Chapter XIII – Intrigue to Be Done
Even when Adamant Fang’s gaze became feral enough to strike fear in anypony’s heart, Midnight stood tall. His nostrils flared a little and his breathing became deeper, but otherwise he tried to appear like a stalwart and unmovable warrior.
“I will gladly provide you an explanation for Deep Mist’s departure, tribun, sudar. Yet the reason for his aggression is beyond me,” he firmly stated.
“Well, I hope you reach for that reason post haste, Nightguardian,” the General replied, squinting his eyes, his accent becoming thicker alongside his dissatisfaction. “Nocferrat or not, important mission or not, I will not tolerate anypony attacking warriors under my direct command!”
Adamant Fang afterwards spotted that he had all of the soldiers in the immediate vicinity keeping eyes on the argument, their ears perked as well. He grimaced in displeasure, baring his teeth and giving away a prolonged hiss.
“Irai terg opes. Tere,” he commanded, not even bothering to raise his voice. His tone, however, caused all of the gawkers, Avalanche included, to turn away immediately, desperately trying to find any sort of occupation for themselves. Even if it meant faking work.
Twilight felt an urge to gulp, though she was trying to channel all of her royal, Equestrian authority and appear impassive.
“General,” she began, trying to sound as confident as she was supposed to be by default, “I am certain that whatever occurred must have been a case of severe misunderstanding...”
“Princess,” Adamant Fang replied, giving her a rigid look, “with all the respect which I have for you as a mare, an envoy, and a member of royalty, this matter is of our concern, not yours.”
Twilight could have very well reeled back from the strength of his words and there had been times when she would have. But times did change. She spotted that Midnight was about to protest, but she was going to intercept him and take care of this herself. She was an Equestrian Princess after all.
“General Adamant Fang, Nightguardian Deep Mist was chosen to be a part of my entourage, and follow my directives when necessary,” she calmly but acutely stated. “As such, I see myself as responsible for his actions and misdeeds by the rule of my temporal supervision and by my personal willingness to resolve this issue. By definition, I do consider the recent event a matter of my concern, whether this is a circumstance you accept or not.”
Twilight kept her impassive, regal appearance even though she shuddered inside, fearing that she had gone overboard, especially after she spotted Midnight pressing his lips together and his pupils widening. And she could swear that some of the soldiers closest to them actually shivered.
Adamant Fang, on the other hoof, simply raised his eyebrow. “I acknowledge your point, Princess,” he admitted and it seemed that his initial outburst of anger diminished. “Yet I would require for us to discuss this matter immediately.”
“I would not have it any other way, General,” she assured him equally promptly.
Nopony spoke a word on their way back to the General’s quarters, although Midnight did glance at Twilight a couple of times. In his gaze she found all that she herself was fearing. Deep Mist decided to immediately inform Azure Mist of his findings and the fact that he was compromised. And him being aggressive while leaving... yes, it was definitely meant to cause trouble for her and Midnight. Twilight never considered herself the one to cast blame or suspicion, but this time the implication was slightly too apparent.
However, there was one matter that she had not managed to discuss with Midnight. How, exactly, were they going to explain Deep Mist’s actions? Because beginning the conversation with a sentence the likes of: “Oh, he is actually a spy.” could not really cut it. Especially if followed by: “Yes, I did say that he is a part of my escort.”
Twilight doubted they would have ever reached a third statement after that.
The General’s office in his dwelling turned out to be perhaps not as resplendent as his dining room, but proper considering his position. The dark, rich wood of his furniture was coming in contrast with the beige parchments and scrolls that were stacked high on the shelves of his cabinets. An armor stand, empty at the moment, was placed in the corner like a silent, immovable guardian of the chamber.
“Coracinugalaz!” Adamant Fang shouted when they crossed the threshold, causing his adjutant to suddenly appear behind the group, like materializing out of thin air. “Traduca selle dla Knaze.”
“Tac, tribun!”
In an absolutely record-breaking time Blackbranch brought in a seat from the dining room to accompany the two already present in his superior’s office. Not to mention he actually managed to deliver a platter of fresh oranges to the chamber, all to Twilight’s mounting amazement. She took note that the aide was giving her and Midnight a lot of quick, curious stares, although he attempted to make them as unnoticeable as possible. Being nosy as an abettor to a high ranking military officer was never a desirable trait.
After Blackbranch had closed the doors behind him, the General asked Twilight to take her seat before he himself sat down. Midnight joined in, after a moment of expected delay, his eyes keenly observing Adamant Fang, whose movements were quick and firm.
And yet, despite the atmosphere of anticipation, the officer sighed fairly deeply. “I would apologize for my outburst, but, as responsible for this bastion, I believe that order should be upheld no matter the circumstances. And my tolerance towards anypony, even a member of the revered Nightguard, breaking the established discipline is non-existent,” he emphasized, leaning forward and focusing his stare on Midnight, who cleared his throat.
“Tribun, your displeasure seems justified, but we have to know more about the incident itself if we are to provide an explanation, sudar.”
