I looked over the old fortress, my eyes carefully sweeping over the walls and buildings within. I had only a passing familiarity with the fundamentals of such fortifications; walls did little to deter the warriors of Pegasopolis. Never before had I considered that at some point, I might need to hold such a structure ‘gainst an assault by my own kind.
I am Shadow Kicker, materfamilias of the clan Kicker, and for love of the true Commander of Pegasopolis, I have become a traitor to my own kind.
Many of my clan and some from outside it had accompanied me in our departure from our cloudborne homes, but far too many could not bring themselves to raise their weapons ‘gainst their fellow pegasi. Families were sundered, and old bonds of blood and friendship shattered. Many whom I once named as my closest allies would shortly seek my heartsblood ‘pon the field battle. Possibly e’en my own kin. Though I had cast them from the ranks of the Kickers and branded them Cumuli, I was yet troubled by the fact that I might shed their blood. (1)
1: Full members of a clan who had been cast out by their clan were traditionally branded with the name of “Cumulus” as a mark of shame. Unsurprisingly, Shadow and her followers were also branded as Cumuli by those Kickers who remained in Pegasopolis, though the declaration was widely ignored even within Pegasopolis, as Cyclone’s portion of the clan was significantly smaller than Shadow’s. (Most historians estimate 75-80% of the clan sided with Shadow.)
Yet for the moment, the spectre of war was a distant trouble. Though I could hardly forget the events that brought me to the unicorn city of Canterlot, ‘twould be some days yet before battle was joined. In Pegasopolis the clans mustered, while the nobles of Unicornia called forth their levies and prepared their retinues. For all the foolish swiftness with which war had begun, armies cannot be assembled at a moment’s notice. Supplies must be gathered, and chains of command and responsibility established. These matters must be seen to with a certain degree of deliberation, else one’s army shall quickly devolve to naught but a heavily-armed mob.
That is not to say that matters were wholly peaceful. While the armies had not yet been properly gathered, civil war offers plentiful opportunities for lesser degrees of violence—especially amongst the earth ponies, where opinion was far more sharply divided on whether to support the rebellion against Commander Celestia. ‘Twould be a gross oversimplification to say that all pegasi (save myself, obviously) supported the rebellion, or that all unicorns were united in support of Celestia, but such was the prevailing opinion ‘mongst the two breeds.
The earth ponies had mustered no armies, in large part because they were too divided to manage the feat. With opinions so firmly split, even the small local militias often fought ‘mongst themselves. There were no strongholds where armies might be gathered, and far too many local conflicts which demanded the attention of those ponies under arms. Militias are, by their nature, concerned with local affairs. No militiapony would abandon their hometown for a distant mustering ground when local threats and enemies yet loomed.
But as I said, the bloodshed was for the moment a distant concern. I had far more pressing worries regarding the status of my clan. For all my loyalty to the Commander, a materfamilias’ first duty must always be to her clan. My kin had shown me far more loyalty than I had dared hope for, and I owed them the same.
The flight from Cloudsdale had deprived our clan of its old hold; we could hardly have broken off a portion of the city and transported it to the skies above Canterlot. As it was, my clan’s ancestral home now lay in the hooves of traitors to the clan, blackguards and usurpers following the stallion who had once been my father. As such, my kin required a new location to name as their home, if only as a temporary measure until Cloudsdale could be reclaimed in Celestia’s name.
Thus, my survey of the old, ruined fortress on the outskirts of Canterlot. There were several such structures, mostly dating back to the old times before Celestia and Luna, when Equestria was a far wilder place. However, even when Manehatten lay in the talons of the griffons, Canterlot lay far from the lines of battle, and centuries of peace had led to neglect of its defenses. Outposts that had once been intended to forewarn of impending attack and forts that should have held the enemy at bay were naught but old monuments to a lost age, slowly torn down by the slow decay of time and craftsponies who plundered the old fortresses for pre-cut stone and whatever else they might make use of.
Now, I had a new purpose in mind for one of those old structures. While fortified walls would avail us nothing ‘gainst an army of pegasi, and if they reached the capital all was likely lost regardless, one of the old fortresses would serve as a passable home to my clan. Certainly a far better option than attempting to house all of my kin within Canterlot. (2)
2: It bears mentioning that Canterlot was a smaller city in Shadow’s time; anypony familiar with modern Canterlot knows that the city has long since grown to envelop the Kicker Compound.
Commander Celestia cleared her throat, calling my attention. “Thinkest thou this site would suit thy clan’s needs, Shadow?”
I surveyed the old fortress once more. As was the case in much of Canterlot, the walls and outbuildings had been made from a mix of limestone and marble. As I understood matters, such were the building materials close at hoof within the city. Mt. Avalon, upon which the city rested, already contained a network of natural caves and tunnels which had been expanded by mining since the city’s founding. Whilst the miners mostly sought gemstones and crystals, their activities also provided a ready supply of stone for all the city’s structures.
The fortress itself was in passable enough condition, but like most of the old structures it had not fared well in the face of neglect. When Commander Celestia, Gale, and I had arrived at the area we’d unintentionally frightened off a group of ponies making off with another portion of the fort’s walls. Judging by the condition of the place, they were far from the first thieves to have struck the place. However, only the outer walls had suffered from the thefts; none had yet been so bold as to disturb the inner buildings. Those remained in serviceable condition.
“The barracks, kitchens, and armory are all intact enough,” Gale opined. “Though the outer wall is in poor condition, I see little reason to concern ourselves with that. ‘Tis not as if a wall is would be of any use to us ‘gainst our current enemies. The size is a good match to our numbers, as well.”
“Our current numbers, aye.” A thoughtful frown crossed my face. “However, ‘tis my hope that those will grow in due time.”
Gale's wings flicked in irritation. “With all respect, Mother, I think we should not let our hopes for the future cloud our current needs. Those who betrayed clan and family are sundered from us, and I do not think it likely they will return to our ranks ere the war is ended. Shall we leave empty seats in our dining halls, in the vain hope that they will repent and return?”
Commander Celestia corrected my daughter. “Hast thy clan not already offered hospitality to all other pegasi who would fight in my name? Do not forget that there are pegasi of the other clans or no clan, who must also have their place.”
“As the Commander says.” Already, some of my clan’s loss in numbers had been made good by the acquisition of fresh bondponies to replace those who’d opted to remain in Cloudsdale. (3) A trend I had every hope would continue as matters progressed. I had made similar offers to those exiles—now named Cumuli by their own clans—who had accompanied me in flying to the true Commander.
