Reflection awoke with a warm object resting on her, the changeling blinking her eyes open as she shifted under the bed covers. She grinned and sighed happily as she noticed the arm that was on her chest, the advisor tightening her hooves around it. Her plan had worked and waking up next to Chalmers really improved her morning, her dreams last night had been fairly trouble although she could not remember why.
She was pleasantly surprised to notice that the stream of emotion from Nigel seemed to have increased in both quantity and intensity. Reflection had never felt so invigorated before. She remained still for a while, her only movements being to move closer to the still sleeping human as she took care to not wake him.
The changeling was glad that he had come back from his mission alive; the weeks that she had spent in the Crystal Empire had been the happiest of her life even before Chalmers had taken notice of her. The human radiated body heat, Reflection almost pulled back into the appealing lull of sleep as she rested up against him. Nigel didn’t react apart from shifting a little at the contact, the changeling next to him catching a glimpse of colour on the human’s bare chest which was mostly hidden under the red sheets.
Glancing up at him she made sure that he was still fast asleep before she gently pulled the sheets down revealing the Emperor’s chest. The changeling stared at the picture somehow drawn onto the chiseled flesh, what seemed to be a skeleton human in a black cloak riding what looked like a giant pony skeleton. The morbid figure was depicted bursting out of the Emperor’s chest with the edge of the picture made to look like a gaping wound in the human’s chest. Below the picture was four words: ‘Chalmers’, ‘Orthodox’, ‘James’ and ‘Elijah’. Underneath those words was a simple sentence: ‘The Infernal Jesters, Bringing Misery to a Circus Near You!’
The changeling found herself captivated by the grotesque image, the colours vibrant and bold. The four words underneath it were names Reflection assumed, going off the fact that Chalmers was the first one listed. Who or what the other three were she didn’t know but obviously Chalmers has some sort of past with them. She found herself tracing the lines with a hoof, her appendage running across the human’s chest. Reflection was so enraptured that she didn’t notice the owner of the chest wake up and stare at her.
Nigel gazed at the back of Reflection’s head with a mixture of surprise, confusion and relief as the changeling lay beside him with her focus firmly fixed on his chest. Well, more specifically his old unit tattoo that had seemed like a really good idea at the time. His advisor drew her hoof back and forth across his chest, Nigel watching her for a moment before grinning at an idea in his head.
“The secrets in the core routine,” he piped up, the startled changeling looking at him in surprise. She blushed as she realized that she had been caught staring at him while he slept.
“O-oh,” Reflection responded as she quickly pulled her hoof away, “I wasn’t looking because… well I mean you aren’t bad looking it’s just I was-“ she was cut off by a chuckle from Nigel.
“Relax; I know you were looking at the tattoo.” The changeling gave him a questioning look.
“Tattoo?” Reflection asked, the changeling blushing again as Chalmers picked up her hoof with a hand and moved it back to his chest. He began to trace it again with her limb as Reflection’s face heated up at the contact.
“Yeah, a tattoo is a picture that is drawn on skin by inserting tiny, little spots of ink with a needle. Modern day ones you can just get put on in seconds painlessly, however I went the old-fashioned route.” Reflection moved her other hoof over as it joined the first, the changeling attempting to capitalize on Nigel’s sudden affection.
“That sounds painful,” she mentioned, “why did you do it?”
Chalmers snorted, “short story: lots of booze and some very irresponsible friends.” Reflection hummed, Nigel continuing on, “Long story is that before I was promoted to Commander I served as a team leader in an ISA Spector squad called the ‘Infernal Jesters’, I didn’t pick the name.” The changeling’s hoof was guided to the text stating the name, her right hind leg slowly making its way over the top of Nigel’s right.
“After a particularly… unsettling mission me and the guys completed, which I can’t talk about by the way and to be honest I wouldn’t tell you if I could, we headed to a bar after our debriefing for a nice mind purge. One thing led to another and we then, as normal young males tend to do, decided to go and get tattoos to show off our ‘brotherhood’ or some crap like that.
We found a parlor that offered the old Terran style of tattoos, it seems stupid now but the prospect of shooting ink with a needle into yourself just seemed so hardcore at the time. We all decided to get matching tats of the four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, one for each of us.”
“Horsemen of the Apocalypse?” Reflection inquired as her leg made it all the way over Nigel’s as she changed position and lay down on her belly.
