//------------------------------// // Diplomacy Pt. 2 // Story: Ebony and Ivory: Growing up Changeling // by SGZone //------------------------------// Cadance sighed and traced another pattern on her bed canopy with her eyes. She was unbearably bored. No, not just bored she was drained, lethargic, her usual preppy energy that put a spring in her step and made her smile shine was just gone. Not gone completely like a dried up lake more like a lake whose rivers have been damned. She knew exactly what had damned those rivers and she hated herself for it. It was Shining Armor. He had only been gone for a few weeks yet his absence had left a noticeable void. She knew it was wrong to be so deflated without him there. It’s not even like he was missing or passed he was only a couple miles away at the academy. To be unable to live your life normally without another for a brief absence was not healthy. It wasn’t love, it was obsession and she was no obsessive school girl. Dipping into her pool of energy she leapt from her bed and over to her closet quickly changing into a pair of jeans and blue T-shirt. “I’m going to go down and grab that little bookworm and were gonna go out for ice cream.” She stated slipping on some socks. She had sent Twilight to fetch some reading material though she probably got distracted. “She probably needs this more than I do. Poor thing has been even more reclusive than usual.” She muttered putting on her shoes. “Besides this break is good for us. Gives me a chance to spread my wings and learn more about how to be a proper princess.” She breathed fixing her hair in the mirror. “Yeah besides I’ll be able to see him when he’s on leave.” She smiled with renewed vigor she opened the door to Princess Celestia. “Oh, Cadance going somewhere?” Celestia asked noticing her niece's attire. “Oh I was just going to grab Twilight from the library.” She responded. “Splendid, Cadance you remember Queen Chrysalis, correct?” Celestia asked stepping aside so Chrysalis could step into Cadance’s view. “Of course from the summit in Peighris, a pleasure to meet you again Queen Chrysalis.” Cadance smiled instinctively grabbing at her dress. But her eyes grew wide in panic as she pinched the air. Looking down at her baby blue jeans she mentally cursed. She quickly pinched her jean pockets and pulled them apart bowing in a faux curtsey. Chrysalis chuckled at the girl’s resourcefulness and bowed back. “Good to see you again. You have grown into a beautiful young woman in these short years.” Chrysalis smiled. Cadance lightly blushed and quietly thanked her. “Cutting to the chase these are my sons Ebony and Ivory.” She smiled bringing them in front. “Boys this is Princess Mi Amore Cadenza. Introduce yourselves.” She ordered. The two princes stepped forward and bowed to Cadance in the same manner as her aunt. “Hello, Princess Mi Am-Amore Cadenza?” They said in unison tripping over the long name in their own ways. Cadance giggled at their valiant attempt. Much to the chagrin of the princes; their faces growing red with embarrassment. This was a worse case scenario. “It’s a pleasure to meet you too: Prince Ebony and Prince Ivory. By the way don’t worry about the name everyone gets it wrong the first time.” She smiled bowing back. The two smiled at Cadance their faces still the colors of ripe tomatoes. “So, Cadance, Queen Chrysalis and I have important work to do and we were wondering if you could watch these two along with Twilight. If you don’t mind.” Celestia said. “Oh it would be no trouble Twilight could use some play mates.” Cadance smiled down at the two. “No no no this is not a play date this is a meeting of future, erm, leaders of Equestria and Chrysalis’s hive. Not for play, got it?” Celestia quickly intervened sneaking a wink to Cadance. “Oh! Of course I’m sorry for my rudeness. Of course this is strictly business.” Cadance exclaimed. Her aunt’s silent message coming in loud and clear. “Well I was about to go grab Twilight and get some ice cream. How does that sound for a diplomatic luncheon?” Their eyes lit up at the suggestion. Not only at the prospect of ice cream but also at the chance to explore the gorgeous city. Chrysalis on the other hand was far less enthused as a cold sweat went down her spine. “Umm I think a quiet day inside the castle would be best, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza.” Chrysalis stated. Eliciting groans from her two sons. “Oh, um, okay if that’s what you want Queen Chrysalis we can do that.” Cadance stuttered as her whole day was shot down. The two princes looked down at the floor dejected. “Chrysalis can I talk to you please.” Celestia asked beckoning Chrysalis to join her away from the other three. Chrysalis huffed and walked further down the hall with Celestia. “If this is about them going out the answer is still no. You have a lot of nerve trying to undermine me in front of them. Chrysalis stated before Celestia could even open her mouth. “I know you have reservations, Chrysalis, but this might be good for them to see the city.” Celestia countered