“No, Nocferratan. It is I who shall ask for the reasons behind a guest and member of the Princess’ escort,” he respectfully nodded towards Twilight, “leaving my fortress in haste, immediately after sunfall and without any previous notice.”
This was exactly the moment that she feared. She began considering a lot of possible, more or less believable explanations on the matter, involving Deep Mist, his relatives, her relatives, Midnight’s relatives... a lot of those clarifications surprisingly including sudden illness, sudden death and sudden death by illness.
However, Midnight took the initiative before she had a chance to speak up.
“Tribun, sudar, I feel inclined to remind you that the Nightguard is, by law and tradition, bound in its service to our benevolent and immaculate Goddess Herself. As well as the Lords of the Covenant, their will manifesting the guidance of the Immaculate Moon...”
“I am more than aware of that, wampir!” Adamant Fang retorted after a moment of pious silence, squinting his eyes. Twilight took note of an irked glint in them, yet at the same time a strange dose of... understanding. “What is your point?”
“Tribun, I wish not to be in any way insulting or impertinent, but you also must be well aware that your jurisdiction is not over any member of the Nocferrat.”
The General’s lips quivered. “My brother is always keen on reminding me of that, I will have you know. But that still does not mean that nocferratani can simply leave my fortress without any notification! Nor does that acquit violence towards my subordinates!” he declared, glancing at Twilight. “Surely even the Princess sees my point!”
“Well I-I can only speak for myself, since my experience in military procedures is limited,” she responded, trying to sound confident. “But—”
“But in this case,” Midnight interrupted her, “Nightguardian Deep Mist was obliged to contact the Covenant as soon as it was possible.”
Adamant Fang leaned even more forward, almost miraculously avoiding toppling onto his heavy desk. “And why is that?”
“To inform the Honored Lords of the Covenant that Princess Twilight Sparkle wishes to express her deepest regret that the weather conditions have forbidden her from reaching her destination still.”
Twilight glanced at Midnight, trying to hide her surprise as best as she could.
“That could have been sent by anypony or even a bat!” the General pointed out in the meantime, although his aggravated tone became less intense.
“Not considering the nature of information included in the sealed ‘diplomatic note’ that the Nightguardian was carrying with himself,” Midnight replied smoothly.
“A diplomatic note?” Adamant Fang gave Twilight an intrigued look. “An Equestrian type of... official document, I presume?”
“Y-yes! Yes, in fact!” she quickly assured him, turning away from Midnight. “A ‘diplomatic note’ serves in Equestria as a popularly acknowledged form of exchanging pre-summit information regarding future debates. Considering the delay, I wished to present to the Lords my opinions and standpoints on a few matters that might be topics of our negotiations, so that the summit would not prolong itself. I am aware that the Covenant’s responsibilities are grand. I would not wish to keep the Lords away from their tasks, even because of an occasion such as our meeting.”
Adamant Fang was seemingly unmoved by this explanation, but something made Twilight think that his pensiveness was but a way of keeping up an appearance.
“As to Deep Mist’s behavior,” she continued as the silence was lasting, “I would need to possess more details about what happened, General...”
Adamant Fang crossed his forelegs on his chest. “One of the sentries was violently pushed onto the wall as he attempted to search the Nightguardian and forbid him from leaving before giving an explanation. My warrior suffered an injury to one of his legs due to that.”
Midnight straightened up on his chair. “Tribun, I promise you that I shall have Deep Mist explain his actions as soon as it shall be possible. He seems to have taken the order of assuring that nopony takes hold of those documents too earnestly.”
“I think it might be my fault,” Twilight joined in, hoping to support the stallion’s words. “I have emphasized that those information must reach the Covenant as soon as possible and that the contents are classified by Equestrian standards... Considering that Deep Mist follows my requests, as obliged to do so on behalf of Commander Ardent Fang’s orders, I feel directly responsible for his actions and I am willing to make amends in a way you see fit, General.”
The officer’s face did not bare any signs of relief, retaining its brooding look.
“I am not particularly fond of such... misunderstandings, Princess. I respect your ambassadorial role,” the officer stated and paused, causing Twilight to anxiously await the obvious ‘but’ that was bound to follow his words.
To her surprise, the General smirked. “But what I respect even more is taking responsibility for those you command and being straightforward with it. I am willing to forget about this little incident, for the sake of retaining positive relations with you as an envoy.”
Twilight could barely contain herself and, although both of them knew it was best to stay calm, she could almost see the tension leaving Midnight.
“I will have stern words with Deep Mist when he comes back,” he promised. “He owes an apology to you and to that warrior he injured, tribun.”
“An official atonement would satisfy me,” Adamant Fang pointed out, leaning back. “Although not seeing his muzzle again would also work. Meeting a Mist spells trouble,” he added, sneering at Midnight, who nodded his head politely.
“Contrary to that popular belief they are not that bad, tribun, once you get to really know them,” he responded, his muzzle forbidden from betraying even a trace of emotions that Twilight knew were boiling inside him.
