure love that had sent both Changeling Queen and Northern Tryant reeling. “It's not just us; we must not forget the achievements of both Shining Armour and Princess Cadance too.” “Oh! Forgive me, I was just, well generalizing.” Golden Branch chuckled good naturedly. “It was for simplicity's sake, really. But in any case, be it you six, or for stalwart Shining Armour and benevolent Princess Cadanza. Elements or Crystal Heart, the method is emarkably similar.” She levelled her gaze at Twilight, looking right into her eyes with a piercing intensity. “You are a group of very special ponies, sharing a very special bond and Equestria is lucky to have you.” It's not like that! Twilight wanted to say, but something told her that Golden Branch did have a point there. She let the golden mare continue, uninterrupted. “We differ in methods by necessity, .” Golden Branch continued, almost wistful. “The six of you have a unique bond between all of you, and you have the Elements of Harmony which let you perform wonders beyond even the ability of the Old Kingdom.” She looked away, almost melancholy. “We do not such advantages, so we must simply make do.” Twilight stared, unsure on how to proceed. “I would have thought that friendship and harmony would be universal.” she said hesitantly. “That is a good and noble sentiment to have, Twilight, dear,” Golden Branch smiled wanly. “But not everyone can use friendship and harmony as potently as you six can. Or love like the good Shining Armour and his Princess. We are effectively helpless within their world. ” “Helpeless? Against what?” Twilight asked, as she exchanged quizzical glances with her friends. “If there were a threat to Equestria, I am certain that the Princess would have informed us.” “Indeed, Twilight darling.”Rarity agreed quickly. “I am certain the Princess would not permitted us to come had there been some danger.” “Besides, the humans are all softies.” Rainbow added her two, unnecessary bits worth. “If they attack, I'll kick all their flanks, easy!” “Um,” Fluttershy began, as she shivered in the chill ocean breeze. “I think that the humans look scary,” she shrank as the deep bass of an iron ship's horn blasted throughout the bay. “And sound scary, and are scary... but I don't think they are um... a threat. Well, that one didn't step on Pinkie...” Golden Branch looked back at them, unperturbed at their thoughts. “No threat indeed. Not yet. Not now. But potentially soon. Perhaps within a decade. Perhaps a week. It depends on how hard-working the Professor is feeling.” “The Professor!” Twilight whispered. Equestria had their share of Professors – the colloquial names of the Archmages of Canterlot. But out here, on Earth, Twilight knew of only one. The very thought of the awful mare chilled her and sent a shiver down her spine, cold as an winter's winds. She recalled the frenzied mare with the horrible weeping scar. “Which Professor?”she asked, hoping that Golden Branch would bring up the name of one of her old instructors in Princess Celestia's Academy. “Is the professor you refer to an angry earth pony? How is she involved and is she a madmare out to ruin Equestria?” “That's the one, I'm afraid,“ Golden Branch shrugged. “I do not know if she is truly mad, but I suppose actions speak louder than words.” “So, she really is a madmare, then.” “Oh, oh no!” Golden Branch gasped. “On the contrary, I do respect her, and her work. You've heard of MENSA? No? Think of it as a human organization for intellectuals. She's trying to get as many Earth Ponies to join as possible – see, she's not so bad? I have no problem with that, except that she only seems to encourage Earth Ponies to participate.” “So what then? Are you implying she's racist?” Twilight pressed for something, anything to make a report for the Princess later. “Oh, oh, no. Stop putting words in my mouth.” Golden Branch shook her head, a lightly irritated gesture. “What I'm saying is that she's a very, very, very intelligent Earth Pony, despite her eccentricities- and her skin condition. As far as we know, she is not directly antagonistic to Equestria. But her backers, the Bellerophon Institute...” “Go on, Golden Branch.” Twilight said, her ears perked up and listening. In the distance, a great iron ship passed, obscuring the setting sun and casting a cold shadow upon them all. Golden Branch spared it a brief look as she leaned in closely, her voice lowered to a mere whisper. “Ostentatiously they're here promote cooperation between them and us,” she said, her voice low, in a conspirational tone. “But the Order looks