“Old Terran figures of the end of existence, each one Death, War, Famine and Pestilence respectively. I was given the title ‘Death’ as I was the commanding officer; mine was the first to be done.” Chalmers seemed to go back to into his thoughts as he smiled, “those were the times. Anyway, so after I had mine done everyone else had theirs. All fit the same theme, except for Orthodox of course,” Nigel’s smile turned into a full blown grin.
“What’s so funny?” Reflection asked, Nigel letting go of her hoof to rub his fingers through the changeling’s dark-green mane as he chuckled.
“Well, you see Orthodox isn’t human, in fact no-one knows what he is but pretty much imagine a short orange bipedal dragon the height of a standard pony without any wings. He’s so short and he’s also got a fiery temper so we… so we…” Nigel lost control, full-blown laughter taking over him for a few moments. He calmed down, taking a deep breath as Reflection giggled along with him. “He got so drunk that he didn’t know what was going on so instead of a human skeleton riding a horse we convinced the tattoo artist to do a leprechaun riding a really short pony.”
Reflection didn’t know what a ‘leprechaun’ was but she got the joke, the other soldiers had asked for something embarrassing to be drawn and the artist complied. “Wasn’t that cruel? He must have been upset with what happened.”
“You don’t know Orthodox,” Nigel replied, “given the chance he would have done the same to us. Besides, removing tattoos is incredibly cheap and simple these days. The sad thing is that he actually kept it without having it redone.” Reflection laughed at this.
“So he forgave you then?”
“Oh no, God no,” Nigel responded as he winced, “he spoke in an incredibly fake Irish accent, that’s the Terran culture that spawned the leprechaun, for about six months. I mean non-stop, out of work, during work, talking to higher ups despite multiple threats of demotion and even one of execution. It got so bad that we actually tried to get him killed by enemy forces on a mission.”
“What!?” Reflection gasped as she lifted up from the bed, “You tried to get your friend killed?” Nigel shrugged at her question.
“Different times back then, and we didn’t try to kill him directly,” Nigel continued on nonchalantly, “all we did was push him out of the transport over the enemy base instead of where we had arranged to drop off, didn’t really make a difference anyway. Everything was dead by the time we got there except for Orthodox; he earned ‘War’ for a reason. He stopped talking with the accent at least; I think he wanted to avoid any future unplanned transport exits.”
Reflection’s glare dropped a little, slowly she lay down upon the Emperor’s chest and closed her eyes with a huff.
“I suppose that if he survived then it’s not too bad, what happened to them?”
“Well, after a few more years I got promoted and re-assigned to a position supervising some operations in a classified sector. Orthodox was deemed too irresponsible for a command role and last I heard he was giving a sole-position. Apparently he’s been in a member of very successful missions and received numerous commendations. James was tested positive for psionic aptitude during a new medical test, he moved to the Psionic warfare branch of the ISA to train to be a unit commander. As for Elijah he always was the brains of the group, moving to UIP Research and Development and fast running his way up the ranks till he became department head of some classified subject. All in all everyone’s gone on to lead successful careers so far.”
“Especially you, Mister Emperor,” Reflection giggled. Chalmers smiled at her before making to leave the bed. The changeling looked at him with disappointment, latching her fore-legs around the Emperor’s right arm. “Oh come on, don’t leave just yet,” she pouted, Nigel looking down at her as she clung to him.
“You don’t think I’d love to spend all day in bed? I’ve got the small matter of an empire to rule you know?” Reflection did not let go, in fact she tightened her grip. “Very mature, come on, let go,” Nigel instructed, the changeling shaking her head playfully as she grinned at the Emperor.
“No, you need a day off and as your Empress I demand that you spend it in bed with me!” Chalmers must have missed the part where he made Reflection Empress, regardless he had things to do and he fully intended to make it to breakfast to catch up with Sparkling Scroll.
“Last warning Reflection, let me go or I’ll embarrass you for the rest of the day.” The changeling smirked at the challenge and once again shook her head.
“I think you underestimate me, I’ll be the one who comes out on top!”
‘Well, she is as stubborn as me,’ Nigel thought, resolving to not give in to the changeling’s demand.
“Okay Reflection,” Chalmers replied, “whoever wins gets to ask the other to do one thing that they have to do. No murder or forced empire handovers however.” At his terms Reflection grinned, she already had her victory reward in mind.
“Deal, hope you’re prepared to lose,” the changeling taunted, “for one you still have to get out of bed to even rule and I’m not going to let go, so you’ve already lost!” Nigel was overtaken by competiveness, if he was more level headed he would probably not have done what he did next.