remaining her cool. “Celestia you saw that crowd. Someone is going to recognize them out there and I don’t even want to think what might happen then.” Chrysalis hissed fear creeping up her heart. It’s not like they could blend in like real changelings. “I understand your worries and I agree we should not send them out their with just Cadance.” Celestia replied. “I was going to suggest we send a few of my trusted guards with them.” “Your guards?” Chrysalis asked. “These are Changeling princes even if they were to go out. Which they aren’t. They’ll be with my guards.” “I understand, however, say things do go sour and your guard stops them I can guarantee the only thing they’ll remember is a changeling guard assaulting an innocent civilian.” Celestia countered. “The wounds that those extremists left are not as forgotten as we would hope.” She muttered. Chrysalis silently cursed to herself. Celestia was right things were steadily improving since Chrysalis became queen a few years ago. An occurrence like that could greatly hinder their efforts. Celestia’s centuries of experience has made her a shrewd negotiator. “Alright, you may have a point. So hypothetically we use some of your guards. Why should I trust them?” Chrysalis asked. “Well I know one of them is currently in a relationship with one of your Changelings.” Celestia replied. Chrysalis was taken off guard by this information. “Really? I thought you forbade such relationships especially among guards.” Chrysalis inquired. “I did nothing. My parliament on the other hand put that into law, overwhelmingly.” Celestia sighed. “So I’ve kept his relationship a secret.” She smiled. Chrysalis had to admit this was an interesting development. For a human to be involved with a changeling takes bravery. “Okay, that’s one guard. I want at least two Celestia.” “Of course the other one is just as loyal and a Changeling rights supporter. He’s a little young but passionate. Whenever I need someone arrested for Changeling related crimes he’s one of the few I trust to do his duty, unbiasedly.” Celestia replied. Chrysalis rubbed her chin. She had to admit these were decent somewhat trustworthy candidates. But fear still weighed heavily in her mind. They had already endured a cavalcade of scorn from Canterlot’s worst citizens and she did not want to risk them encountering more. They already get enough of that back home. “Chrysalis I know it’s not my place to say this but you need to let them go at some point. Let them leave the nest, for a bit.” “I’ve done that Celestia and each time that happens something hurts them.” Chrysalis snapped. “Every time they leave my side: they are either bullied, or insulted, or worse.” Celestia could only sigh. She didn’t have a real answer for the troubled mother. “I’m worried that if that happens here it will be far more damaging. Not accepted among their people and now not accepted by their own kind.” She muttered “I understand but if I may my niece will not let that happen.” Celestia stated. “Twilight Sparkle, the girl she’s watching, she was a total recluse before they met. But Cadance opened her up into a happy, somewhat friendly, girl.” She explained. “If anyone can keep them away from the ugliest of my city and bring them back happier than ever it’s her.” Chrysalis gave a sigh of reluctant defeat. “Fine, it might be good for them to see Canterlot at least once. It may be years before they return.” The two monarchs returned to the trio who were standing awkwardly “Alright, boys, you two may leave the castle with Cadance and Twilight to get ice cream but only to the shop and back. No wandering.” Chrysalis stated. “Furthermore you will be escorted by two of Celestia’s trusted guards. You will stay with them at all times. At all times.” She reiterated enunciating each word. “Understood?” The two princes beamed up at their mother. “Thank you, mom.” The two wrapped their arms around her giving her a grateful hug. “Of course boys.” Chrysalis smiled. “Cadance a word please?” Chrysalis beckoned the young princess with a finger, breaking the hug. As Cadance stepped forward Chrysalis pulled her forward and placed a pouch of bits in her hand. “Make sure they have a good time.” She smiled and winking. To which enthusiastically nodded and putting the pouch in her pocket. After all not even a princess could resist another person paying for food. “So where are these guards?” Chrysalis asked. “Currently waiting for orders at the barracks. I will send a messenger to fetch them so you can see for yourself.” Celestia said. “Awaiting orders? Why Celestia if I didn’t know any better I would say this was planned.” Chrysalis smirked. “It was only a feeling but it’s better to be safe than sorry.” Celestia replied with her own churlish smile. “Really now. Well there is no need for me to see them we have already wasted enough time just have them go to the library and escort them from there.” Chrysalis said with a wave of her hand. Celestia was surprised by this but quickly realized this was a test of her honesty. While they were friends they