3: While the clans of old Pegasopolis were tightly bound by kinship, outside the upper echelons of the clan this did not always mean blood ties. Many of the rank-and-file within the clan were bondponies who held no blood ties to the Kickers, but were bound to the clan by oaths of service and loyalty. Even in peacetime, it was far from unusual for bondponies to transfer their loyalty to a new clan as circumstances dictated, or for clanless warriors to bind themselves to a clan. For all that the modern Kickers take pride in our status as the only loyal clan, it’s worth mentioning that Shadow did a lot of reshuffling of the clan’s membership. There were Kickers who fought under the Lunar flag, and Doos, Strikers, and Chargers who fought for Celestia.
“We’ve visited four of these ruins already, and none of them suited you.” My daughter offered me a mutinous glance, making little effort to hide the irritation in her voice. “All of them seemed capable enough of meeting our needs, with a little adaptation and the services of a few stonemasons.”
“Peace, Gale,” the Commander gently chided her. “This is to be thy home for the war’s duration. Though I pray that time will be short, prudence dictates that thy mother choose on the assumption that ‘twill not be so. Better a few hours’ delay now than being forced to relocate in a month’s time once some flaw in thy current home is uncovered.”
“I am well aware of the reasoning behind it, Commander Celestia.” Though Gale might have been less than properly deferential to me, she was not so foolish as to disrespect Celestia to her face. The annoyance in her tone was carefully moderated, and her posture shifted to one of deference. Well that she did, too—though she be a mare grown, I would not hesitate to reprimand her as I would a filly if she shamed the both of us in front of the Commander. “I apologize for my untoward behavior; I fear that the recent trials my clan has endured made me briefly forget myself.”
Commander Celestia answered her with a patient, forgiving smile. “Fear not, Gale. These times have been difficult for all of us, myself included. I will not take undue offense at a few simple words.”
Gale ducked her head. “My thanks for that, Commander.” However, while her temper had been shackled, my daughter yet suffered the impatience that so commonly afflict the young. “However, I must ask, Mother, how many more sites we must examine ere we are like to find one suitable to your desires. I am sure there are much more productive uses for our time than exploring old ruins.”
I was not in a mood to indulge my daughter on this day. Though she was right that there were other matters to be discussed, she did not yet grasp that I was pursuing those matters at this very time. “Perhaps, then, thou shouldst speed matters along and explore the next location, so that we might conclude this affair more swiftly?”
Gale’s ears fell flat against her skull, her countenance contrite. “As you wish, mother.” Having taken my rebuke to heart, she withdrew to tend her task.
‘Twas a pity that I felt the need to dismiss her, though mayhaps there were advantages to it as well. Gale’s mood had caused her to overlook a single vitally important fact; or mayhaps ‘twas simply that she had not yet adapted her perspective to Canterlot’s realities. While the search for a new clanhold was a matter of importance, I had intended to leave the bulk of it to my subordinates and only personally verify their final choice. However, when Commander Celestia offered to accompany me on the search, and do so absent her usual accompanying courtiers...
The most precious political resource in all of Canterlot, more than money or titles of any kind, was time in privacy with Commander Celestia. There was much to discuss of the war’s handling, and this might be my only chance to speak with her on the matter absent her usual accompanying horde of useless prattling unicorns ere battle was properly joined. Gale had already brought me rumors that her new vizier, Duke Polaris, hoped to command the armies of Equestria in the field. Naturally, I was firmly of the opinion that I would make the better general, having actually commanded soldiers in battle rather than occupying my time growing fat off the labors of better ponies.
Still, the matter must be approached with some level of circumspection. I could not simply demand that Celestia grant me the command. The conversation would need to be carefully guided to the point where it felt like a natural development, and my appointment was the only—
Commander Celestia turned to me, a fey light in her eyes and a trickster’s smile gracing her lips. “Now that we are alone, I believe ‘tis thy wish to discuss the question of who will lead Equestria’s armies in the field, yes?”
Commander Celestia’s curious sense of humor could be most vexing.
Regardless of the disruption to my initial plans, I had little choice but to press forward in the matter. Doubtless I should have anticipated that she would have guessed at my purpose in seeking this time with her, and that I would once more see the more playful aspects of her personality. I suspect that, for all that circumstances required that she played the role of queen to the unicorns, there were times when she had as little patience for the pomp and pageantry of Canterlot as I did. She certainly seemed quick enough to step out of that role when circumstances allowed.
“Aye, I would have command of Equestria’s armies.” If subtly preparing the ground for my declaration was no longer an option, then blunt honesty would rule the day. “I am sure I do not need to speak of my experience in commanding my own clan’s forces, and those of Pegasopolis. Likewise, there are none who better know our enemies, and who could better anticipate and counter their likely actions. In short, if I may speak frankly, there is nopony in Canterlot better qualified for the post than I.”
Commander Celestia was silent for some time, which caused me a small measure of consternation. What need was there to consider my words when the truth of them was plainly evident? ‘Twas not until she spoke that I grasped the reasons for her reticence. “I do not doubt thy skills as a general, nor question thy abilities and thy loyalty. I have every confidence that if I were to entrust my armies to thee, they would perform admirably on the field. However, Duke Polaris will be given that post, as befits his role as my grand vizier.”
I could scarce comprehend her response. Surely she could not think a pampered unicorn fool a better general than I? “Commander, if I may—”
An upraised hoof cut short what else I might have said. “Shadow, I have spoken on the matter. I pray thee, do not press me on it. I have my reasons for selecting the duke, and there are no words thou might offer that would change those. Much as I honor and value all that thou hast sacrificed in my name, the post thou seekest cannot be thine.” The Commander averted her eyes from my own, her voice heavy with weariness. “I would ask that thou speak no further with me on this matter, for I take no joy in refusing thee. In truth, I had hoped to put all talk of the war aside for today; I have been ill at ease ever since determining that I cannot e’en offer a negotiated settlement for fear of appearing weak. I pray thee, let us instead focus on the matter at hoof.”
“As you wish, Commander.” For all my private indignation, I saw little choice in the matter other than to accept her ruling. Further arguing my case would not only be undignified, ‘twould also cost me the Commander’s favor. For all that she erred in this matter, ‘twas plain that her mind was set.