“Oh, don’t bet on it Reflection…”
Sparkling Scroll was sitting at the table eating her toast with jam before her tranquil breakfast was interrupted by the sound of thumping coming from the stairwell. She stared at the steps as a very, very strange sight appeared.
The Emperor was walking down the steps in nothing but his underwear, a very strange and frightening picture on his bare chest. That was not what drew her attention however, oh no. Attached to Nigel’s arm via the use of her forelegs, Reflection was dragged along beside the Emperor as her rump and hind legs trailed on the ground. Each time the changeling’s behind went down on step was when a thump occurred, Reflection looking like she was holding on to Nigel’s right arm for dear life. Sparkling kept on staring, her fellow advisor still not letting go even when Nigel sat down at the table and grabbed a plate loaded with assorted berries and fruit.
“Um, is everything all right?” Sparkling asked as she furrowed her eyebrows in puzzlement.
“Yes it is,” a muffled voice sounded from under the table, “it’s just a little bet me and Nigel are having.”
“What?” Sparkling questioned, unsure of what the bet could possibly be. Reflection mistook the inquiry as Sparkling saying that she couldn’t understand what she had said due to her being under the table, the changeling attempting to drag herself up while still grasping Nigel tightly. Using her hind legs she managed to clamber up the Emperor to sit in his lap, Nigel continuing to eat his breakfast as Sparkling watched on in confusion. The two had certainly become a lot closer over the last few days.
“I said that it’s a bet,” Reflection huffed out, still firmly attached to Nigel’s arm. “Winner gets to tell the loser to do something that the loser then has to do.” The changeling glanced up at Nigel sultry before giving Sparkling grin, “I’ve already got what I want figured out.” Chalmers, having been attempting to ignore the changeling into submission paused his consumption of a crystal berry rolled his eyes at the conversation.
“Reflection, I hardly think that talking about the subject at the breakfast table is the polite thing to do,” he lectured as he finished his mouthful.
“You’re right,” Reflection conceded as she looked at Sparkling in apology, “I’m sorry Sparkling and Nigel, I don’t know what came over me.”
‘Huh,’ thought Nigel, ‘Maybe this bet won’t be so difficult after a-‘
“Such activities are only suitable on the breakfast table.” Reflection interrupted Nigel’s thoughts with her suggestive joke. Despite being the target Chalmers couldn’t help but laugh at the changeling’s completely spot-on timing as Sparkling looked at the two like they were crazy.
“Okay, just what happened last night to create… this?” the mare asked as waved her hooves at them. Nigel tried to raise his right arm to make a gesture but was reminded that it currently had a changeling attached to it so he used his left instead to make a counting motion with his fingers.
“One: I came back from the Diamond dog den extremely tired. Two: When I needed my comfortable bed someone was already in it and I couldn’t be bothered finding another. Three: When I woke up she was touching me in my sleep,” Nigel noticed the shocked look on Sparkling’s face and he scrambled to re-word what he had just said. “No, no not like that! She was touching my chest, that was all!” Reflection was giving him an unamused glare, Sparkling however accepted his explanation.
“Well, that’s a… relief?” she responded unsurely, Sparkling not really knowing what to think. The changeling and human continued their stare off, Reflection glaring at Nigel with the Emperor returning an apologetic smile. It seemed like the two would be locked in a stalemate forever however Sparkling noticed Nigel’s free hand stealthily making its way towards Reflection.
With a speed that seemed unnatural the dangerous hand was launched at the unsuspecting Reflection. The changeling had no time to react until it was too late, the insidious digits digging themselves into her mane and moving behind her ears. She looked set to berate the Emperor loudly but she was halted when the fingers began to scratch, all that issued out of the changeling’s mouth was a soft squeak. Chalmers’s tactic had worked, the changeling breaking her stare as she pushed back into the fingers while also resting her face against Nigel’s chest. What really concerned Sparkling was that the changeling was moaning with delight rather loudly.
“Is that really appropriate for an Emperor and his advisor to do at the table in view of subjects?” Sparkling questioned prompting Nigel to look at her while still scratching the incredibly comfortable changeling.
“I’m the Emperor, therefore I can do what I want,” came Nigel’s answer. He stopped his pampering of Reflection much to her disappointment and waggled his fingers at Sparkling.