were still leaders whose nations’ relations may change in an instant. As it has done in the past many times. “Alright, Cadance take them to the library and await my guards then you may leave.” Celestia commanded. “And don’t try to sneak off. I will find out.” Chrysalis added flashing at them with a fearsome glance. Like a mother tiger that has decided it would not kill you this time but return at your own risk. “Well have a nice day.” She smiled her attitude swinging like bar door and walking away with Celestia in tow. “Your mom’s the most terrifying woman I’ve ever met.” Cadance muttered once they were safely out of earshot. Or so she thought. “And don’t you forget it!” Chrysalis hollered from somewhere down the hallways. The trio of royalty calmly navigated the many corridors of the castle in mostly silence. Despite being ecstatic at the prospect of going out with Cadance a moment ago the two were surprisingly shy. Eventually Cadance could endure it no more and asked a burning question. “So, how come you two haven’t dropped your disguise?” She questioned looking back at them. They glanced at each other before looking at her with perplexity. “Oh was that too personal? I just thought since your mom wasn’t incognito you two would be. Sorry if I offended you.” “You didn’t offend us it’s just that we're not changelings. We’re Equestrians. Couldn’t you tell?” Ebony asked. “Oh! I would never have imagined a Hive-Queen would adopt Equestrians.” Cadance exclaimed. “And wait what do you mean how could I not tell?” She asked. “Well it’s pretty obvious that we’re full blooded Equestrians and not Changelings in disguise.” Ivory chuckled looking at the older princess like a child who didn’t understand 2+2=4. Cadance didn’t know how to respond. She wanted to ask how you could tell the difference but the idea of Chrysalis watching them kept her mouth shut. The last thing she wanted was it to seem she was pumping the two for information. Finally the the small group reached the massive royal canterlot library. Ebony and Ivory looked at the massive building in awe. As much as they hated to admit it the royal library at the hive paled in comparison to what surrounded them. Rows of rows of books stacked on high shelves and even more books on the second floor. They could feel hot envy creep up their neck. How could their hive not have a better library? “Now where is she?” Cadance hummed looking up and down the main walkway of the library. “Ah there she is.” Cadance chirped walking down to the many tables with the two princes in tow. The group walked up to a small table with an even smaller girl between two towers of thick books. Resting her head in her hands she was intently reading a big novel. She didn’t even notice the three walk up to her. Upon realizing Twilight’s obliviousness a mischievous smile grew on Cadance’s face. Slowly she inched her hand over to behind Twilight’s neck. Ebony and Ivory pursed their lips in anticipation. Trying to keep the giggles from escaping as Cadance’s hand grew closer and closer to the back of her neck. Finally she was in striking distance she primed to strike. Then struck with the speed of snake snipping at the back of Twilight’s neck. The poor girl let out shriek grabbing the back of her throat. She spun around at her assailant with vicious glare her cheeks burning red. “Cadance, what was that for?!” She hissed. “Didn’t I say to grab a few books then come right back?” She asked. With that Twilight’s burning anger turned into smoldering shape. “I was but then the book just kind of fell open, and I accidentally read a few things, and it was in the middle. So I had to read back a bit and things kind of got out of hand.” She chuckled. “Mmmhmm well save your spot bookworm cause we’re going out for some ice cream.” She stated. The girl groaned. “Do we have to can’t we just stay inside and read?” She sighed. “Nope we’ve been cooped up inside for far too long. Especially you little missy.” She replied. Twilight groaned again rolling her eyes and laying her head down on the table. It was then she noticed the two sharply dressed boys next to Cadance. Who were busy giggling at her expense. “What are you two looking at?” She snapped. “Twilight!” Cadance chided. “These two are Queen Chrysalis’s children they will be joining us.” She whispered. “Wait, Queen Chrysalis? As in the Queen of the Changelings, Chrysalis?” Twilight asked. To which the two boys nodded. Instantly Twilight’s sour mood was gone and was replaced with giddy enthusiasm. She jumped from the chair and confronted the two with a wide grin. “So you guys are changelings? That’s so exciting I’ve always wanted to meet a changeling.” She beamed. “Then again maybe I have met a changeling but I just don’t know it. Oh! how do you disguise yourself? Can you become anything like a giant or a dragon? Is it true you suck love through cocoons?” Twilight rambled throwing question after question at the two brothers. “Twilight calm down.” Cadance scolded pulling her back by her shirt. “It’s no big deal. I kind of like how interested she is