Silence fell ‘twixt us, heavy and wearisome. I felt a distance ‘tween us that I ill-liked, given the closeness I had become accustomed to enjoying with her. I might have spoken with her on other matters, were it not for the difficulty of putting her ruling from my mind. For all that I knew, ‘twould be prudent to say no more, the matter occupied my mind far too greatly for me to seize on any other subject, save the most trivial. Idle discussion of the day’s weather was hardly fitting.
Gale’s return came as a welcome relief for the both of us, breaking the painful silence. She spared a glance for the Commander and I, a slight frown tugging at her lips, then spoke. “Mother, I have discovered a site which e’en you at your most particular could find no fault in.” I was in no mood for Gale’s attempts at wit, and informed her of as much with a pointed glower. She met my gaze and offered a slight nod, silently conveying her apology. “If you will follow me, I will show you the location I have in mind.”
Gale took wing, with myself and Commander Celestia close behind. ‘Twas a short enough flight, for there was only so much space to be had atop the mountain. The old fortress she led us to used a good deal of that; ‘twas far larger than any of the ones previously built. Not only was its size impressive, the ruin also seemed in far better condition than any of the others we’d visited. That could likely be attributed to the unique stonework of the place. While limestone and marble stolen from the other forts would blend seamlessly into the rest of Canterlot, the red stones of this place were most unique. Any builder who thought to avail himself of this place’s stones would have made his crime plain to all who had eyes.
“The buildings and interiors are all in good enough condition, so far as I can judge.” Gale offered. Obviously, neither of us were experts in stonework, nor possessed anything beyond the most basic grasp of how stone fortifications functioned. However, Canterlot no doubt had ponies who possessed such skills, and could apply them to a more professional evaluation of the place.
I gave the compound a cursory inspection, and offered my thoughts. “‘Tis large enough to meet our needs, unless we grow well beyond my fondest hopes. As thou said, I see little that would require repair work to render it suitable for habitation. And ‘tis red.”
Gale answered the last with a snort. “As if we could not paint another building in our clan’s colors, should the need arise.” After a moment, she conceded the matter. “Still, better that we be saved the effort of doing so.”
‘Twas at that point that I noted Commander Celestia had remained silent whilst my daughter and I discussed the matter. She gazed down at the old fortress, a distant look in her eyes. For all the current difficulty ‘tween us, I would not act without her approval of the choice. “Commander? Might I trouble you for your own assessment?”
Commander Celestia started, having apparently been shaken from her thoughts by my voice. “My apologies, Shadow. I was somewhat preoccupied by thy most unexpected choice. I suppose ‘tis no surprise, given that thou and thy daughter are not familiar with all aspects of Canterlot’s history. Most would not think Diamond’s Folly a suitable place to name as a home. E’en the vagrants and criminals who dwell in many of the old ruins avoid it, for it carries an ill repute.”
“Diamond’s Folly?” I inquired. “Such a name is not attached to a place without reason.” ‘Twas certainly an intriguing difference from the old ruins named after their commanding officers or various magi and nobles of old Unicornia.
“Aye.” Celestia waved a hoof, encompassing the entirety of the old fortress. “‘Twas built by Queen Diamond the Second, commonly known as the Dullard. She felt that Unicornia in general, and Canterlot in particular, were too poorly defended. No doubt her poor relations with the other pony tribes were a factor in that belief.”
The Commander took a steadying breath, then continued. “During her reign, she devoted much of Unicornia’s resources to a project of fortification and development. ‘Twas not cheaply done, and she not only levied new taxes to fund it, but cancelled many common civic events such as the Hearth’s Warming festivities to reduce the government’s other expenses. None of her many projects were so ruinous to the treasury as Diamond’s Folly.
“The reasoning behind it was simple. Limestone and marble are adequate enough for most purposes, but there are stronger stones to be found. For the fortress that would protect her capital, Diamond would not content herself with anything less than the best she could find: granite.” The Commander landed next to walls, and idly struck them, her hoof making no impression ‘pon the stones. “However, the strength of the stones proved more a curse than a blessing; many a mason’s chisel and hammer shattered in the course of working on Diamond’s Folly.
“As importantly, there was the matter of moving the stone to Canterlot itself.” She waved a hoof towards the city. “The unicorns of Canterlot do not use limestone and marble merely for aesthetics, but because they are close at hoof. The nearest place where granite could be found in the quantity and quality Diamond required lay several hundred miles from here. Not to mention the quarries were owned by earth ponies, who misliked her rule.”
“She likely could have had a dozen forts of local materials mined by her own subjects for the cost of the granite,” Gale concluded.
Commander Celestia nodded. “Easily. And for all the expense, she constructed a grand fortress, only for it to never be attacked. ‘Twas not finished until Diamond lay on her deathbed, and her heirs repaired relations with the other tribes while leaving the fort to rot.” She offered a dismissive hoofwave. “There are some rumors that ‘tis haunted or ill-fated, but I’ve noted nothing of the sort. ‘Tis nothing but the legacy of a fool who drained the royal treasury on a pointless project that existed solely to feed her own vanity.”
I looked Diamond’s Folly over once more, confirming my assessment. “Perhaps ‘tis time somepony put it to a better use then. For all that ‘twas pointless and unneeded in its own time, it might well serve a new purpose in this one. Mayhaps Diamond’s Folly shall become the Kicker’s Fortune.”
Though I was pleased enough to have found a proper home for my clan, ‘twas a hollow comfort in light of the greater issue before me. E’en the reclamation of our old clanhold would make a poor consolation for the fact that I had been denied the post that ought to have been mine by rights. If the war proceeded poorly, my clan’s new home could be lost ere we e’en had the opportunity to properly claim it for our own.
After seeing to the arrangements for a proper surveying of Diamond’s Folly, I found myself with little more to see to. Or perhaps ‘twould be more accurate to say that there was nothing more I cared to occupy myself with. Commander Celestia’s refusal had left me in a foul mood, and I had neither the patience nor the inclination to occupy myself with the thousand trivial tasks that I might normally occupy my time with. Especially when the great bulk of them were likely some variation on addressing the problems of accommodating several thousand pegasus refugees in a unicorn city. ‘Twas the very reason I had sought out a new clanhold to begin with.
As I was in no mood to apply myself to administrative or political matters, I instead occupied myself on the training grounds. While the facilities at the Royal Academy of the Ars Magica were naturally suited to a unicorn’s skills, I found something suitable enough for my needs. I confess a brief moment of disquiet when I discovered that the sparring strawmares at the Academy were in the form of pegasi. Though I suppose the practicality of it was undeniable, ‘twas still disquieting to think that young magi were being trained to see my own kind as the enemy.