“I will allow myself to remain skeptic,” the General replied. “Thank you for your time, Princess, Nightguardian. Let us hope we will not have to meet again under such circumstances.”
The two of them left the General’s dwelling, seen outside by Blackbranch who once again gave them an intrusive stare. They were making their way down the staircase to the ground level when Midnight let out a long sigh and sat down.
“Bogine... I cannot believe we have made it unscathed...”
Twilight placed her hoof on his shoulder, herself needing to calm down. “I know... My heart is still pounding.”
“I do not know if he really bought this explanation.”
“I think we would be aware of it otherwise, don’t worry,” she replied, shaking her head.
“I feel like I am becoming paranoid...” he admitted in return. “We can only trust one another, considering what is happening.”
“I see your point. But that is not paranoia you are showing, but pessimism,” she ascertained him with a smile. “Besides, as long as we have your quick-thinking, Midnight, I think we shall prevail. When have you read about ‘diplomatic notes’ being used in Equestria?”
The stallion’s eyes widened as he glanced at her almost in shock. “... you mean you really use those?”
After a moment of silence, when the two of them were just staring in astonishment at one another, Twilight fell into a fit of giggles, while Midnight grinned sheepishly. He got up and, after quickly looking around for witnesses, kissed her swiftly.
Twilight beamed. “Fortune favors the bold, it seems.”
“You mean with the General, or with the lack of prying eyes as I kiss you?”
“Both, I guess!” she admitted, continuing down the stairs.
“Ah, forget ‘fortune’. The Goddess Herself shields us!” Midnight declared with piety and joy. “I... actually feel like going to the shrine to thank Her for Her tonight’s guidance. Would you allow me?”
Even if her opinion on “divine providence” was rather rational and, to be honest, the concept and ideas of batponies’ religion were still rather elusive for her, Twilight had but one answer to his plea.
“Well, you are tolerating my magic, I am alright with your piety... Does that not seem like an utterly fair deal?” she inquired, causing a massive smile from her coltfriend, one that caused her to blush equally magnificently.
The shrine had only a few supplicants inside, spread about the place and praying almost like in a willing trance. Twilight looked around, focusing on details that might have escaped her two nights ago. She was once again astonished by the interior, one that appeared light enough to be considered “ethereal” even. There was something about the herame that simply forced one to think about otherworldly matters. Was it the ambiance, the deceptively tender columns and arches, or perhaps even this discus of pure silver on the altar, a sign of the Immaculate Moon, seemingly giving away an aura of almost motherly care.
Midnight smiled, looking around the shrine himself, and whispered. “I think the ceremony was already held tonight. It looks pretty empty.”
“Well, you can pick a place you fancy,” Twilight commented, still taking in the beauty of the place.
“Would you not join me?”
His question did not come as a great surprise to her, but she still cocked an eyebrow. “Midnight, you know I am not really—”
“That’s not important, Twilight,” he interjected, stepping closer to her, his voice becoming even quieter. “The Immaculate Moon... has restored me, shown me the light. So let me be close to this light, while I am thanking Her for everything. Her gaze shall be upon you as well, I am certain of it.”
Despite having some doubts about his high hopes, Twilight did not really wish to object. Nor did she feel like she could. The desire to be close to him was constant, even if it meant feeling a bit alienated as he would devoutly pray to Princess Luna, a pony she knew personally.
She nodded in agreement and Midnight’s hopeful smile was a most appropriate reward.
The stallion sat on one of the side cushions, and assumed the prayer position. Twilight took her place to his side, finding the seat to be really comfortable. She tried mimicking his gestures, her feathers nearly brushing against the tips of his extended, webbed wings. She watched him focus on the mark of his Goddess as he began muttering under his breath, his words indistinguishable for her. There was, though, an enchanting rhythm to his prayer and an inner strength that it carried, full of hope, gratitude, even that note of fear of divine power.
After a while, Twilight’s forelegs started hurting from being kept up. Out of respect she attempted to keep them steady and direct her attention towards the altar. A piece of rock with a white cloth on it. Nothing particularly... divine. In general, experiencing batponies’ piety felt peculiar and she could not banish the feeling of disbelief when thinking about the cult of the Immaculate Moon.
She suddenly overheard a sentence coming out of Midnight’s mouth that made her heart skip its beat and her mind reconsider the importance of his supplications.
“And, in the language of my loved one, I thank You, Immaculate Moon...”
He paused, giving Twilight a chance to glance at him. He was staring upwards, as if directly towards his Goddess, and seemed completely oblivious to his surroundings, or the fact that she could hear him whisper.
“Although she does not believe, her heart is true and full of hope. Even though she does not see, her eyes seek Your Light. Even though she does not listen, her ears are ready for Your words. And, for she prays not, I beseech You instead. Protect and keep my love, Bogine... Protect and keep my love, Bogine... Protect and keep my Twilight, Bogine.”
Before Twilight knew it, her eyes were filled with tears. Midnight returned to his own language and the rest of his supplications became a lot more fearful and shy, as if he was fiercely apologizing to the Immaculate Moon for something.