in us Changelings.” Ebony smiled. “You know if you came with us you could ask us more questions.” Ivory said. Twilight’s eyes lit up. “Oh I’ll go, I’ll go, I’ll go.” She chirped. “Come on.” Breaking free from Cadance's grip and seizing the two princes by the hands and trying to lead them from the library. Almost giving Cadance a heart attack. “Twilight I said calm down.” She said lifting the girl in a bubble of her magic. “Were not going until a couple of Celestia’s guards get here. They’ll be escorting us.” “But why? We haven’t needed guards in years..” Twilight complained. “Can’t we just ditch them like we used to?” “Absolutely not! I didn’t realize it then but that was incredibly dangerous. Besides they’ll be coming with us to help watch them.” She gestured to the princes. “Oh, so do you guys wanna ditch them?” Twilight asked. “Twilight I said we're waiting. Not only is it dangerous but I’m afraid their mother will literally eat me if we disobey her.” She set the girl down in a chair and sat down next to her. “Cadance that was mean she won’t eat you, right?” She looked to Ebony and Ivory. Who looked up to the roof in thought and scratching their chins. They’ve never seen their mother eat anyone but she can be pretty scary when angry. “I mean probably not…” Ivory pondered. “But maybe.” Ebony finished. Cadance’s face went pale. Thankfully for Cadance Celestia’s guards arrived a few moments later sparing her from the possibility of Chrysalis’s wrath. The two guards bowed to Cadance as they walked up. “Private Silverwing reporting for duty, Princess Cadance.” The younger of the two said. He looked to be maybe only 1 year older than Cadance. “Charging Lance reporting for duty, Princess Cadance.” The other soldier said who was slightly older but only by a few more years. “Thank you for reporting are you aware of your assignments?” Cadance asked. “Indeed we are to watch over you and the two princes and ensure no aggressors get near.” They responded in unison. “Wonderful! Let’s go.” As the group walked down the streets Ebony and Ivory mouths were agape in wonder. They had never seen so many different kinds of people walking around. Some had feathers for hair and massive feathery wings. Some had rough scaly skin and slitted eyes some had big leathery wings while others did not. Even the Equestrians amazed them with their colorful clothes, hair, and skin colors. They gasped when an equestrian sprouted purple translucent wings and took off to the sky. The city itself was even more beautiful and vivid when up close. Buildings of different sizes, different designs each painted with rich colors. Royal purples, pure ocean blues, glistening yellow and red bricks. It was like a rainbow of stones flanking them. “Canterlot sure is beautiful isn’t it?” Cadance asked looking back at the two. They could only nod in agreement still gawking at their surroundings. “Is every city in Equestria this colorful?” Ivory asked. “Hmmm not to me, though some are up there like Las Pegasus. In my opinion Canterlot is the most beautiful city in all of Equestria. From the people to the buildings I love it all. It’s not perfect but it’s pretty close.” Cadance responded. “Are your cities like this?” Twilight whispered. Cadance warned her not to ask her questions too loudly. Ebony reluctantly shook his head no. “No, none as bright and beautiful as this. We mostly use ebony and dark stones for our hive as it’s what’s most abundant. Some changelings decorate their houses like this but they’re sometimes targeted by others as being too outlandish. Too non-changeling.” Ebony whispered back. “Non-changelings aren’t allowed into the hive except for special circumstances. I’ve never seen so many colorful and different people in one place before.” Ivory whispered. “Why not and why is it a bad thing to do anything foreign. Why do you guys hate outsiders so much?” Twilight asked. Ebony’s nostrils flared in anger. He was about to snap at the ignorant girl about all the terrors inflicted to changeling. Ivory sensed this and quickly stepped in before Ebony said anything he’d regret. “Well outsiders aren’t much nicer to changelings.” He stated. “The reason you’ve never met an undisguised changeling is because they’re usually harassed when exposed.” Twilight mulled over his words. She was surprised that she never put it together their need for secrecy before. She always thought it was because they were shy, not because they were afraid. “I’m sorry.” She muttered it was the only thing she could think to say at the moment. For once a conundrum that stopped her dead in her tracks. “It’s alright a lot of Changelings aren’t much nicer.” Ebony sighed to which Ivory sullenly agreed. Cadance grimaced as the dour mood of the party sent a chill down her spine. “So what do you two do usually: do you go to school, any friends stuff like that?” Cadance asked trying to change the subject. “Well we don’t go to school my mom and aunts teach us about how to be future kings. Our mom’s teaches us about being a ruler, our aunt Papilia teaches us diplomacy, Alexandrae