“Are you jealous Sparkling? Do you want to try it as well?” Sparkling was about to decline strongly but she paused. Reflection, who was currently curled up on the Emperor’s lap while still maintaining her grip on his arm did look like she had enjoyed the head rub. Maybe it would feel pretty good, it couldn’t hurt to try. The mare hesitantly got off her seat and trotted over to the Emperor, upon reaching the seated human she sat down next to his chair, closed her eyes and prepared for the worst.
She flinched when she felt fingers in her mane, the feeling foreign and alien. The mare relaxed however when the digits started to move through her red mane as they rubbed her head. She had to admit that it did feel really good but it wasn’t really worthy of moa-
“Ooohh.”
The fingers had proved that statement wrong, scratching behind her ears and feeling absolutely heavenly. Before she could stop herself Sparkling found herself pushing up into the hand much like Reflection had in an attempt to get as much of the soothing massage as she could. Her tail flicked back and forth and she had to fight to remain upright. She bet that if the human wanted to take over the planet all he had to do was just scratch behind the ears of any leader.
Sparkling was so caught up in the joy of the action that she didn’t notice the young guardstallion enter the dining room with a look which was a mix of embarrassment and surprise on his face. Reflection and Nigel also missed his entry, both of them focused on watching the Crystal mare’s amusing reaction to the massage.
“Um, Emperor Chalmers sir?”
Nigel’s hand shot away from Sparkling’s head as he faced the guard, Reflection bolting upright which caused the top of her head to collide with the bottom of Chalmers’s chin. Sparkling was so startled that she tried to get to her hooves only to trip and fall against one of the table legs, the mare unharmed however a jar of jam at the edge smashed upon the floor. Nigel, in the process of rubbing his chin where he had received a changeling head-butt stopped as soon as he saw what happened to Sparkling. He reached out a hand which she waved away, the mare more embarrassed than hurt.
“You okay there Sparkling?” Nigel asked with concern as the mare made to get up, however she gave up after three tries and just lay there.
“Yeah, just give me a minute,” she stated in a daze. Chalmers looked at her with worry but did as she asked as he turned in his seat to face the still highly-befuddled guard. Nigel attempted to look regal however the image was spoiled by the fact that he was mostly naked and a changeling was currently grasping his arm while sprawled across his body moaning in pain.
“What is it loyal guard?” Nigel questioned, the stallion to his credit recovering quickly from the surprising sight of his ruler.
“A number of Equestrian chariots have landed at the edge of the city and request that they be allowed to unload their cargo. Apparently they are carrying sixty-one changelings and a large amount of assorted goods and bits as payment for housing them.” Nigel grinned at the reminder of the deal he had made. He got additional subjects which had every reason to be utterly loyal to him and he got paid for the apparent ‘burden’.
Equestrians didn’t appear to be the most cunning of peoples when it came to politics and deceit.
“Very good, assemble a large amount of the guard all in full armour with halberds to meet me at the barracks. While I doubt these changelings will be immediately hostile it can’t hurt to make sure that we avoid any unwanted violence.” Chalmers stood up from his seat, picking up Reflection and lowering her to the ground as the changeling while she still seemed to be in pain.
Reflection still hadn’t let go of the Emperor’s arm, Nigel pausing for a second to see whether she’d give up the bet to rub the sore spot with a hoof. She didn’t evidently suffering through the pain was preferable to losing her chance to force him to do something. Sighing at Reflection’s stubbornness Chalmers used his free hand to rub the changeling’s head for her which rewarded him with a grateful smile.
“Excuse me for asking sir,” the guard spoke up, “but it may be a good idea to possible put on some more clothes?” Nigel scoffed at this, sweeping his free hand over his body.
“Can you not see my fine clothes made from the grandest silk in the land? My tailors assured me that they look amazing on me.” The poor guard had no response; in fact everyone in the room was completely lost. Nigel after a few moments sighed in resignation.
“Right, yes I guess no one will get that reference,” Chalmers looked back at the guard while pointing a finger at the stallion, “how can the Equestrians complain anyway? All of you equines wear nothing at all, at least I conceal the royal jewels.”
It took the guard a few seconds to understand what the Emperor meant by ‘royal jewels’ however when he did his face heated up. He was not keen on explaining this next part to his ruler.
“Well, sir I… I can’t speak for mares of course but stallions, uh, you see-“
“They have sheaths Nigel,” Reflection spoke up to the relief of the young stallion, “their equipment only comes out when in use.”