beneath the surface; The Institute is far from a singular entity. They are in truth, a worldwide collaboration of corporations, universities and laboratories. America, Australia, China, France, Germany, Japan, Korea, Russia and The United Kingdom. Do these names mean anything to you?” “I'm afraid not.” Twilight answered, an ominous feeling welling up within her breast. “I would say, that they are countries” “Oh! Quite Right, dear Twilight.” Golden Branch whispered, her voice grim and containing no trace of her seemingly ever present good humour. “Quite right indeed. These are the names of the wealthiest and most militarily powerful nations in Human Earth.” Militarily Powerful. Twilight felt an inward twinge of discomfort. Nightmare Moon's hellish legions had been Militarily powerful. King Sombra's Crystal Empire had been Militarily Powerful. Old Griffonia had been Militarily Powerful. Mothers all over Equestria had invoked their names to scare mischievous colts and fillies into good behaviour. Golden Branch held up a hoof. “Perhaps they are not actively malicious against Equestria just yet, but I do know for certain that they're not going out of their way to ensure that Equestria becomes the foremost nation of the age.” The ship passed and suddenly all was illuminated once again. Twilight blinked, and rubbed her temples with her hooves. “Hasn't the Princess heard about them then. If the Order believes they're a potential threat?” she asked. Already, inside her head, the gears were beginning to spin. A letter, no, a report for the Princess in the works. Golden Branch nodded. “Oh yes, she has, oh yes indeed.” She said as she sneaked a glance towards the barrier, blue and immense in the distance. “We have voiced our views on the matter on several several occasions.” “And so, the Princess,” she continued with a grimace. “Has sent her nephew, Prince Blueblood to Singapore. He is the Equestrian Ambassador to Earth and is also the chief liaison to the Bellerophon Institute; and represents Equestria's interests.” Twilight cringed at the name. Prince Blueblood? She thought. It's a miracle no one out here has declared war on us yet. “Oh dear,” she heard Fluttershy whisper, right along with Rainbow Dash's own condescending laugh. “Ohhhhh,” Pinkie exclaimed. “So that's why we haven’t seen him since the Gala! What's wrong with that anyway? I don't think he can do any harm out here!” “He hasn't used his brains since Princess Celestia's Academy for Gifted Unicorns.” Twilight stated directing her voice and disapproval towards her friends, all of whom had various degrees of concern etched on their faces. Pinkie and Rainbow seemed unperturbed, while A.J and Fluttershy showed a modicum of discomfort, with Rarity's stories about the gala still well within their memories. And as for Rarity, the unicorn mare just looked plain sour at the mention of the stallion, as if she had swallowed a lemon. “But the important thing is, girls. “Golden Branch added, her tone utterly serious. “Do you think either of those two is up to the task of promoting Equestria's interests?” There was a thoughtful silence. Out of the corner of her eye, Twilight could see Rarity gently shaking her head. As for herself, she could imagine the potential disaster already, her mind providing her with appropriate images. Images of the adolescent Blueblood, exactly as she remembered him from the academy. Three years her senior, his white coat marred by an frsh outbreak of acne and his braces flashing in the morning sun as he stuffed his snotty muzzle into a human lady's derrière. This mental scene was quickly followed by that of an endless hoard of human warriors, baying for royal blood as they beat upon Canterlot's gates and shook the castle to its foundations. It's like a nightmare! Twilight thought as her friends gathered about her. But it's funny, because Blueblood is in it. “No,” Four voices chorused along with Twilight's, all unanimous in their dislike. “Um....” Fluttershy squeaked. “No?” “Then I hope you see why The Order is so concerned,” Golden Branch laughed, as she exchanged sly grins with each of them. “The Prince is hardly a genius statesman.” “That is true,” Twilight agreed, finally feeling better, now that the problem had been quantified and measured in her mind. Blueblood, she could handle. “Would you need a report to the Princess?” “No,” Golden Branch smiled approvingly at each of them in turn, a gesture that Twilight found comfortingly similar to Princess Celestia. “Not yet at least. What I would like you to do is to go to Singapore and see for