She, in the meantime, fought the emotions overtaking her heart. His sentences hit that one string inside of her that brought upon her this mixture of joy and tearful gratitude. She looked at the sign of the Immaculate Moon. It was but a circle of silver, a piece of metal positioned on a metallic stem over a chunk of rock. Nothing extraordinary nor mystical, simply an established reminder of the presence of the batponies’ deity. She could not feel anything magical about the place in general. An ornate hall, architecturally splendid, but unconditionally mundane.
And yet... she felt her lips trembling.
“I... I do not believe this to work...” she whispered, but in a way to assure he could not hear her, “but... protect and keep my Midnight, Bogine...”
And, despite her lack of faith, Twilight suddenly felt... tranquil. The notion of having a supernatural being looking over her loved one was refreshing. Calming. Right.
The stallion that she loved soon finished his prayers and exhaled, folding his wings. He gave her a warm, affectionate look, which she gladly returned, almost as if they have forged an unseen understanding, although Twilight was certain he did not take note of her invocation.
“By the Goddess, what a moving sight.”
The soft voice from behind the two of them caused Twilight to almost jump from the cushion.
Shadebloom appeared from behind one of the columns, her mane resembling a lilac waterfall, braided to imitate the falling cascades of water. Her bright eyes were lit up with joy.
“Princess, I am ecstatic to see you here again! And in such a situation. A soleerane praying in the shrine of our Goddess? I have never thought I would see the night!” she exclaimed with genuine excitement, almost flapping her wings.
“Well met, arcemandre,” Twilight replied, trying to stop a weird blush of embarrassment rolling over her cheeks. “We were passing by and Midnight Wind wished to step in for a moment.”
“And he convinced you to join him in a prayer?” the priestess inquired, glancing at Midnight. “Nightguardian, the Goddess works through you, no doubt!”
“I am an instrument of Her will,” Midnight declared with a polite smile, bowing his head humbly.
Twilight, in the meantime, felt like a quick clarification of her actions was necessary. “Well, I-I did not really pray, I mean... I am n-not sure if I-I—”
“Princess, please, it is fine,” Shadebloom attempted to calm her down. “We understand that opening your eyes to the Goddess’ Light might take long and be a source of doubt for you at first. But the goal shall take away all of your uncertainty.”
Twilight blinked. The priestess really believed that she could simply... convert? There was no real indication that it would occur!
Well... minus the fact that Twilight had just asked for the Immacula—for Princess Luna to look over Midnight... but that did not count!
Shadebloom took note of her reservation. “No matter how well you pray, how deeply you bow, or how piously you address Her, the Goddess does not demand perfection. Good will is often enough, even if our actions in Her service are lacking,” she explained in a warm, although borderline patronizing tone. “If you ever need to talk and open your heart... I think nopony would object if you ask for a confession, Princess.”
“A ‘confession’?”
“Indeed, Princess,” Midnight confirmed eagerly, although his face betrayed that he was considering something extensively. “An arcemandr may always meet you in person, to listen to you and grant you aid and blessing. It is a way for us to let go of burdens of our minds, like doubt concerning our work, family, or faith...”
“Swadran Chasm is a good example, with his newfound, future parenthood. He needed support, indeed,” Shadebloom added, smiling even more amiably. “Oh, and you do not have to worry about revealing anything embarrassing, or even sinful. We, as arcemandri, are sworn to keep confessions to ourselves, lest we betray our Goddess’ trust in our service,” she clarified, closing her eyes over the seriousness and weight of her words.
“It seems like it can have a psychologically beneficial effect,” Twilight admitted, although disturbed by how clinical she made this sound. “I thank you for this unique offer, I really appreciate it,” she quickly admitted.
The priestess beamed and lowered her head before putting on her grey hood. “I shall leave you now, but feel free to stay as long as you like. You are always welcome in our temple. Light of the Goddess upon you both.”
After she had ventured away from the two, Twilight gave her coltfriend an intrigued stare. Midnight had a rather peculiar, almost worried expression on his muzzle that had been growing as they talked with Shadebloom.
“Is something wrong?” she asked.
Midnight did not look at her, but sighed. “Just... thinking.”
“About what?”
“Something.”
“Midnight...” She stepped closer to him, looking around for anypony observing them. Thankfully, none of the supplicants was being overly curious. “You know you can just talk to me, right?”
He smirked. “I do not need reminding. Although, perhaps I do...” he admitted. “I... I simply... I don’t know. I feel the pressure already on you and...” he paused, giving her an understanding look. “I do not want to make it look like I wish to... ‘sway’ you, or something... I just...”
Twilight could only smile. The stallion’s tact was very touching. “Midnight, I do understand how important in your culture is your religion. It fascinates me, it’s not something I have encountered before,” she revealed honestly. “And I know how vital your connection to your Goddess is, I have told you so already. If anything, I should be happy that the fact that I am a... non-believer... is alright with you.”
Midnight grinned, looking towards the silver discus. “I shall not dare lie in a holy place. I would be absolutely the happiest stallion in the world if you were to decide to accept the Immaculate Moon... as your own Goddess,” he confessed, then looked at Twilight with great tenderness. “But I love you just the way you are. That’s what love is about,” he whispered softly.