“Oh,” Nigel said as he glanced down at his crotch, “mine just kind of dangles free and majestically in nature’s wind, liberated and unbound by such-“
“Thank you for that sir, it was most educational but I think we get the point!” the guard quickly interrupted, risking the insubordination to stop the human from going into any more in-depth details. Chalmers seemed to not mind, his focus turning to Reflection who had almost lost her grip on his arm at his explanation. The changeling looked to be incredibly interested in the topic so Sparkling decided to take over the educational session.
“Yes, well that is correct,” she spoke up, “as for mares well we use our tails for concealment. There are times where it does occasionally show but that’s just life and how it’s always been. With you I just guess that we’re used to seeing you wearing lots of clothes all the time.”
“You know, pants have solved lots of problems over the years. Now it’s not me to force clothing upon my fine subjects,” as he said this Nigel lightly smacked Reflection on the behind, the changeling letting out an adorable squeak and blushing heavy green in response. The sheer abruptness of the action shocked the rest of the room. “In fact presented with such fine hindquarters it would be a crime to change your nature. Come along soldier, if I am to face our neighbors without my clothes then at least I shall not be alone. You should join us as well Sparkling.”
Chalmers took a step forward towards the exit to the throne room, Reflection still clinging to his arm despite the Emperor’s numerous attempts to dislodge her. He looked down at the still-blushing changeling with disbelief. “Really? You’re going to stay like that even when we’re going to meet people who you are going to be in charge of?”
“I could say the same about you,” the changeling retorted, “plus I really want my wish so don’t expect me to budge. Guess you’ll just have to give up yourself.” Chalmers narrowed his eyes. It was on.
“You underestimate my desire to win,” Nigel shot back as he dragged her with him as he moved to the door. Sparkling and the guard followed while giving each other looks that spoke of their confusion at what was happening. “You also don’t understand my ability to plow through all problems with the grace of an ox smeared in butter. Come Hell or high water I will beat you at this game, mark my words.”
Tempered Edge was standing in front of the chained changelings, all of the creatures having been removed from the ten chariots sitting at the back. The Lieutenant and her fifty pegasi guards all had formed a circle around the sixty-one changelings, the soldiers having been tasked with delivering the creatures to the Crystal Empire as well as the bundles of supplies as payment. Sharp Point had been skeptical of the Empire’s willingness to take the changelings even with the reports from guards and Shining Armour himself that the new ruler was anything but normal.
The large group of beings was gathered outside the strange dome that surrounded the city; while the ground was covered in snow outside inside the dome lush green fields could be seen with the city in the background. All sixty-one of the prisoners were sitting down in the snow, their comfort not the highest priority on the Lieutenant’s mind. She was here to deliver them and the payment then leave, apparently the Crystal Empire was not too friendly to Equestria after an altercation involving Princess Cadence.
All of the guards and changelings looked at the cobbled road that ran to the edge of the dome towards the city, the sound of marching hooves clattering out on the cobbled stone. Sharp Point was a little impressed when ranks of Crystal pony guards marched into view, garbled in dull armour and wielding the deadly-looking axe-spears that the Equestrian guards present at the time of the Diamond dog attack on the city had stated that the Crystal ponies knew how to use to deadly effect.
What shocked the Equestrians and the changelings however was the appearance of what seemed to be changelings in full-metal plate armour, the grey material looking incredibly strong with most of the wearers’ bodies covered completely. These changeling soldiers only had swords slung at their sides, how they held them in battle Sharp Point couldn’t figure out.
What concerned her however was the slight green glow around the horns of the eight changeling soldiers, evidently their swords weren’t the only weapons at their disposal. The column of soldiers halted, numbering over a hundred as they looked at the Equestrians and captive changelings with weapons ready. Tempered Edge noted that both changeling and crystal pony looked at the prisoners with pity, as unbelievable as it seemed they did appear to co-exist. A lone crystal guard walked to the front of the soldiers.
“Presenting His Majesty Emperor Chalmers of the Crystal Empire!” the stallion decreed before the column of soldiers split into two in a seamless maneuver and formed a path in the road. Through the gap emerged an unusual figure, the Emperor going off the announcement and the descriptions of the biped Point had been briefed on before departure.
The biped was wearing what looked like some strange type of pants that minotaur diplomats sometimes wore and nothing else. On his bare and, Sharp Point had to admit, well-muscled chest there was a creepy picture of an unknown creature’s skeleton riding a giant skeleton pony bursting out of a stylized wound in the human’s chest. This wasn’t the strangest feature however.
