The Alliance
King Sombra sat impatiently in his throne, awaiting the arrival of a representative from the Changelings to discuss an alliance. The Changlings had been living without a home or kingdom to speak of for some time and their Queen had decided it was time for a change. They sought an alliance with the Crystal Empire because of their large territory and stable economy. Sombra's horn shone with it's usual aura as he lifted a glass of water to his lips to take a sip. Placing the cup back on the table resting next to his throne, the dark king let out a small sigh. The representative should have been here nearly thirty minutes ago, what could be taking so long?
"My liege", A crystal pony, one of the royal guards, addressed Sombra as he entered the throne room, "The queen of the Changelings has arrived."
"Queen?", Sombra raised a brow questioningly, "I was supposed to meet with a representative. Well, no matter. Send her in."
"Yes sir.", the guard bowed before exiting the room.
Sombra stepped down from his throne, whenever meeting with a fellow ruler he preferred to stand. It was his way of showing respect and courtesy for his visitors, whomever they may be. The crystal doors swung open as a Changeling, tall with a curved horn similar to Sombra's and a beautiful green mane that stood up in a elegant bun, stepped in. Sombra bowed in greeting, and the Changeling Queen returned the gesture.
"Queen Chrysalis. You look beautiful this day. May I ask why you chose to meet me personally rather than send a representative?", Sombra inquired, rising from his bowing stance.
Chrysalis rose as well and replied with a dignified smile, "I find it's easier to discuss matters like this personally. A representative cannot always be depended upon."
Sombra gave a deep chuckle, "I must admit I agree. So", Sombra looked his visitor up and down, "your message mentioned an alliance?"
Chrysalis nodded, "My subjects and I are in need of a home. I have come to the conclusion that your Crystal Empire is the most suitable location. If we could come to an agreement, I believe our two kingdoms could join as one and live harmoniously."
Sombra nodded shortly, "I have no doubt that this is a possibility. However, there is the small question of the pecking order."
"Well, most desirable, you and I would rule equally over your crystal ponies and my Changelings", the Changeling Queen explained, "Of course, this offer is up for debate."
Sombra smiled graciously, "This seems reasonable enough. But, there is the small matter of how my subjects might react to this. I fear that many of them will not support an alliance, and a rebellion is the last thing I would desire at this time."
Chryslasis raised her hoof to her chin, considering this point, "Well, yes that could be a problem. But the fact of the matter is, some ponies will not be entirely pleased with the decision. There is nothing you can do about that."
The dark king nodded. She made a good argument. He had seen outbursts before concerning his decisions, but none had caused an outright rebellion. Of course, before this, the Crystal Empire had very few major issues that required a decision from the king. But his subjects had stood by him before, so he must trust that they would stand by him now. There was also the matter of what benefits this alliance could bring. Having the Changelings on their side would raise the resources of the empire and certainly make his guard stronger.
Sombra straightened his cloak and cleared his throat, "You make a valid argument Chrysalis, I must say. But what about homes? Where will your Changelings live?"
"Well'", Chrysalis said in a matter-of-fact tone, "We will build homes for them of course. Some may even end up living in households with your crystal ponies, but that will be sorted out among the subjects. I assure you Sombra, I have thought out every aspect of this alliance. It has it's possible negative outcomes, but honestly what doesn't?"
Yet another amazing rebuttal from the Queen of the Changelings. Sombra smiled, letting a laugh escape him. It was a hearty laugh that moved his chest in a rhythmic manner. "Well, my queen, I am inclined to believe this alliance sounds beneficial for the both of us."
Chrysalis cracked a smile, "Indeed. Do we have a deal, my king?"
"Indeed." Sombra held out his hoof and Chrysalis connected it to hers. They shook their hooves simultaneously, and just like that the alliance was sealed.
After the meeting, Sombra made a public announcement alongside Chrysalis, declaring officially that the alliance would be put in place the next day. The Changelings would be housed in the castle until proper homes could be made for them, and a treaty would be signed the next evening. The news was met mostly with uncertainty, though nopony seemed completely apposed to the alliance. And so plans were set into place and Chrysalis left to retrieve her subjects from where they currently resided.
Sombra sighed as he watched the Changeling Queen take her leave. Concerns of a rebellion still haunted his mind. He walked slowly back to his throne and placed himself into it. Looking out a window, he could see his loyal subjects below, all talking and debating the new-found alliance. He ruled this kingdom. Him. It was quite incredible and made him smile with pride. All these ponies were willing to support him in his decision, no matter what it might be. Pride swelled in his chest as he laughed heartily. He had no doubt in his mind now. This alliance was made to succeed.