“It is...” she admitted, her heart merrily bouncing around in her chest.
After they had returned to their chambers, Midnight offered to bring some food, considering that it was well past lunch time. It did not take him too long before he came back with enough fruit to constitute a healthy meal. As they were eating, the stallion was joking constantly about Twilight’s attempts at feeding the batpony way, which continued sending juice in nearly all possible directions.
Then a knock on the antechamber’s doors interrupted them.
“Let me check that,” Midnight offered, before giving Twilight a quick kiss as he lifted himself up from the table. “Wow, you taste like ripe oranges!” he assessed, winking playfully.
“Midnight!” she scolded him, blushing. “Shoo!”
From behind the doors he had closed Twilight could soon hear a conversation. Considering the voices, it appeared that Blackbranch paid them a sudden visit. She was tempted to stand up and press her ear to the doorway, but her coltfriend soon came back, his face serious but content.
“I bring news. The General wants us to know that the sky over the Sanctuary has cleared and we can safely leave tomorrow. He is even keen on lending us an escort.”
Twilight clapped her hooves in joy. “Great news! And that’s very kind of him. I suppose...” she said, her face abruptly falling. “Does he want to get rid of us?”
“Do you think so?” Midnight inquired, sitting down next to her. “I... I would not blame him for trying to avoid more... misunderstandings. Or it is simply your turn to be paranoid.”
“Thanks for not helping,” she replied, rolling her eyes.
He slid closer with his chair and embraced her affectionately in return, which caused her to smirk. “Better?”
“Yup, definitely” she let him know before kissing him. “We are about to get really busy, Midnight. I’ll take whatever I can right now,” she whispered.
His embrace grew more firm. “I know, Twilight... I know...”
“And... yeah, here it comes,” she declared, attempting to sound confident and ready. “My summit with the Covenant.”
“Indeed. Aren’t you nervous?”
“I would be nervous if I weren’t nervous,” Twilight assessed, although her choice of words caused Midnight to blink in confusion. He quickly regained his composure though, his eyes glinting mischievously.
“I know exactly how to relax you.”
“Oh?”
Before she knew it he tightened his grasp and lifted her up from the chair, giving her a firm kiss at the same time. She gasped at the sensation, returning the caress as he slowly, using his wings to keep his balance, carried her towards the bed, somehow managing to pay attention to the direction. She took note of that and, feeling jealous that he was capable of thinking about anything else than her at a moment like this, she deepened the kiss, her hooves grabbing the sides of his muzzle.
That worked for and backfired on Twilight at the same time, for it made Midnight lose his balance, causing him to topple onto the bed. She found herself pinned between his body and the warm blanket, finding the pressure of his weight peculiar. Desirable.
“... sorry...” she mumbled, utterly abashed by this position.
“It’s fine. I am actually enjoying this perspective...” he admitted charmingly, lifting himself up a little bit. A part of her mind wanted to grab him and press him back down onto her.
At the moment his eyes were sliding agonizingly slowly down Twilight’s face, neck... then her upper body. His breathing grew deeper.
“By the Goddess and my ancestors, you are just... you are stunning, Twilight.”
“Th-th-thank you...” she responded, noticing that the lower his gaze ventured, the warmer she felt. And yet, as if she was outside on a winter day, shivers were going down her spine, making her reply shaky. Her own breathing became heavy. She tried to understand that... urge that began filling her to the brim... She wanted him close... She needed him close.
She spotted Midnight leaning back down. His crooked, fanged smile was luring her in, as he was going for another kiss, one carrying with itself that sweet, indescribable yearning...
... when her reason suddenly decided to interfere with a squeaky voice.
“So, yeah, summit! Woo-hoo!”
She realized what she had just blurted out, her face becoming more red than the finest of beetroots. In the meantime, Midnight’s confusion quickly morphed into an attack of laughter, causing him to roll to the side, holding his stomach.
“K-kirwe!” he swore, trying to fight the convulsions, tears going down his muzzle. “I-I’m dying! Tell—” he snorted, “tell my parents I love them very much!”
Twilight could not even muster a reply, shielding her embarrassed face behind her hooves. Her head was about to start hurting.
Midnight finally stopped guffawing, coughing a couple of times. He slid closer to her, embracing her gently. “There, there, Midnight will make it better...”
She gave him a murderous look from behind the hooves.
“Uh-oh, have I angered the Princess of Equestrians?” he teased, unabated.
Twilight pouted. “I know where you sleep.”
Midnight rolled his eyes. “Yes, next to you since last day!”
“Fair point.” She sighed, closing her eyes and smiling when he began tenderly stroking her mane. “I could still order you to sleep in your own bed. Or on the floor, perhaps.”
“Could you really? Robbing yourself of my closeness at the same time?” he asked, genuinely intrigued.
“It’s not like I’m addicted to you!” Twilight protested.