That was reserved for the changeling, a noble equivalent judging from the eyes, mane and tail which was clinging to the Emperor’s right foreleg with her front hooves. Sharp Point assumed that the changeling was female due to the mane style and the slightly slender body and smaller muzzle. The changeling was using the biped for support as she walked on her hind legs along with him, why she wasn’t letting go of the Emperor Sharp Point couldn’t work out.
Also with the Emperor was a crystal mare with a ruby mane and pearl white coat, the pony walking next to the changeling attached to the human as she looked at the prisoners with concern.
“Greetings Equestrians,” the Emperor welcomed as he stood at the head of his troops, “I see that you have brought me some prisoners as has been arranged as well as payment. This pleases me greatly.” The human puffed out his chest, the Lieutenant’s eyes drawn to the picture on his chest, was it some kind of human cutie mark?
“I… also have this for you sir,” Tempered Edge hesitantly added as she pulled a letter using her wing from a satchel she wore around her neck. She approached the Emperor warily as she held the letter with her wingtips, the human reaching out and taking it from her as soon as she came close. As soon as the Emperor held it in his strange claws Tempered Edge retreated back to her spot, the changeling attached to the Emperor eyeing her with suspicion.
“Thank you soldier,” Emperor Chalmers acknowledged as he tucked the letter into the side of his pants, “I believe that our transaction is over. I expect that you wish to return to your own country so I shan’t keep you.” Sharp Point glanced at the chained creatures who were still staring at the Emperor, his arm-mounted changeling and the crystal guards.
“Are you sure that you can handle them?” the pegasus asked earning a un-impressed look from the Emperor. The human walked over to a changeling guard and unsheathed the changeling’s sword, the changeling and the rest of the crystal guards not reacting as their Emperor took the weapon, walked over to the changeling prisoners and pointed the weapon at them as they huddled back in fear.
“I assure you Equestrians,” the Emperor lectured as the Equestrians backed away from the human, unsure of what he was doing, “these changelings will be imprisoned for at least a month to ensure that they will not escape, you have nothing to fear.”
Tempered Edge couldn’t argue with that, the Equestrians quickly hurrying back to the chariots which they then attached to themselves. They took off into the sky; the guards not attached flying alongside as they made haste back to Equestria. The Emperor watched them until they were out of sight, the captive changelings still watching him with apprehension.
“Are they gone?” the Emperor suddenly asked, one of the guards squinting to look at the departing Equestrians.
“They are sir,” the Crystal pony mare replied, the Emperor lowering the sword point to the ground as he waved over the changeling guard he had retrieved it from.
“Thank you Chatter, while unorthodox it certainly stopped them from asking anymore questions.” The changeling walked over in his armour and nodded, the human placing the sword back into the guard’s scabbard. Chatter glanced at Reflection still clinging to Nigel’s arm before shaking his head and returning his attention back to Chalmers.
“It certainly did work well Emperor,” the changeling agreed before looking at the prisoners, “what about them?” The Emperor looked at the captives, walking up close until he was only a few metres away from them. Noticing that they were still afraid of him, most likely because of the whole imprisonment thing he crouched down to lower his height, in the process dropping Reflection into the snow which did not make her happy at all.
“Hey, watch it!” she growled as she stood back up on her hind legs, shaking the snow off of her, “I’d prefer to stay snow free thank you very much!”
“Then maybe you should just let go then,” Nigel retorted before he faced the captives again, a warm smile on his face. “Sorry for my assistant’s behavior, we are currently in the middle of an important bet that I don’t intend to lose. Now about this month of imprisonment thing,” the changelings recoiled at the mention of more imprisonment, “calm down, that was a lie to get rid of the Equestrians faster. All changelings are welcome in the Crystal Empire.”
The prisoners looked at him curiously as Nigel said this, the biped did seem to be telling the truth, and after all he did have changeling guards and a changeling advisor. The human waved a hand, the guards moving towards their ruler with their halberds at the ready.
“Guards,” the human continued, “break off the chains.” The soldiers obeyed without question, ponies and changelings moving towards the prisoners. With sharp whacks the guard’s weapons cut through the chains with ease due to their enchanted nature. The few changeling troops used their magic to break the chains; evidently the Equestrians had assumed that they didn’t need to provide the keys to the locks.