teaches us how to fight and military strategy, while Priamus teaches us history about our hive. We don’t spend too much time with Aunt Arthemis.” Ivory responded. “Wow five aunts huh? I bet you have a lot of cousins huh?” Cadance chirped. “Not really we only have three they’re Aunt Arthemis’s hatchlings. Though we think Aunt Alexandrae has been seeing someone. While Priamus has been spending a lot of time with the captain of the guard.” Ebony smiled. “Oh, how scandalous.” Cadance chuckled. “Oh how do Changelings reproduce? Is it the same as us?” Twilight asked. “Tw-Twilight! That’s not an appropriate question.” Cadance sputtered. “What do you know about se- I mean reproduction anyway?” She asked “Books,” the little girl replied. “Also can’t I ask that? We’re not little kids anymore it’s perfectly acceptable question.” She retorted. “Yes you are! You’re 11 and they can’t be much older. Just because you’ve been looking at books too old for you does not mean they know what you’re talking about.” She responded. “We know about sex and how hatchlings are made, our mom told us.” Ivory responded. Making Cadance’s eyes go wide in shock as she stuttered for a response. “To answer your question. When two changelings truly love each other-” But before Ebony could finish his little lesson in Changeling reproduction Cadance interrupted him. “Look here we're here. Now quickly pick out what you want, no more questions, only ice cream now.” She hurried the three through the door a cold sweat dripping down her back. ‘That was close.’ She thought relieved they could avoid such talk at least for now. The five of them picked out their flavors, the guards resisted at first but quickly warmed up to the idea as the summer sun warmed up their armor, Cadance chose a Cotton Candy Swirl, Twilight went for a Tropical Sherbert, Charging Lance got Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, and Silverwing chose Cherry Jubilee. The two princes were amazed by the many different and unique flavors in the end Ebony chose a Berry Mix and Ivory decided on Peanut Butter and Chocolate. Just as Cadance was about to hand them their frozen treats the two grabbed the cones in their magic floating them into their hands. “Oh you guys can use magic. Is it true that all Changelings can use magic? How good are they at it? Do you know any special Changeling magic?” Twilight quickly asked. a whole slew of new questions loaded up taking licks of her ice cream between each question. Cadance rolled her eyes at the indignant girl. She supposed she should be happy that she was talking to somebody and making what might be friends. If only she just wasn’t so insesent with her questions, might scare the two away. “Well to the first question yes and third question no as for the second-” Ivory began but Ebony gave him a look before he could get into the second one. “As for the second we don’t feel like talking about. Ebony and I on the other hand are pretty good at magic.” He smiled quickly thinking on how to change the subject to them. “Ebony, though, is some kind of prodigy really powerful and takes classes with just him and mom.” He beamed however there appeared to be something hollow in his smile. A slight drop in his cheekbones that says something other than admiration. “Really well what a coincidence Twilight here is a bit of a prodigy herself and being taught by Princess Celestia. Maybe you can talk about that instead.” She said heavily implying for Twilight to change the subject. Which this time did not fly over her head. Their conversations quickly turned to their studies which Twilight was just as enthusiastic about. It was mostly between her and Ebony with poor Ivory sometimes chiming in, but most of the time he quietly at his ice cream in dejected silence. Noticing this she sat down next to the small boy sympathizing with his predicament. “You know I’m honestly not that good with magic either.” She said to him. The prince looked up at her incredulously. Their mother told them about them the people called them Alicorns after their national symbol. Able to use both aura magic and burst they were said to be the most powerful in all of Equestria. “It’s true I mean I’m still more powerful than the average person but compared to my aunt and past Alicorns I’m not that good at magic. Makes sense because I was just an aura user before I ascended.” She continued. “I remember feeling so disappointed in myself but Aunt Celestia taught me something I’ll never forget. She said it’s more important to be smart with your magic than to be powerful. She told me people with powerful magics often just rely on their power to get them through without thinking. She said my magic wasn’t weaker I just had to be smarter with it, and you look pretty smart.” She smiled. Ivory blushed at the compliment and his words did make him feel a little better. "Well I am a pretty fast learner. Mom always says that she's surprised at how fast I pick up stuff up. I'm usually at least three levels ahead." He responded a faint blush rising as he talked about himself. "Really