Next thing she knew was Midnight planting a kiss right underneath the side of her jawline. The softness of his lips in conjunction with the sharpness of his fangs scraping her sensitive skin forced a current of bliss to rush through her body. She exhaled deeply, feeling her eyes involuntarily cross under her closed eyelids.
“What was that you said?” she heard Midnight inquiring smugly.
“... do that often... please...” she almost begged him.
“With pleasure...” he offered, humming in satisfaction. After a moment of silence, he spoke again. “I know you are stressing out Twilight and I want to help as much as I can... You mentioned you wished to learn more about our Lords, may I offer my aid right now?”
Twilight reluctantly opened her eyes. Since he wished to lend a hoof, she could pursue the topic after all. Although remaining in his embrace was equally satisfying as gaining knowledge.
Who knew she would ever think this way?
“I just need to know who I am dealing with, really,” she revealed, shifting herself on the bed. “Could you pass me my scroll, quill and ink? They’re in the bag.”
“Sure.”
Twilight sat more comfortably on the blanket. When he gave her the scroll, she opened it, finding the incomplete list of Lords. Before she asked anything of Midnight, she dipped the quill in ink and underlined one name, until now marked by a bright red exclamation mark.
Azure Mist.
Once more did she remind herself – if there was one pony she would most certainly be keeping an eye on during the summit, it was going to be her.
***
“... which lead to me coming before you, Honored Lord, as fast as my wings could carry me,” Deep Mist finished his proper, thorough report, bowing respectfully.
He was one of her personal operatives, a pair of her eyes on other Families, Equestrians and, lately, one Princess Twilight Sparkle. He arrived at the Sanctuary only half an hour or so ago, requesting immediate audience with her. His grey mane was in disarray from the swift flight from the Border and the stench of his sweat was irritating her nose. Not to mention, no doubt, permeating the carpet of her personal chamber.
Azure Mist smiled at him warmly, venom stealthily filling her words. “So, my subject... You mean to tell me that you have been compromised in front of the Princess, yes...?”
That question caught him by surprise. And, as it appeared, his knees shook. “Well, yes, Honored Lord, but—”
“Oh, and because you were not careful enough...?” she inquired softly, lifting herself up from her ebony, luxurious daybed, gazing at this pitiful stallion with enticing eyes.
“Honored Lord... a-as I explained—” he attempted to answer, his tone becoming more unsteady, just like his legs.
“You did so wonderfully, truly! Is there anything else you wish to tell me?”
At her alluring, yet still deceitfully innocent tone, the stallion gulped. “I... I was obliged by M-Midnight Wind to tell you, Honored Lord, th-that i-if operatives shall ever be s-sent his way again, h-he shall gouge out their eyes...”
Azure Mist shook her head, a shade of a smirk invading her muzzle. This imbecile in front of her was frightened just enough to be unaware of what he was saying. He should have learned and known better already...
She sauntered towards him, her long, regal blue gown sweeping the carpet. She kept him in place with the authority of her gaze, seeing as he paled at her approach. She came as close as the repulsive stench of his fatigue was allowing her to.
“Answer me then, Deep Mist,” she almost seductively whispered, “what should I do with you, now that your carelessness has endangered everything?”
“H-honored Lord, it was made certain th—”
The sickening thwack of her slapping his muzzle stopped his whimpering. The mare held her hoof away from her body and palatial ensemble.
“Look what you have made me do,” she hissed at the stallion, who tried to keep his composure. “Rowan Berry! Bring me some water so I can wash my hoof of this filth!” she shouted towards the door, while stepping away from Deep Mist.
He, in the meantime, seemingly tried to beg for her indulgence. “Honored Lord, w—”
“Silence, fool!” Azure Mist shrieked at him, baring her teeth. “You were supposed to keep eyes on her! But no, you let your negligence make you clumsy and then your impatience caused... just... Argh!” she lacked words, so she turned away from him, stomping the rug. “Idiot! You knew well she has an eye for detail, you even wrote to me about it!”
She was about to grab the platter of finest pears and throw it at this dimwit, but the doors to the chamber opening forbade her from losing her composure entirely.
In ventured a young batpony mare of cool grey coat and sleek, glaucous mane resembling a ghostly curtain falling left and right of her muzzle adorned with a faint smile. Her coral eyes were prudishly focused on her mistress, as she brought for her a hoof bowl full of crystal clear water.
“You have summoned me, Honored Lord,” she spoke in her usual, soothing tone.
“Thank you, Rowan Berry,” Azure Mist gracefully replied, her anger subsiding, and sat down on her daybed to clean her hoof thoroughly. The notion of anything staining it after its connection with Deep Mist’s wretched face was nauseating. “Do stay for a while, child,” she addressed her servant. “I think you might want to see what manner of manure I have for subjects...”
Deep Mist shuddered at the insult, which caused his armor to clang. The coral-eyed mare, in the meantime, timidly stepped back, keeping hold over the bowl and taking her place behind her Lord.