Once I set to my training, the shape of my target was of no great concern. While ‘tis unwise to give one’s fury freedom too commonly, there are times when venting one’s spleen is the best course of action. Recent events had certainly given me more cause than most to feel wrathful, so I unleashed the full measure of my anger upon the object, heaping upon the strawmare all the evils I’d suffered through.
I was so focused upon my task that I did not take note of Copper Spark’s arrival alongside several of his fellow magi. The lot of them were deep in conversation, but when Copper espied me he soon excused himself, standing aside for a time, and then approaching once I’d finished with my current exercise. His gaze took in sweaty brow and heaving chest, as well as the palpable air of displeasure I no doubt carried. “‘Twould seem thy mind is much troubled on this day, Shadow.”
Though Copper’s mere arrival was not enough to dispel my troubles, it did at least make them slightly less pressing. He was a good friend, and despite the fact that nothing more than a passing pleasure had come of our brief dalliance, I looked back fondly at it. More’s the pity, he had found a wife and children in the intervening years, else I might have been tempted to renew it in light of recent events. Though Rightly was still dear to me, I held no illusions that our courses might yet be reconciled. We were at war, and he was my enemy now. Though I was not one to bemoan a broken heart, I will confess that the pleasures of the bedchamber would have aided in putting the matter from my mind. As such were beyond my grasp, I contented myself with words. “The day has not developed to my satisfaction, old friend.”
Copper met that news with a concerned frown, stepping nearer, but not so close as to seem inappropriate. Whatever our past relations, his heart belonged to another now. Despite that, he was quick enough to offer me comfort. “Mayhaps thou wouldst enjoy the hospitality of my home so that we might discuss what troubles thee so whilst far from prying eyes and wagging tongues?”
Despite all my troubles, that offer brought the beginnings of a smile to my face. E’en in these dark times, old bonds of friendship might yet be renewed and strengthened. “I would gladly accept thy hospitality.”
Copper answered that with a welcoming smile of his own, though when he spoke there was a terseness to his words. “Let us waste no time in departing, then.” One who did not know him as well as I might mistake it for ungraciousness, but I knew the stallion well enough to grasp his true intent. He was quite aware that I was troubled, and sought to expedite our arrival at a place where I might unburden myself upon him. He was ever a considerate one.
Copper led the way towards his home, whilst I followed in his wake. Our journey through the Academy and the city itself was telling of the tumultuous times. Everywhere could be heard the ring of steel on steel and shouted orders as the city made ready for war. Fresh suits of mail stacked outside smithies and in the city agoras—neigh, the unicorns called them forums—alongside wooden shafts and spearheads waiting to be mated to them. As common as the smiths were the enchanters, plying their magical crafts ‘pon the newly made wargear, or preparing their own bewildering variety of magical devices. I would need to remember to make inquiries on that matter; easy access to magic would be an advantage for my clan ‘gainst the warriors of Pegasopolis.
The very streets themselves had undergone a similar shift. Gone was the gay laughter of colts and fillies at play, replaced by a grim, fearful silence. Minstrels sang of dark times and darker deeds, while the merchants no longer preyed on the greed of the common pony, but their fear. While Unicornia’s levies had not yet fully mustered, there were still soldiers and magi to be seen on every streetcorner. Naturally, the great bulk of them were unicorns, but there were a few clusters of earth ponies from those communities near enough to answer Commander Celestia’s call to arms. ‘Twas strange to think that a mere month ago, the sight of a pegasus in full combat gear drew curious onlookers, yet now there were warriors all about.
Copper’s own gaze similarly traversed the city, a troubled frown on his face. No doubt he found it e’en stranger than I did to see the place so transformed. I had only the passing familiarity of a visitor, but Copper had been born to Canterlot. Moreover, the transition to a city of war rendered it familiar to me, whilst it would be all the more alien for him. I could well relate to a pony who felt that the place he named as home was no longer as he recalled it.
I spoke of idle things, if only to end the silence and take his mind from such troubling things. “I trust thy wife and children fare well?”
The frown faded from his face, though the polite smile that replaced it did not quite reach to his eyes. “As well as could be expected in our current circumstances. My lady wife is currently assisting with the enchanting at the Royal Armory, which occupies her time far more than I should like. Such is the cost of war. My eldest's studies are going well, though I fear his apprenticeship will be delayed by the war—our best magi can hardly spare the time for training the young. Thus far, I and my fellow Archmagi have not reached a satisfactory solution to the problem of what to do with those apprentices too young to help directly with the war. There are some magi who cannot serve on the frontlines due to age and infirmity, but far too few to see to the next generation’s training. Yet the task cannot be neglected too badly—if the war is not ended quickly, we will sorely need a fresh generation of magi.”
“My own clan faces the same trouble,” I confessed. “I pray things do not reach a point where the ponies of my clan must learn the warrior’s arts on the battleground instead of the training field.” For all that I take pride in my clan, a Kicker without training is no better than any other untrained pony. Mayhap worse, for they would likely know just enough of the ways of battle to render them foolish.
“I only pray that our young will not have to bear too many of the burdens from this war.” His voice grew heavy with dread. “I have heard it said that in peacetime children bury their parents, whilst in war parents bury their children. I pray that I do not live to see such a thing come to pass within my own home.” He turned to me and placed a hoof ‘pon my shoulder. “I also pray that thou dost not face a similar fear with thine own daughter.”
For all that my daughter troubled me when the mood took her, the thought that I might be forced to lay Gale to rest ere the war’s ending sickened me beyond words. “Gale fares well, and I have absolute confidence in her skills as a warrior.” Those words carried a hint of fear and vulnerability that I misliked, though ‘twas natural for any parent. For all my confidence in my daughter, I could not deny the quiet terror that took me whenever she faced peril. I do not know how Bright Charger endured the thought of having so many of her own flesh and blood in harm’s way.
Copper offered a quiet murmur, acknowledging my fears without calling attention to them. “My condolences on all that passed within thy clan ere thou didst depart Pegasopolis. The greatest cruelty of civil wars is that they turn kin ‘gainst one another. At least Unicornia has not been so sundered by this war. Thus far, our intelligence indicates that only a few ne’er-do-wells and mercenaries have aligned themselves to the Lunar cause.”