The prisoners throughout this remained wary but still, the fact that they were being released from their bonds inspired some confidence that they were indeed going to be treated well. Chalmers was a little surprised that chains had even been placed on the nymphs of the group, around twenty of the small creatures glancing at the guards fearfully as the chains came off. Nigel wondered why the Equestrians were so spooked by changelings, sure they had invaded the Equestrian capitol but chaining up children who barely came up to his knee seemed a little extreme for the supposedly pacifist ponies.
Soon all of the captives had been freed, the former prisoners standing up as they glanced at the chains on the ground with disbelief.
“Well, we better go inside to the city,” Nigel stated once all were free, “standing here in the cold is not that pleasant and I’m sure you’re all fairly hungry.” He made a point of looking at the ragged group, all of the changelings looking down at their skinny torsos.
“Are...are you really letting us stay?” one male asked as he stared at Nigel and Reflection.
“Well, considering Reflection is currently holding on to him with an iron grip I’m going to say yes,” Sparkling spoke up as she prodded Reflection’s back with a hoof.
“Sparkling, cut it out!” Reflection complained as the other mare continued her assault, “you’re embarrassing me!” This actually got Sparkling to stop, the other advisor staring at her colleague with incredulity.
“You’re holding onto the Emperor, who is almost naked I might remind you, simply so you can win a bet and you think that what I’m doing is embarrassing?” Sparkling questioned while giving the changeling a strange look. Nigel used his free hand to point at the two mares while they were arguing as he pursed his lips and nodded at the changeling who had asked the question.
“I put up with them don’t I? Now hurry up, as soon as you enter the dome you’ll feel a lot better.” With these words the Emperor turned and walked into the dome, dragging Reflection out of her argument.
“Nigel!” she yelled as her behind bounced along the ground.
“I told you to let go when we were in the bed and you didn’t, if you insist on holding me then take what you get. You can let go anytime you stubborn changeling.”
Sparkling sighed as the two argued, wondering if all love was just a constant battle of wills between the precipitants. Still, she had her duties to do and that included introducing the new arrivals to the Empire. Moving in front of the confused changelings staring at the quarreling lovers Sparkling waved a hoof over her head dramatically.
“Welcome to the Crystal Empire!” she announced sarcastically, “land of order and infinite sense!”
With her announcement out the way she galloped to catch up to the Emperor and Reflection, the guards all following in an relaxed group now that the Equestrians had gone. The changelings were left outside the dome, the creatures sharing puzzled looks at being allowed to roam free before the first one, the male that had spoken to the Emperor, closed his eyes and stepped through the shimmering dome. As he did he seemed to take a deep breath, a joyful smile taking over his features.
“He wasn’t lying!” he exclaimed happily as he beamed at the rest of his fellows. One by one the group entered and they too found that the very air itself seemed filled with hope and love, the creatures pausing for a few moments to absorb their fill. None considered leaving, why would they when they were offered acceptance and food without having to drain it? Many broke into a brisk trot, their energy restored, as they willfully followed their new ruler who was just visible further down the road.
“All of the changelings have been housed and we have a team of officials working on finding suitable employment for them. As expected the citizens have accepted them willingly and I believe that a city party is being planned to celebrate.”
Sparkling finished her report, Nigel on his throne before her as Reflection lay on his lap, still gripping his arm of course. During the day Chalmers had found time to put on pants, the Emperor now wearing one of his blue dress uniforms.
“Great job Sparkling, I think you deserve a reward,” Nigel stated as he pointed to Sparkling’s pillow beside his throne. The mare, wondering just what Chalmers meant by a reward approached and sat down in her seat as the four guards in the room watched on interested. She was about to ask Nigel what her reward was but was cut off as the human’s fingers once again began to scratch.
“How is this so good?” Sparkling questioned blissfully as she sat on her seat. The four guards were very curious about just how good the Emperor’s massage felt, his advisor certainly seemed to enjoy it. After five minutes Nigel pulled his hand away, Sparkling feeling incredibly relaxed and content as she laid down upon her pillow. Nigel was pleased that his assistant was now stress-free, taking the time to withdraw the letter the Equestrian had given him.
“Wonder what’s in there?” Reflection said as she looked at the white envelope with a red seal. Nigel moved the arm that the changeling was holding and opened the seal carefully. The Emperor withdrew a sheet of parchment decorated with gold trim and began to read.
“Greetings Emperor Chalmers, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna, rulers of Equestria do formerly invite you to this year’s Grand Galloping Gala held at the Royal Castle in Canterlot in a week’s time. We have sent you two tickets in case you wish to bring along another guest.