Azure Mist continued, changing her tone into a sweet, motherly one. “Deep Mist, I have chosen you for this mission for specific reasons. First of all, you performed admirably in Maretonia. Second, you are a Nightguardian, which made you an obvious pick. Third, I wished for you to prove your worth and usefulness further. You are still young, keen to learn... It is inspiring. A bright, bright future is in front of you...”
Deep Mist nodded skittishly after each of those sentences, perhaps foolishly believing that he was going to avoid punishment, or simply because she had confused him and turned his head around too many times. Now she was about to rip it off.
“And those three, main reasons I have mentioned,” she added, smiling, “should nicely translate into three years in the lower mines for your incompetence.”
The stallion paled in an instant. “H-honored Lord, we—”
“My entire plan can fail because of you!” Azure Mist stood up, her dress swooshing. “Because of your pettiness and restlessness and—”
Once more she considered throwing something at Deep Mist, and throwing it hard, but Rowan Berry spoke from behind her.
“Please, Honored Lord, calm down. Stress like this is not helping your health...”
Azure Mist exhaled, sitting down and trying to restore her inner tranquility. “You are right, child. At least there is one pony caring for my well-being...” She glared at the stallion before her, who tried to stop himself from shifting his balance in anxiety. “Thankfully for you, wretch, there are still those among our folk with enough wit to assure that this blunder is not complete...”
Deep Mist nodded zealously. “Y-yes, Honored Lord, but I—”
“Not a word from you right now. Thank the Goddess that I am merciful, as you will avoid being thrown into the pits. But you brought shame upon our Family and the dishonor shall remain with you. That quite convincingly missing fang will remind you of it from now on... You are tamed, Deep Mist.”
The stallion’s lips quivered and his eyes reddened and teared, but he remained silent. Azure Mist furrowed her brow in the meantime.
“Where is the Eyelid?”
“M-Midnight Wind has it, Honored Lord,” he revealed, which caused the mare to lean back and lie down on her daybed with an anguished expression, feeling an upcoming migraine.
Rowan Berry put the bowl down, and was immediately onto massaging her Lord’s temples, causing shivers of relief. Azure Mist always thought this little mare to be simply astonishing. There were ponies brilliant at talking, scheming and planning. But Rowan Berry was great at actually performing tasks, be them stealing secrets, brewing concoctions or simply making sure that the cretins lurking all around could not get too far into Azure Mist’s head.
“Remove yourself from my sight, failure,” the Lord commanded Deep Mist, her eyes closed and her mind melting over the gentle touch of her most trusted servant.
“H-Honored Lord, th-there is one more matter...” the stallion dared to speak up.
Azure Mist hissed, but Rowan Berry’s relaxing work was too adroit to remain angry at anything. “It better be worth reigniting my fury...”
The stallion began explaining this urgent concern of his. At first it did not seem at all intriguing. He was obviously beating around the bush. However, Azure Mist soon found herself paying more and more attention, as the matter seemed to have been, indeed, most noteworthy. Even Rowan Berry stopped at the revelations, her mouth hanging ajar.
The Lord sat up, her eyes piercing Deep Mist through.
“Are you absolutely certain of this? This better not be just your pitiful attempt at making me lenient towards you,” she whispered threateningly.
“I-It is not, Honored Lord! I myself thought i-it was a joke at first, but I am certain, I-I swear it by the Goddess Herself!”
Azure Mist let her eyes defocus as she pondered for a longer while. A true, emotional engagement...? That was always a good leverage. Even against those closest to one’s heart... perhaps especially against those. And in this case... yes, indeed, she could make it work wonders...
“Deep Mist?”
“Yes, Honored Lord?”
“This information has just saved the filthy remnants of your hide,” she admitted, nodding to herself. “You will notify Lord Midnight Eye that I need to speak with him post haste. Tell him it is a matter of... his Family’s good name. He will take that bait.”
“At once, Honored Lord!” the stallion declared, kneeling before her.
“Clean yourself up first,” she commanded, leering. “You are refuse, Deep Mist, but at least do not look the part! Be gone!”
After he had left the chamber in anxious haste, Azure Mist addressed her servant, who had already taken her opportunity to start massaging the Lord’s shoulders. “I do not think I need to explain to you what this could mean...”
“No, Honored Lord Azure of Family Mist,” the timid mare answered, her tone being most respectful. “I believe I understand utterly how this can be weaved into your brilliant scheme.”
“Looking forward to your part in it?”
“I do. I aim to please you, Honored Lord.”
Azure Mist smirked contently, revealing her pearly teeth. “I hope you are ready then, child. There is intrigue to be done.”
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Ooo damn. Deep Mist has just kicked over the hornets nest. Im curious to see how Twilight and Midnight wool foil that.. Pony's plans. I loved the chapter and it shows that Twilight is still learning alot about herself, and I think that her being open with Midnight as such and even willing to join his prayers is a big sign for the 2 of them. That and her liking the kiss to the jawline. anyway a great chapter and I cant wait for the next one.
Loved the new chapter, as always
This chapter came out relatively fast, THANK YOU! 
keep the MidnightxTwilight fluffiness coming! I have a bad feeling about what Azure Mist will do to Twilight and Midnight's relationship. I hope Midnight Eye doesn't take away Midnight Wind from her when she needs him most 
eagerly awaiting the next chapter.