Though ‘twas already common knowledge that a few of the dregs of Unicornian society had sought common cause with the rebels, I noted two significant words in Copper’s statement: ‘Thus far.’ ‘Tis curious how two simple words could so alter his entire statement. Were there e’en more ill tidings to consider? ‘Twould certainly add to the need for our discussion to occur in privacy if there were forces in Unicornia that might stand opposed to the Commander.
Little more was said between us ere we arrived at his home, and none of that was of any consequence. Copper’s home was relatively modest by Canterlot standards, which is to say that it was not plated in gold and encrusted in jewels. Like many of the better-placed magi, Copper Spark came from a long line of accomplished spellcasters. While the magi disdained the noble custom of passing titles down the family line, ‘tis hard to deny that to some extent magic runs in the blood. Though material wealth beyond what is needed for their arcane pursuits is rarely a concern for magi, any family line which enjoys success in its endeavours and avoids needless waste will accumulate some modest wealth. While Copper Spark’s family hold was lacking in the extravagance of a noble home, it bore an understated tastefulness I found pleasing enough to the eye, and was of a size to more than comfortably accommodate his current family. I confess that naming merely wife and children as family enough to fill a home struck me as most strange, but I am well aware that the other tribes had a somewhat narrower view of family than did the clans of Pegasopolis.
Copper stepped ahead of me as we neared, causing me to briefly wonder if there were some magical defenses he needed to disarm ere I could enter. Though his horn did light, I noted no casting other than a simple opening of the door for my benefit. I should like to think that e’en if I had not faced a spellcaster in battle for some time, my skills had not decayed from lack of use to the point where I could fail to note a magus disarming his wards.
Rather than concern myself o’ermuch with the matter, I offered Copper a polite smile as I stepped through the threshold of his home. “Ever the gentlecolt. I am honored to accept thy hospitality, and shall comport myself as a guest within thy home.”
“As it is my honor to be thy host,” Copper replied, closing the exchange. That formality attended to, he offered a tired but good-natured smile. “I do believe in treating a lady properly, and I pray that thou dost not take offense to the title this time.”
I required a moment to recollect what he referred to. “Ah, yes, when first we met. I was far younger then, and I should like to think I’ve grown in the intervening years. And e’en though I did not care to be called a lady, I do recall being treated most properly after we had concluded our hunt for the warlock.” The memory brought a fond smile to my lips once more, and I was glad we had the home’s entryway to ourselves. Explaining the matter to his wife or children would have proven most discomfiting. “Alas for simpler times.”
“Aye, simpler times.” Copper closed and secured the door, then led me to his parlour. Like the rest of his home, the walls and floors were of simple but fine marble, with sufficient rugs and wall hangings to prevent the place from being naught but an unending sea of white stone. He led me to a divan, and motioned for me be seated. “Wouldst thou like refreshment? I do not know how well the cuisine and beverages of Unicornia compare to those thou art accustomed to, but I would be remiss in my duties as a host if I did not offer.”
That drew a faint chuckle from me. “Surely thou dost recall that for all their many, many faults, the one matter in which the groundly races are superior to the pegasi—aside from the matter of meat—is in their food and drink? (4) Given that, I think thou shalt find my needs simple enough to accommodate. I leave the details of it to thy discretion.”
4: Omnivorousness has a long tradition within pegasus society, dating back to pre-Lyequine times when the pegasi were nomadic bands of warriors. While the pegasi usually traded for food with the earth ponies (or took it by force), there were inevitably going to be times when food supplies ran low. Presumably at some point, a group of pegasi were desperate enough to feed on the flesh of a freshly slain beast, and before long it became a regular practice in lean years. Warrior pride tended to get in the way of agriculture or even gathering simple roots and berries, but hunting didn’t ruffle anypony’s feathers. Once Equestria was settled and the food supply became more reliable, the hunting and meat-eating traditions largely died out, though there are still a few vestiges like the Long Patrol initiation rite.
Copper acknowledged my request, and returned a short time later with bread and cheese, along with two glasses of wine. All three were of fine quality, though the wine was watered enough that we were in no danger of o’erindulging unless we had a dozen more such glasses each. Once we’d broken bread, he spoke of the matter that brought us together. “I believe we have matters to discuss, given the storm cloud hanging above thy head ‘pon the training grounds. What troubles thee so?”
There was little point in e’en attempting to deny that I had been in an ill humor earlier. Copper had come to know me far too well for such a transparent deception to have any effect. After a moment’s consideration, I extended him my trust on the matter. “I have spoken with the Commander regarding my wish to lead our armies in battle. Her response was less than ideal.”
The news brought a frown to Copper’s lips. “I take it the rumors are true, then? Thou hast heard confirmation that our new grand vizier is to lead the armies of Unicornia?”
“From the Commander's own lips,” I reluctantly confirmed.
“Ah.” Copper offered a grumble, then downed the remainder of his wine in a single gulp before briefly leaving to refill his glass. When he returned, I noted that the wine in his glass had a much richer, fuller color. Clearly, he cared for the news no more than I. “I fully grasp the cause of thy disquiet, then. Those who have the pleasure of knowing thee and the misfortune of knowing Duke Polaris would all agree that thou art infinitely better qualified to lead in battle.”
That was not a ringing endorsement of his ability. Though I had expected I was the better war leader, I did not think the disparity could be so great as Copper stated. ‘Twas no slur for one of the ground to be a lesser warrior than one of Pegasopolis, but Copper’s words bespoke a far deeper problem. “He is as ill-suited to the role as any could be, then?”
Copper drew heavily upon his wine glass once more. “He is far from my first pick for the role, even amongst the nobility. That honor would go to Grandmaster Crossguard from Sol Invictus; he might not be as young as he once was, but he has forgotten more of war than Polaris has ever known. In truth, I struggle to name anypony worse for the role who also has the resources to claim it. He has some of the worst traits of the nobility, such as an excessive belief in his own cleverness and superiority, despite ample evidence to the contrary. The only fair thing I can say about him is that he is an able politician. Too able for my liking, given his other tendencies.”
Ah, the worst sort of politician, then. One with an impressive skill for gaining power, but none of the qualities needed to properly use it. Still, that raised further questions to my mind. “If he is truly so unsuited to the role, what could have possessed the Commander to make her grant him the position?” E’en with Sunbeam Sparkle, I could at least grasp the reasoning. I did not care for the idea that ability offset a lack of virtue, but I at least understood how some might think it.