now, what are you ahead of now?" Cadance asked. So while Ebony and Twilight talked of magic and spells Ivory and Cadance sparked a conversation ranging from books, to academia and everything in between. That envy lingered but was now coupled with determination. “Princess Cadance what about the people that are both?” He asked as they finished the last bit of their treats. Cadance’s bright and happy face turned cold and serious. “Well if they use their power for good stick by their side as they will be great heroes like Celestia.” She said her expression as cold as ice and her eyes wistful. “But if they use it for evil then run. Run as fast and as far as you can, because people like that are worse than monsters.” It shook Ivory to the core for she seemed to be speaking from experience. ______________________________________________________________________________ When the troupe decided to head back, full of creamy goodness and high spirits, the sun began it’s descent onto the horizon. As they reached the castle gates Cadance left the princes and guards to take Twilight home. When the now four opened the door they were met by Queen Chrysalis’s imposing visage which quickly softened when she saw her two boys. “Ah there you two are.” She sighed gliding over and pulling them into hug. “I told you they were fine you worry wart.” Celestia sang walking over. “Where is Princess Cadance?” She asked. “Taking Twilight home, Princess Celestia.” Charging Lance said saluting. “Ah very good. Thank you for your service today you two are dismissed.” She said waving them away. While Silvering Wing headed straight to the barracks Charging Lance waited in the wings. “So did you two have fun?” She asked. “Yep! Twilight and Cadance were awesome can we see them again when we come back?” Ivory asked. “Well if you enjoyed it that much I don’t see why not.” She smiled it had been a little while since she had seen them this elated. Perhaps more trips to Canterlot would be in their future. “Now let’s go wash up dinner will be soon.” As she walked by Celestia the sun monarch gave her a knowing smirk. She was right about letting them go out but Chrysalis would never admit it out loud. At least not in those exact words. “Celestia when Cadance comes back can you thank her for me and tell her to keep whatever was left.” She said looking back at her and flashing a grateful smile. As soon as the three were out of earshot Charging Lance approached Celestia. “My Princess when will they be leaving tomorrow?” He asked. Celestia looked at the young man in confusion and minor suspicion. “Why would you need to know that?” The three royals awoke just as the sun was rising the next day intent on getting back to their hive as soon as possible. As they were departing for the airship after a quick breakfast they were confronted by Charging Lance and a woman. The woman slowly approached them and quickly dropped to her knees. “Mother Chrysalis, my Princes: Ebony and Ivory, it is an honor to be in your presence.” She said. “My name is Sunlight. I would drop my disguise but you can never be too careful that wandering eyes are not watching. This is Charging Lance my boyfriend.” She quickly continued looking back at him. “It is quite alright I understand. Celestia told me about you two.” Chrysalis responded. Sunlight’s head shot up both their eyes were wide in fear. “Oh sorry for startling you two she knows and has been keeping your secret safe.” Chrysalis chuckled. The two lovers breathed a heavy sigh of relief. “So what can we do for you today?” She asked. “Nothing my queen I merely wanted to meet you all. I have heard stories of you from my family in the hive. Some good but many not so good…” She said her voice heavy with sadness. “I just wanted to say that for many of us who are living beyond the hive either by choice or to collect food, you two give us hope. You give me hope that one day I no longer have to wear this disguise, and live and love openly with him.” She continued looking back at Lance. “I know not all Changelings are as supportive but you will always have my support and love.” The royal family stood there stunned each could feel tears swell in their eyes. Chrysalis managed to keep her composure and keep them from falling only wetting her eyes. Ebony and Ivory couldn’t help but feel a few tears slide down. Hearing such words of encouragement from one of their citizens swelled their chests with pride and determination. They quickly wiped the tears and walked over to the kneeling woman. Both placing a hand on one of her shoulder they asked her to look up at them. “Thank you for your kind words Sunlight and as your princes we will bridge the divides between us and the outside world. We will see that the hopes you and your friends come true.” They said in unison. Sunlight looked at them with wet eyes and quietly thanked the two for their dedication before leaving with Charging Lance. As they left Ebony and Ivory felt their conviction sink to their feet. They were serious in their promises so why did their chests feel so hollow?