6506016
I'm quite satisfied with the pacing myself. I believe that a steady emotional grow is something natural to new couples and I hope to show it properly in my story. Stay tuned for more.
6506422
I might try to keep the fluffiness going, but even I am uncertain how Midnight Eye shall react to the news that are about to be brought before him...
6507626 Considering that Twilight is a princess of Equestria and that the position of a member of his family being with her could conceivably give him a great deal of influence then Midnight Eye might actually take it well and try to use it to his advantage. Or he might be a racist bastard and try to order Midnight Wind to break it off.
I just hope they wind up getting some actual allies soon and don't wind up having to face the Covenant on their own especially with all that is currently being stacked against them. Still rather enjoying this story.
6507857
The summit is approaching. Perhaps at least one of the Lords will be more amiable than some of the others. Who knows?
6507879 Well I look forward to the next chapter. Also I like how this all started as basically a ponified "Interview with a Vampire"
6507904
At first I did not consider this series as more than a one-shot for the sake of the competition. But now I am where I am with it, and I couldn't be more satisfied.
Fool she is. Twilight will shatter your lies like so much glass.
6508087
Stay and you might witness it. But quake in dread at the precariousness of what is to come.
Azure Mist's plans will fail and she will lose much credibility when her actions are revealed.
6508667
That's the optimistic scenario. Shall it be the real one, though?
Oh... shit. Deep Mist, may your Goddess have mercy on your soul. How should Midnight Eye react to this news I wonder? He doesn't seem like the type to simply make a decision without meeting Twilight. Perhaps with his family values of history and tradition he'll be charmed by Twilight's willingness to learn about them. A historian, at least all that I've known, never backs away from a chance to share their knowledge. Great chapter as always Gulheru, thank you sir.
6510852
My pleasure to deliver.
Here's hoping reason and expediency shall be with Midnight Eye...
Midnight's religion is a huge problem. It is because he's still looking down on Twilight. His prayers are patronising at best, but he just can't see it, or doesn't want to see it, and this Twilight Sparkle is too weak to actually make her own case. She keeps opening up to him and his culture over and over, but it doesn't feel like he's doing much of that in return.
It's kind of frustrating to watch.
One word. Priceless. Reading about Azure mist rage was priceless.
I'm sure that the last mare of the cover is Rowan berry. -In ventured a young batpony mare of cool grey coat and sleek, glaucous mane resembling a ghostly curtain falling left and right of her muzzle adorned with a faint smile. Her coral eyes were prudishly focused on her mistress, as she brought for her a hoof bowl full of crystal clear water-
Another occultani of Azure mist. I hope that Midnight wind will make sure that she won’t hurt Twilight.
That meeting with General Adamant Fang was sure worrisome for Twilight and Midnight. I had anticipated that they would have revealed the fact that Deep Mist was a spy, but I can see why they'd want to keep that close to vest. It's lucky that Midnight pulled that 'diplomatic note' excuse out of thin air, and it actually hold validity.
These attempts by Shadebloom to convert Twilight have me wondering if anything would change if they were aware that Twilight knew Princess Luna personally. I would think that'd provide an explanation on why it would feel weird for Twilight to pray to her, even though she kinda did in the emotion of the moment. But then I guess the question would be if she or anyone else there would believe this.
I knew Azure Mist was going to be pissed and it was oddly humorous seeing Deep Mist on the receiving end of her fury. Fortunately, for him anyway, he included a report on Twilight's and Midnight's relationship. The fact that she's summoning Midnight Eye to reveal this to him makes me think that upcoming first meeting between Twilight and the Lords of the Covenant will be a rather awkward, especially if Midnight Eye decides to table the discussion during this meeting.
Last, looks like the final unknown pony on the cover has been revealed: Rowan Berry. She seems to be pretty intriguing and I get the feeling she's not quite so timid when carrying out a mission. I'm curious to see just what her role in things will be.
10645972
I enjoy your observations very much, friend. You follow the footsteps of many previous readers.
Few stories that I have read on FimFiction have delved into the religious beliefs of ponies, or how they would react to those of others. A vague idea of Celestia as approachable deity is usually the most we see.
So I find it excellent that this story addresses religious belief, and from the personal perspective of Twilight. Twilight is the most logical of the Mane 6, and knows Luna personally. It is refreshing to see her find ways to respect the batpony beliefs in spite of her misgivings.
11107014
Why, thank you. I was trying to tackle the issue in a believable way, considering the show was no place for such a discussion.
11107016
The only supporting evidence that even existed was a brief view of a priest collar during a funeral scene
<3
hope that luck from the democratic letter sticks around for Twilight
11274683
Hah, that's one way to put it. Feel free to expect the best and prepare for the worst.
Deep Mist just mentioned how Twilight and Midnight Wind are in love. That's not good.
11626971
Ah, I see a new person on the "Journey"! Welcome, welcome. I hope the story has been to your liking so far.