“As I said, for all his other faults he is an able politician.” Copper let forth a resigned sigh. “In theory, Her Majesty has the right to appoint whoever she wishes as her grand vizier. The reality is somewhat more complex. Duke Polaris has opposed Magus Sunbeam's entire reign as grand vizier, and between those who support his own policies and the many enemies she acquired during her reign, he has gathered a considerable coalition. His fiery rhetoric in support of the crown and ‘gainst Pegasopolis has won many to his side, and by all appearances he is the stallion of the hour.” Copper’s upper lip curled back in distaste. “At least, to those who do not know him.”
“Then let him have his politics and triumphs amongst the fops of the royal court.” I growled. “He may make as many fine speeches as he wishes, while I tend to the business of war.”
Copper shook his head. “Dear Shadow, I fear 'tis not as simple as that. For all your skill, the ponies of Unicornia wish to defend the honor of their queen and our own pride. Few would accept a leader who is not one of our own, and Polaris is riding a wave of political success. It is a time of crisis, and he appears to be the right pony to lead us through to safety. Naming any other to the post would earn Her Majesty the displeasure of all his supporters, and they are legion.” Copper slumped down onto his seat, his chin resting on the divan’s cushions. “Any division within our ranks could be dangerous at this hour. All Pegasopolis stands ‘gainst us, and half the earth ponies. ‘Twould be difficult to win the war if Unicornia is not firmly behind its queen.”
I could read what he left unsaid easily enough. “One tribe has already betrayed the Commander, and another teeters on the brink of it. The third sees weakness, and would exploit it to their advantage.” Loyalty, it would seem, was far too valuable a commodity to be granted freely.
A dark scowl formed on Copper’s face. “Just so. Can Her Majesty afford to risk opposing Duke Polaris in such circumstances? And if her most faithful supporters ask a few small boons of her, dare she deny them?”
‘Twas as I feared, then. Little wonder, then, that Celestia did not wish to speak of the matter. Though it seemed immodest to say it, ‘twas likely that she also considered me the better mare for the job, and was displeased that circumstances required she name another. “Are matters truly so dire that she must appoint him as her general, lest the unicorns side with the rebels?” I did not doubt that there were some within Unicornia whose vain ambition was such that they dreamed of unseating Celestia, so that the crown might be theirs.
“It does not even have to reach the point that Unicornia turns ‘gainst her.” Copper busied himself with the bread and cheese for a few moments, gathering his thoughts. “They need do nothing at all in order to ensure her downfall. If the nobles do not muster their levies, or the magi and knightly orders do not rise to the queen's call, then the war cannot possibly be won. Though I do not doubt thy capabilities, Shadow, e’en thou couldst not defeat all Pegasopolis with only thy clan and the Royal Guard.” (5)
5: At this point in time, the Royal Guard was little more than a small honor guard tasked with protecting the palace and Celestia herself. Its expansion to the point of being Equestria’s national army, alongside the elimination of private forces like the noble levies and the absorption of the knightly orders and magi into the Guard’s ranks, was one of the key post-Rebellion reforms to consolidate Celestia’s authority.
“Aye, 'tis so,” I reluctantly conceded. “The war cannot be won without Unicornia, and the price of unicorn loyalty is a position of prominence for their favored son.”
“Indeed. Polaris is in an almost unassailable position, so far as his support goes. Unless he is shortly found abed with Ephor Doo, several foals, and a goat, he will continue to enjoy the backing of all Unicornia.” I briefly gave thought to seeing if Gale could arrange something of that nature, but dismissed it as naught but an idle fancy. “I only hope that the rest of Unicornia discovers his true nature ere we pay too heavy a price for granting him leadership.”
“Aye.” My mind once more turned to those I had once named my friends and comrades. “When the ephors meet him on the field of battle, they will care little for how great his renown is 'mongst the unicorns.”
Copper nodded.“As thou didst say. Pity he does not seem inclined to appoint some veteran of battle from the knightly orders or the magi to lead our armies. ‘Twould seem he wants the glory for himself, and is offering the other offices within the army as rewards to his most ardent supporters, e’en if they are as unqualified for the position as he is. As I said, a politician’s thinking.”
That drew a disgusted snort from me. “Politicians should know better than to involve themselves in military affairs.”
Copper answered that remark with a teasing smirk. “Spoken as if thou didst not engage in thy share of political maneuvering during thy time in the Ephorate. Though I am every bit as guilty of the crime of politicking; ‘tis a cruel necessity of leadership.”
His point was well taken, e’en if I did not care for it. “Though I have faced my share of political matters, in my heart I have always seen myself as a warrior. I can hardly be blamed if some battles are better fought with facts and debate than blade and hoof.”
“And I am a magus, yet I never would have become Archmagus of the Eastern March had I not learned how to manipulate a conclave, carefully cultivated the proper allies and presented myself as the best candidate. Thus we come to it: a magus and a warrior who both care little for politics, discussing political matters and hoping to find solutions to our political problems. Such is all too often the way of things. So long as ponies disagree on important issues, there will always be politics.”
A frown darkened his face, and he gave an angry wave of his hoof. “One need but look at the war facing us to see what happens when politics fails. The alternative is that we just kill each other in a frenzy until one of us receives what he wants, or everypony is too dead to care. Neigh, I think I prefer the endless bickering to bloodshed.” He let out a short, humorless laugh. “Well, with a few exceptions for particularly aggravating ponies.” The jest only briefly lifted his mood. “At least the common pony can largely be kept out of the nonsense when 'tis a matter of politics. War often lands 'pon them the hardest. E’en those nobles who take the field will sit far from the front lines of battle, content to send the sons and daughters of craftsponies and farmers to fight and die in the mud for their cause.”
“And yet, if my daughter were here she would likely point out that a discrete assassination might well save many lives compared to accepting the results of politics in this matter.” Not that I would have accepted such a suggestion. E’en if the attempt succeeded, which was far from certain, ‘twas all too likely that Polaris’ death would worsen the situation rather than improve it. “I suppose 'tis as thou sayest, and political affairs are the lesser evil. Still, the current state of affairs does not strike me as ideal.”
“Neigh, that we can both agree 'pon.” Copper let forth a resigned sigh, refilling both our glasses. “Sadly, we do not enjoy the luxury of living in the world as it ought to be. Only the world as it is.”
“Aye, 'tis so,” I agreed. “But if we resign ourselves too readily to the world as it is, the world that should be shall never exist.”
Copper nodded, and tapped his glass against my own. “Then we must work together, and strive towards the world we wish for.”