In light of your specific titles and position you are permitted to bring along a small personal security detail if you wish, please be assured that the Equestrian Royal Guard will be providing the utmost level of protection.
Due to the distance between your location and Canterlot we are willing to arrange transport to and from the Gala; a chariot will arrive at the edge of your city four hours before sundown on the day of the Gala.
The Princesses do acknowledge your commitments to your city but it is the belief that your presence will help to smooth over any prior disputes with our country and we look forward to your attendance.
Sincerely, Equestria.”
All three beings at the throne mulled over the contents of the letter, two golden tickets falling out of the envelop which landed on Chalmers’s leg. Reflection, still with her mind on the letter absentmindedly moved to pick up the tickets to examine them. She stared at the tickets in her hooves, not realizing that she had just lost the bet between her and Nigel.
“Are you going to go?” she questioned as she looked at Chalmers.
“I guess I will, after all showing up probably will improve relations between Equestria,” the Emperor replied with a shrug as he scrunched up the letter. “Also, to me this ‘Grand Galloping Gala’ sounds like the typical boring ball where they compensate with lots of good food and alcohol for free. How can I turn down an offer for free booze?” Sparkling stared at the two golden tickets, the mare actually wanting to attend the gala and meet equestrians that aren’t guards or royalty.
“Who will you take with you?” she asked attempting to keep the hope out of her voice. Considering that Nigel was seeing Reflection Sparkling dejectedly assumed that he would choose the changeling as a date.
“Well, I was going to take Reflection,” Nigel answered, Sparkling’s heart sinking at the news. She had really wanted to go but she knew that Chalmers would take Reflection along. “But I am the Emperor of the Crystal Empire,” Chalmers continued, “so you can come too if you want, if they complain I’ll just give you a knife or a sharp quill and claim that you’re a body guard.” Sparkling’s eyes lit up with the response, the Emperor furrowing his brows before raising both hands in the air. “Actually, screw it, I’m the Emperor of the Crystal Empire! I do what I want so if they say I can only bring one guest they can cry for all I care, forget the previous excuses Sparkling, you’re coming whether the Equestrians like it or not.”
“I don’t really want to go Nigel,” Reflection stated as she placed the tickets into one or Nigel’s pockets, “Parties aren’t really my thing.” Chalmers grinned and Reflection noticed that both of the Emperor’s arms were free, the changeling looking down at her empty hooves as she realized that she had lost their bet.
“Guess what my wish is Reflection?” Nigel asked as the changeling raised a hoof to protest. She stopped herself though, her hoof lowering. She did make a deal and Nigel did win, fair was fair so the changeling gave a slow nod of acceptance.
“Fine… I’ll go but I can’t promise that I’ll enjoy it,” she mumbled, Chalmers rolling his eyes at her sourness as he rubbed her head with a hand.
“You’re acting like the Equestrians won’t treat me like a villain as well,” Nigel informed as he started to stroke the changeling’s back to comfort her, “do you really think that the Princesses will be more worried about one changeling versus the guy who killed things in front of them? You’ll have guards and if anyone gives you crap I’ll set them straight myself.” Reflection sighed as sat up on Chalmers’s lap, resting her head against his shoulder.
“I guess you’re right,” she conceded as the back-stroking continued, her wings giving a little flutter every time Nigel’s hand ran between them.
“Also,” Nigel followed up, “I’ll probably be away for a day and the night, now you’ll get to spend it with me!” this last line of attack worked, the changeling smiling at the reminder. Sparkling was ignoring the exchange between the two, focused on trying to figure out in her mind one problem that had been overlooked.
“Who will rule the Empire in your absence if I go as well?” Sparkling’s question was waved off by Nigel, the Emperor still showering Reflection with attention.
“Strategy can handle things by himself; the good captain has proven himself to be steadfast in even the most trying times. With all of the ministers as well everything will be fine, considering how well the Empire has gone since I took over I have full trust with him.” Sparkling only had time to nod before the throne room doors opened and the first wave of petitioners of the afternoon court began to enter. Nigel fixed his advisor with a reassuring smile, “everything will be fine and you need some time off.”
With those words the conversation ended, Reflection still not moving from Nigel’s lap with the Emperor not showing any signs of making her. Sparkling happily sat up on her spot as some nobles approached the throne, the mare looking forward to the end of the week.