yourselves. Make your own opinions. Come to your own conclusions.” “What? That's it?” Twilight yelped, genuinely surprised. Of all the things she had Golden Branch to say, this had not been one of them. “After all that talk about differences and methods and... and...potential disaster?” “Ya give us that big, huge speech, and that's all ya' want from us?” A.J echoed her sentiments. “Jus' to take a look-see?” “Yeah!” Rainbow cried. “If Equestria is threatened, we're gonna' jump straight in and kick some flanks! Royal flanks!” Around her, Twilight heard the various protests of her friends. All except Fluttershy, who had elected to remain silent, and surprisingly Rarity, who just looked concerned. “Well,” Rarity sighed. “She does have a point there.” She said, her voice carrying a reluctant tone. “Oh come on, Rarity!” Rainbow cried. “It's Blueblood! Dumber than Snips and Snails on a bad day!” “Well, Rainbow.” Rarity said, defensive. “I would like to think that Fancypants's mediation has helped end the animosity between the Prince and I, but even though I have no confidence in his abilities whatsoever, I think I would like to see for myself before I jump to conclusions. We've written a fair few friendship reports on the subject, I believe. Let's not be too hasty to damn that idiot.” “Exactly,” Golden Branch agreed rather benevolently. “You six have amongst your number, the brightest ponies Equestria has to offer. And, not to mention, your word carries more weight with the Princess than mine, or any of my Order. Your recommendation might help sway the Princesses - if there is something to report, of course.” There was a stunned silence, and Twilight exchanged worried glances with her friends. Caught in their communal disdain for the prince, she had nearly forgotten that Golden Branch was there at all. “I'm sorry.” Twilight said hesitantly. “I don't know – it all seems to makes sense, I guess. But it also seems to me that you're trying to manipulate us. You've been friendly to us, but we don't know you that well – we've just met today.” “Oh, Twilight dear.” Golden Branch smiled gently. “Between friends of course, I am trying to manipulate you. By talking, I have been trying to convince you - aligning you to my world view by definition." She continued, remarkably blase to her admission. “But remember,” she warned, her voice sincere and a soulful expression upon her face that Twilight had seen Princess Celestia wear before; when she thought that no one else was looking; thoughtful, yet weary from care and concern. . “Every word one says represents something, every gesture even. Everything has meaning to it. I like to think that my intentions and my words and actions remain congruent, and that I am open in my dealings. And as for the Institute, well, that remains to be seen...” “So let me be clear in my intent.” she continued, slowly and gravely, as solemn as the winter's morning. “Something is very wrong, out here, and I intend to get to the bottom of it. I will not ask you to commit to my cause, but will you at least take a look into the matter?” Twilight stared, an unpleasant feeling bubbling up within her. An uncomfortable mixture of trepidation and sea salt caramel. Around her, her friends huddled, shaken and uneasy. And she could sympathize with that. They were on a holiday and no one wanted to be caught up in a conspiracy on a holiday. But then, A.J nodded, her countenance serious, protective even. Rarity soon followed, nodding fiercely, along with Rainbow. Pinkie grinned her assent and pulled Fluttershy into a comforting hug. A wispy, shy little “yes, um, I think I'm in,” soon followed. “Golden Branch.” Twilight said, her voice determined “We're in.” “Thank you for your faith, truly.” The mare broke into a relieved smile, as she nodded along with them. “To be absolutely honest, I did not expect to get your ears so easily and if I may ask, what time is your flight?” “Ten sharp!” Rarity recalled. “Oh Lovely!” Golden Branch cried happily, “There's time for dinner then – I can give you a brief overview of what I know while we eat. Come on girls, I know a good place near the airport that all the travel writers recommend... Trenderhoof, Ram Sea, Yotsuba... all the big names in the field.” Hours later, when Golden Branch had bid them goodbye and had promised to meet them in Singapore, they crossed through into the departure lounge. But Twilight didn't remember much of it. In fact, she felt so bloated from the good food and the worrying information that Golden Branch had fed them, that she almost forgot to be sick on the plane.