“Aye.” I steeled myself for the unpleasant necessity of what was to come. “‘Twould seem that I’ve a political problem to contend with, and must seek a solution in the realm of politics. I would welcome thine advice on the matter.” I only had the vaguest understanding of Unicornia’s internal politics, for until recently they had been of little concern to me.
“Of course, dear Shadow.” Copper briefly placed one of his hooves over my own. “I have long considered thee my friend and ally, and we are in a time where both are invaluable. I will give thee whatever help I can.”
I offered him a grateful smile, briefly placing one of my hooves over his own and gently squeezing it. “I am glad to hear it, though I fear that thou art the only unicorn in all of Canterlot who would claim that distinction.” I resigned myself to what must be. “'Twould seem that I must add more to the sum of my allies if I am to fight the war properly. Thou art more aware of how things stand politically in Canterlot than I. Are there any whom you would suggest I approach?”
“Aye, there are several who spring to mind.” Copper considered the matter, then amended his statement. “Though ere I name them, I would ask how much thou knowest of the politics of Unicornia. Names without context would be of little help to thee.” He paused, offering a soft chuckle and an amused grin. “If I might take a guess, I would say: ‘as a proud and noble warrior of Pegasopolis, I have not concerned myself with the debase politics of Canterlot and its decadent and corrupt citizenry?’”
That earned a halfhearted snort from me, e’en if the imitation was at best passable. “E’en in the days of my arrogant youth, I was not so bad as that.”
Copper smiled, a hint of the old warmth we’d once shared shining through. “Mayhaps not, yet thy knowledge is bad enough that I am to explain to thee some of the nature of Canterlot.” The smile held and he briefly met my eyes, but only for a moment. “Alas, I am growing sentimental. Onwards to the matter at hoof. I will attempt to refrain from bogging down in the minutia of the old rivalries and slights, so that we are not here all day and night. Thou needs hardly know who bears a grudge against whom on account of actions taken by distant ancestors most could no longer e’en name. In brief, there are five major political factions in Unicornia thou shouldst be aware of: the crown, the nobles, the magi, the guilds, and the populists.
“Naturally, thou art aware of the crown, in the pony of Her Majesty, Queen Celestia, and of the powers and rights she possesses. She can declare war, collect taxes, make laws, and so on and so forth. In theory, there are few limits to her power, though as we’ve already established the reality is often considerably more complicated.”
“Aye, aye. She is queen, and rules o’er her subjects.” I waved a hoof for him to proceed. One of the few aspects of Unicornia I was already quite familiar with was Commander Celestia’s own power. “I presume, then, that the crown faction consists of those who support her without reservation?”
“Correct,” he confirmed. “Though I must make an addendum that while I am describing five different factions within Unicornia, that is a simplification. ‘Tis often the case that these factions have agendas which are not in conflict with one another, or e’en share some interests in common—the guilds and the common pony both dislike taxation. And each of the factions has its own internal power struggles over leadership and policy. Finally, there are ponies whose own interests lie within multiple factions. There are nobles who are also magi, and magi who have been rewarded with a title of nobility by the queen. Thus, there are those who will seek to promote the goals of several differing factions, as their conscience and desires guide them.”
My mind briefly returned to my prior meeting with Copper, at the conclave to select a new Archmagus of Canterlot. “I recall hearing that there are also families where different members will cultivate ties to each of the factions, and then act in concert to support their own agenda. As is the case with the new archmagus, given that she is a relative of Duke Polaris.”
“It is as thou didst say.” Copper let an accoyed scoff. “Despite my best efforts to prevent it, the Archmagus of Canterlot is his cousin, and serves as naught but Polaris’s mouthpiece. ‘Twas a well-executed maneuver, both increasing her station amongst the magi and increasing his control over Unicornia’s politics. By tradition, the nobles and the magi are the two most powerful factions within Canterlot, and now both answer to the same stallion. With such forces backing him, ‘twas easy enough for Polaris to bring pressure 'pon Her Majesty to make him commander of the army.”
Troubling. If the two greatest forces in Unicornia already moved at Polaris’ command, ‘twould be most difficult to unseat him. Given the presence of family ties, I did not think it likely I could sever his cousin the Archmagus from him. Still, I should at least ask after the factions that were likely my intractable opponents. “I take it that the noble and mage factions represent the will of those classes, or at least the leading figures within them?”
“That is generally the case, aye,” Copper confirmed. “Though the nobles and magi both have their own internal rankings, in both cases the leaders are those who can pursue the interests of their followers, and effectively deliver on the promises made to them. I would never have become Archmagus of the Eastern March if I had not first succeeded in improving upon the standard spellbook template and making that available to my followers, negotiated a reduction in salt taxes for our region, and suggested several long overdue reforms for our bylaws.”
“Not so dissimilar from how one joins the Ephorate, then.” To be sure, there were many differences in the details, but the fundamental principles remained the same. One became an ephor by demonstrating their abilities in the field, while also showing clear promise for further growth after promotion. My own accomplishments in the Long Patrol and as a hunter of warlocks had secured my place among their numbers. (6) “Two factions remain, then. What of the guilds?”
6: Unsurprisingly, given the rift between them, Shadow doesn’t mention all the politicking her father did to help her succession.
Copper stroked his chin for a moment, his mind likely drawing the connections ere he spoke. “Much like the nobles and magi, the guilds largely seek their own advancement, as a whole. That is not to say the various crafters and professionals will not viciously compete ‘gainst one another in their private affairs, but they also recognize their common interests—namely acquisition of wealth and the protection of their own rights and privileges. They’ve a curious relation with the nobles and magi: their factional interests often compete with one another, yet ‘tis also common for nobles or magi in need of funds to seek marriage with guildponies in need of status and respectability.” He sighed, and waved a hoof dismissively. “For the moment they back Polaris, and though they are not fervent in their support, I fear thou hast less that would appeal to them, especially as most of them resent the taxes needed to pay for Pegasopolis’ many expenses.”
“Materialists,” I concluded, offering a disgusted snort. I have never understood why some ponies become so concerned with the acquisition of things. So long as I could provide for my clan, what need had I of more bits of gold that served no practical purpose? “And the last faction?”
That drew a smile to his face. “Ah, like any good showpony, I have reserved the best of my offerings for the final act. The Populists are somewhat complicated, though I hold their cause dear to my heart. The simplest way I can put it is that they wish to expand the rights of the common ponies, while reining in the nobles and reconstructing the government of Unicornia to follow a more rational and efficient course. Authority should rest in the hooves of those with talent and ability, regardless of the bloodlines they hail from.”
I would scarcely have imagined that such a sensible group of ponies existed in all Unicornia, though I suppose I should not have been surprised to learn that Copper Spark was not the only pony of sense within the kingdom. ‘Twas a welcome revelation, regardless. “And their opinion of Duke Polaris?”
Copper offered a fierce grin. “They despise him with a passion. One could hardly paint a portrait of a pony that more aptly represents the worst of the nobility without creating outright satire.”
His response drew a smile to my own lips. “Excellent. If I am to seek allies within Canterlot, they would seem the logical choice.”
“Aye, such were my thoughts as well,” Copper agreed. “When seeking allies, one should always look first to those who share an enemy in common with thee. Making common cause with the populists also carries a second benefit, for I am tightly allied with them.”
“I am unsurprised to learn that the most sensible of unicorns makes common cause with the most sensible of factions.” I turned to him with a smile. “I trust thou canst arrange a meeting with their leader? Presuming, of course, that I do not already have the pleasure of speaking to him.” An Archmagus would certainly be a worthy figure to lead such a movement.
“A most flattering presumption, but I fear an incorrect one.” Copper offered a smile, but I noted that it did not quite reach his eyes. “I am but one of her closer allies. I could most certainly arrange a meeting, but ere I do so, I must ask a question of thee. Given thine eagerness, I take it thou art not aware of who leads the populists. Would I be correct in that?”
“Neigh,” I confessed. “As I’ve said, I do not keep abreast of Canterlot politics.”
That drew a pained sigh from Copper, as if he were steeling himself for unwelcome news. ‘Tween that and his other comments, I had a dread suspicion as to who he might name as the populist leader. “Then I must ask thee to hear me out, and not change thy mind outright for the pony I am about to name. For the costs are too high in these dark days for thee to act with haste.” He took a breath, and then confessed the evil I already suspected. “The most influential pony amongst the populists is none other than Magus Sunbeam Sparkle.”
That I’d already suspected as much did nothing to soften my displeasure at the revelation. “Then let us seek other allies.”
Copper raised a hoof, attempting to forestall my rejection. “Shadow, I pray thee, do not refuse an alliance with her so quickly. Thou must consider the situation as it stands—thy foe in this matter is Polaris, and Sunbeam Sparkle is his most intractable enemy. Not to mention a mare of considerable influence within Canterlot, e’en if she is no longer in favor with Her Majesty. And as Her Majesty’s favor is one of the few assets thou hast at thy disposal...”
I could not dispute the practicality of his suggestion. By all appearances, my interests and those of Sunbeam Sparkle were in alignment. However, appearances could be deceiving. Whatever common interest we shared was temporary, and I did not think for a moment that Sunbeam would grant her aid freely. Likely I would be required to help restore her to power as part and parcel of any arrangement. I hardly wished to see all the effort I had expended to remove Sunbeam from power go to waste. There had to be a better way to achieve my goals. “The nobles and magi both support Polaris, as do the guilds. What of the crown faction?”
Copper stubbornly set his jaw, and for a moment I suspected he might further plead Sunbeam’s case. After a short time, he subsided. “The crown faction is somewhat small, at least in reality. Most unicorns would loudly declare their loyalty to the queen if asked, but when one makes further inquiries into the details, matters become rather murky. That is not helped by the fact that Her Majesty rarely takes an active role in government affairs. As a ruler, she is inclined to allow matters to proceed as they have in the past, and only act when problems are brought to her attention. Perhaps ‘tis that as an immortal, she prefers a stable government to an ever-changing one.
“However, therein lies the problem: she is disinclined to make changes unless made aware of a problem, but only the factions in power enjoy regular access to Her Majesty.” Copper offered a helpless shrug. “She is a good queen, but she cannot address a problem she is unaware of. More to the point, Celestia’s own rulings do not always reflect her will, but the crown faction cannot know her private thoughts. Organizations like the Order of Sol Invictus are far too loyal to the crown to grasp that sometimes one best expresses loyalty through dissent. If Queen Celestia has declared her support for Duke Polaris, then the crown faction will back him.”
As if matters had not degenerated far enough, he offered more ill tidings. “Also, Sunbeam is one of the leading supporters of the crown. Though her fall from favor has cost her much of her influence among the crown’s supporters, there are no others within their ranks who have her skills. If somepony who had the queen’s ear,” he paused, letting his eyes rest ‘pon me for a long moment, “could persuade her to forgive Sunbeam’s transgressions and welcome her once more at court, I think it likely she would quickly regain her lost influence. And whatever her other faults, she would not fail to repay the one who so aided her restoration. Rewarding those who aid thee encourages others to do so.”
Copper seemed keen to have me make common cause with the mare. I wondered if perhaps he had made his own accommodations with her in the past. As he himself had confessed, he had played the game of politics to become Archmagus of the Eastern March. No doubt Sunbeam’s support would have been a great boon in attaining that goal. And how better to repay any debts he might owe her than to deliver her salvation by persuading me to seek an alliance with her?
Neigh, I would not countenance it. I would fight alongside her in Celestia’s name, but I would not name that foul mare as friend and ally. “‘Twould seem there is no other acceptable path then. I must seek an accommodation with Polaris. I care not for glory; he may take the full share of it, so long as our armies capable of attaining it.”
Copper’s face fell, and ‘twas some time ere he could meet my eyes and speak. “I am saddened by thy decision, but ‘tis thine to make. ‘Tis thy right to make him whatever offer thou deem prudent, e’en if ‘tis one I strongly counsel against.” Copper fell silent for a time, then reluctantly continued in his role as my advisor. “‘Tis possible he would at least heed thine advice on military matters, given thy unique insight into the workings of Pegasopolis. I would not depend upon it, though. Fame is a fickle thing, and he guards what he considers to be his fair measure of it jealously. He would not care to have it be said that his victories are only won due to thee.”
If half of what Copper told me of him was true, I would not enjoy working with the stallion. Still, the only alternatives were inaction, or an unholy alliance. “Be that as it may, I must at least attempt to pursue the effort.”
“Follow thy conscience then.” Copper slumped low, resignation heavy in his voice. “Though I must warn thee, Polaris’ charm is much like that of stale sweetbread. Appealing on its surface, but once one goes beyond that it quickly become unpalatable.”
As foul as that sounded, it still seemed the least foul of the options before me.